I didn't realize that this was the fourth book in a series. This made it a bit harder to get to know the characters because these have all been in three books before and their character development probably already has gone a long way. But I still liked the mystery and the setting. A bit tedeious at times but still an entertaining book.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for this free e-ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

An enjoyable, interesting read. I did not realise that this was the fourth in the series so it took time to get to grips with all the characters. Stabenow had obviously done a lot of research for this period of history but I felt the book lacked some spark. The full danger and intrigue didn't come through. The narrative did not have life.
As with all books, not everyone has the same opinion. Looking at the list of her successful novels, I'm sure many readers will enjoy it.

Abduction of a Slave by Dana Stabenow is an engaging historical mystery set in Cleopatra’s Egypt, brimming with intrigue, political tension, and complex characters. The story follows Tetisheri, Cleopatra’s most trusted agent and the "Eye of Isis," as she is granted permission to leave Alexandria to investigate mysterious occurrences in the Kingdom of Cyrenaica.

Tetisheri is suspicious from the outset of her queen's unusual willingness to allow her absence, and soon, she finds herself entangled in a web of political plots. Cyrenaica is full of danger, from Julius Caesar’s spies to the ambitious King Juba I, and as tensions rise between opposing forces preparing for war, Tetisheri must navigate these treacherous waters. At the same time, she unravels a murder mystery, with dangers lurking much closer to her than she anticipated.

The book expertly weaves historical figures like Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, and others into a thrilling narrative, blending political intrigue with a personal mystery. Tetisheri is a well-drawn protagonist, intelligent and resourceful, and the setting of ancient Egypt is richly depicted, bringing to life the complex political landscape of the time.

Stabenow’s writing immerses the reader in a world of espionage, betrayal, and power struggles. The plot moves swiftly, keeping the reader gripped as Tetisheri’s skills are tested to their limits, making for a captivating and enjoyable read for fans of historical fiction and mysteries alike.

Read more at The Secret Bookreview.

Tetisheri is the most trusted agent of Queen Cleopatra the seventh, so she is surprised when the queen allows her to leave Alexandria to undertake a mission to Cyrenaica, as part of helping out her uncle.

But Cleopatra has her own reasons for allowing her to go. The machinations of the various players in the theatre of ancient Egypt at the time require close monitoring - not least the intentions of Julius Caesar! And who better to scout the lay of the land than Tetisheri?

This is an engrossing historical mystery that effortlessly holds the reader's interest. Stabenow really delivers with this mystery novel.

Really gripping mystery. Loved the strong female characters in this book. Could not recommend Dana Stabenow enough.

The Abduction of a Slave is such a good story. It really can transport you to another dimension. I recommend everyone to read this book as fast as they can because it's THAT GOOD!!!