Do you love the idea of archaeological treasure hunters and plenty of danger? Then you’ll have to check out this historical fiction adventure. Empire of Shadows brought me back to my love of archaeological investigations and chases. Keep reading this book review of Empire of Shadows for my full thoughts.
Summary
One trifling little arrest shouldn’t have cost Ellie Mallory her job, but it’s only the latest in a line of injustices facing any educated woman with archaeological ambitions.
When Ellie stumbles across the map to a mysterious ancient city, she knows she’s holding her chance to revolutionize Pre-Colombian history. There’s just one teensy complication. A ruthless villain wants it, and Ellie is all that stands in his way.
To race him to the ruins—and avoid being violently disposed of—she needs the help of maverick surveyor Adam Bates, a snake-wrangling rogue who can’t seem to keep his dratted shirt on.
But there’s more than Ellie’s scholarly reputation (and life) on the line. Her enemies aren’t just looters. They’re after an arcane secret rumored to lie in the heart of the ruins, a mythical artifact with a power that could shake the world.
Between stealing trousers, plummeting over waterfalls, and trying not to fall in love with her machete-wielding partner, will Ellie be able to stop the oracle of a lost empire from falling into the wrong hands?
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
Empire of Shadows is for fans of archaeology, Raiders of the Lost Ark vibes, with a dash of romantic tension. It’s a historical fiction story where well bred ladies are not often dashing into the forests and running away from home. And it features a handsome and slightly disheveled guide who can save you from a snake and seduce you in one moment. Empire of Shadows is for fans of archaeologic puzzles and plenty of action. It feels cinematic and listening to the audiobook with Alex Picard’s narration felt like you were transported.
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This would make a perfect holiday gift for those in your life who love National Treasure and swirling skirts. At the same time, this dual POV story begins with a disastrous meet cute which challenges both of our characters. Both Ellie and Adam have this electric dynamic of banter. It’s also full of tenderness and romantic tension. Empire of Shadows is multi-faceted and will thrill you. Find Empire of Shadows on Goodreads, Storygraph, Amazon, Bookshop.org, Blackwells, & Libro. fm.