Step into a world of adventure, romance, and ancient secrets with “What The River Knows,” a captivating historical fantasy novel that has garnered praise from New York Times bestselling authors and esteemed publications alike. This enthralling tale, set against the backdrop of 19th-century Egypt, promises a thrilling expedition into the unknown.
Acclaimed by Literary Giants
Prepare to be swept away by a narrative that literary critics and bestselling authors are calling phenomenal and luminous. Stephanie Garber, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of “Once Upon A Broken Heart,” describes “What the River Knows” as “expertly plotted, explosively adventurous, and burning with romance,” emphasizing its seamless blend of history and mythology. Jodi Picoult, another #1 New York Times bestselling author, highlights the book’s “plucky heroine” and “historically grounded Indiana Jones-esque adventure,” noting the delightful touch of magic woven into the story.
Mary E. Pearson, New York Times bestselling author of “The Remnant Chronicles,” declares herself a “fan for life,” stating that “What the River Knows” “has it all—page-turning mystery, adventure, intrigue and betrayal, laugh-out-loud banter, and slow-burn romance.” J. Elle, bestselling author of “Wings of Ebony,” praises the novel as “a historical adventure ripe with delicious twists, swoony angst, and sassy wit,” making it both thrilling and insightful.
Elizabeth Lim, bestselling author of “Six Crimson Cranes,” lauds Ibanez’s “masterful worldbuilding” and the “swoon worthy” chemistry between characters, while Rachel Griffin, author of “The Nature of Witches,” highlights the “vivid descriptions, singular magic, and shocking betrayals” that make the book a “thrilling adventure.” Rebecca Ross, internationally bestselling author of “A River Enchanted,” calls it “luminous and enchanting,” emphasizing the “dangerous secrets, a clever heroine, ancient tombs, and a mystery that readers will be eager to unravel.” Ava Reid, internationally bestselling author of “The Wolf and the Woodsman,” hails it as a “masterpiece,” praising its intricate weaving of history, romance, and clandestine magic.
Amélie Wen Zhao invites readers to “prepare to be whisked on a whirlwind ride to the glittering banks of the Egyptian Nile,” while Heather Fawcett, author of “Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries,” celebrates the book’s “fast-paced yet lyrical” prose and “truly enchanting” storytelling.
A Journey into the Heart of Egypt
In “What the River Knows,” readers are introduced to Inez Olivera, a spirited 19-year-old heiress from Argentina and Bolivia. In 1884, Inez’s life takes an unexpected turn when she receives news of her parents’ mysterious deaths in Egypt. Driven by a thirst for answers, she embarks on a voyage to Cairo, a city teeming with both wonder and hidden dangers.
Her parents were assisting her uncle, Tío Ricardo, an archaeologist, in his Egyptian expeditions. Inez soon finds herself entangled in her uncle’s secretive archaeological work, particularly his quest to locate Cleopatra’s tomb before it falls into the wrong hands. Standing in her way is the enigmatic Whitford Hayes, her uncle’s assistant, whose orders are to protect Inez by sending her back home. However, Inez is determined and resourceful, evading Whit’s attempts to deter her at every turn.
A golden ring, sent by her father from Cairo before his disappearance, becomes a crucial clue. Inez discovers it has imbued her with a magical resonance, potentially the key to uncovering the truth about her parents and Cleopatra’s lost tomb. As Inez and Whit navigate treacherous landscapes and face constant deception, their initial friction sparks into an undeniable chemistry. Their journey becomes a thrilling race against time, filled with perilous encounters and shocking revelations, all while questioning if they can truly trust each other.
Why “What the River Knows” is Your Next Must-Read
“What the River Knows” is lauded for its seamless blend of historical detail, thrilling mystery, and passionate romance. Kirkus Reviews describes it as “a romantic, heart-pounding adventure,” while Booklist, in a starred review, praises its exquisite depiction of characters and world, noting that “the story will sweep readers away with its cinematic details, its touches of magic, and a dash of romance.” Publishers Weekly highlights the “lively cast and a heaping helping of banter-filled romance,” emphasizing the successful combination of history, mystery, and mythology. Paste Magazine calls it “a lush historical fantasy” that “deliciously mixes romance and adventure.” School Library Journal, in a starred review, concludes that “With an adventurous treasure hunt, a perilous mystery, and a character-driven romance set in a unique historical moment, this is Ibañez’s best work yet.”
Embark on the Adventure
“What the River Knows” is more than just a book; it’s an experience. Isabel Ibañez has crafted a world that is both richly detailed and enchantingly magical, making it a perfect escape for readers seeking adventure, mystery, and romance. Dive into the pages of “What the River Knows” and let the river carry you away on an unforgettable journey.
