Long-time friends Thomas Pettigrew and Flinders Petrie run a detective agency together. Lately, their business has not thrived, so they have taken on second jobs to supplement their income. Pettigrew works as a physician, while Flinders is a curator at the British Museum. E.A. Wallis Budge, the head curator of the British Museum, hires Pettigrew and Flinders to find a small statue of Aphrodite that has been stolen from the Elgin Collection. Normally, Budge would have sought out the missing artifact, but he is swamped and wants the duo to take on the task. Pettigrew and Flinders accept the job, but as they delve deeper into the investigation, the case becomes increasingly dangerous.
In this novel, Amos delves deeply into the profound themes of truth-seeking and perseverance. The author masterfully draws readers into the intricate quest for a missing artifact by detectives, creating an intensely immersive and engaging experience. This storytelling technique effectively aligns the readers and the main characters, turning the investigation into a collaborative and gripping endeavor. Each character's unique voice adds remarkable richness to their individuality, and the dialogue provides invaluable insights into their distinctive personalities. For example, Pettigrew and Flinders are vividly portrayed as unwavering and intrepid individuals, unafraid to put themselves in jeopardy to meet their client's expectations. The book is sure to captivate readers with its numerous unexpected twists and turns, making for an enthralling and gripping journey through its pages. Additionally, it highlights that revealing the truth is worthwhile, even if it involves risk.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review
British sensibilities and the romantic longings of English and Middle Eastern literature permeate this action-adventure mystery thriller as detectives Flinders Petrie and Thomas Pettigrew seek to find excitement in their lives once again. Penned by an American scholar and lawyer, the novel draws upon his life experiences that range from the California coast to various Middle Eastern nations. This title is the latest in a series that riffs upon Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective duo, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. In fact, detectives Petrie and Pettigrew also live in a flat on Baker Street in the pre-World War I era and aspire to compete with and emulate their two successful but beleaguered heroes while running a more modern international detective agency.
Now close to retirement, Petrie and Pettigrew consider how to spend their approaching pensioner years while reminiscing about their previous experiences with Holmes and Watson, their current friendship with Lawrence of Arabia, and their own celebrated sleuthing in Egypt. They consider writing a book or creating a film when. lo and behold, their months and years of quiet longing for adventure appear in the form of an emissary of the Patriarch of the Church of the East in Baghdad, perhaps even the Patriarch himself in disguise. Not only has a small casket with the bones of the Apostle Thomas been stolen, but two guards were viciously slain, leaving no witnesses. The ravaged crime scene was cleaned up and kept secret from worshippers for their protection as the Sayfo—a historic massacre and deportation of Assyrian Christians by Ottoman and Kurdish forces—began to rage through the region.
Instinctively, the detectives deduce that the crimes were perpetrated by their much-feared adversary, the Veiled One. Before Petrie and Pettigrew embark for the Middle East, they seek out the wisdom of a British intelligence officer (code name Divinius) working undercover at the Ashmolean Library at Oxford University: “What would be the result of the theft?” Flinders asked. Divinius frowned. “If the Veiled One can carry off Saint Thomas’ bones and display them as relics of a false religion, he could possibly destroy the remaining Christian Churches in the Middle East.” Armed with Divinius’ sage advice (and many colorful revelations about the secret library) and joined by one of Divinius’ employees—Gazelda Jones, a wacky Welsh witch with a bloodhound nose—Petrie and Pettigrew soon board a steamer at Southhampton, bound for Basrah.
Alongside the echoes of Sherlock Holmes mysteries and the adventures of Indiana Jones, there is much more to whet the appetites of both genre and literary readers. The lyrical prose and the story pacing are relaxed but thoughtful and erudite, reflecting the whims and characters of the protagonists. Discerning readers will enjoy the flow of thoughts and dialogue-rich scenes peppered with quotations drawn from various pieces of literature of the detectives’ day and of previous eras: the poetry of William Blake and Rumi, the work of novelists Jane Austen and W. Somerset Maugham, bits of Shakespeare’s plays, and later, references from Scheherazade’s tales of the Arabian Nights, as the story waxes ever more atmospheric and fabulist as the detectives and Gazelda search for their quarry in Iraq. While there is a clash of cultures in this tale, there is also a profound appreciation of the contributions to humanity by both the East and West. What the intrepid trio eventually experience in their search (and its aftermath) inextricably links their present with their pasts in unexpected and poignant ways.
Author John Amos’s The Case of the Stolen Goddess immerses readers in a tantalizing blend of historical mystery, adventure, and sharp wit. With a setting rich in atmosphere and a plot that weaves through the streets of Istanbul, Amos has crafted a story which expertly balances humor with high-stakes intrigue. The novel centers around the theft of a statue of Aphrodite, a seemingly simple act of theft that quickly spirals into a far-reaching mystery that brings the protagonists, Thomas Pettigrew and Flinders, back into action.
The opening chapter immediately captures the reader’s attention with its dreamlike atmosphere, where Pettigrew, our primary protagonist, encounters a mystical vision of a statue coming to life, followed by his awakening in the bustling city of Istanbul. The vivid descriptions transport the reader straight into the heart of the ancient city, with its colorful mix of characters, from men in turbans to women in burkas and a boy leading a performing bear. These details ground the story in a rich historical setting that’s both exotic and immersive.
The book begins with a flashback, taking us to a time when Pettigrew and Flinders were freshly minted detectives, just out of Oxford, chasing the mysteries of ancient Egypt. The two protagonists share a camaraderie rooted in their long history, and the dialogue between them is intriguing and often comedic. Amos cleverly injects a sense of nostalgia into their reminiscences about their adventures, particularly their unsuccessful search for Cleopatra’s tomb, adding depth to their characters and backstory.
Amos’s writing is infused with subtle humor, and the banter between Pettigrew and Flinders stands out as one of the book’s strong points. Their conversations, filled with dry British wit and intellectual references, serve as an entertaining counterpoint to the more serious elements of the story. Whether they’re discussing American cowboys, ancient tombs, or peculiar Belgian detectives (a nod to Hercule Poirot, perhaps?), their dialogue consistently sparkles with wit and charm. These two characters are the heart of the novel, and their dynamic relationship is a pleasure to read.
The mystery itself – centered around the stolen statue – unfolds slowly but intriguingly. The theft of the Aphrodite statue is not merely a crime but a puzzle which ties back to the protagonists’ past, particularly their adventures in Egypt. The novel thrives on its blend of historical detail and detective work, with references to ancient mythology and modern detective methods merging seamlessly. Amos’s ability to combine these elements lends the book an intellectual quality, as well as a sense of adventure.
One of the most intriguing aspects of The Case of the Stolen Goddess is its exploration of ancient female figures, such as Cleopatra and Medusa. The novel delves into how these mythological icons influence the characters and the unfolding mystery. The discussion of Medusa’s representation as a symbol of female power adds a layer of depth to the novel, giving it a thematic richness that extends beyond the immediate mystery.
John Amos’s The Case of the Stolen Goddess is a thoroughly engaging read, filled with wit, mystery, and well-crafted characters. The novel promises an exciting blend of detective work, historical intrigue, and lighthearted banter, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy historical mysteries with a humorous twist.
Life is a whirlwind of adventures, and adventure is truly an integral part of life. The Case of the Stolen Goddess by John Amos is a mystery and suspense novel that unravels the journey of two detectives and their adventures.
Thomas Pettigrew and Flinders Petrie were Oxford-trained detectives. They decided to start a detective agency together. They got their first breakthrough after they found Cleopatra’s tomb, and they became very famous. They got various gigs and detective jobs, and life was generally pleasurable. However, a lot changed when they were hired to find a missing statue, which was stolen by very dangerous and powerful people. They discovered that the case was more than just a petty theft, and blood began to spill. In this new adventure, Pettigrew and Flinders must surmount dangerous odds and undergo difficult experiences in their new quest.
I completely enjoyed the story. The book was set in the early days, and I really enjoyed learning about their lifestyle. I also loved the vivid imaginative abilities of the author in bringing the characters to life. I particularly loved how the thoughts of one of the main characters were written, which made it easy to understand the character. There were so few short poems sprinkled in the story, which made it more fun. I totally enjoyed the descriptions of places, which made the book more interesting and educational. I really enjoyed the story.
I do not dislike anything about the book. Although there were a few words that I did not understand, they helped me improve my vocabulary. The book was flawlessly written and had no errors, which made it a seamless read. The storyline was equally beautiful and captivating.
I rate this book five out of five stars for its captivating and beautifully written story. The book was expertly edited, and I found no grammatical or spelling errors while reading it. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for individuals interested in learning about early times and mythology. I also highly recommend this book for individuals looking for an interesting suspense and mystery novel. This is a very beautiful and interesting read.
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The Case of the Stolen Goddess
Have you ever been captivated by a title and found yourself irresistibly drawn to a book? That's exactly what happened when I encountered The Case Of The Stolen Goddess. The title not only piqued my interest but also perfectly encapsulates the novel's thrilling premise.
Set in the early 20th century, an era brimming with archaeological wonders, this novel by John Amos follows detectives Flinders Petrie and Thomas Pettigrew as they embark on a daring quest to recover a stolen statue of the goddess Aphrodite.Having gained fame from their discovery of Cleopatra's tomb, detectives Flinders Petrie and Thomas Pettigrew have transformed their modest firm into a renowned agency. With fame comes a constant stream of cases, but their thirst for adventure remains insatiable. Their latest challenge involves retrieving a stolen statue taken by the elusive thief known as The Veiled One. The journey promises danger and excitement-will the detectives succeed in their quest? Amos's book is a treasure trove of historical details and clever nods to famous figures of the era. The characters are richlydeveloped, each with unique traits and quirks that bring the story to life. The author's commitment to historical accuracy not only informs but also engages readers, making the narrative both enlightening and thrilling. The book is professionally edited, with no grammatical errors to detract from the reading experience.
While I initially expected a balanced focus on both Flinders and Pettigrew, the story shifts its spotlight primarily to Pettigrew. Though Flinders plays an essential role, Pettigrew emerges as the central figure in the narrative, which may come as a surprise to some readers.
One standout character is Kudret, whose compelling backstory and adept handling of challenges in the volatile Ottoman Empire make him a memorable figure. His role adds significant depth and richness to the plot, enhancing the overall experience.
For guardians concerned about content, this book is a safe choice for younger readers. It is free from profanity, explicit scenes, and on-page romantic content, offering a genuine adventure that is both engaging and appropriate. However, it's worth noting that the book includes a depiction of male cross-dressers known as kocek, which might prompt questions from curious minds. Additionally, there is a brief mention of sexual assault, though it is presented in a way that is not graphic or explicit. Nonetheless, adults should be aware of these elements before sharing the book with younger audiences.
Overall, The Case Of The Stolen Goddess is a delightful read, brimming with historical intrigue and vivid storytelling. Its flawless editing and engaging narrative earn it a solid 5 out of 5 stars. Readers can confidently dive into this book, knowing they are in for an enriching and captivating adventure.
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Kshitija Sonawane
On the fiction market today, there are plenty of novels whose careful generalities and scrupulous plotting, however ingenious, cannot mask that their author has absolutely no real knowledge of their chosen setting. The Case of the Stolen Goddess is a wonderful escape from this trend -- John Amos's sense of place is indelible. To be fair, a less cynical reader might have expected it from his background -- per his "About the Author" page, he has two decades' experience teaching Arab history and has lived across the Middle East. Yet, experience does not automatically confer his ability to transport a reader so entirely. Even as the plot capered on, my imagination lingered with the sleazy showmanship of "mummy openings", visions of long-ousted crusaders in a desert fortress, and the dusty academics of the British Museum's cluttered sculpture gallery.
To examine that capering plot more directly, it is nothing if not tightly written. Following private investigators Flinders Petrie and Thomas Pettigrew on their quest to recover a statuette lifted from the British Museum, it is a love letter to detective fiction, real-life "Arabists", and adventure novels at the turn of the 20th century. Tongue-in-cheek references to Sherlock Holmes, Hercule Poirot, Gertrude Bell, T.E. Lawrence and even Robert Louis Stevenson's The Master of Ballantrae are peppered throughout, and much of the path to the statuette's recovery is a swashbuckling romp.
I enjoyed this book immensely, as clear from my high rating, but the dialogue fell flat for me at some parts. The banter and bickering between Flinders and Pettigrew was entertaining but sparse, and Pettigrew's internal musings at times seemed dull and repetitive.
Overall, whether read as a pulp adventure novel or enjoyed for the author's simultaneous deconstruction and application of Western fantasies on the Middle East, I would certainly recommend The Case of the Stolen Goddess!
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Jules R
The Case of the Stolen Goddess
By john amos
River Grove Books, $16.95, 204 pages, Format: Trade
Star Rating: 3.5 / 5
Detectives Flinders Petrie and Thomas Pettigrew are reminiscing about their last case many moons ago, in which they attempted to find Cleopatra's tomb. Sitting at home, Flinders tells Pettigrew that he is bored. Although they ran a detective business, there hadn't been much action and adventure since Egypt. Before Lady Stanhope hired them to find Cleopatra, both detectives needed more money than their agency was bringing in. Flinders became a curator at the British Museum. Pettigrew spent his days delivering babies at a local clinic. But now, since they became famous, well-known clients are knocking on their door. But nothing as exciting as Egypt had come along.
When I started to read The Case of the Stolen Goddess, I was very fond of the banter between the two detectives. That soon became old as the details of every little thing, from what each character was wearing to the description of obscure characters that would only appear once in the book to banter in which the characters were saying a whole lot of nothing, filled the pages. I often got lost reading the book, and getting to the title case seemed to take an eternity. When a man named Budge, the Keeper of Antiquities at the British Museum, approaches Petrie and Pettigrew to recover a small statue of Aphrodite, the two detectives are thrilled to take on the case.
The story itself is rather fun and creative. It reminded me of the Indiana Jones series, mainly because the detectives had to travel to foreign lands and encounter evil beings to get the statue back. They ride camels, meet mysterious characters, and get their hands dirty. They even meet T.E. Lawrence and Gertrude Bell, who help them as they make their way through Syria and Istanbul. I also enjoyed the villains and how the author gave his readers their backstories. The Veiled One has a particularly heartbreaking story, and I wondered if he was indeed the bad one in the grand scheme of right or wrong when it came to the origination of the statue.
Overall, I found the story entertaining and the setting wonderful. The characters were also very enjoyable in terms of intelligence and general background. I would have liked to have seen less unnecessary dialogue and scenes in the book, which would have helped with the flow of the story. It moved too slowly for me, and I became bored in several parts of the book, wishing for the action and adventure to start. Reviewed by Kathryn Dare
The Case of the Stolen Goddess
By john amos
River Grove Books, $16.95, 204 pages, Format: Trade
Star Rating: 3 / 5
A small marble sculpture of Aphrodite was stolen from the British Museum. The curator, E. A. Wallis Budge, sought the help of the famous detectives on Baker Street. Maybe not the most famous detective, but after their success in Egypt, the capable and dynamic duo of Petrie And Pettigrew, Detectives. The team of Flinders Petrie and Doctor Thomas Pettigrew looked into the theft at the museum and discovered it to also include murder. With the high stakes and danger, only Flinders and Pettigrew were up to the challenge. The pair sailed to Syria and met up with T.E. Lawrance and Gertrude Bell. With their help, the detectives embarked on a thrilling journey to track down the mysterious Veiled One, who employed the assassins that stole the statue of the goddess.
The Case of the Stolen Goddess: A Petrie and Pettigrew Novel is a historical crime fiction by John Amos. A part glimpse into the enigmatic world of the pre-World War One Ottoman Empire and part detective novel, this book is two stories in one. Amos uses famous cultural personalities and places significant to the period unsparingly. Readers are given a window into a past and a place of great cultural relevance. Amos also pays tribute to the great detectives of literature. It is not hard to find references and reverence of Doyle’s Sherlock Homes, Chesterton’s Father Brown, and Christie’s Hercule Poirot. Though these Easter eggs add a certain level of fun, they seem to take away from the overall story.
As a historical fiction, Amos’ novel paints an impressive and accurate picture of the early 1900s Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Northern Africa and its importance in art and culture. From the once in vogue and barbaric practice of Mummy dissection to historic occult figures of the area, Amos brings to light a lot of forgotten histories. As a detective novel, unfortunately, this book falls short. The overall plot is often interrupted by internal dialogue and the historical Easter eggs, interrupting the pacing of this novel. I had such high hopes for this book because who doesn’t love a crime story about a stolen statue?
For readers looking for an entertaining and humorous historical fiction book, Amos’ book provides a great look into a fascinating time and place. Though the detective story has many holes, there is still plenty of intrigue and danger, along with many people and places from another time and place.
Reviewed by Eric Smith