What do you think?
Rate this book
The Ka
California archaeology student Chione Ini-Herit has vivid dreams about the discovery of an opulent tomb. After learning that Chione's dreams are playing out in Egypt, the founder of the California Institute of Archaeology accepts an offer to examine a mysterious site in Valley of the Queens. When they discover a tomb, things begin to unravel. Magical spells encoded into the hieroglyphs on the tomb's walls transport Chione and her former boyfriend, fellow archaeologist Aaron Ashby, back 3,500 years to ancient Egypt. Even stranger, Aaron and Chione begin to morph into Tutankhamon and Tauret, a priestess in Pharaoh's Court, after learning that Tauret coded the magical spells into the hieroglyphs to keep her and Pharaoh irrevocably joined in the afterlife.
When other team members speak the spells aloud, they, too, are affected in unfathomable ways by the Ka, the spirit of the entombed person. Chione and Aaron learn that Tauret has conjured powerful spells to provide Tutankhamon with a living heir, and Tauret has chosen Chione and Aaron to complete her destiny.
When other team members speak the spells aloud, they, too, are affected in unfathomable ways by the Ka, the spirit of the entombed person. Chione and Aaron learn that Tauret has conjured powerful spells to provide Tutankhamon with a living heir, and Tauret has chosen Chione and Aaron to complete her destiny.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
410 pages, Paperback
First published May 9, 2006
About the author
Mary Deal
29 books149 followersMary Deal is an Amazon International bestselling, award-winning, multi-genre author of suspense/thrillers, romance, a short story collection, writers’ references, and self-help. She is a Pushcart Prize nominee, Artist and Photographer, and former newspaper columnist and magazine editor. After losing her beloved partner of 31 years, she is has written a memoir about surviving the grief period. That book is meant to help others and is due out in a few weeks.
She has traveled and has a lifetime of diverse experiences, all of which remain in memory as fodder for her fiction. A native of California’s Sacramento River Delta, where some of her stories are set, she has lived in England, the Caribbean, the Hawaiian Islands, and now resides in Scottsdale, Arizona. Also, her paintings and photography are used to create gorgeous personal and household products.
Her Website:
http://www.marydeal.com
Amazon Author Page: http://tinyurl.com/3z8pm31
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/MaryDeal
She has traveled and has a lifetime of diverse experiences, all of which remain in memory as fodder for her fiction. A native of California’s Sacramento River Delta, where some of her stories are set, she has lived in England, the Caribbean, the Hawaiian Islands, and now resides in Scottsdale, Arizona. Also, her paintings and photography are used to create gorgeous personal and household products.
Her Website:
http://www.marydeal.com
Amazon Author Page: http://tinyurl.com/3z8pm31
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/MaryDeal
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 6, 2018
After reading one of Mary Deal's novels last year, I knew I wanted to read a few more. After checking out the list, The Ka, seemed like the most appropriate given my interest in Egyptian history, pyramids, mummies, and curses. I was definitely not disappointed; in fact, I was rather quite intrigued to learn a whole lot more about some of the pharisees and queens during this historical period after reading the book. Kudos to Deal for making the story so interesting that I didn't want to stop learning once I put it down.
Not a frequent paranormal reader, I wasn't sure how I'd feel about that part of the story. Deal puts those concerns to bed rather quickly, as though there are elements of the past coming back in full force to the future in mystical ways, it's not at all like the movie The Mummy (which I loved) where ancient creatures are chasing the archaeologists and inhabitants of Cairo. There's something fantastical and lyrical about the way the past is connected to the current... a romance re-ignited by a common love for discovering what lurks beneath the Egyptian pyramids and a quest to survive though you've been hunted by your rivals.
Deal's approach to telling the story is a slow build at first, keenly pulling in readers who become invested in a vast array of team members on this search. At the center, Chione, who has been having peculiar and vivid dreams, leads the group to discover several opportunities for finding tombs and burial chambers that no one believed existed. Is she losing her mind? Is she actually having a connection with the queen who mysteriously died in the past? Is she just playing along to try and win someone's affection? All these thoughts and more will cross your mind as you read a well weaved story with tons of roller coast moments.
Tut is a very popular former pharaoh, but what's the full story behind his demise, the war occurring in the lands, and his potential suitor queens. Add in the quest to become famous, find love, become a mother despite medical complications, and a need to believe in something beyond what is tangible, this book covers a great range of emotional needs and reactions to what's happening over the course of a 4-month period. We invest in the characters as people who need to reach various goals, but we also learn all about the haunting ways of a few core Egyptian families near 4 millennia ago. It's a fascinating story and keeps your attention in every angle or arc.
Deal has a fantastic grasp on build-up, ensuring readers' appetites might be satiated every few chapters knowing full well the twists and surprises will come at unexpected times. The intimate knowledge revealed in this story must have been researched extensively. I'm quite impressed by the educational experience I had while reading the book -- all in a good way where I enjoyed learning about the culture, interpersonal dynamics, and life experiences of several prominent Egyptians in the past. Between the descriptions of the settings and demeanor / moods of the characters, you feel like you're in Egypt nearly two decades ago (when story takes place).
Another fine example of Deal's work... and it's just pushed me to pick up a third later this year. Just need to decide which one it should be... thanks for a fantastic read!
Not a frequent paranormal reader, I wasn't sure how I'd feel about that part of the story. Deal puts those concerns to bed rather quickly, as though there are elements of the past coming back in full force to the future in mystical ways, it's not at all like the movie The Mummy (which I loved) where ancient creatures are chasing the archaeologists and inhabitants of Cairo. There's something fantastical and lyrical about the way the past is connected to the current... a romance re-ignited by a common love for discovering what lurks beneath the Egyptian pyramids and a quest to survive though you've been hunted by your rivals.
Deal's approach to telling the story is a slow build at first, keenly pulling in readers who become invested in a vast array of team members on this search. At the center, Chione, who has been having peculiar and vivid dreams, leads the group to discover several opportunities for finding tombs and burial chambers that no one believed existed. Is she losing her mind? Is she actually having a connection with the queen who mysteriously died in the past? Is she just playing along to try and win someone's affection? All these thoughts and more will cross your mind as you read a well weaved story with tons of roller coast moments.
Tut is a very popular former pharaoh, but what's the full story behind his demise, the war occurring in the lands, and his potential suitor queens. Add in the quest to become famous, find love, become a mother despite medical complications, and a need to believe in something beyond what is tangible, this book covers a great range of emotional needs and reactions to what's happening over the course of a 4-month period. We invest in the characters as people who need to reach various goals, but we also learn all about the haunting ways of a few core Egyptian families near 4 millennia ago. It's a fascinating story and keeps your attention in every angle or arc.
Deal has a fantastic grasp on build-up, ensuring readers' appetites might be satiated every few chapters knowing full well the twists and surprises will come at unexpected times. The intimate knowledge revealed in this story must have been researched extensively. I'm quite impressed by the educational experience I had while reading the book -- all in a good way where I enjoyed learning about the culture, interpersonal dynamics, and life experiences of several prominent Egyptians in the past. Between the descriptions of the settings and demeanor / moods of the characters, you feel like you're in Egypt nearly two decades ago (when story takes place).
Another fine example of Deal's work... and it's just pushed me to pick up a third later this year. Just need to decide which one it should be... thanks for a fantastic read!
January 18, 2011
Mary Deal, not only a great writer, but the dearest friend I have ever found, who got my writing career started.
The Ka, is my favorite Egyptian mystery. If you love anything to do about Egypt, then this is the book to read. She took 4 years to research this before writing and she did an excellent job! The only problem I have with this is that I want to know what happens next at the end of the book, because there is like a cliff hanger!!!!
Wonderful book!
The Ka, is my favorite Egyptian mystery. If you love anything to do about Egypt, then this is the book to read. She took 4 years to research this before writing and she did an excellent job! The only problem I have with this is that I want to know what happens next at the end of the book, because there is like a cliff hanger!!!!
Wonderful book!
September 12, 2011
I love anything having to do with ancient Egypt, so I loved this tale. It is modern but Mary Deal's research into the ancient history and culture is wonderful. I leaned so much along with enjoying a totally unique story. Great job, Mary!
May 1, 2018
Chione Ini-Herit has a great,if somewhat unsettling ability. She is gifted with dreams that are on the clairvoyant side. Chione is an archaeologist and her gift may be just what might help her when she is headed on an archaeological project. Mary Deal takes reader not only into the tombs but adds a twist when they meet Tauret and are given a history lesson that involves Tutankhamen, the young prince from ancient Egypt. The author does a great job pulling readers into this Indian Jones type novel.
November 6, 2017
With a little bit of history, a little bit of mysticism, and a lot of paranormal events, The Ka by Mary Deal is a great book for anyone interested in the Egyptian pyramids, tombs, Tutankhamon and more. The main character, California archaeology student Chione Ini-Herit is beginning to have vivid dreams about a special tomb. She travels to Egypt to explore more about these dreams, along with an archeology team, and comes face to face with the Valley of the Queens. She has no way of knowing she will soon be transported to ancient Egypt, along with her ex boyfriend. With well developed characters, a keen sense of history, and a fast moving plot, this is an exciting book especially for history buffs. While some of the detail may drag in places, the emphasis on the paranormal and exceptional depiction of visions and the mystical, makes this book a formidable entry into the paranormal/history genre. An interesting story that would fully support a sequel to see what the characters are up to next.
October 29, 2017
I debated with myself about the review rating I wanted to give to this book. But in the end it was such a good story I could not give it less than five stars. I loved the characters. I loved the story line. I loved the detail of the exploration and the minimal emphasis on the problems of financing an expedition of this magnitude. I loved the paranormal aspects of the story and how the emphasis on dreams and visions tied the entire story together. I too hope there will be a sequel. I would love to know what is in the future for as yet an unborn son. Great read if a little slow.
November 5, 2017
Interesting concept...rate and abrupt ending
I chose the rating because I feel the story dragged in many places. While the storyline was a good one, and paranormal is an acceptable style, there was perhaps too much delay in accomplishing the outcome. I liked the character development and felt most were believable, but still overdone at times. I would recommend this book to fans of paranormal books with intense detail. I also like the time period covered, but maybe remiss in my history, thus felt the detail dragged the story down.
I chose the rating because I feel the story dragged in many places. While the storyline was a good one, and paranormal is an acceptable style, there was perhaps too much delay in accomplishing the outcome. I liked the character development and felt most were believable, but still overdone at times. I would recommend this book to fans of paranormal books with intense detail. I also like the time period covered, but maybe remiss in my history, thus felt the detail dragged the story down.
March 1, 2018
Mesmerizing and magical
I couldn't put this book down! I learned so many things about ancient Egypt that I never knew. Ms. Deal definitely did her research. Along with the actual facts, the story is steeped in magic, love, life, and the paranormal. There's lots of stuff going on, but, it flows easily and is just a pleasure to read. I enjoyed this book tremendously and didn't want it to end! The characters are sticking with me long after I have finished.
I couldn't put this book down! I learned so many things about ancient Egypt that I never knew. Ms. Deal definitely did her research. Along with the actual facts, the story is steeped in magic, love, life, and the paranormal. There's lots of stuff going on, but, it flows easily and is just a pleasure to read. I enjoyed this book tremendously and didn't want it to end! The characters are sticking with me long after I have finished.
December 5, 2017
A unique tale that carries the reader on an adventure back in time. I don't usually like time travel stories but I'm glad I came across this book. A well-written story that provides the reader with elements of suspense, fantasy, and adventure like a board game full of clues from beginning to end. I enjoyed this book immensely and look forward to reading more stories by this author.
February 14, 2018
A very good storyline and I would have given it 5 stars but at times the plot just seemed to meander out of control. Some scenes dragged out for far too long, it needs tightening up and a good editor. I also found the simple miss use of English really annoying e.g. plaintiff instead of plaintive et al.
November 9, 2017
Different type of Egyptian archeology story
Interesting book. Hope there's a novel to follow it.
Well developed characters. Well written..very few typos
I recommend this book.
Interesting book. Hope there's a novel to follow it.
Well developed characters. Well written..very few typos
I recommend this book.
May 15, 2020
Mary Deal has crafted over many years this beautiful story of modern and ancient Egypt with impeccable research so that the reader feels they are present at the tomb of Tauret and the treasures unearthed beside it. The characters grow and evolve, true to life, and the machinations and art / skill of the archeologists are fascinating as they wield their craft to carefully open the tomb. The story hidden by Tauret's burial place is fascinating and inventive, woven through with truth and fantasy, the lives of the archeologists interwoven with that of their find.
I suspect the author to have more than enough of the protagonist's clairvoyance!
I suspect the author to have more than enough of the protagonist's clairvoyance!
November 4, 2017
It had all started with a dream, mournful sounds carried through the realm of slumber to Chione, in her dream these sounds were connected to a tomb in Egypt, something that wanted to be found. Her dream was relayed to Clifford around the time reports of a new noise, possibly caused by the shifting in earth, had reached his ears from Egypt. With nothing to lose he reported the possibility of a new dig site. A second dream spoke of its discovery, like the dream before it too it came to pass, and thus they found themselves there. Despite her lack of Ph.D Chione had been selected to join what could be the most significant archaeological exploration for a long time. But before the tomb was even opened the group were experiencing unusual phenomenon. This find will affect each of them in ways they can't even begin to imagine. Buried beneath the sand, for time untold, it had been waiting for them, each has something to offer, something expected from them, but will they be willing to pay the price?
I've been to Egypt, I've seen, heard, and read some of the lore within this book. With great skill Mary Deal had me feeling like I was right back there, in the thick of it. The pace is slow and steady, but will easily keep you turn the pages. The Ka is heavily character driven with a plot that keeps you guessing, it has everything from tomb robbing to paranormal events. If you're a fan of Egyptian themed reads, or anything with a paranormal edge, then this is a read for you. The level of detail speaks volumes to the time and effort that went into researching this book to give the plot a genuine story, from the difficulties of financing a dig, to superstition, complications, unlikely friendships, and of course what Egyptian tale is complete without mysteries, missing people, and death?
I've been to Egypt, I've seen, heard, and read some of the lore within this book. With great skill Mary Deal had me feeling like I was right back there, in the thick of it. The pace is slow and steady, but will easily keep you turn the pages. The Ka is heavily character driven with a plot that keeps you guessing, it has everything from tomb robbing to paranormal events. If you're a fan of Egyptian themed reads, or anything with a paranormal edge, then this is a read for you. The level of detail speaks volumes to the time and effort that went into researching this book to give the plot a genuine story, from the difficulties of financing a dig, to superstition, complications, unlikely friendships, and of course what Egyptian tale is complete without mysteries, missing people, and death?
January 20, 2018
The Ka - Review by Martha A. Cheves, Author of: Stir, Laugh, Repeat; Think With Your Taste Buds; and A Book and A Dish
Chione was in awe making her way around the immense dimly lit chamber. Magnificent history spoke from the etchings. Her heart quickened. She wanted to read and learn who had been laid to rest in the burial chamber of this opulent tomb, yet the unfinished tasks at the first tomb took priority. Tauret's tomb would not allow her to focus her attention elsewhere until the mission of that discovery could be satisfied.
As far back as I can remember I always wanted to be an Archaeologist, but I had one really big problem. I'm very claustrophobic. So I now rely on old things above ground and reading about those below ground. In The Ka, Chione took me not only to the Valley of the Queens, she also took me on a journey where history, in a sense, sometimes repeats itself. With all its history and vivid detail, the author must have spent vast amounts of time doing research.
Chione, along with a group of archaeologists embark on a finding that will take them deep into the earth and all of this has come about due to the dreams and visions Chione has seen. But it seems that this group of archaeologists are not as normal as they believe they are. They have been brought together to do something more than uncover history. They, too, are just as special as Chione and as time goes on, they will see for themselves just why they were all brought together.
So, I now have one question for you. Do you believe in reincarnation? If not, you might after reading The Ka.
Chione was in awe making her way around the immense dimly lit chamber. Magnificent history spoke from the etchings. Her heart quickened. She wanted to read and learn who had been laid to rest in the burial chamber of this opulent tomb, yet the unfinished tasks at the first tomb took priority. Tauret's tomb would not allow her to focus her attention elsewhere until the mission of that discovery could be satisfied.
As far back as I can remember I always wanted to be an Archaeologist, but I had one really big problem. I'm very claustrophobic. So I now rely on old things above ground and reading about those below ground. In The Ka, Chione took me not only to the Valley of the Queens, she also took me on a journey where history, in a sense, sometimes repeats itself. With all its history and vivid detail, the author must have spent vast amounts of time doing research.
Chione, along with a group of archaeologists embark on a finding that will take them deep into the earth and all of this has come about due to the dreams and visions Chione has seen. But it seems that this group of archaeologists are not as normal as they believe they are. They have been brought together to do something more than uncover history. They, too, are just as special as Chione and as time goes on, they will see for themselves just why they were all brought together.
So, I now have one question for you. Do you believe in reincarnation? If not, you might after reading The Ka.
October 24, 2017
As a lifelong fan of all things Tutankamun, Egyptian history and Mummy movies I had to buy and read The Ka. First of all, let me just say forget all about Mummy movies. There is nothing scary in this story, nothing horrible unless your imagination comes into play, nothing that links it with the Horror genre. It is a gentle, slow paced book that nevertheless engages the reader. It is more concerned with relationships than fantasy and very much based in reality and everyday human interaction.
Other reviewers have referred to the surprise ending but to be honest there is no surprise really. Follow the characters, follow the dreams, actions, spells and conversations and the ending follows quite naturally. Chione and Aaron’s relationship takes a long while to develop despite encouragement from others. Randy nearly made me throw the book down at the start he was such a hateful man, but he matures and becomes a friend to Chione and a vital contributor towards the end.
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in archaeology who likes a good adventure yarn. There are murders, larceny and underhand dealings galore, a love interest, the hint of a curse, a paranormal element and a satisfyingly strange conclusion. History is sound, description is good and the characters work well.
Other reviewers have referred to the surprise ending but to be honest there is no surprise really. Follow the characters, follow the dreams, actions, spells and conversations and the ending follows quite naturally. Chione and Aaron’s relationship takes a long while to develop despite encouragement from others. Randy nearly made me throw the book down at the start he was such a hateful man, but he matures and becomes a friend to Chione and a vital contributor towards the end.
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in archaeology who likes a good adventure yarn. There are murders, larceny and underhand dealings galore, a love interest, the hint of a curse, a paranormal element and a satisfyingly strange conclusion. History is sound, description is good and the characters work well.
November 2, 2017
The KA
Mary Deal
Reviewed by Author Roy Murry
Pyramid, Pharaohs, and Paranormal, the three Ps of this novel set in mysterious Egypt. Moreover, the writings are on the wall.
Chione has a gut feeling and dreams that lead her and a California archeologist team to the land of the Pharaohs to what is called a "Find," the business of digging up the graves of the ancient wealth. Each step of the way into "The Dig," she receives extrasensory perceptions and cryptids that lead to events that most may not believe.
Her friend/lover is also on the dig and shows up in what Chione perceives of two ancients' union. The ending of those relationships leaves the reader with the thought of what will come next.
During the dig, strange events happen which unravel. People die, go missing, and fall in love. What is learned from digging up graves? Nothing but much, the mystery behind a world that hasn't changed in centuries was nice to dabble into through Ms. Deals prose.
The detail in Ms. Deals writing is worth the read if you care about Egypt and Paranormal events. I found the read a pleasant diversion from my usual readings.
Mary Deal
Reviewed by Author Roy Murry
Pyramid, Pharaohs, and Paranormal, the three Ps of this novel set in mysterious Egypt. Moreover, the writings are on the wall.
Chione has a gut feeling and dreams that lead her and a California archeologist team to the land of the Pharaohs to what is called a "Find," the business of digging up the graves of the ancient wealth. Each step of the way into "The Dig," she receives extrasensory perceptions and cryptids that lead to events that most may not believe.
Her friend/lover is also on the dig and shows up in what Chione perceives of two ancients' union. The ending of those relationships leaves the reader with the thought of what will come next.
During the dig, strange events happen which unravel. People die, go missing, and fall in love. What is learned from digging up graves? Nothing but much, the mystery behind a world that hasn't changed in centuries was nice to dabble into through Ms. Deals prose.
The detail in Ms. Deals writing is worth the read if you care about Egypt and Paranormal events. I found the read a pleasant diversion from my usual readings.
November 13, 2017
This action packed story about an archeology student named Chione was interesting to read. Especially with the recent discovery of a new hidden chamber in one of the pyramids, this story becomes almost fiction. Almost, if not for the time travel part. Chione is compelled to travel to the valley of the queens in Egypt after she starts having recurring dreams about an undiscovered tomb. Together with the founder of her Institute and her archeologist ex-boyfriend Aaron, Chione discovers that her dreams about this tomb may not have been just happenstance. Transported back in time, Chione and Aaron have to figure out a way to return to their own time and escape being used by Tauret for his own nefarious purpose.
An engaging story, it has been some time that an author has been able to grip and mystify me in such a fun and intriguing way. The story was original; it did not feel as if I was rehashing some other story with new characters. The writing was good and I did not find any major errors that jarred me out of the story.
An engaging story, it has been some time that an author has been able to grip and mystify me in such a fun and intriguing way. The story was original; it did not feel as if I was rehashing some other story with new characters. The writing was good and I did not find any major errors that jarred me out of the story.
March 26, 2018
Totally mesmerizing
One of the best books I have read in this genre. You really believe you are in the desert, discovering the tombs yourself. Believable characters who make the reader fully invest in the love stories, both ancient and contemporary. Absorbing and enthralling.
One of the best books I have read in this genre. You really believe you are in the desert, discovering the tombs yourself. Believable characters who make the reader fully invest in the love stories, both ancient and contemporary. Absorbing and enthralling.
November 3, 2017
Egyptian wonder with a present past twist
This is a good story about the Egyptian valley of the queens and a team of archeologists who are set to discover something beyond the belief of anyone past or present. With one member who has visions and another who feels an attraction this is a fast paced twist of time and fate. This story spans the current and pulls members of the team into the past to become unwilling participants in an ancient ritual. The characters are well developed and the story is a great journey through ancient Egypt and the past kings. I love the pyramids and have always liked this type of story. I would recommend this one to anyone. It is a great journey through an ancient time and place.
This is a good story about the Egyptian valley of the queens and a team of archeologists who are set to discover something beyond the belief of anyone past or present. With one member who has visions and another who feels an attraction this is a fast paced twist of time and fate. This story spans the current and pulls members of the team into the past to become unwilling participants in an ancient ritual. The characters are well developed and the story is a great journey through ancient Egypt and the past kings. I love the pyramids and have always liked this type of story. I would recommend this one to anyone. It is a great journey through an ancient time and place.
February 17, 2018
Conflicted
I had a difficult time deciding on the number of stars to give this book. Parts of it dragged and yet parts captivated me. Some parts were overkill and unnecessary and yet the abrupt ending didn't do the rest of the book justice. If you can work your way through the slow, rough patches, you will be rewarded with a fascinating story. I still think four stars is generous, considering how irritated I was by the ending.
I had a difficult time deciding on the number of stars to give this book. Parts of it dragged and yet parts captivated me. Some parts were overkill and unnecessary and yet the abrupt ending didn't do the rest of the book justice. If you can work your way through the slow, rough patches, you will be rewarded with a fascinating story. I still think four stars is generous, considering how irritated I was by the ending.
March 16, 2018
Meh
On of those books you keep on reading hoping it will get better-it didn't. Was long and not much happened. I think the author could have made it shorter and sped up the pace-that might have improved it. I finished the book but felt it was a waste of my time. I would not recommend this book.
On of those books you keep on reading hoping it will get better-it didn't. Was long and not much happened. I think the author could have made it shorter and sped up the pace-that might have improved it. I finished the book but felt it was a waste of my time. I would not recommend this book.
October 28, 2017
AWSOME
The best book I have read in a long time, hard to put down. The history and customs of Egypt are a interesting backdrop
The best book I have read in a long time, hard to put down. The history and customs of Egypt are a interesting backdrop
November 5, 2017
Just enough
A wonderful mix of archeology and romance but not your typical romance. I hope there is a sequel. There are all kinds of possibilities..
A wonderful mix of archeology and romance but not your typical romance. I hope there is a sequel. There are all kinds of possibilities..
February 15, 2021
Till I got thus book I had never heard of this author and now I am glad I have. The story was very well written so that you as a reader or listener became part of the story and she was able to wrap the story around you the beginning to the end and make sure you want more a very special trait of an awesome author. The narrator was able to also bring the characters alive and it did not seem she was reading the book but you was there as an character or at a theater watching the show.
Growing up in the 50's and 60's we watched tons of movies about Egypt, Mummies, Pharoah, Queens and the best the mythical and magic and finally death in this one audible you have all of them.
At first some of the group were not getting alone due to the ability of one character who has the ability to dream and most of the time they come true and one dream was to have a child but she was not able to. In many ways this story is a follow-up of Harrell Carter who found the boy king who was murdered before having a male heir and was at the time looking for a women to give him this male heir. In the story you meet the boy king and his lover who was with his child when they both was murdered and she was buried in haste. As the story goes on it branches off to ancient Egypt, America and modern Egypt also you have many storylines that even thought they go everywhere in the end you have the most beautiful woven story tapestry of each and ever character growing as the story is told some dieing and some changing for most of the time better and finally you watch as the group are not individually but one big family who has learn to work and grow together with one goal.
Growing up in the 50's and 60's we watched tons of movies about Egypt, Mummies, Pharoah, Queens and the best the mythical and magic and finally death in this one audible you have all of them.
At first some of the group were not getting alone due to the ability of one character who has the ability to dream and most of the time they come true and one dream was to have a child but she was not able to. In many ways this story is a follow-up of Harrell Carter who found the boy king who was murdered before having a male heir and was at the time looking for a women to give him this male heir. In the story you meet the boy king and his lover who was with his child when they both was murdered and she was buried in haste. As the story goes on it branches off to ancient Egypt, America and modern Egypt also you have many storylines that even thought they go everywhere in the end you have the most beautiful woven story tapestry of each and ever character growing as the story is told some dieing and some changing for most of the time better and finally you watch as the group are not individually but one big family who has learn to work and grow together with one goal.
December 12, 2019
Something for Everyone!
This book has it all: mystery, murder, romance, history, supernatural thrills - all combined amidst the pyramids of Eygpt. The author has done an excellent job researching the mystery of ancient Eygpt and combining it with a modern day story. The characters were wonderful; well crafted and interesting. The story drew me in and kept me captivated from start to finish. A very well written novel by a talented author. Five out of five stars for an inventive and brilliant read.
This book has it all: mystery, murder, romance, history, supernatural thrills - all combined amidst the pyramids of Eygpt. The author has done an excellent job researching the mystery of ancient Eygpt and combining it with a modern day story. The characters were wonderful; well crafted and interesting. The story drew me in and kept me captivated from start to finish. A very well written novel by a talented author. Five out of five stars for an inventive and brilliant read.
February 17, 2024
A tale of love and beliefs intertwined in past and present Egypt.
A wonderful detailed story that took me back 45 years to the first time I read “The Sunbird” by Wilbur Smith. Both are stories that involve past and present lives that are entangled through time. Both tell of lives lived in ancient Egypt.
In “The Ka”, we see Chione having dreams and visions of a past life with Aaron, who are both on an archeological dig in Egypt. Or, are they memories and flashbacks to a life she lived and loved as Tauret who fell in love, and was loved back by Tutankhamen, the boy Pharaoh.
I loved the intricate detail of the excavations of the tombs which could only have occurred with meticulous research.
This is more than just a paranormal romance/thriller, it is a rich tale woven together beautifully by brilliant author Mary Deal, whose characters and descriptive narrative are the key to bringing the reader into the story.
Five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for a novel that lets the reader breathe in the story and exhale the dust from the ancient tombs.
A wonderful detailed story that took me back 45 years to the first time I read “The Sunbird” by Wilbur Smith. Both are stories that involve past and present lives that are entangled through time. Both tell of lives lived in ancient Egypt.
In “The Ka”, we see Chione having dreams and visions of a past life with Aaron, who are both on an archeological dig in Egypt. Or, are they memories and flashbacks to a life she lived and loved as Tauret who fell in love, and was loved back by Tutankhamen, the boy Pharaoh.
I loved the intricate detail of the excavations of the tombs which could only have occurred with meticulous research.
This is more than just a paranormal romance/thriller, it is a rich tale woven together beautifully by brilliant author Mary Deal, whose characters and descriptive narrative are the key to bringing the reader into the story.
Five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for a novel that lets the reader breathe in the story and exhale the dust from the ancient tombs.
October 28, 2017
Great read
Enjoyed this book very much , pulled me in from the start. Loved how it all came together ❤. You won't be sorry you read this
Enjoyed this book very much , pulled me in from the start. Loved how it all came together ❤. You won't be sorry you read this
April 22, 2019
This is a compelling story about Ancient and modern Egypt, weaving together past and present through magic. A modern team of archaeologists make a huge discovery, but as they soon find out, fate had a lot to do with it.
This tale was engaging from the beginning, though it can take a reader some time to become oriented to the large cast of characters. The opening scene introduces them all, which was a bit overwhelming. However, the premise was enough to inspire interest.
Chione, the main character, does not have an archaeology degree, but she does have extra sensory abilities that most of the team already trusts when the story opens. In fact, her dream told them that they would find something extraordinary. Though they trust her, they’re scientists, so they’re still on the fence about believing her abilities, and chose instead to wait for evidence to prove if her premonitions will come to pass.
This conflict makes the story frustrating at times. Though her team trusts her, Chione doesn’t trust them in return, so she keeps a lot of things to herself. When people ask her to share because they genuinely want to know what she’s intuited, she pushes them away. Worse yet, because she doesn’t trust herself, she takes far too long to draw any conclusions from what she’s been experiencing through her metaphysical senses.
This is the most unsavory part of the story. There are a lot of conversations that sound more confrontational than friendly, and there are too many moments when Chione is the one advising others that they are wrong about their own intuition. It’s as if the author didn’t tease out each of her characters’ personalities well enough, so that they all kind of swing back and forth between believing and not believing. This wouldn’t be so bad, except that her main character is also making that swing.
It’s not until well past half of the book that Chione finally starts connecting the dots AND accepting her role in all of it. From that point on, the story finally starts rolling along more smoothly. However, readers be warned, it ends very abruptly. There were a lot of loose ends to tie up, but the author expects you to do it in your own imagination.
On a good note, if you’re interested in ancient Egyptian history, then this is a fun story.
This tale was engaging from the beginning, though it can take a reader some time to become oriented to the large cast of characters. The opening scene introduces them all, which was a bit overwhelming. However, the premise was enough to inspire interest.
Chione, the main character, does not have an archaeology degree, but she does have extra sensory abilities that most of the team already trusts when the story opens. In fact, her dream told them that they would find something extraordinary. Though they trust her, they’re scientists, so they’re still on the fence about believing her abilities, and chose instead to wait for evidence to prove if her premonitions will come to pass.
This conflict makes the story frustrating at times. Though her team trusts her, Chione doesn’t trust them in return, so she keeps a lot of things to herself. When people ask her to share because they genuinely want to know what she’s intuited, she pushes them away. Worse yet, because she doesn’t trust herself, she takes far too long to draw any conclusions from what she’s been experiencing through her metaphysical senses.
This is the most unsavory part of the story. There are a lot of conversations that sound more confrontational than friendly, and there are too many moments when Chione is the one advising others that they are wrong about their own intuition. It’s as if the author didn’t tease out each of her characters’ personalities well enough, so that they all kind of swing back and forth between believing and not believing. This wouldn’t be so bad, except that her main character is also making that swing.
It’s not until well past half of the book that Chione finally starts connecting the dots AND accepting her role in all of it. From that point on, the story finally starts rolling along more smoothly. However, readers be warned, it ends very abruptly. There were a lot of loose ends to tie up, but the author expects you to do it in your own imagination.
On a good note, if you’re interested in ancient Egyptian history, then this is a fun story.
October 25, 2019
The Ka: Tragedy and Betrayal in Ancient Egypt
by Mary Deal
A review by Pete Adams
An Immaculate story, conceived in the mysteries of the Pharaohs.
This was a big step outside of my usually preferred genres, but I have read several of Mary Deal’s books, loved them, and so, trusted in the writer. I was not disappointed, although it took me a little while to ease into the slow-burning pace of a story of faith, trust and belief, so lovingly constructed.
This is a novel of mystery, magic and history, set bang up to date as an archaeological team go to Egypt to discover the tomb of a consort to Pharaoh Tutankhamon (that is how it is spelt in Ancient Egypt). It was a tomb considered lost forever, except one of the team had a dream. This starts the journey of a thousand layers that has running in the hidden depths a love story and, a woman’s desire for a child.
Enough – no more plot spoilers except to say the book is incredibly well researched, and here, we take a breather, because it could be possible to give up as the technicalities of ancient Egyptian culture and beliefs can at times confound. But, I say, stick with it because after a short while you are in it yourself, you are a part of the mysticism, glyphs, spells and ancient raptures.
The mystery and magic of the discovered tomb begins to effect all the members of the archaeological team in fascinating ways. There are deaths. There are murders. There are snake oil salesmen looking to take over the findings. But, in all of this, the mystery drives the narrative through the one woman, Chione and, Arron, her erstwhile love.
I am a slow reader and the pace of the novel was just right, because I did not want to miss the descriptions of ancient and modern Egypt. And the end? Sublime. Lovely. Moving. A Faith repaid.
by Mary Deal
A review by Pete Adams
An Immaculate story, conceived in the mysteries of the Pharaohs.
This was a big step outside of my usually preferred genres, but I have read several of Mary Deal’s books, loved them, and so, trusted in the writer. I was not disappointed, although it took me a little while to ease into the slow-burning pace of a story of faith, trust and belief, so lovingly constructed.
This is a novel of mystery, magic and history, set bang up to date as an archaeological team go to Egypt to discover the tomb of a consort to Pharaoh Tutankhamon (that is how it is spelt in Ancient Egypt). It was a tomb considered lost forever, except one of the team had a dream. This starts the journey of a thousand layers that has running in the hidden depths a love story and, a woman’s desire for a child.
Enough – no more plot spoilers except to say the book is incredibly well researched, and here, we take a breather, because it could be possible to give up as the technicalities of ancient Egyptian culture and beliefs can at times confound. But, I say, stick with it because after a short while you are in it yourself, you are a part of the mysticism, glyphs, spells and ancient raptures.
The mystery and magic of the discovered tomb begins to effect all the members of the archaeological team in fascinating ways. There are deaths. There are murders. There are snake oil salesmen looking to take over the findings. But, in all of this, the mystery drives the narrative through the one woman, Chione and, Arron, her erstwhile love.
I am a slow reader and the pace of the novel was just right, because I did not want to miss the descriptions of ancient and modern Egypt. And the end? Sublime. Lovely. Moving. A Faith repaid.
June 7, 2019
Sorry I can't be more encouraging, but this book dragged on and on with the same 'paranormal experience' recycled over and over and that was a muddle in itself. Because the story is predominantly 'told' from afar rather than engaging the readers in what should have been exciting elements. I never related to the story or the characters. The characters were well defined but there were too many and their stories 'told' so I never engaged with them either. I found the descriptions of the tomb rooms less than stellar as well. I got the feeling this was 'nice' short story stretched to squeaking to make a book. I don't want to spoil the ending, but there isn't any plausibility in the key point.
The author knows Egyptian history but in reality, Tutankhamun was terribly inbred and badly deformed as a result. He would never have been a romantic lead.
Sorry, but I wouldn't recommend this book.
The author knows Egyptian history but in reality, Tutankhamun was terribly inbred and badly deformed as a result. He would never have been a romantic lead.
Sorry, but I wouldn't recommend this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews