Karen S. (BoysMom) - My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Mystery and suspense in WWI Cairo!
Covert in Cairo is the second book in author Kelly Oliver's delightful Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane Mystery series, and it is every bit as fun and exciting as the first. Favorite characters return to track down a master spy and save the Suez Canal, this time among the pyramids of Egypt.
The main character, Fiona Figg, is still as gung-ho as ever (maybe even more so) to prove her value to Captain Hall back at headquarters in London. After the events of book one and its subsequent revelations, she finds it difficult to trust her young companion, Kitty Lane, although she grudgingly admires some of the girl's surprising skills. Having seen her in this setting, Fiona reminds me of a young Amelia Peabody from the Elizabeth Peters series of that name. Fiona, however, has had her head turned by two unavailable men. Still, her earnestness and heart-felt responsibility to do her duty is endearing. My verdict is still out on the enigmatic Kitty.The plot is a follow-up on information discovered in the previous book: a teasing yet serious message from the master spy Frederick Fredericks is what has sent the trio to Cairo in the first place. While this book can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, I believe readers would enjoy it more after reading book one. The Cairo setting is wonderful, and the author includes little bits of business that enhance the feel and atmosphere of the place, events, and society in 1917. I love a good story where the author incorporates real events and people in it. Historical figures seamlessly rub elbows with the characters, adding to the flavor and authenticity of the story. The mystery is complex, with plot twists and red herrings that kept me guessing and turning the pages like I was eating potato chips. (You can't eat just one.)
I recommend COVERT IN CAIRO to cozy mystery readers who enjoy historical settings featuring personalities from the day, comedic moments, and great dialogue.I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.
