RISE OF THE SNAKE GODDESS

Readers are reunited with Prohibition-era aspiring archaeologist Samantha Knox and her friends as they travel to Crete to unlock the mystery of an ancient Minoan goddess.

Although Sam has completed her first year of study at the University of Chicago at the top of her class, professor Atchinson refuses to include her in his summer field study at Knossos. Angered by his dismissiveness, Sam jumps at the opportunity to travel to Crete anyway with old friends Joana and Bennett Steeling. Their discovery of a beseeching letter from a museum curator to professor Wallstone, a returning character from Curse of the Specter Queen (2021), provides the impetus to explore a Cretan cave with a mysterious symbol. Upon arrival, the trio are swept up into exciting adventures including cave exploration, earthquakes, shady characters, daring escapes, charmed snakes, and—most importantly—the finding of a golden girdle that ensnares Sam with its siren song. Throughout, professor Atchinson remains a thorn in Sam’s side, constantly belittling her gender, talents, and ambition. Sam’s response to his misogyny and classism propels the book’s action but also, in the deft hands of the author, provides readers with insights into the complexities of identity, self-awareness, and right action. While never becoming preachy, the book also thoughtfully explores issues related to the ethics of the acquisition and ownership of antiquities. All characters appear White.

Another satisfying supernatural adventure featuring an intrepid solver of puzzles.