4.5 ⭐️

I really loved What The River Knows the first book in Secrets of The Nile duet so I was even more excited for Where The Library Hides after the epilogue we were left with. While I enjoyed this book I didn’t love this as much as the first book but was very happy with the way it concluded. This was very much about solving a lot of the mysteries from the first book and the romance did take a little bit of backseat in this for the majority of the story.

We do get both Inez and Whit’s POVs in this book and I really think that helped seeing both sides of the story especially as this book deals with a lot of betrayals and twists and turns. Inez certainly goes through it in this book and the last part was certainly filled with a lot of action and twists and turns.

The writing is still one of my favourite things and the way the author describes the world it is so vivid and easy to visualise, I loved the illustrations and I especially loved the epilogue and the way it was done. I will always recommend giving this duo a read as the writing and world building is so beautifully done.

Where the Library Hides starts right where What The River Knows left off and, unlike the first one, there are very few breaks in a brisk pacing of this one. It being a sequel works to the author's strengths, as it allows the entire book to flow without the need for exposition or for length introductions to new characters.

There are some interesting twists as well as one twist that feels as if it pulls away an interesting possibility that would have been fun to read about.

Both main characters remain strong, with us getting more of a look into Whit's head in this book than we did in the first one. This definitely adds to both this novel and the first one.

If you hadn’t guessed it from my previous reviews, I’m an ardent fan of The Mummy and I absolutely adore any book or series that emulates this! Of course, that meant I totally loved What The River Knows by Isabel Ibañez and I absolutely had to get my hands on Where The Library Hides as soon as I possibly could! Huge thanks to Hodder & Stoughton, Hodderscape and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.

Where The Library Hides picks up immediately following the conclusion of What The River Knows, where we left Inez mourning the death of her beloved cousin and still trying to solve the mysteries of Egypt, Cleopatra and the disappearance or possible murder of her father! The book begins with Whit suddenly proposing to Inez! Inez is totally confounded by this, immersed in confusion as to whether Whit actually has feelings for her or is he scheming again? Remember that kiss?

What can I say? This explosive start to the book brings our protagonists right back into the spotlight, illuminating their conflicting characteristics and bringing forth the banter and spats that I totally adored from the first book in this duology! Whit is still a total charming brute and Inez remains her impetuous, curious self! The way the story is told from both their points of view only added to the charm, as we could see both the sides they displayed to each other and their innermost thoughts. Their romance alone is a reason to read this adventure filled duology, filled with the angst, stubbornness, conflict, and banter that truly brings to life the tumultuous and passionate feelings they have for each other, even if they won’t admit it!

The plot continues to maintain the fast pace set in book one, although there are slightly fewer less adventures as the book proceeds towards its dramatic conclusion but, what it lacks in action, it makes up for in mystery, investigation, dramatic and unexpected plot twists, that I most definitely couldn’t have foreseen, and great character arcs as Inez matures and Whit is more fleshed out as a multi-dimensional character. I loved the character development and growth for both.

The world building itself is solid, with its core foundations in Egypt and its history, Ibañez does take some imaginative turns but, these all have their foundations in history and geography, and are key to the development of the plot.

If you love The Mummy or anything about Egypt, then you won’t go wrong with this solid duology that delivers a rich tapestry of strong characters, great adventure and action, magic and history, alongside a truly angsty but, fun romance.

A huge thank you to the publisher, NetGalley and Isabel Ibañez for this ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

Firstly, I loved that the book was dedicated to everyone who was absolutely wrecked after the ending of book 1 and that Where the Library Hides picks up right where What the River Knows ended.
While reading, I found myself increasingly disliking Whit (I know! Sorry!). He was showing so many red flags that I was seriously worried about Inez. Every time I thought Inez (and I) couldn’t handle any more heartbreak and betrayal, the book proved me wrong.
However, the pacing was so incredible, especially at around 70%, that I couldn’t stop reading because the plot twists were so intense and insane. I loved the complexity of the characters and that they showed how nothing is just black & white. Whit made up for *no spoiler* and I liked how his and Inez’s relationship evolved despite everything that happened.

That being said, get ready for an incredible adventure and go read this book (and book 1 if you haven’t)!

By the way, I need Arabella to have her own book because this is one of my favourite storyworlds and I’m not ready to leave it!

A lovely conclusion to the secrets of the Nile duology. This story is full of family secrets, betrayals and Indiana Jones style adventure.
What I enjoyed most is the setting, the Egyptian backdrop is simply stunning. And worth a read purely for this!
There’s an ultimatum element to this plot that really worked for me. Inez as a character deals with things rather impulsively and in a human way making me root for her and equally frustrating me. I absolutely loved Whit, although I found I disconnected from the romance as this fell secondary to the family secrets plot lines. There are some great moments but I much preferred the romance in the first instalment.
I would have enjoyed more plot development as this story was purely a continuation of the first book. Saying this there are plenty of action scenes and revelations to keep pace and entertainment up.
Overall this is a great melodramatic historical fantasy with fun magical elements and a hint of romance.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. This is a voluntary review of my own thoughts.

Just like everything Isabel Ibañez writes, this book is golden!

This is book 2 of the finished What the River Knows duology, and if you've read book 1 you know we needed this book ASAP

Following Inez's and Whit's adventures in Egypt is a wonderful experience. The way it's written makes you travel to faraway lands and the tension between the main characters and the obstacles they need to overcome will keep you hooked!

I read this book in only 2 days and was constantly surprised by all the plot twists and new additions to the mysteries to be solved - I couldn't recommend this book enough, it's certainly been one of the best reads of the year

Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this as an ARC, I don't know if I'd been able to survive longer without knowing what was going to happen next!

Really enjoyed the conclusion to this duology. It ended really well.
I feel like character progression was done well, as was the whole rounded up of the story.
A very satisfying ending.

Where the Library Hides is book 2 in the Secrets of The Nile. Which was obviously an error on m part, so I had to go and read Book 1 before I could pick up book 2. And it gives me a reason to read a book that’s been stuck on my tbr for several months.

So book 2 in comparison to book 1 was much faster paced. There was more happening but with enough detail so you aren't left confused or wondering. The first book lacked quite a bit but book 2 is right up there and I thoroughly enjoyed it in comparison to book 1.

I was completely hooked to this book, especially after the cliffhanger we was left with on book 1. The one thing I can say for absolute certainty was that the research that must of come with writing this book was insane. The small details that just make you see Cairo and the area surrounding it. It was so beautifully done, I have zero faults for the world building in this book.

The pace is absolutely flawless in this book, there were moments where you had time to think about all that was happening and where it would lead, but they were placed perfectly in-between those faster paced moments where you found yourself holding your breath because it was so intense.

There honestly isn't much more I can say to sell this book to you. I loved every second of it and will continue to recommend it. I think reading book 1 is so worth it to the story, but just hold om through the parts that lag, because book 2 more than makes up for it.

I’m on the fence about this. This duology was an enjoyable experience, and Where the Library Hides is a solid conclusion. I enjoyed the magical realism, the Egyptian mythology, and the archeological vibes. It reminded me of the nostalgia of reading 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘒𝘢𝘯𝘦 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘴. The writing is super easy to read and the plot is compelling. However, I believe this duology could’ve been a standalone. There were stretches of info-dumping and paragraphs of repeated information that made the book drag. I also found Inez super annoying. Other characters (e.g., Whit) suffered a personality transplant, acting very out of character in my opinion. Overall, this was a quick read but it didn’t quite live up to expectations.

I always find it quite difficult to review the second book in the series. For once, the expectations, though only slightly subdued by the sheer power of my will, are always high, and with that, a great deal of books end up being downright underwhelming. Apart from that, there's always a fine line between raving about the story and spoiling it for all future readers.

This was a masterpiece. Where the Library Hides proved to be the book that is impossible to put down. I was hooked from the very first letter I read and I'm proud to say the uncontrollable obsession lasted until I turned the very last page.

The dynamic between Whit and Inez was everything one dreams of when they're reading a book like that - intense, full of fire and love, and just a little bit of angst.

The story flowed effortlessly and Isabel once again showed just how well she understands both her characters and the storyline.

I could talk about this book for hours, so for now, let me finish with this - not only did Where the Library Hides meet my expectations. It exceeded them.

5 stars, arc review I honestly love this duology it’s the perfect balance of romance, suspense and historical fantasy. I loved the magic elements combined with Egyptian history they worked so well with each other. This book was just a great way to end the duology and probably has one of my favourite epilogues with everything tied up for each character. The artwork was incredible as well it was one of my favourite elements of the first book and I’m so glad they were incorporated in this one as well. If you’re looking for a ya historical fantasy with a romance sub plot this is the duology for you.

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the advance copy to read.

This was one of my most anticipated reads of 2024 and it did not disappoint. Ibanez writes with such beautiful description and creates the most believable characters that it is pure magic to read.

I adore the setting in Cairo and it's abundantly obvious how much research and knowledge of the area and times has been loving poured into the story.

Our main characters, Inez and Whit, are just a wonderful love story. They are also brilliant characters who are full of wit (No pun intended). I love how defiant Inez in and won't be told no. I also love how defensive Whit is. They are the perfect book romance for me and their story really carries the duo.

I really enjoyed the twists in this book, especially after the cliff hanger from book 1. I did not see any of it coming until just before.

So much action, drama and love.

I fear I can never write eloquently enough just how much I adore this book. But urge everyone to read it and fall in love with it too.

Thank you NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the chance to read this book early in exchange for an honest review!

After reading and loving What the River knows - and after that specific ending that had me reeling - I was so excited to finally get my hands on this arc and I have to say: Isabel ibañez did not disappoint (I literally finished this book in 2 days because I couldn't put it down). I already loved Inez and Whit in the first book but I really think they both got more opportunities to be developed in this one, both separately and as a couple. It made me really happy that we got more moments of these two alone, without the interference of other characters, because I did want them to grow closer in this book (again, Ibañez did not disappoint).

I think the pace in this book was better than in the first one and the story was still interesting. I love how the author sprinkled a little bit of magic all over this book because it did turn it into something special.

I'm sad that this duology is over but I do think this was the perfect conclusion and I'm so excited to read the next books (and you'll definitely know who's coming next by the time you finish this one).

A spectacular conclusion to the Secrets of the Nile duology. It's always bittersweet to see a beloved series come to an end, but I couldn't have hoped for a better adventure following Inez and Whit.

This review is spoiler free FYI :)

Isabel's worldbuilding was superb, very detailed and I always felt very much part of the story, exploring Egypt alongside Inez as the story developed. This book answered every question I had from What The River Knows and also had me squealing and kicking my feet like a small child.

I devoured Where The Library Hides, I struggled to put this book down - utterly obsessed with Whit (as scheming as he may be) and I enjoyed seeing Inez grow during her time in Egypt.

This book is full of secrets, magic, betrayals and above all a sense of found family. I only wish I could reread it again for the first time. I really hope I can convince at least one reader to pick up this duology because it really is that good, I've never read anything like it.

The pacing is pretty slow for the first half of the book, but once they move from Cairo the plot thickens and we really get a good glimpse into what is coming. It dives straight back in to the cliff-hanger that left me open mouthed, and I wasn't disappointed.

I'm so excited to see what Isabel Ibanez writes next, she is definitely an auto-buy author for me now and I will be collecting every edition I can of this duology (madness but it is worth it!).

What a book!! After the first one (and its ending!!) I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this one and it did not disappoint and I love it with all my heart!
I think it’s great we continue with the dual pov and therefore understand both characters quite great and I liked that there were a few new people introduced in this book, because it kept things interesting.
This story is just as packed with mystery and twists as the first one and the art is absolutely stunning! Couldn’t recommend it more.

LOVED IT LOVED IT LOVED IT!!!!

omg what a ride!! Divibg back into Eygpt has been the highlight of my October. It was such a fun read and omg I love Whit EVEN MORE.

Cant wait to get my physical copy!!!

4,5 ⭐️

I was so happy to receive a complimentary advance copy of this book from Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

After the epilogue of What the River Knows I couldn’t wait to find the explanation.

For Whit, the betrayal is justified because he was saving someone else. He is morally and ethically gray and was not sorry for what he did. I understand why he did not apologize and instead did his best to protect Inez and make it up to her.

Inez tries to be brave and look like she is not affected by the lie, but, as Whit describes her, she is “resourceful, reckless, curious”, and also naive so she trusts the wrong people and ends up hurt.
Still, we have to remember that she is basically a teenager looking for a family so of course she wants to see the good in people.

Just like in the first book we have mystery, secrets, betrayals and magic.
There are a lot of twists that keep you engaged and entertained. I also like the writing, the descriptions and the illustrations.
There are so many paragraphs that I highlighted. It was nice to have both POVs and understand the characters better.

In the sequel to What the River Knows we continue with the dual pov of Inéz & Whit and it picks up straight away from the ending of the first book. (That ending!!!) The novel is absolutely packed with betrayals and subterfuge, really leaning into the mystery vibes of the 1st. Motivations are revealed and mysteries solved, everything does get wrapped up, though I struggled with suspension of disbelief for some of them.

The characters are as great as the first, the return of familiar faces and a couple new ones are welcome additions. The contrast between Inez & Whit's personalities continued to be entertaining, however you could really relate to Whit's frustration at times as Inez barreled forwards without thinking things through!

I did love the epilogue, the illustrations of all the characters and a brief summary of their futures. There was also a hint to another series in this world, which I'd definitely pick up.

Overall, I enjoyed this sequel but I did miss the more whimsical and treasure hunting adventures of the 1st. This was definitely a darker entry! Certain events also seemed a little farfetched to me even in a world of magical artifacts and I personally felt the reconciliation after a certain betrayal seemed too fast? However, everything was resolved with no loose ends and I did still enjoy reading this one. I look forward to Ibañez's next book.

Thanks to Netgalley & Hodder & Stoughton for the arc.

Well, Isabel sure knows how to write killer endings.

Inez is faced with an ultimatum: either leave Egypt as her uncle is forcing her to do, or marry Whit. Inez hates feeling not in control. Her mother is on the run with stolen artefacts from Cleopatra’s tomb and might be the only one who knows where Inez’s father is.

Inez continues to delight and frustrate me. She is intelligent, determined, and ambitious. However, she also rushes headlong into situations before really thinking them through. Her impulsivity is what causes a lot of the problems in this duology.

Whit… A boy with wit, secrets, and a grit to get anything done.

I loved the further discussions this book encourages about sexism and the law and its bias against women.
The law means that Inez must have a chaperone, her life must be tied to a male. Her inheritance must controlled be controlled by a man, either a guardian or her husband.

"Your being a girl has nothing to do with anything," Whit said through gritted teeth. "Look at Inez; if she wanted, she could make it to Paris on the back of turtle."

This was extremely predictable. To the point where betrayals were obvious, revelations were apparent chapters before Inez put the pieces together, and the not-romance painfully contrived.

There was one final big plot twist at 90%, but by then I already felt disappointed in the reading experience. However, trust me when I say it is even more shocking than the end of book one! But also, more moustache-twirling villainous that felt over the top.

Overall, this was an easy duology to binge, yet I think this might have been stronger as a longer standalone, or with the introduction of more plot elements to follow in book two.

If you enjoyed this, try the Kane Chronicles or Empire of Shadows.

Thank you to the publisher for sending me the arc in exchange for a review.

4⭐️s

An excellent follow up to the first book! I devoured this SO fast, I just did not want to stop reading. The writing was as exquisite as the first one, with an easy fun plot and whitty dialogue. All of the characters played a vital role in the book and when it came to the plots conclusion, helped to slot everything into place.

We pick up exactly where the last book left off (thank god) and the first 30% is a worldwind of feelings and fun. I absolutely ADORE Whit and Inez’s relationship. The beginning part of the book gave me all the good warm and fuzzy vibes I needed while keeping the mysteriousness of Whits character intact. I loved watching their relationship go through its ups and downs, it made my heart hurt so much when Whit almost ruined everything and Inez felt like she would never be the one whos chosen first.

The plot had so many turns, many which I did not see coming (and some which I did but only thanks to the expert writing). The story was decently paced, a little slow around the 50%-70% mark but nothing too off putting. I loved learning about cleopatra more and visiting Alexandria was incredible. I really do feel like I am in the story with the characters and exploring alongside them, it was beyond great. Some parts seemed a little too “convenient”, characters popping up into the story with a reason etc and some characters were involved when I didn’t think they were vital to the story but it was lovely to see all the characters from book one together.

The emotional storyline that is woven throughout this story is unbelievable. Its so raw and deep, exploring different relationships from spouses to sisters to parents to friendships. Its all in there and tied up in one big warm emotional hug. Watching Inez go from lost and insecure to strong and sure of herself was a pleasure to read. And watching Whit be there with her, through and despite everything, was heartwarming. I loved how we could see from a mile away why he was doing what he was doing, yet Inez took a little longer.

Great finish to a great duology and a series I will miss dearly. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the eArc, I loved it!