★★★½ (3.5 stars)

To Chase the Glowing Hours by Katherine Kirkpatrick brings 1920s Egypt vividly to life through the eyes of Lady Eve, a sheltered aristocrat whose peaceful world at Highclere Castle is altered when she journeys with her father to Egypt, the Valley of the Kings. Witnessing Tutankhamun's treasures alongside archaeologist Howard Carter is breathtaking, but complications soon follow due to political issues.

I’m not sure if my disappointment stems from expecting more of a The Mummy or Indiana Jones vibes, not just in romance, but in adventure as well. The research and historical detail are impressive, highlighting the political turmoil and media reports. The first half offers plenty of intrigue, but by the second half, that spark just seems to fizzle. I was almost expecting a curse or supernatural element to be tied into the story and intitially the book almost sets the tone for it but leaves it just is.

Eve’s journey from innocence to resilience is set against lush historical detail, yet her character development felt abrupt, almost as if I blinked and missed the growth. I wanted deeper emotional stakes, but sadly the romance felt circumstantial and forced, and secondary arcs didnt seem to be explored as much.

By the end, it read more as a historical biography of Lady Eve rather than a novel, This may appeal to readers who want a rich historical setting, but for me, the story lacked the sustained intrigue I was hoping for.

5-Stars!!

To Chase the Glowing Hours is an enthralling journey through one of the most exciting chapters in history—the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb—told through the keen and heartfelt perspective of Lady Evelyn Herbert. Katherine Kirkpatrick masterfully blends meticulous historical research with an engaging, emotional narrative that transports the reader from the elegance of Highclere Castle to the heat, dust, and wonder of 1920s Egypt.

The novel is a feast of sensory detail—vivid landscapes, dazzling artifacts, and the palpable thrill of discovery. The characters, from the determined and charismatic Howard Carter to the spirited Lady Evelyn, are drawn with depth and authenticity, making their triumphs and challenges feel personal. The story balances romance, political tension, and adventure seamlessly, offering not just a window into the past but also a compelling portrait of ambition, loyalty, and love.

This is historical fiction at its finest: rich, atmospheric, and impossible to put down. Whether you’re fascinated by archaeology, intrigued by the Jazz Age, or simply in search of an engrossing and beautifully told story, this book will sweep you away and leave you lingering in its golden glow long after the final page.

Like the author I saw the treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb as a child, and was enchanted, felt a real sense of connection with the young Pharaoh. Much later I visited the tomb in Egypt. There is something both magical, compelling but also disturbing about Tutankhamun, and Egypt as a whole, that remains with me. It’s beautiful, ancient, yet for Egyptians a potentially hard place to live. What stuck with me from all this was the ancient culture, the incredible abilities and insights they had, the extraordinary preservation of artefacts and art, the beauty and feel of it all. Ancient Egyptian culture remains a fascination for me, this is what inspired me as a child, and has continued throughout my life. So this book attracted me. I’m not sure what I expected, but it wasn’t quite what I got.

The descriptions of the tomb and artefacts bore the wonder and amazement I too had felt. It’s hard to imagine how it must have felt to discover it for the first time, and this is captured rather well. But there wasn’t enough about Egypt itself, and the emotions you would expect in the romance and other events that didn’t quite translate for me. I hadn’t realised the main focus of the novel would be about the Carnarvon’s so felt rather disappointed by this. But was glad it returned to it towards the end of the book. The politics between Britain and Egypt, it’s desire to keep its own treasures, and the British then tendency to consider it had the right to help itself to whatever it wanted was interesting and echoed what I already knew.

Overall it’s well written, with the odd minor inaccuracy that an American writing about the English may be unaware of. It was an interesting read, but fell a little flat for me.

This was a good book. I haven't read much about that period in Eygpt. There was intrigue, romance and suspense.
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read the ARC!

A richly immersive historical novel that vividly brings to life the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, To Chase the Glowing Hours is a must-read for fans of Egyptology, historical drama, and early 20th-century British society. Kirkpatrick’s love for the subject shines through her lush sensory descriptions and meticulous research, particularly in the early chapters set in the heat and dust of Egypt.

Centered on Lady Evelyn Herbert, daughter of Lord Carnarvon, the book explores both the wonder of archaeological discovery and the limitations of class, gender, and empire. The fictional romance between Evelyn and Howard Carter, while based on real life speculation, felt less convincing and sometimes detracted from the novel’s stronger historical threads. The second half shifts gears toward more of a Downton Abbey-style family drama, which, while well-written, may not grip all readers equally.

Still, Kirkpatrick’s handling of cultural context, emotional complexity, and the tension of ownership over ancient artifacts adds important depth. Despite some pacing issues and character frustrations, this was a compelling, evocative read with a powerful emotional and historical core.

As much as I want to read this book it's not available on kobo. I will be adding to my ever growing TBR list when it comes out!

To Chase the Glowing Hours in set in the Egypt and England of the 1920s; a time of change, discovery and political turmoil. The opening action centres around the discovery of Tutankhamen's tomb. Lady Evelyn Carnarvon (Eve) has accompanied her father to visit the dig he has bankrolled which has yielded unimaginable treasure and knowledge. The plot follows Eve through her falling in love with archaeologist Howard Carter, the death of her father and her return to her ancestral home, now at risk because of her father's financial decisions in Egypt.

Katherine Kirkpatrick writes beautifully and there are thoughtful reflections on the ethics of foreigners taking the artefacts of a culture away from their home. I enjoyed the book, though I wasn't a fan of the romance. I found the age gap quite uncomfortable. My only other slight issue was the occasional Americanism from these most British of characters (fall instead of autumn, write you instead of write to you, red and white peppermints).

Overall, an enjoyable read.

1920s glamour? Check. Ancient Egypt? Check. Hidden perspectives? Check! (And can I just say, what a gorgeous cover!)

This is historical fiction that dives deep into 1920s Egypt during the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb, following Lady Evelyn Herbert as she navigates love, loss, and finding her voice in a world that doesn't particularly want to hear it.

What made me happy:

The research feels chef's kiss! Kirkpatrick clearly did her homework, and it shows in every detail, from the political tensions to the archaeological excitement buzzing around King Tut's tomb. I was practically there in the Valley of the Kings, sweating in the heat and feeling that electric anticipation.

But what really got me was finally getting to see this story through a woman's eyes! I had no clue Lady Eve was even involved in the discovery, and it highlights an important question, one that asks: what other incredible women have been written out of these historical moments? Give me more hidden voices like this, please and thank you!

Lady Eve herself is beautifully crafted, complex, struggling against societal expectations while dealing with grief and heartbreak. I found myself rooting for her independence even when it meant making messy, imperfect choices.

And the writing? Elegant without being stuffy, lyrical without drowning you in purple prose. Kirkpatrick knows exactly when to dial up the atmosphere and when to let the emotions breathe.

What made me grumpy:

The journey to the Valley of the Kings. I felt that this was described more than necessary, and I was ready to move along.

While Lady Eve is gorgeously developed, the supporting cast felt a bit thin in places, Having said that, this may have been a purposeful choice by the author in order to focus on Lady Evelyn's story.

I wasn't a huge fan of the romance angle. It felt unrealistic, but I could see how it allowed for exploration of social hierarchies and pushed some of Eve's character development.

But here's my biggest frustration: for a book set in Egypt, the Egyptian perspective feels pretty sidelined. Yes, the nationalism is acknowledged, but it's very much seen through British eyes. I would've loved more authentic local voices.

The verdict:

This one's a solid recommendation from me! Sure, it's got some wobbles, but the gorgeous writing, fascinating historical details, and Lady Eve's compelling journey more than make up for the rough spots. Sometimes you just want to get lost in a beautifully researched world with a heroine worth cheering for, and this delivers exactly that.

3.5 stars rounded up.
This book began on a high note: elements of history and Ancient Egypt, wonderfully vivid descriptions that made you feel like you were really there, and a bit of romance. I was hooked for more than half the book, and couldn't put it down.
And then it really changed pace, and I found it hard to remain invested in the story about 3/4 of the way through until the end. The book changed its course of narrative a bit, focusing less on the discovery of King Tut's tomb and Egypt, and more on the complicated dynamics of an elite family. It felt as though I was reading another book entirely. I'll be honest, I was disappointed by the way the book concluded, but I still really enjoyed the style of writing and the imagery -- especially in the first half.

"In November 1922, Lady Eve, the twenty-one-year-old daughter of the Earl of Carnarvon, embarks on an extraordinary journey from her opulent home of Highclere Castle to the Valley of the Kings in Egypt.

Alongside her father and his hired archaeologist, Howard Carter, Eve experiences a breathtaking moment when she glimpses the lavish treasures of King Tutankhamun through a peephole in the inner doorway of an ancient, underground tomb.

Amidst the excitement of her adventure, Eve finds herself drawn to the brilliant yet temperamental Carter.

But as news of the treasures spreads, the trio faces challenges from peasant laborers, Egyptian nationalists, and combative reporters.

When tragedy strikes, Eve becomes embroiled in a dramatic struggle to secure her family's claim to the newfound riches, all while navigating her conflicting feelings for Carter and a suitor from her own social class.

To Chase the Glowing Hours is a poignant coming-of-age tale that follows Eve's journey from a sheltered girl to a resilient young woman."

Let's hope it's better than that schlocky miniseries from a few years ago covering the same ground...

Not my typical read but glad I gave it a try. Its a slow burner and short sentences take some getting used to but ill happily admit I cried at the end.
The life, drama and discovery of Tutankhamen is eye opening with a little love twist to add to the plot and drama. I fell for Carter and Eves relationship and the battles that Eve goes through. For a lady to go to Egypt back then was a brave thing and she was a heroine in her own right. What a magical discovery to be a part of

Unfortunately, this was a DNF for me at 40% The pace seemed to drag, and the characters felt one dimensional to me. I typically love historical fiction, especially when written about an event as monumental as the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb, but the palpable excitement of such a discovery didn't quite carry over into the storyline. This was less about the discovery and more about Lady Eve's delusions about her and Carter.

The Chase of Glowing Hours is a beautifully written novel that captured my heart from the first page. I was especially drawn to the author’s vivid and respectful portrayal of Egyptian culture. From the authentic names to the traditional clothing, Arabic greetings, and even the mention of beloved foods like molokhia—with its ingredients!—I felt completely seen and represented.

As an Egyptian myself, I deeply appreciated this cultural richness, but I also felt a wave of anger reading about how so many of our priceless artifacts have ended up in museums in France, London, and the Met. The entitlement and delusion that foreign powers still believe they deserve a share—half!—of our tomb treasures truly boils my blood. This story reminded me not only of our heritage, but also of the injustice in how it’s been treated.

A powerful, immersive read that blends history, emotion, and identity—highly recommended

This was unfortunately a DNF for me at 30%.

The writing style was just not my favorite. It was flowery and rich so I was hopeful I would be getting a more enhanced scenery and environment description and understanding from the language but it simply made for a non engaging read.

There was also not enough about Egypt in here for me and I was super hopeful for that.

Thank you for approving me for this ARC. I appreciate the opportunity to leave honest feedback voluntarily.

I love all things Egyptology and I love British fiction. I hoped that that this book would be a lovely blending of them both. The book did start out very very high with vivid descriptions of the finding of the tomb. I could just picture the various chambers. Also the environment of Egypt itself.

I found the plot sort of deviated about midway when we added in the affair between Eve and Carter. It just didn't work for me. She always came of as a spoiled girl of the "you just don't understand! love always wins!" and Carter at a couple decades older just continues to spiral downward.

Eve just never came out of her decent for me. And it just really stalled out the second half of the story. If you want the story for the Egyptology--you will find it well done. But for the romance? nope.

It was just okay for me. 3 stars

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC of the book. All opinions are 100% my own.

The true love affair in this book is with the study of Egyptology and how it intertwines with this story. I wasn't completely invested in this romance, but as a lover of historical references to Egypt - it was always going to be something that captured my attention. I would have loved to see more character building in combination with the intricate details of the world building

This book intrigued me because I always love historical books centered around Egyptian tombs. It has a strong start with strong descriptions and introduces Eve and her father nicely. Eve is ambitious and fascinated with Howard Carter the archaeologist responsible for find the tomb. Eve was a character I liked at certain parts but didn’t like in others, she’s compelling one moment and then irritating the next. The pacing of book started strong but seemed to middle as soon as the tomb got unearthed before becoming increasingly slow and the focus itself started drifting away from the tomb and Egypt to more family drama which I didn’t find too compelling and felt my attention slip during the later stages of the book.

As a passionate reader of historical fiction and someone fascinated by Egyptology, To Chase the Glowing Hours immediately captivated me with its setting and premise. The story opens with great promise – a richly evoked Egyptian atmosphere, an air of mystery, and a compelling heroine, Eve, who challenges the limitations of her time. Her ambition and desire for more than the traditional role assigned to women felt especially inspiring.

However, after the halfway point, the narrative begins to lose momentum. The pacing slows considerably, and the plot doesn’t develop as strongly as I had hoped. While it’s evident that the author has conducted thorough historical research and crafted an immersive backdrop, at times the intricate details seem to overshadow the story itself. I also found myself wishing for more mystique and romantic tension to keep the emotional stakes higher.

That said, this novel has undeniable potential, particularly for readers drawn to themes of archaeology, women’s empowerment, and the allure of the 1920s. I only wish the second half had maintained the energy and intrigue of the beginning. Still, I would recommend it to fans of slower-paced, atmospheric historical fiction.

If you are looking for a roaring 1920's story that explores the archeology studies of Egypt then this is the book for you. There is also some family drama within the story and if that is something you want in your story as well then read ahead. I enjoyed reading this because not only was their enough knowledge to make it feel like I learned something and enough going on to keep me entertained.

We are introduced to Lady Eve who is on this archeology adventure but most of her time is spent with flirting with another gentry memeber rather than focusing on the task ahead. Everyone else seems to be taking an interest in the history of the tombs.

Casual Egyptology buffs looking for a page-turning dramatization of the discovery of Tut's tomb will want to give this one a try. If you don't mind the detours into British family drama that have been rightly compared to Downton Abbey, there is still an abundance of archaeological details, political history, and immersive sensory description to make this an engaging read. I will leave historical accuracy nitpicking to the experts in the field, but I felt informed despite the fictionalization, and appreciated the author's notes at the end.

The story centers around Lady Eve(lyn), Lord Carnarvon's daughter, who was present during some of the first explorations of the tomb. This magical experience is certainly the high point of the novel, and Kirkpatrick's passion for the subject is palpable. Building off of this is an ill-advised romance between Lady Eve and Howard Carter, inspired by real-life correspondence of Evelyn's into which some read a romantic relationship.

As a matter of personal preference, I don't find this sort of over-fictionalization of relatively modern historical people to be in the best of taste. It's not my thing, but it was interesting. I appreciated the attempt to parallel the love story with the experience of the tomb discovery--both are brief, otherworldly, and tenuous--however, not being a foolish twenty-one-year-old, it was much harder to buy into the magic of the former than the latter. While I enjoyed Kirkpatrick's magnetic, driven Carter for the first half of the novel, I found Eve self-centered and naive. The two of them are painfully mismatched, the affair obviously doomed from the outset. Of course some of this was dictated by historical fact, but that didn't make it any less uncomfortable to watch unfold. Later, as Eve evolves, Carter devolves; the more we get to know him, the more we're disappointed. Real life at its realest, no doubt--but sadly, kind of a bummer.

After Lord Carnarvon's death, the story moves to Highclere and fully embraces the Downton Abbey vibe, where for me it becomes less of a page-turner and more of a page-flipper. Eve's coming-of-age, though sorely needed, felt like the "settling for less" and "accepting life is miserable" type. For some, that's a definition of maturity, but for me it felt like ending on a downbeat; though the epilogue does alleviate it somewhat.

As for the prose, I wasn't a particular fan of the use of the present tense, though the sensory descriptions were rich and easy to visualize. The dialogue, on the other hand, was awkward and occasionally read like narration.

Overall, if you're here for a love story, this isn't it. In fact, the book would have been better without it. The real love affair of To Chase the Glowing Hours is with Egyptology, and for that I give it credit.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!