The ape who guards the balance

I found this fairly gripping on first reading, but I don't think it's quite as good as the previous book in the series ([b:Seeing a Large Cat 18868418 Seeing a Large Cat (Amelia Peabody #9) Elizabeth Peters https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1384917857l/18868418.SY75.jpg 1619486]), mainly because of the return of the Master Criminal Sethos (and his followers), whom I find rather tiresome and implausible. Admittedly the series is not supposed to be very plausible, but let's say he doesn't appeal to me.

When I started this series I truly believed I might not finish it. But somehow I am enjoying the books more and more as I go along, these later ones much more than the originals. By this point I am so invested in the characters and so enamored with ancient Egypt that I can't put them down.

I have especially enjoyed seeing the “children” (as the adults insist on calling them, despite their ages) grow up and think and act for themselves. I still love Amelia and Emerson and the gang, but in these last few books they have been having trouble letting go. Understandably I suppose.

Unlike some of the other reviewers, I loved the subplot involving David. On paper he is one of the most interesting characters—recovering from a difficult childhood, caught in a culture-clash, facing systemic racism. I thought it made total sense. It also was a great opportunity for the British characters, particularly Amelia, to look inward and address their own bigotry (or weigh their hearts on the balance, as the metaphor goes). I teared up at the end when Amelia compared her own family to that of David's.

Ramses is engaging, though a bit melodramatic at times. I forgive it because he is a teenager, and because these books are inspired by classic adventure romances of the past. It seems fitting. But I prefer the romance between Amelia and Emerson. I guess it is a tad less interesting (is it?) when two characters are both madly in love and show it. But the return of a certain character gave me hope that their relationship will be put to the test and shaken up a bit.

I keep thinking what an awesome TV series this would make... and there is so much content to work with. Not sure who has the rights but they should get on it! Someone start a petition!