Title: The Case of the Stolen Goddess
Author: John Amos
Publisher: River Grove Books
ISBN: 978-1-63299-813-2
Pages: 239
Genre: Literature Fiction
Reviewer: Margie Pryzyblski
Hollywood Book Reviews
Author John Amos’s The Case of the Stolen Goddess immerses readers in a tantalizing blend of historical mystery, adventure, and sharp wit. With a setting rich in atmosphere and a plot that weaves through the streets of Istanbul, Amos has crafted a story which expertly balances humor with high-stakes intrigue. The novel centers around the theft of a statue of Aphrodite, a seemingly simple act of theft that quickly spirals into a far-reaching mystery that brings the protagonists, Thomas Pettigrew and Flinders, back into action.
The opening chapter immediately captures the reader’s attention with its dreamlike atmosphere, where Pettigrew, our primary protagonist, encounters a mystical vision of a statue coming to life, followed by his awakening in the bustling city of Istanbul. The vivid descriptions transport the reader straight into the heart of the ancient city, with its colorful mix of characters, from men in turbans to women in burkas and a boy leading a performing bear. These details ground the story in a rich historical setting that’s both exotic and immersive.
The book begins with a flashback, taking us to a time when Pettigrew and Flinders were freshly minted detectives, just out of Oxford, chasing the mysteries of ancient Egypt. The two protagonists share a camaraderie rooted in their long history, and the dialogue between them is intriguing and often comedic. Amos cleverly injects a sense of nostalgia into their reminiscences about their adventures, particularly their unsuccessful search for Cleopatra’s tomb, adding depth to their characters and backstory.
Amos’s writing is infused with subtle humor, and the banter between Pettigrew and Flinders stands out as one of the book’s strong points. Their conversations, filled with dry British wit and intellectual references, serve as an entertaining counterpoint to the more serious elements of the story. Whether they’re discussing American cowboys, ancient tombs, or peculiar Belgian detectives (a nod to Hercule Poirot, perhaps?), their dialogue consistently sparkles with wit and charm. These two characters are the heart of the novel, and their dynamic relationship is a pleasure to read.
The mystery itself – centered around the stolen statue – unfolds slowly but intriguingly. The theft of the Aphrodite statue is not merely a crime but a puzzle which ties back to the protagonists’ past, particularly their adventures in Egypt. The novel thrives on its blend of historical detail and detective work, with references to ancient mythology and modern detective methods merging seamlessly. Amos’s ability to combine these elements lends the book an intellectual quality, as well as a sense of adventure.
One of the most intriguing aspects of The Case of the Stolen Goddess is its exploration of ancient female figures, such as Cleopatra and Medusa. The novel delves into how these mythological icons influence the characters and the unfolding mystery. The discussion of Medusa’s representation as a symbol of female power adds a layer of depth to the novel, giving it a thematic richness that extends beyond the immediate mystery.
John Amos’s The Case of the Stolen Goddess is a thoroughly engaging read, filled with wit, mystery, and well-crafted characters. The novel promises an exciting blend of detective work, historical intrigue, and lighthearted banter, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy historical mysteries with a humorous twist.