In The Horus Killings, Paul Doherty superbly combines the exotic backdrop of ancient Egypt with the classic ingredients of a brilliant crime story. The year is 1479 BC and having fearlessly led her army to victory in a battle against the Mitanni, Hatusu has won the support of her people. She is set to become the first woman to be Pharaoh of Egypt. However, not all segments of society are keen on this young Queen as their leader. The strongest corner of resistance comes from the high priests, most of whom abhor this break with tradition. While "the royal throne was always the centre of intrigue, jealousy and bitter rivalry", the plot takes a more sinister turn when the priests begin to be murdered one by one. Enter Amerotke, Chief Judge of Thebes and Lord President of the Courts of Egypt. He is charged with the job of unravelling the mysteries of the murders while keeping himself alive. This proves to be a difficult task given that he is a supporter of Hatusu and has just sentenced to death a member of the Amemets Guild, who swear revenge on their enemies--not to mention the man-eating lions and the crocodile-infested Nile.Doherty transports us back in time to a world of oiled bodies, kohl-lined eyes, white-fringed robes and decadent jewellery; a description so vivid that you can feel the heat and smell the incense. --Neelam Dongha