57 pages • 1 hour read
What the River Knows
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Book Brief
416
Novel • Fiction
Egypt • 1880s
2023
YA
12-18 years
Super Short Summary
Published in 2023, Isabel Ibañez’s young adult historical fantasy novel What the River Knows is the first installment in the Secrets of the Nile duology. It follows Inez Olivera, a young heiress from Buenos Aires, as she embarks on a harrowing quest in 19th-century Egypt to uncover the truth behind her parents' mysterious disappearance, navigating treacherous landscapes and ancient magic alongside her love interest, Whitford Hayes. Contains depictions of gun violence, homicide, and alcohol addiction.
Adventurous
Emotional
Mysterious
Romantic
Fantastical
Reviews & Readership
54,566 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
What the River Knows by Isabel Ibañez weaves a captivating tale with lush, evocative prose and rich historical settings that transport readers to another era. While praised for its vivid descriptions and emotional depth, some critics find the pacing uneven and certain plot twists predictable. Overall, it's an engaging read for fans of historical fiction with a touch of romance.
Who Should Read What the River Knows?
Fans of rich historical fantasies like The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi and adventures akin to The Mummy will relish What the River Knows by Isabel Ibañez. Ideal for those who appreciate intricate world-building, archaeology, and a blend of magic and history set against the backdrop of 19th-century Egypt.
54,566 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
416
Novel • Fiction
Egypt • 1880s
2023
YA
12-18 years
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