Book Review: The Season of the Hyaena

Reviewed By: Catherine Thompson - RAM

The Season of the Hyaena     Amazon US TPB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada TPB Amazon Canada HC
Paul C. Doherty
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Historical
Series: Mahu # 2
Headline; $24.95 trade paperback; 403 pages

Mahu, Chief of Police of Thebes and Keeper of the Secrets of the Heart, is now also the guardian of the 6-year-old Prince Tutankhamun. But dissent still roils in the Royal Circle. Some are pleased to wipe the memory of Akenhaten from the collective memory of Egypt, while others, the priest Meryre among others, would prefer to fan the flames. Mahu himself is searching for the group calling themselves the Shabtis of Akenhaten, who are killing those who once supported the Emperor and have now deserted him. Then word comes that Akenhaten has returned to Egypt.

Mahu knows for certain that the woman claiming to be Nefertiti is an impostor, for he administered the poison that killed the Great Queen and held her while she died. But this Akenhaten is gathering armed support from the Hittites and the Canaanites, becoming a threat to Egypt. Mahu goes on an envoy to this false Emperor, but before he can reach his destination, he and his companions are attacked, at Memphis. Mahu must investigate the treachery within before he can face the danger without.

The Season of the Hyaena is the second in the series about Mahu, following An Evil Spirit Out of the West, and it’s just as good. Doherty knows the subject of ancient Egypt inside out, something that will no doubt surprise those who only know him as the author of the Hugh Corbett mysteries set in mediaeval England. Mahu really did exist at the time Doherty writes about, and he did hold the position of Chief of Police, but little more is known about him. Doherty takes these few facts and creates a fully rounded character.

Catherine Thompson - RAM

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Catherine Thompson - RAM