In Egypt during the First World War, Rick, a young Light Horse Trooper, is running from his past-straight into murder. He went to war to find a new life, but the past won't let him go.

On Gallipoli, he is seriously wounded, and his best friend killed-and Rick is not sure it was by an enemy bullet.

Recovering in hospital in Cairo, he is determined to find out the truth, even if that draws the killer to him.

But all he has to go on is an ancient statue and its hieroglyphic spell, and the help of a nurse with her own agenda.

Rich with exotic historical detail, supported by a strong plot with many twists and turns, the story is beautifully written. At its heart, it shows that journeys of self-discovery don't always end where we think they might. From the battlefields of World War One to the ancient lore of Egypt, you won't see the ending until it rises out of the ruins.

Anyone who has read Elizabeth Peters' Amelia Peabody books, or who loves history, archaeology, ancient Egypt, mystery and murder, will love this debut historical fiction novel by Australian author Warwick Pearson. Be prepared to be transported to an exotic and dangerous time and place.