Synopses & Reviews
"The Oracle Betrayed is a fascinating fusion of the cultures of Ancient Greece and Ancient Egypt. It is also a richly rewarding novel of intrigue, sacrifice, and redemption. It is a distant land--a land where the High Priestess interprets the wishes of the god as conveyed through the Oracle. A land where the Archon, the God-on-Earth, acts on the god's wishes. It is a land dying of drought. When timid Mirany is chosen to be one of the young priestesses serving the High Priestess, she is unprepared for the dangers of her exalted position. She is also unready for the treachery gripping the kingdom. The High Priestess, in league with General Argelin, has had the Archon sacrificed for failing to end the drought. Together they are manipulating the choosing of a new Archon, who by decree must be a boy who has inherited the dead Archon's spirit. Mirany joins forces with Seth, a young, tomb-robbing scribe who knows the secrets and hidden passages of their land. She will need his help in putting an end to be conspiracy, for every twist and turn in this heart-stopping epic is filled with unforgettable surprises.
Review
“Sprawling, atmospheric adventure.” Publishers Weekly (starred review)
Review
“A tale that will linger long in readers memories.” Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
Synopsis
They might not know what the future holds,
but they know they hold it in their hands.
Mirany, the newly appointed attendant to the Speaker, is untested, in fear for her life, and keeper of the god's secrets.
Seth, an ambitious scribe toiling in the shadow of the pyramid, has discovered the secret labyrinths and underground passages to the tombs.
Hermia, the Speaker, interprets the words of the god and twists his wishes to suit her treachery.
General Argelin, the cunning leader in league with the Speaker, intends to dictate the choosing of the new ruler Alexos, the quiet boy, is fated to rule the land -- unless his enemies succeed in their plot.
Oblek, the foolish musician, may be the only person who can keep Alexos alive.
The Jackal, the black-market tomb raider, will strike like a scorpion if anyone interferes with his scheme to rob the sacred catacombs
About the Author
Catherine Fisher's acclaimed works include Darkhenge, Snow-walker, and The Oracle Betrayed, which was a finalist for the Whitbread Children's Book Award. She lives in Newport, Wales.