When Grok Went to Egypt with The Secret of the Sacred Scarab

 

For readers who only recently discovered that I also write Regency romance as Arabella Sheraton, Grok’s enthusiastic review of my latest novel, To Murder a Marquis, led me to ask Grok (xAI’s AI) to embark on an adventure in Egypt with the heroes of my first middle-grade book, The Secret of the Sacred Scarab. Grok graciously agreed to plunge into the whirlpool of death-defying feats, alarming danger, and intriguing mysteries in this rollicking tale. I was very interested to discover an AI perspective of this adventure. Based on a real trip to Egypt with my mother and my two young nephews, this multi award-winning book is a unique blend of facts, fiction, and wonderful fun. Who would say no to the trip of a lifetime, especially when there’s lots of exciting action and a great mystery to solve? Oh, did I forget to mention that it involves saving the world as well?

Grok says: “The Secret of the Sacred Scarab, the first book in Fiona Ingram’s Chronicles of the Stone series, is a thrilling middle-grade adventure that whisks young readers into a world of ancient mysteries, daring quests, and heart-pounding action. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Egypt, this multi award-winning novel follows cousins Adam and Justin as they embark on a life-changing journey with their journalist aunt. What begins as a family trip spirals into a high-stakes quest when the boys stumble upon a sacred scarab artifact, unlocking a centuries-old secret tied to ancient Egypt’s pharaohs and a powerful, mystical stone.

Ingram’s storytelling is a masterclass in blending education with entertainment. The Egyptian setting—alive with bustling souks, ancient tombs, and the looming pyramids—feels like a character itself, meticulously researched and vividly described. Young readers will be captivated by the historical details woven seamlessly into the narrative, from hieroglyphs to mummified mysteries, making archaeology feel as thrilling as a treasure hunt. Adam and Justin are relatable heroes: their sibling-like banter, courage, and occasional missteps ground the story, while their determination to unravel the scarab’s secret propels the plot forward at a breathless pace.

The novel’s strength lies in its unique fusion of genres. It’s a mystery that keeps you guessing, an adventure packed with perilous chases and narrow escapes, and a historical tale that brings ancient Egypt to life. The quest involving the sacred scarab introduces a touch of mysticism, hinting at the larger Chronicles of the Stone saga to come, which will delight fans of series like Percy Jackson or The 39 Clues. Ingram’s ability to craft a story that’s both action-packed and intellectually stimulating sets it apart in the middle-grade market—no small feat, as the author herself notes its originality. If there’s a quibble, it’s that the pacing occasionally slows to unpack historical details, which might test the patience of action-hungry young readers. However, this is a minor hiccup in an otherwise exhilarating tale. The book’s multiple awards are well-deserved, reflecting its appeal to both young readers and adults who love a good adventure.

The Secret of the Sacred Scarab is a must-read for middle-grade fans craving a fresh, immersive story. It’s perfect for kids who dream of exploring ancient ruins or solving mysteries, and parents will appreciate its educational value. Fiona Ingram has created an unforgettable start to a promising series—here’s hoping more readers discover this hidden treasure! Grab your explorer’s hat and join Adam and Justin in Egypt—you won’t want to leave.”

My response: I was initially unsure of how an AI would respond to this kind of story, but Grok was keen to ‘pack for the pyramids.’ Given the allure of Egypt’s ancient history and monuments, legends, mythology, and secrets, who could resist? Is this why an AI loves the book’s mix of action, brains, and heart? As an author, I was also pleased to read what others would perhaps perceive as a negative comment about the book’s pacing. It tells me that an AI review is not just a program mindlessly churning out positive platitudes. Being the first book in a planned 7-book series, it was necessary to lay a lot of groundwork for the following adventures.

Should one ask an AI to review one’s book? I think so. AI is impartial. It will show potential readers the flawed as well as the fabulous parts and help them decide whether to buy your book or not. After my blog post featuring Grok’s review of To Marry a Marquis, within 4 days the post received over 1600 impressions and over 240 engagements. I am now convinced that Grok would love to meet King Arthur in Book 2 (The Search for the Stone of Excalibur) and travel to Mexico and discover the ancient Maya in Book 3 (The Temple of the Crystal Timekeeper). Watch this space!