Have you ever read the last novel in a favorite series, and realized you don't want it to end? Of course, you want to finish it, but, by completing the book, you will separate yourself from loved characters and places. Welcome The Painted Queen, the last in the series of novels by Egyptologist/mystery author, Elizabeth Peters. Elizabeth died in 2013, leaving an unfinished manuscript. Her friend and fellow mystery writer, Joan Hess, was asked to complete the work, and it does not disappoint.

The series features beautiful, fearless Amelia Peabody and her husband, Dr. Radcliffe Emerson, the most celebrated living Egyptologist; known as The Father of Curses by Egyptians. Amelia, who is equally at home at a formal reception in London or an excavation near Cairo, quickly discovers that four assassins are out to do her in. Luckily they are recognizable because they wear monocles.

The Emersons are searching for the stolen bust of Nefertiti by Thutmose; you know, the statue with the long neck, the perfect face thrust forward and the blue crown. Lots of bad folks want that one! Assisted by their son, Ramses, A.K.A. Brother of Demons, other family members and loyal Egyptians, the couple must avoid several assassins, a few thieves and other social misfits in their quest. The imperturbable Amelia sails onward despite lurking dangers. As Peters muses, “When one is striding bravely into the future, one cannot watch one's footing.”

SPOILER ALERT: Devoted fans of Elizabeth Peters are critical of Joan Hess's carelessness with details regarding a cast of characters which has developed over twenty novels. Indeed, they can make their case, but, if you want exciting escapist fiction and you don't care about continuity, this novel might be just what you're looking for.

Elizabeth Peters is a pen name for Barbara Mertz who has also captured readers' attentions with her supernatural mysteries written under the name, Barbara Michaels. She will be missed.

To learn more about this and other books, visit the Boulder City Library at 701 Adams Boulevard, 293-1281, www.bouldercitylibrary.org