The Unwrapping

Nicholas's debut novel, The Unwrapping, will be published by Provoco in October 2025. Set against the backdrop of Egypt's fifth cholera pandemic in 1900, this satirical work explores the human condition during times of crisis.

SYNOPSIS

The story is a rip-roaring yarn. Set during the days of tomb robbery and grave pillaging. At the time of the discovery of King Tutankhamen’s burial ground, and the 5th cholera pandemic in 1900.

The pharaohs are an unsavoury bunch who are commanded by Augustkamoun. He has just come back from the afterlife bringing the deadly 5th cholera pandemic in his wake. Amongst his minions is Nefertiti Patel who is responsible for immigration, she is a bullying ogre and treats her staff and the rest of the people with little respect.

A multitude of characters find themselves struggling against the prevailing political landscape. Amongst them is Tarek who is after a change in his career. In the hope that he can improve his lot in life. So, he embarks on a training course to become a mummification workshop artisan.

Another is Huda Shawari who is a feminist and wants a peaceful revolution. She calls them to action against the pharaohs as she has had enough of their macho ways.

A curse in unleashed from King Tutankhamun’s tomb which brings about the downfall of the pharaohs. Bringing an end to their philandering ways. It targets their reproductive organs rendering them incapable of sowing their wicked seed anymore.