Mary Ann Bernal: From Grad Student to Guardian: An Exclusive Character Interview with Josephine “Jo” Hughes

The scent of ancient parchment mingled with the tang of desert wind as Jo Hughes stepped into a world few ever glimpse; a world of relics, ruins, and secrets buried beneath centuries of silence. From the shadowed commanderies of France to the sun-scorched sands of Cairo, Jo’s journey alongside AnaRose Preston has been anything but ordinary. Today, she joins us to reflect on her transformation, the thrill of discovery, and the truths that history doesn’t always share.

Interviewer: Jo, thank you for joining us. You’ve come a long way since your first assignment with AnaRose. How did it all begin?

Jo Hughes: I was a grad student in archaeology, working as AnaRose’s personal assistant, the kind of job where you expect to manage schedules, answer emails, and maybe help organize a few lectures. Then she invited me to join her on a field mission in France. I thought I’d be cataloging artifacts and sipping espresso in quiet libraries. Instead, I found myself navigating underground speakeasies, decoding Templar lore, and dodging black marketeers. It was a crash course in the real world of relic hunting, and I loved every minute of it.

Interviewer: That first quest took you to some remarkable places. What stands out most from your time in France?

Jo Hughes: The Underground was unforgettable; a speakeasy hidden beneath a polished restaurant, velvet booths above, secrets below. It felt like stepping into a noir film with a passport to the past. But it was the ruins and commanderies that really left an impression. Avalleur felt like stepping into a forgotten heartbeat. And Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon! That place gave me chills. Locals spoke of cries in the night and a figure in white robes. Frankie and I didn’t see anything, but the air was heavy. You don’t forget places like that.

Interviewer: You and Frankie Travers seemed to hit it off. What’s your dynamic like?

Jo Hughes: Frankie’s brilliant and a bit eccentric in the best way. We were both new to AnaRose’s world, so we leaned on each other. He’s got this quiet reverence for history, and I admire that. We’ve shared some wild experiences, and he’s become one of my closest allies in the field.

Interviewer: In Pharaoh’s Gold, your role expanded dramatically. Without giving too much away, how did that mission challenge you?

Jo Hughes: Cairo was intense. AnaRose was there to speak on stolen antiquities, and I tagged along thinking it’d be a learning opportunity. It was just not the kind I expected. I ended up in situations I never imagined, and let’s just say I got a firsthand look at how dangerous relic hunting can be. But AnaRose was there when it counted. She always is.

Interviewer: You’ve faced some serious danger. What keeps you coming back?

Jo Hughes: The adrenaline, the mystery, the history; it’s addictive. I never thought I’d enjoy the rush, but there’s something about chasing truth through forgotten corridors and ancient puzzles that makes you feel alive. AnaRose warned me it wouldn’t be easy, but she also showed me how meaningful it can be.

Interviewer: By Medusa’s Curse, you’re no longer the rookie. How has your relationship with AnaRose evolved?

Jo Hughes: We’ve grown close, but we’ve also had our moments. I found out she could dive and fly a helicopter, skills she hadn’t mentioned, even after saying she’d be upfront with me. I get why she held back, but it still stung. I thought we were in this together, no secrets. But I understand now; she carries a lot, and sometimes she shields people to protect them. Still, I’ve earned her respect, and that means everything.

Interviewer: What’s next for you?

Jo Hughes: I’m still pursuing my PhD, but fieldwork has changed me. I’m not just studying history, I’m living it. Wherever AnaRose goes next, I’ll be ready. And if she ever needs backup, she knows I’m more than just an assistant. I’m part of the team.

Interviewer: Jo, thank you for sharing your journey. Before we wrap up, is there anything you’d like readers to know about your time with AnaRose?

Jo Hughes: Just this. History isn’t always found in books. Sometimes it’s buried in sand, etched in stone, or whispered through ruins. And if you’re lucky enough to chase it with someone like AnaRose Preston, you’ll discover more than relics. You’ll discover who you really are.

Purchase Links

Amazon Global Link

https://mybook.to/AnaRoseChronicles

Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/4jzKAY

Mary Ann Bernal is a distinguished alumna of Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she earned her degree in Business Administration. Her literary journey began with the 2009 publication of her debut novel in The Briton and the Dane series, marking the start of a richly diverse body of work that spans historical fiction, contemporary short stories, science fiction/fantasy, and fast-paced adventure novellas.

Her recent publications include Crusader’s Path, a poignant redemption tale set during the First Crusade; Forgiving Nero, a compelling exploration of familial bonds in Ancient Rome; and the award-winning AnaRose adventure series, chronicling the daring escapades of a museum curator-turned-relic hunter. Mary Ann’s work has been honored by the Independent Press Award, the NYC Big Book Award, Chanticleer International Book Awards, the B.R.A.G. Medallion, and the Reader Views Reviewer’s Choice Awards. Her short fiction anthologies have likewise earned distinction, most notably from the American Legacy Book Awards. She was also recognized with the Editor’s Choice Award for Literary Excellence by Reader’s House magazine.

A dedicated supporter of the United States military since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has actively engaged in letter-writing campaigns and related initiatives. Her advocacy has been featured on KMTV’s The Morning Blend and in the Omaha World-Herald. As a celebrated author, she has appeared on numerous reader blogs and book promotion platforms. Mary Ann currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska, where she continues to craft stories that inspire and endure.

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