Narrated by: Virtual Voice using cutting-edge technology
Length: 2 hours 31 minutes
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: October 13, 2025
Language: English
Publisher: Whispering Legends Press
A Vanished Artifact. A Doomsday Cult. A Rescue Against
Time.
Invited to Cairo to lecture on black market antiquities,
AnaRose Preston expects academic sparring, not a desperate chase through
Egypt’s shadowed corridors. When her assistant Jo disappears while sightseeing,
AnaRose uncovers a chilling truth: a fanatical cult seeks a lost gold ushabti,
crafted to imprison the soul of Apophis, the ancient god of chaos.
They failed to find the relic. Now they plan to sacrifice Jo
and bind Apophis’s spirit to her body.
To save her friend, AnaRose must navigate forgotten tombs,
decode cryptic texts, and outwit a zealot army determined to unleash
devastation. But the sands are shifting fast, and the cult will use any means
necessary to see their dark purpose fulfilled.
She came to speak. Now she’s fighting to prevent hell from
being unleashed on Earth. Grab your copy of AnaRose and Pharaoh’s Gold and join
the fight to keep an ancient evil buried.
Awards & Recognition: B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree,
Independent Press Award 2025 – Winner (Novella Category), Semi-Finalist –
Chanticleer Int'l Book Awards (Shorts Award for Novellas, 2024).
You’ve seen Dr. Adam Rowe in action: brilliant,
guarded, and never far from danger. Now, he steps into the spotlight in a vivid
new format.
This AI-generated virtual character interview
captures Adam’s intensity with uncanny realism. His voice, his gaze, his
calculated pauses, every moment reveals the weight of secrets buried beneath
the sands. It’s not just an interview, it’s a reckoning.
Watch the full interview here:
This is part of our ongoing series
exploring the world of AnaRose and Pharaoh’s Gold through immersive
storytelling. Each character adds depth to the mystery, and Adam’s revelations
may change everything you thought you knew.
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.
Mary Ann Bernal Independently Published (2025) ISBN: 979-8343871173 Reviewed by Rachel Dehning for Reader Views (05/2025)
AnaRose and Medusa’s Curse by Mary Ann Bernal is the third installment in the thrilling and action-packed series AnaRose Action and Adventure Novellas featuring Dr. AnaRose Preston, a museum curator of antiquities. AnaRose and her assistant Jo tackle historical and under-the-radar mysteries that threaten to endanger society and challenge established views of historical and mythical events.
In Medusa’s Curse, AnaRose reunites with an unexpected ally as they try to rectify the mistake of selling a Medusa artifact to a wealthy gentleman. This gentleman may or may not possess the signs of being a calculated madman intent on taking over the world by harnessing the powers of the Greek mythological figure, Medusa, whose eyes were literally to die for.
AnaRose and her companions take on the wealthy man in a worldwide treasure hunt, racing the clock to locate the missing artifacts and key pieces before time runs out, and there might likely be more decorative stone statues than the overall population. AnaRose relies on her street smarts and intelligence to navigate barriers and figure out ways to work through them. Still, she will need additional support from her colleagues near, far, and in unexpected locations to outsmart this man, possessing resources and skills that rival or even surpass their own.
Being the third installment in a series, the story can stand alone since the main elements focus primarily on the adventure; however, to gain the greatest understanding of the plot with the foreknowledge of AnaRose and the characters’ backgrounds, readers should consult the previous titles beforehand. Similar to earlier adventures in the series, Medusa’s Curse is a bite-sized adventure that is a sure pick-me-up for any day and an easy reread in the future. The writing is exceptional and causes the pages to fly, making it hard to stop – the adventure begins immediately and takes the reader through to the last page.
This story complements other popular treasure-hunting media, with films such as National Treasure and The Da Vinci Code and books such as The Inheritance Games, Book Scavenger, Mr. Lemoncello’s Library, and 39 Clues. Mary Ann Bernal’s AnaRose and Medusa’s Curse is a clean read, without compromising action, adventure, and enjoyment. This story, along with the series, is a great option and one example of a strong female-empowered hero who uses her wits, smarts, and resources to (literally) save the world without having to rely on her looks. The possibilities are endless for Dr. AnaRose Preston!
In the heart of Athens, an ancient curse is about to be
unleashed…
Museum curator AnaRose Preston is in the midst of unveiling
the newly renovated annex and its crown jewel—a state-of-the-art planetarium.
But her routine is shattered by an urgent message from relic hunter Miles
Bordel. Bordel, infamous for his ruthless methods, has unearthed Alexander the
Great’s drinking cup, triggering a chain of events that could awaken an ancient
curse.
Bordel’s discovery sets off alarm bells. He navigates the
treacherous waters of the Siwa Oasis and the ruins of Ammon, where he
encounters Alekos Chloros, the sinister leader of a terrorist faction known as
The Macedonians. Chloros is on a relentless quest for the Medusa amulet, a
legendary artifact with the power to petrify anyone who dares to look upon it.
The discovery of Medusa relics by underwater archaeologists near Alonissos only
heightens the urgency.
AnaRose and her assistant Jo are thrust into a world of
hidden relics and dark secrets. From the bustling streets of Athens to the
serene yet perilous waters of Alonissos, they navigate a labyrinth of danger
above and below the sea. Their journey is fraught with peril—underwater
battles, secret war rooms, and the ever-present threat of the amulet’s curse
loom large.
With each chapter, AnaRose and Bordel edge closer to the
truth, unraveling a conspiracy that spans continents and centuries. As they
face their adversaries and confront their own pasts, they must stay one step
ahead to prevent the amulet from falling into the wrong hands.
AnaRose and Medusa’s Curse is a pulse-pounding adventure
that weaves history, mythology, and suspense into a gripping tale of intrigue.
Join AnaRose as she battles the shadows of the past to secure a future free
from ancient curses.
The wait is over. Dive into the adventure. Order AnaRose and
Medusa’s Curse today!
We are thrilled to announce that AnaRose and Pharaoh's Gold by
Mary Ann Bernal has won the prestigious Independent Press Award 2025 in the
category of Novella!
In AnaRose and Pharaoh's Gold, Mary Ann Bernal takes readers
on an unforgettable journey through time and mystery. AnaRose, a young
archaeologist, stumbles upon an ancient artifact that holds the key to a
long-lost treasure. As she unravels the secrets of Pharaoh's Gold, she faces
danger, intrigue, and a race against time. Will AnaRose unlock the treasure's
secrets before it's too late?
Live the adventure and discover why this story has captured
the hearts of readers and critics alike.
Mary Ann Bernal is a distinguished alumna of Mercy College
in Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she earned her degree in Business Administration. Her
journey into the literary world reached a milestone with the 2009 publication
of her debut novel in The Briton and the Dane series. Mary Ann’s repertoire
extends beyond historical fiction, encompassing diverse genres, including a
collection of contemporary short stories, a science fiction/fantasy novel, and
thrilling action and adventure novellas.
Her latest literary contributions include “Crusader’s Path,”
a poignant redemption tale amidst the tumult of the First Crusade; “Forgiving
Nero,” a compelling exploration of familial dynamics in Ancient Rome; and the
“AnaRose” adventure series, chronicling the daring escapades of a museum
curator turned relic hunter.
A fervent advocate for the United States military since Operation
Desert Storm, Mary Ann has actively participated in letter-writing campaigns
and various support initiatives. Her dedication to the military community
garnered attention on “The Morning Blend” show on KMTV, Omaha’s CBS affiliate,
and an interview with the Omaha World-Herald. As a celebrated author, she has
graced numerous reader blogs and promotional platforms with her presence. Mary
Ann cherishes her life in Elkhorn, Nebraska, where she continues to inspire
through her written works.
As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better time to
dive into a new book. Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction, contemporary
short stories, action-packed adventures, or thrilling sci-fi, we have something
for everyone. Check out our diverse collection of titles and find your perfect
holiday read!
Our Titles:
The Briton and the Dane: Five tales of historical intrigue
and romance.
Crusader’s Path: A journey of faith and valor in medieval
times.
Forgiving Nero: A gripping tale of redemption and
forgiveness.
Scribbler Tales: Contemporary short stories that capture the
essence of modern life.
AnaRose Action Adventure Novellas: Non-stop action and heart-pounding
suspense.
Planetary Wars: Sci-fi battles that will take you to the
edge of the universe.
In the heart of Athens, an ancient curse is about to be
unleashed…
Museum curator AnaRose Preston proudly unveils the newly
renovated annex and its crown jewel—a state-of-the-art planetarium. Her routine
inspection, however, is abruptly interrupted by an urgent message from relic
hunter Miles Bordel. Known for his unscrupulous methods, Bordel has unearthed
Alexander the Great’s drinking cup, triggering a chain of events that could
resurrect an ancient curse.
Bordel navigates the treacherous waters of the Siwa Oasis
and the ruins of Ammon, crossing paths with Alekos Chloros, the cunning leader
of a terrorist faction called The Macedonians. Chloros seeks the Medusa amulet,
a legendary artifact with the power to petrify those who dare gaze upon it. The
discovery of Medusa relics by underwater archaeologists near Alonissos
intensifies the race to secure the amulet.
AnaRose and her assistant Jo dive into a world of hidden
relics and dark secrets. From the bustling streets of Athens to the serene
waters of Alonissos, they navigate treacherous terrain above and below the sea.
Their journey is fraught with peril, including underwater battles, secret war
rooms, and the ever-looming threat of the amulet’s curse.
With each chapter, AnaRose and Bordel inch closer to the
truth, unraveling a conspiracy that spans continents and centuries. As they
confront their adversaries and their own pasts, they must stay one step ahead
to prevent the amulet from falling into the wrong hands.
AnaRose and Medusa’s Curse is a thrilling adventure that
weaves history, mythology, and suspense into a tapestry of intrigue. Join
AnaRose as she confronts the past to secure a future free from the shadows of
ancient curses.
Don’t miss out on this thrilling adventure. Preorder AnaRose
and Medusa’s Curse today!
1st Place Category winners and Grand Prize Division Winners were announced at the CIBAs Banquet and Ceremony on Saturday, April 20th, 2024, at the Four Seasons by Sheraton in Bellingham, Wash., sponsored by the 2024 Chanticleer Authors Conference.
A dangerous expedition. A precious artifact. A race against
time.
Museum curator and expert in antiquities AnaRose Preston
accepts the challenge to find one of Christianity’s holy relics concealed in
the hilt of a legendary dagger. Traveling throughout contemporary France, she
rushes to solve a historical mystery. But members of a secret society stand in
her way. AnaRose risks her life to locate the weapon before it falls into the
wrong hands.
AnaRose and Pharaoh’s Gold is a mystery adventure novella by
Mary Ann Bernal. After a sudden fire at the museum, Dr. AnaRose Preston, an
archaeologist and museum curator, and her assistant, Josephine Hughes (Jo),
travel to Cairo, Egypt, in search of an ancient gold ushabti rumored to be on
auction on the black market. However, AnaRose isn’t the only one looking for
the valuable artifact, as the Cult of Apophis -- a covert network worshipping
the Egyptian god of chaos and destruction -- needs the artifact for their
nefarious plans. While AnaRose is working with local law enforcement and Dr.
Adam Rose, Professor of Anthropology at the American University in Cairo, Jo is
kidnapped by one of the Apophis members. Will AnaRose be able to rescue Jo and
find the ushabti?
Fans of Indiana Jones or The Mummy movies will have a blast
with AnaRose and Pharaoh’s Gold. Mary Ann Bernal spins a fast-paced yarn bound
to delight adventure mystery readers. The plot is concise and layered with
humor, drama, and intrigue. Through her narrative, Bernal paints a colorful and
vibrant portrait of the city of Cairo, with its sprawling bazaars and ancient
buildings beautifully captured in the pages. The setting is very immersive, and
you really don’t want to put down the book before finishing it. The author also
infuses a lot of lore into the story, and you find yourself rooting for AnaRose
to get her hands on the artifact. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend
it to readers who enjoy adventure and mystery tales.
A priceless Egyptian artifact listed for auction on the
black market sparks a deadly chase between museum curator and archaeologist
AnaRose Preston and a fanatical ancient sect. The Cult of Apophis will stop at
nothing to reclaim the relic housing the deity’s soul. AnaRose risks her life
to prevent the secret society from unleashing hell on earth.
Mary Ann Bernal attended Mercy College, Dobbs Ferry, NY,
where she received a degree in Business Administration; her literary
aspirations were ultimately realized when the first book of The Briton and the
Dane novels was published in 2009. In addition to writing historical fiction,
Mary Ann has also authored a collection of contemporary short stories, a
science fiction/fantasy novel, and action and adventure novellas.
Her recent work includes Crusader’s Path, a redemption story
set against the backdrop of the First Crusade; Forgiving Nero, a novel of
Ancient Rome that explores the complex relationship between the emperor and his
mother; and the AnaRose novellas, which follows the adventures of a museum
curator and relic hunter thwarting black marketeers.
Since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has been a passionate
supporter of the United States military, having been involved with
letter-writing campaigns and other support programs. She appeared on The
Morning Blend television show hosted by KMTV, the CBS television affiliate in
Omaha, and was interviewed by the Omaha World-Herald for her volunteer work.
She has been a featured author on various reader blogs and promotional sites. Mary
Ann currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska.
A priceless Egyptian artifact listed for auction on the black market sparks a deadly chase between museum curator and archaeologist AnaRose Preston and a fanatical ancient sect. The Cult of Apophis will stop at nothing to reclaim the relic housing the deity’s soul. AnaRose risks her life to prevent the secret society from unleashing hell on earth.
A dangerous expedition. A precious artifact. A race against time.
Museum curator and expert in antiquities AnaRose Preston accepts the challenge to find one of Christianity’s holy relics concealed in the hilt of a legendary dagger. Traveling throughout contemporary France, she rushes to solve a historical mystery. But members of a secret society stand in her way. AnaRose risks her life to locate the weapon before it falls into the wrong hands.
Mary Ann Bernal attended Mercy College, Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she received a degree in Business Administration. Her literary aspirations were ultimately realized when the first book of The Briton and the Dane novels was published in 2009. In addition to writing historical fiction, Mary Ann has also authored a collection of contemporary short stories in the Scribbler Tales series and a science fiction/fantasy novel entitled Planetary Wars Rise of an Empire. Her recent work includes Crusader’s Path, a redemption story set against the backdrop of the First Crusade, Forgiving Nero, a novel of Ancient Rome, and AnaRose and the Templar’s Quest, a historical mystery adventure.
Since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has been a passionate supporter of the United States military, having been involved with letter-writing campaigns and other support programs. She appeared on The Morning Blend television show hosted by KMTV, the CBS television affiliate in Omaha, and was interviewed by the Omaha World-Herald for her volunteer work. She has been a featured author on various reader blogs and promotional sites.
A dangerous expedition. A precious artifact. A race
against time.
Museum curator and expert in antiquities AnaRose Preston
accepts the challenge to find one of Christianity’s holy relics concealed in
the hilt of a legendary dagger. Traveling throughout contemporary France, she
rushes to solve a historical mystery. But members of a secret society stand in
her way. AnaRose risks her life to locate the weapon before it falls into the
wrong hands.
Mary Ann Bernal attended Mercy College, Dobbs Ferry, NY,
where she received a degree in Business Administration. Her literary
aspirations were ultimately realized when the first book of The Briton and the
Dane novels was published in 2009. In addition to writing historical fiction,
Mary Ann has also authored a collection of contemporary short stories in the
Scribbler Tales series and a science fiction/fantasy novel entitled Planetary
Wars Rise of an Empire. Her recent work includes Crusader’s Path, a redemption
story set against the backdrop of the First Crusade, Forgiving Nero, a novel of
Ancient Rome, and AnaRose and the Templar’s Quest, a historical mystery
adventure.
Since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has been a passionate
supporter of the United States military, having been involved with
letter-writing campaigns and other support programs. She appeared on The
Morning Blend television show hosted by KMTV, the CBS television affiliate in
Omaha, and was interviewed by the Omaha World-Herald for her volunteer work.
She has been a featured author on various reader blogs and promotional sites.
