He’s charming, cunning, and always
playing both sides. Now, Francois “Frankie” Travers steps into the spotlight in
a format as unpredictable as he is.
This AI-generated virtual character interview
captures Frankie’s charisma and edge with uncanny realism. His voice, his
smirk, his evasive answers, every moment is a masterclass in misdirection. It’s
not just an interview, it’s a game of truth and illusion.
Watch the full interview here:
This is part of our ongoing series
exploring the world of AnaRose and the Templar’s Quest through immersive
storytelling. Each character reveals another twist in the tale, and Frankie’s
appearance raises more questions than answers.
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.
The scent of linseed oil lingered in
the air as sunlight filtered through stained glass windows, casting crimson and
gold across centuries-old manuscripts. In the Paris suburbs, nestled
between a gallery and a studio, Francois Travers,
known to most as Frankie, paints history not just on canvas, but through the
stories he preserves. As AnaRose Preston’s latest mission leads her into the
shadowed legacy of the Knights Templar, she turns to Frankie for answers buried
in time. Today, he joins us to discuss relics, ruins, and the ghosts that
refuse to be forgotten.
Interviewer: Frankie, thank you for joining us. For
those unfamiliar with your work, how would you describe what you do?
Frankie Travers: I’m a painter by trade, but my passion
is history, specifically Templar history. My gallery showcases my art, but my
office is where the real treasures live: maps, scrolls, relics, and theories
that most historians won’t touch. I’m not officially affiliated with any
academic institution, which gives me the freedom to dig deeper, ask questions
others won’t, and occasionally help people like AnaRose when the past refuses
to stay buried.
Interviewer: AnaRose sought you out for your
expertise in Templar lore. What drew you into this world?
Frankie Travers: I grew up fascinated by the symbolism;
the red cross, the secrecy, the idea of a brotherhood guarding something
sacred. But it wasn’t until I inherited a collection from my grandfather, a
historian himself, that I realized how much had been lost or hidden. The Holy
Nail, embedded in a dagger, is one of those legends that keep resurfacing. When
AnaRose came to me with questions about Lord Balian’s ring, I knew we were
chasing something real.
Interviewer: You’ve visited several commanderies
with AnaRose. What was it like exploring the ruins at Avalleur?
Frankie Travers: Haunting, in every sense. The
architecture still whispers of purpose; stone corridors built for silence, not
spectacle. When we found the ruins, it felt like stepping into a forgotten
chapter. There’s a weight to places like that, as if the stones remember. And
when you’re standing there, knowing what might be hidden beneath your feet. It’s exhilarating and terrifying all at once.
Interviewer: One of the commanderies you visited,
Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon, has a reputation for being haunted. Did you
experience anything unusual?
Frankie Travers: That place is different. Locals
warned us about the sleeping quarters, sharing stories of cries in the night and a figure
in white robes bearing the Templar cross. We didn’t see him, but the atmosphere
was heavy. Ghost Hunters International tried to film an episode there, but the
footage was lost, and the results were inconclusive. I don’t know if it’s truly
haunted, but I do know that history leaves echoes. And some echoes don’t fade.
Interviewer: The Ordo Christi plays a major role in
this mission. What can you tell us about them?
Frankie
Travers: They’re not exactly villains. Their goal is
preservation; to protect sacred relics from misuse. But their methods, let’s
just say, they don’t always ask nicely. They believe the Holy Nail must remain
hidden, untouched. Legend has it, the Holy Nail was concealed within a Templar
dagger, a weapon forged not for war, but for secrecy. AnaRose and I don’t
disagree with the need for caution, but we do disagree on who gets to decide
what’s safe and what’s sacred.
Interviewer: You’re an artist as well as a
historian. How does your painting influence your research?
Frankie Travers: Art teaches you to see patterns in
light, in shadow, and in silence. That skill translates beautifully to
historical research. Sometimes a fresco reveals more than a scroll. Sometimes, a forgotten symbol in a painting can lead to a clue that no one else has noticed. My studio
is where I reflect, but my gallery is where I connect the dots.
Interviewer: Without giving too much away, what’s
next for you?
Frankie Travers: I’ve got a few canvases waiting, and a
few theories I’m still chasing. AnaRose has a way of turning quiet days into
quests, so I’m sure I’ll be pulled into something soon. And if the past has
taught me anything, it’s that relics don’t stay hidden forever. They call to
those who listen.
Interviewer: Frankie, thank you for sharing your
insights. Before we wrap up, is there anything you’d like readers to know about
your work or your time with AnaRose?
Frankie Travers: Just this; history isn’t a straight
line. It’s a labyrinth. And if you’re lucky enough to walk it with someone like
AnaRose, you’ll find that every twist, every shadow, every mystery is worth the
journey.
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.
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.
October is here, and what better way to embrace its mysterious charm than with a book in hand? The Reader Views Book Giveaway is no trick, just a treat. Featuring over 40 titles from generous indie authors, the giveaway offers something for everyone, from haunting tales to heartfelt stories.
Don't miss out—the spirits (and books) are waiting! Sign Up for the Reader Views Book Giveaway HERE
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.
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 thanked Jeffrey for his
generosity, promising to keep in touch as she entered the rented car. Frankie
sat behind the wheel, chatting with Jo, who claimed the passenger seat. Smiles,
waves, and more smiles ensued before Frankie stepped on the gas and drove out
of the medieval village.
Having the rear seat all to
herself suited AnaRose, preferring the solitude as she reviewed her emails and
research material. She FaceTimed a call with Dr. Boucher, observing Damien in
the background, taking notes of the discussion, documenting every detail, and
highlighting inquiries needing immediate answers.
“We are in possession of a map,
which may prove useful,” Dr. Boucher said. “Damien is sending a copy to your
phone, but we sent the original via FedEx yesterday. It is waiting for you at
your hotel in Richerenches.”
“To me, a map suggests
something is buried. But it could also refer to the location of a chapel that
probably no longer exists. In this case, it might lead us to the ruins,”
AnaRose said.
“My thoughts exactly,” Dr.
Boucher told her. “However, I don’t believe the dagger is in Richerenches. If I
am right, the Templar knight headed to Bar-sur-Seine, where the trail ends.
Something happened there, and my guess is the courier fell ill and died but not
before making a map of his location.”
“We have a dozen or so
commanderies to choose from. How did you narrow the playing field?”
“We have Damien to thank. A
reference in the Annals of the Twelfth Century cited a Bishop of Langres
visiting the Commandery of Avalleur and mentioned a Templar knight returning
from Jerusalem after its fall.”
“An artist painted the portrait
of Lord Balian sometime much later,” Damien interjected.
“If your premise is correct,
the painting should verify your hypothesis,” AnaRose told him.
“Monsieur Travers’ request to
see the original canvas is quite clever. It would seem the Templar knight
hadn’t taken his secret to the grave after all,” Dr. Boucher said. “I have
arranged for you to appraise the image tomorrow. You will solve the puzzle,
AnaRose. But tread carefully. Others are interested, and your safety might be
in peril.”
Mary Ann Bernal
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.
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.
