Showing posts with label Historical Thriller. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Historical Thriller. Show all posts

Monday, December 15, 2025

Book Spotlight: Red Snow in Winter by Max Eastern

 

Haunted by the memory of a secret love affair in Nazi-occupied Prague, American intelligence officer Julius Orlinsky is caught in a deadly web of espionage when a routine assignment in Washington, D.C., disintegrates into murder, attempted murder, and blackmail.

Determined to uncover the truth, Orlinsky's quest takes him from the halls of the Pentagon to a prisoner-of-war camp in Maryland, and, finally, to the city of Budapest under siege. It's a shadow world where a lifetime of loyalty can be undone by one secret revealed. Orlinsky soon learns the personal stakes couldn't be higher. His investigation threatens to expose a betrayal by the woman he believed was the love of his life.

But Orlinsky has no choice. Charged with an assignment critical to ensuring America’s safety, he must confront the ghosts of his past as he navigates a terrain of double agents, war-hardened German and Russian soldiers, and fanatics who will stop at nothing to silence him. 

Praise for Red Snow in Winter:

"Red Snow in Winter is a gripping, ingenious cat-and-mouse political thriller. A young U.S. Army Intelligence officer finds himself caught up in a deadly espionage battle involving Americans, Nazis, and Russians that he can only survive by finding out who to trust--and also by finally uncovering the truth about long-buried secrets from his own shadowy intelligence past. Smart writing, a high stakes plot, and fascinating historical background. Author Max Eastern really delivers the goods in this must-read page-turner of a novel."

— R.G. Belsky, author of the Clare Carlson mystery series

"I found a great new-to-me author in Max Eastern. I love how he brought his characters to life and made the situations in this novel seem as though they were happening in front of me."

— Terrie Farley Moran, national bestselling co-author of the Jessica Fletcher Murder She Wrote mystery series

"Red Snow is a well-paced thriller capturing the paranoia and moral complexity of WWII’s twilight hours. This is spy fiction that respects its readers' intelligence, offering a nuanced exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and a little romance."

--Emilya Naymark, author of Behind the Lie

"A masterclass in espionage and moral ambiguity, it's an atmospheric ride of a thriller with plot twists worthy of Hitchcock."

--Mally Becker, author of The Turncoat's Widow

"This is a fast-moving, page-turning espionage thriller set just after the war. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to be kept up at night!"

--Deborah Swift, author of The Shadow Network

"Max Eastern attacks his story with dry aplomb and a stripped-down journalistic surety, yet it’s got more switchbacks than San Francisco’s Lombard Street, and every curve is taken with his foot on the gas."

-- Timothy Miller, author of The Strange Case of the Pharaoh's Heart


 Buy Link:

 Universal Buy Link: https://books2read.com/u/3J1BXv

 This title is available to read on #KindleUnlimited.

 


The stories his father told him about his time as an intelligence officer in World War II inspired Max Eastern to write Red Snow in Winter. He has written about history for several magazines and online publications, with subjects ranging from Ulysses Grant and Benedict Arnold to Attila the Hun.

His modern noir novel The Gods Who Walk Among Us won the Kindle Scout competition and was published by Kindle Press in 2017.

A lawyer specializing in publishing, he resides in New York State. To learn more, go to maxeastern.wordpress.com.

  Author Links:

 Website: https://maxeastern.wordpress.com/

Twitter / X: https://www.x.com/MaxeasternNYC

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NYCauthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxeastern/

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Max-Eastern/author/B06X42CGNS

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16476511.Max_Eastern

 


 

 

Monday, December 8, 2025

Book Spotlight: Paoletta – an Eye for an Eye by J.R. Powell

 


Exiled to a Caribbean island, Paoletta Cadoville and her family cling to the hope of one day returning to their Parisian home. But in a single, devastating moment, that dream is shattered. Alone and horrifically scarred, Paoletta embarks on a perilous quest to uncover the truth behind her family’s tragic fate, only to become entangled in a web of political intrigue, secret societies, and dangerous alliances.

In a Paris overshadowed by the guillotine, Paoletta must decide how much of her humanity she’s willing to sacrifice in pursuit of vengeance. Will she achieve justice for her family or lose herself to the darkness that threatens to consume her?

Paoletta – An Eye for an Eye is a gripping historical thriller set during the French Revolution and a stark reminder that in times of upheaval, innocence is the first to fall, and revenge demands a price paid in blood.


 Buy Link:

Universal Buy Link: https://books2read.com/u/4XvgEe


Originally from the UK, J.R. Powell lives in Germany, where he works as a translator and editor.

His debut novel was published in 2024, marking the first instalment of a new historical thriller series. Paoletta – an Eye for an Eye follows Paoletta Cadoville, a young woman driven by vengeance after the murder of her family during the French Revolution.

Drawing inspiration from his time living in Paris, Powell immersed himself in the city’s rich and brutal history to craft a story that brings a lesser-explored period to life with the momentum and intensity of a gritty, modern thriller.

Author Links:

 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/J.R.Powell

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_j.r.powell/

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@author_j.r.powell

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/author-jrpowell.bsky.social

Book Bub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/j-r-powell-d4a62b78-1483-4a63-8c91-eb1852102c55

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/J.R.-Powell/author/B0DNG27M7X

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/53348452.J_R_Powell  

 

 


 

Thursday, November 6, 2025

Command, Ambition, and Legacy: A Virtual Character Interview with Robert, Duke of Normandy


He’s a prince, a warrior, and a man burdened by destiny. Now, Robert, Duke of Normandy, speaks for himself in a format as commanding as his legacy.

This AI-generated virtual character interview brings Robert to life with striking realism. His voice carries the weight of leadership, his gaze reflects the cost of war, and his words reveal the tension between duty and desire. It’s not just an interview—it’s a reckoning with history.

Watch the full interview here:


This is part of our ongoing series exploring the world of Crusader’s Path through immersive storytelling. Each character adds depth to the First Crusade, and Robert’s appearance reminds us that even legends must choose their path.

 

Purchase Links

Amazon Global Link:

Universal Link:



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.

 Connect with Mary Ann

Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com/

Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/maryannbernal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannbernal

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-bernal-a9a05b33/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/maryannbernal

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

X (Twitter): https://x.com/BritonandDane

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@maryannbernal

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/maryannbernal.bsky.social

 



 

Monday, November 3, 2025

Book Spotlight: What Remains by Erryn Lee

 


What Remains is a haunting dual-timeline mystery that bridges centuries-and secrets-between ancient Rome and the modern world.

Forensic anthropologist Tori Benino has just landed the opportunity of a lifetime: leading a dig at a long-buried Roman village lost to the eruption of Vesuvius. But when she uncovers the remains of a Praetorian guard hidden in an ancient latrine-clearly murdered-Tori realizes she's stumbled onto something far more sinister than a routine excavation. As she digs deeper into the past, her own carefully ordered life begins to fall apart.

Nearly two thousand years earlier, Thalia, the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is desperate to escape an arranged marriage to a brutal and politically powerful senator. Her only hope lies with a Praetorian soldier assigned to guard her-but trusting him could cost her everything.

As past and present collide, What Remains asks: When history is buried, what truths refuse to stay hidden?

Perfect for fans of Kathy Reichs and Kate Quinn, this novel is inspired by true events and delivers a compelling blend of suspense, history, and heart.

 


 Buy Link:

 Universal Buy Link: https://books2read.com/u/38zlxL

 

Erryn Lee has spent most of her life between the covers of books, her love for historical fiction drew her to a career as an English and History teacher, where she enjoys sharing her passion for both language and the past with young adults (at least until she needs to give it up to write full time).

When not teaching or writing she is deeply immersed in research and studying her Masters in History. Erryn lives with her husband, a fluctuating number of horses and three bossy cavoodles on a horse farm in the picturesque central west of NSW, Australia.

Author Links:

Website: www.errynlee.com

Twitter / X: https://x.com/erryn_lee

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erryn.lee.author/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erryn.lee/

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Erryn-Lee/author/B0FKH5VCTG

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/57935202.Erryn_Lee

 

 


Thursday, October 23, 2025

Josephine “Jo” Hughes Speaks Her Truth: A Powerful Virtual Character Interview from The AnaRose Chronicles

 


She’s loyal, fearless, and never backs down from a fight. Now, Josephine “Jo” Hughes steps into the spotlight in a format as bold as she is.

This AI-generated virtual character interview brings Jo to life with stunning realism. Her voice carries conviction, her gaze never wavers, and her words reveal the grit behind the mission. It’s not just an interview—it’s a declaration.

 Watch the full interview here: 


This is part of our ongoing series exploring the world of The AnaRose Chronicles through immersive storytelling. Each character adds depth to the saga, and Jo’s appearance reminds us what it means to stand your ground when everything’s on the line.

Purchase Links

Amazon Global Link:

Universal Link:

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.

Connect with Mary Ann

Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com/

Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/maryannbernal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannbernal

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-bernal-a9a05b33/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/maryannbernal

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

X (Twitter): https://x.com/BritonandDane

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@maryannbernal

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/maryannbernal.bsky.social




Tuesday, October 7, 2025

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.

Connect with Mary Ann

Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com/

Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

Amazon author page  https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/maryannbernal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannbernal

Linked-In:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-bernal-a9a05b33/

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/maryannbernal

BookBub  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

X: https://x.com/BritonandDane

Threads:  https://www.threads.com/@maryannbernal

BlueSky:  https://bsky.app/profile/maryannbernal.bsky.social

 


Tuesday, September 30, 2025

Brushstrokes of the Past: An Exclusive Character Interview with Francois “Frankie” Travers

 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.


Purchase Links

Amazon Global Link

https://mybook.to/AnaRose

 Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/bp2Gzg

 



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.

Connect with Mary Ann:

Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com/

Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

 Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/maryannbernal

 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannbernal

 Linked-In:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-bernal-a9a05b33/

 YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/maryannbernal

 BookBub  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

 X: https://x.com/BritonandDane

 Threads:  https://www.threads.com/@maryannbernal

 BlueSky:  https://bsky.app/profile/maryannbernal.bsky.social




Friday, September 26, 2025

The AnaRose Chronicles by Mary Ann Bernal – A Cinematic Collection of Faith, Fire, and Forgotten Curses


 From sacred daggers to cursed pendants, AnaRose Preston races through ruins and secrets to stop mythic power from falling into the wrong hands. The past isn’t just calling, it’s threatening to rise.

Watch the Trailer

 Experience the adventures that redefined historical suspense.

 


 Behind the Collection: One Heroine, Three Relics, Endless Danger

 Before the dagger, there was a vow. 

Before the ushabti, a sacrifice. 

Before the pendant, a curse.

AnaRose Preston doesn’t seek danger, but when history calls, she answers. This cinematic box set brings together three unforgettable adventures: 

AnaRose and the Templar’s Quest – A sacred dagger. A silent brotherhood. A vow buried in stone. 

AnaRose and Pharaoh’s Gold– A doomsday cult. A stolen relic. A race through Egypt’s ruins. 

AnaRose and Medusa’s Curse – A cursed pendant. A nationalist plot. A chase across Greece’s ancient shrines.

Each story stands alone. Together, they reveal a legacy of courage, intellect, and sacrifice.

This moment, where myth meets menace, captures the soul of The AnaRose Chronicles. It’s not just a collection. It’s a cinematic journey through the shadows of history.

 A Note from the Author

I created The AnaRose Chronicles to bring together three of AnaRose’s most perilous adventures in one immersive experience. These stories explore the tension between myth and truth, and the courage it takes to protect what matters most. I’m thrilled to share this trilogy with you.

About the Collection

Featuring AnaRose and the Templar’s Quest, AnaRose and Pharaoh’s Gold, and AnaRose and Medusa’s Curse, this box set follows renowned antiquities expert AnaRose Preston as she confronts secret sects, ancient curses, and cults willing to kill for mythic power.

From unraveling the mystery of a Templar knight’s sacred dagger to confronting a doomsday cult in modern Egypt, and battling for a cursed pendant across the ruins of Greece, AnaRose must outsmart enemies who would rewrite history for their own dark ends.

History lives in the shadows. She’s the last line of defense.

 Ready to Read?

Relive the adventures. Protect the past. Face the legend.

Buy the Collection

 Amazon Global Link:

 https://mybook.to/AnaRoseChronicles

 Universal Link:

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

 

Learn more at https://maryannbernal.com

 


Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Into the Depths with Miles Bordel: An Exclusive Character Interview

 Moonlight rippled across the Aegean as currents whispered through the ruins of a temple long claimed by the sea. In the shifting shadows, relic hunter Miles Bordel fought for breath and survival, fending off mercenaries among toppled columns and statues whose stone eyes seemed to watch. Somewhere in the darkness, the Medusa pendant waited, its empty ruby sockets promising either fortune or a fate carved in myth. Fresh from this perilous mission with Dr. AnaRose Preston, Miles sits down with us to share the truth behind the legend, the man who would wield it, and the cost of chasing history into the deep.

 


Interviewer: Miles, thank you for joining us. For readers new to your work, how would you describe what you do? 

Miles Bordel: I track down relics that history has misplaced, or that someone’s willing to pay handsomely for. I’m not in the business of returning treasures to dusty museum cases unless AnaRose is involved. When we work together (and we have many times), I have to play by her rules, which means developing a conscience, at least for the duration of the job. 

Interviewer: Your latest mission began with a call from the Aegean Sea. What set this hunt in motion? 

Miles: I’d just delivered an ancient drinking cup said to have belonged to Alexander the Great to a collector in Thessaloniki. The cup bore the image of Medusa, and I suspected it was more than decorative. While I was there, I overheard him speaking in ancient Macedonian to his associate, bragging that this was proof Alexander had used Medusa in battle, and that they’d soon claim the pendant and its ruby eyes to “rule the world.” The only reason I understood a word of it was because I’d studied the language years ago. I hadn’t yet realized how deep this organization’s ambitions ran. That would come later, after I met with AnaRose. At the time, I just booked passage from Thessaloniki to Athens, figuring I’d get to the pendant first, and maybe make a tidy profit before anyone else knew it was in play. 

Interviewer: The underwater scenes sound intense. Can you walk us through the dive and the fight with Alekos Chloros’s men? 

Miles Bordel: The ruins were stunning, with columns draped in coral and statues half-buried in sand, all freshly revealed after an earthquake shifted the seabed. A lot of Medusa-themed artifacts had surfaced at the Alonissos Underwater Museum, so AnaRose and I went looking for the pendant. We were navigating a collapsed temple when the water seemed to breathe, a slow, deep shift that made the silt swirl around us. That’s when Alekos’s divers appeared. Armed, fast, and clearly trained, but they didn’t press the attack. We fought them off and made it back to our boat, but they never followed. At the time, I figured they were just trying to scare us off. They didn’t know yet who we were, or how far we were willing to go. 

Interviewer: Alekos Chloros has been likened to a modern-day Alexander the Great, with a god complex. What makes him so dangerous? 

Miles: He’s not chasing wealth; he’s chasing immortality through legacy. Chloros believes he’s destined to restore Greece’s ancient glory, and he’ll twist myth into a weapon to do it. That kind of conviction, backed by money and an army of mercenaries, is deadly. I’ve dealt with greedy men before, but true believers are far worse. 

Interviewer: You and AnaRose have worked together before. How would you describe your partnership? 

Miles: She’s brilliant, relentless, and has an instinct for seeing patterns others miss. We don’t always agree; she’s all about preservation, while I’m all about acquisition. However, when the stakes are this high, trust is everything. She keeps me honest, or at least, honest enough. 

Interviewer: The Medusa pendant is said to petrify with a gaze. Do you believe in the curse? 

Miles: I’ve learned that legends often grow from a seed of truth. Whether it’s supernatural or just the fear it inspires, the pendant has power. In the wrong hands, that’s as dangerous as any curse carved in stone. And if you’re smart, you don’t stare too long, wondering which it is. 

Interviewer: What’s next for you now that the dust has settled? 

Miles: Taking time off would be nice, but history doesn’t rest, and neither do the shadows it leaves behind. There’s always another relic, another danger, another story waiting to be written. And if AnaRose calls, I’ll answer without hesitation. 

Interviewer: Miles, thank you so much for sharing your insights with us today. Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers about your work or any upcoming adventures? 

Miles Bordel: It’s been a pleasure. Although I’m not usually in the habit of giving away my secrets. I will say this: working with AnaRose Preston is never dull. She’s sharp, fearless, and has a way of turning even the simplest job into something worthy of the history books. We’ve faced danger on land, at sea, and now under it, and I’ve no doubt there are more high-stakes missions in our future. Just don’t expect me to admit I’m looking forward to them. 


 Purchase Links

 Amazon Global Link

https://mybook.to/AnaRoseMedusasCurse

 Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/m20XR1

 

 


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, the 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.

Connect with Mary Ann:

Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com/

Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

Amazon author page  https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

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BookBub  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

X: https://x.com/BritonandDane

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Friday, September 19, 2025

AnaRose and Medusa’s Curse by Mary Ann Bernal – A Cinematic Descent into Myth and Madness

 


The sea hides secrets. The mountains echo warnings. Beneath the gaze of legend, danger awakens.

 Watch the Trailer

 Face the myth. Chase the truth.

 


Behind the Curse: Echoes from the Deep

Before the pendant, there was a call for help. Before the ruby eyes, a legend whispered in stone. Before the chase, a curse long forgotten.

 AnaRose Preston didn’t seek this relic, but when Miles Bordel calls, she answers. What begins as a rescue spirals into a race against time, where myth and nationalism collide. The cult believes in Medusa’s power. And they’ll kill to wield it.

This moment, where superstition becomes strategy, captures the soul of AnaRose and Medusa’s Curse. It’s not just a story of pursuit. It’s a story of fear, legacy, and the danger of belief.

 A Note from the Author

I wrote AnaRose and Medusa’s Curse to explore how myth can be weaponized, and how courage is tested when the past refuses to stay buried. This trailer brings that tension to life, and I’m honored to share it with you.

 About the Book

 A Legendary Pendant. A Forgotten Curse. A Race Against Time.

When relic hunter Miles Bordel calls AnaRose Preston for help, she knows trouble isn’t far behind. This time, it’s personal and deadly. A nationalist cult bent on restoring ancient Greece to its former glory is hunting the Medusa pendant, said to petrify anyone who meets its cursed gaze.

AnaRose and Miles find the pendant, but it’s stolen before they can secure it. Now the cult is after its missing ruby eyes, hidden somewhere along the Aegean coast. From sunken ruins to mountaintop shrines, AnaRose must follow the clues, dodge assassins, and stop a plan that could turn ancient superstition into modern terror.

The danger is real. The curse may be, too.

She answered a call for help. Now she’s fighting to ensure the past stays buried.

Ready to Read?

Face the legend. Stop the curse. Keep the truth hidden.

Buy the Book

Amazon Global Link:

https://mybook.to/AnaRoseMedusasCurse

Universal Link:

https://books2read.com/u/m20XR1

Learn more at https://maryannbernal.com