Narrated by: Virtual Voice using cutting-edge technology
Length: 2 hours 11 minutes
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: October 13, 2025
Language: English
Publisher: Whispering Legends Press
A Sacred Relic. A Coded Trail. A Silent Brotherhood.
When a nobleman’s ring surfaces in modern-day France,
renowned antiquities expert AnaRose Preston is summoned to authenticate its
origin. Her examination reveals a long-whispered legend. Hidden within the hilt
of a dagger lies a Holy Nail, one of the crucifixion nails said to pierce
Christ’s body.
As AnaRose traces the knight’s unfinished journey through
medieval ruins, she unravels ancient clues while evading a secret sect sworn to
protect the relic’s sanctity. But the truth is more elusive than legend, and
her pursuit may preserve history or conceal it forever.
The dagger may resurface. The Nail’s fate remains hidden.
Some treasures are not meant to be found. Begin the chase with AnaRose and the
Templar’s Quest and uncover the past before it vanishes forever.
Awards & Recognition: 2024 NYC Big Book Award Winner –
Novella Category, B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree, First Place – Chanticleer Int'l
Book Awards (Shorts Award for Novellas, 2023)
The desert breathes secrets. The tombs whisper warnings.
Beneath the golden sun, something ancient stirs.
Watch the Trailer
Uncover Egypt’s darkest legend.
Behind the Chase: Shadows Beneath the Sand
Before the cult, there was curiosity. Before the sacrifice,
a friendship. Before the gold, a warning buried in time.
AnaRose Preston arrived in Cairo to lecture, not to run. But
when her assistant vanishes and whispers of Apophis echo through the ruins, the
sands shift. The air thickens. And the relic’s legend begins to awaken.
This moment, where myth collides with madness, captures the
soul of AnaRose and Pharaoh’s Gold. It’s not just a story of rescue. It’s a
story of reckoning.
A Note from the Author
I wrote AnaRose and Pharaoh’s Gold to explore how far we’ll
go to protect those we love, and what ancient truths we risk unleashing in the
process. This trailer brings that tension to life, and I’m honored to share it
with you.
About the Book
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.
Ready to Read?
Step into the tombs. Chase the legend. Keep the evil buried.
AnaRose and the Templar’s Quest, AnaRose and
Pharaoh’s Gold, AnaRose and Medusa’s Curse
Join AnaRose Preston on a thrilling odyssey through the
hidden corridors of history. In her relentless quest, she unearths mysteries
that defy the known world. Each discovery is a dance with destiny, a battle
against shadowy foes vying for power. AnaRose’s journey is a beacon of
defiance, lighting the way for those brave enough to follow. Her saga is not
just about the relics she seeks but the timeless tales they tell and the
indomitable spirit needed to protect such legends from those who misuse them.
AnaRose and the Templar’s Quest: Museum curator and expert
in antiquities AnaRose Preston embarks on a perilous journey to uncover a
long-lost Christian relic hidden within the hilt of a legendary dagger.
Traversing the breathtaking landscapes of modern-day France, she must unravel
an ancient enigma while evading the relentless pursuit of a shadowy secret
society. With her life on the line, AnaRose fights to secure the sacred
artifact before it falls into darkness.
AnaRose and Pharaoh’s Gold: AnaRose races against time to
intercept a priceless Egyptian artifact before it vanishes into the black
market’s shadows. The Cult of Apophis, relentlessly pursuing, vows to reclaim
the relic that cradles its deity’s soul. With the balance between modern chaos
and ancient evil at stake, AnaRose confronts the cult’s ruthless tactics
head-on, determined to thwart its plan to unleash hell on earth.
AnaRose and Medusa’s Curse: In her latest adventure, AnaRose
faces the chilling legend of Medusa. As she delves into the myth’s origins, she
discovers a pendant that holds the key to unimaginable power. Battling against
time and dark forces, AnaRose must prevent the curse from being released upon
the world.
Don’t miss out on these thrilling adventures! Get your copy
of The AnaRose Chronicles today and dive into a world of mystery, danger, and
excitement.
In this special interview, we delve into the world of Dr.
Adam Rowe, a key character from the award-winning novella “AnaRose and
Pharaoh’s Gold.” Dr. Rowe shares his thrilling experiences and insights about
ancient relics and high-stakes missions.
Interviewer: Dr. Rowe, thank you for joining us today. Can
you tell us a little about your background and how you became involved in
anthropology?
Dr. Adam Rowe: It’s a pleasure to be here. My fascination
with anthropology began during my undergraduate studies. I was captivated by
the intricate tapestry of human history and cultures. After completing my
Ph.D., I joined the American University in Cairo, where I’ve been fortunate to
study and teach about the ancient civilizations of Egypt.
Interviewer: As “The Professor” on the Dark Web, you must
have access to a wealth of secret knowledge. How did you come to adopt this
persona?
Dr. Adam Rowe: The Dark Web is a double-edged sword. While
it harbors many dangers, it also offers an unparalleled repository of
unfiltered information. I adopted the persona of “The Professor” to access and
share rare, forbidden knowledge with fellow scholars. It’s a risky endeavor,
but the pursuit of truth often is.
Interviewer: The plot of “AnaRose and Pharaoh’s Gold”
revolves around a stolen Egyptian artifact. What role do you play in AnaRose
Preston’s quest?
Dr. Adam Rowe: As an ancient Egyptian relics and cults expert, I provide AnaRose with crucial information about the artifact and the
Cult of Apophis. My insights and connections help her navigate the perilous
path to recover the stolen relic and thwart the cult’s nefarious plans.
Interviewer: The Cult of Apophis sounds incredibly
dangerous. What can you tell us about them and their history?
Dr. Adam Rowe: The Cult of Apophis is an ancient and
fanatical sect dedicated to the serpent god Apophis, the embodiment of chaos
and destruction. They believe the artifact AnaRose is chasing houses the
deity’s soul. If they succeed in releasing it, they think they can usher in an
era of darkness and chaos. Their ruthlessness knows no bounds.
Interviewer: Your work must often place you in precarious
situations. How do you balance your academic responsibilities with such
high-stakes adventures?
Dr. Adam Rowe: Balancing academic responsibilities with
fieldwork is a challenge. I rely heavily on meticulous planning and a strong
support network. My university colleagues and students understand the
importance of my work and provide invaluable assistance, allowing me to
dedicate time to both teaching and hands-on research.
Interviewer: Given your unique perspective on ancient
artifacts, what do you believe is the greatest misconception about them?
Dr. Adam Rowe: One of the greatest misconceptions is that
ancient artifacts are merely relics of the past with no relevance to the
present. In reality, they hold immense cultural, historical, and even
supernatural significance. They are keys to understanding human history and can
have profound impacts on contemporary society.
Interviewer: What motivates you to continue your research
and take on such dangerous missions?
Dr. Adam Rowe: My motivation stems from a deep-seated
passion for uncovering the truths of our past and preserving humanity’s
cultural heritage. The stakes are high, and the risks are great, but the intellectual
and societal rewards are worth every challenge. Protecting our history and
ensuring it is not misused drives me forward.
Interviewer: Dr. Rowe, 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 projects?
Dr. Adam Rowe: It’s been a pleasure speaking with you. I
must say, working with Dr. AnaRose Preston has been an exhilarating experience.
Her tenacity and intelligence make every adventure feel like an Indiana Jones
movie. I’m looking forward to many more action-packed, high-stakes missions
alongside her. Thank you for having me.
Mary Ann Bernal, a proud Mercy College alumna, is a
versatile author whose works span historical fiction, sci-fi, contemporary
short stories, and thriller novellas. Best known for her debut novel in “The
Briton and the Dane” series, her recent works include “Crusader’s Path,”
“Forgiving Nero,” and “The AnaRose Chronicles.” A staunch supporter of the US
military, her advocacy efforts have been recognized on TV and in print. Based
in Elkhorn, Nebraska, Mary Ann’s literary journey continues to captivate and inspire
readers.
AnaRose and Medusa’s Curse by Mary Ann Bernal is an adventure novel that combines mystery, history, and mythology woven into a thrilling narrative. The story follows the protagonist, AnaRose, a dedicated curator at a museum, who embarks on a daring journey that pushes her to the limits of her courage and wit. The book opens with AnaRose racing against time and weather to make it to her museum, setting the stage for a narrative filled with vivid descriptions and fast-paced action. As she reflects on her ambitious project to merge a planetarium with the museum, her passion for astronomy and history shines through, making her character both relatable and inspirational.
Mary Ann Bernal skillfully introduces various characters and settings, from the bustling streets of Cairo to the tranquil beauty of a newly constructed planetarium. Her detailed descriptions bring each scene to life, from the chaotic energy of a city in the rain to the serene calm of a museum at dawn. The plot thickens with the introduction of a historical puzzle involving none other than Medusa’s Curse. AnaRose’s quest to uncover the truth behind the legend takes her on a journey through ancient sites, where she encounters allies and adversaries. Her determination and intellect shine as she navigates complex challenges and unravels centuries-old secrets. The seamless integration of historical artifacts and mythological tales with a modern-day adventure makes it particularly compelling. Bernal’s research is evident in the details and historical context she provides, making the story educational and entertaining. AnaRose and Medusa's Curse is a captivating read that offers a perfect blend of adventure, suspense, and historical intrigue. This novel will appeal to readers who enjoy strong female protagonists, well-crafted historical settings, and stories that blend the past with the present in a quest for truth. I highly recommend it.
Mary Ann Bernal, a Mercy College alumna, is a versatile author whose works range from historical fiction to sci-fi and action novellas. Notable for her debut in “The Briton and the Dane” series, her recent works include “Crusader’s Path,” “Forgiving Nero,” and the “AnaRose” series. A staunch supporter of the US military, her advocacy efforts have been recognized on TV and in print. In Elkhorn, Nebraska, Mary Ann’s literary journey continues to captivate and inspire.
Isaac’s only friend is a passenger pigeon
named Bandy. He deludes himself in believing the bird talks to him. Bullied, he
is resigned to a life of being the misunderstood bookworm by neighboring boys
until a disastrous fire kills his parents and little sisters, sparing only his
younger brother, Thomas. He and Thomas are taken in by their Uncle Raymond, an
abolitionist, who plans to send Isaac to Virginia to buy Joy, a young slave
with debilitating health, from her slave owner, Wil Jericho. Shortly after
arriving in Virginia, Isaac learns the ugly truth. The butler who accompanied
him on the journey killed his uncle before leaving and plans to do the same to
Isaac to steal Raymond’s estate.
Isaac, with Joy, escape into the backwoods
of Virginia. Discovering passages of the Underground Railroad, stowing away in
carriages, hiding in churches, and outwitting the mercenaries hired by Jericho,
the two teens fight tooth and nail to make it to Boston before they’re caught.
Will Joy be taken from this life by sickness before she’s found freedom? On
their journey, they learn a lot about each other. Isaac promises to bring Joy
to Bandy's pond, a heavenly place where peace and serenity reign.
Buy Link:
This novel is available to read on
#KindleUnlimited.
Isaacawokewithastart.Forafewseconds,
he lay there listening. Something had awakened him.Hehearditagain.Adullthumpingsoundfrom up above.
The first thing he noticed was that
the lantern had gone out. He could hear Joy’s shallow breathing next to him and
he decided not to wake her. It might be nothing but his imaginationrunning wild. He felt for his belt and
pistols. They were still next to him. He told himself to calm down, but when
the thumping sound was heard again, his heart began to race. This time it was
muchlouder,anditawakenedJoy.Sheinstinctively tappedIsaac onthe shoulder,not beingabletosee him in the darkness.
“Isaac,whatwasthat?” “I don’t know.”
She nudged closer to him and heard him
cockingoneofhispistols.“ItmightbeAdaorone
of the other conductors,” she said.
“Iwishthatlanternhadnotgoneout,”Isaac whispered.
“Well, that might be for the best
right now,” she said. “If someone does happen to find thisroom,theywon’tthinktherewouldbeanyone down here in the darkness.”
Isaac agreed but fumbled around in his
duffelbagsearchingforhistin.Hefinallyfoundit
and struck a match, holding it over the lantern.
“Thereisstilloil,”hesaid.Hethenlookedat his pocket watch.
“Itishalfpastsix.Wehavebeensleeping
for hours,” he said, blowing out the match.
Anotherloudthumpcausedthemtojump. IsaacclutchedtheColttighter.Suddenly,agrating noise anda softlight
appearedatthe curveofthe stairway. They held their breath and
waited.
Craig R. Hipkins grew up in Hubbardston
Massachusetts. He is the author of medieval and gothic fiction. His novel
Adalbert is the sequel to Astrolabe written by his late twin brother Jay S.
Hipkins (1968-2018) He is an avid long distance runner and enjoys astronomy in
his spare time.
In the heart of Athens, an ancient curse is about to be
unleashed…
Museum curator AnaRose Preston unveils the newly renovated
annex and its crown jewel—a state-of-the-art planetarium. But her routine
inspection is cut short when an urgent message from relic hunter Miles Bordel
beckons her to Athens. Bordel, notorious for his unscrupulous methods, has
unearthed Alexander the Great’s drinking cup, setting off a chain of events
that could resurrect an ancient curse.
As Bordel navigates the treacherous waters of the Siwa Oasis
and the ruins of Ammon, he crosses paths with Alekos Chloros, the cunning
leader of a terrorist faction known as The Macedonians. Chloros seeks the
Medusa amulet, a legendary artifact with the power to petrify those who dare
gaze upon it. With the discovery of Medusa relics by underwater archaeologists
near Alonissos, the race to secure the amulet intensifies.
AnaRose and her assistant Jo plunge into a world of hidden
relics and dark secrets. From the bustling streets of Athens to the serene
waters of Alonissos, they navigate through treacherous terrain above and below
the sea. Their journey is perilous, as they encounter 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!
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.
The Minotaur stirs. Evan is drugged to
forget the gods’ quest.
Evan and his companions are entrapped by
the Amazon Queen Antioche and her warriors. Memories and allegiances are
tested. The Dark Master’s victorious revenge over the gods is almost complete.
The plight of the High Priestess is precarious, her health ailing, and unable
to rescue her brother and fellow Atlanteans.
The last sacred relic, secreted in the lair
of the Minotaur, must be recovered or the Dark Master’s succession plans of a
new god are complete. The mystical lands of Krete, the final stage of Evan’s
journey, are within his grasp. He must succeed so his father, Zeus, fulfills
his promise. Then there is Queen Antioche, and the precious gifts she presents
him.
Will Evan return home, and what will become
of his future?
Minotaur’s Lair is the third and final book in the action-packed Servant of the
Gods historical fiction series. If you enjoy well-researched landscapes,
historic characters, excitement, mythical creatures and unique settings, then
you’ll love Luciana Cavallaro’s heroic odyssey.
• Award-winning author of The Labyrinthine Journey
• Nominated for book awards in the Action/Adventure and
Historical Fiction genres
• Drove her first car at the age of three
Luciana Cavallaro’s alter ego
is a high school teacher where she plugs away educating teenagers the merits of
reading and ancient history. She often looks for a brick wall to bang her head
when faced with disinterested looks from her students. She’s also a historical
fantasy and thriller/suspense author, who creates fast-paced, action-packed
series for her readers.
Born and raised in Western
Australia, residing in Perth, Luciana loves to travel and since getting her
passport at the ripe old age of twenty-four has toured parts of Europe, a
legacy of her Italian heritage. She enjoys being active, going out with
friends, reading and tries to grow her own vegetables. She dreams of travelling
again and visiting the ancient sites that inspired her stories, that is when
she’s not spending time being an unofficial stunt person and knocking herself
out in the process.
It’s 1646 and infant King Louis XIV reigns over France; wily Cardinal
Mazarin holds the reins of power - but he needs money, desperately.
Armand de Saint Paul, the younger son of a great and rich noble house,
is leading a carefree life in Paris, dedicating his time to such pleasures as
gambling, hunting, and amorous pursuits.
Unexpectedly, Armand has to defend the honour of his house in a duel
that transpires to be a deadly trap, set up by a mighty foe of the house of
Saint Paul.
Will Armand be able to escape the deadly net of intrigue that soon
threatens to destroy him?
How can a young man deal with love, when it’s no longer a game, but a
dream beyond reach?
The leading question is: What is going on behind the façade that is
Castle Kaysersberg, where nothing is as it seems to be … until the day when the dark shadows
come alive?
Born in 1957, living and educated
in Europe, Michael has always been intrigued by the historical setting and the
fact that what makes us human was as true in the 17th century as it is now.
He has been reading and writing about history for longer than he cares to
recall...
The Briton and the
Dane novels bring to life the tumultuous ninth century when the formidable
Vikings terrorized the civilized world. The epic adventure runs the gamut of
deception, treachery, intrigue, and betrayal during a time of war and conquest
in Anglo-Saxon Britain.
I'm pleased to welcome author Mary Ann Bernal to The Writing Desk:
Tell us about your latest book
Crusader’s Path is set during the First Crusade (1096-1099). Etienne d’Argences and his overlord, Duke Robert of Normandy, embark on a quest for redemption, joining Pope Urban’s Soldiers for Christ, and freeing the Holy Land from Muslim rule. Urban proclaimed that anyone dying during the arduous journey or on the battlefield were absolved of their sins.
Avielle of Cologne, a healer, ministering to the city’s ostracized lepers, needs to reconcile herself with God after committing a grave sin known only to herself and the Lord. Not daring to reveal her shameful secret in the confessional, absolution is unattainable until she hears Peter of Amiens preaching in the market square. Now, salvation is within reach. Avielle joins Peter’s Army and travels with the holy monk through the Rhine Valley, en route to the Byzantine Empire.
Etienne and Avielle meet in Constantinople, and together, they withstand the hardships of the grueling campaign, enduring privation for the Lord’s sake, to save their souls. But promises made to God are cast aside when they succumb to the temptation of the flesh, forsaking their vows of living a religious life for worldly pursuits.
With each successful siege as the Princes’ Army approaches Jerusalem, Etienne and Avielle struggle to realize spiritual purity over earthly desire.
What is your preferred writing routine? My routines have varied over the years because of daily commitments. I have burned the midnight oil, arisen at the crack of dawn, and started writing the moment I came home from work. Now, whatever the hour, my goal is to write a few hours while not paying attention to a daily word count. It is less stressful if you set a reasonable goal. I always achieve my minimum word count of two hundred fifty words, but of course, I do not stop until what I want to say has been written.
What advice do you have for new writers? My advice is to learn as much as you can about the craft. Enroll in creative writing courses and workshops and write a little every day. Two hundred fifty words a day is a novel in a year. Also, forget the naysayers and never give up.
What have you found to be the best way to raise awareness of your books? Social media is perfect for author visibility. In addition to my webpage, I showcase my work on my blog and Pinterest. I also have a Twitter account where I share not only my work and the work of other authors but also topics that interest me.
Tell us something unexpected you discovered during your research Crusader’s Path follows Duke Robert of Normandy’s participation in the Crusade. He joined the campaign late and spent the winter in Italy before heading out for Constantinople. He also left the siege of Antioch during the winter months, returning in the spring only after being threatened by excommunication.
What was the hardest scene you remember writing? Death scenes are always tricky because I do love my characters; we share a bond; after all, I created them! The Crusades was a violent time, and people die. I won’t go into greater detail other than to say, “No Spoilers.”
What are you planning to write next? I am planning on a novel set in Ancient Rome. As my readers know, I have a fascination with the Roman Empire. I’m always referencing the old Roman ruins in my novels. But which Emperor to follow? The jury’s still out.
Mary Ann Bernal
# # #
About the Author
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. Mary Ann is a passionate supporter of the United States military, having been involved with letter-writing campaigns and other support programs since Operation Desert Storm. She has 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. Find out more at her website http://www.maryannbernal.com/ and find her on Twitter @BritonandDane
Author Mary Ann Bernal is participating in the Authors Give Back Smashwords Sale (March 20 - April 20, 2020). All her novels and short story collections are available at either a reduced price or are free. Why not stop by her profile page and have a look? Click here to find all of Mary Ann Bernal's works.
The Briton and the Dane Legacy
Alfred. Sven.
Erik. Gwyneth. Amidst the ferrous
reverberation of a battle royale - one or all must die, and the fate of a
nation hangs in the balance, one final time.
Mark Dresdner’s cover is blown, forcing him to flee East
Germany, yet he refuses to leave the woman he loves.Finding the border crossing blocked, and the
enemy closing in, will he evade capture or be forced to make the ultimate
sacrifice?
Featuring
Betrayal
Aelia gives herself completely to the man she loves,
revealing a life-threatening secret, trusting her husband unconditionally, but
is he deserving of her trust?
Deadly Secrets
Lysandra seeks a new life in America, hoping to forget her
past, but an accidental meeting with a man who knows her true identity
endangers her happiness.
Murder in the First
As judge, jury, and executioner, Bethel decides the fate of
the man responsible for her plight, but things go terribly wrong and the
predator becomes the prey.
The Ritual
Devona’s initiation into a modern-day pagan sect on All
Hallows’ Eve sends the terrified young woman fleeing for her life amidst a
raging storm. Escaping the sacrificial altar, will she survive the tempest?
