I am a children’s author, but up until a few years ago, I was a journalist and editor. Something rather unexpected sparked my new career as an author—a family trip to Egypt with my mother and two young nephews. We had a great time and I thought I’d write them a short story as a different kind of souvenir…. Well, one book and a planned book series later, I had changed careers. I have now published Book 3 (The Temple of the Crystal Timekeeper) in my MG adventure series Chronicles of the Stone, with many awards for the first book, The Secret of the Sacred Scarab, and a few for Book 2, The Search for the Stone of Excalibur, and one already for Book 3! I also teach online novel writing for aspiring authors and I find that very satisfying. Relaxation time finds me enjoying something creative or artistic, music, books, theatre or ballet. I love doing research for my book series. I love animals and have written two animal rescue stories. I have two adorable (naughty) little dogs called Chloe and Pumpkin, and a beautiful black cat called Bertie.
A modern day adventure as our protagonists search for Excalibur and the treasures it holds! This is a must-read for Middle Graders keen on action, adventure, and Arthurian stories!
Continuing the adventure that began in Egypt a few months prior in The Secret of the Sacred Scarab, cousins Adam and Justin Sinclair are hot on the trail of the second Stone of Power, one of seven ancient stones lost centuries ago. This stone might be embedded in the hilt of a newly discovered sword that archeologists believe belonged to King Arthur: Excalibur.
However, their long-standing enemy, Dr. Khalid, is following them as they travel to Scotland to investigate an old castle. Little do they know there is another deadly force, the Eaters of Poison, who have their own mission to complete. Time is running out as the confluence of the planets draws closer.
Can Justin and Adam find the second Stone of Power and survive? And why did Aunt Isabel send a girl with them? Join Justin and Adam as they search not only for the second Stone of Power, but also for the Scroll of the Ancients, a mysterious document that holds important clues to the Seven Stones of Power.
As their adventure unfolds, they learn many things and face dangers that make even their perils in Egypt look tame. And how annoying for them that their tag-along companion, Kim, seems to have such good ideas when they are stumped.
Book extras include some historical background on King Arthur, the Dark Ages, warfare and weaponry during Arthur's time, and details on Excalibur. A fascinating peek into the life and times of the real King Arthur, perfect for young time travelers and budding archaeologists. For coloring-in enthusiasts, ten original black and white illustrations including 2 maps make for more enjoyment!
Snippet:
“He gallops through the village with his head tucked under one arm, striking terror into the hearts of his murderers, his betrayers.” Sheldon rolled his r’s ferociously as he warmed to the telling of what was obviously his favorite ghost story. His voice sank to a hoarse whisper.
As he spoke, thunder grumbled in the distance. Adam looked up, startled, as the lights flickered once or twice. Kim gulped, glancing around nervously. A pool of brightness from the kitchen spilled out into the shadowed hall where darkness lurked beyond. Adam shivered and hoped someone would think to turn on a few lights when they went upstairs to bed. Jasper grunted in his sleep and shifted under the table. Adam leaned down to stroke the dog’s head. He glanced at Kim, who was clutching Smudge in her arms, gazing wide-eyed at Sheldon. Justin appeared to be unconcerned, but his clenched knuckles betrayed his uneasiness.
By the time the story of the Headless Horseman had ended, Adam’s mind was filled with images of screaming victims fleeing for their lives. He could see rivers of blood, and he could hear the hooves of the Horseman’s spectral black horse clattering on the cobblestones, along with crazed laughter as the Horseman swung his ghostly sword in the air.
