Secret of the Sands

Secret of the Sands #1

by Rai Aren

In the shadow of the Great Sphinx of Giza, two young archaeologists unearth extremely unusual artifacts dating over 12,000 years old. Not only could this change everything we thought we knew about Ancient Egypt, but the exhilarating find is wrong - very wrong. The artifacts shouldn't be there. . .they shouldn't even exist at all. The greatest discovery in human history may also turn out to be the deadliest. . .

A deep probing mystery riddled with prophecy and danger, Secret of the Sands uses Egypt and her mythology as a backdrop to delve into the meanings of life and religion. --McNally Robinson

Rai Aren and Tavius E. have crafted a fast-paced, exciting novel overflowing with mystery and intrigue. The tension is constant. The characters are fully developed. And the plot is gripping. Ancient history and present day relevance are so expertly intertwined, that you forget you are reading a work of fiction. --Thomas Phillips, author of The Molech Prophecy

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Thriller, Adventure, Action, Fantasy

302 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 7, 2007

About the author

I’m a total geek who loves reading & writing archaeology adventure stories, cuddling kitties, watching sci-fi & mystery shows, & I’m a vegan animal rights supporter - love to all, harm to none :)

I’ve been fascinated by ancient Egypt since childhood & love anything to do with the ancient world. Co-authoring the The Secret of the Sands Trilogy was a dream come true for me. I’m currently writing new stories in my Ancient Quest Mystery series & more. My latest release is the archaeology adventure novel The Lost Metal Library:




You can get a FREE ebook copy of the first story in my Ancient Quest Mystery series, the novella Lost City of Gold, by signing up to my mailing list - just click on this link or the image below: raiaren.com/Subscribe
You will also get other exclusive bonuses & news on upcoming releases by being a part of my mailing list :)



Below is more info on the Secret of the Sands stories:

The Secret of the Sands Trilogy is an archaeology adventure series that combines alternate historical fiction & speculative sci-fi to explore ancient Egyptian history & the mysterious Great Sphinx of Giza in a time before the Pharaohs. The novel has a double storyline where the past & present intertwine, as each sheds more light on the other...Secret of the Sands is a little bit like mixing INDIANA JONES + THE MUMMY + NATIONAL TREASURE & is suitable for young adult to adult readers :)

Click on the image below to find the trilogy at your favorite retailer:



"A deep probing mystery riddled with prophecy and danger, Secret of the Sands uses Egypt and her mythology as a backdrop to delve into the meanings of life and religion." -McNally Robinson

"Rai Aren and Tavius E. have crafted a fast-paced, exciting novel overflowing with mystery and intrigue. The tension is constant. The characters fully developed. And the plot gripping. Ancient history and present day relevance are so expertly intertwined, that you might forget you are reading a work of fiction." -Thomas Phillips, author of The Molech Prophecy

******

Happy reading always, Goodreads friends!

Rai Aren

Reviews

[J.R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rai Aren's "Secret of the Sands" should not be kept a secret. It is a wonderfully thought out story, and I highly recommend it to anyone.

I have always been intrigued with Egyptology, although I don't ever recall reading a book on the topic. Apparently the Indiana Jones series quenched my thirst. :)

That said, I found myself unable to put this book down. The chapters are fairly quick, which fit in wonderfully with my incredibly hectic schedule, especially during the holiday season. It is filled with drama, intrigue, action, mystery, suspense...the list goes on and on.

Secret of the Sands is far from your typical archaeologist-finally-finds-ancient-archeotype scenario. It is much, much more. Definitely a book that one can say "satisfies your thirst, yet leaves you quenching for more..."

J.R. Reardon
author, CONFIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS

[J.C. Torre · Rating 3 out of 5]

Let me just say - it's rare I leave reviews. I only do it for books I truly do love. As an author, I understand the destructive nature a bad review can give a book, so I subscribe to the old adage, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all."

Secret of the Sands has forced me to break that oath. It's a confounding book that you'd like to love but it makes you work so hard to get there that by the furious end, it leaves you winded and feeling like you worked to hard to see the resolution.

Why is it so hard? Well, for one the writing style of the authors, Rai and Tavius isn't typical to my reading preference. That's not their fault. I enjoy a descriptive narrative told in an active voice, while Rai and Tavius' work is primarily telling, passive. This is not to say they don't paint a nice picture of the imagery of what's going on - but it reads at points like a report rather than a fiction tale.

Secondly, the dialogue between the characters (especially those in present time) seems out of place at points and at times comically bad. Some of the characters are paper thin caricatures of evil villains past, such as the conniving assistant Fessel.

The authors are much better when they flashback to Ancient Egypt, but even then its hard to picture a Queen's son in antiquity calling her "Mommy". Little things like that seemed to break you out of the story.

So that's the negative. The positive and the reason I gutted through is that Secret of the Sands is a fantastic story with action, suspense, and musty dusty discoveries that amaze the mind. As Alex and Mitch sift through the clues to what the Pharom is, you're whisked back to Ancient Egypt where the old story of betrayal is interwoven with the mystical powers of an unknown origin.

As you approach the end you'll notice the writing is better, tighter and at a frantic pace. It makes for fun reading that is a page turner toward the end.

I'd recommend Secret of the Sands to those who love history, Ancient Egypt, Ancient Astronaut theory, or all of the above.

JC De La Torre
Author of
Rise of the Ancients - Annuna

[Tommy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title of this book really drew my attention to it. I'm also a big fan of James Rollins and Wilbur Smith. I love adventure novels. And the fact that this one took place in Africa, Egypt was a plus. Rai Aren and Tavius E. really know how to tell a rollicking adventure story with humor, action and romance.

The story is both present day Egypt and historical Egypt. I love that, it goes back and forth between current day and Egypt circa 10 000BCE. Two very funny present day archaeologists discover a very interesting artifact that was long buried approximately 12 000 years ago. This artifact has startling and frightening repercussions. Especially if it gets into the wrong hands. They have unearthed a secret that could alter the destiny of life on this planet. I can't say more than that without ruining it.

This story is a fast paced action adventure novel that is a real page burner. The characters are true to life and very funny. Both the current day and ancient day protagonists. There is depth to all of them especially the antagonists who are not just cardboard cutout bad guys. There is something admirable in even the most evil of the players in this novel. The story is complex and keeps you guessing to the end. You are brought into the story from the beginning with the believability of this story. Not much is known about such ancient Egypt, and the conclusions and possibilities reached in this novel really made me think. More than that, I wonder if there couldn't be a kernel of truth to them.

This novel has kept me thinking about it even now after I've finished it. I can't wait for the sequel. I think James Rollins and Wilbur Smith are going to have to make a space on the bestseller lists for these up and comers.

[Ann Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Secret of the Sands, talented authors Rai Aren and Tavius E. weave the threads of the past and present into an intricate literary tapestry surrounding the great sphinx of Egypt. From the moment I turned the first page, I was caught up in their tale, gasping for breath as the secret trap door slammed closed, cutting off my air, shouting for joy at Mitch and Alex’s archaeological discoveries, chuckling at their friends’ Jack and Bob’s antics, and frowning at Zazmaria’s greed and treachery.

The mark of a truly good story is one that transcends the ages. Although the writers may base some of their novel in the past, a good yarn echoes into the present and future, as well. Secret of the Sands cherishes love, family and honor, condemns evil and treachery and presents us with a tantalizing theory of what lies beneath the great sphinx. Is the power behind the sphinx not of this world? If so, how can man possibly hope to control it?

I want more. Thankfully, the sequel, Destiny of the Sands is apparently already under way and this reader shall be one of the first in line to continue reading this marvelous saga of Egypt.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alexandra "Alex" and Mitch are both archaeologists.They have been on many dig sites but none of them have been as exciting as this latest dig at never the Great Sphinx at Giza in Egypt. Alex and Mitch discover a chest. Hidden inside of the chest are some cylinders. One of the cylinders contained a book filled with paintings and writing in as well as many other artifacts, dating as far back as 12,000 B.C. This is a great discovery for Alex and Mitch but there is just only small problem...these artifacts should even exist, so what does this mean? Strange things have started happening. Alex's dreams are filled with people, she doesn't know, living in another world. Alex and Mitch try to figure out how these artifacts came to be here as well as what Alex's dreams are trying to tell her. These are the types of questions Alex and Mitch will try to answer in Secret of the Sands.

Authors Rai Aren & Tavius E. both share a common love of ancient Egypt and archeology. It shows in their first novel Secret of the Sands. It is always a great thing when you can read a book where an author incorporates their interests into the story because than me as a reader senses this in the storyline and the characters, which in turn gets me really excited to read that book. Secret of the Sands mixes mystery, ancient Egypt, romance, and as well as paranormal elements to make a fascinating novel. I am sure authors Rai Aren & Tavius E.'s sequel Destiny of the Sands will be just as good if not better.

[Bonnie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the idea, but I found some of the writing leaving me wanting. I agree with other reviers - the dialogue was child-like and in the present day scenes, there was way too much of it! There was very little character description because it was all in the dialogue. The scenes in the past were much more entertaining for me.

At times I found myself slightly bored and other times I had to turn the page to find out what happens next. I suppose the word I'm looking for is uneven? I do think there is potential here and with hard work and listening to the constructive criticism other reviewers have left these authors could publish a true winner.

I also felt as if the book just ended. No closure. I'm guessing this is for the possibility of a sequel, which I think is a good idea. However, I do think it would have been better to tie up some of the lose ends in this book before moving on. I will most likely read their next book.

[The Pirate Ghost (Formerly known as the Curmudgeon) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, a pinch of action, a healthy portion of mystery and suspense, a touch of intrigue, throw in some old shoes, a hot babe and a pair of comically nerdy geek scientists that remind me of Ryan Styles (Drew Carey, Who’s Line Is It Anyway?) and Jack Black (School of Rock, High Fidelity) and it turns out to be an entertaining adventure story…if you like Swiss cheese.

The story centers on two struggling but gifted archeology, graduate students, working on PhD’s in Egyptology while working on a large “dig” around the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. They have their own theories and ideas about the age of the sphinx which apparently hasn’t been well received in academic circles and has gotten them in trouble in the past. Now, they’ve been picked up by a lead archeologist who has a tendency to steal the work and findings of those under him and claim them for himself.

At story start, Alexandra, the daughter of an archeologist, has a dream, then literally stumbles across an old wooden box buried in the sand. After digging the box out, her and her…”friend”… adopted brother?...lover? (Jury is still out on that) dig the chest up and make an amazing find.

While the work is going on to figure out what the new discoveries are, we are taken in a historical flash back (not about an individual) to the time when the sphinx is being built over 12000 years ago (Yes, count the zeroes, that’s farther back than anyone thinks, but not farther back than most people believe). Thus starts the intermitant stories, or the two for the price of one. We spend time with Alexandra and her friends in the present half of the time and with the ancient people and Royal family for the other half.

I’m not going to spoil the stories with much more detail than that. You can read it for yourself. I’m going on a more analytical or technical discussion of the book.
The Characters – Okay, Alexandra reminded me of the character played by Rachel Wiez in the Mummy Returns (why not the first one? Because she looked so much hotter (more hot?) in the second one…yeah, I’m a guy, so sue me) right down to me being able to imagine her saying “take that Bainbridge Scholars!” (she didn’t actually say that). This isn’t all together a bad thing. I really enjoyed the Brendon Frazier, Rachel Weiz movies. I’m just pointing out that there is not a lot left in the Archeology meets strange find that hasn’t been done before. The characters on the surface appeared a little bit “Generic” (Insert nerd, geek or nerdy hot babe here) every now and then.

Again, it’s not like this is a bad thing. There are a lot of common stories and genre’s that don’t have a lot of unique ground left uncovered (likely the publishing industry as a whole has plenty of culpability here). I’m just saying don’t expect any “Oh-my-golly-I’m-shocked-shocked-and-dismayed-moments” in this book.

There are some arguably unique facets to the book. I just don’t think the setting, characters or basic plot is one of them.

Back to Characters.

It took a while because the historical flashbacks kept interrupting the flow in the present, but eventually, the main characters and their supporting cast grew on me. They turned out to have some style (I loved the fashion choice of work shoes (boots?) and the fancy black dress by Alexandra. She couldn’t wait to get out of the stiletto heels) and a wonderful sense of humor. The two supporting goofs of technical merit were comical and entertaining without going over the top and the “bad guy” in the modern story thread was mildly wicked but easy to dislike.

I have the feeling that, in the next book, or subsequent books, we are going to learn a lot more about the past of Alexandra and her best friend?, adopted brother?, lover?... Every time I heard about their past, more and more I had the feeling that we were only getting part of the story. The part we did get seemed interesting enough, but only seemed to connect outside of our awareness, kind of like when you complete a couple sections of a larger puzzle and can see that the two are related but likely connect through an unfinished part of the puzzle.

I found myself wishing that the writer had spent more time on the characters in the Ancient time-setting parts of the story so that the heroes there were more likable and easier to identify with. As it was, the most endearing character was an ambitious, unfaithful villainess (Princess) and the hero seemed more a 2 dimensional cardboard cutout (insert pharaoh here).

Since the story was told on two fronts, I’ll critique on two fronts.

In the modern thread. The story lacked any real action, but more than made up for it with intrigue and energy. There was only one real fight scene which came across more like Freddy, Shaggy and Scooby taking on the middle aged librarian acting like a ghost. Usually I complain about a lack of action, I don’t feel that let down in the action department for some reason. The modern story had a good pace to it, and there were enough things happening and mysteries and intrigue and light comic relief to keep me happy with it. I just wish there had been more of it. At times the modern story, where I felt the main thrust was, was badly stomped on by the historical flashback scenes and hard to connect together because they were too short.

There could have been a lot more done with the main story and, as well written and fun as it read, I really wanted more to be done. It just wasn’t there in this book.

The Historical (ancient historical?) thread- The Ancient historical segments were too long. They actually made a reasonably good story on their own, except, the author seemed to focus on the villain and villainess and not on the eventual hero(s). There were also some thinly veiled hints at what was going to come out later, like in another book later. I believe the author was trying for the same magic that enchanted me when I read Katherine Neville’s “Eight” but fell short of the mark.

Over all they either needed to be things discovered and explained by the modern character set in the modern thread and been much shorter, or more attention to heroes and characters should have been paid to make it more of a stand-alone part of the story.

There was a compelling story here, love, romance, treachery, danger etc. but too much time focused on two characters that, in the end, had very little to do with anything important to the modern story thread (that came out here). I had a hard time understanding the connection sometimes or the relevance which meant at times, this compelling story competed with what I thought the main story was (the modern story) and in places overshadowed it but it turned out like kissing your sister, uncomfortable on ...so many levels.

Overall, this is an enjoyable read with promise, but I feel unable to give it more than 3 stars until I read the next installment (Next book) and find out if it’s all going to fit. The author had a skilled hand and the prose read smoothly and came across as polished text professionally written. It’s the story itself that seemed lacking in details. It was a good, entertaining idea, with a lot of writing, but still, where it counted it seemed like important information for us (readers) had been left out intentionally and like the author forgot to come back at the end and fill in the holes.

You’ll like the read because it’s a smooth read (professional and tight)and the characters, if a bit generic at times, actually become enjoyable, funny and entertaining. The story has so much potential but we don’t get to hear enough of it and the good bits we do get to read are missing some of the good tasting bits to go with the kibble.
Bottom line – It’s like Swiss cheese. I love cheese. I love Swiss cheese, but it’s got a few holes in it.

Warning, there is some violence, but any violence is manageable by any YA or older. There is some sexual situations and descriptions, though they are likely manageable by YA they are deceptive in that the raciest scenes come in the historical flashback and not in the main story thread. If your YA is a 10th grade or lower (USA School system) this isn’t appropriate for them, if they are a junior or senior in High School, parent’s discretion is still advised though it’s likely within tolerability for them. This isn’t a steamy romance novel, though it has some romance in it. Just be a parent, make a good decision, know your kids. Some can, some shouldn’t read all of this.

It is enjoyable and there are some very fun and interesting parts. I just think it could have been better.

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

A mystery, a secret, prophetic dreams, and a threat to the planet’s existence. Sound like a good beginning? It is. But there’s more, and it starts when young archeologists Alex (Alexandra) Logan and Mitch Carver stumble across an artifact while part of an excavation team working near the Great Sphinx. The pair don’t know what they’ve discovered, but they suspect it’s significant. They also know they can’t trust the professor they report to. Meanwhile, 12,000 years earlier, a race of people called the Kierani are dealing with their own secrets, betrayals, and threat of destruction.

This all makes for a dynamic page-turner as the pressure mounts for both ancient and modern characters. There’s a lot going on in this multi-faceted story as intrigue and tension mounts in gripping climaxes. Plot aside, what’s especially appealing about Secret of the Sands is the way authors Rai Aren and Tavius E entwine both stories using multiple viewpoints and short, engaging chapters. Their simple writing style is also suitable for younger readers.

While I’ve certainly enjoyed my share of novels, few of them have left me wanting to rush out and by the sequel as much as this one does. The story leaves some big questions unanswered, and while that strategy might irritate some, it sure didn’t hurt the Star Wars movies. Nor should it hurt this entertaining novel.

[Jennifer Wardrip · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by Erikka Adams aka "The Bookbinder" for TeensReadToo.com

Alex and Mitch are the outcasts of the archaeological dig site they are working at in Egypt. Their supervisor/Professor, Dustimaine, is out to thwart their every attempt at success. If he misses anything, his underling, Fessel C. Blothers, is there to catch them.

One day, Alex and Mitch literally stumble upon a secret; a secret thousands and thousands of years old, unknown to anyone but them. With the help of their lab tech friends, Jack and Bob, Alex and Mitch soon get snared in uncovering a mysterious power somehow connected to the great Sphinx.

Could this be the biggest discovery in archaeological history -- or just someone's plan to hurt and destroy another society?

Rai Aren & Tavius E. write a spellbinding mix of mystery, history, fantasy, and adventure in this tale of two histories - one told in the present, the other told from the past - telling a story of misused power, learning how to trust, and the fate of civilization. The dialogue is believable and the plot is a page-turner.

[Paul Byers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secret of the Sands is an interesting book running two parallel stories at the same time, yet taking place 12,000 years apart. It’s part Indian Jones, part mystery thriller.

The first part of the story is about a team of modern day archeologists who discover an ancient artifact hidden beneath the Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt. The second story is about an unknown civilization that predates the Egyptians.

Both sets of stories are well written and interwoven in a cause an effect type setting. It also takes a well-known icon of the sphinx and puts a new twist to it which I found interesting.

The characters are well rounded with good back stories and there are a couple of great twists with some unexpected deceit and betray.

Secret of the Sands is good, easy and interesting read that is the first book in a series. It is well worth the time and the book was interesting enough for me to want to picking up the second book in the series.

[Lance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Typically, as an Author I find little time to read another's literary work unless something very creative catches my eye. Secret of the Sands caught my interest and I read the first chapter. "Grab you hat and hang on for an adventure." Sadly, there were no more pages to turn. I can hardly wait for the sequel. Rai Aern, I believe will give Spielberg some serious competition.

[Jim Cherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every story is a “what if?” Writers are continually writing alternate histories of the world even if they seem identical to the world we inhabit. Ancient Egypt wavers in our minds between knowledge and imagination, fact and fiction, like waves of heat coming off the desert, is what we see real or mirage?

Secret of the Sands by Rai Aren and Tavius E has two stories running concurrently and that mirror each other. The first story is the of ancient Egypt before the Pyramids but not before the Sphinx. The “what if” in Secret of the Sands embraces the theory that the Sphinx is older than accepted dating based on the evidence that parts of the Sphinx show that at one time rain flowed over its body indicating that the Sphinx must have been built at a time when the Egyptian weather was much milder and wetter approximately 12,000 years ago. We’re introduced to the kingdom of King Traeus and Queen Axiana and the extended royal family that lives in the palace. Traeus and Axiana are beloved rulers and the country is at peace. Traeus has plans to build what will become the Sphinx in honor of a legendary lion that saved an ancient king, it is to be a gift from the royal family to his people. Traeus is taken aback when at the Spring Ceremony, which honors the harvest, some of his subjects stage a protest and demand that Traeus reveal all of his plans to the people. There is also strife within Traeus’ own household, Traeus’ brother Prince Alaj and his wife Zazmaria are dissatisfied with the status quo of the lack of power Alaj has within the family, and the slights and deceit they perceive from Traeus. Zazmaria is easily seduced by the powerful enemy of Traeus, Lord Draxen. But the intriguers aren’t wrong, Traeus himself does have a secret that he is hiding from everybody. He is building a secret chamber under the Sphinx (also rumored in our day and age to exist) to house some kind of machine called the Pharom. Traeus wants to harness the power of this machine to the benefit of his people.

The concurrent story is set in our world, the world of Mitch and Alexandra, they’re lifelong friends and colleagues who are doing their field work on a dig near the Sphinx to earn their doctorates. They work for Professor Dustimaine a vainglorious man more interested in taking credit for the work and discoveries of others than doing any actual field work, except to berate the doctoral students into working harder and longer. One afternoon under the Egyptian sun Alex(andra) falls asleep and has a dream of an ancient chest with strange markings. The dream upsets her so much that she jumps up and runs until she trips over something in the sand, they dig it up to discover it’s the chest Alex was dreaming about. Inside the chest they find two scrolls made of metal from a time that predated the iron age. They take the chest to their friends in the lab Jack and Bob, who provide the comic relief but they’re skilled lab technicians and if they don’t have the equipment they know other doctorial students who do have the right equipment. Together they discover a Rosetta Stone for the two scrolls found which are written in an ancient language and parts of it written in an archaic but more modern form of ancient Egyptian. Together they decide to keep the artifacts and their discoveries away from Professor Dustimaine until they can verify their findings, but each time they make a new discovery it pushes them on to a new discovery until they find the Pharom and activate the powerful machine.
I really enjoyed this book, the authors have a very natural style, that lets the reader feel as if they’re witnessing the events as they unfold, it takes a certain amount of confidence and skill that usually takes a lifetime of writing to develop. The writers have the confidence to trust in their story to let the tension build, drawing the reader farther into the story and investing themselves into the outcome, and lets the reader discover things on their own. The writing fully involves the reader and you’ll find yourself cheering the heroes, and wanting the villain(s) to get their comeuppance. The characters are vivid and palpable, especially Mitch and Alex, the camaraderie displayed by the two characters feels as if you’re getting to know two real people. The same can be said for the descriptions, at times you can almost hear sand scrapping against rock.

I know there’s a tradition in science fiction stories of not telling too much about technologies or tools that would be used everyday by the inhabitants of the world described. But I think the Pharom should have a little background on how it came to be in Traeus’ possession, what he thinks it will do to benefit his subjects, and how he knows how to use the power. We are told the Pharom is given to man by an alien race, but we never see how that contact was made and why the aliens would give such a machine to a King of a primitive society. The Pharom is alien to Traeus and his people and would naturally invite explanation, these questions need answering, some are alluded to but that’s mostly left for the reader to fill in the blanks. I think it’s a little obvious throughout the book that a lot of things are being set up for a sequel, and that may be a little unfair for the reader because we’re being intrigued and beguiled by elements that we aren’t going to see brought to fruition by the end of the book. There’s a planned sequel to Secret of the Sands but even a book with a planned sequel should give some answers to the reader be satisfied some of their questions and really to whet their appetite for the next book. But these are minor quibbles compared to all the overall quality and strengths of the book.

This is a beautifully written book and I enjoyed reading it very much, and that I would readily recommend to anyone looking for a good story to read.

[Jim Cherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every story is a “what if?” Writers are continually writing alternate histories of the world even if they seem identical to the world we inhabit. Ancient Egypt wavers in our minds between knowledge and imagination, fact and fiction, like waves of heat coming off the desert, is what we see real or mirage?

Secret of the Sands by Rai Aren and Tavius E has two stories running concurrently and that mirror each other. The first story is the of ancient Egypt before the Pyramids but not before the Sphinx. The “what if” in Secret of the Sands embraces the theory that the Sphinx is older than accepted dating based on the evidence that parts of the Sphinx show that at one time rain flowed over its body indicating that the Sphinx must have been built at a time when the Egyptian weather was much milder and wetter approximately 12,000 years ago. We’re introduced to the kingdom of King Traeus and Queen Axiana and the extended royal family that lives in the palace. Traeus and Axiana are beloved rulers and the country is at peace. Traeus has plans to build what will become the Sphinx in honor of a legendary lion that saved an ancient king, it is to be a gift from the royal family to his people. Traeus is taken aback when at the Spring Ceremony, which honors the harvest, some of his subjects stage a protest and demand that Traeus reveal all of his plans to the people. There is also strife within Traeus’ own household, Traeus’ brother Prince Alaj and his wife Zazmaria are dissatisfied with the status quo of the lack of power Alaj has within the family, and the slights and deceit they perceive from Traeus. Zazmaria is easily seduced by the powerful enemy of Traeus, Lord Draxen. But the intriguers aren’t wrong, Traeus himself does have a secret that he is hiding from everybody. He is building a secret chamber under the Sphinx (also rumored in our day and age to exist) to house some kind of machine called the Pharom. Traeus wants to harness the power of this machine to the benefit of his people.

The concurrent story is set in our world, the world of Mitch and Alexandra, they’re lifelong friends and colleagues who are doing their field work on a dig near the Sphinx to earn their doctorates. They work for Professor Dustimaine a vainglorious man more interested in taking credit for the work and discoveries of others than doing any actual field work, except to berate the doctoral students into working harder and longer. One afternoon under the Egyptian sun Alex(andra) falls asleep and has a dream of an ancient chest with strange markings. The dream upsets her so much that she jumps up and runs until she trips over something in the sand, they dig it up to discover it’s the chest Alex was dreaming about. Inside the chest they find two scrolls made of metal from a time that predated the iron age. They take the chest to their friends in the lab Jack and Bob, who provide the comic relief but they’re skilled lab technicians and if they don’t have the equipment they know other doctorial students who do have the right equipment. Together they discover a Rosetta Stone for the two scrolls found which are written in an ancient language and parts of it written in an archaic but more modern form of ancient Egyptian. Together they decide to keep the artifacts and their discoveries away from Professor Dustimaine until they can verify their findings, but each time they make a new discovery it pushes them on to a new discovery until they find the Pharom and activate the powerful machine.
I really enjoyed this book, the authors have a very natural style, that lets the reader feel as if they’re witnessing the events as they unfold, it takes a certain amount of confidence and skill that usually takes a lifetime of writing to develop. The writers have the confidence to trust in their story to let the tension build, drawing the reader farther into the story and investing themselves into the outcome, and lets the reader discover things on their own. The writing fully involves the reader and you’ll find yourself cheering the heroes, and wanting the villain(s) to get their comeuppance. The characters are vivid and palpable, especially Mitch and Alex, the camaraderie displayed by the two characters feels as if you’re getting to know two real people. The same can be said for the descriptions, at times you can almost hear sand scrapping against rock.

I know there’s a tradition in science fiction stories of not telling too much about technologies or tools that would be used everyday by the inhabitants of the world described. But I think the Pharom should have a little background on how it came to be in Traeus’ possession, what he thinks it will do to benefit his subjects, and how he knows how to use the power. We are told the Pharom is given to man by an alien race, but we never see how that contact was made and why the aliens would give such a machine to a King of a primitive society. The Pharom is alien to Traeus and his people and would naturally invite explanation, these questions need answering, some are alluded to but that’s mostly left for the reader to fill in the blanks. I think it’s a little obvious throughout the book that a lot of things are being set up for a sequel, and that may be a little unfair for the reader because we’re being intrigued and beguiled by elements that we aren’t going to see brought to fruition by the end of the book. There’s a planned sequel to Secret of the Sands but even a book with a planned sequel should give some answers to the reader be satisfied some of their questions and really to whet their appetite for the next book. But these are minor quibbles compared to all the overall quality and strengths of the book.

This is a beautifully written book and I enjoyed reading it very much, and that I would readily recommend to anyone looking for a good story to read.

[Geri Ahearn · Rating 5 out of 5]

"AN IMPRESSIVE EPIC STORY OF ENDURING APPEAL ACROSS GENERATIONS!"

Mitch and Alex find a mysterious box, while working on a dig near the statue of the Great Sphinx in Egypt,and uncover artifacts that could possibly be the biggest discovery in archaeological history. How could these artifacts exist, and will a mystery be solved, or is there a plan to destroy another society? the students continue their mission with assistance from Bob and Jack to research the significant findings, but do not share any information with the Professor. Did the Professor intend to ruin the lives of Mitch and Alex, so that he could take all the credit? Could the Professor be trusted, and was he jealous? What secret is hidden in the desert sands as the characters come to life, along with ancient civilization? I highly recommend this spellbinding adventure that spotlights archaeological theories as it takes the reader on a thrill ride, to all lovers of the ancient world who enjoy mystery and suspense with a blend of humor and romance. The interesting characters, along with a fascinating plot capture the reader's attention from beginning to end, while fueling the imagination as you crave for more with a burning desire for the next episode. Rai Aren and Tavius E. takes the reader back twelve-thousand years to the origins of the artifacts through ancient history and excitement as they create one of the Greatest stories ever told! The two authors become Master storytellers through detailed research and fantasy with an incredible imagination in an adventure made for the movie screen. A painting is made with metaphysical and mystical happenings, and the portrait is colored with past and present archaeology of Egypt. The mesmerizing story is clear and concise with all of Egypt's glory, leaving the reader in pure contentment. What kind of power was found in this relic? How old is the Great Sphinx as mysteries blow through the desert wind? How many years do we go back to meet the royal family of King Traeus? Who were the builders of the pyramids? When did deceit and adultery exist? What did the book from a cylinder found by Alex and Mitch symbolize? What did the dreams that Alex had represent? How old are the scrolls, and what language are they written in? "SECRET OF THE SANDS" is as intelligent as CLEOPATRA, as entertaining as STARGATE and as captivating as THE TEN COMMANDMENTS, with Charlton Heston, and Yul Brynner.

[Rai]

5 out of 5 stars: Loved every minute of it!, By Marauder (Louisiana, USA), Deputy Headmistress of the Official Potterholics Annonymous

The description that initially comes to mind is Indiana Jones, with a bit of Stargate, Mummy, and 5th Element, yet remaining completely unique.

Secret of the Sands is an excitingly vivid, page-turning adventure infused with history, humor, and excitement. Rai Aren and Tavius E. have created a spectacular story with characters that I just love or simply love to hate. Like National Treasure, there is just enough historical and scientific fact mixed in to make the fictional story plausible and fun. And what a wonderful way to spotlight archaeological theories that have lost the public eye.

I kept wanting to read and, by half-way through, I didn't want to put it down. Secret of the Sands was a thrill ride until the very end and I loved every minute of it!





5.5 out of 5 stars!!, By Faye V. (Louisiana, USA)

"I love this book! Secret of the Sands starts with a bang and hits the ground running. Very Indiana Jones.

I'm an avid Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Mystery reader and I've read many books with dual authors. Although most are good, it's usually apparent that sections were split up and who wrote which part. It's rare to find authors that work so well together they seem like a single voice. That is this book. Secret of the Sands is very well-written and seems as if it was penned by a single author. Everything flows together well and I couldn't tell who wrote which part. If I had not know there were two authors I wouldn't have known from reading.

The story was exciting and held interest throughout the entire book. The characters were fun and entertaining. I love Jack and Bob! They were my favorites. This book is dangerous - I stayed up until 2am to finish it! And now I want to know when the next one will come out. I can't wait!"





Author's note: the first review was posted on Amazon.com, the second review was shared with me through a fan letter from someone who had been loaned the book :)

[Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the beginning when the priests are scrambling to hide important scrolls from their attackers, I was drawn into the book. I could easily see this being a movie. The book alternates from the past to the present. In the present we are introduced to two archaeologists, Mitch and Alex who are digging near the Sphinx. They find mysterious containers that hold the scrolls. From there, we are taken back to the past when the events in those scrolls that Mitch and Alex were examining are brought to light for our benefit.

The book continues along this path. We are given a little about the present as Mitch and Alex discover more about the people who left the scrolls and the creation of the Sphinx. Then we are back in the past, uncovering more details. I did enjoy this format and thought it worked very well for this type of book. It added to the mystery since pieces of the puzzle were given as needed.

I gave this book five stars because I'm not the kind of reader who wants to get bulldozed by a lot of details. I like to get to the point and have the pace keep up with the action. This book delivered that for me. There was suspense, mystery, love, infidelity, and murder. These were woven very well and I found that I cared for the characters and even understood why the bad guys did what they did. People are complex and I could see that complexity in this book, which is nice. I like three dimensional characters.

And if anyone is interested, the book cover and pages are in excellent condition. They are sturdy.

I'd recommend this to anyone who is enchanted by ancient civilizations and the mysteries of how things might have come to be, such as why and how the Sphinx was constructed.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tell all your friends about this Secret

Secrets, deceit and lies can make almost any novel exciting. But, add to that, two stories simultaneously told, then throw in some romance, science fiction and a power struggle and what do you get? A true page turner that takes you on one heck of a journey.
Rai Aren and Tavius E. have masterfully intertwined a story about a modern day archeological dig in Egypt with a story that took place at the same exact location in ancient times.
Enjoy digging through the pages as you meet archeologists, Mitch and Alex as they unearth an extremely powerful artifact. Then, fall back into ancient times and learn how and why King Traeus hid this same strange artifact 12,000 years ago.
In these two completely different stories, it is fascinating to see the differences, yet, even more so, the similarities of how true power effected people in ancient times as it does today.
While power, deception, and lies run concurrent in both stories, so do honor and integrity.

Not having much interest in ancient Egypt, I was somewhat skeptical at the beginning of this tale, but I was quickly won over by the wonderful characterization and scenes. I also really enjoyed the transitions between modern and ancient stories. Secret of the Sands is an enjoyable, fun to read novel that has me looking forward to the authors' sequel, Destiny of the Sands.

Very nicely done, Ms. Aren and Mr. E.

Michael Balkind
Author of Sudden Death & Dead Ball

[Michael Timlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The sands of Egypt’s past may hold the key to unlocking the future...

The Kierani king underestimated the power it had. The Kierani priests too did not know the danger it possessed. Only the Chosen One knew of its true capabilities. But, the Kierani people will soon learn its true potential.

In present-day Egypt, archaeologists Alex and Mitch stumble upon the find of a lifetime, but are puzzled by its implications. The scrolls, key notes and obelisk are in pristine condition, but what do they mean? Where did they come from? Now, Alex and Mitch must decide between hiding the power that they have found or unveiling it and receiving the archaeological immortality they have slaved over years to achieve.

The debut novel from Rai Aren & Tavius E. is a well-written book that shows how passionate the writers are about Egyptology. The book setup creates an interesting combination of old and new and causes the reader to find out what happens next.

Their detailed storytelling paints a picture of ancient Egypt in all its glory. The reader feels they are a part of the book, living amongst the Kierani people. The end of the novel leaves the reader curious and wanting more. This reader can hardly wait for the sequel, “Destiny of the Sands.” – 4 STARS, Reviewed by Leigh O’Donovan, Authors on the Rise Book Reviews

[Susan Jane McLeod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever wondered how old the Sphinx really is? Have you been intrigued by the mysteries swirling like the desert sands around this awesome ancient monument? Rai Aren and Tavius E. have written a mesmerizing story in which two young archaeologists discover an artifact that could provide all of the answers. But they are not the only ones who are interested in this relic, for it holds a power unlike anything seen on Earth before...
Secret of the Sands takes us back 12,000 years to the origins of the artifact and the people who created it. Their story is interwoven with the lives of the archaeologists studying it in the present. Both sets of characters are so well-drawn that I could swear I heard them breathing!
This novel is packed with adventure and suspense, and the style is fast-paced and filled with vivid description.When I got to the end I thought "oh no!" I wanted more, more, more! But I'll have to wait for Destiny of the Sands to get it. Rai and Tavius, please hurry up with that sequel!

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Secret of the Sands.

Secret of the Sands, by Rai Aren and Tavius E, is an entertaining mystery that takes place in ancient Egypt. The authors take us on a wild rollercoaster ride full of secrets, romance, lust, seduction, loyalty royalty and deception that takes place 12,000 years ago where all is not as it seems. Two modern day Indiana Jones type archaeologists discover the secret of the sands and unravel the mysteries and dangers the secret presents. The characters are well developed and the action moves well. The authors are flawless transitioning the action from the past to the present. Just when you think you know what’s coming a new twist is thrown into the plot. The only transparency in this well written tale is that you will be more than delighted you read Secret of the Sands.

[GoldenjoyBazyll · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is exciting from the minute the author begins putting words on the paper! Of course, I love anything that has Egyptian reference... archeology... and a little excitement rolled in! :) It's the story of 2 friends who are doing an archeology intership in Egypt. Their professor is not the most popular guy in the desert and is working all of them to exhaustian. Early on in the novel... the friends make a BIG discovery- one that could make thier careers. They plan on telling the professor (eventhough they believe he will take all of the credit and leave them in the sand)but they want to enjoy the moment a little longer so they decide to do a little investigation of thier own- what is it they fell upon (figuratively and literaly) and how big a discovery have they made???

Well worth the read... totally stong story line with an Indiana Jones flavor to it.

[Donald Gorman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book bounces back and forth in a fascinating balance between modern day archeologists and a theoretical civilization from 12,000 years ago. It is a great hypothesis about the origins of the Sphynx and the civilization that created it. The story is told in a deft, yet casual style that makes it accessable and fun for any reader. There is an impressive array of characters, the story moves in a fast-moving pace that will keep you turning pages. The theory of the authors about the Sphynx, though not entirely original, is explored in a delightful and imaginitive way. And the modern day story is occasionally salted with humor and a casual gait that makes it entertaining instead of cumbersome. I recommend this book as a fun read and an entertaining look at our past, our present...and possibly our future! Good work!

[Lil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, my, I loved it from start to finish! Rai, and Tavius have written an awesome book! I loved Mitch and Alex and Bob and Jack were great characters who added a lot to the story. I hated to see it end and even knowing a sequel is coming out, I have that feeling, the one I get when I don't want to leave a set of characters behind.
The ancient setting and characters are every bit as engaging as the modern era characters are, I cried during some parts and laughed at Bob and Jack's antics, as secondary characters, they are top-of-the-line!
It is well-written, the characters are clear and very likeable, I am so glad I read Secret Of The Sands, and I can hardly wait to get my hands on Destiny of the Sands!


Lil

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really good read. Archaeology in Egypt in the present day and what the artifacts meant to the people living in 10000 BC. And those people were not what you would think. There is supposed to be a sequel that, I hope, will finish the story and reveal a surprise ending but it's not written yet. Waiting anxiously.

[Scott Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed this book. It was an easy read with likable characters, an interesting plot, and a conclusion that kicked my imagination into overdrive.

[Pasta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I was not expecting that. And incredible read. Now I can't wait for Destiny of the Sands.

[Solitarius Lupus · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay for what it is, but I don't think I was the target audience. The premise of the book is intriguing, but the style is very simplistic, juvenile, and cartoonish. It felt like a vintage SCOOBY-DOO mystery, with the characters of Alex and Mitch as Daphne and Freddy, and Jack and Bob filling the Velma and Shaggy roles. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, I guess I was looking for something with more depth and a more refined and complex style.

[Gary Tenuta · Rating 5 out of 5]

SECRET OF THE SANDS has BLOCKBUSTER written all over it!

Fans of what might be called the "Indiana Jones" genre of fiction will be thrilled with Secret Of The Sands . Like a race horse on steroids it blasts out of the gate in the opening prologue and doesn't stop running until it reaches the finish line.

This remarkably well-conceived and well-executed first-time novel by Rai Aren and her co-author, Tavius E. is loaded with adventure, prophecy, mystery, secrets, deception, epic-scale battles, romance, good guys, bad guys, liers, cheaters, scoundrels, and, of course, heroes.

The action in the story alternates back-and-forth between ancient Egypt and modern-day Egypt. The transitions between time lines are virtually seamless and, rather than interrupting the flow of the story, this plot device actually enhances the flow and moves the story along in a refreshing way.

The two modern-day archaeologists, Alexandria and Mitch, are working on a dig near the Great Sphinx when Alexandria stumbles (literally) onto a mystery that will change their lives, and possibly the future of the world, forever.

The well-paced, descriptive, narrative draws the reader into the quest, along with Alex and Mitch, as they unravel the clues to this mystery, the origin of which goes back 10,000 years into the pre-history of Egypt. This is where we are introduced to a complete society unknown to the pages of modern history, a Royal Family, a King with a dream and a secret that could unleash a power of unimaginable consequences.

Throughout the book the authors skillfully break from the modern-day action, transport the reader back into the ancient past, and totally immerse the reader into the multifaceted and intriguing back-story of that mysterious royal family and the events that ultimately created the mystery that Alex and Mitch are desperately trying to unravel in the present.

Secret Of The Sands is a thrill-ride, complete with humorous interludes, and ends with a set-up for a sequel. This reviewer is chomping at the bit, waiting for that sequel to be released. In the meantime I'll have to settle for reading Secret of the Sands one more time just because it was so much fun.

Disney/Pixar, Spielberg, Lucas please take note. Secret Of The Sands has BLOCKBUSTER written all over it.
------------------------------------

Reviewed by Gary Val Tenuta
Author of Ash: Return Of The Beast -
A modern-day supernatural serial killer chiller, steeped in the occult and inspired by the unexplained 1947 disappearance of the urn containing the ashes of Aleister Crowley, the notorious occultist who referred to himsself as "The Beast" and whom the British press once labeled as "The Wickedest Man In The World".

Book trailer and full production audio/visual excerpts:
http://bookblogs.ning.com/group/super...

[Todd Fonseca · Rating 4 out of 5]

In present day Egypt, young Egyptologists Alexandra Logan and her coworker Mitch begin experiencing strange dreams while excavating near the Sphinx. Seeming almost more like an alternative reality than a dream, they discover ancient scrolls containing a language pre-dating the Egyptian culture. However, the containers within which they are found, though carbon dated to ancient times, contain materials and metallurgy far beyond the capabilities previously known to exist. Mitch and Alex search for the answers regarding the secrets long held within the scrolls. Little do they realize the power that has been locked away for centuries that is about to be unleashed once again.

In Secret of the Sands, Rai Aren and Tavius E. introduce an intriguing premise of a pre-Egyptian culture that provides answers to many of Egypt’s mysteries such as the genesis of the Sphinx and its purpose. The book carriers two story arcs, that of the present day Egyptologists and that of the pre-Egyptian culture where a royal family struggles to maintain control and power. The majority of the book takes place in the past which is the strength of the book. The king and his priests initiate a secret project shrouded in mystery which in turn alienates his brother and his power hungry wife who will stop at nothing to gain control. Politics, conspiracy, adultery, murder, mystery, and supernatural events combine to make this an interesting tale.

The present day action and characters are less engaging but serve their purpose in forming the foundation for events that have transpired in the past. Secret of the Sands, while a complete volume, leaves open the door with a few unanswered questions to be resolved in the forthcoming sequel.

[Weavre]

Looks awesome ... but Luzerne doesn't have it.

It's easy to browse a nonfiction section @ the library's website, check the books here to see what I'd like, and have a list ready to go to the library. It's more frustrating to try to find fiction that way. I don't like browsing the shelves in person, because there aren't a few dozen reviews a click away from each title, and I often pull out things I think I'll like but then don't, or skip over titles I might actually really enjoy. So, I look for fiction I really want to read, then check to see if the library has it ... and nine times out of ten, they don't, because no local library is going to stock ever title available.

I try to avoid ILL when I can, because I don't like running up the library's tab unnecessarily. Surely there's a good bit of fiction on the shelves that would appeal to me, but how to find it?

Argh.