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Arkana Archaeology Thrillers #3
The Dragon's Wing Enigma
The Arkana Series: Where Alternative History Meets Archaeology Adventure Volume Three - The Dragon's Wing Enigma "There's a 52% chance that the next Dan Brown will be a woman... or should we just make that 100% now?" (Kindle Nation) Runaway Bride Cassie Forsythe's checkered resume never included the job of babysitter. Former college freshman, yes. Amateur relic hunter, certainly. Seer for a secret organization, absolutely. But babysitter? Not likely! Cassie is packing for the next leg of a treasure hunt to recover a mythological artifact known as the Sage Stone when trouble comes knocking at her door. Trouble takes the form of fourteen year old runaway Hannah Curtis. Hannah isn't your average teenager. She happens to be the youngest wife of aged polygamist Abraham Metcalf. Metcalf leads the religious cult known as the Blessed Nephilim and he covets the Sage Stone for himself. Unwelcome Guest Hannah's untimely arrival creates a predicament for Cassie. The Nephilim isn't supposed to know that anyone else is hunting the Sage Stone. More than that, the cult must never discover the existence of the Arkana - the secret society for which Cassie works. The Arkana has spent centuries recovering artifacts of ancient civilizations which predate patriarchy--advanced goddess-worshipping cultures on every continent. Their archaeological troves document the lost history of the world and need to be protected at all costs. Unfortunately, Hannah could lead the cult straight to the Arkana's underground cache of relics. Cassie contacts Faye, the Arkana's elderly leader, for help. The old woman spirits the girl away to her farmhouse in the country. Faye promises to keep Hannah out of sight so that Cassie and her teammates can resume their quest. Tricky Trinkets Cassie, librarian Griffin, and bodyguard Erik face a daunting task. Five sequential artifacts reveal the hiding place of the Sage Stone. The treasure hunters must not only retrieve the relics before the Nephilim, they must also substitute forgeries in place of the real artifacts to keep the cult from discovering that it has competition. Luck has been on their side so far. They've recovered the first artifact with their foes none the wiser. The Arkana team flies to Malta, hoping to unearth the second artifact among the ruined temples of a long-dead civilization. After a fruitless search of the archipelago, their quest leads them northward into the Basque region of Europe. Meanwhile, Abraham's son Daniel is combing the same terrain and narrowing the gap between them. Dragon's Wing Dilemma In an isolated mountaintop cave, they learn that the next relic can only be discovered if they "keep true to the dragon's wing." The clue baffles them. What does it mean? Cassie and her friends are running out of time. With Nephilim operatives closing in, will they all survive this mission? Will the cult capture Hannah and breach the defenses of the Arkana itself? Follow the dragon's wing to learn the answers.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2012
101 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
About the author
N.S. Wikarski
21 books152 followersNancy Wikarski is a fugitive from academia. After earning her Ph.D. from the University of Chicago, she worked in corporate America for two decades before becoming a historical mystery author. Her books highlight unknown aspects of women’s history and contain elements of magical realism. In her Arkana series, she foregrounds the latest archaeological discoveries about prepatriarchal cultures around the planet and weaves these facts into fictional artifact hunts. Her Gilded Age Chicago books depict the real issues of first-wave feminism while following the fictional adventures of two amateur sleuths. Both her series have been award-nominated and have ranked on Amazon’s bestseller lists.
The author is a member of ALLi, Mystery Writers of America, the Society of Midland Authors, and has served as vice president of Sisters in Crime-Twin Cities and on the programming board of the Chicago chapter. Her short stories have appeared in Futures Magazine and DIME Anthology, while her book reviews and essays have been featured in Murder: Past Tense, Deadly Pleasures, and Mystery Readers Journal. She is currently writing an Arkana spinoff series called The Trove Chronicles that will continue to feature discoveries about global prepatriarchal cultures. More mysteries from the casebook of Gilded Age detectives Evangeline LeClair and Freddie Simpson are also in the works.
The author is a member of ALLi, Mystery Writers of America, the Society of Midland Authors, and has served as vice president of Sisters in Crime-Twin Cities and on the programming board of the Chicago chapter. Her short stories have appeared in Futures Magazine and DIME Anthology, while her book reviews and essays have been featured in Murder: Past Tense, Deadly Pleasures, and Mystery Readers Journal. She is currently writing an Arkana spinoff series called The Trove Chronicles that will continue to feature discoveries about global prepatriarchal cultures. More mysteries from the casebook of Gilded Age detectives Evangeline LeClair and Freddie Simpson are also in the works.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
January 2, 2020
Book 3 of 7
The adventure continues with our heroes going after the next artifact and the race is on to get there before the Nephilim. I just can’t understand why Arkana keeps allowing the Nephilim to continue the hunt. The rationale is Arkana is concerned that it could lead to the discovery of their existence but the only time they run into the Nephilim is when they are leaving breadcrumbs for them to follow.
We do get a deeper look into Arkana and just how vast their resources and personnel are. The leader, Faye, is inexplicably old but doesn’t age and I’m curious as to why this is. The Nephilim’s resources appear just as vast yet neither organization has an obvious means of income. Their leader, Abraham, isn’t as blessed with such longevity, even though he is the divine ruler. We do start to see more of his preparations for his final plan and it appears to be literally apocalyptic. I have no doubt a showdown is coming. Off to the next adventure!
The adventure continues with our heroes going after the next artifact and the race is on to get there before the Nephilim. I just can’t understand why Arkana keeps allowing the Nephilim to continue the hunt. The rationale is Arkana is concerned that it could lead to the discovery of their existence but the only time they run into the Nephilim is when they are leaving breadcrumbs for them to follow.
We do get a deeper look into Arkana and just how vast their resources and personnel are. The leader, Faye, is inexplicably old but doesn’t age and I’m curious as to why this is. The Nephilim’s resources appear just as vast yet neither organization has an obvious means of income. Their leader, Abraham, isn’t as blessed with such longevity, even though he is the divine ruler. We do start to see more of his preparations for his final plan and it appears to be literally apocalyptic. I have no doubt a showdown is coming. Off to the next adventure!
June 27, 2017
Another hit
I am loving this series. The path just gets better and better as the Minoans lead the trio on another search. Each member of the team grows into their role. Cassie finally sees the big picture and has turned her focus outward. The moments with the Diviner are fascinating, as he rationalized his actions and beliefs to fit what he desires. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
I am loving this series. The path just gets better and better as the Minoans lead the trio on another search. Each member of the team grows into their role. Cassie finally sees the big picture and has turned her focus outward. The moments with the Diviner are fascinating, as he rationalized his actions and beliefs to fit what he desires. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
November 17, 2018
Another Winner from Wikarski
When reviewing multiple volumes in a cycle of fiction, it's hard to know what to say without repeating oneself. It is noteworthy that Wikarski is able to create multiple convincing voices for the highly variable characters she presents. I am repeatedly impressed by that ability.
I recommend this series for anyone who likes high adventure.
But do read the books in order, because if you don't, you will be confused.
When reviewing multiple volumes in a cycle of fiction, it's hard to know what to say without repeating oneself. It is noteworthy that Wikarski is able to create multiple convincing voices for the highly variable characters she presents. I am repeatedly impressed by that ability.
I recommend this series for anyone who likes high adventure.
But do read the books in order, because if you don't, you will be confused.
June 30, 2020
The Devil’s in The Details
The Dragon’s Wing Enigma (Arkana Archaeology Mystery Thriller Series Book 3) by N. S. Wikarski is about the Arkana team’s search and recovery of the second of the Bones of The Mother artifact. How and where to find it is cryptically written on the first artifact. It is another thrilling adventure with interesting characters and plot line.
The Dragon’s Wing Enigma (Arkana Archaeology Mystery Thriller Series Book 3) by N. S. Wikarski is about the Arkana team’s search and recovery of the second of the Bones of The Mother artifact. How and where to find it is cryptically written on the first artifact. It is another thrilling adventure with interesting characters and plot line.
August 21, 2020
Arkana Series
Didn't disappoint. Like the way the back stories are fleshing out. Really enjoy the amount of historical information woven into the story. Looking forward to the next installment!
Didn't disappoint. Like the way the back stories are fleshing out. Really enjoy the amount of historical information woven into the story. Looking forward to the next installment!
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April 17, 2021A treasure trove
Interesting and well written novel about ancient treasures which are hidden and have two factions searching for them -one good and one evil.Fun characters, interesting travel, bad guys and consciences!
Interesting and well written novel about ancient treasures which are hidden and have two factions searching for them -one good and one evil.Fun characters, interesting travel, bad guys and consciences!
December 20, 2017
Riveting
Spiritual aspect, historical archeology and action galore. Loving the smooth tie together that results in fireworks and just the right amount of it!
Spiritual aspect, historical archeology and action galore. Loving the smooth tie together that results in fireworks and just the right amount of it!
November 17, 2019
Search for item three.
The search continues for the 3rd hidden object. More mountain climbing and travel. Always trying to beat the Nephilim. And two new characters now.
The search continues for the 3rd hidden object. More mountain climbing and travel. Always trying to beat the Nephilim. And two new characters now.
April 10, 2019
This is a general review of the series. It does not contain spoilers.
I managed to go as far as the fifth volume of the series. The series starts off as an interesting and easy-going mystery with a couple of plot lines that intertwine and fit together quite nicely and add to the suspense. Furthermore, the plots and the main characters’ backgrounds touch on issues that are in the focus of public discussion, too. However, a few volumes in, the plotlines become somewhat repetitive and I found it harder and harder to stay focused and intrigued by the progress of the story. Eventually, with the emergence of another book on my horizon of interest, it was easy for me to let go. I do not like to leave a series unfinished but I must say there isn't much to draw me back, although it is an ongoing story and I will not find out how the story ends.
The characters and ‘sets’ of the series are generally well-built and more or less diverse, although more depth and detail would help for them to be more authentic and truthful; this need - in psychology for the characters, and in details and precision for the sets (by sets I also mean the organizations described etc.) - becomes bigger with every new volume. The pace of the series is easy and balanced, but at times it slows down a tiny bit too much due to too much theorizing on the part of the main characters, or rushes unnecessary and too intuitively through key moments. The reference to ancient history adds a distinct pleasurable flavor although the reader should keep in mind this is a work of fiction – as always in such cases that use known facts in the plot.
As the series progresses the plot in some of the novels would unravel in a somewhat predictable pattern, and that could tint the read a bit monotonous. In general the diversity of tasks and locations makes up for it. However, I would have appreciated more resourcefulness and detail with regards to the riddles and the way of solving them – at times the latter is too intuitive and leaves the reader with a sense of dissatisfaction. Also, the main character’s special ability is set as a foundation of the plot in the first novel but later on it is somehow left behind to some extent.
Despite all the above remarks I still found the first few books of the series interesting and exciting, and inviting the reader to do some further reading on their own. One important feature that I enjoyed is that the characters have integrity throughout the series (at least until novel #5), and at the same time they do develop and change as personalities, thus making the plot alive and authentic. Having written that, however, I once again stress that deeper psychological profiles of the characters would contribute greatly to the plot.
I managed to go as far as the fifth volume of the series. The series starts off as an interesting and easy-going mystery with a couple of plot lines that intertwine and fit together quite nicely and add to the suspense. Furthermore, the plots and the main characters’ backgrounds touch on issues that are in the focus of public discussion, too. However, a few volumes in, the plotlines become somewhat repetitive and I found it harder and harder to stay focused and intrigued by the progress of the story. Eventually, with the emergence of another book on my horizon of interest, it was easy for me to let go. I do not like to leave a series unfinished but I must say there isn't much to draw me back, although it is an ongoing story and I will not find out how the story ends.
The characters and ‘sets’ of the series are generally well-built and more or less diverse, although more depth and detail would help for them to be more authentic and truthful; this need - in psychology for the characters, and in details and precision for the sets (by sets I also mean the organizations described etc.) - becomes bigger with every new volume. The pace of the series is easy and balanced, but at times it slows down a tiny bit too much due to too much theorizing on the part of the main characters, or rushes unnecessary and too intuitively through key moments. The reference to ancient history adds a distinct pleasurable flavor although the reader should keep in mind this is a work of fiction – as always in such cases that use known facts in the plot.
As the series progresses the plot in some of the novels would unravel in a somewhat predictable pattern, and that could tint the read a bit monotonous. In general the diversity of tasks and locations makes up for it. However, I would have appreciated more resourcefulness and detail with regards to the riddles and the way of solving them – at times the latter is too intuitive and leaves the reader with a sense of dissatisfaction. Also, the main character’s special ability is set as a foundation of the plot in the first novel but later on it is somehow left behind to some extent.
Despite all the above remarks I still found the first few books of the series interesting and exciting, and inviting the reader to do some further reading on their own. One important feature that I enjoyed is that the characters have integrity throughout the series (at least until novel #5), and at the same time they do develop and change as personalities, thus making the plot alive and authentic. Having written that, however, I once again stress that deeper psychological profiles of the characters would contribute greatly to the plot.
July 14, 2013
This was an interesting premise for a story, full of fun and fact that kept my interest. Sadly, I felt many of the characters were far too loosely developed and unfocused: since I have not read the first two in the series I am unaware if the characters perhaps are building in their development with each story.
Aside from that small question, I did not feel a great disconnect with the story’s events: there is background provided in simple passages to give a sense of what came before, and the story as it stands does work without foreknowledge gained from earlier works.
Wikarski has a lovely writing style that shows her familiarity with the concepts that she brings forward and to add a sense of mystery. There is a lot of action and multiple threads running through this story, so paying attention is a must. The Arkana is an interesting concept, and the world we visit in this installment of the story was well developed and provided a sense of wonder amidst the often mundane concerns of the characters, and the more familiar elements.
For fans of fantasy and mystery this is a good series to pass an afternoon. I found the main character in Cassie to be a bit unfocused: my assumption is that it is more a part of her ongoing discoveries in the series and of herself as the series progresses. Never a dull moment, Wikarski can spin a story to hold your interest, and while I didn’t expect the ending, it was satisfying. This also would work for an older YA/teen reader who enjoys fantasy and history mixes: while I can’t verify that all the historical elements were accurate, they do help to fuel a further interest in the stories.
I received an eBook from the author for purpose of honest review as part of the Indies Rock Promotion at I am, Indeed. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Aside from that small question, I did not feel a great disconnect with the story’s events: there is background provided in simple passages to give a sense of what came before, and the story as it stands does work without foreknowledge gained from earlier works.
Wikarski has a lovely writing style that shows her familiarity with the concepts that she brings forward and to add a sense of mystery. There is a lot of action and multiple threads running through this story, so paying attention is a must. The Arkana is an interesting concept, and the world we visit in this installment of the story was well developed and provided a sense of wonder amidst the often mundane concerns of the characters, and the more familiar elements.
For fans of fantasy and mystery this is a good series to pass an afternoon. I found the main character in Cassie to be a bit unfocused: my assumption is that it is more a part of her ongoing discoveries in the series and of herself as the series progresses. Never a dull moment, Wikarski can spin a story to hold your interest, and while I didn’t expect the ending, it was satisfying. This also would work for an older YA/teen reader who enjoys fantasy and history mixes: while I can’t verify that all the historical elements were accurate, they do help to fuel a further interest in the stories.
I received an eBook from the author for purpose of honest review as part of the Indies Rock Promotion at I am, Indeed. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
March 11, 2013
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This is Book 3 in The Arkana Series. Once again we meet Cassie, Griffin, Erik, Faye and Maddie. What is their quest this time? To find a mythological relic called The Sage Stone. Not only do they have to find this stone before the Nephilim, the Nephilim are a religious cult of sorts with compounds all over the world so they have many associates, but they must do so quickly and unseen. There’s a slight problem, Hannah Metcalf, one of Abraham Metcalf’s many wives, has shown up on Cassie’s doorstep for refuge. Can they find this artifact before the Nephilim? Has Hannah put Cassie’s life at risk?
This was an amazing thrill-ride that kept me on the edge of my seat! I love the fact that there was a riddle to decipher. The characters are so interesting, and of course Cassie, the main character was just so sweet. She’s still trying to find herself yet cares so much about her friends. I loved how Hannah’s naivety showed up even in parts I didn’t think of. N. S. Wikarski is an excellent storyteller! This was an awesome Historical Adventure, now I can’t wait for book 4!
This was an amazing thrill-ride that kept me on the edge of my seat! I love the fact that there was a riddle to decipher. The characters are so interesting, and of course Cassie, the main character was just so sweet. She’s still trying to find herself yet cares so much about her friends. I loved how Hannah’s naivety showed up even in parts I didn’t think of. N. S. Wikarski is an excellent storyteller! This was an awesome Historical Adventure, now I can’t wait for book 4!
June 5, 2021
This review is, in one sense, a placeholder for when I finish this series, but I have a point I want to make that I fear I'll forget if I don't make a note of it now.
About a tenth of the way in, a female character asks a male character for self-defense advice. When the first training session starts, the male character says a lot of things that every gender should internalize, if they're looking to survive a physical confrontation. There's a lot of very, very good advice there. If you read this book and are ever in a situation where there's a threat of hand-to-hand physical violence involved, you might end up OK if you internalize the attitude. Ignore the physical stuff described if it doesn't work for you.
About a tenth of the way in, a female character asks a male character for self-defense advice. When the first training session starts, the male character says a lot of things that every gender should internalize, if they're looking to survive a physical confrontation. There's a lot of very, very good advice there. If you read this book and are ever in a situation where there's a threat of hand-to-hand physical violence involved, you might end up OK if you internalize the attitude. Ignore the physical stuff described if it doesn't work for you.
February 16, 2013
What an awesome book to read.
On the search for artifacts from long ago, these young adults find more than they bargain for. With lots of adventure, a runaway bride and decoding clues, they get to do it all.
Hannah ran away from the Diviner to get away from him as she was only 14 and considered as his wife and expecting a baby. She was dropped by the Diviner's son, Daniel (also her no longer husband) at a home for unwed mothers for hiding. She knew it would be a matter of time before he sent someone searching for her and she had left without telling anyone. Where she went next, will surprise you!
I have to give this book a two thumbs up!
On the search for artifacts from long ago, these young adults find more than they bargain for. With lots of adventure, a runaway bride and decoding clues, they get to do it all.
Hannah ran away from the Diviner to get away from him as she was only 14 and considered as his wife and expecting a baby. She was dropped by the Diviner's son, Daniel (also her no longer husband) at a home for unwed mothers for hiding. She knew it would be a matter of time before he sent someone searching for her and she had left without telling anyone. Where she went next, will surprise you!
I have to give this book a two thumbs up!
October 12, 2013
I'm going to be harsh and only give it 2 stars.
The plot and story line is interesting enough - me reading the 3rd book in the series says as much. However, the characters are beginning to annoy me. Yes, actually annoying. Their behaviour sets/dialogues are way too forced, and on many occasions, I feel like slapping Wikarski for spoiling it.
Take a few lessons from Michael Connelly please.
The plot and story line is interesting enough - me reading the 3rd book in the series says as much. However, the characters are beginning to annoy me. Yes, actually annoying. Their behaviour sets/dialogues are way too forced, and on many occasions, I feel like slapping Wikarski for spoiling it.
Take a few lessons from Michael Connelly please.
August 26, 2014
This is #3 in the Arkana Mystery series. Where alternate history meets archaeology. Three Arkana seekers are following an archaeology puzzle and trying to beat another group to the treasure. Each books builds on the last. Very enjoyable.
December 21, 2014
Finished reading this last night and another great book in the Arkana series. I love the history and other information the author includes. Great characters and an excellent plot. I'm looking forward to the rest of the books in the series. Definitely in my Read Again Collection on Kindle.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews