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Decoded
Decoded is a mind-bending thriller that challenges everything we thought we knew about history, power, and the untold stories of remarkable women. When investigative journalist Amalia Rose stumbles upon a blog post claiming that the enigmatic Voynich Manuscript holds the key to a lost matriarchal civilization, she embarks on a thrilling journey to unravel the cryptic clues and decipher the manuscript's true meaning.
Partnering with her brilliant but frustrating ex-boyfriend, Bastian Ham, Amalia races from the dusty archives of ancient libraries to cutting-edge ocean research facilities. They follow a trail of breadcrumbs left by historical figures like cryptologist Elizebeth Friedman and author Ethel Voynich, uncovering tantalizing clues about a lost civilization, an ancient wisdom tradition, and a powerful psychedelic elixir.
As they delve deeper, Amalia and Bastian stumble into shocking revelations about the Eleusinian Mysteries, the Antikythera Mechanism, and the suppressed history of powerful women. Aided by the Order of the Nine Realms, a secret society of librarians, they must outwit shady government agents, fanatical cults, and Neo-Nazi conspirators at every turn.
Alternating between Amalia's present-day narrative and glimpses into the ancient past, Decoded explores gender power dynamics, the intersection of science and spirituality, and the enduring search for truth. Real-life luminaries brush shoulders with memorable original characters in a genre-defying narrative that weaves together archaeology, artificial intelligence, and mysticism.
Decoded is a thought-provoking love letter to the unsung heroines of history, raising questions about truth, storytelling, and the importance of preserving marginalized voices. From the streets of New York to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the sun-drenched Greek isles, time is running out—will Amalia and Bastian decipher the code before an ancient wisdom is erased from history forever?
Editorial Reviews
"What starts as a fun, flirty caper evolves into a thought-provoking exploration that will have your assumptions challenged by real life facts that are stranger than fiction. Blending meticulous research with edge-of-your-seat suspense, Ms. Rose entertains and educates. Decoded is both cerebral and big-hearted. A rare gem!" — Dr. Nikolaos Latsis, director of the Cycladic Archaeological Society.
Color Edition
This color edition of "Decoded" offers readers an enhanced experience, bringing the world of Amalia Rose's investigation vividly to life. It
Selected pages from the Voynich Manuscript, allowing readers to examine its enigmatic illustrations and text up close.Photographs of key archaeological artifacts mentioned in the story, providing visual context for the historical mysteries Amalia uncovers.Portraits and images of historical figures central to the investigation, helping readers connect faces to the names that shape the narrative.A curated selection of images relevant to Amalia's maps, notes, letters, etc.
The color edition brings an extra layer of depth to the story, making the adventure even more immersive and engaging.
The Series
Embark on an unforgettable journey with your friends and family as you transform into intrepid investigative journalists, unraveling the secrets of the mysterious artifacts together. Dive headfirst into the captivating world of encryption, ancient unsolved mysteries, and cutting-edge research.
Partnering with her brilliant but frustrating ex-boyfriend, Bastian Ham, Amalia races from the dusty archives of ancient libraries to cutting-edge ocean research facilities. They follow a trail of breadcrumbs left by historical figures like cryptologist Elizebeth Friedman and author Ethel Voynich, uncovering tantalizing clues about a lost civilization, an ancient wisdom tradition, and a powerful psychedelic elixir.
As they delve deeper, Amalia and Bastian stumble into shocking revelations about the Eleusinian Mysteries, the Antikythera Mechanism, and the suppressed history of powerful women. Aided by the Order of the Nine Realms, a secret society of librarians, they must outwit shady government agents, fanatical cults, and Neo-Nazi conspirators at every turn.
Alternating between Amalia's present-day narrative and glimpses into the ancient past, Decoded explores gender power dynamics, the intersection of science and spirituality, and the enduring search for truth. Real-life luminaries brush shoulders with memorable original characters in a genre-defying narrative that weaves together archaeology, artificial intelligence, and mysticism.
Decoded is a thought-provoking love letter to the unsung heroines of history, raising questions about truth, storytelling, and the importance of preserving marginalized voices. From the streets of New York to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the sun-drenched Greek isles, time is running out—will Amalia and Bastian decipher the code before an ancient wisdom is erased from history forever?
Editorial Reviews
"What starts as a fun, flirty caper evolves into a thought-provoking exploration that will have your assumptions challenged by real life facts that are stranger than fiction. Blending meticulous research with edge-of-your-seat suspense, Ms. Rose entertains and educates. Decoded is both cerebral and big-hearted. A rare gem!" — Dr. Nikolaos Latsis, director of the Cycladic Archaeological Society.
Color Edition
This color edition of "Decoded" offers readers an enhanced experience, bringing the world of Amalia Rose's investigation vividly to life. It
Selected pages from the Voynich Manuscript, allowing readers to examine its enigmatic illustrations and text up close.Photographs of key archaeological artifacts mentioned in the story, providing visual context for the historical mysteries Amalia uncovers.Portraits and images of historical figures central to the investigation, helping readers connect faces to the names that shape the narrative.A curated selection of images relevant to Amalia's maps, notes, letters, etc.
The color edition brings an extra layer of depth to the story, making the adventure even more immersive and engaging.
The Series
Embark on an unforgettable journey with your friends and family as you transform into intrepid investigative journalists, unraveling the secrets of the mysterious artifacts together. Dive headfirst into the captivating world of encryption, ancient unsolved mysteries, and cutting-edge research.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 16, 2024
42 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Amalia Rose
2 booksMeet Amalia Rose, an investigative journalist living in a small loft apartment in Hoboken. With a degree in Journalism and a minor in Ancient History, Amalia has always been drawn to stories that uncover hidden truths and challenge established narratives.
Once a rising star at a respected news outlet, Amalia spends her days chasing leads, interviewing sources, and piecing together complex stories. Her natural curiosity and tenacity have led her to specialize in long-form investigative pieces that often blend historical research with contemporary issues.
In her free time, Amalia devours historical mysteries and archaeological thrillers. She's fascinated by ancient civilizations, cryptography, and the ways in which the past continues to influence the present. Her bookshelves are lined with titles ranging from academic texts on ancient cultures to popular novels that reimagine historical events.
Amalia is deeply committed to the pursuit of truth and the power of journalism to effect change. She believes strongly in the importance of fact-checking and thorough research, and she's not afraid to challenge authority or question established beliefs when the evidence leads her in a different direction.
An avid traveler, Amalia has a particular fondness for exploring archaeological sites and museums around the world. She's equally comfortable deciphering ancient inscriptions in the ruins of Petra or interviewing local experts at Knossos. Her travels have not only broadened her understanding of different cultures but also fueled her passion for uncovering lost histories.
Despite her outgoing professional persona, Amalia is an introvert at heart who values deep connections and meaningful conversations. She has a small circle of close friends who share her intellectual curiosity and love for adventure. On weekends, you might find her browsing rare bookshops, attending lectures at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or hosting intimate dinner parties where discussions range from the latest archaeological discoveries to the ethics of journalism in the digital age.
Amalia is tech-savvy and adept at using digital tools for research and storytelling. She maintains a streamlined online presence, only engaging with readers through her discord server where she shares behind-the-scenes glimpses of her investigative process and thoughts on current events.
As a journalist, Amalia is drawn to stories that challenge conventional wisdom and shed light on overlooked aspects of history and culture. She's not afraid to tackle complex subjects or to spend months, even years, pursuing a single story if she believes it's important enough.
Amalia's passion for uncovering hidden truths, her deep respect for history, and her unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity make her the perfect protagonist for a thrilling adventure that blends ancient mysteries with modern-day intrigue. Her journey to unravel the secrets of the Voynich Manuscript and a lost matriarchal civilization is not just a quest for a story, but a deeply personal exploration of the power of knowledge and the importance of preserving forgotten histories.
Amalia, both the author and her protagonist, prefers to blend the lines between fiction and reality, avoiding the pressures of becoming a public figure. Her goal is to continue writing her truth, weaving intricate tales that challenge readers to question established narratives and explore forgotten histories. As she prepares for her next adventure, Amalia remains committed to uncovering hidden truths and preserving the stories that shape our understanding of the past. Her journey as a writer and investigator is far from over, promising readers more thrilling explorations into the mysteries of ancient civilizations and their enduring impact on our world today.
Once a rising star at a respected news outlet, Amalia spends her days chasing leads, interviewing sources, and piecing together complex stories. Her natural curiosity and tenacity have led her to specialize in long-form investigative pieces that often blend historical research with contemporary issues.
In her free time, Amalia devours historical mysteries and archaeological thrillers. She's fascinated by ancient civilizations, cryptography, and the ways in which the past continues to influence the present. Her bookshelves are lined with titles ranging from academic texts on ancient cultures to popular novels that reimagine historical events.
Amalia is deeply committed to the pursuit of truth and the power of journalism to effect change. She believes strongly in the importance of fact-checking and thorough research, and she's not afraid to challenge authority or question established beliefs when the evidence leads her in a different direction.
An avid traveler, Amalia has a particular fondness for exploring archaeological sites and museums around the world. She's equally comfortable deciphering ancient inscriptions in the ruins of Petra or interviewing local experts at Knossos. Her travels have not only broadened her understanding of different cultures but also fueled her passion for uncovering lost histories.
Despite her outgoing professional persona, Amalia is an introvert at heart who values deep connections and meaningful conversations. She has a small circle of close friends who share her intellectual curiosity and love for adventure. On weekends, you might find her browsing rare bookshops, attending lectures at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or hosting intimate dinner parties where discussions range from the latest archaeological discoveries to the ethics of journalism in the digital age.
Amalia is tech-savvy and adept at using digital tools for research and storytelling. She maintains a streamlined online presence, only engaging with readers through her discord server where she shares behind-the-scenes glimpses of her investigative process and thoughts on current events.
As a journalist, Amalia is drawn to stories that challenge conventional wisdom and shed light on overlooked aspects of history and culture. She's not afraid to tackle complex subjects or to spend months, even years, pursuing a single story if she believes it's important enough.
Amalia's passion for uncovering hidden truths, her deep respect for history, and her unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity make her the perfect protagonist for a thrilling adventure that blends ancient mysteries with modern-day intrigue. Her journey to unravel the secrets of the Voynich Manuscript and a lost matriarchal civilization is not just a quest for a story, but a deeply personal exploration of the power of knowledge and the importance of preserving forgotten histories.
Amalia, both the author and her protagonist, prefers to blend the lines between fiction and reality, avoiding the pressures of becoming a public figure. Her goal is to continue writing her truth, weaving intricate tales that challenge readers to question established narratives and explore forgotten histories. As she prepares for her next adventure, Amalia remains committed to uncovering hidden truths and preserving the stories that shape our understanding of the past. Her journey as a writer and investigator is far from over, promising readers more thrilling explorations into the mysteries of ancient civilizations and their enduring impact on our world today.
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
June 28, 2024
In "Decoded," Amalia Rose masterfully weaves a tale of mystery, history, and romance that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. At the heart of the story is the complex relationship between Amalia, a determined journalist, and Bastian, her charming but unreliable ex-lover.
Rose expertly navigates the tricky terrain of gender dynamics, crafting a romance that is both passionate and thought-provoking. Amalia and Bastian's history is fraught with tension and betrayal, yet their undeniable chemistry crackles on every page. As they work together to unravel the secrets of the Voynich Manuscript, they must also confront their own demons and the societal expectations that threaten to tear them apart.
Through Amalia and Bastian's journey, Rose explores timely themes of toxic masculinity, internalized misogyny, and the transformative power of vulnerability and trust. Their relationship serves as a microcosm for the larger battles being waged throughout the novel—the fight for women's voices to be heard, for ancient wisdom to be preserved, and for the truth to prevail against all odds.
While some readers may find the romance overshadows the historical and metaphysical elements at times, there is no denying the raw emotional power of Amalia and Bastian's story. In the end, "Decoded" is a satisfying blend of genres that will appeal to fans of mystery, romance, and feminist literature alike.
Rose expertly navigates the tricky terrain of gender dynamics, crafting a romance that is both passionate and thought-provoking. Amalia and Bastian's history is fraught with tension and betrayal, yet their undeniable chemistry crackles on every page. As they work together to unravel the secrets of the Voynich Manuscript, they must also confront their own demons and the societal expectations that threaten to tear them apart.
Through Amalia and Bastian's journey, Rose explores timely themes of toxic masculinity, internalized misogyny, and the transformative power of vulnerability and trust. Their relationship serves as a microcosm for the larger battles being waged throughout the novel—the fight for women's voices to be heard, for ancient wisdom to be preserved, and for the truth to prevail against all odds.
While some readers may find the romance overshadows the historical and metaphysical elements at times, there is no denying the raw emotional power of Amalia and Bastian's story. In the end, "Decoded" is a satisfying blend of genres that will appeal to fans of mystery, romance, and feminist literature alike.
June 28, 2024
In her debut novel "Decoded," Amalia Rose takes readers on a breathtaking journey through history, science, and the occult as she unravels the secrets of the enigmatic Voynich Manuscript. Part thriller, part historical fiction, and part metaphysical exploration, "Decoded" is a genre-defying work that will keep readers guessing until the very last page.
Rose's protagonist, an intrepid journalist named Amalia, is a complex and relatable character whose quest for truth is both admirable and infectious. As she navigates a labyrinth of ancient mysteries and modern-day conspiracies, Amalia must confront not only the shadowy forces that seek to suppress the Voynich's secrets but also her own doubts and fears.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its meticulous attention to historical detail. Rose has clearly done her research, and it shows in every page. From the descriptions of Minoan Crete to the accounts of the Cretan resistance during World War II, "Decoded" transports readers across time and space, immersing them in richly imagined worlds that feel both foreign and strangely familiar.
However, the book is more than just a historical thriller. At its core, "Decoded" is a powerful feminist text that celebrates the often-overlooked contributions of women throughout history. Through the stories of figures like Mary Boole, Ethel Voynich, and the legendary codebreaker Elizebeth Friedman, Rose shines a light on the unsung heroines who have fought to preserve ancient wisdom in the face of oppression and erasure.
While "Decoded" is undeniably ambitious in its scope, Rose's writing is always clear and engaging, making even the most complex ideas accessible to a broad audience. Whether she is delving into the intricacies of cryptanalysis or exploring the mysteries of the divine feminine, Rose writes with a passion and clarity that is both informative and inspiring.
If there is one weakness to the novel, it is perhaps its occasional reliance on coincidence to move the plot forward. I am referring to a particular pet.
This is a minor quibble in an otherwise outstanding work of fiction. This book is a rare gem of a book that combines page-turning suspense with profound spiritual and philosophical insights. It is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery, as well as those who are interested in exploring the hidden depths of the human experience.
The novel is a stunning debut that establishes Amalia Rose as a major new talent in the world of literature. Bold, inventive, and deeply moving, this is a book that will stay with readers long after they have turned the final page.
Rose's protagonist, an intrepid journalist named Amalia, is a complex and relatable character whose quest for truth is both admirable and infectious. As she navigates a labyrinth of ancient mysteries and modern-day conspiracies, Amalia must confront not only the shadowy forces that seek to suppress the Voynich's secrets but also her own doubts and fears.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its meticulous attention to historical detail. Rose has clearly done her research, and it shows in every page. From the descriptions of Minoan Crete to the accounts of the Cretan resistance during World War II, "Decoded" transports readers across time and space, immersing them in richly imagined worlds that feel both foreign and strangely familiar.
However, the book is more than just a historical thriller. At its core, "Decoded" is a powerful feminist text that celebrates the often-overlooked contributions of women throughout history. Through the stories of figures like Mary Boole, Ethel Voynich, and the legendary codebreaker Elizebeth Friedman, Rose shines a light on the unsung heroines who have fought to preserve ancient wisdom in the face of oppression and erasure.
While "Decoded" is undeniably ambitious in its scope, Rose's writing is always clear and engaging, making even the most complex ideas accessible to a broad audience. Whether she is delving into the intricacies of cryptanalysis or exploring the mysteries of the divine feminine, Rose writes with a passion and clarity that is both informative and inspiring.
If there is one weakness to the novel, it is perhaps its occasional reliance on coincidence to move the plot forward. I am referring to a particular pet.
This is a minor quibble in an otherwise outstanding work of fiction. This book is a rare gem of a book that combines page-turning suspense with profound spiritual and philosophical insights. It is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery, as well as those who are interested in exploring the hidden depths of the human experience.
The novel is a stunning debut that establishes Amalia Rose as a major new talent in the world of literature. Bold, inventive, and deeply moving, this is a book that will stay with readers long after they have turned the final page.
June 28, 2024
In "Decoded," investigative journalist Amalia Rose takes readers on a thrilling journey to uncover the secrets of the infamous Voynich Manuscript. Blending meticulous research with vivid storytelling, Rose weaves together threads of history, science, and the occult to paint a fascinating portrait of a lost matriarchal civilization and the powerful forces that seek to keep its wisdom hidden.
Rose's writing is engaging and accessible, making even the most complex concepts and theories easy to understand. She brings the characters to life with deft characterization, from the brilliant and enigmatic Dr. Emily Hathaway to the charming but unreliable Bastian Ham. The dynamic between Amalia and Bastian is particularly well-crafted, their complicated history and undeniable chemistry adding depth and tension to the narrative.
One of the book's greatest strengths is the way it delves into the often-overlooked contributions of women throughout history. From the pioneering codebreaker Elizebeth Friedman to the brave women of the Cretan resistance, "Decoded" shines a light on the unsung heroines who have fought to preserve ancient wisdom in the face of oppression and erasure.
While the book is undeniably entertaining, it is not without its flaws. At times, the pacing feels uneven, with some sections moving too quickly and others getting bogged down in exposition.
However, this minor issue does not detract from the overall impact of the book. "Decoded" is a bold and ambitious work that challenges readers to question their assumptions about history, gender, and the nature of reality itself. It is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery, as well as those who are interested in exploring the hidden corners of our collective past.
"Decoded" is a compelling and thought-provoking debut that establishes Amalia Rose as a fresh and exciting voice in the world of investigative journalism. It is a thoroughly enjoyable read that will leave readers eagerly awaiting Rose's next adventure.
Rose's writing is engaging and accessible, making even the most complex concepts and theories easy to understand. She brings the characters to life with deft characterization, from the brilliant and enigmatic Dr. Emily Hathaway to the charming but unreliable Bastian Ham. The dynamic between Amalia and Bastian is particularly well-crafted, their complicated history and undeniable chemistry adding depth and tension to the narrative.
One of the book's greatest strengths is the way it delves into the often-overlooked contributions of women throughout history. From the pioneering codebreaker Elizebeth Friedman to the brave women of the Cretan resistance, "Decoded" shines a light on the unsung heroines who have fought to preserve ancient wisdom in the face of oppression and erasure.
While the book is undeniably entertaining, it is not without its flaws. At times, the pacing feels uneven, with some sections moving too quickly and others getting bogged down in exposition.
However, this minor issue does not detract from the overall impact of the book. "Decoded" is a bold and ambitious work that challenges readers to question their assumptions about history, gender, and the nature of reality itself. It is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery, as well as those who are interested in exploring the hidden corners of our collective past.
"Decoded" is a compelling and thought-provoking debut that establishes Amalia Rose as a fresh and exciting voice in the world of investigative journalism. It is a thoroughly enjoyable read that will leave readers eagerly awaiting Rose's next adventure.
June 28, 2024
I must say that this novel is a truly remarkable story that left me both enthralled and deeply moved. As a feminist who has long been fascinated by the lost wisdom of ancient matriarchal cultures, I found this exploration of the Minoan civilization to be nothing short of revelatory.
Through vivid and evocative prose, Amalia brings the world of ancient Crete to life in all its beauty, complexity, and mystery. From the stunning frescoes of Knossos to the sacred rites of the snake goddess, it paints a picture of a society in which women were not only respected but revered as the guardians of divine knowledge and power.
But "Decoded" is more than just a historical novel. It is a powerful feminist manifesto that challenges us to reconsider everything we think we know about gender, power, and the nature of truth itself. Through the stories of courageous women like archeologist Mercy Money-Coutts, it remind us of the incredible contributions that women have made throughout history, often in the face of unimaginable adversity and oppression.
I was particularly drawn to the character of Amalia, whose relentless pursuit of the truth in the face of danger and uncertainty is an inspiration to us all. Through her eyes, we see the world not as it is, but as it could be—a world in which women's voices are heard, their wisdom is valued, and their power is celebrated.
Of course, no book is perfect, and there were moments when I found myself wishing for a bit more depth or nuance in certain aspects of the story. But these are minor quibbles in the face of the sheer ambition and audacity of vision.
In the end, "Decoded" is a book that will stay with me for a long time to come. It is a clarion call to humans everywhere to reclaim our ancient birthright of wisdom, power, and sacred connection to the earth and to each other.
Through vivid and evocative prose, Amalia brings the world of ancient Crete to life in all its beauty, complexity, and mystery. From the stunning frescoes of Knossos to the sacred rites of the snake goddess, it paints a picture of a society in which women were not only respected but revered as the guardians of divine knowledge and power.
But "Decoded" is more than just a historical novel. It is a powerful feminist manifesto that challenges us to reconsider everything we think we know about gender, power, and the nature of truth itself. Through the stories of courageous women like archeologist Mercy Money-Coutts, it remind us of the incredible contributions that women have made throughout history, often in the face of unimaginable adversity and oppression.
I was particularly drawn to the character of Amalia, whose relentless pursuit of the truth in the face of danger and uncertainty is an inspiration to us all. Through her eyes, we see the world not as it is, but as it could be—a world in which women's voices are heard, their wisdom is valued, and their power is celebrated.
Of course, no book is perfect, and there were moments when I found myself wishing for a bit more depth or nuance in certain aspects of the story. But these are minor quibbles in the face of the sheer ambition and audacity of vision.
In the end, "Decoded" is a book that will stay with me for a long time to come. It is a clarion call to humans everywhere to reclaim our ancient birthright of wisdom, power, and sacred connection to the earth and to each other.
January 20, 2025
Well researched
It’s a shame that such important history and research is told through the eyes of an insipid journalist, her always-subverting boyfriend, and others.
The illustrations and references are very good. Sadly, the characters aren’t.
It’s a shame that such important history and research is told through the eyes of an insipid journalist, her always-subverting boyfriend, and others.
The illustrations and references are very good. Sadly, the characters aren’t.
June 29, 2024
Fun, informative, Feminist as ..., Political. Loved it!
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews