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Sierra Byrd's Airborne Archaeological Adventures #1
Shadow of the Sunstone
A miracle plant.
A coded sunstone.
The future of humanity lies with a retired Air Force pilot.✈️But not just any pilot… NORA "SIERRA" BYRD
After twenty years on the flight deck, Byrd wants nothing more than solitude and her beloved Dakota C-47 Skytrain.
But when a frantic archaeologist appears with an ancient relic—one rumored to unlock the secret to eternal youth—Byrd’s peaceful retirement vanishes in smoke.
A sinister plot involving human experimentation and mass poisoning unfolds… and she’s the only one who can stop it.
With time running out, she must navigate treacherous canyons, evade corrupt officials, and confront a megalomaniac willing to kill to achieve immortality.
From ancient tombs to high-stakes dogfights, Shadow of the Sunstone is an explosive archaeological thriller from Amazon Bestselling authors Luke Richardson and John Hopton.
Perfect for fans of Clive Cussler, Nick Thacker, and Wayne Stinnett. Indiana Jones meets Top Gun—where ancient mysteries and modern danger collide at 10,000 feet.
Buy now to take-off on this thrilling new adventure series today!While SHADOW OF THE SUNSTONE has loads of conflict, aerial stunts, chase scenes, fighting and suspense, there's no swearing, sex or gore.
A coded sunstone.
The future of humanity lies with a retired Air Force pilot.✈️But not just any pilot… NORA "SIERRA" BYRD
After twenty years on the flight deck, Byrd wants nothing more than solitude and her beloved Dakota C-47 Skytrain.
But when a frantic archaeologist appears with an ancient relic—one rumored to unlock the secret to eternal youth—Byrd’s peaceful retirement vanishes in smoke.
A sinister plot involving human experimentation and mass poisoning unfolds… and she’s the only one who can stop it.
With time running out, she must navigate treacherous canyons, evade corrupt officials, and confront a megalomaniac willing to kill to achieve immortality.
From ancient tombs to high-stakes dogfights, Shadow of the Sunstone is an explosive archaeological thriller from Amazon Bestselling authors Luke Richardson and John Hopton.
Perfect for fans of Clive Cussler, Nick Thacker, and Wayne Stinnett. Indiana Jones meets Top Gun—where ancient mysteries and modern danger collide at 10,000 feet.
Buy now to take-off on this thrilling new adventure series today!While SHADOW OF THE SUNSTONE has loads of conflict, aerial stunts, chase scenes, fighting and suspense, there's no swearing, sex or gore.
487 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2025
128 people are currently reading
23 people want to read
About the author
Luke Richardson
74 books207 followersWANTED, adventure lovers for hazardous journey. Must be prepared for nail-biting action, constant danger, fear around every corner, with safe return doubtful.
If that sounds like your sort of thing, in your choice of books at least, then come with me...
Hey there, I’m Luke Richardson, and I’m applying for the job as your next favorite author!
As an Amazon bestselling author, I've had the honour of sharing my stories with readers all around the world. Whether you're a history buff, a travel addict, or just looking for a little excitement in your reading, my books are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
I write books that take you on a journey to foreign and exotic places, blending history, adventure, and suspense into a gripping tale.
In my books, you'll find yourself transported to places like the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, the glitzy skyscrapers of Hong Kong, or the shady backstreets of Kathmandu in Nepal. But it's not just about the locations; my stories are also filled with fascinating characters, unexpected twists, and edge-of-your-seat action.
It was visiting India for the first time that actually made me want to start writing. The sun had just risen as we landed at Mumbai airport. The taxi journey that followed was one of the most incredible of my life. I watched the city unfold like a story. People washing, children playing, chickens, cows, goats, all beside an eight-lane motorway.
I love sharing my stories and am proud to say that my books have been well-received by readers and reviewers. One of the greatest compliments I get is when people say that my books transport them to a new place. Although people often comment on the loveable characters, intricate plots, and fast-paced storytelling too. And I'm always working hard to bring you even more thrilling adventures.
So, if you're looking for a page-turning read that will take you on a journey to far-off lands, look no further than my books. I guarantee you won't be disappointed!
If that sounds like your sort of thing, in your choice of books at least, then come with me...
Hey there, I’m Luke Richardson, and I’m applying for the job as your next favorite author!
As an Amazon bestselling author, I've had the honour of sharing my stories with readers all around the world. Whether you're a history buff, a travel addict, or just looking for a little excitement in your reading, my books are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
I write books that take you on a journey to foreign and exotic places, blending history, adventure, and suspense into a gripping tale.
In my books, you'll find yourself transported to places like the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, the glitzy skyscrapers of Hong Kong, or the shady backstreets of Kathmandu in Nepal. But it's not just about the locations; my stories are also filled with fascinating characters, unexpected twists, and edge-of-your-seat action.
It was visiting India for the first time that actually made me want to start writing. The sun had just risen as we landed at Mumbai airport. The taxi journey that followed was one of the most incredible of my life. I watched the city unfold like a story. People washing, children playing, chickens, cows, goats, all beside an eight-lane motorway.
I love sharing my stories and am proud to say that my books have been well-received by readers and reviewers. One of the greatest compliments I get is when people say that my books transport them to a new place. Although people often comment on the loveable characters, intricate plots, and fast-paced storytelling too. And I'm always working hard to bring you even more thrilling adventures.
So, if you're looking for a page-turning read that will take you on a journey to far-off lands, look no further than my books. I guarantee you won't be disappointed!
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
June 2, 2025
Shadow of the Sunstone.
A good story with some exciting times and twists. However, at times I found the story complicated and disjointed. Some of the scenes didn't flow as smoothly as perhaps they should have. Was this because Shadow of the Sunstone is a collaboration of two authors? Maybe. I look forward to the next in the series but with some trepidation.
A good story with some exciting times and twists. However, at times I found the story complicated and disjointed. Some of the scenes didn't flow as smoothly as perhaps they should have. Was this because Shadow of the Sunstone is a collaboration of two authors? Maybe. I look forward to the next in the series but with some trepidation.
May 22, 2025
BOOM!
What a monumental and exceptional start to a new series.
If you have read any of Luke Richardson's Eden Black series then you will be familiar with Nora "Sierra" Byrd. Not to worry if you haven't ( but I can highly recommend them)!
Sierra is an ex-AirForce pilot and what she doesn't know about aircrafts isn't worth knowing. She was after all taught by the best pilot in the military, Bourdell and Sierra remain firm friends after a mission in Afghanistan didn't go according to plan.
Now a civilian, Sierra has just opened her private air school on the Isla de la Fortuna in Mexico and has three eager students Tom, Zane and Candi willing to pay for her expertise. But after discovering something about Zane she promptly sends him packing.
Meanwhile on the Isla de la Eterna Professor Ralph Wall and his assistant Hans Hutchins have made a discovery of a lifetime, an ancient piece of parchment that has been buried for thousands of years and the clue to the life changing Sunstone, a powerful plant that has been hidden from civilisation and for good reason, in the wrong hands the plant could change humanity forever.
Unfortunately for both the Professor and Hans that's exactly what happened when they are captured and imprisoned by a group of thugs who work for The Mentor Lucian Sallas.
The Mentor wants the location of the Sunstone for his own personal gain and will stop at nothing to gain it, Sallas has already been experimenting on people with poisonous plants in the deranged hope to produce the perfect human specimen.
On the Isla de la Fortuna, there is a major storm happening and when Tom alerts Sierra that something is amiss on the island they head out into the storm. After discovering two dead bodies on the beach and with the authorities not wanting to get involved, Sierra makes the decision to fly over to the neighbouring Island in the morning.
What unravels is a series of explosive action-packed events that will have you holding your breath. From kidnap to torture and everything inbetween the Shadow of the Sunstone will have you completely hooked with heart-pounding adrenaline flowing through your veins.
What a monumental and exceptional start to a new series.
If you have read any of Luke Richardson's Eden Black series then you will be familiar with Nora "Sierra" Byrd. Not to worry if you haven't ( but I can highly recommend them)!
Sierra is an ex-AirForce pilot and what she doesn't know about aircrafts isn't worth knowing. She was after all taught by the best pilot in the military, Bourdell and Sierra remain firm friends after a mission in Afghanistan didn't go according to plan.
Now a civilian, Sierra has just opened her private air school on the Isla de la Fortuna in Mexico and has three eager students Tom, Zane and Candi willing to pay for her expertise. But after discovering something about Zane she promptly sends him packing.
Meanwhile on the Isla de la Eterna Professor Ralph Wall and his assistant Hans Hutchins have made a discovery of a lifetime, an ancient piece of parchment that has been buried for thousands of years and the clue to the life changing Sunstone, a powerful plant that has been hidden from civilisation and for good reason, in the wrong hands the plant could change humanity forever.
Unfortunately for both the Professor and Hans that's exactly what happened when they are captured and imprisoned by a group of thugs who work for The Mentor Lucian Sallas.
The Mentor wants the location of the Sunstone for his own personal gain and will stop at nothing to gain it, Sallas has already been experimenting on people with poisonous plants in the deranged hope to produce the perfect human specimen.
On the Isla de la Fortuna, there is a major storm happening and when Tom alerts Sierra that something is amiss on the island they head out into the storm. After discovering two dead bodies on the beach and with the authorities not wanting to get involved, Sierra makes the decision to fly over to the neighbouring Island in the morning.
What unravels is a series of explosive action-packed events that will have you holding your breath. From kidnap to torture and everything inbetween the Shadow of the Sunstone will have you completely hooked with heart-pounding adrenaline flowing through your veins.
June 2, 2025
Shadow of the Sunstone starts a new series with a bang!!! Byrd is an incredible character, she's resourceful, smart, sometimes cynic, always straight forward, has a peculiar sense of humor (for some she might not have a sense of humor), she's reliable and is always welcoming trouble. She has unexpected companions in this adventure, two archeologists, one resourceful and beautiful girl, and her always present friend Bourdell. She can fly anything and beat anyone even those guys who seem to be much bigger than her! She's sucked into the search for the sunstone when she feels her business and her life threatened that's where the adventure starts. The story is fast-paced and full of action, and I loved it! Hopefully the next book in the series will be published soon!!!
I thank the authors for this ARC.
I thank the authors for this ARC.
June 18, 2025
SHADOW OF THE SUNSTONE ended with nerve wracking, unbelievable heroics leading to a satisfactory conclusion. No cliffhanger here, folks. Yay! The characters are all larger than life but I particularly fell in love with supporting actors, Candi and Hutchins. Unfortunately, the tale wasn’t entirely cohesive (first effort of collaboration by these two authors?) while the entire first half was so dark that it played constant doom music in my head. I literally had to stop reading because of my personal aversion to human trafficking, pointless violence, and cruelty. After encouragement from other readers, I finally picked the book up again. Joy! The second half was lots more fun. I look forward to more and lighter tales of Nora Sierra Byrd and friends.
Disclosure: I received a free Advance Reader Copy of this book with no strings attached.
Disclosure: I received a free Advance Reader Copy of this book with no strings attached.
June 3, 2025
Sierra Byrd Is trying to wind down after her military years and she thinks she's picked the perfect spot in Mexico. But what she doesn't know is that there is more evil in the region than anyone can imagine. She teams up with a young archaeologist and a young girl from her flight school and together they try and stop the madness that could potentially cause worldwide havoc... Will they succeed?? That's something you'll have to find out... Don't miss Shadow of the Sunstone
June 29, 2025
review of "Shadow of the Sunstone" by John Horton / Luke Richardson
Another great novel by Luke Richardson and John Horton I really enjoyed the new character of Sierra Byrd first introduced in the Eden Black series Her character if like no other as the reader soon finds out Great cast and adventures from here to tomorrow nobody messes with the Byrd I highly recommend this adventure book
Another great novel by Luke Richardson and John Horton I really enjoyed the new character of Sierra Byrd first introduced in the Eden Black series Her character if like no other as the reader soon finds out Great cast and adventures from here to tomorrow nobody messes with the Byrd I highly recommend this adventure book
August 6, 2025
Sierra Takes Flight
A supporting chapter in the Eden Black series, Sierra and a new crew fly off on their own.
Filled with exploits in flight, dangerous gang encounters, a near-psychotic Cult Leader with minions, and friends in and out of danger, this book surges through a grand thriller adventure.
Mostly it hits the mark, but just a bit short of the main author’s previous works. Perhaps this collaboration needs a tad more grease to the wing flaps.
A supporting chapter in the Eden Black series, Sierra and a new crew fly off on their own.
Filled with exploits in flight, dangerous gang encounters, a near-psychotic Cult Leader with minions, and friends in and out of danger, this book surges through a grand thriller adventure.
Mostly it hits the mark, but just a bit short of the main author’s previous works. Perhaps this collaboration needs a tad more grease to the wing flaps.
May 17, 2025
Nora Byrd is a recurring peripheral character in the Eden Black series by Luke Richardson, so some readers might have already met her. This thrilling new series features Nora Byrd on her own and without the paranormal element that the other series embraces. If you like your female leads, strong, opinionated and sassy, plots complicated and filled with action, check this one out!
June 11, 2025
Was it legend or for real? Cartels, archeologists and others must find out to save more people from being murdered.
From the first to the last page, this thriller keeps you reading. And coming up with a series based on the pilot from his other series was one of the best ideas in the world.
Cannot wait to see what danger/thrills are coming.
From the first to the last page, this thriller keeps you reading. And coming up with a series based on the pilot from his other series was one of the best ideas in the world.
Cannot wait to see what danger/thrills are coming.
May 31, 2025
Sierra Byrd sees someone being attacked on the next island over from where she is. She lands her plane on the island and gun shots ring out aimed at her. A takeover of a research facility to experiment with a miracle plant on the effects of people. An action-packed novel that was hard to put down.
May 31, 2025
A great story which expands on characters from the Eden Black world. An enigmatic cult leader seeks a fabled plant with unknown power. Our protagonists must save his followers and foil his plans. A great adventure story.
June 12, 2025
Very exciting book with great characters and plot and plenty of action. Top notch writing.
July 9, 2025
Action Packed!
This story hit the ground running and didn't stop till the very end. I enjoyed the various aircraft in the story.
This story hit the ground running and didn't stop till the very end. I enjoyed the various aircraft in the story.
July 21, 2025
Fun read! A wonderful thriller introducing Nora "Sierra Byrd", with some of the action a bit too unrealistic, but hey, a thriller is a thriller with plenty of action.
July 30, 2025
What a great story & I read it in 3 days
and preordered her next book out next May!
Total Kick Ass !
and preordered her next book out next May!
Total Kick Ass !
August 2, 2025
Highest marks for adventure and excitment. A little stretched on believeable.
June 5, 2025
Shadow Of The Sunstone - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
A new series for Luke Richardson and John Hopton, Shadow Of The Sunstone sees Nora 'Sierra' Byrd in a Lara Croft-like adventure, in which various factions seek the eponymous Sunstone.
It contains a code leading to the location of a plant that supposedly has special powers.
Strong characters, complicated emotions and lots of action - Shadow Of The Sunstone has them all - in spades.
Grab a copy today to see what it's all about and how things turn out!
A new series for Luke Richardson and John Hopton, Shadow Of The Sunstone sees Nora 'Sierra' Byrd in a Lara Croft-like adventure, in which various factions seek the eponymous Sunstone.
It contains a code leading to the location of a plant that supposedly has special powers.
Strong characters, complicated emotions and lots of action - Shadow Of The Sunstone has them all - in spades.
Grab a copy today to see what it's all about and how things turn out!
Currently reading
May 25, 2025preordered 10-23-24 for delivery 3-31-25 2.99
First of a new series, a spin-off character Nora Byrd from the Eden Black series we have archeology and flying galore.
First of a new series, a spin-off character Nora Byrd from the Eden Black series we have archeology and flying galore.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews