The Mark of Eternity

by Murray Bailey

An ancient code. A deadly killer. A truth buried beneath the sands of time.

FBI Special Agent Charlie Reed thought the Surgeon - a notorious serial killer - was a ghost from the past.
But when a new series of murders erupts, each marked with strange, arcane symbols, the trail leads Reed across continents to Egypt... and to a chilling the Surgeon has returned, and this time, his killings follow a
pattern—one tied to a purpose more terrifying than anyone imagined.

Meanwhile, in Egypt, Alex MacLure has uncovered more encoded messages in ancient tablets. An ancient Egyptian was searching for a forgotten symbol. His name appears in a programme written by a brilliant AI student. The student reaches out with a wild theory - but before MacLure discovers the truth, he’s arrested for a murder he didn’t commit.

Thrown together by fate and hunted by forces beyond their understanding, Reed and MacLure must unlock an ancient secret. They must stop the Surgeon before he unleashes a plan, millennia in the making.

Kindle Edition

Expected publication March 6, 2026

About the author

Murray Bailey was always interested in writing and, at an early age, had articles published in newspapers, including the Times. Despite studying Physics and Mathematics and pursuing a very different career, he also edited a magazine for a year as well as a batch of technical books.

After 10 years of scribbling, in 2016 his first published novel was I Dare You. He went on to demonstrate his passion for ancient Egypt and puzzles in his novel Map of the Dead. However the Singapore series featuring the ex-military policeman Ash Carter was a labour of love and based on his first unpublished story that eventually became Singapore 52.

Born in Greater Manchester, England, he gradually moved south to reach the beautiful Dorset coast where he lives with his wife and family. Having young children and an all-consuming passion such as writing doesn’t leave much free time, but when he does take a break, he enjoys running, cycling, kayaking and building sandcastles with his children.

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of The Mark of Eternity by Murray Bailey

This was a captivating and imaginative read that blended historical mystery with high stakes adventure. The story follows a group of archaeologists drawn into the hunt for a set of mythical Egyptian stones linked to immortality. From ancient secrets to modern danger, the plot keeps you guessing and eager to uncover the next twist.

I enjoyed the balance between action and intellectual puzzle solving. The archaeological elements were well researched and added a genuine sense of discovery, while the emotional journeys of the characters gave the story real heart. The interplay between characters felt natural, and their motivations and flaws made them easy to invest in.

There were moments where the pacing slowed as the mystery deepened, but overall the tension stayed strong and the blend of history, myth and intrigue worked very well. A clever and engaging thriller that was a satisfying four star read.

[Laila · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed The Mark of Eternity. I want to thank NetGalley for the opportunity to read it early. I went in without realizing it was the second book in a series and only figured that out when I started writing my review. The good news is that it works well as a standalone and I never felt lost while reading. The mix of crime investigation, ancient symbols and the darker mystery behind the Surgeon made the story gripping and atmospheric. I liked how the modern thriller elements connected with the archaeological clues, and the tension between the characters kept the pacing steady. I am definitely planning to read the first book now to see what I missed and to get the full picture of the trilogy’s world.

[Grove · Rating 5 out of 5]

Often, the second book of a series can be a let-down - not this time. It certainly helps if you have read book 1, and I would suggest it's essential. At first, the narrative is quite complex, moving with different groups of people in several different locations. By the time you get halfway the pace of the story really quickens with twists and turns and a few surprises. For the last 25% and it really becomes a 'can't put it down' book. All the time you are gently being introduced to the historic Egyptian culture. A great read.

[Emy · Rating 4 out of 5]

FBI Special Agent Charlie Reed believes the serial killer known as the Surgeon is no longer active. However, when a new wave of murders with strange symbols begins, leading Reed on a global chase to Egypt, he realizes the Surgeon has returned with a deadly plan. Elsewhere, Alex MacLure finds ancient encoded messages and becomes entangled in a murder charge. It falls to Reed and MacLure to work together to stop the Surgeon by unlocking an ancient secret.
I enjoy Egyptian culture so having a thriller that blends the story with this is definitely my go to. An enjoyable read.

[Lyndsay Fiorentino · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author Murray Bailey delivers again! A great twisty thriller. Love the blend of Egypt mythology and modern day. Great sequel and hopefully another to come !

[John Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Mark of Eternity by Murray Bailey is the second book in the Egyptian Stones series. It is an interesting story involving a serial killer in the US and Egypt and a search for an ancient Egypt artifact. The FBI is investigating a serial killer in the Atlanta region. The primary link to all of the killings is the method of killing and a series of tattoos on the bodies. During the investigation, a tie to killings in Egypt is developed after the killer is believed to have fled to Egypt.

The serial killer is involved in a secretive sect in the US that is also searching an ancient Egyptian/early Christian relic in Egypt.