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Anlon Cully Chronicles #2
Race for the Flash Stone
In this thrilling archaeological mystery, scientist Anlon Cully hunts for evidence of a long-forgotten civilization, a race of ancient mariners who possessed a sixth-sense lost to the ages — the ability to detect and interact with the Earth’s magnetic field.
With this special gift, the prehistoric civilization crafted stone tools with astonishing powers. Inexplicably, the advanced culture vanished from the pages of history… until a set of their special stones was discovered by Anlon’s uncle, archaeologist Devlin Wilson.
Devlin was brutally murdered, leaving behind the stones and a set of confounding clues. An ancient map, a curious statue and three cryptic journals. Somehow, the clues are linked. But how? That’s the puzzling mystery Anlon must solve.
And time is not on his side… for there are others seeking to solve the same riddle…heartless fiends who crave the most fearsome of the magnetic stones…the Flash Stone.
Forged as a building tool, the Flash Stone can cut and shape rock with astounding precision. In the wrong hands, however, it can be wielded as a horrifying weapon. And it is endowed with yet another gift, a secret power known only to those who unravel the mystery.
Joined by friends Pebbles McCarver and Jennifer Stevens, Anlon races to solve the mystery and find the Flash Stone before it falls prey to savage villains trailing close behind.
With this special gift, the prehistoric civilization crafted stone tools with astonishing powers. Inexplicably, the advanced culture vanished from the pages of history… until a set of their special stones was discovered by Anlon’s uncle, archaeologist Devlin Wilson.
Devlin was brutally murdered, leaving behind the stones and a set of confounding clues. An ancient map, a curious statue and three cryptic journals. Somehow, the clues are linked. But how? That’s the puzzling mystery Anlon must solve.
And time is not on his side… for there are others seeking to solve the same riddle…heartless fiends who crave the most fearsome of the magnetic stones…the Flash Stone.
Forged as a building tool, the Flash Stone can cut and shape rock with astounding precision. In the wrong hands, however, it can be wielded as a horrifying weapon. And it is endowed with yet another gift, a secret power known only to those who unravel the mystery.
Joined by friends Pebbles McCarver and Jennifer Stevens, Anlon races to solve the mystery and find the Flash Stone before it falls prey to savage villains trailing close behind.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2017
1954 people are currently reading
309 people want to read
About the author
K. Patrick Donoghue
9 books116 followersK. Patrick Donoghue is the author of two series; the Anlon Cully Chronicles, an archaeology-based mystery-thriller series, and the Rorschach Explorer Missions, a new sci-fi thriller series.
Patrick's inspiration for the Anlon Cully Chronicles is rooted in his long-standing interest in ancient civilizations. In particular, a series of still-unexplained archaeological discoveries that suggest at least one advanced society thrived on Earth long before consensus views.
In similar fashion, Patrick takes a contrarian/alternative view toward deep space exploration, the existence of extraterrestrial life and ancient aliens in The Rorschach Explorer Missions.
His books include:
Shadows of the Stone Benders
Race for the Flash Stone
Curse of the Painted Lady
Priestess of Paracas (upcoming release: fall 2019)
UMO (Kindle eBook only at this time)
Skywave
Magwave (new release: July 31, 2019)
Patrick's inspiration for the Anlon Cully Chronicles is rooted in his long-standing interest in ancient civilizations. In particular, a series of still-unexplained archaeological discoveries that suggest at least one advanced society thrived on Earth long before consensus views.
In similar fashion, Patrick takes a contrarian/alternative view toward deep space exploration, the existence of extraterrestrial life and ancient aliens in The Rorschach Explorer Missions.
His books include:
Shadows of the Stone Benders
Race for the Flash Stone
Curse of the Painted Lady
Priestess of Paracas (upcoming release: fall 2019)
UMO (Kindle eBook only at this time)
Skywave
Magwave (new release: July 31, 2019)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
June 7, 2017
Race for the Flash Stone (The Anlon Cully Chronicles, #2) by K. Patrick Donoghue is a book I had accidentally lost and when I found it I read it immediately and boy am I glad I did. It was amazing! I wanted to kick myself for losing it in my mess of a Kindle. I love archaeological mysteries, fantasy, thrillers, and action. This book has all this and more. I read the first book and loved it. This book is even better. I give this a BIG 5 STARS. I loved the plot, characters, the whole premise of the book had me right away and I read it all day! Wow, now, book 3? I am so mad at my self for not reading it sooner!!! Excellent book. Putting this one in my favorite list!
July 12, 2017
I found this new author last year quite by accident. I ordered his first book, "Shadows of the Stone Benders", as an ebook to take on a vacation. The vacation was more demanding than expected so I never got to the book until some time after our return. I found the book worthy of a 5 star rating and reviewed it as such. This book is a continuation of the story started in the first book and apparently there is a book 3 in the works that won't be available until the Spring of 2018. I hate book serializations and cliffhangers for that reason and that reason only I have given this book 4 stars.
This book is every bit as good as the first book. The author has incredible talent and imagination. He also has the ability to keep a very complex plot and litany of characters in manageable order. Sadly, serialization affects continuity for the reader especially when books rarely come more often than yearly and sometimes longer. The longer the time lapse between books the more the reader forgets and the plot becomes confusing making resort to previous books necessary and tiresome. This is a bad practice for any author to get into. I liked the author's first book so much that I forgave this sin and ordered the second book. I did enjoy this book a great deal and will order the third book when available but if there is a fourth book involving the same plot then my patience will probably be exhausted and the author will lose me as a reader and a fan.
Now as for the book itself I am afraid to tell you much for fear of spoiling it. If you haven't read the first book then do yourself a favor and read that first. The story is about the discovery of a civilization that predates know human history. This civilization had the ability to harness the magnetic fields of the earth and create tools using this energy. These tools used sound waves to accomplish their various tasks. Because of astronomical disaster the civilization perished but hid their tools referred to as stones throughout the reaches of their civilization. Some of these stones are discovered by an archeologist who is eager to prove the existence of this civilization and turn known history upside down. He is murdered but his notes and discovery are left to his millionaire scientist nephew. The nephew is initially focused on finding his uncle's killer but then realizes the enormity of his uncle's discovery and sets out to finish his work as a monument to the uncle. There is everything a thriller reader could want in these books. There's a murder mystery, science fiction, real science, history, exotic locales, cultural exposure, mild romance, heroic men and women. The book wants for nothing and the author's ability to keep it all together without any part of it lapsing into silliness is amazing. If you would like a fun summer read you couldn't do better than this read this book. Enjoy.
This book is every bit as good as the first book. The author has incredible talent and imagination. He also has the ability to keep a very complex plot and litany of characters in manageable order. Sadly, serialization affects continuity for the reader especially when books rarely come more often than yearly and sometimes longer. The longer the time lapse between books the more the reader forgets and the plot becomes confusing making resort to previous books necessary and tiresome. This is a bad practice for any author to get into. I liked the author's first book so much that I forgave this sin and ordered the second book. I did enjoy this book a great deal and will order the third book when available but if there is a fourth book involving the same plot then my patience will probably be exhausted and the author will lose me as a reader and a fan.
Now as for the book itself I am afraid to tell you much for fear of spoiling it. If you haven't read the first book then do yourself a favor and read that first. The story is about the discovery of a civilization that predates know human history. This civilization had the ability to harness the magnetic fields of the earth and create tools using this energy. These tools used sound waves to accomplish their various tasks. Because of astronomical disaster the civilization perished but hid their tools referred to as stones throughout the reaches of their civilization. Some of these stones are discovered by an archeologist who is eager to prove the existence of this civilization and turn known history upside down. He is murdered but his notes and discovery are left to his millionaire scientist nephew. The nephew is initially focused on finding his uncle's killer but then realizes the enormity of his uncle's discovery and sets out to finish his work as a monument to the uncle. There is everything a thriller reader could want in these books. There's a murder mystery, science fiction, real science, history, exotic locales, cultural exposure, mild romance, heroic men and women. The book wants for nothing and the author's ability to keep it all together without any part of it lapsing into silliness is amazing. If you would like a fun summer read you couldn't do better than this read this book. Enjoy.
November 3, 2017
I'd highly recommend reading the first book in this series ( Shadows of the Stone Benders) before reading this one. I read it about a year ago, which was fine because the author did an excellent job reminding me of what happened without doing an annoying summary.
This second book is aptly named because there really is a race to find the special stone - our heroes from the past book, and several different other individuals with their own knowledge and goals. They all have access to a mysterious map, and seeing how they interpret things and follow clues is interesting.
The thing I enjoyed most about this book was the glimpses into the distant past, and the explanations about sharing memories, etc. that accompanied them. The story was fast paced throughout, and several things surprised me. Other theories about meteors, etc. were also quite interesting.
The thing I didn't like as much was the dialogue between the characters. I can't really put a finger on why, but it just didn't reflect how I personally picture people talking - it was a bit informal, and "young". However, that is a pretty minor quibble with the book, especially because I suspect it's not an issue most people will have.
I'd rate this a solid 3.5 stars, and I'm glad I read it.
This second book is aptly named because there really is a race to find the special stone - our heroes from the past book, and several different other individuals with their own knowledge and goals. They all have access to a mysterious map, and seeing how they interpret things and follow clues is interesting.
The thing I enjoyed most about this book was the glimpses into the distant past, and the explanations about sharing memories, etc. that accompanied them. The story was fast paced throughout, and several things surprised me. Other theories about meteors, etc. were also quite interesting.
The thing I didn't like as much was the dialogue between the characters. I can't really put a finger on why, but it just didn't reflect how I personally picture people talking - it was a bit informal, and "young". However, that is a pretty minor quibble with the book, especially because I suspect it's not an issue most people will have.
I'd rate this a solid 3.5 stars, and I'm glad I read it.
January 17, 2019
I like reading amateur fiction.
Read
May 19, 2022Just as fantastic as the first book. Call me prejudiced, since the author is my first cousin, but I never knew he could research and write so well!
The story is just fantastic. I just happen to have an autographed copy of the book.
I recommend anything Donoghue writes.
The story is just fantastic. I just happen to have an autographed copy of the book.
I recommend anything Donoghue writes.
July 12, 2017
I found this new author last year quite by accident. I ordered his first book, "Shadows of the Stone Benders", as an ebook to take on a vacation. The vacation was more demanding than expected so I never got to the book until some time after our return. I found the book worthy of a 5 star rating and reviewed it as such. This book is a continuation of the story started in the first book and apparently there is a book 3 in the works that won't be available until the Spring of 2018. I hate book serializations and cliffhangers for that reason and that reason only I have given this book 4 stars.
This book is every bit as good as the first book. The author has incredible talent and imagination. He also has the ability to keep a very complex plot and litany of characters in manageable order. Sadly, serialization affects continuity for the reader especially when books rarely come more often than yearly and sometimes longer. The longer the time lapse between books the more the reader forgets and the plot becomes confusing making resort to previous books necessary and tiresome. This is a bad practice for any author to get into. I liked the author's first book so much that I forgave this sin and ordered the second book. I did enjoy this book a great deal and will order the third book when available but if there is a fourth book involving the same plot then my patience will probably be exhausted and the author will lose me as a reader and a fan.
Now as for the book itself I am afraid to tell you much for fear of spoiling it. If you haven't read the first book then do yourself a favor and read that first. The story is about the discovery of a civilization that predates know human history. This civilization had the ability to harness the magnetic fields of the earth and create tools using this energy. These tools used sound waves to accomplish their various tasks. Because of astronomical disaster the civilization perished but hid their tools referred to as stones throughout the reaches of their civilization. Some of these stones are discovered by an archeologist who is eager to prove the existence of this civilization and turn known history upside down. He is murdered but his notes and discovery are left to his millionaire scientist nephew. The nephew is initially focused on finding his uncle's killer but then realizes the enormity of his uncle's discovery and sets out to finish his work as a monument to the uncle. There is everything a thriller reader could want in these books. There's a murder mystery, science fiction, real science, history, exotic locales, cultural exposure, mild romance, heroic men and women. The book wants for nothing and the author's ability to keep it all together without any part of it lapsing into silliness is amazing. If you would like a fun summer read you couldn't do better than this read this book. Enjoy.
This book is every bit as good as the first book. The author has incredible talent and imagination. He also has the ability to keep a very complex plot and litany of characters in manageable order. Sadly, serialization affects continuity for the reader especially when books rarely come more often than yearly and sometimes longer. The longer the time lapse between books the more the reader forgets and the plot becomes confusing making resort to previous books necessary and tiresome. This is a bad practice for any author to get into. I liked the author's first book so much that I forgave this sin and ordered the second book. I did enjoy this book a great deal and will order the third book when available but if there is a fourth book involving the same plot then my patience will probably be exhausted and the author will lose me as a reader and a fan.
Now as for the book itself I am afraid to tell you much for fear of spoiling it. If you haven't read the first book then do yourself a favor and read that first. The story is about the discovery of a civilization that predates know human history. This civilization had the ability to harness the magnetic fields of the earth and create tools using this energy. These tools used sound waves to accomplish their various tasks. Because of astronomical disaster the civilization perished but hid their tools referred to as stones throughout the reaches of their civilization. Some of these stones are discovered by an archeologist who is eager to prove the existence of this civilization and turn known history upside down. He is murdered but his notes and discovery are left to his millionaire scientist nephew. The nephew is initially focused on finding his uncle's killer but then realizes the enormity of his uncle's discovery and sets out to finish his work as a monument to the uncle. There is everything a thriller reader could want in these books. There's a murder mystery, science fiction, real science, history, exotic locales, cultural exposure, mild romance, heroic men and women. The book wants for nothing and the author's ability to keep it all together without any part of it lapsing into silliness is amazing. If you would like a fun summer read you couldn't do better than this read this book. Enjoy.
June 15, 2017
Donoghue has created another good story combining fantasy, mystery, adventure and archaeology. This novel is the second in a series and I highly recommend that Shadows of the Stone Benders be read first. It really sets the background for this novel. This novel concentrates more on the magnetic stones introduced in the first novel and the ancient people who created them.
One aspect of the book I really like is the imaginative attempt to tie together many of the mysteries of archaeology. Ancient myths are combined with archaeological finds to create a narrative that may explain much of the mystery. It is a fictional story but an entertaining one that poses many plausible possibilities.
For example, we learn through the memories in the stones that a planet sized asteroid passed by earth in prehistoric times, causing vast changes on the earth including a great flood. New mountains rose while other land sank into the sea. Only a few survived. Some of them had understood magnetism to such an extent that they could save their memories to stones.
Those stones are the focus of Dr. Cully and his friends. He tries to figure out the puzzling map his uncle left him. Understanding the map would allow him to find the evidence he needs to prove to the world the ancient civilization existed. His exploration leads to a great deal of adventure and suspense.
Donghue has a writing style that is generally good. He does have a habit, however, of not writing the narrative in chronological order. A scene will open in juxtaposition to the end of the previous scene. Then, through the thoughts of one of the characters, we find out what happened in between the two scenes. That narrative style occurred so often that I got tired of it.
This book is the second in The Anlon Cully Chronicles. I would highly suggest you read Shadows of the Stone Benders first so you understand the background for this novel. You can read my review of it here.
I recommend this novel to those who enjoy an Indiana Jones type of adventure. You'll be entertained and read some interesting ideas about archaeological mysteries.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author. My comments are an independent and honest review.
One aspect of the book I really like is the imaginative attempt to tie together many of the mysteries of archaeology. Ancient myths are combined with archaeological finds to create a narrative that may explain much of the mystery. It is a fictional story but an entertaining one that poses many plausible possibilities.
For example, we learn through the memories in the stones that a planet sized asteroid passed by earth in prehistoric times, causing vast changes on the earth including a great flood. New mountains rose while other land sank into the sea. Only a few survived. Some of them had understood magnetism to such an extent that they could save their memories to stones.
Those stones are the focus of Dr. Cully and his friends. He tries to figure out the puzzling map his uncle left him. Understanding the map would allow him to find the evidence he needs to prove to the world the ancient civilization existed. His exploration leads to a great deal of adventure and suspense.
Donghue has a writing style that is generally good. He does have a habit, however, of not writing the narrative in chronological order. A scene will open in juxtaposition to the end of the previous scene. Then, through the thoughts of one of the characters, we find out what happened in between the two scenes. That narrative style occurred so often that I got tired of it.
This book is the second in The Anlon Cully Chronicles. I would highly suggest you read Shadows of the Stone Benders first so you understand the background for this novel. You can read my review of it here.
I recommend this novel to those who enjoy an Indiana Jones type of adventure. You'll be entertained and read some interesting ideas about archaeological mysteries.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author. My comments are an independent and honest review.
December 28, 2017
"Race for the Flash Stone" eBook was published in 2017 and was written by K Patrick Donoghue (https://kpatrickdonoghue.com). Mr. Donoghue has published two novels, both in his "The Anlon Cully Chronicles" series. This is the second book in the series.
I received an ARC of this novel through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this novel as ‘PG’ because it contains scenes of Violence. The story is set in the contemporary US. The primary character is Anlon Cully.
This book picks up a few months after the first book ends. Cully is well on his way to recovering from the injuries incurred in the first volume. He, along with close friends Pebbles McCarver and Jennifer Stevens, continue to pursued evidence of the early Earth civilization that created the special stones with magnetic powers.
He is not the only one in pursuit of the stones. Not only must they decode the secrets to the map Cully obtained from his uncle, they must avoid interference from the others pursuing the stones. Cully, McCarver and Stevens find themselves in danger more than once as they pursue the clues they have uncovered.
I enjoyed the 11.5 hours I spent reading this 360 page science fiction adventure tale. While I did read the first volume in the series, this book stands pretty well on its own, though it is a continuation of the story. I liked the plot and the characters, but I do feel that the villains are a little on the weak side. The cover art is OK. I give this novel a 4 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I received an ARC of this novel through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this novel as ‘PG’ because it contains scenes of Violence. The story is set in the contemporary US. The primary character is Anlon Cully.
This book picks up a few months after the first book ends. Cully is well on his way to recovering from the injuries incurred in the first volume. He, along with close friends Pebbles McCarver and Jennifer Stevens, continue to pursued evidence of the early Earth civilization that created the special stones with magnetic powers.
He is not the only one in pursuit of the stones. Not only must they decode the secrets to the map Cully obtained from his uncle, they must avoid interference from the others pursuing the stones. Cully, McCarver and Stevens find themselves in danger more than once as they pursue the clues they have uncovered.
I enjoyed the 11.5 hours I spent reading this 360 page science fiction adventure tale. While I did read the first volume in the series, this book stands pretty well on its own, though it is a continuation of the story. I liked the plot and the characters, but I do feel that the villains are a little on the weak side. The cover art is OK. I give this novel a 4 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
May 29, 2017
I read “Shadows of the Stone Benders” one year ago and read it again prior to starting “Race for the Flash Stone”. “Shadows” was that good and set the mind wandering and wondering. Really, how did the Incas carve 200 ton blocks of stone out of a quarry, transport them over ten miles, and then lug them to an elevation over two miles high to establish Tiahuanaco? That feat makes the 8 ton carved heads of the Olmecs look to be minor league. And this was in 1700 BC, maybe earlier. While “Shadows” posited some possibilities, the book’s ending needed to be extended and “Race for the Flash Stone” answers some of that need. As I have worked for 35 years using radiography, ultrasound, magnetic particle and dye penetrants to inspect materials I will ignore all the magnetism bits and thus doing so makes for a fine reading experience. Charismatic characters along with unsavory types provide a plot with more twists and turns then the Mohawk Trail. Treks through the Caribbean and Central and South Americas add to the adventurous quest for ancient artifacts. I agree with the author’s suggestion to read “Shadows of the Stone Benders” prior to reading this follow on. If you are technical minded just release the analytical portion of your mind and enjoy an exciting trip through time past and present. I have to give this a five-star rating and find myself already looking forward to the next chapter, as once again the ending left a few unanswered issues.
May 13, 2017
What an amazing civilization the Munuorians were.
This book is as good as if not better than The Shadow of the Stone Benders. As Anlon Cully begins to recover from the horrible injuries inflicted on him by Pascal using a sound stone, he, Pebbles and Jennifer are determined to find out more about this ancient advanced civilization and to prove their existence to the world. However, they know there are also evil people who will stop at nothing to get their hands on these powerful tools e which can be used as devastating weapons. They team up with an archeologist who had been a friend of Anlon's uncle and find and are able to open one of the ancient vaults which contained a cache of Munorian stones or tools. Their encounter with Count Foucault gives them much more knowledge of how the Munorians helped save the remnant of mankind still living after the great flood. They also learn of a deadly threat in the form of an evil Munorian who destroyed many of her own people and who has continued to live for centuries by possessing the body of one young woman after another. Her search for the remaining hidden stones is a threat to all mankind. I am eagerly awaiting the third book in The Anlon Cully Chronicals.
This book is as good as if not better than The Shadow of the Stone Benders. As Anlon Cully begins to recover from the horrible injuries inflicted on him by Pascal using a sound stone, he, Pebbles and Jennifer are determined to find out more about this ancient advanced civilization and to prove their existence to the world. However, they know there are also evil people who will stop at nothing to get their hands on these powerful tools e which can be used as devastating weapons. They team up with an archeologist who had been a friend of Anlon's uncle and find and are able to open one of the ancient vaults which contained a cache of Munorian stones or tools. Their encounter with Count Foucault gives them much more knowledge of how the Munorians helped save the remnant of mankind still living after the great flood. They also learn of a deadly threat in the form of an evil Munorian who destroyed many of her own people and who has continued to live for centuries by possessing the body of one young woman after another. Her search for the remaining hidden stones is a threat to all mankind. I am eagerly awaiting the third book in The Anlon Cully Chronicals.
April 22, 2019
Race For the Flash Stone - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Book 2 in the Anlon Cully Chronicles is Race For the Flash Stone. Leading on from Shadows of the Stone Benders, the excellent fantasy adventure from K Patrick Donoghue.
MCs Anlon Cully and girlfriend and partner 'Pebbles' McCarver and their friend Jennifer Stevens end up in the Brazilian jungle in a desperate race to find and make safe the eponymous Flash Stone, - a Master Stone that can make vibrations when used in a particular way, that cause more catastrophic damage than a nuclear bomb. From there, their quest progresses to the Azores, the Bahamas and beyond. Can they get to the ancient location and prevent a disaster of Biblical proportions at the hands of evildoers?
How is the constellation of Cassiopeia linked to the stones' location? Who is kidnapped and and held hostage? Who else is wounded?
An imaginative and engaging adventure that's sure to be a winner, don't miss Race For the Flash Stone - get it for your adventure-thriller bookshelf today!
Book 2 in the Anlon Cully Chronicles is Race For the Flash Stone. Leading on from Shadows of the Stone Benders, the excellent fantasy adventure from K Patrick Donoghue.
MCs Anlon Cully and girlfriend and partner 'Pebbles' McCarver and their friend Jennifer Stevens end up in the Brazilian jungle in a desperate race to find and make safe the eponymous Flash Stone, - a Master Stone that can make vibrations when used in a particular way, that cause more catastrophic damage than a nuclear bomb. From there, their quest progresses to the Azores, the Bahamas and beyond. Can they get to the ancient location and prevent a disaster of Biblical proportions at the hands of evildoers?
How is the constellation of Cassiopeia linked to the stones' location? Who is kidnapped and and held hostage? Who else is wounded?
An imaginative and engaging adventure that's sure to be a winner, don't miss Race For the Flash Stone - get it for your adventure-thriller bookshelf today!
June 4, 2017
In book one I said: A fascinating concept of a very long ago culture that had the power to control things through stones. (That doesn't really do it justice, but it's complicated.)
Book one had me asking--"A fascinating concept of a very long ago culture that had the power to control things through stones. (That doesn't really do it justice, but it's complicated.)
The obvious question is who killed whom and why? But more important is, what are these stones, what can they do, and what are they really for?
The exploration is well worth it
Somewhat psychedelic in some aspects, so just suspend disbelief and enjoy yourself."
Book two is that and then some!
More layers of the mysterious civilization's past are revealed. More powers/abilities of the stones are discovered or learned.
It's never a dull moment.
Book three should be a real trip!
Book one had me asking--"A fascinating concept of a very long ago culture that had the power to control things through stones. (That doesn't really do it justice, but it's complicated.)
The obvious question is who killed whom and why? But more important is, what are these stones, what can they do, and what are they really for?
The exploration is well worth it
Somewhat psychedelic in some aspects, so just suspend disbelief and enjoy yourself."
Book two is that and then some!
More layers of the mysterious civilization's past are revealed. More powers/abilities of the stones are discovered or learned.
It's never a dull moment.
Book three should be a real trip!
May 15, 2017
The adventure continues as Anlon, Pebbles and Jennifer are drawn deeper into the search for the artifacts of a lost civilization. Each of the characters involved, including the villains, is studied in depth and they are an interesting collection. Again, Donogue displays the style of a great story-teller. Every incident is described perfectly as elements of realism combine with fantasy to create a story that draws the reader in and makes everything seem real. This episode enriches the knowledge of the advanced civilization that saved the earth after an asteroid flyby that caused great damage. The tale stays exciting right up to the end, which sets the stage for the next episode. I can't wait!
July 21, 2017
This is the second installment in this series and I was able to pick up the story rather quickly from where it had previously halted. Although these are stand alone stories I would recommend reading them in order. That way you can immerse yourself into the flavor of the writing as well as the storyline. Will Anlon, and friends, be successful in their quest? Each book stops at a logical place and time but leaves the reader waiting on the next chapter in this brilliant adventure series.
I have given this book a 4.5 star rating and would recommend it to anyone seeking a semi magical adventure story.
I received this book in Kindle format from the author in exchange for my unbiased review.
Thank you Frank
I have given this book a 4.5 star rating and would recommend it to anyone seeking a semi magical adventure story.
I received this book in Kindle format from the author in exchange for my unbiased review.
Thank you Frank
February 20, 2019
I am giving book 2 four stars because I loved the first book and its premise of an ancient civilization and the archaeological mystery of the ancient technology-stones with special magnetic powers. This book however is not self-standing and introduces a barrage of characters at the beginning who have unclear motives for wanting the stones, but without the character development of the first book. Even the stars, Anlon, Pebbles and Jennifer, are rather shallow in this book. The last 4-5 chapters saved the story line for me and explained a lot of the plot and why various villains are looking for the stones that Anlon is pursuing on his uncle’s behalf. I found myself frustrated at the beginning but ended up anxious to continue with book 3.
May 27, 2017
A solid 4.75 stars
As with Shadows of the Stone Benders, Race for the Flash Stone wasn't necessarily a fast-paced action plot, but it did grab my attention from the first page, and the thought-provoking hypothesis kept me eagerly turning the pages to see what was happening next. The characters were well-developed, the storyline was well-written, and the editing was great - no typos! Just one thing negative; I found hard to keep straight was the names of the stones; usually I don't have a problem with created languages, but for some reason, this one was difficult for me. All in all, definitely a good read.
I received an ARC from the author, and I voluntarily give my honest opinion of this book.
As with Shadows of the Stone Benders, Race for the Flash Stone wasn't necessarily a fast-paced action plot, but it did grab my attention from the first page, and the thought-provoking hypothesis kept me eagerly turning the pages to see what was happening next. The characters were well-developed, the storyline was well-written, and the editing was great - no typos! Just one thing negative; I found hard to keep straight was the names of the stones; usually I don't have a problem with created languages, but for some reason, this one was difficult for me. All in all, definitely a good read.
I received an ARC from the author, and I voluntarily give my honest opinion of this book.
September 9, 2017
Awesome
Who says none of this is possible. The author presented his arguments in an almost believable context. Much like Clan of the Cave Bears, this story is full of possibility, after all, we are not in charge...there is a far greater power in control and as much as we like to think we know it all and are far superior to all other life, we started somewhere, somehow and who knows how many times we had to start again. A very good, entertaining and interesting read.
Who says none of this is possible. The author presented his arguments in an almost believable context. Much like Clan of the Cave Bears, this story is full of possibility, after all, we are not in charge...there is a far greater power in control and as much as we like to think we know it all and are far superior to all other life, we started somewhere, somehow and who knows how many times we had to start again. A very good, entertaining and interesting read.
December 4, 2017
This is the sequel to Shadows of the Stone Benders and it is better than the first. We rejoin Anlon, Pebbles, and Jennifer in their search for proof that the Munorians actually existed. Unfortunately, their are others who do not have such pure motives, some are downright homicidal. Questions arise some answers are found but there are still mysteries to be resolved. Looking forward to the next book very much.
June 10, 2017
Excellent read. Found it hard to put down. My reading is always done just before I go to bed. Just one more chapter turned into 3:00 a.m. Bed time. Characters stayed true throughout the first and second books. I enjoyed the location change. I also welcomed the glossary at the end on the pronunciation and definitions of the native names of the culture.
July 9, 2017
Donoghue continues his fast moving archeological science fiction story in book two. At times it appears to be disconnected but eventually the pieces fall into place. More grit than in book one. A flashy ending promising more to come…
I was given an electronic copy in return for an honest review.
I was given an electronic copy in return for an honest review.
October 21, 2019
Fantastic book! Getting ready to read Anlon Cully Chronicles, #3! Race for the Flash Stone (Anlon Cully Chronicles, #2) by K. Patrick Donoghue is a terrific archeological, paranormal thrlling action adventure. Love the characters and adore the paranormal technology. Keeps me guessing up to the end. Totally addicting story line. Loved it.
April 22, 2020
The second in this series delves deeper into the ancient race introduced in the first book and gives more detail on their amazingly advanced tools. Anlon Cully, Pepples and Jennifer work to uncover the mystery while threatened on several fronts by mysterious villains. An enjoyable archaeological fantasy mystery story.
June 8, 2017
Race for the Flash Stone is the second in the Anlon Cully Chronicles. The intro picks up the story where Shadows of the Stone Benders ended and fills us in on what has happened since. Anlon is mostly recovered from his epic battle and is just about ready to start eating solid food again. That’s a good thing since he’s going stir crazy trying to figure out how to use the map that his murdered uncle left behind.
Race for the Flash Stone is an archaeological mystery. Anlon and his companions are seeking tangible proof of a technologically advanced civilization. It isn’t proof enough that Pebbles can communicate with one of the long-dead ancients, they want proof that they can publish. Naturally, their group isn't the only ones who are looking for the stones. As the title implies it is a race between several different factions who are seeing the artifacts for very different reasons.
In this book, we learn so much more about the Munuorians, their civilization, and the stones or lifintyls that they created using their special ability to tap into the Earth’s magnetic field. I really enjoy this series, it’s not super-fast paced, but it chugs along with enough speed to keep my attention focused. It’s also interesting to consider the what ifs. What if an ancient culture had the abilities described? How much easier would it have been to construct the pyramids or raise Stonehenge? I can’t wait to see where in the world the next book in the series takes the reader.
I received a review copy of this book from the author in exchange for their hope that I would post an honest review. I recommend it to readers who enjoy Dan Brown, Steve Berry, and even Clive Cussler. Admittedly Anlon Cully is no Dirk Pitt, he’s more of a thinking hero, rather than an action hero.
Race for the Flash Stone is an archaeological mystery. Anlon and his companions are seeking tangible proof of a technologically advanced civilization. It isn’t proof enough that Pebbles can communicate with one of the long-dead ancients, they want proof that they can publish. Naturally, their group isn't the only ones who are looking for the stones. As the title implies it is a race between several different factions who are seeing the artifacts for very different reasons.
In this book, we learn so much more about the Munuorians, their civilization, and the stones or lifintyls that they created using their special ability to tap into the Earth’s magnetic field. I really enjoy this series, it’s not super-fast paced, but it chugs along with enough speed to keep my attention focused. It’s also interesting to consider the what ifs. What if an ancient culture had the abilities described? How much easier would it have been to construct the pyramids or raise Stonehenge? I can’t wait to see where in the world the next book in the series takes the reader.
I received a review copy of this book from the author in exchange for their hope that I would post an honest review. I recommend it to readers who enjoy Dan Brown, Steve Berry, and even Clive Cussler. Admittedly Anlon Cully is no Dirk Pitt, he’s more of a thinking hero, rather than an action hero.
July 19, 2017
Hard to put down!
I enjoyed reading Race for the Flashstone, however I was not as comfortable with the way it was written as I was with The Stone Benders. I felt there was a lot left out that could have been explained for easier understanding.
I enjoyed reading Race for the Flashstone, however I was not as comfortable with the way it was written as I was with The Stone Benders. I felt there was a lot left out that could have been explained for easier understanding.
August 3, 2017
A fast-paced fun read.
I love it when the writing style of an author is so relaxed that you don't even feel like you're reading. You're sitting back watching a movie in your mind in full color, three-dimensional, and completely believable.
I love it when the writing style of an author is so relaxed that you don't even feel like you're reading. You're sitting back watching a movie in your mind in full color, three-dimensional, and completely believable.
August 7, 2017
continuing the quest to prove his murdered uncle's search for the long lost civilization who mastered the stones. This is a wonderful continuing thriller to find the stones and prove the existence of an ancient people.
August 17, 2017
I enjoyed this book more than the first in this series. The story is well developed, fast paced, and really interesting. I liked the characters much better in this book, although the three main characters can still be naive, awkward and annoying at times. Looking forward to the next book!
December 12, 2017
Excellent!
I really enjoyed the second book in this series, it is fast paced & well written, ideal summer reading! I am looking forward to the next book in the series which is out Spring 2018.
I really enjoyed the second book in this series, it is fast paced & well written, ideal summer reading! I am looking forward to the next book in the series which is out Spring 2018.
June 30, 2019
The mystery continues
This second novel in the series is at least as exciting as the first.
It takes on an even more sinister turn as some of the mysteries are unraveled.
The pulse pounding pace continues. I need to get into book three as quickly as possible.
This second novel in the series is at least as exciting as the first.
It takes on an even more sinister turn as some of the mysteries are unraveled.
The pulse pounding pace continues. I need to get into book three as quickly as possible.
January 17, 2020
The story continues in a ...
Exciting and fantastic way!!
Twists and turns are over! One minute you think you have an ally then twist you don't! This book steps up excitement! A MUST read!!!
Exciting and fantastic way!!
Twists and turns are over! One minute you think you have an ally then twist you don't! This book steps up excitement! A MUST read!!!
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