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The Stone Collection #1

The Atlantis Stone

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Felicity discovers the ‘Atlantis stone’ whilst scuba diving on the south-east coast of Australia in a treacherous area known as ‘the ship’s graveyard.’ Her diving is part of her research into the fabled ‘mahogany ship,’ a wreck sighted on the beach by early white Australians.
She meets Benjamin as a result of her love of diving. He is an indigenous Australian, but past traumas have caused him to disown his aboriginal heritage. Benjamin is now struggling to find his identity in the Western world, and has retreated to his workshop where he ekes out a living as a wood-turner. An attempt on his life propels him into Felicity’s world of historic mysteries…and a quest that takes them to the ancient city of Cagliari in Sardinia.
An anthropologist dying of cancer, and an ex-Special Forces soldier with post-traumatic stress, join them in an adventure that centers on a medieval treaty, a lust for gold, and an audacious plot to rewrite world history.
Perfect for those who enjoy Ernest Dempsey, David Leadbeater and Urcelia Teixeira. This novel will draw you in and refuse to let you go.

286 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 31, 2019

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Nick Hawkes

22 books16 followers

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5 stars
467 (49%)
4 stars
312 (33%)
3 stars
129 (13%)
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23 (2%)
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6 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
Profile Image for Sophia.
Author 5 books399 followers
August 25, 2021
An underwater archeological find, a secret treaty, a ruthless mining corporation, and an Aboriginal connection made for a sizzling romantic thriller by a new to me author. I love true life historical mysteries like the fabled Mahogany Ship and the time of Portuguese naval dominance and conquest tied to Australia so I was happy to discover this series.

The Atlantis Stone introduces Benjamin, a gifted artisan with woodwork who is half-Aboriginal and feels lost because he is not racially connected to any group as a result. Then there is the recently divorced Felicity who had a rough divorce and must pick up the pieces of her life and hopes her secret theory and recent underwater discovery will lead to a book contract and work as a historian. An ex-SAS military man with PTSD, and an old woman at the end of her life, who has done extensive anthropology work, complete the team working to solve the reason behind the attack on Benjamin’s life and someone wanting Felicity’s research enough to steal and kill.

While this is probably technically a thriller and has exciting moments, it felt on the gentler end of the spectrum of that genre. I felt it explored the characters, particularly Benjamin and Felicity, and their blooming relationship just as much as the action and suspense. I enjoyed how a historical secret about the Portuguese arriving in Australia first is at the heart of the trouble in the present.

The bad guys were brutal and seemed to hold all the cards for a while. Particularly, when Felicity pulled a stupid and went off by herself and the others let her knowing they were all potential targets at this point. But, I couldn’t stay upset at her because of course, her stunt led to the big exciting moments in the series. I do love seeing a spec ops man in action and Benjamin was no slouch.

Grant Cartwright was a new to me narrator, but I enjoyed his voice work from the start. He had many voices and a variety at that from gender, age, accent, and personality to distinguish. He was a good match for the pace and tone of the book, too.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this one and am glad to see there are more exotic, global romantic suspenses in the series though they seem to be all standalones and only have a stone and a mystery in common. This might be a selling point for those who don’t want a series-long commitment and want to pick and choose the focus and locales. I can definitely recommend the series for those who enjoy romantic suspense, adventure romance, and moderate thrillers.

My thanks to Tantor Audio for the digital audio sent to me to listen to in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Carlos Mock.
932 reviews14 followers
February 7, 2021
The Atlantis Stone (The Stone Collection #1) by Nick Hawkes

"The Treaty of Tordesillas signed at Tordesillas in Spain on June 7, 1494, and authenticated at Setúbal, Portugal, divided the newly discovered lands outside Europe between the Portuguese Empire and the Spanish Empire along a meridian 370 leagues west of the Cape Verde islands, off the west coast of Africa. It was intended to solve the dispute that arose following the return of Christopher Columbus and his crew, who had sailed under the Crown of Castile. On his way back to Spain he first stopped at Lisbon, where he requested another meeting with King John II to prove to him that there were more islands to the southwest of the Canary Islands." The Atlantis Stone opens with the signing of this treaty.

From the signing, we fast forward to the present, in Port Fairy, Victoria Australia. Benjamin Bidjara - an aborigine of mixed race - suffers an attempt on his life. He's saved by Archie Hammond, who has no place to live and stays on as an apprentice to Benjamin who works with wood.

Felicity (Flick) Anderson was diving trying to find the remains of a Portuguese ship that sunk near Port Fairy - the so-called Mahogany Ship that belonged to the Portuguese explorer Mendonça - but gets trapped in the ocean and is rescued by Banjamin.

Felicity was been restoring a house in Port Fairy, after a nasty divorce from Nick Mercurio. Benjamin and Archie save her from the financial hardship caused by Flick's ex and Felicity develops a bond with Benjamin. Felicity uncovered a stone, which they call the Atlantis stone, that could prove that the Portuguese were in Australis way before the British.

Enter the bad guy - Doran Khayef - the owner of Khayef enterprises. He's a shady character in the process of developing a property in Port Fairy. He has a document from the treaty that allows the owner to claim all proceeds from Australian gold mines, tax-free. But Felicity and Benjamin pose a danger to his plans so they become targets.

Narrated from the third person point of view, the story is a fast-paced thriller that reads in a day or two. The plot nicely blends the Australian historical and aboriginal past with the modern-day as it tells a credible story. Contrary to the title, the book is not about the lost world of Atlantis; rather is focuses on the discovery of Australia and the story of the Mahogany Ship and the Portuguese exploration of the continent with whatever legal ramifications it might ensue. It's a love story that is filled with colorful characters and it won’t take long for you to find yourself wrapped up in the tale as it unfolds.

I greatly enjoyed it!
Profile Image for Carl.
635 reviews1 follower
September 27, 2019
If you enjoy a good story with a mix of action and adventure with good characters, then I highly recommend “The Atlantis Stone.” This is the first novel by Nick Hawkes that I have read, and based upon how well written it is, it will not be the last. The story nicely blends the Australian historical past with the modern day as it tells a credible story. Contrary to the title, the book is not about the lost world of Atlantis; rather is focuses on the discovery of Australia, concerning the story of the Mahogany Ship.

The story opens as Felicity discovers the “Atlantis Stone” while scuba diving off the coast of Australia in an area known as 'the ship's graveyard.' Her diving is part of her research into the fabled 'mahogany ship', a wreck believed to have been sighted on the beach by early white Australian settlers. She is saved by a stranger Ben, who is a woodworker. Soon, the stone is stolen from her and things get complicated as murder, kidnapping and drug dealing occurs. It is discovered that the problem is historical and revolves around who should have claims to gold mined and found in Australia.

“The Atlantis Stone” combines mystery, anthropology, and ancient artifacts with modern crimes. The main characters, Felicity Ben, and Archie are very well developed and their interactions drew me quickly into the story. Moreover, these characters are likable. The plot is believable and well-crafted with interesting twists. If you like adventure with a bit of mystery thrown in, then this book is for you ~ it is a great read. I am going after the second book in the series.
83 reviews
June 29, 2021
I did enjoy The Atlantis Stone, and if the rating scale was 10 points, I would have given it a 7. It was well written and entertaining without slow passages. The action portions were good, if a bit mild. The romance part was also mild without any explicit parts, which suits me fine because I don't care to read about hot anatomical sex, but the love story still carried a greater part of the book than I personally care for. But that's on me, as I'm more of an action junckie, I guess. I was disappointed that there wasn't more about the historical aspects that were foundational to this book. But again, that's my problem, as I find it extremely interesting to learn the lesser known, or virtually unknown, facts and circumstances (I blame Gavin Menzies and his book 1421 for this). Again, I did enjoy this book, and recommend it as easy and pleasant book.
Profile Image for Kat (Ginger Bibliophile on YouTube).
328 reviews2 followers
March 27, 2022
So sloooow! There was nothing inherently bad about the story itself, but omg it just crawled along. I started this because I’m fascinated by Atlantis myths, but I’m not sure this actually had anything to do with Atlantis. Some chick coming off a bad divorce finds a stone and is rescued from entangling seaweed by our other main character who instinctively knows the rock she found is “the Atlantis stone”, no idea why, and that’s about all we get. They decide immediately they’re in love 🙄. I even skipped to about a third of the way in, and still had no idea what the deal was with the dead body from the first page, why the guy’s heritage was such a big deal, or what the Atlantis stone was. I’m sure by the last 20% we might’ve learned what was going on and what the big deal was, but life is too short to waste time on bad books. If it hadn’t been free, I’d have asked for a refund.
11 reviews1 follower
Read
December 26, 2020
The Atlantis Stone by Nick Hawks involves Benjamin Bidjara, a son of a Portugeese father and an Australian aboriginal mother, who has been rejected by both ethnic groups, finds his own identity and purpose,the love of his life and a substantial inheritance from a mentor. In combating an evil gold mining company mining gold claims that should rightly belong to Bidjara, he frees his girlfriend who has been kidnapped by the mining company, destroys the evil mining company and gains acceptance by both ethnic groups. The only problem with the book was the extensive use of Australian slang for many words and the use of Australian flora and fauna which would be unfamiliar to non Australian readers.
98 reviews
December 6, 2020
I gave this book 3 stars because of the location and some of its historical factors.
I would have given it a 1 or 2 stars for its ridiculous plot , characters and overall overused storyline.
Of course more beautiful geniuses and how these beautiful geniuses get together.
Of course there’s the tough as nails military genius who has a license to kill with all the right weapons.
The sympathetic and increasingly self sacrificing women who knows the secret.
Couldn’t wait to finish it and did skip many areas that did nothing for the story or the cast.
The shy but beautiful main characters are too much to bare.
516 reviews2 followers
December 1, 2020
The Atlantis Stone

This book started out rather ploddingly, with a lot of background, history, and details. I wasn't sure if I would be able to finish it. But at some point it quickly picked up and kept me reading anxiously to find out what twist would happen next. The background and history turned out to be very, very interesting, as well as the history about the Aboriginal culture. The connections and relationships forged in this story were most heartwarming! I hope to read more books by this author.
Profile Image for Keith.
2,143 reviews6 followers
January 19, 2021
Well Done!

I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery/adventure tale replete with Aussie references, bits of true history and enough manufactured facts to bind everything into an excellent novel. Good well-layered character development, supported by interesting back history and current actions. All story threads are resolved by story’s end, and this reader was left content and more interested in Australian history than previously.

This is easily recommended to any who have enjoyed the Clive Cussler books.
Author 7 books3 followers
July 22, 2021
Interesting

This was an interesting story. Very unique and individual, it could have been brilliant. Instead to me it’s a work in progress. There just isn’t enough character development and definitely not enough work on their relationships to one another. Big things happen at the end, a lot pretty obvious but the reasons why we’re not and there just is no connective tissue to make it work. And that bugs me because I really wanted to love this book because of its originality. So disappointed.
Profile Image for Diana L. Wells.
395 reviews
January 14, 2023
Historical Artifacts and Gold

An interesting adventure with a diverse group of characters. Flick, Benjamin and Archie are the protagonists and are very likable. We are allowed a brief glimpse into their pasts to help establish their motivations as well as the people who flesh out the story. The setting is Australia and there were some phrases and terms that, as an American, I didn’t understand but that in no way affected the tale.
I enjoyed this book so much I’m going to be reading the rest in the series.
4 reviews
October 23, 2019
A good read

Written well, good story, good energy maintained from beginning to end, and the characters are more introspective than many mystery/spy intrigues I've read, it was easy to visualize each person in the story. (Four stars given instead of 5 because I am not a fan of an author throwing in biblical references and short sermons in this type of novel, most felt out of place and unnecessary to the overall story.) I do recommend this book as a good read.
7 reviews1 follower
July 20, 2020
Boring Pink Fairy Tale Love Story

At the end of the book I was truly convinced that the protagonist was going to be crowned King of Australia, and after a royal wedding we gonna read and they lived happily ever after.

Add impossible odds throw at the story, perfect strucks of luck, noble people jumping to sacrifice their lives just at the nick of time. The old romance novel argument of big heritage at the ending and so on.

568 reviews9 followers
January 10, 2021
This story has multiple plots: An Australian Aborigine's heritage, a dying archaeologist's quest to find the baby her fiancée died to save, and a megalomaniac's attempt to find a long lost treaty that would nearly double the profits from his gold mining enterprises. All of these things become entangled in Benjamin's wood working shop after he rescues Felicity when she gets into trouble scuba diving. The story is slow to unfold, and when it does, there are some unexpected twists and turns.
1 review1 follower
December 20, 2021
I completely enjoyed this book, it was interesting, had adventure, some traveling, gentle romance and interesting characters. I liked that there were not sex scenes, graphic murders or bad language. I understand that this book is the first in a series of adventures. I do not know if the series shares characters, but if the rest of Nick Hawkes's books are similar; no heavy sex and bad language, I will enjoy them.
156 reviews
January 17, 2022
A good read mate!

This was the second book I've read in the series. I like the fact that each book stands alone with a different set of characters. There's a good mix of mystery, action, adventure with some romance and a look at some parts of Australian Aboriginal culture. Spoiler alert, I was annoyed by a large chunk of romance that was thrown into the middle of a high stakes rescue. That part could have been better.
57 reviews
October 24, 2022
Good Story Nice Thriller Historical Mistory

Nice historical fiction with good novelization, story was easy to follow and kept the reader engaged, the author kept the temptation to become overly emotional under control, so the story kept well balanced and did not turn into a Romance novel. Definitely going to the second book in the series to check it out. If the quality remains the same or even remains the same I will be reading the entire series.
Profile Image for Laurie.
14 reviews1 follower
November 22, 2022
The Atlantis Stone

The cover, along with the title, intrigued me. As I started the book, I was a bit disappointed. It was a bit confusing. However, I continued, and am so glad I did! Full of history, suspense, and action. The two main characters, Benjamin, and Felicity, work together to unravel history, and in so doing, find each other. Bad guys lose, good guys win! Looking forward to the next book in the series
343 reviews1 follower
September 19, 2024
The Atlantis Stone (The Stone Collection Book 1)

This book delves into the indigenous people of Australia, and the mixing of heritage by explores. The characters are interesting and believable, and the descriptive scenery will have the reader looking to book a trip to the land down under. Action and adventure from start to finish, with a surprise ending. Happy reading! Highly recommend!
77 reviews3 followers
March 25, 2020
Enjoyable tale of Australian history and it's connection to a (fictitious) treaty

Enjoyed reading this tale. First time I'd read a novel based in Australia.
Characters are fleshed out nicely. Continuity is excellent.
Time well spent -- Hawkes is a new author for me, but I will be reading more of his works. Enjoy!
65 reviews
December 4, 2020
This was a great read. I especially liked the character of Benjamin. What an intriguing man!

This story has many twists in the plot. I read it in 2 days. The characters were all very enjoyable (with the exception of the criminals). I would very much recommend to those who enjoy action packed adventure, interesting characters and wonderful romance.
6 reviews
December 11, 2020
A darn good read...

I picked this up based on the online description I read about it. Once I started reading this book I quickly became caught up with the characters. Small time, every day nice guy falls for nice girl while they both get caught up with an historical artifact that brings out the bad guys. Then the story is off to the races and it’s entertaining. I liked it.
42 reviews
December 11, 2020
Atlantis stone is a great read

I enjoyed this book. The author uses good grammar and is very descriptive of characters and setting. It brought Australia closer to my understanding. His gentle presentation of the gospel of Jesus was uplifting. The historical aspect was interesting. I will read more of this series
Profile Image for P. Clauss.
Author 12 books1 follower
March 18, 2021
Australia, aborigines, and whispers from the past

It leans a bit toward the cozy side but the plot intrigued me enough to continue on to see where the author was going to lead. This story delves into the past as it could affect the fortunes of those in the present. The plot was predictable at some points but had entertaining bits for an overall satisfactory read.
Profile Image for Kevin.
103 reviews
January 12, 2022
Hawke Leaves No Stone Unturned

This is the first book of the Stone series, and I found Mr. Hawkes' storywriting to filled with details, action, and a really good storyline. His details don't bog down the action. His action is believable. And his storyline is creative. I look forward to reading more Hawkes books.
85 reviews2 followers
October 27, 2022
Action-packed love story

Professional, personal, and governmental conflicts come to a head with regard to the Atlantis Stone. Two recently-found lovers fight for their lives and their love. Heritages are found and Australian history could be changed forever in this action-packed love adventure. I really enjoyed the story and look forward to reading the other Stone novels.
Profile Image for JoAnn Stearns.
125 reviews1 follower
Read
January 16, 2023
Couldn't finish

This was slow, boring, little to no action, and the characters were ridiculous. I couldn't keep turning the pages, I had to give it up. I wanted to like this, as I see there are more books in this series, but I think not. Others have given this book good reviews, but it wasn't for me.
24 reviews
September 20, 2024
Good on you

Thanks, Nick Hawkes, for a very interesting read. I truly enjoyed your depictions and descriptions of Australian places, customs, phraseology(?) and sentiments...and particularly your subtle, yet powerful, inclusion of indigenous aboriginal customs and concepts. Good stuff. Looking forward to up turning the next stone
590 reviews2 followers
July 20, 2019
Adventurous

This book combines mystery, anthropology, artifacts with crimes of murder, kidnapping and drug dealing. It blends the past into modern day as it tells a believable story. Enjoy!
49 reviews
August 9, 2020
Historical and romantic.

The continent of Australia is a story to be written. The reference to historical knowledge, the inclusion of the Aboriginal and a bit of romance; makes a fascinating read. Will continue the Stone Series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews

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