What do you think?
Rate this book
Ancient Origins #1
Revelations
Hidden deep beneath a remote desert is our planet’s biggest secret. Sarah Morgan’s only mistake? Finding it.
The world holds its breath as the colossal asteroid 2011 AG5 hurtles towards the earth. As humanity is faced with extinction, archaeologist Sarah Morgan is in a race against time to uncover a secret that has been buried for millennia: that an advanced ancestor once populated the earth. As Sarah travels across the continents in search of the truth, she discovers there are those that will kill to protect this most ancient of secrets...
Meanwhile, in a clandestine facility below the earth’s surface, Professor Steiner has been charged with overseeing the preservation of the human race. Steiner believes he is on schedule to deliver his task, but as the world is poised on the brink of destruction Steiner’s plans begin to unravel.
That which has lain buried may yet prove to be their only hope…
The world holds its breath as the colossal asteroid 2011 AG5 hurtles towards the earth. As humanity is faced with extinction, archaeologist Sarah Morgan is in a race against time to uncover a secret that has been buried for millennia: that an advanced ancestor once populated the earth. As Sarah travels across the continents in search of the truth, she discovers there are those that will kill to protect this most ancient of secrets...
Meanwhile, in a clandestine facility below the earth’s surface, Professor Steiner has been charged with overseeing the preservation of the human race. Steiner believes he is on schedule to deliver his task, but as the world is poised on the brink of destruction Steiner’s plans begin to unravel.
That which has lain buried may yet prove to be their only hope…
494 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2013
4282 people are currently reading
1082 people want to read
About the author
Robert Storey
7 books88 followersAs a young boy Robert always dreamed about becoming a fiction writer, but it never occurred to him that he could follow that dream. Some years later fate intervened and he was struck down with a debilitating neurological condition, which was brought on by a car accident some years earlier. Rendered housebound on and off for well over a decade, he thought his condition signaled an end to his life, but Robert had failed to realize something ... he was wrong, and in his darkest hours he turned to writing as a means of escape. Never thinking anyone would read his work, let alone like it, Robert has now published four books in his bestselling Ancient Origins series and plans on writing four more, along with a fantasy series and a number of thrillers. His condition still keeps him indoors more than he would like, but it doesn't stop him from writing, and more importantly it doesn't stop him from dreaming...
Robert currently lives in the county of Kent in England and is a lover of science, archaeology and the mysterious. He has a passion for films, specifically action and adventure, science fiction and blockbuster thrillers, but as he got older he realised new releases rarely matched the classics he'd already had the privilege of watching, and it was partly this frustration that led him to create a world of his own.
Robert currently lives in the county of Kent in England and is a lover of science, archaeology and the mysterious. He has a passion for films, specifically action and adventure, science fiction and blockbuster thrillers, but as he got older he realised new releases rarely matched the classics he'd already had the privilege of watching, and it was partly this frustration that led him to create a world of his own.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews
January 5, 2018
❗️Outstanding Perfect Read ❗️
A outstandingly Stellar beginning of a highly exciting series. This book portrays the lives and events from the perspective of a few key characters in a multifaceted, high paced, extremely vivid way. Everything ranging from their environments, to the sequence of events that lead up to the intersection of their lives, it is all so well depicted and authentic that Its not like reading a book, its like living it!
The psychological responses, and the human populations reaction and action in a time of turmoil is also perfectly described furthering the notion that your living this along side with these people. Both the agoraphobic and claustrofobic triggering events had me in cold sweat trying to maneuver my self mentally along with the characters. It struck me after that i actually don’t have either of those phobias or even issues with such things. It made things crystal clear, I was first attracted by the archeological /mystery/ thriller aspect, but this book really got under my skin and proved to be a masterpiece in its own right. By my account this belongs on the shelf of best books ive ever read! (Note not one D. Brown book qualifies for that exclusive shelf)
A outstandingly Stellar beginning of a highly exciting series. This book portrays the lives and events from the perspective of a few key characters in a multifaceted, high paced, extremely vivid way. Everything ranging from their environments, to the sequence of events that lead up to the intersection of their lives, it is all so well depicted and authentic that Its not like reading a book, its like living it!
The psychological responses, and the human populations reaction and action in a time of turmoil is also perfectly described furthering the notion that your living this along side with these people. Both the agoraphobic and claustrofobic triggering events had me in cold sweat trying to maneuver my self mentally along with the characters. It struck me after that i actually don’t have either of those phobias or even issues with such things. It made things crystal clear, I was first attracted by the archeological /mystery/ thriller aspect, but this book really got under my skin and proved to be a masterpiece in its own right. By my account this belongs on the shelf of best books ive ever read! (Note not one D. Brown book qualifies for that exclusive shelf)
September 23, 2016
Before writing this review I checked in on other reviews (while looking to get the next book!) and saw that the range moves from one to five stars. Yet almost every low starred review also had something good to say, while pointing out issues as the reviewer saw it. To me, this means this book works! Even the one starred said a bit more than ‘I don’t like it.’
Yes, I too have an issue or two, particularly regarding the archaeologist trio (some unnecessary childish behaviour and I was downright horrified that an ancient artefact was ruined) and yet the big picture, the greater story is fantastic. There are three distinct threads; the archaeologists attempting to find proof of an ancient civilisation while running from conspiracy, the underground bunkers with the politics going down there, and a group of caregivers and their patients caught in a desperate scenario. Understanding these threads would come together, I read on.
The threads do come together at the end, and now I can’t wait to find out what happens next. I am beyond intrigued to discover what Sanctuary hides. This is a mighty story and well worth reading.
Yes, I too have an issue or two, particularly regarding the archaeologist trio (some unnecessary childish behaviour and I was downright horrified that an ancient artefact was ruined) and yet the big picture, the greater story is fantastic. There are three distinct threads; the archaeologists attempting to find proof of an ancient civilisation while running from conspiracy, the underground bunkers with the politics going down there, and a group of caregivers and their patients caught in a desperate scenario. Understanding these threads would come together, I read on.
The threads do come together at the end, and now I can’t wait to find out what happens next. I am beyond intrigued to discover what Sanctuary hides. This is a mighty story and well worth reading.
July 30, 2017
Mind boggling.. and not in a good way
This book starts with the news that an asteroid the size of the same one that killed the dinosaurs is going to hit the Earth in 2040. A team is assembled to make sure that life is preserved, and that people are prepared for the dust cloud, for ten years of darkness, for crops to fail, etc.
Then the scene shifts to a team of archeologists looking for traces of an ancient race of giants. These archeologists are considered to be on the fringe, as all evidence they've found has been destroyed or stolen.
Then comes the time for the asteroid impact. No one is panicking. No one is trying frantically to get to an underground bunker. The archeologists are still on the trail of giants. Yes, even though it's expected to be dark for at least ten years, they are still hot on the trail. They even destroy an ancient Mayan artefact to get through it to find more clues about the ancient race of giants.
Meanwhile, as usual, an evil politician is trying to subvert the team working on the underground bunkers.
I'm sorry, but none of the things going on seem at all likely. People would be panicking. The so-called archeologists are going to continue working, even with the dust cloud blotting out the sun? And why aren't people wearing masks to keep from breathing in the deadly dust particles? There are a few incidents of panicking and rioting, oh, and China sets off a few nukes for Japan and Korea, but oh well, no biggie.
Results: this is so far from what I think would actually happen in the midst of an extinction level event that I think my head actually started spinning. And there are several more books in this series. Apparently someone is reading them, but I won't be.
This book starts with the news that an asteroid the size of the same one that killed the dinosaurs is going to hit the Earth in 2040. A team is assembled to make sure that life is preserved, and that people are prepared for the dust cloud, for ten years of darkness, for crops to fail, etc.
Then the scene shifts to a team of archeologists looking for traces of an ancient race of giants. These archeologists are considered to be on the fringe, as all evidence they've found has been destroyed or stolen.
Then comes the time for the asteroid impact. No one is panicking. No one is trying frantically to get to an underground bunker. The archeologists are still on the trail of giants. Yes, even though it's expected to be dark for at least ten years, they are still hot on the trail. They even destroy an ancient Mayan artefact to get through it to find more clues about the ancient race of giants.
Meanwhile, as usual, an evil politician is trying to subvert the team working on the underground bunkers.
I'm sorry, but none of the things going on seem at all likely. People would be panicking. The so-called archeologists are going to continue working, even with the dust cloud blotting out the sun? And why aren't people wearing masks to keep from breathing in the deadly dust particles? There are a few incidents of panicking and rioting, oh, and China sets off a few nukes for Japan and Korea, but oh well, no biggie.
Results: this is so far from what I think would actually happen in the midst of an extinction level event that I think my head actually started spinning. And there are several more books in this series. Apparently someone is reading them, but I won't be.
April 6, 2018
I generally try to give every book I read the benefit of the doubt. This book, however, was a train wreck. I picked it up as one of my Kindle unlimited reads, and as I pushed myself through it I kept thinking that I was so glad I didn't spend the money to actually purchase it, or the rest of the series.
The author has an interesting idea - the idea is the only reason that I kept reading. However, execution leaves so much to be desired.
The story is difficult to read due to multiple changes in perspectives and overlapping timelines. In addition, the author can't decide on active or passive voice, and spends a lot of time telling instead of showing, which leads to a very didactic read. Just about the time that I'd get into the flow of the story, something in the language, perspective shift, or drop to passive voice would yank me right out of it.
Then there's the very clear fact that the author is writing American perspective but did not take the time to research or understand American custom. Having Americans use common British slang and idioms takes away from the realism in the novel, and again, yanks the reader out of the world. In addition to the language/slang, British customs bleed over - e.g., the head of the US intelligence forces stops his day for tea time. There were several times in the dialogue that I had to stop and search terms/phrases, because I truly had no idea what the characters were saying.
Speaking of dialogue - who talks like these characters? Most lines of dialogue seem stilted and forced.
The author could greatly benefit from an editor, and possible a re-write after getting some more experience under his belt.
I won't be continuing this series, which is a shame, because the premise is good. I just can't imagine forcing myself through 5 more books.
The author has an interesting idea - the idea is the only reason that I kept reading. However, execution leaves so much to be desired.
The story is difficult to read due to multiple changes in perspectives and overlapping timelines. In addition, the author can't decide on active or passive voice, and spends a lot of time telling instead of showing, which leads to a very didactic read. Just about the time that I'd get into the flow of the story, something in the language, perspective shift, or drop to passive voice would yank me right out of it.
Then there's the very clear fact that the author is writing American perspective but did not take the time to research or understand American custom. Having Americans use common British slang and idioms takes away from the realism in the novel, and again, yanks the reader out of the world. In addition to the language/slang, British customs bleed over - e.g., the head of the US intelligence forces stops his day for tea time. There were several times in the dialogue that I had to stop and search terms/phrases, because I truly had no idea what the characters were saying.
Speaking of dialogue - who talks like these characters? Most lines of dialogue seem stilted and forced.
The author could greatly benefit from an editor, and possible a re-write after getting some more experience under his belt.
I won't be continuing this series, which is a shame, because the premise is good. I just can't imagine forcing myself through 5 more books.
December 2, 2016
Very interesting premise, but Mr. Storey's writing has a lot to be desired. The editor - if there even was one - didn't do a good job either. While there are too many plot threads, unnecessary sequences and events, time jumps, and the fact that he tells A LOT more than he shows - his exposition constantly explains things that happen away from the character's direct actions, and with more verbiage than needed - the story has me hooked enough to want to read the next book in the series.
November 22, 2016
What could have been a fun apocalyptic action thriller ended up being a poorly written excuse for a novel. There were too many plots trying to go on at the same time which watered them all down. The dialogue was cheesy and unrealistic. Timelines didn't flow together. And character development was non-existent. I was buying into the story until around 50% when the climax of the story should hit - largest asteroid to ever strike earth and cover up the atmosphere, blocking out the sun and changing all ways of life but instead is given a paragraph of description and everyone goes on treating it like another Monday. Ridiculous.
November 10, 2016
The book is an easy read and quite entertaining. There are however a few too many story lines which would be okay but sometimes it is many chapters before you get back to them. I am however reading book 2 of the series as I want to see how this story continues.
April 2, 2024
I liked how different themes like giants living on earth and asteroid hitting us are combined. Certainly only an introduction and a setup for series. I just hope it does not go too off the rails and stays on topic.
June 22, 2025
Audiobook - Audible
Narrated by
Gildart Jackson
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dnf 33%
This just isn't for me.
It might be that I'm not in the right headspace at the moment since I've got a migraine.
But, I don't think I will pick it up later.
Narrated by
Gildart Jackson
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dnf 33%
This just isn't for me.
It might be that I'm not in the right headspace at the moment since I've got a migraine.
But, I don't think I will pick it up later.
February 10, 2017
Got to three quarters of the way through this book and completely lost patience with it. The idea of the book is good but the writing and plotting are appalling and the characterisation worse. Some terrible stereotypes and the three archaeologists were the worse especially the main character Sarah. The world's going to hell in a handcart but hey as long as she gets credit for her work why should she care? Gave up caring about these people.
March 8, 2018
URGH!! while the story line is good and the ideas are great, the writer and editor did not do good jobs unfortunately. Sigh, i really tried hard to finish the book, i love the archaelogical side, i enjoyed a lot of the character traits, but seriously, do people really behave like that... definately not a Dan Brown... I skipped most of the book, once they got to South Africa... and read only bits and pieces.
July 19, 2015
Good idea. Not so great execution.
The concept of this book is good. However, the characters, particularly the three archaeologists, detracted from the plot. I agree with another reviewer that those characters were juvenile and immature. In addition, use of the word "whilst" further detracted from the book's potential. I will try the second book if it's free like this one was.
The concept of this book is good. However, the characters, particularly the three archaeologists, detracted from the plot. I agree with another reviewer that those characters were juvenile and immature. In addition, use of the word "whilst" further detracted from the book's potential. I will try the second book if it's free like this one was.
December 15, 2025
Book 1 of the Ancient Origins series. One of many "apocryphal" stories I've read. Not bad. Good in parts, dumb in others. Basic premise is ok. An asteroid is/does collide with the Earth. Preparations had been under way for a couple years to save as much of humanity as possible - in massive bunkers buried miles underground. The story follows three different groups, one connected directly to the underground shelter, one a small group of people responsible for some mentally handicapped adults, and 3 young archeologists who discover alien relics in connection with the underground shelter projects. As I said, an ok story with some interesting characters. Nowhere near as good as The Stand or Lucifer's Hammer or SevenEves or Malevil.
October 1, 2022
Loved it
I have been reading a lot of AG Riddle and wanted something similar. Goodreads recommend this and I was hook immediately. It had everything - mystery, archeology, Sci fi / dystopian theme.
Really enjoyed the characters, getting to know them and seeing how they all fitted together. Already downloaded the next book in the series.
I have been reading a lot of AG Riddle and wanted something similar. Goodreads recommend this and I was hook immediately. It had everything - mystery, archeology, Sci fi / dystopian theme.
Really enjoyed the characters, getting to know them and seeing how they all fitted together. Already downloaded the next book in the series.
June 4, 2024
The ending gave me goosebumps
The book started off very slow and similar to a lot of science fiction books. It was still very easy to listen to, and I was just going through the motions and wasn't technically enjoying it, but the ending was so good.I actually want to read book two now.
The book started off very slow and similar to a lot of science fiction books. It was still very easy to listen to, and I was just going through the motions and wasn't technically enjoying it, but the ending was so good.I actually want to read book two now.
July 28, 2022
Very intriguing sci-fi plot but slow moving
Very interesting plot, many different main characters from different parts of the world. However, the story itself was slow moving to me. Something as monumental as an apocalyptic event PLUS the finding of an unknown (either human or alien) civilization should have been action packed but it really wasn’t. This is a series of six books which to me explains why the author goes into such detail of the main characters. Some of this detail is as trivial as the conversations the characters are having while eating lunch. While this dialogue helps humanize the main characters it also slowed down the momentum for me. I didn’t hate the book but at this point I’m not sure if I will read the others.
Very interesting plot, many different main characters from different parts of the world. However, the story itself was slow moving to me. Something as monumental as an apocalyptic event PLUS the finding of an unknown (either human or alien) civilization should have been action packed but it really wasn’t. This is a series of six books which to me explains why the author goes into such detail of the main characters. Some of this detail is as trivial as the conversations the characters are having while eating lunch. While this dialogue helps humanize the main characters it also slowed down the momentum for me. I didn’t hate the book but at this point I’m not sure if I will read the others.
November 13, 2017
Three Stars is Generous
The overall plot is great; love the idea, and with a great writer this could be a huge hit. However, the writing is not great. I am not a great writer either and I was able to spot a dozen mistakes in the prologue. One of the first things I thought of was the instruction I received in a high school English class, “Show, don’t tell.” That advice was not followed.
Character development was poor, and interaction between characters was unrealistic. The dynamic between archaeologists Trish and Jason was extremely annoying.
With all that said - I’m still interested in the story and will read the rest before my Kindle Unlimited trial membership is up. I hope this author can get a hold of a good editor, because the story has great potential.
The overall plot is great; love the idea, and with a great writer this could be a huge hit. However, the writing is not great. I am not a great writer either and I was able to spot a dozen mistakes in the prologue. One of the first things I thought of was the instruction I received in a high school English class, “Show, don’t tell.” That advice was not followed.
Character development was poor, and interaction between characters was unrealistic. The dynamic between archaeologists Trish and Jason was extremely annoying.
With all that said - I’m still interested in the story and will read the rest before my Kindle Unlimited trial membership is up. I hope this author can get a hold of a good editor, because the story has great potential.
August 31, 2020
I'm glad I haven't had to pay for it
I am only 40% in to this comic without pictures, and cannot go on. Apart from some unusually strong criticisms of the Catholic church, all of which I agreed with, this story so far is a combination of Enid Blyton's Famous Five, and Schoobie Doo, sadly without the dog . A group of gloriously funny young people on the Eve of a total disaster that should, regardless of the optimism shown in the plot, totally destroy life as we know it, get up to a totally meaningless search for an archeological oddity that has nothing to do with anything going on in the main plot. Nothing ever stops them pulling " ripping" jokes on their colleagues and finding unlikely ways out of disaster. I suggest this should be re labeled for very young adults.
I am only 40% in to this comic without pictures, and cannot go on. Apart from some unusually strong criticisms of the Catholic church, all of which I agreed with, this story so far is a combination of Enid Blyton's Famous Five, and Schoobie Doo, sadly without the dog . A group of gloriously funny young people on the Eve of a total disaster that should, regardless of the optimism shown in the plot, totally destroy life as we know it, get up to a totally meaningless search for an archeological oddity that has nothing to do with anything going on in the main plot. Nothing ever stops them pulling " ripping" jokes on their colleagues and finding unlikely ways out of disaster. I suggest this should be re labeled for very young adults.
October 6, 2018
Magnificent
Robert Storey is a mastermind of suspense and intrigue. His characters are well thought out. The story is charged with excitement and suspense and is extremely well written. You won't regret starting this series for, like me, you'll be reading it again and again (although this is only my second read through). His story is engrossing and makes you keep going over and over again the things that are happening. A must read!
Robert Storey is a mastermind of suspense and intrigue. His characters are well thought out. The story is charged with excitement and suspense and is extremely well written. You won't regret starting this series for, like me, you'll be reading it again and again (although this is only my second read through). His story is engrossing and makes you keep going over and over again the things that are happening. A must read!
September 29, 2017
I only read to 26%. While I know many may not consider that a fair go it IS 1/4 of the way through the book and at this point the majority of that has been spent dealing with politics in an underground bunker. It is far too slow and I'm not intrigued enough to continue at this point. I did like the premise, but it's just taking far too long to get somewhere that I care about.
October 25, 2014
An interesting read concerning the possible end to all life on earth due to an asteroid, the mystery of a race of giants that existed in the past, alien technology and conspiracy. Looking forward to a sequel.
March 26, 2018
My Book Review Number 164:
This review is on Ancient Origins, Revelations, Book 1 by Robert Storey. This is the first book I have read by this Sci-Fi author. It is a Sci-Fi doomsday suspense thriller that begins in 2017 and moves to the year 2040.
The story starts with a Prologue dated November 13, 2017. Professor Steiner is head of a massive government subterranean facility. He is called to the White House to meet the Vice President, the Chief of Staff, a General from the Joint Chiefs and the Deputy Director of National Intelligence. Professor Steiner is about to learn an asteroid discovered in 2011 will hit the Earth in 2040, causing a near extinction level event.
The destruction from the asteroid would be much worse than the asteroid that destroyed the dinosaurs sixty-five million years ago. The Earth would be plunged into darkness for many years. Most people, animals and plant life would be lost. The only cost effective means of human survival is building massive subterranean facilities around the world to house hundreds of thousands of people selected for survival of the human race.
Professor Steiner is chosen by the Global Meteor Response Council, GMRC, under control of the UN, to head the program to build multiple facilities. He would become one of the most powerful persons in the world. His job is to begin immediately. He will face many obstacles and attacks.
On a completely separate plot line and story, twenty years later in 2040 in London, England, we meet another set of characters led by Sarah Morgan, a leading archaeologists and anthropologist. She has uncovered unusual artifacts that point to a new race of giant humans that lived many hundreds of thousands of years ago. This race had advanced technology and some powerful people want to keep this discovery a secret from the world. They go to great lengths to prevent Sarah from learning the truth and telling the world.
These two plot lines will eventually merge in the story and the various characters will meet at the end of Book 1 for reasons yet to be explained. Both storylines are filled with suspense, intrigue, mystery, murder and more.
I give this book Four Stars because the story is suspenseful, interesting and filled with mystery. The two main plot lines move at a fast pace that involve many different groups of people and settings. The characters are well developed and believable. The dialogue and writing style are good. My only issue with the book is the story is overcomplicated by two competing plot lines for reasons not clearly understood. Each plot line could have been a story in itself. There are five books in this series. I look forward to reading Book 2.
This review is on Ancient Origins, Revelations, Book 1 by Robert Storey. This is the first book I have read by this Sci-Fi author. It is a Sci-Fi doomsday suspense thriller that begins in 2017 and moves to the year 2040.
The story starts with a Prologue dated November 13, 2017. Professor Steiner is head of a massive government subterranean facility. He is called to the White House to meet the Vice President, the Chief of Staff, a General from the Joint Chiefs and the Deputy Director of National Intelligence. Professor Steiner is about to learn an asteroid discovered in 2011 will hit the Earth in 2040, causing a near extinction level event.
The destruction from the asteroid would be much worse than the asteroid that destroyed the dinosaurs sixty-five million years ago. The Earth would be plunged into darkness for many years. Most people, animals and plant life would be lost. The only cost effective means of human survival is building massive subterranean facilities around the world to house hundreds of thousands of people selected for survival of the human race.
Professor Steiner is chosen by the Global Meteor Response Council, GMRC, under control of the UN, to head the program to build multiple facilities. He would become one of the most powerful persons in the world. His job is to begin immediately. He will face many obstacles and attacks.
On a completely separate plot line and story, twenty years later in 2040 in London, England, we meet another set of characters led by Sarah Morgan, a leading archaeologists and anthropologist. She has uncovered unusual artifacts that point to a new race of giant humans that lived many hundreds of thousands of years ago. This race had advanced technology and some powerful people want to keep this discovery a secret from the world. They go to great lengths to prevent Sarah from learning the truth and telling the world.
These two plot lines will eventually merge in the story and the various characters will meet at the end of Book 1 for reasons yet to be explained. Both storylines are filled with suspense, intrigue, mystery, murder and more.
I give this book Four Stars because the story is suspenseful, interesting and filled with mystery. The two main plot lines move at a fast pace that involve many different groups of people and settings. The characters are well developed and believable. The dialogue and writing style are good. My only issue with the book is the story is overcomplicated by two competing plot lines for reasons not clearly understood. Each plot line could have been a story in itself. There are five books in this series. I look forward to reading Book 2.
December 25, 2020
This is a science fiction thriller. I can't decide if I really liked it or not. Hence 3 stars. There are 2 parallel stories going on. The first is about 3 archaeologists who are searching for evidence of an ancient civilisation. The second is about a worldwide organisation set up to preserve the human race after an asteroid hits earth in 2040. The 2 stories come together right at the end.
It is easy enough to follow along with the switching between the stories although if you are easily confused it could be a problem. I found the ending very unsatisfactory as it is basically a cliff hanger. As this is apparently the first in a series of 6 it would seem that you need to read more. I am not sufficiently invested to do that. Shame as it could of been a great book.
***********************************
Hidden deep beneath a remote desert is our planet’s biggest secret. Sarah Morgan’s only mistake? Finding it.
The world holds its breath as the colossal asteroid 2011 AG5 hurtles towards the earth. As humanity is faced with extinction, archaeologist Sarah Morgan is in a race against time to uncover a secret that has been buried for millennia: that an advanced ancestor once populated the earth. As Sarah travels across the continents in search of the truth, she discovers there are those that will kill to protect this most ancient of secrets...
Meanwhile, in a clandestine facility below the earth’s surface, Professor Steiner has been charged with overseeing the preservation of the human race. Steiner believes he is on schedule to deliver his task, but as the world is poised on the brink of destruction Steiner’s plans begin to unravel.
That which has lain buried may yet prove to be their only hope…
It is easy enough to follow along with the switching between the stories although if you are easily confused it could be a problem. I found the ending very unsatisfactory as it is basically a cliff hanger. As this is apparently the first in a series of 6 it would seem that you need to read more. I am not sufficiently invested to do that. Shame as it could of been a great book.
***********************************
Hidden deep beneath a remote desert is our planet’s biggest secret. Sarah Morgan’s only mistake? Finding it.
The world holds its breath as the colossal asteroid 2011 AG5 hurtles towards the earth. As humanity is faced with extinction, archaeologist Sarah Morgan is in a race against time to uncover a secret that has been buried for millennia: that an advanced ancestor once populated the earth. As Sarah travels across the continents in search of the truth, she discovers there are those that will kill to protect this most ancient of secrets...
Meanwhile, in a clandestine facility below the earth’s surface, Professor Steiner has been charged with overseeing the preservation of the human race. Steiner believes he is on schedule to deliver his task, but as the world is poised on the brink of destruction Steiner’s plans begin to unravel.
That which has lain buried may yet prove to be their only hope…
December 20, 2017
This is the first in a series of books. There are various themes here:
1. Sarah and her friends are archaeologists. They have discovered what seem to be items from a race of giants that lived before human beings. The problem is that the Vatican has sworn to keep any such discoveries for themselves and to have a massive cover-up. What they don't count on is Sarah's determination to find the truth.
2. There's an asteroid heading towards the Earth and it's too big to divert with nukes. Deep underground shelters are built all around the world. The common people, though, aren't told about just how severe th event will be. Rioting becomes widespread.
3. There's conflict with various levels working in the U.S. A military contingent has plans of its own. A group of soldiers-for-hire has their own plans.
4. One of the major nations takes advantage of the chaos to attack two neighboring countries and to nuke them to pieces.
It's complex and if the author had not done a good job of trying to make things understandable and to keep the characters realistic then the story would have failed. Instead, the reader can follow all the main persona with interest. Further, there are questions left unanswered, especially in relation to the giants and some truly gigantic underground structures.
This is a really good introduction to the series. It's good enough that I plan to get all the other books in this group.
1. Sarah and her friends are archaeologists. They have discovered what seem to be items from a race of giants that lived before human beings. The problem is that the Vatican has sworn to keep any such discoveries for themselves and to have a massive cover-up. What they don't count on is Sarah's determination to find the truth.
2. There's an asteroid heading towards the Earth and it's too big to divert with nukes. Deep underground shelters are built all around the world. The common people, though, aren't told about just how severe th event will be. Rioting becomes widespread.
3. There's conflict with various levels working in the U.S. A military contingent has plans of its own. A group of soldiers-for-hire has their own plans.
4. One of the major nations takes advantage of the chaos to attack two neighboring countries and to nuke them to pieces.
It's complex and if the author had not done a good job of trying to make things understandable and to keep the characters realistic then the story would have failed. Instead, the reader can follow all the main persona with interest. Further, there are questions left unanswered, especially in relation to the giants and some truly gigantic underground structures.
This is a really good introduction to the series. It's good enough that I plan to get all the other books in this group.
April 19, 2018
Bad writing, bad story
This book is a showcase for conspiracy theories, involving the Vatican, nameless third parties, intelligence agencies, the early 1800's U.S. government, among others and is set in a disaster movie plot. This is National Treasure, DaVinci Code, every space disaster movie, X-Files, Ancient Alien theories and Raiders of the Lost Ark all in one package. This writer was looking for a big audience not trying to create a good novel.
The characters are such movie stereotypes that not much need be said about them. The plot is a confused mess and the editing might have been more rigorous. The book has no ending, it's a cliff hanger for The next volume.
The human race is in danger but the Vatican is worried about destroying archeological finds that would contradict the bible. A mercenary corporation based on the U.S., is battling the U.S. army. It was hilarious to find that a mercenary outfit had at least one aircraft carrier. The major female character is a hybrid Laura Croft-treasure hunter-archeologist who destroys sites around the world looking for stuff. She has a weird abuse relationship history, yet wears entitlement like a badge.
The story is a blend of complexity without logic, time frames that would make undergraduates laugh and a collection of loose ends from anthropology. There is an implication that aliens might be involved and I can see Atlantis showing up.
I don't think that I would read anything by this writer again.
This book is a showcase for conspiracy theories, involving the Vatican, nameless third parties, intelligence agencies, the early 1800's U.S. government, among others and is set in a disaster movie plot. This is National Treasure, DaVinci Code, every space disaster movie, X-Files, Ancient Alien theories and Raiders of the Lost Ark all in one package. This writer was looking for a big audience not trying to create a good novel.
The characters are such movie stereotypes that not much need be said about them. The plot is a confused mess and the editing might have been more rigorous. The book has no ending, it's a cliff hanger for The next volume.
The human race is in danger but the Vatican is worried about destroying archeological finds that would contradict the bible. A mercenary corporation based on the U.S., is battling the U.S. army. It was hilarious to find that a mercenary outfit had at least one aircraft carrier. The major female character is a hybrid Laura Croft-treasure hunter-archeologist who destroys sites around the world looking for stuff. She has a weird abuse relationship history, yet wears entitlement like a badge.
The story is a blend of complexity without logic, time frames that would make undergraduates laugh and a collection of loose ends from anthropology. There is an implication that aliens might be involved and I can see Atlantis showing up.
I don't think that I would read anything by this writer again.
January 10, 2025
This story is about an asteroid that was discovered and eventually impacts the earth. There are different groups of people that are followed in the story, the scientific leaders, political, military, archaeological and caregivers/mentally challenged people. Overall, the storyline, premise and characters were fairly well developed and the book was well written, but the story failed to depict the horror that would occur, such as the tsunamis, earthquakes, hurricanes, fires, even the nuclear attacks were glossed over. Why include something if little time is going to be spent describing it? Sure, it spoke of how people typically respond, such riots, theft, martial law, some empathetic people, some villainous and despicable, but again I just didn’t feel the terror that would have been unleashed. I enjoy reading post apocalyptic stories, but with this story, I didn’t feel the shock, fear, savagery, etc.. I persevered and did read the entire book. The archeological aspect was for me, the most interesting and the discovery near the end was amazing, but I wish there was more to the story when it concluded. The introduction of the next book in the series didn’t get into the continuation of the characters from the first book, but who knows, it may later on. I’ll pass on the next book.
July 20, 2021
Good story so far but text issues abound
First, I will say overall I've enjoyed the book and do intend to read the next in the series. Ordinarily I would have given it 4 stars. However, I had to knock a star off for all the British spellings and expressions. I don't mind British spelling and expressions if the setting locations or characters are also British. But a huge amount of this story is dealing with American people, places and government. For example, a random caregiver in Albuquerque wouldn't use much (any) British slang. The American government would not name even its dark organizations as Programmes. I'm not being a stickler for proper grammar here. It is so pervasive it kept pulling me out of the flow of the story. At least there are 3 characters originally from GB and Wales but I hope the author decided to become more familiar with American infrastructure, culture and spelling since he chose to center his book in America.
The story and characters are strong enough that I will read at least the next book in the series (and likely continue to be annoyed by this lack of authenticity).
First, I will say overall I've enjoyed the book and do intend to read the next in the series. Ordinarily I would have given it 4 stars. However, I had to knock a star off for all the British spellings and expressions. I don't mind British spelling and expressions if the setting locations or characters are also British. But a huge amount of this story is dealing with American people, places and government. For example, a random caregiver in Albuquerque wouldn't use much (any) British slang. The American government would not name even its dark organizations as Programmes. I'm not being a stickler for proper grammar here. It is so pervasive it kept pulling me out of the flow of the story. At least there are 3 characters originally from GB and Wales but I hope the author decided to become more familiar with American infrastructure, culture and spelling since he chose to center his book in America.
The story and characters are strong enough that I will read at least the next book in the series (and likely continue to be annoyed by this lack of authenticity).
January 17, 2025
The original theme of this book really appealed to my normally curious mind but reality on reading it - well 75% cos I glossed over the last 25% - was that things were too fantastic to be true. Granted the “world” had a long time to prepare for the catastrophe that was going to impact the world in a fashion similar to that which led to the extinction of the dinosaurs. But as the catastrophe approached lots of the world including the lead archaeologists were still going about life as if nothing was about to happen. Reality or…….. Add in the megalomaniac who on the back of this wants to control the world and still the archaeologists continue even after the world has been hit by the asteroid. Ermm sorry but this was several steps too far from any form of reality to me and there are still more books in the series. Sorry but this didn’t hit the button for me
September 28, 2024
The world holds its breath as the colossal asteroid 2011 AG5 hurtles towards the earth. As humanity is faced with extinction, archaeologist Sarah Morgan is in a race against time to uncover a secret that has been buried for millennia: that an advanced ancestor once populated the earth. As Sarah travels across the continents in search of the truth, she discovers there are those that will kill to protect this most ancient of secrets...
Meanwhile, in a clandestine facility below the earth’s surface, Professor Steiner has been charged with overseeing the preservation of the human race. Steiner believes he is on schedule to deliver his task, but as the world is poised on the brink of destruction Steiner’s plans begin to unravel.
Meanwhile, in a clandestine facility below the earth’s surface, Professor Steiner has been charged with overseeing the preservation of the human race. Steiner believes he is on schedule to deliver his task, but as the world is poised on the brink of destruction Steiner’s plans begin to unravel.
August 6, 2021
I was very entertained
I like this book, I wasn’t expecting much. The characters are not all that well done and only the main character’s have any kind of depth, small as that may be. All in all it was an interesting read, the premise was fun, I like this sort of story - astroids, end of days etc.
I would read the next one, it’s one of those books where you just fly through it in a couple of days.
I read to be entertained, mission accomplished. Don’t expect a literary masterpiece. Take this book like you would any history channel or discovery channel style documentaries.
I like this book, I wasn’t expecting much. The characters are not all that well done and only the main character’s have any kind of depth, small as that may be. All in all it was an interesting read, the premise was fun, I like this sort of story - astroids, end of days etc.
I would read the next one, it’s one of those books where you just fly through it in a couple of days.
I read to be entertained, mission accomplished. Don’t expect a literary masterpiece. Take this book like you would any history channel or discovery channel style documentaries.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews