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Urban Arcanology #1
Half-blood's Hex
Seth Caldwell has both magic in his blood and larceny in his heart. Too bad they could end up getting him killed.
Descended from Sir Francis Drake, he’s inherited his famous ancestor’s flair for adventure as well as the terrible secret of his bloodline - a curse which is slowly killing him.
Now, with the clock ticking, Seth must travel to an ancient temple in Panama that could hold the key to his salvation. With his family’s enemies hot on his tail, it’s a race against time with death waiting at the finish line.
Descended from Sir Francis Drake, he’s inherited his famous ancestor’s flair for adventure as well as the terrible secret of his bloodline - a curse which is slowly killing him.
Now, with the clock ticking, Seth must travel to an ancient temple in Panama that could hold the key to his salvation. With his family’s enemies hot on his tail, it’s a race against time with death waiting at the finish line.
- GenresUrban FantasyMagic
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2021
112 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
About the author
S.C. Stokes
62 books118 followersSam is a writer of magically-charged fantasy adventures. His passion for action, magic and intrigue spawned his Arcanoverse; a delightfully deluded universe that blends magic, myth, and the modern world in a melting pot that frequently explodes.
When he isn’t hiding away in his writing cave, his favorite hobbies include cooking, indulging sugary cravings, gaming, and trying to make his children laugh. You can find more of his work at www.samuelcstokes.com.
When he isn’t hiding away in his writing cave, his favorite hobbies include cooking, indulging sugary cravings, gaming, and trying to make his children laugh. You can find more of his work at www.samuelcstokes.com.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 4, 2021
Halfblood’s Hex
Buckle up for a thrilling Indiana Jones like adventure that leaves you on the edge of your seat the whole way through! I absolutely loved it! Seth is badass fun! I can’t wait for more from this series that takes magic, history, curses and so much more and weaves it together seamlessly into an action-packed unforgettable adventure!
Buckle up for a thrilling Indiana Jones like adventure that leaves you on the edge of your seat the whole way through! I absolutely loved it! Seth is badass fun! I can’t wait for more from this series that takes magic, history, curses and so much more and weaves it together seamlessly into an action-packed unforgettable adventure!
June 1, 2021
Samuel Stokes – UA Bk 1 – Halfblood’s Hex – Reviewed 5/31/21 – Read 5/20/21
The clock ticks for Seth Caldwell, years before his family was cursed, now he is close to answers.
Seth Caldwell, a wizard, has been searching for years for the answers to removing the curse from his family. The one that will drive his father mad enough to kill himself, then he is next. When the museum announces that it has the Mascara de la Muerte, he knows that it will give him access to the ancient Brujas de Sangres, and their lost temple of death. This temple is the ultimate goal for removing the curse.
He has a problem though, the curator is his girlfriend/fiance, Lara. His love that he never thought he would find. Seth does everything he can to protect her so that she does not get blamed when he robs the museum, taking the mask. But when does anything ever go right? When he gains access to her office, he hears someone behind him, then the voice that he does not want to hear, says, “turn around”! He knows that voice so well, he just doesn’t want to hurt her. Of course, she can’t believe it when she sees him. Nor had he ever got around to telling her that he was a wizard, oops! Well, it is what it is, and he needs the mask!
Join Seth as he races to reach the temple before it is destroyed, and all is lost…
What did I like? Well, I loved Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider! This style gives this book the edge that it needs, and it is going to be a winner, filled with lots of magic. I was hooked on page one, but I also have read all of the author's other books, so I was prepared for an ultimate read. His Conjuring a Coroner series is amazing, but I think he has stepped up his game with this new series. I enjoy a fast-paced, intriguing, mystery with lots of action, and this one hit the payload, BIG TIME!
What will you like? Magic, intrigue, mysterious characters, mystery, fast-paced, interesting, and history! You can’t beat the ingredients for an awesome book like this one. The characters are over the top, the mysterious curse leads all the way back for history, the interwoven mayhem and interfering characters will intrigue you. This is one of the fastest-paced books that Sam has done yet, he has put his heart and soul into it, and it is a winner. I look forward to the next chapter of Seth Caldwell’s life. It will have to be sensational, after this book!
• ASIN: B091MTTKJS
• Publisher: Prescient Publishing
• Publication Date: 6/4/2021
• File Size: 4949 KB
• Print Length: 264 pages
• Genre: Horror Comedy, Occult Suspense, Mythology
The clock ticks for Seth Caldwell, years before his family was cursed, now he is close to answers.
Seth Caldwell, a wizard, has been searching for years for the answers to removing the curse from his family. The one that will drive his father mad enough to kill himself, then he is next. When the museum announces that it has the Mascara de la Muerte, he knows that it will give him access to the ancient Brujas de Sangres, and their lost temple of death. This temple is the ultimate goal for removing the curse.
He has a problem though, the curator is his girlfriend/fiance, Lara. His love that he never thought he would find. Seth does everything he can to protect her so that she does not get blamed when he robs the museum, taking the mask. But when does anything ever go right? When he gains access to her office, he hears someone behind him, then the voice that he does not want to hear, says, “turn around”! He knows that voice so well, he just doesn’t want to hurt her. Of course, she can’t believe it when she sees him. Nor had he ever got around to telling her that he was a wizard, oops! Well, it is what it is, and he needs the mask!
Join Seth as he races to reach the temple before it is destroyed, and all is lost…
What did I like? Well, I loved Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider! This style gives this book the edge that it needs, and it is going to be a winner, filled with lots of magic. I was hooked on page one, but I also have read all of the author's other books, so I was prepared for an ultimate read. His Conjuring a Coroner series is amazing, but I think he has stepped up his game with this new series. I enjoy a fast-paced, intriguing, mystery with lots of action, and this one hit the payload, BIG TIME!
What will you like? Magic, intrigue, mysterious characters, mystery, fast-paced, interesting, and history! You can’t beat the ingredients for an awesome book like this one. The characters are over the top, the mysterious curse leads all the way back for history, the interwoven mayhem and interfering characters will intrigue you. This is one of the fastest-paced books that Sam has done yet, he has put his heart and soul into it, and it is a winner. I look forward to the next chapter of Seth Caldwell’s life. It will have to be sensational, after this book!
• ASIN: B091MTTKJS
• Publisher: Prescient Publishing
• Publication Date: 6/4/2021
• File Size: 4949 KB
• Print Length: 264 pages
• Genre: Horror Comedy, Occult Suspense, Mythology
May 25, 2021
Just try to breathe if you can!
I was excited to read this spinoff of the Conjuring the Coroner series. There are some hints if not direct reference to the attack on New York that had taken place in that series however, it is not necessary to have read it before this book. This could easily be read as a stand alone book but it would enhance your experience if you had read Conjuring the Coroner. I know I had some “aha” moments as I read. I’m thrilled that Mr. Stokes saw fit to include those New York moments so we could get a different perspective of those events. Half-Blood’s Hex is a little bit magic and a little bit Temple of Doom. Just as I was thinking Seth was home free, things took a turn for the worst. I could not figure out how he was going to get out of it. But that turn for the worst wasn’t actually “the” turn for the worst. It got much ‘worst’. How he got out of it was remarkable. Mr Stokes has quite the imagination and power in his words. He writes clearly described scenes which make it easy to visualize as well as the action scenes. Seth gets himself into and out of trouble so many times it seems as though action is the norm for him. By the time you reach the end you will be taking deep breaths just to recoup. But don’t spend too much time on that deep breath because there is a hint of much more coming in the next book.
I was excited to read this spinoff of the Conjuring the Coroner series. There are some hints if not direct reference to the attack on New York that had taken place in that series however, it is not necessary to have read it before this book. This could easily be read as a stand alone book but it would enhance your experience if you had read Conjuring the Coroner. I know I had some “aha” moments as I read. I’m thrilled that Mr. Stokes saw fit to include those New York moments so we could get a different perspective of those events. Half-Blood’s Hex is a little bit magic and a little bit Temple of Doom. Just as I was thinking Seth was home free, things took a turn for the worst. I could not figure out how he was going to get out of it. But that turn for the worst wasn’t actually “the” turn for the worst. It got much ‘worst’. How he got out of it was remarkable. Mr Stokes has quite the imagination and power in his words. He writes clearly described scenes which make it easy to visualize as well as the action scenes. Seth gets himself into and out of trouble so many times it seems as though action is the norm for him. By the time you reach the end you will be taking deep breaths just to recoup. But don’t spend too much time on that deep breath because there is a hint of much more coming in the next book.
June 25, 2021
Great beginning of a great new series. Seth is a wizard that specializes in in historical arcane artifacts. One reason was to keep non magic users safe another was for historical archives but the biggest was his family’s history and the curse that came because of it. A rich young man who traveled much kept my interest well into the night and rivaled Kasey’s adventures in NewYork perhaps exceeding her stories. S. C. Stokes has begun writing another tale about those that are gifted in magic abilities and did a great job. I highly recommend this book to those that like magical adventure tales. It is a good read.
May 18, 2021
Breathtaking book. Sam has created another incredible adventure series that is every bit as good as Kasey’s series.
It’s a mix of the Dirk Pitt books and Indiana (J) but is in a class of its own.
Belonging to a wizard family has its benefits and it’s curses but thrilling fantasy doesn’t even begin to describe how good this book is.
I still haven’t forgiven Sam for the ending. It’s a car thing but you’ll have to read it to find out what I mean.
This is an outstanding book as I’m sure the series will be. Romance thrown in for good measure.
All in all a must read.
It’s a mix of the Dirk Pitt books and Indiana (J) but is in a class of its own.
Belonging to a wizard family has its benefits and it’s curses but thrilling fantasy doesn’t even begin to describe how good this book is.
I still haven’t forgiven Sam for the ending. It’s a car thing but you’ll have to read it to find out what I mean.
This is an outstanding book as I’m sure the series will be. Romance thrown in for good measure.
All in all a must read.
June 1, 2021
Another great series in the making as we are introduced to Sam and his adventures. This is book 1 and introduces all the fun new characters and made me fall for them all as they are both fun and entertaining. I loved how the story started and was hooked to the end. Had to see if Sam was successful on his little quest and would he survive to the end. I admit I laughed from all the hilarious scenes, Sam himself, and his friends. I loved the action, adventure, magic, and might be coming next. I read it in one sitting as it was so good.
February 10, 2022
Magic, history, and a race to break a family curse? What more can you ask for in a book?
It's been compared to the likes of Indiana Jones, but seeing as how I've never really watched it, I don't feel I can make that same comparison in good faith. I did, however, have some serious Uncharted flashbacks as I read this book. Hehe. I found this book to be just as exciting as his Conjuring A Coroner series, perhaps even more so! I will be looking forward to reading more about Seth, as he's quickly becoming one of my favorite characters!
It's been compared to the likes of Indiana Jones, but seeing as how I've never really watched it, I don't feel I can make that same comparison in good faith. I did, however, have some serious Uncharted flashbacks as I read this book. Hehe. I found this book to be just as exciting as his Conjuring A Coroner series, perhaps even more so! I will be looking forward to reading more about Seth, as he's quickly becoming one of my favorite characters!
June 5, 2021
Set in the same universe as the Conjuring the Coroner series, but set after those events, follow Seth as he tries to break the family curse. There’s mystery, adventure, romance, and of course, magic! If you’re an Indiana Jones fan, you’ll love Seth! These books keep getting better and better! You don’t need to have read the other series in order to enjoy this one. I received a free copy of this book, with no obligation.
July 25, 2022
Half-Blood's Hex (Urban Arcanology Book 1)' my fourth read from author Samuel Stokes will not be my last! Breakneck pace, intricately & tightly woven story line. A must read for Indiana Jones lovers! “I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. the next book in the series, Half-Blood's Bargain (Urban Arcanology Book 2). (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
June 1, 2021
The author "knocked it out of the park" with this first book of a new series. Archaeology, adventure, family curse and magic. Put it altogether and you have an exciting, fast paced, rollercoaster ride! I love the characters especially Seth Caldwell. He is like Indiana Jones with magic. He is so cool. And where he goes, trouble follows.... I am so looking forward to reading the next book!
June 6, 2021
Magical Indiana Jones!
All Seth wanted was to free himself and his father from the curse and to have a normal life with Lara. When you are a criminal arcanologist life is not simply. Seth takes you along on a wild, fast paced action adventure. Great, interesting story looking forward to the rest of this series.
All Seth wanted was to free himself and his father from the curse and to have a normal life with Lara. When you are a criminal arcanologist life is not simply. Seth takes you along on a wild, fast paced action adventure. Great, interesting story looking forward to the rest of this series.
June 10, 2021
Yes! A new series from Mr Stokes and what an awesome action packed start!
Seth is an amusing, rogueish character with oodles of charm with a really interesting back story that we get shown in parts during this first book.
The action does not stop and I'm glad I had the day off so I could binge read this.
Seth is an amusing, rogueish character with oodles of charm with a really interesting back story that we get shown in parts during this first book.
The action does not stop and I'm glad I had the day off so I could binge read this.
March 20, 2022
Awesome Adventure
I am still trying to catch my breath from this awesome, action packed adventure. It never slowed down and with a storyline full of plot twist would not let me put it down. The characters were very believable and easy to identify with. I really like this book and I highly recommend it.
I am still trying to catch my breath from this awesome, action packed adventure. It never slowed down and with a storyline full of plot twist would not let me put it down. The characters were very believable and easy to identify with. I really like this book and I highly recommend it.
February 9, 2024
Entertaining start to a series
I definitely enjoyed this book. It took a little bit for me to get into it at first, but the story picked up pretty fast. I'm interested to see how Seth will handle all the deals he made (and those made for him without his input.) Will definitely continue with this series.
I definitely enjoyed this book. It took a little bit for me to get into it at first, but the story picked up pretty fast. I'm interested to see how Seth will handle all the deals he made (and those made for him without his input.) Will definitely continue with this series.
June 20, 2021
So I don't normally read this kind of genre...well I REALLY enjoyed this book! Has action, adventure, magic...all wrapped into a great story! I cannot wait to read the second one. I highly recommend this book.
July 22, 2021
Series of rip offs poorly put together with a lot of failed attempts at humor
author tried and failed to be witty through out book. Very bad writing. Tried to be edgy and it was just awkward.
author tried and failed to be witty through out book. Very bad writing. Tried to be edgy and it was just awkward.
December 6, 2021
Fun supernatural Indiana Jones
So this novel has the action of a sigma force novel, but with a main character who is Indiana Jones mixed with Hellboy living in Harry Potters world. It reads well mystery action intrigue and above all page turning. Paced well a fun read.
So this novel has the action of a sigma force novel, but with a main character who is Indiana Jones mixed with Hellboy living in Harry Potters world. It reads well mystery action intrigue and above all page turning. Paced well a fun read.
September 18, 2022
excellent
Great book, I needed something to read after rereading Dresden files. This fits the bill nicely, some significant difference between the two but one thing in common is excellent writing.
Great book, I needed something to read after rereading Dresden files. This fits the bill nicely, some significant difference between the two but one thing in common is excellent writing.
November 6, 2022
Exciting story, couldn't put it down.
Great exciting book, full of adventure and Indiana Jones like character.
5 stars ALL THE WAY!!!!
First time reading from this author and it won't be my last. Now on to book 2
Great exciting book, full of adventure and Indiana Jones like character.
5 stars ALL THE WAY!!!!
First time reading from this author and it won't be my last. Now on to book 2
May 19, 2021
This is a great beginning to this series. This was an action packed story. It held me attention and I had to find out how the story ended. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
June 9, 2021
Fun and exciting!
A wild ride from beginning to end! I love the different take on the magical world and the exciting adventure this book takes you on.
A wild ride from beginning to end! I love the different take on the magical world and the exciting adventure this book takes you on.
July 5, 2021
Family troubles
A fun globe-trotting adventure for lovers of Indiana Jones style action. I'm already looking forward to diving into book two.
A fun globe-trotting adventure for lovers of Indiana Jones style action. I'm already looking forward to diving into book two.
September 27, 2021
Urban Archcanology #1
Really good read and the series looks like it will be incredible. The characters and storyline is strong with the author's touch so looking forward to it.
Really good read and the series looks like it will be incredible. The characters and storyline is strong with the author's touch so looking forward to it.
December 30, 2021
This is a well written and developed characters. The story is catching and with the strong characters makes for a very enjoyable read. Great Reading Everyone!
March 20, 2024
great read
It’s a very well written story keeping me interested all the way through I hope to read more of the books in this series
It’s a very well written story keeping me interested all the way through I hope to read more of the books in this series
May 15, 2024
Enjoyable. Fast paced. Very readable.
June 1, 2021
Taken from the magical world of Kasey Chase, Mr. Stokes new series is rockin'! Halfblood's Hex is even more exciting and so full of adventure as the protagonist, Seth Caldwell, tries to solve a family curse. In the style of Indiana Jones, Seth by trade is an arcanologist and a wizard who heads to Panama looking for clues to break his curse. Mr. Stoke has up his game in story telling with great world building and made this a fun read with detailed, exciting, action and lots of twist and turns. You will not be disappointed in Halfblood's Hex, I couldn't read it fast enough.
July 27, 2021
Indiana Jones meets ... magic!
Set in the same universe as the Conjuring the Coroner series, but set after those events, follow Seth as he tries to break the family curse. There’s mystery, adventure, romance, and of course, magic! If you’re an Indiana Jones fan, you’ll love Seth! These books keep getting better and better! You don’t need to have read the other series in order to enjoy this one. I received a free copy of this book, with no obligation.
Set in the same universe as the Conjuring the Coroner series, but set after those events, follow Seth as he tries to break the family curse. There’s mystery, adventure, romance, and of course, magic! If you’re an Indiana Jones fan, you’ll love Seth! These books keep getting better and better! You don’t need to have read the other series in order to enjoy this one. I received a free copy of this book, with no obligation.
February 3, 2022
Urban Fantasy Feast
I loved everything about this book - the fast action, great characters, terrific storyline, and particularly the way this author wove a fantasy world filled with interesting people, plots and places. A wonderful can’t-put-it-down read for the avid urban fantasy reader. A must read. Any wait for book 2 in this series. Wish I could give 6 stars!
I loved everything about this book - the fast action, great characters, terrific storyline, and particularly the way this author wove a fantasy world filled with interesting people, plots and places. A wonderful can’t-put-it-down read for the avid urban fantasy reader. A must read. Any wait for book 2 in this series. Wish I could give 6 stars!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews