The Guardian's Legacy

Coin of Time (Book # 1) #1

by Luciana Cavallaro

An ancient cover up, a dangerous legacy and the search for the most powerful object.

A three-thousand-year old magical coin, the disappearance of an old man, fanatical neo-Nazis, and the hunt by Interpol, merge in this gripping story of an ancient cover up, and the transition of an ordinary man into the guardian of the most powerful coin on earth.

High school teacher Nik Zosimos, leads an uncomplicated life until he receives a cryptic phone message from his grandfather, Iasos. He hurries to his grandfather’s finding him relaxed and pleased to see him. A few beers later, Nik leaves his grandfather’s place, stupefied and astounded. Iasos has a secret, one that dates back to the time of Herakles.

But that was just a myth, wasn’t it?

Silver Medalist - 2022 Suspense/Thriller category | The Global Book Awards
Finalist - 2022 Page Turner Awards
Finalist - 13th New Media Film Festival
Quarterfinalist - 2022 ScreenCraft Cinematic Book Competition

Genres: Fantasy

152 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 5, 2021

About the author

Luciana Cavallaro is a multi award-winning author of historical adventure fiction with a mythological twist. Her stories blend ancient history, legendary heroes, and gripping quests, drawing readers into immersive, cinematic worlds. Her books—The Labyrinthine Journey, Minotaur’s Lair, and The Guardian’s Legacy—have been recognised internationally, including as a Finalist in the New Media Film Festival and Quarterfinalist in the ScreenCraft Cinematic Book Competition.

Luciana grew up in Western Australia, where her passion for myths and storytelling began early—so early, in fact, she once tried to drive the family car at age three. That early spark of curiosity and mischief now fuels the imaginative adventures she writes today.

She loves connecting with readers, so feel free to follow her here on Goodreads or visit her website.

Reviews

[Jacqui · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Guardian's Legacy, Book one of Cavallero's new series, Coin of Time (October 2021), is the fascinating story of a 2500-year-old magical coin so powerful it must be guarded constantly against the evil forces that would give anything to possess it. The job historically has been the responsibility of one family, a duty passed down through generations. The reason: to prevent the coin's daunting powers from falling into the hands of dark forces who would possess it for their own nefarious purposes. Twenty-something Nikolaos Zosimos knows nothing about the obligation carried by his eighty-year-old grandfather until the time comes the elder chooses Nik as the next in line. He prepares Nik as best he can, both physically and mentally, and then reveals another piece of the puzzle. There's a second coin, already in the wrong hands. If these evil people can control both coins, it would unleash untold dangers on the rest of the world. It becomes Nik's job, with his grandfather, to steal back this second coin or at worst, prevent losing their own to those who own the second. 

As with all of Cavallaro's novels, this story includes lots of ancient Greek history and enough action to keep everyone entertained. This is the first of the series and sets the stage for a traumatic race through time and space where failure is not an option (admittedly, I'm guessing at this because I haven't read the rest of the series). Highly recommended for those who love stories of ancient Greece and its mythology.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

The Guardian’s Legacy is the first book in the Coin of Time series by Luciana Cavallaro. This is a fantastic adventure story that really captivated me- weaving a tale of ancient Greece, mythology, time travel, action, danger, drama, intrigue, and gripping developments.
Nik has no idea that his life is about to take a very dramatic and exciting turn when his grandfather reveals a huge secret. With a 3000 year-old coin with unbelievable powers at the centre of this adventure- get set for a thrilling read!
As the first book in a new series, this certainly laid some exciting foundations- and that cliffhanger ending has me excitedly awaiting Book #2!

Thank you, Luciana Cavallaro!

[Linnea Tanner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flip a coin and see where you land in the action/adventure book, The Guardian's Legacy, by Luciana Cavallaro. This is Book 1 in the Coin of Time series that promises to be an action-packed tale with a likable hero reminiscent of Indiana Jones and Ben Gates in National Treasure. The prologue begins in a heart-throbbing chase scene in which Nik and a mysterious woman are being chased by assailants on motorcycles. With a flip of an ancient coin, Nik teleports back in time and meets the Greek historian, Herodotus. I asked myself, "Whoah! What just happened?" and was compelled to read the book to find out.

In Chapter 1, the story begins ten months earlier when we are introduced to an unmarried high school teacher, Nicolaos Zosimos (Nik), with an unremarkable life. He receives an urgent call from his grandfather who then urges him to be the next protector of an ancient coin minted by Heracles. At first, Nik wonders if his grandfather has lost his mind but reconsiders after seeing treasures of ancient weapons in his grandfather's house. Further, his grandfather uses high-powered computers to search for clues where the second, identical coin might be. Together, the two coins have unknown powers that have been kept secret through the centuries in case they fall into the wrong hands. When Nik's grandfather detects clues that the second coin has popped in and out of different shops in Europe, he travels there to investigate. When Nik flies later to Europe, he discovers his grandfather has disappeared. More alarming, Nik is being hunted by fanatical neo-Nazis and Interpol, forcing him into action to become the guardian of the most powerful coin in the world.

Author Luciana Cavallaro has written a gripping action-adventure that promises time travel and teleporting in the series. As with her other books, the tale contains a fascinating historical backdrop on how Heracles forged metals used to mint the coins. Details from Greek mythology and the development of minting coins are seamlessly weaved into the plot without distracting from the fast-paced plot. The story follows the traditional structure of Joseph Campbell's The Hero with a Thousand Faces. The unlikely hero, Nik, is an ordinary man propelled into the role of a fierce protector of the ancient coin. The story ends on a climactic cliff-hanger. Lingering curiosity about the prologue compels me to read the entire series.

I highly recommend The Guardian's Legacy for readers who enjoy action/adventure with an archaeological flair and the unique premise of discovering the secrets of two ancient coins that could destroy civilization if it flips into the wrong hands.

[Lorrene Huisman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This was a amazing start to a new series for me to read and enjoy. Needless to say, I was quite impressed and enjoyed this book in more ways than one The book brings mystery, with some history and a whole lot of action, and lots of questions on my end. Highly enjoyed reading this book!

First off I loved how the author opened the book, there was a action scene then we cut to high school. We learn of our main character in this novel, named Nik. He seemed to be a good soul and he certainly grew in many ways as a character! Very likeable and the book was an easy read. I enjoyed the mystery self that Nik get's landed in his lap. Who knew a odd message from your grandfather could set along a strange course of events, and undeniable maybe even put your life and all that you know at stake?

Nik's grandad had a past and what was believed to be a myth. All over this mysterious coin. Was the coin more than it appeared, and what was so important of it? I had many questions as I read through, and when the book talked of past events I was literally nose in my book. Big ole history biff here and the visuals were outstanding to say the least. I loved the mystery surrounding the novel, and I enjoyed that by the end I had more questions than answers. Oh boy, that ending though, I need my hands on the next installment. I need to know more and what happens! The mystery and character development and story line was amazing in all aspects, I was hooked, and truly sucked into reading this rare gem!

Just seriously, holy cow! This book had a lot of stuff going on, and it was so easy to follow, from start to the suspenseful ending that shall carry to the next installment in this series. The book truly delivered in more ways than one, and it is a really good book, and I am glad I came across this author, as I now desperately need to read more of their works. Honestly amazing read, seriously read this book!

[Kerry Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Guardians Legacy by Luciana Cavallaro is the first book in the Coin of Time series. This is a well written and adventurous story that is routed in historical and modern day fiction. I thought the book was put together well. It pulls you in with quite a fast paced start while also filling out the details. It grabs your attention straight away, making sure sure you are engaged and wanting to read more.
The characters were all interesting. It felt like you really get to know them and as the story progressed you become fully invested in their journey.
This is still a pretty new author to me but I definitely like what I see so far. I am looking forward to the nextblok in the series.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this short story that is suspenseful and full of action. This is a well written story about Nik and a message he receives from his grandfather. As he rushes to his grandfather’s side, he finds him happy to see him. He is holding a secret that dates back to Herakles. But is it true or is it just a myth? They are great characters who really made the story for me. They brought the story to life on each page as well as made it engaging. I enjoyed being pulled into the story from the first word. I also enjoyed the growth of the plot and how fast paced it was. This is a story that I had a hard time putting down. I highly recommend this book.

[Lorralei Hoerner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good!! I love a good action adventure story and this is no exception. You met Nik, who is a high school teacher, ends up these messages from his grandfather. When Nik goes to visit his grandfather, happy as can be. But Nik's grandfather has secrets, or are they just myths? There is a very powerful, magical coin that if it falls into the wrong hands, it could be very bad. The coin is guarded and when Nik's grandfather names Nik as the next to guardian to protect the coin, the mystery and adventure begins. The ending....ahhh!! Cannot wait for book two to see what happens next.

[Rayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brilliant series starter
This was an epic journey. From the first page the mystery and adventure starts. A mix of Ancient Greek mythology, treasure hunting and a hint of paranormal makes for a thrilling ride. Nik is so relatable and an easy character to become invested in. The author has a good writing style and the historical aspects are well researched. Looking forward to continuing the adventure in book 2.

[Juneta Key · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun story with adventure, family legacy,historical reference and an ancient artifact, a coin, and lots of oohs and ahs, that I enjoyed reading. I love mythology and this had a good dose of that and a race against time. Highly recommend.

[Vonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Good

I enjoyed this first in series introduction to a good story about a very interesting coin. I look forward to seeing them again.

[Ann Emerson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, where to start, y he premise was good. .it remanded me of a Dan Brown adventure. It was a little slow to start. The characters are well written and relatable. Papua has to be my favorite. Good start for a series.

[Korinne Tande · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are many many things I liked about this book. The beginning chase scene hooked me from the start. I also loved the next section with the main character being a high school teacher....you know if he handles teaching high school he is a "tough and smart cookie." I enjoyed the interaction between the main character and his grandfather. And, of course, Nik takes the bait from his grandfather to become the next guardian, following in his grandfather's footsteps. I found the retelling of history about the Greeks and the Trojans quite interesting as it added to the background of the story. The information about - which I would call the tour of - Paris was intriguing since I have never been there. Very likable characters. I think this book is a great beginning to an entertaining series, and I look forward to reading more about Nik, his grandfather, and their lives as guardians. The story ended too soon for me but with a great cliffhanger. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Janice Drake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice start to the series except for the cliffhanger. It starts off with action, then slows down and gives the backstory to bring the reader up to speed. As the action picks up, it ends. The characters were good and the story line was interesting, I just don't like a book dropping the ending like this.

[Roxsanne Lesieur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nik Zosimos is a history teacher in a local high school where his love of history is passed down to his students as it was passed down to him by his grandfather Iasos, over the years, they have shared many a conversation over food and wine, but when his grandfather calls him in the middle of the day and asks him to come over to his house, Nik is a little worried because it isn’t something that his grandfather would usually do. When he arrives at his grandfathers house, nothing is amiss, he is his usual healthy self and in good spirits as they enjoy a meal and some beers together, that is until his grandfather reveals something to Nik which is about to blow his whole world wide open.

As Nik leaves his grandfathers house in a state of astonishment, the first thing he does is get straight onto the internet and do some research to try and verify what his grandfather has told him, but although some things are confirmed, some of the most vital parts aren’t, but he continues to dig and even asks a colleague for some hints about where to look as well. As he researches, more of his grandfathers revelation makes sense, but now he has to make a decision as to whether he wants to find out more.

Nik takes a couple of days to think about this decision and how serious his grandfather had become while telling him the little he was able to confide in him and it set Nik, it is this and the intrigue his grandfathers words caused him which leads to his final choice. As Nik finds out more about the history of his grandfathers responsibilities and what it means for his future, he also discovers how deep the mystery truly goes and to what lengths people have gone to acquire the knowledge he now has. Will Nik be able to rise to the challenge his grandfather has set him and become the latest guardian, or will time be against him? This is a gripping story which transcends time and which you will become engrossed in the twists and turns within it as the characters themselves.

[Angela Packard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nik Zosimos teaches high school and leaves before a department meeting due to a strange text followed by silence from his grandfather. Nik’s papou tells him that he could be the next keeper of a 2500-year-old coin, but to think on it to make sure this is what he wants. Nik can not be told more than that before his decision is made. If he chooses no, he will know nothing else. If he chooses yes, he will begin to train.
Nik, like his grandfather is passionate about history. I have never been a fan of history but even I recognized names in this story and got excited. Helen of Troy, Aphrodite, the Iliad, the connections made to so many years earlier, of one small coin that started out as a rock is exciting.
Nik is confronted with a schedule that has him almost double thinking his decision to jump in. He begins to learn the history of the coin, while training in weapons, working out, and reading the vast library at his grandfathers. Nik must be prepared for anything. Including knowing that there may be a second coin that if both coins ended up in the wrong hands could cause catastrophic danger. This was a great read and look forward very much to the next book. Thank you Luciana Cavallaro for making even me excited about history, myths, and tales passed down from one generation to the next.

[Stephanie Driskill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can I just say Wow! The Guardian’s Legacy was so much fun to read and get lost into its world. If you are a big fan of mythology, history, mystery, then this book is just perfect for you. Nik our main character is tasked with becoming the guardian of an ancient mysterious coin with untold powers that his traditionally his family has protected for many, many years. In order to become the guardian and taking possession of the coin from his grandfather, Nik must train in many different defense arts and even weapons that have not been seen or used for thousands of years! How cool is that?! The mystery you ask: Where did the coin come from, who gave it to the family to safeguard, and where is Grandfather? Read the book but beware, the ending is not as it seems. Cavallaro does a wonderful job of bringing the history aspects to life and the importance of history in our world today. The characters are amazing and believable, and it was so easy to get lost in their world. Join me in reading this wonderful book and relish in the fun of ancient history and mythology.

[Jo Frizzell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so engrossing! I didn’t want to put it down! I adore the relationship between Nik and his Papou, and found it so relatable with their shared love of history, especially the history of the coin, and how they used it as a way to spend time together. The history shared in the story was fascinating and I was as captivated by it as Nik was as Papou shared. I also really love the bits and pieces the book shows of Nik’s relationships with his students. We've all had teachers like him, and a high school history teacher that the students clearly respect is so refreshing to see because it’s a true respect shown like it would be in real life. Nik’s trip and the people he met along the way are just another part of this book that made me not want to put it down! I can’t wait to see what happens next!

[Nicole Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took me roughly a week to read and I’d rate it 5/5 stars. It was well written and engaging. The main character Nick and his grandfather were well written and relatable. This story has everything from secret rooms and magical coins to weapons and bad guys. Although it wasn’t as action packed as I was hoping and the beginning didn’t really come to fruition just yet, I look forward to reading the next book in the series. This book follows a young teacher as he learns his family history and takes upon a new role as the guardian of the coin. The dialogue and people were extremely likable and their conversation and the plot itself did not seem forced at all. Overall great quick, easy read. I’d certainly recommend it.

[Robbyn Lewandowski · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to admit that I have always been a sucker for a little Greek history and mythology! This book hits both of those in one action packed book! I love the detail of the Greek history that is packed into this quick and fun read. Also, the author, Luciana Cavallaro, has done an amazing job portraying the characters and you feel like you are right there with them in this adventure.

Nik visits his grandfather and loves his tales. Are they true? Are they just myths? Totally unknown to Nik, his grandfather gives him a magical coin to protect and keep safe. If it falls into the wrong hands of evil….well read and find out!!

[Donna Dawkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Guardian's Legacy, what fantastic first book, of what will be a great series. Fans of Dan Brown, will enjoy how the author tangles Greek mythology, ancient minted coins and modern day technology into a worthy adventure!
I enjoyed meeting this generation's Guardian,
High school teacher Nik Zosimos, the author has done a great job flushing out a protagonist worthy of following into his next adventure.
In book one, Nik begins his real education, learning more than he ever thought he would from his Grandfather, and before you know it we are chasing him across Europe.
Can't wait for Book Two in the Coin of Time Series by Luciana Cavallaro.

[Charlene Yates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cliff hanger leaves for Book 2 with no doubt in my mind. I love that this book is a combination of idea and theme of National treasure and Indiana Jones. Nik is a Highschool teacher without a worry in the world and he visits his grandfather who is mysterious. Nik is named as the next Guardian of the coin and if the coin lands in the wrong hands, evil and havoc will prevail. There is a second coin in the wrong hands so what happens if evil gets the magic of both coins? Read on and find out. This writer is amazing.

[Tatyana · Rating 5 out of 5]

My rating 5 out of 5 stars

The first book in the Coin of Time series by Luciana Cavallaro was a real page turner. Nik is a high school teacher who discovers a secret that his grandfather has been keeping. This book included lots of time travel, mythology, and action! A perfect book to get sucked into.

[Ember Daley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy moly… my only problem with this book, it wasn’t long enough!! Nick is a swoon worthy character, who likes a side of danger for breakfast. Definitely some Indiana Jones and National Treasure vibes, and I was ALL for it. Book two pretty please madam author! I’m here for it!

[FantasyThrillerRealm_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy moly this was such a fun read. Action-packed plot with Greek mythology thrown in throughout the story. Nik was such a fun character to read. That ending was nail-biting tense. I highly recommend this to anyone who likes Greek mythology.

[Jithendra Jithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Guardian's Legacy (Coin of Time)

By

Luciana Cavallaro

Rating:5/5

Description:

 An ancient cover up, a dangerous legacy and the search for the most powerful object.

A three-thousand-year old magical coin, the disappearance of an old man, fanatical neo-Nazis, and the hunt by Interpol, merge in this gripping story of an ancient cover up, and the transition of an ordinary man into the guardian of the most powerful coin on earth.

High school teacher Nik Zosimos, leads an uncomplicated life until he receives a cryptic phone message from his grandfather, Iasos. He hurries to his grandfather’s finding him relaxed and pleased to see him. A few beers later, Nik leaves his grandfather’s place, stupefied and astounded. Iasos has a secret, one that dates back to the time of Herakles.

But that was just a myth, wasn’t it?

If you like Dan Brown and Wilbur Smith books or enjoys action, fast-past dramatic shows similar to National Treasure and The Librarians, then you’ll love The Guardian’s Legacy. Award-winning author of Historical Fantasy/Adventure, Luciana Cavallaro, pens a thrilling mystery. Click the BUY NOW button at the top and find out how Nik’s life changes.

Review:

👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.

👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well.Writing style is appreciable .Nik our main character is tasked with becoming the guardian of an ancient mysterious coin with untold powers that his traditionally his family has protected for many, many years. In order to become the guardian and taking possession of the coin from his grandfather, Nik must train in many different defense arts and even weapons that have not been seen or used for thousands of years! How cool is that?! The mystery you ask: Where did the coin come from, who gave it to the family to safeguard, and where is Grandfather? Read the book but beware, the ending is not as it seems.

For complete read do order book on @amazondotcom

For book link:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/064527...

Wow! What a book! I am in love with the book

👉I just loved reading the book ...

Happy reading!

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great first book in the Coin of Time Series. I love how action packed it is and how the author really brings history to life. Hearing about things that happened long ago gives this book a unique twist, as well as being full of action ots educational as well.

Nik thinks he is an ordinary school teacher but how wrong he was. After his grandfather explains that they are guardian's of a special coin that they must protect at all costs. Weaving the story through Ancient Greece and Mythology you really get drawn into the magic of the coin.

But then things change. When Nik's grandfather goes missing and Interpol turn up asking questions Nik starts to wander if the job of protecting this precious coin is as dangerous as his grandfather made out.

This book is left on a cliff hanger and I can't wait to continue this story.

[Rob Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Guardian's Legacy (Coin of Time, #1) by Luciana Cavallaro is an engaging fantasy adventure that combines rich world-building, compelling characters, and a fast-paced narrative. As the first entry in the Coin of Time series, the novel introduces readers to a vivid universe filled with intrigue, magic, and high-stakes quests.

Cavallaro excels in crafting immersive settings and dynamic characters. The story balances action, mystery, and emotional depth, drawing readers into the journey of protagonists who navigate challenges, uncover secrets, and confront both internal and external conflicts. The pacing keeps the reader engaged while carefully revealing the lore of the universe.

Overall, The Guardian’s Legacy is perfect for fans of fantasy adventure, young adult fantasy, and epic quests. Cavallaro delivers a strong opening to a promising series, with intrigue, adventure, and relatable characters that ensure readers will be eager for the next installment.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Guardian’s Legacy (The Coin of Time series Book 1) by Luciana Cavallaro was a very interesting and short read for me. I was initially drawn to this novella by its cover, the colors were beautiful, and the drawing intricate. But upon reading the first chapter I found myself fascinated with the characters and the story of the 2500 year old magical coin, that is so powerful it must be guarded at all costs. This novella included lots of Greek mythology, fantastic characters, and an amazing plot that will keep the readers reading until the very last word. I loved this story so much that I initially just wanted to read for a little bit and found myself reading the whole thing on one sitting. So if you want to find out if this magical coin falls into the wrong hands you’ll have to read The Guardian’s Legacy (The Coin of Time series Book 1) by Luciana Cavallaro for yourself.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable and entertaining story which kept me captivated throughout. High school teacher Nik’s world is turned upside down following a cryptic phone message from his grandfather. Lasos shares his secret with his grandson, a secret that dates back to the time of Herakles. Suddenly Nik finds himself on an adventure in search of a powerful object, involving an ancient cover up and a dangerous legacy. He finds himself the guardian of the most powerful coin on earth, in this fast paced and action packed novel. This thrilling mystery kept me hooked throughout, and the cliffhanger ending has left me impatiently waiting for the next book in this series!

[Jules Herbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Guardian's Legacy is the first book in the Coin of Time series by Luciana Cavallaro and also the first book by this FANTASTIC author that I have read. I am 100% now a huge fan!

From the turn of the first page to the very last I was hooked on this extremely well crafted original story. With its action packed story line and historical references you will be fully transported into this thrilling, sometimes time traveling adventure. Great and I think fully relatable characters add to your enjoyment every step of the way. I can't wait for book 2. I NEED to know what is next!!