Pharaoh's Ticks

by Kenneth J. Stein

Scientists discover three thousand-year-old ticks inside the Ancient Egyptian mummy of Prince Khaemwaset. These ticks allegedly paralyzed the prince—and caused his death. Scientists believe that toxins from these ticks can be used to reverse the effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Despite intrigue and danger, the scientists continue their work.

But something goes horribly wrong. A tragic pandemic suddenly descends on more than twenty oil-producing countries in the Middle East and Africa. Within the vicinity of oil refineries, people and livestock suffer paralysis and die. Many blame the United States for the plague, leading to riots and threats to its embassies.

The President of the United States launches an investigation and mobilizes the Armed Forces, wanting an answer to the questions: Who is behind the outbreak, and what are their aims?

Drawing on informed science, Kenneth J. Stein’s novel is a journey into Ancient Egypt, biotechnology, and crime. Like Tiger Mosquitoes, Pharaoh’s Ticks is a thrilling, suspenseful story of a coincidental plague and how a handful of scientists attempt to stop it. Can anything be done before an ancient disease destabilizes the world economy?

Paperback

First published June 9, 2022

About the author

Kenneth J. Stein was born in Lorain, Ohio. He holds both Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in entomology, and is retired from the U. S. Navy Reserve where he held the rank of Commander. He most recently served as a medical planner for the United States Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa, in Stuttgart, Germany. Throughout his career, he was afforded the opportunity for extensive research and scientific investigations in the Middle East and Africa. He has investigated a variety of organisms that are of public health importance, including ticks, mosquitoes, sandflies, hornets, yellowjackets, and snakes. In addition, he has written textbooks for Seton Home Study School. He is an elected member of Sigma Xi, The Scientific Honorary Research Society, and is a published photographer.

He writes on his blog about science and nature topics: The Mystery Corner (https://themysterycorner.home.blog).

Reviews

[Elizabeth Faustina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another exciting thriller by Kenneth J. Stein! If you want to read a book where your jaw drops multiple times, pick up Pharaoh's Ticks! This intriguing and fast-paced novel begins with a mystery and leaves your eyes glued to the pages through the whole book. Want to travel? The story takes you to many countries. Not only do you feel as if you are in the place, but with the characters as well. This novel makes you think, as the author usually does. Read this for a five star read in 2022!

[Isabel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, prepare to be thrilled with this wonderful page-turner! Dr. Stein has satisfied me, yet again. I love fast-paced books, and this is definitely one of those. The author takes you from place to place, through different countries--also something I love in novels, as I've never been able to travel to countries such as Egypt! I was surprised to learn that I was even being taken to the future: 2023!
I have to say, one of the best things about this book is how delicately and cleverly the author is able to weave in humorous scenes, even though there is a serious plot at hand.
Face it: Everyone, in order to live the good life, must find time for humor through the hecticness of everyday life. And I daresay, Dr. Stein has the answer right here!
Besides this, there were many interesting facts I was surprised to learn... Too many facts to list here, honestly! All you've gotta do is pick up Pharaoh's Ticks and start reading. You won't be disappointed! If you're looking for a five-star read this year, let this one be it!

[Roy Seitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly researched, fascinating look at the power of today’s cutting edge science brought to bear on a very ancient mystery; a gripping read…

Really enjoyed this book as it worked its nagic, weaving a story of 21st century science unwrapping the onion of an ancient unsolved mystery. Gripping!

[Mary Kate Anthony · Rating 2 out of 5]

I got this book as a gift and read it all the way through simply because I was intrigued enough to want to know how it was all going to be solved. However, despite having a good basis for a plot, the execution was rather poor. Their is no other way to say it expect that the writing was just not very good. Simple and repetitive dialogue, rather basic descriptions of both characters and settings and choppy transitions between scenes led to a lackluster reading experience. It was disappointing because the plot was actually very ingenious and had a lot of potential. But I won’t be rereading and I wouldn’t recommend to my friends due to the writing.