Badlands
In the New Mexico badlands, the skeleton of a woman is found—and the case is assigned to FBI Agent Corrie Swanson. The victim walked into the desert, shedding clothes as she went, and then died in agony of heatstroke and thirst. Two rare artifacts are found clutched in her bony hands—lightning stones used by the ancient Chaco people to summon the gods.
Is it suicide or… sacrifice?
Agent Swanson brings in archaeologist Nora Kelly to investigate. When a second body is found—exactly like the other—the two realize the case runs deeper than they thought. As Corrie and Nora pursue their investigation into remote canyons, haunted ruins, and long-lost rituals, they find themselves awakening a slumbering menace: a dark power brought to life once again, which threatens a malevolency beyond all understanding.
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Lincoln Child
Lincoln Child is a master of suspenseful, intricately woven thrillers that leave readers on the edge of their seats. Known for his captivating storytelling and atmospheric world-building, Child has earned a reputation as one of the leading authors in the genre. Whether crafting standalone novels or co-authoring series with Douglas Preston, his works are filled with tension, unexpected twists, and a deep exploration of the human condition.
Born in Westport, Connecticut, Child's early years were marked by a keen interest in science, which often finds its way into his writing. This fascination with science, technology, and the unexplained gives his books a unique edge, blending cutting-edge ideas with page-turning plots. His partnership with Douglas Preston led to the creation of the popular Pendergast series, a set of thrillers featuring the enigmatic FBI agent Aloysius Pendergast. The success of this series cemented Child's place in the literary world, making him a household name for thriller enthusiasts.
Nora Kelly
In the world of archaeology, few discoveries are as perilous as those tied to the past's darkest secrets. This is the world of Nora Kelly, a brilliant archaeologist whose expeditions often take her far beyond academic curiosity into the realm of gripping mystery and untold danger. Her journey begins with the search for the legendary remains of the Donner Party in Old Bones, a mission that plunges her deep into a world of historical intrigue, betrayal, and hidden truths.
Nora Kelly consists of five primary books, and includes one additional book that complement the series but is not considered mandatory reads and series is set to expand with the upcoming release of one more book. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.
