Indiana Jones or Dan Brown - The Granite Key doesn't come close to either. The story began with an antique storekeepers death...a real who done it...now, to find out who and why. The reason comes soon enough and readers are then introduced to the two forces that will fight one another in the book. However, most of what follows is the continued lecture about history and other civilizations. The continued "action" and actual time in the field are few and don't come until the last few chapters in the book. Then, expecting some reward, readers learn that there are five artifacts which are hidden separately, and all we've managed to solve after 200+ pages was a hint on where the first one might be located. The story ends at this point, and readers should purchase the next installment to continue the expedition. Upon finishing, I learned that there are six more books in the series and sense that they will all be the same as this one...too much lecture, little action, and no reward for readers. Therefore, I will not be continuing this series. ( )

STORY LINE:

Author Nancy Wikarski has created a history story-line that is far different from the one we have been told by archaeologist, scientist and the educational system. Her take on the creation story and worship is intriguing; although I did not research her sources, her research appears in-depth and from many sources.

Two groups are searching for religious artifacts for two very different reasons. The Arkana are preserving artifacts from the beginning of history, the Blessed Nephilim's Cult leader Abraham Metcalf, has a very personal agenda. Good versus evil is not a new concept, but Ms. Wikarski story is very different.

Cassie is the heroine of The Granite Key. She is not aware of her hidden abilities or her family history; she will become the center of this story along with Eric, Griffin, Maddie and Faye who are members of the Arkana.

Come along for an action and history packed journey through time.

CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, AND DEVELOPMENT:

Author Nancy Wikarski plotting of this intriguing book is progressive throughout the story and well-thought out by the author. I found I wanted to know what was going to happen next. How did all the pieces fit together? The pacing of the story-line was steady and did not lag. Ms. Wikarski left an opening for the next book in the series.

I enjoyed the character of Cassie as she is young, snarky, and immature; she is an average nineteen-year-old. Cassie's interaction with Griffin and Eric was skillfully done and I found the adversarial relationship with Eric added to the story-line as well as the loving and nurturing character of Faye.

In order to give her theory of God and Goddess's solid ground, Ms. Wikarski included a multitude of historical facts and mythological details which she wove throughout the story. I found these facts interesting and thought-provoking. Her story-line has action, good versus evil, humor, snarky comments and quips, an intriguing take on religion, and the interaction and relationship of the characters grows throughout the book.

Ms. Wikarski included everything needed to intrigue the reader in this book; mystery, good versus evil, villains, history, and human emotion.

RECOMMMENDATION: 4 STARS

I enjoyed this book. It is a clean read and would appeal to anyone that likes a fact and detailed filled story-line that is well-developed.

I received this book from the author in return for an honest book review. Book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion; book reviews on line and on my blog, are my opinion. ( )

The Granite Key Gives Solid Base to Series

The first book in the Arkana Series, by N. S. Wikarski, The Granite Key captures history and the accepted premises of archeological “fact” and stands them on their heads. It is a pliable and plausible alternative to set theories, which does a great deal to thrust the work into a living reality within the reader’s mind. So, one might ask if it is just another stretch of the imagination, and a set of unanswered questions that are pulled from the author’s thoughts; the direct and easy answer is a resounding “no”. This is not an archaeological nightmare come to light. It is a culmination of intense research and extremely talented story telling.

The characters are sharp and pronounced. Each is so clear in the reader’s mind that none could walk past on the street without being recognized. Cassie, the headstrong hero of the tale exhibits the full scope of human emotions and self-doubts. She is not a person to whom life comes easy, but she is a person who realizes that fear is a frame of mind and some things in life are more important. Not all her colleagues agree with her, which is putting it lightly for at least one; but making something good out of bad situation seems to be a gift that Cassie does not even realize she has. The other characters are no less distinct than she, which makes each flick of their wrist enthralling to the reader.

The plot is moves from the everyday extraordinary to exquisitely detailed and amazing. The historical and mythological facts are expertly used to not only heighten the reader’s expectations and experience, but also to add wonderful credence to the story itself. There are a great deal of facts in this storyline. However, at no time does the tale seem burdened or forced. The historical/archeological information only enhances and strengthens Wikarski’s tale. This is a series that a reader can learn from as well as enjoy. Those who revel in mythology and/or archaeology will be beside him or herself with glee. Individuals who enjoy a great story told well will be just as please. Either way, The Granite Key does not disappoint.

NOTE: Followers will notice I have reviewed the third book in this series, The Dragon’s Wing Enigma, in May of this year (2013). I wish I would have had the chance to start with The Granite Key because it the information in it enriches the continuing experience so much. As stand alone, or as a series, these are wonderful reads. ( )

A really good, thrilling yarn which I finally got around to reading. Well worth your time. ( )