The Decrypter and the Pharaoh's Mask: The Calla Cress Decrypter Thriller Series, Book 16 - Rose Sandy

Beneath the sands of Egypt lies a technology that could rip continents apart.

When a golden mask from a forgotten pharaoh’s tomb reveals advanced engravings and awakens an ancient seismic network, British Museum curator Calla Cress becomes humanity’s last line of defence. Pursued across the Mediterranean by a ruthless collector and a shadowy operative, she must decode hidden inscriptions and confront truths about her heritage and pregnancy before a precision earthquake weapon destroys millions.

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A gold mask. An ancient code. A seismic weapon that could rip continents apart. 

At the grand unveiling of a mask from an unnamed pharaoh’s tomb, British Museum curator and secret ISTF operative Calla Cress feels an inexplicable resonance that pulses through her very DNA. Beneath the mask’s ornate hieroglyphics, hidden inscriptions reveal intricate circuit‑like designs and mathematical formulas that should not exist in a relic three thousand years old. Minutes later, a coordinated theft shatters security, and the priceless artefact vanishes.

 

Calla and her allies, NSA strategist Nash Shields and tech genius Jack Kleve—disobey orders and follow clues left by Calla’s former professor Dr. Chenzira Awad. Their hunt uncovers a dormant network of nodes scattered beneath Egypt’s Western Desert, Istanbul’s ancient cisterns and the volcanic caverns of Santorini. Created by unknown operatives to dampen earthquakes, the system could become the deadliest seismic weapon in history if it falls into the wrong hands.

Pursued by ruthless financier Anwar Shoukry and manipulated by the enigmatic operative Vortigern, Calla races to piece together the mask’s puzzle while grappling with the revelation that her grandparents once helped seal the system, and that her pregnancy may be linked to the technology itself. Ancient science collides with modern greed in this high‑stakes techno‑thriller where history’s forgotten secrets might be humanity’s last hope.

Reader Praise

“This installment takes Calla Cress to a new level, combining archaeological intrigue with sci‑fi thrills.” 

“An exotic adventure with high‑stakes technology, surprising twists and a heroine whose personal journey is as compelling as the mystery.” – Advance review copy recipient

“The Pharaoh’s Mask cleverly blends ancient history and modern science. The seismic weapon concept felt chillingly plausible, and the Mediterranean locations were vivid.” – Early reviewer

“The resonance storyline added emotional depth to the trademark action and puzzles. Fans of technothrillers will be enthralled.” –  Early reviewer

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