First published 2011
Jake Ransom activates his father's watch, expecting to return to Calypsos. The device transports him to a barren desert realm instead. His sister Kady and friends Marika, Pindor, and Bach'uuk materialize alongside him in this unfamiliar territory. Before the group can assess their situation, Princess Nefertiti launches an ambush and captures them all. The beautiful young ruler soon discovers she faces a greater threat than these unexpected visitors. Kalverum Rex, the Skull King, commands an army of minions across the desert. He seeks a specific object that Jake possesses, one that grants its bearer tremendous abilities. This prize includes dominion over the terrifying Howling Sphinx. Jake must outmaneuver and defeat the Skull King before Kalverum Rex claims the artifact. Victory for his enemy would make the Skull King invincible. The young hero navigates treacherous puzzles and explosive confrontations as time runs short. Jake's quest becomes a desperate race where failure means unleashing unstoppable evil.
Genres: science-fiction, adventure, fantasy, action
Vibes: fast-paced, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: chosen-one, fish-out-of-water, found-family
Setting: Calypsos, Desert Realm
Period: Ancient Egypt
389 pages · Kindle Edition · HarperCollins