Just after the death of Jesus in the year 33 CE, a young warrior is chosen as the first Guardian, and is tasked to retrieve the thirty pieces of silver paid to Judas Iscariot for the betrayal of Jesus Christ in order to forestall an Aramaic curse written hundreds of years before. Tracked by pursuers into the Judean desert and nearing death, his final fateful decision will determine mankind’s destiny.

Jess Colton is an archaeologist struggling with life issues. Her claims of a fourth great pyramid at Giza have created an upheaval in the archeological realm. Her work, disputed by many within the establishment, has brought about a loss of Colton’s professorship and engagement to her fiancé. It also creates a buzz of unwanted media attention. Nevertheless, her theory is not without merit and is embraced by staunch supporters rallying to the archaeologist’s cause.

The young woman will be interviewing for a consultant position with the National Earth Seas Science Agency (NESSA), headquartered in Seattle. Colton is at home preparing a lecture when she receives a call from a mysterious stranger. Lev Ryter’s cryptic message fills her with a profound sense of misgivings about the package due to arrive the day after tomorrow. But even more frightening are the old man’s words — she has been chosen as the guardian.

When the package arrives the archaeologist discovers an ancient silver coin and a fragile document. Transcribed in Latin script on the worn vellum is a never-before-seen Aramaic prophesy, written long before the time of Christ. Jess pores over the text and is unnerved by this bizarre manuscript. What she discovers revolves around Judas’ betrayal of Jesus Christ and the thirty pieces of silver he received in payment.

Jess Colton’s role as the guardian leaves her filled with reservations. Her reluctant acceptance of the title sets the stage for an exploit that will catapult her from the desert sands of Egypt, through the Middle East, and on to a final showdown in an ancient fortress on the island of Malta. The perilous trek will pit her against the dark forces of the Sons of the Fallen, and its leader, Altan Teke. At stake is Jess Colton’s future and ultimately mankind’s destiny.

Published by Exigent Press, Nashville, Tennessee