Step into the pulse-pounding world of the ARKANE series, where ancient relics, secret societies, and supernatural mysteries collide in a whirlwind of modern-day adventure! Penned by New York Times and USA Today bestselling author J.F. Penn, this action-packed thriller series follows Dr. Morgan Sierra, a brilliant Oxford psychologist, and Jake Timber, a rugged ex-military operative, as they unravel religious and paranormal enigmas for a covert British agency. Think Dan Brown meets Indiana Jones, with a dash of James Bond flair, and you’re ready for ARKANE’s globe-trotting, heart-racing ride.
With its blend of historical intrigue, cutting-edge technology, and complex characters, ARKANE hooks readers who crave intellectual thrills wrapped in high-stakes suspense. Whether chasing sacred stones or thwarting apocalyptic cults, Morgan and Jake’s adventures offer a unique fusion of education and entertainment that’s hard to put down.
How ARKANE Began
J.F. Penn, armed with a theology degree and a passion for thrillers, crafted the ARKANE series inspired by the Da Vinci Code era’s fascination with religious mysteries. Miserable in a day job in Australia, Penn channeled her love for history, archaeology, and action films like Raiders of the Lost Ark into a series that blends her obsessions. Launched in 2011 with Stone of Fire (originally Pentecost), ARKANE grew from Penn’s desire to write the kind of fast-paced, myth-infused stories she adored, creating a world where faith and danger intertwine.
The Heart of ARKANE
The ARKANE series spans 13 books, each a standalone adventure brimming with historical artifacts and supernatural edges. Stone of Fire kicks off with Morgan Sierra racing to recover the Pentecost stones—ancient relics tied to the apostles—to save her kidnapped sister and niece. In Crypt of Bone, Morgan and Jake hunt the Devil’s Bible to stop a deadly curse, navigating Paris catacombs and Sicilian ossuaries. Ark of Blood sees them chasing the Ark of the Covenant to prevent a holy war, while One Day in Budapest tackles nationalist violence and a stolen relic in a tense, conspiracy-fueled race.
Penn’s meticulous research shines, weaving early Christian myths, Viking lore, and Egyptian deities into modern settings like Jerusalem, Cairo, and New York. Themes of faith, betrayal, and resilience pulse through the series, with Morgan’s Krav Maga skills and Jake’s strategic grit grounding the supernatural stakes. The vivid settings—crafted from Penn’s own travels—immerse readers in a world where every clue unlocks a hidden truth, and every turn could be the last.
The series’ style is cinematic, blending heart-thumping action with intellectual puzzles. Fans of Dan Brown, James Rollins, or Clive Cussler will love its mix of archaeology, theology, and high-octane chases, while Morgan’s emotional depth as a British-Israeli heroine adds a relatable anchor to the chaos.
Why ARKANE Resonates
ARKANE has carved a niche in the thriller genre by blending scholarly depth with relentless pacing, appealing to readers who want to learn while they thrill. Its global fanbase praises Penn’s ability to make history feel alive and urgent, with reviews calling it “Raiders of the Lost Ark meets The Da Vinci Code.” The series’ exploration of faith’s complexities—without mocking religion—strikes a chord, offering thoughtful questions alongside explosive action. With over 320 five-star reviews for its early books on Amazon, ARKANE’s loyal following proves its staying power.
As Penn continues to expand the series, with plans for a Vienna-based adventure, ARKANE remains a beacon for those craving smart, adventurous storytelling. Its influence lies in proving that thrillers can be both wildly entertaining and deeply thought-provoking.
- First Book: Stone of Fire (2011, originally Pentecost)
- Total Books: 13, plus box sets
- Setting: Global, from Oxford to Egypt
- Genre: Action-adventure thriller with supernatural elements
Ready to join Morgan and Jake on a quest for ancient relics and world-saving heroics? Grab Stone of Fire and dive into ARKANE’s thrilling universe today!