Artifact
Book 1 of the Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt Mysteries
A Scottish legend that hides a secret. A treasure from India that vanished long ago. An unexpected package that ignites an adventure.
History professor Jaya Jones is reeling from the news of a former flame's untimely death when she receives a mysterious parcel he’d sent from abroad. Inside is a cryptic plea for help, along with a jewel-encrusted artifact hinting at a treasure from India shrouded in a Scottish legend. As she starts to unravel the mystery, the unsettling discovery of her ransacked apartment makes it clear she's not the only one on the trail.
From the iconic British Library in London to the rugged Highlands of Scotland, Jaya is pursued by a shadowy stalker as she seeks to both reveal a lost history and the identity of a murderer. Joining her in the race to decode the baffling clues are her quick-witted magician best friend, a disarmingly handsome art historian harboring his own secrets, and a charismatic archaeologist running for his life. Amidst the thrill of the chase, a troubling question arises—who among her companions might be the love of her life, and who is a cold-blooded killer?
Can Jaya solve the puzzle in time to find the long-lost treasure and make it out of Scotland alive?
The USA Today bestselling novel was awarded a Malice Domestic Grant and named a “Best of 2012″ debut novel by Suspense Magazine. If you like lighthearted mysteries filled with fascinating history and a touch of romance, then you’ll love this twisty, globe-trotting caper.
Praise for Artifact:
“Artifact is…witty, clever, and twisty…Do you like Agatha Christie? Elizabeth Peters? Then you’re going to love Gigi Pandian.”
—AARON ELKINS, Edgar®-winning author of the Gideon Oliver “Skeleton Detective” mysteries
“Fans of Elizabeth Peters will adore following along with Jaya Jones and a cast of quirky characters as they pursue a fabled treasure.” —New York Times bestselling author JULIET BLACKWELL
“Pandian’s new series may well captivate a generation of readers, combining the suspenseful, mysterious and romantic.”
—★★★★ 4 stars, RT Book Reviews
“In her fast-paced and entertaining debut novel, Gigi Pandian brings readers into a world full of mystery and history.”
—ForeWord Reviews
“I hope Artifact is just the first of Gigi Pandian’s skillfully written capers.”
—Lesa’s Book Critiques
“If Indiana Jones had a sister, it would definitely be historian Jaya Jones.”
—Suspense Magazine
“Masterfully plotted.”
—Midwest Book Review
“Artifact is a jewel of an adventure, and Jaya Jones is a plucky heroine to treasure.”
—AVERY AAMES, nationally bestselling author of A Cheese Shop Mystery series
“Artifact has it all…Pandian is an adept storyteller.”
—CAMILLE MINICHINO, author of the Periodic Table Mysteries
“Artifact is a treasure…a page-turning, suspenseful story.”
—PENNY WARNER, author of How to Host a Killer Party
