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The Ancient Secrets #1
The Ancient Code
After barely escaping from his last project alive, Professor Elliot Brand wanted to spend a few calm months lecturing in London. But when a billionaire presents him the perfect mystery, he can't resist and soon finds himself in a dangerous world of Nepali spies, ancient ruins, and a truth about humanity that might change the world forever, or end it ...
Blending real science with fiction, this book takes you on a journey into the origins of mankind and its many mysteries.
Blending real science with fiction, this book takes you on a journey into the origins of mankind and its many mysteries.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2022
1,173 people are currently reading
834 people want to read
About the author
T.S. Falk
17 books57 followersT.S. Falk is a lifelong adventure enthusiast and when a certain pandemic hit, he started writing the books he would like to read.
THE AUTHOR HAS NO SOCIAL MEDIA PROFILES AND ALL PROFILES OUT THERE ARE FAKE AND NOT CONNECTED TO THE AUTHOR AT ALL!
If you want to reach him, you find an e-mail address to do so at the end of each book!
THE AUTHOR HAS NO SOCIAL MEDIA PROFILES AND ALL PROFILES OUT THERE ARE FAKE AND NOT CONNECTED TO THE AUTHOR AT ALL!
If you want to reach him, you find an e-mail address to do so at the end of each book!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
October 30, 2023
Interesting... But Hard to Believe
So I found this story interesting but I didn't exactly care for the ending. I just found the ending kind of weird and hard to believe? Like is this supposed to be about ancient civilization or is it supposed to be a creature feature?? I suppose it could be both but I think maybe the author is a tad confused as to what he wants to write? Mind you I like creature stories but if I am reading a book on ancient civilization \ archeology \ adventure then I think maybe the creatures really don't belong in the story??
Through most of the story not much actually happened. It all seems to happen at the end. Then there is some big discovery and some creatures and a bad guy with action... But I did not find it satisfying at all. Plus the event that happens is just so bizarre it is not believable to me _ kind of ruined the story.
One of the weird things the author tries to say in here is that rocks can be so old that they just disintegrate into dust all by themselves just by time passing. If that is the case then why do we have dinosaur bones and stuff? We have dinosaur footprints in rock. I really don't think stuff can just turn to dust by itself. Look at the bodies in Pompeii. Preserved.
This was a good attempt but it was not really satisfying. Especially not the end.
The characters were ok. It was the plot \ archeology I had a problem with.
Mind you I believe there WAS an advanced civilization before ours - its just the details in here are kind of weird?! Especially the event at the end. I just cannot believe it and that pretty much ruins the story.
So I found this story interesting but I didn't exactly care for the ending. I just found the ending kind of weird and hard to believe? Like is this supposed to be about ancient civilization or is it supposed to be a creature feature?? I suppose it could be both but I think maybe the author is a tad confused as to what he wants to write? Mind you I like creature stories but if I am reading a book on ancient civilization \ archeology \ adventure then I think maybe the creatures really don't belong in the story??
Through most of the story not much actually happened. It all seems to happen at the end. Then there is some big discovery and some creatures and a bad guy with action... But I did not find it satisfying at all. Plus the event that happens is just so bizarre it is not believable to me _ kind of ruined the story.
One of the weird things the author tries to say in here is that rocks can be so old that they just disintegrate into dust all by themselves just by time passing. If that is the case then why do we have dinosaur bones and stuff? We have dinosaur footprints in rock. I really don't think stuff can just turn to dust by itself. Look at the bodies in Pompeii. Preserved.
This was a good attempt but it was not really satisfying. Especially not the end.
The characters were ok. It was the plot \ archeology I had a problem with.
Mind you I believe there WAS an advanced civilization before ours - its just the details in here are kind of weird?! Especially the event at the end. I just cannot believe it and that pretty much ruins the story.
February 4, 2022
Great story
Engaging characters this tale kept my attention right to the end. I look forward to another story with the same characters.
Engaging characters this tale kept my attention right to the end. I look forward to another story with the same characters.
February 28, 2022
Wish there was more
Great book, kept me entranced from first paragraph. Wish their was another book to expand on this on. I love science fiction.
Great book, kept me entranced from first paragraph. Wish their was another book to expand on this on. I love science fiction.
April 14, 2024
In the realm of science fiction, few audiobooks manage to blend the thrill of discovery with the resonance of myth as seamlessly as T.S. Falk's "The Ancient Code," narrated by Nathaniel Priestley. This 2024 publication is not merely an audiobook; it is a cerebral journey that challenges the listener's perception of history and humanity's place in the cosmos.
**Narration: The Voice that Weaves Worlds
Nathaniel Priestley's narration is nothing short of a masterstroke. His voice, rich and commanding, yet suffused with a warmth that beckons the listener closer, transforms the experience into an intimate exploration. Priestley's cadence and tone shift deftly as he embodies the various characters, from the driven Professor Elliot Brand to the enigmatic figures that populate the story's expansive landscape. His performance is a vivid tapestry that enhances the text, allowing listeners to immerse themselves fully in the world Falk has created.
**Plot: A Tapestry of Intrigue and Ancient Mysteries
"The Ancient Code" follows Professor Elliot Brand, a man whose thirst for knowledge leads him down a path fraught with danger and revelation. After a narrow escape from his previous endeavor, Brand seeks solace in academia, only to be lured back into the fray by a mystery that promises to unveil the origins of mankind. Falk's narrative is a labyrinthine puzzle, where each piece is a revelation that propels the listener deeper into the heart of an ancient enigma.
The story is a deft amalgamation of science and speculation, where fact and fiction blur, leaving the listener to ponder the plausibility of the theories presented. Falk's writing is a homage to the genre's greats, reminiscent of A.G. Riddle's intricate plotting and James Rollins' pulse-pounding action sequences.
**Themes: A Reflection on Humanity's Quest for Knowledge
At its core, "The Ancient Code" is a meditation on humanity's insatiable quest for knowledge. It explores the dichotomy between what is known and the vast expanse of the unknown. The audiobook delves into themes of creation, evolution, and the potential consequences of uncovering truths that might be better left hidden. It is a narrative that questions the very foundation of human belief and understanding.
**Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking
"The Ancient Code" is a triumph of the science fiction genre, a work that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. It is a reminder of the power of stories to transport us to worlds beyond our imagining and to confront us with questions that resonate long after the final word has been spoken.
**Narration: The Voice that Weaves Worlds
Nathaniel Priestley's narration is nothing short of a masterstroke. His voice, rich and commanding, yet suffused with a warmth that beckons the listener closer, transforms the experience into an intimate exploration. Priestley's cadence and tone shift deftly as he embodies the various characters, from the driven Professor Elliot Brand to the enigmatic figures that populate the story's expansive landscape. His performance is a vivid tapestry that enhances the text, allowing listeners to immerse themselves fully in the world Falk has created.
**Plot: A Tapestry of Intrigue and Ancient Mysteries
"The Ancient Code" follows Professor Elliot Brand, a man whose thirst for knowledge leads him down a path fraught with danger and revelation. After a narrow escape from his previous endeavor, Brand seeks solace in academia, only to be lured back into the fray by a mystery that promises to unveil the origins of mankind. Falk's narrative is a labyrinthine puzzle, where each piece is a revelation that propels the listener deeper into the heart of an ancient enigma.
The story is a deft amalgamation of science and speculation, where fact and fiction blur, leaving the listener to ponder the plausibility of the theories presented. Falk's writing is a homage to the genre's greats, reminiscent of A.G. Riddle's intricate plotting and James Rollins' pulse-pounding action sequences.
**Themes: A Reflection on Humanity's Quest for Knowledge
At its core, "The Ancient Code" is a meditation on humanity's insatiable quest for knowledge. It explores the dichotomy between what is known and the vast expanse of the unknown. The audiobook delves into themes of creation, evolution, and the potential consequences of uncovering truths that might be better left hidden. It is a narrative that questions the very foundation of human belief and understanding.
**Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking
"The Ancient Code" is a triumph of the science fiction genre, a work that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. It is a reminder of the power of stories to transport us to worlds beyond our imagining and to confront us with questions that resonate long after the final word has been spoken.
March 31, 2024
It felt like a cheap Indiana Jones knock off with way too much unnecessary action. It has nothing to do with real science-fiction. Was it really written for adults? My 10 year old nephew would have enjoyed this "adventurous book".
It deserves 2 stars though, since I learnt a new definition, the Hayflick limit.
The plot is a typical Indiana Jones plot, if you are into it, it could be a good read. The main characters (incl. super hot English History and Archeology Professor) go on an adventure to find a missing professor who has been exploring a possible ancient civilization in the deep caves of Nepal. Lots of shooting, chasing scenes with the bad guys, and romantic scene with the main character and his new woman.
I was looking for a science-fiction, or rather a hard science-fiction book. That is not what I got. My first and last book from T. S. Falk.
It deserves 2 stars though, since I learnt a new definition, the Hayflick limit.
The plot is a typical Indiana Jones plot, if you are into it, it could be a good read. The main characters (incl. super hot English History and Archeology Professor) go on an adventure to find a missing professor who has been exploring a possible ancient civilization in the deep caves of Nepal. Lots of shooting, chasing scenes with the bad guys, and romantic scene with the main character and his new woman.
I was looking for a science-fiction, or rather a hard science-fiction book. That is not what I got. My first and last book from T. S. Falk.
January 21, 2024
At one point I thought this was going to be a 5 star book. But Singh. And Giant Bats.
February 18, 2022
Different, but a book worth reading if...
It's an updated version of an Indiana Jones-type story. It does contain editing errors.
Would be nice as a start of a series featuring the professor and the spy!
It's an updated version of an Indiana Jones-type story. It does contain editing errors.
Would be nice as a start of a series featuring the professor and the spy!
September 17, 2023
Boring, bland, child-like, colorless plot.. and limp, dull, tedious & monotonous charactors. Gawd Awful!
I read a considerable amount of science fiction.. Good science fiction: Preston& Child, Koontz, Cronin, Sandford & more.
I forced my way through this book, certain that it would develop an amazing, twisted or fantastical happening.. or ending.
Wow.. Was I wrong! I only finished it so I could write this WARNING: Do not waste your time or money on this adolescent novel. I wasted time.. but not money.
Returned to kindleunlimited asap.
I read a considerable amount of science fiction.. Good science fiction: Preston& Child, Koontz, Cronin, Sandford & more.
I forced my way through this book, certain that it would develop an amazing, twisted or fantastical happening.. or ending.
Wow.. Was I wrong! I only finished it so I could write this WARNING: Do not waste your time or money on this adolescent novel. I wasted time.. but not money.
Returned to kindleunlimited asap.
February 21, 2022
page turning feat of imagination
Great tall story that moves at a fast pace. Characters are a bit shallow in their development but relatable.token romance odd.Occasional critical spelling mistakes distracting. Overall entertaining.
Great tall story that moves at a fast pace. Characters are a bit shallow in their development but relatable.token romance odd.Occasional critical spelling mistakes distracting. Overall entertaining.
December 22, 2022
Great story
We always suspected that there was more to human history than what our history books say.
This story gives it a totally new spin. People created by humanoid race as their slaves then made mortal, quite interesting view.
But where did those Ancients come from?
We always suspected that there was more to human history than what our history books say.
This story gives it a totally new spin. People created by humanoid race as their slaves then made mortal, quite interesting view.
But where did those Ancients come from?
July 17, 2023
A thrilling read. Great characters and story. Can’t wait for the next.
January 16, 2024
I enjoyed this book very much. It had some intriguing ideas on the origin of the human species. It was rather surprising. I hope the next ones in the series are as good.
June 15, 2024
WHAT A RIDE. If you like Ancient Aliens and books of Dan Brown, you will LOVE this one. It was so thrilling, fun and captivating, I couldn't put it down. Onto the next one!
February 18, 2025
I rarely DNF, but I can’t finish this one. I made it to 26%. The grammar and punctuation mistakes were irritating, but the biggest issue with this book for me is that it seems to be written by a man who views women only as objects for the male gaze and not human beings with worth beyond beauty and sex appeal. The author describes the body of every woman the main character encounters, whether she is an assistant, stewardess, or intelligence officer (those are the 3 of the 4 women I encountered by chapter 7).
So you don’t have to take my word for it, here are some examples:
“He suddenly became aware of Ashra’s slender physique. Her slight frame accentuated her perfect figure, and in the high heels, her legs seemed endless. Elliot doubted she was much of a martial artist. Her body looked almost fragile, but her strong steps betrayed a remarkable energy” (p 71).
“A young woman stood below, in her twenties at best. Again, a striking beauty, but she had a seriousness about her, with her hands folded behind her back in an almost military fashion. Her black hair was tied into a ponytail, and she wasn’t tall, but her slim body looked toned as if through training” (p 55).
“Elliot couldn’t help but follow her with his eyes for a moment. Lindfors liked to surround himself with beautiful women, that much was obvious; Bornholm, the stewardess… it told him a lot about the man. He wasn’t as focused as he seemed, preferring his company to be distracting by nature” (p 45-46).
Curiously the author never describes men’s bodies in such detail.
It all just came across as really gross and distracting from the story. I’m not going to waste any more of my time on it.
So you don’t have to take my word for it, here are some examples:
“He suddenly became aware of Ashra’s slender physique. Her slight frame accentuated her perfect figure, and in the high heels, her legs seemed endless. Elliot doubted she was much of a martial artist. Her body looked almost fragile, but her strong steps betrayed a remarkable energy” (p 71).
“A young woman stood below, in her twenties at best. Again, a striking beauty, but she had a seriousness about her, with her hands folded behind her back in an almost military fashion. Her black hair was tied into a ponytail, and she wasn’t tall, but her slim body looked toned as if through training” (p 55).
“Elliot couldn’t help but follow her with his eyes for a moment. Lindfors liked to surround himself with beautiful women, that much was obvious; Bornholm, the stewardess… it told him a lot about the man. He wasn’t as focused as he seemed, preferring his company to be distracting by nature” (p 45-46).
Curiously the author never describes men’s bodies in such detail.
It all just came across as really gross and distracting from the story. I’m not going to waste any more of my time on it.
February 16, 2022
appalling translation - don’t bother
I gave this book three stars which was a bit of a push but just ‘ok’ in order to acknowledge the general story line. It could have been very enjoyable for those who like off the wall origin stories but was spoilt, practically beyond redemption, by the appalling translation. I read to the end as a couple of reviews suggested it was worth doing so. I cannot agree and would actually recommend the people don’t even start. If I’d paid for this book I would be demanding a refund.
I gave this book three stars which was a bit of a push but just ‘ok’ in order to acknowledge the general story line. It could have been very enjoyable for those who like off the wall origin stories but was spoilt, practically beyond redemption, by the appalling translation. I read to the end as a couple of reviews suggested it was worth doing so. I cannot agree and would actually recommend the people don’t even start. If I’d paid for this book I would be demanding a refund.
September 29, 2023
The Ancient Code is an interesting but not well written story about the discovery around year 2020 of traces of ancient aliens on earth. A nice 3 hour read. I will be reading book two in the series.
March 13, 2024
Great action filled sci fi adventure. Nice quick read for those who get into the Indiana jones vibe.
July 12, 2023
Best book recently
I liked the tension between the old and younger professors, and the the attraction between the young professor and the spy.
The only thing missing was adult sexual activity.
I liked the tension between the old and younger professors, and the the attraction between the young professor and the spy.
The only thing missing was adult sexual activity.
July 12, 2023
Enthralling tale of dedication vs violence
Really enjoyed this tale .
Was pleased to see an academic that has a superior code of integrity even if the Professor is fictional.
Good Job.
Really enjoyed this tale .
Was pleased to see an academic that has a superior code of integrity even if the Professor is fictional.
Good Job.
February 1, 2022
Goos story poor grammar
The story is a good one, however it doesn't appear to have been proofread, or it has been written by someone whose first language isn't English, I spent a lot of time reporting the errors, but still an enjoyable romp.
The story is a good one, however it doesn't appear to have been proofread, or it has been written by someone whose first language isn't English, I spent a lot of time reporting the errors, but still an enjoyable romp.
July 4, 2023
Ancient Code
I recommend this SYFY mystery to anyone who enjoys the search into the past civilizations only to learn we have it all wrong. Good protagonist and interesting plot. A fun read.
I recommend this SYFY mystery to anyone who enjoys the search into the past civilizations only to learn we have it all wrong. Good protagonist and interesting plot. A fun read.
June 30, 2023
Entertaining Archeological Thriller
This is a great archeological mystery/thriller series. I read all 5 books back to back and am hoping the author continues the series.
This is a great archeological mystery/thriller series. I read all 5 books back to back and am hoping the author continues the series.
December 4, 2022
not everywhere has been explored
We are still finding people who lost their lives in the Himalayas over the last century and we know who to look for. Many more items could be hidden or forgotten with time.
We are still finding people who lost their lives in the Himalayas over the last century and we know who to look for. Many more items could be hidden or forgotten with time.
July 19, 2023
I think this type of genre has been saturated by this type of premise, to have a truly original story on this subject you have to think outside the box, unfortunately I think this one is still in it. There is nothing new here.
As batty as it may seem I didn’t feel excited or exhilarated by it, if I have to categorise or rate it I would say it was okay, average, mediocre.
As batty as it may seem I didn’t feel excited or exhilarated by it, if I have to categorise or rate it I would say it was okay, average, mediocre.
July 17, 2023
This is a clear 5 star book
I had to review the book in its entirety as I feel the author would want an honest review. The story was a remarkable tale that sent my imagination spinning. Amazing theory mixed with scattered facts. The only thing detracting from the book was whomever proofread it. I read quickly and if a great book, bury my imagination right into the story. The skill to create this experience is definitely not lost on me. I had stumbling blocks with doubled, "to to" and spelling such as "spamming muscles" instead of spasming. It created unwanted pauses in my reading therefore pausing my in-depth experience. I look forward to the next in this series, do they discover more "settlements"?
Thank you for the imagery you created for my mind!!!
I had to review the book in its entirety as I feel the author would want an honest review. The story was a remarkable tale that sent my imagination spinning. Amazing theory mixed with scattered facts. The only thing detracting from the book was whomever proofread it. I read quickly and if a great book, bury my imagination right into the story. The skill to create this experience is definitely not lost on me. I had stumbling blocks with doubled, "to to" and spelling such as "spamming muscles" instead of spasming. It created unwanted pauses in my reading therefore pausing my in-depth experience. I look forward to the next in this series, do they discover more "settlements"?
Thank you for the imagery you created for my mind!!!
August 24, 2023
Fairly good read
I enjoyed this book by not expecting to much out of it. I really liked the premise of the discovery of a civilization that far predated human civilization and allowed myself to become excited about where the author would take this idea! Unfortunately he took the standard way out by having the inevitable complete elimination of the proof of said civilization. If I have read one book that used this boilerplate ending I have read one hundred books that used it. I think that the author missed a great opportunity for a great book by not running with the idea of this ancient civilization and what it said about humans; that's a book I would have loved to have read!
I enjoyed this book by not expecting to much out of it. I really liked the premise of the discovery of a civilization that far predated human civilization and allowed myself to become excited about where the author would take this idea! Unfortunately he took the standard way out by having the inevitable complete elimination of the proof of said civilization. If I have read one book that used this boilerplate ending I have read one hundred books that used it. I think that the author missed a great opportunity for a great book by not running with the idea of this ancient civilization and what it said about humans; that's a book I would have loved to have read!
October 17, 2023
I am pretty unforgiving when it comes to factual accuracy and consistency. I didn't make it past Chapter 4 because this book wasn't either. In Chapter 2 the book refers to a Mayan ruin in the Peruvian jungle.
In truth, the Mayan heartland was in Mexico and Central America, encompassing Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras. There is no evidence that the Maya made it to Peru. The major civilizations of Peru included the Moche, the Wari, the Chimu and the Inca.
In Chapter 3, much discussion was devoted to a "small spherical object the size of a golf ball." By Chapter 4 it becomes a cube.
This book certainly missed a thorough proof reading. I have mused that the book was created by AI given the types of errors.
In any event, I'm glad the book was free from Kindle Unlimited.
In truth, the Mayan heartland was in Mexico and Central America, encompassing Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras. There is no evidence that the Maya made it to Peru. The major civilizations of Peru included the Moche, the Wari, the Chimu and the Inca.
In Chapter 3, much discussion was devoted to a "small spherical object the size of a golf ball." By Chapter 4 it becomes a cube.
This book certainly missed a thorough proof reading. I have mused that the book was created by AI given the types of errors.
In any event, I'm glad the book was free from Kindle Unlimited.
September 15, 2022
Outstanding storytelling
I got the book and started reading it as usual. As it so happened, I had an appointment that I knew I'd need reading material for the wait. This book is the perfect example of a page turner. I simply had to know what happened next. Get it and read it... on a weekend. You are going to need the time. The main character, Elliot, is perfectly fleshed out and by the end, as much of a close friend as you'd expect. Funny at times, dramatic, and impressive this is a great story. The best part is that, although part of a series, it functions perfectly as a stand alone novel. I very much enjoyed it. Highly recommended.
I got the book and started reading it as usual. As it so happened, I had an appointment that I knew I'd need reading material for the wait. This book is the perfect example of a page turner. I simply had to know what happened next. Get it and read it... on a weekend. You are going to need the time. The main character, Elliot, is perfectly fleshed out and by the end, as much of a close friend as you'd expect. Funny at times, dramatic, and impressive this is a great story. The best part is that, although part of a series, it functions perfectly as a stand alone novel. I very much enjoyed it. Highly recommended.
February 23, 2024
I couldn't put it down
I love cliché stories like a professor who stumbles across a piece of an ancient culture. In a very Indiana Jones or Atlantis Code-esque way, this book is a part of that genre. I can't get enough of it. I was a little confused on the love interest part of it, as it seemed to come out of the blue. No build up, much like Indiana Jones in that sense. Other parts i felt like needed more explaining. I would've loved to see more descriptors of the various creatures and bones in the book. I struggled through what felt like an abruptness in some of the transitions, but, regardless, I will continue this series with vigor.
I love cliché stories like a professor who stumbles across a piece of an ancient culture. In a very Indiana Jones or Atlantis Code-esque way, this book is a part of that genre. I can't get enough of it. I was a little confused on the love interest part of it, as it seemed to come out of the blue. No build up, much like Indiana Jones in that sense. Other parts i felt like needed more explaining. I would've loved to see more descriptors of the various creatures and bones in the book. I struggled through what felt like an abruptness in some of the transitions, but, regardless, I will continue this series with vigor.
March 30, 2023
Needs editing
This is at best a mediocre detective story. I don't understand how his is filed under sci-fi.
Lots of filler text, totally unnecessary elaboration everywhere. I don't appreciate it when writers use fillers at the readers expense, just so they can meet word-count. Needs a thorough editing and not just cutting meaningless chatter.
Very tedious beginning, rather boring. I'm having trouble getting involved in the story and can't imagine reading four such books. But I'm going on with it for now. About half way in.
This is at best a mediocre detective story. I don't understand how his is filed under sci-fi.
Lots of filler text, totally unnecessary elaboration everywhere. I don't appreciate it when writers use fillers at the readers expense, just so they can meet word-count. Needs a thorough editing and not just cutting meaningless chatter.
Very tedious beginning, rather boring. I'm having trouble getting involved in the story and can't imagine reading four such books. But I'm going on with it for now. About half way in.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews