The Message in the Painted Rock (An Arthur and Marya Mystery)

What starts as the dullest summer in a small Texas town turns into something far stranger when two kids on bikes stumble upon ancient cave paintings that were never meant to be found. Magic and destiny, it turns out, have been waiting a very long time.

As the mystery deepens, a centuries-old secret history begins to unravel through clues etched in stone, pointing toward something precious hidden long ago. The treasure hunt leads them to an unexpected guide: a spectacularly rude talking crow with a sharp wit and absolutely no patience for nonsense. Together, they follow cave puzzles stretching back to the age of kings and legends most people believe are just stories.

With ancient evil closing in and a magical relic finally within reach, every choice carries real weight. Fans of Rick Riordan and Roald Dahl will find the same warm, noblebright spirit here, a world where curiosity is rewarded and wonder hides in plain sight. This is mystery with humor and heart, wrapped in a genuinely thrilling adventure.

Perfect for summer reading or any time young adventurers are ready to discover the world is bigger and stranger than they ever imagined. Get your copy today before the price changes!

Tom Blanton lives in Austin, Texas with his family, which includes three of the feline variety.