UNKNOWN

Mitch, a cautious software engineer haunted by a past tragedy; Alex, a confident businessman seeking thrills; and Ben, a steady and resourceful former Scout-reunite for a camping trip in the beautiful landscape of Joshua Tree National Park, seeking adventure and a chance to reconnect.

Their camping trip turns into a terrifying fight for survival as they uncover a series of mysterious events and realize their lives are in danger. Will their bond be enough to outwit a cunning killer, solve the mystery, and escape with their lives?

From the beauty of Hidden Valley and the dangers of Hall of Horrors to the history of Barker Dam and Keys Ranch, their adventure brings excitement at every turn. But as they enjoy hiking among the iconic Joshua Trees, camping, scrambling giant rock boulders, climbing Ryan Mountain, and stargazing under the desert sky, a series of mysterious and unsettling events unfold. What secrets does the desert hide? And can their friendship withstand the hidden dangers that lie ahead? Prepare for a thrilling journey where every moment could be their last.

This is the first book in a National Park Mystery-Thriller series. Each book explores a different national park, weaving together the beauty and danger of nature with the complexities of human relationships and the dark secrets that lurk beneath the surface.

Kacey Carpenter was born in Colorado and grew up exploring the Rocky Mountains. His love for outdoor adventures created a deep appreciation for nature and its mysteries. After earning his undergraduate degree from UCLA and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, he moved to Northern California. There, he raised his family while building a successful career in high tech. His journey as an author began with non-fiction and his membership in the Berkeley branch of the California Writers Club. He served as the Chapter Digital Strategies leader for the Sierra Club, merging his love for nature with his technical expertise. Kacey now lives in Oregon, where he stays deeply connected to the outdoors as a Sierra Club local outings leader certified in wilderness first aid. He is active in the community volunteering, coaching, and leading the National Writers Union Writers Corner program. His debut mystery-thriller novel, Do Not Die Today, is the first installment in A National Park Mystery-Thriller series. When he's not writing, Kacey enjoys spending time in nature with his family and volunteering in the community. Stay connected at https: //lifeisajourney.substack.com.

An artist on a journey of self-discovery through creativity, exploring the beauty of nature and landscapes with vibrant hues and soulful brushstrokes. Join me in this artistic exploration, where every canvas tells a story and every stroke speaks a truth. My artistic journey is a tapestry woven from threads of passion, authenticity, and a relentless pursuit of creative expression. Growing up in Dubuque, Iowa, amid the bluffs of the Mississippi River, I found solace and inspiration in the natural beauty surrounding me. From a young age, art became my sanctuary, a realm where I could lose myself in the act of creation, honing my skills in various mediums from printmaking to photography. After being awarded an art scholarship at the University of Northern Iowa, I embarked on a formal artistic education. However, my true initiation into the art world came from within, a deep-seated desire to explore the depths of my creativity and spirituality. Following my formal training, I delved into a self-taught journey, seeking guidance from mentors in the areas of drawing, photography, watercolor, ceramic sculpture and an immersion in the field of graphic design for over two decades. With each brushstroke, I strive to capture the essence of my surroundings and share a piece of my soul with the world. As a member of esteemed art associations and a regular presence at markets and fairs, I continue to pursue my artistic vision, hoping to inspire, surprise, and resonate with art lovers everywhere. Join me on this journey of self-discovery and creative exploration-where every canvas tells a story, and every stroke speaks a truth. My recent relocation to Northern New Mexico has reignited my artistic flame, infusing my work with the vibrant hues and dramatic landscapes of the high sierra desert. Inspired by the interplay of light and shadow, I craft landscapes that resonate with the soul, blending abstract and realistic elements to evoke emotion and intrigue.