Author Mark Lew’s wildly controversial and thought-provoking first novel asks these very questions. Beginning in the Kalahari Desert in Africa, Etched in Stone tells the story of Jodie, a biochemist whose life is fundamentally altered by a powerful, sacred and mystical rock unearthed in a scientifically inexplicable biochemical dead zone in the desert. Defying the local workers’ vehement and terrified pleas not to touch it, Jodie is transported, for just a moment, back to what she believes to be the Garden of Eden — and also discovers that this rock is the rock Cain used to kill Abel as described in the Bible. With the help of two other men, Jodie must decide: Should she keep the powerful stone buried, or should she follow the dangerous path upon which it appears to be taking her? As the world descends deeper and more violently into chaos, it becomes clear that Jodie has been chosen to fight for the actual survival of humanity. The explosive climax between good and evil; truth and lies; order and chaos is an astonishing one, an ending that leaves readers contemplating not only their own personal relationship with religion, but their own morality, as well. Maybe the Bible isn’t infallible. Maybe we got it all wrong.

In the Biblical story of Cain and Abel, what if God “respected” (and accepted) both of the brothers’ offerings equally? What if Cain never killed Abel? What if the Bible got it wrong? What if we could go back and correct the story as written? That single change in the Bible would have enormous repercussions throughout history. The story of Etched in Stone and author Mark Lew, ask and answer those provocative and perhaps even shocking questions, in this story for the ages.

After 20 years as a construction superintendent building new structures in Miami, Lew now uses his skills to build new worlds in the speculative fiction arena. His love of language and ability to ask fascinating what if questions is evident in all of his writing. His published speculative fiction short story, Nowhere to Hide, was nominated for a Pushcart Prize in 2022.

If you would like a review copy, any additional information, or to arrange an interview with the author, please contact Joe Marich at JoeMarich237@MarichMedia.com or via phone at 323-952-7339.