Gabriel is a little boy with a curse that lies dormant inside of him. The Peacetaker curse will mean devastation to the world and more than a few terrorists would love to get a hold of Gabriel so they can try to activate the curse. The only thing that will save Gabriel from the curse is the golden scroll. Stella, Gabriel’s adoptive mother, and Carter, a contract operative for the government, will do whatever they can to find it. The story travels around the world and is filled with twists and turns, a true action-packed thriller. I made the mistake of not reading the first book in the series and felt like I was playing catch-up the whole way through. Sometimes you don’t need to read the previous books in a series because enough of a back story is provided by the author to give a sense of the story. In this case however I think I would have enjoyed the story even more had I read the first book. I loved the historical aspects of the story and the author delves into the history of the golden scroll which added to the believability. I enjoyed the character of Carter, a gruff but likeable man, but Stella never really became a favorite of mine. I read the digital version of this book and it worked well on my ereader. The cover is attractive although it was the storyline that drew me in, not the artwork on the cover. A great book, just be sure to read the series in order.
When I read a book and it feels like I'm watching a movie, I know it's good. This book has it all intrigue, mystery, a wounded warrior and a crusading mom. This book, which is the second in the series, was even better than the first, and the first was good. I found myself wrapped up in the story and unable to put the kindle down. I would read other works by this writer any day!
The book takes a lot of real ancient history and wraps it around a fictional premise – what if? It may sound a bit far-fetched that a curse can survive for thousands of years but this is fiction. It’s well-written and well-done. Stella and Carter are solid characters. It’s very easy for the reader to become invested in their story. They’re memorable which is a mark of most books that make it to the bestseller list. This one should too. The story has a good strong tempo. It eases the reader into the characters’ background but the backstory is just as interesting as the riots that are sweeping the country with no apparent reason. I enjoyed reading this book very much. Anyone who wants a good suspense with a fresh new twist, believable characters and good writing, should find this book an excellent choice.
I’m looking forward to reading more books in this series as they become available. This book held something for everyone, a great plot, great character development, the scenes were very thought out and it entailed an awesome ending. The writing is so compelling. This grabbed my attention from the beginning to the end. Not only did it take me on a voyage, I admire any mother who would stand up and display so much love for a child (even an adopted child), and perform such a heroine deed. A must read!
This book kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The twists and turns in the plot kept me guessing. I plan to read more from this author. This is the first book in a long time that I have read in one setting.
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book so I could give an honest review.
I was interested from the get-go as The Harmony Scroll begins with a man closing shop for the day before he witnesses strange "foreign" men (in unusual outfits and carrying guns) talking. When he tries to crawl discreetly away, he then sees a bright flash and finds his neighbors home is now a smoldering crater. This opening chapter created many questions for me and urged me on to keep reading and find out what was going on.
Stella Hunter is searching for a long-lost items that could contain the secret to breaking a curse on an 8-year-old boy. The book incorporates various elements of thriller, mystery, and treasure hunter genres to great effect as Stella globe-trots and fights of unexpected dangers in her search. Carter, a man who occasionally takes on work for the government, helps her in her search. Gabriel's curse could spell the destruction of humanity if the boy falls into the wrong hands, and his adoptive mother (Stella) will stop at nothing to assure hes safe, whether its from supernatural or human dangers.
The writing is descriptive and engaging. Sometimes sentences can run rather long, not quite run-on territory but they would flow better with some shorter sentences sprinkled throughout. For the most part I thought the dialogue was pretty natural sounding as well.
This book is indeed the 2nd in a series, and people who have not read the first book may be confused about the characters and plot points. There's not much review for new readers to catch up with. I think the vast majority of the book stands on its own, but sometimes the characters would reference people and events that I was unaware of. It just tends to be solid advice to read the first book in the series first (even if I dont hold myself to that all the time).
I really enjoyed this series. I love when an author can merge fact with fiction and create a story that inspires awe. The characters were wonderfully developed and the story was full of excitement. Keeping me entertained with every page. It really showed how driven a mother can be when something effects their child. I loved the sentiment of it all. This would be a good series to read with your children as well as entertainment for yourself.
An overall enthusiastic, authentic, and extremely dramatic read from start to finish. Extremely all around paced and charming until the very end. I delighted in the character of Carter, a blunt however amiable man, yet Stella never truly turned into a most loved of mine. I can say this is an addictive, energizing read and I'm as of now seeking after a third.
After reading the first Stella Hunter mystery, Ribbons of Death, I was left wanting more. The good news was that there was a second book: The Harmony Scroll. The bad news is that now I'm left waiting for a third! Here's the thing about sequels for me: They're either godawful, or they're awesome. Edita Petrick took me on a suspenseful and joyous ride with Ribbons of Death, and I knew it would be hard to top. I figured that picking up the sequel was a gamble - it would either destroy my time with Ribbons, or I would be a fan for life. Well, color me a fan!
The Harmony Scroll took me by surprise. It's like when you're watching one of those "scary" movies where you know the villain or the monster is about to jump out (because it's all quiet and suspenseful and the camera angles are prepped for it), but then it doesn't happen. You think, "oh, I guess they were just trying to--" and THEN you get jumped! Again, I was looking for stereotypes and tropes (maybe I'm jaded from years and years of fiction), but Mrs. Petrick does an outstanding job of making fiction into life and keeping me hooked all along the way.
Outstanding job! Now get to work on number three! :)
The Harmony Scroll, by Edita A. Petrick, is book 2 in A Stella Hunter Mystery Series. Having read the first one a few months ago and being impressed, I knew I would have to pick up this one. Just as I imagined, this one was just as good, if not better, than the first. I love Petricks writing style; it really has a way of sucking you in and not letting you go until the very last page. There is ancient history undertone in this book, which is something that I really do appreciate. If poses the question: what happens if a curse lasts for thousands of years?
Gabriel Kraft is your typical eight year old boy; he loves video games, hockey, and burgers. However, his curse is unlike what any other kid his age has to experiece. If this curse is brought to life again, it threatens to wipe out mankind completely. His adoptive mother has done everything that she can to destroy this curse, but nothing she does it good enough; it still lingers over poor Gabriels head. Stella Hunter has the solution, but its not going to be easy.
Well written, easy to read, and fast paced. I would definitely recommend this one.
I just finished reading this book by Edita A Petrick. It is book #2, and I was fortunate enough to have received it from the author (through Choosy Bookworm) in return for a review upon completion.
I really liked this book. Even though it is the 2nd in the series, I was able to connect with the story of Stella Hunter, her adopted 8 year old son Gabriel, and Carter, the American agent who tries to keep both of them safe while Stella pursues her quest to find the Harmony Scroll, an ancient artifact that is rumored to be able to save her son.
It seems that Gabe is the Peacetaker, an individual who could be responsible for the destruction of our world, and only the Harmony Scroll is able to negate his powers. The legend says that if a true believer encounters and is able to interpret the Scroll, world harmony will be the result.
I do have to read the first book, as it is implied that in that novel we are introduced to a preview of what Gabe's power could entail, and why it is so important that Stella save him and the world. Even though the 2nd book ends the series very satisfactorily, I still want to see what had gone before.
I was really enthralled by this book, and if you like adventure and the thrill of the chase, and heroes and heroines that seem very human (and not romantically involved) I think you will love this book as much as I did. Happy reading!
I read Edita A Petrick's novel "Ribbons of Death" which was the first story in the Stella Hunter series, and I was completely captivated by it so of course I had to check out "The Harmony Scroll". I do believe it is even better than the first! Petrick shows a real flair for descriptive prose, capturing all the details of the scenes in a way that brings them to beautiful life without going overboard. The character development is solid and continues to evolve as the story progresses, and I appreciate that while this is a fantasy story with magic curses it still comes across as realistic and believable.
Stella Hunter is on a quest to locate a scroll that may hold the power to break eight-year-old Gabriel's curse. Her search will take her across the globe. The clock is ticking in a countdown to the end of the world and no one has the slightest notion where the scroll might be. It's nonstop action, an edgy and dark story full of mystery and adventure, and totally impossible to set down once you've started reading.
I recently read and really enjoyed Ribbons of Death which was the first book in the Stella Hunter series. When I saw that the second book had been released I picked it up immediately. I had high hoped for this book after enjoying the first one so much and I am glad to say Edita Petrick as definitely met and exceeded them. Stella is a brilliant character who is very well-crafted and relatable. Agent Carter is also excellent and I am glad that he is still around for this second installment.
The author has done a brilliant job of keeping the plot flowing and providing an engrossing story that is not just for mystery fans but mist people ill enjoy. I actually enjoyed this one more than the first and highly recommend it. Although you do not have to read the first book to pick this up as it works as a stand along book just I think the fist book is great for introducing the main characters and this book continues their story more than setting t up.
The Harmony Scroll is the second in the Stella Hunter Mystery books. The previous one is Ribbons of Death and I would recommend you read it first.
Stella Hunter is in a race to find a scroll that could or could not exist, and may hold the power to break 8 year Gabriel's (The Peacetaker) curse.
In a race against time and against those who seek to control the Peacetaker for their own agenda.
As Stella travels the globe to chase clues, legends, and answers, time is not on her side and the people following her are not above killing to get what they want.
Ms. Petrick gives us strong characters, complicated characters. Real people in an unreal situation. Her descriptions and research are spot on and there is enough mystery, suspense, and a dose of the supernatural that I for one thoroughly enjoyed this book!
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I received this as a gifted book....having read and reviewed the first of this series, "Ribbons of Death". I have to say I was not disappointed with book 2 - it continued in the same fast-reading, compelling style. The reader is swept along with the characters as they travel the world in search of clues and provenance for the intriguing hieroglyphic prophecy they have discovered. The ending left me pondering "what if..." and contemplating future adventures for the characters, as well as eager to discover more of Ms. Petrick's writings. Thanks for allowing me to share this.
This is the sequel to Ribbons of Death and I liked this book better than the first. I think Edita Petrick has found her voice in The Harmony Scroll. The characters play off one another with a good amount of humor and annoyance but underneath all of that is a mutual respect. The search for the scroll is good game of cat and mouse. I can easily see this book as the basis for movie. I suggest you read The Ribbons of Death first as that book explains the myth of the Peacetaker and why the scroll is so important.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was provided with a complimentary copy of The Harmony Scroll so I could give an honest review, when I discovered it was the second book in a series, I went out & bought the first book so I could read it first. I'm a character reader, I get into the characters, their story, who/what they are. The author does an amazing job of painting the two primary character quickly & thoroughly, and in this the second book does the same with Gabe, the third significant character in the series. All the significant characters in her writing are developed similiarly. This book is in all senses of the word, a thriller and continues the storyline from the first book. Again, mo spoilers from me though I can see more about these characters in the future.
The second book in the series, the Harmony Scroll features a young boy called Gabriel with an ancient curse on his head. Stella Hunter believes she can break the curse by finding an amulet, but it seems like an impossible task to find it. Strong characters and a compelling story, the Harmony Scroll is full of adventure and a look at the past which I enjoyed reading about. I would definitely recommend this book.
In The Harmony Scroll we have Edita Petrick giving us the second tale in the Stella Hunter series. Once more we head into Hunters world and while having read the first book would help (I always do recommend if you're going to read a series to snag them all and in order) this is a rather stand alone case where the initial book isn't necessary to be able to read and enjoy this one.
That being said the first title was a fun read and will give you a better idea of who Hunter is so Id pick that up before cracking this one open! You are in for a treat as we are introduced to Gabriel Kraft who seems like the perfect 8 year old with a regular life. That is, until we find out about the curse that has been placed upon him and Hunter is quickly on the case to sort things out. Only, to break the curse she needs a scroll that has been lost for over a thousand years.
That'll clearly make things easy. How do you investigate a case that isn't just cold but buried in the mists of time? You'll just have to read to find that out!
Onto the writing itself - I loved the descriptions and character interactions. My only complaint would be that I felt some of the descriptive sentences seemed to go on a bit too long and could have been broken up a bit. It honestly shouldn't take away from the story for almost anyone but its a pet peeve I had to point out.
Otherwise, this is a solid read and a great continuation in the story of Stella Hunter and I highly recommend picking it up if you enjoyed the first novel.
A thrilling non-stop adventure! I love a great historical adventure and author Edita Petrick has a talent for putting together some fascinating historical facts with an original mystery in her "Stella Hunter" series. This latest book, "The Harmony Scroll" was a fantastic read and incorporated an element that I truly love in a great story - a normal kid placed into extraordinary circumstances. Garbriel is an 8-year old boy who has an ancient curse that not only threatens him, but the future of all mankind. Stella Hunter is called in to help eradicate it and this sets up a great adventure that involves a fast-paced race against time. This was a fantastic read and, while the second book in a series, is one that could easily stand alone. However, if you love a great adventure, you may wish to start with book 1 and experience these characters and their trials in order. Definitely recommend.