
Vengeance of the Vanished Ones, Book One
Read the feature article about Vengeance at Texas Lifestyle Magazine

American Novelist Lee Orlich Bertram’s first action/adventure-packed novel in the Dr. Marcos Andersson series, Vengeance of the Vanished Ones, Book One, is now available for purchase through a variety of vendors. Lee asks that all readers hold onto their hats until they can dive in and help Dr. Andersson unravel the mystery of the ancient rock art of Baja California and his colleague’s untimely death.
Archaeologist Marcos Andersson, disillusioned academic turned secret agent for the DEA, lives an otherwise reclusive life as a widower on his ranch in Idaho. After receiving disturbing intel about his longtime colleague and best friend, Dr. Davis Pearce, being found dead at his excavation site in Baja, Marcos suspects foul play and heads down to Baja to find out the details and avenge his possibly murdered friend. For two decades, Marcos and Davis have studied the ancient rock art, attempting to unravel its elusive meaning. En route, Marcos meets up with the beautiful Dr. Susan Cohen, a Los Angeles psychiatrist and psychic, supposedly on a tour in Baja. Marcos and Susan decide to join forces and utilize the expertise between them to find out the truth about Davis’ demise, but not before they tangle with the ancient ones in the spirit world who may hold the key to understanding the meaning of the rock art.
Mysteriously, after dealing with the details of Davis’ death, Marcos gets called on a secret mission to Guatemala from Baja where he encounters a band of jungle guerillas led by the ruthless General Luis Montoya . . .
Readers, stay tuned.
Reviews
“There was never a dull moment and the story flowed continuously. There were many tense moments when I thought all was lost. A thrilling and interesting read from cover to cover.”
-Celeste Wilson, Owner, A Novel Book Review, appearing on Medium
“Elements of psychological understanding, murder mystery, surprising interpersonal connections, and archaeological processes of discovery, all lend to a ‘can’t-put-it-down’ read that is highly recommended for libraries seeking evocative, action-packed stories.”
-Diane C. Donovan, Senior Editor, Donovan Literary Services and Midwest Book Reviews
“The writing is meticulously descriptive, immersing readers in places like the stark desert landscapes and the haunting ancient artworks that are believed to hold supernatural power.”
-Jamie Michele, Reviewer for Readers’ Favorite – Five-star Review
“Author Lee Orlich Bertram demonstrates much skill in weaving the multiple narrative threads of this fascinating plot into a cohesive and captivating story. Bertram’s characters are also richly drawn, and the central bond that grows between Marcos and Susan is compelling and made all the more authentic by the clever dialogue exchanges.”
-K.C. Finn, Reviewer, Readers’ Favorite- Five-Star Review
“Once you start reading Vengeance of the Vanished Ones, Book One by Lee Orlich Bertram, there is no putting it down. The twists and turns in the plotline kept me on the edge of my seat.”
-Frank Matuma, Reviewer, Readers’ Favorite- Five-Star Review
“The author’s love for the area [Baja] shines, particularly when describing the sounds of the jungle, the towns of Baja California, and the Sea of Cortez. The action-packed plot takes off quickly, merging exotic destinations with hints of Marcos’ life in the United States.”
-D.K. Marley, Reviewer for The Historical Fiction Company
“This story is flawless. It’s one of the most compelling narratives I’ve read in recent memory. From its dynamic characters to its intricate plot, every element resonates with excitement and intrigue. The story’s tone strikes a perfect balance—upbeat yet tinged with darkness, always keeping the reader on edge. Marcos stands out as a sharply drawn, captivating protagonist. His charisma and intellect make him an instant favorite.”
-Literary Titan, Five-Star Review
“In Vengeance of the Vanished Ones, Lee Orlich Bertram has fashioned a thriller that’s not only pulse-pounding but enriched with authentic archeological details. Don’t miss this trip into Baja where mining interests and the need to preserve sacred rock paintings clash violently. Move over, Indiana Jones!”
–Warren C. Easley, author of the Cal Claxton Mysteries
“Intricately plotted, an eerily precise and authentic background, and a cliff-hanger conclusion that invites the next page to be turned.”
–Mary Clearman Blew, Professor Emerita, University of Idaho, and author of Think of Horses-2022 winner of the Western Heritage Award for best Western Novel









