Legacy of evil

In a land ruled by shadows, one light refuses to die.

Banished to the remote village of Bustamante for daring to expose the crimes of the protected elite, young Mexican, federal agent, Artemas Salcido is thrust into a brutal murder case. The vicious death of a US senator’s daughter on a college field trip to the nearby caverns, ignites a worldwide firestorm—drawing the international press, the FBI, a ruthless hit squad, and Mexico’s highest powers to the village.

A chilling revelation surfaces—a centuries-old blood cult entangled with a formidable financial cabal, reaching from medieval Europe to the corridors of Mexico's most powerful citizens. Amidst a crescendo of violence and gruesome murders, Artemas stands firm, vehemently challenging his superiors’ concocted solutions and, in turn, painting a target on his own back.

Running for his life, Artemas has to decide whether to remain in Mexico or flee the country. The choice he makes changes Mexico’s history.

Unique Mystery Thriller - "All of the characters are richly drawn and the story line has enough twists and turns to keep you guessing all the way through this exciting read. Artemas, the local Federal protagonist, is such a standout character that I suspect we will see him in future Peyton thrillers. At least I hope so." 

Unique Mystery Thriller - "All of the characters are richly drawn and the story line has enough twists and turns to keep you guessing all the way through this exciting read. Artemas, the local Federal protagonist, is such a standout character that I suspect we will see him in future Peyton thrillers. At least I hope so." - Bill Stephens

South of the Border Intrigue = Great Read - "Clearly the author has done extensive research to produce a novel that brings the landscape and culture to life. Equally compelling is the author's insight into the corruption and dirty politics that complicate the justice system in Mexico. I can't wait for more! This novel begs to be a series." - Lily Salter

Thrilling and Interesting Read - "This was a compelling and exciting story. It was also interesting as it contained many references to local culture in Mexico. The plot was not simple and contained many surprising twists. Also, it had an authentic feel of someone who was familiar with beliefs and behaviors both the Mexican and American participants. Great fun, sorry to have finished it would like it to go on longer." - Donald J. Gordon, MD

Fast-paced Mystery -"I recommend this book to any mystery fan, as well as anyone wanting learn a bit about the culture(s) of Mexico. The reader will encounter phases of life and lifestyle the average American does not know exist south of the border. I was taken with Mr. Peyton's insights on Mexican law enforcement. I've puzzled over that aspect of Mexican society for decades, and now have new avenues for consideration." - William B. Kaliher

Heart-stopping Suspense - "The plot hurtles along, involving a powerful and wealthy family concealing an ancient blood cult, multiple murders, Artemas' college love: beautiful Laffi Rendón, now a top news reporter, and another unexpected character, the sinister caves in the mountains behind Bustamante." - Style Hawk