Salem's Cipher

Book excerpt: A troubled codebreaker faces an epic plot reaching back through centuries of America's secret history Salem Wiley is a genius cryptanalyst, courted by the world's top security agencies ever since making a breakthrough discovery in her field of quantum computing. She's also an agoraphobe, shackled to a narrow routine by her fear of public places. When her mother's disappearance is linked to a plot to assassinate the country's first viable female presidential candidate, Salem finds herself both target and detective in a modern-day witch hunt. Drawn into a labyrinth of messages encrypted by Emily Dickinson and centuries-old codes tucked inside the Beale Cipher, Salem begins to uncover the truth: an ancient and ruthless group is hell-bent on ruling the world, and only a select group of women stands in its way. Praise: "A fast-paced, sometimes brutal thriller reminiscent of Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code."—Booklist (starred review) "Complex protagonists who overcome many obstacles take adventurous readers on a hair-raising thrill ride."—Library Journal (starred review) "The fascinating historical information combined with a storyline ripped from the headlines will hook conspiracy theorists and action addicts alike."—Kirkus Reviews "This suspenseful tale has something for absolutely everyone to enjoy."—Suspense Magazine "Fans of The Da Vinci Code are going to love this book."—Crimespree Magazine "Salem's Cipher is the best kind of fun. A witchy romp with plenty of adventure, intrigue, thrills, friendship, and heart."—Chelsea Cain, New York Times bestselling author "Salem's Cipher is a bona fide page-turner—packed with wonderfully complex characters, surprising twists and thrilling action. Troubled, razor-sharp Salem is truly a heroine to cheer for. I'd follow her anywhere."—Alison Gaylin, USA Today bestselling author