The Three Secret Cities

Matthew Reilly

Synopsis

'More action and hair-raising stunts than you'll find in four Bond movies' EVENING TELEGRAPH
'Thrilling, action-packed adventure' GUARDIAN

DISCOVER THIS WILDLY-ENTERTAINING, GLOBE-TROTTING ADVENTURE FROM INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER MATTHEW REILLY

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What if the greatest lost cities of legend are still out there...

Jack West has just won the Great Games and thrown the four legendary kingdoms into turmoil. Now these dark forces are coming after him... in ruthless fashion.

With the end of all things rapidly approaching, Jack and his crew must find the Three Secret Cities - three incredible lost cities of legend.

It's an impossible task by any reckoning, but Jack must do it while being hunted...

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PRAISE FOR THE JACK WEST THRILLERS

'Thrilling, action-packed adventure from cover to cover' Guardian

'Nobody writes action like Matthew Reilly' Vince Flynn

'Get ready for a wild ride' Daily Telegraph

'Exciting and entertaining' Chicago Sun-Times

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READERS LOVE THE JACK WEST THRILLERS

'Indiana Jones in a book . . . Immensely entertaining'

'A super duper kick ass soldier'

'A first class all-action historical thriller'

'Heart-pounding stuff'

'Enjoy the rollercoaster ride'

Summary

Chapter 1: The First Secret City - The City of Fire

The chapter introduces the ancient city of Pompeii, buried under volcanic ash for centuries. Real example: The excavation of the plaster casts of victims frozen in time, giving a glimpse into the lives of the city's inhabitants.

Chapter 2: The Second Secret City - The City of Ice

The chapter explores the frozen city of Herculaneum, covered by a thick layer of volcanic mud. Real example: The discovery of remarkably preserved frescoes and papyri, providing insights into the city's art and culture.

Chapter 3: The Third Secret City - The City of Water

The chapter focuses on the underwater city of Baiae, once a luxurious coastal resort for wealthy Romans. Real example: The excavation of the ruins of thermal baths, villas, and temples, showcasing the city's opulence and sophistication.

Chapter 4: The Secrets of the Eruption

The chapter examines the catastrophic volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD that buried Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Baiae. Real example: The analysis of volcanic deposits and eyewitness accounts, providing evidence of the force and scale of the eruption.

Chapter 5: The People of the Secret Cities

The chapter introduces the inhabitants of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Baiae, from slaves and artisans to wealthy landowners and senators. Real example: The discovery of graffiti and personal artifacts, revealing the daily lives, social structures, and aspirations of the city's denizens.

Chapter 6: The Rise and Fall of the Secret Cities

The chapter explores the history of the three cities, their founding, prosperity, and eventual abandonment. Real example: The study of architectural remains and historical records, tracing the cities' evolution from thriving centers of commerce and culture to ruins buried by the passage of time.

Chapter 7: The Legacy of the Secret Cities

The chapter discusses the impact of the discovery and excavation of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Baiae on our understanding of ancient Roman civilization. Real example: The role of these cities in inspiring artists, writers, and historians, and their contribution to our knowledge of Roman society, art, and architecture.