The Briar Archive

A supernatural secret, a race to thwart a sinister magic, and one young woman’s strange inheritance, that could change her life, and history itself. 

"A compelling and chilling tale of books, magic, and obsession." (William Shunn)

Deirdre Green is no stranger to losing it all. Nearly two decades after her father's mysterious disappearance, her boyfriend, her job, and her London flat all go up in smoke. But when she suddenly inherits what’s left of her family’s publishing business, Deirdre is shocked to discover the cryptic magical conspiracy revealed in its remains.

Martin Rank can't stop living in the past. Ever since a bizarre incident involving a lost book destroyed his marriage and robbed him of his son, he's been desperate for closure. When the retired journalist learns that Deirdre plans to resurrect her family’s mysterious company—the same company at the heart of his tragic past—he follows her down the rabbit hole, knowing the journey could possibly undo his heartbreaking history or cause it to repeat itself.

As Deirdre digs deeper into the family company and Martin chronicles her every move, neither of them realizes they're attracting the attention of potent forces, dangerous enemies, and an online organization called The Mountaineers, believers from around the world who are committed to helping Deirdre succeed. Together, can they unravel a long-lost magical secret, or will her father’s legacy doom mankind forever?

The Monarch Papers: Flora and Fauna is the first book in a contemporary new-adult fantasy series that first took shape as a groundbreaking online interactive experience. If you like dark magic, secret societies, and fast-paced twists and turns, then you'll love C.J. Bernstein's captivating series.