Science-driven novel attempts to unlock the secrets of 13th century Eurasia.
I was fascinated by a study that detected the presence of Genghis Khan's Y-chromosome among his living male descendants.
(1888PressRelease) March 10, 2017 - ADA, Mich. - Pelkey's breakthrough novel is the story of archaeologist James Andrews's search for Genghis Khan's tomb. After discovering a bone on Burkhan Khaldun, Mongolia's holy mountain, Andrews and his colleague Abbey Conrad follow the strands of its DNA back in time. Past and present collide, revealing ancient truths along with a web of deception that tears Andrews's life apart and pushes the world to the brink of war.
"I was fascinated by a study that detected the presence of Genghis Khan's Y-chromosome among his living male descendants," Pelkey said. "Genetics can tell us about transformative and previously unknown historical events. The Y-chromosome study told us so much about Genghis Khan's sons. I wondered what detecting his X-chromosome might tell us about his daughters."
Part historic fiction, part archaeological mystery, and part political thriller, The Baljuna Covenant weaves together tales of modern and ancient Mongolia, telling stories of Mongolia's present-day struggles for independence, a poor boy's rise to the heights of world power, and of friends-their unyielding loyalty and unimagined betrayal. Most of all, it tells the story of a promise between Genghis Khan and his people, a promise kept until this day.
The book has made the recommended reading lists for Kirkus Reviews and Stevo's Book Reviews. It was also a Featured Review for Kirkus Indie Reviews in February.
The Baljuna Covenant can be purchased through SDP Publishing and at all major bookstores, including online retailer Amazon. Learn more at http://www.TimPelkey.com.
About the Author
Tim Pelkey is the father of two. He lives in Ada, Michigan with his wife Leslie. The Baljuna Covenant is his first novel. He is currently working on his second novel The Ottoman Excursion. Learn more at www.TimPelkey.com.