UN  PEACEKEEPER  BECOMES  AUTHOR

Local military supply technician Rob Sargeant has written a first novel, which is being published by Publish America for release on April 21^st. The book, titled ‘Lost Ark Found’, was mostly written while Rob served as a United Nations Peacekeeper for six months in 2004 in the Middle East.

“ I started writing the book for my two boys to keep in touch with them while I was overseas” said author Rob Sargeant, who would sometimes read a chapter to them at bedtime over the phone”. Rob explains: “ being a Peacekeeper is worthwhile work, but it also means long periods of time that I am away from my wife, Olivia, and our two sons, André and Colt. This was one way to stay connected emotionally while I was away”

Lost Ark Found is a modern day parable: the tale of a grandfather and five teenagers who make the archaeological find of the century. While they seek and find physical treasures in the mountains of Vancouver Island, their lives are affected much more powerfully by the truths they encounter there. Using a three hundred year old, hand written journal as their guide, (and a little help from a mountain man hermit) the explorers overcome obstacles, solve riddles, and conquer their own fears to finally arrive at mountain top aboriginal temple. Inside, behind an ancient door they find the Ark of the Covenant. But there is a problem. Only those who have clean hands and a pure heart can approach the inner alcove behind the veil. One teenager among them proves to be the chosen one, with a pure heart, predestined to enter the holy of holies.

Lost Ark Found will be officially launched April 21^st at a celebration at the Engedi Café on 5^th Street in Courtenay. Rob Sargeant will be reading excerpts from his book and there will also be live music by local Many Waters Band with Eric Macdonald, Shirley Kirk, Mo Perrey, Caryl Eutin, Steve Grant, Christoph Kind and Terry Beaton.

People will be able to order a copy of Lost Ark Found at Engedi. Copies can also be ordered on-line at www.amazon.ca or by request at local bookstores. The author will personally sign any copies ordered at the Engedi celebration launch.

Response to date to Lost Ark Found has been encouraging. “It was getting more hits on the Blackwell Internet website than Lemony Snicket last week” said Rob. One reviewer commented: ‘A powerful adventure story ….. This well written work carries a profound message for all of us. It is sure to stir the hearts of many, planting seeds of faith in even the hardest heart.’ (Sabine Muir, author of ‘Matthew and the Highland Rescue’)

Contact: Eric Macdonald 223-0280; evmacdonald@shaw.ca

 Featured in  www.comoxvalleyrecord.com   April 22