A homicide investigation turns into a desperate chase to uncover a secret dating back to the American Revolution that could alter the course of history. Detective Brian Howard thought he had just about seen it all in his years on the police force in small-town Brookhaven, Louisiana. But when a security guard is murdered at the local Reveldome Museum and nothing appears to have been stolen, Howard finds himself drawn into an intricate mystery that stretches far beyond that of his hometown. With the help of an unlikely source, he begins to uncover cryptic clues that will point him to secret societies, lost American history, and a conspiracy that could shake the very foundation of the United States. Haunted by his own family's mysterious past, Howard discovers that solving this case may just provide closure to questions that have burdened him for years.
Racing against the clock, Detective Howard and his new partner will go from the humid streets of South Louisiana to the sacred halls of Washington, DC, finding themselves unwittingly in the shadowy crosshairs of a forgotten group determined to keep the past buried at any cost. Each revelation brings them closer to a truth that has been guarded for generations-a truth intertwined with a missing piece of American history-the lost United States Capitol cornerstone. With danger closing in, Howard is forced to confront his own past while risking it all to solve a mystery that will change history - and potentially his own future.
Blending police procedural, historical intrigue, and relentless suspense, The Cornerstone is a gripping thriller filled with secrets, sacrifices, and the enduring power of truth.
About the Author :
Josh Lowder is the author of the historical crime thriller, The Cornerstone. As a former police officer and current fraud investigator in financial crimes, he blends his experience in criminal investigations and passion for history into crafting gripping, real-life narratives. Born and raised outside of Nashville, Tennessee, Josh earned his bachelor's degree from Union University before spending several years residing in South Louisiana where the landscape, history, and culture left a lasting impression on his writing. Josh has since settled back in Tennessee with his wife and daughter, and their dog Jax, where he continues to pursue his love of storytelling. When he is not writing he can be found watching history documentaries, hiking the many trails scattered throughout Tennessee, or playing fetch with Jax. You can follow Josh on Facebook at Josh Lowder, Author or on Instagram at author_joshlowder for behind-the-scenes insights into his writing process and information on upcoming releases and events.
Review :
"A debut that weaves history into the present-a centuries-old secret worth killing for. Lowder writes like a cop who knows his way around a crime scene."
-Andrew Bridgeman, internationally published author of the Emma Noble FBI series
"I really enjoyed The Cornerstone. I was hooked the whole way through! What stood out most to me was how accurate the law enforcement side felt. The procedures, mindset, and investigative details were very well done. That realism made the story even better and shows real effort was put into telling the story!"
-Lieutenant Chris Vines, Sumner County, Tennessee, Sheriff's Office
"The Cornerstone is a thrilling, fast-paced tale that masterfully weaves high-stakes conspiracy with heart-pounding action. With twists at every turn, the evolving relationships add both depth and emotional weight to an already pulse-pounding conspiracy."
-Kate Buckner, librarian, Elk Rapids District Library
"Lowder masterfully blends history and suspense in a fast-moving thriller that never feels heavy or academic. His law enforcement background lends authenticity to the investigation, while his storytelling brings a fascinating historical mystery vividly to life."
-Christy Cucuzza, third-party risk manager, Nashville School of Law alumna
