Interview with Hep Aldridge, Author of Hidden Treasure: Secrets of Cleopatra’s Gold

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Hidden Treasure: Secrets of Cleopatra’s Gold?

Legends and stories of lost treasure have interested me since my high school days. I enjoy putting my spin on the stories that are still a mystery or treasures that have not been found or verified. I lived in New Mexico and heard stories of Montezuma’s treasure being removed from Tenochtitlán, the Aztec capital before the Spanish conquistadors could loot it. It is said to have been moved north through New Mexico and into the southwestern area of the United States. It has never been found.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Hidden Treasure: Secrets of Cleopatra’s Gold, what would they be?

Tom Petty – I Won’t Back Down

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Action/Adventure, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Archaeology. Yes!

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

“The Lost Secrets of Maya Technology” James O’Kon PE, “Treasure Hunter” W.C. Jameson, and “A Few Bad Men” Maj. Fred Galvin USMC (Ret.).

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I think my favorite scene in the book comes early on in the story. When Colt, Tess and the team confront the black-market art/arms dealer and Tess is taken captive. It gave me the chance to show what a strong, resourceful character she was. All my female characters are strong. They compliment the men on the team and add another dimension to my stories.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I always have instrumental music playing when I write, and I usually write late at night. Genre’s include Ambient chill music, electronic new age, and classical music.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

I like the quote attributed to Hannibal Barca (218 BC) as he prepared to cross the Alps with his war elephants. His generals did not believe it was possible and he supposedly said, ““Aut viam inveniam aut faciam” Latin for “I shall either find a way or make one.” This is the motto I chose for Risky Business Ltd. A fitting motto for a treasure hunting enterprise, I thought.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

I hope my readers come away after reading my books with a renewed sense of adventure and the the possibilities that still exist in the many unanswered questions concerning our legends and mythologies.

Hep Aldridge is the author of the new book Hidden Treasure: Secrets of Cleopatra’s Gold

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