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Seven Unholy Days
"A simple glitch in a power grid heralds the beginning of a madman's scheme to bring about a biblical apocalypse. Written in a staccato style that will leave readers breathless and flipping pages long into the night, Hatchett's...novel, SEVEN UNHOLY DAYS, is a thriller not to be missed!" NYT & international bestselling author James Rollins
Matt Decker is a celebrity geek, designer of the nation’s futuristic new power grid and a hero for lowering electric bills across the land. He’s a talk show favorite, rich, and living the American dream. Until the power fails, everywhere, throwing the techno-dependent United States into chaos.
Decker’s “impenetrable” systems have been breached in the worst way, and it’s just the beginning. The country is under attack from Abraham Hart, an eccentric and unstable man with nearly unlimited resources, a man who believes himself to be a bizarre hybrid of Christ and Antichrist. Hart delivers a new attack each day as he works his way through his own personal version of Revelation’s famed seven seals, and he makes it personal between him and Decker.
Matt Decker is a celebrity geek, designer of the nation’s futuristic new power grid and a hero for lowering electric bills across the land. He’s a talk show favorite, rich, and living the American dream. Until the power fails, everywhere, throwing the techno-dependent United States into chaos.
Decker’s “impenetrable” systems have been breached in the worst way, and it’s just the beginning. The country is under attack from Abraham Hart, an eccentric and unstable man with nearly unlimited resources, a man who believes himself to be a bizarre hybrid of Christ and Antichrist. Hart delivers a new attack each day as he works his way through his own personal version of Revelation’s famed seven seals, and he makes it personal between him and Decker.
470 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2013
1441 people are currently reading
2462 people want to read
About the author
Jerry Hatchett
18 books84 followersJerry Hatchett is a digital forensic expert who works cases across the country and around the world. A lifelong technogeek, he has also consulted for hit TV shows like The Blacklist, Blind Spot, and more. When not forensicating or writing, he loves reading other authors, watching great movies, and trying to survive his too-smart dog Data.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 254 reviews
December 5, 2025
A megalomania techno-thriller
SEVEN UNHOLY DAYS is a modern techno-thriller that combines a riff on the old themes of world takeover and megalomania with the modern ideas of computer hacking, ecological disaster and nuclear warfare. Just to make things interesting and suitably over the top, the megalomaniac is a certifiably insane dude (natch!) who fancies himself a combination of God, Christ, Satan and the anti-Christ ready to lead his followers into a new world order. Despite being outrageously over the top, SEVEN UNHOLY DAYS manages to be a thoroughly enjoyable, if eminently forgettable, page-turner that will not be amiss in the library of any thriller lover. If you enjoy the likes of Michael Crichton, Tom Clancy, or Robin Cook then don't hesitate to give SEVEN UNHOLY DAYS a try.
Paul Weiss
SEVEN UNHOLY DAYS is a modern techno-thriller that combines a riff on the old themes of world takeover and megalomania with the modern ideas of computer hacking, ecological disaster and nuclear warfare. Just to make things interesting and suitably over the top, the megalomaniac is a certifiably insane dude (natch!) who fancies himself a combination of God, Christ, Satan and the anti-Christ ready to lead his followers into a new world order. Despite being outrageously over the top, SEVEN UNHOLY DAYS manages to be a thoroughly enjoyable, if eminently forgettable, page-turner that will not be amiss in the library of any thriller lover. If you enjoy the likes of Michael Crichton, Tom Clancy, or Robin Cook then don't hesitate to give SEVEN UNHOLY DAYS a try.
Paul Weiss
June 30, 2013
Wow what an action packed "end of days" kind of thriller! Give me a minute here, the last 20 pages just about gave me a heart attack. Matt Decker is my geek hero! Finally a leading man in an action packed book who is more brains than brawn. Don't get me wrong, I was very impressed when he had an occasion to get physical, but this guy is really a techno genius, and proud of it. The supporting characters were fantastic, they all felt very real. Almost no one was without suspicion, while I was racing to find out who exactly was involved with the psychopathic wannabe "God" Abraham Hart. So many twists and turns, along with biblical clues and references, which take this book from suspenseful, to thrilling, to action packed, with plenty of military involvement ~ all the while feeling insightful to me. I loved the idea of showing just how vulnerable our modern day lives have made us to terrorist and madmen alike. I highly recommend this book, it was an awesome thrill ride. Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 16, 2013
The very first page ( after copyright page), it reads "For those who ponder the unthinkable...." For years I have thought "if someone can (think it) and write about it, someone can do it"----.!
Intense action, believable characters, present day events that are so real and so very scary make this book hard to put down.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it as a book well worth your time to read.
I'm not going to write a 'book report', I'm just going to tell you to read it.
Thank you, Jerry Hatchett, for a great read.
Intense action, believable characters, present day events that are so real and so very scary make this book hard to put down.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it as a book well worth your time to read.
I'm not going to write a 'book report', I'm just going to tell you to read it.
Thank you, Jerry Hatchett, for a great read.
June 9, 2013
"American society has grown so dependent on computer and other electrical systems that we have created our own Achilles' heel of vulnerability, ironically much greater than those of other, less developed nations. When deprived of power, we are in many ways helpless, as the New York City blackout made clear. In that case, power was restored quickly because adjacent areas could provide help. But a large-scale burnout . . . would create a much more difficult situation."*
Jon Kyl- Unready For This Attack - The Washington Post April 16, 2005
Programming today is a race between software engineers striving to build bigger and better idiot-proof programs, and the Universe trying to produce bigger and better idiots. So far, the Universe is winning - Rich Cook
Will the future bring your wisdom to me?
Or will darkness rule the kingdom for all eternity? Nostradamus
A TEN Star Review for intelligence and terrifying reality
Seven Unholy Days scared the breath out of me. Not because of the amazing writing, which it was, but due to the absolutely clear-sighted horrifying truth of the tale.
In Jerry's last thriller, Pawnbroker, he used his extensive knowledge of computer forensics to create a scenario which lent a stark reality to his work. Now, in Seven Unholy Days, he goes further still, using his technical and computing expertise to create a novel of power and believability that will keep you awake at night.
“From fanaticism to barbarism is only one step” Denis Diderot 1713-1784
In Jerry's newest thriller, he posits a scenario that is only too realistic. The complete collapse of the American power grid at the hands of a powerful, wealthy religious fanatic. The whole country goes dark. The terrorist's demand? A “Decree of Darkness.” America is to remain in the dark, no electrical power allowed. Not wishing to bow to the demands of a terrorist, the President allows the lead character of the book, Matt Decker, the computer specialist who designed and installed the new control systems for the American power grid, to turn the power back on. What happens is horrifying and real enough to chill my blood.
The death of an individual is a tragedy. The death of a million a statistic. Joseph Stalin
p
The setting of the book, Iuka, Mississipi, where the “Great Central Electric” power transfer station is located is right in the author's comfort zone and his description of the area and the people draw you into the story. You can almost feel the heat of a Mississippi day and feel the humidity. As in “Pawnbroker” the characters are fully realized and well-rounded, lending them a believability that makes you like them, or hate them in a realistic manner.
What I found most scary about the book, other than what actually happened, is how it happened. How greed, fanaticism and political self-serving can allow an incident of completely horrifying consequence to occur. While some religious fanatics are committing abominable acts with no remorse what-so-ever in the name of “God” others are committing these acts, and worse, simply for money. While the acts of these supposed humans are gut-wrenching, they also hold that absolute ring of veracity that is without question one of the things that will cut the reader soul deep.
There are, of course, secondary stories that run throughout the book. In Pawnbroker, Jerry wove those secondary stories in a way that kept you interested and involved. Here, he goes deeper, weaving those stories in heartbreaking and chilling ways that make you think not only of his main theme, but of wider themes of fanaticism, greed, child abuse and human brutality which both open the mind and darken the soul. In the words of Herbert Ward, “Child abuse casts a shadow the length of a lifetime.” A rather odd quote for the ideas I have been discussing in this review, but it will make sense when you read the book. And you really, really MUST read this book. It is a thriller and fiction, sure.
However, it is more than that. It is, in its way, a treatise on the power of fanaticism, the fragility of the world financial markets, and the vulnerability of the human race to its dependency on technology, as well as the lengths humans will go to find meaning in their lives through the abuse of religious ideology. It is one of those rare thrillers that has seated itself deeply into my psyche and will come back to haunt me in the future.
_____________________
* The John Kyl quote refers specifically the effect of a major EMP pulse over the United States, but it appropriate to this review.
This book was provided to me by the author, however, that fact has no impact upon any review I may write, now or in the future.
Jon Kyl- Unready For This Attack - The Washington Post April 16, 2005
Programming today is a race between software engineers striving to build bigger and better idiot-proof programs, and the Universe trying to produce bigger and better idiots. So far, the Universe is winning - Rich Cook
Will the future bring your wisdom to me?
Or will darkness rule the kingdom for all eternity? Nostradamus
A TEN Star Review for intelligence and terrifying reality
Seven Unholy Days scared the breath out of me. Not because of the amazing writing, which it was, but due to the absolutely clear-sighted horrifying truth of the tale.
In Jerry's last thriller, Pawnbroker, he used his extensive knowledge of computer forensics to create a scenario which lent a stark reality to his work. Now, in Seven Unholy Days, he goes further still, using his technical and computing expertise to create a novel of power and believability that will keep you awake at night.
“From fanaticism to barbarism is only one step” Denis Diderot 1713-1784
In Jerry's newest thriller, he posits a scenario that is only too realistic. The complete collapse of the American power grid at the hands of a powerful, wealthy religious fanatic. The whole country goes dark. The terrorist's demand? A “Decree of Darkness.” America is to remain in the dark, no electrical power allowed. Not wishing to bow to the demands of a terrorist, the President allows the lead character of the book, Matt Decker, the computer specialist who designed and installed the new control systems for the American power grid, to turn the power back on. What happens is horrifying and real enough to chill my blood.
The death of an individual is a tragedy. The death of a million a statistic. Joseph Stalin
p
The setting of the book, Iuka, Mississipi, where the “Great Central Electric” power transfer station is located is right in the author's comfort zone and his description of the area and the people draw you into the story. You can almost feel the heat of a Mississippi day and feel the humidity. As in “Pawnbroker” the characters are fully realized and well-rounded, lending them a believability that makes you like them, or hate them in a realistic manner.
What I found most scary about the book, other than what actually happened, is how it happened. How greed, fanaticism and political self-serving can allow an incident of completely horrifying consequence to occur. While some religious fanatics are committing abominable acts with no remorse what-so-ever in the name of “God” others are committing these acts, and worse, simply for money. While the acts of these supposed humans are gut-wrenching, they also hold that absolute ring of veracity that is without question one of the things that will cut the reader soul deep.
There are, of course, secondary stories that run throughout the book. In Pawnbroker, Jerry wove those secondary stories in a way that kept you interested and involved. Here, he goes deeper, weaving those stories in heartbreaking and chilling ways that make you think not only of his main theme, but of wider themes of fanaticism, greed, child abuse and human brutality which both open the mind and darken the soul. In the words of Herbert Ward, “Child abuse casts a shadow the length of a lifetime.” A rather odd quote for the ideas I have been discussing in this review, but it will make sense when you read the book. And you really, really MUST read this book. It is a thriller and fiction, sure.
However, it is more than that. It is, in its way, a treatise on the power of fanaticism, the fragility of the world financial markets, and the vulnerability of the human race to its dependency on technology, as well as the lengths humans will go to find meaning in their lives through the abuse of religious ideology. It is one of those rare thrillers that has seated itself deeply into my psyche and will come back to haunt me in the future.
_____________________
* The John Kyl quote refers specifically the effect of a major EMP pulse over the United States, but it appropriate to this review.
This book was provided to me by the author, however, that fact has no impact upon any review I may write, now or in the future.
August 1, 2013
Kindle freebie. Overall I enjoyed the book. Although it involved religion (unholy in the title), it went a bit to the far-right at times for me. For me, the author could have cut the bible talk quite a bit but still have the story told. If anyone is looking for a quick read - by all means...
December 21, 2014
The technology almost bogged me down at the beginning, to the point where I wasn't sure I wanted to continue. So glad I hung in there as it really was a lot of fun when all was said and done.
October 1, 2020
Action packed from the first page to the end. Matt Decker is a hero with brains and he can kick a little butt.
The villain is absolutely nuts and I had a hard time going to bed because I had to know what he would do next.
This was great fun and I look forward to reading more from Jerry Hatchett.
4.5 action packed stars!
The villain is absolutely nuts and I had a hard time going to bed because I had to know what he would do next.
This was great fun and I look forward to reading more from Jerry Hatchett.
4.5 action packed stars!
March 3, 2015
I was Not Impressed
The writing was technical and easy. It's good for anyone who wants a mindless book. The situation was predictable and boring and the puzzles weren't as complex as they could have been. I think the book could have better written but it was free so I got what I paid for... I wouldn't recommend this to any of my friends.
The writing was technical and easy. It's good for anyone who wants a mindless book. The situation was predictable and boring and the puzzles weren't as complex as they could have been. I think the book could have better written but it was free so I got what I paid for... I wouldn't recommend this to any of my friends.
October 13, 2014
I made it all the way to 40%. I started reading the first and last paragraph of each ensuing chapter and didn't miss a thing and saved a lot of time! If you are a Lee Child, Brad Thor or Vince Flynn fan you will understand e whot I say that this book is most notable for cheesy dialogue, cartoonish characters (Apologies to Mickey and Goofy) and a rather silly and contrived plot line.
May 20, 2017
This book was really interesting. It was definitely a page turner and I liked the unique premise. For the most part, I liked the characters and enjoyed their interactions, especially Matt and Tark. If I had one issue it was with Jana's character. I liked her, but for a main character I felt like I knew nothing about her. I wish the author would have spent more time developing her. Also, I feel like the author left the door open for a sequel. I'd read it!
January 6, 2021
Very good book that had me hooked from the very beginning.
Really good thriller and plenty of action to keep me reading.Good main character who was very believable and a cracking storyline,worth a read
Really good thriller and plenty of action to keep me reading.Good main character who was very believable and a cracking storyline,worth a read
May 7, 2019
I believe there is a “right time” for each book and if it’s not the moment you are supposed to read it, you will not be able to enjoy it. That is the case with this book. I started to read it three years ago but for a reason I cannot remember I couldn’t pass the first chapter. I tried again a couple of months ago and that was it, I started reading it and I wanted to know more.. before I knew it I was so engulfed in it, that I reluctantly put it down. I really enjoyed this book, it’s well written and it will keep you wanting more. I like the way the characters develops throughout the story and the story line is very intricate.
June 26, 2013
FIVE STARS
Best.Thriller.Ever.period.
Life had been as boring as it had ever been in my whole entire life since summer started. I thought and knew that this summer was going to be as dull as the prior ones. I was lying on a couch, watching Netflix, and waiting/ daydreaming about a hero who can save me from this hideous summer when "Seven Unholy Days" came in my mail box. My gut tells me that something good was about to happen, that a hero that I'd been waiting for had finally arrived. And I'm happy to say that my gut was right,something good did happen, "Seven Unholy Days" saved my day/summer.
This book is packed with actions. So many exciting things happened and I can't believe that it only took seven days for all of these "stuff" to happen. Just think about it, each and everyday(for a week), you have new mystery to solve, new code to crack, new day to save, isn't life an excitement?!!!!
Okay, enough of me talking nonsense, let's talk about the book(no spoiler!)
This book is about the United States getting attacked by this psycho named Abraham Hart, who called himself a 'God'. Like I said, each and everyday our country had to face with these "attack" from Hart. Now you might be wondering why Hart went through all these troubles to hurt the U.S. and I would LOVE to tell you about it but I can't because it will spoil everything!! Even though Hart is the one who caused all the troubles, he is not our "center of attention". I guess you can call him that, too because he's our antagonist but the story is actually focused on Matt Decker, a celebrity-computer programmer expert (I'm not sure if that's what you'd call him but he knows lots of computer stuffs and he's well-known;)))At the beginning, Decker is described as a loner. Though he was surrounded by monies, reputations, and people who admire his works, his life was not surrounded by friends. Socialization is just not his thing. But that was about to change, his way of thinking about the world was about to change as he, Abdul, and Tark worked together to bring down this anonymous bastard (they had no idea Hart was behind this chaos!//!)The story has lots of twists and turns. There are betrayals, traitors, and many other things that would make you go "What? Whattttt?#$!@%$**!!!!!!!"
This book gives me a whole new perspective about what a hero truly is. A hero doesn't have to be a man with supernatural power or a man with abs or a man in a fancy outfit with a cape. A hero could be anybody. One thing I know for sure about hero is that that person always put others before him/her self and Matt Decker is that kind of person. Matt Decker is the perfect hero.
If you love mystery(cracking codes), thriller, action-packed, or books with biblical references, "Seven Unholy Days" is the perfect book for you. Thank you Jerry Hatchett for writing this book!
Finally! In Conclusion...
I don't really think that this is how I should close up this review but...If you have spent your whole entire day or night reading each and every word of this review, I'm sorry to say that: You have wasted your time.
The only thing you need to know about this book is that: It is an amazing book and you should read it!!!!
Best.Thriller.Ever.period.
Life had been as boring as it had ever been in my whole entire life since summer started. I thought and knew that this summer was going to be as dull as the prior ones. I was lying on a couch, watching Netflix, and waiting/ daydreaming about a hero who can save me from this hideous summer when "Seven Unholy Days" came in my mail box. My gut tells me that something good was about to happen, that a hero that I'd been waiting for had finally arrived. And I'm happy to say that my gut was right,something good did happen, "Seven Unholy Days" saved my day/summer.
This book is packed with actions. So many exciting things happened and I can't believe that it only took seven days for all of these "stuff" to happen. Just think about it, each and everyday(for a week), you have new mystery to solve, new code to crack, new day to save, isn't life an excitement?!!!!
Okay, enough of me talking nonsense, let's talk about the book(no spoiler!)
This book is about the United States getting attacked by this psycho named Abraham Hart, who called himself a 'God'. Like I said, each and everyday our country had to face with these "attack" from Hart. Now you might be wondering why Hart went through all these troubles to hurt the U.S. and I would LOVE to tell you about it but I can't because it will spoil everything!! Even though Hart is the one who caused all the troubles, he is not our "center of attention". I guess you can call him that, too because he's our antagonist but the story is actually focused on Matt Decker, a celebrity-computer programmer expert (I'm not sure if that's what you'd call him but he knows lots of computer stuffs and he's well-known;)))At the beginning, Decker is described as a loner. Though he was surrounded by monies, reputations, and people who admire his works, his life was not surrounded by friends. Socialization is just not his thing. But that was about to change, his way of thinking about the world was about to change as he, Abdul, and Tark worked together to bring down this anonymous bastard (they had no idea Hart was behind this chaos!//!)The story has lots of twists and turns. There are betrayals, traitors, and many other things that would make you go "What? Whattttt?#$!@%$**!!!!!!!"
This book gives me a whole new perspective about what a hero truly is. A hero doesn't have to be a man with supernatural power or a man with abs or a man in a fancy outfit with a cape. A hero could be anybody. One thing I know for sure about hero is that that person always put others before him/her self and Matt Decker is that kind of person. Matt Decker is the perfect hero.
If you love mystery(cracking codes), thriller, action-packed, or books with biblical references, "Seven Unholy Days" is the perfect book for you. Thank you Jerry Hatchett for writing this book!
Finally! In Conclusion...
I don't really think that this is how I should close up this review but...If you have spent your whole entire day or night reading each and every word of this review, I'm sorry to say that: You have wasted your time.
The only thing you need to know about this book is that: It is an amazing book and you should read it!!!!
January 14, 2016
What starts out as an apparent unimportant mid-west power outage soon escalates into Armageddon. On a routine visit to the Yellow Creek Complex, a Great American Electric power station located near Iuka, Mississippi, Matthew Decker, president and CEO of Decker Digital is confronted with a breach in his network. When the electrical power of entire states begins to shut down, Matt and the US government know something is very wrong.
This epistolary novel updates the reader by the minute as the seven days to the end of days as Abraham Hart (Hardier) carries out a multi-pronged terrorist attacks; first on the United States and then the world. The author has succeeded in incorporating endearing, frightening, colorful but especially memorable characters in this missive of international terror and intrigue. Jimmy Lee Tarkleton (Tark) is the Yellow Creek Plant manager and with his colorful and interesting past as a Texas Ranger and his present Bible thumping and no-nonsense attitudes an endearing portrait is painted that screams to be remembered. Henry Roberts, a dirt farmer from around Iyka with the intelligence of a slug and the attitude of a banshee, worms his way into your heart with his “bring em on” attitude that epitomizes the American spirit. These are just a few of a long cast of characters that will remain with the reader long after the book is read.
In a Tom Clancy, Robert Ludlum, Colin Forbes literary salad with a good dose of Dan Brown dressing, the story is sure to satiate any reader’s appetite. The incessant use of (for me) incomprehensible technical and military jargon and the complete lack of romance (although finding the time for this might prove a big problem when the seven-day clock is ticking toward world destruction might make adding romance both difficult and slightly implausible) is enough for me to withhold the fifth star. Whether four or five stars, it is well worth the reading and I highly recommend it to all interested in high suspense and espionage.
This epistolary novel updates the reader by the minute as the seven days to the end of days as Abraham Hart (Hardier) carries out a multi-pronged terrorist attacks; first on the United States and then the world. The author has succeeded in incorporating endearing, frightening, colorful but especially memorable characters in this missive of international terror and intrigue. Jimmy Lee Tarkleton (Tark) is the Yellow Creek Plant manager and with his colorful and interesting past as a Texas Ranger and his present Bible thumping and no-nonsense attitudes an endearing portrait is painted that screams to be remembered. Henry Roberts, a dirt farmer from around Iyka with the intelligence of a slug and the attitude of a banshee, worms his way into your heart with his “bring em on” attitude that epitomizes the American spirit. These are just a few of a long cast of characters that will remain with the reader long after the book is read.
In a Tom Clancy, Robert Ludlum, Colin Forbes literary salad with a good dose of Dan Brown dressing, the story is sure to satiate any reader’s appetite. The incessant use of (for me) incomprehensible technical and military jargon and the complete lack of romance (although finding the time for this might prove a big problem when the seven-day clock is ticking toward world destruction might make adding romance both difficult and slightly implausible) is enough for me to withhold the fifth star. Whether four or five stars, it is well worth the reading and I highly recommend it to all interested in high suspense and espionage.
November 10, 2013
Jerry Hatchett has the gift of putting his technical experience and creativity into a story that is powerful in its message and all-consuming to the reader. This story is centered around the Book of Revelation in the Bible specifically the Seven Seals. Jerry masterfully creates a villain who is hell-bent on fulfilling his destiny, as he sees it, and will stop at nothing to achieve his goal.
Abraham Hart is a cunning sociopath who in the name of religion executes his plan of a total breakdown of the American power grid. He is determined to plunge the country into darkness in order to fulfill his master plan.
Matt Decker is the computer technician who designed and is responsible for the control system of the American power grid. He assembles a team of computer minds to assist him in trying to circumvent total chaos and destruction.
Jana Fulton abducted by one of the members of Hart’s evil team and manages to integrate herself in such a way that she is a key element in this story.
The characters are all well-defined and multi-dimensional. The interactions between characters and the power of their circumstances come to the surface with the excellent writing in this book.
What really struck me about this story is the absolute realism of the situation and the thought of how the world has become so dependent on technology and the events that can occur with a single keystroke.
This is a book that I highly recommend for its intensity and realism it will keep you thinking long after the book is finished.
Abraham Hart is a cunning sociopath who in the name of religion executes his plan of a total breakdown of the American power grid. He is determined to plunge the country into darkness in order to fulfill his master plan.
Matt Decker is the computer technician who designed and is responsible for the control system of the American power grid. He assembles a team of computer minds to assist him in trying to circumvent total chaos and destruction.
Jana Fulton abducted by one of the members of Hart’s evil team and manages to integrate herself in such a way that she is a key element in this story.
The characters are all well-defined and multi-dimensional. The interactions between characters and the power of their circumstances come to the surface with the excellent writing in this book.
What really struck me about this story is the absolute realism of the situation and the thought of how the world has become so dependent on technology and the events that can occur with a single keystroke.
This is a book that I highly recommend for its intensity and realism it will keep you thinking long after the book is finished.
June 26, 2014
Very good story! Suspense and action up to the very end. Very enjoyable read.
It moved fast and kept me turning pages. It gave great details on all the specifics but it didn't bog down the action. I'd say anyone that likes a good faux-endtimes scenario will enjoy this! The bad guy was really a warped puppy that had some very creative ideas on how to end the world according to biblical prophecy.
Non-stop action!
It moved fast and kept me turning pages. It gave great details on all the specifics but it didn't bog down the action. I'd say anyone that likes a good faux-endtimes scenario will enjoy this! The bad guy was really a warped puppy that had some very creative ideas on how to end the world according to biblical prophecy.
Non-stop action!
November 12, 2018
Action-packed, intriguing, thrilling, excitement, mystery...this book had it all and I suggest you read it -- this could happen, for real!
Really a 4.5, but not worth a GR 5, so a 4-star it is -- the drawbacks was the backstory of Abdul, which really didn't impact on the plot at all, and could have been left out.
June 12, 2017
2.5 Stars for this action-packed Armageddon-style thriller... didn't hate it, didn't love it. Most of the characters were decent enough, but I found the heroine underdeveloped and the evil adversary to be a bit over the top, especially with his penchant for leaving clues. The plot was a bit formulaic - our dependency on all things electronic being our undoing is becoming quite a popular theme, and probably for good reason.
March 9, 2016
Terrific Reading
SEVEN UNHOLY DAYS packs a real wallop! This expertly written thriller meets all the requirements of the genre. From the beginning, the tension rises in taut increments with plenty of plot twists along the way to a last-second resolution. I'll be reading more novels by this author.
SEVEN UNHOLY DAYS packs a real wallop! This expertly written thriller meets all the requirements of the genre. From the beginning, the tension rises in taut increments with plenty of plot twists along the way to a last-second resolution. I'll be reading more novels by this author.
September 25, 2015
Not bad for an afternoon read
Interesting plot, but pretty easy to figure out, not a great book, but a nice Saturday afternoon read. If you like Armageddon-type thrillers, this is for you.
Interesting plot, but pretty easy to figure out, not a great book, but a nice Saturday afternoon read. If you like Armageddon-type thrillers, this is for you.
July 12, 2021
Page Turner
This book kept me guessing. I was suspect in one of the guys on Matt Deckers team as they tried to solve this time sensitive issue and keep the world from going dark.....But alas, I was wrong. Fantastic writing with great characters.
This book kept me guessing. I was suspect in one of the guys on Matt Deckers team as they tried to solve this time sensitive issue and keep the world from going dark.....But alas, I was wrong. Fantastic writing with great characters.
Want to read
May 20, 2013Super stoked to read this! Will update with a review.
July 25, 2013
Good storyline and good characters! Thoroughly enjoyed reading this.
March 20, 2014
I can't even begin to describe how horrible this book is. Don't waste your time.
June 13, 2015
Thriller that causes pause to think
Well written. A page Turner that instilled a fear or possible awakening to how fragile the world we know is.
Well written. A page Turner that instilled a fear or possible awakening to how fragile the world we know is.
January 8, 2018
For seven days, the world, primarily the United States, is terrorized by a madman who can and will kill millions with no compunction. Computer whiz Matthew Decker finds himself at odds with this psycho who taunts him at every turn, leaving the bare amount of a clue to figuring out his crazy agenda. And if Matt Decker fails, the end of the world as we know it will occur, heralding a new kind of psychotic god.
Even if you’re not big on Christianity, don’t let that make you skip out on this one. Despite the blatant religious overtones, the religion makes sense in the context of the story and Hatchett does a great job of not pushing religion on his readers, and not too hard on his maybe believing protagonist. It is integral to the story, but the reader does not need a background in Christianity to understand it. The characters (and author) do a great job of explaining the necessary information without pushing religion. Well, okay, maybe the one religious character can come off as a bit much, but his expertise is necessary and Decker does a great job deflecting his occasional pushiness for the reader’s sake. Ultimately, I still wouldn’t consider this a religious novel.
Seven Unholy Days is a nice saving the world kind of novel with a clear good vs. evil theme. Hatchett also does an excellent job of simultaneously pointing out the evilness of his antagonist and the antagonist’s own perceived goodness. Initially a clash between two business rivals, the story quickly evolves into a madman taunting the book’s hero. The conflict drives the plot, but the characters, being who they are, ensure this makes sense and Hatchett never seems to wander too far from who his characters are to get the plot going. There are numerous twists and turns and seemingly endless puzzles for Decker to solve, keeping the reader guessing as to what comes next. What I really loved about this novel was that something was always happening, some new piece of information gleaned to put the puzzle together or an action-packed event that rocks the country. I also loved the game between Decker and Hart, the taunting and desire to save the world that truly drives the plot forward, playing off of Decker’s fears and need to save the country and Hart’s relentless pursuit of godhood.
Hatchett does a lovely job of keeping the main character pool manageable and introducing them only as the novel calls for them. This isn’t to say there aren’t characters that get jumbled up with others, but most of them are clearly defined and unique. Despite occasionally mixing up some of the more minor characters, most tend to fit with their location and can easily be recalled. I particularly enjoyed the depiction of Hart, who describes himself in god-like terms, but who others simultaneously view as a maniac. What was also done quite well was how two individuals can come away from the same experience with different trajectories in life. This is true of Hart and Decker, and plays very well into the conflict and rivalry between them. Of note, I did find Jana’s (the love interest and anything but damsel in distress) character a little too convenient. For the first half of the novel, she was irrelevant, but Hatchett continually brought her in, perhaps to remind the reader of her existence, but perhaps to help better shape the insanity of Hart. During the last half, she was integral to the developing actions, but either her location at the halfway point or her background was a little too convenient and was the one hiccup in an otherwise mostly flawless characterization.
Seven Unholy Days was very nicely written with some technical flaws, but with an excellently paced story that made sense. The technical and religious information necessary to better understand the story was easily accessible to the general layperson, though it could have fit better into the narrative in some places. Otherwise, some grammatical errors, missing punctuation, and occasional confusion between past and present tense did little to detract from the overall story until the end, when the pacing picked up and the story reached its inevitable end. With a more careful eye towards editing, the entire novel could have been close to perfect for me. However, I greatly enjoyed Seven Unholy Days and can overlook the problems to find an interesting thriller that definitely kept me reading, despite the editorial flaws.
Bottom line: Even if religion isn’t your thing, don’t just pass on it. A truly thrilling read, it has the requisite action, realistic advances and losses, strong characters, puzzles the protagonist must solve to save the world, and a true madman as the antagonist.
Even if you’re not big on Christianity, don’t let that make you skip out on this one. Despite the blatant religious overtones, the religion makes sense in the context of the story and Hatchett does a great job of not pushing religion on his readers, and not too hard on his maybe believing protagonist. It is integral to the story, but the reader does not need a background in Christianity to understand it. The characters (and author) do a great job of explaining the necessary information without pushing religion. Well, okay, maybe the one religious character can come off as a bit much, but his expertise is necessary and Decker does a great job deflecting his occasional pushiness for the reader’s sake. Ultimately, I still wouldn’t consider this a religious novel.
Seven Unholy Days is a nice saving the world kind of novel with a clear good vs. evil theme. Hatchett also does an excellent job of simultaneously pointing out the evilness of his antagonist and the antagonist’s own perceived goodness. Initially a clash between two business rivals, the story quickly evolves into a madman taunting the book’s hero. The conflict drives the plot, but the characters, being who they are, ensure this makes sense and Hatchett never seems to wander too far from who his characters are to get the plot going. There are numerous twists and turns and seemingly endless puzzles for Decker to solve, keeping the reader guessing as to what comes next. What I really loved about this novel was that something was always happening, some new piece of information gleaned to put the puzzle together or an action-packed event that rocks the country. I also loved the game between Decker and Hart, the taunting and desire to save the world that truly drives the plot forward, playing off of Decker’s fears and need to save the country and Hart’s relentless pursuit of godhood.
Hatchett does a lovely job of keeping the main character pool manageable and introducing them only as the novel calls for them. This isn’t to say there aren’t characters that get jumbled up with others, but most of them are clearly defined and unique. Despite occasionally mixing up some of the more minor characters, most tend to fit with their location and can easily be recalled. I particularly enjoyed the depiction of Hart, who describes himself in god-like terms, but who others simultaneously view as a maniac. What was also done quite well was how two individuals can come away from the same experience with different trajectories in life. This is true of Hart and Decker, and plays very well into the conflict and rivalry between them. Of note, I did find Jana’s (the love interest and anything but damsel in distress) character a little too convenient. For the first half of the novel, she was irrelevant, but Hatchett continually brought her in, perhaps to remind the reader of her existence, but perhaps to help better shape the insanity of Hart. During the last half, she was integral to the developing actions, but either her location at the halfway point or her background was a little too convenient and was the one hiccup in an otherwise mostly flawless characterization.
Seven Unholy Days was very nicely written with some technical flaws, but with an excellently paced story that made sense. The technical and religious information necessary to better understand the story was easily accessible to the general layperson, though it could have fit better into the narrative in some places. Otherwise, some grammatical errors, missing punctuation, and occasional confusion between past and present tense did little to detract from the overall story until the end, when the pacing picked up and the story reached its inevitable end. With a more careful eye towards editing, the entire novel could have been close to perfect for me. However, I greatly enjoyed Seven Unholy Days and can overlook the problems to find an interesting thriller that definitely kept me reading, despite the editorial flaws.
Bottom line: Even if religion isn’t your thing, don’t just pass on it. A truly thrilling read, it has the requisite action, realistic advances and losses, strong characters, puzzles the protagonist must solve to save the world, and a true madman as the antagonist.
August 12, 2021
I gave this a 4 star because middle of the road books I usually give 3 and this was better than that. Two are pretty bad and one stars are usually "I wish I could give it negative". In my own numbering system there would be half stars because it was better than run of the mill.
I am not in to "end times" theology, although I am a Christian. I do not intend to ever read the "Left Behind" series because that is not what I believe. I almost stopped reading when I thought this was one of "those" books. However, the very twisted theology of this book is merely the ravings of a truly insane but brilliant and evil maniac.
So take a little twisted theology, add terrifying technology, a worthy hero (a little too Duddly Dooright) add a much more intelligent and stronger version of Nell, mix in the too real specter of deep state corruption, and the frightening aspect of "you just don't know who to trust" and then from the very beginning nonstop tragedy after tragedy and you get this. I would recommend it as it is better than a lot of downloads I have read lately. There is of course the truly annoying aspect of the woman who is so beautiful that everyone falls immediately in love with her and she is also strong, intelligent, brave, virtuous, etc. The men are not expected to live up to that standard.
The Christian elements (outside of the truly twisted theology of the villain) are not intrusive. They are actually necessary to interpret not the meaning of Biblical text but the villain's motives and agenda.
The detailed tech descriptions were a bit too much and I skipped over those. Also, there were a few times the brilliant characters missed some pretty obvious clues or failed to think things through but those times seemed to be necessary for plot development. Also, Abdul said he wasn't an Arab he was Persian. Persia is Iran. Maybe it was meant to be Pakistani?
I am not in to "end times" theology, although I am a Christian. I do not intend to ever read the "Left Behind" series because that is not what I believe. I almost stopped reading when I thought this was one of "those" books. However, the very twisted theology of this book is merely the ravings of a truly insane but brilliant and evil maniac.
So take a little twisted theology, add terrifying technology, a worthy hero (a little too Duddly Dooright) add a much more intelligent and stronger version of Nell, mix in the too real specter of deep state corruption, and the frightening aspect of "you just don't know who to trust" and then from the very beginning nonstop tragedy after tragedy and you get this. I would recommend it as it is better than a lot of downloads I have read lately. There is of course the truly annoying aspect of the woman who is so beautiful that everyone falls immediately in love with her and she is also strong, intelligent, brave, virtuous, etc. The men are not expected to live up to that standard.
The Christian elements (outside of the truly twisted theology of the villain) are not intrusive. They are actually necessary to interpret not the meaning of Biblical text but the villain's motives and agenda.
The detailed tech descriptions were a bit too much and I skipped over those. Also, there were a few times the brilliant characters missed some pretty obvious clues or failed to think things through but those times seemed to be necessary for plot development. Also, Abdul said he wasn't an Arab he was Persian. Persia is Iran. Maybe it was meant to be Pakistani?
November 2, 2017
An IT geek, Matt Decker, has created a futuristic new power grid for the United States. A crazy mastermind gets into the electric system and shuts down power everywhere. As this nut gains power by causing other catastrophes in the world and claiming to be “The Messiah” and “The Devil” from the bible. Decker and his group of computer experts try there best to find this man and keep the power and other things up and running.
This thriller moves pretty quickly. The electric systems going down they way they did is a fear of mine. We really depend on electronics so much now a days for news, communicating with others and hospital’s life support.
I do not know if it was the dark points in the book that made me dislike it but I really did not connect with the characters. I connected with the terror of the different disasters because they felt like something that could happen. I do not feel that only one man could have made that all happen the way, Hart did..
I am not a big fan of thrillers this is second one in a month I have read. They both seemed very similar even though the stories were a little different. Both had terrorism in them. This one just fell flat like other book did as well. It this was a series I probably would not read the next one.
This thriller moves pretty quickly. The electric systems going down they way they did is a fear of mine. We really depend on electronics so much now a days for news, communicating with others and hospital’s life support.
I do not know if it was the dark points in the book that made me dislike it but I really did not connect with the characters. I connected with the terror of the different disasters because they felt like something that could happen. I do not feel that only one man could have made that all happen the way, Hart did..
I am not a big fan of thrillers this is second one in a month I have read. They both seemed very similar even though the stories were a little different. Both had terrorism in them. This one just fell flat like other book did as well. It this was a series I probably would not read the next one.
May 25, 2020
This book was a nice surprise. It reminded me of Dan Brown in that it covers a conspiracy and clues to be resolved. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and got to like the main character Matt Decker and his “Arab” sidekick. While some of the plot was a little choppy and the female lead little overly heroic, one of this distracted from the reading enjoyment this novel provides. Very entertaining I gotta at a times thought provoking, especially when lookin at living with COVIT 19; what is important in life? Highly recommended read for those who like thrillers with puzzles and some religion based themes.
June 1, 2020
It's a decent paced book with some good action scenes centred around the protagonist and antagonist. Almost from the start, the protagonist is on the back foot trying to deal with events that spiral out of control.
There are a lot of secondary characters who add to the mix, keeping the events on track for both sides and you are never quite sure who to trust in the story.
The introduction of backstory for the leads is done well, though a little excessive for the hero Matt Decker with details repeated that becoming annoying rather than reinforcing previous reveals but otherwise it's an enjoyable read.
There are a lot of secondary characters who add to the mix, keeping the events on track for both sides and you are never quite sure who to trust in the story.
The introduction of backstory for the leads is done well, though a little excessive for the hero Matt Decker with details repeated that becoming annoying rather than reinforcing previous reveals but otherwise it's an enjoyable read.
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