The Devil's Peak: The Devil's Peak, Book 1

by Greig Beck, Sean Mangan (Narrator)

Crafted 3500 years ago, the first Bible concealed a dark secret – a missing page, torn from its sacred binding. Rumours claimed it wasn't penned by a saint or prophet, but by the Devil himself, revealing the gateway to Hell.

In June 2020, a mysterious Middle Eastern earthquake unveiled this long-hidden page, unleashing global parasitic plagues, grotesque deformities and monstrous entities rising from the ocean's abyss – creatures never meant for daylight.

Drake Stoker, a skeptical ex-Reaper Special Forces operative, joins forces with the Templar Knights, a clandestine Vatican order. Driven by personal motives, Drake, alongside the Knights, must locate and seal this infernal portal before Hell spills over and the Devil walks free.

Genres: Horror, Adventure, Science Fiction, Action, Audiobook

Audible Audio

Published September 1, 2025

About the author

Hi GoodReaders, I’m an Australian author residing in Sydney with my wife, son and a mad Golden Retriever named Jessie. My novels are now available globally, also in Large Print and now in full AUDIO format.

I grew up spending my days surfing at Bondi Beach before entering a career in Information technology which took me around the world. After completing an MBA, i was appointed both an Australasian director of a multinational software company, and tasked with setting up the USA arm of the organisation.

Today, I spend most of my time writing... with plenty left over for surfing.

More information about me and my works can be found at either www.greigbeck.com, or join me on FaceBook (Greig Beck Author).

Reviews

[JJtheBookNerd · Rating 3 out of 5]

We start in 1788, and on a voyage through the Southeast Pacific, Captain Henry Ball comes across a giant rock jutting from the sea. After a terrifying incident, he flees but nicknames the place 'The Devil's Peak' and marks it on a map as a treacherous spot so other ships avoid it. We also get a plot surrounding a mysterious long-lost relic—a scroll which had been hidden many years previously—and an array of people who seem to want to claim possession of it.

We fast forward to 2020 and meet 30-year-old Captain Drake Stoker, who leads the Reapers, one of the most feared special forces groups in the world; his twin brother Ethan is also a member. On a mission, they stumble across Isabella, who is being tortured. She is a Templar Knight who's been sent on a quest by the Vatican to capture the scroll.

Then a few more years pass, and Drake and Ethan have moved on from the special forces and are working in the family business. Ethan, his fiancé and his best friend are going on a trip for a rock climbing adventure which turns out to be at The Devil's Peak—during this trip Ethan goes missing.

Although we have a few different time periods at the beginning of the book to acquaint us with the various characters and plotlines, the main story follows Drake post special forces on the hunt to find his brother, with the help of some of his ex-military friends. They again team up with the Templar Knights and Isabella, who agree to help—they are heading to The Devil's Peak on their own mission.

This was pretty good; the whole atmospheric feel of the descent into hell and all its gory and graphic descriptions kept me engrossed. We also get some strong female characters; Isabella in particular was not to be messed with. The writing was fine, and the narrative kept up a relatively steady pace throughout too.

I did have some minor problems with it, though. Firstly, there are some moments that are a bit beyond belief, where you think, 'Why are you doing that?', but it's a horror novel after all. Furthermore, it just kind of finished and was left open-ended, but fortunately the sequel is already out. Seeing as I quite liked this one, I'm going to move on to book 2 and see where the story goes next.

In the Author's notes at the end of the book, they state that some of the insects and creatures mentioned are based on real ones... scary stuff! A few of the scientific and historical references are also loosely based on truth. The fact I found most interesting was about the Earth having a heartbeat—it's always fascinating to see where an Author draws inspiration.

Rating it 3.5/5.

[John (JC) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A journey into the bowels of Hell. Not a pleasant permanent vacation. On the lighter side, there will not be any snow to worry about. Greig Beck has created a wonderful depiction of Going to Hell and Back.
The characters present in this written includes Three Templar Knights, Isabella, Baron and Leonidas with the common goal of stopping Octavius Conti and sealing the portal to Hell. Octavius has been committed to the dark arts and feels Satan will allow him to become King of the Fallen World. Others who are presently supporting the Templar Knights are Drake and his Reapers, ex-special forces, the people you call on when facing impossible odds. Drake has another task, to bring back his brother who was lost while climbing/hiking with Addison in Devil’s Peak.
It is a gore filled horror of the third kind. Greig Beck’s descriptions are hair raisers, holding nothing back for the weak of heart. There is no foreshadowing, no guessing what is next around the corner. It is just a great written horror novel meant to induce fear and excitement. Beck has more than succeeded in this writing.

[John Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gripping storyline!

A lost page from the Hebrew Bible is discovered in Jerusalem, a page that documents the location of the very gates of Hell.

Various groups compete to enter the fabled "Underworld"; from Vatican commandos attempting to close the Gates of Hell forever, retired special forces operatives attempting to rescue a missing colleague, to hardened Satanists wanting to destroy the planet. This was non-stop frantic action from start to finish.

This was a sort of return journey into Dante's Inferno, with creatures from your worst nightmare plaguing every step of the way. A jaunt to the Christian Church's medieval vision of Hell and to hob nob with all its ghastly minions.

In short, it was great fun and an enjoyable read.

[Matt Schroeder · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was good until it wasn't.

An interesting premise, but just enough research to be plausible. Characters written with just enough character to avoid being superficial. It wasn't one of Beck's "can't put it down, run and gun action" books, but it has enough to hold your attention.

But the book just stops. "The end." No resolution, not even in the epilogue. This is Beck's second straight book written as if he doesn't know how to end the story. It felt like he was trying to set the hook for a second book, but the cliffhanger was weak sauce, and the characters weren't THAT far away from being superficial.

Just "meh" for me.

[Sharron Joy Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Reapers are an elite special forces team and they are on a mission to locate and destroy the aircraft left behind as the allied forces left Afghanistan. As they plant the relay for the missile they rescue a woman as deadly as them with one mission, to steal back a priceless artefact that shows the location on earth of the doorway to hell. Drake the Reaper and Isabella, a Templar knight join forces to seal it permanently but others want it opened.

Giving a new understanding to what the seven circles in Inferno really are this is a horror thriller that starts explosively and never lets up. Satanists intent on bringing hell to Earth along with the denizens of hell thwart them at every turn and the brutality and violence is intense.

This is medieval type hellfire with hidden Vatican secrets, an elusive religious fighting force and both good and evil showing their true face, such fun! This is the start of a new series I believe as the ending leaves it open to continue but I enjoyed this story as a standalone.

[Matt Egan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun modern take on Dante's Inferno

The Devil's Peak is an interesting horror thriller which is loosely based on certain passages from Dante's Inferno that modern horror readers will appreciate. I'm not a huge fan of Christian archetypes in horror fiction, but every once in a while its fun to read. Drake is a standout character, honorable and self sacrificing despite all he's done in his Special Operations background. His chemistry with the Templar Isabella keeps it interesting. Looking forward to book 2! 4/5 stars, highly recommended for fans of survival horror thrillers!

[Cam · Rating 4 out of 5]

The center of the book trilogy are one of my favorites. This book has just as much adventure but can turn a little long winded when you compare them to his other books. I couldn't wait to dive into the action part of the book. If you've ever read Dante's inferno then you will have an understanding of the levels of hell that will be journeyed throughout the book. To save all humanity the group of navy seal are to travel with the Templar Knights through the levels of hell.

[Phil Landry · Rating 3 out of 5]

I know it's silly to say this about a Greig Beck book but... this didn't make sense (haha). It simply doesn't make sense that they continue to look for his brother.

Still fun. whatever.

[Jimmy A Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read, makes you think.

I have read every Grieg Beck book that I've found and have thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of them. Just finished this one and absolutely cannot wait until book 2. This one is very thought-provoking and really brings out the horrors and the unspeakable, unbearable and unending torment of those souls in hell. It really brings out I disgusting detail what awaits those unfortunate enough to be sent there. Otherwise, it's another good military based and another action-packed gift from the twisted mind of Mr. Beck. Would highly recommend.

[James Buckley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Greig Beck’s imagination has taken us to the depths of the ocean and the darkness of space, but in this new book he takes us to an actual Hell. Ancient legends tell of a lost page from the Bible which gives the location of the gateway to Hell. And when the brother of a retired Special Forces operative disappears on a climbing expedition to a ominous black volcanic outcropping, he joins a team of seasoned Vatican commandos on a recovery mission that soon turns into an actual journey into Dante’s Inferno. Truly hellish sights await, and the ending is clearly setting up a continuation of this epic adventure,

This is Beck firing on all cylinders. Fun characters, well-rendered visions of the road to damnation, and tense action scenes - rhey are all here. And as the book established fairly early on that it is set in the same universe as Beck’s Alex Hunter novels, there is a surprise cameo from earlier Beck novels.

This was a fantastic kick-off to a new series. Now to patiently count down the days until the next installment ….

[BookzBookzBookz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, I love Greig Beck novels. They are an adventure unlike other authors I read, comparable to greats like Jeremy Robinson and classic novelists- of which his past few books have been themed. The Devil’s Peak affected me differently. It was heavy, deep, and spiritually disturbing at times. I say this because I am Christian and once something affects me, I usually let it alone. Not this time.

The Devil’s Peak is about the devil prepping to rise up. According to the Bible, he is due his reign. An obsession peak has crested in the middle of an ocean, avoided, ventured and if lucky- escaped. Of course, there’s always that numpty who’s gotta scale it, looking to add another notch to their victorious belt. This time, the peak has more than a summit. It’s got an opening to Hell and there are things…

This novel made me feel as oppressed as the characters, because I fear hell. I believe there are demons and such. But instead of dropping the book and tagging it as DNF, I trudged through, wanting the characters to make it out. To survive. The ending is just what I wanted- a conclusion novel. :) It’s the type of story that can’t come with a tidy closure and how.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

Fast paced, exciting thriller to Hell but not necessarily back! Filled with hideous creatures, gruesome deaths, and still a sliver of hope exists. The only problem I found with this book was I read it too fast and now have to wait for the sequel.

[Lou (Lou and Life) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Trigger Warning: gore / gross

I've recently been enjoying a lot of sci-fi novels, so I went into my library's avaliable books and this book seemed interesting so I decided to borrow it. Having read it, I wish that I had picked a different book.

If you're looking for an action book that is written by a man, this is the book for you. This book screamed male author because of how the story developed. I know it's also because the main characters are macho, special ops men, with a crew of special ops men and a few women, but some of the twists that happened in this book was so stupid. Like you're literally going into the depths of hell, see an attactive 'woman', and don't think anything is wrong or suspicious? Especially having already seen monsters. Including the fact that they were going through a very physically draining climb/descent, yet you have a man thinking with his penis. Make it make sense. A lot of this book surpassed my suspension of disbelief.

In addition, there was so many characters. It got to the point where someone would die and I would be like... okay random person who I have no emotional attachment has died. I feel like I should be sad but I don't remember their names and I just read the book. I think it would have been better to have halfed the number of people on the mission, because it felt like the characters just died for the sake of shock factor.

The ending was disappointing because it was a cliffhanger so you would pick up book 2. It did not feel satisying to finish the book because there was no closure. Just plot points that were introduced that should hopefully get picked up in book 2.

The writing of the book was okay. As a reader, I didn't feel an emotional attachment to the characters, but I did feel revulsion in some of the things that happened in this book. It does have quite a few gore descriptions and it did put me off eating. So at least I did feel something. I liked how the plot developed in terms of the action, but I also feel like the characters let it down because you just see them make stupid decisions left and right and you don't feel the consequences of the actions. Their feelings aren't talked about or thought about, so you don't feel the impact of the action moments. It's more just like this happened, some characters get through obstacle, repeat. Plus you don't understand WHY the characters are doing what they're doing. Like there is not enough money in the world for me to do what the characters are doing, so what is it in for the characters other than blind loyalty. Like it's not discussed if their loyalty is worth their lives. Drake's reasons and agency is the most explored, but even then it feels very surface level.

I understand a part of the reason why I would not like this book as much as other people is the religious aspect. I'm not religious or well versed in Christianity. I'm a person who knows the basics, so the more religioius aspects fell flat to me. However, I also feel like this book would alienate religious people because I don't see them particularly wanting to read a book about essentially the devil becoming free and wanting to destroy humanity.

Overall, I wouldn't recommend this book unless you're a middle aged probably white man. I think this is the sort of book that demographic would love. I would be open to continuing to book 2 to see what happens next if my library holds a copy. I would not go out of my way to purchase book 2 with my money.

[Susan Chacko · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, so I just finished The Devil’s Peak, and my immediate thought was: that’s pretty good. It’s not the greatest—there are some gaps, and yeah, the typos definitely threw me off. Some words just didn’t make sense, and I really wish this book had a better editor. But otherwise, it’s a solid, fast read. I’d say I’m “average” on it—not overly happy, not disappointed.

The description of Hell is where the book really shines. Every single detail is vivid—you can picture it perfectly, and it’s disgusting in the best way. I read this right after another book, which is also about people journeying to Hell, and I have to say: The Devil’s Peak does way more justice to world-building. While that book felt heavier and more academic, with less clear imagery, this one immerses you completely in the grimy, horrifying layers of Hell. For e.g., there’s a scene where they’re walking on the faces of the damned—people guilty of pride—still alive and tormented. Yuck. That’s how immersive it gets.

The writing style is cinematic and fast-paced. It’s entertaining, easy to read, and feels like a mini indie movie playing in your head. The flow is good, and the story really picks up once the characters reach Hell. The first few chapters drag a bit with historical context and back-and-forths, but after that, it moves quickly.

Now, the characters… well, there are really only a few developed ones: Drake Stoker, his twin brother Ethan, Addison (Ethan’s fiancée), and Isabella Romano, a Templar Knight. We get some background on them, but not much beyond that. Drake and Ethan were part of an elite special forces team called the Reapers. Ethan goes climbing The Devil’s Peak with Addison, which turns out to be the gateway to Hell, and gets dragged in. Drake assembles a team of his Reaper colleagues to rescue him. They are joined by Isabella and her knights, who want to close the portal.

For the main characters, you at least know something about them. The rest? Not so much. The other Reapers felt almost interchangeable, and some of their actions—especially dying over gold in Hell—felt ridiculous, since they’re supposed to be elite, iron-willed soldiers.

The ending is a cliffhanger, which works because there’s a sequel. Drake does get Ethan back, but personally, I’d question the wisdom—there’s no guarantee someone returning from Hell hasn’t been corrupted. But family is family.

Would I recommend this book? Yes, to anyone who enjoys a fast-paced, immersive, and visually detailed read. It’s not perfect—the character depth could be stronger, and the typos are distracting—but it’s entertaining, cinematic, and has very good world-building. Even if you don’t love it, it’s worth reading.

[Jacques Hollands · Rating 3 out of 5]

Greig Beck rarely misses when it comes to high-stakes adventure-horror, but The Devil’s Peak walks a slightly different, and more divisive, path.

This entry leans heavily into religious undertones. For some, that will add a layer of eerie gravitas. For others, it may feel uncomfortable or just too on-the-nose. Either way, it’s a tonal shift that shapes much of the story’s impact.

What really knocked a star or two off, though, is Beck’s now-familiar habit of late of ending books with either a downbeat resolution or a deliberately open-ended conclusion. This time, it’s both. And while that’s understandable - it's the start of a new series - it still left me frustrated. If you’re going to make me wait a year (or longer) for the sequel, at least give me some emotional closure. Unfortunately, that’s not what you’ll find here. By the time the final page turned, I had already mentally shelved most of the plot in favour of whatever I’d be reading next.

That said, the ride itself wasn’t bad. There’s Beck’s trademark sense of atmosphere, pacing, and a genuinely intriguing premise buried beneath the religious threads. But the ending? Meh.

Solid start, but not a satisfying standalone. 3 stars from me.

[Jay · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is one of those half-star times. 3.5* for me. It was a decent read, lots of bloody bits, and some really wild imagery, but it was predictable. I started it blind, not knowing it was a start of a series... So I have pre-ordered the second book both looking forward to it, and hoping it is just a 2 part series. And I am cautiously optimistic that it will do a good job of keeping the pace of this story.
There were some continuity issues with the book and some really bizarre scratch-your-head moments. Some of these action/horror books take this weird approach that if someone dies horribly down a certain passage, the rest need to keep going and nothing will happen to them because that other dude died... If you know what you are getting into and like this genre, sit back and enjoy it. If you are on the fence, there are probably better options to start your splatter/action/horror (hactsplat or splacthor or something).

[Crystal Fenerty · Rating 4 out of 5]

ok

Wondering if there will be a follow-up book.
Major discrepancy that bugged me what the first group got to the ledge with the inscription, spent the night, then the two remain CLIMED higher looking for their friend before they found the cave. The main group comes, gets to the ledge where first group camped. No mention of the gear left behind and suddenly the cave is on that same ledge with the inscription and not further up.
Also how did the bad guys get to the island as there was no boat around when the main team go there, no indication at all how they arrived there.
Few other issues and cut off story lines that seem to be added just to add more to the book?
Did kinda expect the end result, but otherwise enjoyed the book. I am hoping for a follow-up of some kind since this authors books all seem to tie back into each other.

[Dale Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great action adventure horror story. I liked the premise of it all and it didn't disappoint. Greig does a good job of characters and situation descriptions, and some of the things the characters encounter as they progress into the mountain are horrific (Greig's writing allowing nothing to be left to the imagination).
Relatively short chapters, with a few longer ones, allow the story to be read swiftly.
The ending certainly leaves a few loose ends, so hopefully, that means this will be the start of a series, or at least a sequel will be written.

[Ankit Jain · Rating 3 out of 5]

Generally I am not critical of the books by the author. I have to say though it is not his best work. This was too weird for my taste.

Until now I can digest aliens, robots, giant octopus, alien bugs, Dinosaurs and what not. However the denizens of hell were too much for me. It was hard to feel connected with the content in the book since I have no reference about the things discussed.

Most of all this book does not end well. It stops abruptly hinting at a second part. My recommendation would be to wait until the sequel.

[Jenny Clifford · Rating 4 out of 5]

Business as usual from Greig Beck, this book was more or less exactly what I anticipated. It is brutally fast paced, gory, and filled with guns and action. It maybe doesn't have the deepest and most heartfelt character arcs, but I don't think that is why you would choose a book like this. It is a great fun ride where the plot really keeps you on your toes, sort of like if Indiana Jones and Predator had a love child. I have enjoyed all of Greig Beck's books, and will definitely continue to buy them!

[Cora Pop · Rating 4 out of 5]

It starts great, even thrillingly, with vibes of To the Center of the Earth, which I absolutely loved, but it falters quite quickly, giving the impression again that the author doesn't really know where he's going...

[Duncan Palmer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun book- an easy read

Greig Beck is one of my favourite authors. This book is a fun, easy read and the constant hectic pace makes it hard to put down. My only concern is that there are a few inconsistencies in the story that should have been edited out but they are relatively minor and don't ruin the story.

[Shereen Lang · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a fun, easy read and the constant hectic pace makes it hard to put down.
This is medieval type hellfire with hidden Vatican secrets, an elusive religious fighting force and both good and evil showing their true face, such fun! The ending certainly leaves a few loose ends, so hopefully, that means this will be the start of a series, or at least a sequel will be written.

[Trevor · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Drake Stoker's brother goes missing, he springs into action and begins a search, that will take him into Hell. Supported by his ex Reaper team and Knight Templers, he attempts to find his brother but must also stop a great evil escaping which will destroy the world. Good story, left open for a sequel.

[Rich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

I am always in search of good end of the world books! This one sucks you in and never lets go! I'm ready and hoping for a book two because there is plenty of story left to tell!

[Calvin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Couldn't put it down

Like most of Beck's books, I raced to get to the end. I really enjoyed it but the writing wasn't as good as previous books. There was a lot of stuff skipped over. The Kraken makes a surprise cameo which was awesome. I can't wait to read the next!

[Cody · Rating 4 out of 5]

Repent now!

This book scared me! I can say if you're not a Christian and don't believe in heaven or hell, you may want to rethink things over....Beck creates a frightening version of hell! Nope, not me, I'm headed to heaven.

[George · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

i like the characters and the story. Just like one reader mentioned, Greig needs a good editor. Several typos along the book, it won’t kill the book but it should be there. I hope there is a

[Bellerophon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent tale

Beck's books are always super fun and entertaining. This one was no exception. Great characters and an unholy adventure. Looks like a series or, at least, a sequel is coming. Thanks.

[Nollaig Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book

Well written and easy to read
A gateway to hell is found some people want to close and some people want to use it for themselves to gain power over earth itself