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Chewed Up By The Jungle

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“Ann Charles packs a punch in this exciting, smart, and sexy jungle romp that combines three of my favorite action, mystery, and things that go bump in the night. This series might be her best yet!” ~Renee George, USA Today Bestselling Author of Nora Black Midlife Psychic Mysteries

Whatever lies in wait in the jungle isn’t just history ... it’s hungry!

Deep in the Yucatán Peninsula sits a long forgotten, mysterious site—lost to time, swallowed by the jungle, haunted by ancient secrets.

Archaeologist Dr. Angélica Garcia is chasing clues, and she will stop at nothing to uncover the site’s history. Was it a sacred center? A place of long-forgotten rituals? Or something far more sinister?

Quint Parker, a sharp-eyed photojournalist, is chasing Angélica. He never signed up for old curses, creepy whispers in the shadows, or man-eating mosquitoes. He just wants to make sure his girlfriend makes it out of the jungle—alive.

The deeper they dig into the past, the more they must confront a deadly Some places should never be disturbed!

484 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 22, 2025

82 people are currently reading
17 people want to read

About the author

Ann Charles

65 books1,274 followers
Ann Charles—Author
Nearly Departed in Deadwood, the 2010 Daphne du Maurier Award Winner and a 2011 RWA Golden Heart Award Winner.
*USA Today Best Selling Author,
*Amazon Top 100 Bestselling Author
*Barnes & Noble Top 100 Bestselling Author
*Winner Suspense Magazine Best of 2012, 2015. 2016
*Winner of Paranormal Grand Prize from Chanticleer Book Reviews and Media,
*Winner of Southern Writers Best Covers Contest
You'll laugh. You'll cringe. You'll want more.

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5 stars
57 (78%)
4 stars
11 (15%)
3 stars
3 (4%)
2 stars
2 (2%)
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0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
12 reviews1 follower
December 13, 2025
First I love Ann Charles. All of her books. She takes you into the jungle with her characters. I don’t know where she gets her imagination from. The weird things that happen in this book. I just don’t know where she makes these things up from. She has three series that I read. Her Violet books and this series that stars violet‘s brother and then she has another series. The other two series are funny and that’s why I love them. She’s not so funny in these but the characters are so engaging. I just don’t want to give anything away from this book, but you have to read it. The three books in the series are about the Maya’s and she makes all of that very interesting. The I don’t know what to call them. I don’t wanna say pyramids but I guess that’s what they are. I’m not sure anyway I’ll give this a five star rating. If you haven’t read any of her books you should start at the beginning of this with the first book and go on from there so you’ll understand where she’s coming from.
Profile Image for Connie.
441 reviews
November 7, 2025
I love Ann Charles’ Dig Series. She makes the Maya culture so interesting to learn about. I find myself looking up more information on the Maya history. There was a bit of time between books when #3 came out, so I reread #1 & #2. So glad I did. It reminded me how much I love the characters in the books. I also love how Ann has woven all her series together. Quint’s sister is Violet in the Deadwood series & Violet’s best friend Natalie is in the Jackrabbit series, etc.

Glad I read this book when the South Dakota weather was a little chilly. Ann describes the heat in the jungle so well I find myself sweating along with Quint! Everything Ann describes really well & I have a good time picturing the characters & environment in my mind. And Ann’s humor in her writing makes me laugh out loud.

I know writing this series is hard work for Ann. But all the research she does is what makes these books so good. Can’t wait for another book in this series. But meanwhile, let Quint, Angelica, Juan & the rest of the crew chill a little outside of the jungle.
Profile Image for Susan.
1,169 reviews43 followers
October 23, 2025
Angelica and Quint are back at it—this time at another dig site, and things get creepy! Full of history, mystery, and a few shivers, this one kept me turning the pages. Hang on to your shovels, because this adventure is fast-paced, fun, and totally addictive from start to finish!
1,310 reviews61 followers
December 25, 2025
The story follows archaeologist Angélica García and photojournalist Quint Parker as they return to the jungle for a new dig site rumored to be deeply sacred and possibly cursed by the ancient Maya. What begins as a professional expedition quickly becomes a tense and dangerous endeavor involving armed guards, rival researchers, and the ever-present threats of the rainforest itself.

The jungle is not just a backdrop here; it is a living, breathing antagonist, full of venomous snakes, relentless insects, suffocating heat, and ominous sounds that keep both characters and readers on edge.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its character dynamics. Angélica is a compelling heroine: intelligent, driven, and emotionally layered, especially in her connection to her late mother’s archaeological theories. Quint provides a perfect counterbalance—charming, sarcastic, and brave, using humor as both shield and sword when facing danger.

Their chemistry crackles throughout the book. Juan García, Angélica’s father, adds another delightful layer with his superstition, teasing, and hard-earned wisdom. Ann Charles’s writing shines throughout this book.
837 reviews
November 4, 2025
Wow! What a great read! Only author Ann Charles could come up with a thriller like this. What started out as a routine archeological dig turned into a slow burn with a build-up to one heck of an exciting (and scary) finale. I loved the dynamics between Angelica and Quint and hope to see more of them in future books. Mysteries and surprises abound. Ms. Charles' descriptions of the jungle had me sweating and swatting imaginary flies and mosquitoes along with the dig team. Finally, a tip of the pith helmet to Ms. Charles' artist brother, C.S. Kunkle, for his outstanding artwork. Loved the book and am hoping for many more in this series as well as all the author's other series. Please, write faster!!
194 reviews
December 14, 2025
This is the 3rd installment in the Dig Site Mystery Series and is a great read. The story line is well written and very entertaining. The Mexican jungle calls Angelica back for another archaeological dig and mystery to solve, which has Clint and the rest of the crew following along to help. What transpires will keep you on the edge of your seat until the mystery of the dig site is solved. A highly recommended read.
Profile Image for Denise.
165 reviews1 follower
October 29, 2025
Is there such thing as reincarnation?

I absolutely love this book. It has all the good for a great book - drama, action, love and learning all thrown in! The history about the Mayan culture and beliefs was wonderful. You can tell Ann did her research. Highly recommend!
467 reviews1 follower
December 10, 2025
Was fighting mosquitos and snakes along with the characters.
Profile Image for Gina.
2,383 reviews31 followers
December 7, 2025
Hot and steamy

In the hot and steamy jungle with all kinds of dangerous insects and animals, hides something worse. But with a good demon, butterflies and vultures it should be easy to conquer, right? This book is full of good stuff, the supernatural, some romance and lots of adventure and sweating.
Profile Image for Joella.
26 reviews36 followers
November 25, 2025
My excitement is always high for a new Ann Charles book and Chewed Up By The Jungle did not disappoint! I enjoyed this book so much!! Angelica and Quint are back in the jungle at Site 5 with all sorts of dangers, discoveries and mystery. Also, skulls, butterflies, vultures and bats!! The suspense of the last few chapters was intense and I did not see the twist in the story coming! The mix of historical and supernatural really adds so much to the story. I appreciate the time Ann puts in studying the Mayan culture for this series. It helps me to picture everything in my head while reading. Highly recommend!

If you have not read any of the other book series Ann has written, you have to check them out! I love how the characters cross over into her other books and I see so many amazing directions she can go with future books in each series. As always, I will be patiently awaiting the next one!
Profile Image for Dawn.
153 reviews4 followers
December 13, 2025
Chewed Up By The Jungle (A Dig Site Mystery Book 3)

Archaeologist Dr. Angélica Garcia and photojournalist Quint Parker off on another dig site.
I love these characters, and the banter back and forth.
But the dig site has some disturbing things, beyond the creepy crawlers and heat that they knew were just a part of the jungle.
I held my breath and chewed my nails during the adventures in this book
Profile Image for _sassy_39.
2,572 reviews156 followers
November 3, 2025
"Chewed Up By The Jungle" by Ann Charles is the third installment in the Dig Site Mystery series. The story follows Angélica García, a Pre-Columbian Archaeologist who now works as a Cultural Resource Manager for INAH. Alongside her is Quint Parker, a photojournalist and Angélica’s boyfriend, who instantly draws readers’ attention.

The Mexican government tasks Angélica with discovering new and intriguing sites to promote tourism. When she comes across Marianne’s notes about a mysterious location deep in the Yucatán Peninsula, she becomes intrigued. However, she doesn't want to collaborate with Dr. Fernel, who insists on using his LIDAR technology to investigate what transpired there years ago. Dr. Fernel is ready to double the funding. He is trying to tempt INAH to consider his proposal to join the expedition.

As Quint, Angélica, and her father Juan delve deeper into the secrets of the mysterious site—a place tied closely to Angélica’s mother’s passion—they face mounting dangers. Will they survive the perils that await? And can they uncover the truths buried in the past?

The story is packed with twists and suspense, keeping readers engaged throughout. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Ann Charles has done a fantastic job weaving mystery and adventure together. The cover design is appealing, and the pacing feels just right. Even though this is the third book in the series, it works perfectly well as a standalone read.
Profile Image for T. Schneider.
61 reviews3 followers
October 26, 2025
Maya ruins, suspense, romance, & the supernatural!

Are you ready for another jungle adventure with Quint, Angélica, & her poor beleaguered father? Will they survive another run in with ancient Maya myth? Find out in this long-anticipated third book in the Dig Site Mystery series!

These books follow archaeologist, Dr. Angélica García, & photojournalist, Quint Parker, from one jungle dig-site to another, on the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico. With Maya ruins steeped in myth, magic, & danger, can they survive long enough to uncover the secrets they both are searching for?

This series is packed full of paranormal supernatural adventures, mystery, romance, suspense, thrills, & chills. Well researched & wonderfully written. I can't wait to come along on the next adventure with Angélica & Quint!

Besides the story itself, I really love the art by C.S. Kunkle. He's the brother of the author! How cool is that?! The graphic design is done by her husband (& sometimes co-writer) Sam Lucky, too. Now that's a talented family.
Profile Image for Heather Chargualaf.
147 reviews4 followers
November 15, 2025
Love going along for some spooky jungle adventures with Quint and Angelica. Simmers up until it boils with crazy adventures and the unknown supernatural.
Profile Image for Kerrie Howard.
296 reviews5 followers
November 9, 2025
I very much enjoyed this book as I have all of Ann’s books. I like reading about the Mayan history. There is humor, romance, mystery, wonderful characters. This time they are investigating a site that is completely different from other Mayan sites. There are snakes, spiders, bats. Read these books in order to get the most enjoyment.
Profile Image for Pat Dupuy.
704 reviews18 followers
October 25, 2025
Instead of a romantic beach getaway, Quint Parker finds himself back in the jungle looking for Site 5 with Angelica, her father, and crew. Quint, AKA Prince Charming/Junior Mint/Good Demon, is a good sport, reserving his bitchin' and griping for his journal. Site 5 is not what they expected, not even close. Too silent. Too ominous. And some thing or somebody is out there.
9 reviews
October 26, 2025
Chewed Up By The Jungle

Ann Charles' novel "Chewed Up by the Jungle" is a masterful work of fiction. The characters are richly developed, drawing readers into their world with remarkable depth and authenticity. Charles' meticulous research shines through, lending the narrative a compelling sense of realism that elevates the entire reading experience.
Profile Image for Karen Evans.
211 reviews4 followers
October 27, 2025
Ann Charles knows how to get you wrapped up in a story. Not only did I learn about the Maya people I enjoyed tromping through the jungle with Quint and Angelica and the rest of the crew. Not only seeing what happens with them and add a paranormal twist to it I couldn’t stop reading it . I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
42 reviews2 followers
November 5, 2025
A great jungle adventure worth the wait!

I thank the Mayan Gods I'm not lost in the jungles where the artifacts the Mayan people have left behind lay. While this story is fiction, there is so much real history and cultural beliefs, too. Thank you, Ann, for doing all the necessary research and writing this amazing and intriguing story!
Profile Image for Aralyn Duke.
13 reviews1 follower
October 27, 2025
Love Ann and all her series! This was a delight to dive into, learn about the Maya and catch up with Quinn & Angelica. I hope Quinn has a long talk with his sister and soon! I always love visiting with this crew, and look forward to #4!
Profile Image for Anthony.
Author 29 books199 followers
November 14, 2025
The Review

Filled with humor and heart, this historical and mythological adventure and suspense story does an incredible job of layering this narrative with compelling action sequences and engaging mysteries. The imagery and detail the author put into this writing really brought the heat and the textures of the jungle to life as the protagonist made their way in, delving into the history that was waiting to be discovered in this ancient site. The delivery of this imagery allowed the reader to feel the sweat-drenched humidity and the buzzing of the bugs as they traveled, creating an almost cinematic style of storytelling.

At its heart, however, was the rich character dynamics and attention the author gave Mayan lore and history. The interconnectedness behind Ann Charles’s other series, like the Deadwood series and others, was well brought out in these characters’ arcs, especially Quint’s sister being revealed to be none other than Violet in Deadwood. His bond and relationship with Angelica, and the way it played into their encounters with both the historical and paranormal side of this adventure, were wild. I loved the respect and detail the author brought to bringing Mayan culture to life on the page, while also adding her own unique spin to the stories being told.

The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and thrilling, author Ann Charles’s “Chewed Up By The Jungle” is an excellent entry in the Dig Site Mystery series. This must-read book does a great job of hooking new readers while also laying down some of the foundation of the first two books in the beginning, and while it is a slow-burning start, once the action picks up, the story never waivers, and readers will be hanging onto every twist and turn in the story.
Profile Image for Kelly Young.
Author 40 books53 followers
October 29, 2025
If you've ever dreamt of digging up artifacts in the wild jungles of Mexico, there's no need to endure the heat, humidity, and danger in person when you can read the new Dig Site mystery Chewed Up By the Jungle by the incomparable Ann Charles.
Charles finally returns to the Yucatan peninsula and this wonderful series featuring archaeologist Dr. Angélica Garcia and photojournalist Quint Parker (the brother of Violet, from the Deadwood series) as they venture deep into the jungle to excavate a site that gets stranger and more mysterious as time goes on.
This book is so well researched that the reader feels like they are along for the ride; yet it explains the technical aspects of a dig in a manner that is easy to understand. Filled with humour and snappy dialogue, not to mention some romance and supernatural elements, this book keeps you turning the pages to the very end.
Kudos to illustrator C.S. Kunkle, whose cover and sketches inside the book enhance the reading experience, as always.
This is the book that fans have been waiting for, and I look forward to the next in the series.
Profile Image for Melissa.
36 reviews
November 24, 2025
It is hard to say which Ann Charles series I love the most, but the Dig Site Mystery series is a definite favorite. I was so excited when it was announced that another title would be released in this series that I went back and re-read the first two books to prepare for the 3rd.

Book 3 finds Angélica and Quint not on a vacation but cutting their way through the jungle with a machete ... what? Old and new friends join them on this new adventure that takes you further into the world of the Maya. I enjoy learning along the way with the Dig Site team as they try to decode the mystery at this latest site. And as usual, Ann, throws in a surprise or two along the way. (The one near the end is a doozy!)

If you like fun characters, great story-lines and a bit of history, I encourage you to read this series!
Profile Image for Becka.
34 reviews1 follower
November 24, 2025
I am a fan of everything this author has written. She is a one-click purchase for me.
This series is a bit different from her others because of its archeology theme. You can definitely tell a lot of research went into this series. It has amazing characters with mystery, romance and supernatural aspects.
If you are a fan of Indian Jones and/or The Mummy (with Brendan Fraiser), then you'll love it. Give it a read!
Profile Image for Kristy McCaffrey.
Author 71 books518 followers
December 11, 2025
Archaeologist Angelica and her photo-journalist boyfriend Quint are back in a steamy jungle romance. She's excavating a Mayan site and may have uncovered something more sinister than anticipated. If you like jungle expeditions filled with supernatural shenanigans and lots of humor, this series is for you. Loved it!

This is Book 3 in Ann's Digsite series but can be read as a standalone (although the first two books set the stage so don’t miss them).
Profile Image for Deidre Herzog.
2 reviews
December 27, 2025
Ann wrote another book that made it's readers feel like they were right in the thick of the events. There were moments that I wanted to be carrying a machete and help out at the most current ruin. I hope some day ALL the characters in her books, can be on the same pages together!!! Until the next book...
38 reviews
November 1, 2025
Love this series. This is the third book in the series. I love Ann's sense of humor. This is a book that is a fun and relaxing read—a great way to spend an afternoon.
Profile Image for Marion Driessen.
102 reviews1 follower
December 11, 2025
I don't know why I couldn't really get into this book. Part 2 I absolutely adored, but this one... not really. 2.5 stars.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews

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