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After 2000 years, Judas Iscariot has seen it pain, suffering, and more horror than he cares to remember. His punishment by God for the betrayal of his son Jesus Christ has him wandering the world for eternity; a broken man unable to find solace in death. And apart from the curse of immortality, he has been bound by strict rules of conduct – never allowed to find love, raise a family, or make use of any wealth he might have acquired.Throughout his sentence, God has given him tasks – duties he must not refuse, where his incredible skill with a sword had been put to the test against wayward demons and the denizens of hell. Then, at the end of 2012, a messenger appears, presenting him with his greatest and most important mission.For just short of three days, he must protect six-year-old Charlotte Hope as she approaches her seventh birthday. She is ‘The Light’, whose purpose it is to shepherd humankind away from its hedonistic, violent, and wayward proclivities. However, the forces of hell wish to acquire the child for their master, Lucifer, so that he may extinguish her light and become unchallenged in his crusade to dominate all life.With the aid of the unlikely pairing of detective Gary Cross and prostitute Abi Colter, can Judas protect Charlotte in a race against time so that she can save humankind and in turn, release himself from the curse, thereby allowing his entry into heaven, or will Lucifer succeed and bring forth the Apocalypse?Judas is a dark fantasy, supernatural science fiction page-turner, full of action and adventure that will leave you yearning for more as you follow the gruff and uncompromising antihero in his quest for redemption and salvation. Contains very strong language and violent sequences, throughout.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 2014
50 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Roy Bright
4 books21 followersRoy Thomas Bright was born 22nd October 1971, in Manchester and grew up in Burnley, East Lancashire.
He received his secondary education at St Wilfrids C of E High School in Blackburn and upon leaving decided to join the Royal Navy as a gunner. The need to patrol some of the worlds ‘hotspots’ allowed him to travel the globe extensively, and he was very fortunate to see a vast number of exotic countries and different cultures.
In 1998, Roy decided to leave the Royal Navy to pursue a career as a professional musician. Having been a musician since the age of six and able to play a plethora of instruments, Roy went on to experience many highs in his first band ‘deponeye’ until that ended in 2004. In 2005 Roy started his second band Exit State, which enjoyed great success touring all over the UK and parts of Europe, a No.1 video on Kerrang TV’s Most Requested show and sharing the stage with the likes of Michael Schenker, Blaze Bayley (Iron Maiden), Esoterica, Dave Evans (AC/DC), The Black Mollys, Forever Never, Black Spiders and Neil Buchanan’s Marseille.
Following a successful tour with guitar legend Michael Schenker in 2012, Exit State were delighted to be invited to become Patron’s of the Children’s Hospice Arts charity chARTUK, an organization Roy is still a proud patron of, whose amazing work aims to enrich the lives of children and young people with severe disabilities and life-limiting conditions in hospices through the creative, performing and literary arts, enabling individual expression, creativity and communication.
It was in late 2012 while enjoying touring downtime that Roy decided to pursue one of his other creative passions – writing. The idea for Judas had been sitting deeply within his psyche for some time and the amalgamation of the original idea fueled by the lyrics in the rock song What Have You Done by Within Temptation finally saw him put pen to paper. A massive and steep learning curve followed, but he was fortunate due to connections made from his time within the music sector to receive exceptional advice from a number of sources. An introduction by Exit State’s manager Mark Appleton to Stephen Clegg, the author of Maria’s Papers, proved to be an invaluable one as Stephen’s help and guidance was key in ensuring Judas was worthy of being published.
In 2012, Roy published Judas via Whiteley Publishing. He then re-published a second edition of the novel via self-publishing in 2016 and hasn’t looked back since.
Roy is thoroughly enjoying writing more and more, including screenplays with his screenwriting partner Mike Harris and has penned a number of original scripts, including the Judas stories.
Roy has now begun work on a ‘Book Zero’, which details events happening in and around the same time-frame as the first Judas story.
Roy has three children, Reece, Tyler and Lily.
He received his secondary education at St Wilfrids C of E High School in Blackburn and upon leaving decided to join the Royal Navy as a gunner. The need to patrol some of the worlds ‘hotspots’ allowed him to travel the globe extensively, and he was very fortunate to see a vast number of exotic countries and different cultures.
In 1998, Roy decided to leave the Royal Navy to pursue a career as a professional musician. Having been a musician since the age of six and able to play a plethora of instruments, Roy went on to experience many highs in his first band ‘deponeye’ until that ended in 2004. In 2005 Roy started his second band Exit State, which enjoyed great success touring all over the UK and parts of Europe, a No.1 video on Kerrang TV’s Most Requested show and sharing the stage with the likes of Michael Schenker, Blaze Bayley (Iron Maiden), Esoterica, Dave Evans (AC/DC), The Black Mollys, Forever Never, Black Spiders and Neil Buchanan’s Marseille.
Following a successful tour with guitar legend Michael Schenker in 2012, Exit State were delighted to be invited to become Patron’s of the Children’s Hospice Arts charity chARTUK, an organization Roy is still a proud patron of, whose amazing work aims to enrich the lives of children and young people with severe disabilities and life-limiting conditions in hospices through the creative, performing and literary arts, enabling individual expression, creativity and communication.
It was in late 2012 while enjoying touring downtime that Roy decided to pursue one of his other creative passions – writing. The idea for Judas had been sitting deeply within his psyche for some time and the amalgamation of the original idea fueled by the lyrics in the rock song What Have You Done by Within Temptation finally saw him put pen to paper. A massive and steep learning curve followed, but he was fortunate due to connections made from his time within the music sector to receive exceptional advice from a number of sources. An introduction by Exit State’s manager Mark Appleton to Stephen Clegg, the author of Maria’s Papers, proved to be an invaluable one as Stephen’s help and guidance was key in ensuring Judas was worthy of being published.
In 2012, Roy published Judas via Whiteley Publishing. He then re-published a second edition of the novel via self-publishing in 2016 and hasn’t looked back since.
Roy is thoroughly enjoying writing more and more, including screenplays with his screenwriting partner Mike Harris and has penned a number of original scripts, including the Judas stories.
Roy has now begun work on a ‘Book Zero’, which details events happening in and around the same time-frame as the first Judas story.
Roy has three children, Reece, Tyler and Lily.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
October 3, 2018
5 brilliant and sparkly stars *****
Firstly I want to start this review by saying that I think Roy may just be either the embodiment of Jesus Christ himself, holy and saint-like or he's Judas Iscariot and this is his story he's telling. In either case, I bloody loved it. I'll apologise now because I'm probably going to say I loved this book more than once in this review!
I really am in love with this book (ha, see another one already) and it's not even got romance or sex in it which is usually a must for me. I wanted something different and boy did I get it....!!
Judas is the story of Judas Iscariot, the man who 'supposedly' betrayed Jesus by turning him in to the Sanhedrin. This book is set 2000 years after the fact and Judas is still walking the earth believing he is cursed for his betrayal. His punishment being to live for eternity never feeling love or be loved by anyone, even children, he also cannot gain wealth nor use it. He also cannot die and any injury he sustains, he regenerates. The point to his curse, to walk alone for all eternity. This is his penanace.
Whilst homeless and living in a back alley, a stranger comes to him with a message from the Almighty himself, he is to protect a seven year old girl called Charlotte, who it is prophesised will save humanity from the Devil himself, Lucifer.
Along the way they pick up two extras, one Detective Gary Cross and a hooker named Abi Colter, who are also prohesised to protect Charlotte and fight in the final battle.
As is inevitable, they are tested in every way imaginable and by all manner of demonic forces sent by the devil. Will they save Charlotte and mankind? Well folks, you'll just have to buy the book and find out.
I cannot express how in love with this book I am, I really loved the whole 'apocalyptic/devils gonna reign down and bring hell on earth' vibe. I feel like if this were real then the whole Judas betraying Jesus thing would have been resolved like this. This explanation would certainly appeal to me and appease me.
There's this section in the book that i loved, I'm not religious in any way but this section really stood out to me, it goes like this; Judas and Gary are having a conversation about why God supposedly 'lets' things happen to mankind.
'If God interfered, answered people's prayers, kid-gloved the entire planet, then you would have nothing to be fearful of, just as you wouldn't if you knew you were going to live forever. If someone wanted a terminally ill loved one to keep on living, they would ask Him and BAM! So it would be! If they wanted to win the lottery, they would ask him and WALLOP! They would become rich. There would be no responsibility for people's own lives; everything would be handed to human kind on a plate. That is not what He wants for you, for us. He made us to be His greatest creation, which is why He has given us something that few other creatures that He created has: choice, free will.'
Now I apologise for the spoiler but this really jumped out at me and I adored it. It's a cracking explanation for those that believe who feel their prayers go unanswered.
I kind of fell in love with Judas, the characters were all written superbly and with so much humour and wit, they had me laughing so hard.
The only tiny criticism I could give this book is that it's written in third person present. I hate this style of writing and in all honesty I struggle to read it sometimes. But the story here was enough that after a while I totally forgot I was reading in this style.
I wish there were a rewind button on your brain and I could relive it all over again. I urge anyone who thinks this book is out of their comfort zone to give it a go. I'm so glad I did. It's totally worth more than 5 stars.
Happy Reading :-)
Firstly I want to start this review by saying that I think Roy may just be either the embodiment of Jesus Christ himself, holy and saint-like or he's Judas Iscariot and this is his story he's telling. In either case, I bloody loved it. I'll apologise now because I'm probably going to say I loved this book more than once in this review!
I really am in love with this book (ha, see another one already) and it's not even got romance or sex in it which is usually a must for me. I wanted something different and boy did I get it....!!
Judas is the story of Judas Iscariot, the man who 'supposedly' betrayed Jesus by turning him in to the Sanhedrin. This book is set 2000 years after the fact and Judas is still walking the earth believing he is cursed for his betrayal. His punishment being to live for eternity never feeling love or be loved by anyone, even children, he also cannot gain wealth nor use it. He also cannot die and any injury he sustains, he regenerates. The point to his curse, to walk alone for all eternity. This is his penanace.
Whilst homeless and living in a back alley, a stranger comes to him with a message from the Almighty himself, he is to protect a seven year old girl called Charlotte, who it is prophesised will save humanity from the Devil himself, Lucifer.
Along the way they pick up two extras, one Detective Gary Cross and a hooker named Abi Colter, who are also prohesised to protect Charlotte and fight in the final battle.
As is inevitable, they are tested in every way imaginable and by all manner of demonic forces sent by the devil. Will they save Charlotte and mankind? Well folks, you'll just have to buy the book and find out.
I cannot express how in love with this book I am, I really loved the whole 'apocalyptic/devils gonna reign down and bring hell on earth' vibe. I feel like if this were real then the whole Judas betraying Jesus thing would have been resolved like this. This explanation would certainly appeal to me and appease me.
There's this section in the book that i loved, I'm not religious in any way but this section really stood out to me, it goes like this; Judas and Gary are having a conversation about why God supposedly 'lets' things happen to mankind.
'If God interfered, answered people's prayers, kid-gloved the entire planet, then you would have nothing to be fearful of, just as you wouldn't if you knew you were going to live forever. If someone wanted a terminally ill loved one to keep on living, they would ask Him and BAM! So it would be! If they wanted to win the lottery, they would ask him and WALLOP! They would become rich. There would be no responsibility for people's own lives; everything would be handed to human kind on a plate. That is not what He wants for you, for us. He made us to be His greatest creation, which is why He has given us something that few other creatures that He created has: choice, free will.'
Now I apologise for the spoiler but this really jumped out at me and I adored it. It's a cracking explanation for those that believe who feel their prayers go unanswered.
I kind of fell in love with Judas, the characters were all written superbly and with so much humour and wit, they had me laughing so hard.
The only tiny criticism I could give this book is that it's written in third person present. I hate this style of writing and in all honesty I struggle to read it sometimes. But the story here was enough that after a while I totally forgot I was reading in this style.
I wish there were a rewind button on your brain and I could relive it all over again. I urge anyone who thinks this book is out of their comfort zone to give it a go. I'm so glad I did. It's totally worth more than 5 stars.
Happy Reading :-)
February 6, 2017
Oh my, Oh wow, if you are remotely interested in fantasy novels this is not just a must buy this is a clear your schedule and read it next, in fact even if you don't read fantasy books make this one an exception because this is pretty darn awesome. There is a line in the book 'You couldn't make a movie out of this if you tried' Well believe me if they did it would be a block buster. How I would love to see this in the cinema!
Judas Iscariot, well I think everybody has probably heard of him before, he is a pretty memorable character but Roy Bright certainly puts a whole new spin on it all. I loved this bad boy from the very first page. What an amazing bloke, very easy on the eye, swears like a trooper and after 2000 years of fighting experience he is rather nifty with weapons, especially his swords, now they are pretty lethal in his hands. But all he really wants now is to be able to die and stay dead. Well his chance comes along with a deal. Protect a little girl from evil forces for three days until she is 7 then his wish will be granted. And so it begins.........
OH MY GOD, no literally oh my God where the hell were you? Demons galore the planet going crazy, the devil in disguise but no God, talk about frustrating, trust the side of good to stick to the rules! But wow does it make an all action, edge of your seat, and get behind the good guys read. There are amazing punch in the air and shout Yes! scenes. All very blood thirsty stuff and at times very very funny. I was nearly crying reading the first statements being read back by a detective after an early sighting of these demonic beings at an hotel.
The story settles down to Judas, Charlotte the little girl, a police Detective called Gary and a hooker called Abi. Roy Bright's novel is extremely well planned, beautifully written and totally 100% action packed entertainment. What an amazing team, just loved every one of them. I am now even more excited to find out a further book is due out at the beginning of February. (Another punch in the air moment)
Judas Iscariot, well I think everybody has probably heard of him before, he is a pretty memorable character but Roy Bright certainly puts a whole new spin on it all. I loved this bad boy from the very first page. What an amazing bloke, very easy on the eye, swears like a trooper and after 2000 years of fighting experience he is rather nifty with weapons, especially his swords, now they are pretty lethal in his hands. But all he really wants now is to be able to die and stay dead. Well his chance comes along with a deal. Protect a little girl from evil forces for three days until she is 7 then his wish will be granted. And so it begins.........
OH MY GOD, no literally oh my God where the hell were you? Demons galore the planet going crazy, the devil in disguise but no God, talk about frustrating, trust the side of good to stick to the rules! But wow does it make an all action, edge of your seat, and get behind the good guys read. There are amazing punch in the air and shout Yes! scenes. All very blood thirsty stuff and at times very very funny. I was nearly crying reading the first statements being read back by a detective after an early sighting of these demonic beings at an hotel.
The story settles down to Judas, Charlotte the little girl, a police Detective called Gary and a hooker called Abi. Roy Bright's novel is extremely well planned, beautifully written and totally 100% action packed entertainment. What an amazing team, just loved every one of them. I am now even more excited to find out a further book is due out at the beginning of February. (Another punch in the air moment)
February 5, 2017
This book is seriously scary, and as a Catholic, it had me reaching for my Rosary beads on more than one occasion! Alternating between biblical times and the present day, the book tells the story of Judas Iscariot and his quest to protect a young girl named Charlotte from the forces of evil. Can Judas prove to be a match for Lucifer himself? I could see this being made into a film, and can't wait to read the next two books in this series.
October 5, 2018
Wow!!!
Such an interesting take on urban fantasy! The characters were likeable and this well written book had me hooked from chapter 1. Fast moving with a well written plot. I'd highly recommend. I'm off to read Book 2 now
Such an interesting take on urban fantasy! The characters were likeable and this well written book had me hooked from chapter 1. Fast moving with a well written plot. I'd highly recommend. I'm off to read Book 2 now
February 4, 2017
Judas by Roy Bright.
My interest has always been piqued by the story of Judas Iscariot. His fall from place at Jesus’s side to the ultimate betrayer always made me wonder why Jesus would have picked him as one of the twelve and here in Roy Bright’s story we get a pretty great theory!
Judas is the plaything of the Angelic Host, sent out on missions to atone for his actions in that garden two millennia ago. His existence is limited and curtailed despite being gifted (Cursed) with eternal life and a resurrection power rivalled only by Lazarus and our Lord Jesus Christ himself!
A grotty tramp when we meet him, he is drafted in on a mission that will have ramifications for the whole of humanity, Judas is tasked with looking after a six year old child who is the vessel of Good in the age old battle between The creator and Lucifer.
The premise is simple and often used. Vulnerable child is the key who must be protected by the powerfully endowed anti Hero who is changed and softened in the process, but I can happily report that it is written in such a way as to keep the reading alongside them.
The book cleverly weaves the current peril of a city under siege by Demonic forces tasked to do anything to stop a little girl come into her birthright, with back story about Judas, his choice, his reasoning and the outcome on that day when he became The Betrayer and we come away thinking Judas is perhaps too much maligned (at least in Mr Bright’s telling).
There is a core group of heroes who join Judas in his quest to protect the frightened little girl Charlotte, who is beautifully betrayed as an innocent destined for massive things, balancing youthful faith against the growing God Given Power within her that makes her more influential than any of her self appointed protectors .
Rounding out the group are Gary, An intuitive police detective whose acceptance of the evidence of his eyes whilst his mind rails is admirable and a prostitute. Both happen across Judas and a demon foe battling it out and become integral the plan and the eventual confrontation with Lucifer the Morningstar himself.
The quest had just the merest whiff of the quartet in Stephen King’s Dark Tower stories. Let me be clear this is an entirely different plot, but the immediacy of my bonding with them as a team was akin to when I first read King’s epic series.
The demon foes here are wonderfully oily and wicked and I found the whole idea of them preferring form as Japanese Business men in a City High rise such a fun idea. Lucifer himself (like all GREAT villains) prefers to speak like a smarmy arrogant Englishman so the interjections are peppered with one liners.
This is a fast paced book, the flashbacks into the past are not jarring to that narrative flow and are necessary to remind us that this gruff slogger is in fact thousands of years old and his jadedness is not borne of bad humour, but of millennia of inertia with brief spasms of useful action and so his gradual resurrection of spirit is just as important as his bodily repairs or his relic infused Japanese Blades.
With Wily Priests and Arch Angels rounding out the character list, this was an exciting and fun romp with biblical undertones that are satisfying to the faithful but not cloying or off-putting to those who do not believe.
I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book!
My interest has always been piqued by the story of Judas Iscariot. His fall from place at Jesus’s side to the ultimate betrayer always made me wonder why Jesus would have picked him as one of the twelve and here in Roy Bright’s story we get a pretty great theory!
Judas is the plaything of the Angelic Host, sent out on missions to atone for his actions in that garden two millennia ago. His existence is limited and curtailed despite being gifted (Cursed) with eternal life and a resurrection power rivalled only by Lazarus and our Lord Jesus Christ himself!
A grotty tramp when we meet him, he is drafted in on a mission that will have ramifications for the whole of humanity, Judas is tasked with looking after a six year old child who is the vessel of Good in the age old battle between The creator and Lucifer.
The premise is simple and often used. Vulnerable child is the key who must be protected by the powerfully endowed anti Hero who is changed and softened in the process, but I can happily report that it is written in such a way as to keep the reading alongside them.
The book cleverly weaves the current peril of a city under siege by Demonic forces tasked to do anything to stop a little girl come into her birthright, with back story about Judas, his choice, his reasoning and the outcome on that day when he became The Betrayer and we come away thinking Judas is perhaps too much maligned (at least in Mr Bright’s telling).
There is a core group of heroes who join Judas in his quest to protect the frightened little girl Charlotte, who is beautifully betrayed as an innocent destined for massive things, balancing youthful faith against the growing God Given Power within her that makes her more influential than any of her self appointed protectors .
Rounding out the group are Gary, An intuitive police detective whose acceptance of the evidence of his eyes whilst his mind rails is admirable and a prostitute. Both happen across Judas and a demon foe battling it out and become integral the plan and the eventual confrontation with Lucifer the Morningstar himself.
The quest had just the merest whiff of the quartet in Stephen King’s Dark Tower stories. Let me be clear this is an entirely different plot, but the immediacy of my bonding with them as a team was akin to when I first read King’s epic series.
The demon foes here are wonderfully oily and wicked and I found the whole idea of them preferring form as Japanese Business men in a City High rise such a fun idea. Lucifer himself (like all GREAT villains) prefers to speak like a smarmy arrogant Englishman so the interjections are peppered with one liners.
This is a fast paced book, the flashbacks into the past are not jarring to that narrative flow and are necessary to remind us that this gruff slogger is in fact thousands of years old and his jadedness is not borne of bad humour, but of millennia of inertia with brief spasms of useful action and so his gradual resurrection of spirit is just as important as his bodily repairs or his relic infused Japanese Blades.
With Wily Priests and Arch Angels rounding out the character list, this was an exciting and fun romp with biblical undertones that are satisfying to the faithful but not cloying or off-putting to those who do not believe.
I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book!
December 3, 2017
OH WOW !! This book had been on my tbr list for awhile but it just kept getting pushed down my pile until a good friend asked me if i had had a chance to read this yet,this prompted me to go back and read the blurb which straight away made my mind up.It went right to the top as my next read,as a good horror/thriller is my preferrred genre to read.
OMG to say i lked this book is a understantment i flipping loved it,i have not read a good thriller like this in a long time,this is a new author i know that i am going to be reading everything, and i mean EVERYTHING that Roy Bright writes in the future.
Judas Iscariot, well what can i say about this badass biblical Immortal characater that has lived for 2000 years and is one amazing fighter especially with his swords with his good looks,lots of swearing i just fell for this guy big time.He has been given a job from the 'Almighty' himself to protect a little girl Charlotte who is six for the next three days until the moment she turns seven from Lucifer the Devil himself.
Now the action starts with lots of demons chasing Charolle and Judas,they are racing against time and on the way they pick up Detective Gary Cross and a hooker called Abi,who are important and prohesised to help keep Charlotte alive.I loved these two charecters and there was alot of humour with Judas and these two.
We keep getting flashbacks into Judas past of his 'supposed' betrayal of Jesus Christ and what he went through,he is but a pawn for the next 'light one' but he has no idea of this.This was past paced and action packed throughout,the characters were written fabulously with lots of humour that had me in stitches throughout this book.
This book was cleverly thought out story which took me on a exciting ride along with these awesome characters which kept me totally hooked and rooting for them all at the end,it was a rollocoaster of a ride which i never wanted to end.I now can't wait for the next book to see what happens next.
I am so glad that i picked this book up,it was definitely worth more than five stars,Roy Bright you are a genius, this was a excellent debut novel and i now can't wait for more from you.
OMG to say i lked this book is a understantment i flipping loved it,i have not read a good thriller like this in a long time,this is a new author i know that i am going to be reading everything, and i mean EVERYTHING that Roy Bright writes in the future.
Judas Iscariot, well what can i say about this badass biblical Immortal characater that has lived for 2000 years and is one amazing fighter especially with his swords with his good looks,lots of swearing i just fell for this guy big time.He has been given a job from the 'Almighty' himself to protect a little girl Charlotte who is six for the next three days until the moment she turns seven from Lucifer the Devil himself.
Now the action starts with lots of demons chasing Charolle and Judas,they are racing against time and on the way they pick up Detective Gary Cross and a hooker called Abi,who are important and prohesised to help keep Charlotte alive.I loved these two charecters and there was alot of humour with Judas and these two.
We keep getting flashbacks into Judas past of his 'supposed' betrayal of Jesus Christ and what he went through,he is but a pawn for the next 'light one' but he has no idea of this.This was past paced and action packed throughout,the characters were written fabulously with lots of humour that had me in stitches throughout this book.
This book was cleverly thought out story which took me on a exciting ride along with these awesome characters which kept me totally hooked and rooting for them all at the end,it was a rollocoaster of a ride which i never wanted to end.I now can't wait for the next book to see what happens next.
I am so glad that i picked this book up,it was definitely worth more than five stars,Roy Bright you are a genius, this was a excellent debut novel and i now can't wait for more from you.
January 9, 2017
Wow! What an exciting ride. I really enjoyed reading this. I was a little dubious to begin with, knowing that Judas was 'supposed' to be the bad guy, but you can't help but grow to like him as you get to know the character as the author portrays him. The plot is well thought out (although I did get a little lost in some of the action scenes, but in Roy's defense, they were pretty involved and he handled them quite admirably.) The characters were mostly well-developed, the dialogue realistic and pretty funny at times.
He painted the scenes with thoughtful descriptions and it was quite easy to see the story play out in my mind. Definitely a fast moving, page-turner. I would like to know where the story takes us in the sequels.
A good editor would make an awesome book even better, but the actual story was brilliant. Well done to the author.
He painted the scenes with thoughtful descriptions and it was quite easy to see the story play out in my mind. Definitely a fast moving, page-turner. I would like to know where the story takes us in the sequels.
A good editor would make an awesome book even better, but the actual story was brilliant. Well done to the author.
February 1, 2017
This is a fun fantasy thriller of biblical proportions. Plenty of demons and angels, even the Devil himself makes an appearance. Judas, the most despised betrayer in Christianity, isn't allowed to die when he takes his own life. Instead, he is punished to walk the Earth forever more and help humanity combat evil. Along with his curse come gifts and skills to keep him alive. He is the puppet of Heaven and higher management ruthlessly manipulate him. His latest assignment is to keep a child alive for the next few days. She is the Second Coming, a daughter of God. Satan knows about her, but has a very small window of opportunity to destroy her. In steps Judas, mean and macho! I loved this. I've always thought that Judas was the victim of bad press and that he was set up. This book proves that it was true! I would recommend this novel to any fantasy fan looking for a cracking good thriller.
January 10, 2017
The whole concept of this book was fascinating and I was keen to see how the author would deal with it. I was not disappointed! With players from the Archangel Gabriel to Lucifer himself with police and prostitutes thrown in, there's something for everyone in this book. The story moves along at a cracking pace and I was holding my breath and crossing my fingers until the final page. This is a STONKIN' good read and thoroughly deserves 5, if not 6, stars
January 16, 2017
I loved the idea of the story and the story line. I also loved the characters and how Roy described them also how they interacted with each other. My pet peeve is books that are written in the first person, this makes the reading stilted and although you get used to it as the book progress I still don't like it. This book was longer than the norm but I still enjoyed it and tried to speed through it, as usual life got into the way of finishing it earlier.
Thank you to TBConFb for the copy.
Thank you to TBConFb for the copy.
January 31, 2017
really enjoyed the book. it started really strong and just got stronger as the story continued. unlike some books I have read the ending didn't feel rushed and there was lots of action to keep me interested. I also liked how Judas back story was incorporated into the story throughout. would recommend it to everyone who doesn't mind a bit of bad language.
January 20, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. It has some great kick-ass characters and it feels like you're reading an action movie. The descriptions of the divine and demonic creatures are really good - a bit too good, sometimes! I really liked the different perspective on the Judas story. A cracking read :-)
August 20, 2018
Brilliant read and the first book read after a few years of being unable to read a book. Gripping and would make an amazing movie
April 9, 2019
A belting fantasy novel with a strong theological bent and oodles of bad language, violence and edge of your seat action! I enjoy a diverse range of genres and particularly enjoy well-written books that are themselves diverse and somewhat genre-defying. This book is based on a well-known character from the bible, the infamous Judas of Iscariot who betrayed Jesus Christ and directly led to his capture and crucifixion. Well, it turns out that his punishment has not been to commit suicide and be condemned to hell for his actions on Earth but that he has been cursed to remain on Earth, immortal and suffering from the guilt of his actions. He has strict rules prohibiting him forming loving relationships, gathering material wealth and so on but he is a formidable warrior and as I said, cannot be killed so he has proved handy in battling evil and fighting a few demons over the years. In this book, a second child of God has been placed on Earth to again provide salvation for humankind. However, if she doesn’t reach her 7th birthday alive, her revelation and the future of the human race will be doomed. It is a great premise and successfully realised with a superbly entertaining book. Not for the easily offended, there is enough swearing, violence and graphic gore to make it very much an adult book but whilst it is irreverent, it does not in any way mock religion. On the contrary, mixed in within the action and Judas’ witty trash talk with demons, thought-provoking and profound theological questions are raised and discussed. I would heartily recommend it.
July 23, 2018
Captivating
I was looking for something different, a new author with a new series...I’d give it a try, no expectations.
Within 2 chapters I have captivated, the characters, the plot, then action...all done so very well.
The characters have depth, interest and I grew to like them, even if they were far from perfect people.
The action scenes are excellent, descriptive, yet fast moving, with just the right level of gore.
Although the outcome was expected, there was tension right up to the last 2 chapters, and some lovely plot twists and unexpected events.
When the happy ending has a few clever twists.
Highly recommended
I was looking for something different, a new author with a new series...I’d give it a try, no expectations.
Within 2 chapters I have captivated, the characters, the plot, then action...all done so very well.
The characters have depth, interest and I grew to like them, even if they were far from perfect people.
The action scenes are excellent, descriptive, yet fast moving, with just the right level of gore.
Although the outcome was expected, there was tension right up to the last 2 chapters, and some lovely plot twists and unexpected events.
When the happy ending has a few clever twists.
Highly recommended
September 22, 2018
A very interesting idea. Judas Iscariot is punished by being condemned to live forever to atone for his betrayal of Christ. The story follows one main theme but also has short side stories about things that have happened in the past . It also gives Judas's explanation for his betrayal, plausible.
In book one of this series, set in America, he meets up with a policeman whom I assume will figure in the rest of the series. In this one he has to rescue Charlotte, a 6 year old girl from the clutches of the Devil and his demons.
In book one of this series, set in America, he meets up with a policeman whom I assume will figure in the rest of the series. In this one he has to rescue Charlotte, a 6 year old girl from the clutches of the Devil and his demons.
March 3, 2019
I received a copy of this book from TBC reviewers- thank you
Firstly I cannot say how thrilled I was to be chosen to review these books Roy Bright is an author that I’ve recently heard amazing things about.
I loved this book, it’s an amazing mix of historical religious aspects and modern life- the thought that Judas could still be walking the earth sends shivers down my spine.
I cannot recvomebd this book highly enough- it’s ny first Roy Bright and it’s a solid 5 star from me!
Firstly I cannot say how thrilled I was to be chosen to review these books Roy Bright is an author that I’ve recently heard amazing things about.
I loved this book, it’s an amazing mix of historical religious aspects and modern life- the thought that Judas could still be walking the earth sends shivers down my spine.
I cannot recvomebd this book highly enough- it’s ny first Roy Bright and it’s a solid 5 star from me!
September 20, 2018
Supernatural religious thriller
I enjoyed the present day take on Judas and the Devil. I found it interesting the similar interpretations of angels and demons from other supernatural end of the world fiction. Exciting and ready to read book 2.
I enjoyed the present day take on Judas and the Devil. I found it interesting the similar interpretations of angels and demons from other supernatural end of the world fiction. Exciting and ready to read book 2.
October 3, 2018
Oh my goodness, what a book. I couldn't pit this down, it's a roller coaster ride from start to finish. So much I could relate too, being Catholic I was raised on bible stories, Judas and his betrayal with a kiss is one of them. Fab writing, can't wait for the next
December 31, 2020
Really really enjoyed this. Fab story, Judas and Charlotte are loveable, the biblical research clearly has been done and the violence is top notch. Looking forward to starting The Relic!
December 26, 2020
Brilliant book, a real page turner. Not my usual genre of choice, I read this after it was recommended and I can definitely say I'm glad I did. The fact that it is based on the biblical character of Judas gives this book an extra dimension. If you like an action packed thriller this is definitely one for you! Highly recommended.
July 4, 2018
A must read! This story is fantastic, and gives a whole new perspective to Judas Iscariot! I fell in love with the characters, and will definitely read this one more than once!
August 5, 2020
First of all, I absolutely loved this book. I’ll be honest, going into it, I wasn’t completely sure it’d be my thing because there seemed to be a lot of description. My problem with Stephen King books is the level of description – it’s not that the books aren’t good, I’m sure they are. I’m one of those terrible people who prefers the adaptations of King books over sitting through how many stitches a man has in one of his socks. However, that being said, the level of description in this book isn’t on a King level and isn’t all the way through either.
There will be plenty of people who prefer highly detailed books, and that’s fine, but some of us with overly active minds, struggle to sit through it. Which is where this book gets it right. The main height of descriptions is towards the start of the book where we obviously have some character development and it does give a really good impression of what sort of man Judas is. It is also necessary, you’ll come to realise that as you go through it – so don’t be put off – if you’re like me, you’ll get caught up a little later and it’ll make sense why you needed to know what you now know.
The level of imagery in this book is incredible. Now I know I say this a lot and you’re probably hoping I’ll change the record at some point but imagery is important, it’s what allows us to be swept into the world the author has prepared for us, it’s what captures us and draws us in. I found myself almost disappointed that this wasn’t a graphic novel. Sitting there reading it, my imagination provided the images as if it was such a thing, but there’s a whole heap of a lot of story here and it would be difficult to capture outside of the format it’s in. It would be incredibly expensive, but incredibly worthwhile to make a film out of this, which I believe was the original intent behind it.
I for one, am very glad that it became a book first and think myself incredibly lucky to have procured this for review purposes. Mr Bright is an incredibly talented Author and this is definitely a read you want to experience.
There’s a lot of perfect balances in this book, obviously there’s religious themes to it but there’s also a balance of humour and sadness, a mixture of crime, thriller, horror, adventure and fantasy. There is a world in this book which is beckoning you to enter and you cannot help but be pulled along. Page after page is a whirlwind adventure and Bright doesn’t wait for after the character development stage to start throwing demons at you – no sir – that is from the very beginning.
A relentless yet well paced story which I’d definitely read again, definitely see an adaptation of and will be shoving the rest of the series under your nose very soon.
Pick. Up. This. Book.
There will be plenty of people who prefer highly detailed books, and that’s fine, but some of us with overly active minds, struggle to sit through it. Which is where this book gets it right. The main height of descriptions is towards the start of the book where we obviously have some character development and it does give a really good impression of what sort of man Judas is. It is also necessary, you’ll come to realise that as you go through it – so don’t be put off – if you’re like me, you’ll get caught up a little later and it’ll make sense why you needed to know what you now know.
The level of imagery in this book is incredible. Now I know I say this a lot and you’re probably hoping I’ll change the record at some point but imagery is important, it’s what allows us to be swept into the world the author has prepared for us, it’s what captures us and draws us in. I found myself almost disappointed that this wasn’t a graphic novel. Sitting there reading it, my imagination provided the images as if it was such a thing, but there’s a whole heap of a lot of story here and it would be difficult to capture outside of the format it’s in. It would be incredibly expensive, but incredibly worthwhile to make a film out of this, which I believe was the original intent behind it.
I for one, am very glad that it became a book first and think myself incredibly lucky to have procured this for review purposes. Mr Bright is an incredibly talented Author and this is definitely a read you want to experience.
There’s a lot of perfect balances in this book, obviously there’s religious themes to it but there’s also a balance of humour and sadness, a mixture of crime, thriller, horror, adventure and fantasy. There is a world in this book which is beckoning you to enter and you cannot help but be pulled along. Page after page is a whirlwind adventure and Bright doesn’t wait for after the character development stage to start throwing demons at you – no sir – that is from the very beginning.
A relentless yet well paced story which I’d definitely read again, definitely see an adaptation of and will be shoving the rest of the series under your nose very soon.
Pick. Up. This. Book.
March 2, 2019
This book grabbed my attention from the start and proved very difficult to put down.
This fatasy novel is a fast paced, knock your socks off, cataclysmic battle of good versus evil. The hoards of hell are out to play, intent on devouring the earth and only a cop, a prostitute, a little girl and the man who betrayed Jesus can stop them......
I really enjoyed the authors writing style; punchy with no holds barred. He is not afraid to kill any character off in a variety of different ways! The characters are believable and very much human, warts and all and the back stories of the main characters add very much to the story. Some of my favourite moments to this novel were the flash back chapters to moments in Judas's life. The story takes you back several times to 33 AD and the build up to the betrayal of Jesus seen through Judas's eyes and the emotional aftermath that led him to be the Wandering Jew; cursed to walk the earth forevermore but also touches on later stories from his life as he wandered the planet.
If you have never read a fantasy novel then I highly recommend this one! I can't wait to read the next in the series!
This fatasy novel is a fast paced, knock your socks off, cataclysmic battle of good versus evil. The hoards of hell are out to play, intent on devouring the earth and only a cop, a prostitute, a little girl and the man who betrayed Jesus can stop them......
I really enjoyed the authors writing style; punchy with no holds barred. He is not afraid to kill any character off in a variety of different ways! The characters are believable and very much human, warts and all and the back stories of the main characters add very much to the story. Some of my favourite moments to this novel were the flash back chapters to moments in Judas's life. The story takes you back several times to 33 AD and the build up to the betrayal of Jesus seen through Judas's eyes and the emotional aftermath that led him to be the Wandering Jew; cursed to walk the earth forevermore but also touches on later stories from his life as he wandered the planet.
If you have never read a fantasy novel then I highly recommend this one! I can't wait to read the next in the series!
March 8, 2019
I really enjoyed the character development and action in this story. I normally stay away from tales inspired by biblical figures, but the story, to me was different enough to keep me involved. There was some slightly awkward wording and grammar, if that bothers you. It didn't detract from the story and almost seemed intentional with the style of writing.
March 6, 2019
A intriguing and entertaining read
Picked this out as enjoy the "what if" scenarios, it's fast paced story telling of that she old story of good versus evil. Will be interesting to see how the series plays out. Well worth trying.
Picked this out as enjoy the "what if" scenarios, it's fast paced story telling of that she old story of good versus evil. Will be interesting to see how the series plays out. Well worth trying.
June 8, 2017
I loved this book and just downloaded the sequel. This is the story of Judas, who is punished with immortality for his role in the death of Jesus. Alive for over 2,000 years, he is called upon by angels to undertake missions to fight demons through time. He has very special weapons and his body regenerates if hurt.
Judas is bitter as the book begins. He is alone and indigent as the book starts. An angel approaches him with a mission-- he must protect a six-year-old girl for the three days before her seventh birthday. You can pretty much guess who the girl is, but that in no way diminished the story.
As the days pass, Judas battles demons and becomes attached to the little girl, which is surprising to him. He also finds allies in his fight to protect her in a cop and a prostitute. They make a formidable team.
The book bounces between the present and the past as it tells stories from Judas' past, including his role in the crucifixion. There are some secrets revealed that show how Judas became the man he is today. Although this is obviously fictionalized, the narrative rings true and is very intriguing.
As the days pass, Judas becomes very close to the little girl and is empowered by her. They grow to love and trust each other without question. The book ends in an epic battle between good and evil, with nothing less than the fate of the world at stake.
There are a lot of problems with grammar and missing words. Usually I would take a star off, but I liked the book too much. You can also tell the author is British because, even though the book is set in New York, a sprinkling of British words are in the book (bonnet, mate, and bloke are the most common). This should really be fixed because it does make the reader stop for a moment because the word usage is inconsistent.
Even with those problems, I highly recommend this book.
Judas is bitter as the book begins. He is alone and indigent as the book starts. An angel approaches him with a mission-- he must protect a six-year-old girl for the three days before her seventh birthday. You can pretty much guess who the girl is, but that in no way diminished the story.
As the days pass, Judas battles demons and becomes attached to the little girl, which is surprising to him. He also finds allies in his fight to protect her in a cop and a prostitute. They make a formidable team.
The book bounces between the present and the past as it tells stories from Judas' past, including his role in the crucifixion. There are some secrets revealed that show how Judas became the man he is today. Although this is obviously fictionalized, the narrative rings true and is very intriguing.
As the days pass, Judas becomes very close to the little girl and is empowered by her. They grow to love and trust each other without question. The book ends in an epic battle between good and evil, with nothing less than the fate of the world at stake.
There are a lot of problems with grammar and missing words. Usually I would take a star off, but I liked the book too much. You can also tell the author is British because, even though the book is set in New York, a sprinkling of British words are in the book (bonnet, mate, and bloke are the most common). This should really be fixed because it does make the reader stop for a moment because the word usage is inconsistent.
Even with those problems, I highly recommend this book.
May 15, 2017
Fast-paced and action packed! This book will keep you at the edge of your seat!
Roy Bright has created a fantastically modern and fresh take on one of the oldest stories in existence, and it is truly mesmerising to read! The descriptive writing by Bright is out of this world, allowing the reader to feel as though they are right there, along with the exciting and diverse characters.
Judas has so much to offer a reader; action, horror, comedy, mystery! And something that Bright also does incredibly well, is showing his world and the characters, rather than telling, creating a movie-like effect that gives the reader the most magnificent experience.
Judas is not a book you want to miss out on, and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
Roy Bright has created a fantastically modern and fresh take on one of the oldest stories in existence, and it is truly mesmerising to read! The descriptive writing by Bright is out of this world, allowing the reader to feel as though they are right there, along with the exciting and diverse characters.
Judas has so much to offer a reader; action, horror, comedy, mystery! And something that Bright also does incredibly well, is showing his world and the characters, rather than telling, creating a movie-like effect that gives the reader the most magnificent experience.
Judas is not a book you want to miss out on, and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
June 16, 2018
This book was a joy to read. Fast action and a well paced story. Judas is a great anti-hero if there ever was one and I look forward to the next book. Charlotte's character grows stronger with every new obstacle as she become aware of more and more what power she possesses.
The story of redemption and sacrifice is peppered through out this book. Some times it gets hard to swallow but that's life.
This hero's tale is well down and extremely enjoyable. The theology gets off track in some places but it fits the narrative that Judas is kept immortal for 2000 years. That fact would change the nature of God. So don't bring this book to the seminary, just to the couch or lounge chair, read it and enjoy.
The story of redemption and sacrifice is peppered through out this book. Some times it gets hard to swallow but that's life.
This hero's tale is well down and extremely enjoyable. The theology gets off track in some places but it fits the narrative that Judas is kept immortal for 2000 years. That fact would change the nature of God. So don't bring this book to the seminary, just to the couch or lounge chair, read it and enjoy.
February 8, 2016
I have really enjoyed this clever fast paced story. A friend recommended this book to me and as he was enthusiastic I deliberately did not read any of the reviews or details about this book so apart from the title I had no idea what to expect. I am so pleased I trusted his advice because as you follow Judases mission you find yourself wanting to give him the strength he needs to do the right thing. You will be amazed at truth behind his story and at times you will have tears in your eyes. This is a great debut book by Roy, the only thing I did not like was the over use of the male characters saying "man" but in the light of everything else I think I can forgive this.
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