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Hell Gate
In a world ravaged by EMPs and monsters, the post-apocalyptic survivors travel to Paris to close the portal between Earth and Hell and save mankind.Sixteen-year-old Jason is living a nightmare within a nightmare. He is trying to survive a post-apocalyptic world that has been overrun by demons from another realm, but it was his mother who opened the door in her experiment gone wrong. In a last-ditch effort to redeem his family name and unload his guilt, he joins a squad whose mission is to destroy the Hellspawn around Mont St. Michel. When his team arrives in Paris to close the Hell Gate they discover an environment more frightening than anything they could imagine and demons more terrifying than they had ever encountered before.Time is now racing against themCan he gain his redemption along with the respect of his peers or will a new web of lies threaten to rip apart his world and jeopardize his team’s only chance for success?
294 pages, Paperback
Published October 16, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
November 16, 2017
I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review, and I am so glad that I did. This story is incredibly good!
The narrative traps you from the opening and never lets up. It is tightly written, and dense in all the best ways. Within minutes, you are totally invested in the characters- but mostly Jason, aka "Bait"- and you cheer when they triumph and are tasked with sadness but inevitability when they do not.
The idea that this combines a post-apocalyptic and dystopian world with that of fiends and the paranormal from another realm is astounding. The fact that there is a clear warning written in- science and technology should be used responsibly and without greed- is amazing.
This may be YA dystopia, but this adult devoured it, and enjoyed it very much! Kudos to the author!
The narrative traps you from the opening and never lets up. It is tightly written, and dense in all the best ways. Within minutes, you are totally invested in the characters- but mostly Jason, aka "Bait"- and you cheer when they triumph and are tasked with sadness but inevitability when they do not.
The idea that this combines a post-apocalyptic and dystopian world with that of fiends and the paranormal from another realm is astounding. The fact that there is a clear warning written in- science and technology should be used responsibly and without greed- is amazing.
This may be YA dystopia, but this adult devoured it, and enjoyed it very much! Kudos to the author!
December 9, 2018
Loved everything about the story and characters. Writing style was smooth and seemed well-researched. Deducted one star from my own personal loathing of lengthy battle scenes. This is an epic tale so I should have expected it but it is the same reason I prefer classic action films over modern ones.
December 8, 2017
"Hell Gate" is the first book the news series Hell Gate by Josh Matthews which crosses many genres including sci-fi, fantasy, horror, military and quantum mechanics. "Hell Gate" exceeded expectations with a plot that had many unexpected twists and turns, that was action-packed, also with a cast of characters that were willing to face danger head on while trying to save Earth.
"Hell Gate" stood out among many other fantasy/sci-fi reads for many reasons including:
* An entertaining and interesting story line that displays what might happen to Earth when we open the portal to hell. The descriptive scenery, changes to living, how people would cope, plus more is answered, portraying a real "hell" that would exist if this was to happen.
* The length of the story allowed the full depths of the horror to be shown. "Hell Gate", version one encompassed three parts: what happened when hell gate opened and the first part of the aftermath, the team setting off across Europe to get to Paris to close the Hell Gate in Europe, and lastly, the fight in Paris to close the Hell Gate. Having all parts in one version allowed greater understanding of the plot and familiarity with the characters and their situation. Also the ending easily paved the way for the opening to the next addition - Hell Gate 2.
* The cast of characters that Josh Matthews brought to life in "Hell Gate" were varied, especially with his focus on the teams that would go on to face the aftermath of the portal opening. He gave a voice to all characters that were prominent, with their back stories, what their new roles were, their emotive state and how they were coping against the changes, and battles that they faced daily from the hell spawn. It was easy to invoke an interest in their outcome, even though a lot faced death.
The passion that Josh Matthews brings to his writing is clearly evident in this book.
* The lead character Jason, who is just seventeen, is a character that undergoes the most change and development in the story as the plot moves forward. As he takes on more responsibility and becomes part of a team, the story becomes more alive, and his stake in the future all the more important. A character that is worthy of the lead role and the spot light.
* One favorite part of the story that stands out is the fantasy demons or hell spawn that are created. Firstly, the two demons that stand beside Jason, that aid them in their battles - shape shifters in the form of dogs, are creative and original. So too are the many forms of hell spawn that the teams face in their battles including soul eating vampires, and monsters that eat human flesh, to name a few. These fantasy forms add the elements of horror and entertainment to the story, with new monsters appearing as the journey to close the hell gate continues.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading "Hell Gate" by Josh Matthews and can't wait to see what the rest of the series has install, including the next addition, "Wasteland in Red Square" - Hell Gate 2. I recommend this book for all readers who enjoy sci-fi/fantasy with added military and horror elements, with an action packed story line.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.
"Hell Gate" stood out among many other fantasy/sci-fi reads for many reasons including:
* An entertaining and interesting story line that displays what might happen to Earth when we open the portal to hell. The descriptive scenery, changes to living, how people would cope, plus more is answered, portraying a real "hell" that would exist if this was to happen.
* The length of the story allowed the full depths of the horror to be shown. "Hell Gate", version one encompassed three parts: what happened when hell gate opened and the first part of the aftermath, the team setting off across Europe to get to Paris to close the Hell Gate in Europe, and lastly, the fight in Paris to close the Hell Gate. Having all parts in one version allowed greater understanding of the plot and familiarity with the characters and their situation. Also the ending easily paved the way for the opening to the next addition - Hell Gate 2.
* The cast of characters that Josh Matthews brought to life in "Hell Gate" were varied, especially with his focus on the teams that would go on to face the aftermath of the portal opening. He gave a voice to all characters that were prominent, with their back stories, what their new roles were, their emotive state and how they were coping against the changes, and battles that they faced daily from the hell spawn. It was easy to invoke an interest in their outcome, even though a lot faced death.
The passion that Josh Matthews brings to his writing is clearly evident in this book.
* The lead character Jason, who is just seventeen, is a character that undergoes the most change and development in the story as the plot moves forward. As he takes on more responsibility and becomes part of a team, the story becomes more alive, and his stake in the future all the more important. A character that is worthy of the lead role and the spot light.
* One favorite part of the story that stands out is the fantasy demons or hell spawn that are created. Firstly, the two demons that stand beside Jason, that aid them in their battles - shape shifters in the form of dogs, are creative and original. So too are the many forms of hell spawn that the teams face in their battles including soul eating vampires, and monsters that eat human flesh, to name a few. These fantasy forms add the elements of horror and entertainment to the story, with new monsters appearing as the journey to close the hell gate continues.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading "Hell Gate" by Josh Matthews and can't wait to see what the rest of the series has install, including the next addition, "Wasteland in Red Square" - Hell Gate 2. I recommend this book for all readers who enjoy sci-fi/fantasy with added military and horror elements, with an action packed story line.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.
March 24, 2018
Hell Gate by Josh Matthews was an engrossing military story full of excellent paranormal twists and turns. The book is immediately exciting, but then slows considerably. Although it was a bit of a push to get through the first part of the book, the character development that happens there is masterful. It takes a special talent to give back story to every single character, even the minor characters. This approach is present throughout the book and gives to the reader a truly stunning panoramic view of the post-apocalyptic world. During part two, the excitement is back to stay. Nothing is spared during the gory showdowns between the survivors of Hell unleashed on Earth and the deadly demons pouring out from The Hell Gate. Everything is laid out in vivid detail, a true depiction of our deepest apocalyptic nightmares. Matthew kept his talents at work with his interesting approach to showing the various points of view. Battles moved quickly, and the reader is taken through each stage of the adventure as though it were a movie. This was a fantastic read, and though I look forward to reading the second book, I think this story would have had more of an impact on the reader if it had stood alone. The lead into a sequel feels forced, and because of this and a few grammar and spelling errors, I give the novel four stars.
June 2, 2017
The Hell Gate has been opened in numerous countries because of the ego of a certain scientist. What could go possibly go wrong?
This book introduces us to the group of survivors that have formed a team of your run of the mill people who have been trained to protect others and their home base. They discover the gate they know about can be entered but you can't return so they realize there has to be another gate that the demons of hell are entering from.
Doc, who was partially responsible for the horror, has developed a machine that should destroy the gate allowing entry. All the teams of protectors are sent on what is probably a suicide mission to Paris to close that gate.
The characters are well written and you really care about their fate plus the demons are terrifying .
This is an action packed tale of the fight for survival with the denizens of hell with some epic battles. This is the first book I've read of Matthew's but it won't be the last.
This book introduces us to the group of survivors that have formed a team of your run of the mill people who have been trained to protect others and their home base. They discover the gate they know about can be entered but you can't return so they realize there has to be another gate that the demons of hell are entering from.
Doc, who was partially responsible for the horror, has developed a machine that should destroy the gate allowing entry. All the teams of protectors are sent on what is probably a suicide mission to Paris to close that gate.
The characters are well written and you really care about their fate plus the demons are terrifying .
This is an action packed tale of the fight for survival with the denizens of hell with some epic battles. This is the first book I've read of Matthew's but it won't be the last.
November 27, 2017
Hell Gate by Josh Matthews features 16 year old Jason McCreary hunting demon spawn that his mother accidentally unleashed into our world.
Action packed and a clear, full description of the world/terrain without the reader being pulled out of the story. As the mom of a 15 year old, the romantic angst rings painfully true. I'm passing the book on to said teenager, and I think he will find the character very relate-able. If the subordinate characters seem a little less fleshed out, it could be because our protagonist, like most teens is a little preoccupied with his own issues and not as inclined to delve deep into those around him.
There are enough unresolved questions to lure you into the next book without leaving you frustrated.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Action packed and a clear, full description of the world/terrain without the reader being pulled out of the story. As the mom of a 15 year old, the romantic angst rings painfully true. I'm passing the book on to said teenager, and I think he will find the character very relate-able. If the subordinate characters seem a little less fleshed out, it could be because our protagonist, like most teens is a little preoccupied with his own issues and not as inclined to delve deep into those around him.
There are enough unresolved questions to lure you into the next book without leaving you frustrated.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2016
Josh reached out to me through a mutual contact and asked for a blurb. And I was pleasantly surprised by this novel. It truly is post-apocalypse done right. Instead of human infighting being the focal point, it places emphasis on human versus demon and overall human survival. The concept is unique and intriguing. The antagonists are devilish. The protagonists are realistic. Emotional weight carries the realism; realistic actions, reactions, and scenarios carry the characters. Overall, this is a brilliant, well-written work by someone who seems to have already mastered the craft.
If you're looking for quality, literary bite, and a heart-tugging post-apocalyptic ride, open the Hell Gate. Just don't be surprised if you're sucked in.
If you're looking for quality, literary bite, and a heart-tugging post-apocalyptic ride, open the Hell Gate. Just don't be surprised if you're sucked in.
November 18, 2017
This book, from the beginning, took me back to my younger days playing the game DOOM. The lethality and variety of the hellspawn was a great call-back to those games, whether the author intended that or not. I didn't find this book scary, as much as I found it really entertaining. The characters could have used more filling out, but that didn't detract from the adventure part of the story.
If I have any criticisms, it's that the big climax of the book comes too quickly -- there's almost no tension. I won't spoil that for you. While it's a satisfying ending for the most part, it could have been expanded just a touch.
If I have any criticisms, it's that the big climax of the book comes too quickly -- there's almost no tension. I won't spoil that for you. While it's a satisfying ending for the most part, it could have been expanded just a touch.
November 12, 2018
I can't fault this author. The quality of the writing makes you forget you are reading YA fiction. It is sophisticated, intelligent and fluent. Josh Matthews clearly has a wide knowledge of world geography, languages and cultures and uses this to enrich the narrative. Extremely likeable characters work their way through a cleverly plotted storyline and battle an array of truly gruesome monsters from Hell. I was impressed by the fertility of the author's imagination and it is unsettling how he has tapped into many people's fears about what could happen when scientists meddle with forces that are better left alone.
January 3, 2019
Hell spawn!
HELL GATE by Josh Matthews is extremely entertaining. This YA Post-apocalyptic story takes us into a world overrun by Hell spawn after a scientist makes a horrific error while playing with antimatter.
I was literally on the edge of my seat and didn't dare sleep with the lights off. The nonstop action had my adrenaline pumping and chill bumps rising along my arms. I seriously felt like I was right there in the middle of each battle, hacking away at creatures that will live in my nightmares for months to come. You just have to read this book! I cannot wait to immerse myself in the second book in the series. Well done Matthews!
HELL GATE by Josh Matthews is extremely entertaining. This YA Post-apocalyptic story takes us into a world overrun by Hell spawn after a scientist makes a horrific error while playing with antimatter.
I was literally on the edge of my seat and didn't dare sleep with the lights off. The nonstop action had my adrenaline pumping and chill bumps rising along my arms. I seriously felt like I was right there in the middle of each battle, hacking away at creatures that will live in my nightmares for months to come. You just have to read this book! I cannot wait to immerse myself in the second book in the series. Well done Matthews!
July 22, 2019
Post apocalyptic terror as scientists in their hubris create a portal to hell
A great apocalyptic story. A great cast of characters and a very intriguing tale of terror misery and hell on earth. Scientists around the world trying to experiment to capture antimatter no matter what the risks involved. In their haste and process they create portals to hell
Hundreds of millions of people die within days and more and more continue to die. A group of people been together to try and figure out how to stop the hell Spohn that are now roaming our world. An action packed and entertaining thrill ride through the apocalypse. Check it out
A great apocalyptic story. A great cast of characters and a very intriguing tale of terror misery and hell on earth. Scientists around the world trying to experiment to capture antimatter no matter what the risks involved. In their haste and process they create portals to hell
Hundreds of millions of people die within days and more and more continue to die. A group of people been together to try and figure out how to stop the hell Spohn that are now roaming our world. An action packed and entertaining thrill ride through the apocalypse. Check it out
November 13, 2017
You follow Jason, a 16 year old boy along with a rag tag group of people from various countries who are on a mission to close a gateway into Hell! The storyline was good though there seemed to be some inconsistencies, the characters somewhat immature, blaming Jason for his Mothers mistake of opening the Hell Gates, like the kid had any part of that!!! But the monsters are freaky, and the battles are cool, and I especially love the werehounds!!!
September 29, 2018
I was looking forward to reading this novel for a long time and glad that I finally got the chance. It's set in a post-apocalyptic world where 16 year old Josh bears the brunt of hit mother's actions when she literally releases hell on earth. I struggled a little with the third person omniscient narrative just because this is something I don't tend to like personally, but I enjoyed the story and found myself gripped. I am looking forward to the next!
October 22, 2017
I'm a sucker for post apocalyptic, dystopian, crazy monsters, and all other forms of fantasy stuff so I was ecstatic when I saw this in the mail after winning it in the giveaways. The story is interesting, the demons are scary, the writing is fun, and I was very happy with the book.
December 16, 2017
I loved this book! It's everything you could want in a post-apocalyptic world! Great characters and amazing storyline. I highly recommend this book!
November 16, 2017
I seriously loved the action scenes in this book. The premise is also fascinating, and I would love to read book 2 when the opportunity arises. A warning, however: do NOT become attached to anyone.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews