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Ben Hope #3
The Doomsday Prophecy
When Ben Hope decided to give up rescuing kidnap victims and return to the theology studies he had abandoned years before, he should've known that fate would decide differently. When his old professor begs him to find his missing daughter, Ben soon finds himself launched into his most dangerous mission yet.
466 pages, Paperback
First published January 12, 2009
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1676 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 250 reviews
August 3, 2017
Let's round it up to 3.5 stars. Come on Goodreads, bring us a more detailed rating system!!!
Scott Mariani continues to impress with his third novel in the Ben Hope series. With continued enthusiasm, Mariani pushes Hope to the brink to entertain readers until the final pages. Having made a promise to his wife that he would retire from this dangerous life once and for all, Ben Hope formally retirement. With distant thoughts of life in the SAS and then as a kidnap and ransom operative, Hope attends a local wedding, ready to return to his theological studies. While there, an old colleague approaches him for work, though Hope has little to offer, proudly announcing that he is ‘out of the game’. Soon after returning to Oxford, Hope is summoned by a former professor and asked to undertake a special mission. Erratic biblical archeologist Zoe Bradbury has gone off the radar and her family is trying to determine if she is alive and well. Citing his dedication to his studies, Hope passes the easy case off to his friend, who sets out for the Greek Islands. When Hope receives a panicked call, he agrees to come and help sift through the mess. A bomb blast in a crowded area leaves many dead and Hope on the case to find Bradbury, if only to determine what has been going on. Meanwhile, Bradbury has been held by a group who are trying to extract a secret from her, one that could change Christianity forever. Hope follows the trail from Greece to the American Deep South, where he discovers the pull of evangelical Christianity and the sway it holds over many. Might Bradbury have discovered something to do with the Book of Revelations, the cornerstone to the End of Days prophecies by which many evangelicals live and breathe? Hope will stop at nothing to find out, even if it means battling a fiery preacher and a rogue collective of CIA operatives. Armed with a single CIA agent he can trust in Alex Fiorante, Hope pulls out every stop to bring this mission to a successful completion. Whether or not he finds Bradbury, he is in the crosshairs of a few ruthless killers and a fundamentalist sect who will stop at nothing to bring about their own End of Days. Another piece that ramps up the energy while delivering a punch to the gut. Highly recommended for those who like a fast-paced mystery that delves into areas some might call taboo!
Mariani has done a wonderful job to continue the development of Ben Hope’s backstory. While much is going on in his present, including the death of a loved one, the reader continues to sift through his past to discover his dedication to theological studies. That said, I have a hard time picturing an Anglican priest fighting crime, but stranger things have happened. Ben Hope will always be SAS, as it is embedded into his psyche. He will also always foster a desire to help those who have been taken, a.k.a his K&R work. However, he does not remain stagnant, shooting and killing while scooping and running. He trips on the mysteries of the world, becoming more academic and pensive in his actions. Mariani offers the reader this multi-faceted approach and it works well for the series so far. True, there is a long way to go, but with constant character development and background foundational support, Ben Hope will never become stale, as some characters in the genre have started to lose their lustre. Turning to the story at hand, it pulls on the drama of a missing person search with the undertones of something scandalous that could change the world. I will admit that this did not hold my attention as much as I would have liked. Perhaps the topic at hand, the truth of the Book of Revelations, was a little too weighty for Mariani to tackle in the pages of this book, but the pace at which he developed the story was decent. The narrative kept the plot clipping along and moving from scene to scene, as well as various locales. The trademark hinged narrative is back again, though the primary plot remains dangling for close to the entire story, allowing readers to feel a sense of completion only when the last chapter presents a final period. A slight dip in the overall delivery, but I was still hooked on seeing where Hope would take things and whether there would be another of those ‘single novel no strings’ romances.
Kudos, Mr. Mariani for keeping me entertained throughout. I have a large audio stack to go, so best forge onwards and lose myself in another Ben Hope thriller.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Scott Mariani continues to impress with his third novel in the Ben Hope series. With continued enthusiasm, Mariani pushes Hope to the brink to entertain readers until the final pages. Having made a promise to his wife that he would retire from this dangerous life once and for all, Ben Hope formally retirement. With distant thoughts of life in the SAS and then as a kidnap and ransom operative, Hope attends a local wedding, ready to return to his theological studies. While there, an old colleague approaches him for work, though Hope has little to offer, proudly announcing that he is ‘out of the game’. Soon after returning to Oxford, Hope is summoned by a former professor and asked to undertake a special mission. Erratic biblical archeologist Zoe Bradbury has gone off the radar and her family is trying to determine if she is alive and well. Citing his dedication to his studies, Hope passes the easy case off to his friend, who sets out for the Greek Islands. When Hope receives a panicked call, he agrees to come and help sift through the mess. A bomb blast in a crowded area leaves many dead and Hope on the case to find Bradbury, if only to determine what has been going on. Meanwhile, Bradbury has been held by a group who are trying to extract a secret from her, one that could change Christianity forever. Hope follows the trail from Greece to the American Deep South, where he discovers the pull of evangelical Christianity and the sway it holds over many. Might Bradbury have discovered something to do with the Book of Revelations, the cornerstone to the End of Days prophecies by which many evangelicals live and breathe? Hope will stop at nothing to find out, even if it means battling a fiery preacher and a rogue collective of CIA operatives. Armed with a single CIA agent he can trust in Alex Fiorante, Hope pulls out every stop to bring this mission to a successful completion. Whether or not he finds Bradbury, he is in the crosshairs of a few ruthless killers and a fundamentalist sect who will stop at nothing to bring about their own End of Days. Another piece that ramps up the energy while delivering a punch to the gut. Highly recommended for those who like a fast-paced mystery that delves into areas some might call taboo!
Mariani has done a wonderful job to continue the development of Ben Hope’s backstory. While much is going on in his present, including the death of a loved one, the reader continues to sift through his past to discover his dedication to theological studies. That said, I have a hard time picturing an Anglican priest fighting crime, but stranger things have happened. Ben Hope will always be SAS, as it is embedded into his psyche. He will also always foster a desire to help those who have been taken, a.k.a his K&R work. However, he does not remain stagnant, shooting and killing while scooping and running. He trips on the mysteries of the world, becoming more academic and pensive in his actions. Mariani offers the reader this multi-faceted approach and it works well for the series so far. True, there is a long way to go, but with constant character development and background foundational support, Ben Hope will never become stale, as some characters in the genre have started to lose their lustre. Turning to the story at hand, it pulls on the drama of a missing person search with the undertones of something scandalous that could change the world. I will admit that this did not hold my attention as much as I would have liked. Perhaps the topic at hand, the truth of the Book of Revelations, was a little too weighty for Mariani to tackle in the pages of this book, but the pace at which he developed the story was decent. The narrative kept the plot clipping along and moving from scene to scene, as well as various locales. The trademark hinged narrative is back again, though the primary plot remains dangling for close to the entire story, allowing readers to feel a sense of completion only when the last chapter presents a final period. A slight dip in the overall delivery, but I was still hooked on seeing where Hope would take things and whether there would be another of those ‘single novel no strings’ romances.
Kudos, Mr. Mariani for keeping me entertained throughout. I have a large audio stack to go, so best forge onwards and lose myself in another Ben Hope thriller.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
December 8, 2016
6.5/10
It’s time to play a game of “Make up your own generic adventure title!”.
Pick one word from the left column and one word from the right column below:
Combine the two words with “The” prefixing them and there you go. Title created and the plot now needs to be loosely based on those words. Example:
The Gandhi Relic - Gandhi’s flip flop is secretly hidden but within the sole is a code on how world peace can be achieved.
The Newton Secret - It was really a pear that dropped on Newton’s head to aid him in defining gravity.
The Beethoven Code - Beethoven has written a code in Ode to Joy which reveals the whereabouts of a priceless jewel.
The Kennedy Conspiracy - well that one just writes itself I guess.
This seems to be the game that Scott Mariani plays to help with his books, or at least the two I’ve read. The book is predominantly about Ben Hope finding someone’s kidnapped daughter and bringing her home safe but later on the bible is mentioned and some bomb at a holy site. It’s pretty generic and didn’t stand out in terms of plot.
What did make this much better was the audio narration. The voices were done really well and the pacing of the reading made the action more tense than it probably would have been on paper. The narrator is one of the best I’ve listened to in my limited audiobook history.
This isn’t going to win any awards but it does what I wanted it to do. Mindless action with a bit of plot thrown in where I can dip in and out without needing to concentrate too hard. I definitely think that audio is the way to go in this series and would be happy picking up the next in the series as a bit of filler down the line. Now, I’m going to finish off writing “The Einstein Curse” about scientists who are cursed with crazy hair.
It’s time to play a game of “Make up your own generic adventure title!”.
Pick one word from the left column and one word from the right column below:
Beethoven Conspiracy
Cairo Secret
Hindenburg Seal
Hitler Legacy
Newton Treasure
Oprah Cypher
Churchill Code
Kennedy Prophecy
Gandhi Relic
Einstein Curse
Combine the two words with “The” prefixing them and there you go. Title created and the plot now needs to be loosely based on those words. Example:
The Gandhi Relic - Gandhi’s flip flop is secretly hidden but within the sole is a code on how world peace can be achieved.
The Newton Secret - It was really a pear that dropped on Newton’s head to aid him in defining gravity.
The Beethoven Code - Beethoven has written a code in Ode to Joy which reveals the whereabouts of a priceless jewel.
The Kennedy Conspiracy - well that one just writes itself I guess.
This seems to be the game that Scott Mariani plays to help with his books, or at least the two I’ve read. The book is predominantly about Ben Hope finding someone’s kidnapped daughter and bringing her home safe but later on the bible is mentioned and some bomb at a holy site. It’s pretty generic and didn’t stand out in terms of plot.
What did make this much better was the audio narration. The voices were done really well and the pacing of the reading made the action more tense than it probably would have been on paper. The narrator is one of the best I’ve listened to in my limited audiobook history.
This isn’t going to win any awards but it does what I wanted it to do. Mindless action with a bit of plot thrown in where I can dip in and out without needing to concentrate too hard. I definitely think that audio is the way to go in this series and would be happy picking up the next in the series as a bit of filler down the line. Now, I’m going to finish off writing “The Einstein Curse” about scientists who are cursed with crazy hair.
February 9, 2016
A fast paced thrilling story of kidnap, power struggles, political machinations, bribery and religion. Ben Hope is his usual magnificent well trained one man fighting machine and war zone rolled into one. At times I did wonder why he was eliminating so many people just for one spoilt selfish bratty rich girl??? However as always the book was a page turner with unexpected twists along the way. It helps that Ben Hope is gorgeous, caring and heroic and wants to see truth come to light. Another great book in the series and definitely worth a read.
May 30, 2019
I didn't enjoy this as much as the previous Ben Hope book. Ben was a reluctant hero in this one. After the recent death of his wife he decides to quit the kidnap and rescue business and return to Oxford to complete his theology studies with a view to becoming a priest. This ambition is, however, short lived. His mentor at Oxford is concerned about the non-return of his daughter, Zoe, from a dig overseas. She is a young but renowned archaeologist and appears to be missing. Ben won't work this case but recommends an old SAS buddy who had approached him about getting some work. A couple of days later his mate calls him from Corfu (where Zoe was last sighted) and says he needs to come over, disturbing things are happening. They meet at a cafe and as Ben leaps up to grab a child that has run in front of a car the cafe explodes, killing his friend.
Game on thinks Ben. He is riven by guilt at getting his newly married friend killed, and anger. Boy is he angry. Zoe was a cheeky little shit, good time party girl, who thought she had lucked into a way to make a quick few bucks by blackmailing certain people to keep something hidden. She claimed to have found evidence relating to the book of Revelation in the bible about the end of times. If revealed, it would rock modern Christianity. But - has she bitten off more than she can chew? Zoe is afeared for her life and Ben is trying to protect/save her but can he?
The start was quite slow but the book certainly picked up as it went along. I will keep going with the series for now and see where it leads me.
Game on thinks Ben. He is riven by guilt at getting his newly married friend killed, and anger. Boy is he angry. Zoe was a cheeky little shit, good time party girl, who thought she had lucked into a way to make a quick few bucks by blackmailing certain people to keep something hidden. She claimed to have found evidence relating to the book of Revelation in the bible about the end of times. If revealed, it would rock modern Christianity. But - has she bitten off more than she can chew? Zoe is afeared for her life and Ben is trying to protect/save her but can he?
The start was quite slow but the book certainly picked up as it went along. I will keep going with the series for now and see where it leads me.
September 12, 2020
I know I'm a good 10 years late reading this but 🤷♂️
Yet another fantastic, action packed and thrilling story! Could not put this down.
5*
Yet another fantastic, action packed and thrilling story! Could not put this down.
5*
June 29, 2013
Tuve que continuar con la saga porque de verdad me gusta. Y me sigue gustando. Pienso que éste fue el más ambicioso de los que he leído, aunque no me atrapó tanto como los dos anteriores. En este, Ben Hope se trata de retirar de su «ajetreada vida», pero algo surge y tiene que volver a la marcha andante de su desastrosa profesión.
Me he fijado que la experiencia con el armamento de Scott Mariani siempre está presente en todas sus novelas. Y en esta más. Es interesante la descripción cuando quepa debidamente en la narrativa, y en casos que ayuden a la escena, pero hay veces que simplemente no van y restan acción y fluidez.
Sentí que las cosas pasaban muy rápido. Es raro, porque éste es el más largo de los tres que he léido y lo sentí como el más liviano y hasta más corto. Hubieran capítulos súper desechables, pero no me quejo. En cuanto a la trama completa estuvo muy bien hecha, con algunas cosillas rebuscadas pero era de esperarse. Y sí, hay cosas que te darán mucha rabia, pero un cuanto insignificantes por el poco tiempo en el que transcurre la historia.
Ben Hope sigue siendo el mismo. ¿Leeré el próximo en la serie? Sí, lo haré. Lo haré porque de todas los libros así éstos son los que más me han atrapado. Ya veremos cómo sigue.
Me he fijado que la experiencia con el armamento de Scott Mariani siempre está presente en todas sus novelas. Y en esta más. Es interesante la descripción cuando quepa debidamente en la narrativa, y en casos que ayuden a la escena, pero hay veces que simplemente no van y restan acción y fluidez.
Sentí que las cosas pasaban muy rápido. Es raro, porque éste es el más largo de los tres que he léido y lo sentí como el más liviano y hasta más corto. Hubieran capítulos súper desechables, pero no me quejo. En cuanto a la trama completa estuvo muy bien hecha, con algunas cosillas rebuscadas pero era de esperarse. Y sí, hay cosas que te darán mucha rabia, pero un cuanto insignificantes por el poco tiempo en el que transcurre la historia.
Ben Hope sigue siendo el mismo. ¿Leeré el próximo en la serie? Sí, lo haré. Lo haré porque de todas los libros así éstos son los que más me han atrapado. Ya veremos cómo sigue.
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August 1, 2017
Audio Book - 10 hours 24 minutes - 3.5 rounded up to 4.0 stars out of 5.0
Finishing book 2 of my mini-binge of Ben Hope novels, I am pleased that the Hope character in "The Doomsday Prophecy" has pretty much lived up to the expectations engendered by reading book #0.5, "Passenger 13" and book #2, "The Mozart Conspiracy". Ben Hope is a 'hero', not in the true sense of the word, but he is our own sort-of-super fighting hero who manages to get out of tough and tricky situations without too much suspension-of-belief requirements on the reader's part. The prose is well-written for an action-thriller as there is almost non-stop action and a building of 'thriller' suspense through to the end. The end ... yes, I could say it was somewhat unsatisfactory, but given the theme and the plot and the fact that "Doomsday" features in the book title, it would be churlish for me to be too critical of the last hour or so of this adventure novel because I really enjoyed the whole thing.
There are sufficient 'I like you' indications of attraction by and to the opposite gender in the story and fortunately none of the 'panting, rip the clothes off, quick leg-over sex' that seems mandatory in a lot of action-thriller novels. Not that there is anything wrong with 'panting, rip the clothes etc., sex', but Scott Mariani has forsaken the archetype and imbued our hero with some sensitivity and probably a little warmth, despite his rugged SAS backstory.
I am about to push the iPod play button on book #1, "The Alchemist's Secret", which I appear not to have read/listened to, despite my penchant for following an author's character in strict reading order. I 'Hope' that I enjoy this, my fourth Ben Hope novel as much as the previous three. :-)
Finishing book 2 of my mini-binge of Ben Hope novels, I am pleased that the Hope character in "The Doomsday Prophecy" has pretty much lived up to the expectations engendered by reading book #0.5, "Passenger 13" and book #2, "The Mozart Conspiracy". Ben Hope is a 'hero', not in the true sense of the word, but he is our own sort-of-super fighting hero who manages to get out of tough and tricky situations without too much suspension-of-belief requirements on the reader's part. The prose is well-written for an action-thriller as there is almost non-stop action and a building of 'thriller' suspense through to the end. The end ... yes, I could say it was somewhat unsatisfactory, but given the theme and the plot and the fact that "Doomsday" features in the book title, it would be churlish for me to be too critical of the last hour or so of this adventure novel because I really enjoyed the whole thing.
There are sufficient 'I like you' indications of attraction by and to the opposite gender in the story and fortunately none of the 'panting, rip the clothes off, quick leg-over sex' that seems mandatory in a lot of action-thriller novels. Not that there is anything wrong with 'panting, rip the clothes etc., sex', but Scott Mariani has forsaken the archetype and imbued our hero with some sensitivity and probably a little warmth, despite his rugged SAS backstory.
I am about to push the iPod play button on book #1, "The Alchemist's Secret", which I appear not to have read/listened to, despite my penchant for following an author's character in strict reading order. I 'Hope' that I enjoy this, my fourth Ben Hope novel as much as the previous three. :-)
January 19, 2024
Една идея по-слаба от предходните,но въпреки това интересна книга,наситена с екшън.Бен Хоуп,който се е отказал от опасната си работа след смъртта на жена си и се е върнал във факултета по богословие в университета в Оксфорд,не подозира какво го очаква,когато приема поканата за вечеря от своя преподава��ел и стар приятел на баща му.Бен изпраща свой приятел от армията,за да открие изчезналата дъщеря на преподавателя.Той заминава по дирите и до остров Корфу,където нещата тотално се объркват и Хоуп е принуден да продължи издирването.Диво преследване и луд екшън изпълват всяка една минута и ни отвеждат от Англия,през Гърция и Америка,та чак до Йерусалим .Историята наглед показва как хора,възползвайки се от социалното си положение се възползват от държавни ресурси,за да постигнат своите цели.Те са измислили мащабен план,но не са взели предвид една малка,но съществена подробност,а именно Хоуп.Бен Хоуп-най-добрия стрелец в света;Бен Хоуп, който или ще умре,или ще довърши работата до край!
February 9, 2018
This is quite fast-paced. Not too many drama. Just nice enough info on the historical facts. There are some parts where I felt it was not needed but guess, Scott Mariani needed fillers. Now I need to hunt for the other 16 Ben Hope's books.
January 6, 2013
This was another great book in the series, in fact I actually think that this was better than the first two books. It had everything, international settings, twists and turns and a great hero. I have read books Andy McNab (Nick Stone) and some of Lee Child (Jack Reacher) but Ben Hope is by far the best of this type of character and Scott Mariani's books are far more entertaining that either McNab or Child. I'm already looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
October 30, 2017
La primera parte es bastante frustraste, pero a partir de la segunda las cosas mejoran, lleno de acción como nos tiene acostumbrado Mariani y al final resulta bastante satisfactorio.
March 19, 2023
A good book with a plot that keeps your attention! Unfortunately, I started with the third in the series (it was a random book I picked up on vacation), but I will definitely read book 1 next!
October 22, 2025
Somehow I missed reading this one and have read it totally out of sequence. Like all the other Ben Hope books it was a compelling read and reading it out of requence did not detract from the mystery and excitement at all.
April 3, 2024
⭐️ 3.5/4 stars ⭐️
November 29, 2024
Note: this book is also named "The Doomsday Prophecy."
"The Hope Vendetta" by Scott Mariani is the 3rd book in the Ben Hope series, and it's a thrilling, high-octane adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seats. The audiobook, narrated by Colin Mace, brings the story to life with his engaging and dynamic performance.
The story follows Ben Hope, an ex-SAS operative who has decided to return to his abandoned Theology studies. However, fate has other plans for him when his old friend, a Theology professor, asks for his help in finding his missing daughter, Zoë Bradbury. What starts as a simple search quickly spirals into a deadly conspiracy involving an ancient prophecy and a fundamentalist plot to gain ultimate power.
As Ben travels from Greece to the American Deep South and finally to Jerusalem, he uncovers secrets that put not only his and Zoë's lives at risk but also the lives of millions. The stakes are incredibly high as Ben races against time to prevent a disaster that could kick-start apocalyptic events as foretold by the Book of Revelation.
Mariani's writing is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns, making it difficult to put the book down. The blend of action, mystery, and historical elements keeps the reader engaged throughout the story. Fans of Dan Brown and other thriller authors will find this book particularly enjoyable.
Colin Mace's narration adds another layer of excitement to the audiobook. His ability to convey the tension and urgency of the plot, as well as his skill in differentiating between characters, makes the listening experience immersive and enjoyable. Mace's performance ensures that you are fully invested in Ben Hope's journey and the high-stakes mission he undertakes.
However, some readers may find the plot to be overly complex and convoluted at times. The numerous twists and turns, while exciting, can occasionally feel overwhelming. Additionally, the pacing can be uneven, with some sections feeling rushed while others drag.
Overall, "The Hope Vendetta" is a thrilling and entertaining book that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, religious mysteries, and action-packed thrillers. With its engaging characters, gripping plot, and superb narration, it is a must-listen for anyone seeking a captivating and thought-provoking listening experience.
"The Hope Vendetta" by Scott Mariani is the 3rd book in the Ben Hope series, and it's a thrilling, high-octane adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seats. The audiobook, narrated by Colin Mace, brings the story to life with his engaging and dynamic performance.
The story follows Ben Hope, an ex-SAS operative who has decided to return to his abandoned Theology studies. However, fate has other plans for him when his old friend, a Theology professor, asks for his help in finding his missing daughter, Zoë Bradbury. What starts as a simple search quickly spirals into a deadly conspiracy involving an ancient prophecy and a fundamentalist plot to gain ultimate power.
As Ben travels from Greece to the American Deep South and finally to Jerusalem, he uncovers secrets that put not only his and Zoë's lives at risk but also the lives of millions. The stakes are incredibly high as Ben races against time to prevent a disaster that could kick-start apocalyptic events as foretold by the Book of Revelation.
Mariani's writing is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns, making it difficult to put the book down. The blend of action, mystery, and historical elements keeps the reader engaged throughout the story. Fans of Dan Brown and other thriller authors will find this book particularly enjoyable.
Colin Mace's narration adds another layer of excitement to the audiobook. His ability to convey the tension and urgency of the plot, as well as his skill in differentiating between characters, makes the listening experience immersive and enjoyable. Mace's performance ensures that you are fully invested in Ben Hope's journey and the high-stakes mission he undertakes.
However, some readers may find the plot to be overly complex and convoluted at times. The numerous twists and turns, while exciting, can occasionally feel overwhelming. Additionally, the pacing can be uneven, with some sections feeling rushed while others drag.
Overall, "The Hope Vendetta" is a thrilling and entertaining book that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, religious mysteries, and action-packed thrillers. With its engaging characters, gripping plot, and superb narration, it is a must-listen for anyone seeking a captivating and thought-provoking listening experience.
February 22, 2017
Thrills and spills and all are okay but this is like screenplay turned into a novel. Anything can be done in a book. No expense is involved no matter how fantastic. So what this book needed was more research into Revelation and Christian extremist politics and less words about helicopters crashing.
May 16, 2015
Brilliant and full of action as always but with a very sad twist.
July 15, 2015
love this authot
July 15, 2021
Good fast paced stuff, pretty violent and pretty far-fetched
July 24, 2022
An action packed story where you feel as if you are part of a James Bond film. The book keeps you hooked till the very end.
June 6, 2024
Scott Mariani's "The Doomsday Prophecy," the third book in the Ben Hope series, is a captivating blend of historical intrigue, action, and suspense that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. This novel earns a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars for its intricately woven plot and well-developed characters.
Mariani masterfully crafts a tale spanning centuries, ingeniously linking the past with the present through a mysterious prophecy. Ben Hope, a former SAS soldier turned professional rescuer, finds himself embroiled in a complex web of secrets and dangers as he races against time to unravel the prophecy's meaning. The plot is rich with historical references and fast-paced action, keeping readers hooked with unexpected twists and turns. Mariani's meticulous research into historical events and his ability to seamlessly integrate these into a modern-day thriller add depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Ben Hope shines as a compelling and multi-dimensional protagonist. His bravery, intelligence, and occasional vulnerability make him relatable and likable. Mariani develops Hope with care, allowing readers to witness his internal struggles and growth throughout the series. While the supporting characters may not be as deeply explored as Hope, they are sufficiently developed to enhance the story's layers. The antagonists are suitably menacing, providing a palpable sense of danger and urgency.
Mariani's writing style is clear and engaging, making "The Doomsday Prophecy" an accessible read for a wide audience. His ability to shift seamlessly between different timelines and perspectives enhances the narrative's complexity without confusing the reader. The descriptive passages are vivid, painting a clear picture of the various settings, from ancient ruins to modern cities, immersing the reader into the story's world.
The novel delves into thought-provoking themes of destiny, historical legacy, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The idea of a centuries-old prophecy coming to light in contemporary times is intriguing and well-executed. Mariani also explores the moral ambiguities faced by those in search of the truth, adding a layer of philosophical depth to the action-driven plot.
While "The Doomsday Prophecy" excels in many areas, some readers may find certain plot points predictable, and the romantic subplot, though not overly intrusive, can feel somewhat formulaic. Additionally, the extensive historical exposition, while fascinating, may occasionally slow down the narrative's pace for those more interested in the thriller aspects.
Overall, Scott Mariani's "The Doomsday Prophecy" is a captivating addition to the Ben Hope series, offering a well-balanced mix of history, mystery, and action. It is a testament to Mariani's skill as a storyteller that he can maintain such a high level of suspense and intrigue across multiple books. Fans of historical thrillers and action-packed adventures will find much to enjoy in this novel. Despite minor shortcomings, it is a highly recommended read that delivers on its promise of excitement and historical exploration, earning it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
Mariani masterfully crafts a tale spanning centuries, ingeniously linking the past with the present through a mysterious prophecy. Ben Hope, a former SAS soldier turned professional rescuer, finds himself embroiled in a complex web of secrets and dangers as he races against time to unravel the prophecy's meaning. The plot is rich with historical references and fast-paced action, keeping readers hooked with unexpected twists and turns. Mariani's meticulous research into historical events and his ability to seamlessly integrate these into a modern-day thriller add depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Ben Hope shines as a compelling and multi-dimensional protagonist. His bravery, intelligence, and occasional vulnerability make him relatable and likable. Mariani develops Hope with care, allowing readers to witness his internal struggles and growth throughout the series. While the supporting characters may not be as deeply explored as Hope, they are sufficiently developed to enhance the story's layers. The antagonists are suitably menacing, providing a palpable sense of danger and urgency.
Mariani's writing style is clear and engaging, making "The Doomsday Prophecy" an accessible read for a wide audience. His ability to shift seamlessly between different timelines and perspectives enhances the narrative's complexity without confusing the reader. The descriptive passages are vivid, painting a clear picture of the various settings, from ancient ruins to modern cities, immersing the reader into the story's world.
The novel delves into thought-provoking themes of destiny, historical legacy, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The idea of a centuries-old prophecy coming to light in contemporary times is intriguing and well-executed. Mariani also explores the moral ambiguities faced by those in search of the truth, adding a layer of philosophical depth to the action-driven plot.
While "The Doomsday Prophecy" excels in many areas, some readers may find certain plot points predictable, and the romantic subplot, though not overly intrusive, can feel somewhat formulaic. Additionally, the extensive historical exposition, while fascinating, may occasionally slow down the narrative's pace for those more interested in the thriller aspects.
Overall, Scott Mariani's "The Doomsday Prophecy" is a captivating addition to the Ben Hope series, offering a well-balanced mix of history, mystery, and action. It is a testament to Mariani's skill as a storyteller that he can maintain such a high level of suspense and intrigue across multiple books. Fans of historical thrillers and action-packed adventures will find much to enjoy in this novel. Despite minor shortcomings, it is a highly recommended read that delivers on its promise of excitement and historical exploration, earning it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
August 29, 2023
I love the Ben Hope Series by Scott Mariani so prepare for an electrifying journey into the heart of chaos and intrigue with "Doomsday Prophecy". This riveting novel catapults you into a world on the brink of catastrophe, blending pulse-pounding action, ancient mysteries, and high-stakes suspense.
"Doomsday Prophecy" wastes no time in thrusting you into a whirlwind of heart-pounding action. From the very beginning, the narrative is propelled by adrenaline-fueled sequences that leave you breathless. Mariani's skill in crafting intense and gripping action scenes ensures that every chapter is a cinematic experience, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
At the core of the novel is an intricately woven plot that entangles the fates of its characters in a web of mystery and danger. Mariani's meticulous attention to detail shines as he navigates through multiple storylines, seamlessly blending historical intrigue with modern-day urgency. As the layers of the conspiracy unfold, you are drawn deeper into a world where nothing is as it seems.
The protagonist of "Doomsday Prophecy", Ben Hope is a multi-dimensional character who brings authenticity and depth to the story. Facing personal demons while battling external threats, his journey is marked by growth, resilience, and unwavering determination. I think you will find yourself emotionally invested in his struggles, rooting for his success as he navigates the treacherous landscape of the plot.
Mariani's penchant for blending historical elements with modern-day suspense is a standout feature of the book. As characters uncover ancient prophecies and untangle intricate conspiracies, you are treated to a thrilling exploration of secrets buried in the past. The interplay between historical events and contemporary turmoil adds layers of intrigue that contribute to the novel's allure which a really love.
The vivid descriptions of locations in "Doomsday Prophecy" transport you to diverse and atmospheric settings. From the dark catacombs of ancient cities to the bustling streets of modern metropolises, Mariani’s attention to detail immerses you in the story's world. These settings not only serve as backdrops but also play a crucial role in shaping the mood and tension of the narrative.
"Doomsday Prophecy" by Scott Mariani is a heart-pounding, pulse-racing adventure that leaves an indelible mark on all those that read it. With its relentless action, intricate plotting, compelling characters, and seamless fusion of historical and contemporary elements, the novel captivates from start to finish. If you're seeking a rollercoaster ride of suspense, ancient secrets, and gripping storytelling, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone who craves an adrenaline-infused escape into a world on the brink of chaos.
"Doomsday Prophecy" wastes no time in thrusting you into a whirlwind of heart-pounding action. From the very beginning, the narrative is propelled by adrenaline-fueled sequences that leave you breathless. Mariani's skill in crafting intense and gripping action scenes ensures that every chapter is a cinematic experience, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
At the core of the novel is an intricately woven plot that entangles the fates of its characters in a web of mystery and danger. Mariani's meticulous attention to detail shines as he navigates through multiple storylines, seamlessly blending historical intrigue with modern-day urgency. As the layers of the conspiracy unfold, you are drawn deeper into a world where nothing is as it seems.
The protagonist of "Doomsday Prophecy", Ben Hope is a multi-dimensional character who brings authenticity and depth to the story. Facing personal demons while battling external threats, his journey is marked by growth, resilience, and unwavering determination. I think you will find yourself emotionally invested in his struggles, rooting for his success as he navigates the treacherous landscape of the plot.
Mariani's penchant for blending historical elements with modern-day suspense is a standout feature of the book. As characters uncover ancient prophecies and untangle intricate conspiracies, you are treated to a thrilling exploration of secrets buried in the past. The interplay between historical events and contemporary turmoil adds layers of intrigue that contribute to the novel's allure which a really love.
The vivid descriptions of locations in "Doomsday Prophecy" transport you to diverse and atmospheric settings. From the dark catacombs of ancient cities to the bustling streets of modern metropolises, Mariani’s attention to detail immerses you in the story's world. These settings not only serve as backdrops but also play a crucial role in shaping the mood and tension of the narrative.
"Doomsday Prophecy" by Scott Mariani is a heart-pounding, pulse-racing adventure that leaves an indelible mark on all those that read it. With its relentless action, intricate plotting, compelling characters, and seamless fusion of historical and contemporary elements, the novel captivates from start to finish. If you're seeking a rollercoaster ride of suspense, ancient secrets, and gripping storytelling, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone who craves an adrenaline-infused escape into a world on the brink of chaos.
May 7, 2024
The Hope Vendetta (Ben Hope, #3) by Scott Mariani
This is a stand-alone book. You don't need to read the first two books in the series to enjoy it.
After losing his wife to a horrible stabbing in book two of the series, Benedict (Ben) Hope decides to abandon the British Army Service Special Air Service (SAS) and go back to Cambridge to finish his theology degree.
Unfortunately, a distress call from one of Ben's father's friends, Professor Tom Bradbury who begs Ben to find his missing daughter, Zoë Bradbury - a renowned archeologist.
Ben refuses to stop his studies and sends his best friend, newlywed Charlie Palmer to find her in Corfu Greece. Unfortunately, things get complicated and Charlie begs Ben for help. As Ben makes it to Corfu - a bombing kills Charlie. So now is personal.
Ben realizes that once again it’s all up to him. While Zoë’s sudden influx of cash right before her disappearance may be related to her recent discovery of an ancient artifact connected to the Book of Revelation.
At first, Ben thinks is Clayton Cleaver - a megachurch maniac who is trying to get billionaire Augusta Vale to donate 100 million dollars to his cause. It turns out that Zoë was blackmailing him. As Ben confronts Rev. Cleaver it becomes clear that he has nothing to do with Zoë's disappearance.
Senator Bud Richmond from Montana is trying to run for president on a Christian platform. Unfortunately, the senator's chief of staff, Irving Slatter, is a fanatic to the max and has hired the worst of the FBI and CIA to bring on Armageddon. Slatter believes that Zoë has proof that the Book of Revelations was not written by the Apostle John - a fact that would derail his plans for ending the world. Gradually, Ben realizes that it’s not just Zoë’s life on the line, but the lives of millions.
What is the ancient secret that Zoë uncovered? And just who is willing to do anything to protect it? The investigation leads Ben from Greece to Savannah, Georgia, and then on to Israel and Jerusalem.
Aided by Alex Fiorante - one of the operatives that Slatter's men hired - will Ben stop the end of the world from happening?
Narrated from the third person point of view, this is a fascinating thriller that is hard to put down. The characters are alive and come out of the page. The plot is sensational and you don't know where it will take you next. But you can't stop reading. It's a fast easy read and I recommend it highly.
This is a stand-alone book. You don't need to read the first two books in the series to enjoy it.
After losing his wife to a horrible stabbing in book two of the series, Benedict (Ben) Hope decides to abandon the British Army Service Special Air Service (SAS) and go back to Cambridge to finish his theology degree.
Unfortunately, a distress call from one of Ben's father's friends, Professor Tom Bradbury who begs Ben to find his missing daughter, Zoë Bradbury - a renowned archeologist.
Ben refuses to stop his studies and sends his best friend, newlywed Charlie Palmer to find her in Corfu Greece. Unfortunately, things get complicated and Charlie begs Ben for help. As Ben makes it to Corfu - a bombing kills Charlie. So now is personal.
Ben realizes that once again it’s all up to him. While Zoë’s sudden influx of cash right before her disappearance may be related to her recent discovery of an ancient artifact connected to the Book of Revelation.
At first, Ben thinks is Clayton Cleaver - a megachurch maniac who is trying to get billionaire Augusta Vale to donate 100 million dollars to his cause. It turns out that Zoë was blackmailing him. As Ben confronts Rev. Cleaver it becomes clear that he has nothing to do with Zoë's disappearance.
Senator Bud Richmond from Montana is trying to run for president on a Christian platform. Unfortunately, the senator's chief of staff, Irving Slatter, is a fanatic to the max and has hired the worst of the FBI and CIA to bring on Armageddon. Slatter believes that Zoë has proof that the Book of Revelations was not written by the Apostle John - a fact that would derail his plans for ending the world. Gradually, Ben realizes that it’s not just Zoë’s life on the line, but the lives of millions.
What is the ancient secret that Zoë uncovered? And just who is willing to do anything to protect it? The investigation leads Ben from Greece to Savannah, Georgia, and then on to Israel and Jerusalem.
Aided by Alex Fiorante - one of the operatives that Slatter's men hired - will Ben stop the end of the world from happening?
Narrated from the third person point of view, this is a fascinating thriller that is hard to put down. The characters are alive and come out of the page. The plot is sensational and you don't know where it will take you next. But you can't stop reading. It's a fast easy read and I recommend it highly.
March 15, 2017
The Doomsday Prophecy is a great romp taking out hero Ben Hope through loads of different great locations the investigative research Scott Mariani put into this novel is considerable and should be lauded.
The book has a rather depressed hero throughout the story which does reduce the enjoyment somewhat as poor Ben had recently had a dreadful loss in his life and is finding hard to move on, this guy is fictional, and the troupe is rough, rugged hero carrying loads of problems. I think maybe Ben was given too much to carry for this book; his drinking, religion and smoking are enough for any poor hero to carry!
The book starts as always with Ben trying to escape from his current life and renew himself; this is a recurring theme in the Ben Hope collection of books. I am not sure why Scott continually brings it up, the poor guy has to face it he is an action hero that needs to get on with his life.
However, the story is a real page-turner I thoughtfully enjoyed how Scott Mariani weaves the early chapters together dragging poor Ben Hope back into his life of violence and killing doing what he does best finding people that are lost. The twist on the story using his old professor as a link to the violence is good, and it gets us embroiled in the story.
The journey for this book is extensive as I have said earlier, the work Scott must have put into ensure the accuracy of the locations and people must have been extensive. He starts off by killing his best friend which is always a good thing for Ben, so he can feel even worse. We then go on a wild journey which starts in the UK then through the Mediterranean over to the states and back to the Middle East. Ben in his usual style leaves a pile of bodies in each location; the action is fast a furious and never stopping he seems to walk from one situation straight into the next which is great for such a book.
As always the Bible features heavily in the Doomsday Prophecy all of the Ben Hope books do, but Scott masterfully intertwines the stories Ben has to deal with into the plot, the book name is a bit of a giveaway, but there are plenty of surprises waiting for the eager reader to come up against. The final twists are good enough to be believable, the links to the CIA are a little far fetched. I think if Scott could have kept us in with the first American involved then it would have been better; it seemed to me that Scott hit a writers corner, the first Yank was not bad enough, so he needed another baddy with comparable skills to Ben to ensure the story kept its inertia. I agree, as a humble action adventure writer of nowhere near the skills of Scott Mariani I am always trying to write myself out of a corner!
I have read the Doomsday Prophecy more times than I can count, whenever I need some inspiration on keeping a story moving and using the troupe and his faults to its fullest I revert to a good Scott Mariani, Ben Hope book.
This is a great book to read; I give it five full stars as action adventure it really does not get much better, long may Ben Hope keep falling off the waggon then heading back into the life he so wants to leave.
Book Reviews 2017 Steve Braker Author or the William Brody Action Ocean Adventure Series. Contact stevefreelancewriter@gmail.com
The book has a rather depressed hero throughout the story which does reduce the enjoyment somewhat as poor Ben had recently had a dreadful loss in his life and is finding hard to move on, this guy is fictional, and the troupe is rough, rugged hero carrying loads of problems. I think maybe Ben was given too much to carry for this book; his drinking, religion and smoking are enough for any poor hero to carry!
The book starts as always with Ben trying to escape from his current life and renew himself; this is a recurring theme in the Ben Hope collection of books. I am not sure why Scott continually brings it up, the poor guy has to face it he is an action hero that needs to get on with his life.
However, the story is a real page-turner I thoughtfully enjoyed how Scott Mariani weaves the early chapters together dragging poor Ben Hope back into his life of violence and killing doing what he does best finding people that are lost. The twist on the story using his old professor as a link to the violence is good, and it gets us embroiled in the story.
The journey for this book is extensive as I have said earlier, the work Scott must have put into ensure the accuracy of the locations and people must have been extensive. He starts off by killing his best friend which is always a good thing for Ben, so he can feel even worse. We then go on a wild journey which starts in the UK then through the Mediterranean over to the states and back to the Middle East. Ben in his usual style leaves a pile of bodies in each location; the action is fast a furious and never stopping he seems to walk from one situation straight into the next which is great for such a book.
As always the Bible features heavily in the Doomsday Prophecy all of the Ben Hope books do, but Scott masterfully intertwines the stories Ben has to deal with into the plot, the book name is a bit of a giveaway, but there are plenty of surprises waiting for the eager reader to come up against. The final twists are good enough to be believable, the links to the CIA are a little far fetched. I think if Scott could have kept us in with the first American involved then it would have been better; it seemed to me that Scott hit a writers corner, the first Yank was not bad enough, so he needed another baddy with comparable skills to Ben to ensure the story kept its inertia. I agree, as a humble action adventure writer of nowhere near the skills of Scott Mariani I am always trying to write myself out of a corner!
I have read the Doomsday Prophecy more times than I can count, whenever I need some inspiration on keeping a story moving and using the troupe and his faults to its fullest I revert to a good Scott Mariani, Ben Hope book.
This is a great book to read; I give it five full stars as action adventure it really does not get much better, long may Ben Hope keep falling off the waggon then heading back into the life he so wants to leave.
Book Reviews 2017 Steve Braker Author or the William Brody Action Ocean Adventure Series. Contact stevefreelancewriter@gmail.com
November 3, 2019
Major Ben Hope is on his adventures again in this the third outing in this wonderful series. I came upon this series of books a few years ago and whilst I have read all the current books, I am trying to find and read all the earlier ones in the order they were written. Whilst every book can be read as a stand alone there are small elements that are carried through the series. It is also good to known how the fictional life of Ben Hope has evolved through the series. The early books in the series are just as good as the later ones and for any fan of the series it is worth tracking them down and reading them. This book starts with Major Ben Hope giving up his life as a hostage and rescue consultant and trying to start his studies again as theology student at Oxford university. One of his tutors asks Ben to find his daughter who has gone missing in Corfu whilst on biblical archaeological venture, but Ben refuses and instead passes on the details to an old army buddy from his SAS days. Unfortunately his buddy draws a blank in Corfu and asks Ben to join him because he fears telling him the details on the phone. Ben arrives in Corfu and all hell lets loose ending with this buddy Charlie being blown to pieces by a bomb. From here Ben travels to the USA and the story becomes evermore intriguing and the stakes higher and higher. To say anymore about the story would spoil it, so to find out you will have to read the book, you will not be disappointed. This is one of the best series of books out there.
October 26, 2025
Another, "um, what shall I read?" pick from the supermarket shelves. Originally published in 2009 it seems I'm late to the party. I think I've read a Ben Hope story before.
This novel was a little strange in that Ben is starting a life as a theology scholar after deciding to turn his back on hostage rescue but fate has other ideas (well of course it does). It sort of helps that Ben has this background and education as he needs it to solve the case.
Lots of explosions, car chases, fights and gun battles and, quite refreshingly, our hero does not come out unscathed (well, he's British not American) and does actually suffer for it. He does battle on in a superhero type of way and recovers from the most astounding injury in mind bogglingly speedy fashion but....
The book is full of useful coincidences and quite a few twists and turns including a significant dead end I really did not see coming. If you are going to read this novel I suggest you brush up on your Book of the Apocolypse (Revelations) first.
I really did enjoy this and it is a page turner and not really overly long for the story - Mariani doesn't seem to drag the story on or milk the ending - great for a long flight /train journey or some long winter nights.
This novel was a little strange in that Ben is starting a life as a theology scholar after deciding to turn his back on hostage rescue but fate has other ideas (well of course it does). It sort of helps that Ben has this background and education as he needs it to solve the case.
Lots of explosions, car chases, fights and gun battles and, quite refreshingly, our hero does not come out unscathed (well, he's British not American) and does actually suffer for it. He does battle on in a superhero type of way and recovers from the most astounding injury in mind bogglingly speedy fashion but....
The book is full of useful coincidences and quite a few twists and turns including a significant dead end I really did not see coming. If you are going to read this novel I suggest you brush up on your Book of the Apocolypse (Revelations) first.
I really did enjoy this and it is a page turner and not really overly long for the story - Mariani doesn't seem to drag the story on or milk the ending - great for a long flight /train journey or some long winter nights.
September 24, 2020
It's hard to rate these books five star or three star. They don't meet my three star criteria, which is: occasionally exciting but just pushing through the book. They don't quite meet my five star rating criteria: absolutely amazing, I love everything about it and I'm sad to have finished it!
So four star it is.
What I like about these is the fact that I don't want to like them, yet I end up doing anyway. They are very alike - bad guys want secret hidden inside a popular subject. Bad guys do bad guy stuff, because they are bad guys. Ben hope survives pretty unlikely scenarios and meets attractive women along the way to spice the plot up. 3 books I've read now and they have all followed that strategy.
However, the story isn't the same. The stakes felt higher in this one, drama from the last book does affect Ben Hope's decisions in this story. The action is good, the plot is fast paced. And the story is infuriatingly satisfying despite a slight de ja vu feeling.
Though I will be reluctant to read more. I probably will...
So four star it is.
What I like about these is the fact that I don't want to like them, yet I end up doing anyway. They are very alike - bad guys want secret hidden inside a popular subject. Bad guys do bad guy stuff, because they are bad guys. Ben hope survives pretty unlikely scenarios and meets attractive women along the way to spice the plot up. 3 books I've read now and they have all followed that strategy.
However, the story isn't the same. The stakes felt higher in this one, drama from the last book does affect Ben Hope's decisions in this story. The action is good, the plot is fast paced. And the story is infuriatingly satisfying despite a slight de ja vu feeling.
Though I will be reluctant to read more. I probably will...
June 26, 2019
I have now read 6 of the Ben Hope series, not all in order - I don’t think you need to as they are each an excellent stand alone novel - and I eventually intend to read them all, probably in order from now on. Even though he is always trying to find ways of living a quieter life Ben is always, somehow, dragged into situations where his skills are tested to the extreme. In this he is planning on returning to college when he is asked to find a colleagues daughter who has gone missing. Thinking that this is just a straightforward search and find job he passes it over to one of his best friends from the army, who is desperate for work, but from there things go terribly wrong and Ben finds himself once again in the thick of a seriously dire situation. Scott Mariana keeps the ball rolling from page to page and you find yourself turning and turning. Ben Hope is one tough guy and always a reluctant hero and in this genre is right up there with the best of them!!
November 13, 2021
We're further on the Ben Hope train now, and still the novels are not reaching a great standard. This one is good, but I found my interest drifting here and there. There are sections of this novel that really pack a punch, but the author has a tendency to meander a little with he plot, and I found that frustrating and distracting.
What is it about this genre, that the female characters are always beautiful/brilliant? I didn't, for one moment, buy into the character of Zoe, a 26 academic at the top of her career, and also party animal etc. It didn't ring true, and just seemed to be the author writing about a fantasy more than anything else. Because of this, I don't think I actually cared what happened to Zoe. She was just a cog in the plot, one that didn't seem important to me as the reader.
The action scenes were mostly well written, if a little far-fetched at times. But, that goes with this type of novel.
I'm still willing to give this series more time, and hope it improves.
What is it about this genre, that the female characters are always beautiful/brilliant? I didn't, for one moment, buy into the character of Zoe, a 26 academic at the top of her career, and also party animal etc. It didn't ring true, and just seemed to be the author writing about a fantasy more than anything else. Because of this, I don't think I actually cared what happened to Zoe. She was just a cog in the plot, one that didn't seem important to me as the reader.
The action scenes were mostly well written, if a little far-fetched at times. But, that goes with this type of novel.
I'm still willing to give this series more time, and hope it improves.
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