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The Death Wish Game
The Hunger Games meets Poltergeist in this page-turning thriller about a group of passengers on a doomed bus ride to Miami, who awaken duct-taped to their seats and forced into a deadly game of survival. Perfect for fans of Stephen King, Dean Koontz, and Grady Hendrix.
A one-way bus ticket to Florida offers Rodney the chance at a fresh start from his dead-end life in South Carolina. Unfortunately, somewhere along the ten-hour trek to Miami, the passengers are drugged, awakening to find themselves duct-taped to their seats and stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Their captor reveals himself, informing them they’re participants in a game of survival. “The rules are simple,” he tells them. “Follow the flares to reach the safe zone. Make it there, and you live. Stay, and they will come tear you apart.”
Chaos ensues, and one-by-one the passengers are picked off in their seats. Dying within their restraints. It’s a race against time, and those lucky enough to escape are forced to play the game, uncovering an impossible secret that has brought them together to face an ancient evil unlike anything they have ever known.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2017
125 people are currently reading
1316 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Chateau
8 books97 followersJonathan Chateau grew up reading books by Stephen King, Dean Koontz, and Michael Crichton. However, it was Fight Club--both the 1996 novel by Chuck Palahniuk and the 1999 film by David Fincher--that inspired him to pursue writing. He has also had a love of movies since he was five and was even named after James Caan's character, Jonathan E, from the 1975 cult classic, Rollerball.
He has completed five novels, Nightmares in Analog, The Death Wish Game, Faith Against the Wolves, and Faith Against the Angels. His fifth book, The Sprawling, is slated for release next year.
When Jonathan's not writing, he's working out, painting table-top miniatures like those from Warhammer or the Walking Dead, playing way-too-many video games, eating spicy food, jamming out to Emo & EDM, or spending time with his family, friends and his spoiled cats, Boo (the Dork) & Luna (the Princess.)
He lives in Tampa, Florida and loves hearing from his readers, so stop by and say hello:
JChateau.com
Facebook.com/JonathanChateauAuthor
Instagram.com/jchateau
He has completed five novels, Nightmares in Analog, The Death Wish Game, Faith Against the Wolves, and Faith Against the Angels. His fifth book, The Sprawling, is slated for release next year.
When Jonathan's not writing, he's working out, painting table-top miniatures like those from Warhammer or the Walking Dead, playing way-too-many video games, eating spicy food, jamming out to Emo & EDM, or spending time with his family, friends and his spoiled cats, Boo (the Dork) & Luna (the Princess.)
He lives in Tampa, Florida and loves hearing from his readers, so stop by and say hello:
JChateau.com
Facebook.com/JonathanChateauAuthor
Instagram.com/jchateau
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
July 20, 2021
This was so kindly sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is a super fast-paced, bingeable, slasher horror novel with a really cool and unique supernatural element tied in that was a total surprise! I really enjoyed the unique turn it took around a quarter of the way through the novel and really enjoyed the themes explored the rest of the way! The conclusion was action-packed and wild and I got to a point where it was hard to put this one down!
I do think the weak spots were some of the villains being just a bit too uninteresting and over-the-top for me. There was also a lot of repetitive action where our main character would be put in danger and then saved so many times where I no longer feared for him and it lowered the stakes for me. I also do wish we had a little more build-up before a certain reveal that i think would’ve made it hit harder.
Overall though, this book was a ton of fun to read and had really unique concepts and twists in it that I’ve never read before! Definitely recommend for supernatural horror fans!
This is a super fast-paced, bingeable, slasher horror novel with a really cool and unique supernatural element tied in that was a total surprise! I really enjoyed the unique turn it took around a quarter of the way through the novel and really enjoyed the themes explored the rest of the way! The conclusion was action-packed and wild and I got to a point where it was hard to put this one down!
I do think the weak spots were some of the villains being just a bit too uninteresting and over-the-top for me. There was also a lot of repetitive action where our main character would be put in danger and then saved so many times where I no longer feared for him and it lowered the stakes for me. I also do wish we had a little more build-up before a certain reveal that i think would’ve made it hit harder.
Overall though, this book was a ton of fun to read and had really unique concepts and twists in it that I’ve never read before! Definitely recommend for supernatural horror fans!
July 7, 2020
This book was such a delight.... At first, the mixed reviews worried me. Was I ready to commit to reading a 300+ page book that might be a bomb?
However, I was hooked from the first chapter.
The idea is great. Waking up on a bus, all passengers strapped down, then being hunted.
There's more depth to this story than I expected. It touched me in more ways than one.
I don't want to say too much because I don't want to give any spoilers.... Let's just say that the ending took multiple twists and turns that I loved. Also, it's not really as bloody as most of my reading, but there was enough gore to satiate my devious appetite.
However, I was hooked from the first chapter.
The idea is great. Waking up on a bus, all passengers strapped down, then being hunted.
There's more depth to this story than I expected. It touched me in more ways than one.
I don't want to say too much because I don't want to give any spoilers.... Let's just say that the ending took multiple twists and turns that I loved. Also, it's not really as bloody as most of my reading, but there was enough gore to satiate my devious appetite.
April 3, 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook from the publisher/author in exchange for a voluntary honest review.
This is a 1.5-Star book; 1 star for imagination and .5 of a star for execution.
A well crafted idea that unfortunately extended short scenes into multi-chapter ordeals and forced emotional relationships within a 24-hour period. I appreciate the attempt to create multiple characters in a chaotic scenario, but I wasn't able to develop any connection to them as a reader due to their flat personalities.
I would recommend Mr. Chateau only write characters his own age. There are many authors capable of writing any age, gender, or sex well, but Jonathan Chateau seems to write the majority of his characters, regardless of age, with the mindset of a teenager.
Nevertheless, I appreciate the review copy and wish Mr. Chateau luck with his writing career. If his writing style and characterizations grow along with a continued ability to imagine unique ideas similar to The Death Wish Game, there is some strong potential for great future stories.
This is a 1.5-Star book; 1 star for imagination and .5 of a star for execution.
A well crafted idea that unfortunately extended short scenes into multi-chapter ordeals and forced emotional relationships within a 24-hour period. I appreciate the attempt to create multiple characters in a chaotic scenario, but I wasn't able to develop any connection to them as a reader due to their flat personalities.
I would recommend Mr. Chateau only write characters his own age. There are many authors capable of writing any age, gender, or sex well, but Jonathan Chateau seems to write the majority of his characters, regardless of age, with the mindset of a teenager.
Nevertheless, I appreciate the review copy and wish Mr. Chateau luck with his writing career. If his writing style and characterizations grow along with a continued ability to imagine unique ideas similar to The Death Wish Game, there is some strong potential for great future stories.
January 18, 2024
Los pasajeros de un autobús con destino a Miami son abandonados a su suerte en medio de la nada. ¿Qué sucedió? ¿Y por qué todos están atados a sus asientos y no recuerdan nada de las últimas horas?
Por si fuera poco, el conductor solamente les deseó suerte y se fue huyendo, y ahí fue donde inició la carnicería: cientos de flechas comenzaron a ser disparadas con intención de asesinarlos.
Rodney -nuestro protagonista- se logra desatar y ayuda a unos cuantos pasajeros más, tramando un plan para lograr huir de ahí y salvar su vida. Pero lo que no sabe es que un grupo de cazadores que han regresado de la muerte no dejarán de seguirlos hasta acabar con ellos.
Una premisa que al principio me sonó bien pero que lamentablemente el autor no logró sobrellevar del todo. Las situaciones -aunque en distintos contextos- se vuelven repetitivas y la trama se reduce al juego del cazador y la presa. Los sobrevivientes son capturados -y se liberan- tantas veces que conforme avanzaba la novela dejó de importarme lo que les pasara.
Además, a pesar de que el autor combina el terror paranormal con el slasher, al final se fue por otro lado y lo que debió de ser sorprendente o el clímax de la historia solo me pareció una forma más de alargarla.
No quisiera hablar de los villanos, pero tengo que, porque fueron lo que menos me gustó de toda la historia: sus motivaciones para hacer todo lo que hicieron me parecieron burdas, porque de verdad, existen cientos de personas en la vida real en sus situaciones -lamentableme- y nadie se ha vuelto malo a tal grado por eso.
Pero bueno, sí hay cosas que rescato de esta lectura, como la historia de los cazadores y por qué buscan venganza, una escena en un cementerio que estuvo muy bien construida y el motivo por el que las personas estaban en aquel autobús.
The Death Wish Game está disponible en Amazon Kindle de manera gratuita aunque solamente se encuentra en inglés.
Por si fuera poco, el conductor solamente les deseó suerte y se fue huyendo, y ahí fue donde inició la carnicería: cientos de flechas comenzaron a ser disparadas con intención de asesinarlos.
Rodney -nuestro protagonista- se logra desatar y ayuda a unos cuantos pasajeros más, tramando un plan para lograr huir de ahí y salvar su vida. Pero lo que no sabe es que un grupo de cazadores que han regresado de la muerte no dejarán de seguirlos hasta acabar con ellos.
Una premisa que al principio me sonó bien pero que lamentablemente el autor no logró sobrellevar del todo. Las situaciones -aunque en distintos contextos- se vuelven repetitivas y la trama se reduce al juego del cazador y la presa. Los sobrevivientes son capturados -y se liberan- tantas veces que conforme avanzaba la novela dejó de importarme lo que les pasara.
Además, a pesar de que el autor combina el terror paranormal con el slasher, al final se fue por otro lado y lo que debió de ser sorprendente o el clímax de la historia solo me pareció una forma más de alargarla.
No quisiera hablar de los villanos, pero tengo que, porque fueron lo que menos me gustó de toda la historia: sus motivaciones para hacer todo lo que hicieron me parecieron burdas, porque de verdad, existen cientos de personas en la vida real en sus situaciones -lamentableme- y nadie se ha vuelto malo a tal grado por eso.
Pero bueno, sí hay cosas que rescato de esta lectura, como la historia de los cazadores y por qué buscan venganza, una escena en un cementerio que estuvo muy bien construida y el motivo por el que las personas estaban en aquel autobús.
The Death Wish Game está disponible en Amazon Kindle de manera gratuita aunque solamente se encuentra en inglés.
February 23, 2021
A bunch of strangers on a bus suddenly fighting for survival against an unknown foe, a man playing a very wicked and disgusting game, and the souls of a lost Native American tribe all await you in this story. I will say that I am having a hard time rating this because honestly, half way through I was already determined it was a 2 star rating. Then, what a lot of horror books fail to do, the ending actually brought it up in the ratings to a 3 star! I thought the ending wrapped up this story perfectly and just the right amount of time was spent on doing so. However, I will say that this book has its lags. The beginning, I was really into, then it just got repetitive for half of the book after awhile I just wanted something to happen (and even though a lot did happened I was kinda bored at the point when it did). But like I mentioned, the climax picked up finally and the ending really wrapped everything up. So would I recommend this to you? I would say give it a try because there seems to be mixed opinions on the book and I did enjoy some of it. I will say that there is an EXTREME trigger warning for suicide in this book, so please go into it knowing that. I will see about picking up other books by this author in the future and actually think he could make a spin-off series with how he ended it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2018
Loved This Book
Found this story compelling, well written, and well thought out. I'm relatively new to the horror genre and I liked that this story wasn't campy or gimmicky
Found this story compelling, well written, and well thought out. I'm relatively new to the horror genre and I liked that this story wasn't campy or gimmicky
April 2, 2022
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
After almost committing suicide, an aikido expert takes a bus to Florida, to reunite with his sister. He wakes up duct-taped to his seat, just like everyone else in the bus. Turns out, they're the game for a tribe of zombified Indians, just waiting to take their scalps.
Not quite gross out horror or splatter punk, and I feel like it could be scarier.
After almost committing suicide, an aikido expert takes a bus to Florida, to reunite with his sister. He wakes up duct-taped to his seat, just like everyone else in the bus. Turns out, they're the game for a tribe of zombified Indians, just waiting to take their scalps.
Not quite gross out horror or splatter punk, and I feel like it could be scarier.
November 22, 2017
I DNF this at 27% when it became overwhelmingly obvious that the author is a member of the now infamous Incel community that has been banned on reddit. The overwhelming sexism taints the book completely and makes you feel dirty for trying to read it.
April 16, 2019
I'm sitting here trying to process what I have read, and figure out what to say about it. One thing I will say is I went into this book completely blind. To be honest the cover is what grabbed my attention, I didn't read the blurb or any reviews. So I dove in hoping that what was inside would be just as attention grabbing. Well I can say that the first part of the story was able to keep my attention. Even with an annoying character, Damien, being introduced. I overlooked this, because I know that not every character is going to be liked. Still I kept reading thinking OK I can get into a good horror story about surviving a human hunting game. But, this author just couldn't stop there. Nope he had to go and introduce the supernatural into the game. Then when you have the characters trying to run for their lives, that's when they decidethat it's time to share their stories. Oh and you can't forget that the main male character brings up at odd times that he's noticing the one female character romantically. Ummm, sorry to tell you, your running in the woods trying to survive, keep your head out of the gutter. Even more characters are introduced, these ones being just over the line of creepy. And it's with them you find out what's out there and why these people are there. Mainly you find out that this whole cluster is one man's sick and twisted version of entertainment. By the time this was revealed I was already figuring thatvthe author couldn't do anything else that I wouldn't expect. And I was right, there was the inevitable power struggle between the characters. Then in the middle of this struggle, there was one little twist that happens. And then the next thing I know the story is over. I almost felt that the ending was kind of anticlimactic, especially with the way that the power struggle was going.
I'm not saying that I didn't enjoy this book. But, I also can't say that disliked it either. I'm going to say that I was in the middle. There was parts that I found kept my attention. And then there was parts that I found to be a little lack luster. At least to me, this may not be the way someone else will feel when reading this particular book.
I'm not saying that I didn't enjoy this book. But, I also can't say that disliked it either. I'm going to say that I was in the middle. There was parts that I found kept my attention. And then there was parts that I found to be a little lack luster. At least to me, this may not be the way someone else will feel when reading this particular book.
May 21, 2020
This book started strong but slowly lost stars as Rodney got lucky break after lucky break. The blurb was misleading. What it describes happens, but there is also a strong supernatural/spiritual element. I wasn't in that mindset, so it took away from my enjoyment. I would have preferred it to have played more straight. I'm sure plenty of others will like this direction. The rest of my review will contain spoilers.
The Good.
The intro scene built up the suspense to a perfect boil. It didn't give any build up. We just got thrown into the crap that was the game.
People were actually scared. Many times the characters are all (and I mean ALL) ex-super soldiers and tough guys. Nobody ever worries. True, Rodney, Kylie, Rupert, and Bear fully live up to this expectation. Fortunately, Liza and Chase didn't.
The action scenes were pretty good, but does everyone have to take a shot to the crotch? It happened so much it became slightly annoying. Wear a cup.
The Bad.
Kylie was referred to as "the woman with pink and blue hair" for quite a long time. It's a small gripe, but it got annoying fast.
Damien was too silly to be taken seriously as a villain. I kept picturing McLovin from Superbad. He needed a mustache to twist as he cackled.
Rodney gets knocked out too much. He should have had significant brain damage.
The zombies often attack with one-on-one odds. It was like a Bond film. Rodney always had the time to fend them off.
Too many lucky breaks. I stop caring after the second or third one because it means the POV characters aren't truly in danger.
The happily ever after ending (sans any PTSD). The story was too dark for such a cutesy finale.
The Technical.
The book is written in present tense and the first person.
There's a ton of violence.
There's a rape scene (sort of).
There's profanity.
There are pages of italics only for the text. It may be annoying for some.
The Good.
The intro scene built up the suspense to a perfect boil. It didn't give any build up. We just got thrown into the crap that was the game.
People were actually scared. Many times the characters are all (and I mean ALL) ex-super soldiers and tough guys. Nobody ever worries. True, Rodney, Kylie, Rupert, and Bear fully live up to this expectation. Fortunately, Liza and Chase didn't.
The action scenes were pretty good, but does everyone have to take a shot to the crotch? It happened so much it became slightly annoying. Wear a cup.
The Bad.
Kylie was referred to as "the woman with pink and blue hair" for quite a long time. It's a small gripe, but it got annoying fast.
Damien was too silly to be taken seriously as a villain. I kept picturing McLovin from Superbad. He needed a mustache to twist as he cackled.
Rodney gets knocked out too much. He should have had significant brain damage.
The zombies often attack with one-on-one odds. It was like a Bond film. Rodney always had the time to fend them off.
Too many lucky breaks. I stop caring after the second or third one because it means the POV characters aren't truly in danger.
The happily ever after ending (sans any PTSD). The story was too dark for such a cutesy finale.
The Technical.
The book is written in present tense and the first person.
There's a ton of violence.
There's a rape scene (sort of).
There's profanity.
There are pages of italics only for the text. It may be annoying for some.
January 7, 2018
(I received this book as a Give Away winning from the author)
I thought this was a solid novel-It is a very fast paced action type novel, not my usual genre so I was pleased that it keeps you reading as you are pushed through the series of events to the end. If you like fast paced action with an out-of-the-ordinary idea, this may be the read for you!
I thought this was a solid novel-It is a very fast paced action type novel, not my usual genre so I was pleased that it keeps you reading as you are pushed through the series of events to the end. If you like fast paced action with an out-of-the-ordinary idea, this may be the read for you!
April 19, 2018
I got this ebook on one of the great Goodreads Giveaways. Thank you, and here it's my honest review...
Oh, boy! What a mess!
And I'm not talking about the non-stop bloodshed and fighting and running and cursing of the plot here, but about the whole story itself, that certainly could have benefited of some more beta reading and editing.
I'm sorry, but I don't think a real author would resort to the capital letters of the shouting in gems like "RUUUUUUUN!" or "NOOOOOOOOO". I don't see the point on trying to be all poetic with the descriptions of scenery or ambient, then right away using the same word three times in the same sentence.
The scenes of fight were equally messy, poor and repetitive here, and I would definitely say you need to have a wider vocabulary to use if that's what's going to be about 75% of your repertoire.
What about the story, the plot? Well, let's give it 0.5 stars for that, because there might be the tiny wee blink of some good idea somewhere in there, despite the bad execution. However, I don't find the story particularly original, and resorting to magic to explain the impossible, if not about everything, it's just the easy way out.
Last, but not least, the characters. Bland, plain, without real depth or personality...
Well, enough said. Good for the ones that can enjoy this, and good for the effort of the writing, but clearly enough, I didn't enjoy it.
Oh, boy! What a mess!
And I'm not talking about the non-stop bloodshed and fighting and running and cursing of the plot here, but about the whole story itself, that certainly could have benefited of some more beta reading and editing.
I'm sorry, but I don't think a real author would resort to the capital letters of the shouting in gems like "RUUUUUUUN!" or "NOOOOOOOOO". I don't see the point on trying to be all poetic with the descriptions of scenery or ambient, then right away using the same word three times in the same sentence.
The scenes of fight were equally messy, poor and repetitive here, and I would definitely say you need to have a wider vocabulary to use if that's what's going to be about 75% of your repertoire.
What about the story, the plot? Well, let's give it 0.5 stars for that, because there might be the tiny wee blink of some good idea somewhere in there, despite the bad execution. However, I don't find the story particularly original, and resorting to magic to explain the impossible, if not about everything, it's just the easy way out.
Last, but not least, the characters. Bland, plain, without real depth or personality...
Well, enough said. Good for the ones that can enjoy this, and good for the effort of the writing, but clearly enough, I didn't enjoy it.
April 18, 2023
Originally posted on the book blog Creature From the Book Lagoon.
*Trigger Warning: Talk of rape
Well this was one wild whisker twister of a ride! Super fast! Super crazy! The author cranks up the action right out of the gate and it never slowed down. Keeps you on your toes as well as entertained throughout the entire novel.
The plot of The Death Wish Game is just straight up bananas. I loved it. I had absolutely no idea what was going to happen next. Zombies? Ghosts? Magic? The story was so unpredictable… it just kept escalating and escalating… everything but the kitchen sink getting thrown in there.
The narrator did a satisfactory job. 🙂 Everyone sounded different, which is always the biggest deal to me. This narrator was so good at expressing emotions with his voice, especially anger. It felt like his voice really fit these characters perfectly.
The Death Wish Game is a very interesting and unique story. Crazy, and fun. Super fast pacing and you are kept guessing the entire time. I had zero idea what to expect and was constantly surprised after each new creative twist was revealed. Grand ol’ time with this one! 🙂 Look forward to reading more from this author.
*Trigger Warning: Talk of rape
Well this was one wild whisker twister of a ride! Super fast! Super crazy! The author cranks up the action right out of the gate and it never slowed down. Keeps you on your toes as well as entertained throughout the entire novel.
The plot of The Death Wish Game is just straight up bananas. I loved it. I had absolutely no idea what was going to happen next. Zombies? Ghosts? Magic? The story was so unpredictable… it just kept escalating and escalating… everything but the kitchen sink getting thrown in there.
The narrator did a satisfactory job. 🙂 Everyone sounded different, which is always the biggest deal to me. This narrator was so good at expressing emotions with his voice, especially anger. It felt like his voice really fit these characters perfectly.
The Death Wish Game is a very interesting and unique story. Crazy, and fun. Super fast pacing and you are kept guessing the entire time. I had zero idea what to expect and was constantly surprised after each new creative twist was revealed. Grand ol’ time with this one! 🙂 Look forward to reading more from this author.
November 14, 2017
Not my normal listen, this book took me on a wild, mysterious ride and I am glad I took it! Jonathan Chateau has crossed Death Race with the Walking Dead and has come out with an intriguing plot. At rock bottom, Rodney is ready to end it all when he gets a call from his sister. Boarding a bus to go be with her, Rodney is literally in for the ride of his life. Little does he know, this bus takes him into a game of survival of the fittest. With a paranormal twist, Rodney and several of his traveling companions will fight to keep alive. Even with all the twists and turns this book has, Chateau is able to give that glimmer of love giving the characters hope and determination to survive. Edge of your seat suspense will keep you listening until the end.
Always giving an outstanding performance, Aaron Shedlock brings this book to life.With the many characters in this book, the talent of Aaron is able to be showcased. His variety of voices from ancient Indians and Spanish Warriors to depressed crazy teenagers, he will create the movie in your mind as the game goes on.
Always giving an outstanding performance, Aaron Shedlock brings this book to life.With the many characters in this book, the talent of Aaron is able to be showcased. His variety of voices from ancient Indians and Spanish Warriors to depressed crazy teenagers, he will create the movie in your mind as the game goes on.
April 17, 2018
Great Horror Suspense! I must admit, I don't listen to horror stories anymore. I wanted to listen to this audiobook because of the narrator, Aaron Shedlock.
This horror story is fast-paced, intriguing, suspenseful, scaring, with some paranormal side and twists and turns. There are also some creepy sarcastic funny scenes. This book has it all! I'm always impressed by the strength to survive, even more when it comes to someone who was wanting to end his life.
The story is well written, the storyline is well built and absolutely breath taken. I like Rodney and Kylie, of course, but all characters are really interesting and they bring so much intensity in this story. Jonathan Chateau and Aaron Shedlock took me on this ride and I must say that I wasn't always willing to known what will happened next!
The performance of Aaron Shedlock is brilliant and magnificent! He brings this story to life and keeps us on the edge until the end. Bravo!
I received this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review. I have read and listen this story.
This horror story is fast-paced, intriguing, suspenseful, scaring, with some paranormal side and twists and turns. There are also some creepy sarcastic funny scenes. This book has it all! I'm always impressed by the strength to survive, even more when it comes to someone who was wanting to end his life.
The story is well written, the storyline is well built and absolutely breath taken. I like Rodney and Kylie, of course, but all characters are really interesting and they bring so much intensity in this story. Jonathan Chateau and Aaron Shedlock took me on this ride and I must say that I wasn't always willing to known what will happened next!
The performance of Aaron Shedlock is brilliant and magnificent! He brings this story to life and keeps us on the edge until the end. Bravo!
I received this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review. I have read and listen this story.
March 24, 2018
Here we have an odd yet interesting horror thriller. A bus load of people are taking a fairly normal road trip to Florida. They wake up gagged and duct-taped to their seats. The bus driver wakes everyone, tells them to expect company very soon, and abruptly leaves. It is evening and they are in the middle of nowhere. Within minutes arrows begin coming through the windows planting themselves in riders’ chests. Our protagonist Rodney must get out of here and head towards safety, wherever that is. Is this a sick game? Who is behind this and why are all these people here? Throughout the following tale we’ll find out what these riders have in common and who or what is behind the killing. The plot gets a bit involved as we delve deeper, but it’s an interesting trip. This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Boom.
November 6, 2017
I have been contacted by the author that gave me a free copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I usually read mostly mistery thrillers so I'm not an expert of horror novels but this one suprised me in a good way.
I was expecting something like modern horror movies, since the book started with a bunch of people trapped in a bus while some unknown enemy tries to kill them. I thought the journey was mostly about seeing how each one of the characters will got killed, but I really hoped there would be a meaning in all this. I got even more. The book starts with some dead people and a lot of violence and blood, but it evolves in a more complex story, explaining why this is happening and delivering a satisfying ending which is not so common in the horror genre. So in the end I really loved it and I will follow the author in the future.
I usually read mostly mistery thrillers so I'm not an expert of horror novels but this one suprised me in a good way.
I was expecting something like modern horror movies, since the book started with a bunch of people trapped in a bus while some unknown enemy tries to kill them. I thought the journey was mostly about seeing how each one of the characters will got killed, but I really hoped there would be a meaning in all this. I got even more. The book starts with some dead people and a lot of violence and blood, but it evolves in a more complex story, explaining why this is happening and delivering a satisfying ending which is not so common in the horror genre. So in the end I really loved it and I will follow the author in the future.
January 1, 2018
Well...not my typical mystery book. I can honestly say not a book I would normally read at any time, yet I could not put it down. I found myself going back to it wanting to know what would happen next. It is truly a "be careful what you wish for..."
The storyline is one I had never come across before and had a very surprising end. Don't worry, no spoilers here. I would not dream of it. Not how I roll when it comes to my reviews.
I am not sure how I could explain if the characters where developed but as I think of them many felt very real to me and I guess that is what we ask for. How real are they? It does not matter what genre they appear in. The story arc also must have some depth to it. Like a heavy stew compared to just a broth. I would definitely say this is a stew. This is not just a horror story for there are some surprising twists in the end. Ones that I know you will certainly enjoy as much as I did.
The storyline is one I had never come across before and had a very surprising end. Don't worry, no spoilers here. I would not dream of it. Not how I roll when it comes to my reviews.
I am not sure how I could explain if the characters where developed but as I think of them many felt very real to me and I guess that is what we ask for. How real are they? It does not matter what genre they appear in. The story arc also must have some depth to it. Like a heavy stew compared to just a broth. I would definitely say this is a stew. This is not just a horror story for there are some surprising twists in the end. Ones that I know you will certainly enjoy as much as I did.
March 4, 2019
The Death Wish Game
by Jonathan Chateau
2017
Half Wing Press
3.0 / 5.0
After losing his wife, Diane in a bitter divorce and then losing his management level position, Rodney feels like he has hit rock bottom. His sister, Becky, lives in Miami and has invited him to stay there while he gets back on his feet. Unable to afford a plane ticket, he buys a bus ticket to Miami.
Rodney suddenly awakens to find he has been duct taped to the bus seat and is surrounded by other passengers, also taped to their seats. The last thing they remember was eating a free meal the us drier gave them. The passengers are all told they have been selected to play a game. A game most lost and do not survive. The rules are simple-follow the flares to the safety zone. Make it there, you live.
Who exactly invited Rodney and why? This fast paced adventure was fun to read. The hunter/hunted persona was exciting, but I felt the ending was weak and disappointing.
Great read.
by Jonathan Chateau
2017
Half Wing Press
3.0 / 5.0
After losing his wife, Diane in a bitter divorce and then losing his management level position, Rodney feels like he has hit rock bottom. His sister, Becky, lives in Miami and has invited him to stay there while he gets back on his feet. Unable to afford a plane ticket, he buys a bus ticket to Miami.
Rodney suddenly awakens to find he has been duct taped to the bus seat and is surrounded by other passengers, also taped to their seats. The last thing they remember was eating a free meal the us drier gave them. The passengers are all told they have been selected to play a game. A game most lost and do not survive. The rules are simple-follow the flares to the safety zone. Make it there, you live.
Who exactly invited Rodney and why? This fast paced adventure was fun to read. The hunter/hunted persona was exciting, but I felt the ending was weak and disappointing.
Great read.
October 5, 2017
This novel reads like a typical slasher movie, a bunch of suicidal people are trapped in the middle of nowhere, being stalked by lunatics, and must now fight for their lives. It is well written and compelling, reeling in the reader with its mystery and keeping you turning the pages, eager to find out what will happen next.
There are, rather unfortunately, a few spelling mistakes littered throughout the text, but if you enjoy slasher flicks or zombie horror, then The Death Wish Game would be a recommended read at a full 5 out of 5 stars.
There are, rather unfortunately, a few spelling mistakes littered throughout the text, but if you enjoy slasher flicks or zombie horror, then The Death Wish Game would be a recommended read at a full 5 out of 5 stars.
February 27, 2018
Rodney Corso, depressed, after having lost everything that mattered to him, gets another chance to change his life by going to stay with his sister in Florida. With a one-way ticket he gets on a bus with others who are also headed there. But after falling asleep, all the passengers wake up duct taped to their seats and told that they are now part of a game of survival.
This paranormal nightmare story is tense and fast paced. It reminds us to be more humane and love the life we have.
Thank you Goodreads and Jonathan Chateau for this free copy of "The Death Wish Game".
This paranormal nightmare story is tense and fast paced. It reminds us to be more humane and love the life we have.
Thank you Goodreads and Jonathan Chateau for this free copy of "The Death Wish Game".
February 12, 2018
I won this as a Goodreads giveaway.
Initially I didn't find this book to be very interesting but I'm glad I continued it. The plot was interesting and unique. The writing was a bit underwhelming but the actual story telling was really good. I felt emotionally tied to Rodney (the main character) and was rooting for him. I also appreciated the twists and turn of the Death Wish Game and the game itself was actually given plenty of backstory.
Initially I didn't find this book to be very interesting but I'm glad I continued it. The plot was interesting and unique. The writing was a bit underwhelming but the actual story telling was really good. I felt emotionally tied to Rodney (the main character) and was rooting for him. I also appreciated the twists and turn of the Death Wish Game and the game itself was actually given plenty of backstory.
April 1, 2018
"The Death Wish Game" (2017) by Jonathan Chateau is a very unique horror novel about an interstate bus ride that turns deadly. Down on his luck passenger Rodney Corso and a group of similar passengers are diverted from their trip and become prey to a supernatural force of hunters avenging the slaughter of their people hundreds of years earlier. The story bogs down just a bit as it reaches its conclusion but is generally gripping. Strongly recommended.
April 5, 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook from the publisher/author in exchange for a voluntary honest review.
I was honestly surprised by this book. It does start off a bit rough around the edges and had me worried that the book would be a bit cheesy, and the protagonist would be a bit too mary-sue and sexist, but this was not the case.
The action was pretty intense and fast-paced and the story was quite creative and unique.
I was honestly surprised by this book. It does start off a bit rough around the edges and had me worried that the book would be a bit cheesy, and the protagonist would be a bit too mary-sue and sexist, but this was not the case.
The action was pretty intense and fast-paced and the story was quite creative and unique.
December 3, 2019
Loved it! Fast paced and terrifying.
“The rules are simple,” he says. “Follow the flares to reach the safe zone. Make it there, and you live. There will be a truck waiting to take you back to your cubicles, reality TV, and Facebook news feeds.” He then shrugs. “Stay, and they will come tear you apart.”
You stick with this group from the beginning to the bloody end with surprises and twists coming at you all the way through. I definitely recommend.
“The rules are simple,” he says. “Follow the flares to reach the safe zone. Make it there, and you live. There will be a truck waiting to take you back to your cubicles, reality TV, and Facebook news feeds.” He then shrugs. “Stay, and they will come tear you apart.”
You stick with this group from the beginning to the bloody end with surprises and twists coming at you all the way through. I definitely recommend.
June 4, 2021
The Death Wish Game was a good read by Jonathan Chateau. Rodney is looking for a fresh start with his one-way ticket to Florida. On the way the passengers are drugged and wake up duct-taped to their seats. Their captor tells them they're participants in a game of survival. One by one the passengers are killed in their seats. They must play the game to survive. This was a good read, I cant wait to read more by the author.
October 19, 2017
A Good Read
I came across this book while looking for something else. The cover and title caught my eye, the description of the story drew me in, and from there it became a good way to spend a quiet rainy day. A good book to get lost in with plenty of well thought out surprises that only added to an already enjoyable tale.
I came across this book while looking for something else. The cover and title caught my eye, the description of the story drew me in, and from there it became a good way to spend a quiet rainy day. A good book to get lost in with plenty of well thought out surprises that only added to an already enjoyable tale.
August 20, 2018
Never misses a beat!
I absolutely loved this book. It hooked you right away and once the action began it never let up. A lot of kindle books have many grammatical errors, I think I found maybe 2 or 3 which was quite refreshing. This was the first book I've read of this author and I look forward to reading more.
I absolutely loved this book. It hooked you right away and once the action began it never let up. A lot of kindle books have many grammatical errors, I think I found maybe 2 or 3 which was quite refreshing. This was the first book I've read of this author and I look forward to reading more.
August 29, 2018
Fantastic! Original! Fun! Interesting! Hilarious! Suspenseful! Satisfying!
Give this amazing book an honest chance and you'll see something magical. This was so so good.
I see that some people are giving this a low rating over politics. That is incredibly dishonest. Its a shame because this book was really great.
Give this amazing book an honest chance and you'll see something magical. This was so so good.
I see that some people are giving this a low rating over politics. That is incredibly dishonest. Its a shame because this book was really great.
August 31, 2018
Thought this would be a fun read and it was, to a point. Characters were one dimensional and I just got the feeling this story was going to be just too ridiculous. I also felt the writing was a bit elementary. I read about a third of the way and was done. It saddens me because I was excited to read it. What a let down.
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