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The Hunter Files #1
The Atlantis Covenant
The greatest mystery of all time is about to be revealed. When world-famous archaeologist and ex-soldier Max Hunter finds a mysterious artifact in a tomb beneath the Gates of Nineveh, his lifelong dream of finding Atlantis comes one step closer. But there is a problem. He is not the only one looking for it and his discovery unleashes a high-speed hunt for the lost civilization between a mysterious Swiss foundation, the FBI, and the world’s most secretive society. From the dangers of the Iraqi desert to Cuba and the jungles of El Salvador to the enigmatic Valley of the Kings in Egypt, Hunter faces a race against time and murderous enemies who will stop at nothing to kill him and claim the greatest prize in history for themselves. As he fights for his life, it soon becomes apparent that his enemies are hoping to find more than lost history in Atlantis, and are searching for something altogether more sinister. Can he use his unique ingenuity and knowledge to decipher the clues and find Atlantis and its lethal treasures before they fall into enemy hands? Packed with high-octane chases and breathtaking suspense, The Atlantis Covenant is the first thriller in the brand new Hunter Files series from the author of the bestselling Joe Hawke series, Rob Jones.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 8, 2019
691 people are currently reading
336 people want to read
About the author
Rob Jones
65 books85 followersInternational bestselling author of twenty-five thrillers, including fourteen in the Joe Hawke action-adventure series and The Hunter Files. All available for the Amazon Kindle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
August 9, 2025
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Rob Jones, and Boldwood Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Always eager to explore the writing of an author new to me, I reached for this ARC by Rob Jones. Max Hunter has had a lifelong dream of finding Atlantis and discovering its mysteries. Even with a team, they must battle others who have more nefarious reasons for wanting to discover the lost city. In a race to locate various artifacts across the world, Hunter battles others who will stop at nothing to locate Atlantis’ hidden riches. A great series start by Rob Jones, who has me eager to read on!
Max Hunter has long wanted to discover the wonders of Atlantis. The world-famous archaeologist and former solder, Hunter is scouring for something in a secret tomb under the Gates of Nineveh, unbeknownst to many. This could be a key to finding the lost civilisation, but others are sure to act when they hear of Hunter’s find.
The race for Atlantis begins and Hunter is backed by a mysterious Swiss Organisation, eager to see what’s been hidden forever. An FBI agent is working alongside Hunter, though they have their own issues trying to acclimate to one another. It will requires treks to various places around the world to discover other pieces to the puzzle. When Hinter and his partner soon fall into the crosshairs of a secret religious group, lines are drawn and violence ensues. Hunter is not deterred, but will have to work carefully to elude his attempted captors and ensure whatever can be found does not fall into the hands of those with evil intentions.
Battling through parts of Iraq, into the jungles of El Salvador, and even into Egypt’s Valley of the Kings, Hunter gathers members to a team that is determined to find Atlantis, but willing to work together. They are met with significant blowback the longer the mission takes, but Max Hunter has not spent all these years simply to bow down to forced acting against his best interests. Forcing a truce to work as a cohesive unit, Hunter’s team must make one final push. What they discover could change the face of the world and likely prove disastrous if it falls into the wrong hands. A brilliant series debut by Rob Jones that has me eager to keep reading.
Rob Jones delivers a great opening story in this series that mixes history with a great bit of action. Jones develops a strong narrative that he uses throughout to forge a strong story and sprinkles on action at just the right moments. Great characters emerge and develop, giving the reader hope that things will progress with those who survive to make it to the next book. Hunter’s backstory is still of interest to me, though I need to see more before completely committing. Plot points provide eager aspects that had me reading well into the night to discover what surprises awaited. I can see much potential for this series and am eager to see what Rob Jones has in store for readers with the second book.
Kudos, Mr. Jones, for heightening the action in this series debut.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Always eager to explore the writing of an author new to me, I reached for this ARC by Rob Jones. Max Hunter has had a lifelong dream of finding Atlantis and discovering its mysteries. Even with a team, they must battle others who have more nefarious reasons for wanting to discover the lost city. In a race to locate various artifacts across the world, Hunter battles others who will stop at nothing to locate Atlantis’ hidden riches. A great series start by Rob Jones, who has me eager to read on!
Max Hunter has long wanted to discover the wonders of Atlantis. The world-famous archaeologist and former solder, Hunter is scouring for something in a secret tomb under the Gates of Nineveh, unbeknownst to many. This could be a key to finding the lost civilisation, but others are sure to act when they hear of Hunter’s find.
The race for Atlantis begins and Hunter is backed by a mysterious Swiss Organisation, eager to see what’s been hidden forever. An FBI agent is working alongside Hunter, though they have their own issues trying to acclimate to one another. It will requires treks to various places around the world to discover other pieces to the puzzle. When Hinter and his partner soon fall into the crosshairs of a secret religious group, lines are drawn and violence ensues. Hunter is not deterred, but will have to work carefully to elude his attempted captors and ensure whatever can be found does not fall into the hands of those with evil intentions.
Battling through parts of Iraq, into the jungles of El Salvador, and even into Egypt’s Valley of the Kings, Hunter gathers members to a team that is determined to find Atlantis, but willing to work together. They are met with significant blowback the longer the mission takes, but Max Hunter has not spent all these years simply to bow down to forced acting against his best interests. Forcing a truce to work as a cohesive unit, Hunter’s team must make one final push. What they discover could change the face of the world and likely prove disastrous if it falls into the wrong hands. A brilliant series debut by Rob Jones that has me eager to keep reading.
Rob Jones delivers a great opening story in this series that mixes history with a great bit of action. Jones develops a strong narrative that he uses throughout to forge a strong story and sprinkles on action at just the right moments. Great characters emerge and develop, giving the reader hope that things will progress with those who survive to make it to the next book. Hunter’s backstory is still of interest to me, though I need to see more before completely committing. Plot points provide eager aspects that had me reading well into the night to discover what surprises awaited. I can see much potential for this series and am eager to see what Rob Jones has in store for readers with the second book.
Kudos, Mr. Jones, for heightening the action in this series debut.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
October 17, 2020
Excellent!
After a week of lacklustre archeological thriller books, this was definitely what I’ve been looking for. Most other books rely heavily on the one main character to save the day. Which to be honest, is more than a little unrealistic. This one has a team!
It’s reminiscent of Matthew Reilly books which I loved. A long time ago. Haven’t caught up to those recently. But on top of that, the sense of humour is top notch. To me at least 😆
Also, while they do get out of ridiculous scenarios. It doesn’t always seem so miraculous. It always seems like a lucky break more than anything and I appreciate that kind of “reality” 😬
Definitely will be keeping up with this series and author! 🤩
After a week of lacklustre archeological thriller books, this was definitely what I’ve been looking for. Most other books rely heavily on the one main character to save the day. Which to be honest, is more than a little unrealistic. This one has a team!
It’s reminiscent of Matthew Reilly books which I loved. A long time ago. Haven’t caught up to those recently. But on top of that, the sense of humour is top notch. To me at least 😆
Also, while they do get out of ridiculous scenarios. It doesn’t always seem so miraculous. It always seems like a lucky break more than anything and I appreciate that kind of “reality” 😬
Definitely will be keeping up with this series and author! 🤩
November 9, 2020
This book should be called The Stereotypical Covenant. Everything about it was a study in stereotypes. Our author wants to create a modern-day Indiana Jones in the shape of Max Hunter. He wants to do this so badly, that Indiana Jones is mentioned three or four times in the book!
I really don't like coming down hard on a project that I am sure the author invested quite a bit of time to produce, but when every single word coming out of the main characters mouth is filled with irony and dry humor, while the world is collapsing around him. When the 'bad guys', the settings, and the story line is so predictable you can wager money on what is going to happen. Come on...
If you want to just re-visit the same 'action/adventure' tropes go ahead knock yourself out, other than that... skip.
I really don't like coming down hard on a project that I am sure the author invested quite a bit of time to produce, but when every single word coming out of the main characters mouth is filled with irony and dry humor, while the world is collapsing around him. When the 'bad guys', the settings, and the story line is so predictable you can wager money on what is going to happen. Come on...
If you want to just re-visit the same 'action/adventure' tropes go ahead knock yourself out, other than that... skip.
November 27, 2021
3.5 Stars
I really wanted to like this book more than I did. Sure it had action and adventure but also a ton of stereotypical tropes from these archaeological adventure reads. It could be that I wasn’t able to give this book my all that tampered my reading experience with outside life intruding so take that into account…. The hero is an ex army officer who now studies ancient history and it’s artifacts. Of course like many before him, he has so many enemies it’s hard to keep track and they all show up at the most unfortunate of times. There are a number of characters who come and go, which I found to personally add to my confusion because a backstory would be building and then they’d be killed off making it a bunch of useless information. Then predictably the villains can never protect or keep things safe and go about destroying sites and artifacts just so others can’t find them, like children having tantrums really and it was pretty sad even though it’s fiction lol. I found between the blend of historical stories combined with the amount of times the characters traveled to a new country was nonstop and my brain went haywire a bit. For me this was kind of like information overload and it took a lot of the fun away from the story. But again the number of characters and names that I barely knew didn’t help as the occasional traitors weren’t as shocking a delivery as I’m sure it’d have been if I knew who the hell they all were 🤷🏼♀️ I loved the concept but it felt like more of just a buildup than this team uncovering the lost city. Then the end just opens up for more and I’m kinda bummed we don’t get more info on the site in the end. Not sure if I’ll go on sadly but it did make for an exciting but predictable read.
I really wanted to like this book more than I did. Sure it had action and adventure but also a ton of stereotypical tropes from these archaeological adventure reads. It could be that I wasn’t able to give this book my all that tampered my reading experience with outside life intruding so take that into account…. The hero is an ex army officer who now studies ancient history and it’s artifacts. Of course like many before him, he has so many enemies it’s hard to keep track and they all show up at the most unfortunate of times. There are a number of characters who come and go, which I found to personally add to my confusion because a backstory would be building and then they’d be killed off making it a bunch of useless information. Then predictably the villains can never protect or keep things safe and go about destroying sites and artifacts just so others can’t find them, like children having tantrums really and it was pretty sad even though it’s fiction lol. I found between the blend of historical stories combined with the amount of times the characters traveled to a new country was nonstop and my brain went haywire a bit. For me this was kind of like information overload and it took a lot of the fun away from the story. But again the number of characters and names that I barely knew didn’t help as the occasional traitors weren’t as shocking a delivery as I’m sure it’d have been if I knew who the hell they all were 🤷🏼♀️ I loved the concept but it felt like more of just a buildup than this team uncovering the lost city. Then the end just opens up for more and I’m kinda bummed we don’t get more info on the site in the end. Not sure if I’ll go on sadly but it did make for an exciting but predictable read.
October 9, 2020
The was a fun, quick read, very adventurous. The Indiana Jones references throughout the book was a bit on the nose, but appropriate. Few books can pull off the vibe and this one succeeded.
Now for the cons. There were glaring typos in the first 100 pages, which was aggravating. Also, the dialogue was a little unbelievable. It's almost like the author wrote a contemporary book, but forgot to contemporize the dialogue too. I really can't imagine in the heat of a deadly fight yelling "scumbag" at someone. The dialogue just didn't fit the overall story and characters. In my humble opinion that is.
All in all though, it was a good read and I recommend.
Now for the cons. There were glaring typos in the first 100 pages, which was aggravating. Also, the dialogue was a little unbelievable. It's almost like the author wrote a contemporary book, but forgot to contemporize the dialogue too. I really can't imagine in the heat of a deadly fight yelling "scumbag" at someone. The dialogue just didn't fit the overall story and characters. In my humble opinion that is.
All in all though, it was a good read and I recommend.
October 26, 2025
This is the first book in The Hunter Files. I read this one straight after reading the latest book (The Angel Prophecy #5), after enjoying it so much, and I needed to go to the beginning to see how Hunter became part of the team.
The book starts with the same sort of high adrenaline action that the 5th book did. The difference this time is that I would now discover how Max Hunter went from working for UNESCO, to then also working for an organisation that is run within the halls of the FBI.
Working solo has been good, but when Hunter has no backup and the other guy does, well, it is not going to end well. Think of Hunter as a Dr Jones type of character, with a mix of Reacher and Ethan Hunt, and you are probably in the right sort of ballpark for this character (well, that's how I visualise him!)
Hunter soon finds himself out of his depth and relying on others to help him, and in return, they return the favour. This story is a search for an artefact that relates to Atlantis. There are cults, rich and powerful backers, a good amount of revenge, and just general mayhem, chases, gun fights, and a whole lot more.
Atlantis is a thing of myth, legend, and conspiracy. No one knows for sure, but it adds a significant factor to this book and brings various ideas, theories, and the author blends them. I like how he has believers and non-believers in with this, as it does give a more balanced approach. Needless to say, there are some hardcore believers in this novel who go to extreme lengths.
This is a fabulous beginning to this series, it is full of action, fast-paced, high-octane and all the other synonyms that you can think of. It is a thriller and mystery with a lot of things going on, and this makes it a very addictive read. It's one of those books that you can almost visualise the scenes. Adored this one and look forward to reading more, so I would definitely recommend it.,
The book starts with the same sort of high adrenaline action that the 5th book did. The difference this time is that I would now discover how Max Hunter went from working for UNESCO, to then also working for an organisation that is run within the halls of the FBI.
Working solo has been good, but when Hunter has no backup and the other guy does, well, it is not going to end well. Think of Hunter as a Dr Jones type of character, with a mix of Reacher and Ethan Hunt, and you are probably in the right sort of ballpark for this character (well, that's how I visualise him!)
Hunter soon finds himself out of his depth and relying on others to help him, and in return, they return the favour. This story is a search for an artefact that relates to Atlantis. There are cults, rich and powerful backers, a good amount of revenge, and just general mayhem, chases, gun fights, and a whole lot more.
Atlantis is a thing of myth, legend, and conspiracy. No one knows for sure, but it adds a significant factor to this book and brings various ideas, theories, and the author blends them. I like how he has believers and non-believers in with this, as it does give a more balanced approach. Needless to say, there are some hardcore believers in this novel who go to extreme lengths.
This is a fabulous beginning to this series, it is full of action, fast-paced, high-octane and all the other synonyms that you can think of. It is a thriller and mystery with a lot of things going on, and this makes it a very addictive read. It's one of those books that you can almost visualise the scenes. Adored this one and look forward to reading more, so I would definitely recommend it.,
May 18, 2022
This was a great, gripping read. Easy to follow and engaging throughout with a smattering of gore and fights.
For people who enjoy the excitement of the prospect of Atlantis this is a really solid read!
For people who enjoy the excitement of the prospect of Atlantis this is a really solid read!
October 5, 2025
National Treasure, meets Tomb raider, meets Indiana Jones.
A rapid page turning reading, where the words just rattle off the page. The book equivalent of putting on a easy watching TV show or movie, comfortable and pleasant
A rapid page turning reading, where the words just rattle off the page. The book equivalent of putting on a easy watching TV show or movie, comfortable and pleasant
August 11, 2025
I enjoyed the book very good!! Had a lot of twists and turns
Blurb
When world-famous archaeologist and ex-soldier Max Hunter finds a mysterious artifact in a tomb beneath the Gates of Nineveh, his lifelong dream of finding Atlantis comes one step closer.
But he's not the only one looking for it...
His discovery unleashes a high-speed hunt for the lost civilization between a mysterious Swiss foundation, the FBI, and the world’s most secretive society.
From the dangers of the Iraqi desert to Cuba and the jungles of El Salvador to the enigmatic Valley of the Kings in Egypt, Hunter faces a race against time and murderous enemies who will stop at nothing to claim the greatest prize in history. As he fights for his life, it soon becomes apparent that his enemies are searching for something altogether more sinister than the lost city...
Hunter must use his unique ingenuity and knowledge to decipher the clues and find Atlantis - and its lethal treasures - before they fall into enemy hands.
Blurb
When world-famous archaeologist and ex-soldier Max Hunter finds a mysterious artifact in a tomb beneath the Gates of Nineveh, his lifelong dream of finding Atlantis comes one step closer.
But he's not the only one looking for it...
His discovery unleashes a high-speed hunt for the lost civilization between a mysterious Swiss foundation, the FBI, and the world’s most secretive society.
From the dangers of the Iraqi desert to Cuba and the jungles of El Salvador to the enigmatic Valley of the Kings in Egypt, Hunter faces a race against time and murderous enemies who will stop at nothing to claim the greatest prize in history. As he fights for his life, it soon becomes apparent that his enemies are searching for something altogether more sinister than the lost city...
Hunter must use his unique ingenuity and knowledge to decipher the clues and find Atlantis - and its lethal treasures - before they fall into enemy hands.
April 20, 2022
Ugh, what a disappointment. So much potential all wasted by lackluster execution. I could have handled an Indiana Jones wannabe but the parallels were so blatant that I thought I would pull a muscle from all the eye rolling. Come on - show some creativity. Also quite annoying were chases that were interrupted when the group stopped for a quick look around or, even worse, ridiculous smart-assery. Now, you have a bunch a gun toting killers who, two minutes ago, were shooting at you and you and your posse stop for a chat? Yeah, I don't think so. And it kept happening! I could go on but I will limit my complaints just one more - why would you drag a couple of untrained and combat inexperienced cubicle dwellers along on a high risk, highly dangerous mission? Again, I don't think so. This is my first Rob Jones book and I expected a lot more from an author with so many adventure novels under his belt. I will be thinking long and hard before I spend good money on another of Mr. Jones' books.
September 30, 2022
Great story line but poorly executed.
This was a hard one to read. I absolutely loved the story and the idea that went into this book but the writing is equivalent to a middle schooler.
I hate to give such a harsh review but I try to be very honest in any reviews I leave.
This writer needs some very definite instructions on how to put his words to others. His writing really did remind me of my middle schoolers and how they try to write when they get excited. He gave it a great effort and I will go on to his next book in hopes it gets better.
This was a hard one to read. I absolutely loved the story and the idea that went into this book but the writing is equivalent to a middle schooler.
I hate to give such a harsh review but I try to be very honest in any reviews I leave.
This writer needs some very definite instructions on how to put his words to others. His writing really did remind me of my middle schoolers and how they try to write when they get excited. He gave it a great effort and I will go on to his next book in hopes it gets better.
August 17, 2025
I would like to thank Net Galley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
BOOK 15 (OUT OF 27) OF MY HOLIDAY READS - AUGUST 2025
A wild ride from start to finish - 3.5*
This book is crazy nuts. If you're a fan of Dan Brown or Indiana Jones then this book is definitely for you. You're definitely going to need to take a leap of faith with this one.
I really enjoyed the characters and thought these were well developed which enhanced the plot even further. I did find the plot to be absolutely crazy but I enjoyed it.
BOOK 15 (OUT OF 27) OF MY HOLIDAY READS - AUGUST 2025
A wild ride from start to finish - 3.5*
This book is crazy nuts. If you're a fan of Dan Brown or Indiana Jones then this book is definitely for you. You're definitely going to need to take a leap of faith with this one.
I really enjoyed the characters and thought these were well developed which enhanced the plot even further. I did find the plot to be absolutely crazy but I enjoyed it.
August 26, 2025
3.5 stars
I read this book as a free review copy from NetGalley and this review is based on my reading the story and reflects my honest opinion of the book.
The Atlantis Covenant is a sun-soaked dive into myth, science, and intrigue. Rob Jones crafts sunlit reefs just as vividly as hidden corridors beneath the waves and the intriguing blend of conspiracy and ancient lore makes for pleasurable escapism. The book earns a 3.5-star from me because this is a topic that I frequently read and I have read several books from various authors and this is a story that may not have been my best reading but a solid middle of the pack that I would recommend it to fans adventure and speculative archaeology.
If you’re looking for an engrossing beach read with enough intellectual heft and old-world wonder to linger with you, this one is worth your time especially if you can forgive the midsection’s slow burn. With a tighter edit and a little more emotional gravitas and possibly a twist in the tale somewhere in the middle would have made the story a little more less predictable, The Atlantis Covenant could have glowed even brighter; as it stands now, it’s a pleasing, if somewhat familiar, mythic thrill ride.
What struck me first was the evocative world-building. Rob has a real gift for setting, transporting us to the sun-kissed beaches and then plunging us into the abyss of the ocean floor. His descriptions of reef-fringed coves, coral beds, and the eerie hush of underwater ruins made me feel like I was diving alongside the characters. I also really enjoyed the way myth and science are held in a delicate balance throughout the book. The protagonist Max, an archaeologist, constantly wrestles with the tension between data-driven research and the whispers of lost civilizations and that friction added a level of believability that kept me turning pages. The supporting cast also deserves mention with every side character adding colour and spark.
Where the book faltered for me was in its pacing. The opening bursts with energy, but the middle section loses its rhythm as the story gets bogged down in logistics and exposition. There were times I found myself skimming, waiting for the action to regain its grip. Some of the plot developments also felt a little too familiar, echoing beats from other adventure thrillers. While competently executed, moments like the inevitable betrayal or the reveal of a secret lab never quite surprised me. And though the professional stakes were clear, I often wished for more emotional depth.
The bones of an excellent thriller are all here, and there’s so much potential in the blend of conspiracy, archaeology, and legend.
I look forward to more adventures in this sparkling new series.
I read this book as a free review copy from NetGalley and this review is based on my reading the story and reflects my honest opinion of the book.
The Atlantis Covenant is a sun-soaked dive into myth, science, and intrigue. Rob Jones crafts sunlit reefs just as vividly as hidden corridors beneath the waves and the intriguing blend of conspiracy and ancient lore makes for pleasurable escapism. The book earns a 3.5-star from me because this is a topic that I frequently read and I have read several books from various authors and this is a story that may not have been my best reading but a solid middle of the pack that I would recommend it to fans adventure and speculative archaeology.
If you’re looking for an engrossing beach read with enough intellectual heft and old-world wonder to linger with you, this one is worth your time especially if you can forgive the midsection’s slow burn. With a tighter edit and a little more emotional gravitas and possibly a twist in the tale somewhere in the middle would have made the story a little more less predictable, The Atlantis Covenant could have glowed even brighter; as it stands now, it’s a pleasing, if somewhat familiar, mythic thrill ride.
What struck me first was the evocative world-building. Rob has a real gift for setting, transporting us to the sun-kissed beaches and then plunging us into the abyss of the ocean floor. His descriptions of reef-fringed coves, coral beds, and the eerie hush of underwater ruins made me feel like I was diving alongside the characters. I also really enjoyed the way myth and science are held in a delicate balance throughout the book. The protagonist Max, an archaeologist, constantly wrestles with the tension between data-driven research and the whispers of lost civilizations and that friction added a level of believability that kept me turning pages. The supporting cast also deserves mention with every side character adding colour and spark.
Where the book faltered for me was in its pacing. The opening bursts with energy, but the middle section loses its rhythm as the story gets bogged down in logistics and exposition. There were times I found myself skimming, waiting for the action to regain its grip. Some of the plot developments also felt a little too familiar, echoing beats from other adventure thrillers. While competently executed, moments like the inevitable betrayal or the reveal of a secret lab never quite surprised me. And though the professional stakes were clear, I often wished for more emotional depth.
The bones of an excellent thriller are all here, and there’s so much potential in the blend of conspiracy, archaeology, and legend.
I look forward to more adventures in this sparkling new series.
September 9, 2025
I suppose if you are in the habit of awarding 5 star reviews, some books will dip below a perfect score. I am usually loathed to allow gravity to decimate my stars below 3 but just occasionally a lower score will be necessary.
This is the start of a new series which cleverly exploits our love of dramatic archeology in the fashion of Indiana Jones, our love of conspiracy in governments riddled with secret societies after author Dan Brown and his peers and that sense of alien links to our ancestors. In this regard Rob Jones has done well teasing out a credible series within this genre. This is an action packed tale of adventure and a death defying race to piece together ancient clues to the whereabouts of the lost city, we think about when we speak of Atlantis.
In these action thrillers and life threatening confrontations you do expect the plot to race away and threaten credibility but I feel the general historical and archeological references to be on point and a tribute to the author’s research. He also spins a good yarn and maintains a “must read on” pace full of dramatic showdowns.
But.
For me the book falls down on a number of points.
The complete disregard and security protecting heritage sites. So many archeological discoveries are made in these pages it is enough to make Tutankhamun turn in his tomb.
Secondly, the casual attitude to violence and mass killing in the set piece action scenes. The language shared for those killed is shallow and does not reflect their status or a sense of I could be next. The team clearly are not wearing red tunics, because like a Star Trek away party, they survive against all the odds. Six in total escape death, time and time again. This just isn’t believable; as anyone else not in the team does quite horribly and consistently get slaughtered along the way.
Equally on the bad guys side; there is the “cannon fodder” and the miraculous escapes each time of Hunter’s nemesis.
The confrontation should be an unequal one. The modern Illuminati hold all the cards; influence across governments around the world and yet they chose an incompetent archaeologist, couldn’t stop Hunter and fail repeatedly to kill him. That a hotchpotch team of agents could survive every encounter with them and thwart their “Bond villain like” plans is simply unbelievable.
That they do makes for an exciting read; the characters are well set up for this unique series which is going well and book five is due out next month.
This is the start of a new series which cleverly exploits our love of dramatic archeology in the fashion of Indiana Jones, our love of conspiracy in governments riddled with secret societies after author Dan Brown and his peers and that sense of alien links to our ancestors. In this regard Rob Jones has done well teasing out a credible series within this genre. This is an action packed tale of adventure and a death defying race to piece together ancient clues to the whereabouts of the lost city, we think about when we speak of Atlantis.
In these action thrillers and life threatening confrontations you do expect the plot to race away and threaten credibility but I feel the general historical and archeological references to be on point and a tribute to the author’s research. He also spins a good yarn and maintains a “must read on” pace full of dramatic showdowns.
But.
For me the book falls down on a number of points.
The complete disregard and security protecting heritage sites. So many archeological discoveries are made in these pages it is enough to make Tutankhamun turn in his tomb.
Secondly, the casual attitude to violence and mass killing in the set piece action scenes. The language shared for those killed is shallow and does not reflect their status or a sense of I could be next. The team clearly are not wearing red tunics, because like a Star Trek away party, they survive against all the odds. Six in total escape death, time and time again. This just isn’t believable; as anyone else not in the team does quite horribly and consistently get slaughtered along the way.
Equally on the bad guys side; there is the “cannon fodder” and the miraculous escapes each time of Hunter’s nemesis.
The confrontation should be an unequal one. The modern Illuminati hold all the cards; influence across governments around the world and yet they chose an incompetent archaeologist, couldn’t stop Hunter and fail repeatedly to kill him. That a hotchpotch team of agents could survive every encounter with them and thwart their “Bond villain like” plans is simply unbelievable.
That they do makes for an exciting read; the characters are well set up for this unique series which is going well and book five is due out next month.
September 13, 2025
The Atlantis Covenant follows Max Hunter as he sets out to prove Atlantis is real.. Think Indiana Jones meets Mission Impossible.
When we first meet Max he’s just discovered a statue that could change the worlds view on Atlantis.. Only for it to pulled from his hands at the last moment and finds himself prisoner.
Through a little luck he finds a way out of the mess but this is only the beginning!
Hunter will stop at nothing to find the proof he needs but it’s clear he’s not the only one… and those following the same path don’t necessarily have his compassion or morals!
Max finds himself backed by a mysterious Swiss Organisation.. The issue is.. Can they be trusted themselves.. Are their motives aligned with Hunters?
Hunter is smart though.. He knows to watch his back but at the same time will do what he needs to, to get what he needs and quickly we see Hunter set out to decipher one of the biggest mysteries.
The task see’s him meet various people along the way, and visits to different locations around the world. What I really loved is the author packed in enough detail to make those individuals and locations come to life but really kept the excitement focused fully on the adventure..
Hunter has to fight his way through puzzles but at the same time dodge enemies which seem to be everywhere..
Fast paced is an understatement.. Nothings rush but damn the action keeps coming and coming and really keeps the adrenaline coursing through the reader.
I really liked Max he’s got a cockiness about himself.. Not so much that you dislike him.. He just believes in himself and doesn’t know when to quit!
For my first foray into the authors style I really liked the energy, it bounces off the page and grabs you. There’s plenty of development throughout but leaves plenty of doors open for the author to explore leaving the characters anything but one dimensional.
Strong plot mixed with intriguing characters equals a cracking story in my book.
I’ve always been a fan of this kind of tale, adventure and history mixed, the unknown that could be right there but hidden.. Its exciting and fun..
When we first meet Max he’s just discovered a statue that could change the worlds view on Atlantis.. Only for it to pulled from his hands at the last moment and finds himself prisoner.
Through a little luck he finds a way out of the mess but this is only the beginning!
Hunter will stop at nothing to find the proof he needs but it’s clear he’s not the only one… and those following the same path don’t necessarily have his compassion or morals!
Max finds himself backed by a mysterious Swiss Organisation.. The issue is.. Can they be trusted themselves.. Are their motives aligned with Hunters?
Hunter is smart though.. He knows to watch his back but at the same time will do what he needs to, to get what he needs and quickly we see Hunter set out to decipher one of the biggest mysteries.
The task see’s him meet various people along the way, and visits to different locations around the world. What I really loved is the author packed in enough detail to make those individuals and locations come to life but really kept the excitement focused fully on the adventure..
Hunter has to fight his way through puzzles but at the same time dodge enemies which seem to be everywhere..
Fast paced is an understatement.. Nothings rush but damn the action keeps coming and coming and really keeps the adrenaline coursing through the reader.
I really liked Max he’s got a cockiness about himself.. Not so much that you dislike him.. He just believes in himself and doesn’t know when to quit!
For my first foray into the authors style I really liked the energy, it bounces off the page and grabs you. There’s plenty of development throughout but leaves plenty of doors open for the author to explore leaving the characters anything but one dimensional.
Strong plot mixed with intriguing characters equals a cracking story in my book.
I’ve always been a fan of this kind of tale, adventure and history mixed, the unknown that could be right there but hidden.. Its exciting and fun..
September 2, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The Atlantis Covenant is a globe-trotting, high-octane adventure that blends history, mythology, and nonstop action into a thriller that fans of Dan Brown, James Rollins, and Clive Cussler will devour.
We’re introduced to Max Hunter, an archaeologist and former soldier who has spent his life chasing the legend of Atlantis. When a discovery beneath the Gates of Nineveh hints at long-buried truths, Max is thrown into a dangerous race that spans continents. From hidden tombs in Iraq to jungles in Central America, from the Valley of the Kings to the Caribbean, the search for Atlantis pushes him and his team into increasingly perilous situations. Along the way, they face mercenaries, shadowy organizations, betrayals, and more than one capture-and-escape sequence that keeps the adrenaline flowing.
Rob Jones does an excellent job of balancing fast-paced action with rich historical and archaeological detail. I especially enjoyed how the novel weaves together disparate cultures and symbols, hinting at a global puzzle whose solution might finally reveal the truth behind Atlantis. At times, the plot requires some suspension of disbelief—but that’s part of the fun. If you love treasure hunts, ancient mysteries, and conspiracies with roots in history, this book delivers.
Max is a classic action hero—resourceful, brave, and occasionally reckless—but he’s also surrounded by a colorful supporting cast. The banter, rivalries, and uneasy alliances add humor and humanity to what could otherwise be a nonstop chase. The villains are suitably ruthless, and the mysterious secret society adds an extra layer of intrigue.
Is it a little over the top? Absolutely. But that’s what makes it so entertaining. The Atlantis Covenant is escapist adventure at its best: cinematic, thrilling, and packed with enough historical nuggets to keep it grounded.
Rob Jones has launched an exciting new series, and I’m already eager to see where Max Hunter’s adventures take him next.
The Atlantis Covenant is a globe-trotting, high-octane adventure that blends history, mythology, and nonstop action into a thriller that fans of Dan Brown, James Rollins, and Clive Cussler will devour.
We’re introduced to Max Hunter, an archaeologist and former soldier who has spent his life chasing the legend of Atlantis. When a discovery beneath the Gates of Nineveh hints at long-buried truths, Max is thrown into a dangerous race that spans continents. From hidden tombs in Iraq to jungles in Central America, from the Valley of the Kings to the Caribbean, the search for Atlantis pushes him and his team into increasingly perilous situations. Along the way, they face mercenaries, shadowy organizations, betrayals, and more than one capture-and-escape sequence that keeps the adrenaline flowing.
Rob Jones does an excellent job of balancing fast-paced action with rich historical and archaeological detail. I especially enjoyed how the novel weaves together disparate cultures and symbols, hinting at a global puzzle whose solution might finally reveal the truth behind Atlantis. At times, the plot requires some suspension of disbelief—but that’s part of the fun. If you love treasure hunts, ancient mysteries, and conspiracies with roots in history, this book delivers.
Max is a classic action hero—resourceful, brave, and occasionally reckless—but he’s also surrounded by a colorful supporting cast. The banter, rivalries, and uneasy alliances add humor and humanity to what could otherwise be a nonstop chase. The villains are suitably ruthless, and the mysterious secret society adds an extra layer of intrigue.
Is it a little over the top? Absolutely. But that’s what makes it so entertaining. The Atlantis Covenant is escapist adventure at its best: cinematic, thrilling, and packed with enough historical nuggets to keep it grounded.
Rob Jones has launched an exciting new series, and I’m already eager to see where Max Hunter’s adventures take him next.
Read
August 27, 2025I haven't read a true action, adventure, treasure hunting book in forever, and I thoroughly enjoyed our first meeting Max Hunter and the crew.
Max's adventure starts at a dig site in Iraq where he gets his hands on a mysterious statue which looks unlike anything else he's ever see. However, a rival snatches the statue away and Max is shot at and captured until he is able to escape. The antics just start snowballing from there as he is recruited by a private treasure collector and is sent on a negotiation meeting in the Caribbean where he and the woman is with are kidnapped (again). There is quite a bit of being captured and also a lot of banter back and forth between Max and his rival, Brodie.
They go from Iraq to the Caribbean, to Central America, Egypt, and beyond. The mystery of the statues seems to tie to the potential location of Atlantis and why there is iconography from different cultures in places where they wouldn't be expected.
If you are able to suspend belief and just allow yourself to enjoy the hunt and the chase, then you will probably like this book. I had a great time circling the globe looking for the next clue towards Atlantis and what may still be remaining of the ancient yet advanced civilization, There is also a secret society, like the Illuminati, who are even more mysterious and seem to be on the verge of solving the mystery as well. Yet Max and his team have to get their first so the society doesn't get their hands on an ancient weapon which could wipe out the world.
Max's adventure starts at a dig site in Iraq where he gets his hands on a mysterious statue which looks unlike anything else he's ever see. However, a rival snatches the statue away and Max is shot at and captured until he is able to escape. The antics just start snowballing from there as he is recruited by a private treasure collector and is sent on a negotiation meeting in the Caribbean where he and the woman is with are kidnapped (again). There is quite a bit of being captured and also a lot of banter back and forth between Max and his rival, Brodie.
They go from Iraq to the Caribbean, to Central America, Egypt, and beyond. The mystery of the statues seems to tie to the potential location of Atlantis and why there is iconography from different cultures in places where they wouldn't be expected.
If you are able to suspend belief and just allow yourself to enjoy the hunt and the chase, then you will probably like this book. I had a great time circling the globe looking for the next clue towards Atlantis and what may still be remaining of the ancient yet advanced civilization, There is also a secret society, like the Illuminati, who are even more mysterious and seem to be on the verge of solving the mystery as well. Yet Max and his team have to get their first so the society doesn't get their hands on an ancient weapon which could wipe out the world.
September 26, 2020
I like Steve Berry and was finding similar authors. I tried a few authors but none turned out to be as exciting as Berry's thrillers. I stumbled upon The Atlantis Covenant and thought to give it a try and surprisingly it turns out to be a good read. The protagonist is Max Hunter who is a retired soldier from British army and now an archaeologist. He teams up with a special branch of FBI to stop a secret society of getting hold of some relics that hold the location of mythical Atlantis. It's not mind blowing and has its own flaws. Max Hunter's character is very believable. One would expect him to be a daredevil but he himself accepts in a couple of occasions that he is no Indiana Jones. The plot follows the similar template of an archaeological thriller. The protagonists will solve clues one after the other, hop from one place to another, dodging assassins and bullets. There are a lot of secondary characters which aren't developed properly, perhaps to maintain the pace of the story and also to keep it for coming books of the series.
September 21, 2024
Every one be a selfish and carizma and danger feel
but some thee have more to step over red line
thee think if make the dark over desert and kill ancint flower thee will be hero
but our grand grand grand
smart enugh to bure the gift
i wish thee forget about
atlants
even that was under ma foot
were our grand make clear to be headen gd
the knoledge must nt wock the nasty gorila
coz human cliver than thee
storm make half there life painful hunger
and our life ful of dream
nasty to think that clever can be more
its beging to paint our stutes
and make the deggir in there eyes
and dust atlant over grands home
to pray the one day thee give up and grow some jasmen flower
if the ask about our name
just tell that me
gardian of old power
our eyes maybe alike
but our litter many diffrent
as black and white
just dusted our grand home
and make city buzy with laugh and great tals
about many old city
under our foot
mix the power with pray
but some thee have more to step over red line
thee think if make the dark over desert and kill ancint flower thee will be hero
but our grand grand grand
smart enugh to bure the gift
i wish thee forget about
atlants
even that was under ma foot
were our grand make clear to be headen gd
the knoledge must nt wock the nasty gorila
coz human cliver than thee
storm make half there life painful hunger
and our life ful of dream
nasty to think that clever can be more
its beging to paint our stutes
and make the deggir in there eyes
and dust atlant over grands home
to pray the one day thee give up and grow some jasmen flower
if the ask about our name
just tell that me
gardian of old power
our eyes maybe alike
but our litter many diffrent
as black and white
just dusted our grand home
and make city buzy with laugh and great tals
about many old city
under our foot
mix the power with pray
September 2, 2025
The Atlantis Covenant is a rollercoaster of a ride, through the ruins of many of the worlds ancient civilsations, bringing us, hopefully, to the discovery of the mythical Atlantis, via a lot of guns, helicopters, 'bad guys and gals,' and the involvement of a number of government agencies.
While this is one of The Hunter Files, there are many more characters than just Max, and we get to hear from most of them with a little bit of head-hopping (alas, not my favourite literary device), discovering their back stories and working out how they all came to be hunting for mythical items in a modern-day adventure story.
It's a lot of fun, if a little silly in places, filled with mostly irreverent characters who are very devil-may-care, but with some of those good old National Treasure vibes, which do certainly appeal to me. I love a good old-fashioned treasure hunt, and if it involves the Illuminati and some ancient Egyptian treasures, then all the better.
While this is one of The Hunter Files, there are many more characters than just Max, and we get to hear from most of them with a little bit of head-hopping (alas, not my favourite literary device), discovering their back stories and working out how they all came to be hunting for mythical items in a modern-day adventure story.
It's a lot of fun, if a little silly in places, filled with mostly irreverent characters who are very devil-may-care, but with some of those good old National Treasure vibes, which do certainly appeal to me. I love a good old-fashioned treasure hunt, and if it involves the Illuminati and some ancient Egyptian treasures, then all the better.
September 18, 2025
2.5 stars rounded up
The Hunter Files #1
When world famous archaeologist and ex-soldier Max Hunter finds a mysterious artifact in a tomb beneath the Gates of Nineveh, his life=long dream of finding Atlantis comes one step closer. But there is a problem. He's not the only one looking for it and his discovery unleashes a high-speed hunt for the lost civilisation between a mysterious Swiss foundation, the FBI, and the world's most secretive society.
Although this book had plenty of action and adventure, it wasn't what I thought it would be. Max
Hunter has plenty of enemies. I thought there were a lot of similarities to Indiana Jones. With a few tweaks this could have been a lot better. I'm sure there will be many more readers who will enjoy it more than I did.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #RobJones for my ARC of #TheAtlantisCovenant in exchange for an honest review.
The Hunter Files #1
When world famous archaeologist and ex-soldier Max Hunter finds a mysterious artifact in a tomb beneath the Gates of Nineveh, his life=long dream of finding Atlantis comes one step closer. But there is a problem. He's not the only one looking for it and his discovery unleashes a high-speed hunt for the lost civilisation between a mysterious Swiss foundation, the FBI, and the world's most secretive society.
Although this book had plenty of action and adventure, it wasn't what I thought it would be. Max
Hunter has plenty of enemies. I thought there were a lot of similarities to Indiana Jones. With a few tweaks this could have been a lot better. I'm sure there will be many more readers who will enjoy it more than I did.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #RobJones for my ARC of #TheAtlantisCovenant in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2020
Archaeologist Max Hunter has been dreaming about one day finding The Lost City of Atlantis. In this thrilling new adventure, he’s not the only one looking for Atlantis. From the desert in Iraq, the jungles of El Salvador and ending in the Valley of the Kings in Egypt he races against time to find it first. He is pitted against the secret society group known as “The Creed”, who are wanting to get the secret powers of Atlantis so they can control world dominance.
This was a very fast paced action thriller. It keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole time, wondering what will happen next. Just when you think you know what’s coming next you are thrown for another twist in the story.
This looks like it’s going to be a great new series with a great cast of characters. Keep up the great writing Rob and I look forward to your next book in this exciting new series.
This was a very fast paced action thriller. It keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole time, wondering what will happen next. Just when you think you know what’s coming next you are thrown for another twist in the story.
This looks like it’s going to be a great new series with a great cast of characters. Keep up the great writing Rob and I look forward to your next book in this exciting new series.
August 31, 2025
I requested The Atlantis Covenant hoping for a fun, globe-trotting, Indiana-Jones-like adventure, but it didn’t live up to its premise. I received a copy from Boldwood Books via Netgalley.
The story moves fast, from Iraq to Cuba to Egypt, but the pacing can’t make up for the weak writing and jarring dialogue. Conversations between characters are unnatural, forced, or just plain weird, pulling me out of the story more than once.
The biggest miss, though, is the characters. Max Hunter, the supposed hero, never really comes to life. He’s flat and unrelatable, and the supporting cast isn't any better. Everyone feels more like a cliché than a person, which made it hard to care about what happened to any of them.
Despite the exotic settings and action-packed plot, this book ultimately falls flat. It has potential, but the dialogue and unlikeable characters make it hard to enjoy.
2/5⭐️
The story moves fast, from Iraq to Cuba to Egypt, but the pacing can’t make up for the weak writing and jarring dialogue. Conversations between characters are unnatural, forced, or just plain weird, pulling me out of the story more than once.
The biggest miss, though, is the characters. Max Hunter, the supposed hero, never really comes to life. He’s flat and unrelatable, and the supporting cast isn't any better. Everyone feels more like a cliché than a person, which made it hard to care about what happened to any of them.
Despite the exotic settings and action-packed plot, this book ultimately falls flat. It has potential, but the dialogue and unlikeable characters make it hard to enjoy.
2/5⭐️
September 2, 2025
A cracker of an Indiana Jones style opening! Max Hunter, former soldier turned archaeologist, has long believed that Atlantis existed and he is on the trail of the three winged guardian statues that he hopes will lead him to the fabled lost city. Having found one, it’s stolen from him by his arch nemesis, Brodie McCabe, a man prone to breaking rules to suit him. Managing to escape Max is rescued by his boss and loaned to the FBI Office of Antiquities to help them verify some antiquities that could be linked to his search
.
A really enjoyable read, fast paced with lots of action. Max and the FBI team criss-cross the globe chasing clues, trying to stay one step ahead of Brodie and the secretive organisation he’s working for, whilst wondering just how Brodie knows so much about their activities…..
Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.
.
A really enjoyable read, fast paced with lots of action. Max and the FBI team criss-cross the globe chasing clues, trying to stay one step ahead of Brodie and the secretive organisation he’s working for, whilst wondering just how Brodie knows so much about their activities…..
Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.
August 18, 2025
A witty, mystery adventure, that's how I would describe this book! Max Hunter, former soldier and current dare evil archeologist, finds himself smack dab in the middle of mysterious ancient artifacts, hidden tombs, lost cities and a society wanting it all. During the wild adventures for answers, his wit is on par and matched by FBI Special Agent Amy Fox. This is the first book I've read from Rob Jones and I was thoroughly impressed and entertained. The book has amazing characters that reel you in and keep you enthralled with the storyline. And who can resist a tale of Atlantis? I'm looking forward to more of The Hunter Files.
This is my honest review after reading an ARC from Netgalley and Boldwood Books
This is my honest review after reading an ARC from Netgalley and Boldwood Books
September 2, 2025
I requested the ARC on NetGalley before joining the blog tour, as the blurb sounded fun and intriguing.
I was in the mood for ancient occult mystery thrillers, and this seemed perfect.
It’s a fast-paced, action-packed, and highly entertaining story, one that kept me turning pages and held my attention thanks to the constant action.
There are mysteries, occult clues to be deciphered, and a flawed hero who must face his demons.
It’s the perfect book if you want to have fun and read a sort of Lost Ark set in modern times.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC: all opinions are mine.
I was in the mood for ancient occult mystery thrillers, and this seemed perfect.
It’s a fast-paced, action-packed, and highly entertaining story, one that kept me turning pages and held my attention thanks to the constant action.
There are mysteries, occult clues to be deciphered, and a flawed hero who must face his demons.
It’s the perfect book if you want to have fun and read a sort of Lost Ark set in modern times.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC: all opinions are mine.
March 27, 2023
Story was not compelling !! Many other books to read. !! Dont lose anything by giving a pass !!
Plot lacked originality. Characters were not developed well enough.
Atlantis is not a new concept and not enough backstory was created on the myth of Atlantis. If you read other similar others, they have done a better job at crafting visually compelling main ideas.
2 stars just because finally there is a main character who lives upto the explanation of former soldier and archaeologist. Though Archaeology was missing greatly.
Easy to give this a pass!!
Plot lacked originality. Characters were not developed well enough.
Atlantis is not a new concept and not enough backstory was created on the myth of Atlantis. If you read other similar others, they have done a better job at crafting visually compelling main ideas.
2 stars just because finally there is a main character who lives upto the explanation of former soldier and archaeologist. Though Archaeology was missing greatly.
Easy to give this a pass!!
August 19, 2025
Max Hunter is high octane and high testosterone in this first of (I hope) many books in this new series. The story rolls along like a high speed train, all while keeping the characters growing and the prize becoming more elusive. Great read for a sunny day.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from Boldwood Books via NetGalley.
#TheAtlantisCovenant by #RobJones #TheHunterFilesBk1 @theboldbookclub *****review
#archaeologist #exsoldier #MaxHunter #actionadventure #violence #unputdownable
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from Boldwood Books via NetGalley.
#TheAtlantisCovenant by #RobJones #TheHunterFilesBk1 @theboldbookclub *****review
#archaeologist #exsoldier #MaxHunter #actionadventure #violence #unputdownable
August 31, 2025
The Atlantis Covenant by Rob Jones is an electrifying start to a new series that had me hooked from page one. Max Hunter’s search for Atlantis takes readers on a global race full of danger, betrayal, and fascinating historical detail. From secret tombs to the jungles of El Salvador and the Valley of the Kings, the action never slows down. A must-read for fans of fast-paced thrillers with a touch of history—I can’t wait for the next book!
Thank you NetGalley, Boldwood Books, Rachel's Random Resources, and the author for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you NetGalley, Boldwood Books, Rachel's Random Resources, and the author for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
December 7, 2020
Fast Paced
This story moves right along everything takes place in a week. Moving from one country to another racing to find the 3 winged angels. Only to have someone right on their heels with more mercenaries and weapons. the resilience and intelligence of this group is amazing. Each member is totally different with different skills. The banter between the members is often good for a chuckle. Delightful story very much worth reading. Great job. Thank you.
This story moves right along everything takes place in a week. Moving from one country to another racing to find the 3 winged angels. Only to have someone right on their heels with more mercenaries and weapons. the resilience and intelligence of this group is amazing. Each member is totally different with different skills. The banter between the members is often good for a chuckle. Delightful story very much worth reading. Great job. Thank you.
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