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Dane Maddock #1
Blue Descent
Please note: The wrong draft of the book was originally formatted and uploaded for publication. We replaced it with the edited draft as soon as we were made aware. Please accept our apologies for the mistake.
A legend of the deep guards the secret to eternal life!
Dane Maddock just wants to hunt for treasure and leave his past behind. After a series of tragedies, the former Navy SEAL and his crew travel to the Bahamas in search of the wreckage of Maelstrom, the flagship of notorious pirate Riddick Blackwood. But what they find sets them on a hunt for one of the greatest legends of the New World—The Fountain of Youth!
But has their discovery unleashed something terrible upon the world? As the deaths mount, Maddock and his partner Bones Bonebrake must prevent a dangerous shadow organization from seizing the power that lies beneath the waters.
Classic archaeological adventure for the modern reader! Fans of Indiana Jones, Dirk Pitt, and National Treasure will love the Dane Maddock Adventures
A legend of the deep guards the secret to eternal life!
Dane Maddock just wants to hunt for treasure and leave his past behind. After a series of tragedies, the former Navy SEAL and his crew travel to the Bahamas in search of the wreckage of Maelstrom, the flagship of notorious pirate Riddick Blackwood. But what they find sets them on a hunt for one of the greatest legends of the New World—The Fountain of Youth!
But has their discovery unleashed something terrible upon the world? As the deaths mount, Maddock and his partner Bones Bonebrake must prevent a dangerous shadow organization from seizing the power that lies beneath the waters.
Classic archaeological adventure for the modern reader! Fans of Indiana Jones, Dirk Pitt, and National Treasure will love the Dane Maddock Adventures
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2019
295 people are currently reading
266 people want to read
About the author
David Wood
100 books309 followersDavid Wood is the USA Today bestselling author of the Dane Maddock Adventures and many other titles and series. He also writes Science Fiction under the pen name Finn Gray and fantasy as David Debord. He is also a book reviewer, podcaster, and a member of International Thriller Writers and The Horror Writers Association. David and his family live in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Visit him online at www.davidwoodweb.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 20, 2024
When life's stresses catch up to me, I reach for a David Wood book. His characters Maddock and Bones lead the reader into an edge-of-your-seat fun adventure. His book Blue Descent is a fast read, with plenty of action to keep you flipping pages, and did not let me down.
Blue Descent, as in other David Wood books, are riddled with tongue-in-cheek humor. His characters are colorful, well developed, and they keep the story moving at a steady pace.
Thoroughly enjoyable, entertaining, and plenty of slap-knee humor. All-in-all, Blue Descent is a rollicking adventure story. Exactly what I was looking for.
Blue Descent, as in other David Wood books, are riddled with tongue-in-cheek humor. His characters are colorful, well developed, and they keep the story moving at a steady pace.
Thoroughly enjoyable, entertaining, and plenty of slap-knee humor. All-in-all, Blue Descent is a rollicking adventure story. Exactly what I was looking for.
November 3, 2019
Good book, ad read
The story was another good one but whoever proof read this was terrible! So many missed words actually made it feel like it was written by a teenager! Better luck next time!
The story was another good one but whoever proof read this was terrible! So many missed words actually made it feel like it was written by a teenager! Better luck next time!
August 23, 2021
A tale of adventure and legends.
Maddock and his band travel to the Bahamas where old artifacts lead from local thugs to the place of pirate’s Dreams and treasure.
Rollicking good fun not to be taken too seriously.
Maddock and his band travel to the Bahamas where old artifacts lead from local thugs to the place of pirate’s Dreams and treasure.
Rollicking good fun not to be taken too seriously.
November 1, 2019
Amazing Maddock Tale. This book has a foreward by the author where he speaks of seeking to create an enjoyable tale for fans of this long running series while also wanting to give people new to the series a "book 0" to start with that reflects more of his current writing style, and he achieves both of those objectives spectacularly. If you've never read a Maddock Adventure before, this one is truly a good place to start and a good idea of what you're in store for throughout the rest of the series and surrounding universe. If you're a long time fan, this book is one that sets in motion a few things while also allowing some possibilities for things to come. Truly a fun, action packed adventure, and very much recommended.
February 5, 2025
I usually love these books, they are so different to what I usually read, but to be totally honest if I had started the series with this one I probably wouldn't have carried on. Which is a shame because they are good adventures. So why didn't I get on with it? Hard to say really, I think it is because there is usually something that makes the stories and the myths they are based on at least partly believable but with this story it seemed to super natural for my tastes, what with a giant sea creature that can be controlled with an amulet. I prefer the bad guys to be human. The usual banter is also missing, as both Bones and Maddock are too busy failing in love, they also failed to save the day (like they usually do) for everybody and the body count was high. Yes I know they isn't a Maddock book without bullets flying and bodies falling but it just seemed a lot of innocents. Not my favourite but still listenable.
While looking for pirate Riddick Blackwood treasure Dane Maddock and his team meet a brother and sister who talk then into entering a diving competition. For ex Navy SEAL'S seeing how far they can dive in the blue pool on one breath should be a piece of cake but they are not alone. When they surface they quickly discover the small island has been plagued with a number of unexplained disappearance. Can the ex seals discover what is going on and find there pirate treasure or will they become the next victims?
I did like the narrator. He kept me listening until the end.
While looking for pirate Riddick Blackwood treasure Dane Maddock and his team meet a brother and sister who talk then into entering a diving competition. For ex Navy SEAL'S seeing how far they can dive in the blue pool on one breath should be a piece of cake but they are not alone. When they surface they quickly discover the small island has been plagued with a number of unexplained disappearance. Can the ex seals discover what is going on and find there pirate treasure or will they become the next victims?
I did like the narrator. He kept me listening until the end.
January 16, 2025
I think I came across this series searching for a "Indiana Jones" style adventure type book or something similar to a James Rollins style adventure theme. I must have seen this on a list and put it on my TBR just in case I was in the mood. Well, I ran into a bit of a reading rut and had just got several chapters in to a big 750 page continuation of a fantasy series and decided I just wasn't getting into it - so this looked like a quick easy read to keep me going.
I will start by saying this was probably a 2.5 star rating from me, it was more than just an 'OK' two star, and was fast paced with a lot of action. It was as advertised an action/adventure in that type of style I was looking for. It felt a little rushed at times like this was an 80's adventure series like A-Team and they were trying to cram everything into an hour episode. That included making new friends and potential love interests and bonding in what seemed like was too fast for real life.
Some of the banter between the dudes got a little cheesy, but that was OK...this was still the sea-faring treasure hunting adventure I was craving.
The ending also felt maybe a little rushed and tied up a lot of the loose ends pretty neatly, almost like they were shaking up and clearing the etch a sketch for the next episode some there were no ties carrying over.
I still enjoyed this one and will probably dig into the next one at some point.
I will start by saying this was probably a 2.5 star rating from me, it was more than just an 'OK' two star, and was fast paced with a lot of action. It was as advertised an action/adventure in that type of style I was looking for. It felt a little rushed at times like this was an 80's adventure series like A-Team and they were trying to cram everything into an hour episode. That included making new friends and potential love interests and bonding in what seemed like was too fast for real life.
Some of the banter between the dudes got a little cheesy, but that was OK...this was still the sea-faring treasure hunting adventure I was craving.
The ending also felt maybe a little rushed and tied up a lot of the loose ends pretty neatly, almost like they were shaking up and clearing the etch a sketch for the next episode some there were no ties carrying over.
I still enjoyed this one and will probably dig into the next one at some point.
March 31, 2024
In the style of Clive Cussler's Dirk Pitt, David Wood introduces us to ex-Navy Seal, now a modern-day treasure hunter, Dane Maddock and his team Bones Bonebrake, Corey Dean, Willis Sanders and Matt Barnaby. During a dive on an old wreck in the Bahamas, Maddock discovers a mysterious egg housing an amulet of unknown origin. Rescuing Raeána Franklin, Rae, and her brother, Kyle, from a capsized boat, the team return to Andros Island with its blue holes (water-filled cave systems) where the Blue Descent free dive competition is taking place, in which Kyle is a competitor. Whilst uncovering the mystery of the amulet with the help of Rae, a biologist/marine archaeologist teaching at the College of the Bahamas, Maddock and his team encounter a dangerous shadow organization desperate to get their hands on the amulet, leviathans and other mythical creatures, pirates and the "water of life".
With the mythical component to the story it is not to be taken too seriously, however David Wood gives us a fun, enthralling tale. Though the novel does have typographical and grammatical issues which would prevent it from winning a Pulitzer prize, it does not take away from the entertainment that the novel provides.
With the mythical component to the story it is not to be taken too seriously, however David Wood gives us a fun, enthralling tale. Though the novel does have typographical and grammatical issues which would prevent it from winning a Pulitzer prize, it does not take away from the entertainment that the novel provides.
October 2, 2024
A fun summer escape
Book: ***
Performance: ***
All the elements were there for a casual summer read that was entertaining, but not particularly deep. The narration made it easy to just let the story develop from a simple mystery to some more … paranormal. Not exactly believable, but still interesting and fun way to pass the time with a little treasure hunting mixed in with a few legends (rumors of the fountain of youth and monster sea creatures play a significant role here) and conspiracies (standard missing persons) that sort of magically all work out (almost predictably). That also makes it easy to come and go pretty much at will and not really miss much. As an intro to the series, it was okay … a little choppy, but a good introduction to the characters and story telling style that might be hit or miss for some folks.
I was given this free advance review/listener copy (ARC) audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#BlueDescent #DaneMaddock #FreeAudiobookCodes
Book: ***
Performance: ***
All the elements were there for a casual summer read that was entertaining, but not particularly deep. The narration made it easy to just let the story develop from a simple mystery to some more … paranormal. Not exactly believable, but still interesting and fun way to pass the time with a little treasure hunting mixed in with a few legends (rumors of the fountain of youth and monster sea creatures play a significant role here) and conspiracies (standard missing persons) that sort of magically all work out (almost predictably). That also makes it easy to come and go pretty much at will and not really miss much. As an intro to the series, it was okay … a little choppy, but a good introduction to the characters and story telling style that might be hit or miss for some folks.
I was given this free advance review/listener copy (ARC) audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#BlueDescent #DaneMaddock #FreeAudiobookCodes
September 26, 2020
Aww heck, another disappointing book from David Wood. The story started out strong and held my interest right up until the end which fizzled out like a wet firecracker. I was all ready for a rip roaring finale but the action seemed rushed and not well thought out. So disappointing. On a positive note, the editing was better thru most of the book but it too took a bad turn towards the end. That isn't to say the editing was great until then but it was passable enough that I was able to overlook the occasional misstep. I was all set to award this book 4 stars along with high hopes for future books but it was not meant to be. Will I continue to read the series? Sure, but only because I'm a sucker for these types of books and there just aren't that many out there that I've found. Recommendations are welcome.
June 14, 2020
Really enjoyed this story, though I couple times in the first quarter of the book, I felt like I had read it before recalling e blue hole free dives. As the story progressed, there was more and more to keep you constantly reading it! Adventure with one of my favorite crews was a delight. Yes there were typos and grammar issues but read over them and give credit where credit is due! Waiting for the next one, not so patiently!
April 1, 2021
Interesting read but not great
Interesting read but not a great. The book took me awhile to get into as there wasn’t much suspense in the middle. There was many times I could easily speed read and not miss anything. On a positive note I think the authors concept of the book was interesting.
Interesting read but not a great. The book took me awhile to get into as there wasn’t much suspense in the middle. There was many times I could easily speed read and not miss anything. On a positive note I think the authors concept of the book was interesting.
October 14, 2021
Not my choice
I usually like fictional India Jones style archaeological stories but this was just too easy and convenient. Alright for a long train journey or a wet afternoon with nowhere to go but I won't be buying another. I have read far better and that spoils you for anything that doesn't get near that standard.
I usually like fictional India Jones style archaeological stories but this was just too easy and convenient. Alright for a long train journey or a wet afternoon with nowhere to go but I won't be buying another. I have read far better and that spoils you for anything that doesn't get near that standard.
October 9, 2025
A fast-paced, entertaining adventure that blends pirate lore, ancient myths, and underwater thrills. You’ll need to suspend disbelief at times, but the story delivers with sharp humor, gripping mystery, and nonstop action. Maddock and Bones make a compelling duo, and the hunt for the Fountain of Youth adds a fun, speculative twist.
May 26, 2020
Big Action in the Bahamas
A rollicking good time involving ex Navy Seals, free diving competition, sea creatures, a Russian spy, pirate treasure, Water of Life, and the search for a lost amulet and ring. You’re gonnna LOVE this one!
A rollicking good time involving ex Navy Seals, free diving competition, sea creatures, a Russian spy, pirate treasure, Water of Life, and the search for a lost amulet and ring. You’re gonnna LOVE this one!
May 28, 2020
Was it all a dream?
Not the adventure story I was expecting. More like 2.5 stars but the banter and some perceived silly mistakes along the adventure wore on me. I imagine future stories will bring the faction/s mentioned in this tale into the paths of the characters. We’ll see.
Not the adventure story I was expecting. More like 2.5 stars but the banter and some perceived silly mistakes along the adventure wore on me. I imagine future stories will bring the faction/s mentioned in this tale into the paths of the characters. We’ll see.
May 31, 2020
Pirates and the search for a treasure...I'm in.
Dane Maddock with/and his crew of modern day treasure hunters. I'm not really sure if he knows how he got into the search for the beast that is controlled by the amulet he found or how he got out of everything else he found that he got himself into. It makes for an interesting story though.
I enjoyed it thoroughly.
Dane Maddock with/and his crew of modern day treasure hunters. I'm not really sure if he knows how he got into the search for the beast that is controlled by the amulet he found or how he got out of everything else he found that he got himself into. It makes for an interesting story though.
I enjoyed it thoroughly.
May 31, 2020
Action packed but...
I am a fan of the author's but as much as I enjoyed the substance of this latest Bones and Maddock adventure, the lack of attention to grammar, complete with missing articles made me crazy. This novel needs serious editing.
I am a fan of the author's but as much as I enjoyed the substance of this latest Bones and Maddock adventure, the lack of attention to grammar, complete with missing articles made me crazy. This novel needs serious editing.
August 4, 2020
Sunken treasure, mesmerising mermaids and a real pirate!
A fun read and interesting characters. Topped off with a scoundrel or two, beautiful women and a hunky guy or two. Magical myths with it's own wise women and sea creatures. A nice light summer read for me. Hope you enjoy!
A fun read and interesting characters. Topped off with a scoundrel or two, beautiful women and a hunky guy or two. Magical myths with it's own wise women and sea creatures. A nice light summer read for me. Hope you enjoy!
October 19, 2025
Really, amazingly good!
I loved the book! It had romance, thrills and chills, fun nonsense and a bit of researched things and David made it all work. Getting ready to dive into book 2!
I loved the book! It had romance, thrills and chills, fun nonsense and a bit of researched things and David made it all work. Getting ready to dive into book 2!
December 6, 2025
Epic treasure Hunt
Everything you could ask for: monsters, mystery, pirate treasure, ladies in the deep, mermaids, murder and intrigue. My first read in this series. Looking forward to more adventure
Everything you could ask for: monsters, mystery, pirate treasure, ladies in the deep, mermaids, murder and intrigue. My first read in this series. Looking forward to more adventure
May 24, 2020
Dave never disappoints. Great characters, well written, non stop action with no boring bits.
May 30, 2020
Another rip roaring Maddock and Bones adventure
Another great story that keeps you turning the pages. Loving Maddock and Bones's jaunts, really good stuff. On to the next one
Another great story that keeps you turning the pages. Loving Maddock and Bones's jaunts, really good stuff. On to the next one
July 26, 2020
Fast and interesting - great summer book
March 3, 2021
One star for: good story. Another star for: interesting characters. A third star for: solid writing. Two stars withheld for: god-awful editing.
March 8, 2024
A slow start and some meh banter in the opening, but quickly morphed into a great island adventure complete with mermaids, leviathans, sea witches and pirates. Very indiana jones-esque.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2024
Early adventure for Maddock and Bones, as a routine dive, turns into a deadly race to find the fountain of youth and stop a sea serpent.
January 22, 2025
The start of the Dane Maddock series is action-packed and he weaves a tantalizing mix of myths.
April 4, 2025
Fantastic read!
Never a dull moment. Great story. Entertaining with vivid descriptions,. Looking forward to reading more of Maddock's adventures. Highly recommend.
Never a dull moment. Great story. Entertaining with vivid descriptions,. Looking forward to reading more of Maddock's adventures. Highly recommend.
December 30, 2024
Retired Navy SEAL Dane Maddock is treasure hunting in the Bahamas with his buddies when they are invited to dive a Blue Descent sinkhole competition and become involved in a mystery with missing people, an unusually large sea creature and the Water of Life.
Even though I love archeological adventure stories, it was really hard for me to get into this one and connect with the characters. Something about the way Maddock and Bones interact with each other and those around them didn’t feel right. And the story just didn’t flow right. Parts were just too silly and disjointed. It wasn’t until about 2/3s of the way in that things started to make sense and getting interesting. Nice finish. On to the next adventure.
Footnote: 1) the most popular Boiling Hole is on Rock Sound island west of Cat Island, so I had a hard time finding the Cat one on Google map.
Fave scenes: scanning the egg, Kyle talking to Detective Gomez, Issachar overhearing the conversation on the boat and escaping the owls.
Even though I love archeological adventure stories, it was really hard for me to get into this one and connect with the characters. Something about the way Maddock and Bones interact with each other and those around them didn’t feel right. And the story just didn’t flow right. Parts were just too silly and disjointed. It wasn’t until about 2/3s of the way in that things started to make sense and getting interesting. Nice finish. On to the next adventure.
Footnote: 1) the most popular Boiling Hole is on Rock Sound island west of Cat Island, so I had a hard time finding the Cat one on Google map.
Fave scenes: scanning the egg, Kyle talking to Detective Gomez, Issachar overhearing the conversation on the boat and escaping the owls.
November 26, 2025
In this book Maddock and Bones starts out by searching for a famous sunken pirate ship, but end up hunting for the fountain of youth. It is a little bit weird that I like these books as much as I do, but I think they are a kind of guilty pleasure. Also, they are potato chips books, as in you always want one more. The characters of Maddock and Bones are very, very stereotypical ex navy seals, and somewhat one dimensional. Each book is based on a historical myth, and they are sometimes a little bit repetitive. But the action and adventure is great and very fast paced, and the books are enjoyable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews