What do you think?
Rate this book
The Dresden Codex #1
Doomsday Match
A vacationing family becomes pawns in an ancient ritual designed to bring about a Mayan apocalypse in a riveting thriller by Wall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler.
A Mayan prophecy has waited for five centuries to be fulfilled. That time has come. Sacrifices will be made. Let the games begin.
When Jonathan Roth and his family are invited by their neighbors, the Beasleys, to join them at a luxury retreat in Cozumel, who can refuse? It’s the perfect winter getaway. Relaxing on the beach, gourmet food, sightseeing, and free accommodations. But if it sounds too good to be true, it is.
Villa Sara de Calakmul, owned by mysterious tycoon Jacob Calakmul, is more isolated compound than private resort. Armed guards patrol the jungle perimeters. Pictures of previous guests—long disappeared—adorn the walls. And there are whispers of something coming called “the game.” Even in the sweltering heat, the Roths feel a chill—and the fear that they haven’t been invited to Villa Sara. They’ve been lured. But for what purpose? And to what end?
From the ruins, a death cult is reborn. A prophecy to bring down Western civilization is being realized. As a legendary blood sport is engaged, the Roths themselves may need to call upon ancient powers if they’re to survive, escape, and save the world from annihilation.
A Mayan prophecy has waited for five centuries to be fulfilled. That time has come. Sacrifices will be made. Let the games begin.
When Jonathan Roth and his family are invited by their neighbors, the Beasleys, to join them at a luxury retreat in Cozumel, who can refuse? It’s the perfect winter getaway. Relaxing on the beach, gourmet food, sightseeing, and free accommodations. But if it sounds too good to be true, it is.
Villa Sara de Calakmul, owned by mysterious tycoon Jacob Calakmul, is more isolated compound than private resort. Armed guards patrol the jungle perimeters. Pictures of previous guests—long disappeared—adorn the walls. And there are whispers of something coming called “the game.” Even in the sweltering heat, the Roths feel a chill—and the fear that they haven’t been invited to Villa Sara. They’ve been lured. But for what purpose? And to what end?
From the ruins, a death cult is reborn. A prophecy to bring down Western civilization is being realized. As a legendary blood sport is engaged, the Roths themselves may need to call upon ancient powers if they’re to survive, escape, and save the world from annihilation.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2023
4045 people are currently reading
5693 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Wheeler
126 books5,216 followersWall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler took an early retirement from his career at Intel in 2014 to write full-time. He is a husband, father of five, and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jeff lives in the Rocky Mountains.
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 436 reviews
June 1, 2023
Ambivalent
I've read some of Wheeler's fantasy world fiction before & enjoyed it. This is definitely different. It's not a fantasy world setting but the plot certainly is.
It's pacing is a little sloggy going in, & I could tell this isn't the author's usual genre - he got a little heavy-handed with the prophecy stuff. It wasn't too difficult to figure out where it was going in the main, though there are still some surprising twists.
While the story isn't exactly PC or woke, there's enough to call it to mind which is the last thing I want in my escapist fare as politics is a large part of what I want to escape from, and I'm so tired of the overused racist villains.
So, in sum I'd say there's at least a good story here if not great - if the premise appeals to you & my issues aren't yours, go for it. For myself, I think I'll stick with his fantasy books.
I've read some of Wheeler's fantasy world fiction before & enjoyed it. This is definitely different. It's not a fantasy world setting but the plot certainly is.
It's pacing is a little sloggy going in, & I could tell this isn't the author's usual genre - he got a little heavy-handed with the prophecy stuff. It wasn't too difficult to figure out where it was going in the main, though there are still some surprising twists.
While the story isn't exactly PC or woke, there's enough to call it to mind which is the last thing I want in my escapist fare as politics is a large part of what I want to escape from, and I'm so tired of the overused racist villains.
So, in sum I'd say there's at least a good story here if not great - if the premise appeals to you & my issues aren't yours, go for it. For myself, I think I'll stick with his fantasy books.
July 15, 2023
So... Ok I've read *all* the Wheeler books and sometimes he goes outside his wheelhouse (The Grave Kingdom series for example) and it goes really well. I loved those books, where he travelled/researched and wrote an Oriental setting.
This contemporary modern thriller idea where he went to Cozumel and then wrote Mayan culture... I don't know. I can't comment on historical accuracy. He wrote in the afterwords that it was much harder to write in an "accurate" setting than the fantasy and I believe it.
Wheeler's books are always very digestible and have a good flow. I liked the action scenes the best, especially in the last 30% of the novel. The whole thing was like Dan Brown meets The Celestine Prophecies with a bit of Indiana Jones.
I just can't wrap my head around the villain. Mayan magic seems interesting but also - come on the dude turned into a crocodile 🤣 It also seems like a gap in logic that with thousands of famous spectators, no one is leaking what's going on in that arena? It doesn't seem like Roth is the one that Kalakmul would have to worry about the most when ANYONE could spill the secret.
The good parts are that Wheeler's books are always very readable. He isn't afraid to hurt people and write with constant high stakes. As a nurse I think he did a decent job with the diabetic character and it's also good to show people how serious diabetic complications and DKA can be. Wheeler is also a very good descriptive writer when he chooses to be, and he included a few wholesome side characters like Jorge who I liked.
I think Wheeler historically isn't great at family scenes, no offense to him and his family, but the banter is so excessively *cringe*. I liked the characters and it's easy to root for them, even if the MC might be a bit of a Wheeler stand in 🤣 I don't know a lot of modern day teenage lingo but I couldn't deal with the way they talk, in real life. He's also got a history of not writing kids really well and I think he did ok with the young kid, but the teens are like...I don't know, I like the family as a unit and how he portrayed positive family interactions but their dialogue felt clunky and cringey
I mean, I'll keep reading because it's Wheeler and I'm wondering how he's going to get two more books out of this. It's pretty ambitious to transition from one game to saving the world. I have faith though since his second books are almost always the strongest in the trilogies so we will see
This contemporary modern thriller idea where he went to Cozumel and then wrote Mayan culture... I don't know. I can't comment on historical accuracy. He wrote in the afterwords that it was much harder to write in an "accurate" setting than the fantasy and I believe it.
Wheeler's books are always very digestible and have a good flow. I liked the action scenes the best, especially in the last 30% of the novel. The whole thing was like Dan Brown meets The Celestine Prophecies with a bit of Indiana Jones.
I just can't wrap my head around the villain. Mayan magic seems interesting but also - come on the dude turned into a crocodile 🤣 It also seems like a gap in logic that with thousands of famous spectators, no one is leaking what's going on in that arena? It doesn't seem like Roth is the one that Kalakmul would have to worry about the most when ANYONE could spill the secret.
The good parts are that Wheeler's books are always very readable. He isn't afraid to hurt people and write with constant high stakes. As a nurse I think he did a decent job with the diabetic character and it's also good to show people how serious diabetic complications and DKA can be. Wheeler is also a very good descriptive writer when he chooses to be, and he included a few wholesome side characters like Jorge who I liked.
I think Wheeler historically isn't great at family scenes, no offense to him and his family, but the banter is so excessively *cringe*. I liked the characters and it's easy to root for them, even if the MC might be a bit of a Wheeler stand in 🤣 I don't know a lot of modern day teenage lingo but I couldn't deal with the way they talk, in real life. He's also got a history of not writing kids really well and I think he did ok with the young kid, but the teens are like...I don't know, I like the family as a unit and how he portrayed positive family interactions but their dialogue felt clunky and cringey
I mean, I'll keep reading because it's Wheeler and I'm wondering how he's going to get two more books out of this. It's pretty ambitious to transition from one game to saving the world. I have faith though since his second books are almost always the strongest in the trilogies so we will see
June 12, 2023
3.5/5.0
What? A contemporary thriller from one of the best fantasy authors in the business? Now that is a book I absolutely must read! And I’m glad I did. The overall story and suspense is riveting and assuredly edge-of-your-seat, nail-biting, can’t put down fun! It’s in the small things where, as a first in a new series, it hasn’t found its feet. The voice that is usually so smooth and elegant to read in Mr. Wheeler’s fantasies, is a bit clunky and awkward in this contemporary. Trying to use teenage lingo, along with meandering thoughts that don’t progress the story, and the very frequent use of Spanish sentences with no translations, can be frustrating to a reader that is invested in the actual plot. And, throwing in a bit of magic, along with shapeshifters just didn’t ring true in this instance.
Still, the sheer readability and suspense works so well that we race through those pages to see what will happen next!
What? A contemporary thriller from one of the best fantasy authors in the business? Now that is a book I absolutely must read! And I’m glad I did. The overall story and suspense is riveting and assuredly edge-of-your-seat, nail-biting, can’t put down fun! It’s in the small things where, as a first in a new series, it hasn’t found its feet. The voice that is usually so smooth and elegant to read in Mr. Wheeler’s fantasies, is a bit clunky and awkward in this contemporary. Trying to use teenage lingo, along with meandering thoughts that don’t progress the story, and the very frequent use of Spanish sentences with no translations, can be frustrating to a reader that is invested in the actual plot. And, throwing in a bit of magic, along with shapeshifters just didn’t ring true in this instance.
Still, the sheer readability and suspense works so well that we race through those pages to see what will happen next!
June 15, 2023
Well the story was interesting but..
..the Mayan civilization had already fallen before the arrival of Spain and the conquistadors. It was the Aztecs they wiped out, not the Mayan 300+ years earlier.
..the Mayan civilization had already fallen before the arrival of Spain and the conquistadors. It was the Aztecs they wiped out, not the Mayan 300+ years earlier.
May 24, 2023
I am a pretty big fan of Jeff Wheeler. At the time that I started this book, I didn't realize that this was his first foray into the "thriller" genre. I guess I just never really thought about it. At the end of this book, he goes into some detail about the idea behind this book and how he had to talk his publisher into - well, not really talked into - but explained why he wanted to venture onto this new path. Regardless, it was an interesting back story.
Now, about the book. I have to admit that at the beginning, I wasn't too sure that this was going to be something that I liked. The entire concept behind the story....the whole, "family lured to Mexico to be forced to participate in a game to the death".... well, it WAS a bit out there. The writing style was also a bit different than what I have come to expect from him and I will admit to attempting to start the book (and subsequently putting it down) several times over the course of a couple of days.
I'm not sure where in the book, but probably somewhere after the 1st quarter of the book, THAT'S when I began to get invested. It felt a little like we were thrown into the story without really getting the necessary background to have steady ground. I didn't feel like I KNEW the characters and since things pretty much start happening right away, I was finding it hard to care one way or another about their situation.
There is also the believability factor. Mr. Wheeler generally writes in the fantasy genre and for the most part, it's easier to suspend reality when the reality is from a made up world. He even mentions in his author note that it was harder to WRITE with a setting in the real world - that it required much more work. To me, that made complete sense. I have absolutely no problem suspending believability in a book, but I need to at least have a firm foundation to jump off from. Since the characters were new and not firmly established in the beginning, I was still getting a feel for everyone. The setting was one I knew - Cozumel, Mexico. That left the plot or storyline. I have to admit, it was a bit rocky starting off. But, as I mentioned before, things definitely settled down.
Once that happened, the pace seemed to steady as well, and I started getting a handle on each of the different family members. That is when the story found its footing. The story unfolds in a way that the reader is finding out things at the same time the MC's are finding things out. There is also quite a bit of information and history given on the ancient Mayan culture - that was interesting. The book is written in multiple POV's and at first I wasn't sure where everything was going. By the last quarter of the book though, I could feel the tension mounting and I was definitely rooting for the Roth family.
This was a good entry into a new series and the groundwork has been laid for a pretty intricate storyline. This story arc was tied up but there were enough items left open to definitely generate interest in the next installment. In the author notes, we find out that there will be a second book.
Will I be continuing on with this series?
Yep, I think I will.
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this ARC. The opinions above are mine and mine alone.
Now, about the book. I have to admit that at the beginning, I wasn't too sure that this was going to be something that I liked. The entire concept behind the story....the whole, "family lured to Mexico to be forced to participate in a game to the death".... well, it WAS a bit out there. The writing style was also a bit different than what I have come to expect from him and I will admit to attempting to start the book (and subsequently putting it down) several times over the course of a couple of days.
I'm not sure where in the book, but probably somewhere after the 1st quarter of the book, THAT'S when I began to get invested. It felt a little like we were thrown into the story without really getting the necessary background to have steady ground. I didn't feel like I KNEW the characters and since things pretty much start happening right away, I was finding it hard to care one way or another about their situation.
There is also the believability factor. Mr. Wheeler generally writes in the fantasy genre and for the most part, it's easier to suspend reality when the reality is from a made up world. He even mentions in his author note that it was harder to WRITE with a setting in the real world - that it required much more work. To me, that made complete sense. I have absolutely no problem suspending believability in a book, but I need to at least have a firm foundation to jump off from. Since the characters were new and not firmly established in the beginning, I was still getting a feel for everyone. The setting was one I knew - Cozumel, Mexico. That left the plot or storyline. I have to admit, it was a bit rocky starting off. But, as I mentioned before, things definitely settled down.
Once that happened, the pace seemed to steady as well, and I started getting a handle on each of the different family members. That is when the story found its footing. The story unfolds in a way that the reader is finding out things at the same time the MC's are finding things out. There is also quite a bit of information and history given on the ancient Mayan culture - that was interesting. The book is written in multiple POV's and at first I wasn't sure where everything was going. By the last quarter of the book though, I could feel the tension mounting and I was definitely rooting for the Roth family.
This was a good entry into a new series and the groundwork has been laid for a pretty intricate storyline. This story arc was tied up but there were enough items left open to definitely generate interest in the next installment. In the author notes, we find out that there will be a second book.
Will I be continuing on with this series?
Yep, I think I will.
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this ARC. The opinions above are mine and mine alone.
March 1, 2024
This contemporary thriller offers a blend of historical, mythical, and magical elements.
While the story was mildly entertaining, I couldn't shake the feeling that it was a bit predictable. Additionally, despite the rich backdrop of Mayan history, I struggled to connect with the characters, making it difficult to fully immerse myself in their adventures.
That said, the parts exploring the ancient Mayans were a highlight, offering fascinating insights into a culture. However, the story felt a bit scattered, lacking focus and cohesion.
Although this book didn't quite hit the mark for me, I appreciate the effort and creativity behind it. While I won't be continuing with the series, I'm glad to have experienced this glimpse into Jeff Wheeler's world. Who knows, perhaps his future works will captivate me in a different way.
While the story was mildly entertaining, I couldn't shake the feeling that it was a bit predictable. Additionally, despite the rich backdrop of Mayan history, I struggled to connect with the characters, making it difficult to fully immerse myself in their adventures.
That said, the parts exploring the ancient Mayans were a highlight, offering fascinating insights into a culture. However, the story felt a bit scattered, lacking focus and cohesion.
Although this book didn't quite hit the mark for me, I appreciate the effort and creativity behind it. While I won't be continuing with the series, I'm glad to have experienced this glimpse into Jeff Wheeler's world. Who knows, perhaps his future works will captivate me in a different way.
June 19, 2023
Had me until the villain turned into an alligator 😑
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2023
Disappointed with the writing and plot
One step up from fanfic. I'm annoyed with myself for wasting money on a generic wish fulfilment (author as hero) fantasy.
One step up from fanfic. I'm annoyed with myself for wasting money on a generic wish fulfilment (author as hero) fantasy.
Read
March 17, 2024Not for me.
May 2, 2025
Something a bit different. If you like mayan history you will probably like this.
July 27, 2023
This was a good read! I enjoyed the thrill of following the Roth family on their Christmas vacation to Cozumel that turned dark so quick. The author seemed to have thoroughly research Mayan history, which I appreciate incredibly as it is the center of the story. I did have to do a few quick second look on the family names due to Brillante being Bryant along with the book being really slow to build up to the death game. Other than that I thought this was a good read! The book ended on a shallow cliffhanger thankfully since the second book won’t be out until 12/2023.
January 18, 2025
Of Games, Magic, and Murder
Jonny Roth, his wife, Sarina, and their family live in Bozeman, Montana. Roth is a hard-working author, recently published and extremely popular. Although his life is much more relaxed than his previous position as a history professor, he's tired and in need of a vacation.
Fortunately for the Roth family, their next-door neighbors, Eric and Kendall Beasley, invite them to a free, three-day vacation at a special resort on the island of Cozumel, Mexico. Although not very familiar with the Beasleys, Roth’s kids have played with their kids, and they decide to make it a good Christmas.
As soon as the families set foot on the resort of Villa Sara de Calakmul, Roth's daughter, Suki, yanks his arm and tries to tell him something is very wrong about the resort. Until Roth meets the owner, Jacob Calakmul, otherwise known as the Jaguar Priest, and sees Beasley's daughter, Jane Louise, cowering in terror behind her parents, then he's in complete agreement with Suki.
Jeff Wheeler's Doomsday Match is a jaw-dropping, heart-stopping thriller that will keep you reading to the very end. Soaked in the history of the Mayan culture in both Mexico and Guatemala, as well as the horrendous effect the Spanish invasions had upon its people, each chapter steps up the excitement and danger to the next chapter.
Caught in an ancient cultural war, woven into today's cut-throat, financial ascendency, Roth and his family are faced with deadly jungles, untold hidden treasures, and catch-22 competitions. His wife, Sarina, lies close to death from ketoacidosis due to having none of her diabetic supplies.
The end of the book is definitely not the end of the story. The last chapter is just as charged with adrenaline, and potential danger for the Roth family as the beginning. I was flabbergasted. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. The question lingering in my mind is, “How have I been a thriller reader all of my life and I've just now found Jeff Wheeler?”
Jonny Roth, his wife, Sarina, and their family live in Bozeman, Montana. Roth is a hard-working author, recently published and extremely popular. Although his life is much more relaxed than his previous position as a history professor, he's tired and in need of a vacation.
Fortunately for the Roth family, their next-door neighbors, Eric and Kendall Beasley, invite them to a free, three-day vacation at a special resort on the island of Cozumel, Mexico. Although not very familiar with the Beasleys, Roth’s kids have played with their kids, and they decide to make it a good Christmas.
As soon as the families set foot on the resort of Villa Sara de Calakmul, Roth's daughter, Suki, yanks his arm and tries to tell him something is very wrong about the resort. Until Roth meets the owner, Jacob Calakmul, otherwise known as the Jaguar Priest, and sees Beasley's daughter, Jane Louise, cowering in terror behind her parents, then he's in complete agreement with Suki.
Jeff Wheeler's Doomsday Match is a jaw-dropping, heart-stopping thriller that will keep you reading to the very end. Soaked in the history of the Mayan culture in both Mexico and Guatemala, as well as the horrendous effect the Spanish invasions had upon its people, each chapter steps up the excitement and danger to the next chapter.
Caught in an ancient cultural war, woven into today's cut-throat, financial ascendency, Roth and his family are faced with deadly jungles, untold hidden treasures, and catch-22 competitions. His wife, Sarina, lies close to death from ketoacidosis due to having none of her diabetic supplies.
The end of the book is definitely not the end of the story. The last chapter is just as charged with adrenaline, and potential danger for the Roth family as the beginning. I was flabbergasted. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. The question lingering in my mind is, “How have I been a thriller reader all of my life and I've just now found Jeff Wheeler?”
July 16, 2023
Loved this thriller! An easy read and a perfect page turner for vacation. Fun dive into Mayan, Aztec and ancient LATAM culture Looking forward to the sequals.
July 9, 2023
Doomsday Match is the first in a series by Jeff Wheeler. The book is a fantasy adventure that would appeal to both adults and YA. The main characters are a family consisting of a mother, father, older sister and twin boys. The story is intense but not graphic so could be enjoyed by teens. I picked this one up because of the interesting synopsis of a family forced to participate in a deadly game. I'd describe this one as an adventure with some supernatural elements. The first two thirds of the book is more action-survival with the final part focusing on the game elements. I've read an arc of the second book and am happy to report it is just as good. I'm looking forward to 2024 for the release of the third book. I think this would appeal to fans of movies like Indiana Jones or anyone who likes epic adventure movies with a family as the focus.
July 16, 2023
Interesting storyline- play an ancient Mayan game or your family is offered as a sacrifice to the gods. Book 1 of 3 though….
June 11, 2023
The Writing:
It took me a few chapters to get into reading this book. I think the prologue threw me off a bit with the characters, and it took me a second to get all of Roth's family members straight. But after those first few chapters I was hooked! When Roth and his family get to the resort things really start to pick up and I loved it. I really enjoyed seeing Roth grow and step up to the plate for his family. I loved the intensity that his wife's diabetes brough to the table. My mother has type 1 diabetes and so it definitely increased the intensity of the story for me because I know what Roth's wife was going through with her blood sugar issues. The children were a great part of this book, they brought a bit of comedic relief, and I enjoyed seeing them grow together as well.
I really loved the familial bond in this book. It's not often I see books about a full family and it was refreshing.
I also really enjoyed the magic system. It was fascinating, had a sense of wonder to it, and really helped me feel invested in the book the more I read about it.
This was a fantastic supernatural thriller book. My heart was pounding non-stop by the end and I couldn't stop reading. After it was done I just had to sit and absorb everything, it was just so good. Can't wait for the next one!
Romance: Kisses between a husband and wife are the only PDA moments, and there are some suggestive comments between two side characters.
Trigger warnings - There is violence, and kidnapping, and potential death involved in this book. It's a thriller with high stakes! Also mention of diabetic issues throughout the book.
It took me a few chapters to get into reading this book. I think the prologue threw me off a bit with the characters, and it took me a second to get all of Roth's family members straight. But after those first few chapters I was hooked! When Roth and his family get to the resort things really start to pick up and I loved it. I really enjoyed seeing Roth grow and step up to the plate for his family. I loved the intensity that his wife's diabetes brough to the table. My mother has type 1 diabetes and so it definitely increased the intensity of the story for me because I know what Roth's wife was going through with her blood sugar issues. The children were a great part of this book, they brought a bit of comedic relief, and I enjoyed seeing them grow together as well.
I really loved the familial bond in this book. It's not often I see books about a full family and it was refreshing.
I also really enjoyed the magic system. It was fascinating, had a sense of wonder to it, and really helped me feel invested in the book the more I read about it.
This was a fantastic supernatural thriller book. My heart was pounding non-stop by the end and I couldn't stop reading. After it was done I just had to sit and absorb everything, it was just so good. Can't wait for the next one!
Romance: Kisses between a husband and wife are the only PDA moments, and there are some suggestive comments between two side characters.
Trigger warnings - There is violence, and kidnapping, and potential death involved in this book. It's a thriller with high stakes! Also mention of diabetic issues throughout the book.
August 30, 2023
Jeff Wheeler is one of my auto buy authors. I’ve read all of his 40ish fantasy books and novellas, and loved them all. His world building is incredible every time.
When I saw Jeff had published his first thriller, I HAD to read it. And man was it good! This thriller has tiny splashes of Mayan history and Mayan magic that dragged me into the story, and I was on the edge of my seat the entire book.
You know an author is amazingly talented when they can jump into a new writing genre and knock it out of the park with 5 star book.
When I saw Jeff had published his first thriller, I HAD to read it. And man was it good! This thriller has tiny splashes of Mayan history and Mayan magic that dragged me into the story, and I was on the edge of my seat the entire book.
You know an author is amazingly talented when they can jump into a new writing genre and knock it out of the park with 5 star book.
June 4, 2023
Exciting adventure
I'm a Jeff Wheeler super fan, haven't read all his books yet, but well on my way! I just finished a Muirwood book and the Doomsday Match came up to read next. I read the synopsis and was surprised, this isn't Mr. Wheeler 's normal writing. I was intrigued and had to read it. Mr. Wheeler does a great job of capturing his reader's attention right away and keeping it. I was never bored reading the book, but I had to keep remembering that he is a fantasy writer first and foremost, because the book felt so farfetched. However, keeping that in mind I enjoyed the book immensely and can't wait to read the next one.
Great story about a family, while not perfect, find a way to come together to solve a problem.
For those who already know and love his writing, you won't be disappointed, just read it!
For those new to Jeff Wheeler, whether you like this one or not be sure to check out my favorite series, The Kingfountain series!
I'm a Jeff Wheeler super fan, haven't read all his books yet, but well on my way! I just finished a Muirwood book and the Doomsday Match came up to read next. I read the synopsis and was surprised, this isn't Mr. Wheeler 's normal writing. I was intrigued and had to read it. Mr. Wheeler does a great job of capturing his reader's attention right away and keeping it. I was never bored reading the book, but I had to keep remembering that he is a fantasy writer first and foremost, because the book felt so farfetched. However, keeping that in mind I enjoyed the book immensely and can't wait to read the next one.
Great story about a family, while not perfect, find a way to come together to solve a problem.
For those who already know and love his writing, you won't be disappointed, just read it!
For those new to Jeff Wheeler, whether you like this one or not be sure to check out my favorite series, The Kingfountain series!
July 31, 2023
The plot was great and interesting but the writing was not. It felt very juvenile, not in a YA fiction way but in an inexperienced writer way, which he's not. I was not impressed and found myself skimming a lot to be able to finish it.
July 24, 2023
I started reading expecting a thriller, but what I got was more historical fiction. Involving magic, history (Mayan history, specifically), & lust -- this story was not for me. There was too much going on and not enough information to make this gripping. I would have rather read a 700+ page book with a satisfying ending to make this worth it.
Something was bugging me about this & why it didn't click for me. After talking with some close friends, it's because I read it from the wrong perspective.
1. I didn't understand the history. I had to connect the dots (through a lot of research) between most of the characters. I was expected to already know (or remember) the history. The author did his best to explain the values and importance but almost over-explained the things that weren't necessary. The connections I made AFTER I finished the book did make it an interesting read.
2. I viewed this as fantasy. Viewing it from Roth's POV made it seem all fake, like...magic. In the Mayan culture, this is real to them. So the back and forth made it confusing.
Something was bugging me about this & why it didn't click for me. After talking with some close friends, it's because I read it from the wrong perspective.
1. I didn't understand the history. I had to connect the dots (through a lot of research) between most of the characters. I was expected to already know (or remember) the history. The author did his best to explain the values and importance but almost over-explained the things that weren't necessary. The connections I made AFTER I finished the book did make it an interesting read.
2. I viewed this as fantasy. Viewing it from Roth's POV made it seem all fake, like...magic. In the Mayan culture, this is real to them. So the back and forth made it confusing.
June 10, 2023
What a ride
This is my first time reading a book by this author and I chose it as an Amazon First Pick. It was really good. The plot didn't drag out and the author's storytelling ability makes you feel as if you are part of the Roth family. There is a second book coming but this book doesn't end on a cliffhanger which is great. I deducted one star because I felt that the two Roth boys were just a little hard to believe in the way they seemed to be nonchalant in how they were handling playing a game to the death.
This is my first time reading a book by this author and I chose it as an Amazon First Pick. It was really good. The plot didn't drag out and the author's storytelling ability makes you feel as if you are part of the Roth family. There is a second book coming but this book doesn't end on a cliffhanger which is great. I deducted one star because I felt that the two Roth boys were just a little hard to believe in the way they seemed to be nonchalant in how they were handling playing a game to the death.
January 26, 2025
3.75 stars...I liked this plotline and the characters. Jeff Wheeler is usually more of a fantasy writer so to read something like this of his was different but good different. This is a thriller/sci-fi with some magical/shape-shifting undertones. I love anything ancient-esque and this brought up the ancient Mayans. I love a good thriller and this had it all mystery, murder, mayhem, magic, tragedy. I will be binging this series for sure and will recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good thriller and Jeff Wheeler in general.
March 5, 2024
extremely suspenseful!
If you like thrills, suspense, and shocking twists, this is the book for you! I guarantee you will be addicted. This book is definitely hard to put down. Husband and wife, and their three children, are invited to go on vacation with another family. Sounds innocent enough. Things are about to seriously change! Two families go on vacation, only one family returns! You won't believe what they go through, what happens, and what lies ahead!
If you like thrills, suspense, and shocking twists, this is the book for you! I guarantee you will be addicted. This book is definitely hard to put down. Husband and wife, and their three children, are invited to go on vacation with another family. Sounds innocent enough. Things are about to seriously change! Two families go on vacation, only one family returns! You won't believe what they go through, what happens, and what lies ahead!
September 23, 2024
I picked this up on Kindle Unlimited because the synopsis reminded me of Matthew Reilly. It was an entertaining story, and I plan to continue the series. However, the modern slang and pop culture references were a bit cringeworthy. The plot follows a family navigating the jungle to escape a wealthy resort owner intent on sacrificing them. While it was over-the-top, I still enjoyed the ride, though I could have done without the kids' lingo and media nods.
March 11, 2025
Absolute mince. I can't finish this.
I have no idea why so many folk have complained about this book being 'woke' or PC?! The terrible writing would be my first complaint (the alligator, anyone?!), not the characters' ethnicity.
The number of times the main character struggled to remember a story he had briefly heard relating to Mayan history then proceeded to tell the story in detail was irritating beyond belief.
Avoid.
I have no idea why so many folk have complained about this book being 'woke' or PC?! The terrible writing would be my first complaint (the alligator, anyone?!), not the characters' ethnicity.
The number of times the main character struggled to remember a story he had briefly heard relating to Mayan history then proceeded to tell the story in detail was irritating beyond belief.
Avoid.
August 22, 2023
Pleasantly surprised how easy this read was.
The plot and story line flowed nicely along, maintaining my attention throughout. I am a non-fiction reader only. I rarely read fiction. However, I was offered a really good deal on the kindle version on this book, so I figured to give it a try. Needless to say, I could barely put it down, and now look forward to book two of the series.
The plot and story line flowed nicely along, maintaining my attention throughout. I am a non-fiction reader only. I rarely read fiction. However, I was offered a really good deal on the kindle version on this book, so I figured to give it a try. Needless to say, I could barely put it down, and now look forward to book two of the series.
June 7, 2023
It has been a long time since an Amazon First Read book was enjoyable.
I thought this was a really fun read and well written. I have been in a bit of a slump when I came to reading by not wanting to read anything at all. This is something different from what I normally read, so I thought I would give it a go. It certainly kept me interested, and I read it over 2 days. It is a well-researched but unoriginal idea. The final chapters seemed a little basic when I could have been incredible, and for characters that were supposed to be smart, they weren't half dumb at putting two and two together.
The ending of the book is clearly not resolved as a second has been written and due out in December. Did this book make me want to read its sequel? Yes. Was I annoyed that I couldn't read it immediately after I finished this book? Yes. Was this book so good that I will remember to purchase the sequel. No.
Fingers crossed it will be an Amazon First Read choice again.
I thought this was a really fun read and well written. I have been in a bit of a slump when I came to reading by not wanting to read anything at all. This is something different from what I normally read, so I thought I would give it a go. It certainly kept me interested, and I read it over 2 days. It is a well-researched but unoriginal idea. The final chapters seemed a little basic when I could have been incredible, and for characters that were supposed to be smart, they weren't half dumb at putting two and two together.
The ending of the book is clearly not resolved as a second has been written and due out in December. Did this book make me want to read its sequel? Yes. Was I annoyed that I couldn't read it immediately after I finished this book? Yes. Was this book so good that I will remember to purchase the sequel. No.
Fingers crossed it will be an Amazon First Read choice again.
June 24, 2023
Amazing 👏
Fantastic story! My palms were sweating through the last 100 pages.
I highly recommend this book, you will get a bit of everything your literary heart desires. If you have prime it is one of the free reads this month, so GET IT!
Fantastic story! My palms were sweating through the last 100 pages.
I highly recommend this book, you will get a bit of everything your literary heart desires. If you have prime it is one of the free reads this month, so GET IT!
July 6, 2023
I read a few of Wheeler's fantasy books and liked the rich descriptions but not the constant one-true-religion cultish feel. Then I saw this book on the first reads list. Rich descriptions of the Yucatan? Sounds good. But oh dear, it was so awful. First, the lame intra-family banter of the protagonist's family was like a 1980s afterschool sitcom (with newer tech.) But then, the thriller felt like a Nancy Drew crossed with a 1950s syfy movie.
What's weird in the reviews here are the complaints that it's "too PC." Um, what? A white guy (ok, his wife is Latina) bests an evil foreign guy with weird foreign religion at his own game. How is that PC? And using the Dresden Codex as a plot guide because it's cool? Yes, it's an amazing and very cool piece of history, anthropology, and archaeology. Someone who knew it well and had studied it and respected it would hesitate to use it this way. But not Wheeler. No, this is not a PC book. Rant over.
What's weird in the reviews here are the complaints that it's "too PC." Um, what? A white guy (ok, his wife is Latina) bests an evil foreign guy with weird foreign religion at his own game. How is that PC? And using the Dresden Codex as a plot guide because it's cool? Yes, it's an amazing and very cool piece of history, anthropology, and archaeology. Someone who knew it well and had studied it and respected it would hesitate to use it this way. But not Wheeler. No, this is not a PC book. Rant over.
July 27, 2025
utterly ridiculous but fun adventure thriller.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 436 reviews