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Uncharted
"I'm beginning to think the island wants to keep us here."
It was supposed to be an adventure. A little time off to honor the memory of a friend and complete a service project in the tropics. Do good deeds while getting a tan.
But when a storm rocks their plans, five long-time friends from college find themselves hurled onto a desolate island, and relief fades to fear. Here nature rules with a vengenance. The lone shelter from raw conditions is a sinister cave. Are they victims of a bizarre psychological experiment? Or could this godforsaken place have the power to maroon them forever?
It was supposed to be an adventure. A little time off to honor the memory of a friend and complete a service project in the tropics. Do good deeds while getting a tan.
But when a storm rocks their plans, five long-time friends from college find themselves hurled onto a desolate island, and relief fades to fear. Here nature rules with a vengenance. The lone shelter from raw conditions is a sinister cave. Are they victims of a bizarre psychological experiment? Or could this godforsaken place have the power to maroon them forever?
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2006
51 people are currently reading
781 people want to read
About the author
Angela Elwell Hunt
271 books1,964 followersChristy-Award winner Angela Hunt writes for readers who have learned to expect the unexpected in novels from this versatile author. With nearly six million copies of her books sold worldwide, she is the best-selling author of more than 165 works ranging from picture books (The Tale of Three Trees) to novels.
Now that her two children are grown, Angie and her husband live in Florida with Very Big Dogs (a direct result of watching Turner and Hooch and Sandlot too many times). This affinity for mastiffs has not been without its rewards--one of their dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest canine in America. Their dog received this dubious honor after an all-expenses-paid trip to Manhattan for the dog and the Hunts, complete with VIP air travel and a stretch limo in which they toured New York City.
Afterward, the dog gave out pawtographs at the airport.
Angela admits to being fascinated by animals, medicine, psychology, unexplained phenomena, and “just about everything” except sports. Books, she says, have always shaped her life— in the fifth grade she learned how to flirt from reading Gone with the Wind.
Her books have won the coveted Christy Award, several Angel Awards from Excellence in Media, and the Gold and Silver Medallions from Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year Award. In 2007, her novel The Note was featured as a Christmas movie on the Hallmark channel. Romantic Times Book Club presented her with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006, and American Christian Fiction Writers bestowed the same award in 2019.
In 2006, Angela completed her Master of Biblical Studies in Theology degree and completed her second doctorate in 2015. When she’s not home reading or writing, Angie often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers’ conferences. And to talk about her dogs, of course.
Now that her two children are grown, Angie and her husband live in Florida with Very Big Dogs (a direct result of watching Turner and Hooch and Sandlot too many times). This affinity for mastiffs has not been without its rewards--one of their dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest canine in America. Their dog received this dubious honor after an all-expenses-paid trip to Manhattan for the dog and the Hunts, complete with VIP air travel and a stretch limo in which they toured New York City.
Afterward, the dog gave out pawtographs at the airport.
Angela admits to being fascinated by animals, medicine, psychology, unexplained phenomena, and “just about everything” except sports. Books, she says, have always shaped her life— in the fifth grade she learned how to flirt from reading Gone with the Wind.
Her books have won the coveted Christy Award, several Angel Awards from Excellence in Media, and the Gold and Silver Medallions from Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year Award. In 2007, her novel The Note was featured as a Christmas movie on the Hallmark channel. Romantic Times Book Club presented her with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006, and American Christian Fiction Writers bestowed the same award in 2019.
In 2006, Angela completed her Master of Biblical Studies in Theology degree and completed her second doctorate in 2015. When she’s not home reading or writing, Angie often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers’ conferences. And to talk about her dogs, of course.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
August 16, 2010
Let me tell you a story. It's the tale of a woman who, wandering around the library stacks, spots an interesting-looking adventure novel, about five old college friends who become shipwrecked on a deserted island. It promises a surprise ending. Without further ado, she checks the book out.
But as the woman reads her novel, something doesn't seem right. Haven't there been an awful lot of mentions of God and Christianity? Isn't it odd that ALL of these characters go to church? Did the characters really just find a giant skull-shaped cave on their island?
Alarmed, the woman finally takes the time to research the author -- and discovers that she has picked a piece of Christian fiction. Dire, judgmental Christian fiction. And the unexpected twist is that -- SPOILER ALERT, ha, as if you care -- all of these characters have already died and gone to hell. Hell is apparently a very boring island, with a skull on it, where all your unexciting sins are played out in front of you in a cave, leaving you to be bummed out for all eternity.
But the reading woman cannot escape from hell any more than the characters can. Because by the time she discovers what she's reading, she's totally into it and wants to know what happens to these characters. (SPOILER AGAIN: Nothing. They stay dead, in hell.)
What's the moral of this story? Should the woman do more research about her reading choices? Read the parable of the sower in Matthew 13:3-9. In what way is this parable applicable to the characters? Oh wait, sorry, that last one is from the "discussion questions for readers' groups" section in the back of the book.
But as the woman reads her novel, something doesn't seem right. Haven't there been an awful lot of mentions of God and Christianity? Isn't it odd that ALL of these characters go to church? Did the characters really just find a giant skull-shaped cave on their island?
Alarmed, the woman finally takes the time to research the author -- and discovers that she has picked a piece of Christian fiction. Dire, judgmental Christian fiction. And the unexpected twist is that -- SPOILER ALERT, ha, as if you care -- all of these characters have already died and gone to hell. Hell is apparently a very boring island, with a skull on it, where all your unexciting sins are played out in front of you in a cave, leaving you to be bummed out for all eternity.
But the reading woman cannot escape from hell any more than the characters can. Because by the time she discovers what she's reading, she's totally into it and wants to know what happens to these characters. (SPOILER AGAIN: Nothing. They stay dead, in hell.)
What's the moral of this story? Should the woman do more research about her reading choices? Read the parable of the sower in Matthew 13:3-9. In what way is this parable applicable to the characters? Oh wait, sorry, that last one is from the "discussion questions for readers' groups" section in the back of the book.
September 5, 2011
AWFUL AWFUL AWFUL. So bad, in fact, I wish there was a website called BADREADS! I only continued to the end because of some of the better reviews I read. Even one star is too high of a rating. Do not start to read this book because then you too may find it necessary to waste your time finishing it.
July 2, 2022
First 80%: 1.4 stars
Last 20%: 4 stars
Last 20%: 4 stars
March 1, 2016
Uncharted by Angela Hunt is both a powerful and disturbing Christian novel. It is powerful because it will force the reader to examine themselves and to confront the question - how do I live out my faith? It is disturbing because of its truth and its nakedness of the human soul.
There are many themes within the novel but a major one is that of appearances. Too many people invest too much time in 'looking good' rather than 'doing good.' People act a part but inside they are very different. Their goal seems to be to get the approval of man. "She'd spent her life yearning for the approval of men, not God." People invest their lives in outward appearances and this reminded me very much of the Pharisees.
Another theme is that of the accumulation of stuff. We are all guilty of getting more and more stuff. We buy it. We idolise it. We don't share it. Stuff can become our god, leaving no time for people or God in our lives.
The truth presented in the novel is that people are important and God is important. We need to build a relationship with both God and people. "David had invested his life in his family, his patients and his friends." Our characters are what people will remember - how kind we were, not how much stuff we had.
The novel reveals that we cannot hide our deepest desires and secrets from God. He sees our hearts and minds. He knows who we really are.
I love Angela Hunt's novels and Uncharted is no exception. It is however totally unique. I have read nothing even vaguely like it. I really enjoyed it and I did gasp out loud when I realised the truth of it. It is a brilliant work of fiction. It may force you to examine your own life and faith - what motivates you? If we all take note of its lessons and we all live with our eyes on God and on each other, the world will be a better place.
There are many themes within the novel but a major one is that of appearances. Too many people invest too much time in 'looking good' rather than 'doing good.' People act a part but inside they are very different. Their goal seems to be to get the approval of man. "She'd spent her life yearning for the approval of men, not God." People invest their lives in outward appearances and this reminded me very much of the Pharisees.
Another theme is that of the accumulation of stuff. We are all guilty of getting more and more stuff. We buy it. We idolise it. We don't share it. Stuff can become our god, leaving no time for people or God in our lives.
The truth presented in the novel is that people are important and God is important. We need to build a relationship with both God and people. "David had invested his life in his family, his patients and his friends." Our characters are what people will remember - how kind we were, not how much stuff we had.
The novel reveals that we cannot hide our deepest desires and secrets from God. He sees our hearts and minds. He knows who we really are.
I love Angela Hunt's novels and Uncharted is no exception. It is however totally unique. I have read nothing even vaguely like it. I really enjoyed it and I did gasp out loud when I realised the truth of it. It is a brilliant work of fiction. It may force you to examine your own life and faith - what motivates you? If we all take note of its lessons and we all live with our eyes on God and on each other, the world will be a better place.
December 5, 2012
This is an AMAZING book. A must read. I really cant say anything about this book because it would give the main punch away. It will give you a new perspective if you have not thought this way. I know this sounds like a non-review but you will just have to read it and you will understand why I cant say to much about the story.
February 23, 2014
This book is seriously disturbing in a good way. It's brilliantly written and the ending will stay with you for years to come. One of Angela Hunt's best...and that's saying a lot!!!
September 19, 2018
Have you ever espied a flower, a rose to be exact, gleaming in the afternoon sunshine? You go over, noticing it's fanciful details on the petals, begging your intrigued attention. Then, to your horror, and utter dismay you realize as you get into the heart of the beauty, there is only rotted portions within. The stalk is rotted. Bugs are crawling therein. Worst of all, it seems the disease is spreading abroad the rose bush.
This is, “Uncharted.” The beautiful, exquisite writing is wonderful, and the storyline brilliantly illustrated! I found the introduction of characters was grand. Idea, is phenomenal. So, what's wrong with it all? After all, I find the detail here some of the best I've ever seen.
Like an apple with a beautiful skin, you may find after biting in, the bitter essence of rot --- the same applies to this story. This story shows the truth that people, the majority of which, are evilly minded, egotistical, and some seemingly beyond redemption. Few find redemption, and those who don't, find bitter destruction, that goes on forever; this is the essence of this novel. “Evil, its effects, and ultimate consequences.”
I love allegories, but I felt depressed, saddened, and broken from this one. There is only darkness, and unlike my favorite allegories, does not dare to show the sun (literally). When writing, I believe that not only bad is to be shown for what it is, but also good. A comparison, perhaps. A way out for a trapped soul. The writer here didn't deem that a good way to go, thus my heart felt torn apart by the morbidity of this piece of sheer downcast fiction.
(Spoiler Alerts:)
There is a hell, which this book illustrates, but it is actual heat, as in, Revelation 21:8 - But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death., and Matthew 13:50 - And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
From a deranged serial killer, to a vain lady whose face is destroyed, we feel pain for the characters, and yet, still can't relate. A work that showed effort and elegance, but lacked the true heart I feel Angela Hunt was trying to convey. A tip of advice: don't show evil alone, show good triumph over evil.
I feel we shouldn't have been taken to the downright disgusting of places this book traveled to in the lives of various characters, and instead have been shown the words on those pages of the book Karyn was trying so desperately to get to Sarah.
I'm giving this two stars; it goes to show writing may be brilliant, but evil too persistent to make a good story. Too much evil, not enough good.
This book had many mistakes, and while cleverly constructed, are not Biblical. I'll disclose some of the major ones here…
#1. Hell is a place of eternal fire, not an island for memories. You will not be found with a group of people remembering the past, but rather in a place of torment, alone, from any goodness and peace.
Revelation 14:11 - And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.
#2. While sin is sin, large or small, consequences can be heavier for crimes. Murdering 32 women is more horrendous that hatred spewed in unsaid thoughts. Would you rather someone beat you up, or just think about it?
Romans 13:4 - For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to [execute] wrath upon him that doeth evil.
Exodus 21:24-25 - Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,)
You do reap what you sow.
#3. What I believe is the main reason for my disdain for this novel --- while evil is talked about, answers aren't. I couldn't figure if Hunt was writing for a group of Christians to guide them away from faults, or whether she was writing to a group of unsaved individuals who knew nothing of Christ. I often thought she must've been talking to people familiar with the Gospel, because it wasn't shown here, that's for sure. We learnt: even people who go to church, and profess knowledge of their Creator can be lost, and found in hell; people who have riches, wealth, and beauty can be placed in Hell; and, people who are murderous evildoers are tormented in Hell. But, why? We know it's wrong, because obviously their story is taking place when all their hope and lives have been destroyed, but why? It mentions an old man, who shared his book with them, gave them work, and was found in a vision of Heaven, but why? What had he done? What had they not done? Even David, now in Heaven, had sinned, so how had he made it up to peace and happiness?
This book explores the sins of men, but not the hope we have been given. Jesus is never mentioned, and while the Bible is mentioned a few times, no one decides to tell salvation is necessary for purpose in life, and Heaven in the afterlife. This book is too busy dealing with the fact people are broken, sinful, hiding beneath their appearance, and exposing their morbid lives and infirmities. This book drowns us with the acts of sin, but never heals us with truth. The deeds of men found in Heaven could be seen simply to be of goodwill to men, but there is so much more to a Christian's life than that. Being a Christian doesn't mean pleasing others in word and deed. Being a Christian means you asked Jesus into your heart and soul, believed on Him as Saviour, and please Him. By pleasing Him, and following His will, you will treat others with love and kindness, but we must never forget that He comes first. Not the other way around.
#4. Finally, I am a writer, I love the thought of my writing touching a soul to seek God, but a piece of my writing is nothing compared to the perfect inerrancy of the Word of God! If a soul needs God, they need to seek Him in His Word--the KJV Bible. This book idolized a book written by an old man, yet the Bible wasn't mentioned. Karyn was worried her daughter, Sarah, would never find John's book on her large bookshelves; I was just wondering if she could find the Bible? I think that would be the best thing to pray for…
Overall, I feel this was a waste. After reading this, I felt I should pray for forgiveness for the places it led my mind to. Inspiration was not something I gained here, and I wouldn't suggest this book to anyone. Maybe, the only thought of help of this book would be to the soul who commits profuse evil, and perhaps gets frightened by the immense disturbance of the writing, and decides to study more into Hell. I see no beneficial use to a Christian from this book, and no overall use to a non-Christian because answers aren't given.
Good writing, lacking wisdom, help, love, and meaning…
I disdain writing bad reviews, but this book just worried me; writing for Jesus consists more of coming up with a thought provoking story line. It needs truth.
The only way to find peace, is to know Jesus Christ! John 3:16 says,
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
Jesus loves you!
~M.K.
www.forJesusfirstlovedme.wordpress.com
†
This is, “Uncharted.” The beautiful, exquisite writing is wonderful, and the storyline brilliantly illustrated! I found the introduction of characters was grand. Idea, is phenomenal. So, what's wrong with it all? After all, I find the detail here some of the best I've ever seen.
Like an apple with a beautiful skin, you may find after biting in, the bitter essence of rot --- the same applies to this story. This story shows the truth that people, the majority of which, are evilly minded, egotistical, and some seemingly beyond redemption. Few find redemption, and those who don't, find bitter destruction, that goes on forever; this is the essence of this novel. “Evil, its effects, and ultimate consequences.”
I love allegories, but I felt depressed, saddened, and broken from this one. There is only darkness, and unlike my favorite allegories, does not dare to show the sun (literally). When writing, I believe that not only bad is to be shown for what it is, but also good. A comparison, perhaps. A way out for a trapped soul. The writer here didn't deem that a good way to go, thus my heart felt torn apart by the morbidity of this piece of sheer downcast fiction.
(Spoiler Alerts:)
There is a hell, which this book illustrates, but it is actual heat, as in, Revelation 21:8 - But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death., and Matthew 13:50 - And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
From a deranged serial killer, to a vain lady whose face is destroyed, we feel pain for the characters, and yet, still can't relate. A work that showed effort and elegance, but lacked the true heart I feel Angela Hunt was trying to convey. A tip of advice: don't show evil alone, show good triumph over evil.
I feel we shouldn't have been taken to the downright disgusting of places this book traveled to in the lives of various characters, and instead have been shown the words on those pages of the book Karyn was trying so desperately to get to Sarah.
I'm giving this two stars; it goes to show writing may be brilliant, but evil too persistent to make a good story. Too much evil, not enough good.
This book had many mistakes, and while cleverly constructed, are not Biblical. I'll disclose some of the major ones here…
#1. Hell is a place of eternal fire, not an island for memories. You will not be found with a group of people remembering the past, but rather in a place of torment, alone, from any goodness and peace.
Revelation 14:11 - And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.
#2. While sin is sin, large or small, consequences can be heavier for crimes. Murdering 32 women is more horrendous that hatred spewed in unsaid thoughts. Would you rather someone beat you up, or just think about it?
Romans 13:4 - For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to [execute] wrath upon him that doeth evil.
Exodus 21:24-25 - Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,)
You do reap what you sow.
#3. What I believe is the main reason for my disdain for this novel --- while evil is talked about, answers aren't. I couldn't figure if Hunt was writing for a group of Christians to guide them away from faults, or whether she was writing to a group of unsaved individuals who knew nothing of Christ. I often thought she must've been talking to people familiar with the Gospel, because it wasn't shown here, that's for sure. We learnt: even people who go to church, and profess knowledge of their Creator can be lost, and found in hell; people who have riches, wealth, and beauty can be placed in Hell; and, people who are murderous evildoers are tormented in Hell. But, why? We know it's wrong, because obviously their story is taking place when all their hope and lives have been destroyed, but why? It mentions an old man, who shared his book with them, gave them work, and was found in a vision of Heaven, but why? What had he done? What had they not done? Even David, now in Heaven, had sinned, so how had he made it up to peace and happiness?
This book explores the sins of men, but not the hope we have been given. Jesus is never mentioned, and while the Bible is mentioned a few times, no one decides to tell salvation is necessary for purpose in life, and Heaven in the afterlife. This book is too busy dealing with the fact people are broken, sinful, hiding beneath their appearance, and exposing their morbid lives and infirmities. This book drowns us with the acts of sin, but never heals us with truth. The deeds of men found in Heaven could be seen simply to be of goodwill to men, but there is so much more to a Christian's life than that. Being a Christian doesn't mean pleasing others in word and deed. Being a Christian means you asked Jesus into your heart and soul, believed on Him as Saviour, and please Him. By pleasing Him, and following His will, you will treat others with love and kindness, but we must never forget that He comes first. Not the other way around.
#4. Finally, I am a writer, I love the thought of my writing touching a soul to seek God, but a piece of my writing is nothing compared to the perfect inerrancy of the Word of God! If a soul needs God, they need to seek Him in His Word--the KJV Bible. This book idolized a book written by an old man, yet the Bible wasn't mentioned. Karyn was worried her daughter, Sarah, would never find John's book on her large bookshelves; I was just wondering if she could find the Bible? I think that would be the best thing to pray for…
Overall, I feel this was a waste. After reading this, I felt I should pray for forgiveness for the places it led my mind to. Inspiration was not something I gained here, and I wouldn't suggest this book to anyone. Maybe, the only thought of help of this book would be to the soul who commits profuse evil, and perhaps gets frightened by the immense disturbance of the writing, and decides to study more into Hell. I see no beneficial use to a Christian from this book, and no overall use to a non-Christian because answers aren't given.
Good writing, lacking wisdom, help, love, and meaning…
I disdain writing bad reviews, but this book just worried me; writing for Jesus consists more of coming up with a thought provoking story line. It needs truth.
The only way to find peace, is to know Jesus Christ! John 3:16 says,
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
Jesus loves you!
~M.K.
www.forJesusfirstlovedme.wordpress.com
†
May 24, 2009
20 years after they became friends at college 6 friends come together at the funeral of David. They decide to build a school that David was going to build on one of the small Marshall Islands. Bad weather forces them to take a small boat and it sinks. Luckily they all wash up on the shore of a strange, uninhabited island. They start to plan they rescue but strange things begin to happen.
Can't say more you have to read to find out. Very thought provoking book.
Can't say more you have to read to find out. Very thought provoking book.
February 4, 2015
Very thought provoking story, very different than I've ever read but really makes you think about the life your living right now to what is really important and right in God's eyes. There are no secrets you can keep from Him, He knows and see's all.
May 21, 2015
Reread again!
This is not the first time or the last time I have read this book. It always stays with me. I love the mystery surrounding the island and how it shows God sees all our thoughts. Without Jesus we would be forever lost.
This is not the first time or the last time I have read this book. It always stays with me. I love the mystery surrounding the island and how it shows God sees all our thoughts. Without Jesus we would be forever lost.
August 30, 2007
This was a great book...one that really makes you think! Very different from what I ususually read. I HIGHLY recommend it.
March 2, 2010
Creepy...original and suprise ending...gives much to think about
April 10, 2012
This book was so good and very thought provoking. It's a must read for all Christian fiction lovers. I highly recommend it. I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars.
March 17, 2014
I liked the plot and thought the ending was great.I would strongly recommend this book to christian readers. But don't expect a cheerful and carefree story.
February 16, 2015
I put this down as a mystery but it's not. Disturbing, yes. I highly recommend this book. It will, should make you think. I look forward to reading more from this author.
January 6, 2016
David Payne dies in a horrible wreck. Five friends from college decide to honor his memory and finish his charitable service project. Various reasons they give: out of guilt, for publicity, for an alibi.
Meet Karyn & Kevin. Divorced ten years ago, with a fifteen year old daughter. Karyn is an actress for a daytime soap opera. Kevin is a high paid executive for a candy company. Both are absorbed with their success.
Lisa is a woman, never married and secretly harboring an infatuation over an old friend, who runs a daycare and cares for her ailing parents. She obsesses over the rewards she receives from her church and being noticed.
Susan, an interior designer, is financially stable through the death of her older husband. She agonizes about her looks and her status.
Then there is Mark. An used car salesman, out to make a quick fortune, who hides a horrid secret.
On the way to the Marshall Islands, a storm capsizes the boat. The five friends find themselves washed ashore a desolate island with black volcanic sand that cuts their feet. The sun is hidden behind a stationary curtain of gray clouds. Hot air and hot winds assault them. No food. No freshwater. How can they survive?
Slowly, they discover that the skull shaped cave they find is a master of revealing secrets. Little by little, each are shown who they really are: a vicious gossiper who will do whatever it takes to get what she wants; a man who is selfish and controlling, thinking only of how he can manipulate the people around him; an adulteress who delights in her beauty and in her seduction of other women's husbands; a single woman who is two-faced, a wolf in sheep's clothing; a man who is a serial killer.
As the island takes control of them, never to release them, can these five people ever hope to survive? No. No one escapes Hell.
These people discover that they gave up the One Perfect Gift for their own selfish desires, they realize that they will never die, because they are already dead and residing in Hades. They now live with endless parading of each others secret sins and utmost misery that comes from not accepting Christ.
Written with hints of Jesus' parables of the sower, the rich man in Hell, and the ten bridesmaids, this book will make you truly think and view your own soul.
The beauty of this story: Because none of us are worthy or righteous and all of us deserve to be on that desolate island of pain and thirst, of misery, it can be avoided through the acceptance of Jesus Christ.
Meet Karyn & Kevin. Divorced ten years ago, with a fifteen year old daughter. Karyn is an actress for a daytime soap opera. Kevin is a high paid executive for a candy company. Both are absorbed with their success.
Lisa is a woman, never married and secretly harboring an infatuation over an old friend, who runs a daycare and cares for her ailing parents. She obsesses over the rewards she receives from her church and being noticed.
Susan, an interior designer, is financially stable through the death of her older husband. She agonizes about her looks and her status.
Then there is Mark. An used car salesman, out to make a quick fortune, who hides a horrid secret.
On the way to the Marshall Islands, a storm capsizes the boat. The five friends find themselves washed ashore a desolate island with black volcanic sand that cuts their feet. The sun is hidden behind a stationary curtain of gray clouds. Hot air and hot winds assault them. No food. No freshwater. How can they survive?
Slowly, they discover that the skull shaped cave they find is a master of revealing secrets. Little by little, each are shown who they really are: a vicious gossiper who will do whatever it takes to get what she wants; a man who is selfish and controlling, thinking only of how he can manipulate the people around him; an adulteress who delights in her beauty and in her seduction of other women's husbands; a single woman who is two-faced, a wolf in sheep's clothing; a man who is a serial killer.
As the island takes control of them, never to release them, can these five people ever hope to survive? No. No one escapes Hell.
These people discover that they gave up the One Perfect Gift for their own selfish desires, they realize that they will never die, because they are already dead and residing in Hades. They now live with endless parading of each others secret sins and utmost misery that comes from not accepting Christ.
Written with hints of Jesus' parables of the sower, the rich man in Hell, and the ten bridesmaids, this book will make you truly think and view your own soul.
The beauty of this story: Because none of us are worthy or righteous and all of us deserve to be on that desolate island of pain and thirst, of misery, it can be avoided through the acceptance of Jesus Christ.
May 11, 2014
College friends who haven't seen each other in 20 years are reunited when one of them dies and they all meet up at the funeral. As a way to honor their dead friend, the remaining 5 friends set out on a long trip together and wind up on an uncharted island. The reader is aware of the failings of each friend from the outset, but they are not aware of one another's failings...until strange things start to happen on the island. This allegorical tale will stay with me for a long time, and it impacted me in ways that I hope will stay with me for the rest of my life.
January 10, 2016
I loved this book as the story twist took me totally by surprise. I love when I find an author I really enjoy and can just pick any book from their list of novels and know I will be entertained; that is how I feel about Angela Hunts books and this one lived up to her creative way of twisting a story around so that it entertains you and weaves a message in all at the same time. I kept imagining myself stranded on this island while I was reading and wondering how I would deal with the desolation and thirst. I was Aldi thinking,"What would my "movie" look like that played on the wall?" Yikes!!!
April 19, 2016
Honestly, my mom pushed me to read this book, as it is one of her favorites. I enjoyed the read, although I would say the ending is haunting. Yet, as fate would have it, that happens to be the deepest part of the book. I would recommend this as a read... even if it's just for the ending. The final chapters are page-turners, and they still leave you with an unexplainable feeling at the end.
July 12, 2009
Rather disappointed with the story. I felt Ms. Hunt started you down paths that she never fully developed and left hanging. It seems she was trying to portray a parable in her story. I found it rather lacking in substance.
February 14, 2022
This book was so interesting but random and weird at the same time. I thought I was going to end up giving it 5 stars bc it kept getting more interesting but then it just had so many super weird things and not a good ending. I get the analogy she was trying to make but it was still confusing and mm just weird 😂.
January 26, 2020
Honestly, I would never recommend this book. Very weird.
January 16, 2021
This will go in the record of one of my most favorite books. It's been haunting my thoughts and I keep rethinking about the story.....it changed my life.....will read again!!
August 6, 2023
This book is 4 stars! At first I was going to give the story 3 stars but the story has been sticking with me and things are dawning on me still even 3 days after finishing the book. Definitely worth a read!
August 13, 2017
**Update** Upon the second read through, I found this book incredibly disturbing. I could barely finish the book. I hate the lack of even the slightest possibility of redemption for any of these characters. This book did not survive round two of the purge from my personal collection.
A review from my old blog...
Once again Angela Hunt does not fail to please. For Christmas I received three of her most recent books (with one more on the way) and just finished Uncharted. Boy do I love that book!
I knew, having read Mrs. Hunt's blog and from reading other reviews of the book, that this book is definitely "out there" even in comparison to other books of hers. I absolutely loved it. In fact, her "expect the unexpected" is one of the reason why I absolutely love the book.
I can't really review the book adequately because that would give away a good part of the book that should not be learned until Mrs. Hunt reveals it in the book. This plot twist definitely stretches the imagination for believers and many (including some of my own relatives) would not like this twist at all.
Me on the other hand... I love that kind of stuff. I'm not one to limit God. Who says that there can't be any time traveling? (No. There's no time traveling in the book. That's just the example that I normally use. :D)
I love Mrs. Hunt's style. For the prologue and epilogue she uses present tense verbs, not a technique that is commonly used, and shifts to past tense... the most common... for the majority of the book which takes place a year earlier than the prologue and epilogue. That eliminates a lot of the awkward had + verb constructions.
I cannot possibly say enough about this book. I strongly recommend it to anyone willing to take a ride!
A review from my old blog...
Once again Angela Hunt does not fail to please. For Christmas I received three of her most recent books (with one more on the way) and just finished Uncharted. Boy do I love that book!
I knew, having read Mrs. Hunt's blog and from reading other reviews of the book, that this book is definitely "out there" even in comparison to other books of hers. I absolutely loved it. In fact, her "expect the unexpected" is one of the reason why I absolutely love the book.
I can't really review the book adequately because that would give away a good part of the book that should not be learned until Mrs. Hunt reveals it in the book. This plot twist definitely stretches the imagination for believers and many (including some of my own relatives) would not like this twist at all.
Me on the other hand... I love that kind of stuff. I'm not one to limit God. Who says that there can't be any time traveling? (No. There's no time traveling in the book. That's just the example that I normally use. :D)
I love Mrs. Hunt's style. For the prologue and epilogue she uses present tense verbs, not a technique that is commonly used, and shifts to past tense... the most common... for the majority of the book which takes place a year earlier than the prologue and epilogue. That eliminates a lot of the awkward had + verb constructions.
I cannot possibly say enough about this book. I strongly recommend it to anyone willing to take a ride!
March 4, 2011
Plot Summary: What happens, When & Where, Central Characters, Major Conflicts[return]A group of friends that used to be extremely close in college is reunited when one of them unexpectedly dies. The deceased was a doctor who spent his vacation time on mission projects around the globe, helping underprivileged children. Each year he would invite his former friends to go with him, but none of them ever found the time. Now their former employer (the friends all met because they worked for the same guy) pleads with them to fulfill their friends dying wish that they go on one of these trips. So five very different people--a prima donna, an actress, a daycare provider, a car salesman, and a business man--find themselves travelling to the other side of the world to build a school. However the weather--and God--may have very different plans for them.[return][return][return][return][return][return][return]Style Characterisics: Pacing, clarity, structure, narrative devices, etc.[return]It takes a little bit of reading to get into the story, as Hunt jumps from character to character and it takes a while to get to know who is who. The story builds into a powerful allegory, however, twisting into something much different than what it might seem at the beginning. Which raises some very interesting questions about the nature of hell. This in itself makes it quite a stunning read.[return][return][return][return][return][return][return]How Good is it?[return]A stunning read, part adventure story and part allegorical parable.
January 5, 2010
This is the only book I've read by Angela Hunt, and I would consider reading more things written by her based on how much I enjoyed this one.
The story gets off to a slow start because she introduces about 6 characters, and the first several chapters go back and forth between them. If you can hang in until about 70 pages in, you'll find the rest of the book satisfying.
The mystery of the island keeps you turning the pages, as well as the secrets that each character is trying to keep hidden from the others.
This is very thought provoking, making you think about your own thoughts and intents of your heart. It should make both Christians, and unbelievers alike, think about eternity. I highly recommend this book to anyone. It was unlike anything I've read before.
The story gets off to a slow start because she introduces about 6 characters, and the first several chapters go back and forth between them. If you can hang in until about 70 pages in, you'll find the rest of the book satisfying.
The mystery of the island keeps you turning the pages, as well as the secrets that each character is trying to keep hidden from the others.
This is very thought provoking, making you think about your own thoughts and intents of your heart. It should make both Christians, and unbelievers alike, think about eternity. I highly recommend this book to anyone. It was unlike anything I've read before.
July 1, 2016
I had the serendipitous good fortune recently to see Mrs. Hunt offer books to her readers at a tremendous discount and jumped at the offer. One catch: her choice of 5 books. I was delighted when I received my books to find one I had not yet read. This one, Uncharted.
(Actually 2-- also The Island of Heavenly Daze)
At first I thought perhaps the climactic end was a metaphor for the island of John's Patmos. Then, without giving too much away I slowly recognized the rich man and Lazarus.
I hope if you are reading this review you will read this book. It may well change your life, if you are fortunate.
(Actually 2-- also The Island of Heavenly Daze)
At first I thought perhaps the climactic end was a metaphor for the island of John's Patmos. Then, without giving too much away I slowly recognized the rich man and Lazarus.
I hope if you are reading this review you will read this book. It may well change your life, if you are fortunate.
January 25, 2015
For anyone thinking about life, eternal life, heaven and hell, the meaning of life. I strongly recommend this book. I listened to the audio version but I ended up buy the Kindle edition as well. Today I am finishing up a blog post sighting the similarity between Angela's book and The Great Divorce by CS Lewis. Interesting how authors from 2 different centuries have had their imagination stoked by the destination of souls. I would strongly recommend Uncharted! Be ready to be taken to an unexpected place.
June 26, 2014
I am surprised that I liked this book because I basically just grabbed it off of the shelf at the library. I really liked how Hunt added a twist at the end, it was definitely unexpected. I also liked how she portrayed each of the characters, and their personal problems represented something on the island. Overall, I'm glad I branched out, and read it.
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