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The Devil's Bible
When a horribly disfigured woman breaks into the underground depository of the Stockholm National Library in Sweden and tears out pages of satanic spells hidden deep inside the Codex Gigas – The Devil’s Bible – teams of investigators quickly realize that there is more to this than meets the eye. Meanwhile, in the Czech Republic, Colonel Cameron Skull is investigating the ravaged remains of the cemetery outside the infamous, and now touristy, Church of Bones. But when a manlike creature appears and Colonel Skull realizes the danger, it’s too late. It is then that he sees Iris for the first time, and they both quickly realize that they are connected way beyond just a physical attraction.
Predictions are starting to come true and the clock is ticking. The Book of Revelations, Nostradamus and the Dead Sea Scrolls have all warned of this moment, and now it is upon us. The coming of the Antichrist.
Predictions are starting to come true and the clock is ticking. The Book of Revelations, Nostradamus and the Dead Sea Scrolls have all warned of this moment, and now it is upon us. The coming of the Antichrist.
442 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 4, 2019
7 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 22, 2019
***SPOILERS***SPOILERS***SPOILERS***
Okay, so positives first. It is very evident that the topic was well researched. It is also an extremely interesting concept. And Hyde certainly knows how to use little cliff hangers at the end of each chapter to keep you interested. I feel like there is tons of potential for this author.
Now for the negatives. There seems to be a lot of tell and very little show in my opinion. And in a few places, too much information is given which slows down the story. Likewise, there are a few places where the opposite is true. An example of this would be the kiss on the forehead. I personally need so many more interactions between the two before something so intimate comes out of nowhere. In the beginning, Skull comes off as a jerk and is rude for no apparent reason. It seems by the end there was an arc for the character, but it isn’t really shown in the story. We see point A and point B, but no real arc connecting the two. Lastly, as far as the writing is concerned, most interactions seem choppy and awkward. Maybe there is a reason for this but very few conversations had any fluidity to them. Except however the one-liner over the bracelet. I loved Cameron’s response and laughed out loud.
To be clear I did listen on Audible and did not like the narrator. Maybe he did this book a disservice and I just missed something.
Even with my laundry list of complaints, I would certainly be interested in Hyde’s other books.
Okay, so positives first. It is very evident that the topic was well researched. It is also an extremely interesting concept. And Hyde certainly knows how to use little cliff hangers at the end of each chapter to keep you interested. I feel like there is tons of potential for this author.
Now for the negatives. There seems to be a lot of tell and very little show in my opinion. And in a few places, too much information is given which slows down the story. Likewise, there are a few places where the opposite is true. An example of this would be the kiss on the forehead. I personally need so many more interactions between the two before something so intimate comes out of nowhere. In the beginning, Skull comes off as a jerk and is rude for no apparent reason. It seems by the end there was an arc for the character, but it isn’t really shown in the story. We see point A and point B, but no real arc connecting the two. Lastly, as far as the writing is concerned, most interactions seem choppy and awkward. Maybe there is a reason for this but very few conversations had any fluidity to them. Except however the one-liner over the bracelet. I loved Cameron’s response and laughed out loud.
To be clear I did listen on Audible and did not like the narrator. Maybe he did this book a disservice and I just missed something.
Even with my laundry list of complaints, I would certainly be interested in Hyde’s other books.
May 10, 2019
3. 5 rating
Religion + science + supernatural = mysterious suspenseful story.
The Devil’s Bible appears to have a book called the Codex Gigas aka the Devil’s Bible not to be confused with the Satanic Bible. This story expertly intertwines religion, science and the supernatural into a pretty intense read filled with a bit international intrigue as well. The story begins in 1229 A.D. and the creation of the Codex Gigas and my brows went up with talk of the Book of Revelations and the moment evil entered. I honestly was not sure I could or would finish this book. My southern Baptist upbringing silently rebelled.
Sidenote: I loved the maps at the beginning to give the reader a point of reference as the Czech Republic is where the mystery occurs.
Colonel Skull, a widower and single dad and Iris Wilhelmsson, an American translator, are brought together after the theft of several books with a connection to the Czech Republic. Fast forward to a supernatural creature, a kidnapping and these two joining forces on the investigation.
I liked these two separately, but even more as a unit. The author did a great job of displaying their chemistry and pulling you into each scene. It is always evident when an author has done their research and it is evident that Mr. Hyde researched and provided a work of fiction that had a basis in truth. Obviously, there are a lot of religious references and ideals that make you think about your own religious beliefs or at least I thought about my own at times. The storyline moved along at a steady pace introducing you to many characters along the way- pay attention- and as acts that indicate the end of days are near, you will be on edge. The characters are in direct danger and it (the story) gets extremely dark as bodies start to pile up. Don’t be afraid to take a note or two to keep up. I certainly did, because there were words or references that I didn’t know and I’m not ashamed to say this lady had to google a time or two or six.
All in all if you like intrigue of the supernatural, religious variety, you will enjoy this thriller. While it was not my normal read, I definitely was not disappointed. It even prompted a discussion between my mother and I on the end of days.
Religion + science + supernatural = mysterious suspenseful story.
The Devil’s Bible appears to have a book called the Codex Gigas aka the Devil’s Bible not to be confused with the Satanic Bible. This story expertly intertwines religion, science and the supernatural into a pretty intense read filled with a bit international intrigue as well. The story begins in 1229 A.D. and the creation of the Codex Gigas and my brows went up with talk of the Book of Revelations and the moment evil entered. I honestly was not sure I could or would finish this book. My southern Baptist upbringing silently rebelled.
Sidenote: I loved the maps at the beginning to give the reader a point of reference as the Czech Republic is where the mystery occurs.
Colonel Skull, a widower and single dad and Iris Wilhelmsson, an American translator, are brought together after the theft of several books with a connection to the Czech Republic. Fast forward to a supernatural creature, a kidnapping and these two joining forces on the investigation.
I liked these two separately, but even more as a unit. The author did a great job of displaying their chemistry and pulling you into each scene. It is always evident when an author has done their research and it is evident that Mr. Hyde researched and provided a work of fiction that had a basis in truth. Obviously, there are a lot of religious references and ideals that make you think about your own religious beliefs or at least I thought about my own at times. The storyline moved along at a steady pace introducing you to many characters along the way- pay attention- and as acts that indicate the end of days are near, you will be on edge. The characters are in direct danger and it (the story) gets extremely dark as bodies start to pile up. Don’t be afraid to take a note or two to keep up. I certainly did, because there were words or references that I didn’t know and I’m not ashamed to say this lady had to google a time or two or six.
All in all if you like intrigue of the supernatural, religious variety, you will enjoy this thriller. While it was not my normal read, I definitely was not disappointed. It even prompted a discussion between my mother and I on the end of days.
April 23, 2019
This book is for fans of works by Dan Brown (original like “The Da Vinci Code”), Matthew Reilly, and James Rollins – action/adventure with a twinge of the supernatural that has scientific backing behind it.
I found this novel really accessible and had a fast-moving plot. A seemingly supernatural “creature” is on the rampage that connects to the mysterious and ancient Codex Gigas, a real book whose nickname is the basis for the title.
International intrigue in the Czech Republic take stage as international incidents are threatening the investigation into missing pages from the Codex that are thought to be able to bring about the end times.
There’s religious references in the book, but nothing that hits over the head of the reader in either direction (those who want to read it, those who don’t) and like “The Da Vinci Code” brings more of a mystery layer to the story along with references to the supernatural like predictions from Nostradamus which are also not forced.
Colonel Cameron Skull is an interesting character and has a backstory that he flashes to about his father that might be a future exploration of why he does what he does, acts how he does, and became a private military operative. A widower, he also is raising a young daughter. During his investigation he starts to fall for Iris Wilhelmsson whose ex-brother-in-law Jake Evans (who was Skull’s liaison/driver) has been kidnapped and she is helping Skull to find him and helping with his investigation into the "creature" (whose damage she’s seen firsthand). Both are in a lot of danger and the novel ventures into darker territory as they go along.
There’s only a couple of instances where I had moments of, “This character said “what” about “this”, now?” but I chalked it up to the characters development (differing viewpoints, internal monologue); the novel’s central theme of the Codex was interesting and with a suspenseful mystery to solve so I moved over those.
A book that will have you researching the actual historical Codex and its legends.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
I found this novel really accessible and had a fast-moving plot. A seemingly supernatural “creature” is on the rampage that connects to the mysterious and ancient Codex Gigas, a real book whose nickname is the basis for the title.
International intrigue in the Czech Republic take stage as international incidents are threatening the investigation into missing pages from the Codex that are thought to be able to bring about the end times.
There’s religious references in the book, but nothing that hits over the head of the reader in either direction (those who want to read it, those who don’t) and like “The Da Vinci Code” brings more of a mystery layer to the story along with references to the supernatural like predictions from Nostradamus which are also not forced.
Colonel Cameron Skull is an interesting character and has a backstory that he flashes to about his father that might be a future exploration of why he does what he does, acts how he does, and became a private military operative. A widower, he also is raising a young daughter. During his investigation he starts to fall for Iris Wilhelmsson whose ex-brother-in-law Jake Evans (who was Skull’s liaison/driver) has been kidnapped and she is helping Skull to find him and helping with his investigation into the "creature" (whose damage she’s seen firsthand). Both are in a lot of danger and the novel ventures into darker territory as they go along.
There’s only a couple of instances where I had moments of, “This character said “what” about “this”, now?” but I chalked it up to the characters development (differing viewpoints, internal monologue); the novel’s central theme of the Codex was interesting and with a suspenseful mystery to solve so I moved over those.
A book that will have you researching the actual historical Codex and its legends.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
August 10, 2020
Well this was a tough one. Did I like the book? Yes I did. In the whole, it was a good story with all the right bits to make your adrenaline go then to make you cringe then to horrify you. So why only 3 stars? Well, let me start by saying that in no way whatsoever I claim to be a book critic nor a professional book reviewer. I know what I like and that is solely on what I base my comments. The book as a whole is a good one but there were some bits where I felt the author lost himself in too much unnecessary details that made my mind wonder and not focus on the written word. But what really annoyed me were the mistakes... things like to instead of too; decent instead of descent; here instead of hear and you’re instead of your. Argh! Come on proof readers. You’re letting the author down. These were mainly why the 3 stars and not 4.
April 18, 2021
I loved this book! Mostly because it taught me a lot about things that i didnt even know existed! Ive read many book mostly thrillers,suspenseful books. The majority dont have true facts, artifacts etc. This book did. It taught me a lot about different things. Had me googling different items and people. Would even have discussions with my husband about some of the things in the book. Now i would say i was not happy how skull and iris developed feelings for each other so quickly. But then i remembered in real life theres people that say it was love at first sight. So if it can happen in real life why cant it happen in fiction characters?!
May 27, 2020
In my opinion an authors job is to entertain and Mr. Hyde does just that in this story! I really enjoyed this one! I love adventure stories that tie in historical facts, ancient sites and ancient objects! This has all three! With Nostradamus’s prediction of the coming of the Antichrist, the tale of the Black Pope and the Devils Bible the author leads us on a journey to ancient sites as Cameron Skull follows the clues that he is hard pressed to believe!
July 24, 2019
The Devil's Bible is a fantastic read, I found myself racing through chapters just to find out what happens next. For fans of historical thrillers similar to James Rollins, Dan Brown, and Steve Berry you will definitely enjoy this adventure. It left me not knowing what I wanted to read next because I enjoyed it so much and I didn't want it to end. Can't wait for the next adventure!!!!
August 8, 2019
Devil's Bible was the first book I have read by this author. It reminded my of James Rollins novels and it's a real page-turner. Although the style of writing is not so exquisite.
The plot is really interesting and those who are fond of history and mysteries will definitely love it.
Justin Hyde is a promising writer and I can't wait to read his other novels.
The plot is really interesting and those who are fond of history and mysteries will definitely love it.
Justin Hyde is a promising writer and I can't wait to read his other novels.
March 25, 2020
Thank you Justin for giving me the link to your e-book. I definitely appreciate it. You are definitely a great writer and author. Glad I had met you last year, for James Rollins book tour for The Crucible and the signing at Vromans in Pasadena. Too bad I didn’t get him to sign my book or to get a photo with him.
Sincerely,
Shawn Marie Pyper
Sincerely,
Shawn Marie Pyper
December 22, 2019
Audible:I really liked this book!This was a great mix of history and mystery.Gary Bennett was the perfect narrator.I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
October 2, 2020
This is a book you'll be hard pressed to put down. History, spiritual mysteries, action and a touch of romance. The writing is full of wonderful details that bring even the elusive things to life. Thanks for the thrill ride!
May 24, 2021
A solid 3.5!
As my first thriller read, I found myself unable to put this book down. Each chapter ended and I wanted more. The book is written with different characters taking the lead in each chapter, which adds to the suspense.
As my first thriller read, I found myself unable to put this book down. Each chapter ended and I wanted more. The book is written with different characters taking the lead in each chapter, which adds to the suspense.
November 28, 2022
Entertaining read.
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on May 4, 2020
This was a really good book. I enjoyed it a lot. After the book gets going, it’s hard to put down. I love how down to earth the author is with his fact checking and appreciated that there was a fact check chapter.
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on May 4, 2020
This was a really good book. I enjoyed it a lot. After the book gets going, it’s hard to put down. I love how down to earth the author is with his fact checking and appreciated that there was a fact check chapter.
May 17, 2019
An Astonishing Book Full Of Thrill And Creative Writing.
May 23, 2019
Really enjoyed the book. Reminds me a little of James Rollins and Steve Berry. Loved the scientific/history/supernatural feel to it. Looking forward to the next one!
September 14, 2020
Great book! It’s been awhile since I’ve picked up a book and been upset when I had to stop reading. This author is now a favorite of mine. Very Dan Brown-like.
I definitely recommend you read Justin Hyde’s work. Cameron Skull and Robert Langdon will both be beckoning you from the bookshelf.
I definitely recommend you read Justin Hyde’s work. Cameron Skull and Robert Langdon will both be beckoning you from the bookshelf.
November 12, 2020
Once I picked this book up I couldn’t put it down, a suspenseful read with great characters and settings. The author really brings to life the coming of the Antichrist, with so many warnings in life about this actually happening it’s chilling and realistic how this is written. Making you feel like you’re there in the moment with the characters.
October 7, 2019
An Enjoyable Book That Surprised Me
The description of this book doesn’t do it justice. It’s a bizarre mashup of a bunch of genres including mystery, thriller, horror, and adventure. I only mention this because from the looks of it, it’s just a horror book, but it’s really so much more that I wasn’t expecting.
I haven’t been to church in quite some time and I would consider myself to be an atheist – but I was raised Catholic and I’ll tell you what. Reading about things that you were warned about for your entire childhood is… disconcerting. It’s one of those feelings where even 10+ years since the last time I stepped foot in a church (not for a wedding) yet I still have Catholic guilt for things. It’s that same uneasy feeling.
The only major thing that bothered me was Hyde’s, what I’ll call, “forced romance”. The romance or at least pre-romance scenes in this book were a struggle to get through. They were written in a really awkward and forced way and honestly they didn’t really add to the story. If he’d not written any of their thoughts about each other (oh, I don’t like her, but she is pretty) and left it open for the reader to interpret – I’d be that more people would have them together than not. But writing out their inner monologues when the other was talking just made it awkward.
The storytelling, outside of what I mentioned was good. It took a little bit to get into it but once the story picks up – it’s a race to the finish. Hyde’s description of the Devil’s Bible and the Antichrist(s) were chilling and I thought really helped this book shine. It was an enjoyable story that surprised me.
The narration by Gary Bennett is great. His performance was just that – a performance (but without feeling like an audio drama either). He helped bring an interesting and intriguing book and make it great.
The description of this book doesn’t do it justice. It’s a bizarre mashup of a bunch of genres including mystery, thriller, horror, and adventure. I only mention this because from the looks of it, it’s just a horror book, but it’s really so much more that I wasn’t expecting.
I haven’t been to church in quite some time and I would consider myself to be an atheist – but I was raised Catholic and I’ll tell you what. Reading about things that you were warned about for your entire childhood is… disconcerting. It’s one of those feelings where even 10+ years since the last time I stepped foot in a church (not for a wedding) yet I still have Catholic guilt for things. It’s that same uneasy feeling.
The only major thing that bothered me was Hyde’s, what I’ll call, “forced romance”. The romance or at least pre-romance scenes in this book were a struggle to get through. They were written in a really awkward and forced way and honestly they didn’t really add to the story. If he’d not written any of their thoughts about each other (oh, I don’t like her, but she is pretty) and left it open for the reader to interpret – I’d be that more people would have them together than not. But writing out their inner monologues when the other was talking just made it awkward.
The storytelling, outside of what I mentioned was good. It took a little bit to get into it but once the story picks up – it’s a race to the finish. Hyde’s description of the Devil’s Bible and the Antichrist(s) were chilling and I thought really helped this book shine. It was an enjoyable story that surprised me.
The narration by Gary Bennett is great. His performance was just that – a performance (but without feeling like an audio drama either). He helped bring an interesting and intriguing book and make it great.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews