"Possibly the MOST researched novel I have ever read...", January 23, 2001
Reviewer: Jeff Edwards from Idaho

My association with Steve Alten's books started a few years ago when I grabbed a copy of 'Meg'. His sequel ('The Trench')was even BETTER...but these were novels of underwater terror involving a prehistoric megolodon (just imagine a fierce shark the size of the largest whale and you get the idea...)--b-u-u-t the BIGGEST and BEST surprise was that 'Domain' was a complete and amazing departure from his first two novels. I can't remember if I have EVER read a book that contained nearly as much detailed research as I found within the pages of 'Domain'. The amount of work Mr. Alten put into this story was absolutely staggering.

The story starts off with the speed of a runaway meteorite (literally) and just picks up from there. What exactly hit the earth 65 million years ago and decimated the dinosaurs...if it WASN'T a meteor as the scientists claim, what WAS IT??? Steve Alten attempts to answer this in a most creative way. To me 'Domain' is very much like a modern-day Indiana Jones meets the X-Files. Have you ever heard about the ancient Mayan prophecy of doom that predicts the end of humanity on December 21st in the year 2012? This part of the story is actually based on fact. Yes, the Mayan's DID predict this...will it actually happen? That is another story--but what if it were TRUE? That is the adventure you will find here. From Stonehenge to the Great Pyramid of Giza to the Temple of Kulkukan in the Yucatan to the Nazca Plains in South America, 'Domain' heads in a dozen directions at once--but don't worry, Mr. Alten is in COMPLETE control of what is happening, and at no point do you feel he has lost direction--even IF you have absolutely NO idea where he plans to take you. Inter-mixing Mayan facts with the Myth's of half-a-dozen cultures--with a plot that is as creative as it is entertaining, 'Domain' succeeds on ALL levels. It really IS facinating to be entertained as well as educated at the same time. Just exactly how DID the Egyptians build such incredible structures even though engineers readily admit that the Great Pyramid of Giza would be impossible to construct using the modern mechanics available to us TODAY...how did the Maya build their amazing pyramids without even mastering the wheel? These are all questions that even the most educated historian cannot answer with any certainty--however if you have a good imagination, you can come up with an explanation worthy of a bestseller. I cannot recommend 'Domain' highly enough.

On a side note, I interviewed Steve Alten recently about 'Domain' and not only is he talented, he's a really nice guy who very much appreciates feedback, and rewards his readers in unique ways. Easilyone of the most down-right entertaining novels I have read in a long time. 'Domain' deserves to be a HUGE success for Mr. Alten. Pick this one up and read it before someone makes it into a movie (it'd make a GREAT one, too).

"Another intelligent thriller from Steve Alten", February 10, 2001
Reviewer: jlapaz@waukesha.lib.wi.us from Waukesha, WI USA

Simply put, Steve Alten is one of my favorite authors. He writes intelligent, well researched thrillers with believable characters. His first two books, Meg and The Trench, which were about Megalodon sharks surviving to the present day, are truly great reads. With his new book, Domain, Steve has managed to top himself.

With amazing detail, he has fashioned a story dealing with an ancient Mayan prophesy which predicts the end of the world. Julius Gabriel, who had a real life counterpart, has researched the Mayan calendar and has linked it to mysterious sites around the globe. If his theory is correct, humanity will perish on December 21, 2012. Before he can attempt to stop this armageddon, he dies. His son takes up the banner, but is locked in a mental hospital for his efforts. With the help of a psychology graduate student, Michael is able to continue his father's work.

Domain is not only fun to read, you'll find yourself learning a great deal about the Mayans and many other historical mysteries. If you haven't read Steve Alten yet, you have missed out on some great reading. Also visit his website for even more information on his books. Now if only we didn't have to wait so long for the sequel to Domain...

"DOMAIN: A Must Read!", March 8, 2001
Reviewer: Scott Slaybaugh from PA USA

I just received my long-waited copy of Domain by Steve Alten three days ago. I have been waiting for this novel for a while, because I loved Meg and The Trench, two of his earlier novels. Hoping for the book to be as good as both of his other two novels, what I read was much more than I hoped for. The such realistic plot and the such strong facts in the book makes the novel seem like it could really happen. Once I was to start the book, I could never put it down, each page more intresting than the next, and the suspense of what's next keeping me on the edge of my seat. I went well into the night with this book, finishing it in record time. I haven't read a book this good since... I'm not even sure when. If you have a chance to read this book I have only one thing to say: DO IT!

"Steve Alten does It again", March 7, 2001
Reviewer: Chris Ambrose from Sydney, Australia

I've spent many hours reading and rereading Steve Altens first two books MEG & Trench, so the second I heard a third was being released I ordered a copy in. A truly awesome book and thouroughly researched. Steve Alten combines science and myth to create a truly enthrawling read. Do yourself a favour a read It as soon as you can...

"Intriguing, compelling and well researched...", March 5, 2001
Reviewer: Sheldon S. Saints from Wilmington, DE United States

Steve Alten convincingly weaves together a number of the world's oldest mysteries including Stonehenge, the Nazca drawings, the ancient pyramids of both hemispheres and the Mayan clander with elements of fantasy and science fiction to form a compelling story of the impending doom of the end of the world in the year 2012. Alten is able to provide a great deal of well researched information to the reader in and interesting and well written plot. For any Alten fan, and for anyone with an interest in the prophesies of the end times by ancient civilizations who appear to have once had mysterious - almost supernatural - scientific and engineering capabilities, this book is an enjoyable read.

"GRRRRREEAAT", March 2, 2001
Reviewer: Konrad from O'Fallon, MO USA

A rare 5 star. OUTSTANDING! Wow, what a ride. I must say that this is one of the most entertaining and engrossing books I've read. As mentioned elsewhere, the research put into this novel exceeds expectations. Not only will you be educated about history, but you'll get a good idea about what's behind some of the mystery concerning the pyramids and other structures. Ancient cultures are brought to light in an adventerous fashion. The book combines many genres. From 'Indiana Jones' to 'Men In Black'. From '2001' to 'Independence Day'. It leaves nothing out. One of the best adventure novels written in years. Keep it up Steve Alten, because your on my 'must read' list now.

Highly recommended for all.

"Compelling Book", March 1, 2001
Reviewer: Michele Herndon from San Jose, CA United States

I read Steve Alten's new book Domain in 2 days. The book was well written & really made you think. The historical facts were amazing, it makes you want to read more into the Mayan history. The characters Mick & Dominigue were very likable & made you cheer them on. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys suspense, thrillers & fantasy mixed in.

"Not only is he a nice guy, he's a great writter!", February 28, 2001
Reviewer: Robb Wood from Longboat Key, Fla. USA

I have read all of Mr. Altens books, and was thrilled by all of them, but Domain takes the cake. This book grabs you, and holds you! The research, facts, and history mixed together with a great story line gets the reader to think "Hmmm... What if?" Domain will keep you reading well into the night. Indiana Jones, eat your heart out!

"Domain lives up to this NYT best selling authors reputation", February 28, 2001
Reviewer: Robert Thornton from Baltimore, Md

Combining ancient Mayan mythology with our everlasting thirst for the anser to the question "why are we here?", Steve Alten has crafted this suspense/thriller masterpiece into an eye-opening look at our very existance (and extinction?). The mix of science fact and science fiction is effortlessly blended together as to create one very believable story line. You simply cannot distinguish between the two. It is easy to find yourself sucked into this novel and become placed in the shoes of the characters. There are some you will love with a passion and some you will hate with a vengance and this book will throw you into the middle of the ancient fight between good and evil. Who will prevail? Who will survive? Read it TODAY and find out for yourself just who (or what) rules our Domain.

"Great research! Fantastic story!", February 27, 2001
Reviewer: Marc Zinger (see more about me) from Dayton, OH

If you're at all fascinated by the ancient wonders scattered around the world (Egyptian pyramids, Stonehenge, etc...) then this book is a MUST READ for you!! DOMAIN is intriguing because it contains historical and factual information on several ancient cultures and their enigmatic creations. More importantly, DOMAIN is exciting because Steve Alten uses superb storytelling and great characters to weave a tale that explains the purpose behind these ancient relics. I can't wait for the sequel!!

"An interesting mix of mythology and (some) fact", February 25, 2001
Reviewer: dalcassian from North Scituate, RI United States

When I read the synopsis of this book, my eyes lit up in anticipation. From this I could instantly tell where Mr Alten's research had come from; the work of Hancock, Bauval, Gilbert, Cotterell, Knight & Lomas, Gardner, all authors whose work and theories I am familiar with. I was certain that here, with an author as talented as Steve Alten, I would find a story worthy of their great work. Unfortunately, Mr Alten's skill seemed to fail him on this attempt. Granted, the theories he attempted to deal with are grandiose and far-reaching, ones that have been cast aside by the "scientific community" as preposterous, but in trying to fit them into a thriller novel, he has missed a great deal of their intricacies and nuances. He seemed to grab at various pieces and try to cram them together to fit his vision. I understand the need for creative liscence, but how does he fit the wildly varying dates that these theories involve? The Mayans, even the Olmecs, did not come into the civilazation of the pyramids and great citys until AD100, so how are they connected to events that occured 10,500BC? In mentioning certain places spaced evenly over the globe, what was spaced in the vast area of the pacific? By mentioning Antarctica, is he attempting to use Hapgood's theory of crustal displacement? Still, while there are some holes, Mr Alten does make a good attempt. Another difficulty with the book lay in the convienent plot devices, such as the psychologist who just happens to be able to operate and have access to a mini sub, the teeth gnashing bad-guy who goes from archeology to polotics. Despite all this, the mere fact that Mr Alten has made the attempt to use these theories deserves great credit. There is enough material there for many a good book, and Mr Alten, as he demonstrated in MEG, certainly has the ability to create an even better story from it. Would I recommend this book, to someone unfamiliar with the background theories, yes. To someone who has researched them, it would probably be a bit frustrating.

"Another winner by Steve", February 24, 2001
Reviewer: Paul A. Jones from Greensboro, NC USA

Steve has really done his research for this book. The information on the Mayan culture is fabulous. Drawing all of the old world sites together into a cohesive net that only Mick's father was able to decipher is a stroke of genius.

The interplay between Mick and Dom, with the influx of the diary entries, grabs you and doesn't let you go.

Must say that I was surprised at the ending of the book. However, by doing so Steve provides himself with at least two sequels (the future lives of Dom and Mick).

Again, thanks Steve for a wonderful and exciting adventure. Have read all three of your books and haven't been disappointed yet. Look forward to the next and the next, etc.

"Very Scary and Original", February 22, 2001
Reviewer: Jane Gosla from Monroe, MI USA

" Loved Steve's last books and was waiting for this one. Domain is real,and will stay with me for a long time. At least till December 2012. The first few chapters took a while because of technical knowledge I did not have. Read it carefully and the rest of the book is off and running. The mythology and prophecy spin is very intense. The end of the world is always a scary and interesting plot but this was over the top.I was panting to get to the end of the story at the same time wanting it to last. Watch out King and Koontz Alten is here.

"INCREDIBLE! DYNAMIC! DON'T STOP TIL YOU DROP!", February 21, 2001
Reviewer: Grant Taylor from California, USA

I rarely read a book that holds my attention the way "Domain" does. From begining to end I just kept reading. I often had to look up some geographical reference which was fun. Steve has done excellent research. In fact, it is so convincing I am wondering if I should just live it up til 2012 when the world may come to an end. Bravo Steve for your creativity and entertainment value. This is one of the best I have read and I am waiting for the followup.

"One of the better suspense/thrillers I've read.", February 20, 2001
Reviewer: Philip D. Ellis from Jerome, Idaho United States

I mostly read the Magic the Gathering series of books, but this is definitely worth anyone's time to read. Especially if you are one who is into the Mayan prophecies and mysteries of the pre-historical era. Well, done Steve! :)

"An Interesting Interpretation", February 19, 2001
Reviewer: darthelmo from Miami, FL, USA

Dr. Alten does a wonderful job re-interpreting (or re-inventing)the ancient Mayan myths and prophecies to create a pretty exciting thriller. There's a lot of information and history jammed into an intense story with living, breathing characters. Many people try for this effect; few get close and fewer still manage to acheive it. This one is a keeper.

"Where will YOU be on December 21, 2012?", February 18, 2001
Reviewer: Michael Daugherty from Ponca City, Ok

If you are looking for a well researched, impossible to put down, really makes you think read, then grab Steve Alten's Domain. I average 3 to 4 books per week, and it has been years since I have read a book that was so well researched, with such a riveting story line that it was next to impossible to put down. My wife rarely has time to read, but once she started she finished Domain in one night! This one has it all; adventure, love interests, good vrs evil, the end of the dinosaurs, and so much more. How could people who were not able to master the wheel able to develope buildings like the south American pyramids, a calendar that only the most modern science can match... and which predicts the end of the earth on December 21, 2012! Run out and grab this one as fast as you can, and when your finished go to Steve Alten's web site and read about the REAL Dr. Gabriels journal. Super Read!!!!

February 17, 2001
Reviewer: Gary S. Potter from Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

(Alten) singlehandedly out does Benchley, Crichton, Clancy, and Cussler combined. DOMAIN is a riveting and terrifying excursion into Mayan mythology and Old Testament prophecy. A white knuckle nail biter of the highest caliber...

"Brilliant display of fictional socialism!!", February 14, 2001
Reviewer: Rodney Plankton from Uganda

When I purchased Domain, I was expecting the worst. Boy, was I incorrect! I am physically in love with this master piece and I can not put it down, not even for a second!! Just to give you a basic idea of quite how much I love this piece of work, I have already read it 54 times in 10 days...I am serious folks. Please, and I mean PLEASE, make a wise purchase and pick up this book now. Your life will be changed forever! I certainly know that mine is. THANK YOU BOOK!!!!!!!!

"Alten Does It Again....", February 13, 2001
Reviewer: A reader from Sacramento, California

Steve Alten the writer of 2 other pehnominal books (Meg and The Trench) has done it again with Domain. He weaves fact and fiction together brilliantly.The ancient civilization of Mayan's gave a prohecy thousands of years ago saying the earth will end on December 21st, 2012. The end is at hand as December 2012 nears and it is up to one man to stop it. Michael "mick" Gabriel will discover the secrets of the universe with many dangers along the way. I reccomend this book to anybody who wants a great suspensful read.



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