Judgement Day is a work of contemporary fiction with modern religious themes and was penned by author David Witt. Sharply observant and up to date with current affairs, the story begins with a technological scandal as the media is hijacked by a figure who claims to be Gabriel, the true messenger of God. As Gabriel proclaims that the literal end of the world is nigh, in the form of a giant asteroid, global conjecture and argument ensue. Network host Larry Knewell juggles differing and combatant opinions live on air, whilst President Abigail Banister desperately cobbles together a solid plan to save her nation and the wider world beyond. What follows is a mystery about the real nature of God and the still-relevant clashes of faith and belief in the modern day.

I thoroughly enjoyed author David Witt’s conceptual vision for a modern-day apocalypse tale, with realistic reactions from so many different factions of believers and non-believers in today’s world. Abigail is a sincerely well-drawn character, progressive but also fallible, and out of her depth in the madness of the situation. As the mystery unfolds around the messenger Gabriel and the prelude to doom begins, the atmosphere picks up with snappy dialogue and well-chosen wordplay. I highly recommend grabbing a copy of Judgement Day for its thrills and spills, as well as for its highly effective social commentary.

Judgement Day by David Witt is a religious thriller with end-time themes. It starts with the announcement of a major event and from a source that creates a disturbing atmosphere. Someone has hacked into every television station and network and claims to be Gabriel. But that is not all; he has a special announcement for humanity: “I am Gabriel, messenger for the One Eternal God, Creator of the Heavens and Earth, Lord and Ruler of all. I stand before you today to announce that your Heavenly Father will be returning to Earth tomorrow.” A day later, an asteroid is apparently on a collision course with Earth. The eccentric and ego-filled Larry Knewell of CBN is covering these events. But what is the relationship between the asteroid and the coming of the Father to Earth? And can President Abigail Banister’s plan save her people and humanity from imminent extinction?

David Witt has created a narrative that is very relevant, especially in our own time where there is so much religious manipulation centered on the final coming of the Lord. The premise is very strong, a major event about to happen, and this creates conflict as different groups take sides and a general sense of fear grips people. Readers will encounter the typical attitudes of religious fanatics as the story unfolds and a presidency on the brink of crisis as it tries to implement a plan to protect its people. The story is wonderfully told and it has the originality that readers definitely want in such a story. Themes of religious conspiracy, cybercrime, politics, and science are intelligently written into the plot. Judgement Day features a cast of strong, well-developed characters, including journalists, scientists, religious leaders, and politicians. I loved the drama and enjoyed the tension which moves quickly to a satisfying conclusion.