YouTube star Jimmy Donaldson, known as MrBeast, has released his first novel, *The Most Dangerous Games*, co-written with James Patterson. The thriller follows 100 contestants competing for a billion dollars in deadly challenges across Antarctica and beyond, blending *Battle Royale* and *Squid Game* elements.
Pre-order sales for the book are reportedly in the low four figures, described as a "historic bomb" by Semafor via *The Hollywood Reporter*. While such figures are typical for debut novels, the advance payments to Donaldson and Patterson may leave publisher HarperCollins with a financial burden regardless of final sales. The book’s promotional push includes a YouTube video offering a $1 million prize for readers.
*The Most Dangerous Games* launches today at $35 for a hardcover. Its survival-themed narrative pits contestants against both the environment and each other, with a hidden voice dictating survival chances.



