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Scott Wolfe #3
Danger Close
Scott Wolfe believes violence and insanity run in his family. Despite the black hole that nearly all his childhood memories seem to have been sucked into, his past continues to shape him in ways he doesn’t understand.
One evening in September 1996, something happened that changed the course of Scott’s life, starting him along a path that affects him and everyone around him.
Fifteen years later, stuck behind a computer in the role of "analyst", Scott’s desire to be in the middle of the action is answered without his knowledge or consent when strings from his two previous adventures become entangled.
After a failed abduction attempt—thwarted by Scott in spectacularly violent fashion—CIA Agent John Temple whisks him away from threats at home, while simultaneously indoctrinating him into his first official field Op. The job of his dreams is only one decision away. But with that decision comes danger like he’s never faced and a life that he may not be prepared for—if he survives his first test.
How treacherous has Scott's life become if the CIA thinks he would be safer in the Middle East?
One evening in September 1996, something happened that changed the course of Scott’s life, starting him along a path that affects him and everyone around him.
Fifteen years later, stuck behind a computer in the role of "analyst", Scott’s desire to be in the middle of the action is answered without his knowledge or consent when strings from his two previous adventures become entangled.
After a failed abduction attempt—thwarted by Scott in spectacularly violent fashion—CIA Agent John Temple whisks him away from threats at home, while simultaneously indoctrinating him into his first official field Op. The job of his dreams is only one decision away. But with that decision comes danger like he’s never faced and a life that he may not be prepared for—if he survives his first test.
How treacherous has Scott's life become if the CIA thinks he would be safer in the Middle East?
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 22, 2014
About the author
S.L. Shelton
14 books88 followersS.L. Shelton, a bestselling thriller author, is a passionate, fact spouting former techie and soldier who is constantly at odds with his need to kick the legs out from under those who abuse their power (Political, Economic or Super). He lives on a tiny little farm on the banks of a tiny little river in the northwestern part of Virginia, where his semi-secret identity is somewhat protected on three sides. Despite deep misgivings about writing on subjects close to his own life, he has penned a series of books about a similarly broken, similarly gifted young man who similarly doesn't have a clue when to stop and re-evaluate life decisions.
Before building his career in the computer field for nearly two decades as a developer, designer, trainer, and a CEO, he had the honor of serving in the US Armed Forces in several roles, most involving explosives of some sort. After selling his successful micro empire in 2011, Shelton retired to his study which he hasn't left since. On most days he writes, but when left alone and to his own devices, breaks his troll like existence long enough to sneak into the sunlight and fire a weapon or two, snap a few pictures or pick some vegetables from his wife's prized organic garden beds.
Though his climbing days are behind him due to injuries (several to the head), he was an avid rock climber, having climbed for decades since his teen years. His three children are grown and living very adventurous lives of their own.
Waking Wolfe is the first novel in the Scott Wolfe Series, followed by Unexpected Gaines, Danger Close, Wolfe Trap, Harbinger, Predator's Game and coming in 2017 Splinter Self. He has also published a Crime Novel and a Back Story Novella to the Scott Wolfe Series.
Before building his career in the computer field for nearly two decades as a developer, designer, trainer, and a CEO, he had the honor of serving in the US Armed Forces in several roles, most involving explosives of some sort. After selling his successful micro empire in 2011, Shelton retired to his study which he hasn't left since. On most days he writes, but when left alone and to his own devices, breaks his troll like existence long enough to sneak into the sunlight and fire a weapon or two, snap a few pictures or pick some vegetables from his wife's prized organic garden beds.
Though his climbing days are behind him due to injuries (several to the head), he was an avid rock climber, having climbed for decades since his teen years. His three children are grown and living very adventurous lives of their own.
Waking Wolfe is the first novel in the Scott Wolfe Series, followed by Unexpected Gaines, Danger Close, Wolfe Trap, Harbinger, Predator's Game and coming in 2017 Splinter Self. He has also published a Crime Novel and a Back Story Novella to the Scott Wolfe Series.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
July 18, 2014
I was a fan of this series from the very beginning. S.L. Shelton’s first novel kicked off a wildly entertaining ride, and his story just keeps getting better and better with each installment.
In Danger Close, Scott Wolfe is working with the CIA again, this time in the Middle East. After he accepts an offer to take part in his first field Op, governmental security checks are put into place and questions arise concerning both of his parents. This causes issues, not only for Scott himself, but with some shady and somewhat mysterious people from his past.
This is an intriguing hook in Shelton’s story line because Scott Wolfe is a rather complex guy. He’s handsome and charming and has a lot of good friends. He’s incredibly intelligent and extraordinary in his job as a computer and electronics security specialist. He’s athletic and has a self-deprecating sense of humor. He’s not terrific when it comes to romantic relationships, but the man can cook. Shelton writes Wolfe as almost too good to be true…but not quite. He’s a real guy who is good at many things, but he possesses just enough quirks to be human and relatable. From the beginning of the series, the reader knows that Wolfe has a questionable past. It’s one that is more than a bit a murky, even to the character himself. Shelton alludes to it in the canniest of ways…feeding it out just a bit at a time and peaking his readers’ interest throughout the first two books. In the third we are given a bit more of the puzzle. And what an enticing piece it is! As I stated, Wolfe is almost too good to be true…and in Danger Close, we begin to see why this might be the case.
This alone is enough for me to crave a fourth novel…but that’s not all Shelton delivers in Danger Close. I will not divulge any secrets from the previous novels except to say that Shelton has been successful in building an amazing cast of characters. In each one of his books, the reader is introduced to an array of players who bring much to the storyline. These characters are interesting and help carry the already flowing plot along. It is the way in which he has developed his main characters, however, that intrigues me the most. I will note here that in Danger Close, Shelton caused me a bit of delicious anxiety when he brought back a most intriguing character only to shift the story in a slightly different direction. It was perfect in many ways…close but not close enough, and I am doing exactly as he designed…I am impatiently awaiting the next book in the series in the hopes that this character will be involved in this unfolding tale.
The Scott Wolfe novels are, without question, one of the most intriguing series I have ever read. I hope S.L. Shelton has a lot more tricks up his sleeve because I know I’m not the only reader who is anxious to see what he might come up with next.
In Danger Close, Scott Wolfe is working with the CIA again, this time in the Middle East. After he accepts an offer to take part in his first field Op, governmental security checks are put into place and questions arise concerning both of his parents. This causes issues, not only for Scott himself, but with some shady and somewhat mysterious people from his past.
This is an intriguing hook in Shelton’s story line because Scott Wolfe is a rather complex guy. He’s handsome and charming and has a lot of good friends. He’s incredibly intelligent and extraordinary in his job as a computer and electronics security specialist. He’s athletic and has a self-deprecating sense of humor. He’s not terrific when it comes to romantic relationships, but the man can cook. Shelton writes Wolfe as almost too good to be true…but not quite. He’s a real guy who is good at many things, but he possesses just enough quirks to be human and relatable. From the beginning of the series, the reader knows that Wolfe has a questionable past. It’s one that is more than a bit a murky, even to the character himself. Shelton alludes to it in the canniest of ways…feeding it out just a bit at a time and peaking his readers’ interest throughout the first two books. In the third we are given a bit more of the puzzle. And what an enticing piece it is! As I stated, Wolfe is almost too good to be true…and in Danger Close, we begin to see why this might be the case.
This alone is enough for me to crave a fourth novel…but that’s not all Shelton delivers in Danger Close. I will not divulge any secrets from the previous novels except to say that Shelton has been successful in building an amazing cast of characters. In each one of his books, the reader is introduced to an array of players who bring much to the storyline. These characters are interesting and help carry the already flowing plot along. It is the way in which he has developed his main characters, however, that intrigues me the most. I will note here that in Danger Close, Shelton caused me a bit of delicious anxiety when he brought back a most intriguing character only to shift the story in a slightly different direction. It was perfect in many ways…close but not close enough, and I am doing exactly as he designed…I am impatiently awaiting the next book in the series in the hopes that this character will be involved in this unfolding tale.
The Scott Wolfe novels are, without question, one of the most intriguing series I have ever read. I hope S.L. Shelton has a lot more tricks up his sleeve because I know I’m not the only reader who is anxious to see what he might come up with next.
July 2, 2014
This book is rated five stars, because there isn't a sixth to click on.
The 3rd book in the series started with a mystery. Inserted as backstory throughout the duration of the book, it slowly reveals a secret...actually, several secrets. As exciting as that backstory is, it doesn't compare to what Shelton does with the rest of the story...which is mind blowing. For those who started with book one, the progression in intensity of Scott's life (as well as his attitude and skills set) makes you feel like you are watching someone grow up before your very eyes.
A surprise opening, and a mysterious tie to Scott's past, bring not only a deeply personal side to the surface in this book, but a witness to the rapid and dramatic evolution of a young man who seems to found his calling in espionage. The exotic locations, the humor, the sarcasm, the violence, the amazingly realistic-and-yet-not way Scott thrusts himself into one dangerous situation after another...it's truly exciting. I really feared for Scott...yes. I felt fear for a fictional character. Amazing.
As always, Shelton brings strong characters to life, proving once again that he is a master penning personal interactions. The action flows realistically and is described in a way which leaves you remembering as if you saw rather than read it.
I've said it in the other two reviews, but I'll say it again--these stories are made for the screen. Visually they are epic, even when events are tiny. As with each novel in this series, I've found myself holding my breath at times and at the end of this one, it took hours for the tension to subside.
I'm ready for number 4, sir. Please, please hurry and release it.
This book is rated five stars, because there isn't a sixth to click on.
The 3rd book in the series started with a mystery. Inserted as backstory throughout the duration of the book, it slowly reveals a secret...actually, several secrets. As exciting as that backstory is, it doesn't compare to what Shelton does with the rest of the story...which is mind blowing. For those who started with book one, the progression in intensity of Scott's life (as well as his attitude and skills set) makes you feel like you are watching someone grow up before your very eyes.
A surprise opening, and a mysterious tie to Scott's past, bring not only a deeply personal side to the surface in this book, but a witness to the rapid and dramatic evolution of a young man who seems to found his calling in espionage. The exotic locations, the humor, the sarcasm, the violence, the amazingly realistic-and-yet-not way Scott thrusts himself into one dangerous situation after another...it's truly exciting. I really feared for Scott...yes. I felt fear for a fictional character. Amazing.
As always, Shelton brings strong characters to life, proving once again that he is a master penning personal interactions. The action flows realistically and is described in a way which leaves you remembering as if you saw rather than read it.
I've said it in the other two reviews, but I'll say it again--these stories are made for the screen. Visually they are epic, even when events are tiny. As with each novel in this series, I've found myself holding my breath at times and at the end of this one, it took hours for the tension to subside.
I'm ready for number 4, sir. Please, please hurry and release it.
This book is rated five stars, because there isn't a sixth to click on.
May 20, 2015
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is the third installment of the Scott Wolfe Series and I have read the two previous books. Danger Close explores Scott’s strange past, his unique abilities to process information at an accelerated rate, and his growing interest in working as a tech op in the field with the CIA. Scott must decide his future as the story unfolds, though he already knows what he wants. His goal is to become a fully trained CIA agent, but he needs to convince other CIA members that he is ready for the opportunity.
This book had me from page one! We finally find out about the truth about Scott’s father’s death and the government agency that he once worked for. Secrets come to light, unraveling a number of mysteries about Scott’s past, while creating new questions about is really going on. If that wasn’t enough to make Scott Wolfe fans excited, we get to see Scott defend his assistant from an attacker, fend off hired mercenaries who are trying to abduct him, and try to survive a mission in the Middle East with Delta Force on a CIA op.
I couldn’t love this book more if I tried, and I rarely say that in my reviews. This installment has action, a return of fan favorite Kathryn, aka Gretal, and answers about why Scott is the way he is. What more could I ask for?
SL Shelton has created a likable character that the reader wants to root for and puts him in a world full of secrets, danger, and impossible situations. The more I read about Scott Wolfe, the more I want to know about him and see how he will progress in the future books. It goes without saying that I give Danger Close 5 stars and need to download Wolfe Trap as soon as I can.
This is the third installment of the Scott Wolfe Series and I have read the two previous books. Danger Close explores Scott’s strange past, his unique abilities to process information at an accelerated rate, and his growing interest in working as a tech op in the field with the CIA. Scott must decide his future as the story unfolds, though he already knows what he wants. His goal is to become a fully trained CIA agent, but he needs to convince other CIA members that he is ready for the opportunity.
This book had me from page one! We finally find out about the truth about Scott’s father’s death and the government agency that he once worked for. Secrets come to light, unraveling a number of mysteries about Scott’s past, while creating new questions about is really going on. If that wasn’t enough to make Scott Wolfe fans excited, we get to see Scott defend his assistant from an attacker, fend off hired mercenaries who are trying to abduct him, and try to survive a mission in the Middle East with Delta Force on a CIA op.
I couldn’t love this book more if I tried, and I rarely say that in my reviews. This installment has action, a return of fan favorite Kathryn, aka Gretal, and answers about why Scott is the way he is. What more could I ask for?
SL Shelton has created a likable character that the reader wants to root for and puts him in a world full of secrets, danger, and impossible situations. The more I read about Scott Wolfe, the more I want to know about him and see how he will progress in the future books. It goes without saying that I give Danger Close 5 stars and need to download Wolfe Trap as soon as I can.
April 20, 2015
Scott Wolfe has all the makings of a reluctant hero. He’s good looking, confident without being overly cocky and he’s got plenty of chutzpah along with an extraordinary ability to extricate himself from all kinds of trouble – and he’s got trouble in spades. Scott hears voices in his head, his family has a history of mental challenges and he’s finding out issues about his past – make that his family’s past – that should’ve stayed exactly where it was – in the past. The writing is tightly-wound and highly engaging, effortlessly keeping the readers on the edge of their front row seats as Scott puts them through his paces. Author Shelton provides plenty of action and suspense, lots of covert government brouhaha and just the right amount of technical jargon to keep the political aficionados happy without alienating those who are novices to the political spy arena. There are shades of a damaged and scrappier Jack Ryan in Shelton’s protagonist and it’s certainly Wolfe’s less-than-perfect character traits that give him dimension and make Danger Close such an adrenaline rush from start to finish!
June 1, 2014
I gave this book 5 stars because it was incredible. It had thrilling factors, great action and gripping emotion. I look forward to reading more of this authors work, especially if it was as great as this book.
June 9, 2014
Scott Wolfe REALLY stepped up his game. The action is so clear and the emotion is so palpable...I honestly feel like I just got out of the movies the imagery was so powerful. I'm so thrilled (and terrified) at the direction Scott's life is taking. I'm ready for the next one please!
April 22, 2015
Scott Wolfe is a tech analyst who believes mental illness runs in his family. A huge portion of his childhood memories missing and his past continues to shape him in ways he can't possibly understand. One evening in September 1996, something happened that changed the course of Scott’s life, and he was started along a path that affects him and everyone around him. After a failed abduction attempt—thwarted by Scott in spectacularly violent fashion—CIA Agent John Temple whisks him away from threats at home while simultaneously indoctrinating him into his first official field Op. The job of his dreams is only one decision away. But with that decision comes danger like he’s never faced and a life that he may not be prepared for—if he survives his first test.
I had not read the first two books in the series and was pleasantly surprised that I didn't feel lost in the sauce. It was just enough story backdrop available for me to be drawn in without missing a beat. It was filled with action packed and Scott was a likable character showing strength as well as vulnerability. It did confuse me at first with the switching of perspective from third person to first person but was fine once I got used to it. Overall, good read for anyone who loves action, spies, mystery with technology thrown in.
I had not read the first two books in the series and was pleasantly surprised that I didn't feel lost in the sauce. It was just enough story backdrop available for me to be drawn in without missing a beat. It was filled with action packed and Scott was a likable character showing strength as well as vulnerability. It did confuse me at first with the switching of perspective from third person to first person but was fine once I got used to it. Overall, good read for anyone who loves action, spies, mystery with technology thrown in.
February 18, 2015
"Danger Close" from S.L Shelton is the third installment of the ongoing "Scott Wolfe Series" and it is one hell of a read that continues not only the fascinating story about the fight against the mysterious organization "Combine", but also fills in some blanks in Scott`s past, which adds to my impression that Mr. Shelton has created a complex storyline that will become even more exciting with each new installment!
What makes this series so special is Scott's awesome evolution with each book. He was already very smart at the beginning, but he has experienced so much since then and only becomes more enjoyable as a character with each new adventure!
I have to point out that it was a great decision from the author to write Scott's scenes in the first person narrative, because it really makes the reader feel closer to him.
I wonder what other awesome things the author has in store for us in the future!
I will find out when I start reading number 4 "Wolfe Trap"!
What makes this series so special is Scott's awesome evolution with each book. He was already very smart at the beginning, but he has experienced so much since then and only becomes more enjoyable as a character with each new adventure!
I have to point out that it was a great decision from the author to write Scott's scenes in the first person narrative, because it really makes the reader feel closer to him.
I wonder what other awesome things the author has in store for us in the future!
I will find out when I start reading number 4 "Wolfe Trap"!
April 7, 2015
Mr. Shelton maintains his personal style and unique perspective of storytelling here in Book 3, as he pulls the reader further into Scott Wolfe’s world. Every book in the series has been a page-turner. The series just keeps getting better and better.
Mr. Shelton pulls a one-two punch shaking up the unfolding plot. You won’t be disappointed. He writes in such a way that the story flows effortlessly. The knowledge that goes into his books is amazing and leads to significant accuracy. I appreciate his art of story telling, character building, technical accuracy, as well as his style of writing. Superb. He keeps magnificent control of pace, page after page. You can’t go wrong with this series.
Loved it. The plot thickens as we learn more about Scott Wolfe. Thank you Mr. Shelton for doing what you do so well!
Buy the series and prepare for some late nights as you read his books. Mr. Shelton knows how to pull his readers in. Looking forward to the next book.
Mr. Shelton pulls a one-two punch shaking up the unfolding plot. You won’t be disappointed. He writes in such a way that the story flows effortlessly. The knowledge that goes into his books is amazing and leads to significant accuracy. I appreciate his art of story telling, character building, technical accuracy, as well as his style of writing. Superb. He keeps magnificent control of pace, page after page. You can’t go wrong with this series.
Loved it. The plot thickens as we learn more about Scott Wolfe. Thank you Mr. Shelton for doing what you do so well!
Buy the series and prepare for some late nights as you read his books. Mr. Shelton knows how to pull his readers in. Looking forward to the next book.
June 13, 2015
Danger Close (Scott Wolfe #3)
Back at home Scott feels like his body is almost back to normal and he finds himself knowing that his relationship with Barbara has run its course. Time to get back to work and jump back on the bucking bronc that is luring him toward the Agency. But first, past events aren't past. Scott finds himself right back in the fire and being fired him. upon. Suddenly the best of the action is all around him. You can do what I have done, just keep turning pages as the action heats up to critical mass. Great reading and writing,, can't wait until the next one.
Back at home Scott feels like his body is almost back to normal and he finds himself knowing that his relationship with Barbara has run its course. Time to get back to work and jump back on the bucking bronc that is luring him toward the Agency. But first, past events aren't past. Scott finds himself right back in the fire and being fired him. upon. Suddenly the best of the action is all around him. You can do what I have done, just keep turning pages as the action heats up to critical mass. Great reading and writing,, can't wait until the next one.
October 23, 2016
The intrigue deepens...
We learn more about Scott Wolfe's history in this book, the third in the series, and Scott learns more, too.
He also faces a number of suspenseful moments, as would be expected in a spy thriller!
The bad guys become more cartoonish — a little too over the top, as far as I'm concerned — and the plot is clearly setting Scott up for a denouement moment in a future book.
But predictability aside, it's a fun ride. I'm not keen on all the killing, but hey, that's what you get in this type of novel. And watching Wolfe figure his way out of an impossible situation is mesmerizing.
I'm downloading book #4 as I type this. Scott Wolfe has me hooked!
We learn more about Scott Wolfe's history in this book, the third in the series, and Scott learns more, too.
He also faces a number of suspenseful moments, as would be expected in a spy thriller!
The bad guys become more cartoonish — a little too over the top, as far as I'm concerned — and the plot is clearly setting Scott up for a denouement moment in a future book.
But predictability aside, it's a fun ride. I'm not keen on all the killing, but hey, that's what you get in this type of novel. And watching Wolfe figure his way out of an impossible situation is mesmerizing.
I'm downloading book #4 as I type this. Scott Wolfe has me hooked!
June 18, 2015
Scott Wolfe is really hitting his stride - he is James Bond, John McClane, and Axel Foley in a tight package, lots of skills and lots of fun to follow. The complex plot stretches into wider conspiracy and you'll finally start to learn the WHY of Mr. Wolfe. The battle sequences are top notch.
If you are scanning the reviews before committing to book one: I assure you, Danger Close will leave you breathless and likely thinking two things: "Why did it have to end?" and "Why is it 1am again?"
If you are scanning the reviews before committing to book one: I assure you, Danger Close will leave you breathless and likely thinking two things: "Why did it have to end?" and "Why is it 1am again?"
April 20, 2016
Great, Great Series
And the hits just keep on coming! Each book in the series is as good, if not better, than the one before.
(My apologies for the cliches but Amazon requires that reviews contain a minimum number of words. If not for that requirement, this review would merely say "READ THIS SERIES!!!" )
And the hits just keep on coming! Each book in the series is as good, if not better, than the one before.
(My apologies for the cliches but Amazon requires that reviews contain a minimum number of words. If not for that requirement, this review would merely say "READ THIS SERIES!!!" )
May 27, 2014
This was a good book, how ever I do wish the author had done more to make it more interesting. I look forward to reading more of this author's work.
March 15, 2015
Scott Wolfe Series Shaping Up
Shelton's books are improving as the hero matures in his role. This one is hard to put down and I am hoping that the next will be even better.
Shelton's books are improving as the hero matures in his role. This one is hard to put down and I am hoping that the next will be even better.
February 5, 2016
Fast paced
The story is fast paced and gripping through out. Revolving around a search for nuclear weapons, it will grip your attention from beginning to end.
The story is fast paced and gripping through out. Revolving around a search for nuclear weapons, it will grip your attention from beginning to end.
October 27, 2018
Monkey Wrench Revealed
Questions are answered, and new ones take their place in Danger Close! What an amazing read! The snark and humor are on point in this one! This has me rushing to get the next one!
Questions are answered, and new ones take their place in Danger Close! What an amazing read! The snark and humor are on point in this one! This has me rushing to get the next one!
October 1, 2019
Another fabulous book
The Scott Wolfe series keeps on getting better and better. Finished the third book in a day. Just couldn’t stop reading. The fast paced action and different writing style is excellent. Can’t wait to finish the next book
The Scott Wolfe series keeps on getting better and better. Finished the third book in a day. Just couldn’t stop reading. The fast paced action and different writing style is excellent. Can’t wait to finish the next book
April 11, 2016
Another plank added to this series foundation, providing background explanation.
Good background edition, the series seemed to stumble a bit here, pace slowed, as background provided, but thankfully, this chapter in this series closes strongly. I will continue as series seems to be speeding up again.
Good background edition, the series seemed to stumble a bit here, pace slowed, as background provided, but thankfully, this chapter in this series closes strongly. I will continue as series seems to be speeding up again.
June 7, 2015
Another great read. Enjoying the series
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews