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Scott Wolfe #1

Waking Wolfe

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This is the first volume in S.L. Shelton's unfolding story of corporate corruption in the world's governments and the adventures of a young Scott Wolfe, who is unknowingly swept into a secret war of massive proportions.

Scott Wolfe is a talented computer and electronics security specialist and an avid rock climber. He's a pretty typical twenty-something; he likes to party, he's bad at relationships, and he is a bit more adventurous than common sense would dictate.

He does have one trait that makes him atypical, though. That gift is the secret to his professional success—and it comes in quite handy when a rash decision turns his life upside down.

How much responsibility does a man have for the life of an ex-girlfriend? That's the question Scott had to ask himself when Barb Whitney, her father (a State Department Attorney)and twenty eight other diplomats and their families, were supposedly killed in a terrorist attack in Amsterdam.

When Scott gets a text message from Barb's phone after the explosion, he is propelled into an adrenaline charged operation, worthy of the intelligence agencies he is trying to avoid.

Dodging killers, organized crime, mercenaries and the CIA, he struggles against a clock that even he doesn't know is ticking.

Waking Wolfe:
-Amazon Espionage Top 10 Best sellers on first giveaway promotion, Dec 2013
-Amazon Top 100 Political Thriller Best Seller Jan 2014
-Amazon Top 100 Military Thriller Best Seller Jan 2014
-Amazon #21 Thriller Best Seller, 2nd giveaway promotion
-Amazon #2 Espionage Thriller Best Seller, 2nd giveaway promotion
-Amazon #44 Military Thriller Best Seller Feb 2014
-Amazon #74 Espionage Best Seller Feb 2014

302 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 19, 2013

50 people are currently reading
1040 people want to read

About the author

S.L. Shelton

12 books88 followers
S.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.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for J.C. Wing.
Author 30 books220 followers
October 3, 2014
Scott Wolfe is a security specialist, a computer and electronics geek. He excels in both his job and in the art of rock climbing. What he’s not so good at is relationships. In this first book of Shelton’s series, Scott and his girlfriend, Barb, are going through a breakup. Needing some space, Barb heads off to Europe with her father, a State Department attorney, before Scott realizes that he might have made a mistake in letting her go. Unfortunately, he may be too late in patching things up because only hours after Barb leaves, there is news that there has been a terrorist attack in Amsterdam, and Barb and her father are caught right in the middle of it.

There’s been a deadly explosion, but when he receives a text from Barb’s phone after the attack, he sets off on an unlikely rescue mission that he himself might not survive. This is only the beginning. The pages of this novel are filled with non-stop action and atmosphere so rich you feel as if you are there. Shelton is amazing at keeping tension throughout the storyline, and it was incredibly difficult to put this book down. Without giving away any specifics of the plot, I sincerely hope Gretel makes a return appearance. Shelton made his already hugely entertaining story even more enjoyable by writing a cast of complex and intriguing characters that I became attached to with no effort whatsoever. Thank goodness there are more books to follow Waking Wolfe. It would be a shame to only have spent time with them throughout one novel.

This is an amazing debut novel. There’s no wonder why S.L. Shelton has received high praise from a former CIA analyst and five star ratings from a slew of high profile reviewers. He’s an extraordinary writer who has created a novel that causes his audience to both speed read to find out what happens next, then feel disappointed once they’ve come to the end of his tale.
Profile Image for C.C. Bradley.
Author 2 books1 follower
June 12, 2014
This was a great read. From the start it engaged my interest with an exciting set up that quickly drew me in, wondering how these initial building blocks - Bosnian terrorists, Russian mafia, stolen nukes and a traitorous C.I.A. agent - would come into play later in the story. Once the stage is set, we are introduced to the main character, Scott Wolfe. Wolfe is a genius level (think Beautiful Mind without the schizophrenia) software engineer who, like many who find harmony with logic and technology, struggles a bit more with his human relationships. Wolfe can't help but apply the same analytical skills that make him a whiz professionally from intruding into his personal life. I found the characterization of Scott Wolfe to be spot on. I know this man. I have friends who are him and sometimes I myself am him, and Shelton's character development put me right in that mindset. Character development is clearly one of Shelton's strengths. Not just in Wolfe, but also the supporting characters. He really brings them to life, which enhances immersion into the story. I cared about these people - even certain members of the Russian mafia!

The story itself is a thrill ride. Wolfe's ex-girlfriend is caught in the middle of a terrorist attack, a situation for which he blames himself. When he realizes that, unknown to the authorities, she is still alive, he sets out to rescue her. He's not Jason Bourne. He is clearly ill-trained to face the dangers into which he launches himself. But, for him, there is no alternative. None of his logic or analysis can be applied to this situation. He simply must save her. But he's not completely unarmed. Between his own technical aptitude, and that of his equally talented friends (Bonbon and Kathrin were particular favorites), he out-techs and out-maneuvers even the C.I.A. I found the technical side of the story to be another of its strengths.

As Wolfe pursues his objective, it is his very inexperience (and his innate mental acuity) that are his saving grace. He zigs when a professional would zag (either because his analysis directs it or his character requires it). This lends a welcome and exciting unpredictability to the story. In the end, he pushes himself well beyond anything he anticipated - both physically in terms of what he can endure and mentally in terms of how far he's willing to go. His astute situational analysis of best options dictates his course, but it never takes into account his own safety. That is because he cannot put his own life above the need to save his girlfriend. But he's not a superman (except possibly for his IQ), and this is what creates the tension and intrigue.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes spy or action thrillers. It's a roller coaster filled with great characters and nearly non-stop excitement. If you’ve never known someone who’s highly adept with computers, it’s also a great primer to getting to know one.

Be warned though, without giving away any spoilers, there's a bit of an emotional twist at the end that will likely compel you to read the next book in the series!
Profile Image for Dianne.
6,815 reviews629 followers
March 15, 2015
In an in-your-face tale of brains and pure dumb luck over brawn, S.L. Shelton’s Waking Wolfe is a hyper-speed, action-packed race against time and death as one brilliant computer geek and one feisty and mysterious young woman take on the bad guys in an international game of save the captives, and bring ‘em back alive.

Scott Wolfe is a computer genius and security specialist, single, young and a little on the over-adventurous side, but when he is drawn into a devious and deadly plot with an international flare, he is ready to play Knight in Shining Armor to his missing ex-girlfriend’s peril. Terrorists have kidnapped several high profile and powerful players in industry and politics and Scott refuses to be cowed or thwarted as he risks everything in a daring rescue attempt that takes him partway around the globe, by plane, train, scooter and parachute. Along the way, he will be tortured, beaten, burned and shot at, but does he give up? Oh heck no!

Assisted by a sharp and beautiful ally, with more street smarts than he, these two become an international version of Batman and Robin, if Robin were female. The clock is ticking, the terrorists are getting antsy, they have dissension in their ranks and Scott uses his personal brand of charm to enlist the help of government agents, military specialists and even the terrorists. But will he be in time? What if he has to kill? Can he do it? This is the game of life and death, not some computer mock up, you cannot get new lives to play with by pouncing on the magic sword.

This is pure, cheer-worthy, non-stop, over-the-top action and intrigue from start to finish told in the strong and forceful style of S. L. Shelton as he combines danger, humor and that ever-necessary power of invincible youth. Did I like it as much as I hoped? You betcha, especially when I figured out what Charlie Foxtrot meant when used in a certain context!


Series: Scott Wolfe Series - Book 1
Publication Date: November 19, 2013
Publisher: S.L. Shelton
Genre: Mystery |Thriller | Intrigue
Print Length: 346 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com

Profile Image for Donna Cummins.
Author 8 books39 followers
October 16, 2014
Shelton hits the bull’s eye dead center for political espionage with WAKING WOLFE—Book 1 in The Scott Wolfe Thriller Series. Imbued with rich detail and realistic, high-powered adventure, this action-packed, cleverly-devised plot whisks the reader along for a non-stop ride where ‘boy-next-door’ techno geek, Scott Wolfe, evolves into amateur international spy.

When Wolfe’s would-be girlfriend, along with members of a diplomatic corps, is kidnapped in Amsterdam, Wolfe sets out on a mission to find and rescue her. While U.S. CIA forces seem stymied in their own attempts to find the missing hostages, Wolfe—with extraordinary intellect, strategy, and technological savvy—devises a plan not only to find the missing diplomats but also to thwart an impending terrorist attack.

The realism of plot, characters, vernacular, and dialogue quickly and easily pulls the reader into the scene, into the moment, and almost makes one feel an intrinsic part of the story. The author’s obvious personal skill and background in rock climbing as well as his knowledge and competency in technology are subtly interwoven throughout and add credibility to the storyline. His fluid writing style captures the imagination, heightens the senses, and generates page-turning anticipation.

For both fast-paced adventure and suspenseful intrigue, I would highly recommend WAKING WOLFE.
Profile Image for Nancy.
779 reviews59 followers
January 5, 2014
This was an excellent book, I couldn't put it down because I couldn't wait to see what happened next. I would highly reommend this book to any one who wants an excellent read. I look forward to reading more of this author's work.
3 reviews1 follower
June 27, 2014
I read this a while ago, but came back and read it again when the other books came out. I had no idea it had been updated. It was a super story before but with the changes (which I couldn't actually pick out) it was fantastic.

I'll start with what I liked. Scott. Wow. I know he would make a horrible boyfriend, but I can't help but love him. Being inside his head is a very cool way to see the story. The 3rd person point of view from the supporting characters was perfect, but that extra level of voyeurism in Scott's side was thrilling.

I loved Kathrin! I sooooo hope she comes back in other stories. She was awesome.

The action rolled seamlessly and vividly. I felt like I was watching it in a theater (I wouldn't be surprised if that happened. this story was made for the big screen), and the dialog flowed so effortlessly, I actually recall hearing rather than reading it. It was a great story, and flows well into the rest. I recommend this story to anyone. It crosses many genres and can't be nailed down to one. So if you like to read awesome characters, 1st person protagonists and majorly well written action, then you will like this one, for sure.
1 review
September 14, 2014
Often, to find good new authors, you have to wade through mountains of books that leave you disappointed. But on that rare occasion when you locate that elusive unicorn of the talented first time author, it's like discovering a masterwork in your attic by accident. Waking Wolfe is one of those rare gems. Shelton has the masterful ability to draw a scene in a way that leaves you absorbed in not only the story, but in the telling of it. The characters he creates are rich with personality and depth, as is demonstrated in the brilliant dialog.

The action flows seamlessly and there are few pages that don't carry a good deal of tension, which builds to the epic conclusion. The emotion Waking Wolfe delivered was tense--too tense at times--leaving me trying to catch my breath. Brilliant. A novel that is not only a captivating and edge of your seat thrill ride, but seems to be tailor made for big screen adaptation. I would recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a thrilling and suspenseful read, rolling into additional books as a continuing, evolving story.

Profile Image for Dayla.
2,899 reviews221 followers
May 30, 2014
Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7

I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review!

A Lamb in Wolfe's Clothing (now titled Waking Wolfe) by S.L. Shelton was one of those books where you jump in hoping for, at the very least, a semi-entertaining read, but instead end up craving more after turning the last page. Shelton's debut took me by surprise and I have to say, it was awesome. I'm one of those readers who are always interested in the action genre but never actually get around to reading it--yeah, well, this is a book that definitely fed that craving. Never lacking in the action department, impressive twists and turns, and an intelligent storyline made this one a thrilling read.

Scott Wolfe (Yep, that's not a typo on the book cover!), the protagonist, is a savvy computer guy who knows where he stands both at work and in any of his romantic relationships. Except for the one he's currently in. When his world is suddenly invaded by a terrorist attack that included his (recent) ex-girlfriend, he takes it upon himself to go all James Bond. What ensues is an unforgettable and incredibly dangerous adventure that includes intense knowledge of technology and an intelligent mind set to accomplish almost anything.

At first, I was a bit wary of the narrative, since we're passed around from one character to another, before finally stopping on Scott and his current predicament. I appreciated how Shelton introduced the other characters in third person, while keeping Scott's narrative in first person because it allowed for us to connect emotionally with him, while keeping an almost professional connection with the other characters.

The character development was good, since we learn a bit about Scott and his relationships with the people around him, especially his girlfriend, Barbara. I find that it's important to note his romantic relationship, so that we can compare it to another relationship he forms while on his adventure. The contrast will bring to light some clues as to the state of Scott's emotion (which he seems to not have a firm grasp of.)

I find it ironic that Scott is a walking brain, yet he can't quite grasp the concepts of a relationship. This stilted and sometimes confused view he has of the people he bonds with kind of transfers to the reader, since we don't always know what to expect from him. As a result, Scott ends up being an oddity to the reader, just as he is an oddity to those around him.

The adventure itself is exciting. I loved learning more about Europe and how Shelton has us see even the least likely of people as allies. All of the usual cliched crutches that authors of the action genre fall on are abandoned as Scott fights back against a system that is constantly trying to push him down. We already know he's a genius, but he isn't perfect and the conclusion shows us as much.

I recommend this one to readers seeking an action-packed novel that takes place in Europe. This is the first in a series and I can't wait to read the next installment and see what dangers Scott puts himself into next!
Profile Image for Dominique.
9 reviews10 followers
April 24, 2015
This was amazing! I’m really impressed. The plot was fresh, original and entertaining and the action in the beginning drew me in right away. I loved the writing style, and loved the characters.

There was so much action, never a dull moment. Oh and I like that Scott wasn’t portrayed as one of those tall, dark and mysterious types. He was just a your average friendly computer geek with lots of luck. AND I’m happy he didn’t fall in love with his ‘sidekick’.

One thing I’m not sure about is the way the book ended. I’m not sure about Scott and Barb’s relationship (although, neither are they I’m sure) and I’m pretty sure the epilogue is some sort of transition into the next book but it left me a bit confused. But regardless, the book was awesome.
Profile Image for Katherine.
21 reviews4 followers
November 15, 2014
Action, intrigue, and suspense - this first book by author SL Shelton introduces us to a world of high technology and CIA covert ops... Meet Scott Wolfe a computer security geek that jumps the first plane to Amsterdam when his girlfriend is taken hostage. This requires the reader to suspend disbelief a bit, since when is the average guy able to take on the terrorists single handed? But the reader that accepts Mr Shelton's premise is rewarded with interesting characters that inhabit an exciting world of high intrigue. This is a story that is fun to read and finds you furiously turning pages at 1am.
Profile Image for Lynn Kasdorf.
1 review3 followers
June 2, 2014
It is a complicated story, but boy is it worth hanging on for the ride! It draws you in and won't let go. As a geek myself, one thing I really liked is that Shelton goes into great detail about technical tricks and hacks that Scott Wolfe employs. Some of the concepts mentioned are things I didn't know exist, and they might not, but they certainly sound plausible, and they serve as tools in his superhero toolbelt. In other words, the intricate detail makes it all seem possible.
Scott Wolfe is the next 007. Can't wait to get started on the next one!
4 reviews
August 11, 2016
Exciting, suspenseful, creative. This is not like any other story I've read. Reading it, I could totally see it on the big screen. Very vivid imagery as well as rich depth of character...even the "bad guys". I have to say, I may be hooked.
Profile Image for Scott.
1 review
June 2, 2014
I couldn't stop reading this! One of the few books that I have read in only a couple of days!!
1 review1 follower
June 2, 2014
The story has a constant flow of activity. Great characters with good chemistry. Felt as though I was right there with Wolfe.
Profile Image for Marina.
978 reviews169 followers
August 15, 2014
I was given a free ebook copy of this book by the author in an exchange for an honest review.

I liked this book overall, but to be honest, it read like a typical triller. However, there were some things that really surprised me which kept me reading until the end.

One of the weaknesses of the book, is I think Scott himself, who's a bit of Gary-Stu. He's like superman. He has a super-computer brain with a perfect, photographic memory. He's incredibly smart, speaks a couple of languages, and does a manly thing like rock climbing. He is, of course, handsome and funny. He can get away being a terrible employee because when he does work his work is brilliant. Plus everyone instantly trusts him and he can somehow make even the supposedly bad guys like him and random people willing to help him with dangerous shit. And wait for it, yes, he has an angsty past that still gives him nightmares. But still, I don't know, I did find Scott very likable.

Another thing was, Mr Wolfe seems to have a high intuition for when women are trying to work him, and it seems all women in his life try to manipulate him. His girlfriend, Barb, was a piece of work. Besides the fact that she was attempting to train him like a dog into a perfect boyfriend with the reward/punishment treatment. Kisses when he's good, hitting him "playfully" when he does things she doesn't like. Scott is very aware of this and in other ways she attempts to manipulate him, and probably when asked why the hell he's dating her, he'd say "she's hot." I felt absolutely no chemistry between them and no compatibility whatsoever. It also seemed like it was deliberate on the author's part, but when she decides to move on with her life, for some reason Scott feels that he's the one who should have tried harder.

Also women in their twenties still refer to their father as "Daddy" are weird, it's creepy.

I understand that he goes to save her mostly out of guilt. He never thinks beyond guilt, it's not because he loves her or that he feels any deep attachment to her. However, whenever he tells the story to someone else, they instantly see him as a knight in shinning armour who's rescuing the love of his life. But really, he's just trying to make himself feel better. Then there's also Kathrin, who isn't written as a love interest, but based on their interactions and how close their friendship becomes she almost seems like a better alternative to Barb. Not that Scott develops any romantic feelings, and Kathrin herself says she like girls, but I don't know.

Kathrin is an interesting character, but I didn't get that much from her aside that she's smart, resourceful, and has a very dark backstory which probably has something to do with sexual abuse. The fact that she kicks ass, tells me she's not just a random girl who just wants to help Scott out.

What surprised me was the greyness of the bad guys and the complexity of the plot. It felt really real. As a Russian, the part with the Russian mob ticked me off a bit, since it seemed really stereotypical. But then I was pleasantly suprised with how it went later. They may not be on the right side of the law, but that doesn't mean they're awful people. Scott is really lucky in people he meets. Like, unrealitically lucky. Half of those guys would have beat the shit out of him, and I have a feeling that real goverment operatives would have cuffed him shipped him to the states, and asked questions later... after everyone died.

Plus the whole thing with the Serbians/Russians/Germans/American traitors was really complex and interesting. I think it's the strongest part of the book.

Would recommend this to anyone who enjoys thrillers/mysteries/espionage novels.
Profile Image for Tabitha Barret.
Author 31 books287 followers
May 6, 2015
When I purchased this book, I didn’t know what to expect. I typically don’t read thrillers because the characters tend to get lost in the details of the story. They become frantic objects moving from one dramatic scene to another. “Walking Wolfe” avoids this problematic theme by creating very real, very likable characters.

The main plot of the story starts during a military raid where nuclear missiles are stolen by terrorists, but quickly centers on the main characters Scott Wolfe and his girlfriend Barb as they awkwardly end their relationship. When Barb finds herself in the middle of a hostage situation, she immediately contacts Scott for help. Though Scott as no military training, he feels responsible for her situation and races off to help her. He finds himself in one debacle after another as he tries to unravel the mystery surrounding the hostage situation while making interesting allies along his journey. Throughout everything, his guilt over putting Barb in this situation drives him to do what needs to be done to find her.

Scott is a very interesting character and I found myself rooting for him during his difficult journey. His interactions with the characters that he meets were entertaining and added humor into this face pace world. All of the side characters had their own unique personalities that drew me further into the story. I couldn’t wait to see how everything would come together in the end.

My only complaint about the story is the attention to detail during the action sequences. It sometimes made me lose sight of the overall objective. I had a hard time visualizing everything little thing that was happening, but it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story.

Mr. Shelton has a created a solid foundation for his Scott Wolfe series with “Walking Wolfe”. The book addresses only a small part of the overall arc that Mr. Shelton is creating for his series. By the end of the book, it’s clear that there is more going on in the grand scheme of things, which plants the seeds for the sequels. It will be interesting to see where Mr. Shelton takes Scott during his future adventures, especially after leaving a number of potential paths for him.

Personally, I loved the book and I am looking forward to reading the next installment. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a thriller laced with humor and genuine characters. I give it 4.5 stars because of the extended details. I’m hoping that the future books will show Mr. Shelton’s growth as a writer and exceed my expectations for the continuing saga.
Profile Image for Melissa.
66 reviews10 followers
March 6, 2015
Wow. Phenomenal. Fantastic. Brilliant. These are only a few descriptive words I come with for an absolutely thrilling book. Mr. Shelton is a rare gem of an author you don’t want to miss reading.

His debut novel Waking Wolfe will have you quickly turning the pages until the end. It has been awhile since I’ve coming across a book where I was sad to put it down as the day-to-day things in life came up and needed taking care of. The characters are unbelievably real and the scenarios taking place within in the story ring with a clarity of truth. You will definitely come away felling a personal connection with his characters, and snatching every free second to continue their story.

Mr. Shelton definitely brings home his knowledge of military reactions, procedures, and jargon, in the field as well as his background and knowledge in computers. Plausible and extremely well put together; you don’t want to miss this one.

His main character and each supporting character are well written and developed. The reader is left wondering if there’s more to the character Scott and supporting character Gretel. There’s something left unsaid about the two of them. Secrets the two have, perhaps. You know there’s more to them. Looking forward to digging into the rest of the series to find out the history behind the two characters and whether not they can make a go of it together.

There wasn’t one page throughout the storyline wasted or where you were dropped out of the world he created. Fascinating plot.

I don’t want to give away anything and ruin the experience for another reader, but if you had the smarts would you drop everything and jump the next train to rescue someone you cared about. Something to think about.

This is definitely a book that should be on every reader’s shelf. An action packed book filled with suspense, intrigue, and humor. My first book by Mr. Shelton, and it won’t be my last. Mr. Shelton is a new favorite author, so pleased to have come across him.

Once readers finish the available books in the series, you’ll be in high demand to keep up with those seeking more of your writing.

Nicely done Mr. Shelton! Keep them coming.
Profile Image for Brenda Cheers.
Author 11 books31 followers
June 25, 2014
Scott Wolfe is an ordinary guy, blessed with extraordinary skills, who gets caught up with some nasty people when having to rescue a damsel in distress. There are Serbs, Russians, the CIA, nuclear weapons and some rather interesting computer programming. Our hero has his hands full.
This is an intelligently written action/adventure novel which has well-drawn characters and good plotting. We feel for Scott and hope everything turns out okay for him.
Why can’t I give it five stars?
Kathrin is an interesting character, but we don’t get to know her at all. We don’t really understand her motivation in becoming involved but she’s very necessary to the plot. I’m guessing we’ll learn more about her in upcoming books, but felt frustrated about a lack of her back story in this one.
The first part of the novel has two stories that appear unconnected. It wasn’t until they merged that I felt interested in what was happening. It didn’t grab my attention first up.
The shift from first to third person narration was (a couple of times) lacking the smoothness of transition needed.
The use of an “Aftermath” and then “Epilogue” where the latter is clearly the lead-in to a new story didn’t work for me. It included one character from Waking Wolfe, but was otherwise a different story. I’m not sure it should have been the Epilogue.
Overall, however, it was a fun story. It takes the reader on a wild ride. I can relate to Scott’s personality traits so enjoyed his narrative. I recommend this story to those who like their novels fast-paced.
Profile Image for K.R. Rowe.
Author 3 books39 followers
January 13, 2016
I picked up this book a while back and I am so glad I did. It didn’t take me very long to figure out why it’s a best seller. It really is an awesome novel.

Scott Wolfe, a computer geek, security specialist and average Joe, finds himself knee deep in a quagmire of kidnapping, organized crime, murder, and international espionage when his ex-girlfriend is kidnapped abroad. Instead of fiddle-farting around and waiting for the CIA to find her, Scott Wolfe avoids them altogether, and with the help of some old friends and a gorgeous new friend, he sets out to find her himself.

Will he succeed?

This book rolls like a locomotive. Once it gets moving, it’s fast and non stop and all you can do is hold on and enjoy the ride. I loved the detail Shelton put into this story and am very impressed with his computer, military, and geographical knowledge. All of these things along with the ability to weave a fantastic plot, enhance the story and make this book a great thriller.

The characters feel real and are well developed, even the mysterious heroine.

The switch from first person to third person is difficult to pull off, but it worked quite well for this story and the author did a fantastic job. I really enjoyed this book and plan to continue reading the series to find out what happens next.

Overall, Waking Wolfe is my top read of 2015.
Profile Image for J.C. Brennan.
Author 8 books333 followers
October 11, 2015
“A few moments of tense silence in which I was frozen statue of raw nerves, I lowered the louver and skulked back over to the front corner of the warehouse. The guard was still there, sitting at the top of the ramp, smoking a cigarette. Don’t get caught, don’t get caught, don’t get caught, don’t get caught. I silently changed to myself as I turned and went back to finish removing the louver.” Pg. 195 I included this passage for the mere factor that the whole book has you on the edge of your seat. You can feel your heartbeat race, your temperature rise, and the muscles in your body contact. The story places you in the head of a soldier who is tired of those who exploit their power. He wants to drop them on their asses. Shelton does more that reel you in, he keeps you there with a nice mixture of suspense, humor, and tragedy that comes with war. Complexity of the character's story brings a thrill that separates it from the rest—it’s unique, to say the least. This is an intriguing story one that as entertaining as it is horrific in the parallels of war. A Hell of a story, fantastic read.
Profile Image for Jay Howard.
Author 16 books63 followers
July 3, 2014
I’m not technologically savvy enough to know if the details are correct, but I know enough that I enjoyed this extra ‘flavour’ to a most enjoyable, fast-paced tale of abduction and rescue. The characters are well drawn and were developing nicely, so I’m looking forward to meeting them again in later books in the series. I also enjoyed the scene-setting; there’s enough detail given so that I could imagine the places but without feeling it was being force-fed to me. It’s one of those books where you look forward to getting a few minutes free to read the next instalment.

On the whole it was well edited and proofed, but there were some annoying little errors left eg ‘praying we wouldn’t attracted the attention’, some clumsy sentences eg ‘She certain that made it sting John all that much more’, and was Katrin’s repeated ‘Yah’ supposed to be ‘Ja’? A good editor would also correct the tendency to use redundant words. I definitely enjoyed this story, though, despite these issues.
153 reviews14 followers
May 17, 2015
I bought this book, because the protagonist and the story sounded very intriguing and the reviews were very promising. After reading "Waking Wolfe" I have to admit, Shelton delivers in a big way!

His "hero" Scott Wolfe is a very complex character, who has a special gift in the form of absolute brain accuracy (it reminded me a bit of BBc's Sherlock), which enables him to go toe to toe with the CIA, even with zero field experience. He is highly intelligent and very likable with a clear sense of right and wrong. One really roots for him during his adventure.

But beyond his interesting protagonist, Shelton not only establishes many other great characters, but also creates a fascinating story which clearly expands beyond this amazingly well written first effort!

Shelton is now at the very top of my list of favourite authors, right besides Tom Wood, Ben Coes and JT Patten and I can't wait to dive into his second novel "Unexpected Gaines"!
Profile Image for Elizabeth Woodrum.
Author 5 books385 followers
August 31, 2014
I enjoyed this book for it's exciting pace and story line. I am someone who loves all things technology, so I enjoyed the technology aspects of the this action and rescue story. I thought that the characters were developed enough that their actions were realistic and believable. There was also enough imagery that I was able to imagine the events of the story with ease. It's not the type of book I normally read, but I'm trying to branch out. I've found a few good books this way, and I'm glad I gave this one a shot.



489 reviews6 followers
June 10, 2015
Waking Wolfe (book 1)

Shelton has another "bullseye" in Scott Wolfe. A very good computer "geek" with a very quick analytical mind and a well rounded physical shaped body of which most athletes would envy. Coupled to all of that is a very dedicated sense of right and wrong. This is what causes Scott to get involved in the recovery of Barbara, who he might be in love with. Hang on, you're in for a great experience and a new character to follow. Thanks, can't wait to see what is going to be next for Mr Wolfe.
Profile Image for Melissa Dinwiddie.
264 reviews14 followers
October 15, 2016
What a ride!

Once this train got rolling, it had me booknapped with nonstop action. Believable? No. Fun? Absolutely!

Regular American boy (who happens to be a techie whiz kid, with savant-like visual hallucinations of flow charts and a wildly intuitive inner voice) heads to Amsterdam to rescue his girl and stop a terrorist plot in the process, assisted by kickass German girl.

Good stuff.

I can't wait to read the next one in the series!
Profile Image for Sarah.
106 reviews11 followers
October 15, 2018
Meet Scott Wolfe. A rock climbing computer geek who’s bad at relationships. End of story right? Wrong! Find out what is awaken in Scott when his ex-girlfriend is taken by terrorist. He may garner some attention from the No Such Agency! 🤔🤔🤔 An absolute must read guys!
Profile Image for Jessica.
2,332 reviews23 followers
May 11, 2018
Scott Wolfe is a computer geek who has an almost unnatural ability in finding viruses and intrusions in any system and can masterfully hack around them. His high IQ helps him in this but makes him woefully inept when it comes to relationships. His avid love for rock-climbing is only implausible if you buy into the whole stereotype bout computer geeks having to always be middle aged men living in the basement guzzling mountain dews and chomping on Cheetos. Add into this story a man who is attempting to sabotage the new presidential administration and a major dustup with the Russians in Georgia. Scotts girlfriend and father are apparently the victims of a bombing attack, but his abilities tell him this is not 100% true so Scott takes off to Europe to find out what exactly happened to Barb and tries to save her. I thought this book was very entertaining. There is a lot of action and intrigue in this story about what is actually happening and who might really be pulling strings of all these worldwide events behind the curtains. The story jumps around a lot between the different storylines, sometimes multiple times in a chapter, but the pace is quick, and it moves the story along.
Profile Image for Julius Blitzy.
476 reviews15 followers
May 17, 2018
Yikes! My heart was beating faster than usual as I read this book, the pace is insane, I didn’t even realize it was over until I saw no following page to turn, is an adventure to just read this book!
Despite this book is about tech and complex explanations and a lot of careful and deep details scattered throughout the story, the main focus for me is the protagonist, Scott is an amazingly relatable character, despite his knowledge and ‘secret’ his development is fascinating and his behavior resembles a lot of young adults of these days, it takes a lot of work to create a character with such rich evolution, the result here is flawless.
Having mentioned the pace previously, yes, its incredible fast you get used to it very quickly, this book demands you to really pay attention but it’s worth the effort, if you are a geek or someone really curious and willing to learn something new every day, like me, you should buy and read this book.
Profile Image for Chelseyam.
198 reviews
May 15, 2018
This book is so fast paced it was over before I knew it. Of course, that doesn’t mean it is lacking in information or quality. It is very well written with lots of complex details that will have you deciphering clues as fast as you possibly can. I love the main character who oddly reminded me of Chuck (miss that show) with his geeky lifestyle that is quickly thrust into things much bigger than him. I felt him to be very humanistic, which a lot of action heroes lack. I am so excited to read more into this series as the character really spoke to me. I hope the writer keeps up with the same voice though as it was very engaging and allowed me to easily flow from one chapter to the next. I think action fans will love this book and I know a few mystery fans will too. This is certainly a must if you’re looking for something new and refreshing to read.
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