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Siege of the Forgotten Order
In the shattered remains of a post-apocalyptic world, civilization clings to survival while fanatical zealots scour the earth for ancient relics said to unlock gateways to powers beyond human comprehension. Standing between humanity and annihilation is the Shadow Hawks, an elite special operations unit led by Captain Gabe Davis. Hardened by war and bound by loyalty, the Hawks are thrust into a mission that pits them not only against ruthless extremists but against forces older and darker than any battlefield they’ve faced before.
From bombed-out cities to buried desert ziggurats, the Shadow Hawks hunt those who would use relics of unimaginable power to unleash monsters and gods long forgotten. Each operation brings them deeper into a web of secrets, betrayal, and ancient prophecies. Every firefight tests their resolve, every discovery blurs the line between myth and reality, and every mission forces them to question who they can truly trust, both in the field and among their supposed allies.
From bombed-out cities to buried desert ziggurats, the Shadow Hawks hunt those who would use relics of unimaginable power to unleash monsters and gods long forgotten. Each operation brings them deeper into a web of secrets, betrayal, and ancient prophecies. Every firefight tests their resolve, every discovery blurs the line between myth and reality, and every mission forces them to question who they can truly trust, both in the field and among their supposed allies.
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2026
About the author
Garrett Holt
1 book15 followersWar didn’t end the world. It uncovered something older.
And it’s waking up.
Garrett Holt writes post-apocalyptic military thrillers that blend modern warfare, ancient relics, and cosmic horror. His work follows elite operators facing threats that don’t follow the rules of war and never should have been found.
With a background in history, political science, and intelligence, and current work supporting U.S. Navy programs and operations, Garrett brings a grounded, realistic edge to global conflict scenarios.
His debut novel, Siege of the Forgotten Order, is the first entry in an expanding series exploring relics, gates, and forces beyond human control.
And it’s waking up.
Garrett Holt writes post-apocalyptic military thrillers that blend modern warfare, ancient relics, and cosmic horror. His work follows elite operators facing threats that don’t follow the rules of war and never should have been found.
With a background in history, political science, and intelligence, and current work supporting U.S. Navy programs and operations, Garrett brings a grounded, realistic edge to global conflict scenarios.
His debut novel, Siege of the Forgotten Order, is the first entry in an expanding series exploring relics, gates, and forces beyond human control.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 27, 2026
This book is packed with amazingly written detail and descriptions that pull you in and make you feel as though you are right there in the action. This is a military apocalyptic thriller book which isn’t something I’ve ever ventured into before but I’m so glad that I did, I always love to broaden my reading genres and this was a great one to get my feet wet with. Definitely recommend this one if you’re looking for something action packed and well written!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy of Siege of the Forgotten, and this is my honest review. I’d like to thank Garrett Holt for providing an advance copy after putting out a call for ARC readers on TikTok.
As a longtime fan of fantasy and science fiction, the blurb immediately caught my attention. While dystopian stories aren’t usually my go-to genre, this book may have changed that—I’ll definitely be picking up more in the future.
The story follows two special forces teams tasked with preventing escalating disasters caused by militant regimes and religious extremists. The cast of characters is a strong point: some are immediately likable, while others will have you wanting to reach through the pages and give them a wake-up call (you’ll know who they are). The writing is clear and accessible, without overwhelming the reader with heavy military jargon.
Although the story takes place on Earth, the level of world-building and environmental detail is exceptional—some of the best I’ve read in quite some time. It adds depth and immersion without slowing the pace of the story.
I’m very much looking forward to Book 2 and would gladly jump at the chance to read another ARC in this series.
As a longtime fan of fantasy and science fiction, the blurb immediately caught my attention. While dystopian stories aren’t usually my go-to genre, this book may have changed that—I’ll definitely be picking up more in the future.
The story follows two special forces teams tasked with preventing escalating disasters caused by militant regimes and religious extremists. The cast of characters is a strong point: some are immediately likable, while others will have you wanting to reach through the pages and give them a wake-up call (you’ll know who they are). The writing is clear and accessible, without overwhelming the reader with heavy military jargon.
Although the story takes place on Earth, the level of world-building and environmental detail is exceptional—some of the best I’ve read in quite some time. It adds depth and immersion without slowing the pace of the story.
I’m very much looking forward to Book 2 and would gladly jump at the chance to read another ARC in this series.
April 9, 2026
Siege of the Forgotten Order drops you straight into the ashes of a broken world and doesn’t let you breathe.
Garrett Holt crafts a brutal post-apocalyptic landscape where survival isn’t just about food or shelter it’s about resisting forces that feel ancient, unknowable, and downright terrifying. The concept of relics unlocking gateways to something beyond human comprehension adds a dark sci-fi/fantasy edge that elevates this beyond your typical wasteland story.The Shadow Hawks, led by Captain Gabe Davis, are easily the backbone of this novel. They feel real battle worn, loyal, and constantly walking the line between duty and collapse. The camaraderie hits hard, especially when the stakes escalate and the threats stop feeling human.
What really stood out:
• ⚔️ Military action that feels cinematic and grounded
• 🌑 A creeping sense of cosmic horror lurking beneath the surface
• 💀 High-stakes tension that keeps tightening chapter after chapter
At times, the pacing leans heavy into action over reflection, but honestly it works for the tone. This is a story meant to feel like a relentless march into darkness.
If you like post apocalyptic worlds mixed with elite military squads and a hint of eldritch dread, this one is absolutely worth the ride.
Final Verdict: A gritty, pulse pounding survival story with a dark supernatural edge.
Garrett Holt crafts a brutal post-apocalyptic landscape where survival isn’t just about food or shelter it’s about resisting forces that feel ancient, unknowable, and downright terrifying. The concept of relics unlocking gateways to something beyond human comprehension adds a dark sci-fi/fantasy edge that elevates this beyond your typical wasteland story.The Shadow Hawks, led by Captain Gabe Davis, are easily the backbone of this novel. They feel real battle worn, loyal, and constantly walking the line between duty and collapse. The camaraderie hits hard, especially when the stakes escalate and the threats stop feeling human.
What really stood out:
• ⚔️ Military action that feels cinematic and grounded
• 🌑 A creeping sense of cosmic horror lurking beneath the surface
• 💀 High-stakes tension that keeps tightening chapter after chapter
At times, the pacing leans heavy into action over reflection, but honestly it works for the tone. This is a story meant to feel like a relentless march into darkness.
If you like post apocalyptic worlds mixed with elite military squads and a hint of eldritch dread, this one is absolutely worth the ride.
Final Verdict: A gritty, pulse pounding survival story with a dark supernatural edge.
April 29, 2026
Could be a great book, but currently mediocre at best.
Good concept; not entirely original, but with interesting and unique elements. Needs a lot of editing work, particularly in the first half of the book. Would also benefit from character development; you get to know the characters, but only on a surface level: they are mere human shells forming a team- you don't really care about the loss of any one of them except as it relates to the strength of the team.
The author has left the ending open for a series, but the deficient editing alone keeps me from looking forward to such a prospect.
Good concept; not entirely original, but with interesting and unique elements. Needs a lot of editing work, particularly in the first half of the book. Would also benefit from character development; you get to know the characters, but only on a surface level: they are mere human shells forming a team- you don't really care about the loss of any one of them except as it relates to the strength of the team.
The author has left the ending open for a series, but the deficient editing alone keeps me from looking forward to such a prospect.
April 21, 2026
I loved how descriptive the author was throughout the book. It was easy to put yourself in this world.
I did have a hard time being drawn into the story. I felt like there was a lot going on and hard to know what was important. But with that said I liked the description and writing style.
If you are into apocalyptic worlds, war type end of the world books this could easily be one of your favorites.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
I did have a hard time being drawn into the story. I felt like there was a lot going on and hard to know what was important. But with that said I liked the description and writing style.
If you are into apocalyptic worlds, war type end of the world books this could easily be one of your favorites.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
Review of advance copy
This is a post apocalyptic story which I love! The book is easy to read and fast paced. It kept me questioning what was going to happen next and how it would end. It didn't disappoint and I can't wait for his next book! I dont want to give too much away because the book hasn't officially been released. Once it is out, I will update my review.
April 30, 2026
great pick
I really enjoyed this book. It kept my attention from start to finish, and I liked the way the story unfolded. Definitely worth reading.
I really enjoyed this book. It kept my attention from start to finish, and I liked the way the story unfolded. Definitely worth reading.
April 24, 2026
Fast paced and full of action. This one definitely kept my attention. I think you'll like it! I did.
It is written with careful thought on the details that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the story.
It is written with careful thought on the details that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the story.
January 12, 2026
This is a pre-release ARC read and review. Thank you Garrett Holt for allowing me to get a look at this book before its release.
If you like post-apocalyptic writing and military action thrillers pick up this book. The Shadow Hawks are trying figure out what they stumbled upon and why the higher ups are "lying"to them and what it all means. Fast paced military action with believable characters and a mystery as well as the fate of the world hangs in the balance in this 4+ star quick read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the opportunity to read an advanced review copy of Siege of the Forgotten Order, and I have to say that I enjoyed it from the first page to the last. When I received my copy, I expected to find your typical military sci-fi storyline, but the plot has a creeping undercurrent that kept pulling me along, which, as a horror lover, I found quite satisfying.
As an editor in the speculative fiction genres, the book hits the major points I look for when evaluating submissions. The writing itself is solid in terms of craft, and it's reader accessible. The pacing is very good. It's a wonderful mix of description and action, so it feels very balanced overall, ebbing and flowing between bursts of combat and slower moments of tension and weirdness. This mix makes it incredibly engaging.
It seems Holt has a knack for worldbuilding, and I thought he did an excellent job. The world feels lived in, not just invented, and I found myself wanting to soak up all the little details. And the characterization is on point. There’s the sense that everyone is carrying around real damage we can’t see, all of it fitting for a world that’s “post-collapse.”
To give an example, I thought the Shadow Hawks as a whole were especially well done. They’re not presented as a generic elite squad. They come across as true individuals, not people-shaped cardboard cutouts. They have pasts, and those pasts bleed into the story in small, meaningful ways, whether it’s a look or a spot of dark humor. And yeah, you’re going to either love or hate them.
Another note on the characterization that I particularly appreciated is that the reactions feel real. They're not unreasonable or too little or unnatural. They make sense for what's happening and seem grounded in each character's personality. That kept me emotionally anchored in the story.
The best part is that Holt doesn’t just hand us a bunch of explosions and military strategy; we’re shown the very real, very human cost of war, the toll paid by those who survive. We’re given people who are desperately trying to hold themselves together despite everything. And frankly, that tickles the anthropologist in me to no end.
From a storytelling point of view, the way Holt handles the Eternal Shadow is also quite brilliant. Though we see talk of symbols and relics and strange visions, they’re never fully explained. Instead, we get the sense that they’re a source of pressure beneath the surface, a potential powder keg that could blow. That little bit of ambiguity really ramps up the tension, which hooks the reader even more.
The cliffhanger ending was very effective, I thought. Yes, it's unresolved, but it's also very satisfying in a strange way. This is a great opening novel for a much larger, darker series, and I look forward to the next one.
As an editor in the speculative fiction genres, the book hits the major points I look for when evaluating submissions. The writing itself is solid in terms of craft, and it's reader accessible. The pacing is very good. It's a wonderful mix of description and action, so it feels very balanced overall, ebbing and flowing between bursts of combat and slower moments of tension and weirdness. This mix makes it incredibly engaging.
It seems Holt has a knack for worldbuilding, and I thought he did an excellent job. The world feels lived in, not just invented, and I found myself wanting to soak up all the little details. And the characterization is on point. There’s the sense that everyone is carrying around real damage we can’t see, all of it fitting for a world that’s “post-collapse.”
To give an example, I thought the Shadow Hawks as a whole were especially well done. They’re not presented as a generic elite squad. They come across as true individuals, not people-shaped cardboard cutouts. They have pasts, and those pasts bleed into the story in small, meaningful ways, whether it’s a look or a spot of dark humor. And yeah, you’re going to either love or hate them.
Another note on the characterization that I particularly appreciated is that the reactions feel real. They're not unreasonable or too little or unnatural. They make sense for what's happening and seem grounded in each character's personality. That kept me emotionally anchored in the story.
The best part is that Holt doesn’t just hand us a bunch of explosions and military strategy; we’re shown the very real, very human cost of war, the toll paid by those who survive. We’re given people who are desperately trying to hold themselves together despite everything. And frankly, that tickles the anthropologist in me to no end.
From a storytelling point of view, the way Holt handles the Eternal Shadow is also quite brilliant. Though we see talk of symbols and relics and strange visions, they’re never fully explained. Instead, we get the sense that they’re a source of pressure beneath the surface, a potential powder keg that could blow. That little bit of ambiguity really ramps up the tension, which hooks the reader even more.
The cliffhanger ending was very effective, I thought. Yes, it's unresolved, but it's also very satisfying in a strange way. This is a great opening novel for a much larger, darker series, and I look forward to the next one.
May 13, 2026
What can I said about this book, first of all science fiction isn’t my usual genre but I love military fiction. That being said I was super excited to read it off all the posts Garrett had made on TikTok! The book follows the military unit the Shadow Hawks led by Captain Gabe Davis on missions where they only know a small fraction of information about what’s truly going on. They find themselves in mysterious and dangerous situations, they find relics, old books and scriptures on these missions and they start to realise things are not as they seem. As a unit they try to figure out what’s being kept from them, little did they realise they’d be faced with inhuman creatures that seems impossible to defeat.
They are faced with impossible challenges that they have to figure out how to overcome them while in the thick of it. You’re left wondering who will and won’t survive these situations that no humans should really live to tell the tale about.
Garrett writes in a way that makes you feel like you’re right there with the Shadow Hawks as a result of how well he builds the world. You feel the tension in the briefings, anxiety, anticipation and terror when they come face to face with what’s truly happening. He writes in an incredibly descriptive way that truly paints a picture of the creatures within the story which just adds to the story.
Considering this is the first science fiction book I’ve read it had me hooked from the very first page to the last and I’m definitely left wanting more. I’d 100% recommend this book! I’m so excited for book 2 already so I can find out what happens next! Congrats Garrett on an incredible book. I’d happily read anything you write in this series or otherwise!
They are faced with impossible challenges that they have to figure out how to overcome them while in the thick of it. You’re left wondering who will and won’t survive these situations that no humans should really live to tell the tale about.
Garrett writes in a way that makes you feel like you’re right there with the Shadow Hawks as a result of how well he builds the world. You feel the tension in the briefings, anxiety, anticipation and terror when they come face to face with what’s truly happening. He writes in an incredibly descriptive way that truly paints a picture of the creatures within the story which just adds to the story.
Considering this is the first science fiction book I’ve read it had me hooked from the very first page to the last and I’m definitely left wanting more. I’d 100% recommend this book! I’m so excited for book 2 already so I can find out what happens next! Congrats Garrett on an incredible book. I’d happily read anything you write in this series or otherwise!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I want to give my thanks to Garrett Holt for providing me with an ARC of Siege of the Forgotten Order - first and foremost I want it to be known that this was given to me to read and review. I wouldn’t do this for just anyone, but Holt seems like a good chap and, I mean after all, Holt had me at “end of the world,” “post apocalyptic!” I was very eager to dive into this. Fantasy and science fiction and all the other goodies that lie in wait within this book are just my cup of tea and let’s not forget the end of the world theme and horror elements - geez, this book has got it all. I didn’t need much selling.
The story takes place years after the world goes to shi.. I mean goes to Hell in a hand basket. A military squad not only has to take on corruption within its own ranks and crazy cults, but a ton of other exciting things as well. The characters are pretty believable as far as their actions and how they are overall written. Holt does a great job at creating characters and an atmospheric background - as you read it, you could totally see this as a pretty badas* action flick.
It’s a pretty action driven story, by the way, but it’s not overwhelming and the book is well paced. I totally dug this and can’t wait to see what Holt delivers to us next!
The story takes place years after the world goes to shi.. I mean goes to Hell in a hand basket. A military squad not only has to take on corruption within its own ranks and crazy cults, but a ton of other exciting things as well. The characters are pretty believable as far as their actions and how they are overall written. Holt does a great job at creating characters and an atmospheric background - as you read it, you could totally see this as a pretty badas* action flick.
It’s a pretty action driven story, by the way, but it’s not overwhelming and the book is well paced. I totally dug this and can’t wait to see what Holt delivers to us next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Garrett Holt's Siege of the Forgotten Order is a captivating read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
The book is a masterful blend of action and suspense, with a narrative that unfolds rapidly from beginning to end. The author's portrayal of war and survival is raw and emotionally charged, evoking feelings of anger, sadness, grit, and determination. Although post-apocalyptic fiction isn't typically my genre of choice, I've explored the theme before and found this book to be a welcome addition. The story centers around Gabe and his unit as they navigate a post-apocalyptic world, carrying out missions and following orders. However, they soon discover that their leaders are withholding information, and they stumble upon relics, books, and religious zealots. As they dig deeper, they find themselves battling forces that defy explanation in their world. I highly recommend diving into this book to uncover its secrets.
#siegeoftheforgottenorder #garrettholt #booktok #fyp #postapocolyptic #military #war #survival
The book is a masterful blend of action and suspense, with a narrative that unfolds rapidly from beginning to end. The author's portrayal of war and survival is raw and emotionally charged, evoking feelings of anger, sadness, grit, and determination. Although post-apocalyptic fiction isn't typically my genre of choice, I've explored the theme before and found this book to be a welcome addition. The story centers around Gabe and his unit as they navigate a post-apocalyptic world, carrying out missions and following orders. However, they soon discover that their leaders are withholding information, and they stumble upon relics, books, and religious zealots. As they dig deeper, they find themselves battling forces that defy explanation in their world. I highly recommend diving into this book to uncover its secrets.
#siegeoftheforgottenorder #garrettholt #booktok #fyp #postapocolyptic #military #war #survival
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was an ARC reader for this and really enjoyed it. If you like military action mixed with darker, almost supernatural elements, this one hits. The Shadow Hawks feel like a real team, not just characters on a page, and the pacing keeps things moving the whole way through. The mix of post-apocalyptic setting, relics, and something bigger lurking behind it all works really well without getting over the top. Definitely worth picking up when it releases.
January 13, 2026
My summary - the year is 2050, and the world is not what we know. The world has been militarily overhauled with new alliances and widespread annihilation. We follow Captain Gabe, who is part of a military romp, trying to make the world a better place by hunting down rogue, fanatical leaders. However, as he progresses through the missions, his team realizes there may be more than cults at play, but something altogether unworldly.
My review - I was absolutely thrilled to receive this ARC book directly from the author, who is one of my friends!! I was totally blown away by the verbose vocabulary. Each sentence was simply dripping with emotion and power. And this plot line was right up my alley - not only post apocalyptic despotic, but with cults and creepy foreboding and even something not of this world!
Why I read - a very grateful ARC
When to read - when you feel like going on a secret mission
My review - I was absolutely thrilled to receive this ARC book directly from the author, who is one of my friends!! I was totally blown away by the verbose vocabulary. Each sentence was simply dripping with emotion and power. And this plot line was right up my alley - not only post apocalyptic despotic, but with cults and creepy foreboding and even something not of this world!
Why I read - a very grateful ARC
When to read - when you feel like going on a secret mission
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
This is a fast paced, action packed book. The plot moves well, and is interesting. The military piece is realistic without being overwhelming. The writing is excellent. The plot, especially towards the end is fascinating. I look forward to reading the next book because the ending leaves you wanting more.
Highly recommend!
This is a fast paced, action packed book. The plot moves well, and is interesting. The military piece is realistic without being overwhelming. The writing is excellent. The plot, especially towards the end is fascinating. I look forward to reading the next book because the ending leaves you wanting more.
Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was hooked from the start and didn’t want to put it down. Great world building and realistic portrayal of small team dynamics makes it an authentic read. Throw in an ancient enemy and it just gets better. This is a must read,
Review of advance copy received from Author
Incredibly good read! Loved the concept and the military vibes are spot on. Great characters and world building and the pacing was on point! Can’t wait to get a hold of book 2! Home run, thank you for trusting me with an ARC, well worth it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Interesting read, very engaging- looking forward to more of the story/ series!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book started off as a good military story but quickly evolved into a very mysterious occult story.
I ended up binge reading the last half. It was that good.
I ended up binge reading the last half. It was that good.
April 29, 2026
I only got to read the Sample, but it was a really good start!
It is bound to get better, as soon as I can buy the complete book.
It is bound to get better, as soon as I can buy the complete book.
May 1, 2026
A very good book! I enjoyed it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I finished the Advanced Copy of Siege of the Forgotten Order by Garrett Hoit, and I’m trying to figure out what in the world has been unleashed! This book starts out as a post-war, “whole new world” scenario centered around military operations and intel-gathering missions. But as the debriefings grow more opaque and untrustworthy, it becomes clear the team is being led into something far beyond their clearance level.
When unknown forces converge with religious cultist activity, Gabe and his unit find themselves trapped in the middle of a conflict most of them won’t walk away from, and the worst part is, their superiors knew exactly what they were sending them into.
Siege of the Forgotten Order has escalated to unfathomable proportions, and I am completely here for it.
When unknown forces converge with religious cultist activity, Gabe and his unit find themselves trapped in the middle of a conflict most of them won’t walk away from, and the worst part is, their superiors knew exactly what they were sending them into.
Siege of the Forgotten Order has escalated to unfathomable proportions, and I am completely here for it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Overall I enjoyed the book, if I had to describe it I would probably say that it felt like a crossover of Raiders of the Lost Ark and Tom Clancy's The Division.
The story follows a special operations team as they rush to stop an extremist group trying to bring about the end of the world. This book’s ending had me so wrapped up that I couldn’t put it down, I had to find out how things ended.
The story follows a special operations team as they rush to stop an extremist group trying to bring about the end of the world. This book’s ending had me so wrapped up that I couldn’t put it down, I had to find out how things ended.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews