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Holly Danger #1
Danger's Halo
153 years in the future, Earth doesn’t look much like it used to.
Holly Danger’s current assignment, gleaned from a set of foggy instructions and a handful of coin stuffed into a slot, is pick up a street kid who’s about to terminate himself by jumping off a cliff. And, as a rule, she doesn’t turn down currency. Her job as a salvager keeps her fed and clothed above the norm, which isn’t saying much.
The norm in this city is a scrape-by existence in a post-apocalyptic world, where the rain never stops, food is always scarce, and the elite have deserted the ranks in search of something better. Picking up this urchin won’t take much time, even if he’s located outside city limits. Her craft is fast, her weapons deadly, and her tech has been optimized as well as it can be for a climate clogged with iron dust.
But things take a big turn when she decides to become the boy’s guardian instead of hand him over. Outskirts have descended on the city, and their plans don’t include playing nice. When her crew is backed against a graphene wall, it’s a good thing her Gem is primed and ready to go. It’s almost as deadly as she is…
Holly Danger’s current assignment, gleaned from a set of foggy instructions and a handful of coin stuffed into a slot, is pick up a street kid who’s about to terminate himself by jumping off a cliff. And, as a rule, she doesn’t turn down currency. Her job as a salvager keeps her fed and clothed above the norm, which isn’t saying much.
The norm in this city is a scrape-by existence in a post-apocalyptic world, where the rain never stops, food is always scarce, and the elite have deserted the ranks in search of something better. Picking up this urchin won’t take much time, even if he’s located outside city limits. Her craft is fast, her weapons deadly, and her tech has been optimized as well as it can be for a climate clogged with iron dust.
But things take a big turn when she decides to become the boy’s guardian instead of hand him over. Outskirts have descended on the city, and their plans don’t include playing nice. When her crew is backed against a graphene wall, it’s a good thing her Gem is primed and ready to go. It’s almost as deadly as she is…
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2017
461 people are currently reading
1044 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Carlson
29 books712 followersAmanda Carlson is the author of the upcoming Jessica McClain series. The first book, Full Blooded, will be released by Hachette Book Group, ORBIT US & UK SEPT 2012. She’s been writing for over ten years. Full Blooded is her first novel. She lives in Minneapolis, with her husband and three kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
August 8, 2017
Their is a lot to enjoy in this new Sci-Fi Fantasy series by Amanda Carlson.
Ms. Carlson is departing from her usual genre and diving into something new. She has brought her characters and world to life. Her writing engrosses the reader from the beginning and keeps you hooked until the end.
The story is set in a post-apocalyptic / Star Trek type world. A meteorite hit earth and life was pretty much killed off. Only a handful of humans are serving, well struggling to survive. It’s a dangers and hazardous place to live.
Holly our lead character is pretty awesome. I liked her. She’s resourceful, has a good head on her shoulders, and has made a living for herself as a scavenger. As a scavenger she salvages items to barter for anything she may need. She tends to not trust anyone and expects the worst. With her past, what little we get, and the world as it is, I can see why she expects the worst and trust is a no no.
I absolutely loved the part where it’s reveled on how Holly gets her name Holly Danger. Though Holly is alone in the world, with her mother gone, she has managed to find people, her crew, and let them into her life. They have, in away, become a family.
The book was a little slow at first since we are getting introduced to a new type of world, but things pick up and we are on a another fast-paced adventure with mystery and danger heading for Holly and her crew.
I had a delightful time with Holly and her friends. The plot is interesting and will continue into the next, so I can’t wait to see what is next for our gang.
Rated: 4 Stars
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Amanda Carlson with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Ms. Carlson is departing from her usual genre and diving into something new. She has brought her characters and world to life. Her writing engrosses the reader from the beginning and keeps you hooked until the end.
The story is set in a post-apocalyptic / Star Trek type world. A meteorite hit earth and life was pretty much killed off. Only a handful of humans are serving, well struggling to survive. It’s a dangers and hazardous place to live.
Holly our lead character is pretty awesome. I liked her. She’s resourceful, has a good head on her shoulders, and has made a living for herself as a scavenger. As a scavenger she salvages items to barter for anything she may need. She tends to not trust anyone and expects the worst. With her past, what little we get, and the world as it is, I can see why she expects the worst and trust is a no no.
I absolutely loved the part where it’s reveled on how Holly gets her name Holly Danger. Though Holly is alone in the world, with her mother gone, she has managed to find people, her crew, and let them into her life. They have, in away, become a family.
The book was a little slow at first since we are getting introduced to a new type of world, but things pick up and we are on a another fast-paced adventure with mystery and danger heading for Holly and her crew.
I had a delightful time with Holly and her friends. The plot is interesting and will continue into the next, so I can’t wait to see what is next for our gang.
Rated: 4 Stars
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Amanda Carlson with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
September 18, 2017
Danger's Halo is set over 150 years into the future in a post apocalyptic world that was nearly destroyed by a meteor strike. Although technology was much better than what we have now a lot of knowledge was lost, buildings were destroyed and life on the planet has become increasingly difficult as the survivors fight for resources. Holly Danger is a salvager which means she risks her life on a daily basis looking for items that could have some use or trade value. She's very, very good at her job and although she usually works alone she is also part of a team who back each other up as needed. Her latest assignment involves tracking down a missing street kid and returning him to the city, something that should be a quick and easy job, but it all gets a lot more complicated when she finds herself agreeing to look after the boy rather than hand him over to the people who want to hurt him.
As a huge fan of Amanda Carlson's Phoebe Meadows series I was incredibly excited when I found out she was writing a new futuristic sci-fi series and I have to say I loved this first instalment. Danger's Halo is a fabulous start to the series and I'm really looking forward to spending more time with Holly, Dare and the others. One of the hardest thing about setting up a new world is giving readers enough knowledge so that things make sense but without overwhelming them with unnecessary detail and I though Amanda Carlson hit the mark just about perfectly. I hate it when I start a new series and I don't know what caused the apocalypse but she managed to give me enough information to understand the lay of the land, at the same time I was never bored or bogged down by detail because the story was so fast paced and interesting.
Holly is a great character, she's smart and more than capable of looking after herself but she's also willing to accept help from her team when she's in over her head. She struggles to let anyone close and doesn't give her trust easily but when you make it into her inner circle she will always have your back. I really like what we've seen of her and the other team members so far and I'm definitely looking forward to getting to know them all better. I'm not always a fan of kids in stories but sometimes it works really well and that was definitely the case here. Dare may be 12 but he's grown up in a tough environment so he's more streetwise than most kids his age but he definitely has a lot to learn if he wants to give Holly a run for her money. I enjoyed the interaction between the two, he brings out a more caring and protective side to Holly who I'd say was probably a bit of a loner before and I think they'll make a good team.
This is one of those books I could easily have devoured in one sitting if I hadn't started it so late at night so I'd recommend picking it up when you have enough time to fully enjoy it. I'm very glad that the second book is out in October and I'm definitely looking forward to seeing where the series goes from here.
As a huge fan of Amanda Carlson's Phoebe Meadows series I was incredibly excited when I found out she was writing a new futuristic sci-fi series and I have to say I loved this first instalment. Danger's Halo is a fabulous start to the series and I'm really looking forward to spending more time with Holly, Dare and the others. One of the hardest thing about setting up a new world is giving readers enough knowledge so that things make sense but without overwhelming them with unnecessary detail and I though Amanda Carlson hit the mark just about perfectly. I hate it when I start a new series and I don't know what caused the apocalypse but she managed to give me enough information to understand the lay of the land, at the same time I was never bored or bogged down by detail because the story was so fast paced and interesting.
Holly is a great character, she's smart and more than capable of looking after herself but she's also willing to accept help from her team when she's in over her head. She struggles to let anyone close and doesn't give her trust easily but when you make it into her inner circle she will always have your back. I really like what we've seen of her and the other team members so far and I'm definitely looking forward to getting to know them all better. I'm not always a fan of kids in stories but sometimes it works really well and that was definitely the case here. Dare may be 12 but he's grown up in a tough environment so he's more streetwise than most kids his age but he definitely has a lot to learn if he wants to give Holly a run for her money. I enjoyed the interaction between the two, he brings out a more caring and protective side to Holly who I'd say was probably a bit of a loner before and I think they'll make a good team.
This is one of those books I could easily have devoured in one sitting if I hadn't started it so late at night so I'd recommend picking it up when you have enough time to fully enjoy it. I'm very glad that the second book is out in October and I'm definitely looking forward to seeing where the series goes from here.
September 28, 2017
2.5 stars
Apocalyptic SF is a new genre for Carlson. Too often, authors who newly try their hand at SF spend little time on world-building, making their stories just like their other novels, only with a few science fictiony details thrown in. This story actually had the opposite problem.
The vast majority of the story was spent setting up and showing the post-apocalyptic world with a painfully thin plotline thrown in. Very little actually happened for the first half of the book, instead having endless descriptions of Holly and others moving with great difficulty from place to place. Then, once there was a little bit of action, the plot line made little sense and the characters had little depth. I found myself skimming just to get to the end.
At least I was glad to get there.
Apocalyptic SF is a new genre for Carlson. Too often, authors who newly try their hand at SF spend little time on world-building, making their stories just like their other novels, only with a few science fictiony details thrown in. This story actually had the opposite problem.
The vast majority of the story was spent setting up and showing the post-apocalyptic world with a painfully thin plotline thrown in. Very little actually happened for the first half of the book, instead having endless descriptions of Holly and others moving with great difficulty from place to place. Then, once there was a little bit of action, the plot line made little sense and the characters had little depth. I found myself skimming just to get to the end.
At least I was glad to get there.
May 13, 2018
There was potential here but I think the world building and back story needed some work. I liked the setting quite a bit, I always have a weird fascination with scavenging. In this case, we have an extremely technologically advanced society that fell after a cataclysmic event. The characters are living in the after, scraping by on government issued sustenance and making their homes in the broken down ruins of what was once a great city. There was a lot of fun to be had with this: traveling from one building to the next via steel beams far above the ground, swinging from one window to the next using a cable with a loop in the end of it, crossing canals over what used to be the lower levels now flooded with sea water, etc. All this to try to find any remaining gadget that could be refurbished or repurposed. All this I really liked, but after a while all the descriptions of clutter and junk and garbage kind of got old. I found myself really wishing for any description at all of a clean clutter-free hallway or room or something. Also it seemed that Holly had a handy gadget for almost every situation and it got tedious. Where’s the challenge in that? I wasn’t sure that the setting actually made a lot of sense though. In this world there is constant rain and drizzle. It’s perpetually overcast and all the trees and plant life is dead. Nothing is growing. It would seem to me that after however many years it’s been since the great meteor tragedy that something would have started growing by now, maybe only moss, mold, ferns and things that can only grow in the constant damp, but something anyway. Also I think I read somewhere that if all the trees and plant life are destroyed that it would actually result in drought and so endless days of rain doesn’t make sense to me. I could be wrong though. I haven’t actually researched this or anything.
As to the plot itself, it was ok. I thought there was a really great mix of supporting characters, only they didn’t really get enough page-time. They were also all male, with the exception of Claire, who is mentioned as a prominent member of Holly’s “family” sort of a mother-figure as well as a friend but she never even makes an appearance. I really liked Daze, a skinny 12 year old orphan who looks 8. I think he kind of stole the show and I hope he has a recurring role in this series.
As to the plot itself, it was ok. I thought there was a really great mix of supporting characters, only they didn’t really get enough page-time. They were also all male, with the exception of Claire, who is mentioned as a prominent member of Holly’s “family” sort of a mother-figure as well as a friend but she never even makes an appearance. I really liked Daze, a skinny 12 year old orphan who looks 8. I think he kind of stole the show and I hope he has a recurring role in this series.
July 31, 2017
REVIEW
I'll be totally honest I was a little wary of this one when I read the blurb. I wouldn't normally read anything, that I would class as having a possibly "Star Trek-ish" feel to it. This book was not in my usual reading genres. In fact the main reason I went ahead and read the book was because of how much I love Amanda Carlson's other two series, Jessica McClain and the Phoebe Meadows.
The cover shows a futuristic yet post apocalyptic looking landscape with damaged sky scraper buildings. There's a sci-fi, star wars/star trek type of aircraft flying over the city with a light perhaps searching for someone. I'd say the figure silhouette is a good representation on the character of Daze. Then again it could be a younger Holly too. I like the affect on the top half of the book, as if it is a package that has been ripped open. It draws your eye to it, so I guess it will jump out at you on a bookstore shelf.
I did find the beginning of the book a little slow paced for my usual reading taste, which I think was down to the sci-fi geek technology of the futuristic craft that Holly was using. Once I read past the detailed, descriptive aircraft technology I settled into pace of the book quite well.
So I should explain a little about the setting of the book. As I said in my cover description set in a post-apocalyptic world that has torn down both the buildings and the morale of the citizens , yet at the same time certain parts such as the make up of the society and the technology is futuristic. Then there are other things such as inoculations are that are extremely expensive, so few "normal"people have them. Any type of illnesses are referred to as the plague and are difficult to treat.
It's a difficult and dangerous society to be trying to live in. Everyone has a tag which they must have to receive their rations of food. It's a hazardous place to live, so the main character Holly Danger has had to be tough to survive. Holly scavenges for salvage and items to barter for anything she may need. Holly has a mind of her own and has a good sense of what is right and wrong. Holly tends to trust no one, and expect the worst.
She also sources specific items to order. Holly is on one such assignment when she meets what she describes as a young urchin boy who goes by the name Daze. Daze reveals that his mother is dead and that his sustainer family were going to see him into slavery. Holly is smart and trusts only her close circle of friends, so she is initially very skeptical about this boy. Then she begins to think back to how she felt when she was all alone with no one to trust or help her. Holly decides to go against her better judgement and usual course of action of keeping to herself and tells the boy he can come with her in exchange for information on the latest newcomer that is controlling the slave trade. It turns out that Daze is not the poor hungry waif that he presents himself to Holly as. Daze has something very valuable that Tandor wants and is prepared to pay for or possibly kill for!
Holly doesn't trust easily, yet manages to on a couple of occasions - sadly one of the times leads to her losing the place she felt most safe, that holds all her secret precious items she has collected over the years. These items hold many memories for her specifically of her mother. I loved the part where the origins of Holly's name is revealed.
Though Holly's mother is gone, I like the way that Holly has managed to integrate into her crew and recreate herself a family. Then when she identifies with Daze she makes the big decision to help him the way someone went out of their way to help her.
It's quite difficult to say much more without giving away too much detail or plot.
Although it took me a little while to warm up to this book, I did enjoy reading it, and didn't want to put it down. I'd say that Amanda Carlson has created yet another kick-ass female character comparable to her Jessica McClain & Phoebe Meadows characters and though my loyalty will always stay with the Jessica McClain series, I soon became quite attached to Holly too. I do feel invested in the series and would certainly want to read more as the book does end with a bit of a cliffhanger for some of the characters. I think as the series develops this could very well become addictive reading.
I'll be totally honest I was a little wary of this one when I read the blurb. I wouldn't normally read anything, that I would class as having a possibly "Star Trek-ish" feel to it. This book was not in my usual reading genres. In fact the main reason I went ahead and read the book was because of how much I love Amanda Carlson's other two series, Jessica McClain and the Phoebe Meadows.
The cover shows a futuristic yet post apocalyptic looking landscape with damaged sky scraper buildings. There's a sci-fi, star wars/star trek type of aircraft flying over the city with a light perhaps searching for someone. I'd say the figure silhouette is a good representation on the character of Daze. Then again it could be a younger Holly too. I like the affect on the top half of the book, as if it is a package that has been ripped open. It draws your eye to it, so I guess it will jump out at you on a bookstore shelf.
I did find the beginning of the book a little slow paced for my usual reading taste, which I think was down to the sci-fi geek technology of the futuristic craft that Holly was using. Once I read past the detailed, descriptive aircraft technology I settled into pace of the book quite well.
So I should explain a little about the setting of the book. As I said in my cover description set in a post-apocalyptic world that has torn down both the buildings and the morale of the citizens , yet at the same time certain parts such as the make up of the society and the technology is futuristic. Then there are other things such as inoculations are that are extremely expensive, so few "normal"people have them. Any type of illnesses are referred to as the plague and are difficult to treat.
It's a difficult and dangerous society to be trying to live in. Everyone has a tag which they must have to receive their rations of food. It's a hazardous place to live, so the main character Holly Danger has had to be tough to survive. Holly scavenges for salvage and items to barter for anything she may need. Holly has a mind of her own and has a good sense of what is right and wrong. Holly tends to trust no one, and expect the worst.
She also sources specific items to order. Holly is on one such assignment when she meets what she describes as a young urchin boy who goes by the name Daze. Daze reveals that his mother is dead and that his sustainer family were going to see him into slavery. Holly is smart and trusts only her close circle of friends, so she is initially very skeptical about this boy. Then she begins to think back to how she felt when she was all alone with no one to trust or help her. Holly decides to go against her better judgement and usual course of action of keeping to herself and tells the boy he can come with her in exchange for information on the latest newcomer that is controlling the slave trade. It turns out that Daze is not the poor hungry waif that he presents himself to Holly as. Daze has something very valuable that Tandor wants and is prepared to pay for or possibly kill for!
Holly doesn't trust easily, yet manages to on a couple of occasions - sadly one of the times leads to her losing the place she felt most safe, that holds all her secret precious items she has collected over the years. These items hold many memories for her specifically of her mother. I loved the part where the origins of Holly's name is revealed.
Though Holly's mother is gone, I like the way that Holly has managed to integrate into her crew and recreate herself a family. Then when she identifies with Daze she makes the big decision to help him the way someone went out of their way to help her.
It's quite difficult to say much more without giving away too much detail or plot.
Although it took me a little while to warm up to this book, I did enjoy reading it, and didn't want to put it down. I'd say that Amanda Carlson has created yet another kick-ass female character comparable to her Jessica McClain & Phoebe Meadows characters and though my loyalty will always stay with the Jessica McClain series, I soon became quite attached to Holly too. I do feel invested in the series and would certainly want to read more as the book does end with a bit of a cliffhanger for some of the characters. I think as the series develops this could very well become addictive reading.
January 21, 2018
Like It!
I tried the author’s other series the werewolf one and I wasn’t very impressed. Sorry I had read other of the genre that were done better. BUT, I liked the author’s writing so I decided to give Holly Danger a try. I am glad I did. If you like Keri Arthur’s book series Outcast series then this is a book you’ll like. Danger’s world is set 153 years into the future. A world devoid of light which is because earth was hit by a meteor. They world is divided between dark days and pre dark days. Pre dark days is a an advanced world and the remnants of it are horrid and dark, but not without humanity.
I like the series and jumped right into the second book. I actually bought the audiobook which were great too.
I tried the author’s other series the werewolf one and I wasn’t very impressed. Sorry I had read other of the genre that were done better. BUT, I liked the author’s writing so I decided to give Holly Danger a try. I am glad I did. If you like Keri Arthur’s book series Outcast series then this is a book you’ll like. Danger’s world is set 153 years into the future. A world devoid of light which is because earth was hit by a meteor. They world is divided between dark days and pre dark days. Pre dark days is a an advanced world and the remnants of it are horrid and dark, but not without humanity.
I like the series and jumped right into the second book. I actually bought the audiobook which were great too.
May 30, 2020
Full review: https://girlswithguns.org/dangers-hal...
It’s a really fascinating world, one which comes to life off the page and fully occupies your imagination. Even though the apocalypse has been over for generations by this point, it still determines every aspect of existence. People hang on by their fingernails, living on crappy, mass-produced food blocks and trying to make the best of things, however they can, with whatever they find. Paranoia is a very necessary order of the day: homes, possessions and even travel routes are typically highly booby-trapped, to prevent access by the unauthorized, making every day a potentially lethal one.
Holly, too, is a sharply-drawn and likeable lead character: loyal to a fault, once you have gained her trust, though this is something which can be exploited as a weakness by Tandor. It’s refreshingly romance-free – merely surviving occupies all her energy – though I get the feeling future volumes might drift in that direction. I do have to say, the plot at the core is perhaps a little thin, with the quantum drive more of a MacGuffin. If you want to find out what’s on it, folks, you have to buy the sequels! But at $2.99 for an omnibus containing the first three novels, I’m honestly very tempted. A little more evidence of the heroine’s combat talents might have been welcome, too.
It’s a really fascinating world, one which comes to life off the page and fully occupies your imagination. Even though the apocalypse has been over for generations by this point, it still determines every aspect of existence. People hang on by their fingernails, living on crappy, mass-produced food blocks and trying to make the best of things, however they can, with whatever they find. Paranoia is a very necessary order of the day: homes, possessions and even travel routes are typically highly booby-trapped, to prevent access by the unauthorized, making every day a potentially lethal one.
Holly, too, is a sharply-drawn and likeable lead character: loyal to a fault, once you have gained her trust, though this is something which can be exploited as a weakness by Tandor. It’s refreshingly romance-free – merely surviving occupies all her energy – though I get the feeling future volumes might drift in that direction. I do have to say, the plot at the core is perhaps a little thin, with the quantum drive more of a MacGuffin. If you want to find out what’s on it, folks, you have to buy the sequels! But at $2.99 for an omnibus containing the first three novels, I’m honestly very tempted. A little more evidence of the heroine’s combat talents might have been welcome, too.
August 13, 2017
This book caught my eye for a couple reasons, one I love Amanda Carlson's books, two that title is awesome and three the premise looked different and interesting. So when the chance came up to get an early copy of this I leapt at it. I was most certainly not disappointed, I was grabbed from the very first moment.
Remember your history lessons on why the dinosaurs were wiped out? A meteor is the best theory going around. Now imagine that another tries to wipe out humanity - only a few hundred years into the future, after technology got a lot better. That meteor very nearly succeeded and earth is now a very hostile place to live. Only the determined actually eek out much of an existence for themselves. Sounds a bit bleak? Only it's not, as the author manages to make this place literally come alive on the page, the attention to detail is astounding and the characters immediately come to life in your mind.
For Holly Danger, a tough salvager, pilot of her craft 'Luce' and part of the best crew in town, life is slightly above average. Usually tough as nails she doesn't know what comes over her the day that she offers to be 'sustainer' (be the responsible adult) for a kid who is trying to commit suicide. Daze, the kid, will break your heart a little, so brave and vulnerable. However this sparks a chain of events that Holly couldn't even begin to imagine and the journey it takes her and her crew on. In the process she meets a tough new stranger, who provides some interesting theories on why Holly has been involved.
This story rocked my world, I stayed up till late to finish it and a day later all I can think about are these characters and what they are going to do next. Holly, Daze and her crew became so alive to me, their problems mine, I sat on the edge of my seat for a good half of this! Non stop adventure and intrigue. And what's so gripping about all of this? I normally read fantasy to escape, and whilst this is not exactly every day events, it is so frighteningly a possibility. And if it did? Well this sums it up beautifully. With the well thought out science, the tiny little details that make it believable, the chance of where technology might take us and what would happen if we lost it all. A highly recommended read.
Remember your history lessons on why the dinosaurs were wiped out? A meteor is the best theory going around. Now imagine that another tries to wipe out humanity - only a few hundred years into the future, after technology got a lot better. That meteor very nearly succeeded and earth is now a very hostile place to live. Only the determined actually eek out much of an existence for themselves. Sounds a bit bleak? Only it's not, as the author manages to make this place literally come alive on the page, the attention to detail is astounding and the characters immediately come to life in your mind.
For Holly Danger, a tough salvager, pilot of her craft 'Luce' and part of the best crew in town, life is slightly above average. Usually tough as nails she doesn't know what comes over her the day that she offers to be 'sustainer' (be the responsible adult) for a kid who is trying to commit suicide. Daze, the kid, will break your heart a little, so brave and vulnerable. However this sparks a chain of events that Holly couldn't even begin to imagine and the journey it takes her and her crew on. In the process she meets a tough new stranger, who provides some interesting theories on why Holly has been involved.
This story rocked my world, I stayed up till late to finish it and a day later all I can think about are these characters and what they are going to do next. Holly, Daze and her crew became so alive to me, their problems mine, I sat on the edge of my seat for a good half of this! Non stop adventure and intrigue. And what's so gripping about all of this? I normally read fantasy to escape, and whilst this is not exactly every day events, it is so frighteningly a possibility. And if it did? Well this sums it up beautifully. With the well thought out science, the tiny little details that make it believable, the chance of where technology might take us and what would happen if we lost it all. A highly recommended read.
May 17, 2018
This was a very solid first book in a series. I really liked that there was none of the usual “info dump” that can come with science fiction and post-apocalyptic novels. Instead, background information was given at appropriate times during the story. No, we didn’t get a full story on what happened to Earth, but I was OK with that and getting details piecemeal felt more natural. The author threw a couple of curve balls into the plot that I was definitely not expecting, so kudos to her for that. It definitely kept me on my toes and added some extra dimension to the story.
Holly is a strong character with a hidden soft spot. While we didn’t learn much about her “family”, the characters have a lot of potential. I hope we get to know them better in upcoming books in the series. The book does NOT end with a cliffhanger, so no need to worry about that. Though there is a nice lead-in to what might be happening in future books.
The audiobook was ably narrated by Emma Wilder. She does a good job with various voices. The book is definitely worth the Audible credit, in my opinion.
Holly is a strong character with a hidden soft spot. While we didn’t learn much about her “family”, the characters have a lot of potential. I hope we get to know them better in upcoming books in the series. The book does NOT end with a cliffhanger, so no need to worry about that. Though there is a nice lead-in to what might be happening in future books.
The audiobook was ably narrated by Emma Wilder. She does a good job with various voices. The book is definitely worth the Audible credit, in my opinion.
May 6, 2018
The debut of Amanda Carlson's new post-apocalyptic sci-fi series!
Danger’s Halo heralds the exciting debut of author Amanda Carlson’s new post-apocalyptic science fiction series set one hundred fifty years into the future. I’m a huge fan of Amanda’s and have inhaled everything I’ve ever read by her. As far as I know, this is the first time she’s ever ventured into sci-fi – but, no worries, she clearly has it aced. This series revolves around a smart, strong and capable kickass heroine, Holly Danger, a talented salvager with trust issues in the futuristic world Amanda has created. Holly prefers to work alone, but she has a close-knit team populated by a colorful assortment of characters that provide backup when needed.
The bare bones scenario of the world is that life on planet earth has become a daily hazardous struggle after humanity was nearly destroyed by a meteor strike. Meager remaining resources are dwindling with every passing day. The future looks even bleaker. Power plays are the name of the game and the government that is left has no care for the survivors trying to eke out an existence.
As the story opens, Holly has been hired to track down and return a street kid to a mysterious client. The client has promised to pay with hard-to-come-by coin so this isn’t a job she wants to ignore. She easily finds him, but what should be a quick and easy job, swiftly becomes complicated when she sees herself at that age in him, and, in a spur of the moment decision uncharacteristic of Holly, offers to protect and sustain him for a year instead of turning him over to her client. Of course, this agreement is predicated on the kid’s decision not to end it all by jumping off the cliff he’s currently perched on. Thankfully, an agreement is reached and brave and vulnerable Daze becomes Holly’s responsibility for a year, setting off multiple repercussions - most notably placing Holly and her team squarely in the cross hairs of the powerful and influential client Holly stiffed by not returning Daze to him.
Please find a few of my favorite quotes from Danger’s Halo:
“Does everything you own stink?”
---
“Daze was within a daze.”
---
“Darby, stop fondling my batteries.”
This is not a romance. If you are looking for a romance, look elsewhere… though that may change further into the series as a character is introduced herein who may evolve into that. I hope so, but it’s way too early to tell.
Emma Wilder provides the excellent narration for Danger’s Halo. I’ve never listened to her previously, but I thoroughly enjoyed this audio edition. Her voice is crystal clear and easy to understand from the get-go. Her pacing is spot-on and she exudes the expected emotions. Her character voices seem appropriate for each persona and they are consistent throughout. The result is a polished performance and pure listening pleasure. I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up another audio by her based on this experience.
This opening salvo was an intriguing, fast-paced. non-stop adventure teeming with suspense and danger. The story line hooked my attention from the get-go and didn’t let up until the very end, keeping me on the edge of my seat for much of the ride. I really enjoyed this first installment and can’t wait to see where Amanda is going to take these characters and this series next. If you enjoy futuristic adventures with amazing characters, strap yourself into Holly’s craft which she named “Luce” and hang on!
My full review is published at Reading Between the Wines Book Club. Please check it out there!
Danger’s Halo heralds the exciting debut of author Amanda Carlson’s new post-apocalyptic science fiction series set one hundred fifty years into the future. I’m a huge fan of Amanda’s and have inhaled everything I’ve ever read by her. As far as I know, this is the first time she’s ever ventured into sci-fi – but, no worries, she clearly has it aced. This series revolves around a smart, strong and capable kickass heroine, Holly Danger, a talented salvager with trust issues in the futuristic world Amanda has created. Holly prefers to work alone, but she has a close-knit team populated by a colorful assortment of characters that provide backup when needed.
The bare bones scenario of the world is that life on planet earth has become a daily hazardous struggle after humanity was nearly destroyed by a meteor strike. Meager remaining resources are dwindling with every passing day. The future looks even bleaker. Power plays are the name of the game and the government that is left has no care for the survivors trying to eke out an existence.
As the story opens, Holly has been hired to track down and return a street kid to a mysterious client. The client has promised to pay with hard-to-come-by coin so this isn’t a job she wants to ignore. She easily finds him, but what should be a quick and easy job, swiftly becomes complicated when she sees herself at that age in him, and, in a spur of the moment decision uncharacteristic of Holly, offers to protect and sustain him for a year instead of turning him over to her client. Of course, this agreement is predicated on the kid’s decision not to end it all by jumping off the cliff he’s currently perched on. Thankfully, an agreement is reached and brave and vulnerable Daze becomes Holly’s responsibility for a year, setting off multiple repercussions - most notably placing Holly and her team squarely in the cross hairs of the powerful and influential client Holly stiffed by not returning Daze to him.
Please find a few of my favorite quotes from Danger’s Halo:
“Does everything you own stink?”
---
“Daze was within a daze.”
---
“Darby, stop fondling my batteries.”
This is not a romance. If you are looking for a romance, look elsewhere… though that may change further into the series as a character is introduced herein who may evolve into that. I hope so, but it’s way too early to tell.
Emma Wilder provides the excellent narration for Danger’s Halo. I’ve never listened to her previously, but I thoroughly enjoyed this audio edition. Her voice is crystal clear and easy to understand from the get-go. Her pacing is spot-on and she exudes the expected emotions. Her character voices seem appropriate for each persona and they are consistent throughout. The result is a polished performance and pure listening pleasure. I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up another audio by her based on this experience.
This opening salvo was an intriguing, fast-paced. non-stop adventure teeming with suspense and danger. The story line hooked my attention from the get-go and didn’t let up until the very end, keeping me on the edge of my seat for much of the ride. I really enjoyed this first installment and can’t wait to see where Amanda is going to take these characters and this series next. If you enjoy futuristic adventures with amazing characters, strap yourself into Holly’s craft which she named “Luce” and hang on!
My full review is published at Reading Between the Wines Book Club. Please check it out there!
February 14, 2021
In general, this novel is for those who love the word “scamper.” I listened to this on audiobook, and the narrator did SUCH a SPECTACULAR job with all of the characters I’m ADDING a star to the book. I enjoyed the cotton candy of the first novel, but after each subsequent novel, I just felt the waste of my time as a reader, the waste of the author’s time, when putting myself in her shoes and cranking out mediocre books in order to make money. The lack of emotionally and mentally filling content in this series brought through the entire emotional spectrum from glee to existential ennui.
The one redeeming aspect of this post apocalyptic adventure is the author’s vision of family, which can be any aggregation of unrelated people based on mutual trust, support, and defense. Because of the many lone individuals throughout this novel, it seems the apocalypse, a meteor, has fragmented families as well as the planet itself. I particularly liked the relationship between Holly and Daze, the child she impulsively forms a parental contract with. I was intrigued by the idea that these parents-child contracts are commonplace idea within this world, and I would have loved this series if the author had fleshed out the interpersonal concepts regarding family, freedom, economics (child welfare, slavery, and busting the child slave labor camps, etc). And not to mention the AI Mazy! As for the plot line the author actually chose, I would have given a higher rating if the whole series had been compressed way down into a smallish book.
Everything else in the novel was fairly commonplace and unremarkable. I don’t know enough about science and climate to comment on the accuracy of constant rain, but my gut says this is bogus. There were a couple of WTF oddities that jerked me out of the narrative, such as a plane crash in which Holly broke many bones, specifically her metatarsals, and later in the series they all use aerogel, a totally cool invention in itself, as an ... adhesive?
The one redeeming aspect of this post apocalyptic adventure is the author’s vision of family, which can be any aggregation of unrelated people based on mutual trust, support, and defense. Because of the many lone individuals throughout this novel, it seems the apocalypse, a meteor, has fragmented families as well as the planet itself. I particularly liked the relationship between Holly and Daze, the child she impulsively forms a parental contract with. I was intrigued by the idea that these parents-child contracts are commonplace idea within this world, and I would have loved this series if the author had fleshed out the interpersonal concepts regarding family, freedom, economics (child welfare, slavery, and busting the child slave labor camps, etc). And not to mention the AI Mazy! As for the plot line the author actually chose, I would have given a higher rating if the whole series had been compressed way down into a smallish book.
Everything else in the novel was fairly commonplace and unremarkable. I don’t know enough about science and climate to comment on the accuracy of constant rain, but my gut says this is bogus. There were a couple of WTF oddities that jerked me out of the narrative, such as a plane crash in which Holly broke many bones, specifically her metatarsals, and later in the series they all use aerogel, a totally cool invention in itself, as an ... adhesive?
September 17, 2017
Quite a departure from Amanda's norm but I was very excited to read it because I love all her other series. Takes some time to develop the characters, which I like, but I find some aspects of the story difficult to buy into. The main character, Holly Danger, is untrusting and hasn't let her "family" know where she lives, but she picks up a street urchin and takes him to her most secure hideout? Also, this is definitely a series, if you don't like a book that ends with loose ends, I would suggest waiting until all the books come out. However I enjoyed the book overall. Mrs. Carlson did an excellent job of creating and making the post-apocalyptic world and her characters come to life and I am anxiously awaiting the next book!
December 8, 2019
A potentially good book that failed by being boring. There was too much time spent on details, too much time spent on things that didn’t advance what little story there turned out to be.
22 pages about 3 images on a tv.
Who cares...TELL THE STORY.
Of course the story ended up having very little substance. Without 7/8 of the book dedicated to silly details, it would have been one chapter from start to end.
22 pages about 3 images on a tv.
Who cares...TELL THE STORY.
Of course the story ended up having very little substance. Without 7/8 of the book dedicated to silly details, it would have been one chapter from start to end.
July 3, 2020
Found myself rooting out loud for the heroine, who is smart, courageous, capable, and intelligently compassionate. Some profanity (always a disappointment). The plot, apparently, was an excellent one. Sci-fi is nmg usually but I’m beginning to like some authors’ interpretation of the genre.
If you had told me that I’d think that a decade ago, I would’ve scoffed. Live and learn ...
If you had told me that I’d think that a decade ago, I would’ve scoffed. Live and learn ...
April 27, 2023
Be prepared for a female main character who puts MacGyver to shame in a futuristic world no one would enjoy living in long.
Loads of dangerous situations that gave Holly a chance to shine time after time.
Loads of dangerous situations that gave Holly a chance to shine time after time.
October 29, 2017
I'm a LONGGGGG time fan of anything that comes out of Amanda Carlson's brain....having said that, I'm not a huge fan of Science Fiction, post-apocalyptic, dystopia......stuff. (I always end up feeling kind of like I missed something.)
Amanda has got a very distinctive writing style which I've loved ever since her very first book came out. If I had gotten my hands on this book, without knowing who the author was, I would have been shocked to find out that Amanda was who wrote it! This is nothing like her other stuff but it was so good!
I watched a movie a while back called 'Snowpiercer' that was about people trying to survive on a train after a post-apocalyptic ice age pretty much destroyed the rest of the world...it was a bizarrely depressing, disturbing as-all-hell movie that I couldn't stop watching, and this book really reminded me of it in some ways. Kind of the whole, what will people be willing to do to not only survive physically, but emotionally too, kind of thing.
Anyway...sorry for following that butterfly off the subject, but this was a gritty, dirty, dark world with Holly Danger being the light to gather around, even if she didn't really want that responsibility. Her character was unique and interesting, clever and smart-assy, honorable and intriguing. I can't wait to see where her story goes from here!
All in all, this is a fantastic new series from Amanda Carlson, and just proves how much my fan-girling over her is justified!
Danger's Halo is book # 1
Danger's Vice is book # 2, and will release on October 23rd
Danger's Race is book # 3 and will release on December 4th
Amanda has got a very distinctive writing style which I've loved ever since her very first book came out. If I had gotten my hands on this book, without knowing who the author was, I would have been shocked to find out that Amanda was who wrote it! This is nothing like her other stuff but it was so good!
I watched a movie a while back called 'Snowpiercer' that was about people trying to survive on a train after a post-apocalyptic ice age pretty much destroyed the rest of the world...it was a bizarrely depressing, disturbing as-all-hell movie that I couldn't stop watching, and this book really reminded me of it in some ways. Kind of the whole, what will people be willing to do to not only survive physically, but emotionally too, kind of thing.
Anyway...sorry for following that butterfly off the subject, but this was a gritty, dirty, dark world with Holly Danger being the light to gather around, even if she didn't really want that responsibility. Her character was unique and interesting, clever and smart-assy, honorable and intriguing. I can't wait to see where her story goes from here!
All in all, this is a fantastic new series from Amanda Carlson, and just proves how much my fan-girling over her is justified!
Danger's Halo is book # 1
Danger's Vice is book # 2, and will release on October 23rd
Danger's Race is book # 3 and will release on December 4th
August 2, 2017
This book was a great start to a new series. Danger's Halo is a departure from Amanda's usual genre, but, as usual, her writing style engrosses the reader from the very beginning and keeps the reader hooked to the end. This story is a futuristic story, with a character (Holly Danger) who signs up for more than what she expected when she agreed to be a sustainer for the orphan Daze. After the background setup of the story was completed, and the reader had a feel for life in this future state, the roller coaster really took off. I was engrossed until the very end. Nice wrap up to the first book with a good lead into the next story. I can't wait until the next one is released!
November 16, 2017
Really enjoyed this book, the first in a new series! It was interesting and kept me engaged, a dystopian future where a meteor hit earth making all the animals extinct and leaving the world quite literally a dark place because of the iron rain and the fact the sun cannot break through the cloud cover, making it hard to sustain life.
I loved the main characters and how they managed to survive, there is a very interesting plot which has begun in this book that I cannot wait for the next books to see how it progresses.
I loved the main characters and how they managed to survive, there is a very interesting plot which has begun in this book that I cannot wait for the next books to see how it progresses.
August 4, 2017
I loved this book, it's an amazing book by Amanda Carlson. It's urban fantasy/SciFi and so well written. I love the world building and the characters. She is not a new author, but new to me and I can’t wait to start reading some of her other books, I can definitely see her becoming one of my favorite authors if they are as good as this one.
The rest to come…
Book Two:
DANGER’S VICE
Coming October 23
Book Three:
DANGER’S RACE
Coming December 4
Author Bio:
Amanda is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, with a BA in both Speech and Hearing Science & Child Development. She went on to get an A.A.S in Sign Language Interpreting and worked as an interpreter until her first child was born. She lives in Minneapolis with her husband and three kids.
Website: http://www.amandacarlson.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/authoramandac...
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/amandaccarlson
Instagram: http://instagram.com/author_amandaThis review was originally posted on Books In Brogan
The rest to come…
Book Two:
DANGER’S VICE
Coming October 23
Book Three:
DANGER’S RACE
Coming December 4
Author Bio:
Amanda is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, with a BA in both Speech and Hearing Science & Child Development. She went on to get an A.A.S in Sign Language Interpreting and worked as an interpreter until her first child was born. She lives in Minneapolis with her husband and three kids.
Website: http://www.amandacarlson.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/authoramandac...
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/amandaccarlson
Instagram: http://instagram.com/author_amandaThis review was originally posted on Books In Brogan
October 30, 2017
It's a well written book.
Did I enjoy reading it? Yep.
It's just that... it's not really anything that special. But it's a lot better than just "meh".
Guess it's "Ok'ish" then.
Going to read the next one though. (Well maybe...)
Did I enjoy reading it? Yep.
It's just that... it's not really anything that special. But it's a lot better than just "meh".
Guess it's "Ok'ish" then.
Going to read the next one though. (Well maybe...)
December 25, 2017
DNF at 30%. The technical details in this book just spoiled it for me which is a shame as I really enjoyed the author's last series.
November 9, 2017
Review originally published at: http://www.lomeraniel.com/audiobookre...
In the near future a meteorite has stricken and caused grave destruction. The few people left try to survive scavenging what they can. Holly Danger is one of these scavengers, one of the best. She also runs errands for some people, and the last assignment is picking up a boy. Instead of giving him up she decides to take care of him, but the outskirts have worse intentions than what she thought at first.
This is a good post-apocalyptic book. We are presented with an almost destroyed city and people trying to survive in it. The world building was interesting, showing us things little by little. My guess is that there will be a lot more to be discovered in future books. The story starts quite slowly, and it only starts to pick up towards the end. There is a lot of explaining about how things are and how the world works. The book is written in first person, from the Holly’s point of view, so we just know what she knows and sees. Something I really enjoy from post-apocalyptic stories is discovering this “new” world and trying to guess what happened to end up like this.
I enjoyed the characters and their respective personalities. Holly is a kick ass scavenger with a great knowledge about technology and resourceful skills. The descriptions were vivid, and I loved how they used the “old” technology, which was futuristic according to nowadays standards.
Emma Wilder’s narration was just perfect. She gave distinctive voices to all the characters in the story, and her compelling tone kept things interesting. Wilder is one of those narrators that provide a seamless experience to the audiobook listening, enhancing at the same time the end product. The audio production was also top notch.
It is clear that this is the first book in the series, there is a lot of explaining and character introduction. I am looking forward to the next books in the series.
I received a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
In the near future a meteorite has stricken and caused grave destruction. The few people left try to survive scavenging what they can. Holly Danger is one of these scavengers, one of the best. She also runs errands for some people, and the last assignment is picking up a boy. Instead of giving him up she decides to take care of him, but the outskirts have worse intentions than what she thought at first.
This is a good post-apocalyptic book. We are presented with an almost destroyed city and people trying to survive in it. The world building was interesting, showing us things little by little. My guess is that there will be a lot more to be discovered in future books. The story starts quite slowly, and it only starts to pick up towards the end. There is a lot of explaining about how things are and how the world works. The book is written in first person, from the Holly’s point of view, so we just know what she knows and sees. Something I really enjoy from post-apocalyptic stories is discovering this “new” world and trying to guess what happened to end up like this.
I enjoyed the characters and their respective personalities. Holly is a kick ass scavenger with a great knowledge about technology and resourceful skills. The descriptions were vivid, and I loved how they used the “old” technology, which was futuristic according to nowadays standards.
Emma Wilder’s narration was just perfect. She gave distinctive voices to all the characters in the story, and her compelling tone kept things interesting. Wilder is one of those narrators that provide a seamless experience to the audiobook listening, enhancing at the same time the end product. The audio production was also top notch.
It is clear that this is the first book in the series, there is a lot of explaining and character introduction. I am looking forward to the next books in the series.
I received a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2017
I am a huge Amanda Carlson fan, I read all of her books, and naturally, I had to read this book, although I new this would be a complete step out of her regular paranormal style. All I can say is that this is my new favourite. Amazing book. And I am not even a fan of dystopian genre.
Carlson managed to create even stronger, more independent and more capable female protagonist than ever. Holly Danger is even more caring than any of her previous characters. Amazing mix of raw strength, harsh upbringing, calculated intellect and gentle soul. All of that wrapped up in Carlson's superb writing.
There are some very interesting characters featured in the story, some not what they seem at first. The world is gritty, unforgiving destroyed Earth some 150 years in future, containing leftovers of technology, none of the culture or nature. The vivid descriptions, intricate world building, and complex character development took me there and made me fall in love with Holly and some of the other characters.
The book ends on a temporary note and contains some unanswered questions and unresolved issues, which is Carlson's signature style. I personally love it, but if you expect resolutions at the end of the book, you might get them at the end of the last one in the series. The story continues immediately in the second book and I can't wait to read it.
This book is the first part of the Holly Danger series, which should go beyond these three books, but I am certain right now that I will be so sorry to say goodbye to Holly.
The reading order of the first three books is Danger's Halo (Holly Danger #1) , Danger's Vice (Holly Danger #2) - coming in October 2017, and Danger's Race (Holly Danger #3) - coming in December 2017.
Carlson managed to create even stronger, more independent and more capable female protagonist than ever. Holly Danger is even more caring than any of her previous characters. Amazing mix of raw strength, harsh upbringing, calculated intellect and gentle soul. All of that wrapped up in Carlson's superb writing.
There are some very interesting characters featured in the story, some not what they seem at first. The world is gritty, unforgiving destroyed Earth some 150 years in future, containing leftovers of technology, none of the culture or nature. The vivid descriptions, intricate world building, and complex character development took me there and made me fall in love with Holly and some of the other characters.
The book ends on a temporary note and contains some unanswered questions and unresolved issues, which is Carlson's signature style. I personally love it, but if you expect resolutions at the end of the book, you might get them at the end of the last one in the series. The story continues immediately in the second book and I can't wait to read it.
This book is the first part of the Holly Danger series, which should go beyond these three books, but I am certain right now that I will be so sorry to say goodbye to Holly.
The reading order of the first three books is Danger's Halo (Holly Danger #1) , Danger's Vice (Holly Danger #2) - coming in October 2017, and Danger's Race (Holly Danger #3) - coming in December 2017.
August 14, 2017
Amanda Carlson has been a favorite of mine for a while now. She is one of the few authors who I will drop everything for a chance to read her books. When she offered me the chance to read this I knew there was no way I would turn that down. Once again she has come out with a winner.
This is unlike anything I have read before. I looks, and feels, like a sci-fi dystonian story, but it also reads like an urban fantasy. Holy is sarcastic and puts off a no-care attitude. She is also smart, brave, loyal, cautious, and despite the no-care attitude she exudes, she has a big heart. I loved the setting of the story! It is definitely a future I wouldn't want to find myself living in, but I could actually picture how a world could end up in that situation. The story is not sci-fi in the way of an alien, or star trek, story, but it is a dire futuristic tale.
I really don't want to give anything away as far as plot of this wonderful book because I really think you should read it for yourself. I will say that even if you don't think you are a fan of dystopian or sci-fi you should read this. Amanda Carlson fills her books with wonderful characters and descriptions that put you right in the action. There is never a point where you don't fully comprehend what is happening. This is an action packed story from beginning to end. My heart was racing and I felt like I couldn't read it fast enough, while at the same time I dreaded reaching the end. I have already read this story more than once, and I will admit that the wait for the next one is killing me. This is at the top of my favorite books of 2017.
This is unlike anything I have read before. I looks, and feels, like a sci-fi dystonian story, but it also reads like an urban fantasy. Holy is sarcastic and puts off a no-care attitude. She is also smart, brave, loyal, cautious, and despite the no-care attitude she exudes, she has a big heart. I loved the setting of the story! It is definitely a future I wouldn't want to find myself living in, but I could actually picture how a world could end up in that situation. The story is not sci-fi in the way of an alien, or star trek, story, but it is a dire futuristic tale.
I really don't want to give anything away as far as plot of this wonderful book because I really think you should read it for yourself. I will say that even if you don't think you are a fan of dystopian or sci-fi you should read this. Amanda Carlson fills her books with wonderful characters and descriptions that put you right in the action. There is never a point where you don't fully comprehend what is happening. This is an action packed story from beginning to end. My heart was racing and I felt like I couldn't read it fast enough, while at the same time I dreaded reaching the end. I have already read this story more than once, and I will admit that the wait for the next one is killing me. This is at the top of my favorite books of 2017.
September 18, 2017
Sci-Fi Adventure Worth Exploring
Format: Kindle Edition
First let me say that if you have not read Amanda Carlson’s books you are in for a treat. No matter what genre she’s writing, it’s a must read. She has a way of drawing you into the story where you become one of the characters. She keeps you hooked from beginning to end and leaves you wanting more and impatiently waiting for the next book. In Danger’s Halo, Carlson is departing from her typical genre and it does not disappoint!
In Danger’s Halo you are transported 153 years into the future and as you can imagine, the earth is not quite the same as it is today. With her details and characters, Carlson makes this world come alive. Holly, the lead character, you can’t help but like and relate to. Even though her job and her adventures are 153 years forward, she still faces challenges, has to make tough decisions and still has relational issues like we all do today. With her humor, wit and courage you can’t help but love her.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to get started on the next in the series. Even if this genre isn’t your typical preference, this book is still worth the read. It’ll take you on an adventure that’s worth the journey and might even give you a new favorite genre. And while you’re waiting on the next book, check out Carlson’s other books – you might find yourself a new favorite author all together.
Format: Kindle Edition
First let me say that if you have not read Amanda Carlson’s books you are in for a treat. No matter what genre she’s writing, it’s a must read. She has a way of drawing you into the story where you become one of the characters. She keeps you hooked from beginning to end and leaves you wanting more and impatiently waiting for the next book. In Danger’s Halo, Carlson is departing from her typical genre and it does not disappoint!
In Danger’s Halo you are transported 153 years into the future and as you can imagine, the earth is not quite the same as it is today. With her details and characters, Carlson makes this world come alive. Holly, the lead character, you can’t help but like and relate to. Even though her job and her adventures are 153 years forward, she still faces challenges, has to make tough decisions and still has relational issues like we all do today. With her humor, wit and courage you can’t help but love her.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to get started on the next in the series. Even if this genre isn’t your typical preference, this book is still worth the read. It’ll take you on an adventure that’s worth the journey and might even give you a new favorite genre. And while you’re waiting on the next book, check out Carlson’s other books – you might find yourself a new favorite author all together.
January 3, 2018
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway that I'd entered. I normally don't like dystopian novels, figuring that when I want bad news, I can turn on CNN or one of the network news stations. Imagine my surprise, then, when I not only read the book, but found it hard to put down. Ms. Carlson creates a world totally believable, especially when one considers the catastrophic conditions of today's world. She also creates a believable heroine (does anyone use the feminine version of hero?) in Holly Danger, real name Hollywood, CA because back in the good old days when there was a sort of world, her mother had seen a postcard of Hollywood, CA and decided to name her daughter after the city that she'd never seen. Holly got her last name because her mother was always warning her about "danger". The book is filled with action, with enough of Holly's background and good heart coming through with just enough interest to keep the reader interested. I loved this book and, judging from the preview of the second book, I will like that one too. I can't wait to find more of Ms. Carlson's other books in some of her other genres, especially the paranormal, which is more my forte.
September 17, 2017
I have been a fan of Ms. Carlson’s for a while, and I’m always glad to see a new series by her. I jumped at the chance to read this first book. Holly is on a job to pick up a street kid and deliver him to the person paying her. However, nothing goes right from the very beginning. She ends up promising to take care of him, finding out she has been betrayed, and there are people on the hunt for her and her charge Daze. Will she be able to get out of this mess, or will she end up dead? I love the world building in this novel. Yes, I do have to admit it took me a while to get used to all the jargon, but considering I don’t read much post-apocalyptic novels, it wasn’t too bad. How everything works in this world was fascinating and unique. I also love how multi-layered the characters were. I also felt like I knew and understood them, even if they didn’t do the “right” thing. And, the plot kept me reading long after I should have stopped. This book is a winner, and I can’t wait to see what will come next in this terrific series! Highly recommend! Thanks to the author for the e-book which I reviewed voluntarily.
December 11, 2021
Set 153 years in the future, the world has been decimated by a meteor and Holly Danger is scraping by, like everyone else in the world, only a bit better. When she’s hired to retrieve a young street kid, she ends up taking him in instead, much to her surprise at the impulse - which she’s never had before. When she learns that “outskirts" have been in the city for several months and have plans that she and her friends must stop, this apocalyptic world is going to become even deadlier than normal. Throw in a stranger that swears he’s on her side with the same objectives, even though it isn’t clear whether he can be trusted or not, and you have a very engrossing story that I couldn’t put down. I loved this world, with advance tech, some of which works and some that is just junk with nothing to power it, smart characters that manage to protect each other and get by better than most, and a heroine with a heart of gold, even if she doesn’t want to admit it. I am really looking forward to reading the rest of this series, which is comprised of six books for now.
October 7, 2017
I really enjoyed this book, it's packed with action, there are twists I don't see coming, and the characters are well developed and interesting. Best of all the book left me wanting to know what happens in the next book without needing to use a major cliffhanger.
Set in a dystopian future about 60 years after a meteorite hit the earth, it's an environment where you have to be smart and determined if you want to do more than exist. It makes for a story filled with tension and a sense that something is about to go wrong, even when things are going right, or perhaps especially when things are going right.
Gripping and near impossible to put down.
The narrator did a great job of matching the emotions and tensions in the book and also nailed the character voices. All around fabulous to listen to.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and/or narrator and/or publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Set in a dystopian future about 60 years after a meteorite hit the earth, it's an environment where you have to be smart and determined if you want to do more than exist. It makes for a story filled with tension and a sense that something is about to go wrong, even when things are going right, or perhaps especially when things are going right.
Gripping and near impossible to put down.
The narrator did a great job of matching the emotions and tensions in the book and also nailed the character voices. All around fabulous to listen to.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and/or narrator and/or publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2021
A well-written romp. Yes, it is based in a post-apocalyptic world, and yes, the characters have to live with the inherent post-apocalyptic dangers. This book immerses you in that world and then guides you through the adventure that the characters are on. It isn't all survival; these characters have grown up in this environment, there is something else afoot. Yes, I say afoot because it turns out there is a bit of mystery, a more than meets the eye situation. Carlson does a fantastic job of dropping you in as if you've been there the whole time and seeing the world through Holly's eyes. She is tough and savvy without being obnoxious. She has difficult decisions to make, and sometimes they are right, and sometimes they are not, like real people, every day. I loved this book so much I jumped to book two and am fixing to being book three. Then I remembered to pause and update Goodreads. Enjoy the literature, everyone.
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