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Untamed #5
A Dangerous Game
A thrilling dystopian adventure from the author of Untamed...
All her life, adrenaline-junkie Keelie Lin-Sykes has known what she wants: to protect her brother and sisters by killing as many of the soulless Enhanced Ones as she can. Oh, and to have fun while she's doing it. After all, hiding in a secret Untamed community, while the group's Seer warns them of danger, shouldn't mean that life can only be serious, right?
But, when a face from her past suddenly--and secretly--shows up, Keelie's catapulted back into the very world she's been trying to escape from for the last ten years: a world of guilt, lies, and...love. And the deeper Keelie gets, the bigger the risks become.
Now Keelie must play the most dangerous game of her life if she's to continue protecting her family. But this game--and her love--may just destroy her.
Now, Keelie must deceive those she values most in order to protect them, even though her actions will destroy everything she knows and haunt her family forever. But she can't ignore her feelings--not again. And Keelie will do anything to be with the man she loves.
All her life, adrenaline-junkie Keelie Lin-Sykes has known what she wants: to protect her brother and sisters by killing as many of the soulless Enhanced Ones as she can. Oh, and to have fun while she's doing it. After all, hiding in a secret Untamed community, while the group's Seer warns them of danger, shouldn't mean that life can only be serious, right?
But, when a face from her past suddenly--and secretly--shows up, Keelie's catapulted back into the very world she's been trying to escape from for the last ten years: a world of guilt, lies, and...love. And the deeper Keelie gets, the bigger the risks become.
Now Keelie must play the most dangerous game of her life if she's to continue protecting her family. But this game--and her love--may just destroy her.
Now, Keelie must deceive those she values most in order to protect them, even though her actions will destroy everything she knows and haunt her family forever. But she can't ignore her feelings--not again. And Keelie will do anything to be with the man she loves.
448 pages, ebook
First published November 28, 2017
4 people are currently reading
567 people want to read
About the author
Madeline Dyer
31 books266 followersMadeline Dyer is a Lambda Literary Award finalist. A novelist, poet, and anthologist, she is drawn to all things dark, spooky, and scary.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
March 11, 2019
That. Was. Breathtaking.
A Dangerous Game is a standalone novel in the Untamed universe that I highly recommend reading either after the four main books *or* before the very first one. While I grew to like Seven a lot as a character, Keelie’s narration was like a breath of fresh air and, dare I say, this book might have become my favorite in the series. To see old characters that we haven’t heard about since the very first book was just as bizarre as it was incredible, and I found I quite liked returning “back to square one.”
Keelie is a character that, in the main series, is sporadically mentioned — especially by her brother, Elf — but we never really know a whole lot about, other than one specific event that I won’t mention here. At first, I wasn’t sure how a book from the point of view from a seemingly random side character would turn out, but, as I said before, I wound up liking her as much as I do Seven as a character, despite the few things that I knew would center around her narration. Going off of that, “love triangles” aren’t normally a subject that I enjoy in YA, but the one in this novel was engaging, fresh, and the circumstances around it were believable enough that it never came off as cringey or clichè.
When the second love interest, Red, was introduced, there were a whole lot of things that I immediately started guessing would happen between him and Keelie, given his previous relationship to her and who he was. I ended up being right about a couple of things, but there were a whole lot of things that surprised me as well — it’s like I was right, but there were a whole lot of unexpected twists and turns that I didn’t see coming in order for me to eventually reach that conclusion.
In the midst of typing this review, I went to Goodreads to check what the other 4 and 5-Star reviews have to say, and I have to agree with one particular reviewer that having a stand-alone in the midst of a series is a great idea. You can read it at any point before, during, or after the series, and it won’t spoil anything, but it will definitely leave you intrigued enough to check out the rest of Seven’s story. This is a brilliant tactic by the author, in that you can get introduced to a whole big series, but the book you’re holding is the entirety of its own story. No cliffhangers, no sequels — just an incredible read that will leave you clamoring even more for an incredible world.
Overall, I thought this story was brilliant and I recommend it for anyone who 1) wants to see the Untamed series from a different perspective or 2) isn’t familiar with the series, but wants a starting point to jump in. I think it might have even surpassed book two as my favorite in the series, and it definitely won’t disappoint!
A Dangerous Game is a standalone novel in the Untamed universe that I highly recommend reading either after the four main books *or* before the very first one. While I grew to like Seven a lot as a character, Keelie’s narration was like a breath of fresh air and, dare I say, this book might have become my favorite in the series. To see old characters that we haven’t heard about since the very first book was just as bizarre as it was incredible, and I found I quite liked returning “back to square one.”
Keelie is a character that, in the main series, is sporadically mentioned — especially by her brother, Elf — but we never really know a whole lot about, other than one specific event that I won’t mention here. At first, I wasn’t sure how a book from the point of view from a seemingly random side character would turn out, but, as I said before, I wound up liking her as much as I do Seven as a character, despite the few things that I knew would center around her narration. Going off of that, “love triangles” aren’t normally a subject that I enjoy in YA, but the one in this novel was engaging, fresh, and the circumstances around it were believable enough that it never came off as cringey or clichè.
When the second love interest, Red, was introduced, there were a whole lot of things that I immediately started guessing would happen between him and Keelie, given his previous relationship to her and who he was. I ended up being right about a couple of things, but there were a whole lot of things that surprised me as well — it’s like I was right, but there were a whole lot of unexpected twists and turns that I didn’t see coming in order for me to eventually reach that conclusion.
In the midst of typing this review, I went to Goodreads to check what the other 4 and 5-Star reviews have to say, and I have to agree with one particular reviewer that having a stand-alone in the midst of a series is a great idea. You can read it at any point before, during, or after the series, and it won’t spoil anything, but it will definitely leave you intrigued enough to check out the rest of Seven’s story. This is a brilliant tactic by the author, in that you can get introduced to a whole big series, but the book you’re holding is the entirety of its own story. No cliffhangers, no sequels — just an incredible read that will leave you clamoring even more for an incredible world.
Overall, I thought this story was brilliant and I recommend it for anyone who 1) wants to see the Untamed series from a different perspective or 2) isn’t familiar with the series, but wants a starting point to jump in. I think it might have even surpassed book two as my favorite in the series, and it definitely won’t disappoint!
November 29, 2017
Keelie's life was ripped apart the night the Enhanced showed up and destroyed her family with their desire to "fix" the Untamed. After watching her best friend Red die and losing her parents, Keelie has spent the last 10 years training to destroy the Enhanced. On a routine raid, Keelie's world is turned upside down when someone from her past shows up causing her to rethink what is important and what she is willing to sacrifice.
I have been eyeballing the Untamed series for years but for some reason never picked them up to read, so when I saw that this was a standalone novel set in that world I figured that this was the perfect time to jump in. A Dangerous Game was a complete story, no need to have read a previous book and no start to a series, which is kind of nice to pick up a book and know you are holding the entirety. It was true that you don't need to read the Untamed series first, but I am now ever more interested in reading them since this hints at a lot of cool things that I am sure are well detailed in those books.
When I read the synopsis for the book and I saw that it was listed as a Dystopian Romeo and Juliet I was really interested in how that would play out (and slightly hesitant since I pretty much hate the actual Romeo and Juliet play). I was pleasantly surprised to find that this did have a forbidden love between two characters that most likely should not be together, but to me, that was not the complete focus of the book (and this is not a YA book, more a NA dystopian). This was very much so an action survival story with some romance and world building thrown in, and I liked the dynamic of the story.
Well, I never saw the end coming, I was super shocked by the turn of events. Seriously, shocked here- I felt like my jaw was hanging open in surprise for most of the last chapter. This was my first book by Madeline and color me impressed. She was able to create a complete world, detailed original characters and a twisty plot to keep me guessing. I would love to check out more from her in the future, especially the Untamed series from the beginning.
As a side not, if you are looking for a happily ever after, this may not by a read for you. If you want a gritty, action filled, future dystopian read, then this is a perfect choice.
Come hang out with me at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/ for more book talks
I have been eyeballing the Untamed series for years but for some reason never picked them up to read, so when I saw that this was a standalone novel set in that world I figured that this was the perfect time to jump in. A Dangerous Game was a complete story, no need to have read a previous book and no start to a series, which is kind of nice to pick up a book and know you are holding the entirety. It was true that you don't need to read the Untamed series first, but I am now ever more interested in reading them since this hints at a lot of cool things that I am sure are well detailed in those books.
When I read the synopsis for the book and I saw that it was listed as a Dystopian Romeo and Juliet I was really interested in how that would play out (and slightly hesitant since I pretty much hate the actual Romeo and Juliet play). I was pleasantly surprised to find that this did have a forbidden love between two characters that most likely should not be together, but to me, that was not the complete focus of the book (and this is not a YA book, more a NA dystopian). This was very much so an action survival story with some romance and world building thrown in, and I liked the dynamic of the story.
Well, I never saw the end coming, I was super shocked by the turn of events. Seriously, shocked here- I felt like my jaw was hanging open in surprise for most of the last chapter. This was my first book by Madeline and color me impressed. She was able to create a complete world, detailed original characters and a twisty plot to keep me guessing. I would love to check out more from her in the future, especially the Untamed series from the beginning.
As a side not, if you are looking for a happily ever after, this may not by a read for you. If you want a gritty, action filled, future dystopian read, then this is a perfect choice.
Come hang out with me at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/ for more book talks
December 30, 2018
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Madeline does not disappoint once again. This is a wonderful book with great characters and a great story. Whether or not you have read the other Untamed books you can read this one as it is a standalone. As for those of us who have read the other books it is quite fun to see how the stories overlap. And you get to learn some fun new information in the mean time. The information learned at the end of the book about Rahn I was like say whhhhhhaaaat??????? Well done Madeline well done.
Madeline’s writing is phenomenal.... it’s keeps you engages the entire time and wanting to turn the pages. She makes likable characters and some unlivable characters but you are able to relate to all of them regardless. Which to me as a reader is super important.
She also builds a world that you can picture which is also important to me as a reader. Know being as I have read the other books in her series it is easier for me, however if you are new to this and start here then I’m telling you.... you will be amazed by the picture she paints with her words.
I am not a 5 star person for books usually but this books just had it all for me.
If you are going to read the Untamed series I would start her for sure. It’s a good precursor.
Madeline does not disappoint once again. This is a wonderful book with great characters and a great story. Whether or not you have read the other Untamed books you can read this one as it is a standalone. As for those of us who have read the other books it is quite fun to see how the stories overlap. And you get to learn some fun new information in the mean time. The information learned at the end of the book about Rahn I was like say whhhhhhaaaat??????? Well done Madeline well done.
Madeline’s writing is phenomenal.... it’s keeps you engages the entire time and wanting to turn the pages. She makes likable characters and some unlivable characters but you are able to relate to all of them regardless. Which to me as a reader is super important.
She also builds a world that you can picture which is also important to me as a reader. Know being as I have read the other books in her series it is easier for me, however if you are new to this and start here then I’m telling you.... you will be amazed by the picture she paints with her words.
I am not a 5 star person for books usually but this books just had it all for me.
If you are going to read the Untamed series I would start her for sure. It’s a good precursor.
October 23, 2018
I found this standalone an even more enjoyable read than the first in the series set in the same world, Untamed. Clever links to the series are there for those who have read it and there are some real surprises in there to keep you on your toes. Recommended for anyone who enjoys a good dystopian tale.
October 27, 2018
A Dangerous Game is a heart wrenching, action packed story of survival, a fight for freedom and love. Keelie is a passionate girl who fought for who and what she believes in. I was pulled into the story and quickly fell in love and hate with the different characters. I previously was not a huge fan of dystopian stories, but this one pulled me in and I loved it.
Madeline Dyer pulls you in with her writing and keeps you engaged throughout the story, then leaves you wanting more. If you enjoy an apocalyptic story of family and love, this book is for you.
November 28, 2017
Strap yourselves in, because this is going to be a bumpy ride. Unlike the main Untamed series – which in itself is rather action packed – A Dangerous Game is more adrenaline-filled than ever. Unlike Untamed, here we follow a new character, Keelie, who’s very different to Seven. She’s dangerously addicted to action and adventure, constantly putting her own life in danger for the thrill of it. She acts without thinking, potentially putting others in harm’s way. She’s selfish and rude, and I love her. There’s just something about well written flawed characters that just hooks you in.
And, unlike Seven, Keelie has got an active love life. There’s more focus on romance in this standalone, and love (or maybe lust) is one of the key drivers of Keelie’s instincts. Once again, unlike Seven who is thoughtful and thinks ahead, Keelie makes decisions based on gut feelings and almost animal instinct. Which isn’t always the best for her – or anyone.
We also get a different view of the villagers at Nbutai before the events of Untamed, when they weren’t yet on the run. Though under constant threat from the Enhanced, they lead lives, they work together, they survive, maybe even thrive. This makes the beginning of Untamed suddenly so much more poignant because you begin to love characters you know won’t make it out alive.
A Dangerous Game also deals with mental health, as Keelie’s mental wellbeing isn’t exactly stable, and other characters fall on the autism spectrum, which is a breath of fresh air in the stacks of YA dystopian books.
If you loved Untamed, then you need this companion novel. If you haven’t yet read the Untamed series, then you need to. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled thrill ride from start to finish, where the only time you put down the book is to catch your breath, then you’ve come to the right place. Addicting, Thrilling, Amazing.
And, unlike Seven, Keelie has got an active love life. There’s more focus on romance in this standalone, and love (or maybe lust) is one of the key drivers of Keelie’s instincts. Once again, unlike Seven who is thoughtful and thinks ahead, Keelie makes decisions based on gut feelings and almost animal instinct. Which isn’t always the best for her – or anyone.
We also get a different view of the villagers at Nbutai before the events of Untamed, when they weren’t yet on the run. Though under constant threat from the Enhanced, they lead lives, they work together, they survive, maybe even thrive. This makes the beginning of Untamed suddenly so much more poignant because you begin to love characters you know won’t make it out alive.
A Dangerous Game also deals with mental health, as Keelie’s mental wellbeing isn’t exactly stable, and other characters fall on the autism spectrum, which is a breath of fresh air in the stacks of YA dystopian books.
If you loved Untamed, then you need this companion novel. If you haven’t yet read the Untamed series, then you need to. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled thrill ride from start to finish, where the only time you put down the book is to catch your breath, then you’ve come to the right place. Addicting, Thrilling, Amazing.
December 3, 2017
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Dyer creates a post-apocalyptic world where humans are split between drug-Enhanced town dwellers and Untamed humans living small settlements constantly on guard against forcible conversion by Enhanced as well as the mysterious, murderous spirits that descend along with storms during the randomly occurring Turnings.
In this story, we follow Keelie, an Untamed living in a settlement called Nbutai with her sisters and brothers. She's a complicated anti-hero who may or may not be crazy (she sees visions of dead people and at times is overcome with killing rage). For the first half of the book, I really really enjoyed Keelie's complicated personality. I loved that she's the best fighter in the group, that she has a guilty secret of her own about losing her parents to the Enhanced, and that she knows how to handle her difficult (most likely Autistic) sister Bea.
Then the plot becomes focused on both an Enhanced from Keelie's past and a series of disastrous raids on the Enhanced in an attempt to keep Nbutai together. And that's where part of the plot kind of became problematic for me a tad. This may be a personal taste thing, but I had trouble with how the Untamed could raid against the superior technology of the Enhanced, also how they could live for so long undetected, and also decisions Keelie makes about going to rescue people when she simultaneously fears that a map with Nbutai's location has already been discovered by the Enhanced.
It was hard to reconcile some of the decisions both Keelie and Nbutai's leader makes in terms of deciding who to go after and rescue. And it was difficult for me to believe that Bea, presented as someone who hates unfamiliar people, can't stand touch, craves routine, etc, as making the major decision that she did, and for Keelie to give up so easily on her. So probably this is more of a 3.5, actually, than a 4 star for me .
If you're looking for a post-apocalyptic action-packed interesting world, this book will be right up your alley. Especially if you like a touch of romance (most of the serious hanky panky is offscreen). But the focus of this book is Keelie's destructive arc and the setting up of the next book in the series. There are lots of unanswered questions (what are the spirits? What is Seven's significance?) at the end of this that could propel you into the next book.
Dyer creates a post-apocalyptic world where humans are split between drug-Enhanced town dwellers and Untamed humans living small settlements constantly on guard against forcible conversion by Enhanced as well as the mysterious, murderous spirits that descend along with storms during the randomly occurring Turnings.
In this story, we follow Keelie, an Untamed living in a settlement called Nbutai with her sisters and brothers. She's a complicated anti-hero who may or may not be crazy (she sees visions of dead people and at times is overcome with killing rage). For the first half of the book, I really really enjoyed Keelie's complicated personality. I loved that she's the best fighter in the group, that she has a guilty secret of her own about losing her parents to the Enhanced, and that she knows how to handle her difficult (most likely Autistic) sister Bea.
Then the plot becomes focused on both an Enhanced from Keelie's past and a series of disastrous raids on the Enhanced in an attempt to keep Nbutai together. And that's where part of the plot kind of became problematic for me a tad. This may be a personal taste thing, but I had trouble with how the Untamed could raid against the superior technology of the Enhanced, also how they could live for so long undetected, and also decisions Keelie makes about going to rescue people when she simultaneously fears that a map with Nbutai's location has already been discovered by the Enhanced.
It was hard to reconcile some of the decisions both Keelie and Nbutai's leader makes in terms of deciding who to go after and rescue. And it was difficult for me to believe that Bea, presented as someone who hates unfamiliar people, can't stand touch, craves routine, etc, as making the major decision that she did, and for Keelie to give up so easily on her. So probably this is more of a 3.5, actually, than a 4 star for me .
If you're looking for a post-apocalyptic action-packed interesting world, this book will be right up your alley. Especially if you like a touch of romance (most of the serious hanky panky is offscreen). But the focus of this book is Keelie's destructive arc and the setting up of the next book in the series. There are lots of unanswered questions (what are the spirits? What is Seven's significance?) at the end of this that could propel you into the next book.
December 31, 2017
I received a copy of A Dangerous Game in exchange for an honest review. I'm new to the Untamed series, and this book has convinced me to check out the rest of the books!
Everyone has a backstory and Keelie is just doing her best to live her life according to the rules, without losing herself or letting her past control her future. This ends up being quite the difficult task.
This story did not go how I expected at all! Everytime you think Keelie is going to catch a break, BOOM! there's another hurdle she has to face or an out-of-no-where plot twist. It shows you how past haunts present, grief fuels happiness, and that sometimes you can't stop hurting the ones you love the most no matter how hard you try. Family is important and everyone has their own role to play or part to fullfil, no matter what inner demons they face. I loved that Madeline Dyer found a way to highlight high functioning Autisim and show that even those with special needs can do great things. Filled with love, betrayal, and a battle for inner peace, A Dangerous Game will force you to feel all of those raw emotions we try to escape.
With the perfect amount of supernatural influence it was definitely a great read. My only complaint is how abrupt the ending was; I wanted more answers! All I can hope for is that I get them in the next book!
Everyone has a backstory and Keelie is just doing her best to live her life according to the rules, without losing herself or letting her past control her future. This ends up being quite the difficult task.
This story did not go how I expected at all! Everytime you think Keelie is going to catch a break, BOOM! there's another hurdle she has to face or an out-of-no-where plot twist. It shows you how past haunts present, grief fuels happiness, and that sometimes you can't stop hurting the ones you love the most no matter how hard you try. Family is important and everyone has their own role to play or part to fullfil, no matter what inner demons they face. I loved that Madeline Dyer found a way to highlight high functioning Autisim and show that even those with special needs can do great things. Filled with love, betrayal, and a battle for inner peace, A Dangerous Game will force you to feel all of those raw emotions we try to escape.
With the perfect amount of supernatural influence it was definitely a great read. My only complaint is how abrupt the ending was; I wanted more answers! All I can hope for is that I get them in the next book!
November 13, 2017
I am so glad that I was able to get my hands on an advanced copy of A Dangerous Game in exchange for an honest review. This is my favourite Madeline Dyer novel yet!
I was contacted by the author, Madeline Dyer, who asked if I would be interested in reviewing an advanced copy of her upcoming novel, A Dangerous Game. I was in the midst of NaNoWriMo at the time so I was a little hesitant to say yes, but I am so glad that I did say yes! My first time cracking open this novel, I had set aside only 2 hours for reading, then I was back to doing NaNoWriMo. But that didn’t quite work out.
A Dangerous Game is an unputdownable story, a wild ride from start to finish. I began with the intentions of only reading for a short time, but with each page I found myself unable to stop! Each new chapter is a new part to the adventure that comes with reading, well, any story by Ms Dyer.
Ms Dyer’s breakout novel was a dystopian sci-fi called Untamed, which we reviewed shortly after its first launch. While I enjoyed that story, I found it much harder to put down this one – and actually, I couldn’t put it down. A Dangerous Game is a standalone novel set in the same world as Untamed, and some of the Untamed characters play supporting roles in this spin-off.
This spin-off is a short snapshot of the life of a young woman named Keelie, and details her struggles with family, identity, mental health, love, and surviving in a dangerous world ruled by Enhanced Ones. It is aimed at an older YA / adult audience.
Keelie is my favourite character in the Untamed world so far. I can relate to her more than I could relate to Seven, the main character of Untamed. She’s brave, reckless, an adrenaline-junkie, and so much more. She fights to protect those she loves, she stands up to authority when she feels she has to…I could keep listing her positive attributes but if I did that then this review would go on forever.
I highly recommend this book, quite possibly more so than any other book I’ve reviewed. This is a stand-out novel and my favourite Ms Dyer’s stories – did I already say that? Well if I did, it deserves saying again. My plan to read for only two hours would’ve meant reading less than twenty chapters of this novel, but the only thing that could’ve stopped me from reading all fifty chapters would have been if my iPad battery had died. A Dangerous Game hooks you in within the first chapter and from there it just gets better. Each page reels you in just that little bit more, until nearly six hours have passed and you’ve read the whole thing. A Dangerous Game will definitely be added to my re-read list!
I was contacted by the author, Madeline Dyer, who asked if I would be interested in reviewing an advanced copy of her upcoming novel, A Dangerous Game. I was in the midst of NaNoWriMo at the time so I was a little hesitant to say yes, but I am so glad that I did say yes! My first time cracking open this novel, I had set aside only 2 hours for reading, then I was back to doing NaNoWriMo. But that didn’t quite work out.
A Dangerous Game is an unputdownable story, a wild ride from start to finish. I began with the intentions of only reading for a short time, but with each page I found myself unable to stop! Each new chapter is a new part to the adventure that comes with reading, well, any story by Ms Dyer.
Ms Dyer’s breakout novel was a dystopian sci-fi called Untamed, which we reviewed shortly after its first launch. While I enjoyed that story, I found it much harder to put down this one – and actually, I couldn’t put it down. A Dangerous Game is a standalone novel set in the same world as Untamed, and some of the Untamed characters play supporting roles in this spin-off.
This spin-off is a short snapshot of the life of a young woman named Keelie, and details her struggles with family, identity, mental health, love, and surviving in a dangerous world ruled by Enhanced Ones. It is aimed at an older YA / adult audience.
Keelie is my favourite character in the Untamed world so far. I can relate to her more than I could relate to Seven, the main character of Untamed. She’s brave, reckless, an adrenaline-junkie, and so much more. She fights to protect those she loves, she stands up to authority when she feels she has to…I could keep listing her positive attributes but if I did that then this review would go on forever.
I highly recommend this book, quite possibly more so than any other book I’ve reviewed. This is a stand-out novel and my favourite Ms Dyer’s stories – did I already say that? Well if I did, it deserves saying again. My plan to read for only two hours would’ve meant reading less than twenty chapters of this novel, but the only thing that could’ve stopped me from reading all fifty chapters would have been if my iPad battery had died. A Dangerous Game hooks you in within the first chapter and from there it just gets better. Each page reels you in just that little bit more, until nearly six hours have passed and you’ve read the whole thing. A Dangerous Game will definitely be added to my re-read list!
November 28, 2017
Whether you're new to Madeline Dyer's work or not, this is a fantastic book to check out. Set in the same world as the Untamed series, it is an amazing standalone that will leave you turning the pages wanting more.
Dangerous Game follows adrenaline junkie Keelie, another member of Rahn's group as she finds herself in quite the set of circumstances. While still a dystopian, this one has a bit more of a romance edge to it. And we see more of those we've met before like Five , Corin, and even Seven herself. But if you haven't read Untamed, don't worry. Madeline weaves everything together beautifully so you're fine. If you have read Untamed, enjoy the different look at the group dynamics! Great standalone for the YA dystopia genre.
Dangerous Game follows adrenaline junkie Keelie, another member of Rahn's group as she finds herself in quite the set of circumstances. While still a dystopian, this one has a bit more of a romance edge to it. And we see more of those we've met before like Five , Corin, and even Seven herself. But if you haven't read Untamed, don't worry. Madeline weaves everything together beautifully so you're fine. If you have read Untamed, enjoy the different look at the group dynamics! Great standalone for the YA dystopia genre.
December 28, 2017
In A Dangerous Game, the author, Madeline Dyer, paints such a vivid and interesting world that you feel like you’ve been dropped down inside all the chaos. The characters and their emotions become so entwined with your own, that you can’t help but feel all the highs and lows with them. She leaves you aching to turn the page for more, until you find yourself at the end feeling like you’ve stumbled onto your own addiction; that is to the untamed world that Madeline has created. This book is amazing, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who asks.
November 29, 2017
I couldn’t put this book down! I loved the Untamed series, and I quickly fell in love with the character Keelie in this standalone novel set in the Untamed world. With star-crossed lovers doomed from the start, combined with danger and action, this novel will keep you quickly turning pages until the end. I received an ARC copy for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2017
As a fan of Madeline’s Untamed series, I was excited when I heard that she was writing a standalone novel from the same world, and A Dangerous Game did not disappoint. It is set shortly before the start of the Untamed series, and told from the perspective of Keelie, although I was pleased that Seven Sarr, the main character from the Untamed series put in an appearance or two. Keelie is an older, angrier, more violent member of the Untamed community than Seven, and this grittier approach gives the whole book a more grown up feel. Seeing characters that I was already familiar with through Keelie’s eyes changed how I saw some of them, and helped to build a bigger picture of the community. The inclusion of an undiagnosed autistic character was very interesting as we saw how she struggled to cope with the ever changing, dangerous world that the Untamed live in.
This book is a rollercoaster of emotions from start to finish, and the ending has left me reeling! This is a must read for anyone who has read the Untamed series, and if you haven't, you really should. You won't be disappointed.
This book is a rollercoaster of emotions from start to finish, and the ending has left me reeling! This is a must read for anyone who has read the Untamed series, and if you haven't, you really should. You won't be disappointed.
December 27, 2017
I was confused by parts of this book. The cover led me to believe it was a romance but it wasn't to the degree I thought it would be. I liked the world building and the story line once I got past it not being a romance. It was action packed and unique. There were some twists and it opened up for the other books. I didn't agree with all of Keelie's decisions. I will try the other books because I liked the characters and am interested to see where the story goes. I received an ebook in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2018
Awesome read, well written with a great plot and characters. I was engrossed from start to finish. This book has action, suspense and twists and turns. This is a prequel to The Untamed Series, but, it is a stand alone. If you haven't read anything by Dyer before, this would be a good start! Fab story and series. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
April 23, 2019
Back into the world of the Untamed, where it is a harsh existence as they fight for their right to live unenhanced. Keelie's story was filled with love, betrayal, and revealed secrets. My heart wanted so badly to believe for the best. Although prophecy was foretold, I was hoping that Keelie would beat the odds and come out victorious with the man she loved. When it came to the end, I had to go back and make sure I hadn't skipped pages. The author does an excellent job of reeling you in and making you care for the characters. Her world building skills make this very vibrant and "real" world. I would recommend this book to those that love a dystopian series ( and read the other four also).
January 27, 2020
4.5 Stars
I stumbled across this book on Amazon similar and I’m so glad I did. The cover and title was intriguing and the blurb sealed the deal.
I don’t read much YA, so I was a little skeptical at 1st. But this novel reads more like a milder New Adult.
I must say that the plot is different from anything I’ve seen or read, which is refreshing. Another concept I like is this book doesn’t even read like a traditional dystopian. There isn’t a crazy, controlling government, per se. There are 2 races of humans fighting against each other—the Enhanced & the Untamed. The Enhanced think they’re the better breed of humans & that all the Untamed need saving.
Imagine a world where you felt like you were on Ecstasy 24-7. That sounds great & all, but emotions are what makes us human. Having no emotions is like a human becoming a robot.
That’s the struggle the Untamed are dealing with. The Enhanced—the robot humans have taken over the majority of the world's population. And they are difficult to defeat. The drugs they take make them faster and stronger. The side effects make them like strung out junkies. They must have their augmenter fix as any addict. It’s sad. The irony of how they think this makes them the a better human is the joke of the century.
Another neat concept is that once a person is are Enhanced their eyes turn into mirrors. This story also had a bit of paranormal dealing with seers and spirits, which adds to the awesome plot. The story doesn’t give much away about the spirits. I’m hoping the original series offers more details about them, especially in the aspects of them dealing with time.
The only reason that I didn’t give this book a complete 5 star was because at times Keelie worked my damn nerves. I’m the latter with the reviews about her character. She was just an okay heroine for me. I liked the fact that she fought for her family and her intentions where in the right place. The problem was 90% of the time she went about things the wrong way. Keelie was confident and a bass-ass heroine, which are among my favorite kind. But Keelie was so confident that it made her cocky. She was so impulsive and daring that it made her appear pigheaded. Even though she meant well, she continued to put herself & others in danger time and time again.
“Keelie don’t go to the Enhanced cities, I’ve seen your death,” said the seer.
And what does Keelie do, go to the cities twice after that warning. It was also disturbing that she loved killing people.
Seven was quiet and shy—the total opposite of Keelie & I respect the author making the characters different. That’s a great aspect with character development. Although, I liked Keelie for the most part, her personality just rubbed me the wrong way.
I’m extremely excited to start Seven’s story. I’ve already bought book 1. To be reading Untamed next on top of my 60 book, back-log reading list is saying something.
With Seven being a Seer and getting converted, I’m on tenterhooks, ready to start her story. From what I’ve seen, I think I will like her character very much & I know the plot will be amazing.
I stumbled across this book on Amazon similar and I’m so glad I did. The cover and title was intriguing and the blurb sealed the deal.
I don’t read much YA, so I was a little skeptical at 1st. But this novel reads more like a milder New Adult.
I must say that the plot is different from anything I’ve seen or read, which is refreshing. Another concept I like is this book doesn’t even read like a traditional dystopian. There isn’t a crazy, controlling government, per se. There are 2 races of humans fighting against each other—the Enhanced & the Untamed. The Enhanced think they’re the better breed of humans & that all the Untamed need saving.
Imagine a world where you felt like you were on Ecstasy 24-7. That sounds great & all, but emotions are what makes us human. Having no emotions is like a human becoming a robot.
That’s the struggle the Untamed are dealing with. The Enhanced—the robot humans have taken over the majority of the world's population. And they are difficult to defeat. The drugs they take make them faster and stronger. The side effects make them like strung out junkies. They must have their augmenter fix as any addict. It’s sad. The irony of how they think this makes them the a better human is the joke of the century.
Another neat concept is that once a person is are Enhanced their eyes turn into mirrors. This story also had a bit of paranormal dealing with seers and spirits, which adds to the awesome plot. The story doesn’t give much away about the spirits. I’m hoping the original series offers more details about them, especially in the aspects of them dealing with time.
The only reason that I didn’t give this book a complete 5 star was because at times Keelie worked my damn nerves. I’m the latter with the reviews about her character. She was just an okay heroine for me. I liked the fact that she fought for her family and her intentions where in the right place. The problem was 90% of the time she went about things the wrong way. Keelie was confident and a bass-ass heroine, which are among my favorite kind. But Keelie was so confident that it made her cocky. She was so impulsive and daring that it made her appear pigheaded. Even though she meant well, she continued to put herself & others in danger time and time again.
“Keelie don’t go to the Enhanced cities, I’ve seen your death,” said the seer.
And what does Keelie do, go to the cities twice after that warning. It was also disturbing that she loved killing people.
Seven was quiet and shy—the total opposite of Keelie & I respect the author making the characters different. That’s a great aspect with character development. Although, I liked Keelie for the most part, her personality just rubbed me the wrong way.
I’m extremely excited to start Seven’s story. I’ve already bought book 1. To be reading Untamed next on top of my 60 book, back-log reading list is saying something.
With Seven being a Seer and getting converted, I’m on tenterhooks, ready to start her story. From what I’ve seen, I think I will like her character very much & I know the plot will be amazing.
February 7, 2018
I have to start off by saying I very rarely read dystopian books but when I do, I always enjoy them and wonder why I haven’t read more! I absolutely loved A Dangerous Game, it was fast-paced, full of action and I loved the world it was set in.
From what I have gathered from other reviews – this book is set before the events that happen in the Untamed series however it can definitely be read as a complete standalone. I didn’t feel I missed out on any of the world-building and it was easy to follow who and what the Untamed and Enhanced are. I will definitely be grabbing the Untamed series now as I adored it!
Keelie has spent the last 10 years protecting her brother and sisters and being on the run from the Enhanced. Her parents were converted and she saw her friend Red being killed when she was 11. Since then she has been on a mission to keep her siblings as Untamed as possible. A figure from the past suddenly appears, throwing everything she knew up in the air.
I loved Keelie, she is such a strong character and I admired all she did for her siblings trying to keep them safe. The world she lives in, didn’t seem fun but I must say it seemed much better than being Enhanced. The character of Bea was fabulous, despite it not being mentioned it was clear she was on the autistic spectrum and I loved Madeline has included something that is very true to our own world.
There was lots of action to keep you reading, the chapters pull you in and you just have to know what is going on! I adored Madeline’s writing, it flowed really well and there were lots of twists thrown in that I didn’t see coming or expect to read! At times I was shocked at what happened and others it pulled at my heart strings.
The ending was amazing, I read the last 40% in one sitting as I couldn’t tear myself away from the book! I hope to go onto the series soon as from how A Dangerous Game ended I need to know what’s going to happen in that world next!
This book was fun, it was addictive and it was thrilling – I highly recommend it! If like me, you don’t read dystopians this is a good start but if you read many this will be a perfect addition to your collection.
From what I have gathered from other reviews – this book is set before the events that happen in the Untamed series however it can definitely be read as a complete standalone. I didn’t feel I missed out on any of the world-building and it was easy to follow who and what the Untamed and Enhanced are. I will definitely be grabbing the Untamed series now as I adored it!
Keelie has spent the last 10 years protecting her brother and sisters and being on the run from the Enhanced. Her parents were converted and she saw her friend Red being killed when she was 11. Since then she has been on a mission to keep her siblings as Untamed as possible. A figure from the past suddenly appears, throwing everything she knew up in the air.
I loved Keelie, she is such a strong character and I admired all she did for her siblings trying to keep them safe. The world she lives in, didn’t seem fun but I must say it seemed much better than being Enhanced. The character of Bea was fabulous, despite it not being mentioned it was clear she was on the autistic spectrum and I loved Madeline has included something that is very true to our own world.
There was lots of action to keep you reading, the chapters pull you in and you just have to know what is going on! I adored Madeline’s writing, it flowed really well and there were lots of twists thrown in that I didn’t see coming or expect to read! At times I was shocked at what happened and others it pulled at my heart strings.
The ending was amazing, I read the last 40% in one sitting as I couldn’t tear myself away from the book! I hope to go onto the series soon as from how A Dangerous Game ended I need to know what’s going to happen in that world next!
This book was fun, it was addictive and it was thrilling – I highly recommend it! If like me, you don’t read dystopians this is a good start but if you read many this will be a perfect addition to your collection.
November 23, 2020
This is one of those books that I am going to write the review before I pick the # of stars to assign it I read this book as part of "Quirky Blind Date With a Book" and had no idea the genre or age level of the story going in.
A Dangerous Game: The Dangerous Ones (Untamed Series Book 5) is the first book I've read by this author and because I read it "blind" I did not know it was the 5th book in a series. While I didn't necessarily "know" who everyone was, it did not take away from the story at all.
The story is very visually written. To the point that I actually dreamed about it a few times. This was NOT a book I read in one sitting. It took a while and there were definitely times that I skimmed a little bit (I can be an impatient reader at times) but overall it was an incredible story.
It is a full story from beginning to end and some aspects were absolutely breathtaking. Others were absolutely heartbreaking.
So not having looked at the cover or anything besides the name, I would classify this story as YA/NA dystopian with a twist of otherworldly and I am going to rate it 5 stars. I would absolutely recommend it to my younger cousins if they were looking for something to read.
A Dangerous Game: The Dangerous Ones (Untamed Series Book 5) is the first book I've read by this author and because I read it "blind" I did not know it was the 5th book in a series. While I didn't necessarily "know" who everyone was, it did not take away from the story at all.
The story is very visually written. To the point that I actually dreamed about it a few times. This was NOT a book I read in one sitting. It took a while and there were definitely times that I skimmed a little bit (I can be an impatient reader at times) but overall it was an incredible story.
It is a full story from beginning to end and some aspects were absolutely breathtaking. Others were absolutely heartbreaking.
So not having looked at the cover or anything besides the name, I would classify this story as YA/NA dystopian with a twist of otherworldly and I am going to rate it 5 stars. I would absolutely recommend it to my younger cousins if they were looking for something to read.
August 15, 2021
That was wild from start to finish and most of the way through the story as well.
This may technically be the 5th book in the Untamed series, but it's a fresh story about a girl named Keelie and her family. It starts with the worst day of Keelie's life, the day her family was ripped apart and Keelie had to step up and be the family's main protector.
Then it jumps forward ten years to the current day. Keelie still harbors a lot of guilt for the things she did and didn't do that night ten years ago. I just wanted to reach into the story and hug Keelie and remind her that SHE WAS A LITERAL CHILD and nothing is her fault.
Growing up as the caretaker of her family warps Keelie and she becomes an angry adrenaline-junkie whose only goals are to protect her family and get her revenge. But, as the story progresses, we see that these goals are not harmonious and she may just have to give up one to achieve the other.
Good for people who like YA dystopia with a hefty helping of romance.
This may technically be the 5th book in the Untamed series, but it's a fresh story about a girl named Keelie and her family. It starts with the worst day of Keelie's life, the day her family was ripped apart and Keelie had to step up and be the family's main protector.
Then it jumps forward ten years to the current day. Keelie still harbors a lot of guilt for the things she did and didn't do that night ten years ago. I just wanted to reach into the story and hug Keelie and remind her that SHE WAS A LITERAL CHILD and nothing is her fault.
Growing up as the caretaker of her family warps Keelie and she becomes an angry adrenaline-junkie whose only goals are to protect her family and get her revenge. But, as the story progresses, we see that these goals are not harmonious and she may just have to give up one to achieve the other.
Good for people who like YA dystopia with a hefty helping of romance.
January 5, 2018
I have read all the others in this series, and was excited to pick this one up. Set before the first book, it was an interesting point of view, and I instantly fell in love with the characters. I was caught up in the intrigue and mystery of what was going on. I loved Keelie, and I loved watching her fight for what she thought was right, even when everyone else around her was saying different. The blows kept coming and she kept getting up and moving on. Amazing book, and really really enjoyed it!
March 19, 2020
I was given a copy of this book through @netgalley netgalley and I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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This book started off kind of slow but I powered through. As I powered through, I found the world building lacking. You have no idea what created the post apocalyptic world, where the Enhanced came from, why they hate humans, or why there are wild spirits. Overall, I was disappointed in the lack of details and unexplained aspects.
•
This book started off kind of slow but I powered through. As I powered through, I found the world building lacking. You have no idea what created the post apocalyptic world, where the Enhanced came from, why they hate humans, or why there are wild spirits. Overall, I was disappointed in the lack of details and unexplained aspects.
January 4, 2018
A perfect rating of 5 across all my categories for reviews! These characters leaped into action immediately. Danger struck, and this author wasted no time setting up the dynamics and roles that each surviving character would have..Suffice it to say, I got slam dunked into this intriguing storylineThis book engaged me perfectly! The suspense was just what I yearn for, and I definitely finished the book wanting more of this story. This voluntary review is based against an advance copy.
April 2, 2020
I don't think the synopsis of this book does it justice. I loved all the characters and the journey that it takes them on. I haven't read the previous series and although you can still definitely read this as a stand alone, I think it would have enhanced the reading experience of this book. Dystopia is definitely a genre that i am becoming more in love with and this one definitely fits into that. Bring on Book 2! Thanks NetGalley for my ARC.
February 5, 2018
So automatic intrigue for me was dystopian romance. Also the cover is so incredibly gorgeous!!! This author has an amazing story writing ability. I loved how hard core this dystopian was. Also, I seriously envy her writing skills. I am now absolutely hooked on her books and she will definitely be an automatic buy from author for me!
March 1, 2020
This books was not what I was expecting at all. There were twists and turns and normally I am pretty good at some what predicting these things but not so much in this story. While the ending wasn’t what I was hoping for, it was done very well and definitely made me want to see where the books would go next.
November 7, 2022
It was kind of interesting, but it took a long time for me to really like Keelie. Til about 50% she was just boring and annoying. But she became interesting afterwards. But the story itself felt like it dragged on and took too long to get to a point.. It was okay, but i were missing some information here and there about the magic and all.
I got this eARC from Netgally
I got this eARC from Netgally
December 29, 2022
Pretty good
The story was definitely full of action with the heroine jumping from one deadly situation to the next. In fact that was the reason for the four stars. For someone who was the best in shape and the best fighter she was always getting in trouble and losing fights to everyone. Plus this is not a stand alone novel.
The story was definitely full of action with the heroine jumping from one deadly situation to the next. In fact that was the reason for the four stars. For someone who was the best in shape and the best fighter she was always getting in trouble and losing fights to everyone. Plus this is not a stand alone novel.
February 8, 2018
Madeline's best work yet! So suspenseful and riveting!
May 26, 2018
I didn't like this book. There were lots of sexual references and a scene in it and I hated the ending.
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