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Lost Immunity
*Instant National Bestseller
In this explosive new thriller from international bestselling author Daniel Kalla, an experimental vaccine is deployed to battle a lethal outbreak—until patients start dying of unknown causes.
An ordinary day
The city of Seattle is stunned when a deadly bacteria tears through a nearby Bible camp. Early tests reveal the illness is a form of meningitis, and the camp’s residents are among its most vulnerable victims: children and teenagers.
A new vaccine
Facing a rapidly rising death rate, Seattle’s chief public health officer, Lisa Dyer, and her team quickly take all steps necessary to contain the devastating outbreak. And when further testing reveals that the strain of the bacteria is one that caused catastrophic losses in Iceland six months before, Lisa decides to take a drastic step: she contacts Nathan Hull, vice president of a pharmaceutical company that is doing final-phase trials on a viable vaccine, and asks him to release it early for use on the city’s population.
An epidemic in the making
Lisa gets the go-ahead on her controversial plan, despite the protests of dubious government officials, anti-vaxxers, and even those on her own team. Vaccine clinics roll out across the city, and the risky strategy appears to be working, leaving Lisa, Nathan, and thousands of others breathing a sigh of relief. Until people start dying from mysterious and horrific causes—and the vaccine itself is implicated.
But what if science isn’t to blame?
In this explosive new thriller from international bestselling author Daniel Kalla, an experimental vaccine is deployed to battle a lethal outbreak—until patients start dying of unknown causes.
An ordinary day
The city of Seattle is stunned when a deadly bacteria tears through a nearby Bible camp. Early tests reveal the illness is a form of meningitis, and the camp’s residents are among its most vulnerable victims: children and teenagers.
A new vaccine
Facing a rapidly rising death rate, Seattle’s chief public health officer, Lisa Dyer, and her team quickly take all steps necessary to contain the devastating outbreak. And when further testing reveals that the strain of the bacteria is one that caused catastrophic losses in Iceland six months before, Lisa decides to take a drastic step: she contacts Nathan Hull, vice president of a pharmaceutical company that is doing final-phase trials on a viable vaccine, and asks him to release it early for use on the city’s population.
An epidemic in the making
Lisa gets the go-ahead on her controversial plan, despite the protests of dubious government officials, anti-vaxxers, and even those on her own team. Vaccine clinics roll out across the city, and the risky strategy appears to be working, leaving Lisa, Nathan, and thousands of others breathing a sigh of relief. Until people start dying from mysterious and horrific causes—and the vaccine itself is implicated.
But what if science isn’t to blame?
352 pages, Paperback
First published May 4, 2021
50 people are currently reading
1156 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Kalla
19 books561 followersBorn, raised, and still residing in Vancouver, Daniel has worked as an ER Physician for the past twenty years. He is also the author of fifteen published novels, which have been translated into thirteen languages.
In his latest novel, THE DEEPEST FAKE, a tech CEO and AI pioneer’s carefully curated life is unraveling—his wife is cheating, someone is defrauding his company, and he’s just been handed a fatal diagnosis. He’d end it all, if only he could trust his own reality. As deepfakes and deception blur the lines between truth and illusion, the novel explores the challenges and pitfalls of safeguarding reality in an age when it can be fabricated.
Daniel received his B.Sc. and MD from the University of British Columbia, where he is now a clinical associate professor. He is the proud father of two girls and a poorly behaved but lovable mutt, Milo.
In his latest novel, THE DEEPEST FAKE, a tech CEO and AI pioneer’s carefully curated life is unraveling—his wife is cheating, someone is defrauding his company, and he’s just been handed a fatal diagnosis. He’d end it all, if only he could trust his own reality. As deepfakes and deception blur the lines between truth and illusion, the novel explores the challenges and pitfalls of safeguarding reality in an age when it can be fabricated.
Daniel received his B.Sc. and MD from the University of British Columbia, where he is now a clinical associate professor. He is the proud father of two girls and a poorly behaved but lovable mutt, Milo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
January 30, 2021
I wish to extend thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster, Canada, for the ARC of this intense medical thriller by Daniel Kalla. The author is an ER physician in Vancouver, BC., who writes novels with medical themes based on sound scientific knowledge and research. I have been informed by and enjoyed Kalla's previous works and was happy to receive his latest book. There seems to presently be a scarcity of medical thrillers, a genre that is among my favourite. Kalla's novels are always believable and suspenseful.
Lost Immunity is set sometime after the COVID pandemic has ended. It doesn't guess how close or distant in the future its time frame is set. This book was written while the COVID virus was still spreading. Kalla uses his knowledge of life-saving vaccines in the past that saved many lives and ended some varied and dangerous diseases, and the viewpoints of anti-vaxxers who may slow down future efficiency. Medical terms that would have needed explanation a year ago are now known by many people, such as 'asymptomatic carriers' and 'herd immunity.'
The medical practitioners seem authentic, but I failed to engage with the characters despite my strong feeling of suspense and mystery. The story begins with an outbreak of a deadly form of meningitis in the Seattle area. This contagious bacterial infection mainly affects small children and teenagers. Lisa Dyer, Seattle's chief public health officer and her team, learn that this is the same strain of the disease that caused deaths in Iceland six months earlier but now seems to have gone dormant there. They contact Nathan Hall, vice-president of a pharmaceutical company that seems to have a viable vaccine for the disease. However, they have not completed testing it. After much persuading that it is needed immediately to save many young people's lives, they receive a large shipment of the drug, although test trials are not complete.
This risky strategy is opposed by some medical experts, government officials, and anti-vaxxers. The vaccinations seem to be successful in stopping the spread of meningitis and its death toll. A horrible side effect is found among a small number of those vaccinated, throwing the vaccine into disrepute. It looks like someone has hacked into the medical files and deleted information about a person's death following the vaccine. Worse, there may have been contamination of a small number of closely guarded vials of the serum. There is now a rush to find out how a few of the vials were contaminated and causing life-altering side effects, or giving up on the vaccine rollout and letting children and their contacts die in the present meningitis clusters. The pharmaceutical company's reputation is in tatters, and parents are afraid to have their children vaccinated.
Recommended for people who enjoy intense, suspenseful medical mysteries.
Lost Immunity is set sometime after the COVID pandemic has ended. It doesn't guess how close or distant in the future its time frame is set. This book was written while the COVID virus was still spreading. Kalla uses his knowledge of life-saving vaccines in the past that saved many lives and ended some varied and dangerous diseases, and the viewpoints of anti-vaxxers who may slow down future efficiency. Medical terms that would have needed explanation a year ago are now known by many people, such as 'asymptomatic carriers' and 'herd immunity.'
The medical practitioners seem authentic, but I failed to engage with the characters despite my strong feeling of suspense and mystery. The story begins with an outbreak of a deadly form of meningitis in the Seattle area. This contagious bacterial infection mainly affects small children and teenagers. Lisa Dyer, Seattle's chief public health officer and her team, learn that this is the same strain of the disease that caused deaths in Iceland six months earlier but now seems to have gone dormant there. They contact Nathan Hall, vice-president of a pharmaceutical company that seems to have a viable vaccine for the disease. However, they have not completed testing it. After much persuading that it is needed immediately to save many young people's lives, they receive a large shipment of the drug, although test trials are not complete.
This risky strategy is opposed by some medical experts, government officials, and anti-vaxxers. The vaccinations seem to be successful in stopping the spread of meningitis and its death toll. A horrible side effect is found among a small number of those vaccinated, throwing the vaccine into disrepute. It looks like someone has hacked into the medical files and deleted information about a person's death following the vaccine. Worse, there may have been contamination of a small number of closely guarded vials of the serum. There is now a rush to find out how a few of the vials were contaminated and causing life-altering side effects, or giving up on the vaccine rollout and letting children and their contacts die in the present meningitis clusters. The pharmaceutical company's reputation is in tatters, and parents are afraid to have their children vaccinated.
Recommended for people who enjoy intense, suspenseful medical mysteries.
August 1, 2022
A bacterial pandemic threat in a post Covid-19 world
If you’re nervous about the realities of Covid-19 and how the pandemic is playing out around you, Canadian author Daniel Kalla’s LOST IMMUNITY certainly won’t set your mind at ease. Set in a hypothetical post Covid-19 world, LOST IMMUNITY posits an outbreak of Meningitis-C in Seattle in which the Patient Zero Vector imports the deadly bacteria from Iceland and starts the hypothetical plague ball rolling in a bible camp in Seattle. The most susceptible victims are children and teenagers so, unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll know that the issue of vaccinations, testing, government approval, release and roll-out, logistics, parental releases and so on, are a BIG problem. Given that the disease incubates and manifests at astonishing speeds with brutal, devastating symptoms and a 50% mortality rate, it’s clear that Seattle’s Public Health authorities and the CDC are between a truckload of rocks and the proverbial hard place.
Like Kalla’s last runaway success THE LAST HIGH, LOST IMMUNITY is a compelling high-speed medical thriller that will simply blow away lovers of the genre. And Kalla’s medical background and experience comes to the fore as he provides the reader with a wealth of epidemiological detail; triage; graphic descriptions of the disease’s progress, symptoms and results; real-life logistical issues of a vaccination campaign; and the related politics, both left and right!
As a reader, if your politics lie on the left of the spectrum, you are unlikely to see any information that will convince you to even have sympathy with the “anti-vaxxers”, more politely characterized as the “vaccine hesitant”. And, if you’ve got any doubts about the altruism or public interest embodied in the motives of pharmaceutical research, well … just read LOST IMMUNITY and see what you think!
Paul Weiss
If you’re nervous about the realities of Covid-19 and how the pandemic is playing out around you, Canadian author Daniel Kalla’s LOST IMMUNITY certainly won’t set your mind at ease. Set in a hypothetical post Covid-19 world, LOST IMMUNITY posits an outbreak of Meningitis-C in Seattle in which the Patient Zero Vector imports the deadly bacteria from Iceland and starts the hypothetical plague ball rolling in a bible camp in Seattle. The most susceptible victims are children and teenagers so, unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll know that the issue of vaccinations, testing, government approval, release and roll-out, logistics, parental releases and so on, are a BIG problem. Given that the disease incubates and manifests at astonishing speeds with brutal, devastating symptoms and a 50% mortality rate, it’s clear that Seattle’s Public Health authorities and the CDC are between a truckload of rocks and the proverbial hard place.
Like Kalla’s last runaway success THE LAST HIGH, LOST IMMUNITY is a compelling high-speed medical thriller that will simply blow away lovers of the genre. And Kalla’s medical background and experience comes to the fore as he provides the reader with a wealth of epidemiological detail; triage; graphic descriptions of the disease’s progress, symptoms and results; real-life logistical issues of a vaccination campaign; and the related politics, both left and right!
As a reader, if your politics lie on the left of the spectrum, you are unlikely to see any information that will convince you to even have sympathy with the “anti-vaxxers”, more politely characterized as the “vaccine hesitant”. And, if you’ve got any doubts about the altruism or public interest embodied in the motives of pharmaceutical research, well … just read LOST IMMUNITY and see what you think!
Paul Weiss
April 29, 2021
"One vaccine. One hope. What could go wrong?"
What a fantastic, fast paced medical thriller!
Lost Immunity takes place post Covid-19 in Seattle. A deadly and resistant outbreak that targets children and teenagers has hit the city. Cheif public health officer, Lisa Dyer, and the rest of her team need to move fast in order to contain the nasty bacteria. A bacteria that was last seen in Iceland six months earlier. One that caused devastating losses.
Knowing there's a viable vaccine, Lisa contacts a pharmaceutical company in hopes they will agree to help save lives. But as vaccine clinics roll out in the city so do mysterious deaths ... horrific deaths.
Has the vaccine been compromised? ...
I really enjoyed Lost Immunity. As with The Last High the writing is great and really packs a punch. Daniel Kalla creates well thought out characters and a storyline that will keep you turning pages. The fact Kalla writes from experience is very telling. I would highly recommend to those who enjoy medical thrillers.
Huge thank you to Simon and Schuster Canada for my gifted copy!! I can't wait to see what Daniel Kalla writes next.
What a fantastic, fast paced medical thriller!
Lost Immunity takes place post Covid-19 in Seattle. A deadly and resistant outbreak that targets children and teenagers has hit the city. Cheif public health officer, Lisa Dyer, and the rest of her team need to move fast in order to contain the nasty bacteria. A bacteria that was last seen in Iceland six months earlier. One that caused devastating losses.
Knowing there's a viable vaccine, Lisa contacts a pharmaceutical company in hopes they will agree to help save lives. But as vaccine clinics roll out in the city so do mysterious deaths ... horrific deaths.
Has the vaccine been compromised? ...
I really enjoyed Lost Immunity. As with The Last High the writing is great and really packs a punch. Daniel Kalla creates well thought out characters and a storyline that will keep you turning pages. The fact Kalla writes from experience is very telling. I would highly recommend to those who enjoy medical thrillers.
Huge thank you to Simon and Schuster Canada for my gifted copy!! I can't wait to see what Daniel Kalla writes next.
July 18, 2021
Daniel Kalla is a medical doctor from Vancouver, British Columbia, who decided to try his hand at writing medical novels. I really enjoyed his poignant novel, "The Last High”, that tackled the opioid crisis, and it is not surprising that his newest novel, “Lost Immunity” also tackles a hot-button issue—vaccinations.
Teenagers who attended a Bible camp in Seattle, are suddenly flooding the E.R, suffering from symptoms of a disease that resembles meningitis. When it is discovered that this new illness is resistant to the usual treatment, and appears to be spreading at a faster rate, and at a far more dangerous level, Public Health officer Lisa Dyer, is asked to step in. With the contributions of a drug company, Lisa is able to get the go-ahead for an early approval for a vaccine, which seems to be a step toward curing the horrible disease plaguing the youth of Seattle. When the vaccine starts having even more terrifying results, Lisa faces a potential crisis, and soon she discovers something even deeper and more sinister than the medical community’s quest to find a cure.
Kalla’s “Lost Immunity” is obviously prolific and relevant, especially considering the recent debates that have surfaced over the Covid vaccines. What is particularly interesting about Kalla’s novel in this case, is that he covers both sides as equitably as possible, making the vaccine supporters and the “vaccine hesitant” community come across as educated, caring and knowledgeable people with different opinions on a very specific issue. Whatever side of the fence you are in the “to vaccinate or not to vaccinate” debate, Kalla’s novel will not berate or push you to the other side, and I found that extremely refreshing.
The novel has a strong medical background, obviously, but the language is clear and concise, and any topics that are medically thick are explained, so that no matter the density of the material, I was able to keep up with the plot.
I enjoyed the characters in this novel, especially Lisa, who I felt for right from the beginning as she takes up a new position just as a crisis sweeps her city. The players in “Lost Immunity” are all relatable and honest, which makes it difficult to predict the ending, as no real “suspect” comes to the forefront. When the ending is delivered, it is completely believable, with just enough of a twist to add the perfect surprise element to a whopper of a conclusion.
Kalla’s novels are original, well-written and based in real life, which make them gripping and powerful. “Lost Immunity” is thought-provoking, entertaining, and completely immersive and addicting!
Teenagers who attended a Bible camp in Seattle, are suddenly flooding the E.R, suffering from symptoms of a disease that resembles meningitis. When it is discovered that this new illness is resistant to the usual treatment, and appears to be spreading at a faster rate, and at a far more dangerous level, Public Health officer Lisa Dyer, is asked to step in. With the contributions of a drug company, Lisa is able to get the go-ahead for an early approval for a vaccine, which seems to be a step toward curing the horrible disease plaguing the youth of Seattle. When the vaccine starts having even more terrifying results, Lisa faces a potential crisis, and soon she discovers something even deeper and more sinister than the medical community’s quest to find a cure.
Kalla’s “Lost Immunity” is obviously prolific and relevant, especially considering the recent debates that have surfaced over the Covid vaccines. What is particularly interesting about Kalla’s novel in this case, is that he covers both sides as equitably as possible, making the vaccine supporters and the “vaccine hesitant” community come across as educated, caring and knowledgeable people with different opinions on a very specific issue. Whatever side of the fence you are in the “to vaccinate or not to vaccinate” debate, Kalla’s novel will not berate or push you to the other side, and I found that extremely refreshing.
The novel has a strong medical background, obviously, but the language is clear and concise, and any topics that are medically thick are explained, so that no matter the density of the material, I was able to keep up with the plot.
I enjoyed the characters in this novel, especially Lisa, who I felt for right from the beginning as she takes up a new position just as a crisis sweeps her city. The players in “Lost Immunity” are all relatable and honest, which makes it difficult to predict the ending, as no real “suspect” comes to the forefront. When the ending is delivered, it is completely believable, with just enough of a twist to add the perfect surprise element to a whopper of a conclusion.
Kalla’s novels are original, well-written and based in real life, which make them gripping and powerful. “Lost Immunity” is thought-provoking, entertaining, and completely immersive and addicting!
May 1, 2021
3.5 stars
Lost Immunity by Daniel Kalla is a medical thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Simon & Schuster Canada, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Lisa Dyer, Seattle's Chief Public Health Officer, is in the middle of Public Health Forum discussing the State's view on immunizing young boys and girls with an HPV Vaccine, when her pager goes off. Four teenagers have died from Meningitis, and they had all attended the same Bible Camp. Lisa leaves both the podium and the anti-vaxxers behind.
They quickly find that the strain of meningitis is identical to the one that devastated Iceland last year. After discovering that Iceland is in the middle of a final-stage trial of a vaccine that shows promise, Lisa contacts the American manufacturer and asks him to release it early, and to release it to Seattle instead of Iceland. Not everyone on her team is on board with the decision, not even the manufacturer. It takes some convincing, as the vaccine has not had a true test yet, but eventually the manufacturer agrees to supply the vaccines.
Initially, everything works well, but then people start dying from horrific causes, and the vaccine is blamed and the anti-vaxxers are declaring a victory.
However, it may not be the vaccine at all.
My Opinions:
Perhaps I was wrong. Perhaps in this time of COVID, this was not the time to be reading about vaccines and their side-effects.
I am already not a fan of anti-vaxxers, and this book did not improve my opinions of these people. It just ended up pissing me off. I did, however, gain more respect for the people at Public Health and the difficult job they have.
My main problem with the book was that I couldn't relate to the characters. I liked Nathan, but other than that, I didn't even like Lisa.
Overall, the book was good. It was well-written, suspenseful and interesting. It was an easy read. I'm just not sure the timing was good for this topic.
For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
Lost Immunity by Daniel Kalla is a medical thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Simon & Schuster Canada, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Lisa Dyer, Seattle's Chief Public Health Officer, is in the middle of Public Health Forum discussing the State's view on immunizing young boys and girls with an HPV Vaccine, when her pager goes off. Four teenagers have died from Meningitis, and they had all attended the same Bible Camp. Lisa leaves both the podium and the anti-vaxxers behind.
They quickly find that the strain of meningitis is identical to the one that devastated Iceland last year. After discovering that Iceland is in the middle of a final-stage trial of a vaccine that shows promise, Lisa contacts the American manufacturer and asks him to release it early, and to release it to Seattle instead of Iceland. Not everyone on her team is on board with the decision, not even the manufacturer. It takes some convincing, as the vaccine has not had a true test yet, but eventually the manufacturer agrees to supply the vaccines.
Initially, everything works well, but then people start dying from horrific causes, and the vaccine is blamed and the anti-vaxxers are declaring a victory.
However, it may not be the vaccine at all.
My Opinions:
Perhaps I was wrong. Perhaps in this time of COVID, this was not the time to be reading about vaccines and their side-effects.
I am already not a fan of anti-vaxxers, and this book did not improve my opinions of these people. It just ended up pissing me off. I did, however, gain more respect for the people at Public Health and the difficult job they have.
My main problem with the book was that I couldn't relate to the characters. I liked Nathan, but other than that, I didn't even like Lisa.
Overall, the book was good. It was well-written, suspenseful and interesting. It was an easy read. I'm just not sure the timing was good for this topic.
For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
January 7, 2022
4.5 stars for this excellent medical thriller!
My favorite genre, this exciting story deals with a serious meningococcal meningitis epidemic in Seattle. Young children and teens are dying within hours after contracting the deadly disease and not even antibiotic prophylaxis seems to be helping achieve any kind of prevention as it starts spreading into the larger community. Help appears in the form of a new vaccine, Neissovax, but it has barely cleared phase 3 clinical trials and is not ready for roll out. Under serious pressure, Dr. Lisa Dyer, the chief public health officer for Seattle, convinces the drug company executives at Delaware Pharmaceuticals to release the untested vaccine for immediate use. Shortly after the huge vaccination efforts begin, a previously unseen and potentially deadly side effect appears in some of the inoculated children. The antivaxxers (or vaccine hesitaters) are out in full force even as cases rise. What will happen as the medical community tries to save the children.
Excellent writing, great story line, well-developed characters, tension, and suspense all merge to create a fabulous book. Enjoy!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster via Edelweiss for this e-book ARC to read, review, and highly recommend. Can’t wait for this author’s next book.
My favorite genre, this exciting story deals with a serious meningococcal meningitis epidemic in Seattle. Young children and teens are dying within hours after contracting the deadly disease and not even antibiotic prophylaxis seems to be helping achieve any kind of prevention as it starts spreading into the larger community. Help appears in the form of a new vaccine, Neissovax, but it has barely cleared phase 3 clinical trials and is not ready for roll out. Under serious pressure, Dr. Lisa Dyer, the chief public health officer for Seattle, convinces the drug company executives at Delaware Pharmaceuticals to release the untested vaccine for immediate use. Shortly after the huge vaccination efforts begin, a previously unseen and potentially deadly side effect appears in some of the inoculated children. The antivaxxers (or vaccine hesitaters) are out in full force even as cases rise. What will happen as the medical community tries to save the children.
Excellent writing, great story line, well-developed characters, tension, and suspense all merge to create a fabulous book. Enjoy!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster via Edelweiss for this e-book ARC to read, review, and highly recommend. Can’t wait for this author’s next book.
April 5, 2021
“The Last High” was one of my favourite reads in 2020, so I was very excited to see Daniel Kalla was releasing another novel again so soon. Kalla is such a talented writer and his obvious (but still readable and understandable-which for some authors is not the case) medical knowledge and descriptions are really what sets his novels apart. It is undeniable that he brings a unique voice in the thriller/suspense genre.
What I liked most about this novel is that it brings up current medical issues (vaccine controversy, outbreak) without actually being about COVID. It’s SO refreshing to hear references to COVID as being something of the past (not that meningitis sounds great either..). Again, Kalla writes with medical knowledge that reads not as “pushy”.. but with a knowledgeable and well rounded perspective that is also informative. I really appreciated his forwardness in his Author’s Note on his opinions on some of the topics described in the book.
Lost Immunity was a great and quick read that I would highly recommend, especially if you love fast paced, medical dramas.
Many thanks to Simon & Schuster Canada, NetGalley and Daniel Kalla for the opportunity to read this ARC!
What I liked most about this novel is that it brings up current medical issues (vaccine controversy, outbreak) without actually being about COVID. It’s SO refreshing to hear references to COVID as being something of the past (not that meningitis sounds great either..). Again, Kalla writes with medical knowledge that reads not as “pushy”.. but with a knowledgeable and well rounded perspective that is also informative. I really appreciated his forwardness in his Author’s Note on his opinions on some of the topics described in the book.
Lost Immunity was a great and quick read that I would highly recommend, especially if you love fast paced, medical dramas.
Many thanks to Simon & Schuster Canada, NetGalley and Daniel Kalla for the opportunity to read this ARC!
May 4, 2021
The Story:
Epidemiologist and Seattle's new Chief Public Health Officer, Lisa Dyer and her team are racing against time to contain the devastating meningitis outbreak which is affecting children and teenagers. Further investigation reveals that six months ago, Iceland had the same outbreak. A vaccine for meningitis has been developed by Delaware Pharmaceuticals to inoculate 50, 000 people in Reykjavik. However, it had just finished the final-phase trials and is not ready for the public. Desperate, Lisa contacted the pharmaceutical company to convince them to divert the clinical vaccine to Seattle instead of Iceland. Her controversial plan is working in the beginning until people started dying from an even more horrific and mysterious illness and the vaccine gets the blame or is there another explanation for these deaths?
My thoughts: This was a solid 5-star read for me! Gripping twisty plot, fast-paced, incredible characters and just AMAZING!
I think you would need to be in the right headspace to read this book as it can be scary reading this during pandemic. But the story is so relevant and relatable now since we are trying to achieve herd immunity against Covid-19 through vaccination. The story offers both the POVs from those who truly believe that vaccines save lives and from those anti-vaxxers (vaccine hesitancy).
I liked learning about the workings of public health in containing an outbreak, contact tracing and all the complicated behind-the-scenes.
I truly enjoyed this medical thriller. A MUST READ - well-written, highly engaging, informative and unputdownable! I am looking forward to reading more of this author's books!
Pub. Date: May 4th, 2021
***Thank you Simon & Schuster Canada and author Daniel Kalla for this gifted copy to read and review.***
My thoughts: This was a solid 5-star read for me! Gripping twisty plot, fast-paced, incredible characters and just AMAZING!
I think you would need to be in the right headspace to read this book as it can be scary reading this during pandemic. But the story is so relevant and relatable now since we are trying to achieve herd immunity against Covid-19 through vaccination. The story offers both the POVs from those who truly believe that vaccines save lives and from those anti-vaxxers (vaccine hesitancy).
I liked learning about the workings of public health in containing an outbreak, contact tracing and all the complicated behind-the-scenes.
I truly enjoyed this medical thriller. A MUST READ - well-written, highly engaging, informative and unputdownable! I am looking forward to reading more of this author's books!
Pub. Date: May 4th, 2021
***Thank you Simon & Schuster Canada and author Daniel Kalla for this gifted copy to read and review.***
March 10, 2021
This book takes place after the Covid 19 pandemic is over and, even though I realize this is fiction, I was pretty happy that masks don't seem to be worn as a matter of course. Unfortunately now the City of Seattle is enduring an outbreak of a fast-acting and deadly strain of meningitis, and the only hope is a newly-developed vaccine that hasn't gone through all stages of testing yet. I was totally immersed in the story from the beginning and was quite impressed with how the author handled the vaccination issue, very fair and compassionate. I read and liked The Last High by this author but I liked this one even more and found it to be realistic and believable. There's a lot of informative data in the book that I found most interesting and some very well-developed characters. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Lost Immunity to a friend.
Thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Canada for the opportunity to read this book prior to publication.
Thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Canada for the opportunity to read this book prior to publication.
October 20, 2021
4 Stars
"Lost Immunity" really packs a punch for readers as it feels like author Daniel Kalla is narrating our present life. The story takes place during COVID-19 and in addition to the coronavirus, Seattle begins to battle an outbreak of meningitis. A group of teenagers suddenly fall ill and die after contracting meningitis at a Bible camp. Public health Officer Lisa Dyer quickly takes matters into her own hands to trace the start of the virus and works to stop it from spreading.
A vaccine is available and it's recommended that adolescents immediately vaccinate to prevent themselves from falling victim to the meningitis outbreak but when some of the vaccine recipients start showing deadly reactions to the vaccine, all hell is going to break loose. The anti-vaccination movement is determined to use these reactions to prove that vaccines cause harm but all is not as it seems. Something is happening in the background and it is the responsibility of Lisa, her team, and the FBI to determine what is causing the reactions.
"Lost Immunity" takes a close look at how a pandemic effects public health, those who fall ill, their families, and the medical staff trying to save those patients who become ill. The book also brings to the forefront the anti-vaccination movement and those who support it in a way that doesn't pin one group against another. The characters on both side of the tables add a very interesting dynamic to the overall storyline.
I really enjoyed this book and I felt like I stepped into another alternate world of COVID as it hits close to home. In reality we are facing the COVID outbreak and our reality is quickly dividing us the people into two seperate groups - the vaccinated versus the unvaccinated. Even though the story brings the two together, there is no division among the people as we are presently experiencing.
"Lost Immunity" caught my attention from the very first page and I was engaged until I closed the back cover. Once I started reading, I did not want to stop. I am definitely adding Daniel Kalla to my TBR and I can not wait to read his other published works.
"Lost Immunity" really packs a punch for readers as it feels like author Daniel Kalla is narrating our present life. The story takes place during COVID-19 and in addition to the coronavirus, Seattle begins to battle an outbreak of meningitis. A group of teenagers suddenly fall ill and die after contracting meningitis at a Bible camp. Public health Officer Lisa Dyer quickly takes matters into her own hands to trace the start of the virus and works to stop it from spreading.
A vaccine is available and it's recommended that adolescents immediately vaccinate to prevent themselves from falling victim to the meningitis outbreak but when some of the vaccine recipients start showing deadly reactions to the vaccine, all hell is going to break loose. The anti-vaccination movement is determined to use these reactions to prove that vaccines cause harm but all is not as it seems. Something is happening in the background and it is the responsibility of Lisa, her team, and the FBI to determine what is causing the reactions.
"Lost Immunity" takes a close look at how a pandemic effects public health, those who fall ill, their families, and the medical staff trying to save those patients who become ill. The book also brings to the forefront the anti-vaccination movement and those who support it in a way that doesn't pin one group against another. The characters on both side of the tables add a very interesting dynamic to the overall storyline.
I really enjoyed this book and I felt like I stepped into another alternate world of COVID as it hits close to home. In reality we are facing the COVID outbreak and our reality is quickly dividing us the people into two seperate groups - the vaccinated versus the unvaccinated. Even though the story brings the two together, there is no division among the people as we are presently experiencing.
"Lost Immunity" caught my attention from the very first page and I was engaged until I closed the back cover. Once I started reading, I did not want to stop. I am definitely adding Daniel Kalla to my TBR and I can not wait to read his other published works.
March 25, 2021
Daniel Kalla is an emergency doctor in downtown Vancouver B.C and the author of many medically themed novels. In his latest he writes about modern pandemic.
What a thrilling read.
“Lost Immunity” brings us to Seattle during an outbreak of meningitis that started nearby a Bible camp. The most vulnerable victims are children and teenagers. The chief public office, Dry Dryer and her team quickly take the necessary measure to contain the outbreak....An epidemic is in the making... an experimental vaccine deployed to battle a lethal outbreak - until patients start dying of unknown causes.
As usual Mr. Kalla mixes lots of information into a very suspenseful drama. Along this exciting page-turner we not only have a story that showcases the benefits of inoculation but also the point of views of anti-vaxxers and of the Pharmaceutical Company. Most of us will recognize the medical terms in this novel so Mr. Kalla did not expend on their meanings. The narration and dialogue are said in the everyday language.
Although a hard subject, the style is smooth and easy to read. The plot and characters are realistic. Because of the Covid 19 outbreak we have at the present it easy to relate to the characters and feel the pains of those suffering but most of all the devotions given by the frontline workers: excellent characterisation.
On a final thought: for a vaccine to be effective, a great % of the population has to be vaccinated. Yes, there will be “vaccine injury” as stated in this story but the benefits outweigh the risks....
Another strong story told by a master storyteller
Thank you Simon&Schuster, NetGalley and Edelweiss for the opportunity to read and review this book.
What a thrilling read.
“Lost Immunity” brings us to Seattle during an outbreak of meningitis that started nearby a Bible camp. The most vulnerable victims are children and teenagers. The chief public office, Dry Dryer and her team quickly take the necessary measure to contain the outbreak....An epidemic is in the making... an experimental vaccine deployed to battle a lethal outbreak - until patients start dying of unknown causes.
As usual Mr. Kalla mixes lots of information into a very suspenseful drama. Along this exciting page-turner we not only have a story that showcases the benefits of inoculation but also the point of views of anti-vaxxers and of the Pharmaceutical Company. Most of us will recognize the medical terms in this novel so Mr. Kalla did not expend on their meanings. The narration and dialogue are said in the everyday language.
Although a hard subject, the style is smooth and easy to read. The plot and characters are realistic. Because of the Covid 19 outbreak we have at the present it easy to relate to the characters and feel the pains of those suffering but most of all the devotions given by the frontline workers: excellent characterisation.
On a final thought: for a vaccine to be effective, a great % of the population has to be vaccinated. Yes, there will be “vaccine injury” as stated in this story but the benefits outweigh the risks....
Another strong story told by a master storyteller
Thank you Simon&Schuster, NetGalley and Edelweiss for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 27, 2021
“ One Vaccine, One Hope - What could go wrong “
Rating : ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Book : Lost Immunity
Author: Daniel Kalla
This was a really good, fast-paced medical thriller. Even with all the medical jargon, requiring me to google certain things, did not hinder me from not enjoying it.
This one takes place in the near future, after Covid-19, a new strain of a deadly virus, Meningitis, is unleashed in the city of Settle. With a race against time, to produce and implement measures so the death rate doesn’t explode, Lisa Dyer (CPHO) and her team get to work. They link this virus with a strain that caused catastrophic loss in Iceland not to long ago.
What could go wrong when pushing a pharmaceutical company that is doing final-phase trials on a viable vaccine, to release it early for use on the city’s population? Check it out to see what happens!
This was my first medical thriller, this was definitely..
THRILLING - INFORMATIVE & RELEVANT
I Recommend!
Special thank you to @simon for this #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Rating : ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Book : Lost Immunity
Author: Daniel Kalla
This was a really good, fast-paced medical thriller. Even with all the medical jargon, requiring me to google certain things, did not hinder me from not enjoying it.
This one takes place in the near future, after Covid-19, a new strain of a deadly virus, Meningitis, is unleashed in the city of Settle. With a race against time, to produce and implement measures so the death rate doesn’t explode, Lisa Dyer (CPHO) and her team get to work. They link this virus with a strain that caused catastrophic loss in Iceland not to long ago.
What could go wrong when pushing a pharmaceutical company that is doing final-phase trials on a viable vaccine, to release it early for use on the city’s population? Check it out to see what happens!
This was my first medical thriller, this was definitely..
THRILLING - INFORMATIVE & RELEVANT
I Recommend!
Special thank you to @simon for this #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2022
I just love how this author writes fast paced, informative, multiple characters and short chapters.
This book felt like a time crunch through every page. Also, interesting giving the world we are currently living in. Well done, Kalla.
This book felt like a time crunch through every page. Also, interesting giving the world we are currently living in. Well done, Kalla.
June 26, 2021
This could be a tough read for some people given the pandemic ongoing right now but it’s timely and definitely relevant.
I haven’t read many medical thrillers but I have really enjoyed the ones I have. The author is an ER physician and therefore the medical parts are accurate and not Grey’s Anatomy-ish.
Things I loved:
-having views of vaccines from all sorts of people - public health, vaccine company and the anti-vaxxers. All three accounts were fascinating - although the anti-vax view made me infuriated.
-takes place in a post covid world, loved how the characters reflected back on their fight with the covid pandemic
-gripping and well paced
Things that weren’t my favourite:
-I figured it out before it was revealed, but I blame my medical background on that
A unique and unforgettable thriller.
I haven’t read many medical thrillers but I have really enjoyed the ones I have. The author is an ER physician and therefore the medical parts are accurate and not Grey’s Anatomy-ish.
Things I loved:
-having views of vaccines from all sorts of people - public health, vaccine company and the anti-vaxxers. All three accounts were fascinating - although the anti-vax view made me infuriated.
-takes place in a post covid world, loved how the characters reflected back on their fight with the covid pandemic
-gripping and well paced
Things that weren’t my favourite:
-I figured it out before it was revealed, but I blame my medical background on that
A unique and unforgettable thriller.
May 4, 2021
BOOK REVIEW
Lost Immunity by Daniel Kalla
Thank you to @netgalley and @simonandschusterca for my copy in return for an honest review
This is my first book from Kalla, and it did not disappoint. Reading about a pandemic while the world is in the midst of one may not be for everyone but I was all for it.
Synopsis
A strain of meningitis is sweeping across Seattle. Newly appointed Chief Public Health officer Lisa and her team are racing against the clock. Nathan - a Pharma VP- has a possible solution… a vaccine… not yet through final testing that may be the solution to their problem… as body counts rise they decide to roll out the vaccine…… will it be enough?
A reminder that this is fiction. There is a lot of content about immunization hesitancy, the connection between autism and immunizations, the theory of corporate Pharma companies creating diseases as a financial scheme costing the economy and healthcare systems billions of dollars…. It is fiction BUT…… these are real concerns. Kalla puts it all out there. The doubt, the science, the data, all of it. You don’t have to agree with it all to appreciate the perspectives and controversy Kalla embeds throughout the dialogue. The reader will feel the tension building as Lisa and Nathan fight to contain the disease. You will empathize with the families of the children who fall ill and succumb. You will be reminded of Covid 19…. Kalla mentions it in passing as yet another pandemic the world overcame.
I would describe this book as a medical thriller with a bit of corporate espionage. Its full of trigger warnings and uncomfortable moments that you cant look away from. The reader is compelled to finish… hoping and praying the vaccine works. Highly recommend.
Lost Immunity by Daniel Kalla
Thank you to @netgalley and @simonandschusterca for my copy in return for an honest review
This is my first book from Kalla, and it did not disappoint. Reading about a pandemic while the world is in the midst of one may not be for everyone but I was all for it.
Synopsis
A strain of meningitis is sweeping across Seattle. Newly appointed Chief Public Health officer Lisa and her team are racing against the clock. Nathan - a Pharma VP- has a possible solution… a vaccine… not yet through final testing that may be the solution to their problem… as body counts rise they decide to roll out the vaccine…… will it be enough?
A reminder that this is fiction. There is a lot of content about immunization hesitancy, the connection between autism and immunizations, the theory of corporate Pharma companies creating diseases as a financial scheme costing the economy and healthcare systems billions of dollars…. It is fiction BUT…… these are real concerns. Kalla puts it all out there. The doubt, the science, the data, all of it. You don’t have to agree with it all to appreciate the perspectives and controversy Kalla embeds throughout the dialogue. The reader will feel the tension building as Lisa and Nathan fight to contain the disease. You will empathize with the families of the children who fall ill and succumb. You will be reminded of Covid 19…. Kalla mentions it in passing as yet another pandemic the world overcame.
I would describe this book as a medical thriller with a bit of corporate espionage. Its full of trigger warnings and uncomfortable moments that you cant look away from. The reader is compelled to finish… hoping and praying the vaccine works. Highly recommend.
March 15, 2021
I love this author! He always sucks me in from the first chapter, it’s is always a race against the clock.
The book follows Dr. Dyer Seattle’s new Chief of Public Health as a epidemic hits. An epidemic that focuses on children. They start using a brand new vaccine but then their are bad side effects there. Throw in a antivaxxer story line and everyone is a suspect. This book ticks all the boxes for me. The writing is fantastic, the characters have depth and feel authentic. I read this in one sitting, I could not put it down.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
The book follows Dr. Dyer Seattle’s new Chief of Public Health as a epidemic hits. An epidemic that focuses on children. They start using a brand new vaccine but then their are bad side effects there. Throw in a antivaxxer story line and everyone is a suspect. This book ticks all the boxes for me. The writing is fantastic, the characters have depth and feel authentic. I read this in one sitting, I could not put it down.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 4, 2021
When reviewers indicate a book is “timely”, I’m not sure they anticipate a novel that is literally reflecting questions and concerns that are relevant on the publication day. Lost Immunity, a medical thriller written by Canadian ER physician Daniel Kalla, dives deep into the questions and concerns that have simmered for decades surrounding vaccines.
In a post-COVID Seattle, an outbreak of deadly meningitis is infecting children and young adults, leading to hospitalizations and death. The Public Health Officer, Lisa Dyer, learns of a new vaccine that could change the path of this epidemic, but it hasn’t finished the full trial process. When she pushes through a vaccination plan, she bumps up against government officials and anti-vaxxers, but celebrates the early success… until there are serious side effects. Who is to blame? And is the cure worse than the disease?
Kalla has done a stellar job of balancing the pros and cons of vaccination, and has blended the scientific with the emotional and psychological impacts felt when vaccine decisions need to be made, both on a government and personal level. To be reading this novel, as politicians and health officials are trying to overcome vaccination hesitancy, and as side effects from COVID vaccines are making the news, was an exercise in separating fact from fiction. I felt compelled to keep reading, to find out who has undermined the process, and more importantly, why. This book will not be for everyone, especially considering world events currently, but I appreciated the perspective and research that Kalla brought to the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Canada for the free advance reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
In a post-COVID Seattle, an outbreak of deadly meningitis is infecting children and young adults, leading to hospitalizations and death. The Public Health Officer, Lisa Dyer, learns of a new vaccine that could change the path of this epidemic, but it hasn’t finished the full trial process. When she pushes through a vaccination plan, she bumps up against government officials and anti-vaxxers, but celebrates the early success… until there are serious side effects. Who is to blame? And is the cure worse than the disease?
Kalla has done a stellar job of balancing the pros and cons of vaccination, and has blended the scientific with the emotional and psychological impacts felt when vaccine decisions need to be made, both on a government and personal level. To be reading this novel, as politicians and health officials are trying to overcome vaccination hesitancy, and as side effects from COVID vaccines are making the news, was an exercise in separating fact from fiction. I felt compelled to keep reading, to find out who has undermined the process, and more importantly, why. This book will not be for everyone, especially considering world events currently, but I appreciated the perspective and research that Kalla brought to the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Canada for the free advance reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2021
"One vaccine. One hope. What could go wrong?"
If that line doesn't send shivers down your spine in the world we're currently living, I don't know what will. I wasn't sure this book would be for me in the current state of our world, but I'm so glad I picked it up. Lost Immunity is written by an actual emergency room doctor based out of Vancouver, BC. This book takes place post COVID-19 pandemic, so please read the synopsis and be ready for what this book is about before diving in.
I thoroughly enjoyed the inside look of navigating through a pandemic, through 3 different sets of eyes - a Public Health Minister, a vaccine creator and an anti-vaxxer. Having 3 perspectives throughout this book brought so much depth to it that I wasn't expecting. I loved the real and rawness discussed throughout this work of fiction, that truly tackles some heavy and deep real life obstacles everyone faces, in a different sense than most books, especially thrillers. I was intrigued almost immediately and hooked quite quickly after. I found the pacing excellent and the storyline was enough to keep me turning pages - I couldn't get enough!
If that line doesn't send shivers down your spine in the world we're currently living, I don't know what will. I wasn't sure this book would be for me in the current state of our world, but I'm so glad I picked it up. Lost Immunity is written by an actual emergency room doctor based out of Vancouver, BC. This book takes place post COVID-19 pandemic, so please read the synopsis and be ready for what this book is about before diving in.
I thoroughly enjoyed the inside look of navigating through a pandemic, through 3 different sets of eyes - a Public Health Minister, a vaccine creator and an anti-vaxxer. Having 3 perspectives throughout this book brought so much depth to it that I wasn't expecting. I loved the real and rawness discussed throughout this work of fiction, that truly tackles some heavy and deep real life obstacles everyone faces, in a different sense than most books, especially thrillers. I was intrigued almost immediately and hooked quite quickly after. I found the pacing excellent and the storyline was enough to keep me turning pages - I couldn't get enough!
September 27, 2021
I’ve spent some time on both sides of the COVID vaccine debate.
I can understand why people feel the way they do whether for or against, but I’ve always believed that whatever side you’re on, it’s important to show love and compassion to those who feel differently - we are ALL flawed humans doing our absolute best to navigate these unprecedented times. We must ALL be willing to see from each other’s point of view, not spew hate, fear and mistrust in each other’s direction - it only divides us further.
“Lost Immunity” is a fictional story that touches on the real issues we’ve been experiencing these past two years. And it does an INCREDIBLE job at imparting vital information about vaccines and those who are skeptical of them through both expertise and compassion. Both sides are represented fairly and this book really gave me a deeper understanding of the issue.
At the end of the day, we need to remember that we all want ourselves and our loved ones to be safe. And that education, compassion and truth are what will put more of us in the same boat that will get us through this pandemic.
I can understand why people feel the way they do whether for or against, but I’ve always believed that whatever side you’re on, it’s important to show love and compassion to those who feel differently - we are ALL flawed humans doing our absolute best to navigate these unprecedented times. We must ALL be willing to see from each other’s point of view, not spew hate, fear and mistrust in each other’s direction - it only divides us further.
“Lost Immunity” is a fictional story that touches on the real issues we’ve been experiencing these past two years. And it does an INCREDIBLE job at imparting vital information about vaccines and those who are skeptical of them through both expertise and compassion. Both sides are represented fairly and this book really gave me a deeper understanding of the issue.
At the end of the day, we need to remember that we all want ourselves and our loved ones to be safe. And that education, compassion and truth are what will put more of us in the same boat that will get us through this pandemic.
July 1, 2022
Why is no one is talking about this book ?
It is SO good!!
I have never read anything remotely similar to this.
Its a medical thriller but more than that.
*In a post-covid world, a new outbreak, meningitis, is threatening kids in Seattle. When antibiotics fail to work, a vaccine is put out and is met by anti-vaxxers. Aomeone wants to see this vaccination campaign fail and will go to great lengths to do so.*
It was fascinating because of the whole anti-vax thing we are cureently also facing.
But also, when *I* was a teen in 1991 or 1992 Montreal HAD a meningitis epidemic and I had actually written a paper for School on it - i even kept all the newspaper clippings! I remember kids dying and a friends brother died from it. We all ended up being inoculated against it. It was such a terrifying time for me!
It is SO good!!
I have never read anything remotely similar to this.
Its a medical thriller but more than that.
*In a post-covid world, a new outbreak, meningitis, is threatening kids in Seattle. When antibiotics fail to work, a vaccine is put out and is met by anti-vaxxers. Aomeone wants to see this vaccination campaign fail and will go to great lengths to do so.*
It was fascinating because of the whole anti-vax thing we are cureently also facing.
But also, when *I* was a teen in 1991 or 1992 Montreal HAD a meningitis epidemic and I had actually written a paper for School on it - i even kept all the newspaper clippings! I remember kids dying and a friends brother died from it. We all ended up being inoculated against it. It was such a terrifying time for me!
March 27, 2021
Daniel Kalla has done it again. His ability to author books that educate and entertain is unsurpassed!
Lost Immunity tackles the contentious debate of benefits versus risks of vaccination. Meningitis has been a scary threat for young people and a looming concern for their parents for decades. At a time when our lives are so consumed with Covid 19, it is a refreshing break to read a medical story that is focused on an epidemic other than Covid.
Be prepared to read it cover to cover in a short period of time- you won’t want to put this well written, fast paced book down.
Many thanks to Daniel Kalla, Simon & Schuster Canada, and NetGalley for the opportunity to enjoy and review this ARC. Lost Immunity is a must read!
Lost Immunity tackles the contentious debate of benefits versus risks of vaccination. Meningitis has been a scary threat for young people and a looming concern for their parents for decades. At a time when our lives are so consumed with Covid 19, it is a refreshing break to read a medical story that is focused on an epidemic other than Covid.
Be prepared to read it cover to cover in a short period of time- you won’t want to put this well written, fast paced book down.
Many thanks to Daniel Kalla, Simon & Schuster Canada, and NetGalley for the opportunity to enjoy and review this ARC. Lost Immunity is a must read!
August 4, 2021
oh to read this book and be in the midst of a pandemic - can you handle it?
Such a great read that had me turning pages with speed and ease.... We had a great time zooming with Daniel as well to chat about this story and if you ever have the opportunity to catch Daniel live on any feeds, I would highly recommend making the time. He is charismatic, so kind, calls people by name and has such a great bedside manner that you only wish for in a doctor through any circumstance you may face when it comes to your health. Now imagine as an author! Stellar is my review and I highly recommend reading his work.
Thank you Daniel Kalla, Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for my complimentary eArc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I can't wait to read more of your work Daniel.
Such a great read that had me turning pages with speed and ease.... We had a great time zooming with Daniel as well to chat about this story and if you ever have the opportunity to catch Daniel live on any feeds, I would highly recommend making the time. He is charismatic, so kind, calls people by name and has such a great bedside manner that you only wish for in a doctor through any circumstance you may face when it comes to your health. Now imagine as an author! Stellar is my review and I highly recommend reading his work.
Thank you Daniel Kalla, Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for my complimentary eArc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I can't wait to read more of your work Daniel.
August 26, 2021
Lost Immunity presents a scenario just a little too real these days. Dr. Lisa Dyer has a new position as the Chief Public Health Officer for Seattle. Her first challenge arrives quickly in the form of a deadly outbreak of an antibiotic resistant strain of meningitis among teens and children at a bible camp. The infection spreads rapidly and young people start dying, as Dr. Dyer and her team rush to attempt to get the outbreak under control and prevent a new pandemic. Her work and personal life is fraught with challenges - a crumbling marriage, a seriously ill friend and colleague, misinformation and fear-mongering.
This can be a difficult read, as we head into the looming prospect of a 4th wave, however this novel treats the subject matter with great sensitivity. Daniel Kalla does a bang-up job of presenting the pressures of making scary and difficult public health decisions in rapidly changing conditions and manages to entertain while dispelling myths. The motivations and beliefs behind the anti-vaccine/vaccine hesitant movement are treated with great respect and understanding, while at the same time presenting a logical case for vaccines. The plot also touches on corporate greed in capitalizing on public health crises, and legitimate but rare complications or severe reactions to vaccines.
All in all, I was impressed with the way this topic was handled at such a sensitive moment in time. Well done, Dr. Kalla.
This can be a difficult read, as we head into the looming prospect of a 4th wave, however this novel treats the subject matter with great sensitivity. Daniel Kalla does a bang-up job of presenting the pressures of making scary and difficult public health decisions in rapidly changing conditions and manages to entertain while dispelling myths. The motivations and beliefs behind the anti-vaccine/vaccine hesitant movement are treated with great respect and understanding, while at the same time presenting a logical case for vaccines. The plot also touches on corporate greed in capitalizing on public health crises, and legitimate but rare complications or severe reactions to vaccines.
All in all, I was impressed with the way this topic was handled at such a sensitive moment in time. Well done, Dr. Kalla.
February 14, 2024
4.5 stars.
I love Daniel Kalla!
Excellent and current topic, although I hope we never have to face this in reality.
A medical thriller like no other and I was duped! I would never have suspected the outcome!!
Well done, Daniel - keep 'em coming!
I love Daniel Kalla!
Excellent and current topic, although I hope we never have to face this in reality.
A medical thriller like no other and I was duped! I would never have suspected the outcome!!
Well done, Daniel - keep 'em coming!
May 2, 2021
4.5 stars
I really love Daniel Kalla. His stories are so real and so raw.
There’s an infection running wild in Seattle, the exact same strain that just overran Iceland. With a population of much more than Iceland, Seattle is looking to have an overwhelming pandemic on their hands. In order to save their kids, the chief of public health approves a trialed vaccine that hasn’t seen the light of day yet. Will it save their kids, or hurt their kids, and is it more than just the vaccine working against her.
I was afraid to read this, as I just got my COVID vaccine last week, but I would advise anyone to not that that deter you.
His story is so good. It takes you for a ride and makes you question your own thoughts and beliefs.
The only reason it’s not a 5 star is because there are a lot of differing character perspectives, almost too many and I find that hard to keep up with sometimes. Limiting the perspectives would be nicer in my opinion.
I really love Daniel Kalla. His stories are so real and so raw.
There’s an infection running wild in Seattle, the exact same strain that just overran Iceland. With a population of much more than Iceland, Seattle is looking to have an overwhelming pandemic on their hands. In order to save their kids, the chief of public health approves a trialed vaccine that hasn’t seen the light of day yet. Will it save their kids, or hurt their kids, and is it more than just the vaccine working against her.
I was afraid to read this, as I just got my COVID vaccine last week, but I would advise anyone to not that that deter you.
His story is so good. It takes you for a ride and makes you question your own thoughts and beliefs.
The only reason it’s not a 5 star is because there are a lot of differing character perspectives, almost too many and I find that hard to keep up with sometimes. Limiting the perspectives would be nicer in my opinion.
June 10, 2021
Initially I was hesitant to read this in the midst of a pandemic but I’m glad I decided to. A fast paced story following a quickly spreading variant of meningitis walks a silver line eerily close to what we are living at this current moment. Daniel address a lot of hot topics were hearing discussed in our daily lives now and you can’t help but be sucked into the quick moving storyline that leaves you wanting more. The twists and turns will keep you engaged and curious to find out what is really causing these complications. I can’t help but compare this to our currently real world roll out of a new vaccine. I’m anxious and excited for the conversation with Daniel Kalla and can’t wait to read more from him!
November 28, 2021
3.5* Kudos to Daniel Kalla for writing this book during these trying times. The topic is controversial: vaccination. And I know of many folks who do not want to read about a pandemic in the middle of a pandemic. This book is set in a post-COVID world where the Seattle Public Health Officer is faced with an aggressive meningococcal spread. We also see the perspective of a couple of pharmaceutical executives in charge of a promising new vaccine. Then there's also the point of view of a prominent anti-vaccine advocate. All in all, this is a good novel that deals with a difficult subject.
May 25, 2022
Brilliant! I don't often give 5 stars but also I rarely sit and read a book from cover to cover in one sitting (with a short break for dinner). Dr Kalla works as an emergency room physician at St Paul's Hospital in Vancouver so he writes with authority on medical matters. In this book, there is an outbreak of a lethal disease among young people in Seattle. The Public Health Officer, Dr Lisa Dyer, persuades a drug company to release a new product before its scheduled trial in Iceland in hopes of vaccinating thousands of people to avoid an epidemic. The novel is fast paced and I was enthralled throughout. I'm now looking for other books by this author.
September 6, 2021
I enjoy Daniel Kalla's books and this didn't disappoint. A timely exploration of the contentious arguments around vaccination, couched in a fun thriller.
August 9, 2021
I totally understand if you would rather not read about pandemic times so feel free to skip this book. However, if you are curious and interested to learn about some of the nuances of rolling out mass vaccination programs and the stresses of such huge responsibilities, this is definitely a thoughtful read to keep you engaged till the very end. Read full discussion with Erynn on Armed with A Book.
I enjoyed the fast-paced storyline and the different perspectives. Lisa as the Chief Public Health Official was a strong protagonist. Through her, it was clear how stressful pandemic situations are, especially when the mortality rate is high and young kids are the ones at risk. I felt like the choices in front of her were quite tough and though I did not think she knew enough about the vaccine to want to adopt it, you made a great point in our text conversation that a choice had to be made.
I think one of my main lessons from Lost Immunity was that the ones who one perceives will do the most harm (people who strongly disagree with our view, for example), are not always the culprit. When things started to go wrong with the vaccine, Lisa and the FBI desperately wanted to believe it was the anti-vaxxers. There are so many intricacies to why people believe what they do and not everyone shows up with a picket sign.
The pandemic and its dramatic pace was written really well in the book. The one chapter perspectives about the infected people helped me stay engaged with the story and cast a wider net over the experiences of the general population. Visiting the ER with Lisa was terrifying and nerve wrecking, especially when side effects started showing up.
Critiques of the book (with spoilers) can be read at Armed with A Book. Many thanks to the publisher for providing me a complimentary copy of the book for an honest review.
I enjoyed the fast-paced storyline and the different perspectives. Lisa as the Chief Public Health Official was a strong protagonist. Through her, it was clear how stressful pandemic situations are, especially when the mortality rate is high and young kids are the ones at risk. I felt like the choices in front of her were quite tough and though I did not think she knew enough about the vaccine to want to adopt it, you made a great point in our text conversation that a choice had to be made.
I think one of my main lessons from Lost Immunity was that the ones who one perceives will do the most harm (people who strongly disagree with our view, for example), are not always the culprit. When things started to go wrong with the vaccine, Lisa and the FBI desperately wanted to believe it was the anti-vaxxers. There are so many intricacies to why people believe what they do and not everyone shows up with a picket sign.
The pandemic and its dramatic pace was written really well in the book. The one chapter perspectives about the infected people helped me stay engaged with the story and cast a wider net over the experiences of the general population. Visiting the ER with Lisa was terrifying and nerve wrecking, especially when side effects started showing up.
Critiques of the book (with spoilers) can be read at Armed with A Book. Many thanks to the publisher for providing me a complimentary copy of the book for an honest review.
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