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Dangerously Placed
This work experience is going to be killer...
Alex Thaler can’t wait to start her dream work experience placement at Virk, where staff from all over the world mingle in an astonishing virtual office. But when an employee is found murdered, the dream becomes a nightmare – because Alex is the prime suspect. Fortunately, Alex’s friends are willing to brave shark tanks, disgusting pathology specimens and even a nude beach in order to clear her name . . .
Can a hippy chick, a goth girl in a lab coat and two guys with a taste for blowing things up really help solve the mystery – before Alex becomes the next victim?
Alex Thaler can’t wait to start her dream work experience placement at Virk, where staff from all over the world mingle in an astonishing virtual office. But when an employee is found murdered, the dream becomes a nightmare – because Alex is the prime suspect. Fortunately, Alex’s friends are willing to brave shark tanks, disgusting pathology specimens and even a nude beach in order to clear her name . . .
Can a hippy chick, a goth girl in a lab coat and two guys with a taste for blowing things up really help solve the mystery – before Alex becomes the next victim?
288 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2011
218 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 3, 2011
Reality is individual. We all have different tools with which to perceive it.
The Aussies have done it again! Aussie author Nansi Kunze has created a thrilling virtual world within one thriller of a book.
I don't know what it is about virtual reality that gets my motor running. The world of gaming calls to me like a bird feeder calls to a squirrel. Then it spins me round and round until I'm too dizzy to walk straight and all I can think about is how long until I can hop back on.
You've heard of the Holodeck, right? If not, do yourself a favor and go watch some Star Trek: The Next Generation. It also has a nice piece of android named Data. Rawr.
The key technology featured in this book is basically the predecessor to something like The Holodeck or The Matrix. The tech is also close to what could potentially be achieved in our lifetimes, making it all the more intriguing.
The Rundown
Dangerously Placed centers around a young girl named Alex, who is beginning her work experience at a company called Simulcorp. But this isn't your everyday paper pushing office. It's all virtual. Using something called a Virk suit in a specially designed Virk Room, people from all over the world can sign in and meet up in a virtual work environment.
Things are going well until... dun, dun, dun... someone gets murdered. Of course, in true young adult style, our main character tasks herself with discovering the identity of the killer. It's an especially important task, considering she is one the main suspects.
The World-building and Pacing
When I first started, it reminded me of a cartoonish cross between Nancy Drew and The Matrix. I don't know why, but I imagined this book in CGI. It would make an amazing Pixar film, but it would, of course, need a much cheesier name. Something like... The Virkuals!
I give this an A++ for concept and I am a concept kind of girl. In fact, if the book has a stellar premise involving speculative fiction, I am usually a pretty happy campy-camper. Of course characterization is important as well, and I quite enjoyed the characters in Dangerously Placed, in spite of their Disney Channel Original tendencies (which the cheeseball monster inside of me happens to love). Though the science may not have been perfect, it was the most believable young adult sci-fi I have read in quite some time.
It was fast and thrilling with a hint of scandal. It had about as many twists as an episode of Lost... but without the side-character eating smoke monster. There may or may not be a dragon, though!
The evolution of the romantic storyline was unforeseen and unexpected, as well as very, very welcome. You aren't bombarded with instalove right from the beginning, which is a rare find in the current YA market. The relationship developed sincerely and unfolded realistically, or as realistically as possible considering the preposterous situation these teens find themselves in.
The Verdict
I'm giving this one high marks for keeping me thoroughly involved and addicted throughout. It reads a bit younger than I typically gravitate toward, although I think this could open it up to a wider audience. It was entertaining none the less.
Nansi is a fresh science fiction voice in the world of YA. I will definitely be on the lookout for more titles from her! She also agreed to do a guest post for STRANGEMORE.
The Aussies have done it again! Aussie author Nansi Kunze has created a thrilling virtual world within one thriller of a book.
I don't know what it is about virtual reality that gets my motor running. The world of gaming calls to me like a bird feeder calls to a squirrel. Then it spins me round and round until I'm too dizzy to walk straight and all I can think about is how long until I can hop back on.
You've heard of the Holodeck, right? If not, do yourself a favor and go watch some Star Trek: The Next Generation. It also has a nice piece of android named Data. Rawr.
The key technology featured in this book is basically the predecessor to something like The Holodeck or The Matrix. The tech is also close to what could potentially be achieved in our lifetimes, making it all the more intriguing.
The Rundown
Dangerously Placed centers around a young girl named Alex, who is beginning her work experience at a company called Simulcorp. But this isn't your everyday paper pushing office. It's all virtual. Using something called a Virk suit in a specially designed Virk Room, people from all over the world can sign in and meet up in a virtual work environment.
Things are going well until... dun, dun, dun... someone gets murdered. Of course, in true young adult style, our main character tasks herself with discovering the identity of the killer. It's an especially important task, considering she is one the main suspects.
The World-building and Pacing
When I first started, it reminded me of a cartoonish cross between Nancy Drew and The Matrix. I don't know why, but I imagined this book in CGI. It would make an amazing Pixar film, but it would, of course, need a much cheesier name. Something like... The Virkuals!
I give this an A++ for concept and I am a concept kind of girl. In fact, if the book has a stellar premise involving speculative fiction, I am usually a pretty happy campy-camper. Of course characterization is important as well, and I quite enjoyed the characters in Dangerously Placed, in spite of their Disney Channel Original tendencies (which the cheeseball monster inside of me happens to love). Though the science may not have been perfect, it was the most believable young adult sci-fi I have read in quite some time.
It was fast and thrilling with a hint of scandal. It had about as many twists as an episode of Lost... but without the side-character eating smoke monster. There may or may not be a dragon, though!
The evolution of the romantic storyline was unforeseen and unexpected, as well as very, very welcome. You aren't bombarded with instalove right from the beginning, which is a rare find in the current YA market. The relationship developed sincerely and unfolded realistically, or as realistically as possible considering the preposterous situation these teens find themselves in.
The Verdict
I'm giving this one high marks for keeping me thoroughly involved and addicted throughout. It reads a bit younger than I typically gravitate toward, although I think this could open it up to a wider audience. It was entertaining none the less.
Nansi is a fresh science fiction voice in the world of YA. I will definitely be on the lookout for more titles from her! She also agreed to do a guest post for STRANGEMORE.
May 7, 2011
Dangerously Placed is a fabulous fast-paced thriller filled with misdirection, danger, a little romance, a mind-blowingly cool virtual reality system and a murder mystery that is guaranteed to keep you guessing.
In the course of Alex's investigation into finding the murderer, she also discovers a conspiracy to bring down the company and that she has a stalker! This may sound over the top, but it's not. The plot works well and Alex and her friends are extremely likeable. The virtual reality workspace is something that hasn't been done before in YA fiction and I found the concept really interesting. It was really quite mind-blowing and I would love to know if there is actually technology like this around at the moment?
I was honestly completely surprised as to who the murderer was. I spent the whole book trying to guess and I never saw it coming. I really enjoyed this as a lot of books can be so predictable! I really hope YA continues to see more teen detective stories in the future. It is a genre that is lacking on YA shelves, but one that many people love.
In the course of Alex's investigation into finding the murderer, she also discovers a conspiracy to bring down the company and that she has a stalker! This may sound over the top, but it's not. The plot works well and Alex and her friends are extremely likeable. The virtual reality workspace is something that hasn't been done before in YA fiction and I found the concept really interesting. It was really quite mind-blowing and I would love to know if there is actually technology like this around at the moment?
I was honestly completely surprised as to who the murderer was. I spent the whole book trying to guess and I never saw it coming. I really enjoyed this as a lot of books can be so predictable! I really hope YA continues to see more teen detective stories in the future. It is a genre that is lacking on YA shelves, but one that many people love.
May 13, 2011
Alexandra Thaler goes for work experience at Simulcorp, a company that makes Virtal Reality.
While ALex is there, her boss is murdered and the police make Alex the prime suspect.
Along with her friends, Alex must find the killer to clear her name... and before she becomes the next victim!
A brilliant story line involving mystery and just a touch of romance makes this book another great read from an up-coming author.
Well done Nansi Kunze!
For more details, feel free to inbox me!
While ALex is there, her boss is murdered and the police make Alex the prime suspect.
Along with her friends, Alex must find the killer to clear her name... and before she becomes the next victim!
A brilliant story line involving mystery and just a touch of romance makes this book another great read from an up-coming author.
Well done Nansi Kunze!
For more details, feel free to inbox me!
December 2, 2011
An Aussie YA sci-fi murder mystery. What's not to like?
Review to come.
Review to come.
November 1, 2011
Alex Thaler is your average teen. Ok, maybe a bit above average, for she was placed in one of the most prestigious work placements a teen could get: Simulcorp. Alex will spend her week using the most advanced technology and working in a completely virtual environment. However with great technology comes great trouble. In her excitement to present her project idea, Alex stumbles across the body of her boss laying dead in the virtual environment and she's the main suspect. The story then follows Alex and her friends as she tries to solve the murder, prove her innocence, and figure out just who that guy that's following her really is.
Dangerously Placed takes you on an adventure through an environment we all hope to work in one day: a virtual one. Basically anything you imagine can happen including chairs made of water and floors carpeted with grass, even a dragon as a pet. If you can program it, you can have it. In order to hop into your virtual office, you first have to hop into a Virk suit. This full body suit fits to the form of your body allowing for a perfect replication of yourself inside the office. There are also sensors in the suit that stimulate the feeling of touch, smell, sight, etc. while in the virtual environment so that you can truly feel the entire experience. A truly innovative idea that I for one want to try out right away! Can we um..get on that technology please?
Besides being amazingly creative with technology, Kunz is able to take you on a who dun it adventure as Alex tries to piece together all the facts surrounding the murder of her boss. False identities, undercover reporters, hot guys, and water parks are just a few of the things you'll encounter as you read through the story. Kunz also creates some interesting characters as Alex's friends range from the hippie type to the doctor type and everything in between. It is definitely a very eclectic and colorful cast of characters.
So, with all the praise, why only three stars? I felt the story was a little too guided leaving little to the imagination and taking out some of the fun guess work of a true mystery. Also, while I found the book fun to read, it didn't have that wow factor for me. Despite these facts, I'd still recommend the book to anyone that loves virtual reality and a good murder mystery.
Dangerously Placed takes you on an adventure through an environment we all hope to work in one day: a virtual one. Basically anything you imagine can happen including chairs made of water and floors carpeted with grass, even a dragon as a pet. If you can program it, you can have it. In order to hop into your virtual office, you first have to hop into a Virk suit. This full body suit fits to the form of your body allowing for a perfect replication of yourself inside the office. There are also sensors in the suit that stimulate the feeling of touch, smell, sight, etc. while in the virtual environment so that you can truly feel the entire experience. A truly innovative idea that I for one want to try out right away! Can we um..get on that technology please?
Besides being amazingly creative with technology, Kunz is able to take you on a who dun it adventure as Alex tries to piece together all the facts surrounding the murder of her boss. False identities, undercover reporters, hot guys, and water parks are just a few of the things you'll encounter as you read through the story. Kunz also creates some interesting characters as Alex's friends range from the hippie type to the doctor type and everything in between. It is definitely a very eclectic and colorful cast of characters.
So, with all the praise, why only three stars? I felt the story was a little too guided leaving little to the imagination and taking out some of the fun guess work of a true mystery. Also, while I found the book fun to read, it didn't have that wow factor for me. Despite these facts, I'd still recommend the book to anyone that loves virtual reality and a good murder mystery.
September 18, 2014
Review orginally posted at http://abooksofathomless.blogspot.com...
I read Nansi’s first book, Mishaps, way back when I was about thirteen or fourteen which I adored, though I probably would have never heard of Dangerously Placed without miraculously meeting her at Supanova (a much smaller Comic Con, here in Australia) last year. It was amazing to meet her- getting my book signed and getting a couple of pictures with her were great but the best thing was definitely learning about and buying this book.
Even though it took me just under a year to actually get around to this book, the moment I started it I knew that I would love it, and so I did. I loved the main character Alex from the start, and each of her crazy friends. The romantic storyline was also really amazing in this book- it didn’t distract from the wicked plot of the book and it wasn’t unrealistic or completely obvious from the very start.
However, as much as I did love the characters and the romance- my favourite thing about this book was definitely the world in which it was based. It’s set in Australia, a definitely plus for me, but it also had the cyberspace world of Simulcorp- Alex’s job placement. It is really clear when you read it that Nansi put a lot of work into the creation and detail of this super mind blowing completely virtual world. For me, this made the book even more wonderful and exciting.
Dangerously Placed varies from the usual sort of YA books that you might have on your bookshelf, it’s a contemporary but it also has aspects of mystery, science fiction and thriller which keeps you on the edge of your seat for the whole time. Definitely a worth-while read.
I read Nansi’s first book, Mishaps, way back when I was about thirteen or fourteen which I adored, though I probably would have never heard of Dangerously Placed without miraculously meeting her at Supanova (a much smaller Comic Con, here in Australia) last year. It was amazing to meet her- getting my book signed and getting a couple of pictures with her were great but the best thing was definitely learning about and buying this book.
Even though it took me just under a year to actually get around to this book, the moment I started it I knew that I would love it, and so I did. I loved the main character Alex from the start, and each of her crazy friends. The romantic storyline was also really amazing in this book- it didn’t distract from the wicked plot of the book and it wasn’t unrealistic or completely obvious from the very start.
However, as much as I did love the characters and the romance- my favourite thing about this book was definitely the world in which it was based. It’s set in Australia, a definitely plus for me, but it also had the cyberspace world of Simulcorp- Alex’s job placement. It is really clear when you read it that Nansi put a lot of work into the creation and detail of this super mind blowing completely virtual world. For me, this made the book even more wonderful and exciting.
Dangerously Placed varies from the usual sort of YA books that you might have on your bookshelf, it’s a contemporary but it also has aspects of mystery, science fiction and thriller which keeps you on the edge of your seat for the whole time. Definitely a worth-while read.
November 11, 2011
Dangerously Placed was quite a thrill ride. I was blown away by how developed and realistic Nansi’s virtual reality technologies were! They were extremely well thought out. So much that I could definitely see us using similar technologies in the future. I also enjoyed how the book was physically broken up: Each chapter takes place over one day. This made it easy to keep track of how time progressed. Sometimes, for me, it is easy to lose track of how much time has passed in novels. Unfortunately, I did find Dangerously Placed lacking in character development initially… BUT by the end the flatness I felt at first was gone and I had a chance to see the intricacies of the secondary characters.
Though this was an interesting, developed story, it did not grab me like the many sci-fi books I have read before. Perhaps the timing was off, but I just wasn’t “feeling it.” I do however feel that this book definitely has a place in the YA sci-fi genre!
Dangerously Placed finished as a strong sci-fi adventure! At 274 pages, this qualifies as a quick read. I definitely recommend this to fans of the sci-fi and adventure genres. I’m very curious to see what Nansi has in store for us next!
Though this was an interesting, developed story, it did not grab me like the many sci-fi books I have read before. Perhaps the timing was off, but I just wasn’t “feeling it.” I do however feel that this book definitely has a place in the YA sci-fi genre!
Dangerously Placed finished as a strong sci-fi adventure! At 274 pages, this qualifies as a quick read. I definitely recommend this to fans of the sci-fi and adventure genres. I’m very curious to see what Nansi has in store for us next!
December 4, 2011
This was such a fun story. I have always found the idea of virtual worlds to be pretty fascinating, so a story where everyday people get to go to work in a spectacular, virtual enviroment was right up my alley. The world that Nansi Kunze has created within Virk is dripping with imagination and really pulls you in as Alex puts on her suit in order to have a realistic experience in the environment right through to her last day on the job.
I also really enjoyed the supporting characters, Alex’s group of real world friends. They have a really believable group dynamic and truly acted like the teenagers they are. I also loved that the romantic interest storyline wasn’t blatantly obvious right from the get go. I won’t give it away, but tell you that it at least kept me guessing.
One thing I maybe had a bit of trouble with was that it never really felt like the main character, Alex was in any real danger of being accused of murder. For so many reasons this was the most realistic route to take but it did kind of take away from the feeling of Alex actually having anything to lose.
A fun mystery story for the technological age and definitely a recommended read.
I also really enjoyed the supporting characters, Alex’s group of real world friends. They have a really believable group dynamic and truly acted like the teenagers they are. I also loved that the romantic interest storyline wasn’t blatantly obvious right from the get go. I won’t give it away, but tell you that it at least kept me guessing.
One thing I maybe had a bit of trouble with was that it never really felt like the main character, Alex was in any real danger of being accused of murder. For so many reasons this was the most realistic route to take but it did kind of take away from the feeling of Alex actually having anything to lose.
A fun mystery story for the technological age and definitely a recommended read.
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October 20, 2011Read the full review at Pica Reads.
If I had to sum up Dangerously Placed in one word, I'd call it unique. It's very different from my normal reading experience, and I enjoyed the change. I kept coming back to it more to find out what crazy situation Alex had found herself in this time than to figure out the mystery. Not to say the mystery wasn't engaging - it was - but it wasn't the draw of the story.
Although the premise of Dangerously Placed had to do with virtual reality, much of the story had a contemporary feel - or at least, more contemporary than what I usually read. I liked Alex, who was easy to connect to, and the writing was informal and fun. Some of the supporting characters weren't as fully fleshed out as I would have liked, but none felt too flat, and all seemed like real people, although perhaps real people that one does not know very well. Some seemed a bit too quirky to be wholly believable. but each was far more developed than "list of character traits" stock characters. Read more...
If I had to sum up Dangerously Placed in one word, I'd call it unique. It's very different from my normal reading experience, and I enjoyed the change. I kept coming back to it more to find out what crazy situation Alex had found herself in this time than to figure out the mystery. Not to say the mystery wasn't engaging - it was - but it wasn't the draw of the story.
Although the premise of Dangerously Placed had to do with virtual reality, much of the story had a contemporary feel - or at least, more contemporary than what I usually read. I liked Alex, who was easy to connect to, and the writing was informal and fun. Some of the supporting characters weren't as fully fleshed out as I would have liked, but none felt too flat, and all seemed like real people, although perhaps real people that one does not know very well. Some seemed a bit too quirky to be wholly believable. but each was far more developed than "list of character traits" stock characters. Read more...
November 8, 2011
Dangerously Placed is fast paced and thrilling adventure in the world of virtual reality. Meet Alex, a virtual reality savvy chick who is determined and motivated to do well at her new internship at a prestigious Simulcorp.
Dangerously Placed features a young girl who ends up being the prime suspect in the murder of her boss. Of course, Alex, will not take this sitting down. She and her friends are determined to unravel the mysteries of Simulcorp and discover who is behind the murder. This book has solid writing and a cast of fabulously unique characters. I definitely was left guessing at some of the plot twist and turns. If you enjoy thrillers, engaging characters and swoon worthy boys, you will not be disappointed in Dangerously Placed.
Dangerously Placed features a young girl who ends up being the prime suspect in the murder of her boss. Of course, Alex, will not take this sitting down. She and her friends are determined to unravel the mysteries of Simulcorp and discover who is behind the murder. This book has solid writing and a cast of fabulously unique characters. I definitely was left guessing at some of the plot twist and turns. If you enjoy thrillers, engaging characters and swoon worthy boys, you will not be disappointed in Dangerously Placed.
January 24, 2016
This was a really captivating book about a girl called Alex Thaler who starts work experience in her dream workplace, Simulcorp. Virk is a virtual office and the staff wear special suits in order to move around and interact. With another work experience student, called Dale they set about devising a marketing proposal for Impression Jeans.
The book is organised into the 10 days of her work experience. However, early on, Alex stumbles on the murdered body of the CEO, Mr Pierce Grody. At first, Alex is even suspected of being involved. However, someone is out to get her and she is followed, chased, attacked and scared. Her friends, Nix and Ki often come to her rescue.
One of the workers, Elena, turns out to be a bot i.e., completely programmed!
The book is organised into the 10 days of her work experience. However, early on, Alex stumbles on the murdered body of the CEO, Mr Pierce Grody. At first, Alex is even suspected of being involved. However, someone is out to get her and she is followed, chased, attacked and scared. Her friends, Nix and Ki often come to her rescue.
One of the workers, Elena, turns out to be a bot i.e., completely programmed!
September 25, 2011
Do not let the cover mislead you! This novel is highly individual in the plot- something new and exciting for readers. This solid and well developed novel has real world characters that you can really relate to.
This is a fantastic story set mainly in the virtual world has everything a good novel needs- a main character who finds themselves along the way- a bit of mystery and a hint of romance. A recipe for a good read! I would recommend this book to teenagers with a taste for adventure and a craving for a good book.
This is a fantastic story set mainly in the virtual world has everything a good novel needs- a main character who finds themselves along the way- a bit of mystery and a hint of romance. A recipe for a good read! I would recommend this book to teenagers with a taste for adventure and a craving for a good book.
July 2, 2016
This book started really well and I loved the idea of a virtual workplace, but it slowed down about half-way through. The teenage protagonists were likeable, resourceful and intelligent , and the touch of romance was cute. However, I found the murder mystery rather tedious. There weren't enough clues given throughout the book to work out who the killer was - although by the end I didn't really care.
November 3, 2013
This book reminded me of a modern day Nancy Drew. I know I'm not the target audience, I haven't been a young adult for a long time but some times that just doesn't matter - with this book it did. I think Dangerously Placed is more suited for late primary to early high school.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews