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Blaze#2
DEN: If You Don't Want to Die, Don't Sleep with Lions
Danny Belte barely survived his sophomore year at King's Academy, having to deal with horrible initiation practices, stomach-churning cafeteria food, and the constant threat of arson.
His junior year doesn't start off much better. Facing a series of mysterious suicide attempts that begin on day one--and a disturbing pattern that appears to connect them--Danny has a feeling something far more sinister is at play. He tries to narrow down a list of suspects as those closest to him disappear, one by one.
Can he protect his friends from a possible murderer on the loose? Or will he find himself trapped in a fate worse than a lions' den?
His junior year doesn't start off much better. Facing a series of mysterious suicide attempts that begin on day one--and a disturbing pattern that appears to connect them--Danny has a feeling something far more sinister is at play. He tries to narrow down a list of suspects as those closest to him disappear, one by one.
Can he protect his friends from a possible murderer on the loose? Or will he find himself trapped in a fate worse than a lions' den?
- GenresYoung AdultChristian
286 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 28, 2020
Obviously, I wrote the book, so I enjoyed it. I know this one gets intense and talks about some really difficult issues. Thank you so much for continuing to journey with Danny and his friends, and hopefully the ice cream and the cute bird make up for all the wacky stuff that happens in this book.
April 29, 2020
Reading DEN is kind of like biting into a piece of tiramisu. Each chapter introduces a new flavor, taking the reader deeper into real life issues, like regret, anxiety, social media pressures, drinking, teen pregnancy, and suicide. Just when you think you have the plot or person figured out, there's a twist that keeps your mind sprinting toward the next chapter.
But it's not just entertaining; the way Hope deals with mental health issues is complex and refreshing--showing that people aren't necessarily all good or all bad, but a complicated mix of the two. Despite some of the darker topics, the takeaway is about being loyal to your friends and staying true to yourself. My two faves are Hannah and Danny. She's so quirky and fun, and he stands out as that friend you can always count on. Five stars, and I can't wait for book 3.
But it's not just entertaining; the way Hope deals with mental health issues is complex and refreshing--showing that people aren't necessarily all good or all bad, but a complicated mix of the two. Despite some of the darker topics, the takeaway is about being loyal to your friends and staying true to yourself. My two faves are Hannah and Danny. She's so quirky and fun, and he stands out as that friend you can always count on. Five stars, and I can't wait for book 3.
July 27, 2020
With a distinct and captivating voice, Hope Bolinger interweaves the biblical story of Daniel into her second young adult contemporary novel, Den. Her ingenious use humour and rhetorical devices brings new life to this Old Testament tale.
April 28, 2020
Author Hope Bolinger deals with difficult issues in a compelling way. From the first page, I was hooked. Great read for teens and adults. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
September 26, 2021
This is book two in the Blaze series by Hope Bolinger.
In this installment, Danny Belte and friends have returned to King's Academy following a traumatic sophomore year. Ned is no longer the principal, but in his stead sits his son August...no less mysterious or angst causing than his father, Danny and his friends find themselves with more questions than answers...
Well done, a real page turner and one heck of a cliff hanger ending....
In this installment, Danny Belte and friends have returned to King's Academy following a traumatic sophomore year. Ned is no longer the principal, but in his stead sits his son August...no less mysterious or angst causing than his father, Danny and his friends find themselves with more questions than answers...
Well done, a real page turner and one heck of a cliff hanger ending....
August 9, 2020
As in her first novelBlaze,Hope Bolinger manages to modernize the book of Daniel in a way that is so engaging and applicable in this second installment of her Biblical YA fiction trilogy!
Denis such a strong sequel - arguably better than the first - and brings you right back into the hearts and lives of the endearing characters fromBlaze.Once again, I was thrilled with the variety of proudly platonic relationships. I love the way Danny and his group care about and look out for each other!
I was always impressed with how the author was able to portray famous incidents from the book of Daniel inBlaze,but I think she kicks it up a notch inDen.The skeletonic "hand on the wall" during the dance, the new principal, the social media ban on religious content. Not only were these cleverly incorporated into the story, but they became doorways into contemporary issues that will resonate meaningfully with teen and young adult readers. The author refuses to shy away from heavy but important topics such as suicide, anxiety and mental health, religious intolerance, racial discrimination, and the double-sided coin that is social media.
A powerful, suspenseful read!
Denis such a strong sequel - arguably better than the first - and brings you right back into the hearts and lives of the endearing characters fromBlaze.Once again, I was thrilled with the variety of proudly platonic relationships. I love the way Danny and his group care about and look out for each other!
I was always impressed with how the author was able to portray famous incidents from the book of Daniel inBlaze,but I think she kicks it up a notch inDen.The skeletonic "hand on the wall" during the dance, the new principal, the social media ban on religious content. Not only were these cleverly incorporated into the story, but they became doorways into contemporary issues that will resonate meaningfully with teen and young adult readers. The author refuses to shy away from heavy but important topics such as suicide, anxiety and mental health, religious intolerance, racial discrimination, and the double-sided coin that is social media.
A powerful, suspenseful read!
September 13, 2020
Danny Belte enjoys fun times with girlfriend Rayah, hangs around with best friends Michelle and Hannah, and goes to a premier school: King’s Academy. On the surface it seems like life is going his way, but nothing could be further from the truth. In his sophomore year, he experienced a number of unpleasant events including nearly losing the aforementioned three friends to a premature death. Now, his best friends are all suffering from PTSD, the school still engages in despicable acts, and peer pressure runs amok on social media. Will Danny succeed in bringing justice to his school?
This novel, with its nods to Lemony Snicket as well as the bible, grips the reader as the events turn from bad to worse. At one point, I thought this may turn into a mystery but it’s not a puzzler per se. Advice to the reader: treat this very much as allegory. You’ll enjoy it more.
Den stands out as an intriguing example of entertainment and message mixed together. The entertainment comes from its compelling story. But where this novel really shines is in its message. I haven’t read a novel this year with more to mentally chew on than this book.
This novel, with its nods to Lemony Snicket as well as the bible, grips the reader as the events turn from bad to worse. At one point, I thought this may turn into a mystery but it’s not a puzzler per se. Advice to the reader: treat this very much as allegory. You’ll enjoy it more.
Den stands out as an intriguing example of entertainment and message mixed together. The entertainment comes from its compelling story. But where this novel really shines is in its message. I haven’t read a novel this year with more to mentally chew on than this book.
April 14, 2023
It’s been a long time since I’ve been gripped by a YA novel and considering that I’m pushing 30, I never thought I would enjoy one the way teenage me did. But man, was I proven wrong.
I was nearly on the edge of my seat throughout reading Den and I wanted to throw the book at the wall on numerous occasions. I was laughing, stunned, heartbroken, and engaged throughout. Den is book 2 of Hope’s Blaze Trilogy, a trilogy inspired by the Book of Daniel in the Old Testament. And it’s just as intense!
One of the annoying things that can come out of Christian literature is how safe authors will make their novels, ranging from conflict to violence to realism. When I read Hope’s Blaze Trilogy, it gives me a lot of hope (no pun intended) knowing that there are other Christian like her that are pushing boundaries in the arts. This was absolutely fantastic to endure and satisfying to finish! Book 3 “Vision,” you’re up next!
I was nearly on the edge of my seat throughout reading Den and I wanted to throw the book at the wall on numerous occasions. I was laughing, stunned, heartbroken, and engaged throughout. Den is book 2 of Hope’s Blaze Trilogy, a trilogy inspired by the Book of Daniel in the Old Testament. And it’s just as intense!
One of the annoying things that can come out of Christian literature is how safe authors will make their novels, ranging from conflict to violence to realism. When I read Hope’s Blaze Trilogy, it gives me a lot of hope (no pun intended) knowing that there are other Christian like her that are pushing boundaries in the arts. This was absolutely fantastic to endure and satisfying to finish! Book 3 “Vision,” you’re up next!
December 15, 2020
The first book left off on a major cliffhanger, so I was excited to get to Den. Den brings back the cast of characters from the first book, plus some new ones, and dives into a lot of heavy, darker topics. Very real issues relevant to teenagers, such as panic attacks, anxiety, and suicide are wrestled with, and I think it's done in an authentic way.
The further I got into the book, the more I felt I needed to keep reading to find out what would happen. There were definitely a lot of stakes heading toward the climax. Once again, the author left us readers on a cliffhanger, and I'm excited to see where she takes things in the third book! Hope's writing is descriptive and fast-paced. I appreciate her authenticity in her work and how her characters always feel relatable.
I'd definitely recommend this series!
The further I got into the book, the more I felt I needed to keep reading to find out what would happen. There were definitely a lot of stakes heading toward the climax. Once again, the author left us readers on a cliffhanger, and I'm excited to see where she takes things in the third book! Hope's writing is descriptive and fast-paced. I appreciate her authenticity in her work and how her characters always feel relatable.
I'd definitely recommend this series!
July 27, 2020
No YA novel is complete without gritty realism and characters you can’t help but root for. Den passes with bold, blazing, red, colors. From gut-twisting anxiety to heartfelt heroics, Hope Bolinger continues her retelling of Daniel with all the teen angst and sensory-laden detail you’ve come to expect, and a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. Den is honest and doesn’t shy away from the hard issues, but Tweets them head-on, in the light of faith. It’s sure to draw you into the Den… and end with a bang.
July 16, 2023
This is such a wonderful sequel and book in general! It's full of so many twists and unexpected turns that you can't help but binge-read chapter after chapter. This book also tackles a lot of pressing issues that teenagers face today such as suicide, school shootings, and divorce. It helps make this story feel real and relevant to teens today. I also love the concpet of adapting a Biblical story into contemporary times, it helps to give more insight and depth to the original Biblical account in teh book of Daniel.
July 29, 2020
Den delivers the characters and mood I expect in a YA novel. Miss Bolinger doesn't hide behind the difficult and dark issues young people face and faces them with the strength and confidence of a talented author. With colorful and memorable characters, Den will have you asking, “What could Danny possibly go through next?” and when you think you might turn a corner and take a breath, Ms. Bolinger ignites action and emotion once again. Written with grit and determination, this page-turner will leave you craving the next book. WELCOME TO THE DEN.
August 21, 2021
Den is the second book in Hope Bolinger’s series Blaze, based loosely on the Biblical book of Daniel. Readers will recognize similarities between this “modern day” story and the Biblical story - including the names of some characters.
Den continues right where Blaze (book 1) left off. There is a small amount of overlap (flashbacks) which will help readers remember part of the first book if it has been a while since they read it. I would recommend that readers read the three books in order as there is backstory that is not covered in flashbacks. There are several suicides/deaths in the book which may cause triggers for some.
Danny continues to grow as a character, becoming more willing to stand up for his beliefs, protect his friends, and do what is right (even risking punishment). Daniel faces many situations in his high school - some of which many high schoolers face daily like bullying. He also deals with anxiety and the death of friends. The story is quite intense at times. Hope Bolinger has crafted a story that includes enough details to keep the reader interested.
Bolinger ends the book on a bit of a cliff hanger, leaving me eagerly anticipating the final book in the trilogy.
Den and the other books in the Blaze series are appropriate for a K-12 Christian School library. I think middle school and up would enjoy it..
I received a complimentary copy of Den. This is my honest review.
Den continues right where Blaze (book 1) left off. There is a small amount of overlap (flashbacks) which will help readers remember part of the first book if it has been a while since they read it. I would recommend that readers read the three books in order as there is backstory that is not covered in flashbacks. There are several suicides/deaths in the book which may cause triggers for some.
Danny continues to grow as a character, becoming more willing to stand up for his beliefs, protect his friends, and do what is right (even risking punishment). Daniel faces many situations in his high school - some of which many high schoolers face daily like bullying. He also deals with anxiety and the death of friends. The story is quite intense at times. Hope Bolinger has crafted a story that includes enough details to keep the reader interested.
Bolinger ends the book on a bit of a cliff hanger, leaving me eagerly anticipating the final book in the trilogy.
Den and the other books in the Blaze series are appropriate for a K-12 Christian School library. I think middle school and up would enjoy it..
I received a complimentary copy of Den. This is my honest review.
August 15, 2021
What a twisty-turvy book! The book starts out a little convoluted, but as soon as I figured out who was who, I was captivated. There are a lot of dark elements in this story, including murder, death, suicide, and mental issues. I'd recommend this book for an older audience, but despite all the darkness, I enjoyed the story more than the first. The mystery element kept the pace upbeat and intriguing, and I particularly found the social media cancel culture a fascinating element of the novel. As usual, Bolinger ends the story at a cliffhanger, so I'm already well into the third book. That's the sign of a good series.
August 28, 2020
Was going to be 4 stars.
The first half connected with me way more than book 1. I was so thrilled someone in the christian circle was going to address sexual assault and suicide in a real way.
But then the second half devolved into a vaguely ableist, almost dangerously racist crap-show.
I'm not sure whether or not to expand on my thoughts because I feel like I owe the author some semblance of kindness because we were friends in high school.
All I'm gonna say is this book was in desperate need of a Black sensitivity reader. Desperate. Need.
The first half connected with me way more than book 1. I was so thrilled someone in the christian circle was going to address sexual assault and suicide in a real way.
But then the second half devolved into a vaguely ableist, almost dangerously racist crap-show.
I'm not sure whether or not to expand on my thoughts because I feel like I owe the author some semblance of kindness because we were friends in high school.
All I'm gonna say is this book was in desperate need of a Black sensitivity reader. Desperate. Need.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2021
Unlike many second books in a trilogy I enjoyed this one more than the first. With Den it is easy to forget that your reading a retelling of a previous story, while maintaining the core of the story it is re imagining. For me I would sometimes go back to the book of Daniel while reading the book and details I had forgotten from the last time I had read it were done with a true and new modern take. While the book has a bit of a slow start the action does not stop once it begins. For the last 100 pages it was hard for me to put down.
July 27, 2020
After reading Bolinger’s first book Blaze, I was fascinated with her engaging storytelling and the concept of Daniel in the lion's den meets modern-day teens. I couldn’t wait to read the second book Den. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The likable and relatable characters continue to develop as the plot thickens with twists and turns that kept me up much too late. Readers are sure to be captivated once again!
July 27, 2020
With the care and grace to explore deep emotional pain and the wit and levity to craft a page-turning tale, Hope Bolinger weaves a story that will leave you breathless. In this heart-breaking, triumphant sequel, Danny and his friends must fight against villains both seen and unseen, and Bolinger’s flare for the unexpected will lure you into many a late-night read. And watch out: you can’t trust anyone.
July 28, 2020
Excellent book with a fantastic and interesting theme - something I appreciate very much in a good YA. I often say this about this series but the inspiration of the book of Daniel paired with real time, modern YA issues like; suicide/online safety is cleverly woven, not to mention the story itself is filled with a “whodunit” mystery, is just perfect to open up topics of discussion. Can’t wait to bring this to my bookclub.
August 15, 2020
Roughly a year ago I remember finishing the last scene in the prequel novel Blaze, and thinking, "Well, that's a great last scene. I'm not sure it's medically possible for an author to top a scene like that." Then I got this book... and was pleased to see that somehow the author did it. Den is every bit as surprising and complex as Blaze, and somehow manages to even up the stakes on a variety of occasions. There are few authors I know of who can pull off a sequel this good.
July 27, 2020
Den by Hope Bolinger is a great second book in the series. The continuation of Daniel’s story is both entertaining and insightful. I enjoyed the interaction between the characters and the plot worked well. You’ll like this story...
July 27, 2020
Den captures the fears of modern teens in a retelling of the Biblical story of Daniel. Hope places the reader in the private school setting and takes them on an adventure full of unexpected turns leaving them longing for the next installment.
July 29, 2020
A captivating continuation of the modern day re-telling of Daniel that Hope Bolinger began in Blaze. Although I'm far removed from my time as a teenager, this absorbing story pulled me right in, bringing me back to those days so creatively and vividly. Well done!
August 30, 2021
Book 2 continues the trials and troubles of the students at this school. There is murder and mystery. Book 2 leaves you hanging....to be continued.
June 1, 2022
As with The Empire Strikes Back and Top Gun: Maverick, the sequel is better than the (excellent) original.
June 20, 2022
I love how the writer brings the Old Testament story of Daniel into the modern day. Very captivating storyline and characters.
August 30, 2023
This book scarred me when I was younger so definitely don't go into it expecting sunshine and rainbows.
Side note: July was my favourite character. That did not end well for me.
Side note: July was my favourite character. That did not end well for me.
May 5, 2024
Another great book; I'll be starting book three right after this!
July 28, 2020
In this extraordinary sequel to Blaze, author Hope Bolinger continues Danny and his friends' quest for truth and justice, taking readers into even darker and more treacherous, twisted, and mysterious times for high school students at King's Academy. As pressure mounts against him, like Daniel in the Bible's Book of Daniel, will Danny survive this modern version of the Lion's Den? Beautifully and thoughtfully written details bring all the characters and the setting to life, making this story a riveting read for anyone, although especially relatable to young adults.
July 27, 2020
So refreshing to have an author write for Christian teens relevant, cool, suspenseful, and thought provoking novels. Thanks, Hope Bolinger! The way she brings the biblical account of Daniel and his young peers from Jerusalem to our modern day and culture prods us to think "what if my faith were challenged like this?" Read Den to learn if these young people can stand strong in the fire and in the lions' den.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews