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Superhawks #1
Strike Force Alpha
Call it all-American pride. Call it vengeance. The Ocean Voyager is on course. A thirty-thousand-ton undercover assault warship set loose in the Middle East. For Colonel Ryder Long of the U.S. Air Force, fighting to win is in his blood. The same could be said for Bobby Murphy-real identity unknown-a shadowy military genius and super spy programmed for revenge. The crew: Superhawks, a crack secret op team bound by a single war cry: "Remember the Twin Towers!"
Their target is Abdul Kazeel, a notorious madman with connections throughout the Persian Gulf. Infamous in the terrorist underworld and top mission planner for Al Qaeda, he's planning a new attack on America with a destructive force that threatens the future of the free world. Only the Superhawks can stop this enemy dead in his desert tracks as they declare their own war in full explosive fury and enforce world peace through any means necessary.
Their target is Abdul Kazeel, a notorious madman with connections throughout the Persian Gulf. Infamous in the terrorist underworld and top mission planner for Al Qaeda, he's planning a new attack on America with a destructive force that threatens the future of the free world. Only the Superhawks can stop this enemy dead in his desert tracks as they declare their own war in full explosive fury and enforce world peace through any means necessary.
368 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 11, 2004
82 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
About the author
Mack Maloney
109 books161 followersMack Maloney is the author of numerous fiction series, including Wingman, ChopperOps, Starhawk, and Pirate Hunters, as well as UFOs in Wartime – What They Didn’t Want You to Know. A native Bostonian, Maloney received a bachelor of science degree in journalism at Suffolk University and a master of arts degree in film at Emerson College. He is the host of a national radio show, Mack Maloney’s Military X-Files. Visit him on Facebook and at www.mackmaloney.com.
Mack Maloney is the Pen name for BRIAN KELLEHER
Mack Maloney is the Pen name for BRIAN KELLEHER
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
April 6, 2020
Strike Force Alpha was the first book in the Superhawks series, though one of the main characters, Ryder Long, previously appeared in the novels War Heaven and Thunder Alley. The Superhawks are a covert-ops paramilitary crew, and their motto is "Remember the Twin Towers," which pretty much sums up the theme and plot. It first appeared in 2004, when the 9/11 emotions were still riding high. It's another effective (if unrealistic) action thriller, with lots of testosterone-infused derring-do and stuff blowing up on every page. Great stuff, in limited doses.
March 25, 2015
This is an all action military thriller, not overly sophisticated but will tick the box for those who want full on action.
A secret, privately funded task force is floating around on a disguised container ship. Their task is an eye for an eye – giving payback to the bad guys and stopping their plans. There is much waving of the Stars and Stripes and mention of 9/11 and a view that in order to beat the terrorists, you have to behave like them. There is some collateral damage here I found uncomfortable and the language is very much anti the “sand monkeys” and “mooks” so readers will have to be comfortable with a very US centric approach and wanting to give a silent cheer every time the brave American patriots dish it out big time to the, er, “mooks”.
If you want a balanced and well thought out plot and balanced perspectives this is probably not for you. However, if you want to enjoy US military pay back in an easy read action orientated book, this could be the one for you. It is superficial and very right wing so be warned, I found it uncomfortable and hard to take seriously.
A secret, privately funded task force is floating around on a disguised container ship. Their task is an eye for an eye – giving payback to the bad guys and stopping their plans. There is much waving of the Stars and Stripes and mention of 9/11 and a view that in order to beat the terrorists, you have to behave like them. There is some collateral damage here I found uncomfortable and the language is very much anti the “sand monkeys” and “mooks” so readers will have to be comfortable with a very US centric approach and wanting to give a silent cheer every time the brave American patriots dish it out big time to the, er, “mooks”.
If you want a balanced and well thought out plot and balanced perspectives this is probably not for you. However, if you want to enjoy US military pay back in an easy read action orientated book, this could be the one for you. It is superficial and very right wing so be warned, I found it uncomfortable and hard to take seriously.
August 2, 2025
Actually 3.5 stars rather than the 3 stars I was allowed...
Buckle up for a heart-pounding adventure in Mack Maloney's "Strike Force Alpha," the electrifying first installment of the Superhawks series. This military action thriller plunges readers into a high-stakes world where justice is unyielding, and vengeance knows no bounds.
From the first page, Maloney expertly draws readers into the dangerous and clandestine operations of the Superhawks, a rogue team assembled from the finest Delta Force, Marine, and Navy SEAL operatives. Led by the determined Colonel Ryder Long and the enigmatic military strategist Bobby Murphy, and the Intelligence/Operations Chief Martinez, the Superhawks redefine the limits of courage and audacity. Their mission is as clear as it is perilous: to take down the masterminds responsible for the devastating 9/11 attacks.
Set against the gritty backdrop of the Middle East, the story's atmospheric tension is palpable, thanks in part to the innovative use of the Ocean Voyager, a covert airbase hidden in plain sight. This rusty container ship becomes a symbol of resilience and strategic ingenuity, amplifying the novel's electrifying tension.
"Strike Force Alpha" masterfully navigates the murky waters of revenge and patriotism, providing an unflinching look at the harsh realities of the war on terror. The novel's action sequences are intricately detailed and pulse-pounding, ensuring readers remain on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
Maloney's writing is both thought-provoking and gripping, blending high-octane action with a nuanced exploration of the emotional toll exacted by the pursuit of justice. The Superhawks' journey offers insight into the complexities of modern warfare, challenging readers to ponder the true cost of freedom and security.
For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled read that doesn't shy away from the tough questions, "Strike Force Alpha" delivers in spades. It's an explosive introduction to what promises to be an unforgettable series—a must-read for military thriller enthusiasts and anyone drawn to stories of tenacity, bravery, and the relentless fight against evil.
Buckle up for a heart-pounding adventure in Mack Maloney's "Strike Force Alpha," the electrifying first installment of the Superhawks series. This military action thriller plunges readers into a high-stakes world where justice is unyielding, and vengeance knows no bounds.
From the first page, Maloney expertly draws readers into the dangerous and clandestine operations of the Superhawks, a rogue team assembled from the finest Delta Force, Marine, and Navy SEAL operatives. Led by the determined Colonel Ryder Long and the enigmatic military strategist Bobby Murphy, and the Intelligence/Operations Chief Martinez, the Superhawks redefine the limits of courage and audacity. Their mission is as clear as it is perilous: to take down the masterminds responsible for the devastating 9/11 attacks.
Set against the gritty backdrop of the Middle East, the story's atmospheric tension is palpable, thanks in part to the innovative use of the Ocean Voyager, a covert airbase hidden in plain sight. This rusty container ship becomes a symbol of resilience and strategic ingenuity, amplifying the novel's electrifying tension.
"Strike Force Alpha" masterfully navigates the murky waters of revenge and patriotism, providing an unflinching look at the harsh realities of the war on terror. The novel's action sequences are intricately detailed and pulse-pounding, ensuring readers remain on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
Maloney's writing is both thought-provoking and gripping, blending high-octane action with a nuanced exploration of the emotional toll exacted by the pursuit of justice. The Superhawks' journey offers insight into the complexities of modern warfare, challenging readers to ponder the true cost of freedom and security.
For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled read that doesn't shy away from the tough questions, "Strike Force Alpha" delivers in spades. It's an explosive introduction to what promises to be an unforgettable series—a must-read for military thriller enthusiasts and anyone drawn to stories of tenacity, bravery, and the relentless fight against evil.
March 13, 2025
Wow. Just Wow.
Well done. This book pulled me in, made me anxious, made me proud, made me feel like WTH! It is very well written. At times it seemed like some of the details describing the aircraft was a bit tedious but it was all for a purpose. The characters were well developed and I, personally, thought the ending was superb— nail-biting, scary, moving, and poignant. It makes you feel as if you’re there. Good job Mack!
Well done. This book pulled me in, made me anxious, made me proud, made me feel like WTH! It is very well written. At times it seemed like some of the details describing the aircraft was a bit tedious but it was all for a purpose. The characters were well developed and I, personally, thought the ending was superb— nail-biting, scary, moving, and poignant. It makes you feel as if you’re there. Good job Mack!
November 6, 2024
Maloney Baloney #1
Superhawks #1
Superhawks? Super crapola - anyway pretty dull action military type yarn with the fantasy element of the world cheering on the US military.
As if the world would ever cheer on the USA who would rather elect a rapist than a woman.
Anyway all that aside -this was a lot of guff.
Superhawks #1
Superhawks? Super crapola - anyway pretty dull action military type yarn with the fantasy element of the world cheering on the US military.
As if the world would ever cheer on the USA who would rather elect a rapist than a woman.
Anyway all that aside -this was a lot of guff.
October 11, 2019
The story here is simple, straight forward and completely implausible. Character development is razor thin. Several authors in the genre do it better but if your just looking for a fast paced, testosterone driven bit of mayhem then the Super Hawks are ready to serve.
February 25, 2023
Good lesson for America
Proactive is better than being reactive. Especially as we know very few of our enemies will agree unless it they who are proactive against us. Fast paced. Well written. Good reading for an old retired military colonel. Keep'em coming.
Proactive is better than being reactive. Especially as we know very few of our enemies will agree unless it they who are proactive against us. Fast paced. Well written. Good reading for an old retired military colonel. Keep'em coming.
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August 16, 2022NOOK
March 16, 2023
Well written
Good action and plot was well researched. Enjoyed the book very much. Looking forward to reading the next book. Thanks again
Good action and plot was well researched. Enjoyed the book very much. Looking forward to reading the next book. Thanks again
September 23, 2025
Must Read For All American Patriots
This is the most phenomenal book I have ever read. Be sure you read it.
I wish it could be a true story.
This is the most phenomenal book I have ever read. Be sure you read it.
I wish it could be a true story.
April 25, 2015
Strike Force Alpha
Mack Maloney
I loved it. Had the kindle version and listened to it straight through. Tracked the action on G earth. Checked out the facts and verified the places mentioned.
Great time with this book. The cover says it all. Perfect for this series.
An elete force put together to balance the scales after the 9/11 attack. Everyone of the warriors on the team had lost someone to a terrorist attack. The man behind the strike force is Bobby Murphy. He doesn't show up right away. The men are on an old ship that has been loaded new tech. The outside looks beaten up but the inside has been updated with the latest spy equipment. Except for the crew quarters and mess they are still depressing. The computers can track almost anything, anyone, anywhere and all news casts. Their mission is to find the men who planned and financed the attacks and shut them down, permanently.
All of Maloney's characters have well written backgrounds. It is easy to cheer them on and feel the loss when one dies. The weapons used were over the top. Harrier jets, way to go. Loved the idea.
Non-stop action and plenty of violence. But that is what is needed in this type of book. If you can't stand the villians getting a taste of their own medicine, tough. Soon as I am done with this review I am getting books, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta.
Mack Maloney
I loved it. Had the kindle version and listened to it straight through. Tracked the action on G earth. Checked out the facts and verified the places mentioned.
Great time with this book. The cover says it all. Perfect for this series.
An elete force put together to balance the scales after the 9/11 attack. Everyone of the warriors on the team had lost someone to a terrorist attack. The man behind the strike force is Bobby Murphy. He doesn't show up right away. The men are on an old ship that has been loaded new tech. The outside looks beaten up but the inside has been updated with the latest spy equipment. Except for the crew quarters and mess they are still depressing. The computers can track almost anything, anyone, anywhere and all news casts. Their mission is to find the men who planned and financed the attacks and shut them down, permanently.
All of Maloney's characters have well written backgrounds. It is easy to cheer them on and feel the loss when one dies. The weapons used were over the top. Harrier jets, way to go. Loved the idea.
Non-stop action and plenty of violence. But that is what is needed in this type of book. If you can't stand the villians getting a taste of their own medicine, tough. Soon as I am done with this review I am getting books, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta.
July 19, 2015
Call it all-American pride. Call it vengeance. The Ocean Voyager is on course. A thirty-thousand-ton undercover assault warship set loose in the Middle East. For Colonel Ryder Long of the U.S. Air Force, fighting to win is in his blood. The same could be said for Bobby Murphy-real identity unknown-a shadowy military genius and super spy programmed for revenge. The crew: Superhawks, a crack secret op team bound by a single war cry: "Remember the Twin Towers!"Their target is Abdul Kazeel, a notorious madman with connections throughout the Persian Gulf. Infamous in the terrorist underworld and top mission planner for Al Qaeda, he's planning a new attack on America with a destructive force that threatens the future of the free world. Only the Superhawks can stop this enemy dead in his desert tracks as they declare their own war in full explosive fury and enforce world peace through any means necessary.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews