Overcast: Operating in the Grey Area

by Howard Ryan

Twenty-five years of investigating murder and mayhem on some of the meanest streets in America should have been enough for Declan Moran. It wasn’t.

The highly decorated NYPD crime scene investigator is relishing his retirement in the rugged hills of Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains when a seemingly chance meeting with high-powered defense contractor Gil Brody thrusts him into a war-crime investigation in the unforgiving Hindu Kush Mountains of Afghanistan.

A young Special Forces operator accused of a heinous crime by a local CIA asset faces a life sentence in federal prison — the allegations against him fast-tracked by his own Army Command and the Central Intelligence Agency.

For Moran, it’s just another case. For Brody, a legend in the intelligence world, it’s The young soldier is his only son.

Moran combines his decades of experience and his razor-sharp instincts with the cutting-edge technology only a man like Brody can bankroll. He tangles with the dark side of guerrilla warfare and exposes just how far the intelligence community will go to protect its dirty secrets.

Declan Moran is the storm they didn’t see coming!

506 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 17, 2023

Reviews

[Amy MacEachern · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author takes us on a journey, though labeled as fiction, at times one can’t help but think there’s also some truth to what we’re reading. Overcast isn’t a “fluff” read, but expect solid, hold your breath drama at several turns, as well as some endearing characters. Interestingly, it’s also an eye opening, real thought provoking look at “behind the scenes” of our intelligence community, that just happens to be wrapped around the life of a humble but charismatic main character, and, on some levels, perhaps the author himself. The way Declan Moran’s story and mission becomes is intertwined with the other characters is mesmerizing. I’m excited to see what Moran gets involved with in his next endeavor. It was about a day and a half read because I truly COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. So very, very well done - BRAVO!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

You won't want to put it down.

Declan Moran is a character that you will want to follow. He is one of the good guys.
The book takes you on a journey as Declan Moran uses his years of experience as a crime scene investigator to help solve a military wrongdoing.
Howard Ryan's first novel is on target. Looking forward to what he has in store for us next.

[Maureen Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

For a first time author, I am so impressed and can't wait for the next book in this new series. Overcast grabs you right from the beginning and just gets better and better. There are so many twists and turns. Just when you think everything has been revealed, another surprise awaits. It really keeps you guessing. Definitely worth reading!

[Terry Byrne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely Riveting

It was hard to put this book down. I loved it and am looking forward to the next installment. Great job my bother Trooper.

[Nicholas Theodos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book by an outstanding detective. Fast paced and quick read. Couldn't put the book down, read it in two days. Cannot wait for the next book in this new series.