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In a shadowy world where covert operations and secret agendas rule, a top-tier team of private contractors vanishes. They leave behind a chilling trail of breadcrumbs that point to a cache of advanced, portable missiles gone rogue.

Rachel Hatch, a warrior with a steel spine and a heart of grit, is called upon to find the lost operatives. As she peels back layers of deception, she realizes that the stakes are far higher than anyone could have guessed. Lives hang precariously in the balance, and a malevolent organization emerges from the shadows, hungry for the lethal firepower.

With every tick of the clock, Hatch races to outmaneuver her relentless adversaries. When an innocent family is dragged into the whirlwind of chaos, Hatch senses a connection. To expose it, she must shield them from a deranged mastermind who shows no mercy.

She is a woman caught between duty and danger, ethics and survival. A treacherous conspiracy webs around her, and with every step, the truth seems to slip further away.

Her father’s creed, to put others' lives above her own, is the compass guiding her every move. But in this deadly game, her unwavering loyalty could become her downfall.

Beneath the sweeping sands of the southwest, a vicious enemy waits, ready to strike when least expected.

SIDEWINDER is a pulse-pounding thriller that will grip Rachel Hatch's fans to the very last page. In this nerve-fraying adventure, Hatch is pushed to the edge, testing the very limits of her endurance. With each twist and turn, prepare to question everything you thought you knew about bravery, loyalty, and sacrifice.

217 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 30, 2024

2522 people are currently reading
576 people want to read

About the author

L.T. Ryan

161 books1,441 followers
L.T. RYAN is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author. The new age of publishing offered L.T. the opportunity to blend his passions for creating, marketing, and technology to reach audiences with his popular Jack Noble series.

Living in central Virginia with his wife, the youngest of his three daughters, and their three dogs, L.T. enjoys staring out his window at the trees and mountains while he should be writing, as well as reading, hiking, running, and playing with gadgets. See what he's up to at ltryan.com.

BOOKS IN THE JACK NOBLE SERIES
The Recruit (prequel short story)
The First Deception (prequel)
Noble Beginnings
A Deadly Distance
Thin Line
Noble Intentions
When Dead in Greece
Noble Retribution
Noble Betrayal
Never Go Home
Noble Judgment
Never Cry Mercy
Deadline
End Game

BOOKS IN THE BEAR LOGAN SERIES
Ripple Effect
Blowback
Takedown
Deep State (coming January, 2020)

BOOKS IN THE CLARISSA ABBOT SERIES
Beyond Betrayal

BOOKS IN THE MITCH TANNER SERIES
The Depths of Darkness
Into the Darkness
Deliver Us From Darkness (coming soon)

Social Media Links

Facebook (L.T. Ryan): facebook.com/LTRyanAuthor
Facebook (Jack Noble Page): facebook.com/JackNobleBooks/
Twitter: twitter.com/LTRyanWrites
Goodreads: goodreads.com/author/show/6151659.L_T...

Contact L.T. Ryan at contact@ltryan.com
About the Author
L.T. RYAN is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author. The new age of publishing offered L.T. the opportunity to blend his passions for creating, marketing, and technology to reach audiences with his popular Jack Noble series.

Living in central Virginia with his wife, the youngest of his three daughters, and their three dogs, L.T. enjoys staring out his window at the trees and mountains while he should be writing, as well as reading, hiking, running, and playing with gadgets. See what he's up to at ltryan.com.

Social Media Links

Facebook (L.T. Ryan): facebook.com/LTRyanAuthor
Facebook (Jack Noble Page): facebook.com/JackNobleBooks/
Twitter: twitter.com/LTRyanWrites
Goodreads: goodreads.com/author/show/6151659.L_T...

Contact L.T. Ryan at contact@ltryan.com

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5 stars
4,401 (61%)
4 stars
2,141 (30%)
3 stars
490 (6%)
2 stars
61 (<1%)
1 star
34 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
Profile Image for Sean Peters  (A Good Thriller).
823 reviews116 followers
May 10, 2024
A series I am up to date with, a Rachel Hatch book 11.

In the heart of the sun-scorched deserts of Arizona lies Diamondback, a town where secrets slither through the sands and danger coils in the shadows.

Rachel Hatch is sent on an off-the-book fact-finding mission, a favor for Jordan Tracy, her team leader at Talon Executive Services. The task seems simple enough. Turn over enough stones is bound to find some dirt, and in some cases, a snake.
Retired detective Harvey Linden becomes an unwilling pawn in a deadly game of chess. Haunted by a career-defining arrest shrouded in controversy.

Taking down Anton Novik, head of a Belarussian criminal syndicate, made him a target. His attempt at giving a better life to his wife and young children, trading the badge for a private security startup, failed to keep him off the mob’s list. A ghost from Linden’s past demands a favor that threatens to unravel the lives of those he loves most, and, if he is not careful, it may put them in the crosshairs.

Hatch with her stalwart partner, Ed Banyan, set out to uncover the truth. In doing so, their path crosses those caught in Novik's venomous plot. The stakes rise, spiraling into a lethal confrontation where the past’s poison threatens to obliterate the future.

SIDEWINDER is a well paced thriller, although a little slow at first, but will grip Rachel Hatch's fans to the very last page. In this nerve-fraying adventure, Hatch is pushed to the edge, testing the very limits of her endurance. With each twist and turn, prepare to question everything you thought you knew about bravery, loyalty, and sacrifice.

The last few chapters are really where the action begins, but to me the weakest in the series, and the first time I have given this series a 3 star rating, due to it's slower pace through half the book.

Love the character, love the series, just a little slower.
2 reviews
July 22, 2024
Great series

Never disappointed. Hatch is a great read. Good to a woman hero that doesn't do things that aren't believable. Recommended.
Profile Image for William Viergever.
109 reviews
May 9, 2024
Not sure what’s going on.

I typically don’t give negative reviews, but I will here because I’m genuinely curious. What is going with this current style? Way to much verbose, melodramatic narrative, e.g., “Weighing the odds against the current circumstances, Hatch deemed this was not a viable option. The problem was, there weren't any others outside of a miracle. Patience was her ally now, and the dire situation tested her resolve.” Who thinks/talks like that??? And I’ve got plenty of other examples (I never bookmark in Kindle, but did many in this book). I swear, I could barely get through this. And as far as Hatch in action, it was minimal. Add to that, in the first instance she makes a rookie mistake and messes up in a very un-Hatch way (trying not to be a spoiler). I’ve loved this series (and all L.T.’s other books), so will continue to follow Hatch, but please, do better next time.
37 reviews
July 28, 2024
Good story line but uncomfortable writing

I love Rachel Hatch stories but the writing seems to be getting worse with time. This one had a "nocturnal symphony" happening as two people were approaching a building in the dark, guns drawn.

There was also lots of "emotional" details: "the little girl's tiny fingers," for example. Too much verbiage about what Hatch would be "thinking." At her level, she wouldn’t be taking the time to mull over her options. Her body would be making fast decisions for her. So the fight scenes are not ringing true.

And, she misses too much for someone like her. The story said she missed the third sentry in her eagerness to "save the two women." Geez, I just can’t buy that. And because she doesn't notice the guard, she simultaneously trips on a ground wire that she also hasn't noticed? No, that scene really looked kludged.

I also wonder how much AI was used. There is one place in particular where the sentences are staccato peeks at the action. Maybe that's the essence of this review: too much personal emotion, not enough authenticity in the portrayal of Hatch.
48 reviews
May 3, 2024
Good, but you can do better

This latest in the long series (all read eagerly) returns to a high level of achievement in the genre. The plot didn't clink when it moved and the prose was genuinely pleasant to savour. Comforting to see the art back up to the level it's frequently reached in the past.
But I can't help wishing you would run some of your firearms sections past someone who knows the field, e.g. Massad Ayoob. Some action sequences become cringeworthy for the wrong reasons, for example having Hatch "cupping" her weapon to improve her grip! That technique has been out of favor for decades.
But all in all this was a welcome (if somewhat abbreviated) return to the strength of writing this character deserves.
Profile Image for Toptrackr.
4 reviews
May 6, 2024
Hatch is definitely my favourite Ryan protagonist and Sidewinder was one of my favorite of the series. A surveillance and investigation request that quickly escalates into abductions. Pace was maintained throughout and plot was good.
Bad guys were evil without being over the top.
That being said, I know stuff happens in combat but an ex special forces person like Hatch probably doesn't make the mistake she made and if your going to write about firearms use probably good to take a couple courses, eg. Black Badge. Holding a pistol the correct way for accuracy is fundamental especially for a trained operator is fundamental.
169 reviews4 followers
May 17, 2024
Rachel Hatch fighting for the innocent civilians again.

Rachel Hatch and her teammate Banyan are sent on a mission to help out a bodyguard friend of their boss, it is to find intelligence about what is going on with his employer who happens to be an ex policeman who is involved in an ongoing parole board hearing about a gang boss he put in jail.
As always nothing is as it seems and Rachel and Banyan end up involved in stopping the bad guys from killing two woman who they kidnapped trying to get the gang boss released, unfortunately for them when Rachel gets involved the bad guys always end up dying.
119 reviews1 follower
June 3, 2024
Righting a Wrong

Rachel Hatch has left her family behind once again to help others She and Banyan are called upon to help a retired policeman who is in an extremely difficult spot. He is being pressured the mob to promote the release of a dangerous criminal. While working the case she also helps the owner of the hotel where they stay and builds a close bond with him and his daughter. Rachel thinks a lot about her family and feels sad that she cannot be there when Jed must go through by-pass surgery. Jed reassures her that she needs to keep helping others and not to worry about them.
Profile Image for Tammy Bitzer.
114 reviews
May 6, 2024
Siderwinder

I’m giving this book a four because I love Rachel Hatch and what she stands for. This book finds her recuperating and looking forward to something easy to do for a while anyway, but it doesn’t turn out that way. She and Banyan are tasked with just information gathering that the task turns deadly and how could it not with the Russian Mob. this is not my favorite book of the series, but it is a good read. I am looking forward to more intense, emotional involvement and excitement in book 12 coming soon.
Profile Image for Judi Haley.
1,347 reviews6 followers
December 19, 2024
This is the 11th in the series about Rachel Hatch aka Hatch. This time she made the decision to continue to work with Talon Executive, but just on her own, with no partners. She would be the one doing the work.

This time they are sending her and Ed Banyan (the one that come up some electronic marvels, to a small town. Easy watch, but if you read Hatch, you know what it is going to turn into. This time Hatch is facing another rattlesnake, and a Russian mob.

Great edge of your seat thriller!
4 reviews
May 1, 2024
Absolutely riveting!

Hatch just can't stay out of a fray! This book put Rachel in absolutely precarious situations. She is tough but she always fights for what's right and helps those who can't help themselves out of some dangerous situations. This is a book you absolutely will not put down until you know how Hatch comes out of trouble yet again. Thank you LT and Brian for your hard work.
Profile Image for Gail.
562 reviews1 follower
May 4, 2024
Another unbelievably great Rachel Hatch thriller!

This action-filled, fast-paced thriller is unputdownable and filled with bravery and surprises. L.T. Ryan and Brian Shea know how to keep your attention to see what will happen next. Rachel Hatch does not disappoint the reader with her determination to do justice for those in need! If you like Rachel Hatch, you will definitely like this book. Happy reading! ☺️
Profile Image for Clifton Rankin.
144 reviews2 followers
Read
May 4, 2024
“Sidewinder,” installment 11 of the Rachel Hatch Series by L. T. Ryan and Brian Shea is vintage Rachel Hatch. She and her partner are asked to do some digging into a situation that may find a retired police detective in danger, and they are pulled into a hostage situation that will require all of the skills that Hatch has perfected during her years in special ops to resolve. Multiple lives are on the line as they race against time in the wilds of Arizona. (217 pages)
113 reviews
April 20, 2025
WOW.....

Stayed up late to finish this book !! It was just a great read !! I might as well have some coffee & toast because I'm certain I won't be able to go to sleep for awhile !! I'll catch a nap later this afternoon.... Unless I find another Rachel Hatch adventure to read !!!

Many Thanks to L T Ryan/Brian Shea for letting me "tag along" on this !! Let's do it again, soon !!





Profile Image for Julie Quinn.
2 reviews
September 27, 2025
Tired of giving 3 stars lately after having a lot more 4-star books in the first half of this series. Also, what’s UP with all the typos in every single one of these Hatch books? I catch about 10 typos per book at least… it’s distracting and annoying. Nothing special about this one BUT I keep reading them so obviously I’m enjoying these books enough to stick around. I do like Hatch as a character. Dying to know if anything will change with the Dalton Savage situation in the end.
151 reviews
May 5, 2024
The action starts right away and it gives a break every so often. The characters are believable and keep the reader interested. This book is part of a great series and could be read alone but, reading them in order will give the reader a better understanding of the main characters. Hurry up with the next book please.
233 reviews1 follower
May 16, 2024
Rachel is on her way to do an intelligence gathering when the family she was supposed to be helping is torn apart by a kidnapping. The fight is on. Meanwhile, a dangerous criminal is trying to use this kidnapping as a means of getting out of jail. Rachel and her partner work hard to stop the kidnapping from coming to a bad end. ENJOY!
432 reviews2 followers
June 9, 2024
page turner!!!

I could not put this book down! I love Rachel Hatch and the crazy predicaments she gets into! She is so BA. It was neat to have Banyan around too- she’s losing lots of friends and glad Banyan could provide some much needed tech and friendship in this story. So good! Just read it!
17 reviews
July 8, 2024
This book wasn’t as exciting as most Rachel Hatch books but it still was an interesting read. Normally Rachel is more alerted to her environment so was surprised that she got caught so early. The intrigue of the story line was good and the outcome was good with minimal damage to the heroine. All in all was a good read.
118 reviews
October 7, 2024
A really great read!!!

Another great read in the line of Rachel Hatch books!! I could not put this book down. I even took it to the head when I had to relieve myself. Twists and turns to keep you glued. Good thing I started it during the day or I would have been missing some shut eye for sure. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did!!!
Profile Image for landyn.
10 reviews
May 3, 2024
Hatch saves the day

As the “lightning rod for chaos” draws danger close again, Hatch must rescue a family from a Russian Gang.
Intrigue, action, gunfights and hostages abound. Can Hatch save the day! L. T. Ryan does it again!
Profile Image for Lesley Hewitt.
832 reviews7 followers
May 7, 2024
Brilliant

Another brilliant action packed book. Move over Reacher, Hatch has stolen your crown. Once I started reading I couldn't put the book down. I can't wait to read the next book.
2 reviews
May 8, 2024
great series

I’ve enjoyed all of the books within this series . Start from the beginning to get a complete understanding of Rachel Hatch. It’s hard to wait for the next book . I’ve read several books from the authors. They are among my first picks while looking for my next read.
206 reviews
May 9, 2024
always an adventure

I love Rachel Hatch stories. She tough and loving all wrapped up in one.
This story is full of excitement and adventures. You will love Hatch trying to help out in the story.
Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Bob at 1800AskBob . Com.
122 reviews
May 19, 2024
Good story. I've enjoyed this series from the beginning. The adventures have been exciting and the characters have been interesting.

A stumble mid story might have been a little weak, but without it the story would have been short. Lol

Keep the stories coming, they are always excellent.
46 reviews1 follower
May 21, 2024
Never disappoints

Another page turner from L.T. Ryan and Brian Shea! I love this series. The characters are relatable as humans but give you all the bada$$ you could want! I can't wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Karla Thompson.
373 reviews2 followers
May 22, 2024
As always....a great Hatch adventure

I loved this book. The stories are always filled with excitement and anxiety. Bad guys will never win with Banyan and Hatch on the job. Can't wait for the next one. I have read them all.
219 reviews
May 22, 2024
Great reading

This book was good from the beginning to end, full of action and especially full of heart stopping excitement. I'm ready for Hatch to back home to save the sheriff, or the town.
19 reviews
May 23, 2024
choppy

Story felt choppy and writing not coherent - i. e. character on the floor in one scene then in a chair the next; or meet at the diner but then meet at the jeep - just little discrepancies that are irritating.
678 reviews3 followers
June 6, 2024
Diamondback

Headed to a small town in Arizona, Hatch and Banyan have little knowledge of the reason for the trip. All of Hatches skills are used to stay alive and save two families.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews

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