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Some laws are meant to be bent, some ignored, and some…are meant to be shattered.
In mage society, there are laws and those willing to break them.

When laws can no longer be enforced, when there’s no hope, there’s only one answer.

The Treadwell Supernatural Directive.

Unofficially known as The Stray Dogs, Sebastian Treadwell and his group of operatives will step into the dark corners of the magical underworld, dealing with those who believe themselves untouchable.

Sebastian, together with the Directive, will step into a world other mages fear to face.

They will uncover the darkness that feeds off the corruption of power, exposing it to the light and the jaws of justice.

Once the Stray Dogs are on a mission they are relentless—even if the cost is their lives.

298 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 17, 2023

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About the author

Orlando A. Sanchez

108 books602 followers
Orlando Sanchez has been writing ever since his teens when he was immersed in creating scenarios for playing Dungeon and Dragons with his friends every weekend. An avid reader, his influences are too numerous to list here. Some of the most prominent are: J.R.R. Tolkien, Jim Butcher, Kat Richardson, Terry Brooks, Piers Anthony, Lee Child, George Lucas, Andrew Vachss, and Barry Eisler to name a few in no particular order.
The worlds of his books are urban settings with a twist of the paranormal lurking just behind the scenes and generous doses of magic, martial arts, and mayhem.
Aside from writing, he holds a 2nd and 3rd Dan in two distinct styles of Karate. If not training, he is studying some aspect of the martial arts or martial arts philosophy.
He currently resides in Queens, NY with his family and can often be found in the local Starbucks where most of his writing is done.
Please visit his site at: www.OrlandoASanchez.com for more information about his books and upcoming releases.

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5 stars
392 (59%)
4 stars
208 (31%)
3 stars
50 (7%)
2 stars
3 (<1%)
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9 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
694 reviews13 followers
September 18, 2023
The Stray Dogs: The Treadwell Supernatural Directive by Orlando A Sanchez has great new cast of characters to play in New York City. Sebastian Treadwell and his group fight the corrupt and dark, to bring justice to the world where laws and the legal system aren’t effective.
Sebastian and his second, Tiger, face physical and magical fights, as well as ethical dilemmas in their quest to keep the world safe.
The back and forth between characters is engaging and keeps the story moving forward, as does the action. And the ending is a bit of a surprise, but is very satisfying. I can’t wait for the next book!
19 reviews1 follower
September 19, 2023
Intrigue, Action and great characters

Where to start. It would be a disservice to think of this as a spin-off from M&S. The characters of Sebastian and Tiger are well thought out and provide the ebb and flow of a good relationship. Sebastian provides the grounding and intellect whilst Tiger exhibits the impetuousness and spontaneity associated with a great duo. This is not to detract from The Directive, which is the group they belong to and that Sebastian created, just an attempt to describe the flow between the two. Tiger is Sebastian’s second, yet he does not come across as controlling or treating her as a pupil. It is more a second among equals vibe, though the story shows that the patience and more expansive view of things clearly places Sebastian at another level. Which is only to be expected from someone that not only was trained by Dexter Montague but is a part of his family. The Directive is comprised of various people with names from the Chinese zodiac. This book introduces Directive members Goat, resident smith and agoraphobic, Rabbit the not receptionist that is looking for a replacement, Rat spy extraordinaire and Ox, whose handiness is in various spoiler divulging areas. Each is a key part of the Directive as a whole and I can’t think of one that doesn’t bring something necessary to the story.

This tale introduces new characters in the form of the dragon Char, a fearsome real dragon that takes the form of a tiny gray-haired grandmother. Her lair, the Dungeon is staffed by security chief Wei, who previously received an epic beat down from Tiger, the street door security Fuxi and Nuwa, who never fail to remind you of the Dungeons golden rule and Bam-Bam. We are also treated to oldies but goodies in the form of Aria and the Wordweavers, Honor and his second Rabhi, and Castor and Pollux owners of the Hybrid. Our opening villain goes by the name of Fakul Bijan who, wielding the Gauntlet of Mahkan, of course wants to rule the world. Much like there is one ring, there is only one gauntlet and it not only takes power but gives it. This makes for a lot of action, city traversing and overall work for our anti-hero’s The Directive.
Profile Image for Tami.
217 reviews5 followers
September 19, 2023
Another crew, another night on the streets, another megalomaniac who thinks they can rule better than anyone. Sebastian, the only one with a regular name in this crew, and The Directive are tasked with policing those who the police can't hanlde, nor the regular groups who normally handle paranormal bad guys. The Directive walks in the darkest of shadows, in places no one wants to go and does the jobs that no one handle. And so, there is a relic long thought destroyed or forgotten to time that has made an appearance, and the jerk wearing it is using people like puppets and then throwing them away like yesterday's trash when he's done. Web and crew can't allow this to continue. They find where he's holed up, starting bouncing explosives off the walls to get his attention, and deal with him, on his turf. They have three factions that have claimed a desire foe this thing and they need to be careful in who they hand it off to. One wrong could have dire consequences, not only for them, but the rest of mankind. Tiger is a fascinating character I how she fights, her tools of the trade, her very attitude. For what he does, Rat is very aptly named as he ferrets out lots of info and intel. Ox is just that, an ox. Goat is interesting as he works in his forge; aperson of few words, a relentless worker, a perfectionist. You don't get to meet everyone in The Directive, but those that you do are pretty impressive. Sanchez hit this one on the head!
Profile Image for Diane.
634 reviews4 followers
September 19, 2023
This story expands on the operatives led by Sebastian Treadwell, Monty's cousin. They are a self-directed group that bring to justice those who can't be stopped by organized and recognized peacekeepers. I found it interesting that only code names are used by all the group members except for Sebastian. Very little to no background is given for the members mentioned, and none is needed. We get just enough information about them. The overall story arc is well thought out, taut, and exciting. We get good descriptions without it being too 'wordy'. The (for lack of a better term) 'sub-arcs' of relationships between the characters, (mostly between Tiger and everyone else!) really add to the story. And, I have a new favorite character in Char, the ancient dragon. If you like urban fantasy, with a compelling story, well-written characters (I love the strong women in these stories), unexpected twists, lots of action, and a good dose of humor thrown in, you'll enjoy this one. I strongly recommend it.
Profile Image for Justjeanette.
171 reviews4 followers
September 21, 2023
Expanding the Montague and Strong Universe, again, in spectacular fashion

I'm a longtime fan of Orlado Sanchez and his most successfull series to date. Just what does Montague's cousin get up to? It looks like none of the branches associated with the Montagues is ever going to have a boring life. Unlike Tristan, THIS Treadwell is a firm believer in the 'ends justifies the means'. He has his own so-called Detective Agency that helps those who cannot help themselves, or gets left behind, or in some cases 'disappeared' for someone's convenience. He moves in interesting circles: Honor, Arial, and... a Dragon. He and his team of Chinese Zodiacs [Tiger, Rat, Ox, Goat, etc.] will do anything to make things 'right'. Mix in a kleptomaniac ex, who makes a brief appearance near the end, and looks like she is going to cause a fair amount of chaos in her own right, next book which is, as usual, is coming SoonTM. Enjoy this book, with both familiar and new characters coming into the ever-expanding Montagueverse.
597 reviews32 followers
September 18, 2023
This new series, set in the Montague and Strong universe starts off strong and continues to deliver through the story. Even though Sebastian Tredwell is a distant cousin of Tristan Montague's they are very different, and that's a good thing. Sebastian and the directive get things done but with a little less destruction than the destructive Trio of the M&S series.
Sebastian and those in the Directive are a force used to keep the top in line. The Directive is willing to put their lives on the line to clean up those who desire too much power and use it for the wrong reasons. Each of the Directives and Sebastian has their own type of powers and personalities to go along with it. In this new series, you may recognize some of the characters from the M&S series, but you will also get introduced to a few new ones also.
I enjoyed this first book and look forward to seeing more of Sebastian and the Directive.
Profile Image for Todd.
2,345 reviews8 followers
September 22, 2023
You will find that many of the ancillary characters from Orlando Sanchez's excellent Monty & Strong series are compelling enough to wind up with their own book(s).
Sebastien Treadwell is Tristan Montague's cousin and heads up a group of mages of varying specialties called the Directive. They think and claim that they operate in the shadows, but I find them aligned with the greater good.
Mages are having their lives and powers drained from them around the city.
The Directive becomes involved after investigating one of the victims, which of course grows into a much bigger issue.
Another excellent novel from the master.
Profile Image for Grant Barber.
59 reviews5 followers
December 12, 2023
Ambivalence

I'm not ambivalent about the book. I really enjoyed it. Everyone in the book is ambivalent about the other, at least across 'tribal' lines. Within each organization there seems a much closer set of ties. Sanchez uses the word family at least for the Directive. How those sorts of boundaries function I assume will be made clearer as further events unfold. The MC is the head of one organization but has standing in at least 3 others. But each is not without danger for him to interact with. The more I reflect on it the more clearly it seems like Sanchez has set himself up for intriguing sequels.
Profile Image for Deborah.
3,905 reviews506 followers
August 25, 2024
3.5*

So I’ve just read book #24 in the Montague & Strong series. So obviously I like the world this author has created here (spin-off series). And this was a good read and I’ll be moving straight onto the next one now but…

There’s a lot (and I do mean a lot) of time spent telling us just how powerful certain characters are. Pages are spent on Char and I thought okay that’s behind us now let’s move on. Then we get the same with every characters we meet. I understand we need to know the players and how strong they are but it was definitely overdone verging on fanboying.

But I’m moving straight onto the next one now.
16 reviews2 followers
September 23, 2023
Wow!

I've never given a 5 star review before. I'm a huge M&S fan and have been following them since the very beginning. Came very close with some of the terrible trio's books but this story just hit all my buttons. Intensity, thrills and chills, damn but I'm impressed. The character interactions were well thought out and as always, appropriate doses of humor. Look folks, any time spent reading an Orlando Sanchez book is time well spent. Hopefully this will encourage a few people to give his books a try. Enjoy.
2,226 reviews4 followers
September 23, 2023
Infinite possibilities

Oh yes, another side of the world woven by this author. It's nice getting to know the black sheep of the family & we were definitely intrigued when this group was introduced in the last story. So the author took us on a side journey & added more color to this landscape. The players are coming together and we can only guess where the author will tread next,but we'll be along for the very exciting ride.
8 reviews
September 27, 2023
He does it again.

Once again Mr. Sanchez delivers gold. The first book in a new series sharing the Monty and Stronk universe…. (Peaches universe?) follows the Treadwell Supernatural Directive and its leader Sebastian Treadwell as they combat a new threat pulling the strings from the shadows.

The story is well written and a new starting cast among returning characters in a thrilling tale that is as easy to slip into as a well worn shoe.
Profile Image for Beth.
69 reviews
September 30, 2023
Wonderful start to a new series

Orlando Sanchez did it again. Stray Dogs is an amazing start to a new series. It takes place in the world of Tristan and Simon. We get to meet Honor, Aria, Heka and other characters from the M&S world. I highly recommend this book and can't wait for the next book. Sebastian and his Directive are a must read. Anything written by Orlando Sanchez will keep you up all night reading because you need to find out what happens next.
124 reviews
October 1, 2023
Fast paced and lots of action!

I loved all the characters in this story, It moved quickly and each character seemed to work, seamlessly with each other. Regina, Treadwell’s love interest promises to make the next story very interesting. I liked the fact that Treadwell is related to Monty and Dex. Maybe a look forward to them making an appearance in one of the stories. I enjoyed the book and look forward to the next story and what it has to offer.
Profile Image for Richard.
199 reviews
October 15, 2023
Just a great read.

Tredwell and the Directive. Keeping those safe who can not keep themselves safe. Avenging wrongs against the innocent. When a particularly heinous crime occurs the directive is summoned to help. Tredwell and his no nonsense tough partner Tiger investigate only to find a megalomaniac behind the crime. Love this book. Great story with great characters. Highly recommend.
10 reviews
March 26, 2026
Too much fluff and to little body.

A lot of fluff. Talking about how powerful the characters are with little real elaboration. Parts were dull. Development-- character and story, was poor. Premise was good. Just poor implementation. I will try a sample of the next book, with the hope the writing improves. As I really like the M&S stories, I like to believe this book is an anomaly of the writer's writing skills.
Profile Image for Paige Guido.
200 reviews5 followers
September 18, 2023
A new spinoff from the Montague and Strong world, and a great read! Sebastian is my kind of guy. His Directive exists to keep the big dogs in line and accountable. Twelve operatives, known only by their Chinese zodiac-assigned names, use magic and tech to deliver justice with extreme prejudice.
Terrific start to a new series!
Profile Image for Becky.
62 reviews
October 2, 2023
"Trilogy"

All of Orlando's characters feel as if they can have a story of their own, and the fans loudly and frequently request (demand) those stories. The stray dogs are the results of such demands and, as usual, Mr Sanchez did not disappoint. I look forward to finding out just how Tiger deals with Regina's plot and what the Mark from Char really means
Profile Image for Deborah.
154 reviews1 follower
October 16, 2023
Awesome chapter in the Treadwell series

Fantastic story—now what is next? You can’t leave us hanging. I love this set of characters but I confess my favorite character is Peaches. More, please sir may we have more. The complexity of these stories is so engrossing I have a sink full of dishes to wash. I would rather be reading.
Profile Image for Trevor.
1,516 reviews2 followers
October 17, 2023
Another spin off from the world of S&M, this time following Monty's cousin Sebastian Treadwell. Along with his group, called the Directive, he is investigating the death of mages and searching for a powerful gauntlet. Good story that stands alone without reading other books from S&M world, but you should anyway, they are that good.
Profile Image for John E.
721 reviews2 followers
October 27, 2023
Monty's cousin

Great addition to the M&S universe. It is fun to have a mix of somewhat known characters and new ones to go along with a complex adventure. Treadwell is his own person and has his own unique views and skills as he and his teams interact with the universe in another unique and magical perspective.
28 reviews1 follower
November 17, 2023
New series rocks!

I haven't read a book by Mr Sanchez yet that has disappointed, and this first of a new series was excellent. The fact that the storyline and characters are adjacent to but separate from the Montague and Strong series is intriguing as well. Can't wait for the next one!
Profile Image for malcolm robertson.
56 reviews
December 16, 2023
Another great addition to the M&S world

Masterful story-telling, relatable characters with understandable motives & desires. Another great insight into another facet of the M&S world, a closer look at the darker underside of said world.

I’ll definitely be adding the paperbacks to my library as well
863 reviews
September 22, 2023
And he doesn't..

And he does it again. How Orlando jeeps writing such brilliant multi layered stories and keeping track of all the different characters is amazing. Loved this new series Tiger is a great character , cannot wait to see where it series progresses and goes.
721 reviews
September 25, 2023
Always leaves us wanting more

I should have known we wouldn't get all the answers but did like the answers that we received. Very different characters but they are their own and I really like Tiger. Orlando writes some amazing women characters.
428 reviews4 followers
September 25, 2023
The Stray Dogs

The story catches you from the beginning to the end.
I enjoyed all the characters.
There is humor and mystery.
You will not get bored. Plenty of action. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Tim.
25 reviews
September 27, 2023
An epic and exhilarating read

This story has all of the elements from the M&S story-verse and combines them in a very exciting but more serious way, showing the tone of the author has grown to new heights. An excellent read and I look forward to many more of this installment!
321 reviews5 followers
September 27, 2023
Excellent

I wasn't sure if I would like these new characters as much as the existing characters in the Sanchez world 🌎. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute immersed in the new storyline.
41 reviews3 followers
September 30, 2023
What happened?

I love Orlando Sanchez other books. All of them. Can't think of one I didn't like.
I felt that this book was a n afterthought. Plodding. Not funny.
I am very disappointed, Mr. Sanchez.
54 reviews3 followers
October 4, 2023
Knocked it out of the park

New series, new characters, plenty of action & intrigue - what's not to like? Expectantly awaiting the next book. This on a par with the Montague and Strong series if not better.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews