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Treadwell Supernatural Directive #2
Shadow Queen
Beauty is only skin deep, but evil goes down to the core.
In order to fulfill his blood debt to Heka and the Wordweavers, Sebastian needs the Sacred Amethyst—an artifact of immense magical power capable of shifting a mage to Archmage.
To get it, he must acquire the gem from Maledicta, a darkmage group of assassins led by Calum Kers, a pyromancer who will destroy anyone who stands in his way.
Starting with the Treadwell Supernatural Directive.
There’s only one complication. Calum and Maledicta no longer possess the amethyst, the Shadow Queen does.
Sebastian believes the Shadow Queen is really Regina Clark.
Regina Clark is beautiful, intelligent, ruthless, and deadly. An ex-member of the Treadwell Supernatural Directive, she and Sebastian share decades of history…good and bad.
Mostly bad.
As a world-class thief and darkmage, she seeks power—the power of the Sacred Amethyst. She will do everything in her power to obtain the Amethyst, even if it means betraying Sebastian and letting him fall to Calum and Maledicta.
Now, Sebastian must face Regina, retake the amethyst, and stop Maledicta before the Directive is destroyed, and Regina escapes with millions and a priceless artifact.
In order to fulfill his blood debt to Heka and the Wordweavers, Sebastian needs the Sacred Amethyst—an artifact of immense magical power capable of shifting a mage to Archmage.
To get it, he must acquire the gem from Maledicta, a darkmage group of assassins led by Calum Kers, a pyromancer who will destroy anyone who stands in his way.
Starting with the Treadwell Supernatural Directive.
There’s only one complication. Calum and Maledicta no longer possess the amethyst, the Shadow Queen does.
Sebastian believes the Shadow Queen is really Regina Clark.
Regina Clark is beautiful, intelligent, ruthless, and deadly. An ex-member of the Treadwell Supernatural Directive, she and Sebastian share decades of history…good and bad.
Mostly bad.
As a world-class thief and darkmage, she seeks power—the power of the Sacred Amethyst. She will do everything in her power to obtain the Amethyst, even if it means betraying Sebastian and letting him fall to Calum and Maledicta.
Now, Sebastian must face Regina, retake the amethyst, and stop Maledicta before the Directive is destroyed, and Regina escapes with millions and a priceless artifact.
- GenresUrban Fantasy
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 30, 2023
107 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
Orlando A. Sanchez
105 books591 followersOrlando 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.
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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 1, 2024
Wow! Nonstop action from the beginning. And so much new information about The Directive and the characters.
Ezra plays a part. Actually, a bit of a bigger part than usual. We learn more about Tiger and Sebastian, and just what is going to happen with Regina.
This is a must read!
Ezra plays a part. Actually, a bit of a bigger part than usual. We learn more about Tiger and Sebastian, and just what is going to happen with Regina.
This is a must read!
January 1, 2024
Tiger and Sebastian are in it right from the start and the tension never stops! They are tasked, by a dragon no less, to retrieve a gem that has already been "liberated" once from a power mad and hungry assassin in charge of an assassins guild, who then loses this gem to another thief with particular ties to Sebastian. He has trouble naming these ties for what they are, although the rest of his team has no problem with it. They are also marked by this dragon and this mark both gives then entre into certain circles of allies but also marks them to very dangerous enemies. To aid in their endevours, the dragon trains them and also enhances them. Then the battle is on! There are orbs and tunic blasts and all sorts of violence flying around! Will our heroes emerge victorious? Will someone get burned or sliced? One must read on!
December 31, 2023
This book brings me joy. The main characters have a very realistic, complimentary interaction that doesn’t feel forced or overly done. The author doesn’t constantly reiterate the bond between the main characters. He allows the writing and fluidity of the story to illustrate the bond they have. They are described through their actions in a way that does not detract from the stories flow. Many authors can be heavy handed in trying to drive home why a character is the way they are. Sanchez lets the characters exist and be themselves.
This book starts fast and gives plenty of laughs and action. Sebastian and his second in command Tiger are attempting to get a rare gem to fulfill a blood oath Sebastian made with Heka of the Wordweavers. Of course all he will need to do is takedown some dark mage assassins, try not to get killed by his ex and prevent the granite Fist sect from taking it. But breakfast first.
The interaction with Tiger and Sebastian gives you a deeper look into the “found family” bond between Sebastian and his Directive team. Each character is not only where they need to be but are also who they should be. It’s like a 3-D puzzle that fits seamlessly and gives you an in depth view of the workings of the Treadwell Supernatural Directive.
One of the things that takes this story beyond just an action sequel is the humor and interplay between Sebastian and his second in command Tiger. While we get glimpses and mentions of the rest of the members of Treadwell Directive, this story really is centered on Tiger and Sebastian. Tiger’s mastery of not only diplomatic negotiations but also the universal language known by everyone insures the action is always delivered. The bystanders, or NPC’s as I think of them, in the book add annother dimension and give this sequel a feeling of reality and levity without overly detracting from the action. I was pulled into scenes and became one of bystanders providing observations and commentary! It felt so natural and these moments give this book so much more depth while adding a large dose of humor. Tiger is so well written she steals each scene. Her acerbic wit is a delight. The interplay between her and Sebastian is hilarious and never feels forced. There is a scene that takes place at Ezra’s deli is well written and perfectly illustrates the almost brother/sister relationship between Tiger and Sebastian. It feels natural and everyday. Well as natural as having breakfast in a deli run by the personification of Death and filled with potentially lethal customers can be. I wish I could share more but that would spoil the fun.
However I must admit the ending of the story is abrupt and somewhat unsatisfying. I am consoled by the knowledge that the author is consistent in releasing his work and that I will neither be a grandmother or ring in 2 more new years to find out what happens hijinks Treadwell and his team will get up to next. If not for the well written other scenes the ending would necessitate a maximum of 4 stars. But the shot put toss alone takes it to 5.
This book starts fast and gives plenty of laughs and action. Sebastian and his second in command Tiger are attempting to get a rare gem to fulfill a blood oath Sebastian made with Heka of the Wordweavers. Of course all he will need to do is takedown some dark mage assassins, try not to get killed by his ex and prevent the granite Fist sect from taking it. But breakfast first.
The interaction with Tiger and Sebastian gives you a deeper look into the “found family” bond between Sebastian and his Directive team. Each character is not only where they need to be but are also who they should be. It’s like a 3-D puzzle that fits seamlessly and gives you an in depth view of the workings of the Treadwell Supernatural Directive.
One of the things that takes this story beyond just an action sequel is the humor and interplay between Sebastian and his second in command Tiger. While we get glimpses and mentions of the rest of the members of Treadwell Directive, this story really is centered on Tiger and Sebastian. Tiger’s mastery of not only diplomatic negotiations but also the universal language known by everyone insures the action is always delivered. The bystanders, or NPC’s as I think of them, in the book add annother dimension and give this sequel a feeling of reality and levity without overly detracting from the action. I was pulled into scenes and became one of bystanders providing observations and commentary! It felt so natural and these moments give this book so much more depth while adding a large dose of humor. Tiger is so well written she steals each scene. Her acerbic wit is a delight. The interplay between her and Sebastian is hilarious and never feels forced. There is a scene that takes place at Ezra’s deli is well written and perfectly illustrates the almost brother/sister relationship between Tiger and Sebastian. It feels natural and everyday. Well as natural as having breakfast in a deli run by the personification of Death and filled with potentially lethal customers can be. I wish I could share more but that would spoil the fun.
However I must admit the ending of the story is abrupt and somewhat unsatisfying. I am consoled by the knowledge that the author is consistent in releasing his work and that I will neither be a grandmother or ring in 2 more new years to find out what happens hijinks Treadwell and his team will get up to next. If not for the well written other scenes the ending would necessitate a maximum of 4 stars. But the shot put toss alone takes it to 5.
January 1, 2024
Sebastian owes a blood debt to the Wordweavers and they want him to find a powerful, Sacred Amethyst. The problem? Other powerful and clever people want the amethyst also, as it has the power to elevate a mage to an Archmage. The Wordweavers want to protect it, a darkmage assassin group and their leader want the power they'll gain from it, the Shadow Queen (who has a complicated history with Sebastian) wants it for the power and riches it will bring, and the Dragons want to let everyone know that they will NOT be pushed around. Sebastian's solution? Get his second-in-command, Tiger, by his side, his Directive family at his back, and let fierce and terrifying Dragons propel him into a fast-paced adventure that will shatter his and Tiger's conceptions of themselves and the world around them. I've said it before and I'll say it again; I love how the author writes strong women in his stories, along side a strong male main character who is not threatened by them and fully appreciates and admires them for who they are. Ditch your plans for the day, find a quiet corner, and strap in for the ride with Sebastian, Tiger, and the rest of the Treadwell Supernatural Directive if you like well written urban fantasy with lots of action, a terrific story, a good supporting cast, with a good dose of humor thrown in!
December 31, 2023
I will tell you it is best to read the first book before starting this one. This second book picks up with Sebastian having given Heka and the Wordweavers a blood debt that he will find the Amethyst and give it to them. From that moment on Sebastian, Tiger, and everyone at the agency are targeted by those who want the power the amethyst will give them. So much is in play on so many levels that it captures your attention, making you care about what will happen next and how it will affect the characters you have come to care about. Some questions will be answered in this second book and more questions will arise. I enjoy the balance and banter between Sebastian and Tiger. I Love Tiger's attitude! The world and characters whether good or bad this author has created make for a great escape and a fun read. I also must say I enjoy reading the author's notes at the back of each book. I'm looking forward to the next book and more revelations.
January 14, 2024
Truly a great read
This second installment in the Treadwell Supernatural Directive is an excellent followup to the first. Sebastian and Tiger start out looking for the amethyst, a dangerous gem that will give its bearer power but at an incredible cost. Sebastian and Tiger must deal with Dark Mage assassins and of course his old fling, Regina. All of this, on top of the mark of power from Char that identifies them as dragon kin. Great story with lots of interesting twists and turns.
This second installment in the Treadwell Supernatural Directive is an excellent followup to the first. Sebastian and Tiger start out looking for the amethyst, a dangerous gem that will give its bearer power but at an incredible cost. Sebastian and Tiger must deal with Dark Mage assassins and of course his old fling, Regina. All of this, on top of the mark of power from Char that identifies them as dragon kin. Great story with lots of interesting twists and turns.
January 1, 2024
Another homerun
Whenever a new Orlando Sanchez book is released it goes immediately to the top of the reading list and is finished in a day. The Treadwell Directive is an exception - not only is it moved to the top, but anything currently being read is put on hold. The only bad thing about this series is the interval spent waiting for the next book to be published. Can't wait for the Montague/Strong & Treadwell crossover. Or, a Treadwell & Nightwarden crossover.
Whenever a new Orlando Sanchez book is released it goes immediately to the top of the reading list and is finished in a day. The Treadwell Directive is an exception - not only is it moved to the top, but anything currently being read is put on hold. The only bad thing about this series is the interval spent waiting for the next book to be published. Can't wait for the Montague/Strong & Treadwell crossover. Or, a Treadwell & Nightwarden crossover.
January 1, 2024
It all starts with breakfast
Sebastian and Tiger lead the reader in another adventure to recover a stolen gem, save someone's life and prevent mayhem. I really enjoyed the training that both Bas and Tiger go through at Char's hands and seeing a little deeper into Sebastian's character. Shadow Queen is another fast paced installment in the Treadwell Supernatural Directive series that will leave you both satisfied and wanting more.
Sebastian and Tiger lead the reader in another adventure to recover a stolen gem, save someone's life and prevent mayhem. I really enjoyed the training that both Bas and Tiger go through at Char's hands and seeing a little deeper into Sebastian's character. Shadow Queen is another fast paced installment in the Treadwell Supernatural Directive series that will leave you both satisfied and wanting more.
January 2, 2024
Shadow Queen?
Sebastian and Tiger continue on their quest for the gem. They encounter foes who may be friends? Their dragon mark makes them a target. Ezra helps direct them to someone who can tell them where the gem is and what the Mark means. Orlando has again woven a fabulous story and takes us right along with Bas and Tiger as they strive to figure out and find the gem. And will Bas confront his love? Hang on!
Sebastian and Tiger continue on their quest for the gem. They encounter foes who may be friends? Their dragon mark makes them a target. Ezra helps direct them to someone who can tell them where the gem is and what the Mark means. Orlando has again woven a fabulous story and takes us right along with Bas and Tiger as they strive to figure out and find the gem. And will Bas confront his love? Hang on!
January 3, 2024
Be careful what you wish for
Always be aware of the cost of any decision you make. That is the lesson here. The author makes that point repeatedly in this tale. The ramifications of that cost are now front & center and it takes everything and more for our two POVs to make it thru unscathed. They will never forget the pain involved as they leveled up enough to deal with the cost either.
Always be aware of the cost of any decision you make. That is the lesson here. The author makes that point repeatedly in this tale. The ramifications of that cost are now front & center and it takes everything and more for our two POVs to make it thru unscathed. They will never forget the pain involved as they leveled up enough to deal with the cost either.
February 5, 2024
huh…a sleeper….
This story starts out ..good guys-two of them against the evil multitude. It seemed generally messed up- I truly hate the literal jump over the storyline across the abyss - to the jump of perspective, and then suddenly metamorphosis sets in and underlying danger is chaotic, unexpected and may be a little bit genius
This story starts out ..good guys-two of them against the evil multitude. It seemed generally messed up- I truly hate the literal jump over the storyline across the abyss - to the jump of perspective, and then suddenly metamorphosis sets in and underlying danger is chaotic, unexpected and may be a little bit genius
March 16, 2024
Sebastian and Tiger have to learn to work together using all of their gifts to retrieve the amethyst gem. Breakfast at Ezra's Deli turns into the beginning of their journey. Training with Char is intense. We learn more about the dragons, but the more we learn the more questions we have. I'm waiting impatiently for the next book in this series.
January 4, 2024
Power not asked for
This story is not about the agency. It its strictly about Treadwell and his second and the new role they find themselves in. With dragons and Ezra and even a great Peaches reference, this is an entertaining addition to the M&S universe.
This story is not about the agency. It its strictly about Treadwell and his second and the new role they find themselves in. With dragons and Ezra and even a great Peaches reference, this is an entertaining addition to the M&S universe.
January 10, 2024
Amazing as per usual!
Wonderful book reading these books captures an amazing feeling of playing the best rpg game ,it watching you character level up while reading an amazing story! Thank you for keeping the magic alive .
Wonderful book reading these books captures an amazing feeling of playing the best rpg game ,it watching you character level up while reading an amazing story! Thank you for keeping the magic alive .
January 12, 2024
Book 2 in The Treadwell Directive and sequel to Stray Dogs. Do not read this book first.
Sebastien and Tiger continue their task of retrieving the magical amethyst from his ex. Much mayhem and violence ensue
Sebastien and Tiger continue their task of retrieving the magical amethyst from his ex. Much mayhem and violence ensue
January 12, 2024
Sebastian and Tiger are on the hunt for a stolen gem, that could give the wielder unlimited power. As they chase down leads, all points to Regina Clark, which will complicate things for Sebastian. Good book as usual from Orlando.
January 23, 2024
Quite fun read
More integration with the shared universe of NYC. Some characters are brought in for their cameos and remind folks they're still around.
Rollicking time in the mythos.
More integration with the shared universe of NYC. Some characters are brought in for their cameos and remind folks they're still around.
Rollicking time in the mythos.
February 1, 2024
Why are they....
Why are these books so good. Don't answer that but please do read them as they do not disappoint. They are high on danger and overwhelming odds against our hero's. I urge you to five in and see for yourself.
Why are these books so good. Don't answer that but please do read them as they do not disappoint. They are high on danger and overwhelming odds against our hero's. I urge you to five in and see for yourself.
February 6, 2024
great addition
Great addition to the series. Fun and easy to read with the reader left wanting more. Always enjoy the blending of the series and seeing characters cross over or be mentioned.
Great addition to the series. Fun and easy to read with the reader left wanting more. Always enjoy the blending of the series and seeing characters cross over or be mentioned.
February 7, 2024
Much better
As usual this book raises more questions than it answers. We don't spend much time with the rest of the straw dogs, apart from Bas and Tiger, but we do get to play with dragons, make some new friends and have fun with Ezra, so it's all good. Looking forward to Endgame
As usual this book raises more questions than it answers. We don't spend much time with the rest of the straw dogs, apart from Bas and Tiger, but we do get to play with dragons, make some new friends and have fun with Ezra, so it's all good. Looking forward to Endgame
February 9, 2024
Pretty Good story
There is a very long build up with long conversations and some physical preparations for a very short confrontation with the Shadow Queen, aka Regina to retrieve a dangerously powerful gem which was then easily neutralized.
There is a very long build up with long conversations and some physical preparations for a very short confrontation with the Shadow Queen, aka Regina to retrieve a dangerously powerful gem which was then easily neutralized.
February 17, 2024
As always anything that is written by this author is awesome!
I didn't dislike anything that is written by him. He is awesome! I wish he could work faster I can't get enough! As always thank you for sharing your imagination with us the readers
I didn't dislike anything that is written by him. He is awesome! I wish he could work faster I can't get enough! As always thank you for sharing your imagination with us the readers
June 12, 2024
Entertaining as always.
Sanchez is a brilliant writer. His characters have depth, humor and honor. The story moves along quickly and keeps you wondering how you will get to the end.
Sanchez is a brilliant writer. His characters have depth, humor and honor. The story moves along quickly and keeps you wondering how you will get to the end.
August 27, 2024
I’ve settled in now and enjoyed this more than the previous one. It’s great being the Montague and Strong world again.
This is a fast paced enjoyable read and it’s straight onto the next one now.
This is a fast paced enjoyable read and it’s straight onto the next one now.
January 1, 2024
Outstanding
Lots of action, fun, silly
moments.
Wonderfully developed and delivered.
Need more! Never imagined all that being Charkin meant. Love it.
Lots of action, fun, silly
moments.
Wonderfully developed and delivered.
Need more! Never imagined all that being Charkin meant. Love it.
January 2, 2024
I really do enjoy reading about Sebastian & Co. Lots of action, with a good dollop of humor.
January 15, 2024
Another good one!
The connected in world books are really great. I like this series immensely... start with the Strong books and spread out
The connected in world books are really great. I like this series immensely... start with the Strong books and spread out
November 13, 2024
Fun
This book was action packed and full of alternate reality experiences. The author is very creative and the writing style is no nonsense
This book was action packed and full of alternate reality experiences. The author is very creative and the writing style is no nonsense
December 30, 2024
Fun read
Not one to miss! Great read plenty of intrigue and lines to follow. Looking forward to the the next adventure.
Not one to miss! Great read plenty of intrigue and lines to follow. Looking forward to the the next adventure.
July 22, 2025
Tiger is without a doubt my favorite part of the series. I want it on the record that what she did early on in the book I whole-heartedly agree with. We got some of her back story, but not much. I can’t wait to find out more about her.
We didn’t hear very much from the rest of the directive. Hopefully that will change in the next book. There are still some we haven’t met. I think it will take a more than a few books for all of the characters to truly have fully-developed identities. If Orlando holds true to his pattern of 3 books for the side series, I fear we will never get those stories. That would be regrettable. With the 12 Zodiac signs there is a plethora of ideas to chose from. There could also be a story about what happens when a member retires.
I am looking forward to more of Sebastion and Tiger.
We didn’t hear very much from the rest of the directive. Hopefully that will change in the next book. There are still some we haven’t met. I think it will take a more than a few books for all of the characters to truly have fully-developed identities. If Orlando holds true to his pattern of 3 books for the side series, I fear we will never get those stories. That would be regrettable. With the 12 Zodiac signs there is a plethora of ideas to chose from. There could also be a story about what happens when a member retires.
I am looking forward to more of Sebastion and Tiger.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews