Operation Yukatan

S-Squad #17

by William Meikle

It's supposed to be a simple. babysitting gig, a way to ease in a new recruit to the squad.A new oil exploration site in the Yucatan is to receive an inspection from a team of Whitehall suits, with the squad along as backup.But the site has been built in exactly the wrong place. Something else, creatures from legend, lays claim to the land, and they want it back.When matters come to a head the squad does what it always does.They take a stand.They fight.

Genres: Fiction, Horror

140 pages, Paperback

Published March 18, 2024

About the author

I'm a Scottish writer, now living in Canada, with more than thirty novels published in the genre press and over 300 short story credits in thirteen countries.

My work has appeared in a number of professional anthologies and I have recent short story sales to NATURE Futures and Galaxy's Edge. When I'm not writing I play guitar, drink beer and dream of fortune and glory.

For an intro to me, my writing and my accent see my Youtube channel

Reviews

[JD · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good follow-up to book 16 in the series, with the squad going to warmer climes for a change. This time they are along for the ride as bodyguards to some ministry men, and have a new member in S-Squad to break in. So a routine op turns into something more again, same as it ever was.

Captain Banks' point of view makes a comeback, and the new guy, Mac, also has his point of view showed, and his character development is the most in depth so far in the series which is a big positive for me. Wilko has also evolved over the last few books and is turning into a rock for the squad along with Wiggo. The story had a good flow, and the book kept you wanting to know more, with the squads' adversaries this time being a good match in intelligence this time. The ending was brilliant, with the cherry on the cake being "La Cucuracha" blaring in the final battle. Also one of the better books in the series.

[The Smoog · Rating 4 out of 5]

The squaddies are back to endanger another species. There’s a slightly different take on this one, the monsters are Chupacabras which display more than a degree of intelligence, almost human in level; this means that you’re left feeling more than a little sorry for the poor little critters. Despite this, it’s still a fast-paced and enjoyable pulp military horror book, and a worthy addition to the S-Squad series.

[BERNARD ANDREWS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unmatched military (monster) storytelling

The S-Squad books are without a doubt the best of the military vs cryptids genre. I was reading some by other authors recently and they don't flow or grip my attention in the same way. It's pulpy nonsense but with characters you can feel and beautifully judged action.

[Amanda Brewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Chupie Story

I really loved this story! Its just as good as all of the other S Squad tales. The new guy is a good addition to the team and even Johnstone kicked some arse too. Maybe he can come back in a future story. Can't wait for the next one.

[M.H. Thaung]

Somehow the author keeps these S-Squad stories fresh, although of course they’re all about the main team vs creature(s), helped and hindered by a cast of other characters.

This time, we meet a new team members, who… ok, I won’t spoil it :p An added complication is a lack of equipment, and I enjoyed seeing how that played out.

Another solid creature feature in the style the author’s regular readers will have come to expect.

[Calvin · Rating 5 out of 5]

S Squad vs Chupacabra

I've been waiting for the team to go up against these monsters, and this book didn't disappoint. S Squad gets a new member, who stumbles a bit at first, but eventually finds his place with the team. Plenty of monsters, with a hint of intelligence, and as usual Wiggo spouting one liners. Can't wait to see what's next.

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good cryptid adventure. These beasties do NOT want people around and prove it by overwhelming odds. They decide it is best to leave them be and run out of their territory. Only problem is, these cryptids want them dead-not just removed. Plenty of tense moments, some surprises. Recommended. Mr. Meikle has given us another good one.

[Amber Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast and furious

Just the way I enjoy my S Squad. Sassy, pissed off and full of vinegar. This time its chupacabras! We also have a new character and so far I like him. Can't wait for the next adventure!

[Trevor · Rating 4 out of 5]

S-Squad are back with an easy babysitting job, but nothing is ever straightforward for the team. With a new team member to break in and wave after wave of creatures attacking, the team are pushed to the limits. Good story as usual and the new team member freshens things up.

[Kevin McNamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Epic Tale

Mr. Meikle makes it so easy to get absorbed in his S-Squad adventures. A fast moving action filled tale with humor, action and of course Beasties. Highly recommended and am anxiously awaiting Book 18. No pressure right Mr. Meikle! 😄

[A.M.Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read and to the point

Always love another s-squad to be honest I would love it to be a bit longer but aside from that I was happy see another book and happy to see the squad at it again.

[Justin Beaumont · Rating 5 out of 5]

I keep coming back to the S Squad books, it is hard to stay away, Why ? I hear you clamour, simple really. These stories do not take themselves too seriously, they are fun, they are escapist, reliable, amusing and definitely take you away from the humdrum existence of a working life.
The wretched soldiers do not appear to have a proper leave in years, they are appallingly overworked and in true MOD fashion, rely on the same somewhat dated equipment whilst facing increasingly dangerous foes. This Squad has travelled the globe facing down mystical creatures that are intent on a free meal, namely the Squad. In this particular case they end up in Mexico, babysitting an oil concern that is part funded by HM Government. As a rare occurrence, the creatures that they oppose are trying live in their traditional homelands and get on with life, hard to do with a drill coming through your territory. The Squad arrives, to paraphrase a similar group , "We come in peace, shoot to kill!". Treat yourself, complete the set.

[Gary Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

S-Squad Faces Another Threat

The S-Squad is called up for an easy job but nothing is easy when the Monster Magnets arrive. One of the best in the series.

[Stuart · Rating 5 out of 5]

S squad

I have never read an s squad book I didn't love and this one is no different. Excellent book highly recommended.