Warlock

by Ryan McBeth

Step into a world where reality intertwines with magic in "Warlock" by Ryan McBeth. Follow the gripping tale of Patrick Connors, a former thief turned con artist, who possesses an extraordinary talent—the gift of the Jib. This unique ability allows him to visualize the interiors of houses, detect hidden alarms, and even sense the presence of residents. Patrick's life takes a dramatic turn when he is approached by the FBI to use his supernatural skills to track down the elusive Osama Bin Laden in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks.

As Patrick navigates the treacherous terrain of Afghanistan, he encounters mystical Sufi wizards, ethereal jinn, and the relentless dangers of war. The story delves deep into his moral struggles, the price of using his gift, and his ultimate quest for redemption.

"Warlock" is a thrilling blend of crime, magic, and military action, offering readers an unforgettable journey through the eyes of a man who must reconcile his past with his extraordinary abilities. Ryan McBeth masterfully weaves suspense, emotion, and a touch of the supernatural in this captivating short story. Perfect for fans of military thrillers and magical realism, "Warlock" will leave you spellbound from start to finish.

24 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 17, 2024

About the author

Ryan McBeth is an intelligence analyst, software architect, cybersecurity guy, novelest and YouTube content creator of military, intelligence and disinformation topics. He appears on NEWSMAX as an intelligence consultant and consults for Veloxxity on OSINT and information warfare.



Ryan spent 20 years as an anti-armor and heavy weapons infantryman with two overseas deployments and developed C4ISR software for Accenture Federal Services. He lives in Silver Spring, Maryland with a large humidor and whiskey library.

Reviews

[Blaire Mcmillan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not McBeth’s Usual Forte

McBeth states himself he’s not really a writer, not in the traditional sense, especially of fiction. However, this was a great first attempt. This is an easy read, stays fast paste, just enough character development to get an idea of who the protagonist is. The world building in this story is especially interesting. This short has all the promise of a very interesting and entertaining series, should McBeth ever decide to venture that far from his “everyday” job. And I’d love to see more of this world and the characters in it.

[Thomas & Betzaida Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Military Magic - short but fun

Ryan McBeth's fast paced imagining of a world where magic exists is a fun read. In this tale an Irish conman is drafted by the FBI to help the US Army find Osama bin Laden. McBeth's military background shows through to good effect as the Irishman, an FBI agent and a battalion of Army Rangers search through a magic infested Afghanistan to find the AQ leader. The only flaw is a consistent failure to capitalize the term Ranger. The story only takes a few minutes. a worthwhile investment. Recommended.

[Henry C. Schumacher · Rating 5 out of 5]

just read this story

I hope Ryan puts on his Hemingway hat and starts writing. The only complaint about this story is it was too short, so get it somewhere between Dr. Zhivago and for whom the bells toll . This was a great story. I hope there’s a whole pile of sequels. I like series I’m reading this series on the British Navy during the Napoleonic wars and the main characters now an admiral, Lord Giles Courtney., I’m on book 23 keep up the good work Ryan

[Armando Duarte galan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damn good story! Left me wanting for more

I really liked the character development on the protagonist and think this Universe could grow on to be whole series. If you like military sci-fi or fast paced stories with a good dialogues, you’ll love this.

Looking forward to reading more from him

[Kenneth Pugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good story

I went into this with no expectations since I do not believe in magic or any of that kind of thing. However, after reading it I really enjoyed it. I appreciate Mr. McBeths analysis of real-world military happenings, so I gave it a try and was surprised by how much fun it was.

[Nancy White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alternate look at hunt for bin Laden

This short story offers a look at an alternate outcome to the 9/11 attacks using a bit magic. Packs a lot into its pages. If you've read & enjoyed William F. Buckley, Jr (and if you havent read his books, do so) you might really enjoy this story.

[Maxmillian Macmoragh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not bad for a first outing

It was a pretty good, quick read. There's just enough there to make one hunger for more. My only complaint would be the use of 'rangers' where they should rightfully be called 'Rangers'. An Army guy should know this. ;)

[Michael Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

this would make a great novel

I really enjoyed this. Ryan definitely can write an action scene and set up a solid/unique premise. Here’s hoping for a full length novel based in this universe.

[Mandy Wultsch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need more, please

I really hope this is just a teaser for a whole series, because this is one of my preferred flavors of sci-fi/fantasy. Great combination of military fiction, alternative history, and magical systems. Awesome YTer and awesome author? Very nice.

[David Hyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great stuff. A nice short story.

[Soc Page]

46 - A book in which a character sleeps for more than 24 hours

[Ko Yamamoto · Rating 5 out of 5]

very good short

The author keeps the story tight and dense. Not much fluff. Good ideas and good writing made it easy to read and enjoyable.

[dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magical Warfare

I always thought the weapons the U.S. fights with were magical and now I know magic is part of the mix. Thanks Ryan for a great short story.

[Sabion · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a cool story. An great deal of world building in such a small package. Well done and I would love to read more like this.