Lightning Strikes Twice

by Dale M. Nelson

What is more dangerous than the truth? Matt Gage is about to find out.

When investigative reporter Jennie Burkhardt uncovers a link between Russia and the mysterious "Havana Syndrome" attacks, she enlists former CIA operative-turned private eye Matt Gage to verify the source—a Russian defector with ties to a shadowy military intelligence unit. But as Gage plunges headlong into the investigation, he realizes the opposition is far more organized—and closer to home—than he expected.

Gage’s case pulls him into an international hunt, making him the target of powerful adversaries determined to bury the secret. And as the investigation continues, he realizes they’ll stop at nothing to bury him, too.

With powerful forces closing in, Gage faces a harrowing reveal the truth, risking worldwide chaos, or become complicit in hiding a dark conspiracy, betraying his values and humanity.

Dale M. Nelson’s third installment in the Gage Files is a gripping, hard-edged tale of crime and conspiracy—perfect for readers of Nelson DeMille, Michael Connelly, and David Baldacci.

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What readers are

★★★★★ "What a thriller!"
★★★★★ "...lots of action..."
★★★★★ "...engaging and fast-paced..."
★★★★★ "...great character development!"
★★★★★ "...mixes real life facts with fiction."

431 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 14, 2025

About the author

Dale M. Nelson grew up outside Tampa, Florida and is a graduate of the University of Florida's College of Journalism and Communications. He served eight years a United States Air Force Officer. Following his military service, Dale relocated to the Washington D.C. area and has worked in the defense, technology and telecommunications sectors before starting his writing career. He currently lives in Washington D.C. with his wife and daughters.

Reviews

[Abibliofob · Rating 4 out of 5]

Matt Gage returns and he brings Havana to the table. Dale M. Nelson has written a third installment with the detective from the Tiki bar. This time we get to travel a lot and the twists are fantastic. Is the Havana syndrome real or is it fake? Who is really behind it if it now exists? Do we get an answer? well I will not tell you. Ha, get the book and find out for yourself. It is available in mid October 2025. I think this one was rather good although you don't really know who you can trust and how to solve it. Gage is torn between his client and his loyalty to country. I must thank Edelweiss and Severn River Publishing for letting me read this advance copy.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This third installment featuring ex-CIA operative turned private investigator Matt Gage, offers up nonstop action. Matt is hired to meet with a Russian defector who claims to have proof that the Russian government has developed and used a weapon that causes neurological damage against US diplomats and embassy staff. Matt’s journalist friend Jennie has been investigating the Havana Syndrome and believes there is much more involved than the US government has disclosed. There’s enough international intrigue, spies, espionage, secrets, coverups and action to keep the pages turning.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC through "Severn River" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

The story begins with Matt being asked by Jennie to check out a source for her article on the "Havana Syndrome" that she is currently working on. Matt wants to meet with a few people before he makes a decision. In the end Matt agrees and eventually goes to Lithuania where he is to meet with her source and eventually also talk with someone who has documentation that supports the reality of the Syndrome and discounts that which the government released.

Follow along with Matt and learn of all the obstacles that Matt has to overcome, what sort of roadblocks people put to stop him and what the eventual result is in the end. The story will definitely keep your interest and you will have a hard time putting the book down. This is a definite read, don't miss out!

[Claudete Takahashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lightning Strikes Twice is an excellent espionage story that mixes real life facts with fiction. Gage is now a relentless PI who will do anything to help Jennie Burkhardt, an investigative journalist, to uncover the truth behind the "Havana Syndrome". He'll be hunted and almost killed whilst bringing a whitlebower free and into Switzerland and the hunt will continue till the end. He'll know deceit, despair, betrayal and loss but he'll do what his conscience wills him to do. Highly recommended!!!
I thank the author and his publisher for this engaging and fast-paced ARC.

[Ronaele Whittington, D.S.W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing, complicated, International

Havana syndrome and electromagnetic weapons become politicized in a variety of countries. When sufficient numbers of victims cannot receive medical care, journalists attempt to expose the problem. Of course, all of this is fiction with implied relevance to peace and safety.