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Tide of Shadows
An island paradise. A deadly conspiracy. One man and his dog caught in a war they never saw coming.
You can ignore corruption and treachery until it washes up at your feet. What would you do if saving a life put yours—and those you love—in danger?
Military veteran Gus Harper wants nothing more than quiet days and open waters—just him, his boat, and Arty, his decorated ex-special forces war dog. A sun-soaked island paradise. A simple life. That was the plan. But one night, they haul in more than a fish—a half-drowned survivor of human trafficking, terrified and clinging to life.
Gus and Arty are drawn back into a world of duty—one they thought they had left behind—confronting corruption, deception, and ruthless men willing to kill to protect their trade.
With an unlikely alliance—a Maltese Cardinal, a vivacious widow, a mysterious Polish handyman, and a former US Navy SEAL—together, they expose a criminal network stretching from North Africa to Malta’s corridors of power, where those sworn to serve instead profit from corruption and treachery.
With danger mounting, friends falling, and their peaceful lives slipping away, Gus and Arty must summon the courage and use ancient hidden backdrops to face down a powerful enemy and bring justice to the island’s shores.
Think The Bourne Identity meets The Power of the Dog—a reluctant hero is drawn into a brutal war where the line between justice and survival blurs.
A sun-soaked paradise. A deadly conspiracy. A fight for survival.
Click ‘Read Now’ to join the action in Tide of Shadows!
You can ignore corruption and treachery until it washes up at your feet. What would you do if saving a life put yours—and those you love—in danger?
Military veteran Gus Harper wants nothing more than quiet days and open waters—just him, his boat, and Arty, his decorated ex-special forces war dog. A sun-soaked island paradise. A simple life. That was the plan. But one night, they haul in more than a fish—a half-drowned survivor of human trafficking, terrified and clinging to life.
Gus and Arty are drawn back into a world of duty—one they thought they had left behind—confronting corruption, deception, and ruthless men willing to kill to protect their trade.
With an unlikely alliance—a Maltese Cardinal, a vivacious widow, a mysterious Polish handyman, and a former US Navy SEAL—together, they expose a criminal network stretching from North Africa to Malta’s corridors of power, where those sworn to serve instead profit from corruption and treachery.
With danger mounting, friends falling, and their peaceful lives slipping away, Gus and Arty must summon the courage and use ancient hidden backdrops to face down a powerful enemy and bring justice to the island’s shores.
Think The Bourne Identity meets The Power of the Dog—a reluctant hero is drawn into a brutal war where the line between justice and survival blurs.
A sun-soaked paradise. A deadly conspiracy. A fight for survival.
Click ‘Read Now’ to join the action in Tide of Shadows!
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2025
156 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
April 17, 2025
This is a tense crime thriller that will leave you feeling as desperate as Aisha who is hoping the monsters she has escaped won’t manage to hook their claws back into her. Gus and his brave war dog will sacrifice their peaceful life to rescue and protect Aisha at all costs. They won’t back down and they won’t give up. They’ll uncover and expose an operation that has been silenced for far too long.
February 24, 2025
“Tide of Shadows”, (Book One of the Sea Dog Stories) by PT Leonard is a thoroughly enjoyable read passionately capturing the author's love for dogs, family and friendship and, the islands of Gozo and Malta. For me, the gist of this tale is the unconditional dependence and bond between ‘man and faithful dog’; these military veterans having both suffered personal loss, finding and caring for each other from first meet, whilst the author, reflecting on his own personal life as a submariner, realises this trust and reliance he held with all crew members whilst serving beneath the waves.
Captivating from the start he takes the reader through the main character, Gus (the retired submariner) idyllic, peaceful retirement life which is thrown into disarray following his and his faithful hound Arty assisting an escapee of the illegal trafficking trade and, with the assistance of his 'rag-tag' companions, refuse to be beaten by the corrupt ministerial officials and the traffickers themselves.
The author's relaxed and fervently readable style keeps the reader entertained throughout, the story playing on the emotions of the differing characters acting out his tale; but always returning to his and Arty’s absolute love and devotion towards each other. His reflection into the author’s earlier career as a submariner provides the occasional line as he reminisces these times bringing a smile to the reader and, a larger smile to those that know.
The vivid and outstanding descriptions of the floras along with their scents and fragrances, carry the reader across the land as if you were there, painting the picturesque settings of these Mediterranean islands. The depiction of his boat, a luzzu, with her ‘Eyes of Osiris’ watching the waters from her brightly coloured hull take you across sea with his trusty four-legged companion keeping watch, “her sharp senses scanning their surroundings as if it were her duty”; close your eyes and you are there travelling alongside this man and his dog as they battle with their adversaries on both land and sea.
I personally found this an exceptional first book and displays a hidden talent which hopefully will continue to allow us to enjoy the tales of Gus and his faithful hound, Arty and, I for one thoroughly enjoyed the read and eagerly await his next instalment.
Captivating from the start he takes the reader through the main character, Gus (the retired submariner) idyllic, peaceful retirement life which is thrown into disarray following his and his faithful hound Arty assisting an escapee of the illegal trafficking trade and, with the assistance of his 'rag-tag' companions, refuse to be beaten by the corrupt ministerial officials and the traffickers themselves.
The author's relaxed and fervently readable style keeps the reader entertained throughout, the story playing on the emotions of the differing characters acting out his tale; but always returning to his and Arty’s absolute love and devotion towards each other. His reflection into the author’s earlier career as a submariner provides the occasional line as he reminisces these times bringing a smile to the reader and, a larger smile to those that know.
The vivid and outstanding descriptions of the floras along with their scents and fragrances, carry the reader across the land as if you were there, painting the picturesque settings of these Mediterranean islands. The depiction of his boat, a luzzu, with her ‘Eyes of Osiris’ watching the waters from her brightly coloured hull take you across sea with his trusty four-legged companion keeping watch, “her sharp senses scanning their surroundings as if it were her duty”; close your eyes and you are there travelling alongside this man and his dog as they battle with their adversaries on both land and sea.
I personally found this an exceptional first book and displays a hidden talent which hopefully will continue to allow us to enjoy the tales of Gus and his faithful hound, Arty and, I for one thoroughly enjoyed the read and eagerly await his next instalment.
February 21, 2025
This is an exciting contemporary thriller set on the Mediterranean island of Gozo, Malta’s small sister island which lies between sixty miles south of Sicily and less than 200 miles from the North African coastline. Despite its diminutive size, throughout history Malta has been prized for its strategic position for the control of trade routes, for empire building, and in times of war. Although it has a reputation for corruption, now, in times of peace, Malta is a busting tourist hotspot that offers a warm welcome to new residents from around the world; Gozo is its quieter counterpart, a haven of towering cliffs and tradition.
And yet, all is not rosy in this rural backwater, as one resident of the western reaches is about to discover. When Gus, a former submariner, and his faithful hound Arty, pull a girl from the sea one night, they disturb the far reaching threads of an international smuggling racket that impacts people from the Middle East to the US, and threatens to drown them all.
Beautifully written with engaging and intriguing characters, this is a warm-hearted novel that’s pacy and exciting without being too gritty. As the lines of politics, business, and crime blur, and the danger builds, the tale twists and turns: who is true to their word and who is a traitor? Whilst fictional, this is a narrative of our times which, despite being a great read, reminds us of the misery wrought by human trafficking, the evils inflicted by the few on their fellow man, and the vast scale of illegal operations that span the globe outside.
If the story was set in grey tenements in a thick-set buildings of North or Eastern European city, it might feel heavy, dark and utterly appropriate. However, set under a cloudless cyan sky with sunlight dancing on a glistening cerulean sea, the shady world of society’s underbelly seems both a starker contrast and a lighter read. The book is infused with a rich sense of place as you roam an island warmed by the summer sun, where age-old golden stone walls snake between remote hamlets and low green hills rise from hidden rocky coves and where traditions are strong. There are fireworks and festas, bobbing boats and colourful kites, and good people who pull together.
And so, with love, hope and a remarkable dog, there’s every chance that things will work out ok in the end!
And yet, all is not rosy in this rural backwater, as one resident of the western reaches is about to discover. When Gus, a former submariner, and his faithful hound Arty, pull a girl from the sea one night, they disturb the far reaching threads of an international smuggling racket that impacts people from the Middle East to the US, and threatens to drown them all.
Beautifully written with engaging and intriguing characters, this is a warm-hearted novel that’s pacy and exciting without being too gritty. As the lines of politics, business, and crime blur, and the danger builds, the tale twists and turns: who is true to their word and who is a traitor? Whilst fictional, this is a narrative of our times which, despite being a great read, reminds us of the misery wrought by human trafficking, the evils inflicted by the few on their fellow man, and the vast scale of illegal operations that span the globe outside.
If the story was set in grey tenements in a thick-set buildings of North or Eastern European city, it might feel heavy, dark and utterly appropriate. However, set under a cloudless cyan sky with sunlight dancing on a glistening cerulean sea, the shady world of society’s underbelly seems both a starker contrast and a lighter read. The book is infused with a rich sense of place as you roam an island warmed by the summer sun, where age-old golden stone walls snake between remote hamlets and low green hills rise from hidden rocky coves and where traditions are strong. There are fireworks and festas, bobbing boats and colourful kites, and good people who pull together.
And so, with love, hope and a remarkable dog, there’s every chance that things will work out ok in the end!
February 25, 2025
The descriptions of the eucalyptus trees, oleander blossom and citrus scents permeates into the mind and senses of the reader immersing them in beautiful Gozo. One can almost smell the wild fennel and feel the heat of the Mediterranean sun.
The chapters are interspersed with tales of folklore and myths that add richness to the story: giving depth to the setting and binding the characters to the land.
A great plot with very interesting characters who are relateable, believable and endearing like Gus and Arty with their harmonious interplay showing such depth of emotion between man and dog.
The undercurrent of vice and corruption running deep throughout Malta is explored within the story and highlights how the Gozo people separate themselves from the mainland thus creating an island, like no other, with warm, vibrant people proud of their culture and heritage.
Can't wait until next book.
The chapters are interspersed with tales of folklore and myths that add richness to the story: giving depth to the setting and binding the characters to the land.
A great plot with very interesting characters who are relateable, believable and endearing like Gus and Arty with their harmonious interplay showing such depth of emotion between man and dog.
The undercurrent of vice and corruption running deep throughout Malta is explored within the story and highlights how the Gozo people separate themselves from the mainland thus creating an island, like no other, with warm, vibrant people proud of their culture and heritage.
Can't wait until next book.
March 8, 2025
Tide of Shadows (Sea Dog, #1) by author P.T. Leonard is a fast paced read, filled with suspense, a compelling narrative with a dramatic ending!
The description of the landscapes, the island and surrounding waters made me feel as if I was actually there while reading the story.
I loved the main characters, especially Gus and his faithful dog Arty! Gus's friends became my friends while reading this story and when something happened to one of his friends I grieved also.
I absolutely loved this story and I think you will too!
TBR 3/16/2025
Short Synopsis: Five centuries ago, on the sun-drenched shores of a small Mediterranean island, a miracle unfolded—a saint stepped from an ancient chapel mural to rescue a mother's son from barbary slave traders.
Today, on the same azure waters, another tale of courage and redemption is about to unfold.
Retired British submariner Gus Harper has found peace in the simple rhythms of life on Gozo. He spends his days fishing from his old wooden boat with Arty, a decorated ex-US special forces war dog with a remarkable past. But when a desperate midnight rescue brings aboard a half-drowned young woman – a victim of human trafficking, their idyllic existence begins to fall apart.
The description of the landscapes, the island and surrounding waters made me feel as if I was actually there while reading the story.
I loved the main characters, especially Gus and his faithful dog Arty! Gus's friends became my friends while reading this story and when something happened to one of his friends I grieved also.
I absolutely loved this story and I think you will too!
TBR 3/16/2025
Short Synopsis: Five centuries ago, on the sun-drenched shores of a small Mediterranean island, a miracle unfolded—a saint stepped from an ancient chapel mural to rescue a mother's son from barbary slave traders.
Today, on the same azure waters, another tale of courage and redemption is about to unfold.
Retired British submariner Gus Harper has found peace in the simple rhythms of life on Gozo. He spends his days fishing from his old wooden boat with Arty, a decorated ex-US special forces war dog with a remarkable past. But when a desperate midnight rescue brings aboard a half-drowned young woman – a victim of human trafficking, their idyllic existence begins to fall apart.
February 26, 2025
Tide of Shadows is a masterfully written novel that seamlessly intertwines the rich history of Malta and Gozo with the dark, clandestine world of human trafficking. With a gripping narrative that blends historical depth with modern-day intrigue, the book offers a compelling read that is both thought-provoking and unsettling.
P.T Leonard’s extensive knowledge of Maltese history shines through with vivid descriptions of the islands, from ancient fortresses to hidden caves that serve as backdrops for both noble and nefarious deeds. The contrast between Malta’s storied past and its contemporary struggles adds layers of complexity, making the setting feel as much a character as the people who inhabit it.
The novel’s pacing is expertly handled, weaving between timelines and perspectives with finesse. Beyond its thrilling plot, Tide of Shadows forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about crime, corruption, and the often-overlooked human cost of modern slavery. It is not just a story of suspense but also a poignant exploration of the forces that shape societies, past and present.
For those who appreciate history with a contemporary edge, or crime thrillers with a strong sense of place, Tide of Shadows is an unmissable read. With its evocative prose and intricate storytelling, this book lingers in the mind long after the final page.
Although I received a free copy of this book, my review has been given freely, willingly and voluntarily.
P.T Leonard’s extensive knowledge of Maltese history shines through with vivid descriptions of the islands, from ancient fortresses to hidden caves that serve as backdrops for both noble and nefarious deeds. The contrast between Malta’s storied past and its contemporary struggles adds layers of complexity, making the setting feel as much a character as the people who inhabit it.
The novel’s pacing is expertly handled, weaving between timelines and perspectives with finesse. Beyond its thrilling plot, Tide of Shadows forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about crime, corruption, and the often-overlooked human cost of modern slavery. It is not just a story of suspense but also a poignant exploration of the forces that shape societies, past and present.
For those who appreciate history with a contemporary edge, or crime thrillers with a strong sense of place, Tide of Shadows is an unmissable read. With its evocative prose and intricate storytelling, this book lingers in the mind long after the final page.
Although I received a free copy of this book, my review has been given freely, willingly and voluntarily.
April 13, 2025
I just finished Tide of Shadows by P.T. Leonard, and I really enjoyed it. The story is set on the island of Gozo, and the setting plays a big role in the book—it felt really vivid and authentic, like I was right there.
The main character, Gus Harper, is a former Navy submariner who’s just trying to enjoy a quiet life with his dog, Arty. Things change fast when he saves a woman from the sea, and that one act pulls him into a dangerous world of human trafficking and corruption. What I liked most about Gus is that he’s not a flashy hero—just a guy trying to do the right thing, even when it puts him in danger.
The plot moves quickly, and there’s a good balance of action, character development, and emotional moments. I really liked the relationship between Gus and Arty—it gave the story some warmth. The characters around them are also well-written, from the allies to the villains.
Even though the book deals with some dark topics, like trafficking and corruption, it never felt too heavy or overdone. It kept me engaged the whole way through, and I could easily picture everything thanks to the strong sense of place.
If you like thrillers with heart—something along the lines of Lee Child or David Baldacci—you’ll probably enjoy this. It’s the first in a series called “Sea Dog Stories,” and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next.
The main character, Gus Harper, is a former Navy submariner who’s just trying to enjoy a quiet life with his dog, Arty. Things change fast when he saves a woman from the sea, and that one act pulls him into a dangerous world of human trafficking and corruption. What I liked most about Gus is that he’s not a flashy hero—just a guy trying to do the right thing, even when it puts him in danger.
The plot moves quickly, and there’s a good balance of action, character development, and emotional moments. I really liked the relationship between Gus and Arty—it gave the story some warmth. The characters around them are also well-written, from the allies to the villains.
Even though the book deals with some dark topics, like trafficking and corruption, it never felt too heavy or overdone. It kept me engaged the whole way through, and I could easily picture everything thanks to the strong sense of place.
If you like thrillers with heart—something along the lines of Lee Child or David Baldacci—you’ll probably enjoy this. It’s the first in a series called “Sea Dog Stories,” and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next.
March 3, 2025
What a cracking read! This book had me hooked. A heady combination of human trafficking, corruption and intrigue, with just a teensy hint of romance, against the backdrop of a small Mediterranean Island. There were some disparate but lovely characters in it that you really warmed to and wanted to protect, but some less savoury one's too (the likes of which you'd like to see have their comeuppance). With every spare moment I had, I was itching to find out what was going to happen next, and was kept right on tenterhooks through to the action packed finale (no spoilers). For me it was a real page turner.
I was stunned that this is PT Leonard's first book - he tells a great story. I can't wait to read the next in the series, especially to find out what happens with the gallant protagonist Gus, and his trusty sidekick Arty.
I was stunned that this is PT Leonard's first book - he tells a great story. I can't wait to read the next in the series, especially to find out what happens with the gallant protagonist Gus, and his trusty sidekick Arty.
November 3, 2025
Tide of Shadows is a gripping, fast-paced thriller that balances high octane action with deep emotional resonance. Gus Harper and his loyal war dog Arty make a compelling duo, pulled from a peaceful island life back into danger when they rescue a trafficking victim. The story unfolds into a tense, twisting conspiracy that spans from Maltese shores to corridors of power.
With a colorful cast of allies and a vivid island backdrop, this is a story about justice, loyalty, and courage in the face of corruption. Perfect for fans of The Bourne Identity, it's a page-turner that blends heart-pounding moments with thoughtful character depth.
Unputdownable highly recommended!
With a colorful cast of allies and a vivid island backdrop, this is a story about justice, loyalty, and courage in the face of corruption. Perfect for fans of The Bourne Identity, it's a page-turner that blends heart-pounding moments with thoughtful character depth.
Unputdownable highly recommended!
May 12, 2025
I throughly enjoyed this book. A real page turner. Worthy of 5 stars. Engaging characters and gripping plot. Beautifully written with wonderful atmospheric descriptions of Gozo. Congratulations to the author for such an excellent first novel. Can’t wait to read the next one.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews