Shadow Directive

Danny Cortez Thrillers #2

by L.T. Ryan, Andre Gonzalez

When rogue operative Danny Cortez uncovers a black ops list tied to a vast political conspiracy, he becomes the target of the very agency he once served. As bodies fall and allies turn, Danny races to expose a covert directive buried deep within the CIA—one authorized by a powerful senator with everything to lose. With a journalist's death, a friend’s betrayal, and his own family caught in the crosshairs, Danny must choose between justice and survival.

Some secrets are meant to stay buried. Others demand blood.

236 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 24, 2026

About the author

L.T. RYAN is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author. The new age of publishing offered L.T. the opportunity to blend his passions for creating, marketing, and technology to reach audiences with his popular Jack Noble series.

Living in central Virginia with his wife, the youngest of his three daughters, and their three dogs, L.T. enjoys staring out his window at the trees and mountains while he should be writing, as well as reading, hiking, running, and playing with gadgets. See what he's up to at ltryan.com.

BOOKS IN THE JACK NOBLE SERIES
The Recruit (prequel short story)
The First Deception (prequel)
Noble Beginnings
A Deadly Distance
Thin Line
Noble Intentions
When Dead in Greece
Noble Retribution
Noble Betrayal
Never Go Home
Noble Judgment
Never Cry Mercy
Deadline
End Game

BOOKS IN THE BEAR LOGAN SERIES
Ripple Effect
Blowback
Takedown
Deep State (coming January, 2020)

BOOKS IN THE CLARISSA ABBOT SERIES
Beyond Betrayal

BOOKS IN THE MITCH TANNER SERIES
The Depths of Darkness
Into the Darkness
Deliver Us From Darkness (coming soon)

Social Media Links

Facebook (L.T. Ryan): facebook.com/LTRyanAuthor
Facebook (Jack Noble Page): facebook.com/JackNobleBooks/
Twitter: twitter.com/LTRyanWrites
Goodreads: goodreads.com/author/show/6151659.L_T...

Contact L.T. Ryan at contact@ltryan.com
About the Author
L.T. RYAN is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author. The new age of publishing offered L.T. the opportunity to blend his passions for creating, marketing, and technology to reach audiences with his popular Jack Noble series.

Living in central Virginia with his wife, the youngest of his three daughters, and their three dogs, L.T. enjoys staring out his window at the trees and mountains while he should be writing, as well as reading, hiking, running, and playing with gadgets. See what he's up to at ltryan.com.

Social Media Links

Facebook (L.T. Ryan): facebook.com/LTRyanAuthor
Facebook (Jack Noble Page): facebook.com/JackNobleBooks/
Twitter: twitter.com/LTRyanWrites
Goodreads: goodreads.com/author/show/6151659.L_T...

Contact L.T. Ryan at contact@ltryan.com

Reviews

[John M. Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enjoyable book

Since none of my favorite authors has published a book lately, I had to find something to read, I’m happy I found this series. It looks like I found a new series. I really enjoyed the last 2 books. If you’re looking for a new series this one might be it. ENJOY!

[Fritz Duchatellier · Rating 4 out of 5]

There seems to be a pattern with this series. I typically like L.T. Ryan's books, however, this series is not the greatest work. As with book one, the story line was good and again, they ended with a hook that takes you to the next book, which I will read. This series works in a fast-paced style with interesting plot. However, it seems a little hollow and unrealistic.

[Linae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast moving drama

Lots of suspense and moving parts and people on every page.This series is turning out to be really good. I like the characters and the settings. I didn't think this is how it would end but I shouldn't be surprised considering the authors. I loom forward to the next release.

[landyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keeping Alive!

Danny Cortez has to
Kill to rescue
His kidnapped Mother. Can he carry out the assignments? Will he kill innocent people to save his mom?

Action; murder, gunfights, chases, this story has it all!

Catch up with Danny Cortez right now!

[carl clause · Rating 5 out of 5]

CC1

This was an excellent chapter in the Danny Cortez story. Definitely proved himself after Mother kidnapped. Did best to save lives of people on list. Bur Steele overplayed his position. Calloway waits to fight for another day. 10 🌟 plus!!! Thanks Carl Clause

[Jack Burkhalter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danny Cortez, the Best of the DEA !

This novel from Ryan & Gonzalez reveals Government corruption at its worse involving both the DEA & CIA linked to Drug Cartel money. The pace is breath taking, characters so believable and the ending unexpected. Don’t miss it.

[Karen Winter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

I hope L.T. Ryan and Andre Gonzalez write some more books together in the future. I love how the little guy takes on corrupt Washington D.C. bureaucrats and puts a big dent in their greedy machine. Can't wait until the 3rd book in this series comes out!

[Ann Keeran · Rating 5 out of 5]

L.T. Ryan keeps up to his high standards with the Danny Cortez series. Spectacular novel that is so easy to read.

[Penelope Sturm-Borkert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

Exciting and thought provoking. The action is realistic and not over done, I like the way it is written so that the reader can relate to the actions taken.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Différent from the usual

Different kind of story for Ryan. Good dialogue and the reader can’t help connecting with the main characters. Danny Cortez is easy to root for.

[LISA DUNFORD · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good Lieutenant Ryan book

Very nice enjoyed the book very much it was a wonderful book it was great writing and I can't read the next 1 in the series Amen

[Benny Mullinax · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read but still have to get used to the main character being sort of a wimp. But in the end he rises to the task and goes into action.

[barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Danny's Mum gets caught up in the crosshairs he does everything to insure his Mothers safety whatever it takes