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Duncan Hunter Thriller #2
Shoot Down
“A great technothriller with political intrigue, part of a series, but standalone so you don't have to have read every preceding volume to follow the action.” –Pat Ingram Reviews, on Shoot Down
Shortly after takeoff, a jumbo jet explodes over the waters of Long Island. Witnesses claim the aircraft was shot down by a surface-to-air missile; the government insists a mechanical malfunction brought down the airplane. An old CIA file is uncovered which details the President was warned-to preclude commercial airliners from being shot out of the sky either pay a ransom or suffer the consequences.
Just as the Agency identifies the shadowy man responsible for the shoot-down of the airliner, the Libyan dictator Gaddafi is overthrown, sparking a race between the CIA and terrorist networks to win the ultimate terrorist prize-hundreds of man-portable, shoulder-launched, anti-aircraft missiles.
Duncan Hunter and his top-secret airplane once again team up with an expert crew to find the anti-aircraft missiles ahead of the al-Qaeda and Muslim Brotherhood and kill the man who shoots down airliners for profit.
Shortly after takeoff, a jumbo jet explodes over the waters of Long Island. Witnesses claim the aircraft was shot down by a surface-to-air missile; the government insists a mechanical malfunction brought down the airplane. An old CIA file is uncovered which details the President was warned-to preclude commercial airliners from being shot out of the sky either pay a ransom or suffer the consequences.
Just as the Agency identifies the shadowy man responsible for the shoot-down of the airliner, the Libyan dictator Gaddafi is overthrown, sparking a race between the CIA and terrorist networks to win the ultimate terrorist prize-hundreds of man-portable, shoulder-launched, anti-aircraft missiles.
Duncan Hunter and his top-secret airplane once again team up with an expert crew to find the anti-aircraft missiles ahead of the al-Qaeda and Muslim Brotherhood and kill the man who shoots down airliners for profit.
603 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2014
397 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
November 15, 2024
Truly Un-Put-Downable
This techno-thriller is the second in a series that really must be read in order. In the first book, we meet all of the important characters. Most of them we love, others deserve hatred. In this book, the good guys get into serious and deadly situations while the bad guys get less than what they deserve. I became emotionally invested in these characters more deeply and faster than any book I have read in years. When the characters got into serious situations, I actually could not go to bed until that part was over. Part of this author's talent is that he can lead the characters into some horrific situations without causing nightmares in wimpy readers like me. Not that he makes the horror palatable, just that his presentation allows the reader just enough distance to not trigger emotional trauma. Generally, I would issue a 'trigger warning' in these situations, but it is not necessary here. This book is basically clean with minimal foul language, sensitive bedroom scenes, significant violence, and minimal gore. This book is distinctively less 'clean' than book 1. That actually makes no difference to me. I am going to find book 3 and start reading it right now!
This techno-thriller is the second in a series that really must be read in order. In the first book, we meet all of the important characters. Most of them we love, others deserve hatred. In this book, the good guys get into serious and deadly situations while the bad guys get less than what they deserve. I became emotionally invested in these characters more deeply and faster than any book I have read in years. When the characters got into serious situations, I actually could not go to bed until that part was over. Part of this author's talent is that he can lead the characters into some horrific situations without causing nightmares in wimpy readers like me. Not that he makes the horror palatable, just that his presentation allows the reader just enough distance to not trigger emotional trauma. Generally, I would issue a 'trigger warning' in these situations, but it is not necessary here. This book is basically clean with minimal foul language, sensitive bedroom scenes, significant violence, and minimal gore. This book is distinctively less 'clean' than book 1. That actually makes no difference to me. I am going to find book 3 and start reading it right now!
March 10, 2021
Amazing!
Great story, wonderful characters, thought provoking, concerning, fiction filled with truth, I could go on but the are not enough positive adjectives to describe how well written and intriguing this book is. Having enjoyed the first book, jumping into this one was a must. Mark A. Hewitt is truthful and honest while adding fiction to the real world. His style of story telling will grab you and hold on. One of the finest series I have ever enjoyed and a teal look into the liberal views ruining the world while keeping you on the edge of your seat with a fascinating tale of Duncan,Mazy and Bull frog among others. On my way to the next exciting installment. Thank You Mark for a wonderful novel and slipping in how liberals are ruining the world even using a fantastic story to show it.
Great story, wonderful characters, thought provoking, concerning, fiction filled with truth, I could go on but the are not enough positive adjectives to describe how well written and intriguing this book is. Having enjoyed the first book, jumping into this one was a must. Mark A. Hewitt is truthful and honest while adding fiction to the real world. His style of story telling will grab you and hold on. One of the finest series I have ever enjoyed and a teal look into the liberal views ruining the world while keeping you on the edge of your seat with a fascinating tale of Duncan,Mazy and Bull frog among others. On my way to the next exciting installment. Thank You Mark for a wonderful novel and slipping in how liberals are ruining the world even using a fantastic story to show it.
August 25, 2021
Shoot down
I really did not enjoy the first part of the book because you were to technical in trying to explain everything. I as a woman am not in aeronautical so that was too much for me. But then the second you took off telling a story of how to take down terrorist. I am a big fan of action thriller so the second half of the book was very good. You also kept the romance of Duncan & Yazy on the down low so that aspect did not interfere in what Duncan needed to accomplish. So please keep so much tech stuff out of the story. Keep up the good work you write good stories.
I really did not enjoy the first part of the book because you were to technical in trying to explain everything. I as a woman am not in aeronautical so that was too much for me. But then the second you took off telling a story of how to take down terrorist. I am a big fan of action thriller so the second half of the book was very good. You also kept the romance of Duncan & Yazy on the down low so that aspect did not interfere in what Duncan needed to accomplish. So please keep so much tech stuff out of the story. Keep up the good work you write good stories.
July 1, 2024
Another great thriller book by Mark Hewitt
What did I like and dislike? Was the question! Having been in Vietnam, and a moslem country for a year. You come to the realization people are not always who they appear to be, kind of like politicians . There are moderates, conservatives, extremist , and conformist, we have to be vigilant as a country, or we will loose the freedoms, our ancestors and friends fought and died for. Those who forget history are doomed to relive it.
Great book.
What did I like and dislike? Was the question! Having been in Vietnam, and a moslem country for a year. You come to the realization people are not always who they appear to be, kind of like politicians . There are moderates, conservatives, extremist , and conformist, we have to be vigilant as a country, or we will loose the freedoms, our ancestors and friends fought and died for. Those who forget history are doomed to relive it.
Great book.
August 16, 2025
I've read a lot of series books and usually the middle books are ho hum. Not this one! I think it may be better than the first book, Special Access. I've just started the 3rd book in the series, No Need to Know. It starts off in 1945 so wondering with MAH is going with this one. Somewhere interesting, I'm sure. Rarely do I read a book during the day. I'm usually out in the yard or garden doing something. Lately, I've been looking for excuses to come inside, it's too hot out here, etc. I'm going to clean up and go read...
March 12, 2024
A story that builds to a thundering crescendo
As the story moves from the first book, new elements add texture and intensity. At the halfway point Duncan's missions become more involved and bad guys start falling. Hold on at the point for a crescendo of action an edge of seat impossible to put down.
My only criticism is too long operational step descriptions that interrupt the action flow.
As the story moves from the first book, new elements add texture and intensity. At the halfway point Duncan's missions become more involved and bad guys start falling. Hold on at the point for a crescendo of action an edge of seat impossible to put down.
My only criticism is too long operational step descriptions that interrupt the action flow.
May 30, 2024
Author needs a basic firearms course
I wish author's complete lack of knowledge of basic handgun functions did nor detract me from continued interest in the action, but it did.
I would think that a majority of readers who own just one handgun will agree with me that just a quick Internet search for a Colt Python revolver would help avoiding major errors in otherwise excellent story.
I wish author's complete lack of knowledge of basic handgun functions did nor detract me from continued interest in the action, but it did.
I would think that a majority of readers who own just one handgun will agree with me that just a quick Internet search for a Colt Python revolver would help avoiding major errors in otherwise excellent story.
November 20, 2020
Right On Tsrget
Mr Hewitt's book was great. Fast moving and packed with interesting suspicions and suggestions. A great spy novel. The second in the series. I can't wait for number three.
Mr Hewitt's book was great. Fast moving and packed with interesting suspicions and suggestions. A great spy novel. The second in the series. I can't wait for number three.
February 9, 2021
Great reads both #1 and #2. A lot of action and realistic. A real page turner.
I will be looking for book #3. Minimal profanity A plus. Avid readers will have a very hard time putting the book down
I will be looking for book #3. Minimal profanity A plus. Avid readers will have a very hard time putting the book down
March 18, 2021
Good knowledge of his world hard to put book down
Interesting prose style. Intriguing and irresistible protagonist!! recommend series very highly. Terrific knowledge of foreign countries and cultures. John Benson, M.D.
Interesting prose style. Intriguing and irresistible protagonist!! recommend series very highly. Terrific knowledge of foreign countries and cultures. John Benson, M.D.
June 14, 2021
Good spy-techno thriller fiction is 80-90% based on hard fact. This series meets that goal.
Its been very entertaining. Still it needs a warning label for 5% of the content, if your a liberal you may be offended.
Its been very entertaining. Still it needs a warning label for 5% of the content, if your a liberal you may be offended.
December 17, 2022
Hold on, nonstop action awaits
Well I couldn't stop reading, what a well written story. Love, romance, spies, war, you name it. Duncan is involved it it all, from sports to killing he's your man. Well done, you have to read it to understand just how food this book is.
Well I couldn't stop reading, what a well written story. Love, romance, spies, war, you name it. Duncan is involved it it all, from sports to killing he's your man. Well done, you have to read it to understand just how food this book is.
April 14, 2024
Really enjoying this ssr
I'm amazed that this author can write so many fantastic novels, I hope that he never stops writing. His books are some of the best Entertainment I have read and worth the time to read them. Thank you for a very fun entertaining read.
I'm amazed that this author can write so many fantastic novels, I hope that he never stops writing. His books are some of the best Entertainment I have read and worth the time to read them. Thank you for a very fun entertaining read.
March 22, 2025
Shoot down
Definitely a different book and story than those of the last few months with a believable hero and action that might actually happen. Political in much of its story line, it unfortunately is so easy to believe as happening now.
Definitely a different book and story than those of the last few months with a believable hero and action that might actually happen. Political in much of its story line, it unfortunately is so easy to believe as happening now.
June 6, 2025
An interesting story
This may come as a surprise to the Author but we actually have 4 branches of the military. We need the Navy but we also have the Army, Air force and Coast Guard. It would be nice if he would appreciate their service and hard work as well.
This may come as a surprise to the Author but we actually have 4 branches of the military. We need the Navy but we also have the Army, Air force and Coast Guard. It would be nice if he would appreciate their service and hard work as well.
June 29, 2025
Interesting
Interesting the author has bursts of really capturing your interest, you don't want to put the book down. Then sections where you really want to close the book and leave it behind. Despite the overwhelming political stance, the story has interest.
Interesting the author has bursts of really capturing your interest, you don't want to put the book down. Then sections where you really want to close the book and leave it behind. Despite the overwhelming political stance, the story has interest.
September 7, 2019
ShootDown
A very good read. Guns, planes, special forces,Marines and Navy action. What more could you want in a novel.
Now on to the next book by Mark Hewitt.
A very good read. Guns, planes, special forces,Marines and Navy action. What more could you want in a novel.
Now on to the next book by Mark Hewitt.
July 1, 2020
Excellent book. Had to put down once you start.
December 14, 2020
Great read,
Another Duncan Hunter story told with all the energy needed to put you right into the action. Can’t wait to read Book 3!
Another Duncan Hunter story told with all the energy needed to put you right into the action. Can’t wait to read Book 3!
August 13, 2021
Who can you trust???
When Duncan Hunter is drawn into a super secret Presidential program,he slowly becomes aware of a greater threat to Americas abroad!!!
When Duncan Hunter is drawn into a super secret Presidential program,he slowly becomes aware of a greater threat to Americas abroad!!!
June 30, 2023
Great read
Developed the characters very well and almost believable. Maybe believable. Would recommend it to a friend. Keep up the good work
Developed the characters very well and almost believable. Maybe believable. Would recommend it to a friend. Keep up the good work
April 1, 2025
Excellent. Hard to put down
Great plot and storyline. I found myself thinking about the plot all day long. Happy to have found M. Hewitt
Great plot and storyline. I found myself thinking about the plot all day long. Happy to have found M. Hewitt
April 4, 2025
Wow, what a story !
I had trouble putting down my kindle, what a story...Hewitt is a helluva a story teller I am addicted !
I had trouble putting down my kindle, what a story...Hewitt is a helluva a story teller I am addicted !
April 26, 2025
Just as good as the first book
If you like thrillers then you'll love this book. Hope you have read book one because this story picks up where that one ended.
If you like thrillers then you'll love this book. Hope you have read book one because this story picks up where that one ended.
August 26, 2025
great story
Well developed characters, love story, lots of action in airplanes and ground interaction. I plan to read more from this author
Well developed characters, love story, lots of action in airplanes and ground interaction. I plan to read more from this author
March 2, 2017
Murtala Muhammed International Airport Lagos, Federal Republic of Nigeria. British Airways Flight # 0074 arrived at Heathrow thanks to Duncan Hunter (Professor, retired USMC fighter piolet, former GM, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport security), & 2 Scotland Yard fellows.
The terrorists were taken care of.
Or so everyone thought.
There were 2 incriminating loose ends that needed to be investigated.
President Javier Hernandez & Duncan were discussing todays international politics & US national strategy.
CIA Headquarters McLean, VA. Nazy Cunningham (Iranian, Muslim, Deputy Director for Counter Terrorism, Duncan’s lover), & Duncan met with Dr. Bruce Rothwell (DCI).
Dr. Rothwell & President Hernandez spoke.
A covert action program for Duncan had been endorsed & put into action.
It was coined Diablo.
2 other covert action programs were put into action: Early Bird (elite sponsors/terrorist leader’s speeches, statements) & Noble Savage (lesser known sponsors/terrorist leader’s speeches, statements).
By Chance Professor Hunter (Embry-Riddle Aeronautical U.) meets Kelly Horne. Who is she?
The U.S.S. Dwight D. Eisenhower was heading into the Mediterranean Sea.
What did Dr. Bruce Rothwell do?
Will Duncan & Nazy continue their relationship?
Will the terrorists be taken down?
I had a Fiero, looked cool, chick magnet but it was a piece of junk.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written terrorist thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great covert action thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free booksends; Black Rose Writing; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
The terrorists were taken care of.
Or so everyone thought.
There were 2 incriminating loose ends that needed to be investigated.
President Javier Hernandez & Duncan were discussing todays international politics & US national strategy.
CIA Headquarters McLean, VA. Nazy Cunningham (Iranian, Muslim, Deputy Director for Counter Terrorism, Duncan’s lover), & Duncan met with Dr. Bruce Rothwell (DCI).
Dr. Rothwell & President Hernandez spoke.
A covert action program for Duncan had been endorsed & put into action.
It was coined Diablo.
2 other covert action programs were put into action: Early Bird (elite sponsors/terrorist leader’s speeches, statements) & Noble Savage (lesser known sponsors/terrorist leader’s speeches, statements).
By Chance Professor Hunter (Embry-Riddle Aeronautical U.) meets Kelly Horne. Who is she?
The U.S.S. Dwight D. Eisenhower was heading into the Mediterranean Sea.
What did Dr. Bruce Rothwell do?
Will Duncan & Nazy continue their relationship?
Will the terrorists be taken down?
I had a Fiero, looked cool, chick magnet but it was a piece of junk.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written terrorist thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great covert action thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free booksends; Black Rose Writing; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
January 28, 2016
I really liked this book and plan to read the other books by Mark A Hewitt. Duncan Hunter is always willing to do what he can for the USA with his quiet plane and plans to help the nww president. His finance, Nazy Cunningham who works for the CIA is sent to Algeria to be acting Chief of Station. Duncan is sent by the DCI to take down a terrorist who is holding the US captive with paying a ransom every year to keep him from shooting down commercial airlines around the world. With his quiet plane Duncan should be able to go in and killl the man and be out without anyone knowing he was there. So many things go on that you really need to read this book to follow it all.
January 22, 2016
Fantastic Book. I really enjoyed the opening to this story, it grabbed me straight away. There is allot going on in this story, but in a good way. Duncan Hunter is a great character, with allot of skills. I haven't read any books where part of the story is based in Libya. It was very interesting the background the Author has gone into with this story. An excellent read.
April 15, 2016
I was supplied this book free from Netgalley for a honest review.
I was really looking forward to reading this book, but what a disappointment with the story jumping from one location to the next with no apparent connection.
I was unable to finish this book due to the poor story telling / writing.
I was really looking forward to reading this book, but what a disappointment with the story jumping from one location to the next with no apparent connection.
I was unable to finish this book due to the poor story telling / writing.
September 27, 2016
Some thought went into this one.
Very creative, interesting insight, and the author can spell. Not one of those books proof read in some third world country. My complements. I won't recommend my friends read this, I'll make them read it.
Very creative, interesting insight, and the author can spell. Not one of those books proof read in some third world country. My complements. I won't recommend my friends read this, I'll make them read it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews