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Fury of the Orcas
They call them the wolves of the sea. From marine parks to the deepest oceans, the world’s killer whale population has turned against man and beast alike. Orca show trainers are ripped to pieces before stunned audiences. Ships are capsized. Oil rigs are bashed without mercy. What has driven the apex predators stark raving mad? Chet Clarke has dedicated his life to preserving the health and dignity of orcas in captivity. Along with orca trainer Rosario Benitez, he embarks on a whirlwind journey across the globe to witness unconscionable carnage and uncover the mystery for the sudden outbreak of mania. Is this the start of a catastrophic pandemic? Or do the clues lead to an enigmatic experiment in the wilds of Alaska and shadow operations in a Russian ghost town? Time is running out faster than the lives of those in the path of the orcas.
155 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2017
56 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Hunter Shea
67 books1,009 followersHunter Shea is the author of over 25 books, with a specialization in cryptozoological horror that includes The Jersey Devil, The Dover Demon, Loch Ness Revenge and many others. As part of the new horror line at Flame Tree Press, his novel Creature has gained critical acclaim. His novel, The Montauk Monster, was named one of the best reads of the summer by Publishers Weekly. A trip to the International Cryptozoology Museum will find several of his cryptid books among the fascinating displays. Living in a true haunted house inspired his Jessica Backman: Death in the Afterlife series (Forest of Shadows, Sinister Entity and Island of the Forbidden). In 2011, he was selected to be a part of the launch of Samhain Publishing’s new horror line alongside legendary author Ramsey Campbell. When he’s not writing thrillers and horror, he also spins tall tales for middle grade readers on Amazon’s highly regarded Rapids reading app.
An avid podcaster, he can be seen and heard on Monster Men, one of the longest running video horror podcasts in the world, and Final Guys, focusing on weekly movie and book reviews. His nostalgic column about the magic of 80s horror, Video Visions, is featured monthly at Cemetery Dance Online. You can find his short stories in a number of anthologies, including Chopping Block Party, The Body Horror Book and Fearful Fathoms II.
A lifetime New Yorker, Hunter is supported by his loving wife and two beautiful daughters. When he’s not studying up on cryptozoology, he’s an avid explorer of the unknown, having spent a night alone on the Queen Mary, searching for the Warren’s famous White Lady of the Union Cemetery and other mysterious places.
You can follow his travails at www.huntershea.com.
An avid podcaster, he can be seen and heard on Monster Men, one of the longest running video horror podcasts in the world, and Final Guys, focusing on weekly movie and book reviews. His nostalgic column about the magic of 80s horror, Video Visions, is featured monthly at Cemetery Dance Online. You can find his short stories in a number of anthologies, including Chopping Block Party, The Body Horror Book and Fearful Fathoms II.
A lifetime New Yorker, Hunter is supported by his loving wife and two beautiful daughters. When he’s not studying up on cryptozoology, he’s an avid explorer of the unknown, having spent a night alone on the Queen Mary, searching for the Warren’s famous White Lady of the Union Cemetery and other mysterious places.
You can follow his travails at www.huntershea.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 9, 2025
I’m sorry to say that this was probably my least favorite Hunter Shea book to date. I will give him credit, as he links this book to others that he’s written, to keep an interesting shared world, and he chose a great concept. 95% of the time when you see stories about terror in the oceans, it’s about sharks. The only other time I’ve seen a story about killer whales going insane is the 1977 film Orca, which I think is magnificent. Hunter went fairly big in the scale here, too, and you could tell he made a good effort. However, the main characters were just not interesting or likeable, and they spend majority of the book just running all over different locations in the world. So maybe it was because there was too much going on to get to know them better, but that was a big shot against this story. And the plot just never really amounted to much, and the ending was not satisfying either. Again, it went big, but perhaps a bit too big. I would strongly recommend Hunter Shea’s Loch Ness Revenge over Fury of the Orcas.
December 18, 2017
Orcas all over the world are going insane and mauling humans and marine biologist Chet Clarke has been tapped to figure out why. Can he get to the bottom of the orcas' bizarre behavior before he ends up being their next victim?
Hunter Shea and his creature features are always good for a few hours of entertainment. When he sent this one to me, I attacked it like a frenzied orca tearing a kid apart at Sea World.
Sharing a lot with They Rise, Fury of the Orcas is another species on the rampage book, a b-movie funfest in book form. People are introduced only to die horribly. There's chaos, death after death, and the heroes run around like their asses are on fire for most of the book. What can even one of the world's foremost marine biologists do when the seas are awash with blood? In many ways, this felt like They Rise 2.0. If you didn't enjoy They Rise, you'll probably hate this one.
Megapods of orcas are pretty serious, especially once hints of what is causing the rampage is revealed. I like how Shea tied Fury of the Orcas in with They Rise and also Loch Ness Revenge. There seems to be an uber-Shea novel brewing that ties together quite a few threads.
Fury of the Orcas was another fun creature feature from Mr. Shea. Glad I have Megalodon In Paradise sitting on my coffee table already. Four out of five stars.
Hunter Shea and his creature features are always good for a few hours of entertainment. When he sent this one to me, I attacked it like a frenzied orca tearing a kid apart at Sea World.
Sharing a lot with They Rise, Fury of the Orcas is another species on the rampage book, a b-movie funfest in book form. People are introduced only to die horribly. There's chaos, death after death, and the heroes run around like their asses are on fire for most of the book. What can even one of the world's foremost marine biologists do when the seas are awash with blood? In many ways, this felt like They Rise 2.0. If you didn't enjoy They Rise, you'll probably hate this one.
Megapods of orcas are pretty serious, especially once hints of what is causing the rampage is revealed. I like how Shea tied Fury of the Orcas in with They Rise and also Loch Ness Revenge. There seems to be an uber-Shea novel brewing that ties together quite a few threads.
Fury of the Orcas was another fun creature feature from Mr. Shea. Glad I have Megalodon In Paradise sitting on my coffee table already. Four out of five stars.
June 15, 2020
2.5 stars, rounded down. However, it was fun.
At different marine parks orcas turn against their trainers and ultimately kill several people. While it isn’t unheard of that an orca attacks its trainer, it quickly becomes clear to marine biologist Chet Clarke that this is something very different. First of all, there are several orcas that attack people at exactly the same time. And moreover, not only are they showing this sort of behavior in captivity, a pod of orcas also attacks an offshore oil rig.
This is the book equivalent of a b-movie, which is what I had expected. Most of this is pretty silly, and quite fun, in a lowbrow sort of way. I was just a little concerned that the orcas would be cast as the villains here. Which they are not. I’ve watched Blackfish recently, and the author apparently did so as well, before he wrote this book. He even lets one of his characters refer to that documentary, which showed exactly how badly these majestic creatures are treated by humans. I was relieved to see that Shea did not turn them into senseless killers by nature, but came up with another reason for their behavior. Even if it was a rather silly one.
What Blackfish does really well, and this book at least tries to do, is to show how intelligent and social orcas are. What that documentary also does well, but this book never really achieves, is to build a lot of tension before the terrible things which we all along knew would happen finally do. This book pretty much immediately puts you in the midst of the action, as Chet and his girlfriend Rosario, an orca trainer, go from one scene of carnage to the next, traveling from the US to Europe and back to the US again, before they are picked up by the Navy to help them solve this problem once and for all.
It is fast-paced and fun, but could have been even better with a few moments of calm before the storm. Even without that, though, it was good enough for three stars, until I realized I’m already running out of pages and there still wasn’t anything resembling a climax, and the bad guys also hadn’t really shown up yet. If there ever was a rushed ending, this is it. The whole thing fell completely flat on its face when the big bad was taken care of pretty much on a single page and the showdown as a whole happened in the blink of an eye, and also in an extremely silly way. Even for a book like this.
Alas. This could have been much better.
At different marine parks orcas turn against their trainers and ultimately kill several people. While it isn’t unheard of that an orca attacks its trainer, it quickly becomes clear to marine biologist Chet Clarke that this is something very different. First of all, there are several orcas that attack people at exactly the same time. And moreover, not only are they showing this sort of behavior in captivity, a pod of orcas also attacks an offshore oil rig.
This is the book equivalent of a b-movie, which is what I had expected. Most of this is pretty silly, and quite fun, in a lowbrow sort of way. I was just a little concerned that the orcas would be cast as the villains here. Which they are not. I’ve watched Blackfish recently, and the author apparently did so as well, before he wrote this book. He even lets one of his characters refer to that documentary, which showed exactly how badly these majestic creatures are treated by humans. I was relieved to see that Shea did not turn them into senseless killers by nature, but came up with another reason for their behavior. Even if it was a rather silly one.
What Blackfish does really well, and this book at least tries to do, is to show how intelligent and social orcas are. What that documentary also does well, but this book never really achieves, is to build a lot of tension before the terrible things which we all along knew would happen finally do. This book pretty much immediately puts you in the midst of the action, as Chet and his girlfriend Rosario, an orca trainer, go from one scene of carnage to the next, traveling from the US to Europe and back to the US again, before they are picked up by the Navy to help them solve this problem once and for all.
It is fast-paced and fun, but could have been even better with a few moments of calm before the storm. Even without that, though, it was good enough for three stars, until I realized I’m already running out of pages and there still wasn’t anything resembling a climax, and the bad guys also hadn’t really shown up yet. If there ever was a rushed ending, this is it. The whole thing fell completely flat on its face when the big bad was taken care of pretty much on a single page and the showdown as a whole happened in the blink of an eye, and also in an extremely silly way. Even for a book like this.
Alas. This could have been much better.
November 25, 2022
This is another fun aquatic novel from Shea, but it's not among his best. It's something of a sequel to They Rise, and I think anyone not familiar with that one would be a bit mystified by the ending to this one. (It's a son of a beach read is what I'm saying...) Though I didn't get as involved all of the characters as in most his novels, it's a fun adventure with a lot of a whirlwind romance element intertwined with a lot of frenzied globe-trotting. If marine cryptids are your thing, though, this one checks all the boxes.
January 30, 2018
4.5 stars!
FURY OF THE ORCAS, by Hunter Shea, is another of his fast-paced novels with the "nature-goes-wrong" theme. In this case, we get a close-up view of Orcas, which are actually dolphins.
". . . they're members of the dolphin family. I've always found it odd that we call them killer whales, when in reality they're whale killers . . . "
We start with Chet Clarke and his "girlfriend/Orca expert", Rosario Benitez, as they witness a horrific scene when a captive Orca goes insane trying to kill everyone--and itself--in the process. Even more unfortunate is the fact that the traumatizing event occurred during a special trip from the Dreams Come True Foundation: "Chet was pretty sure this wasn't the magic moment the charity had intended for the terminal boy."
Shea does a great job of introducing us to these magnificent creatures-- ". . . apex predators that will attack anything in the sea . . . " --and in giving a broader view on the use of Orcas in captivity. We can instantly emphasize with our two main characters, Chet and Rosario, as they describe the differences in the killer whales of the wild, verses those imprisioned in man-made aquariums for show. The depression levels, health status, and even other mental illnesses are what plague the captured Orca's as opposed to those in their natural environment.
". . . Orcas didn't magically get better, not when their minds had gone."
In a sense, this story builds upon some of the other "nature-goes-wrong" books that Shea is so proficient in. While humans view themselves as being at the very summit of the food chain in terms of intelligence, cunning, and sheer power, novels such as FURY OF THE ORCAS, THEY RISE, and SWAMP MONSTER MASSACRE, really make one step back and see that there are some things we just "don't " expect to ever happen.
Perhaps that human arrogance is our largest weakness.
". . . there was definitely something going on when it came to the sea . . . "
This story simply never lets up in its intensity. We jump from one scene of carnage and gore to the next without pause--going along this surreal nightmare with the main characters. Their every thought and reaction become our own reality as we race along "seeing" the escalating devastation through their eyes. Never knowing just what to expect adds tremendously to the fear factor and adrenaline rush the reader experiences.
". . . Keep everyone afraid . . . It was the mindset of all terrorists."
Another aspect of this story that I found most impressive was that even through the blood-fueled incidents, the author is feeding us facts about these majestic creatures. While the carnage continues, we "feel" for these animals, particularly those housed in aquariums for human amusement.
". . . the United States was home to over half the total of imprisioned killer whales . . ."
When a fictional tale can get you thinking about near impossible "what-if?" scenarios as if they were actually occurring, you're reading something from an author that KNOWS his/her craft.
". . . Only man was capable of mass slaughter just for the sheer joy of it . . . "
Overall, I feel that Hunter Shea has woven an incredibly horrifying story by blending some true facts in with an impressive imagination, and plenty of gory scenes to keep even the most seasoned horror addicts' attention.
". . . Only crazy people insist they're not crazy . . . "
His characters come alive through the passion he gives them and some comedic wit, a combination sure to capture the readers' imaginations. After reading one of these nature stories, you may find yourself questioning just how secure is our position at the top of the chain. . .
". . . They opened Pandora's box, and there's no closing the lid again . . . "
Highly recommended!
FURY OF THE ORCAS, by Hunter Shea, is another of his fast-paced novels with the "nature-goes-wrong" theme. In this case, we get a close-up view of Orcas, which are actually dolphins.
". . . they're members of the dolphin family. I've always found it odd that we call them killer whales, when in reality they're whale killers . . . "
We start with Chet Clarke and his "girlfriend/Orca expert", Rosario Benitez, as they witness a horrific scene when a captive Orca goes insane trying to kill everyone--and itself--in the process. Even more unfortunate is the fact that the traumatizing event occurred during a special trip from the Dreams Come True Foundation: "Chet was pretty sure this wasn't the magic moment the charity had intended for the terminal boy."
Shea does a great job of introducing us to these magnificent creatures-- ". . . apex predators that will attack anything in the sea . . . " --and in giving a broader view on the use of Orcas in captivity. We can instantly emphasize with our two main characters, Chet and Rosario, as they describe the differences in the killer whales of the wild, verses those imprisioned in man-made aquariums for show. The depression levels, health status, and even other mental illnesses are what plague the captured Orca's as opposed to those in their natural environment.
". . . Orcas didn't magically get better, not when their minds had gone."
In a sense, this story builds upon some of the other "nature-goes-wrong" books that Shea is so proficient in. While humans view themselves as being at the very summit of the food chain in terms of intelligence, cunning, and sheer power, novels such as FURY OF THE ORCAS, THEY RISE, and SWAMP MONSTER MASSACRE, really make one step back and see that there are some things we just "don't " expect to ever happen.
Perhaps that human arrogance is our largest weakness.
". . . there was definitely something going on when it came to the sea . . . "
This story simply never lets up in its intensity. We jump from one scene of carnage and gore to the next without pause--going along this surreal nightmare with the main characters. Their every thought and reaction become our own reality as we race along "seeing" the escalating devastation through their eyes. Never knowing just what to expect adds tremendously to the fear factor and adrenaline rush the reader experiences.
". . . Keep everyone afraid . . . It was the mindset of all terrorists."
Another aspect of this story that I found most impressive was that even through the blood-fueled incidents, the author is feeding us facts about these majestic creatures. While the carnage continues, we "feel" for these animals, particularly those housed in aquariums for human amusement.
". . . the United States was home to over half the total of imprisioned killer whales . . ."
When a fictional tale can get you thinking about near impossible "what-if?" scenarios as if they were actually occurring, you're reading something from an author that KNOWS his/her craft.
". . . Only man was capable of mass slaughter just for the sheer joy of it . . . "
Overall, I feel that Hunter Shea has woven an incredibly horrifying story by blending some true facts in with an impressive imagination, and plenty of gory scenes to keep even the most seasoned horror addicts' attention.
". . . Only crazy people insist they're not crazy . . . "
His characters come alive through the passion he gives them and some comedic wit, a combination sure to capture the readers' imaginations. After reading one of these nature stories, you may find yourself questioning just how secure is our position at the top of the chain. . .
". . . They opened Pandora's box, and there's no closing the lid again . . . "
Highly recommended!
November 18, 2023
I love Shea, but this was just okay. Very tame for a Shea book. This is kind of a companion to They Rise but no where near as gory.
March 5, 2024
3.5 rounded up
Orcas have suddenly started going on attack, both in marine parks and in the ocean. Marine biologist Chet Clarke, known for his work with Orcas, is called in and, alongside his girlfriend/assistant Rosario Benitez, tries to determine what's caused these creatures to get so violent.
First off, this is one of those B-movies thar you see on late night TV in book form. It's more actioncentered than plot or character driven. So, knowing that ahead of time, if you go in just with the expectation of being entertained, you should be fine. This was definitely a fun read that would make a pretty good flick. Lots of action and good pacing with a message about how these Orcas should not be caged up in marine parks for human amusement. However, the ending is rushed and a bit disappointing. If you're looking for a shorter novel (my copy has 141 pages) to be entertained by, this one is pretty good.
Orcas have suddenly started going on attack, both in marine parks and in the ocean. Marine biologist Chet Clarke, known for his work with Orcas, is called in and, alongside his girlfriend/assistant Rosario Benitez, tries to determine what's caused these creatures to get so violent.
First off, this is one of those B-movies thar you see on late night TV in book form. It's more actioncentered than plot or character driven. So, knowing that ahead of time, if you go in just with the expectation of being entertained, you should be fine. This was definitely a fun read that would make a pretty good flick. Lots of action and good pacing with a message about how these Orcas should not be caged up in marine parks for human amusement. However, the ending is rushed and a bit disappointing. If you're looking for a shorter novel (my copy has 141 pages) to be entertained by, this one is pretty good.
August 20, 2019
What can I say? Hunter Shea's novels are like some of the best creature features or other b-movies I've grown up with. Moreover, I love orcas so the blurp for this one was sooo promising.
We meet marine biologist Chet, who has made it his mission to work with certain aquariums in order to make sure the captive orcas held there are at least treated well, if he can't prevent them from being captured and held in captivity in the first place.
But one day something goes horribly wrong. An orca not only attacks its trainer but many other people, wreaking havoc - and it's far from the only orca to do so.
What is causing this kind of behavior?
Thus, the reader is taken on a mad dash from the US to Europe and back. We meet the US Navy, some scientists, some conspiracy theorists and some really furious orcas.
Sadly, while the story itself isn't bad, I didn't get the righteous carnage I had hoped for and the answers presented here were also ... not too far fetched considering the author's other books, but not really working well with the orca theme if you ask me.
I did have fun, but not as much as with his other stories.
We meet marine biologist Chet, who has made it his mission to work with certain aquariums in order to make sure the captive orcas held there are at least treated well, if he can't prevent them from being captured and held in captivity in the first place.
But one day something goes horribly wrong. An orca not only attacks its trainer but many other people, wreaking havoc - and it's far from the only orca to do so.
What is causing this kind of behavior?
Thus, the reader is taken on a mad dash from the US to Europe and back. We meet the US Navy, some scientists, some conspiracy theorists and some really furious orcas.
Sadly, while the story itself isn't bad, I didn't get the righteous carnage I had hoped for and the answers presented here were also ... not too far fetched considering the author's other books, but not really working well with the orca theme if you ask me.
I did have fun, but not as much as with his other stories.
February 13, 2018
This book started out fast and furious and never stopped until the very last sentence. It was all action, all intense about orcas, who all over the world have gone crazy.
In addition to having a story I couldn't put down, the book was very informative about ocras and the plight of captivity. I found it very interesting, especially being from San Diego where Sea World is and having strong opinions about the controversy.
It was a great book and I highly recommend it, especially to anyone who likes horror in nature.
In addition to having a story I couldn't put down, the book was very informative about ocras and the plight of captivity. I found it very interesting, especially being from San Diego where Sea World is and having strong opinions about the controversy.
It was a great book and I highly recommend it, especially to anyone who likes horror in nature.
December 15, 2017
All across the world, killer whales are suddenly going berserk. In marine parks and aquariums, orcas are leaping out their pools and tearing apart their trainers. In the Atlantic, pods are attacking ships with cunning, predatory ruthlessness. Orca trainers Chet and Rosario (who are also romantically involved) are thrust into the middle of it all, and are bound and determined to get to the bottom of why these orcas are freaking out in such meticulous and coordinated ways.
Their race against time takes them on a globe-hopping whirlwind of violence peppered with a heady dose of conspiracy. Hunter Shea packs in a fair deal of plot points in only 150 pages, taking a bonkers idea and complicating it even further with some X-Files-like shenanigans. As with his previous sea-terror novel, Megalodon In Paradise, Shea ties in some of these elements with his ghost shark novel, They Rise. I still haven't read They Rise, but the gist of it is laid out well enough here that newcomers shouldn't feel too lost in the weeds.
As is typical of Shea, the horror elements are well done and frenetically paced. When it comes to high-octane, pulp-styled, B-rated creature features, few do it as consistently well as Hunter Shea. You can count on this author to deliver whacky stories rife with mayhem and loads of fun. For pure entertainment value, Shea's a tough one to beat. Now that I've sank my teeth into a couple of his Severed Press aquatic horror themed books, and with They Rise moving up the Kindle docket a few more notches, I'm digging this unofficial series that particular book kicked off. And given how Fury of the Orcas ends, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for at least one more wonderfully cataclysmic entry.
Their race against time takes them on a globe-hopping whirlwind of violence peppered with a heady dose of conspiracy. Hunter Shea packs in a fair deal of plot points in only 150 pages, taking a bonkers idea and complicating it even further with some X-Files-like shenanigans. As with his previous sea-terror novel, Megalodon In Paradise, Shea ties in some of these elements with his ghost shark novel, They Rise. I still haven't read They Rise, but the gist of it is laid out well enough here that newcomers shouldn't feel too lost in the weeds.
As is typical of Shea, the horror elements are well done and frenetically paced. When it comes to high-octane, pulp-styled, B-rated creature features, few do it as consistently well as Hunter Shea. You can count on this author to deliver whacky stories rife with mayhem and loads of fun. For pure entertainment value, Shea's a tough one to beat. Now that I've sank my teeth into a couple of his Severed Press aquatic horror themed books, and with They Rise moving up the Kindle docket a few more notches, I'm digging this unofficial series that particular book kicked off. And given how Fury of the Orcas ends, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for at least one more wonderfully cataclysmic entry.
March 27, 2023
Being a huge fan of Hunter’s books and having a fascination for the creatures of the sea, I was quite excited to get my hands on this book.
It starts quickly. Something is wrong with the Orcas. Incidents of the mammals attacking and killing humans isn’t just confined to the theme parks. They’re also focusing on ships at sea and oil rigs. The author spares no one and this is a favorite trade mark of mine. Hunter isn’t above killing off his main character’s and that keeps suspense at a maximum.
There’s plenty of gory bits to keep horror fans happy. For the first time, I was more on the whale’s side than the humans. I didn’t warm up to the characters and some scenes of Orca’s being massacred tugged at my love for the magnificent creatures. I felt they were more victims than monsters.
And there was a lot of sex. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not against it, but most of the time it just felt like it interrupted the story and was unnecessary. And when I found out why the Orcas were going crazy, I was a bit confused. I was hoping for something more natural. Also, at times this didn’t feel like a Hunter Shea book. Perhaps because it was more of a thriller than straight up horror.
I enjoyed this book, but it’s not a favorite. That said, Hunter Shea is still one of my go to authors for horror. In fact, I’ve already pre-ordered his next release.
It starts quickly. Something is wrong with the Orcas. Incidents of the mammals attacking and killing humans isn’t just confined to the theme parks. They’re also focusing on ships at sea and oil rigs. The author spares no one and this is a favorite trade mark of mine. Hunter isn’t above killing off his main character’s and that keeps suspense at a maximum.
There’s plenty of gory bits to keep horror fans happy. For the first time, I was more on the whale’s side than the humans. I didn’t warm up to the characters and some scenes of Orca’s being massacred tugged at my love for the magnificent creatures. I felt they were more victims than monsters.
And there was a lot of sex. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not against it, but most of the time it just felt like it interrupted the story and was unnecessary. And when I found out why the Orcas were going crazy, I was a bit confused. I was hoping for something more natural. Also, at times this didn’t feel like a Hunter Shea book. Perhaps because it was more of a thriller than straight up horror.
I enjoyed this book, but it’s not a favorite. That said, Hunter Shea is still one of my go to authors for horror. In fact, I’ve already pre-ordered his next release.
December 23, 2017
Another winner from the man who creates great cryptids! This was a really fun read and I loved the tie in to a previous book.
December 27, 2017
Anyone who follows my blog knows that Shea is has quickly become a favorite of mine. I love his horror but I think this is better categorized as a action-adventure/thriller. Suddenly and without warning, orcas across the world have started turning on those who take care of them at marine facilities as well as in the open seas. Basically lots of people AND orcas are dying and Chet, who has worked with them for years, and his assistant/lover, Rosario, travel all over the world while they try to figure out what is going on.
This books is brutal. When I was young, I wanted to be a marine biologist which is a pretty lofty goal for someone who has lived her entire life in a landlocked stated. Sure, it could have been done, but I was persuade to turn my attentions elsewhere. So needless to say, I have a soft spot for dolphins, killer whales and even sharks. Thus, it was hard to see some of the orcas massacred in this book and I often found myself cheering them on as they killed various humans because I also do not believe they should be kept in captivity. Once again, Shea isn't afraid to kill off characters in this latest book and there is quite a bit of action. However, unlike some of his other books, there is also a lot of sex. Now far be it from me to shun a book because of it because it doesn't bother me in the least, however, in this setting, it really wasn't needed. For example, during the middle of an orca attack do we really need to know how beautiful Chet thinks Rosario is without her makeup.
While my rating is not as strong as what I've given some of Shea's other books, he is still an author I will automatically read. I can't wait to see what his imagination has in store for his readers in the future. Many people will enjoy "Fury of the Orcas" and any Shea fan will be glad to add this to their shelves. It just wasn't one of my favorites.
This books is brutal. When I was young, I wanted to be a marine biologist which is a pretty lofty goal for someone who has lived her entire life in a landlocked stated. Sure, it could have been done, but I was persuade to turn my attentions elsewhere. So needless to say, I have a soft spot for dolphins, killer whales and even sharks. Thus, it was hard to see some of the orcas massacred in this book and I often found myself cheering them on as they killed various humans because I also do not believe they should be kept in captivity. Once again, Shea isn't afraid to kill off characters in this latest book and there is quite a bit of action. However, unlike some of his other books, there is also a lot of sex. Now far be it from me to shun a book because of it because it doesn't bother me in the least, however, in this setting, it really wasn't needed. For example, during the middle of an orca attack do we really need to know how beautiful Chet thinks Rosario is without her makeup.
While my rating is not as strong as what I've given some of Shea's other books, he is still an author I will automatically read. I can't wait to see what his imagination has in store for his readers in the future. Many people will enjoy "Fury of the Orcas" and any Shea fan will be glad to add this to their shelves. It just wasn't one of my favorites.
December 11, 2017
Hunter Shea delivers a fast-paced, all action story - a worthy successor to his previous Sea Monster books, Loch Ness Revenge and They Rise. Something has suddenly caused all the killer whales (orcas) both int he wild and in captivity to turn violent. They turn on handlers and viciously slay them. In the Atlantic Ocean an enormous pod sets about destroying an oil rig.
Chet Clarke and Rosario Benitez are colleagues - and more. They work tirelessly for the welfare of these normally gentle giants. Now, as experts in their field,they are flown to scenes of terrible carnage where they must try to find out what is causing the extreme behaviour. is it a force of nature? Or is it political? With the help of an eccentric scientist, based in far away Alaska, they must suspend their disbelief and find answers before the military do their worst and wipe out orcas from the face of the earth. The answer is hard to find - and time is running out.
The action starts from the beginning and doesn't let up. The author is a master of heightened tension and suspense and Fury of the Orcas is one any horror lover will enjoy. In the deft hands of the prolific Hunter Shea, the Sea Monster story is here to stay.
Chet Clarke and Rosario Benitez are colleagues - and more. They work tirelessly for the welfare of these normally gentle giants. Now, as experts in their field,they are flown to scenes of terrible carnage where they must try to find out what is causing the extreme behaviour. is it a force of nature? Or is it political? With the help of an eccentric scientist, based in far away Alaska, they must suspend their disbelief and find answers before the military do their worst and wipe out orcas from the face of the earth. The answer is hard to find - and time is running out.
The action starts from the beginning and doesn't let up. The author is a master of heightened tension and suspense and Fury of the Orcas is one any horror lover will enjoy. In the deft hands of the prolific Hunter Shea, the Sea Monster story is here to stay.
December 28, 2017
I am a huge fan of Hunter Shea's but even with your favorites there comes a book that you don't necessarily like and this was one of them. I am use to his straight up horror novels and this one wasn't really a horror and I had a hard time classifying it so I think it was more of a thriller.
Something has happened to all the Orcas, they are turning on their trainers in marine parks but they are also going crazy out in the ocean as well. The first episode happens in a park where Chet and his assistant/lover Rosario were working and they had to witness some horrible things. They have never been a fan of Orcas in captivity and are more on the side of the Killer Whales but they also know something is not right.
Episode after episode happens sending them from horrible scene to another as they try and figure out what is going on. Huge mega pods of Orcas are ganging up on oil rigs, boats and other animals of the sea. A guy in Alaska thinks he knows what is going on and tries to get Chet's attention but it all sounds crazy to Chet.
I found this book to be interesting at times but I also was a fan of it at the same time. I think a lot of animal lovers might now care much for this as I really was rooting more for the killer whales than the humans. I just sort of felt like this book was about killing Orcas and sex, not knocking the fact it had sex in the book. It just seemed like a lot of unnecessary I am so exhausted from all this mayhem but lets have sex. (I don't even like that in movies...lol) There are a lot of great reviews for this book so I am chalking it up to it wasn't the book it was just me.
The ending was a bit strange as well and I short of felt that it was a bit rushed and then just ended and I was kind of left feeling let down a bit.
I love this authors books and will continue to read his books but like I mentioned even a favorite can have that book that you just don't click with and I think this one was it.
2.5 stars rounded up to three since I can't do halves on goodreads.
Something has happened to all the Orcas, they are turning on their trainers in marine parks but they are also going crazy out in the ocean as well. The first episode happens in a park where Chet and his assistant/lover Rosario were working and they had to witness some horrible things. They have never been a fan of Orcas in captivity and are more on the side of the Killer Whales but they also know something is not right.
Episode after episode happens sending them from horrible scene to another as they try and figure out what is going on. Huge mega pods of Orcas are ganging up on oil rigs, boats and other animals of the sea. A guy in Alaska thinks he knows what is going on and tries to get Chet's attention but it all sounds crazy to Chet.
I found this book to be interesting at times but I also was a fan of it at the same time. I think a lot of animal lovers might now care much for this as I really was rooting more for the killer whales than the humans. I just sort of felt like this book was about killing Orcas and sex, not knocking the fact it had sex in the book. It just seemed like a lot of unnecessary I am so exhausted from all this mayhem but lets have sex. (I don't even like that in movies...lol) There are a lot of great reviews for this book so I am chalking it up to it wasn't the book it was just me.
The ending was a bit strange as well and I short of felt that it was a bit rushed and then just ended and I was kind of left feeling let down a bit.
I love this authors books and will continue to read his books but like I mentioned even a favorite can have that book that you just don't click with and I think this one was it.
2.5 stars rounded up to three since I can't do halves on goodreads.
February 3, 2018
From marine parks to the deepest ocean, the world's killer whale population has turned against man. People ripped to pieces, ships capsized, oil rigs destroyed. Chet, a marine biologist that specializes in orcas and an orca trainer named Rosario embark on a whirlwind journey across the world trying to uncover this sudden outbreak of madness. Is this the start of a pandemic? Or are the clues pointing to a shadowy secret experiment in Russia?
This book was kind of a bummer. Not because it was a bad book, but just because so many innocent killer whales died. I felt bad for all the depressed orcas in marine parks and all the ones in the ocean that were killed by the military.
Aside from all of that, it was a good, entertaining story. I really loved how there are connections to other novels that Hunter has written. It was cool to see that it was all the same world and see characters acknowledge events from those other stories! I also really enjoyed the conspiracy theory elements to the story. That was a lot of fun.
The ending felt a little bit abrupt. Like, there is all this tension building to a final showdown but we don't see much of it. I couldn't tell if it was written that way in order to set up the next book or if that was just the end...? I really hope another book will pick up where those last few paragraphs end because it was a very interesting turn of events and I would love to sea where Hunter takes that story!
A little depressing, but overall it was an entertaining and creative adventure.
This book was kind of a bummer. Not because it was a bad book, but just because so many innocent killer whales died. I felt bad for all the depressed orcas in marine parks and all the ones in the ocean that were killed by the military.
Aside from all of that, it was a good, entertaining story. I really loved how there are connections to other novels that Hunter has written. It was cool to see that it was all the same world and see characters acknowledge events from those other stories! I also really enjoyed the conspiracy theory elements to the story. That was a lot of fun.
The ending felt a little bit abrupt. Like, there is all this tension building to a final showdown but we don't see much of it. I couldn't tell if it was written that way in order to set up the next book or if that was just the end...? I really hope another book will pick up where those last few paragraphs end because it was a very interesting turn of events and I would love to sea where Hunter takes that story!
A little depressing, but overall it was an entertaining and creative adventure.
November 21, 2025
This was a great throw back to pulp novels of the past. It was over tge top!
October 15, 2018
The plight of the Orcas is a depressing situation close to my heart - as usual, man rarely treats animals and marine life as well as we should. There's some preaching about that in here too - or, instead of preaching, let me say that the main characters agree with me. Besides the first part of the book you don't get up and close to Orcas much - it's mainly two trainers traveling from this place and that to try and figure out what's going on. The explanation is downright odd, but I suppose any explanation of giant orcas coming together to attack would be. Full review to come.
December 14, 2017
this was an amazing book and I do mean amazing. it went by too darn fast but darn it was so fascinating and I learned so much about orcas. Hunter Shea has done it again and this is why I don't read all his books at once. Because no matter what happens, I know there will be a great read coming when I need it.
February 11, 2018
Review: FURY OF THE ORCAS by Hunter Shea
Noted cryptid author Hunter Shea rocks marine horror yet again in this super-fast horror thriller. "Just when you thought it was safe to go into the water" you discover the new biggest threat is not sharks, but Orcas. Yes, those adorable killer whales whose species is actually not whale, but dolphin. Here they are suddenly killing, attacking trainers and visitors to marine parks. Is it years of confinement in captivity? Or is the real cause something far more dangerous, and far more sinister?
Mr. Shea trots out one of my most favoured conspiracy topics; and he makes the connection really plausible. I had some unexpected moments in this book: tears more than once, and at one point, my stomach literally dropped, like an elevator rush. The endings saddened me, though as a conspiracy theorist those events made perfect sense, in context.
All in all, I had a fine time with this novella and raced through it in one sitting. One wonders--where will Mr. Shea travel next?
Noted cryptid author Hunter Shea rocks marine horror yet again in this super-fast horror thriller. "Just when you thought it was safe to go into the water" you discover the new biggest threat is not sharks, but Orcas. Yes, those adorable killer whales whose species is actually not whale, but dolphin. Here they are suddenly killing, attacking trainers and visitors to marine parks. Is it years of confinement in captivity? Or is the real cause something far more dangerous, and far more sinister?
Mr. Shea trots out one of my most favoured conspiracy topics; and he makes the connection really plausible. I had some unexpected moments in this book: tears more than once, and at one point, my stomach literally dropped, like an elevator rush. The endings saddened me, though as a conspiracy theorist those events made perfect sense, in context.
All in all, I had a fine time with this novella and raced through it in one sitting. One wonders--where will Mr. Shea travel next?
February 22, 2018
I have already read some other books by the author, and his 'Fury of the Orcas' seamlessly adds to the list of creature features I came to love.
This was such another great story, especially the beginning, as it felt like jumping right in the middle of the action, and the end, hinting at another catastrophe following right on its heels. Dare I say the middle had some repetitive moments? But then again, I mostly read that part while falling asleep in bed at night, so I'm not sure if I may have read several passages more than once in that hazy state before Morpheus finally beat me...
To me, the most shocking part of the book was the description of the life of orcas in captivity, as it is both real and now. It says facts out loud that I never consciously thought of before, and which will influence my future perception of marine parks in special and animal shows in general.
This was such another great story, especially the beginning, as it felt like jumping right in the middle of the action, and the end, hinting at another catastrophe following right on its heels. Dare I say the middle had some repetitive moments? But then again, I mostly read that part while falling asleep in bed at night, so I'm not sure if I may have read several passages more than once in that hazy state before Morpheus finally beat me...
To me, the most shocking part of the book was the description of the life of orcas in captivity, as it is both real and now. It says facts out loud that I never consciously thought of before, and which will influence my future perception of marine parks in special and animal shows in general.
April 2, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
A very chaotic, fast-paced read. Lots of action, very entertaining - however the ending seems rushed and a bit disappointing. I hoped for more of an horror aspect but this is definitely still a fun read.
A very chaotic, fast-paced read. Lots of action, very entertaining - however the ending seems rushed and a bit disappointing. I hoped for more of an horror aspect but this is definitely still a fun read.
September 28, 2020
I really enjoyed this. The plot held steady and was entertaining and the characters were well written and likeable.
November 29, 2025
You’d think it would be impossible to mess up a novel about evil killer whales, yet here we are.
February 13, 2018
A chilling tale of orcas gone insane by the Master of All Things Monster, Hunter Shea. Great locations and non-stop action. Well-researched science adds a layer of credibility to the story. You may not go swimming in the ocean for a long time after reading this novel.
May 8, 2019
I could NOT put this down. I have been sick with the flu and unable to focus on a single thing, but I rampaged through this in basically one night. I love orcas, and if you love orcas and are informed on them, this is one you will likely enjoy. It has a great deal of scientific fact woven into the ghastly horror and while the orcas are technically the "monsters " in this creature feature, it begs the question, are they really monster out for striking back at ththe or captors after all the suffering we as Humans have inflicted on them, both in the wild and in captivity.
If you enjoyed Orca the movie, or Jaws, or more importantly, Blackfish, the documentary, this one is a must read. Five stars, I'd give it ten if I could. Normally I dislike the lighting creature feature books paint the animals into, but this one did the inelligence no the plight of orcas justice, as well as making likable human protagonists who mourn the death of every orca as much as every human fatality. As a writer myself , I only wish I had had the idea to write this first. It is amazing work.
Amazing. Full credit to the author for his research, his characterization, his pacing, his well written gor baths, his insight into the animals, and overall, just for writing this much needed cautionary tale with all its twists, heartbreak, and blood baths. I loved it. I was a digital AND a paperback copy for my collections. I hope someone has the vision To turn this into a full sized box office blockbuster at the theatres.
If you enjoyed Orca the movie, or Jaws, or more importantly, Blackfish, the documentary, this one is a must read. Five stars, I'd give it ten if I could. Normally I dislike the lighting creature feature books paint the animals into, but this one did the inelligence no the plight of orcas justice, as well as making likable human protagonists who mourn the death of every orca as much as every human fatality. As a writer myself , I only wish I had had the idea to write this first. It is amazing work.
Amazing. Full credit to the author for his research, his characterization, his pacing, his well written gor baths, his insight into the animals, and overall, just for writing this much needed cautionary tale with all its twists, heartbreak, and blood baths. I loved it. I was a digital AND a paperback copy for my collections. I hope someone has the vision To turn this into a full sized box office blockbuster at the theatres.
February 4, 2022
3.5 ⭐s Chaotic Killer Whales
I went into this book with very high expectations. I read the SWAMP MONSTER MASSACRE a couple days ago my first book by Hunter Shea. I loved it and I was so eager to read this book for one I really like Killer Whales (Orcas). They are beautiful, graceful, nurturing sea creatures. An intelligent mammal that live in family groups, taking care of their young and mates.
But they have another side one sadly some Aquarium trainers have found out about the hard way. These tragic occurrences have shined a bright light on the life of Orcas in Aquariums. And what it illustrated wasn't pretty. This book started off so promising. It was visceral and gruesome, with big powerful beasts causing terrifying tension, a little romance, and international intrigue.
Then in my opinion the storyline went off the rails. Despite how I ultimately felt it may be very enjoyable to you so don't let me dissuade you from reading it.
I went into this book with very high expectations. I read the SWAMP MONSTER MASSACRE a couple days ago my first book by Hunter Shea. I loved it and I was so eager to read this book for one I really like Killer Whales (Orcas). They are beautiful, graceful, nurturing sea creatures. An intelligent mammal that live in family groups, taking care of their young and mates.
But they have another side one sadly some Aquarium trainers have found out about the hard way. These tragic occurrences have shined a bright light on the life of Orcas in Aquariums. And what it illustrated wasn't pretty. This book started off so promising. It was visceral and gruesome, with big powerful beasts causing terrifying tension, a little romance, and international intrigue.
Then in my opinion the storyline went off the rails. Despite how I ultimately felt it may be very enjoyable to you so don't let me dissuade you from reading it.
June 27, 2020
Fury Of The Orcas was a pretty decent, short, B-movie icky bug.
I had a great time with the excellent writing which was told in solid third-person, mostly limited and past-tense. The narrative was swift and never bogged down in endless exposition. I had a fun time with the plot and the premise was interesting enough.
My only beef was the ambiguous ending. While it turned out mostly okay, it wasn’t really all that satisfying. Instead of thinking they killed the beast, and then having it spring up somewhere else, instead something else occurred, which just sucked all the positivity right out of the ending. That almost ruined it for me.
I enjoyed this fast and fun read but the ending knocked it down to four stars. Still recommended.
I had a great time with the excellent writing which was told in solid third-person, mostly limited and past-tense. The narrative was swift and never bogged down in endless exposition. I had a fun time with the plot and the premise was interesting enough.
My only beef was the ambiguous ending. While it turned out mostly okay, it wasn’t really all that satisfying. Instead of thinking they killed the beast, and then having it spring up somewhere else, instead something else occurred, which just sucked all the positivity right out of the ending. That almost ruined it for me.
I enjoyed this fast and fun read but the ending knocked it down to four stars. Still recommended.
December 14, 2017
Hunter Shea has once again turned his twisted mind toward the sea and brought us another reason not to go into the water! Fury of the Orcas is filled with engaging characters and enough action to set your heart racing. The Orcas themselves are both heartbreaking and terrifying enough to scare the living daylights out of any creature feature fan out there. Chet and Rosario are fun to follow as they race to save both these remarkable sea creatures and the people in their path. Hunter Shea excels at writing characters that you can identify with and care about making the situations they find themselves in even scarier. I highly recommend this fantastic 5 star read!
March 2, 2022
When you buy a book like this, you know what you're getting into. It reads like a SyFy movie. Idiotic characters, over the top gore and sleazy sex scenes. No brain power required here. It's actually not a bad concept with Orcas suddenly turning on all mankind, but the eventual cause of it all was ridiculous. If that's not bad enough, the author decides at the end things are too serious and brings out some dinosaur fish. Not kidding. Its hilarious. As with other books I've read by Hunter Shea there's no real ending, which seems to be a habit with this guy. Still, I got my 99 cents worth so I can't complain too much. Worth a look for some brainless fun.
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