What do you think?
Rate this book
The Hills Be Shaken
Mose Haley was an engineer, but in a few short months, he will have his FBI badge . . . and his revenge.
Two weeks ago, Mose was designing highway curves that safely carry minivans loaded with three kids and a dog doing 70 miles per hour. Now he is standing next to hot ammunition casings holding a standard issue Glock 23 handgun with the slide locked back and the barrel smoking. Two weeks ago—before the people he loved died—was a lifetime ago.
The attack on Manhattan, Kansas, dubbed Little 9/11 was the first. Officer Sam McGuire was there when it happened, shaken like everyone else on that day. The day he witnessed the collapse of a two-mile dam. Also, the day Sam saw the blonde in the park. The fit woman, jogging with an AR-15 and a pistol. He has questioned her and questioned her again. He has gone to ground zero and rummaged through the debris. Sam is a good cop, but he cannot piece it all together. He needs help. He needs an engineer.
Mose wants to believe he has the grit for the job, but he is a rookie. He has never had to face rooftop gunfire or defuse a bomb in a playground with sweaty hands and a paperclip. Mose Haley has never been tested . . . until now.
Two weeks ago, Mose was designing highway curves that safely carry minivans loaded with three kids and a dog doing 70 miles per hour. Now he is standing next to hot ammunition casings holding a standard issue Glock 23 handgun with the slide locked back and the barrel smoking. Two weeks ago—before the people he loved died—was a lifetime ago.
The attack on Manhattan, Kansas, dubbed Little 9/11 was the first. Officer Sam McGuire was there when it happened, shaken like everyone else on that day. The day he witnessed the collapse of a two-mile dam. Also, the day Sam saw the blonde in the park. The fit woman, jogging with an AR-15 and a pistol. He has questioned her and questioned her again. He has gone to ground zero and rummaged through the debris. Sam is a good cop, but he cannot piece it all together. He needs help. He needs an engineer.
Mose wants to believe he has the grit for the job, but he is a rookie. He has never had to face rooftop gunfire or defuse a bomb in a playground with sweaty hands and a paperclip. Mose Haley has never been tested . . . until now.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 13, 2022
300 people are currently reading
240 people want to read
About the author
Michael Stewart
3 books14 followersMichael Stewart is an award-winning author and #1 Best Seller. He lives in the sunflower-covered hills of Kansas with his dear wife and six lively children. Stewart worked for two decades as an engineer, designing streets and highways. Now he writes books in various genres from action thrillers with a bit of mystery and science to historical romance novels with a touch of magic.
“Writing is like watching a movie, and I love movies.”
Stewart has published three novels, including THE HILLS BE SHAKEN which reached #1 shortly after its debut and has caught the attention of Top Reviewers. This mystery has scored mostly 5-Star ratings on Amazon and 98% of readers “Liked It” on Goodreads. The crime novel is available in paperback, E-book, and audiobook.
Stewart's latest novel, THE HOPING WELL, is a romantic time-travel story of hope. Also available in paperback, E-book, and audio.
“Writing is like watching a movie, and I love movies.”
Stewart has published three novels, including THE HILLS BE SHAKEN which reached #1 shortly after its debut and has caught the attention of Top Reviewers. This mystery has scored mostly 5-Star ratings on Amazon and 98% of readers “Liked It” on Goodreads. The crime novel is available in paperback, E-book, and audiobook.
Stewart's latest novel, THE HOPING WELL, is a romantic time-travel story of hope. Also available in paperback, E-book, and audio.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
January 2, 2025
Very preachy
The Gills Be Shaken
By Michael Stewart
The first couple of pages were funny, and I was excited to start the book, but that changed. Lots of religious preaching thrown in. Rated 2 1/2 stars rounding up to 3.
The Gills Be Shaken
By Michael Stewart
The first couple of pages were funny, and I was excited to start the book, but that changed. Lots of religious preaching thrown in. Rated 2 1/2 stars rounding up to 3.
March 29, 2023
4.5★s
The Hills Be Shaken is the second novel by American engineer and author, Michael Stewart. When the Tuttle Creek dam near Manhattan, Kansas, fails on the fourth of July holiday, and ten thousand people die, officials claim it’s due to an earthquake, but experts aren’t convinced. The idea that it may have been a terrorist act gains momentum when there’s a threat against a bridge somewhere in Kansas.
Officer Sam McGuire recalls stopping an armed woman in a Manhattan park on the day. Detective Mickey Shepherd feels they need more officers to question witnesses for clues about whathappened. Retired FBI agent Don Baptiste has been recalled to duty to investigate what really happened during the thing they’re calling The Little Apple Nine-Eleven.
Topeka engineer Moses Haley lost a family member to the disaster, and while his expertise isn’t with dams or bridges, a paper he’s written brings him to the attention of the FBI and the Secret Service. He’s stunned to be pulled out of his Sunday mass for an audience with the highest power in the land. But even more amazing is being recruited into a new division of the FBI, which includes learning to shoot a Glock 23.
In concert with Manhattan PD, Mose methodically investigates, picking up on small elements, uncovering clues, following leads and making deductions. But as he and Sam get closer to learning the truth, there are threats to his family; Mose is shot at, almost drowns, and attempts are made on the lives of his colleagues.
As well as a few engineers, Stewart populates his tale with corrupt county officials and engineering company managers, a persistent journalist, a sole survivor with amnesia, a woman with hidden explosives expertise, and observant detail-oriented investigators. Before the final revelation, there is a bomb threat, a stabbing, a dramatic climax inside a wind turbine, and a spectacular helicopter rescue.
Mose makes an interesting character as his engineering background often gives him a different perspective on what he learns, and a different approach to investigation. The versatile perpetrator employs drowning, a motor vehicle accident, poisoning and shooting, leading to a not-insignificant body count. The plot includes a few Lazarus moments might require the reader to don their disbelief suspenders, but this is an excellent police procedural and more of this cast will be most welcome.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Books Go Social.
The Hills Be Shaken is the second novel by American engineer and author, Michael Stewart. When the Tuttle Creek dam near Manhattan, Kansas, fails on the fourth of July holiday, and ten thousand people die, officials claim it’s due to an earthquake, but experts aren’t convinced. The idea that it may have been a terrorist act gains momentum when there’s a threat against a bridge somewhere in Kansas.
Officer Sam McGuire recalls stopping an armed woman in a Manhattan park on the day. Detective Mickey Shepherd feels they need more officers to question witnesses for clues about whathappened. Retired FBI agent Don Baptiste has been recalled to duty to investigate what really happened during the thing they’re calling The Little Apple Nine-Eleven.
Topeka engineer Moses Haley lost a family member to the disaster, and while his expertise isn’t with dams or bridges, a paper he’s written brings him to the attention of the FBI and the Secret Service. He’s stunned to be pulled out of his Sunday mass for an audience with the highest power in the land. But even more amazing is being recruited into a new division of the FBI, which includes learning to shoot a Glock 23.
In concert with Manhattan PD, Mose methodically investigates, picking up on small elements, uncovering clues, following leads and making deductions. But as he and Sam get closer to learning the truth, there are threats to his family; Mose is shot at, almost drowns, and attempts are made on the lives of his colleagues.
As well as a few engineers, Stewart populates his tale with corrupt county officials and engineering company managers, a persistent journalist, a sole survivor with amnesia, a woman with hidden explosives expertise, and observant detail-oriented investigators. Before the final revelation, there is a bomb threat, a stabbing, a dramatic climax inside a wind turbine, and a spectacular helicopter rescue.
Mose makes an interesting character as his engineering background often gives him a different perspective on what he learns, and a different approach to investigation. The versatile perpetrator employs drowning, a motor vehicle accident, poisoning and shooting, leading to a not-insignificant body count. The plot includes a few Lazarus moments might require the reader to don their disbelief suspenders, but this is an excellent police procedural and more of this cast will be most welcome.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Books Go Social.
October 20, 2023
THE HILLS BE SHAKEN
Fast paced thriller featuring Moses Haley, engineer turned FBI agent, sent to investigate the collapse of the Tuttle Creek Lake dam in Kansas. Earthquake, or something more sinister? It has an optimistic feel to it even while covering serious issues. Christian based. The visit to the Kansas Windfall Energy Farm was worth the read alone!
Fast paced thriller featuring Moses Haley, engineer turned FBI agent, sent to investigate the collapse of the Tuttle Creek Lake dam in Kansas. Earthquake, or something more sinister? It has an optimistic feel to it even while covering serious issues. Christian based. The visit to the Kansas Windfall Energy Farm was worth the read alone!
May 2, 2022
I love a book with a gripping story which teaches me something I didn’t know – and this one fits the bill!
Mose Haley is an engineer who takes pride in his job – and in doing it right. When a local disaster occurs, there is talk that it wasn’t the accident it seems to be. The collapse of a dam in Manhattan, Kansas – referred to locally as ‘Little 9/11’ – killed a lot of people. Officer Sam Maguire was there that day and he knows something isn’t right – he just can’t prove it … yet. What he needs is an engineer and Mose is his man; things happen fast and he goes from helping Sam to being fast tracked into the FBI; he’s fit and believes he has what it takes to do the job, but he’s just an engineer . . .
This is an author entirely new to me and I wasn’t quite sure where it was all heading, but it didn’t take me long to get really involved and I soon found myself deeply engrossed. The engineering side of things was described in an interesting but easy to understand way – without treating the reader as an idiot, always a bonus. I wasn’t exactly sure where it was headed, which made it all the more exciting! This is a well-written novel, with great character development, close attention to detail and I really enjoyed it. I don’t think either the title or the cover would have attracted me but, trust me, this is well worth a read. Mose is a very likeable character and I really hope to read more about his time with the FBI – this would make a great series! If you enjoy a thriller but are looking for something with a new angle, this is one I’m very happy to recommend. 4.5*
Mose Haley is an engineer who takes pride in his job – and in doing it right. When a local disaster occurs, there is talk that it wasn’t the accident it seems to be. The collapse of a dam in Manhattan, Kansas – referred to locally as ‘Little 9/11’ – killed a lot of people. Officer Sam Maguire was there that day and he knows something isn’t right – he just can’t prove it … yet. What he needs is an engineer and Mose is his man; things happen fast and he goes from helping Sam to being fast tracked into the FBI; he’s fit and believes he has what it takes to do the job, but he’s just an engineer . . .
This is an author entirely new to me and I wasn’t quite sure where it was all heading, but it didn’t take me long to get really involved and I soon found myself deeply engrossed. The engineering side of things was described in an interesting but easy to understand way – without treating the reader as an idiot, always a bonus. I wasn’t exactly sure where it was headed, which made it all the more exciting! This is a well-written novel, with great character development, close attention to detail and I really enjoyed it. I don’t think either the title or the cover would have attracted me but, trust me, this is well worth a read. Mose is a very likeable character and I really hope to read more about his time with the FBI – this would make a great series! If you enjoy a thriller but are looking for something with a new angle, this is one I’m very happy to recommend. 4.5*
April 3, 2022
This book has an interesting slant on the usual detective procedural/action novel. This one is an engineer’s procedural. Trust an engineer to know all sorts of ways for people to get killed. Especially all sorts of dangerous things you really didn’t want to know that happen inside the generating pod of a wind turbine, 100 metres off the ground.
The opening is a little slow because there are a lot of characters to introduce, and some of the details don’t relate that much to what happens in the plot. In fact, that’s my one complaint about this book. There are a few too many characters, and this fragments the story too much.
Otherwise, it’s a great plotline with interesting twists and turns, most of them due to the engineering slant. Also, there is plenty of action, and a few more deaths than I personally prefer.
Not that it matters, but there is a higher level of religious content in the story than in most action novels. I didn’t find it intrusive, and it is tied into the characters and the conflict, but it’s an unusual element worth noting.
I found the final conflict happened rather suddenly and with little leadup, which reduced the suspense a certain amount.
A good, solid detective story with an interesting point of view. Recommended for all mystery/action fans, especially the technical minded.
The opening is a little slow because there are a lot of characters to introduce, and some of the details don’t relate that much to what happens in the plot. In fact, that’s my one complaint about this book. There are a few too many characters, and this fragments the story too much.
Otherwise, it’s a great plotline with interesting twists and turns, most of them due to the engineering slant. Also, there is plenty of action, and a few more deaths than I personally prefer.
Not that it matters, but there is a higher level of religious content in the story than in most action novels. I didn’t find it intrusive, and it is tied into the characters and the conflict, but it’s an unusual element worth noting.
I found the final conflict happened rather suddenly and with little leadup, which reduced the suspense a certain amount.
A good, solid detective story with an interesting point of view. Recommended for all mystery/action fans, especially the technical minded.
April 19, 2022
If this book ever turns into a movie, I could easily see Mose played by Liam Neeson.
Well-written thriller, keeps the reader on the edge of his seat.
It is the kind of situation where you can easily empathize with the protagonist and every wrong decision seems understandable!
The ending was shocking and moving. I didn't see it coming.
Recommend it!!
Well-written thriller, keeps the reader on the edge of his seat.
It is the kind of situation where you can easily empathize with the protagonist and every wrong decision seems understandable!
The ending was shocking and moving. I didn't see it coming.
Recommend it!!
September 23, 2022
I came across this quote some time ago: “Is this truth too potent for me to hold? If I keep it close, will I tumble? At times, I don't know”. You can imagine my surprise when I remembered every word of this quote while reading The Hills Be Shaken. Maybe this was how I felt as I kept scrolling through the pages of the e-book. Were the emotions evoked by this book too strong for me to hold? I guess it didn't consume me after all.
The Hills Be Shaken is an action thriller written by Michael Stewart, a man I would love to describe as an impeccable wordsmith for reasons you would appreciate when you read this book. The book centers on Mose Haley, an engineer and now recruited FBI agent. After the catastrophe in Manhattan, Kansas, that claimed lives, there's a buzz that the incident occurred due to terrorist attacks rather than the presumed earthquake. Officer Sam raises suspicion and decides to follow it up. He needs the help of an engineer to ascertain what exactly went wrong at the dam at Tuttle Creek Lake. Soon, there's a twist, and Mose, the engineer, is recruited by the FBI to solve the mystery.
Initially, the book is slow-paced and packed with introductions to the characters than a preamble to the story. This extensive myriad of personalities incorporated into the book made some characters suffer while others flourished. It was hard to notice when a character was no longer in the story because they all had replacements. I am content with the author’s projection of Mose as an imperfect identity. Mose seemed more like a real character than a fictional identity.
The book shuts in an incredible plot. Being a book having an FBI agent character, I expected puzzling scenes—scenes that would carry readers on a ride of suspense and inquisition. The author outrightly exceeded my expectation. The action settings were flawlessly choreographed with words, creating excellent imagery of the author's thoughts.
For the language used, the author was kind enough to make his writing pithy. Although the book’s volume was long-winded, the composition was not prolix or incoherent. This gesture made it easy to discern the tale. The biblical foundation of this book helped project this book in a better light. I had an extraordinary reading experience and would be recommending it to people who enjoy action cliffhangers crammed with twists. I am rating this book 4 out of 5 stars.
Check out more reviews on my blog: https://tinyurl.com/2mysykne
The Hills Be Shaken is an action thriller written by Michael Stewart, a man I would love to describe as an impeccable wordsmith for reasons you would appreciate when you read this book. The book centers on Mose Haley, an engineer and now recruited FBI agent. After the catastrophe in Manhattan, Kansas, that claimed lives, there's a buzz that the incident occurred due to terrorist attacks rather than the presumed earthquake. Officer Sam raises suspicion and decides to follow it up. He needs the help of an engineer to ascertain what exactly went wrong at the dam at Tuttle Creek Lake. Soon, there's a twist, and Mose, the engineer, is recruited by the FBI to solve the mystery.
Initially, the book is slow-paced and packed with introductions to the characters than a preamble to the story. This extensive myriad of personalities incorporated into the book made some characters suffer while others flourished. It was hard to notice when a character was no longer in the story because they all had replacements. I am content with the author’s projection of Mose as an imperfect identity. Mose seemed more like a real character than a fictional identity.
The book shuts in an incredible plot. Being a book having an FBI agent character, I expected puzzling scenes—scenes that would carry readers on a ride of suspense and inquisition. The author outrightly exceeded my expectation. The action settings were flawlessly choreographed with words, creating excellent imagery of the author's thoughts.
For the language used, the author was kind enough to make his writing pithy. Although the book’s volume was long-winded, the composition was not prolix or incoherent. This gesture made it easy to discern the tale. The biblical foundation of this book helped project this book in a better light. I had an extraordinary reading experience and would be recommending it to people who enjoy action cliffhangers crammed with twists. I am rating this book 4 out of 5 stars.
Check out more reviews on my blog: https://tinyurl.com/2mysykne
June 24, 2022
Mose is happy being an engineer and living an ordinary life with his wife and children, despite some problems with his marriage. That is until a disaster labelled the ‘little 9/11’ shakes Kansas and Mose finds himself as an FBI agent. He’s ‘just an engineer’ but he might be the only one who can find out what really happened on that disastrous day.
When are our lives meet with disaster and devastation, we either fight or take flight. This is a story of fight. Mose is determined to find out what happened on the day of ‘little 9/11.’ He trusts his body and gut instincts as he tries to find out what caused the dam to collapse. Mose’s character is pushed to extraordinary limits when he is faced with events that only his inner strength can handle.
I really enjoyed The Hills Be Shaken much more than I thought I would. I found Michael Stewart
writes a gripping story, with an intriguing plot and believable characters. The story line takes some twists and turns, like any good action mystery there are a lot of pieces to put together.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When are our lives meet with disaster and devastation, we either fight or take flight. This is a story of fight. Mose is determined to find out what happened on the day of ‘little 9/11.’ He trusts his body and gut instincts as he tries to find out what caused the dam to collapse. Mose’s character is pushed to extraordinary limits when he is faced with events that only his inner strength can handle.
I really enjoyed The Hills Be Shaken much more than I thought I would. I found Michael Stewart
writes a gripping story, with an intriguing plot and believable characters. The story line takes some twists and turns, like any good action mystery there are a lot of pieces to put together.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 15, 2023
I received an ARC copy from the author and received no compensation. The review is my own thoughts.
Little 9/11; in real life, this would have been a catastrophic event, the likes no one would recover from. When Mose Haley, a road engineer, got a glimpse of the enormity of the devastation in Kansas, he understood that life as he knew it was over. What was thought to be a natural disaster soon became clear that it was another terrorist attack on US soil.
After the water receded and only the bedrock was left, everyone wanted answers. With so many lives lost, they had to find an eyewitness to state what they thought was the real reason the dam gave in. It was up to Mose, a newly appointed FBI agent, to find not only this witness but find the other weak points within the United States water system to avoid another disaster.
Corruption, money laundering, and self-righteousness were some topics that surfaced during the story. Its faith-based foundation is the platform from where each character acted.
“Sam continued, “I guess in special circumstances, when there is no time for individual confessions, in the face of mortal danger, a priest is allowed to do such a thing. And I’ll tell you what, Mose, I could feel the weight lift off my back. I was carrying a hundred pounds of gear, and it was like it wasn’t even there. It was probably the scariest moment in my life, while at the same time one of the best feelings I’ve ever had.” Sam took a gulp of beer before continuing.
“Then the priest said, men it’s going to be hard, it’s going to be scary, but when you need it, remember those final words of David ‘take courage’. Know God is with you, and he’ll be with you when you need him, and he’ll take you by the hand and walk you to his kingdom. ‘Take courage, be a man’.”
With no concrete evidence, Mose began the enormous task. Breadcrumbs trailing his way and a phone caller who keeps on leaving cryptic messages. When a second bomb threat is made, things speed up quickly. He-is-just-an-engineer mantra was the only thing that kept him calm enough to do what was needed.
Sometimes you get the sense that the book was more than a fictitious story. The technical details enhancing the story realistically. Like a gigantic puzzle, if one piece is removed, the disaster would be so much greater. Once we understand how everything fits together, the possibilities of another terrorist attack become a greater realiteit.
The supporting characters of Don, Sam, Mickey, and Maria were well developed and relatable. Until you realize who the villain is.
The writing itself is crisp and clear as it leads you on a definite path of the unexpected. The plot line is well thought out and the author’s knowledge or research was well grounded to bring an incredible story of life and faith, as it intertwines with this suspenseful story.
A powerful story of faith and determination as Mose Haley get to learn to trust his instinct and the breadcrumbs God has laid out for him.
Little 9/11; in real life, this would have been a catastrophic event, the likes no one would recover from. When Mose Haley, a road engineer, got a glimpse of the enormity of the devastation in Kansas, he understood that life as he knew it was over. What was thought to be a natural disaster soon became clear that it was another terrorist attack on US soil.
After the water receded and only the bedrock was left, everyone wanted answers. With so many lives lost, they had to find an eyewitness to state what they thought was the real reason the dam gave in. It was up to Mose, a newly appointed FBI agent, to find not only this witness but find the other weak points within the United States water system to avoid another disaster.
Corruption, money laundering, and self-righteousness were some topics that surfaced during the story. Its faith-based foundation is the platform from where each character acted.
“Sam continued, “I guess in special circumstances, when there is no time for individual confessions, in the face of mortal danger, a priest is allowed to do such a thing. And I’ll tell you what, Mose, I could feel the weight lift off my back. I was carrying a hundred pounds of gear, and it was like it wasn’t even there. It was probably the scariest moment in my life, while at the same time one of the best feelings I’ve ever had.” Sam took a gulp of beer before continuing.
“Then the priest said, men it’s going to be hard, it’s going to be scary, but when you need it, remember those final words of David ‘take courage’. Know God is with you, and he’ll be with you when you need him, and he’ll take you by the hand and walk you to his kingdom. ‘Take courage, be a man’.”
With no concrete evidence, Mose began the enormous task. Breadcrumbs trailing his way and a phone caller who keeps on leaving cryptic messages. When a second bomb threat is made, things speed up quickly. He-is-just-an-engineer mantra was the only thing that kept him calm enough to do what was needed.
Sometimes you get the sense that the book was more than a fictitious story. The technical details enhancing the story realistically. Like a gigantic puzzle, if one piece is removed, the disaster would be so much greater. Once we understand how everything fits together, the possibilities of another terrorist attack become a greater realiteit.
The supporting characters of Don, Sam, Mickey, and Maria were well developed and relatable. Until you realize who the villain is.
The writing itself is crisp and clear as it leads you on a definite path of the unexpected. The plot line is well thought out and the author’s knowledge or research was well grounded to bring an incredible story of life and faith, as it intertwines with this suspenseful story.
A powerful story of faith and determination as Mose Haley get to learn to trust his instinct and the breadcrumbs God has laid out for him.
September 10, 2022
Mose is an engineer recruited by the FBI after the collapse of a dam that killed thousands. Was it a natural disaster? Or was it an attack?
Aside from being an engineer turned agent, Mose is a family man who first and foremost wants to keep his family safe. Michael Stewart creates a realistic protagonist who isn't 'too good to be for real' like many stories in this genre. He's a regular person who excels in his field. He has a relatable home and social life, making it easy to connect with him.
The plot was well-executed and gripping. There were a few slower spots, however, it all came together in the end. It's a thought-provoking story as well with the 'Little 9/11' disaster involved. Many of us learned through terrible experiences how a seemingly innocent object can be used for evil. As I read, I started thinking about what else might be a disaster waiting to happen.
Lastly, I want to applaud the book's religious undercurrent. Biblical themes worked their way into the story either through the characters' beliefs (or lack thereof) or the plot itself. Without giving too much away, an experience Mose has toward the end after hearing a sermon was particularly clever.
The author's note mentions a second book in the works. I'm excited to continue!
A huge thanks to the author for providing me with a free digital copy of the book to read and review!
Full review: https://oceanwriterreads.com/2022/09/...
Aside from being an engineer turned agent, Mose is a family man who first and foremost wants to keep his family safe. Michael Stewart creates a realistic protagonist who isn't 'too good to be for real' like many stories in this genre. He's a regular person who excels in his field. He has a relatable home and social life, making it easy to connect with him.
The plot was well-executed and gripping. There were a few slower spots, however, it all came together in the end. It's a thought-provoking story as well with the 'Little 9/11' disaster involved. Many of us learned through terrible experiences how a seemingly innocent object can be used for evil. As I read, I started thinking about what else might be a disaster waiting to happen.
Lastly, I want to applaud the book's religious undercurrent. Biblical themes worked their way into the story either through the characters' beliefs (or lack thereof) or the plot itself. Without giving too much away, an experience Mose has toward the end after hearing a sermon was particularly clever.
The author's note mentions a second book in the works. I'm excited to continue!
A huge thanks to the author for providing me with a free digital copy of the book to read and review!
Full review: https://oceanwriterreads.com/2022/09/...
March 25, 2023
I picked this up off of NetGalley and then the author doubled down and offered me the audio too! I went with the narration by Eric Baker for the sake of time, and he did a good job.
Right off the bat, I love a concise and simple cover, but I do wish this one had a little more along the lines of something plot/setting specific.
This is a multi-POV crime novel with mystery, betrayal, and a lot of twists and turns. New FBI agents work with their new division to investigate possible terrorist works involving American infrastructure. Slow works in hopes of making a coordinated attack in the future. Starting with a dam’s destruction that could be natural or sinister. Something just doesn’t feel right.
This was fast paced and enjoyable. I did feel like there were some issues with setting, where I didn’t know where the character was, or if I did, it wasn’t described enough. But with it being FBI and countrywide, they were in a lot of places.
Also, the dam incident went on to be called ‘Little 9/11,’ and personally that just didn’t sit well with me as the name overall. Personally a 3/5*.
Right off the bat, I love a concise and simple cover, but I do wish this one had a little more along the lines of something plot/setting specific.
This is a multi-POV crime novel with mystery, betrayal, and a lot of twists and turns. New FBI agents work with their new division to investigate possible terrorist works involving American infrastructure. Slow works in hopes of making a coordinated attack in the future. Starting with a dam’s destruction that could be natural or sinister. Something just doesn’t feel right.
This was fast paced and enjoyable. I did feel like there were some issues with setting, where I didn’t know where the character was, or if I did, it wasn’t described enough. But with it being FBI and countrywide, they were in a lot of places.
Also, the dam incident went on to be called ‘Little 9/11,’ and personally that just didn’t sit well with me as the name overall. Personally a 3/5*.
May 12, 2022
This book isn't my usual go-to; however, having read one of Stewart's other novels, I was very excited to sink my teeth into this one.
If you love cop movies, this book is perfect for you. When a tragic accident rocks Kansas, it takes an unlikely engineer turned cop to solve the mystery of what really happened that day.
This story is a slow build, but by the time you get to the end, you'll be flipping pages trying to solve it before the story ends.
Overall this is a great read for action and mystery readers alike.
December 12, 2022
I enjoyed the narration of Eric Baker
This a book is a great thriller. A dam breaks and ten thousand are killed in Manhattan, Kansas. Authorities officially blame seismic activity for the dam's failure but secretly suspect a terrorist plot. The FBI ask engineers to help with the investigation. Haley an engineer finds the near he gets to the to the truth, he starts to find danger and doesn't know whom to trust.
This a book is a great thriller. A dam breaks and ten thousand are killed in Manhattan, Kansas. Authorities officially blame seismic activity for the dam's failure but secretly suspect a terrorist plot. The FBI ask engineers to help with the investigation. Haley an engineer finds the near he gets to the to the truth, he starts to find danger and doesn't know whom to trust.
January 2, 2024
I’m always impressed when an author is able to make their book feel like a movie. This book is like that. I also appreciate a good story that is told from an interesting and unique perspective. Can’t say I’ve read too many books from the perspective of an engineer. Overall, an entertaining read that was well worth it.
January 4, 2024
Breathing In Gasps!
This was an excellent book. It was just hardtop breathe when Mose got In such scary situations. The biggest problem was that it is absolutely too believable. Scary to think that men and women have to make such hard decisions. But at least the author had his eyes on the bigger picture-- it is the evil in this world that God would have us overcome.
This was an excellent book. It was just hardtop breathe when Mose got In such scary situations. The biggest problem was that it is absolutely too believable. Scary to think that men and women have to make such hard decisions. But at least the author had his eyes on the bigger picture-- it is the evil in this world that God would have us overcome.
April 20, 2022
The Hills Be Shaken is a good detective story with an intriguing point of view. I highly recommend it to all mystery/action fans.
Initially, I thought it would be boring and felt it took a while to get going, but this could be me wanting to get stuck into the juicy stuff.
There are plenty of characters in the story, with good descriptions, leaving you hanging to know more.
It has a great plotline with good twists and turns. There were quite a few deaths, but this makes the story what it is.
I found the ending to be quite moving. I wasn't expecting the conclusion to be this way.
Initially, I thought it would be boring and felt it took a while to get going, but this could be me wanting to get stuck into the juicy stuff.
There are plenty of characters in the story, with good descriptions, leaving you hanging to know more.
It has a great plotline with good twists and turns. There were quite a few deaths, but this makes the story what it is.
I found the ending to be quite moving. I wasn't expecting the conclusion to be this way.
January 25, 2024
Heart stopper
I couldn't stop reading. An engineer gets
recruited into the FBI and becomes part of a circle that uncover a plot that has killed thousands and threatens more. Worth the time to read.
I couldn't stop reading. An engineer gets
recruited into the FBI and becomes part of a circle that uncover a plot that has killed thousands and threatens more. Worth the time to read.
February 5, 2024
I almost DNF’d this book purely because of the typo frequency and the repetition of the word “engineer” making me feel like I was stroking out but kept going thinking the twist at the end would make it worth it — and it totally was not. Felt like a weird religious engineer cop drama.
July 5, 2022
Veing the widow of an engineer, it is easy to understand this man, MOse, so precise and orderly. Good book, would recommend it
September 18, 2022
I New Author is Found
"I'm just an engineer." This sentence creates the stepping stones which leads you down a twisted path and keeps you riveted to the final page.
"I'm just an engineer." This sentence creates the stepping stones which leads you down a twisted path and keeps you riveted to the final page.
December 19, 2022
Gripping
Well written and compelling story, did not see the conclusion coming. Could not put my Kindle down until I finished the book.
Well written and compelling story, did not see the conclusion coming. Could not put my Kindle down until I finished the book.
October 29, 2023
Up all night
This book has a perfect blend of humor, tension and valor. Well, maybe a little weighted on the tension. Well done. I will read anything by this author.
This book has a perfect blend of humor, tension and valor. Well, maybe a little weighted on the tension. Well done. I will read anything by this author.
January 10, 2024
Griping.
This story had completely unexpected twists and turns. It held my interest right to the last page. I will read more by this author.
This story had completely unexpected twists and turns. It held my interest right to the last page. I will read more by this author.
February 3, 2023
Outstanding novel, brilliantly written and one hell of an explosive story. Little 9/11 has shaken the Police, the FBI and the people of Manhattan, Kansas to the core. As the story develops there are many twists and turns that lead to a very surprising finale. Highly recommended read and worthy of five stars.
January 31, 2024
enjoyable read
It had lots of twists and turns, and I liked the characters. Good plot, and at the end, I couldn’t put it down.
It had lots of twists and turns, and I liked the characters. Good plot, and at the end, I couldn’t put it down.
December 10, 2022
It was interesting but felt off somehow. You really had to concentrate to follow the storyline due to the way the chapters were cut up. I read to relax, not to feel I have to solve a puzzle as I go. I love mystery and suspense, this was just choppy.
February 14, 2024
Man I really wanted to like this one for the author. As a fellow engineer with a passion for writing I was hopeful that it would be great and the positive reviews here on Goodreads were enough to get me excited. But my lord was this a let down. So many things that I thought were terrible in the story and writing that it is hard to figure out what to say here in the review. I will save people on the fence out there and say don't read it, but if you want more thoughts you can see my reasons below.
To name a few reasons I hated this book, the dialogue for characters was at times absurd to the point of taking away from the story. Probably the worst of this is any scene with the President, not sure if Mr Stewart wanted him to be a bumbling doofus but he succeeded there. The sardines scene was down right stupid. And the president's speech at the end was ridiculous. No president is going to explain what happened in a room he was not in at a funeral. Partially because it is just weird and partially because you don't just disclose detailed specifics of an FBI investigation to the public.
The "I'm just an engineer lines." We get it. Enough already. They might as well have been pulled from a cheesy want to be 80s action movie.
The ability for the one bad guy to be wherever he needs to be whenever he needs to be. Killing someone in Colorado, tampering a wind turbine in Kansas. Stabbing a retired FBI agent in Florida. All the while doing late night shows and news interviews and running his day job as a police officer.
The injuries and physical progress were other sore points for me. Our main character is just an engineer, but he is jumping out of buildings on to cars, walking away fine, holding his breath expertly while trying to tie down a "bomb", running atop wind turbines, hanging from helicopters (not to mention holding up another person with on arm), and then survives two gun shots into the stomach and guts (shots that he can feel the stomach acid leaking out of and smell the fecal matter in his intestines from). Sorry too much. Write me a character that is supposed to be a super spy and I will try to believe those things, but don't write me a story about a normal guy and then say he can do all that no problem. Give me flaws. Make him real
Lastly, the overly religious connotations throughout the whole book were another detraction for me, but that might just be a personal thing and I try not to hold that against an author too much. You can have religious characters, but not every character needs it or needs to spout prayers and faith and God's will.
All in all, I always finish books I start, that is just a thing for me, but this one was a real struggle and at times I really wanted to just stop and not waste any more time finishing it.
To name a few reasons I hated this book, the dialogue for characters was at times absurd to the point of taking away from the story. Probably the worst of this is any scene with the President, not sure if Mr Stewart wanted him to be a bumbling doofus but he succeeded there. The sardines scene was down right stupid. And the president's speech at the end was ridiculous. No president is going to explain what happened in a room he was not in at a funeral. Partially because it is just weird and partially because you don't just disclose detailed specifics of an FBI investigation to the public.
The "I'm just an engineer lines." We get it. Enough already. They might as well have been pulled from a cheesy want to be 80s action movie.
The ability for the one bad guy to be wherever he needs to be whenever he needs to be. Killing someone in Colorado, tampering a wind turbine in Kansas. Stabbing a retired FBI agent in Florida. All the while doing late night shows and news interviews and running his day job as a police officer.
The injuries and physical progress were other sore points for me. Our main character is just an engineer, but he is jumping out of buildings on to cars, walking away fine, holding his breath expertly while trying to tie down a "bomb", running atop wind turbines, hanging from helicopters (not to mention holding up another person with on arm), and then survives two gun shots into the stomach and guts (shots that he can feel the stomach acid leaking out of and smell the fecal matter in his intestines from). Sorry too much. Write me a character that is supposed to be a super spy and I will try to believe those things, but don't write me a story about a normal guy and then say he can do all that no problem. Give me flaws. Make him real
Lastly, the overly religious connotations throughout the whole book were another detraction for me, but that might just be a personal thing and I try not to hold that against an author too much. You can have religious characters, but not every character needs it or needs to spout prayers and faith and God's will.
All in all, I always finish books I start, that is just a thing for me, but this one was a real struggle and at times I really wanted to just stop and not waste any more time finishing it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2023
This review was originally posted at http://bit.ly/3nCHna3.
When a dam in Kansas releases killing thousands the President of the United States demands answers. To get these answers a new band of FBI are trained who were former engineers. Their goals are simple. Figure out if what happened at the dam was natural causes or an attack and how to keep it from happening again. One such engineer is Kansas native Mose who begins making more progress than he should. Can he solve the truth behind the dam or will the death and threats stop him instead?
I received a copy of this audiobook from the author in exchange for an honest review. I have said it time and again and I get to reiterate it here, unfortunately. I loathe religious books. So much. We know my stipulation for that. But I will unabashedly state that every time it came up (with frequency) in this book I hit the 30 second skip button to get past the religious nonsense.
If that was ignored completely it was a good and interesting book. For me, that was a major detractor. The mystery of if it was an internal threat, external threat, or natural causes made for a great storyline. Also, a person who had no business in the FBI being the main character is a nice change of pace. Even if their marriage makes no sense. One moment he is having an internal monologue about not even being sure if he should call his wife Honey because they are little more than roommates that don't even sleep in the same room. The next they are talking about how they are so in love and that they mean the world to each other.
Moving on. I genuinely liked the cop, Sam in this book and his storyline was sad. I like how the author gave a bit of mystery as to who lived all the way up to the last chapter, though.
When a dam in Kansas releases killing thousands the President of the United States demands answers. To get these answers a new band of FBI are trained who were former engineers. Their goals are simple. Figure out if what happened at the dam was natural causes or an attack and how to keep it from happening again. One such engineer is Kansas native Mose who begins making more progress than he should. Can he solve the truth behind the dam or will the death and threats stop him instead?
I received a copy of this audiobook from the author in exchange for an honest review. I have said it time and again and I get to reiterate it here, unfortunately. I loathe religious books. So much. We know my stipulation for that. But I will unabashedly state that every time it came up (with frequency) in this book I hit the 30 second skip button to get past the religious nonsense.
If that was ignored completely it was a good and interesting book. For me, that was a major detractor. The mystery of if it was an internal threat, external threat, or natural causes made for a great storyline. Also, a person who had no business in the FBI being the main character is a nice change of pace. Even if their marriage makes no sense. One moment he is having an internal monologue about not even being sure if he should call his wife Honey because they are little more than roommates that don't even sleep in the same room. The next they are talking about how they are so in love and that they mean the world to each other.
Moving on. I genuinely liked the cop, Sam in this book and his storyline was sad. I like how the author gave a bit of mystery as to who lived all the way up to the last chapter, though.
February 25, 2023
I received an ARC through "NetGalley" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The story begins on a normal 4th of July when the unexpected happens. A dam gives way and there are many lives lost as well as massive damage. Moses, an engineer, is taking a break on the top of the roof of the building he works in, when he is suddenly arrested. After spending time in jail, he is finally released by his boss paying his bond. Sometime later while Moses is with his family, he is requested by members of the Secret Service to go to Washington for a meeting. At the meeting, Moses provides information regarding safety issues which impresses Don, a retires FBI agent, who asks him to join a new team of the FBI being formed with engineers like him. Moses thinks it over and decides to except. Moses then goes to Quantico for training. When he completes the training, he is assigned to a Kansas office where he is to investigate the dam incident.
During his investigation, Moses is assigned to work with Sam and Mikey. Mickey time seems to be taken up with speaking engagements so Moses deals primarily with Sam. As the investigation proceeds many events and an accident happens.
To discover what Moses was able to determine, what events led to the final discovery to the responsible party as well as what the result of Don and Sam changing meetings then you need to red this book, it will definitely keep your interest.
The story begins on a normal 4th of July when the unexpected happens. A dam gives way and there are many lives lost as well as massive damage. Moses, an engineer, is taking a break on the top of the roof of the building he works in, when he is suddenly arrested. After spending time in jail, he is finally released by his boss paying his bond. Sometime later while Moses is with his family, he is requested by members of the Secret Service to go to Washington for a meeting. At the meeting, Moses provides information regarding safety issues which impresses Don, a retires FBI agent, who asks him to join a new team of the FBI being formed with engineers like him. Moses thinks it over and decides to except. Moses then goes to Quantico for training. When he completes the training, he is assigned to a Kansas office where he is to investigate the dam incident.
During his investigation, Moses is assigned to work with Sam and Mikey. Mickey time seems to be taken up with speaking engagements so Moses deals primarily with Sam. As the investigation proceeds many events and an accident happens.
To discover what Moses was able to determine, what events led to the final discovery to the responsible party as well as what the result of Don and Sam changing meetings then you need to red this book, it will definitely keep your interest.
May 21, 2024
The story follows the lives of various individuals, with one main character linking them all, through a series of happenings that go from strange occurrences to major disasters. The underlying fear of terrorism brought on since nine-eleven becomes the basis for investigation, technical and human, through the eyes of people who just want to do the right thing.
A very strong religious undercurrent acts as a guideline throughout.
Well written, if exaggeratedly complete descriptions of the technicalities of various constructions, but then again, the main protagonist is "just an engineer" - as he keeps repeating to himself when events keep happening and he's asked to step up, time after time up to the very end.
Nicely done ending with doubts about whether this or that one of the various aforementioned individuals we followed were killed off, as some were during the story itself.
To see who lived and who died, we have to read up to the final page.
A very strong religious undercurrent acts as a guideline throughout.
Well written, if exaggeratedly complete descriptions of the technicalities of various constructions, but then again, the main protagonist is "just an engineer" - as he keeps repeating to himself when events keep happening and he's asked to step up, time after time up to the very end.
Nicely done ending with doubts about whether this or that one of the various aforementioned individuals we followed were killed off, as some were during the story itself.
To see who lived and who died, we have to read up to the final page.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews