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Shadow State
Perfect for fans of Matthew Quirk and Barry Eisler, in Frank Sennett’s hands, the world of a former military officer and Secret Service agent comes to harrowing life as a diabolical plot threatens everything he cherishes and believes.
Ex-Army Ranger sniper Rafe Hendrix leads the Secret Service detail of President Wyetta Johnson. Rafe and Wyetta became close when they served together in Afghanistan and he saved her life during a recon misadventure that cost her a leg.
The President’s wife visits a D.C. private-school classroom, and Hendrix is on sniper duty when a suicide bomber heads toward the First Lady. Hendrix disobeys a direct order and an unthinkable disaster unfolds. Though Hendrix may have saved the First Lady, he’s blamed for the carnage. And the violence hits harder than he ever could have imagined.
Rafe is cast adrift after the incident and he leaves D.C. for Fort Stockton, Texas. His prospects brighten when he meets veterinarian Melody Sanchez and their romance begins to bloom. But there’s still unfinished business waiting in the wings.
Someone from the past is bent on revenge—and he has Rafe firmly in his sights. His plan is as twisted as they come—grisly recreations of some of the most terrible events from the past. And now it’s up to Rafe to learn from history—or be doomed to repeat it.
Praise for Shadow State:
“An exciting contemporary thriller that is both psychologically astute and action packed. I liked this one from the great Frank Sennett.”
—Adrian McKinty, award-winning author of The Chain
“Frank Sennett’s debut thriller Shadow State is a ticking-clock conspiracy racing through the heartland of America and the perimeters of power where truth and justice are often a longshot.”
—James Grady, award-winning author of Six Days of the Condor
“Stylish, gripping and horribly convincing, Sennett’s cracking plot delivers big-time. Ladies and gentlemen, ex Secret Service agent and all-American hero Rafe Hendrix is in the building!”
—Jude O’Reilly, author of Sleep When You’re Dead
"[A] high-octane thriller... Fans of stoic and resilient action heroes will be entertained."
—Publishers Weekly
Ex-Army Ranger sniper Rafe Hendrix leads the Secret Service detail of President Wyetta Johnson. Rafe and Wyetta became close when they served together in Afghanistan and he saved her life during a recon misadventure that cost her a leg.
The President’s wife visits a D.C. private-school classroom, and Hendrix is on sniper duty when a suicide bomber heads toward the First Lady. Hendrix disobeys a direct order and an unthinkable disaster unfolds. Though Hendrix may have saved the First Lady, he’s blamed for the carnage. And the violence hits harder than he ever could have imagined.
Rafe is cast adrift after the incident and he leaves D.C. for Fort Stockton, Texas. His prospects brighten when he meets veterinarian Melody Sanchez and their romance begins to bloom. But there’s still unfinished business waiting in the wings.
Someone from the past is bent on revenge—and he has Rafe firmly in his sights. His plan is as twisted as they come—grisly recreations of some of the most terrible events from the past. And now it’s up to Rafe to learn from history—or be doomed to repeat it.
Praise for Shadow State:
“An exciting contemporary thriller that is both psychologically astute and action packed. I liked this one from the great Frank Sennett.”
—Adrian McKinty, award-winning author of The Chain
“Frank Sennett’s debut thriller Shadow State is a ticking-clock conspiracy racing through the heartland of America and the perimeters of power where truth and justice are often a longshot.”
—James Grady, award-winning author of Six Days of the Condor
“Stylish, gripping and horribly convincing, Sennett’s cracking plot delivers big-time. Ladies and gentlemen, ex Secret Service agent and all-American hero Rafe Hendrix is in the building!”
—Jude O’Reilly, author of Sleep When You’re Dead
"[A] high-octane thriller... Fans of stoic and resilient action heroes will be entertained."
—Publishers Weekly
288 pages, Hardcover
Published February 21, 2023
21 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
About the author
Frank Sennett
17 books12 followersFrank Sennett is the author of the Rafe Hendrix thriller series. The series debut, SHADOW STATE (Crooked Lane Press), published Feb. 21, 2023. Frank is a graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism, and earned an MFA in creative writing from the University of Montana. Frank has taught creative writing at UCLA Extension and has published nine books. He has served as a senior leader at multiple media outlets, including Time Out Chicago and MTV.com. He also spent one lucky season in the Wrigley Field press box covering the Chicago Cubs. He lives in Chicago with his wife, three children and two cats. He also wrote Groupon's Biggest Deal Ever (St. Martin's Press).
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 19, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for accepting my request to audibly read and review Shadow State.
Published: 02/21/23
Nancy Kerrigan cried: Why, Why, Why years ago. I didn't cry reading this, but I did think often of Nancy and wondered if she copyrighted why, why why, as I was saying it over and over and over. I would like to forget that Nancy's Olympic highlight reel has Why, Why,Why as an option. I would also like to forget Bruce Jenner was an Olympian, poor Nancy.
I read the synopsis, I muddled and cringed at the unnecessary F-bombs, all the while wondering who was the intended target for this book. I still don't know. I don't know how to even market the thing. I would like to lose the visual of an audible Madam and the President and First Lady simultaneously say yes. All I can say is why, why, why wasn't this in the synopsis?
Published: 02/21/23
Nancy Kerrigan cried: Why, Why, Why years ago. I didn't cry reading this, but I did think often of Nancy and wondered if she copyrighted why, why why, as I was saying it over and over and over. I would like to forget that Nancy's Olympic highlight reel has Why, Why,Why as an option. I would also like to forget Bruce Jenner was an Olympian, poor Nancy.
I read the synopsis, I muddled and cringed at the unnecessary F-bombs, all the while wondering who was the intended target for this book. I still don't know. I don't know how to even market the thing. I would like to lose the visual of an audible Madam and the President and First Lady simultaneously say yes. All I can say is why, why, why wasn't this in the synopsis?
February 28, 2023
This rollercoaster of a political thriller has more than enough plot twists to satisfy any fan of the genre. The main characters are interesting and real, the action does not stop, and the settings, descriptions, and dialogue are all well-rendered, well-researched, and smart without being too in-your-face about it, suggesting the author’s deep comfort with the material. Sennett makes it all seem effortless, but he clearly knows his stuff when it comes to military training and action, political intrigue, and even small town Friday night football. It would make a fantastic movie and I’m looking forward to the next installment of Rafe Hendrix’s adventures!
November 15, 2022
I had received an advance copy of this novel from the fine folks at Net Galley, Frank Sennett, and the publisher Crooked Lane Books.
The story revolves around the a series of plots to assassinate the President of the United States that are based upon previous plots - both successful and unsuccessful- to assassinate the President of the United States. The details that are "borrowed" from these previous plots range from locations (ie; Dealey Plaza - JFK) to the calibre of the weapon (ie; .422 Webley - McKinley).
The protagonist of the story - Rafe Hendrix- is a former US Army Ranger and sniper who had served in Afghanistan that had become a member of the US Secret Service upon completion of his tour. His claim to fame from his time in the Secret Service is that he prevented the assassination of the current sitting President of the United States (who was also a former US Army Ranger, a member of Hendrix' unit) by Russian nationalists (by suicide bomb vest) when he disobeyed a direct order to not shoot one of the antagonists.
The very act of shooting one of the antagonists caused one of the co-conspirators (thus saving the President's life) to detonate their explosives in the school killing not only a number of other students, but his daughter as well. This not only resulted in increased scrutiny of Hernandez (by his chain of command) but also survivor's guilt by Hernandez.
This scrutiny of Hernandez by his chain of command and other members of the agencies isolates Hernandez as seemingly random murders begin to happen around the United States and he relies on some of his Secret Service training to tie these events together and to ultimately prevent the assassination of the current sitting United States President.
This book was a relatively quick read (approximately 280 pages) that would be enjoyed by any action or presidential history afficiendo. I would easily rate this novel a solid four stars out of five (as it definitely made me want to do some outside research).
As with all my literary ramblings, this is just my five cents worth.
The story revolves around the a series of plots to assassinate the President of the United States that are based upon previous plots - both successful and unsuccessful- to assassinate the President of the United States. The details that are "borrowed" from these previous plots range from locations (ie; Dealey Plaza - JFK) to the calibre of the weapon (ie; .422 Webley - McKinley).
The protagonist of the story - Rafe Hendrix- is a former US Army Ranger and sniper who had served in Afghanistan that had become a member of the US Secret Service upon completion of his tour. His claim to fame from his time in the Secret Service is that he prevented the assassination of the current sitting President of the United States (who was also a former US Army Ranger, a member of Hendrix' unit) by Russian nationalists (by suicide bomb vest) when he disobeyed a direct order to not shoot one of the antagonists.
The very act of shooting one of the antagonists caused one of the co-conspirators (thus saving the President's life) to detonate their explosives in the school killing not only a number of other students, but his daughter as well. This not only resulted in increased scrutiny of Hernandez (by his chain of command) but also survivor's guilt by Hernandez.
This scrutiny of Hernandez by his chain of command and other members of the agencies isolates Hernandez as seemingly random murders begin to happen around the United States and he relies on some of his Secret Service training to tie these events together and to ultimately prevent the assassination of the current sitting United States President.
This book was a relatively quick read (approximately 280 pages) that would be enjoyed by any action or presidential history afficiendo. I would easily rate this novel a solid four stars out of five (as it definitely made me want to do some outside research).
As with all my literary ramblings, this is just my five cents worth.
September 29, 2022
My favorite part is knowing that Rafe Hendrix will be back!
Rafe Hendrix is a hero that gave up and sacrificed too much in doing his job. A thing about being too good for the job, Rafe notices certain things and gets a big blow in the process. I do not think he or we saw it coming. But that leads him to see a pattern of reenactments of assassinations of Presidents. This leads him on a journey where he is being hunted by domestic terrorists, kidnapped, and tortured by the murderer who wants to crumple what's left of Rafe's life, lied to, and back to protect his friend President Wyetta Johnson.
Two times in this book, we see him caught between a rock and a hard place. The choices he has been given are heavy choices with ripple effects on the impacts they will have. That we see when we connect the dots to who is behind the scheme of reenactments.
Rafe Hendrix is a hero that gave up and sacrificed too much in doing his job. A thing about being too good for the job, Rafe notices certain things and gets a big blow in the process. I do not think he or we saw it coming. But that leads him to see a pattern of reenactments of assassinations of Presidents. This leads him on a journey where he is being hunted by domestic terrorists, kidnapped, and tortured by the murderer who wants to crumple what's left of Rafe's life, lied to, and back to protect his friend President Wyetta Johnson.
Two times in this book, we see him caught between a rock and a hard place. The choices he has been given are heavy choices with ripple effects on the impacts they will have. That we see when we connect the dots to who is behind the scheme of reenactments.
August 18, 2022
When a sniper make a perfect shot in an imperfect situation, the action is just beginning. Murders begin which seem random at first, but soon the dots are connected and protagonist Rafe is on the chase. With the support of his ‘wingman’, who just happens to be the President of the United States, he narrows his focus, but twists and turns abound in his efforts to bring justice. I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and voluntarily provided an honest review.
March 7, 2023
Shadow State by Frank Sennett
Narrated by Chris Lutkin
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
Published: February 21, 2023
Shadow State by Frank Sennett is a fascinating mystery. I found this book to be fast paced and captivating! The story was well developed and had so many layers. I could never be certain of who I could trust.
I really enjoyed the characters in this! Rafe Hendrix is a former Army Ranger and this book picks up a couple of years after his life's biggest regret. He's finally starting to live again when the *stuff* hits the fan. I loved the adventure Rafe went on trying to stop a potential presidential assassination. Given his history, I thought he was a little too trusting of others & not of his gut.
I loved how the author linked this story to modern events, as well as explained the history of some of the previous assassination attempts. I feel like I learned something. The author also brought up a great point about history repeating itself on the events on Jan. 6, 2021 and how it was addressed by those in positions of power.
The narrated by Chris Lutkin was good. He had a good tone and gave individuality to each character. There were a couple of parts that were kind of jarring because they didn't flow, but didn't really detract from the overall performance.
I'm so grateful that the author teased that there will be future books featuring Rafe! I can't wait to see what's to come!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Narrated by Chris Lutkin
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
Published: February 21, 2023
Shadow State by Frank Sennett is a fascinating mystery. I found this book to be fast paced and captivating! The story was well developed and had so many layers. I could never be certain of who I could trust.
I really enjoyed the characters in this! Rafe Hendrix is a former Army Ranger and this book picks up a couple of years after his life's biggest regret. He's finally starting to live again when the *stuff* hits the fan. I loved the adventure Rafe went on trying to stop a potential presidential assassination. Given his history, I thought he was a little too trusting of others & not of his gut.
I loved how the author linked this story to modern events, as well as explained the history of some of the previous assassination attempts. I feel like I learned something. The author also brought up a great point about history repeating itself on the events on Jan. 6, 2021 and how it was addressed by those in positions of power.
The narrated by Chris Lutkin was good. He had a good tone and gave individuality to each character. There were a couple of parts that were kind of jarring because they didn't flow, but didn't really detract from the overall performance.
I'm so grateful that the author teased that there will be future books featuring Rafe! I can't wait to see what's to come!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 28, 2023
This was a good book, it was a relatively quick read, under 300 pages, though the author did pack a lot into those pages. Rafe Hendrix is ex military, he's been in Afghanistan and experienced and saw terrible acts. He also made friends with a black woman, Wyetta Johnson, which would lead him to the White House, her as President and him as her security detail. On a day when the President was supposed to entertain school children, Rafe recognizes two women who are suicide bombers and decides to take one out after being told to stand down. Although the saves the life of the President, several children perish when the other bomber sets off her vest. This act, though not apparent initially, it ties to the events that follow. Someone is killing people in similar manner to how Presidents in history had been either killed or an attempt was made. Rafe is now living in Texas and meets a veterinary who he takes a shine to, the meet up a few times and things are going well. She gets invited to a conference in Dallas and while out on a jog is shot and killed. Rafe figures out that the killing is similar to how JFK was shot and is able to find other killings that were based on the location or caliber of gun on other Presidential assassination attempts, successful or not. A lot happens and I found the pages turned quickly I was captivated by Rafe's persistence at tracking down the bad guys and the ending was very satisfactory. I look forward to the next in the series. Thanks to #Netgalley and #Crooked Lane Books for the ARC.
April 3, 2023
The tragedy that befalls Rafe Hendrix in this series debut is heart-breaking as he recovers from that loss and remnants of PTSD that haunts him from his time in Afghanistan. Now a former Army sniper and the former head of the first female, Lesbian, Black President’s Secret Service detail, he is trying to recover in rural, small Fort Stockton, TX. But tragedy and trouble follow him there as he is suddenly tracking down a ruthless killer and trying to prevent another presidential assassination. Rafe has to address one major issue after another propelling the Pace of this novel from crisis to crisis as he also entangles the clues, deals with angry Proud Boys, and his FBI sitter. Rafe’s CH is well developed but even with his catalogue of skills, some of the short recovery time from his injuries seems fanciful for even a well-prepared and trained human being. Nevertheless, the trust in his ability to prevail and do the right thing made me stay with the twists and turns as the developing tension mounts. Other CHs run the gamut from stereotypical (the bad guys and ex-wife) to nuanced President Wyletta Johnson and Trooper Chuck Torby. Very compelling historical overviews of some assassinations, the procedural and the road trip details, as well as the TX and DC settings adds to the increasing tension and Pace of this novel. I’ll read another one to see if Sennett improves. RED FLAGS: Violence, Torture, Children die and are in harm's way. Fans of Matthew Quirk, James Byrne and Otto Eskin may want to give him a try.
February 28, 2023
This book was okay, but not very memorable for me.
I did enjoy the level of intrigue in this book, it definitely kept me reading & picking up the audiobook.
The main character, an ex-Army Ranger sniper named Rafael Hendrix, was not one I could relate to at all. I don't always need to relate to characters, but he was so far out of my zone that I couldn't even understand some of his actions.
As a lover of crime fiction - in both book form and film / tv show form - I honestly expected to love this, but I was sadly disappointed by it.
I found that there were far too many love interests in this book, that I couldn't get invested in any beyond the (chronologically) second one. It felt as if she existed in the story simply to spur the story on .
Overall, interesting story, but characters I couldn't relate to, which impacted my enjoyment.
Content / trigger warnings - depictions of murder and torture
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an advance copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I did enjoy the level of intrigue in this book, it definitely kept me reading & picking up the audiobook.
The main character, an ex-Army Ranger sniper named Rafael Hendrix, was not one I could relate to at all. I don't always need to relate to characters, but he was so far out of my zone that I couldn't even understand some of his actions.
As a lover of crime fiction - in both book form and film / tv show form - I honestly expected to love this, but I was sadly disappointed by it.
I found that there were far too many love interests in this book, that I couldn't get invested in any beyond the (chronologically) second one. It felt as if she existed in the story simply to spur the story on .
Overall, interesting story, but characters I couldn't relate to, which impacted my enjoyment.
Content / trigger warnings - depictions of murder and torture
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an advance copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
March 2, 2023
Don't start it if you can't stay up all night to finish it. It's an interesting premise, which taught me a few historical events. Rafe is complex, he knows there's no clear line between hero and villain, and he finds it harder to forgive himself than others. I felt sorry for him, I was impressed, I was sad, I can't imagine how bruised he is, and I cheered for him. (In my head of course, it was late.)
Down-and-out protagonist Rafe Hendrix is unwillingly and violently pulled out of his self-imposed exile from his personal and professional world. He's not sure he can trust anyone, including himself, and nothing's easy. Thankfully his problem-solving skills and military training help him react and act so he can keep racing to solve a murder while under attack. But even if he makes it through this crisis, he'll still need to figure out if and how he'll live in the real world again.
Down-and-out protagonist Rafe Hendrix is unwillingly and violently pulled out of his self-imposed exile from his personal and professional world. He's not sure he can trust anyone, including himself, and nothing's easy. Thankfully his problem-solving skills and military training help him react and act so he can keep racing to solve a murder while under attack. But even if he makes it through this crisis, he'll still need to figure out if and how he'll live in the real world again.
August 25, 2023
Let's see... what can I remember from like two days ago... I think I enjoyed this fine enough. It wasn't overly impressive and there were some necessary suspension of belief points for sure, but it was all right. I think the ending was sort of meh? I also think I remember thinking I'd listen to more of it? So... so so.
BA ranger sniper dude has dumb wolf-hating neighbors and loses a good friend. Then is joined by an FBI partner (I think?) to do something or other. How can I not remember. This dude is friends with the president, who is a gay woman and an old ranger bud. He fights a couple times. There's an explosion. Oh yeah, there's someone assassinating people in places where presidents were assassinated. That was unique, good job. I don't know, China wins in the end. jk
BA ranger sniper dude has dumb wolf-hating neighbors and loses a good friend. Then is joined by an FBI partner (I think?) to do something or other. How can I not remember. This dude is friends with the president, who is a gay woman and an old ranger bud. He fights a couple times. There's an explosion. Oh yeah, there's someone assassinating people in places where presidents were assassinated. That was unique, good job. I don't know, China wins in the end. jk
May 25, 2023
Shadow State by Frank Sennett and Narrated by Chris Lutkin was an interesting political thriller audiobook, with lots of twists and turns throughout, my head started to spin! The characters were brilliant and they came across real. I really enjoyed it from start to finish. Even the swearing and there is lots - slotted well into this book
If this was a film I would be happily to sit down with my Hubby and watch it.......I highly recommend this book.
Big Thanks to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC.
If this was a film I would be happily to sit down with my Hubby and watch it.......I highly recommend this book.
Big Thanks to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC.
June 24, 2023
Complex (convoluted!) character relationships, plot twists, and storylines made for an interesting read/ride, but one that could/should have been more artfully, thoughtfully, and carefully crafted.
A solid 3.5 stars, I guess, rounded up to 4, I guess … but I don’t see myself actively seeking a repeat experience.
Note: I just read the Goodreads description of the book and found it pretty much right on … so, if one were to read that description and find it appealing, then one should most certainly dive on in.
A solid 3.5 stars, I guess, rounded up to 4, I guess … but I don’t see myself actively seeking a repeat experience.
Note: I just read the Goodreads description of the book and found it pretty much right on … so, if one were to read that description and find it appealing, then one should most certainly dive on in.
March 7, 2023
Fast-paced and captivating! Who can you trust?
Shadow State by Frank Sennett, narrated by Chris Lutkin, is action-packed and full of twists. A plot-driven political thriller with developed characters and accurate tactical details make this audiobook a solid listen.
Author Frank Sennett does a beautiful job of linking current events with historical events. Narrator Chris Lutkin does a marvelous job!
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Shadow State by Frank Sennett, narrated by Chris Lutkin, is action-packed and full of twists. A plot-driven political thriller with developed characters and accurate tactical details make this audiobook a solid listen.
Author Frank Sennett does a beautiful job of linking current events with historical events. Narrator Chris Lutkin does a marvelous job!
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 13, 2023
This book was great, it moved along pretty quickly. It has a strong kick-ass woman as one of the MCs and a kick-ass dude that gets stuff and I loved the dynamic between to two! I hope for more books to make this a series! I am now off to add this author's other books to my TBR!
#ShadowState
#NetGalley
#ShadowState
#NetGalley
February 26, 2023
This book was a very pleasant surprise. I have read a fair number of books in the genre, and this is easily one of the best I have read. Fast paced, strong plot, and believable characters. A must read.
March 29, 2023
Thanks to netgalley for the ARC of this audiobook. The storyline and main character were right in my wheelhouse. Loved how they tied in a little bit of history in with the plot. Looking forward to seeing where they go from here
April 7, 2023
This was an interesting listen and I enjoyed it apart from the swearing too much.
It kept me going as I wanted to know what happened at the end.
I was given an advance copy by netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.
It kept me going as I wanted to know what happened at the end.
I was given an advance copy by netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.
March 10, 2023
If political thrillers are your thing, this is good one.
March 15, 2023
4.5 stars - looking forward to the next “episode.”
March 15, 2023
Thanks #netgalley for this book in exchange for an honest review. Full of fun plot twists and action. Fast paced. Highly recommend.
September 23, 2023
New author for me. Exciting political thriller.
February 2, 2024
The twists had me hooked. However on the whole it is a fairly outlandish tale.
March 24, 2024
Nice start to a series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2024
Hooah, L.T., hooah.
January 17, 2025
Eh. Started off strong, wobbled in the middle, and had an ok finish
March 12, 2023
Good story and a little too “woke”
You have a great story but the “current news” with the BS woke perceptions of a lesbian amputee President and all that Proud Boys crap is a huge distraction that, #1 will not age well & #2 is fancifully full of crap. (Blew up own daughter and lost ex wife to ex-CIA Killer with step father ditching kid he “loved & cared for”for 3 yrs?)
Keep the next story tighter and go more generic on the outside details.
You have a great story but the “current news” with the BS woke perceptions of a lesbian amputee President and all that Proud Boys crap is a huge distraction that, #1 will not age well & #2 is fancifully full of crap. (Blew up own daughter and lost ex wife to ex-CIA Killer with step father ditching kid he “loved & cared for”for 3 yrs?)
Keep the next story tighter and go more generic on the outside details.
March 28, 2023
.75 - interesting - didn't know about the Baltimore Plot. There could have been some better editing but I'll read the next one in this series when it comes out.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews