Terror's Sword: A Kyle McEwan Novel

by Kevin Kuhens

2023 GOLD MEDAL WINNER - Military Writers Society of America
AMAZON #1 BESTSELLER

Two dangerous weapons barrel toward each other: an anonymous revenge-fueled terrorist determined to destroy America and the only man who can stop him.

An attacker known as Terror’s Sword is heading for the U.S. with an undetermined bioweapon. When intelligence agencies fail to identify the terrorist or his bioagent, the president taps elite counterterrorism operative Kyle McEwan to hunt down the terrorist and eliminate the threat.

Tracking the terrorist across multiple continents, McEwan and U.S. special operations forces execute raids yielding crucial evidence that unmasks the terror mastermind and identifies his bioagent. Despite these discoveries, scientists conclude the genetically altered virus cannot be defeated.

Embedded terror cells and obstructive deep-state factions impede McEwan’s search, increasing the likelihood of an attack on America, leaving the world to face an unprecedented pandemic threatening untold millions. Global survival rests on McEwan’s shoulders with the mastermind on the loose and his bioweapon strike imminent. Who prevails?

Following in the footsteps of iconic characters such as Clancy’s Jack Ryan, Child’s Jack Reacher, Ludlum’s Jason Bourne, and Thor’s Scot Harvath, Kyle McEwan confronts the evil forces threatening his nation and the world.

AWARDS:
Amazon #1 Bestseller in Espionage Thrillers, Political Thrillers & Suspense, and Action Thrillers
Military Writers Society of America – 2023 Gold Medal Winner Mystery/Thriller
Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Award – Finalist, Best Thriller
Readers Favorite – Award Winner, Fiction Terrorism Thriller
National Indie Excellence Awards – Finalist, Thriller
Global Thriller High Stakes Fiction – Finalist, Chanticleer International Book Award
International Adventure Writers/Clive Cussler – Semi-Finalist, Adventure
Kindle Book Awards – Semi-Finalist, Thriller
Paris Book Festival – Honorable Mention, Fiction
New York Book Festival – Honorable Mention, General Fiction
New England Book Festival – Honorable Mention, General Fiction
Clue Mysteries Award – Shortlist, Thriller & Suspense Award

Terror’s Sword “definitely satisfies as the pace never falters, the cutting-edge timely plot never stumbles and the ending delivers. A romp of a read.”
—Steve Berry, New York Times and International #1Bestselling Author

“A powerful saga that blends high-octane action, psychological interplays, and acts of political desperation that probe presidential actions, traps, moves and countermoves, and special ops processes…” —Midwest Book Review

“…A fast-paced, spellbinding plot that takes readers on suspense-filled missions to save the world. Readers will love this breathtaking action-packed thriller!”
—San Francisco Book Review

“…The story will appeal to fans of international spy thrillers. Because of the success of authors like Clancy, the bar in this genre is set very high, but Kuhens met the challenge.” —Writer’s Digest

“Terror’s Sword is a counterterrorism espionage thriller that goes into the deep state, politics at its absolute worst, and the heroism of those trying to do what’s right inside government. Kuhens knocks it out of the park with this one.”
—Grant Stinchfield, Four-time Emmy Award-winning investigative reporter/national podcaster

“…Terror’s Sword is a highly distinctive work with memorable characters, fast-paced storyline, and superb combination of suspense and intrigue that will keep readers on the hook until the very end.” —BookLife

Genres: Thriller, Suspense

362 pages, Paperback

Published January 28, 2022

About the author

I am the author of the Award-winning thriller Terror’s Sword, A Kyle McEwan Novel. I served previously as a civilian supervisory special agent for the US Department of Defense.

Reviews

[Pam Sanderlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very detailed writing. The author came from this type of background and spent 29 years in the field. I met this person recently and he shared a lot of insight. Book # 2 coming soon! Love the ending of this book.

[Ralph Koslik · Rating 5 out of 5]

An action novel should keep the reader involved with anticipation. The cliffhanger chapters of Terror's Sword do that in spades, compelling the reader to read on, anxious in wanting to know what is coming next.
Terror's Sword is a work of fiction based on the reality that there are people on earth who diabolically want to destroy America, and literally kill every American. Many of them are actively planning to do just that.
Terror's Sword is a book that needed to be written, and a book every American who loves his or her country, and fears the direction it is going, should read. It is written by an author who knows intimately how our system works, and how the most rabid and cunning of our enemies work.
The characters are well developed, and the story moves at breakneck speed. It involves the vast network of capabilities, expertise, and dedicated patriots in the agencies who passionately guard and protect America, but also the dysfunction caused by some of their leaders who are more interested in protecting their fiefdoms and fighting turf wars.
The story is about bravery, the methods our enemies use to attack us, and the tactics we use to thwart them. God help us if we fail even once.
I recommend Terror's Sword. The reader will continue to think about the events and characters for days after reading.

[J Bills · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terror's Sword is a gripping, fast paced novel you don't want to put down. I had to force myself to close the book each night and get some sleep. The plot is very relevant to today's world and news. The protagonist is a top intelligence agent for the US government who not only must run a gauntlet of bad guys wanting to hurt the nation, but also run the gauntlet of the bureaucracy where protecting the American people doesn't rate as high a priority with top ranking bureaucrats as does protecting their turf and careers. The agent has to fight his own government's leaders as much as the terrorists to prevent a disaster.

This book is well crafted, creative and very well written. You can tell the author, Kevin Kuhens, has experience in this world and is well traveled to the places described. I highly recommend this book.

[Tony Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terror’s Sword is an amazing book. I picked it up during my vacation - and couldn’t put it down. My vacation will always be synonymous with the images of Kyle McEwan that Kuhens masterfully painted in my mind. Kuhens wasted no words being very descriptive in his writing. I’m amazed and terrified with what could (and maybe does) happen behind the scenes in order to protect our country. I can’t wait for the next novel from my new favorite author.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

OUTSTANDING DEBUT !

This was an outstanding first effort by this author, thoroughly enjoyable! Kyle McEwan is this authors ‘Mitch Rapp’ and every bit as deadly! Well worth reading. WELL DONE MR KUHENS.

[Tim Deforest · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent thriller, combining a lot of action with a realistic portrayal of investigative techniques and intelligence gathering. The protagonist is tasked with stopping a terrorist armed with a bioweapon. At first, he has no description of the bad guy and no indication of what the target will be other than its somewhere in the U.S.

The plotting is excellent, with a nifty twist about halfway through that I didn't see coming. The overall structure reminded my of what Frederick Forsyth did in "Day of the Jackel"--shifting the point-of-view between the hero and the villain as they try to outsmart one another, intersecting their stories until they finally meet in the last chapter. It's great stuff and was a lot of fun to read.

[Tom Gore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terror's Sword is a terrific thriller that once you start is hard to put down. It is very relevant to the international political world that we live in today. The main character is well-defined and provides significant insight into the innerworkings of government.

[Steve Sikkema · Rating 5 out of 5]

Right From The Real World Headlines
I am an avid reader of this genre and was given a copy of Terror’s Sword to read. As a retired US Marshal who worked in counter-terrorism, I found myself in the pages of this book, chasing the suspect around the country. The tactics for tracking fugitives, working with the FBI Hazardous Materials Response Unit (HMRU), and also working with CDC's Strategic National Stockpile, all of which I did, further makes this a real world action book that is both fiction and non-fiction. I would highly recommend this to all with this caveat...don't plan on getting a good night's sleep until you are finished reading it because you cannot put it down. Steve S

[James Louis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extraordinary! The debut fictional book for this author is amazingly real and so true-to-life. Mr. Kuhens has created yet another cape-less super hero reminiscent of all the greats: Jason Bourne, James Bond, Jack Reacher, Jack Ryan, etc. This whole book is rooted in realism that rings true in the world of espionage. I can only wish that Terror's Sword is the beginning of a very successful career for this new author. Kudos at the highest level for creating this landmark debut.

[Cole Hanner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an excellent book. It is quite well written, full of unexpected "twists" in the story line. The book impresses me as one which involves very realistic circumstances that make the story riveting and action packed. I would highly recommend readers to consider this book and be entertained by a clever and talented author. It's no wonder that it has quickly become a best seller. Well done!
PCH

[Rick Laitenberger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put this book down!
A chilling rendition of the realities we face in these uncertain times.

[Mairead Kissane smialek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in one day. It is a page turner for sure and very believable and ironically similar to current day events. If you like shows like Homeland, this is your book. The character development, suspense, and story line has you hooked in the first page. I especially loved the way the author used such descriptive, creative words to help formulate such a vivid spectacular picture in your head while reading. I read the author's biography and it was clearly an advantage to his writing ability. All I can say is WOW. I look forward to reading a second book. Buy this book - you wont be sorry.

[FXH · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first page to the last I was engaged with Kuhens ability to keep me guessing as to what the next chapter would bring. The masterful twists and turns, along with Kuhen's knowledge of the inner workings of numerous federal agencies, make this a book that doesn't insult the readers intelligence of what possibly could happen in today's society. It really is an eye opener and makes us pray that there are Kyle McEwan's out there working to protect our country. I hope Kuhens is working on his next book in this series for I can't wait to read it!
PS: This would make a great movie.

[L Knorr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hooked from the start!
Little did I know that when I started reading I would not be able to PUT THIS BOOK DOWN! I was hooked on the story from the beginning! Kuhens is my new favorite author and I can’t wait for his next book!

[Cheryl Sisson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very exciting and suspenseful thriller! Kevin Kuhens is my new favorite author! Can’t wait for his next one!

[Scott Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really impressive debut! Within reading the first few chapters, I was amazed that this was the author's first book. His command of narrative and character are evocative of a veteran novelist. He avoids the trap of many first-time writers wherein there is a tendency to "over-write" and needlessly bloat the prose for the sake of trying to impress either reader or reviewer. Not here. Kuhens’ deft "Economy of Words" leads to a lean, mean thriller where characters are quickly and convincingly rendered and the plotting immersive and compelling. Trite as it is to say, this is the ultimate page-turner, the bite-size chapters compel you to read "just one more" before bedtime! I won't give away any of the plot, but can't recommend this book highly enough for any fan of the political action/thriller genre. Really great stuff here.

[Rachel Kopp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've just finished reading "Terror's Sword" by Kevin Kuhens and I'm already ready for more! I have a hard time finding novels that truly draw me in enough to find myself finishing it, but this book does everything right and then some! The adventure that unfolds within is so incredibly thought out and well paced- you won't be able to put it down. About the time you think you have it all figured out, the author throws in a delightful twist and turn. This book touches on topics that are all top of mind for Americans today which made it all the more relevant and insightful... incredible cast of characters, bewildering plot lines and action packed narrative. I cannot believe this is Kuhens' first novel- count me in as a fan anxiously awaiting his next project.

[P. Atencio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mesmerizing! Kuhens' action descriptions were so realistic they put me in the scenes alongside the characters! Great plot, neverending misdirection. Colorful, well-developed characters including a very powerful female lead. - P. Atencio

[Kevin Cannon (Monty's Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the world’s foremost bioweapons experts start mysteriously disappearing, or turning up dead, Kyle McEwan smells a terrorist plot.

Given a ‘licence to kill’ by the US President, McEwan sets out to track down the mastermind behind the nefarious conspiracy.

What follows is a race against time across the globe on the tail of the jihadist known only as ‘Terror’s Sword’

With all of the resources of the United States of America to call on McEwan needs to unite the countries squabbling government law enforcement agencies and strike quickly to prevent the death of millions of innocent people.

The overall plot is a sound premise and the pacing is good as the leading protagonist works with various law and military groups to unravel the identity of the books villain and his mission.

I struggled in the early chapters with both the numerous acronyms and the listing of every type of weapon and aircraft used in the early skirmishes but this soon gave way to a riveting story that continued right through to the end.
A lot of thought has gone into the research for the plot and is at a level that whilst entertains also shows how much goes on behind the scenes that we’ll never know about.

Kyle McEwan is the type of character that appears to have no real flaws and is an amalgamation of the intelligent of Jack Reacher and the street smarts of John Rambo. I would have liked to have seen a vulnerable side to the character and/or a romantic angle that would make him more relatable.
During the book we spend a fair amount of time following the ‘Terror’s Sword’ jihadist as he seeks to enter the United States and carry out his plan. Maybe it is a manifestation of ‘Stockholm Syndrome’ but I found myself willing him on as he stumbled into one unforeseen situation after another. Don’t get me wrong, I always wanted him to come out second best in the end but I found the character, with his vulnerabilities, more relatable than the hard, single purposed, McEwan

I liked the added backstory for some of the minor players that increased the emotional effect when bad things happen.

In summary, this is a nicely written thriller with some good plot twists and turns that blindside both the reader and the pursuing posse. A little too much emphasis on hardware and the members of the various agencies involved in the early chapters but this is quickly forgotten as the story unfolds. There is a handy list in the back explaining the acronyms and other jargon used in the book which was useful.

[Tom Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so spot on as it traces the issues and the dangers of our world. The politics, politicians, Hero's that want this country to succeed and traitors that subvert the efforts of our Patriots. Kuhens has written a book for the ages, a must read for people who believe that everything is 'under control'. What a pleasure to read an honest book about the many dangers that face our nation and this world and what it will really take to do more than just survive.

McEwan, his bosses, and his comrades reveal why this struggle for the safety of our way of life is at risk. They identify the philosophical issues, the social barriers, the political blockades that have been integrated into the fight against terror for the purpose of limiting the successes in fighting this evil. McEwan skill involves honesty, integrity, instincts and real application of learned skills and abilities.

My background permitted me to flashback to situations that mirror some of the events woven into this story. The frustration of watching opportunities pass by while decisions are made, and real success that is admonished because the credit could not be attributed to "acceptable" participants. The frustrations many of my co-workers experienced were revisited as I read of the complex efforts to do the right thing and do one's job while maneuvering the copious amounts of regulation, procedure, and personalities that provide, more often that not, the opportunity for people the assess the personal impact of the task if the request is approved, disapproved, succeeds or fails...

This book will open eyes, minds, and doors that will hopefully lead to mission success at a greater frequency. And, it is only a story.

Hat is off to you, Mr. Kuhens. Your creativity, heart, knowledge and perseverance has created an overwhelmingly successfully book. Well Done!

[Susan Kalitta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whoa!!

Fast paced page turner. I can only hope our country really dies have someone this good defending and protecting us. The interdisciplinary warfare and sniping is too true and that's sad for us as a nation. Good read that kept me up a couple of nights

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

CAPTIVATING!!!
Amazing from start to finish !!!!
This book is a must read! It has everything a great thriller could ask for . It’s captivating and immediately emerges you quickly into the rollercoaster of events !!! Terror’s Sword is eerily realistic to real world events and that’s the best part about this book ! I can’t wait for the next sequel!!!

[TJHUML · Rating 5 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed this novel. Kyle McEwan and the other characters came to life as I read each chapter. The chain of events unfolded in a very savvy, orgaized and often gripping manner. It was like I could feel the tension between McEwan and his various adversaries. I appreciated how coolly and calmly he dealt with each of them. Likewise, he showed and uncanny ability to stay focused on the prize and seemed to be able to read the terrorist's mind, and quickly refocus after many dead end attempts to capture him. Great job with many details, which I'm sure were the result of hundreds of hours of research.

[Greg Coker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! As a former member of the military, I found this book insightful and accurate. I look forward to Kevin Kuhens' next book.Terror's Sword: A Kyle McEwan Novel

[Jasn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book! The first night I read until I fell asleep. Then I woke up wanting to know what happened next so instead of putting the book aside, I read until I fell asleep again. I did this several times, each time wanting to know what was happening in this book. Warning! Do not read this when you need to go to sleep, it will pull you back in!

[Allie Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't wait to read the prequel and sequel, because it definitely needs a prequel and sequel. The imagery and descriptions draws you in and explodes in your face. Hope someone makes a movie of this book, it is gripping and tense, just the kind of story that makes a blockbuster movie. Thank you Mr. Kuhens for giving us the gift of Kyle McEwan! The US needs a hero we can get behind!

[Mj Vowell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Action packed. Adrenaline filled. Rich characters. You won't be able to put the book down. A work of fiction that could become reality.

[Military Writers Society of America (MWSA)]

MWSA Review

Terror’s Sword: A Kyle McEwan Novel by Kevin Kuhens is a gripping, action-packed example of art imitating life. Kyle McEwan is the hero of this exciting saga. His bravery, intelligence, and unconventional skills are unmatched. McEwan’s reputation for success and dogged determination has come to the attention of the President of the United States when the country is threatened by a cunning terrorist with a deadly bio-weapon. Motivated by revenge, religious fanatics led by Al-Dosari conjure up an evil, devious plan for death and destruction in the Western world. McEwan vows to stop this elusive man with or without the sanction and backing of the US government. POTUS knows the only chance of thwarting the Al-Dosari, aka The Terror’s Sword, is to put Kyle McEwan in charge of the plan. This alone ruffles the feathers of many heads of the alphabet soup agencies in Washington, and McEwan is faced with those who subvert his efforts of keeping tactics and operations on a need-to-know basis.

Kuhens provides edge-of-your-seat entertainment from beginning to end. Terror’s Sword is the consummate thriller packed full of psychological one-upmanship. The author paints an action-packed picture of the real world, real locations, and real military scenarios.

To quote Grant Stinchfield, four-time Emmy Award-winning investigative reporter: "Terror's Sword is a counterterrorism espionage thriller that goes into the deep state, politics at its absolute worst, and the heroism of those trying to do what's right inside government. Kuhens knocks it out of the park with this one.” I wholeheartedly agree with him. Terror’s Sword is a great read.

Review by Nancy Panko (March 2023)

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do not be put off by the length of this work. This is like a precious gift that keeps gifting. The author's prose is captivating and you are not more than a few pages into the book before you have a hard time putting it down

The political intrigue is presented in Sorkinesque fashion. You feel your career is on the line as you delve into the politics of intelligence. The action scenes are edge-of-your-seat brilliant. You may find yourself gripping the reader or the book so tight, that your knuckles may bleed.

The author manages to tick almost all the boxes. There are a few people who do not seem to get what's coming to them...perhaps that will be in the next book.

Fans of this series will be eager to read this amazing work. If you have never read any part of it before (like myself), this book is perfect as a standalone. A must-read for Clancy fans. This book is the new and improved version of Ryan. A great book to read for action and intrigue fans.

Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it. My thoughts are all my own.

My Rating: 5 stars

Reviewed by: Mr. N

This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...

[Ric Selitto · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this novel a hard one to put down so I recommend finding time to read it when you have few distractions to keep you away from it for very long. This is a wonderful thrill ride that grips you from the start and paces quickly.
The main character of Kyle McEwan becomes immediately recognizable as a man that takes his mission seriously and suffers no fools. You will be introduced to many different characters, each with their own political intrigue that adds even more depth to the story, with so many nuances and interactions between the good guys trying to save the world and the zealots with their maniacal ambitions trying to destroy it. I believe you will find it hard to stop reading.
The Author has described a world that is quite plausible. So much so that while you are entrenched in the reading it is easy to imagine the story was ripped from today's newsreel.
It is a masterful piece of fiction that is packed with action, a little humor and even some unexpected events that will keep you enthralled until the end. Don't wait for the film, read it now.