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The Cerberus Paranormal Detective Series #1
Weaponized Magic
When Agent Tony Mendoza is tasked with apprehending a deadly supernatural entity, he’ll do whatever it takes to close the case… even risking his humanity in the process!
During a routine investigation, Deputy Federal Marshal Tony Mendoza is attacked by a nightmare creature straight out of folklore and mythology.
Somehow, Tony survives. But when the U.S. Marshals Service orders him to scrub his report of any mention of the supernatural, he doesn’t take it very well. And when his boss places him on indefinite administrative leave, he’s left feeling betrayed, angry, and frustrated.
Soon Mendoza is approached by a shadowy federal law enforcement agency he’s never heard of before. Initially, Tony is skeptical. But when he’s offered the chance to take down the rogue magician who assaulted him, it’s an offer he can’t refuse.
With his return to duty, Agent Mendoza will do whatever it takes to bring the murderous magic user to justice. But how far will a good man go to fight the dark? And if in fighting monsters he becomes a monster himself, how much of the man will be left?
- - -
Weaponized Magic is the action-packed prequel to this new paranormal law enforcement series with a male protagonist. Written by M.D. Massey and D. William Landsborough, the story features characters from Massey’s Druidverse® contemporary fantasy setting.
If you enjoy urban fantasy cop novels featuring hard-boiled detectives, eldritch enemies, and investigations chock full of conjury and combat, then you’ll love Weaponized Magic. Grab your copy and start reading it today!
(NOTE TO READERS: The CERBERUS Paranormal Detective Series consists of short action-packed reads. This book serves as the main character's origin story, and at 37,000 words it is just under novel length. If you're looking for an epic fantasy length novel, this is not it—these are Doc Savage or The Executioner length stories. Also, the main character is a veteran and a cop. These characters talk like soldiers and cops—they curse. You have been warned.)
During a routine investigation, Deputy Federal Marshal Tony Mendoza is attacked by a nightmare creature straight out of folklore and mythology.
Somehow, Tony survives. But when the U.S. Marshals Service orders him to scrub his report of any mention of the supernatural, he doesn’t take it very well. And when his boss places him on indefinite administrative leave, he’s left feeling betrayed, angry, and frustrated.
Soon Mendoza is approached by a shadowy federal law enforcement agency he’s never heard of before. Initially, Tony is skeptical. But when he’s offered the chance to take down the rogue magician who assaulted him, it’s an offer he can’t refuse.
With his return to duty, Agent Mendoza will do whatever it takes to bring the murderous magic user to justice. But how far will a good man go to fight the dark? And if in fighting monsters he becomes a monster himself, how much of the man will be left?
- - -
Weaponized Magic is the action-packed prequel to this new paranormal law enforcement series with a male protagonist. Written by M.D. Massey and D. William Landsborough, the story features characters from Massey’s Druidverse® contemporary fantasy setting.
If you enjoy urban fantasy cop novels featuring hard-boiled detectives, eldritch enemies, and investigations chock full of conjury and combat, then you’ll love Weaponized Magic. Grab your copy and start reading it today!
(NOTE TO READERS: The CERBERUS Paranormal Detective Series consists of short action-packed reads. This book serves as the main character's origin story, and at 37,000 words it is just under novel length. If you're looking for an epic fantasy length novel, this is not it—these are Doc Savage or The Executioner length stories. Also, the main character is a veteran and a cop. These characters talk like soldiers and cops—they curse. You have been warned.)
- GenresUrban FantasyFantasy
152 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
222 people are currently reading
139 people want to read
About the author
M.D. Massey
65 books565 followersM.D. Massey describes himself as the prototypical INTJ. His eclectic background provides him with a rich tapestry of experiences to draw on when crafting fiction, as evidenced by the believable worlds and relatable characters he creates.
As a former Army combat medic (91B), professional martial arts instructor (Krav Maga, JKD, FMA), and women's self-defense instructor, he possesses a unique understanding of close combat, firearms, and criminal violence that few authors can match. This knowledge provides an element of realism to the Druidverse™ novels, setting them apart from other fantasy series.
Mr. Massey lives in the Texas Hill Country with his family and a huge American bulldog that keeps him company while he writes. When he's not in his office or at the local coffee shop writing, you can find him in his garage pummeling inanimate objects or knife-fighting with his friends.
As a former Army combat medic (91B), professional martial arts instructor (Krav Maga, JKD, FMA), and women's self-defense instructor, he possesses a unique understanding of close combat, firearms, and criminal violence that few authors can match. This knowledge provides an element of realism to the Druidverse™ novels, setting them apart from other fantasy series.
Mr. Massey lives in the Texas Hill Country with his family and a huge American bulldog that keeps him company while he writes. When he's not in his office or at the local coffee shop writing, you can find him in his garage pummeling inanimate objects or knife-fighting with his friends.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 9, 2024
2024 Reads #218/250
3.5⭐️
3.5⭐️
April 1, 2025
CERBERUS is a government agency for dealing with supernatural threats. The novel reads a bit like a detective story but the hero, Mendoza, after joining CERBERUS, gains super powers. I was never completely clear what the superpowers were, but they appear to include heightened ability to scent things, great strength, and a berserker’s temper.
The opening mystery was a good one. While tracking a criminal, a U.S. Marshal runs into a supernatural problem involving a sort of fire elemental. Not believing in magic, this comes as a great surprise and a lot of people die. He gets fired even though there is no justification for that. Then he gets picked up by the secret government organization, CERBERUS.
One of the most interesting things in a novel like this is figuring out what the supernatural problem is and what to do about it. Fire creatures are not typical foes in urban fantasy and that was a big plus. It’s a good story and a nice introduction to the series.
The opening mystery was a good one. While tracking a criminal, a U.S. Marshal runs into a supernatural problem involving a sort of fire elemental. Not believing in magic, this comes as a great surprise and a lot of people die. He gets fired even though there is no justification for that. Then he gets picked up by the secret government organization, CERBERUS.
One of the most interesting things in a novel like this is figuring out what the supernatural problem is and what to do about it. Fire creatures are not typical foes in urban fantasy and that was a big plus. It’s a good story and a nice introduction to the series.
February 4, 2025
Reading Journal Details
Book: Weaponized Magic by M.D. Massey & D. William Landsborough
Format Read: Audiobook (~3 hours, 30 minutes long)
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 of 5 stars)
Quick Take Review (TL;DR)
Weaponized Magic presents an intriguing origin story with a fresh take on the discovery of new powers, though its short length leaves the narrative feeling a little rushed. Tony Mendoza, the main character, frequently comes off as one-dimensional—a brute-like character lacking depth—which detracts from the overall impact of the story.
Full Review
Weaponized Magic offers an interesting origin story that draws you in from the ground level as the main character, Tony Mendoza, discovers his new role and powers in real-time. The concept of watching him figure things out on the fly was engaging, but the book's brevity made it feel rushed. While the narrative had a promising start, Mendoza's character comes off as little more than brawn—a "jar head" with little depth—which leaves me hoping for more nuanced development in future installments.
Book: Weaponized Magic by M.D. Massey & D. William Landsborough
Format Read: Audiobook (~3 hours, 30 minutes long)
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 of 5 stars)
Quick Take Review (TL;DR)
Weaponized Magic presents an intriguing origin story with a fresh take on the discovery of new powers, though its short length leaves the narrative feeling a little rushed. Tony Mendoza, the main character, frequently comes off as one-dimensional—a brute-like character lacking depth—which detracts from the overall impact of the story.
Full Review
Weaponized Magic offers an interesting origin story that draws you in from the ground level as the main character, Tony Mendoza, discovers his new role and powers in real-time. The concept of watching him figure things out on the fly was engaging, but the book's brevity made it feel rushed. While the narrative had a promising start, Mendoza's character comes off as little more than brawn—a "jar head" with little depth—which leaves me hoping for more nuanced development in future installments.
February 3, 2023
Wow! Absolutely stunning story! What a concept! Mendoza is an awesome hero, a former military man, doesn't like having to follow the rules in civilian life and runs into something else he cannot explain. Enter, the men in black. But is he sure he wants to live like that? Always looking over his shoulder and wondering what it was coming at him? But he does make the call and enters into the world beneath, filled with the unexplained and unexplainable. What happens next, you'll just have to read and find out!
July 10, 2024
Yet another angle of the Druidverse
The Cerberus series was one I’d been putting off for awhile. I wasn’t super confident in its concept. As always, Massey delivers. Weaponized Magic is the exciting origin story of Agent Tony Mendoza, a reoccurring character in the Druidverse. It’s short and brief, bordering on the rushed side of things. But I did enjoy it as a first installment and proof of concept. I’m confident the rest of the series will not disappoint.
The Cerberus series was one I’d been putting off for awhile. I wasn’t super confident in its concept. As always, Massey delivers. Weaponized Magic is the exciting origin story of Agent Tony Mendoza, a reoccurring character in the Druidverse. It’s short and brief, bordering on the rushed side of things. But I did enjoy it as a first installment and proof of concept. I’m confident the rest of the series will not disappoint.
August 3, 2024
I thought this might prove too He-Man, military alpha male for me to enjoy (especially since every female character is written with all the subtlety and nuance of those in tv’s Justified 🙄😬) - I did have a good time tho - it’s the book equivalent of a big, dumb American action movie with a side of the paranormal. I listened to the audiobook, I think it’s a prequel/origin story for a character in another series by this author.
February 13, 2023
Tony Mendoza is recruited by the Cerberus agency
The former soldier and Federal Marshall is no stranger to weird stuff and this new group appreciates his skill set and ability to deal with the unusual shoes he will encounter. Magic, mayhem and mean adversaries abound. Thrill ride from start to finish!
The former soldier and Federal Marshall is no stranger to weird stuff and this new group appreciates his skill set and ability to deal with the unusual shoes he will encounter. Magic, mayhem and mean adversaries abound. Thrill ride from start to finish!
February 15, 2023
A new series from the creator of the Junkyard Druid. It's like a cross between the MCB(from Correia's MHI), Joe Ledger and ghostbusters.
The book zoomed by, seems like I read it quickly. MC is former SFG and US Marshall who once he survives his encounter with a supernatural creature is recruited.
The book zoomed by, seems like I read it quickly. MC is former SFG and US Marshall who once he survives his encounter with a supernatural creature is recruited.
February 26, 2023
Love it!!!!!
Okay, I wasn't certain of the writer collaboration, but dang, it's paid off in spades.
Mendoza, ah Mendoza, somewhat liked him in the normal Druid books, but here, OMG, I love him, mainly that smart mouth he's got.
To find how he came to be, brilliant.
Love the combined writing, it flies so well.
To the next!!!!
Okay, I wasn't certain of the writer collaboration, but dang, it's paid off in spades.
Mendoza, ah Mendoza, somewhat liked him in the normal Druid books, but here, OMG, I love him, mainly that smart mouth he's got.
To find how he came to be, brilliant.
Love the combined writing, it flies so well.
To the next!!!!
February 9, 2023
Weaponized Magic Indeed
For fans of MD Massey, this is the mother load - Tony Mendoza's story is just the beginning. If you are a fan continuing this roller coaster of a journey, or new to Massey's stories, this is a great read either way! Highly recommend .
For fans of MD Massey, this is the mother load - Tony Mendoza's story is just the beginning. If you are a fan continuing this roller coaster of a journey, or new to Massey's stories, this is a great read either way! Highly recommend .
June 26, 2023
Great start
neonscholar@yahoo.com I love Urban Fantasy novels and this novel fits in perfectly. Great action and a smart alec character that I couldn't help but root for. Definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
neonscholar@yahoo.com I love Urban Fantasy novels and this novel fits in perfectly. Great action and a smart alec character that I couldn't help but root for. Definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 5, 2023
Different, but highly entertaining.
After having read some of Massey's other series, I decided to give this one a try. It did not disappoint. Massey is at the top of his game with this new lead character. I am ready for the next book!
After having read some of Massey's other series, I decided to give this one a try. It did not disappoint. Massey is at the top of his game with this new lead character. I am ready for the next book!
January 23, 2024
Great Read and Expansion of the Junkyard Druidverse
Live this. It was nice to see how Mendoza state before her Dan into Colin in his own series. Can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Live this. It was nice to see how Mendoza state before her Dan into Colin in his own series. Can't wait to read the rest of the series.
August 18, 2025
I thought the story was a little lean and also a poor man's Monster Hunters International. I know it was an opening novella to get you excited to continue the series but I found it middling. May check out the next eventually to see if it improves or is truly YA MHI.
February 11, 2023
Good start for new series
I enjoyed the story. I like the characters. They seem true to life. Lots of action and not boring 😊. Looking forward to reading the next book .
I enjoyed the story. I like the characters. They seem true to life. Lots of action and not boring 😊. Looking forward to reading the next book .
February 19, 2023
good read
If you love a hero full of snark then you’ll love this book, fast paced and action packed ! !
If you love a hero full of snark then you’ll love this book, fast paced and action packed ! !
March 7, 2023
Good read
I enjoyed reading this book and I recommend this book to anyone who like magic in a main character. Plenty of action.A good start to the series.
I enjoyed reading this book and I recommend this book to anyone who like magic in a main character. Plenty of action.A good start to the series.
April 8, 2023
Great book
Great story line and an original story can't wait for the next book in the series ME Massey never fails to capture the imagination
Great story line and an original story can't wait for the next book in the series ME Massey never fails to capture the imagination
September 29, 2023
Not long enough
Not long enough. Good work on the military aspect. Really like the tie in with "Them". Good against the bad.
Not long enough. Good work on the military aspect. Really like the tie in with "Them". Good against the bad.
July 22, 2024
Good start of the series.
I enjoyed this entertaining story. Lots of action. I like the concept and plot. If you like stories with action and magic , I recommend it.
I enjoyed this entertaining story. Lots of action. I like the concept and plot. If you like stories with action and magic , I recommend it.
July 30, 2024
Enjoyable
Well written, exciting and fast-paced. Definitely want to read more. An interesting new take on fantasy fiction that entices the reader along.
Well written, exciting and fast-paced. Definitely want to read more. An interesting new take on fantasy fiction that entices the reader along.
November 6, 2024
Lots of action!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews