What is your book all about?
Seasoned CIA Agent Blake MacKay is tasked with eliminating the dangerous Cuban arms dealer, General Hector Vasquez. Blake infiltrates his target’s inner circle at his lavish estate in Cuba. He befriends the general’s daughter, Adriana, posing as a children’s charity worker. Only to find himself embroiled in a deadly assassination attempt gone wrong that leaves him wounded and pursued.
As Blake delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a highly advanced and lethal new weapons system called Metal Storm, sold to international terrorist Zahmir Al-Hamwi by Vasquez. His pursuit leads him to Afghanistan, where a mission to raid a suspected Al-Qaeda safe house results in catastrophic casualties.
Determined to track down Al-Hamwi, Blake returns to Cuba and forms an unlikely alliance with Adriana, uncovering crucial intel that leads them across Europe on Al-Hamwi’s trail. Their partnership evolves into a passionate romance, but the stakes grow higher as they uncover a sinister plot involving the Belarusian Prime Minister and a coup d’état.
In a race against time, Blake must prevent a mass casualty terrorist attack and expose the high-level conspiracy, all while facing betrayal within the highest levels of American intelligence. “Spear Garden” is a gripping tale of danger, intrigue, and the unbreakable determination of one man against insurmountable odds.
What inspired you to write the book?
My journey into writing began when the company I was working for was sold, and my position was eliminated. While searching for a new job from my desk, I stumbled upon a YouTube video titled Future Weapons, hosted by Mack Machowicz. In this episode, he discussed a remarkable weapon called Metal Storm, capable of firing up to 1 million rounds per minute for small calibers and 250,000 rounds per minute for 40mm grenades. The sheer chaos such a weapon could unleash sparked my imagination. I envisioned a story reminiscent of a James Bond movie.
As I contemplated the odds of someone else writing a story like this, I realized they were zero—unless I took the initiative to do it myself. So, I did. In less than six weeks, I crafted the entire novel, exceeding 100,000 words. However, the journey didn’t end there. Over the next four years, I meticulously rewrote, edited, and refined the manuscript, ultimately publishing it in late 2016, four and a half years after I first set pen to paper. As my writing skills evolved and my style matured, I dedicated 18 months to a comprehensive rewrite in 2023. I’m excited to share that the 2nd edition launched in early 2024.
What is your target audience for the book?
Really, anyone that loves action-adventure stories, with a lot of twists. Those particularly who enjoy stories of espionage and geo-political thrillers. Readers of books by Vince Flynn, Brad Thor, Robert Ludlum and Tom Clancy and watchers of movies like James Bond and the Jason Bourne series. My books include significant violence and gore at times, making them unsuitable for younger audiences.
What do you hope readers could get out from your book?
First and foremost, my goal is to entertain you—after all, that’s the primary reason we read. I strive to create a realistic and detailed narrative that immerses readers in the story. Making them feel as if they are living it or watching it unfold on the big screen. I weave in real locations and authentic technology, along with a few imaginative inventions of my own. You can even explore these places on Google Maps’ Street View to see exactly what I describe in my books. I hope you enjoy the experience so much that you’ll share it with others. Feel inspired to pick up another installment in my series.
What are your future goals/plans for the book?
I’m excited to announce the recent publication of “The Auroral Contingency,” a prequel to “Spear Garden.” Currently, I’m hard at work on my next novel, “Deep Rising,” which I plan to release in early 2025. If you’re interested in reading the first part and joining my ARC program, you can find more information here: https://tatescovertworld.com/peek.
I remain dedicated to continuing the Covert World saga featuring Blake MacKay. During the four years I spent rewriting “Spear Garden,” I also wrote and published five novellas: Czechmate, Meltdown, The 4th Strike, Intercept, and Red Storm. Intercept is still available as an eBook on Amazon, while Red Storm was rewritten and expanded to become “The Auroral Contingency.” The remaining novellas are currently being revised and combined into a new prequel novel titled “Who is Blake MacKay,” set for release in late 2025.
In addition to promoting my work on social media, I’m exploring other fantastic media outlets, such as “Authors Lounge,” to increase visibility for my books and connect with readers everywhere. Thank you for your support, and I look forward to sharing more adventures in the Covert World!
And something more about yourself.
I am a Senior Sales Engineer at a global software company, where I leverage my expertise to drive success. When I’m not writing, I serve as the head coach for a women’s collegiate club lacrosse team. Also play in a men’s league. I’ve enjoyed 27 wonderful years of marriage with my amazing wife, Becky. We have two adult daughters who are both in college.
Cooking is one of my greatest passions, and I’ve recently taken up gardening to grow fresh vegetables and herbs. In my leisure time, I enjoy exploring my interests in cars, fine watches, and exceptional bourbon.
You can grab a copy of the book available on Amazon.
“Spear Garden” https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BFHW79M2
“The Auroral Contingency” https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXRFYB6C\
