Nominated for Georgia Writers Association Writer of the Year Award

Black Waters

Book One

The novel Black Waters by David H. Hanks is a gripping nuclear thriller that revolves around the sinister plans of Serif Muhammad Rezaabak and his brother Reza. The story begins with Serif and Reza’s descent into the mercury mines of Idrija, Slovenia, where they oversee a clandestine nuclear reactor project. The brothers, raised in Turkey with a deep-seated hatred for the Western world, aim to produce weapons-grade plutonium for nuclear weapons.

The plot thickens as the brothers collaborate with Dr. Regina Kny, a Canadian reactor physicist, and two Yugoslavian scientists, Drs. Mrak and Broz, to achieve their goal. The narrative follows their meticulous and dangerous efforts to generate plutonium, involving a series of high-stakes experiments and covert operations.

Parallel to this, Carson Griffin, an International Nuclear Weapons Agency inspector, is drawn into the web of intrigue as he investigates suspicious activities in Romania. Carson’s journey takes him through various locations, including Vienna, Romania, and the Black Sea coast, as he uncovers the terrorists’ plans. His investigation leads him to a vessel carrying nuclear materials, and he narrowly escapes multiple life-threatening situations.

The climax of the novel sees the terrorists’ plan to take over the Cernavodă nuclear power plant and release radioactive contamination across Europe. The story is filled with suspense, action, and intricate details of nuclear technology and international espionage, making it a thrilling read from start to finish.

Power & Ore by David H. Hanks

Nominated for Georgia Writers Association Writer of the Year Award

Power & Ore

Book Two

The story begins with Mustafa, a character who is deeply involved in a secretive and dangerous operation. Mustafa and his team are working in the ancient city of Pamukkale, Turkey, where they have discovered a hidden underground laboratory and a natural nuclear reactor. The narrative unfolds with Mustafa’s harrowing experiences, including a catastrophic explosion in the Plutonium Shaft that leaves him severely injured.

As the plot progresses, we are introduced to various characters, including Vaughn Hart, a British nuclear engineer, and Paula Rainwater, a British mercenary. The story delves into the clandestine activities of the Jihad Terrorist Symbol (JTS), an international terror organization led by Shamil Barayev. The JTS aims to use the radioactive material from the natural reactor to create radioactive weapons that could change the world’s economic structure.

Carson Griffin, an operative of the International Nuclear Weapons Agency (INWA), becomes involved in the investigation. His journey takes him from the United States to Turkey, where he uncovers the sinister plans of the JTS. Carson’s mission is fraught with danger as he navigates through a web of deceit, betrayal, and violence.

The narrative is rich with detailed descriptions of the characters’ backgrounds, their motivations, and the geopolitical implications of their actions. The story weaves together themes of loyalty, nationalism, and the ethical dilemmas faced by those involved in the proliferation of nuclear weapons. Throughout the book, the tension builds as Carson and his allies race against time to thwart the JTS’s plans. The climax of the story sees Carson confronting the terrorists and making critical decisions that could alter the course of history.

Power & Ore is a gripping tale that combines elements of espionage, political intrigue, and action, set against the backdrop of a world on the brink of nuclear catastrophe. The novel provides a comprehensive and immersive experience, drawing readers into the high-stakes world of international terrorism and nuclear proliferation.

Euphrates Yield

Nominated for Georgia Writers Association Writer of the Year Award

Euphrates Yield

Book Three

The novel Euphrates Yield is the third and final installment in David H. Hanks’ Carson Griffin series. The story takes Carson Griffin outside the jurisdiction of the International Nuclear Weapons Agency (INWA) to investigate a hidden nuclear reactor site along the banks of Syria’s Euphrates River. The Jihad Terrorist Symbol (JTS) joins forces with Doku Umarov, a well-known Chechen terrorist, to smuggle parts and nuclear material into the region, supplied by a rogue North Korean general. Their goal is to create the most powerful weapons of mass destruction on Earth.

Griffin’s mission is to stop the technology from falling into JTS’s hands while battling the grief of losing his wife. He must put aside his need for vengeance to prevent the radical terrorist cell from achieving their goal before it’s too late.

The narrative is filled with action, suspense, and emotional depth as Griffin navigates through various challenges and confronts his inner demons. The story explores themes of loss, revenge, and the moral complexities of preventing global catastrophe.

Praise for the series

“Black Waters by David H. Hanks is a compelling thriller that masterfully intertwines mystery and action. The story unfolds with an engaging plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, blending elements of suspense and crime. Hanks crafts well-developed characters that bring authenticity and depth to the narrative. The pacing is brisk, maintaining tension throughout, while the vivid descriptions immerse readers in the settings. This book is perfect for fans of thrilling mysteries, offering an intriguing exploration of human motives and dark secrets.”
—Michael De Luca Productions, Acquisition Team | Film and Media, Acquisition Manager

“Suspenseful and riveting! Lots of twists to the plot and good technical jargon put me right into the story. This was a very enjoyable book and I recommend it to others. There may have been too much technical jargon for the non-nuclear folks. Terrorists, watch out!”
—Amazon Reviewer on Black Waters

Euphrates Yield is a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion to the Carson Griffin series—a powerful blend of action, emotion, and contemporary relevance. David H. Hanks has crafted a story that not only thrills but raises important questions about power, sacrifice, and the human cost of global conflict. A compelling addition to the modern thriller canon, this novel cements Hanks’ voice in the genre and leaves readers eagerly anticipating what he’ll write next.”
Olympia Story House, Mission Hills, CA