This updated edition merges the original novel with Ghost Track, a prequel novella establishing the background for what is to come. It also adds subtle alterations in the overall plot—cleaned-up mistakes and recovered sections that were cut from the book during editing.
Ghost Track takes place in 2029. A U.S. drone disappears over the South China Sea. When a Navy recon flight goes off the radar, the crew on the USS Harry S. Truman is called into action. Lt. j.g. Cameron “Gazer” Mitchell is stranded alone, outnumbered, and in a desperate survival mode. On the carrier deck, Navy Chief John Patrick Delaney and tech Danielle “Spooky” Lawson struggle to sort out a sinister threat of jamming on their systems. Nothing on this mission is standard procedure—and the consequences are going to extend far beyond anyone’s imagination.
The Shattered Shield goes on not long afterward. Delaney is currently on the USS Ronald Reagan as the world hovers on the precipice of global war. But it’s not just a global battle—he’s battling ghosts from his past, the weight of command, and the sub rosa price of duty. As tensions escalate, lines blur between duty and survival, loyalty and expense.
This special edition comes with two intertwined stories of modern naval combat, human sacrifice, and trying to hold the line when it all starts to fall apart.
Special Edition expected before years end.
Learn where the story started. Check out the free Prequel Novella The Shattered Shield: Ghost Track.
Reviews from my readers
Its been a while since I’ve read a book I couldn’t put down, but this is one of them. Exciting and fast paced “Shattered Shield” Is a taut thriller that draws the reader into the complexity of a US Carrier fighting for its life battered by weapons both cyber and traditional. The writing is crisp and polished and explains the highly technical aspects of the ships operations in a way that draws us in as participants in the reality of modern warfare. The main characters are drawn as real humans enduring pain and doubt but persevering and a testament to our military men and women. A great job ! Highly recommended.
–John R, Goodreads Review
The Shattered Shield by Patrick J. Hughes is a fast-paced military thriller that pulls you straight into the high-stakes world of modern naval warfare. Set aboard the USS Ronald Reagan, the story centers around Chief John Patrick Delaney as he and the crew confront a layered threat—both cyber and physical—that puts the ship and its mission at risk.
What stood out most to me was the way Hughes balances technical authenticity with gripping suspense. As someone who doesn’t usually gravitate toward military fiction, I was surprised by how easy it was to follow. The writing does a great job explaining complex ship systems and tactical operations without bogging the reader down. It feels immersive without being overwhelming.
The characters also feel real. They’re not just action heroes—they deal with loss, guilt, and loyalty in ways that are emotionally honest. Delaney, in particular, is compelling: a seasoned sailor with sharp instincts and an undercurrent of grief that makes his decisions hit harder.
If I had one minor critique, it would be that a few early scenes are heavy on technical exposition—but it pays off later when the action ramps up and the stakes become personal.
Fans of Tom Clancy-style realism or anyone curious about life aboard a modern aircraft carrier will probably enjoy this one. It’s smart, intense, and grounded in a very real kind of heroism.
–Kimberly T, Amazon Customer
Patrick Hughes did an excellent job with this one. The writing and the details are spot on. A definite page turner. Looking forward to future books from this author.
–Rick Poulter, Author of “Dig two Graves“
As a Navy Veteran, I go into any book centered on the military with high skepticism. However, this particular book was accurate, entertaining and well written. All of this coming from a debut book. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and cannot wait for the next.
–Debra S, Amazon Customer
Chief John Patrick Delaney helps save the world from a threat not seen before while aboard USS Ronald Reagan. The levels of story balanced with intense thrills and technical information added to the suspense of each page. The individual character arcs have you feeling like part of the crew the whole time.
10 out 10 recommended.
–MIchael C, Amazon Customer