If you’re ever in downtown Milwaukee, the spy-themed restaurant The Safe House is not to be missed. Your first assignment will be to simply find it—there’s no sign or marquis, just simple red door by a plaque labeled International Exports LTD. Once you enter, be ready with the code words (the website is helpful). This place is great fun, and while your meal is being prepared you can undertake a scavenger hunt in what is basically an espionage-themed museum. Secret passages and a back door alley exit are all on the menu. Enjoy!
My Debut Tom Clancy/Jack Ryan Novel
Big news this month! I will be writing a book next year in Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan series. This is one of the most iconic thriller series ever, beginning with The Hunt for Red October. I’m deeply honored to have been chosen to carry on the Ryan-verse, following not only Tom Clancy, but the likes of Mark Greaney, Marc Cameron, and Andrews & Wilson.
Rules of Engagement will primarily focus on John Clark, and of course, Jack Ryan. Tom Clancy’s books are among those that steered me into thrillers, first as a reader, and eventually as a writer. I am committed to keeping up the high standards that have been set, and am very much looking forward to sharing ROE with everyone!
Cold Zero: Coming 2.10.26
Cold Zero is coming in February. This is an action-packed story cowritten with #1 New York Times bestselling author Brad Thor. It’s a thrill a minute and the early reviews are amazing.
This from The Real Book Spy:
“Brad Thor and Ward Larsen have crafted the perfect thriller, one that feels both terrifyingly plausible and utterly unputdownable. Think Red Storm Rising colliding with The Day After Tomorrow—then cranked to eleven. Cold Zero doesn’t just raise the stakes, it detonates them, launching readers into a cinematic adrenaline rush where the Arctic becomes ground zero for World War III.”
Brad and I had a great time signing advance copies of Cold Zero at Bouchercon. Stay tuned to my newsletter for a chance to win yours!
DARK VECTOR: Ebook Special
If you haven’t read Dark Vector it is on sale today August 9th, for $2.99 via Kindle. This is one of my personal favorites, and serves as the introduction of Tru Miller into David Slaton’s world. Check it out today!
Bouchercon: Blood On The Bayou
I’ll be attending Bouchercon in New Orleans next month, from September 3rd - 6th. This is a great conference for the fans of mysteries and thrillers, and a place to connect with your favorite writers. For those attending, I’ve got a special appearance scheduled. Stay tuned for more!
Ward Recommends: BAND OF BROTHERS
Many years ago I enjoyed the miniseries Band of Brothers. I recently had the pleasure of reading the original book of the same name by Stephen Ambrose. This historical account of the journey of one unit through World War II, Easy Company, is even more riveting than the film version. The level of detail is superb, and Ambrose brilliantly captures the mood of the unit through thick and thin. This book is a classic that conveys not only one unit’s wartime exploits, but the depths of human nature.
DARK VECTOR: What's Next?
We live hectic times, but if you’re looking for an escape there’s no better way than to dive into a good book. Dark Vector has been out since February, and the response has been terrific! More Tru Miller is on the way, but I’ve also got a couple of other big announcements on the horizon. Stay tuned to my newsletter for the latest!
If you’ve read Dark Vector a review would be much appreciated. If not, get your copy today!
Where's Wardo
I recently was lucky enough to visit the beaches of Normandy on the 81st Anniversary of D-Day. We’ve all seen the movies and read about the acts bravery that occurred so many years ago, but a first-hand account brings it all together in vivid detail. Highly recommended!
(L: Omaha Beach R: a gun emplacement at Pont du Hoc)
Ward Recommends: EDGE OF HONOR
If you’re a fan of action thrillers like I am, you’re probably looking forward to the latest Scot Harvath novel by Brad Thor, Edge of Honor – out today. Brad never fails to entertain, and judging by the early reviews this is the best Harvath book yet. This time Harvath is fighting a threat from within, a conspiracy that reaches to the highest levels of the American government. Edge of Honor is not to be missed!
ThrillerFest 2025 Recap
I had a terrific time at ThrillerFest in New York City. Caught up with readers, aspiring writers, editors, and agents. I also enjoyed spending time with my fellow authors. Here I’m with Simon Gervais, who’s next installment in the terrific Elias series, Elias Enigma, is available next week.