In the scorching expanse of the Benan desert, what begins as a routine rest stop quickly transforms into a deadly game of cat and mouse. When Ayala spots dust clouds on the horizon during reconnaissance, the team realizes they’re not alone in this hostile wasteland—and they’re about to face their most dangerous encounter yet.

Twenty Benan militants, part of an elite patrol unit, converge on their position with lethal intent. Outnumbered four-to-one, Natan’s team must rely on their specialized Federation training to lead them to victory. Moreover, they must ensure that their guide, Liora, is kept safe.

In the midst of battle, “Chaos in the Sands” highlights Liora. A shepherd girl thrust into a world of violence, she confronts the harsh reality that the line between hero and villain has blurred beyond her recognition.

“Chaos in the Sands” delivers pulse-pounding action while exploring the human cost of war. As chemical weapons change the face of combat forever, our protagonists must navigate not only enemy territory but the treacherous landscape of their own consciences.

A gripping tale of loyalty, survival, and moral complexity that will leave readers questioning the true price of victory.

Excerpt from the chapter:

“I’m sorry, Liora,” said Ayala.

“Are you really? From what I can tell this world is falling into a hell-hole of violence and the only survivors are going to be the quickest with the sword, or some maniac who discovers how to mix chemicals together that burn a person to death from the inside out.” Liora was not as close to the breaking point as she may have appeared to the others, but she might get there quickly without the opportunity to speak what was on her mind. “And I get it. I do. If any one of those soldiers escaped, the world would know that Union soldiers were breaking their treaties. That’s if we weren’t left for traitors by your own government so that they could cover themselves. It’s just,” Liora paused for a moment to think, “It’s just that I’m a shepherd, not a soldier. I didn’t want this.”