I grabbed The Third to Die by Allison Brennan, the first audiobook in the Quinn & Costa crime thriller, after reading a review from a fellow blogger. She listened to a book later in the series. While Costa isn’t Italian, we share the same last name. The tale involves a serial killer who has plagued the Mobile Response Team lead by FBI special agent Mathias Costa.

The Third To Die
by Allison Brennan
Series: Quinn & Costa #1
Narrator: Suzanne T. Fortin
Length: 11 hours and 52 minutes
Genres: Mystery, Suspense Thriller
Source: Library
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:
Heat Level:
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x

An edgy female police detective….An ambitious FBI special agent….

Together they are at the heart of the ticking-clock investigation for a psychopathic serial killer. The bond they forge in this crucible sets the stage for high-stakes suspense.

Detective Kara Quinn, on leave from the LAPD, is on an early morning jog in her hometown of Liberty Lake when she comes upon the body of a young nurse. The manner of death shows a pattern of highly controlled rage.

Meanwhile in DC, FBI special agent Mathias Costa is staffing his newly minted Mobile Response Team. Word reaches Matt that the Liberty Lake murder fits the profile of the compulsive Triple Killer. It will be the first case for the MRT. This time they have a chance to stop this zealous, if elusive, killer before he strikes again. But only if they can figure out who he is and where he is hiding before he disappears for another three years. The stakes are higher than ever before, because if they fail, one of their own will be next….

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FBI special agent Mathias Costa is called to the scene of a Liberty Lake murder when it fits the profile of the compulsive Triple Killer. He learns that Detective Kara Quinn found the body while on a jog. Quinn is on leave from the LAPD and works primarily undercover.

Of course Quinn cannot help but get involved, and soon Costa and Quinn are chasing down clues. We learn the killer has been traveling the country methodically killing. He kills in threes and then disappears. Costa enlists the help of Dr. Catherine Jones, the FBI profiler who profiled the Triple Killer three years ago before he went dark.

This is Costa’s first case leading the Mobile Response Team, a division of the FBI and a lot is riding on their success. The killer and his methods and motives were both fascinating and terrifying. I enjoyed watching this unit piece things together as they worked with local law enforcement.

The author fleshed out Quinn and Costa giving us some background, and sharing why the undercover detective was on leave. The two work well together and had some chemistry that they tested. While the romantic aspect was physical, there was something there and I look forward to them exploring the possibilities. Both have powerful instincts for catching a killer.

The story was told from multiple perspectives. We get that of Quinn, Costa, the serial killer and a few others. The story was narrated by Suzanne T. Fortin, who did a stellar job giving voice to the characters and setting the tone for the story that unfolded.

The case and story have a Criminal Minds vibe. It was fast-paced, holding my attention. I finished listening in just a few sittings and look forward to the next audiobook.

Amazon | Audible

Reading this book contributed to these challenges:

• 2023 Audiobook Challenge
• 2023 Library Love Challenge

Source

Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/06/the-third-to-die-by-allison-brennan.html

In Three People, Three Countries, One Path, Cara A’Court demonstrates exceptional prowess in crafting an adventure-filled narrative that deftly evokes a myriad of emotions within its readers. It is the hallmark of a truly talented author to elicit a genuine emotional response, and A’Court undeniably achieves this feat. I found myself engrossed in the book to such an extent that it demanded more time and attention than most others I have had the pleasure of reviewing. As an ardent reader, I reveled in this immersive experience.

At the outset, I was taken aback to discover that the story unfolded through the perspective of a woman, despite the initial impression that it revolved around a Buddhist Monk—a testament to A’Court’s adept storytelling. The author masterfully weaves together various elements, including mystery, suspense, and revelations that elicit awe, particularly when delving into familial matters within the intricate tapestry of the settings. What truly left an indelible impression on me was the author’s skill in showcasing how even those we perceive as spiritually enlightened individuals grapple with the mundane concerns of everyday life. Ms. A’Court reminds us that life shows no partiality, irrespective of one’s status. If there lies a destined path waiting to be traversed, it matters not who or what the individuals are; the journey will unfurl before them.

Three People, Three Countries, One Path is a remarkable literary work that seamlessly blends adventure, emotion, and profound insights. Cara A’Court’s writing style resonates deeply, tugging at the reader’s heartstrings and provoking introspection. This book stands as a testament to the author’s mastery of her craft, leaving an indubitable impact on anyone fortunate enough to embark on its pages.

Pages: 327 | ASIN: B0C412ZZXB

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/20/three-people-three-countries-one-path/

Set against the bustling backdrop of Chicago and imbued with the festive yet somber undertones of Christmas, the suspense-filled horror novella “Windy City Terror” by Miguel Angel Hernandez Jr., skillfully crafts an enthralling narrative of inexplicable murders sending shockwaves through the city. At the heart of the story is the beleaguered Detective Griffin Knight, driven by duty and dogged determination to unravel the mystery behind the brutal killings that have engendered terror among the populace.

Hernandez has woven a tapestry of fear and fascination, as Griffin, despite his haunting past and the daunting task ahead, relentlessly pursues the unmasking of an unfathomably ruthless killer. The narrative strikingly chronicles the detective’s journey and provides a poignant examination of each character’s internal struggle, creating a deep, empathetic connection with the reader.

What sets “Windy City Terror” apart is its captivating use of multiple points of view. Not only does the reader delve into the mind of the steadfast Griffin and the pitifully tormented victims, but they are also granted an unsettling glimpse into the chilling psyche of the murderer, making the experience all the more immersive.

Through this novella, Hernandez exhibits his prowess in adhering to the essential elements of the murder mystery genre. The plot, teeming with suspense and intrigue, engages the reader from the get-go. The characters are meticulously fleshed out, with Griffin Knight emerging as a relatable protagonist, while the suspects are artfully portrayed with a mix of complexity and vulnerability. Furthermore, the cleverly designed narrative arc fosters an escalating sense of anticipation, keeping the reader hooked.

“Windy City Terror” is a must-read for aficionados of detective fiction and mystery. Its gothic ambiance, macabre undertones, and multi-faceted viewpoints evoke echoes of Edgar Allan Poe. Despite its brevity, the narrative is filled with suspense and offers a rich examination of events from a multitude of perspectives, promising a memorable literary journey.

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/20/the-windy-city-terror/

Lila, an exceptional student at the University of Indiana, has been bestowed with a prestigious botany scholarship, elevating her summer experience to unprecedented heights. Her current endeavors involve active participation in a groundbreaking project at the esteemed U.S. Department of Agriculture, led by the highly respected Dr. Blackstone. Together, their unwavering dedication revolves around the ambitious goal of mutating mustard seeds to combat the ever-increasing impact of climate change. Amid the routine task of dispatching a package of seeds to a colleague, Lila stumbles upon the lifeless body of Dr. Blackstone, the victim of a heinous crime. Compelled to escape the scene, she finds herself embarking on a thrilling chase through the dense woods, relentlessly pursued by an unknown assailant. Just when all hope seems lost, a fortuitous twist of fate leads her to a nearby highway, where she is rescued by two compassionate gentlemen on a cross-country road trip. Little do they realize that their act of kindness will thrust them into the perilous crosshairs of those intent on pilfering Dr. Blackstone’s groundbreaking work.

The Antidote by A.W. Baldwin is a riveting and meticulously crafted novel that delves into the captivating realms of botany and climate change. The author’s evident dedication to research and profound comprehension of scientific concepts shines brilliantly, rendering this book a captivating read for science enthusiasts. As the story gracefully unfolds, Baldwin skillfully employs captivating dialogue as a driving force, relying on the characters’ conversations rather than excessive descriptions. The author’s engaging writing style swiftly became a personal favorite, effortlessly immersing me in the intricate narrative. While some readers may encounter challenges in comprehending the scientific intricacies intricately woven into the plot, it serves as a testament to the author’s unwavering commitment to authenticity. While the initial chapters skillfully establish the foundation of Dr. Blackstone’s murder, the abrupt transition to Harry’s drug deal in chapter two leaves readers yearning for more, eagerly awaiting the continuation of Lila’s compelling journey. By channeling the narrative through Lila’s experiences and perspectives, the author could maximize the thrilling aspects of the plot, keeping readers fully engaged and on the edge of their seats. This strategic approach would undoubtedly contribute to the overall enjoyment and excitement of the novel.

I highly recommend The Antidote to thriller enthusiasts who crave an exhilarating literary adventure. Its pages promise an enthralling journey, taking readers on a captivating and heart-pounding ride.

Pages: 252 | ASIN: B0BHL93Q19

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/20/the-antidote/

From High School to Uni: The Essential Student’s Guide to Moving into University is a step-by-step guide to help parents and students navigate the transition from high school to university. Why was this an important book for you to write?

When my first child was graduating from high school and preparing to set off to university, she was excited, nervous, and curious about what university life would be like.  We began searching for guidance on how to prepare, both logistically and mentally, for this new adult stage of life, and it made me realize that no practical topics are taught at school, such as how to create and manage a budget, how to plan personal nutrition, how to shop for food and cook, how to sew on a button, iron a shirt, and do laundry—all the things one needs to know when becoming an adult and beginning independence away from home.  It made me want to help others, and I wanted to write a book that would offer practical advice, useful tips, and personal insights to help parents and teens prepare for this new adventure and make the most of it. 

There are many parenting and student forums on the Internet with tons of personal advice from well-meaning people, but there is no one-stop shop giving an A-Z guide on what to do, when, how, and why.  I noted every step of my children’s installations in and out of universities in England, France, and Switzerland, made checklists and templates, and built this into a step-by-step guide to help students and parents navigate their own journey. 

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

The ideas I wanted to capture were practical tips that a parent may not think about or have time to teach their teen before they leave home, such as:

• How to manage your finances, pay bills, select utility providers;
• How to pack and set up your form or apartment
• How to deal with room-mates and landlords, negotiate a lease/rental agreement, and associated responsibilities;
• How to manage your mental health, studies and social life
• How to shop with a student budget, efficiently store food within student quarters, meal prep, and maintain a balanced diet.
• And laundry—not just HOW to do it, but when (there is a secret to this!).

What is one piece of advice you would want to give parents entering this stage of life before sending their child off into the world?

While From High School to Uni speaks to students, I actually wrote it with parents in mind. Let’s face it, your teen has just gone through an intense period of cramming for exams and is just looking forward to enjoying a summer of freedom before taking up serious studies again and potentially moving to another country or part of the country. They are not thinking about how they will survive and thrive in a new environment.  But parents are more inclined to think ahead, so this book is for parents to read too.  Forewarned is forearmed, I always say.  If you know what to expect, you are better prepared, less stressed, can plan efficiently in advance, spread the cost of buying items for college across several months to help you budget effectively, and ease into the transition serenely. 

One piece of advice I would want to give parents entering this stage of life is to trust their children and support them in their choices. Going to university is a big step for both the child and the parent, and it can be hard to let go and let them grow. But it’s also an exciting time for them to discover themselves, learn new things, and pursue their dreams. As a parent, you can help them by being supportive, encouraging, respectful, and understanding. You can also stay in touch with them regularly, but not too much. Give them space and freedom to explore their new environment, but also let them know that you’re always there for them if they need you (and not just when they need a budget top-up!).

What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?

To be honest, I didn’t expect to write this with a successful publication in mind, so my goals were just to write in a clear, concise, pragmatic, and engaging way that would be appealing to both teenagers and parents.  I felt like my anecdotes would be relatable, illustrate my points, and enable readers to connect well. I also have a passion for helping people, and if I have done the work so you don’t have to, why not benefit from my experience?

Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Instagram

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/20/an-a-z-guide-on-what-to-do/

When I think of 3D printing, what comes to mind are fun toys, practical organization tools, and creative artwork. As a person that lives with a 3D printer hobbyist and has three printers in my home, I thought I had a good idea about what 3D printing was all about. Ray Burke’s informative book, The Future of 3D Printing, opened my eyes to just how big and impactful this industry is. It is not just for the geeky people making prop swords and designing desk accessories or just for mass production at the manufacturing levels.

This interesting book reads like a conversation with the author. The language is easy for non-technical readers to understand and fits with the author’s goal of bringing 3D printing to the masses. Ray Burke is honest and upfront that he is not an expert in the field of 3D printing; however, he has a vision of where this movement can go and strong, actionable ideas of how to get there. Burke’s vision is to have 3D printers in every home just like a microwave or cell phone. He sees a comprehensive use case from simple everyday objects like printing a cup to even producing food. Now before readers scoff at this, there is, in fact, a 3D chocolate printer in the making that was recently demoed at 3D printing expos, so the idea of a food printer is not so outlandish.

One of Burke’s big ideas to get 3D printers into the home is for companies to start designing furniture for them. Again this is something I have personal experience with; finding the proper setup that works for this equipment and looks good is nearly impossible. In this book, he outlines his steps to get prototypes and get companies on board with this trend. He is transparent with all his communications, including the “thank you, but we are not interested” responses he received.

The Future of 3D Printing is a fascinating look at Ray Burke’s journey to help get 3D printing into the mainstream and make it accessible to everyone, regardless of their technological skills. He brings up important topics such as recycling plastics, heat, and CO2 production, and what can be done to turn 3D printing Green. This educational book serves as a great discussion opener for those looking to change how the world uses 3D printing and provides readers with a look at what the future can bring.

Pages: 133

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/06/20/the-future-of-3d-printing/