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Kyra and Jake Investigation #3
The Bait
They’re after a vicious serial killer.
And this time it’s personal.
Decades after The Player’s infamous murder spree, a third copycat killer terrorizes LA. Detective Jake McAllister and victim advocate Kyra Chase launch a risky dark web investigation—complicating their relationship and exposing their troubled pasts. But when the copycat kidnaps Jake’s daughter, Kyra defies her partner to lay her life on the line. Just one chilling question remains: Is The Player back?
And this time it’s personal.
Decades after The Player’s infamous murder spree, a third copycat killer terrorizes LA. Detective Jake McAllister and victim advocate Kyra Chase launch a risky dark web investigation—complicating their relationship and exposing their troubled pasts. But when the copycat kidnaps Jake’s daughter, Kyra defies her partner to lay her life on the line. Just one chilling question remains: Is The Player back?
Mass Market Paperback
First published May 13, 2021
29 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
Carol Ericson
345 books139 followersBest-selling, award-winning romance author, Carol Ericson, has written more than 65 books, mostly romantic suspense for Harlequin Intrigue. Also indie pubbed, Carol is working on a spicy popstar romcom series about five members of a boyband. A California girl and graduate of UCLA, Carol lives near the beach with her husband and their giant dog. For more information about Carol’s books, please visit her website at www.authorcarolericson.com and follow her on Instagram @author.carol.ericson
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
August 13, 2021
The tension continues to mount in this, the third book of the series. No sooner had Jake, Kyra, and the rest of the task force put a stop to Copycat 2.0 than another killer stepped up to take his place. In the previous book, The Decoy, the task force found a dark web connection between the first two copycats. Further investigation leads them to believe that Copycat Three is also linked and that all of them dance to the tune of a master manipulator. The question is, who pulls the strings? Jake and Kyra both suspect that the original Player is behind it all.
This case becomes very personal to Jake. Copycat Three takes to leaving taunting messages for Jake with the bodies of his victims. For Kyra, her determination never wavers. Convinced the original Player is behind it all, catching the man responsible for her mother's murder is at the top of Kyra's wishlist. Watching Jake, Kyra, and the rest of the task force dig through what few clues there were kept me glued to the pages. The swizzle stick clue proved to be vital, and I loved seeing how it played out. The intensity shot through the roof when the killer kidnapped Jake's daughter Fiona. I ached for Jake and his fear for her as he desperately searched for any clue to the killer's whereabouts. But it was Kyra, playing a hunch and putting herself at risk, that became the deciding factor. That confrontation was a nail-biter. But the question remains, is The Player back? I have my suspicions about who it is, and I can't wait to read the next book and see if I'm right. This book ends with an unexpected twist, leaving me wondering if foul play was involved.
I also enjoyed seeing the progression of Jake and Kyra's relationship. Professionally, their respect for each other continues to grow. Jake overcame his distrust of Kyra as a victim's advocate and fully included her in the task force's activities. Kyra finds it much easier to trust Jake now, though she still tends to rush into danger without telling him what she's up to. In this book, it nearly gets her killed. Personally, their relationship is moving forward, slowly but steadily. That progression becomes complicated when Jake's fourteen-year-old daughter shows up unexpectedly. Though Fiona may have her dad fooled, Kyra has the girl's number from the get-go. I enjoyed watching Kyra help Jake through the rough patches. I also liked how Jake still managed to find alone time with Kyra. Jake won my heart even more with his support of Kyra when her past became public knowledge. Just knowing he stood behind her gave Kyra the strength to deal with the fallout. After surviving the confrontation with Copycat Three, both Jake and Kyra are ready to admit their feelings for each other and see where it goes.
This case becomes very personal to Jake. Copycat Three takes to leaving taunting messages for Jake with the bodies of his victims. For Kyra, her determination never wavers. Convinced the original Player is behind it all, catching the man responsible for her mother's murder is at the top of Kyra's wishlist. Watching Jake, Kyra, and the rest of the task force dig through what few clues there were kept me glued to the pages. The swizzle stick clue proved to be vital, and I loved seeing how it played out. The intensity shot through the roof when the killer kidnapped Jake's daughter Fiona. I ached for Jake and his fear for her as he desperately searched for any clue to the killer's whereabouts. But it was Kyra, playing a hunch and putting herself at risk, that became the deciding factor. That confrontation was a nail-biter. But the question remains, is The Player back? I have my suspicions about who it is, and I can't wait to read the next book and see if I'm right. This book ends with an unexpected twist, leaving me wondering if foul play was involved.
I also enjoyed seeing the progression of Jake and Kyra's relationship. Professionally, their respect for each other continues to grow. Jake overcame his distrust of Kyra as a victim's advocate and fully included her in the task force's activities. Kyra finds it much easier to trust Jake now, though she still tends to rush into danger without telling him what she's up to. In this book, it nearly gets her killed. Personally, their relationship is moving forward, slowly but steadily. That progression becomes complicated when Jake's fourteen-year-old daughter shows up unexpectedly. Though Fiona may have her dad fooled, Kyra has the girl's number from the get-go. I enjoyed watching Kyra help Jake through the rough patches. I also liked how Jake still managed to find alone time with Kyra. Jake won my heart even more with his support of Kyra when her past became public knowledge. Just knowing he stood behind her gave Kyra the strength to deal with the fallout. After surviving the confrontation with Copycat Three, both Jake and Kyra are ready to admit their feelings for each other and see where it goes.
May 16, 2021
Hit all my high points! Mystery, intrigue, suspense, romance and a frigging relationship! The relationship has been building since book 1. Kara finally seemed to find her groove in trusting J-Mac. Not a 100%, things take time. Loved that she knew from the get go what Fiona (J-Macs daughter) and called her on it. Kara still gave them space to grow. Quinn always makes me smile, his infinite wisdom and his beer :) He made me cry in this one (or the author Carol Ericson did). Copy cat 3 is killing in this book and like most killers he thinks he is all that. Pffft J-Mac and team is all that. Anyone else know who the player is? In book 2 I kept coming back to this one person, and thought nah. In this book I am leaning more towards Yes, and if its that person ....ohhh what a read that is going to be the how and why . If its who I think it is, then I understand why they are behind the scene, getting killers to kill, not killing himself per say and his interest in Kara. Thank you for moving my heart, making me smile, making me wanting to wring Fionas neck and waiting for the next one, so ready. Well done.
May 26, 2021
A third copycat serial killer stalks Los Angeles in "The Bait", Book Three in author Carol Ericson's suspenseful "A Kyra and Jake Investigation Series". This time, everything is more real, more personal, and more crucial for Detective Jake McAllister, Victim's Advocate Kyra Chase, and the other members of the special task force unit. The first two killers were stopped, and an internet connection between the two may provide vital information about the third killer and the connection of all three to "The Player"--the original killer from twenty years ago. Kyra is intent on solving the mystery of "The Player"--her own mother had been one of his victims. Jake and his task force are focused on preventing more victims by solving the mysteries of the duplicate killers. The growing relationship between Kyra and Jake faces some unexpected complications when Jake's fourteen-year-old daughter, Fiona, pays a surprise visit to her father. Fiona, who lives with Jake's ex-wife, has been keeping her online activities a secret from both parents. When Fiona is targeted by the killer, and Kyra also becomes endangered, Jake will stop at nothing to save the lives of the two people he loves most. Will he be at the right place at the right time to keep them from harm? Will the evil games of "The Player" and his heinous henchman ever be brought to a close? The romantic suspense storytelling expertise of author Carol Ericson will give you goosebumps and keep you turning the pages. I greatly look forward to Book Four, "The Trap", which will be the highly-anticipated finale of this exciting series.
Book Copy Gratis Author
Book Copy Gratis Author
February 22, 2023
The strain and stress of stopping the copycat killers that keep showing up is wearing on the team as they hunt the minions of The Player. The team feels that The Player is pulling the strings of these perverse killers. In this installment of the series, the battle to find the killer gets a little personal for Jake when messages that are directed to him are left for him. It gets even more personal when a member of his family is targeted. Kyra's past is revealed to the public. Now everyone knows she is the daughter of the woman who was The Player's first victim. Jake is awesome as he stands by her and tries to help her through the feeding frenzy. Jake's daughter, Fiona, is causing problems between Jake and Kyra. Jake is oblivious to Fiona's secret side, but Kyra sees right through her. Kyra returns the favor of standing by Jake by helping him with Fiona.
The mystery behind these killers and the mystery of the past are intriguing. The suspense is gritty and will keep you on the edge of your seat. This killer is a depraved and disturbed individual. You may need to watch cartoons after you read this book! I highly recommend that you read book #1 first so you will fully understand the complete story. You will not be disappointed.
The mystery behind these killers and the mystery of the past are intriguing. The suspense is gritty and will keep you on the edge of your seat. This killer is a depraved and disturbed individual. You may need to watch cartoons after you read this book! I highly recommend that you read book #1 first so you will fully understand the complete story. You will not be disappointed.
May 19, 2021
I received a review copy of this book from the author.
When the victims of a third ‘Copycat Killer’ begin to appear, investigator Jake McAllister and his partner, as well as the whole task force, are once again assigned to take down this latest killer. As part of the task force, Kyra Chase is willing to put everything on the line for find justice for the victims she advocates for. But equally important, she wants justice for her Mother, one of the victims of the original Player.
This third book in the series is darker, the killer is more vicious, and the danger more insidious. This killer will stop at nothing. He is bold and brash. His willingness to break the mold of the copycat killer and to kidnap Jake’s daughter however might be his undoing. Because in the shadows, there is a master manipulator, the man with the rules and possibly, very probably, the original Player.
The team will pull out all the stops this time to take down the brutal killer.
This series is the best I’ve read by author Carol Ericson. I could feel the danger lurking in the pages, and sense the darkness closing in.
When the victims of a third ‘Copycat Killer’ begin to appear, investigator Jake McAllister and his partner, as well as the whole task force, are once again assigned to take down this latest killer. As part of the task force, Kyra Chase is willing to put everything on the line for find justice for the victims she advocates for. But equally important, she wants justice for her Mother, one of the victims of the original Player.
This third book in the series is darker, the killer is more vicious, and the danger more insidious. This killer will stop at nothing. He is bold and brash. His willingness to break the mold of the copycat killer and to kidnap Jake’s daughter however might be his undoing. Because in the shadows, there is a master manipulator, the man with the rules and possibly, very probably, the original Player.
The team will pull out all the stops this time to take down the brutal killer.
This series is the best I’ve read by author Carol Ericson. I could feel the danger lurking in the pages, and sense the darkness closing in.
May 27, 2021
There is no time for Kyra Chase and Detective Jake McAllister to catch their breath. They just ended the murder spree of Copycat 2.0 when another disciple of The Player is there to take his place. Copycat Three is out of control. He wants to show Jake that he can't be stopped. At the same time, Sean Hughes, a true crime blogger, reveals Kyra's tragic history and becomes a victim. Did the new Player wannabe kill him? Or is the Real Player the culprit? The Task Force is following all the leads. I admire their determination, but I feel their frustration. Jake faces his biggest fear when his daughter is taken by the latest killer. Can he save his child? Kyra is there for him. Her bravery and sacrifice are amazing. I was overwhelmed by The Bait. The story is one shock after another. The tension increases as Kyra must face her horrific past as well as her uncertain future. I'm not sure how it will end. Will the Player be the victor? I hope not. I want justice to triumph. Carol Ericson has outdone herself with this series. I am caught up this amazing series.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
May 12, 2021
Another fantastic book in this series! I really thought this was the last book and when I got to the last page, I was so happy that there was one more! YAY! I could see that it wasn't wrapping up and I couldn't figure out why, until the last page! SO glad there is one more book because I'm not ready to leave Kyra and Jake yet. They are such a great couple and this serial killer case is so puzzling! I really like the idea of this series staying with the same case and the same characters. We learn so much about them, like old friends. The next book just picks up where the other one left off! This time we get to know Jake's daughter, Fiona, more. She's a typical teenager and does she ever stir things up! Jake is fit to be tied! We still have to deal with the serial killer too. What is the task force going to do? Cannot WAIT until the next book when everything is wrapped up!!!
May 24, 2021
Non-stop twists and turns! THE BAIT is book three in the Kyra and Jake Investigation series by Carol Ericson and it kept me captivated from start to finish. Each book is leading up to a big reveal and the atmosphere grows more tense as time passes. I'm looking forward to figuring out all of the secrets in the last book to come!
Kyra and Jake are testing the waters as a couple after meeting and falling for each other as they worked to figure out who the copycat serial killer was, but each time they think they will have some down times another twisted psycho jumps into the game. I enjoy their chemistry as they bounce ideas off of one another day in and day out but find time for subtle closeness that makes them seem real.
I highly recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who likes a touch of romance along with addictive action and suspense.
Kyra and Jake are testing the waters as a couple after meeting and falling for each other as they worked to figure out who the copycat serial killer was, but each time they think they will have some down times another twisted psycho jumps into the game. I enjoy their chemistry as they bounce ideas off of one another day in and day out but find time for subtle closeness that makes them seem real.
I highly recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who likes a touch of romance along with addictive action and suspense.
May 26, 2021
This was an entertaining, well-written book. LA. Detective Jake McAllister and victim advocate Kyra Chase are after another copycat killer duplicating the murders committed by The Player decades before. There's intrigue, romance, passion and action. The book held my interest and I didn't want to put it down. It can be read as a standalone story, though it is book 3 in the Kyra and Jake Investigation series. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
June 6, 2021
Follow Kyra and Jake as they discover more links between "the Player" and his copycats. Details emerge linking internet ties and "Player's' rules to follow. Kyra and Jake grow closer, more background info is disclosed. Fiona, Jake's daughter, comes for a visit and unwittingly gets ensnared. Startling, surprise ending. May be read on its own but helps to follow each book in order. I'm anxiously awaiting the conclusion!
June 30, 2021
What a whirlwind this book was! From beginning to end, it definitely kept me interested. Jake's daughter Fiona definitely seemed a bit shady when she was first introduced. It was nice to learn a bit more about her and see how she changed the dynamic up a bit with Jake and Kiera. A lot happens in the book with copy cat 3 and a whole lot more. Can't wait to dive into the next one, my mind is spinning after how this book ended.
May 1, 2025
‘Copycat Three? Sounds like a Doctor Suess book.’
This may be one of my top mini series from Harlequin Intrigue of all time. Each installment has brought us a new twist on The Player while revealing a little more about about Kyra’s past. In this installment her past is laid out from everyone to read about and Jake’s daughter ends up in mortal danger. Thrilling and most definitely a must read!
This may be one of my top mini series from Harlequin Intrigue of all time. Each installment has brought us a new twist on The Player while revealing a little more about about Kyra’s past. In this installment her past is laid out from everyone to read about and Jake’s daughter ends up in mortal danger. Thrilling and most definitely a must read!
May 25, 2021
The intrigue heats ups. Who is the Player and how is he connecting to these copycat killers? Each of these books has a different copycat killer involved, so you are getting to solve one crime in each that all connect to the overall story arc. I enjoyed the suspense and pace of the book. Looking forward to reading the last book in the series that will be released at the end of June.
September 6, 2021
What a fast paced hard to put down book! There were alot of ups and downs. Jake and Kyra are closer than ever. Jake's daughter shows up out of the blue. There are more killings! They are chasing this guy down and Quinn believes that The Player us still alive. Can they solve this before it is to late and there are to many casualties. Love this book. The ending was sad to me though.
August 28, 2025
This is a series of four titles. Each works as a stand alone BUT the entire series is worth the read as it enhances the reading experience. Good characters, nice romance, intriguing mysteries in each book.
Read
May 1, 2021Categories
Romantic Suspense, Crime Thriller, Police Procedural Mystery & Detective
Miniseries
A Kyra and Jake Investigation (Book #3)
Romantic Suspense, Crime Thriller, Police Procedural Mystery & Detective
Miniseries
A Kyra and Jake Investigation (Book #3)
Read
May 1, 2021Categories
Romantic Suspense, Crime Thriller, Police Procedural Mystery & Detective
Miniseries
A Kyra and Jake Investigation (Book #3)
Romantic Suspense, Crime Thriller, Police Procedural Mystery & Detective
Miniseries
A Kyra and Jake Investigation (Book #3)
January 30, 2022
So many twists and turns with this series and it always leaves you guessing.
October 5, 2022
The hunt for the Player continues. Kyra deals with devastating news while Jake continues to work the case and to support her. Can't wait to start book #3.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews