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Quinn & Costa #7
Make It Out Alive
Not yet published
Expected 27 Jan 26Win a free print copy of this book!
7 days and 00:02:09
10 copies available
U.S. only
Allison Brennan returns to her bestselling series with an edge-of-your-seat thriller that thrusts Quinn and Costa into the crosshairs of a sadistic serial killer.
Three newlywed couples have disappeared from an exclusive resort in Florida, only to turn up dead soon after. With the location and the similarities between the female victims as their only leads, it’s up to the FBI Mobile Response Team to catch a serial killer before anyone else ends up dead. And they have the perfect bait—Detective Kara Quinn, who bears an uncanny resemblance to the targeted women.
Undercover as newlyweds pretending to enjoy their honeymoon, Kara and FBI Agent Matt Costa set a flawless trap. When their plan works and they arrest the predator, Matt sends the rest of the team home so he and Kara can have the weekend for some much-needed R&R. But on Monday morning, the couple doesn’t show up to work, and the MRT learns they never checked out of their hotel.
As their team tries to find them, Matt and Kara learn the truth—the killer wasn’t acting alone. He had a partner who succeeded where he failed. Kidnapped and forced into a twisted escape room, they need to find a way out, because if they don’t escape, they’ll die.
Three newlywed couples have disappeared from an exclusive resort in Florida, only to turn up dead soon after. With the location and the similarities between the female victims as their only leads, it’s up to the FBI Mobile Response Team to catch a serial killer before anyone else ends up dead. And they have the perfect bait—Detective Kara Quinn, who bears an uncanny resemblance to the targeted women.
Undercover as newlyweds pretending to enjoy their honeymoon, Kara and FBI Agent Matt Costa set a flawless trap. When their plan works and they arrest the predator, Matt sends the rest of the team home so he and Kara can have the weekend for some much-needed R&R. But on Monday morning, the couple doesn’t show up to work, and the MRT learns they never checked out of their hotel.
As their team tries to find them, Matt and Kara learn the truth—the killer wasn’t acting alone. He had a partner who succeeded where he failed. Kidnapped and forced into a twisted escape room, they need to find a way out, because if they don’t escape, they’ll die.
400 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication January 27, 2026
5 people are currently reading
7433 people want to read
About the author
Allison Brennan
110 books5,290 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Allison Brennan believes that life is too short to be bored, so she had five children and writes three books a year.
In 2019, Allison relocated from Northern California to Arizona with her family and assorted pets. She loves baseball, hiking, family game night, and (of course) reading.
RT Book Reviews called Allison “a master of suspense” and her books “haunting,” “mesmerizing,” “pulse-pounding” and “emotionally complex.” She's been nominated for many awards, and is a three time winner of the Reviewer's Choice award winner for RT Book Reviews as well as the Daphne du Maurier award. Most recently, she was nominated for Best Paperback Original by International Thriller Writers.
With over 45 books and dozens of short stories, Allison is writing multiple series and the occasional stand alone thriller. Her most recent book out now is THE MISSING WITNESS, part of the Quinn & Costa series. In June Allison is launching a new Phoenix-set series about a family of private investigators starting with YOU'LL NEVER FIND ME.
You can reach Allison through Goodreads or her website.
In 2019, Allison relocated from Northern California to Arizona with her family and assorted pets. She loves baseball, hiking, family game night, and (of course) reading.
RT Book Reviews called Allison “a master of suspense” and her books “haunting,” “mesmerizing,” “pulse-pounding” and “emotionally complex.” She's been nominated for many awards, and is a three time winner of the Reviewer's Choice award winner for RT Book Reviews as well as the Daphne du Maurier award. Most recently, she was nominated for Best Paperback Original by International Thriller Writers.
With over 45 books and dozens of short stories, Allison is writing multiple series and the occasional stand alone thriller. Her most recent book out now is THE MISSING WITNESS, part of the Quinn & Costa series. In June Allison is launching a new Phoenix-set series about a family of private investigators starting with YOU'LL NEVER FIND ME.
You can reach Allison through Goodreads or her website.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 29, 2025
9/10: 4.5⭐️’s rounded up to 5⭐️’s
The Mobile Response Team is back. This time trying to catch a serial killer of newlywed couples at a fancy Florida resort before they strike again. Kara and Matt go undercover as newlyweds. When they think they have caught the killer, everyone heads home except for Matt and Kara. They stay to enjoy resort for a night not on the job.
But when they don’t show up back in Quantico and no one can get in contact with them, the rest of the team becomes concerned. Where could Matt and Kara have gone, leaving everything behind. Did they catch the right killer?
As the team works to find them, Matt and Kara are in for the fight of their lives. Just who is the Mephistophelian (new word for me from the book!!) behind their disappearance and is it related to the newlyweds resort killer?
This might be my favorite of the series!! The rest of the team has to work without their leader because Matt is no where to be found. It’s interesting to see how that part of the story plays out. The terror and uncertainty Matt and Kara face, it’s tense. It’s a rescue mission for the MRT to find Matt and Kara. It’s a survival mission for Matt and Kara to stay alive in hopes of being rescued. Does everyone make it out alive? Is the same person responsible for all of it?
I highly recommend this entire series. While not completely necessary to have read the previous books, it is really helpful for character development and relationships, plus, they are really good!!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the arc of this book. All opinions are my own. Expected release date January 27, 2026
Original review posted: 9/29/25
Original rating posted: 9/27/25
The Mobile Response Team is back. This time trying to catch a serial killer of newlywed couples at a fancy Florida resort before they strike again. Kara and Matt go undercover as newlyweds. When they think they have caught the killer, everyone heads home except for Matt and Kara. They stay to enjoy resort for a night not on the job.
But when they don’t show up back in Quantico and no one can get in contact with them, the rest of the team becomes concerned. Where could Matt and Kara have gone, leaving everything behind. Did they catch the right killer?
As the team works to find them, Matt and Kara are in for the fight of their lives. Just who is the Mephistophelian (new word for me from the book!!) behind their disappearance and is it related to the newlyweds resort killer?
This might be my favorite of the series!! The rest of the team has to work without their leader because Matt is no where to be found. It’s interesting to see how that part of the story plays out. The terror and uncertainty Matt and Kara face, it’s tense. It’s a rescue mission for the MRT to find Matt and Kara. It’s a survival mission for Matt and Kara to stay alive in hopes of being rescued. Does everyone make it out alive? Is the same person responsible for all of it?
I highly recommend this entire series. While not completely necessary to have read the previous books, it is really helpful for character development and relationships, plus, they are really good!!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the arc of this book. All opinions are my own. Expected release date January 27, 2026
Original review posted: 9/29/25
Original rating posted: 9/27/25
October 24, 2025
What a fun book!
While this is book 7 in a series, it works as a standalone. I hadn't read the other books and I felt like I was able to catch on to our characters quickly. In fact, I want to go back and read the other books in the series now.
The procedural portion of this book is very well done. In fact, I liked it a bit more than the thriller part. For the thriller part, there was a bit of disbelief that the character in question had the skills and knowledge to do everything they did. I just kept...not believing.
The book is intense and, as things ratchet up, the reader is absolutely on edge.
A very good book and I'd like another!
* ARC via Publisher
While this is book 7 in a series, it works as a standalone. I hadn't read the other books and I felt like I was able to catch on to our characters quickly. In fact, I want to go back and read the other books in the series now.
The procedural portion of this book is very well done. In fact, I liked it a bit more than the thriller part. For the thriller part, there was a bit of disbelief that the character in question had the skills and knowledge to do everything they did. I just kept...not believing.
The book is intense and, as things ratchet up, the reader is absolutely on edge.
A very good book and I'd like another!
* ARC via Publisher
Want to read
September 27, 2025My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
December 29, 2025
I accidentally grabbed this ALC (seriously fat fingers), but I’m actually glad I did—even though police procedurals aren’t usually my favorite subgenre.
This one is fluffy in the sense that you don’t have to think too hard. You’re along for the ride, enjoying how all the pieces fit together rather than puzzling out the culprit. Why? Because it’s extremely predictable. As soon as the culprit is introduced, you know it. It’s not explicitly stated, but the presentation might as well be wearing a name tag.
That said, I still enjoyed the experience despite the lack of real suspense or any genuine fear that our main characters were in danger. Honestly, that’s probably why I don’t often gravitate toward this type of book—you can usually tell from the description alone that the recurring cast will survive. The fun, such as it is, comes from seeing how they get there.
This is the seventh book in the author’s Quinn and Costa series. I haven’t read any of the previous installments, but they seem to be well-liked, and I don’t expect this one to break that streak.
My main issue? The narration.
Normally, audiobooks elevate my experience—but apparently not everything can be saved by audio magic. The narrator, Suzanne T. Fortin, speaks painfully slowly at 1x speed, and her characterizations just didn’t land for me. None of the characters sounded remotely like law enforcement, and some of the phrasing and vocal choices were… baffling. The only way I could tolerate it was by bumping the speed up to 2x, where it became merely acceptable instead of distracting.
To be clear, her natural voice is perfectly fine—it just wasn’t a good fit here, and it definitely dampened my enjoyment. I suspect I would have liked this book much more in print.
This releases in January 2026, and I do recommend it—just do yourself a favor and opt for the ebook or physical copy if you have the choice. Your ears will thank you.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary ALC from Harlequin Audio via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
How I Rate
Because I mostly read ARCs, I focus on how I think fellow readers with similar tastes will respond. I sometimes round up or down based on pacing, prose, or overall impact, and I try to keep my personal preferences from weighing too heavily.
⭐️ 1 Star – Finished, but not for me as it has way too many issues; I never DNF ARCs but would have had it not been one.
⭐️⭐️ 2 Stars – Struggled due to writing, content, or editing issues.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars – Decent read with untapped potential; recommend with some reservations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars – Really enjoyed it and would recommend for several reasons.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – Exceptional; lingers in my mind well after reading. A story I’d gladly revisit.
This one is fluffy in the sense that you don’t have to think too hard. You’re along for the ride, enjoying how all the pieces fit together rather than puzzling out the culprit. Why? Because it’s extremely predictable. As soon as the culprit is introduced, you know it. It’s not explicitly stated, but the presentation might as well be wearing a name tag.
That said, I still enjoyed the experience despite the lack of real suspense or any genuine fear that our main characters were in danger. Honestly, that’s probably why I don’t often gravitate toward this type of book—you can usually tell from the description alone that the recurring cast will survive. The fun, such as it is, comes from seeing how they get there.
This is the seventh book in the author’s Quinn and Costa series. I haven’t read any of the previous installments, but they seem to be well-liked, and I don’t expect this one to break that streak.
My main issue? The narration.
Normally, audiobooks elevate my experience—but apparently not everything can be saved by audio magic. The narrator, Suzanne T. Fortin, speaks painfully slowly at 1x speed, and her characterizations just didn’t land for me. None of the characters sounded remotely like law enforcement, and some of the phrasing and vocal choices were… baffling. The only way I could tolerate it was by bumping the speed up to 2x, where it became merely acceptable instead of distracting.
To be clear, her natural voice is perfectly fine—it just wasn’t a good fit here, and it definitely dampened my enjoyment. I suspect I would have liked this book much more in print.
This releases in January 2026, and I do recommend it—just do yourself a favor and opt for the ebook or physical copy if you have the choice. Your ears will thank you.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary ALC from Harlequin Audio via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
How I Rate
Because I mostly read ARCs, I focus on how I think fellow readers with similar tastes will respond. I sometimes round up or down based on pacing, prose, or overall impact, and I try to keep my personal preferences from weighing too heavily.
⭐️ 1 Star – Finished, but not for me as it has way too many issues; I never DNF ARCs but would have had it not been one.
⭐️⭐️ 2 Stars – Struggled due to writing, content, or editing issues.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars – Decent read with untapped potential; recommend with some reservations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars – Really enjoyed it and would recommend for several reasons.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – Exceptional; lingers in my mind well after reading. A story I’d gladly revisit.
December 22, 2025
The Quinn and Costa Series has become one of my favorites. With each new installment, I love it even more. The latest, does not disappoint. This one had some really heart stopping moments. If you are not reading this series, start today!
The latest installment finds The Mobile Response Team arresting a maintenance employee at a Florida resort. There are some unanswered questions after the arrest. The undercover operation had Matt and Kara posing as a married couple. After they wrapped the case, they took a few days off. Everything seemed okay until they didn’t show up to work on Monday.
Allison Brennan has crafted a superb thriller/mystery here. Matt and Kara are fighting for their lives to escape a trap, while the MRT tries to find them before time runs out. There are so many twists and turns, and I don’t want to say more - you will be catching your breath throughout this book.
And the ending? Wow!
Now the wait begins for the next book. I cannot wait to see what happens next. Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Hanover Square Press for the opportunity to read this one early! It is fantastic! This one is out on January 27th - start this series today!
The latest installment finds The Mobile Response Team arresting a maintenance employee at a Florida resort. There are some unanswered questions after the arrest. The undercover operation had Matt and Kara posing as a married couple. After they wrapped the case, they took a few days off. Everything seemed okay until they didn’t show up to work on Monday.
Allison Brennan has crafted a superb thriller/mystery here. Matt and Kara are fighting for their lives to escape a trap, while the MRT tries to find them before time runs out. There are so many twists and turns, and I don’t want to say more - you will be catching your breath throughout this book.
And the ending? Wow!
Now the wait begins for the next book. I cannot wait to see what happens next. Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Hanover Square Press for the opportunity to read this one early! It is fantastic! This one is out on January 27th - start this series today!
December 28, 2025
Make It Out Alive pulled me in right from the start and kept the tension high, even though it slowed a bit for me in the middle. I’ve read a few of Allison Brennan’s other thrillers and was excited to pick this one up, and it didn’t disappoint. Even though this is part of an interconnected series following an FBI Mobile Response Team, I had no trouble jumping in and getting a feel for the characters. The narration was well done and added to the tension. The stakes felt high, and I really enjoyed the mix of suspenseful escape room elements with the procedural side of the investigation.
3.5 rounded up to 4⭐️
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing and Harlequin Audio for the ARC and ALC in exchange for my honest review.
3.5 rounded up to 4⭐️
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing and Harlequin Audio for the ARC and ALC in exchange for my honest review.
December 22, 2025
Less Gory Saw. I'm glad the description mentioned the "escape room" and the need to make it out or die, as it made that headline *so* much more concise, since it technically isn't a spoiler. :D
And yet that headline is exactly what you get here - the latest entrant in the Quinn and Costa police procedural thrillers is a version of Saw set in North Florida (the "First Coast" region of Jacksonville (where I happen to live) and St Augustine) and surrounding areas.
I'm not a fan of horror generally and specifically not a fan of gory horror, so I can't tell a fan of the Saw franchise just how closely this aligns with that franchise - I don't know. I do know the base ideas are similar enough that fans of that franchise will enjoy this book on at least some level, but this book is also rather deep in an ongoing series and thus will reveal at least certain things from prior books. However, most of those elements are about the team itself rather than the prior mysteries they were solving, so this may well be a decent enough place for fans of the Saw franchise who may not have read these books before to start and see what they think.
More long time fans of this series specifically or police procedurals generally will also find quite a bit here, as the narrative spends nearly equal time on "oh shit, we woke up in a dangerous situation" and "oh shit, our teammates are missing and the case we thought we had in the bag... isn't". Thus, there's a solid mix of tension and investigation on two different fronts, as we see both sides play through to their inevitable meetup. But what condition will the missing teammates be found in? Who the hell could be sick enough to attempt a Saw type setup in the "real" world? Brennan does a great job really on all aspects here, including our criminals of the tale, and really allows pretty well every character - including several more minor ones - at least a few scenes to shine. Of course, she's working with 400 pages here... so she's got the space. ;)
And yes, even this region of the country has its moments in this book, be it in St. Augustine itself, the FBI office in Jacksonville, or the other nearby areas that also come to bear. All are done pretty damn well - well enough that it is clear that Brennan did at least some research on the areas, if not actually came out here and experienced them herself. Which is always pleasant to see as a consumer of a story that claims to be set in a place you are very familiar with. :)
Overall truly a well-paced thrill ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout... and will probably keep you up well into the night reading.
Very much recommended.
And yet that headline is exactly what you get here - the latest entrant in the Quinn and Costa police procedural thrillers is a version of Saw set in North Florida (the "First Coast" region of Jacksonville (where I happen to live) and St Augustine) and surrounding areas.
I'm not a fan of horror generally and specifically not a fan of gory horror, so I can't tell a fan of the Saw franchise just how closely this aligns with that franchise - I don't know. I do know the base ideas are similar enough that fans of that franchise will enjoy this book on at least some level, but this book is also rather deep in an ongoing series and thus will reveal at least certain things from prior books. However, most of those elements are about the team itself rather than the prior mysteries they were solving, so this may well be a decent enough place for fans of the Saw franchise who may not have read these books before to start and see what they think.
More long time fans of this series specifically or police procedurals generally will also find quite a bit here, as the narrative spends nearly equal time on "oh shit, we woke up in a dangerous situation" and "oh shit, our teammates are missing and the case we thought we had in the bag... isn't". Thus, there's a solid mix of tension and investigation on two different fronts, as we see both sides play through to their inevitable meetup. But what condition will the missing teammates be found in? Who the hell could be sick enough to attempt a Saw type setup in the "real" world? Brennan does a great job really on all aspects here, including our criminals of the tale, and really allows pretty well every character - including several more minor ones - at least a few scenes to shine. Of course, she's working with 400 pages here... so she's got the space. ;)
And yes, even this region of the country has its moments in this book, be it in St. Augustine itself, the FBI office in Jacksonville, or the other nearby areas that also come to bear. All are done pretty damn well - well enough that it is clear that Brennan did at least some research on the areas, if not actually came out here and experienced them herself. Which is always pleasant to see as a consumer of a story that claims to be set in a place you are very familiar with. :)
Overall truly a well-paced thrill ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout... and will probably keep you up well into the night reading.
Very much recommended.
November 23, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
🚨 Allison Brennan’s Make It Out Alive is a pulse-pounding installment in the Quinn & Costa series, blending procedural precision with relentless psychological suspense. It’s a novel that thrives on atmosphere, character depth, and the constant tension between survival and justice.
🌒 The story unfolds with urgency, set against crime scenes and investigative backdrops that feel vivid and lived-in.
Brennan’s prose balances adrenaline-fueled action with moments of quiet reflection, ensuring the suspense is grounded in emotional resonance.
The tone is gritty and relentless, but threaded with humanity, highlighting the personal cost of chasing justice.
👤 Detective Kara Quinn remains a fierce, intuitive investigator, her instincts sharpened by personal risk and emotional stakes.
FBI Special Agent Matt Costa provides a steady counterbalance, methodical and disciplined, yet equally tested by the dangers they face.
Supporting figures—suspects, victims, and allies—are drawn with ambiguity, each carrying motives that keep the investigation layered and unpredictable.
The dynamic between Quinn and Costa continues to evolve, marked by trust, tension, and the weight of shared responsibility.
🔍 Survival and resilience form the novel’s core, asking how far individuals will go when lives are at stake.
The narrative interrogates loyalty, betrayal, and the corrosive effects of secrets, showing how hidden truths distort trust.
Brennan explores the fragility of justice, suggesting that even the most skilled investigators must confront moral ambiguity.
🎧 The structure is taut, weaving procedural detail with psychological insight.
Brennan employs shifting perspectives and subtle foreshadowing, heightening suspense while sustaining momentum.
Dialogue is crisp and authentic, grounding the investigation in realism while pushing the story forward.
⭐ Make It Out Alive is a gripping, emotionally layered thriller that delivers both the intensity of crime fiction and the complexity of human conflict. Allison Brennan crafts a narrative that is as much about the cost of survival as it is about the mechanics of suspense, leaving readers unsettled, reflective, and eager for the next Quinn & Costa case.
🚨 Allison Brennan’s Make It Out Alive is a pulse-pounding installment in the Quinn & Costa series, blending procedural precision with relentless psychological suspense. It’s a novel that thrives on atmosphere, character depth, and the constant tension between survival and justice.
🌒 The story unfolds with urgency, set against crime scenes and investigative backdrops that feel vivid and lived-in.
Brennan’s prose balances adrenaline-fueled action with moments of quiet reflection, ensuring the suspense is grounded in emotional resonance.
The tone is gritty and relentless, but threaded with humanity, highlighting the personal cost of chasing justice.
👤 Detective Kara Quinn remains a fierce, intuitive investigator, her instincts sharpened by personal risk and emotional stakes.
FBI Special Agent Matt Costa provides a steady counterbalance, methodical and disciplined, yet equally tested by the dangers they face.
Supporting figures—suspects, victims, and allies—are drawn with ambiguity, each carrying motives that keep the investigation layered and unpredictable.
The dynamic between Quinn and Costa continues to evolve, marked by trust, tension, and the weight of shared responsibility.
🔍 Survival and resilience form the novel’s core, asking how far individuals will go when lives are at stake.
The narrative interrogates loyalty, betrayal, and the corrosive effects of secrets, showing how hidden truths distort trust.
Brennan explores the fragility of justice, suggesting that even the most skilled investigators must confront moral ambiguity.
🎧 The structure is taut, weaving procedural detail with psychological insight.
Brennan employs shifting perspectives and subtle foreshadowing, heightening suspense while sustaining momentum.
Dialogue is crisp and authentic, grounding the investigation in realism while pushing the story forward.
⭐ Make It Out Alive is a gripping, emotionally layered thriller that delivers both the intensity of crime fiction and the complexity of human conflict. Allison Brennan crafts a narrative that is as much about the cost of survival as it is about the mechanics of suspense, leaving readers unsettled, reflective, and eager for the next Quinn & Costa case.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Make It Out Alive by Allison Brennan is a very highly recommended investigative and escape room thriller, as well as the excellent 7th book in the Quinn and Costa FBI Mobile Response Team series.
Three newlywed couples have disappeared from an exclusive resort in Florida and later turned up dead so Flagler County Detective Kara Quinn and FBI Special Agent Matt Costa with the FBI Mobile Response Team (MRT) are investigating. Quinn resembles the female victims so she and Costa set a trap and capture Garrett Reid. After his arrest, Matt and Kara stay on at the resort for some R&R as a couple. However, when the two don't show up for work on Monday it becomes clear that Kara and Matt are missing and the search is on.
Kara and Matt were drugged and find themselves waking up in an old warehouse/factory that they discover is a booby-trapped escape room. The MRT quickly determines that Reid had an accomplice and continue the investigation knowing that the time may be running out for their colleagues.
This is an extremely well-written, heart-stopping, and complicated investigative thriller that follows three different narrative threads. First is the time sensitive search for Quinn and Costa; second is the struggles of Kara and Matt to escape, and third is the backstory of Reid. All three story lines are interesting and compelling. The killer is clearly dangerous, sadistic, and cunning, the search is complex, and there is a complicated backstory full of twists.
At this point fans will know all the characters in the series, however, I think those new to the series can also enjoy this as a stand alone novel for the investigation. This continues to be a favorite series, however, all of Brennan's novels are reliably very good.
Make It Out Alive is a wonderful choice for everyone looking for an investigative thriller and all those following the series. Thanks to Harlequin/Hanover Square Press for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2025/1...
Three newlywed couples have disappeared from an exclusive resort in Florida and later turned up dead so Flagler County Detective Kara Quinn and FBI Special Agent Matt Costa with the FBI Mobile Response Team (MRT) are investigating. Quinn resembles the female victims so she and Costa set a trap and capture Garrett Reid. After his arrest, Matt and Kara stay on at the resort for some R&R as a couple. However, when the two don't show up for work on Monday it becomes clear that Kara and Matt are missing and the search is on.
Kara and Matt were drugged and find themselves waking up in an old warehouse/factory that they discover is a booby-trapped escape room. The MRT quickly determines that Reid had an accomplice and continue the investigation knowing that the time may be running out for their colleagues.
This is an extremely well-written, heart-stopping, and complicated investigative thriller that follows three different narrative threads. First is the time sensitive search for Quinn and Costa; second is the struggles of Kara and Matt to escape, and third is the backstory of Reid. All three story lines are interesting and compelling. The killer is clearly dangerous, sadistic, and cunning, the search is complex, and there is a complicated backstory full of twists.
At this point fans will know all the characters in the series, however, I think those new to the series can also enjoy this as a stand alone novel for the investigation. This continues to be a favorite series, however, all of Brennan's novels are reliably very good.
Make It Out Alive is a wonderful choice for everyone looking for an investigative thriller and all those following the series. Thanks to Harlequin/Hanover Square Press for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2025/1...
November 11, 2025
I have been a big fan of Allison Brennan’s Regan Merritt series but have never read any of the Quinn and Costa series for some reason. “Big mistake. Huge. (to quote Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman).”
“Make it Out Alive” is the 7th novel in the Quinn and Costa series. Early on, it is obvious that if you haven’t read the previous 6 books, you have some catching up to do. However, Brennan makes sure that you may not have the full back story, but you will be able to catch up quickly and still get into this book from the beginning.
Quinn and Costa have checked into a resort to investigate the murder of three different couples. We start out with them already apprehending a suspect, a worker at the resort, and questioning the alleged perpetrator. When the team feels confident, they have the right person, a team member suggests Quinn and Costa take a break and stay at the resort for the remainder of the time they have the room reserved.
That is a great idea until it isn’t. Because Quinn and Costa disappear just like the other couples did. So, did they get the right guy? Is there a partner they didn’t know about? Are Quinn and Costa doomed to the same fate of the previously abducted couples?
This novel was an incredible ride. Straight up pulse-pounding adventure/mystery/thriller. And the bad guy…a new level of evil. I don’t want to say more because I would have to spoil things.
Just read this book. Nothing else to say about it. READ. IT.
And if this is any indication of how the rest of the books in the series go, then I may have just found my new favorite Allison Brennan series (move over Merritt).
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
“Make it Out Alive” is the 7th novel in the Quinn and Costa series. Early on, it is obvious that if you haven’t read the previous 6 books, you have some catching up to do. However, Brennan makes sure that you may not have the full back story, but you will be able to catch up quickly and still get into this book from the beginning.
Quinn and Costa have checked into a resort to investigate the murder of three different couples. We start out with them already apprehending a suspect, a worker at the resort, and questioning the alleged perpetrator. When the team feels confident, they have the right person, a team member suggests Quinn and Costa take a break and stay at the resort for the remainder of the time they have the room reserved.
That is a great idea until it isn’t. Because Quinn and Costa disappear just like the other couples did. So, did they get the right guy? Is there a partner they didn’t know about? Are Quinn and Costa doomed to the same fate of the previously abducted couples?
This novel was an incredible ride. Straight up pulse-pounding adventure/mystery/thriller. And the bad guy…a new level of evil. I don’t want to say more because I would have to spoil things.
Just read this book. Nothing else to say about it. READ. IT.
And if this is any indication of how the rest of the books in the series go, then I may have just found my new favorite Allison Brennan series (move over Merritt).
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Allison Brennan herself loves her latest addition to the Quinn and Costa series and I can see why, what a thriller. Make It Out Alive will keep you reading long past your bed time! When three newlywed couples go missing from a luxury resort and later found dead, the FBI Mobile Team is called in to investigate, Their investigation zeroes in on the murder and with him in jail they the team takes the weekend off. When Monday arrives they find team members Quinn and Costa missing and frantically begin their search with no clues to be had. Meanwhile the missing pair wake up and find themselves trapped in a very dangerous escape room. Will they make it out alive, Who is behind the murders and what’s their motive?
Brennan is one of my favorite authors and her ability to build a mystery. She blends situations procedural with unexpected twists keeping readers vested in the activities and dangers the members face during their investigations. To keep to the reality of fictional situations Brennan uses her consultants to the fullest. Brennan continues to develop the personalities and team development with the normal kinds of friction any team might face on a regular basis, different personalities are always a challenge. But when it’s time they must capture the villains, save the innocents her character development is perfect. Don’t miss the latest installment in the Quinn and Costa series. Thank you Harlequin Trade and NetGalley for the Arc.
Brennan is one of my favorite authors and her ability to build a mystery. She blends situations procedural with unexpected twists keeping readers vested in the activities and dangers the members face during their investigations. To keep to the reality of fictional situations Brennan uses her consultants to the fullest. Brennan continues to develop the personalities and team development with the normal kinds of friction any team might face on a regular basis, different personalities are always a challenge. But when it’s time they must capture the villains, save the innocents her character development is perfect. Don’t miss the latest installment in the Quinn and Costa series. Thank you Harlequin Trade and NetGalley for the Arc.
Review of advance copy received from Storygraph
Release: Jan 27, 2026
Author: Alison Brennan
Publisher: Harlequin Trade
Rating: 4★
When newlywed couples start vanishing—and turning up dead—at a luxury Florida resort, the FBI steps in to hunt a serial killer targeting brides. Detective Kara Quinn and FBI agent Matt Costa go undercover as honeymooners to draw him out, and it works… until they suddenly disappear themselves. It quickly becomes clear the killer wasn’t acting alone, and Kara and Matt wake up trapped in a deadly, puzzle-like game where survival is the only goal.
This book is fast, high-stakes, and nonstop. The pacing is sharp, the danger feels constant, and the tension never lets up. Even though it’s part of a series, it’s easy to jump into, and the chemistry between Kara and Matt adds an emotional edge to the chaos. Written by Allison Brennan, it’s a gripping FBI thriller with chilling villains, tight chapters, and a final act that keeps your heart racing. Perfect if you love investigative thrillers with survival vibes and relentless twists.
Favorite Quote:
"The past was a ghost, and the future was a shadow. All she had was the present."
Author: Alison Brennan
Publisher: Harlequin Trade
Rating: 4★
When newlywed couples start vanishing—and turning up dead—at a luxury Florida resort, the FBI steps in to hunt a serial killer targeting brides. Detective Kara Quinn and FBI agent Matt Costa go undercover as honeymooners to draw him out, and it works… until they suddenly disappear themselves. It quickly becomes clear the killer wasn’t acting alone, and Kara and Matt wake up trapped in a deadly, puzzle-like game where survival is the only goal.
This book is fast, high-stakes, and nonstop. The pacing is sharp, the danger feels constant, and the tension never lets up. Even though it’s part of a series, it’s easy to jump into, and the chemistry between Kara and Matt adds an emotional edge to the chaos. Written by Allison Brennan, it’s a gripping FBI thriller with chilling villains, tight chapters, and a final act that keeps your heart racing. Perfect if you love investigative thrillers with survival vibes and relentless twists.
Favorite Quote:
"The past was a ghost, and the future was a shadow. All she had was the present."
September 30, 2025
Three newlywed couples have disappeared from a resort in Florida. FBI Mobile Response Team is sent to investigate and catch a serial killer. Detective Kara Quinn and FBI agent Matt Costa are sent in undercover as newlyweds. Kara looks a lot like the women that have disappeared. They set a trap and catch a man. They wrap it up and take a few days for themselves. When their teammates get worried when they don’t hear from them, they call the security guy that they were dealing with. They look at the cameras and see Kara pass out and Matt being shot with a tranquilizer dart. A employee from the resort, pushes a cart into the room, and Matt and Kara are gone. The team rushes back down to Florida. The man they believe is the killer, has a solid alibi, being in jail. They realize the killer has a partner but finding them becomes very difficult. Matt and Kara wake up in an old , abandoned factory that is set up with booby traps. Will they escape before everything comes crashing down on them?
Excellent story. Action. Suspense. Mystery. Lies.
* VOLUNTARILY READ AND REVIEWED FOR NETGALLEY *
Excellent story. Action. Suspense. Mystery. Lies.
* VOLUNTARILY READ AND REVIEWED FOR NETGALLEY *
October 4, 2025
I think that this is my favorite series by the author, I just love Quinn & Costa and how well developed they are as she adds each story. The dynamics of them working together and their love relationship really moves the story along. This book could be read as a standalone, but it is so much better if you start from the beginning of the series. We are once again solving a horrendous crime but without the leader of the Mobile Response Team. Matt and Kara are missing after deciding to spend an extra day at the resort they were working undercover. Now the team is desperately trying to find them. While they are working to find their missing members, Matt and Kara are trying to survive the game that they have been put into. Will Matt and Kara’s co-workers find them alive or will the game their playing killed them. I highly recommend this book and the series. You won’t be able to put it down. Thank you, Netgalley and Hanover Square Press, for the ARC in Exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2025
Make It Out Alive by Allison Brennan is a fast, intense thriller that kept me hooked from start to finish. The story follows Detective Kara Quinn and FBI Agent Matt Costa as they investigate the murder of newlywed couples at a luxury Florida resort. When they go undercover as honeymooners, they believe they’ve caught the killer, but things quickly take a terrifying turn.
Kara and Matt are kidnapped and trapped in a twisted survival game, and the danger feels very real. The pacing is quick, the chapters are short, and the tension never lets up. I especially liked the partnership between Kara and Matt, their trust in each other adds emotional depth to the story.
This book is suspenseful, dark, and full of twists. Even though it’s part of a series, it’s easy to follow. If you enjoy FBI thrillers with high stakes and nonstop action, this is a great read.
Very grateful to the publisher for my copy through NetGalley, opinions are my own
Kara and Matt are kidnapped and trapped in a twisted survival game, and the danger feels very real. The pacing is quick, the chapters are short, and the tension never lets up. I especially liked the partnership between Kara and Matt, their trust in each other adds emotional depth to the story.
This book is suspenseful, dark, and full of twists. Even though it’s part of a series, it’s easy to follow. If you enjoy FBI thrillers with high stakes and nonstop action, this is a great read.
Very grateful to the publisher for my copy through NetGalley, opinions are my own
October 29, 2025
This next book in the Quinn and Costa series by Alison Brennan can be read as a standalone, however it’s a treat to read the whole series. The FBI Mobile Response Team is out to capture a serial killer targeting newlywed couples at a beach resort. Since Kara Quinn resembles the targeted women, they go undercover. The team rushes to Florida when the pair disappear. Since their main suspect is in police custody, they determine he must have a partner. I highly recommend this tense and well paced thriller. The characters are well developed and have grown with each book. Go back and enjoy the whole series! With thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this ARC. My opinions are my own.
November 13, 2025
My first read by Allison and definitely will not be my last. I noted this is book 7 in the Quinn & Costa series but had no problem diving into it as a standalone, I do however, have a strong desire to read them all because this was so good.
I love a good police procedural and this one mixed in some of my favorite things like an undercover op, a completely unhinged plot line and a strong team of characters. There was a lot going on here but I found it easy to follow and so quick paced. It didn’t leave me on a cliffhanger which I am so thankful for, I appreciate so much when a story is part of a series but you still get closure at the end of the book.
I love a good police procedural and this one mixed in some of my favorite things like an undercover op, a completely unhinged plot line and a strong team of characters. There was a lot going on here but I found it easy to follow and so quick paced. It didn’t leave me on a cliffhanger which I am so thankful for, I appreciate so much when a story is part of a series but you still get closure at the end of the book.
December 18, 2025
Oh my gosh this story was an edge of your seat scary suspenseful adventure .
Matt and Kara are kidnapped by a deranged evil psychopath. As there team tries to connect the dots to rescue them things get even more crazy as the story unfolds.
They both had a bad feeling because they’d been abducted by the partner of a psychopathic killer and dumped in this abandoned building.
This series just gets better and more intense with new installment. You definitely don’t want to miss this one. It will blow your mind!!
Matt and Kara are kidnapped by a deranged evil psychopath. As there team tries to connect the dots to rescue them things get even more crazy as the story unfolds.
They both had a bad feeling because they’d been abducted by the partner of a psychopathic killer and dumped in this abandoned building.
This series just gets better and more intense with new installment. You definitely don’t want to miss this one. It will blow your mind!!
November 17, 2025
Solid Premise, Mixed Execution
Make It Out Alive has a strong setup and plenty of momentum, and there are moments where the tension really lands. That said, the storytelling leans more on telling than showing, which kept me a bit at a distance from the characters and the action. Still, there’s enough here for fans of the series or the author to enjoy, even if it didn’t fully click for me. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars.
Make It Out Alive has a strong setup and plenty of momentum, and there are moments where the tension really lands. That said, the storytelling leans more on telling than showing, which kept me a bit at a distance from the characters and the action. Still, there’s enough here for fans of the series or the author to enjoy, even if it didn’t fully click for me. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a fun cat-and-mouse read. This book is full of adrenaline, wondering what will happen next. If you have been reading this series, you will love this next book. You could read this as a standalone, but you will enjoy it even more if you read the whole series. I did not want to put this book down once I was able to sit down and read it. I look forward to the next book in the series. I am leaving this review voluntarily after being sent a free book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
FULL REVIEW WILL BE ON JANUARY 29.
Oh my gosh. This a book you won't want to miss if you read thrillers.
The main characters are simply evil and clever.
You will despise them as they continue to foil the police as they always have done and as they carry out their evil deeds.
You won’t be able to put the book down. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Oh my gosh. This a book you won't want to miss if you read thrillers.
The main characters are simply evil and clever.
You will despise them as they continue to foil the police as they always have done and as they carry out their evil deeds.
You won’t be able to put the book down. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This one hits the ground running and never eases up. What starts as a smart undercover sting quickly turns into a nightmare when Kara and Costa realize the danger isn’t over and they’re the real targets now. The tension is relentless, the stakes are brutal, and the twists keep coming as the hunt flips on its head. Fast, dark, and totally gripping, it’s a must-read for anyone who loves high-octane crime thrillers.
October 18, 2025
The continuation of Allison Brennan’s Quinn and Costa series makes for some great reading! A tense, fast-paced mystery that twirls and teases, this is a quick but exhilarating story. Easy to read as a standalone.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC.
November 13, 2025
What an incredibly written book. Allison Brennan is such a talented writer. We really got see Matt’s team work hard to find him and Kara. There was a ton of suspense. I found myself holding my breath several times. There was such rich character development. Lots of twists and turns. I highly recommend this book. It was a page turner for sure.
October 31, 2025
Quinn and Costa go undercover as newlyweds to catch someone who is murdering honeymoon couples. With the suspect now in custody, they take a weekend off, only to be kidnapped themselves. Their team scrambles to find them as well as figure out if their suspect was working with a partner. This was pretty standard for the series. 4 stars.
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