Two Days in Caracas

Titus Ray Thrillers #2

by Luana Ehrlich

Titus Ray faces a threat he never imagined. Can he overcome the obstacles and capture Ahmed Al-Amin before it’s too late?

In this pulse-racing Christian thriller, CIA intelligence officer, Titus Ray, travels from Costa Rica to Venezuela in an effort to stop Ahmed Al-Amin, a Hezbollah assassin, from murdering a high-profile government official. Along the way, a family crisis jeopardizes his mission, and an Agency division head threatens to destroy his career. As the danger mounts, he’s forced to partner with an untested operative to complete the mission and bring Ahmed to justice. Will he make it in time?

Can his newfound faith heal his past wounds? Can he build a life with the woman of his dreams?

The hunt for Ahmed Al-Amin continues in Book 2 of the Titus Ray Thriller novels, a series of fast-paced adventures full of intrigue, romance, and suspense.

Genres: Thriller, Fiction, Christian Fiction, Mystery, Ebooks, Christian, Suspense

377 pages, ebook

First published June 24, 2015

About the author

Luana Ehrlich is a USA Today bestselling author, known for her award-winning Titus Ray Thrillers, Mylas Grey Mysteries, and Silas McKay Suspense. Her novels are clean reads with intriguing plots, fascinating characters, jaw-dropping twists, and occasional touches of humor and heart-warming romance.

Although she developed her passion for spy thrillers and mystery novels at an early age, she didn’t write her first novel until her husband retired from the ministry. Now, she writes from an undisclosed location, trying to avoid the torture of mundane housework, grocery shopping, and golf stories. However, she occasionally comes out of hiding to visit with her two grandsons or to enjoy a Starbucks caramel macchiato.

Luana and her husband, former missionaries to Costa Rica and Venezuela, are now residents of Norman, Oklahoma. Email her at author@luanaehrlich.com. She loves to hear from her readers!!

Visit Luana on--
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LuanaEhrlichAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/luanasbooks

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorluana...

Devotional Blog: www.hisglorymyjoy.wordpress.com.

Reviews

[Angie Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still scratching my head a little over what exactly draws me into these books so hard because they're so unlike my normal style. But it's undeniable at this point--they absolutely suck me in, and I can't put them down! And as different as it is from the nonstop action I'm used to in most suspense novels, it sucks me in just as hard and puts me just as much on the edge of my seat. And even though there was quite a bit of repetition of things we had learned (or that had happened) in the first book, I didn't really feel like groaning and skipping, the way I generally do in those circumstances.

I do like the way the stories are all connected, wrapping up some things while feeding into the next plot, and I look forward to seeing what happens in book three! For some reason, watching all the internal politics and backdoor wrangling that affects so much of the job for the field agents is especially fascinating to me, and I'm holding my breath about as much when two different higher-ups get into it as I do when they're about to face down a bad guy. That said, there was a lot of legitimate danger as well--personal danger as well as world-threatening plots--to keep me solidly on the edge of my seat throughout.

As far as characters go, I really liked seeing Titus continue to grow and begin to reach out in his newfound faith, and I loved getting to see the change in him through the eyes of those who have known him for a long time. There were some tough moments and some reflections on less than admirable moments in his past, but it's easy to see the way that arc is bending, and I look forward to seeing it continue. I enjoyed getting to see Nikki again and appreciated her openness and honesty, even when it was hard. And I honestly loved Ben from about the minute I set eyes on him--again, not a perfect character, but one that I really, really liked and definitely look forward to seeing again! The one thing that had me kind of on the fence was the amount of lying--not necessarily the undercover work or not being able to disclose their true occupation, but the lying about what happened in certain circumstances in order to keep a colleague out of trouble that seems to be endemic in certain parts of the organization, if Titus's stories are to be believed... Like I said, I'm not totally sure how I feel about it--I don't condone lying, but I understand why you would want to shield certain people in certain situations--and I did notice Titus's conscience starting to sting over it in some instances, but it's just something to chew on and not let pass without comment.

Look for book three to hit my "read" shelf sooner rather than later. ;) 4.5 stars

Content--mentions of gunplay, blood, wounds, and death (including murder); mentions of terrorist activities and plots; mentions of people converting to Islam and becoming radicalized; various instances of lying (see above); mentions of a character being divorced before becoming a Christian; some passionate kissing (not descriptive); mention of an attempted suicide; mentions of various family tensions and unhealthy relationships; mentions of breast cancer and treatments

[J.L. Rallios · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent thriller -- without the profanity, explicit violence, and sex. Who needs those things with a story so intriguing and a character so likable? Luana Ehrlich is a fabulous storyteller who makes it look easy. Being a writer myself, I can really appreciate that. I'm addicted to Titus Ray thrillers. I've never read a series of books back to back as I did the first two of this series -- now that's saying something. I've received these on Kindle, and I'm really thinking of getting them on paperback just so I can put them on my shelf. I love to re-read great stories and these fall in that category.

[Almney King · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Two Days in Caracas" is the sequel of the gripping CIA thriller "One Night In Tehran." The sequel was even better than the first as Titus Ray continues his hunt for the Hezbollah terrorist known as Al-Amin Ahmed from the Middle East all the way to the beautiful streets of Venezuela. The book is wonderfully paced and full of great mystery and well-developed characters that keep you hungry for more. Once again, "Two Days in Caracas" as its prequel "One Night In Tehran" gives me a taste of HBO's hit series "Homeland" which is without question one of the best CIA TV shows/Films I've seen so far. The story is so spot on to real-life spy work as an undercover operative that it practically puts you there! Watch your back in Caracas, watch your back in the CIA, because you never know what lies you have to tell and secrets you have to hide, even from your very own government!

[Dana Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading One Night in Tehran, I fell in love with a spy! I absolutely found Luana Ehrlich's book so fascinating that I could not put it down. So, naturally, when her new book came out, I bought it immediately and started reading it. I was not disappointed. Titus Ray makes being a spy so cool. I loved how he thought through situations before actually plunging ahead and I loved how his life is changing because of his commitment to Christ. It is so wonderful seeing a life become new because of Jesus. I also loved seeing his romance with Nikki develop too. I hope her third book will be coming out soon, because I have thoroughly enjoyed this series.

[Rebekah Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
This story was just as interesting as the first one. I still don’t know if I would classify this as a “thriller” since I never felt on the edge of my seat, so to speak, but I did want to keep reading. One thing I like about this book is that nothing ever felt too tense for me. I don’t always enjoy high stakes or white-knuckle stories, so this book was perfect.
I love having the little bits of Titus talking about his faith and learning to pray about things.
There were some people who were killed, some blood and mentions of how someone killed another person, but nothing was really graphic and I never felt like there was too much description. There were also some kisses.

This story gives me a greater appreciation of those who work under cover or behind the scenes to keep our country safe.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great sequel. I’m enjoying the action and suspense as Titus Ray continues his mission to hunt terrorists.

[Kendra Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely Love

I am so excited about the Titus Ray series! I love spy novels in general. I love Titus Ray because he leans not only on his own understanding.

[Bonnye Reed]

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[Deon]

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[Deb Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent story. Now on to book three in this series!

[Paul Goble · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you liked books #0.5 and #1, you’ll probably like this one too, so I won’t describe this book in detail. It’s not as intense as book #1, but it’s still realistic, clean, edifying, and engaging. The pattern of the writing is becoming a bit predictable, but it’s still very effective so I’m not complaining. Titus continues to grow as a person and as a Christian.
Introduces the character of Ben Mitchell, who gets his own series.

[Don Glass · Rating 5 out of 5]

Getting better..soon even better, then best?

Book two is seriously better than book one, and I don't think it's because I have come to know and love the main characters and the overt manger in which they share their faith and fears and doubts.

A brilliant balance of intrigue, suspense, and growing faith in God.

Truly enjoyable and highly addictive.

Well written

[Big Game James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Apart from writing a masterpiece or classic, a fiction writer's primary responsibility is to entertain. If they don't entertain, their readers will stop reading. That's how things work. With that in mind, I found Two Days in Caracas by Luana Ehrlich well-written, engaging, and, yes, very entertaining.

The story centers around CIA operatives Titus Ray, Ben Mitchell, and a Hezbollah assassin from Titus's past, now operating in Costa Rica and Venezuela. Although the story reeks of authenticity, some things that happen seem far-fetched. On the other hand, I've read stories written by former spies, counter-intelligence operatives, etc., that seem even more farfetched. Even actual events that end up in the news. So just because something doesn't SEEM believable, that doesn't mean it isn't possible or accurate.

As some have noted (or complained), an element of the Christian faith is woven seamlessly within the story. Titus is a recent convert who is learning how to balance his faith with the requirements of his job. If you're anti-American, anti-Christian, or anti-Conservative, you probably won't like this book. But if you're looking for a real page-turner spy story without foul language, Two Days in Caracas is for you.

[Liz McFadden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished Two Days in Caracas a Titus Ray Thriller #2. Luana is one of my favorite authors. I read One Night in Tehran. I always like to read books in order, but having just read Two Days in Caracas, because I wanted to find out what happened with Titus in his search for an assassin where he is pulled from medical leave to go to Argentina in search of the assassin. I don't want to give anymore details than that. What you need to do is grab One Night in Tehran and read and then grab the next one. you will not be disappointed.

[Lj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exiting 2nd Titus Ray Thriller

An exiting and thrilling read! Follow Agent Titus in his search for an assassin in this captivating 2nd Book in the Titus Ray Thriller series. I love a great mystery and adventure along with a Christian theme makes for a great read that is hard to put down. Anxiously waiting for the 3rd book!!

[Chris Sutton · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading One Night in Tehran I had high expectations for Two Days in Caracas. I was not disappointed. Both books have a well planned story line with plenty of surprises. I did not want to put either book down! I can hardly wait for the third installment in the series! Chris Sutton

[Diana J. Solle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting story

This was another "I can't put the book/ Kindle down". Unfamiliar with middle American countries added spice to the story. I look forward to book #3.

[Mary Pinkston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner

Great flow in the story line, enough detail for the story to flow, not too much that it drowns and drags. Excellent book , highly recommend.

[Megan Hamsher · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Review for:
Two Days in Caracas
=====================
Two Days in Caracas is Book #2 in the Titus Ray Thriller series by Luana Ehrlich.
Although one would probably miss it if not looking for it,
there's a light yet strong "faith challenge" present.
This was the e-book version.

The man that tried to kill CIA Operative Titus Ray - and successfully killed a fellow CIA Operator -
is still on the loose...and as long as he remains free, the chances of bodies piling up is high.
So Titus is once again re-instated and assigned the task of trying to locate and secure the guy.
Along the way, an old operator friend gets whacked,
a new operator is testing his wings,
and a "frienemy" handler who has a rough past with Titus shows up to run the operation.
One very complicated set of family dynamics as the Rays gather to mourn a death.
One charming lady that has captured Titus' attention steals into his dreams.
But where will the relationship go??
All the while, Titus will do everything in his power
to protect the USA,
locate and protect next assassination target,
and take care of the bad guys.....

It was interesting to learn "CIA Alphabet" definitions,
and it was certainly fun looking up a couple of the places.

Not quite the ending I was expecting either.
So much for being in the DDO blacklist ... see ya in the next book, Titus!

Here's a few fave quotes:

"Connecting with those from the past
always had a way of giving us a new perspective
on who we are in the present."
CIA RTM Operations Officer Douglas Carlton
to CIA Operator Titus Ray
page 124

Sometimes, in order to unearth a problem,
it's more appropriate to use a shovel than to use a bulldozer.
I'd never seen any evidence that Olivia understood that.
page 243

When God Redirects Your Plan
=======================
Nothing takes Him by surprise.
If your plans are changed, altered, diverted, or simply shot to smithereens,
God is still in control.
Trust God. He's got your back.
page 335

[Joleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two Days in Caracas is Volume 2 of the Titus Ray "series". I put quotes on that because these are not really individual books. They are one book in three parts. So to get the full picture, all three must be read, and any one of them without the others is just a few puzzle pieces. Nice to get into, but ultimately unsatisfying.

Why this book is titled this way is a bit of a mystery to me because this part of the story takes place over weeks and in several countries.

I listened the first one years ago and had a hard time getting into it. Waaaay too much technical and terrorist detail. This one was much more relational, yet still technical with suspense. I’ve read many suspense/thriller books, but this was by far the cleanest.

The main character, Titus Ray had the gospel shared with him by some Middle Eastern believers. So in this volume he's a Christian, he prays about his missions, shares his faith, and allows his co-workers and family members to not only see a new Titus, but to also see the Redeemer who means so much to him, all without being too preachy for unbelievers who may be reading this.

However, like I said, this set of puzzle pieces does not show the whole picture and leaves off as his newfound relationship is getting a great start and he's about to start a new mission...sigh.

Good "book", just incomplete. Oh, and I said in an update, I was surprised the author was a woman. That may sound sexist...I don’t mean it to be. I’m just so impressed that the author can write with such CIA and terrorist detail and verbiage. I honestly didn’t take note of that fact years ago when I was going through the first book. I was listening to it and didn’t pay attention to the "jacket". I don’t even think I rated or reviewed it.

Good book, I just suggest you get all three.

[Priscila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two Days in Caracas was such a thrilling ride! It follows Titus Ray on his mission to capture the terrorist he's been tracking from the previous book. Things get personal, but he continues to grow in his faith, and he learns to deal with some family issues that rise on the go. This book definitely packed a lot, but the author's pace was perfect. I certainly appreciated her summary of past events or encounters with past characters, since it's been a while since I read One Night in Tehran, and I had forgotten about who some of them were (or how Titus had met them). I loved also how we continue to see the development of his relationship with Nikki, and how there are some obstacles and issues they have to face. Of course, I also enjoyed his willingness to keep learning about God and to apply it to his life, though it's still a tricky balance to find with his line of work. I also liked getting introduced to Ben Mitchell, and I look forward to seeing more of him in future books.

The narrator did a great job narrating this book. I liked his voice for Titus (even though I know he doesn't continue in the rest of the series), as well as for all the characters (Ben, Olivia, Nikki, and Titus' superiors). I guess he could work some in his Spanish, but overall, he did a good job with it, so it didn't take away from my enjoyment (native Spanish speaker here).

Overall, I really loved and enjoyed this fast-paced, action-packed Christian Thriller (with a bit of Romance thrown in there). I'd recommend it to fans of the author or this genre that are looking for other options. I can't wait to dive into the next one! ~ 5 stars!

[Randy Tramp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Titus Ray hunts Ahmed Al-Amin, a Hezbollah assassin. Can Titus capture him before it's too late and before more people die?

Loads of interesting characters. Sonya, who helps Titus. Ernesto Montilla, a Venezuelan kid. Ben Mitchell, new operative - hot-tempered. Detective Nikki Saxon. All characters are unique, interesting, well-developed and real.

I love clean fictions. Especially action-packed ones. The reader caught a glimpse into the world of the CIA. (Made me wonder if the author was a secret CIA operative)

The planning sessions increased tension. A mission would happen soon. Of course, politics were involved. Olivia McConnell did not like Titus. Why? What about her bulldoze attitude? It kept the man sharp and it generated questions.

Favorite line: "I learned not to thunder on my boss's parade."

Blue waters of the Caribbean. I loved it.

Rating: Mild+ for mild language; also contains mild kissing and mild (nonsexual) violence or horror

[Robert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clean espionage

Another VERY GOOD book in the Titus Ray series !! Although a Series, each book can be read as a "standalone". No real cliffhangers to buy the next book.
Clean, well executed, the stories flow smoothly. The Gospel is presented w/o being " Preachy".
1 of the few true "Christian" books out there. I hand MOST of this Series and will probably RE READ them after a while, they are that Good :)

Buy a copy and see for yourself !! Sadly, too many espionage books out there seem to include : foul language, alcohol, or sex. These books include NONE of that, and yet very intriguing !!
A touch of romance, but we'll presented.

Why not "5" Stars ? I have YET..,....?to find that book,......other than the KJV Bible :)

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Titus is taken off of his medical leave to help find Ahmed, and that lead sends them to Caracas, Venezuela where the father of the boy Ahmed killed is the trade minister. Titus is also being handled by Olivia, a woman he once had an interest in and things went very wrong! Titus also takes on a "side-kick", Ben Mitchell, who he met in Costa Rica. Not a smooth first meeting, but Titus sees something special in the guy and asks for him to work with him when he goes to Venezuela. But before he is sent to Venezuela he is sent home to bury his mother and figure out his relationship with Nicki.

Lots of clean action!

[Janet Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

'My Pulse Was Somewhat Elevated'
This book is the second in a series that should be read in order. There is an over-reaching story arc to the series. There are no cliffhangers between books but one story leads to the next. These books are clean with no swearing. No gore, minimal violence, and no sex. There is a Christian theme in that our hero is a newly minted Christian and is trying to balance his beliefs with his life as a CIA spy. This book is a page-turning thriller that will not give you nightmares but will be hard to put down. I am binge-reading the series and am guessing that you will, too.

[Brian Canavan · Rating 3 out of 5]

James Bond becomes a missionary...of sorts.

I was actually enjoying the whole storyline on this one (the first of this series I remember reading - and probably the last, I'm afraid) until the clumsy missionary, born-again stuff appeared.

The idea of a CIA operative who is actively recruiting people to Christianity as he goes about his nefarious (all espionage is to me nefarious - fight me LOL) was just too ridiculous for me.

I really hate to be this negative about what could have been a great story but it was just too clumsily handled for my taste.

[Lisa Driskill · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book, but not as much as the first one. I felt it left cliff hangers in the way some people do on Facebook; Leave open ended statements begging for attention and further questions instead of just saying what is going on. It was not as satisfying as I had hoped. I felt the end begged for more development. On a positive note, I LOVE the characters and look forward to reading the third book.

[Dennis Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Good Titus Ray Thriller

First up, read the Titus Ray series in order. I had read the next book after this one first, and it spoiled it a little. It is still a good read, but I was my own worst enemy on this one.
Titus is tracking an Islamic assassin who thought he had shot Titus. What starts out as a plan to capture and incarcerate the assassin turns into an exciting adventure. ENJOY!

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Two Days in Caracas' was a good addition to a great series, 'Titus Ray Thrillers'. I loved the story line and how it played out. Well written and well played out. The characters are an interesting array of personalities. Titus makes a great lead. I admire his desire to becoming a better person through the Lord. Full of action, intriguing locations and some intense situations. A great add to your tbr list. I look forward to reading more.

[Neera Sawhney · Rating 5 out of 5]

A worthy read. I read this as part of a 2 book box set. The two books ( 'One Night In Tehran' & 'Two Days In Caracas') are in a continuous story line, although stand alone books. What i liked most about these books is that the protagonist, Titus Ray (unlike in most spy thrillers) is portrayed as an individual first and a spook second. It makes him all the more realistic and relatable. This is a series worth reading.