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Titus Ray Thrillers #3

Three Weeks in Washington

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Titus exposes a plot to attack the nation's capital with chemical weapons.

Book III in the Titus Ray Thriller series, featuring CIA intelligence officer, Titus Ray.

Encountering a Shooter . . .

CIA intelligence operative, Titus Ray, arrives in Washington, D.C. on the day a terrorist enters the Washington Navy Yard and murders five people. Convinced the incident is connected to a Hezbollah plot to use chemical weapons on an American city, Titus jeopardizes his own career to interrogate the killer and learn the truth.

Exposing a General . . .

After the shooter reveals the identity of an Iranian deep-cover operative living in Washington, D.C., Titus embarks on an intelligence operation spanning two continents and exposing an Iranian general obsessed with destroying America.

Engaging an Enemy . . .

As time runs out, Titus engages the enemy in a treacherous game of cat and mouse to save the lives of thousands and defeat the terrorists. Can his faith sustain him as he faces his greatest challenge yet? Is he willing to lose Nikki to save his country?

473 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2016

460 people are currently reading
245 people want to read

About the author

Luana Ehrlich

37 books334 followers
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.

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5 stars
479 (65%)
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49 (6%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
Profile Image for Angie Thompson.
Author 50 books1,112 followers
February 2, 2022
Wow... I feel like this book took things to a whole new level. For one thing, I didn't realize how interconnected all these storylines were going to be when I started the series, and when things started clicking for what I knew the plot of the next book was about--yikes!!! My only complaint was that everything gets explained over again, which I'm sure is helpful for those starting the series in the middle or spreading it over months or years, but when you're bordering dangerously close to binging it, and we've got multiple books worth of backstory to re-explain, it does get a bit much at times.

However, I think I have finally pinned down some of the ingredients in the author's secret sauce (the combination of things that hooks me so hard despite it not being my usual style). For one thing, the political angle absolutely fascinates me. And by that I mean both personal, office-type politics and the whole complicated interplay between agencies and departments and powerful senators and...wow. Just wow. It's not one of those "there are no good guys" kind of thing, but everything is so complicated, and everyone has their own drives and motives, and it's anyone's guess whether someone's personal biases or motivations or history are inadvertently going to ruin everything when they come in contact with another person's carefully laid plans. Also, who knows more than they're telling, and what will they do with that information? And what will the consequences be of either following or not following a particular directive or policy? It adds a whole different layer of tension that permeates just about everything.

Also (and this is a big one), the way the tension is built right into the narration, with Titus continually throwing in comments like "If only things had gone according to plan." or "We had prepared for every contingency. Or so we thought." A lot of authors probably couldn't pull off constantly giving things away like this, but in this case, it works extremely well to keep me on the edge of my seat through even the mundane surveillance-type stuff because I'm constantly expecting and waiting for things to go wrong--not because of course they might but because I've already been guaranteed that they definitely will any minute now. It's definitely highly effective!

The romance has moved rather surprisingly fast, and I was taken a bit off guard by the passion of the kissing, but I appreciate seeing how caring about Nikki is changing Titus, even in things like wanting her to have security clearance so he can open up to her more. And the way that bit at the end was done--that was incredible! <3<3<3 Also loving seeing Titus step out and witness about his faith, even in situations you wouldn't expect. Some of the situations, particularly of his coworkers, get a bit dark at times, but I appreciate that the author doesn't dwell on the darkness, even while not brushing the real pain under the rug.

Also, I have all these other books I'm supposed to be reading, but what am I supposed to do? Just leave Ben in Cuba while I catch up on other things? Yeah, like that's going to happen. :P I'm not quite sure how I fell so hard and fast for Ben, but...yeah. He will be the reason that book four jumps the line. Today? Ahh, probably. :)

4.5 stars

Content--mentions of violence, gunplay, kidnapping, torture, threats, people shot, etc.; mentions of blood, wounds, and deaths (not graphic); attempted suicide; mentions of breast cancer and related surgeries; mentions of drinking and drunkenness; mentions of Islamic religion, including in context of terrorism; some passionate kissing (semi-descriptive); a few slightly off-color jokes
Profile Image for Patricia Bradley.
Author 29 books1,310 followers
December 14, 2018
I loved this book. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I've only just discovered Luana Ehrlich and Titus Ray, so I have to catch up! Luana has a great voice and Titus Ray has wormed his way into my heart. The setting was so real I felt I was there, whether it was in Washington or the Middle East.

The plot in this book was amazing. A sarin gas attack on Washington DC and Titus Ray and the other operatives have only a few days to stop it. There were plenty of twists and turns to keep me glued to the page. I also like the tender side of Titus Ray when he was dealing with Nikki Saxon. I'm anxious to see where the romance goes. And I can't wait to read Four Weeks in Cuba!
Profile Image for Paul Goble.
233 reviews6 followers
May 11, 2021
I enjoyed the book, but now I feel obligated to decide whether to keep plunking down the $$ to buy the seemingly infinite number of sequels, or stop before I get too addicted to the series. I’m glad I didn’t wait too long since reading #2, since numerous characters and subplots continue forward.

I’m beginning to really appreciate some aspects of Ehrlich’s writing. She’s not shy about repeatedly using a technique if it works; for example, each chapter ends with a single-sentence cliffhanger or foreshadowing. She has researched the right topics, so all of the technology, politics, and geography are correct or at least plausible. She keeps romance going without terminating it in a premature life commitment. And she does a great job of capturing the interactions and internal dialogs of her male characters.

In this installment, Titus captures more terrorists, works to prevent a huge terrorist attack on Washington, and continues to grow as a person and as a Christian. There are a few short but sweet dog moments.

There are a few very minor editing flaws (such as a missing word here or there). I caught one unrealistic element: characters were able to use cell phones within CIA headquarters. In the intelligence community, even the lowliest office of a subcontractor will make you turn in cell phones at the door, and meeting rooms are shielded against cell phone signals going in or out.
Profile Image for Rebekah Morris.
Author 119 books270 followers
February 19, 2025
I enjoyed that this story picks off shortly after the book before it and continues the story as you discover there was more to what was going on that you might have first thought. One thing I love about this series is that while they are thrillers, they don’t make me feel like there is a bad guy behind every bush and make me wonder if Titus is going to get out alive because he’s the one telling the story. There is still plenty of excitement and danger and situations that change very quickly.
This is a Christian book and while Titus is a young Christian, I like how he shares his faith and grows in his Christian walk. No, it’s not preachy, and no you don’t get random verses sprinkled in for “flavor.” It’s a part of the story.
I’m going to have to read the next book very soon.
Profile Image for Dana Michael.
1,415 reviews184 followers
January 18, 2019
I loved this book. It may be my favorite in the series. Nail biting suspense with awesome characters that make this book a page turner from the very first page. I am a bit of a romance lover, and for those who love a bit of romance with your action hero, then this story will leave you breathless. I totally recommend this book, however I claim Titus as my book boyfriend.
Profile Image for SK.
243 reviews
December 7, 2024
This is the fourth book I’ve completed in the Titus Ray Thriller series. Each book is exciting. It is the kind of book you rush to get to the end, just so you can answer all your question, but at the same time, the book is so good, you want to prolong the reading experience.

Things I Really Liked about the book:
• The vignette that finds Titus needing to check Felipe’s backpack because of the risk of nefariousness was telling. What was telling? The first thing Titus did before lifting the flap of the backpack is to say a prayer! The reader is informed that praying hasn’t been instinctual throughout his life and in fact, until recently he’d never uttered a single prayer in his life.
• The short flashback story from the prequel “One Step Back” was great. Rehearing how Titus lived for three months with some Iranian Christians and how that experience changed his life. What made the change? Their faith and commitment to the teachings of Christ (LOC 777).
• I’m invested in what happens with the interaction and developing friendship between Nikki Saxon and Titus. What is interesting is the fact that Nikki is invited to attend the FBI’s Law Enforcement Training School in Quantico, Virginia. If Nikki makes it to the FBI, Nikki and Titus will have a smoother ability to communicate without stepping on agency rules and regs.
• The whole plot line with Olivia and her cancer was so real, so human. No matter our situation in life or profession - things happen that we do not expect in our lives. My mother died of cancer, it certainly wasn’t something I expected to happen to her, but I knew when she left this life, she would be in heaven and I would one day see her. The fact that Olivia struggled with her familial heritage with cancer is something I totally understand. Just because Olivia had a lofty position in the government couldn’t protect her from this health issue. The other poignant part for me was Titus. Here he is the big, bad spy, but when confronted with Olivia’s situation, Titus takes off his spy hat and gets to the heart of the matter – he shares the gospel with Olivia. This was a beautiful quote, “If you were to end your life without accepting God’s gift of eternal life, then you’d be confronted with the very thing you were trying to avoid, because an eternity without Christ means being alone forever. And, as I understand it, that loneliness is far greater than anything you’ll ever experience on this earth.” Wow, I’m all in for this series, Luana Ehrlich’s writing is riveting and everything a good suspense spy story should be with the added key element of real faith.
• The letter Olivia leaves for Titus, which he finds in Olivia’s hospital room as he stops by to check on her after her cancer surgery is really touching. This is a fiction thriller, I’m impressed that it can also have significant, touching moments in it. The Bible and testimony Titus left earlier with Olivia produces results, Olivia understands that Jesus paid it all.
• I enjoy the dialogues the author sprinkles throughout the book, especially those centered on Titus as he navigates his day, whether at headquarters, on a mission, with friends or with associations; it all leads us into the world that surrounds Titus, the CIA spy.
Questions I’m Curious About:
• WHO put Nikki’s name forward to be a part of the FBI’s Law Enforcement Training School in Quantico, Virginia? I’m thinking it could be Carlton. I wonder if we will be told?
• What is happens with Ben? Also, “what is going on with Ben’s father,” the Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee? Is he a good guy, bad guy, or…?
• What about Olivia and Carlton, and of course Ben? Ben is smart and savvy, but also a little naive.
This story is built on a strong plot, but also built on likeable characters that grab on hold on to the reader. Luana Ehrlich is now a seasoned author, but maybe like me you’ve just become acquainted with her writing. Don’t hesitate, grab a book and start reading.
Profile Image for Lavern Winters.
107 reviews15 followers
September 28, 2017
After reading the second book, Two Days in Caracas, I had to read the next one. This author does an excellent job of character development and her plots are captivating. Titus Ray is an undercover CIA operative who became a Christian just before the beginning of the first book in the series. His spiritual growth is not the main focus of any of the stories, but, we do see how it affects his life in his job and his relationships. As Christians grow so does their reliance on God in their daily lives. The author does a wonderful job of portraying this natural progression in spiritual growth.

In this book I thought that there was a little too much detail reviewing incidents in prior novels. Mention of incidents in previous books was usually relevant to the narrative, but, I felt there was a little too much rehashing of the actual events. If one had never read the prior books I can understand how the detail would help a reader understand the relationships or reactions to events. Without the detail though it would still have been a good, self contained story.

Still, I enjoyed this episode in the life of Titus Ray. Action, suspense, danger and touch of romantic involvement are all in the story. The author does a good job of showing the reader what is happening, capturing the imagination, and pulling you into the story. I didn’t to want to put it down. The story is narrated by the main character and each chapter has this little wrap up at the end in which Titus makes a comment about how he thought things were going to go, but, it didn’t happen that way after all. It really does endear the reader to the character in the trials of his life. The end of the book gives a look into what Titus Ray’s assignment in the sequel will be. Though this current assignment is wrapped up there is a mini-cliff hanger of one loose end which will be the assignment of the next book. I’m not sure exactly what title it will have but it has to start with Four Months in …, and I look forward to reading it once it is published.

The Titus Ray Thrillers are suitable for even younger readers. If they were a movie I’d probably rate them PG-13, if that rating is still used. All adults who enjoy a good spy novel will enjoy Three Weeks in Washington.

Profile Image for Priscila.
857 reviews87 followers
February 25, 2024
Wow. Luana Ehrlich never disappoints whenever I'm in the mood for a (not-so-romantic) Christian Suspense read, and this next installment in the Titus Ray series just blew up my mind. The high-stakes action and parts of his mission had me holding my breath and finding any excuse (or chore) to keep listening to it. I loved the recap of what's happened previously up to this point since it's been a while since I read the last one, I loved getting to see again past familiar characters, like Ben, Nikki, and Douglas, while also meeting new ones, like his photojournalist friend. The pace was perfect and the way it all played out kept me hooked, with all its intricacies and how every detail has a reason. I also loved the faith aspect, since I felt it was more central to Titus' story, and I loved his passion for sharing about Christ with others who needed it.

The narrator did a good job with the voices, though he was the main reason I didn't pick this audiobook up as quickly as I would have if it had been the same as the previous one (after hearing the sample, the change felt a bit harsh.) I know that the narrators also change for the following couple of books, but honestly, I'm more intrigued by how things ended in this one so I don't think I will have the same problem going forward (I just need answers, lol.) As for this narrator specifically, I think he still was good, both with Titus' voice (and the other characters) as well as the inflections (tremors when afraid or stern or kind according to the situation). I think his Spanish could improve a bit (especially regarding Titus, since he's supposed to be fluent in it) and there were a couple of times when I wasn't able to distinguish people in a conversation (like between Titus and Nikki). But other than that, his narration made for a quite enjoyable experience (especially when delivering the humorous lines).

Seriously, this whole Christian Suspense series is recommended, since it only gets better and better, the stakes keep going higher, while the author keeps delivering on all the fronts. I'm on my way to dive into the next one! ~ 5 stars
Profile Image for J.L. Rallios.
Author 2 books15 followers
August 8, 2017
What an excellent, clean spy thriller! Mrs. Ehrlich sure tells a great story and paints it so believably! The key is that I really like the no-nonsense CIA Agent Titus Ray with his understated humor and clever instincts and moves that rival (in my mind, at least) James Bond. This adventure is ongoing from the previous thrillers: One Night in Tehran and Two Days in Caracas. In this Titus sets out to stop a terrorist biochemical attack on the nation's capital. Not a lot of action, but the pace of the writing, the inner conflicts, and the romance make it an easy and fast read -- and makes me want more, which is good since Four Months in Cuba takes up where this story leaves off without it being a cliffhanger. Great job, Luana Ehrlich!
Profile Image for Janet Graham.
2,506 reviews11 followers
January 11, 2024
Terrorists Threaten America, Again
This book is the third in a series that would be best read in order. In this book, the CIA is tracking shipping containers of deadly poison gas. There are many twists and turns in the plot, so pay attention. These are clean stories with no bad language, no gore, little violence, and no sex. They are also Christian with our hero and others trying to walk the Christian path while doing their jobs as spies. Each book is a complete story, but the overall story arc continues from book to book without cliffhangers. The interpersonal relationships grow from book to book, as well.
Profile Image for MileHighSunshine.
373 reviews2 followers
February 27, 2025
A true thriller!

Even if you have never read a Titus Ray book, you’ll be hooked on the series by the end of this book.

Get a favorite drink and get cozy under your favorite blanket. You won’t be leaving any time soon.

Titus, in many ways, is different than other main characters in thrillers - in a good way. He has many layers in both his thinking and in everyday life. This really adds to the depth of his character.

He has so many reasons to be a selfish, prideful agent, but we see a new change in him as he starts to do more digging into being a believer as it’s still new to him.

If you like thrillers, you definitely want to read this book!
Profile Image for Judith.
101 reviews18 followers
October 7, 2017
Five stars

This third book in the Titus Ray series continues the adventure. As with the first two the author adeptly carries on the characters in a way that allows each book to be enjoyed individually but still leaves the reader excited to read more. My one complaint with this book was the misuse of the term "assault rifle". It is a frequent mistake and I find it very frustrating. Ideally the author will be able to remedy that in future editions.
40 reviews
March 14, 2018
Too much confusion!

I could have loved this book of I had been able to separate the characters into good and bad columns. It's quite possible it was just me but I couldn't follow who was doing what where. The story itself was a good one but I just got bogged down...like I said, it was probably just me. A few more location indicators would have helped, or perhaps a description of each character at the beginning of the book. A bit too much flip flopping of countries!
54 reviews
August 22, 2020
Titus Ray Thrillers

These books are fantastic. I enjoying reading them and always look forward to reading the next one. They draw you in and you feel you are right there in the story and when you are finished with the last line, you have to shake yourself to bring you back to the present. My favorite kind of book. The book has action, a touch of romance, and how Titus, the character, is learning how to trust in the Lord, and how he shares his faith. Great books!!!
Profile Image for Kim .
1,162 reviews19 followers
October 1, 2020
I had a hard time getting through this one compared to the first two books in the series. I'm not sure why, but it moved a lot more slowly for me and I just had a hard time staying interested.

This is a continuation of the first two stories and they do save the day, but we've lost Ben to a drug cartel which is where book four takes us, which is what I am on now.

Overall, I am really enjoying this series and excited to keep reading. It's also clean with a Christian message.
Profile Image for Faith Posten.
314 reviews11 followers
September 28, 2021
Washington Under Attack

Another nail biting C.I.A. thriller by a very prolific author. The intense story begins with a shoot out at the Navy Yard in Washington, DC.
Since I spent a number of years in Washington, I could see it clearly in my mind. The story is so life like which makes it very scary. A memorable story which will haunt you long after you have read it.
2 reviews
July 16, 2017
A great find

I have no idea how I came upon this book series, but shortly after I started, I knew that I had found a great trilogy. These books were well written (with just a few chapters in the third book needing a bit more editing). I liked the characters and the writing style was great. Easily recommended.
Profile Image for Barbara Carter.
464 reviews20 followers
May 29, 2018
Another Titus Ray roller coaster ride!

I love the way this author eludes to the next chapter or section with a little “thought”. Her writing keeps me up at night! I am SO enjoying the Titus Ray series. I may have to purchase the paperbacks. I try out authors on Kindle and buy the real author’s real books!
Profile Image for Dawn Trainer.
123 reviews1 follower
November 11, 2018
A SERRIES YOU CANNOT PUT DOWN!

I loved everything about this series. This book in particular shows the harrowing experience are trusted guardians of America best face in order to protect our lives and our freedom.

Mixed in with that is the Beautiful Testament of what Christ has done for us!

You will not be disappointed in this book or the series!
Profile Image for Suzanne Tarinelli.
8 reviews
August 6, 2019
What a wonderful ride!

I have read the first three Titus Ray thrillers in the past three days. The character development is first class. I truly felt as if I knew each of the characters personally. The start line is so easy to follow, and believe, it makes each book appear to flow into the next. Thank you Luana Ehrlich for sharing your talent with us!
235 reviews1 follower
January 26, 2020
Great Action Thriller

Titus finds himself caught up in a plot to poison the air around Washington DC. His task is to find the gas, and stop the perpetrators. Along the way, hie realizes that he is in love with a police woman he met in a previous adventure. But being in love in his occupation may not work. A fast-moving thriller that I couldn’t put down. ENJOY!
Profile Image for Denise.
1,771 reviews24 followers
April 12, 2020
'Three Weeks in Washington' was another great addition to the 'Titus Ray Thrillers'. A good, clean spy thriller. Well written and well played out. The storyline drew me in from the beginning and didn't let go. Full of action, intriguing characters and Christian message of sorts. I can't wait to read more.
Author 1 book69 followers
July 21, 2020
CIA officer, Ray Titus uncovers a plot to attack Washington with chemical weapons. Will his faith sustain him?

Fast-moving with lots of action. I found I had to work hard to keep up with what's happening. I'm saying that as a positive element of the book. It has many layers and a depth that I like. Add the Christian element to the book, and it's great

Rating: Mild for (nonsexual) violence
65 reviews
November 5, 2020
Titus Ray you won’t forget that name!

This is my 3rd book in series. Finally a writer that can write a clean spy novel that is riveting and interesting! What gifted writer. The characters come to life. She continues to flesh them out as you continue through the series. Always learning a little more. Stories are current and believable.
Profile Image for Jannah.
157 reviews2 followers
November 4, 2021
These books are so realistic and up-to-date. As a person who used to live in Damascus I love some of the descriptions of the city. I am a Muslim but the fact that the books are written by a Christian and include references to this is not a problem for me. I look forward to finishing all 8 books as so far unlike some other series each one is new and different and compelling.
1,050 reviews11 followers
October 9, 2022
Crisis averted...again

Titus goes deep undercover to thwart an attack on home soil by terrorist from Syria to Venezuela to California, to DC. Before he has a chance to celebrate, he is reassigned to a new mission to recover Ben, Titus's one time partner and son of Senator Mitchell. Next book, please!
Profile Image for Monika.
487 reviews
December 1, 2023
As much as I have been enjoying the storyline, I am tired of the constant repeat of what had happened in previous books. I don't pay for a book so I can re-read and re-read and re-read the same over and over and over again. And if I want to read over and over about how He has sent His son to save us, I will pick up my bible and not a thriller. Sorry, I'm done with this author.
Profile Image for Don Glass.
106 reviews
July 4, 2024
Always brilliant..ready for the next adventure.

Titus had matured on me. His relationships with colleagues, superiors and friends are so real and complex.

He lives and works in a real and murky world of violence and terror, but continues to strengthen his faith and reliance on God.

Luana paints realistic pictures with her words. Love them!
Profile Image for Norma.
513 reviews2 followers
June 4, 2017
The hardest part is waiting ...

The best part about Titus' story is that he doesn't sugarcoat the mistakes that are made. This really makes these books even more realistic. Can't wait for the next adventure.
Profile Image for Sherry Ledet.
254 reviews6 followers
July 15, 2017
This was a good series that encluded Two Days in Caracas and One Night in Tehran. This whole series is very good. It was the first time I had read any work by Luana Ehrlich but I will look for others. Her characters are well defined and her stories kept me turning pages.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews

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