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Emma Kane / Jacob Thorne #3
Talents
In 1989, a school bus filled with young children disappears. It drove into a tunnel, a tunnel with no exits, and did not drive out. Witnesses saw the bus go in. No one saw it come out. It vanished into thin air as a community panics. Everyone panics.
Everyone except for a twenty-four year old college dropout named Jacob Thorne.
In 2004, three people are brutally murdered in Roanoke, Virginia, two of them in a sealed panic room, a room locked from the inside.
The only trace evidence is a single hair from the suspect. A suspect that has been dead for three months, killed by the same people who were just murdered in the panic room.
After another man is murdered in a hospital, a crime caught on tape, nearly everyone is convinced a ghost has come back from the grave to avenge a murder.
Everyone, that is, except for a young DC homicide detective suffering from PTSD named Emma Kane.
To be a profiler, it takes more than just research and hard work. It takes more than simply brains.
It takes… TALENT. And you need to have it from the very beginning. TALENTS - An Emma Kane / Jacob Thorne thriller. An origin story of two very unique people.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2017
214 people are currently reading
192 people want to read
About the author
Todd Travis
10 books187 followersTodd Travis’ interests include conspiracy theories, the poetry of Michael O’Donoghue and pop music and movies of the 80s. He is single and moves around a lot. His current whereabouts are at this time unknown. He dislikes cable news, views cellphones with suspicion and don’t even get him started on email. He also believes poker is not a sport and therefore should never be allowed on ESPN.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
August 2, 2017
For the third time in a row, Todd Travis hits it out of the park with the Emma Kane/ Jacob Thorne series. And, had I known anything about batting averages and such, I would have been able to explain just how damn rare and good that is.
Instead, we'll have to settle for this:
Todd Travis is a sleep-stealer.
I love to sleep, have been practicing my whole life and it's been years since I've had enough of it.
It takes something seriously messed up or seriously amazing for me to willingly sacrifice my precious sleep.
The Emma Kane / Jacob Thorne series is seriously amazing!
In this book, which consists of two parts, we get a flashback of their pasts and how they became part of the FBI. Jacob Thorne is first and Emma Kane second, and both parts are almost like stand-alone novellas. Both have good stories and mysteries you try to solve, and of course you can expect a good twist.
I recommend this entire series to all fans of psychological thriller / crime / serial killer stories. You will NOT be disappointed!
Mr. Travis,
You thoroughly entertain me and you are a seriously good writer. I'm looking forward to the next books in the series and will support you as long as I can.
You must be the most underrated writer in this genre and, if there's any justice in this world, you will add INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING before your name some day.
Please keep them coming!
Instead, we'll have to settle for this:
Todd Travis is a sleep-stealer.
I love to sleep, have been practicing my whole life and it's been years since I've had enough of it.
It takes something seriously messed up or seriously amazing for me to willingly sacrifice my precious sleep.
The Emma Kane / Jacob Thorne series is seriously amazing!
In this book, which consists of two parts, we get a flashback of their pasts and how they became part of the FBI. Jacob Thorne is first and Emma Kane second, and both parts are almost like stand-alone novellas. Both have good stories and mysteries you try to solve, and of course you can expect a good twist.
I recommend this entire series to all fans of psychological thriller / crime / serial killer stories. You will NOT be disappointed!
Mr. Travis,
You thoroughly entertain me and you are a seriously good writer. I'm looking forward to the next books in the series and will support you as long as I can.
You must be the most underrated writer in this genre and, if there's any justice in this world, you will add INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING before your name some day.
Please keep them coming!
March 20, 2017
Some time ago I read and was quite entertaining by Creatures of Appetite (Kane/Thorne thriller #1). The apparently I never realized there was a sequel, Trophies, but fortunately it didn't really interfere with reading #3 in the series, because this one is a prequel. The book is split in just about even halves, Thorne's backstory set in 1989 and Kane's set in 1994, so that our heroes get to showcase their eponymous talents apparently present on the scene even back in the day. Two crime cases for the price of one, if you will. Todd Travis is an author's who's been solidly consistent and consistently solid with his writing, whether be it horror or suspense. This book is no exception. It isn't the greatest thing you'll ever read in the ever popular thriller genre, but it's very diverting. The first mystery was actually another two in one, but without giving away the plot, the twist ending was kind of unbelievable (too much of a logistical stretch) and both young Thorne and his cop mentor were entirely too obnoxious/arrogant in their mental muscle flexing, sort of like inferior Sherlock wannabes making wildly assumptive conclusions. Kane's half of the book presents a more straightforward mystery with more likeable characters, albeit with a pretty obvious resolution. If you think about it...so try not to, just read and enjoy. These are quite a lot of fun actually, fast paced and very easy reads. The author has kindly provided me with a copy of this book for review purposes, which has affected my opinion of the book not at all. In fact, a copy of Trophies for review purposes next would be lovely.
March 24, 2017
REALLY 5+ + + + + +*stars
I TRIED VERY HARD TO READ AS SLOW AS POSSIBLE, DIDN’T WANT IT TO END. I’M REMINDED OF WHEN MY PARENTS SOMETIMES SAYING SLOW DOW YOURE EATING TOO FAST, BUT IT WAS SO GOOD AND I WAS SO HUNGRY. THAT’S HOW I WANT TO READ MR. TRAVIS’ BOOKS IN THIS SERIES . . . CAUSE ITS SO GOOD. I MUST JUST PUT DOWN MY KINDLE AND WALK AWAY OR I WONT STOP TILL I’M DONE. AS ALWAYS THIS WAS GREAT PLENTY OF TWIST, TURNS AND REDHERRINGS, I THOUGHT I HAD IT FIGURED OUT AND THEN MAYBE NOT. I LOVE HIS WRITING STYLE AND I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO BOOK#4. PLEASE HURRY, I’VE GOT AN APPETITE FOR ANOTHER GREAT ONE. ;D
June 1, 2021
As I’ve said with the other two books in the series, a reader must not read this critically or they will not enjoy it. Of course things can’t happen in the real world like they do in the book. If you can just sit back and suspend all rules of society, you’re going to enjoy it. This book is broken into two parts, each part introducing us to both Jacob and Emma in their earlier lives, and gives insight as to how they came to work for the FBI. Each is asked to work a case that seems unsolvable. I’ve tagged this series as obnoxious fun and this one is no exception. However, I found part one, which is Jacob’s story, to lean more towards obnoxious than fun, and that part I would rate 3 stars. Part two, which is Emma’s story is excellent. Even though the reader can probably figure it out, it was a hell of a ride getting to the finish! I would rate the second part 5 stars, so overall, I’m giving it 4. This book contains swearing, blood, and a very past pace and if you like those things, you’ll like the book. I did!
August 5, 2017
Wow! Creatures of Appetite caught my attention, Trophies hooked me, and Talents reeled me in. I am a full fledged Todd Travis addict! I loved the origins stories of Kane and Thorne, seeing what makes them tick now. And as I've come to expect from Travis, an amazing thrill ride of a thriller. I can't stress enough how much I enjoyed this book, as well as the preceding two in the series. I definitely recommend reading Talents!
August 10, 2017
Another fantastic read from Mr Travis! This series never fails to draw me in. The characters are smart and the dialogue is witty and always serves a purpose. I was sucked in by the very first of the series and with this one I believe he has really hit his stride. This is a little different from the others. This departure plays a bit with time and gives us some back story so we can appereciate how far the characters have come while also delivering a spot on mystery. Read this series. You won't regret it!
May 22, 2018
I’m usually not a fan of origin stories. They lack the suspense and mystery of other novels, because we know that whatever happens, ultimately everyone will come out fine. However, in this instance the story was captivating enough (much like Todd Travis’ other works) that following the detective work of Thorne and Kane was a pleasure. True to Travis’ form, the story twisted in ways I couldn’t have predicted, and this story reminds me once again why I keep reading his books.
April 12, 2017
I loved this book. I loved seeing the foundation of what brought Thorne & Kane together & I can't wait to see what's next. I thought the the 2 scenarios were good, especially Emma Kane's... I was about 90% right on the how, but nowhere close on the why. Once again, Todd Travis brought his stellar imagination to life, much to the appreciation of his many fans, me included.
I will say, but not much because I don't want to be a spoiler, I can't wait to read the book that brings a progression to the bombshell at the end of "Creatures of Appetite". Trust me: a bombshell it was! Although "Talents" showed us why and how it all began, I NEED to see how that ends. If you don't know what I'm talking about... read "Creatures...", it's definitely worth it!
I will say, but not much because I don't want to be a spoiler, I can't wait to read the book that brings a progression to the bombshell at the end of "Creatures of Appetite". Trust me: a bombshell it was! Although "Talents" showed us why and how it all began, I NEED to see how that ends. If you don't know what I'm talking about... read "Creatures...", it's definitely worth it!
March 29, 2020
Non linear 3rd instalment
Book 3 in the Kane/Thorne series is in some way, a prequel. The book is split into 2 sections, one dealing with Thorne’s start in his career, but also detailing a much wider back story. The same goes for the second section, where we find out more about Kane’s earlier law enforcement career.
This book is fantastic, both stories are absolutely satisfying and full of flavour. This book is my favourite so far and I can’t wait to keep going with this series.
Book 3 in the Kane/Thorne series is in some way, a prequel. The book is split into 2 sections, one dealing with Thorne’s start in his career, but also detailing a much wider back story. The same goes for the second section, where we find out more about Kane’s earlier law enforcement career.
This book is fantastic, both stories are absolutely satisfying and full of flavour. This book is my favourite so far and I can’t wait to keep going with this series.
August 4, 2017
Creatures of appetite, Talents and Trophies
I have read all three books and must say I found all three excellent. Have been reading serial killer/mystery books for years but these three made me think as well as read. Very entertaining! Would suggest reading Talents first as it sets Jacob and Emma's characters. Very much in the style of the James Patterson early books. Super!
I have read all three books and must say I found all three excellent. Have been reading serial killer/mystery books for years but these three made me think as well as read. Very entertaining! Would suggest reading Talents first as it sets Jacob and Emma's characters. Very much in the style of the James Patterson early books. Super!
December 29, 2018
A two part book, firstly in 1989 a school bus with young children disappears. Kimberly Stevens consultant to the FBI recruits twenty-four year old Jacob Thorne to help her find her missing partner, Thorne's father, but meanwhile they try and solve the problem of the missing bus.
Secondly 2004, three people are killed in a locked house and Emma Kane, detective, is sent to Roanoke Virginia to confirm the local police have done everything they can to solve the crime.
Really enjoyed these well-written and interesting back stories to these two characters.
Secondly 2004, three people are killed in a locked house and Emma Kane, detective, is sent to Roanoke Virginia to confirm the local police have done everything they can to solve the crime.
Really enjoyed these well-written and interesting back stories to these two characters.
March 23, 2019
Loved the first two books of this but lost myself a little in this one .. started to connect the storyline between this and the first two towards the end, but started the book feeling like this should be the intro book to the series and got myself a little confused. I do like the series though and will definitely continue on to book 4.
March 29, 2018
I really enjoyed both back stories for Emma and Jacob...both did show a lot of insight into their personalities and how they started their careers as profilers. I loved that this read more like a mystery novel. It had some interesting twists! I definitely enjoyed this more than the second novel...and I'm even more intrigued with Jacob's connection to the Mercy Killer 😱
April 21, 2018
Good book
I like Todd’s writing - very good. Keeps you guessing! I think his first two books were better, but this one is still very good!
I like Todd’s writing - very good. Keeps you guessing! I think his first two books were better, but this one is still very good!
June 26, 2020
Definitely not as good as the first 2 books, but it was nice to have a little back story to Thorne and Kane. Looking forward to reading book 4.
April 20, 2018
Book 3 takes a step back
Interesting to take a step back in time on the 3rd book in the series. I feel invested in the characters even with all their flaws. Maybe because of them.
Interesting to take a step back in time on the 3rd book in the series. I feel invested in the characters even with all their flaws. Maybe because of them.
March 26, 2017
Could not put it down.!!!
Each one is better than the last. Woven together very well. Very good. Grand you right away at and keeps you to the end.!!
Each one is better than the last. Woven together very well. Very good. Grand you right away at and keeps you to the end.!!
January 28, 2018
Great book
Keeps you on edge and curious the whole time. It was a very fun novel. I can’t wait for the next book!
Keeps you on edge and curious the whole time. It was a very fun novel. I can’t wait for the next book!
March 20, 2017
The origin of two great characters of the Emma Kane/Jacob Thorne series.
February 4, 2019
Very good introduction to two interesting characters.
August 8, 2017
Redemption Prequel to Right the Sequel
Book 3 is an intriguing prequel to further flesh out the 2 main characters. I really enjoyed the concept of a split character development plot, as that is an original method for filling in previous blanks from the preceding books. Now that we have a clearer view into the Windows of Kane and Thorne, the disappointment of the previous cliffhangers reveal the potential for redemption in book 4 rather than further betrayal.
Book 3 is an intriguing prequel to further flesh out the 2 main characters. I really enjoyed the concept of a split character development plot, as that is an original method for filling in previous blanks from the preceding books. Now that we have a clearer view into the Windows of Kane and Thorne, the disappointment of the previous cliffhangers reveal the potential for redemption in book 4 rather than further betrayal.
June 8, 2018
A twisted thought
How can someone figure out the Impossible? E!ma and Jacob can find the thought behind what the unsub is thinking but will it be in time
How can someone figure out the Impossible? E!ma and Jacob can find the thought behind what the unsub is thinking but will it be in time
September 25, 2018
While the third book in the series, it is divided evenly between Jacob and Emma. It is the origin story of their careers. First, we meet Jacob as a young adult. He's approached by a woman who wants him to help find his estranged father. She works in the behavioral sciences department at the FBI and takes him on as an apprentice. The case is very interesting. A bus full of school kids goes in a tunnel and never comes out. No ransom notice is received. Jacob applies his newly developing skill to solve the case. His part of the story ends showing just how dark his character can be. The second is about Emma and takes place after "the van incident". It is a looked room murder mystery. Emma is able to figure out the crime. It really sets her on the path to work with Jacob.
May 27, 2019
Todd Travis has done it again
I have throughly enjoyed reading his Kane/Thorne series. He keeps you involved from the beginning to the end. I will be looking for additional stories of Kane and Thorne!
I have throughly enjoyed reading his Kane/Thorne series. He keeps you involved from the beginning to the end. I will be looking for additional stories of Kane and Thorne!
July 1, 2018
Loved these characters and love this author. It was a bit of a twist to read these "prequel" stories but nice to see where the characters came from. Would love to see more of a young Jacob as I think he has plenty of stories to tell (hint hint).. Ty was a great addition and provided plenty of laughs and nicely balanced Emma. Love love love........what am I going to do while I wait for the next one?
May 20, 2019
Great stories.
Two stories here. The first, a school bus and driver disappear. Along with the children. The second, a family murdered. Some odd medical happenings with this story too.
Two stories here. The first, a school bus and driver disappear. Along with the children. The second, a family murdered. Some odd medical happenings with this story too.
January 18, 2020
Intense Read
This book as all of Todd Travis is intense , captivating, and just keeps you reading to the end, which you can’t figure out until you get there, with a surprising, and action packed ending. This is my 3rd book in this series. Now I going for the 4th. I know that I will not be disappointed !!
This book as all of Todd Travis is intense , captivating, and just keeps you reading to the end, which you can’t figure out until you get there, with a surprising, and action packed ending. This is my 3rd book in this series. Now I going for the 4th. I know that I will not be disappointed !!
June 3, 2017
Loved this book! I really liked how the first half was the story of a young Jacob Thorne and the second half was present day Emma Kane on a murder case in Virginia. I've read all three of this series and have not been disappointed. Can't wait for #4.
May 10, 2019
I'd give this more than five stars if I could!
TALENTS is an amazing read and will keep you guessing almost right up to the end!
It's got two complete stories in it and I loved the premise, the characters and the intrigue!
A bus full of children just vanishing into thin air and three people killed in a locked house, two of whom were in a locked panic room!
In the second story I knew almost from the start who was responsible but didn't know the how or why! I was exciting to read and find out those things!
The only thing I didn't like about TALENTS was the spelling of some words and the use of the wrong word. For example the author used "her" when is should of been "him" and "he" instead of "she!"
While it was distracting, it wasn't so bad that I felt a star needed to be taken away!
I recommend this book to anyone who likes a good mystery!
TALENTS is an amazing read and will keep you guessing almost right up to the end!
It's got two complete stories in it and I loved the premise, the characters and the intrigue!
A bus full of children just vanishing into thin air and three people killed in a locked house, two of whom were in a locked panic room!
In the second story I knew almost from the start who was responsible but didn't know the how or why! I was exciting to read and find out those things!
The only thing I didn't like about TALENTS was the spelling of some words and the use of the wrong word. For example the author used "her" when is should of been "him" and "he" instead of "she!"
While it was distracting, it wasn't so bad that I felt a star needed to be taken away!
I recommend this book to anyone who likes a good mystery!
July 9, 2018
One never needed to have read either of the previous two Kane\Thorne books to thoroughly enjoy Talents, it could stand alone. As for myself, what a delectable delight to be taken back to the time before these wicked heroes got together.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews