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Killer Triggers: Murder Comes Down to Sex, Drugs, or Money
The most common triggers for homicide are fear, rage, revenge, money, lust, and, more rarely, sheer madness. This isn't an exact science, of course. Any given murder can have multiple triggers. Sex and revenge seem to be common partners in crime. Rage, money, and revenge make for a dangerous trifecta of triggers, as well.
This book offers my memories of homicide cases that I investigated or oversaw. In each case, I examine the trigger that led to death. I chose this theme for the book because even though the why of a murder case may not be critical in an investigation, it can sometimes lead us to the killer.
And even if we solve a case without knowing the trigger, the why still intrigues us, disrupting our dreams and lingering in our minds, perhaps because each of us fears the demons that lie within our own psyche-the triggers waiting to be pulled.
This book offers my memories of homicide cases that I investigated or oversaw. In each case, I examine the trigger that led to death. I chose this theme for the book because even though the why of a murder case may not be critical in an investigation, it can sometimes lead us to the killer.
And even if we solve a case without knowing the trigger, the why still intrigues us, disrupting our dreams and lingering in our minds, perhaps because each of us fears the demons that lie within our own psyche-the triggers waiting to be pulled.
248 pages, Hardcover
First published March 9, 2021
About the author
Joe Kenda
19 books439 followersJoe Kenda is a retired Colorado Springs Police Department detective lieutenant who was involved in 387 homicide cases over a 23-year career, with a closure rate of 92%. He is featured on the Investigation Discovery television show Homicide Hunter, where he recounts stories of cases he solved. The show began in 2011 and lasted nine seasons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 417 reviews
February 20, 2021
This is a Non-Fiction True Crime book. I have watch every season of Joe Kenda TV show, and I loved it so much. I also was very sad to hear the last season would be the last season. I had to pick up this book. I listen to the audiobook, and the narrator was Joe Kenda which is makes the book come to life. I have to say you should listen to the audiobook of this book. I love how real Joe Kenda is, and I feel really bad for that boy that took his daughter out. If you love True crime books you should check this book out, and you should really think about the audiobook of this book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
January 1, 2021
Ah, my favorite retired homicide detective who switched to TV actor and author is back with another book. Yes, Joe Kenda, who has become a social media sensation with memes galore. Your fans on Facebook can’t wait until you are back on the tube again, they are tired of reruns. They will enjoy this book just as much as your first, if not more, I will assure them. It’s full of gritty stories of your nights catching bad guys as you got called out to crime scenes as grisly as ever. Telling your stories in the unique way you have of sharing how they appeared to you, and affected you. Giving your gut felt opinion of the perps and their methods.
You don’t mince words. You tell it like it is, and people love you for it. We dream of an army of RoboKendas out there right now protecting us, 24/7. Keeping the peace and catching the bad guys. But short of that we’ll be happy to watch you in American Detective or whatever capacity you return in. Advance electronic review copy was provided by NetGalley, author Joe Kenda, and the publisher.
You don’t mince words. You tell it like it is, and people love you for it. We dream of an army of RoboKendas out there right now protecting us, 24/7. Keeping the peace and catching the bad guys. But short of that we’ll be happy to watch you in American Detective or whatever capacity you return in. Advance electronic review copy was provided by NetGalley, author Joe Kenda, and the publisher.
January 3, 2021
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
Killer Triggers is a non fiction, true story compilation by the amazing retired Police detective Joe Kenda.
This book gives start to finish information told by Joe about some of the murder cases he has had to investigate during his 23 years on the force. These particular murder cases were committed under the influence of sex, money and drugs.
Joe draws you in with his captivating knack of weaving a story together that not only fascinates you but gets under your skin too. I used to love watching Joe's true crime show Homicide Hunter and this book has endeared me even more to this amazing detective.
I love how Joe talks about the effects of his job upon his family relationships and mental health of himself and them too. It makes you realise what sacrifices officers like him have to undertake and the stresses and strains it takes on their lives and family lives too.
This is a fantastic read and I couldn't put it down. If you like reading about true crime, this is a definite read for you!
Killer Triggers is a non fiction, true story compilation by the amazing retired Police detective Joe Kenda.
This book gives start to finish information told by Joe about some of the murder cases he has had to investigate during his 23 years on the force. These particular murder cases were committed under the influence of sex, money and drugs.
Joe draws you in with his captivating knack of weaving a story together that not only fascinates you but gets under your skin too. I used to love watching Joe's true crime show Homicide Hunter and this book has endeared me even more to this amazing detective.
I love how Joe talks about the effects of his job upon his family relationships and mental health of himself and them too. It makes you realise what sacrifices officers like him have to undertake and the stresses and strains it takes on their lives and family lives too.
This is a fantastic read and I couldn't put it down. If you like reading about true crime, this is a definite read for you!
November 30, 2021
I have been a fan of the show from the start. This book kept my attention from start to finish. I felt like I got to know another side of Detective Kenda. He isn't afraid to show the gritty side along with the soft side. Thank you sir for all that you did for the victims and their families.
March 9, 2021
Lt. Joe Kenda, a twenty-three-year veteran of the Colorado Springs Police Department, spent twenty-one years chasing killers as a homicide detective and commander of the major crimes unit. Kenda and his team solved 356 of his 387 homicide cases, getting a 92 percent solve rate—one of the highest in the country.
Rage, fear, money, envy, fear, sex, and sometimes just plain evil --- these are the most common triggers for homicide.
Lt. Kenda takes the reader on some of his cases that involved some ...if not all, of the most common triggers. Per Lt Kenda, even though the why of a murder case may not be critical in an investigation, it can sometimes lead to the killer.
For the true crime aficionado, this is a terrific book. Facts are presented along with Kenda's thoughts at the time. Sometimes I could hear the sadness in his literary voice, sometimes the anger at not finding justice for a victim. I could also hear the humor ..
My favorite chapter was the one in which police dogs were featured ... how much training they have, exactly when they're used ... and the distinct personalities of some of them... and also of the handlers.
This is very well written with intriguing stories by a man who knows.
Many thanks to the author / Blackstone Publishing / Netgalley for the digital copy of this most interesting book. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Rage, fear, money, envy, fear, sex, and sometimes just plain evil --- these are the most common triggers for homicide.
Lt. Kenda takes the reader on some of his cases that involved some ...if not all, of the most common triggers. Per Lt Kenda, even though the why of a murder case may not be critical in an investigation, it can sometimes lead to the killer.
For the true crime aficionado, this is a terrific book. Facts are presented along with Kenda's thoughts at the time. Sometimes I could hear the sadness in his literary voice, sometimes the anger at not finding justice for a victim. I could also hear the humor ..
My favorite chapter was the one in which police dogs were featured ... how much training they have, exactly when they're used ... and the distinct personalities of some of them... and also of the handlers.
This is very well written with intriguing stories by a man who knows.
Many thanks to the author / Blackstone Publishing / Netgalley for the digital copy of this most interesting book. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
February 19, 2021
If I were going to repeat my criminology degree, this book would make for a perfect assessment of police bias -- why is the white, middle class male murderer discussed as sympathetic vs. the young, black killers referred to as stupid "dopes," who get what they deserve when bad things happen to them, etc.
And the basic rule of thumb for writing true crime is that you should be writing the facts (and/or your editor should be doing a better job). At the end of the chapter about the death of the mom and four boys he talks about meeting a friend of the little girl [victim]. Did he mean boy? Was he mixing up cases? And Kenda says "There are only two crime labs run by the state of Colorado: one in Pueblo and one in Denver..." Perhaps that was true 30-40 years ago, but considering I send my police department's evidence to the CBI lab in Grand Junction - the 3rd of 4 labs that CBI runs in CO, I have to wonder: what else is Kenda fibbing about?!
A writer’s writing must speak for itself; the author cannot be there to defend it, so a book must clearly make its own point. I don’t know this guy, and I’ve never seen the TV show, which means I can only go by the writing in this book. And here’s what the writing is telling me right from the first chapter: sure, this guy has a great record as a detective, but he also comes across as a dick who thinks his dickishness is humor; a man who speaks out of turn about things he has no true expertise in, such as child development. The reasons behind why people commit crimes are not so black and white. You don’t "just" rob people because you’re stupid and your parents didn’t spank you. These stories themselves might be interesting, but this will be my first and last Joe Kenda book.
And the basic rule of thumb for writing true crime is that you should be writing the facts (and/or your editor should be doing a better job). At the end of the chapter about the death of the mom and four boys he talks about meeting a friend of the little girl [victim]. Did he mean boy? Was he mixing up cases? And Kenda says "There are only two crime labs run by the state of Colorado: one in Pueblo and one in Denver..." Perhaps that was true 30-40 years ago, but considering I send my police department's evidence to the CBI lab in Grand Junction - the 3rd of 4 labs that CBI runs in CO, I have to wonder: what else is Kenda fibbing about?!
A writer’s writing must speak for itself; the author cannot be there to defend it, so a book must clearly make its own point. I don’t know this guy, and I’ve never seen the TV show, which means I can only go by the writing in this book. And here’s what the writing is telling me right from the first chapter: sure, this guy has a great record as a detective, but he also comes across as a dick who thinks his dickishness is humor; a man who speaks out of turn about things he has no true expertise in, such as child development. The reasons behind why people commit crimes are not so black and white. You don’t "just" rob people because you’re stupid and your parents didn’t spank you. These stories themselves might be interesting, but this will be my first and last Joe Kenda book.
March 11, 2021
I recently discovered Joe Kenda’s Homicide Detective true crime tv show though there have been 9 seasons. That is what happens when you are stuck at home for months during a pandemic. Much channel surfing exposed this gem and I am now a huge fan. I love Joe’s deadpan sense of humor, his piercing eyes and dedication to solving homicides.
In Killer Triggers, Joe highlights memorable homicide investigations in his 20+ years on the job and the triggers that precipitated these cases. His deductive reasoning is masterful and the cases concise and interesting. Joe sprinkles in funny personal stories along the way including the time he and his wife took in a retired canine for a few months named Harry Von Stroheim. Very entertaining. He also reflects on his incredible career, the toll it took on his family and post retirement fan encounters and reflections.
A most notable chapter related to the canines. Fascinating tidbits about their training, the numerous commands taught and overall performances in catching the bad guys along with their handlers. “Every badass is a badass until a police canine tears into him. Then they squeal like little girls, screaming for help.” Made me chuckle.
In Killer Triggers, Joe highlights memorable homicide investigations in his 20+ years on the job and the triggers that precipitated these cases. His deductive reasoning is masterful and the cases concise and interesting. Joe sprinkles in funny personal stories along the way including the time he and his wife took in a retired canine for a few months named Harry Von Stroheim. Very entertaining. He also reflects on his incredible career, the toll it took on his family and post retirement fan encounters and reflections.
A most notable chapter related to the canines. Fascinating tidbits about their training, the numerous commands taught and overall performances in catching the bad guys along with their handlers. “Every badass is a badass until a police canine tears into him. Then they squeal like little girls, screaming for help.” Made me chuckle.
November 16, 2020
Read from an ARC provided by Blackstone Publishing via NetGalley.
I, like so many others I’m sure, always thought I would be a great detective. I read detective novels, watched detective TV shows, I even started my own private investigation agency when I was in Grade Four (and I solved my one and only case, the Case of the Demolished Snow Fort!).
Reading Joe Kenda’s latest, Killer Triggers (Blackstone Publishing, release 2021), I’m not so sure about that now. Being a successful detective, heck, even just a competent one, requires a level of dedication and service of which, I suspect, I may not have been capable when I was younger…and the emotional and mental price paid by those detectives seems pretty high.
But I will always read and listen to their stories, safely removed from the brutality and horror of the actual events.
Which is why I loved this second offering from the retired Lieutenant and star of Discovery’s Homicide Hunter. Reading Kenda is almost like sitting with an old friend by a fire, sipping a scotch, after all the other dinner party guests have left.
Kenda’s style of immediacy and intimacy makes you almost hear his steady, sonorous voice as he walks the reader through several of his 372 homicide investigations (356 of which were solved) as a detective in, then head of, the Colorado Springs Police Department homicide unit.
Kenda outlines in each case what the “trigger” was that led to homicide, and then breaks down the investigation step by step, peppered with his usual Kenda-esque dry, deadpan humour.
Yes, Kenda occasionally strays from his narrative with an aside or distraction, but this only adds to that intimate, personal atmosphere. This is not a cold reporting of the facts; it is a personal conversation between Kenda and you.
A few of the investigations were familiar to me from the TV show, but that didn’t detract from the book in any way. In fact, reading the details made those cases more intriguing and fresh, like I was hearing about them for the first time.
However, Killer Triggers could probably use an introduction. A few simple pages outlining what the basic triggers are, along the lines of Kenda’s 2015 podcast Detective , produced by Discovery to promote the TV series. In those podcast episodes, Kenda expertly explains that nearly every homicide can fall into three motive categories: money, sex or revenge. A brief introduction that just touches on each trigger might have been beneficial before launching into the actual cases discussed in the book.
In many respects, the final section of the book is its strongest, in which Kenda recounts his post-police career and the effect the TV show has had on his life. Years of dealing with human horror and tragedy cost Kenda dearly.
This section was in many ways the most powerful of the stories told throughout Killer Triggers: how a man became wounded in trying to help others, and how he slowly healed those wounds by talking about them.
Well…my, my, my.
I, like so many others I’m sure, always thought I would be a great detective. I read detective novels, watched detective TV shows, I even started my own private investigation agency when I was in Grade Four (and I solved my one and only case, the Case of the Demolished Snow Fort!).
Reading Joe Kenda’s latest, Killer Triggers (Blackstone Publishing, release 2021), I’m not so sure about that now. Being a successful detective, heck, even just a competent one, requires a level of dedication and service of which, I suspect, I may not have been capable when I was younger…and the emotional and mental price paid by those detectives seems pretty high.
But I will always read and listen to their stories, safely removed from the brutality and horror of the actual events.
Which is why I loved this second offering from the retired Lieutenant and star of Discovery’s Homicide Hunter. Reading Kenda is almost like sitting with an old friend by a fire, sipping a scotch, after all the other dinner party guests have left.
Kenda’s style of immediacy and intimacy makes you almost hear his steady, sonorous voice as he walks the reader through several of his 372 homicide investigations (356 of which were solved) as a detective in, then head of, the Colorado Springs Police Department homicide unit.
Kenda outlines in each case what the “trigger” was that led to homicide, and then breaks down the investigation step by step, peppered with his usual Kenda-esque dry, deadpan humour.
Yes, Kenda occasionally strays from his narrative with an aside or distraction, but this only adds to that intimate, personal atmosphere. This is not a cold reporting of the facts; it is a personal conversation between Kenda and you.
A few of the investigations were familiar to me from the TV show, but that didn’t detract from the book in any way. In fact, reading the details made those cases more intriguing and fresh, like I was hearing about them for the first time.
However, Killer Triggers could probably use an introduction. A few simple pages outlining what the basic triggers are, along the lines of Kenda’s 2015 podcast Detective , produced by Discovery to promote the TV series. In those podcast episodes, Kenda expertly explains that nearly every homicide can fall into three motive categories: money, sex or revenge. A brief introduction that just touches on each trigger might have been beneficial before launching into the actual cases discussed in the book.
In many respects, the final section of the book is its strongest, in which Kenda recounts his post-police career and the effect the TV show has had on his life. Years of dealing with human horror and tragedy cost Kenda dearly.
This section was in many ways the most powerful of the stories told throughout Killer Triggers: how a man became wounded in trying to help others, and how he slowly healed those wounds by talking about them.
Well…my, my, my.
March 11, 2021
Interesting but more for those who haven't seen all of the show or read the other book methinks. I would still recommend it, but before his other book if you are interested in hearing his experiences.
Joe Kenda is someone I would want on my case if something happened.
Joe Kenda is someone I would want on my case if something happened.
March 9, 2021
I honestly have never watched an episode of Investigation Discovery’s Homicide Hunter. However, after finishing this audio book, I now am going to go back and check out this show. As someone that is a true crime fan and who lives in Colorado; I do remember hearing about some of the cases featured in this book.
The cases were intriguing. Yet, it was Lt. Kenda that really brought them to life and made this audio book. In fact, if I see more books by Lt. Kenda, I will only listen to them on audio if he is the narrator. His no holds bar attitude is so refreshing. I recommend this audio book to true crime fans. It is safe to say that this is a five star book for me.
The cases were intriguing. Yet, it was Lt. Kenda that really brought them to life and made this audio book. In fact, if I see more books by Lt. Kenda, I will only listen to them on audio if he is the narrator. His no holds bar attitude is so refreshing. I recommend this audio book to true crime fans. It is safe to say that this is a five star book for me.
March 11, 2021
This book is like a continuation of the Homicide Hunter, love it! Lt. Joe Kenda has served twenty years as a detective with Colorado Springs Police Department, solving close to 400 cases. The cases are gruesome and devastating to families to hear, Lt. Kenda does not sugar coat words and he gives each case his undivided attention. As with this both he speaks about the triggers that killers have. Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and author for a gifted copy. This is my honest review.
December 29, 2020
Update March 2021: Upon release, I have received my preorder for the audiobook. As expected, I love hearing Kenda tell his stories in his own voice even more than just reading the ebook provided as an ARC by the publisher. His inflection makes all the difference as he tells about each case
Thank you to the publisher for providing this e-ARC via Netgalley for an honest review.
I love true crime in any format. I originally found Joe Kenda through his Homicide Hunter TV show. I would fall asleep to it just about every night that it was on. Then his first book came out and I devoured the audiobook to get more of his voice in my life. I immediately preordered this second book on audio and cannot wait to hear him tell his stories.
Killer Triggers: Murder Comes Down to Sex, Drugs, or Money by Joe Kenda is a brilliant follow up to I Will Find You: Solving Killer Cases from My Life Fighting Crime. The reader follows Kenda through ten cases where the main triggers of the homicide are identified at the beginning of each chapter. Each case is heartbreaking in the senseless nature of death caused by another human being, but they are told in Kenda's no-nonsense, matter-of-fact tone, sprinkled with a little bit of humor.
My favorite line of the book comes in one of the later chapters and I think sums up why I respect Kenda so much: " I always told my guys that we are every victim's last hope. Nobody else can give them justice. I wanted my detectives to stand in the victim's shoes, and if they couldn't do that, I told them to find another division."
Thank you to the publisher for providing this e-ARC via Netgalley for an honest review.
I love true crime in any format. I originally found Joe Kenda through his Homicide Hunter TV show. I would fall asleep to it just about every night that it was on. Then his first book came out and I devoured the audiobook to get more of his voice in my life. I immediately preordered this second book on audio and cannot wait to hear him tell his stories.
Killer Triggers: Murder Comes Down to Sex, Drugs, or Money by Joe Kenda is a brilliant follow up to I Will Find You: Solving Killer Cases from My Life Fighting Crime. The reader follows Kenda through ten cases where the main triggers of the homicide are identified at the beginning of each chapter. Each case is heartbreaking in the senseless nature of death caused by another human being, but they are told in Kenda's no-nonsense, matter-of-fact tone, sprinkled with a little bit of humor.
My favorite line of the book comes in one of the later chapters and I think sums up why I respect Kenda so much: " I always told my guys that we are every victim's last hope. Nobody else can give them justice. I wanted my detectives to stand in the victim's shoes, and if they couldn't do that, I told them to find another division."
April 27, 2021
Joe Kenda was a homicide detective in my lovely city (Colorado Springs) for 20+ years. He solved nearly 400 cases. I'm sure he had no idea that well over a decade after retiring he'd be approached to make a television series on his cases and it would put his life on a much different track. I adore the guy. He helped solve a murder case involving a family friend (of course, I didn't know it was HIM then, didn't know until the episode aired honestly). He made a difference in many people's lives here.
This is Detective Joe Kenda's second book (his first being "I Will Find You"). The writing isn't particularly spectacular but I expected as much. This book delves into some more of his cases, which are often on his show, but with him being a little bit more in detail and much less censored. If you've watched his show as religiously as me, these cases mentioned won't be new but some of his thoughts are. Kenda lets his sarcasm flag fly high and with no regrets. A quick, interesting read.
This is Detective Joe Kenda's second book (his first being "I Will Find You"). The writing isn't particularly spectacular but I expected as much. This book delves into some more of his cases, which are often on his show, but with him being a little bit more in detail and much less censored. If you've watched his show as religiously as me, these cases mentioned won't be new but some of his thoughts are. Kenda lets his sarcasm flag fly high and with no regrets. A quick, interesting read.
February 20, 2021
“The message has to be sent that if you commit a crime there has to be punishment.” ~Benigno Aquino III
Joe Kenda’s Killer Triggers was great as an audiobook. He narrates it himself and did a great job. I’ve watched him on ID over the years and enjoyed his show. This was a more in-depth view of some of his experiences in a more personal telling. He starts each chapter with what he believes was the trigger to the crime. I especially liked the last chapter because JK shares how the TV show affected him and what he’s doing now.
I highly recommend this if you love true crime podcasts.
Thank you Blackstone Publishing via Netgalley for this audiobook. I’ve voluntarily given my honest review.

Joe Kenda’s Killer Triggers was great as an audiobook. He narrates it himself and did a great job. I’ve watched him on ID over the years and enjoyed his show. This was a more in-depth view of some of his experiences in a more personal telling. He starts each chapter with what he believes was the trigger to the crime. I especially liked the last chapter because JK shares how the TV show affected him and what he’s doing now.
I highly recommend this if you love true crime podcasts.
Thank you Blackstone Publishing via Netgalley for this audiobook. I’ve voluntarily given my honest review.

March 15, 2021
It has some instructive and interesting cases. Triggers, for sure.
But at the same time the telling is beyond hubris onus and way, way too humor category (NOT) for me. I admire his service and not his personality bent. The carbon monoxide event and bottom line episode should be embedded in all humans as essential living and rental information. Read it here. Technology of heating and ventilation technology matters. Immensely.
Do not associate or be conversational with gang bangers. Or gang bangers wannabes either.
Other than that the verbosity is mightiful.
But at the same time the telling is beyond hubris onus and way, way too humor category (NOT) for me. I admire his service and not his personality bent. The carbon monoxide event and bottom line episode should be embedded in all humans as essential living and rental information. Read it here. Technology of heating and ventilation technology matters. Immensely.
Do not associate or be conversational with gang bangers. Or gang bangers wannabes either.
Other than that the verbosity is mightiful.
October 11, 2020
I love Homicide Hunter and have told all my friends and family that if I ever come up missing that they should all him, because he will find me! This book was so easy to read. I recognized a few of the cases from show episodes, but it was nice to read even more information about the case. I also loved how he described the effects of his job on his mental health and his family. Perfect gift for a true crime junkie and a definite purchase for libraries.
December 31, 2020
Kenda has been a favorite in our house when it comes to true crime stories. His off beat wit and honest telling of the facts keep us coming back. This book stayed true to the man we have grown to love on TV. I will say that the cases in the book felt familiar and recapped from the show. But Kenda himself said that he had started burning through the number of cases to talk about. I enjoyed it all the same.
I received a coy of this title via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I received a coy of this title via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
November 13, 2020
Joe Kenda is a retired Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) detective lieutenant, who was involved in 387 homicide cases over a 23-year career (source: Wikipedia). Featured on Investigation Discovery show Homicide Hunter.
About the Book: Joe Kenda takes the reader through multiple homicides that he worked. The writing is conversational and very “tough-guy”.
About the Book: Joe Kenda takes the reader through multiple homicides that he worked. The writing is conversational and very “tough-guy”.
March 16, 2021
I received an ARC of the audiobook and was so excited because I love Joe Kenda’s show on ID. But I just couldn’t get into the audiobook. I usually appreciate hearing the author narrate their own book, but Joe’s voice felt too monotone for the stories he was telling.
I think this is a book full of interesting tales and I would probably enjoy the written version a lot more!
I think this is a book full of interesting tales and I would probably enjoy the written version a lot more!
April 1, 2021
I love Joe Kenda. He is one of the wisest, calmest, most insightful people. I have watched all of his shows. I have read both of his books. I would re-watch his shows and re-read his books and now that I know that he has an ANNUAL CRUISE for fans, I would LOVE TO GO ON IT. He is just someone I learn from and I'm so glad he is on this earth.
September 20, 2020
#netgalley Great stories.
June 29, 2021
Love Joe Kenda. Love his wit. He writes about some of the cases that were in the shows but goes into more detail. Very interesting!!
March 13, 2021
Thank you Netgalley / Blackstone Publishing for the gifted copy.
True crime is a genre that I am started to really get into and when I saw this audiobook was available to request, I jumped on it. I fully admit to not knowing who Joe Kenda is, but I found this book to be quite fascinating and now I will definitely be checking out his show, Homicide Detective.
The first thing I have to mention is that I loved that Joe Kenda himself narrated this. His voice is so easy to listen to and clearly he knew how to deliver his own material, easily drawing you in. I loved that he had this laid back way of detailing the case, but also providing just a little humor to keep it from becoming too heavy. I think that's probably his personality, but it just felt natural. He talked about the cases and he let his feelings show - he doesn't hold back and that was refreshing to see. He was very clear on his feelings about the media in regards to how they handled cases and he wasn't afraid to let us know how he felt about the criminals.
I really enjoyed this book, despite the topic. It was an honest look at how the cases were solved and how all this affected Joe personally. I will definitely be checking out his other book and his show. If you are a true crime fan, do you have any books to recommend?
Audio thoughts: I think the fact that Joe Kenda narrated this book himself made this audio stand out. He knows his own material and knew just how to deliver it - he really is a gifted storyteller. I hope he narrates all his books because he really knows just how to make it enjoyable despite the material.
You can see all my reviews at: https://alwayswithabook.blogspot.com/
True crime is a genre that I am started to really get into and when I saw this audiobook was available to request, I jumped on it. I fully admit to not knowing who Joe Kenda is, but I found this book to be quite fascinating and now I will definitely be checking out his show, Homicide Detective.
The first thing I have to mention is that I loved that Joe Kenda himself narrated this. His voice is so easy to listen to and clearly he knew how to deliver his own material, easily drawing you in. I loved that he had this laid back way of detailing the case, but also providing just a little humor to keep it from becoming too heavy. I think that's probably his personality, but it just felt natural. He talked about the cases and he let his feelings show - he doesn't hold back and that was refreshing to see. He was very clear on his feelings about the media in regards to how they handled cases and he wasn't afraid to let us know how he felt about the criminals.
I really enjoyed this book, despite the topic. It was an honest look at how the cases were solved and how all this affected Joe personally. I will definitely be checking out his other book and his show. If you are a true crime fan, do you have any books to recommend?
Audio thoughts: I think the fact that Joe Kenda narrated this book himself made this audio stand out. He knows his own material and knew just how to deliver it - he really is a gifted storyteller. I hope he narrates all his books because he really knows just how to make it enjoyable despite the material.
You can see all my reviews at: https://alwayswithabook.blogspot.com/
May 3, 2021
Growing up in Colorado Springs, neigh being a native, I was aware off and on, of the cases that Joe Kenda writes about in Killer Triggers. But the enigmatic detective was only on my radar when ID network came to be, and the Kenda Homicide Hunter TV show began airing. Also being a fan if his TV show I was eager to read a straight up book by him.
I found every story to be written exactly in the matter-of-fact way he presents on the show. I enjoyed his first hand take on witness interviews and with every case tried to recall if I had any memories the media reports. I could hear his voice in my head the entire time. I would imagine this in audio format would be great, but the tone of the storytelling is just as in the TV show
His inner thoughts, the musings he contemplated while investigating the multitude of scenes he managed. He's very aware of his detectives and holds them to high standards. It's clear he's recounting investigative notes or perhaps he maintained a journal as the details are unscrupulous. He explains procedures and training (delivering bad news) and sometimes the lack of, the resources available for investigating, etc.
The range of cases he presents made me aware that the making detective grade is more about the person, on the whole, and for Kenda, the reason he's gone on to success in TV. I first learned of his celebrity status years ago while participating in the Marriott happy hour in Houston. I traveled there for work and in a moment of sharing a table with strangers and discussing where we were all from. When I mentioned my hometown as Colorado Springs, the entire table lit up with questions and comments about Joe Kenda and if I was aware of him (yes, I was). They immediately shared that they had been a Kenda cruise. Essentially, a group of fans paid for the honor to hang out with him and bask in his storytelling. He mentions in the book which I really enjoyed his perspective on what his celebrity status means to his family.
For Kenda fans, this is a must read. If you’re not aware of him, this is a great recount of true-crime in a medium size city and will make you a fan of Kenda and his TV shows.
I found every story to be written exactly in the matter-of-fact way he presents on the show. I enjoyed his first hand take on witness interviews and with every case tried to recall if I had any memories the media reports. I could hear his voice in my head the entire time. I would imagine this in audio format would be great, but the tone of the storytelling is just as in the TV show
His inner thoughts, the musings he contemplated while investigating the multitude of scenes he managed. He's very aware of his detectives and holds them to high standards. It's clear he's recounting investigative notes or perhaps he maintained a journal as the details are unscrupulous. He explains procedures and training (delivering bad news) and sometimes the lack of, the resources available for investigating, etc.
The range of cases he presents made me aware that the making detective grade is more about the person, on the whole, and for Kenda, the reason he's gone on to success in TV. I first learned of his celebrity status years ago while participating in the Marriott happy hour in Houston. I traveled there for work and in a moment of sharing a table with strangers and discussing where we were all from. When I mentioned my hometown as Colorado Springs, the entire table lit up with questions and comments about Joe Kenda and if I was aware of him (yes, I was). They immediately shared that they had been a Kenda cruise. Essentially, a group of fans paid for the honor to hang out with him and bask in his storytelling. He mentions in the book which I really enjoyed his perspective on what his celebrity status means to his family.
For Kenda fans, this is a must read. If you’re not aware of him, this is a great recount of true-crime in a medium size city and will make you a fan of Kenda and his TV shows.
February 8, 2021
Note: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Well, well, well… Killer Triggers was an intensely readable book, both compelling and entertaining. The content of the book, of course, is interesting for anyone who finds themselves fascinated by true crime, police procedurals, and yes, of course - Joe Kenda’s show Homicide Hunter on ID. In Killer Triggers, Kenda covers 10 or so primary cases from his career in law enforcement and what drove those killers, as well as how they were caught.
It is, in retrospect, much like Homicide Hunter - one of the best things about this book is how Kenda truly writes like he talks, so it’s very much a situation where you feel that you can hear him recounting these stories to you. The chapters feel very much like a conversation between Kenda and the reader, or at least story time. It’s fun, and engrossing, and truly a great read for any existing fan but also anyone new to Kenda.
Something I also enjoyed, and found deeply touching, was the last section of the book in which Kenda details how his life has changed since he started Homicide Hunter and touches on mental health and the sometimes devastating effects of working hand in hand with death. It's genuinely nice to see him acknowledge this, of course, especially when he admits that he suffered dearly as a result of his work, taking his cases home so to speak and encountering things that would never leave him. However, it was also comforting to read that he is happy, and doing well, and that he wishes the reader well, too. We need more kindness and understanding like that these days. Joe Kenda is truly one of a kind.
Killer Triggers will be released on March 9, 2021.
Well, well, well… Killer Triggers was an intensely readable book, both compelling and entertaining. The content of the book, of course, is interesting for anyone who finds themselves fascinated by true crime, police procedurals, and yes, of course - Joe Kenda’s show Homicide Hunter on ID. In Killer Triggers, Kenda covers 10 or so primary cases from his career in law enforcement and what drove those killers, as well as how they were caught.
It is, in retrospect, much like Homicide Hunter - one of the best things about this book is how Kenda truly writes like he talks, so it’s very much a situation where you feel that you can hear him recounting these stories to you. The chapters feel very much like a conversation between Kenda and the reader, or at least story time. It’s fun, and engrossing, and truly a great read for any existing fan but also anyone new to Kenda.
Something I also enjoyed, and found deeply touching, was the last section of the book in which Kenda details how his life has changed since he started Homicide Hunter and touches on mental health and the sometimes devastating effects of working hand in hand with death. It's genuinely nice to see him acknowledge this, of course, especially when he admits that he suffered dearly as a result of his work, taking his cases home so to speak and encountering things that would never leave him. However, it was also comforting to read that he is happy, and doing well, and that he wishes the reader well, too. We need more kindness and understanding like that these days. Joe Kenda is truly one of a kind.
Killer Triggers will be released on March 9, 2021.
October 22, 2020
Joe Kenda, author of Killer Triggers, former star of TV's Homicide Hunter, and retired detective lieutenant, doesn't pull any punches. Literally.
This book, due to be released in March 2021, is another account of Kenda's crime-fighting career, similar to his 2017 title, I Will Find You. It's gripping and realistic and not for the faint of heart. Lt. Kenda takes readers into blood-spattered rooms in cheap motels, through dark streets frequented by drug dealers, junkies, and drunks, and shows us just how depraved some people can be. Cases are summarized, and Kenda doesn't go into great detail, but they're compelling and I read the book in two sittings.
There are flashes of Kenda's black humor and wit. As he writes about one murder investigation, "(A criminal's) west-side crew was shadier than Sherwood Forest. And here we were with all the hoods and no Robin. Another difference: Most of these merry men took from the poor and kept it." He also reveals his own deep commitment to seeing justice done. When one detective suggests forgetting about the death of an alcoholic with mental problems, Kenda quickly tells him he'll have him writing tickets at the airport for the rest of his days if he doesn't get in line and do his job.
Killer Triggers isn't for everyone. There are stories of lacerated livers, victims killed in the head until they expire, brutal stabbings, and more. But if you are committed to law and order, as Lt. Kenda is, you'll read this and be grateful the police are there to answer when you call.
This book, due to be released in March 2021, is another account of Kenda's crime-fighting career, similar to his 2017 title, I Will Find You. It's gripping and realistic and not for the faint of heart. Lt. Kenda takes readers into blood-spattered rooms in cheap motels, through dark streets frequented by drug dealers, junkies, and drunks, and shows us just how depraved some people can be. Cases are summarized, and Kenda doesn't go into great detail, but they're compelling and I read the book in two sittings.
There are flashes of Kenda's black humor and wit. As he writes about one murder investigation, "(A criminal's) west-side crew was shadier than Sherwood Forest. And here we were with all the hoods and no Robin. Another difference: Most of these merry men took from the poor and kept it." He also reveals his own deep commitment to seeing justice done. When one detective suggests forgetting about the death of an alcoholic with mental problems, Kenda quickly tells him he'll have him writing tickets at the airport for the rest of his days if he doesn't get in line and do his job.
Killer Triggers isn't for everyone. There are stories of lacerated livers, victims killed in the head until they expire, brutal stabbings, and more. But if you are committed to law and order, as Lt. Kenda is, you'll read this and be grateful the police are there to answer when you call.
March 8, 2021
I first came to know about Joe Kenda through his true-crime documentary series, Homicide Hunter, that aired on the Investigation Discovery network. Joe Kenda is a retired Colorado Springs homicide detective who with his team had one of the highest percentage of solved crimes in the country. 92 percent. Not too shabby, Kenda!
I have watched every episode of Homicide Hunter faithfully, so I was beyond disappointed when the show came to an end. I still watch old episodes of Homicide Hunter. Let’s just say I am pretty obsessed with Joe Kenda, so when I had the chance to read his new book, Killer Triggers, I was beyond ecstatic!
In Killer Triggers Kenda takes you through the process of solving various cases, how to make the evidence stick in the court system, and how it effects the families of the victims as well as the families of those committing the crimes. He gives insight on how this line of work has effected his life and the lives of his family, and the huge impact this demanding career has taken on his fellow colleagues.
Kenda is a master storyteller. Killer Triggers has grit and wit. Kenda’s no nonsense honesty draws you in wanting to hear about the next case as only Kenda can tell it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC of Killer Triggers in exchange for my honest review.
I have watched every episode of Homicide Hunter faithfully, so I was beyond disappointed when the show came to an end. I still watch old episodes of Homicide Hunter. Let’s just say I am pretty obsessed with Joe Kenda, so when I had the chance to read his new book, Killer Triggers, I was beyond ecstatic!
In Killer Triggers Kenda takes you through the process of solving various cases, how to make the evidence stick in the court system, and how it effects the families of the victims as well as the families of those committing the crimes. He gives insight on how this line of work has effected his life and the lives of his family, and the huge impact this demanding career has taken on his fellow colleagues.
Kenda is a master storyteller. Killer Triggers has grit and wit. Kenda’s no nonsense honesty draws you in wanting to hear about the next case as only Kenda can tell it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC of Killer Triggers in exchange for my honest review.
February 20, 2021
I am a big fan of true crime, and a big fan of Homicide Hunter. When I found out that Joe Kenda had written a book, I was incredibly excited. When NetGalley gave me the opportunity to get an advanced copy, I was elated. I devoured this novel in a few days, and I can confidently say that it is the best true crime novel I have read. Kenda’s voice is extremely strong throughout the novel. I felt as if I was sitting down and having a conversation with him. What really made this book for me was Kenda’s attitude towards the victims. He cares deeply about each of his victim’s regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, class, etc. This was clear in his accounts of the cases he describes throughout this novel. I would definitely read more from Kenda, and look at Homicide Hunter with a new lens.
October 2, 2020
I'll admit, I picked this book up because my mom is a huge Homicide Hunter fan but I was quickly pulled in and ended up reading it almost straight through. Anyone who has ever seen an episode of the show will have no trouble hearing Kenda's voice in their mind as they read. His dry wit helped to offset the tragic circumstances of the cases he shared. What inspired me most was his compassion for every victim and his determination that each deserved justice. But perhaps the most powerful, and relevant, message of the book was about the incredible emotional strain law enforcement officers face with the terrible things they see and hear.
I was fortunate enough to receive an advance copy from NetGalley.
I was fortunate enough to receive an advance copy from NetGalley.
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