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Tracefinder #3
Tracefinder: Choices
An ex-cop and a psychic on the mend find their safe haven threatened by vandalism, arson, and the shadow of their dangerous past.
After overusing his Talent till he almost died, Brian wants nothing more than a quiet job on the farm, with Nick to come home to. He's trying to start a new life, despite bad dreams he can't shake, vandalism close to home, and his sister's problematic baby on the way.
Nick gave up the police force and moved to North Carolina to be with Brian, and he doesn't regret it. But he's at loose ends, with no real work, the lurking specter of Brian's brother Damon hanging around, and a worry in the pit of his stomach that Damon's old enemies might still be after Brian. Nick's keeping his eyes open and his gun loaded.
After overusing his Talent till he almost died, Brian wants nothing more than a quiet job on the farm, with Nick to come home to. He's trying to start a new life, despite bad dreams he can't shake, vandalism close to home, and his sister's problematic baby on the way.
Nick gave up the police force and moved to North Carolina to be with Brian, and he doesn't regret it. But he's at loose ends, with no real work, the lurking specter of Brian's brother Damon hanging around, and a worry in the pit of his stomach that Damon's old enemies might still be after Brian. Nick's keeping his eyes open and his gun loaded.
429 pages, ebook
First published July 29, 2020
14 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Kaje Harper
96 books2,737 followersI get asked about my name a lot. It's not something exotic, though. “Kaje” is pronounced just like “cage” – it’s an old nickname, and my pronouns are she/her/hers.
I was born in Montreal but have lived for 30 years in Minnesota, where the two seasons are Snow-removal and Road-repair, where the mosquito is the state bird, and where winter can be breathtakingly beautiful. Minnesota’s a kind, quiet (if sometimes chilly) place and it’s home.
I’ve been writing far longer than I care to admit (*whispers – fifty years*), mostly for my own entertainment, usually M/M romance (with added mystery, fantasy, historical, SciFi…) I also have a few Young Adult stories (some released under the pen name Kira Harp.)
My husband finally convinced me that after all the years of writing for fun, I really should submit something, somewhere. My first professionally published book, Life Lessons, came out from MLR Press in May 2011. I have a weakness for closeted cops with honest hearts, and teachers who speak their minds, and I had fun writing four novels and three freebie short stories in that series. I was delighted and encouraged by the reception Mac and Tony received.
I now have a good-sized backlist in ebooks and print, both free and professionally published. A complete list with links can be found on my website "Books" page at https://kajeharper.com/.
You can find me and my book reviews on my author page here on Goodreads - I hang out on Goodreads a lot because I moderate the Goodreads YA LGBT Books group. I also post free short YA stories on that group, more than 50 of them so far.
You can also find me on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/KajeHarper
I was born in Montreal but have lived for 30 years in Minnesota, where the two seasons are Snow-removal and Road-repair, where the mosquito is the state bird, and where winter can be breathtakingly beautiful. Minnesota’s a kind, quiet (if sometimes chilly) place and it’s home.
I’ve been writing far longer than I care to admit (*whispers – fifty years*), mostly for my own entertainment, usually M/M romance (with added mystery, fantasy, historical, SciFi…) I also have a few Young Adult stories (some released under the pen name Kira Harp.)
My husband finally convinced me that after all the years of writing for fun, I really should submit something, somewhere. My first professionally published book, Life Lessons, came out from MLR Press in May 2011. I have a weakness for closeted cops with honest hearts, and teachers who speak their minds, and I had fun writing four novels and three freebie short stories in that series. I was delighted and encouraged by the reception Mac and Tony received.
I now have a good-sized backlist in ebooks and print, both free and professionally published. A complete list with links can be found on my website "Books" page at https://kajeharper.com/.
You can find me and my book reviews on my author page here on Goodreads - I hang out on Goodreads a lot because I moderate the Goodreads YA LGBT Books group. I also post free short YA stories on that group, more than 50 of them so far.
You can also find me on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/KajeHarper
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July 30, 2020It's release day for
Tracefinder: Choices
and Nick and Brian are looking forward to their HEA… if arson, criminals, and brother Damon's plots don't get in the way.
This is book 3 in the Tracefinder mystery/paranormal series, which should be read in order.
buy links:
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Tracefinder-Ch...
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tracefinder-...
Smashwords: (all formats) https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
This is book 3 in the Tracefinder mystery/paranormal series, which should be read in order.
buy links:
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Tracefinder-Ch...
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tracefinder-...
Smashwords: (all formats) https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
August 30, 2020
Good series
So glad to get the final HEA for this couple. Long book but held my interest very well. I want a book for Charlie! Not him with Lori though. She needs to leave Josh with Charlie and go away somewhere. I was also wondering about Damon and Doc/Zander. We never did find out what was up with them. Tough to redeem Damon but maybe he could change? Get going Kaje!
So glad to get the final HEA for this couple. Long book but held my interest very well. I want a book for Charlie! Not him with Lori though. She needs to leave Josh with Charlie and go away somewhere. I was also wondering about Damon and Doc/Zander. We never did find out what was up with them. Tough to redeem Damon but maybe he could change? Get going Kaje!
February 25, 2021
Tracefinder: Choices (book 3)
By Kaje Harper
Beaten Track Publishing, 2020
Five stars
This third book in the Tracefinder series feels like a finale; but also possibly the beginning of a different kind of series. Brian Kerr (with a new surname, Carlson) has moved to somewhere in rural North Carolina to escape the aftermath of the last book. His friend Zander has gotten him shelter and a job at his mother Yasmin’s sheep farm, while Brian waits for Nick to join him from Minnesota. Meanwhile, former detective Rugo, joined by his best friend Charlie Connors, also an ex-cop, bring Brian’s very pregnant sister Lori with them.
In spite of the violent past and the new names, the broken Kerr siblings hope to find a new life. All they want is normal. Easier said than done, given that there are still secrets lurking about, along with Brian and Lori’s shady brother Damon. On top of that, Nick is haunted by memories of his own broken family.
Before Nick and his carful even appear, Yasmin’s farm is hit with random vandalism that has Brian worrying that he’ll never find the peace and quiet he yearns for. As the runaway Minnesotans begin to settle into what they hope will be their fresh start, Nick inserts himself into local troubles, unable to resist the call of police work.
As the plot unfolds around them, the author makes it clear that Nick and Brian are at the center of this story. Each man has to recalibrate his way of living in the world in order to become part of a couple. Both men are conditioned by their own damaged lives and insecurities. They have to learn to really see each other, and help each other on this journey—physical and emotional—to something better.
Harper is good with these characters. They’re not necessarily easy to embrace, frustrating in their flaws. Charlie Connors, interestingly, collateral damage in the mess in which the Kerr family was caught up, seems to be the calm, cheerful pivot in this plot. Despite his own misfortune, his good nature and unflappability are a constant reminder that Brian and Nick have more than just themselves and Lori to worry about now. They have forged a sort of off-kilter family in this new place, and it is their responsibility to care for their new community if they hope to have any sort of future there.
I can’t say this book is exactly funny, but there is a wry undertone that kept making me smile at odd moments. The awareness of the absurdity of their lives keeps everyone from becoming pitiful. These are young people who have had it rough. Their maturing self-awareness is a tool that guides them to wiser choices, but also a key to the promise of happiness.
By Kaje Harper
Beaten Track Publishing, 2020
Five stars
This third book in the Tracefinder series feels like a finale; but also possibly the beginning of a different kind of series. Brian Kerr (with a new surname, Carlson) has moved to somewhere in rural North Carolina to escape the aftermath of the last book. His friend Zander has gotten him shelter and a job at his mother Yasmin’s sheep farm, while Brian waits for Nick to join him from Minnesota. Meanwhile, former detective Rugo, joined by his best friend Charlie Connors, also an ex-cop, bring Brian’s very pregnant sister Lori with them.
In spite of the violent past and the new names, the broken Kerr siblings hope to find a new life. All they want is normal. Easier said than done, given that there are still secrets lurking about, along with Brian and Lori’s shady brother Damon. On top of that, Nick is haunted by memories of his own broken family.
Before Nick and his carful even appear, Yasmin’s farm is hit with random vandalism that has Brian worrying that he’ll never find the peace and quiet he yearns for. As the runaway Minnesotans begin to settle into what they hope will be their fresh start, Nick inserts himself into local troubles, unable to resist the call of police work.
As the plot unfolds around them, the author makes it clear that Nick and Brian are at the center of this story. Each man has to recalibrate his way of living in the world in order to become part of a couple. Both men are conditioned by their own damaged lives and insecurities. They have to learn to really see each other, and help each other on this journey—physical and emotional—to something better.
Harper is good with these characters. They’re not necessarily easy to embrace, frustrating in their flaws. Charlie Connors, interestingly, collateral damage in the mess in which the Kerr family was caught up, seems to be the calm, cheerful pivot in this plot. Despite his own misfortune, his good nature and unflappability are a constant reminder that Brian and Nick have more than just themselves and Lori to worry about now. They have forged a sort of off-kilter family in this new place, and it is their responsibility to care for their new community if they hope to have any sort of future there.
I can’t say this book is exactly funny, but there is a wry undertone that kept making me smile at odd moments. The awareness of the absurdity of their lives keeps everyone from becoming pitiful. These are young people who have had it rough. Their maturing self-awareness is a tool that guides them to wiser choices, but also a key to the promise of happiness.
September 22, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Choices is the third in the Tracefinder series and these books must be read in order. There are too many connecting relationships and events to try and read this one as a standalone. Choices is another great addition to Kaje Harper’s repertoire, though I did feel it was slightly weaker than the others in the series.
Brian and Nick remain a compelling couple and I think in Choices we see things finally settling in their relationship. Brian is no longer passive or quite as self-doubting and his willingness to challenge Nick when it matters represents huge growth for the character. As a couple, they seem more in tune with one another and there is a growing equality between them that felt believable as a reader.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Choices is the third in the Tracefinder series and these books must be read in order. There are too many connecting relationships and events to try and read this one as a standalone. Choices is another great addition to Kaje Harper’s repertoire, though I did feel it was slightly weaker than the others in the series.
Brian and Nick remain a compelling couple and I think in Choices we see things finally settling in their relationship. Brian is no longer passive or quite as self-doubting and his willingness to challenge Nick when it matters represents huge growth for the character. As a couple, they seem more in tune with one another and there is a growing equality between them that felt believable as a reader.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
August 23, 2020
I still have to find a book by Kaje Harper that I don't love. I think she's insanely talented as an author. And it shows in every book she publishes, which, lucky me, she finally does again. There was a break between these books and since I love her writing so much and I really wanted to savour and enjoy this book, I started by rereading the first two in this series (which was a pleasure in itself, I rated them 5 stars years ago).
Book 3 starts seamlessly in the story where book 2 ended, Brian starting his new life as Brian, Nick dismantling his old life to be with Brian. Now, a new life doesn’t immediately mean a full life and Nick is having a harder time to adjust than Brian, who finds his work at Yasmin’s farm fulfilling enough. So Nick gets tangled up in local law enforcement problems. This allows an interesting subplot that keeps the story from getting to fixated on the relationship. Meanwhile there is still pregnant Lori, always helpful Charlie (this man tries for sainthood) and…well, Damon just can’t keep his fingers out of the pie either.
All in all I loved how everything came together, slipped in place with more or less effort for the guys and girl. Brian’s personal growth was sweet to read, their relationship entertaining and well developed. Everything started fitting together in a well-orchestrated execution. Not to mention, Brian and Nick are a just a great couple together. I especially loved Nick’s instinctive way to show Brian his appreciation and love.
This is a really good conclusion for this couple – I hope that Kaje will write more in the Tracefinder universe – there is still this unresolved tension between Damon and Zander and what the heck is Joshie’s power?
Highly recommended but can only appreciated after reading book 1 and 2 (which are equally highly recommended)
Book 3 starts seamlessly in the story where book 2 ended, Brian starting his new life as Brian, Nick dismantling his old life to be with Brian. Now, a new life doesn’t immediately mean a full life and Nick is having a harder time to adjust than Brian, who finds his work at Yasmin’s farm fulfilling enough. So Nick gets tangled up in local law enforcement problems. This allows an interesting subplot that keeps the story from getting to fixated on the relationship. Meanwhile there is still pregnant Lori, always helpful Charlie (this man tries for sainthood) and…well, Damon just can’t keep his fingers out of the pie either.
All in all I loved how everything came together, slipped in place with more or less effort for the guys and girl. Brian’s personal growth was sweet to read, their relationship entertaining and well developed. Everything started fitting together in a well-orchestrated execution. Not to mention, Brian and Nick are a just a great couple together. I especially loved Nick’s instinctive way to show Brian his appreciation and love.
This is a really good conclusion for this couple – I hope that Kaje will write more in the Tracefinder universe – there is still this unresolved tension between Damon and Zander and what the heck is Joshie’s power?
Highly recommended but can only appreciated after reading book 1 and 2 (which are equally highly recommended)
August 1, 2022
I enjoyed book 1 a lot, but was disappointed with book 2. This fell somewhere between them. The main characters were okay together, but there were too many plot flaws for me. In no particular order - Nick not reading Charlie at all. Damon, the brother, had become some sort of magic figure, bouncing in and out of their lives at just the right moment. The sheriff somehow turning up (alone) at just the right moment. There was too much contrived plot coincidence. And the whole thing with baby Joshie was just weird (though it might explain somethings about their mother, as Brian kindly reasoned)
I read it from start to finish, but I wanted to like it more. m/m, detective and psychic is usually my jam, but this just didn't work for me.
I read it from start to finish, but I wanted to like it more. m/m, detective and psychic is usually my jam, but this just didn't work for me.
August 15, 2025
That was amazing.
This trilogy includes some really satisfying character and relationship growth.
I am still left with so many questions. What happens to Damon? Charlie? Lori?
Will Joshie grow out of it? Into it?
But, these are all because I loved this book and family SO MUCH!
Thanks to this reviewer for getting me interested. Now I have a whole new author to read! https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This trilogy includes some really satisfying character and relationship growth.
I am still left with so many questions. What happens to Damon? Charlie? Lori?
Will Joshie grow out of it? Into it?
But, these are all because I loved this book and family SO MUCH!
Thanks to this reviewer for getting me interested. Now I have a whole new author to read! https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
August 28, 2020
Nick and Brian have been through so much and this third installment in Kaje Harper’s ‘Tracefinder’ series is no different. I have spoken often of the grittiness of the writing in these books and every time I read one, I am reminded of that reality. The psychic ability is certainly a paranormal aspect, but all the characters in this series are flawed in some way, and a couple of them almost dangerously so. But they’re flawed in a way that is relatable and they make decisions that I can understand and, occasionally even, empathize with.
I had no idea what was going to happen after the exciting, and incredulous, ending of ‘Changes’. Warning: spoilers ahead but these books really MUST be read in order or they might not make any sense. The fact that Marston, the reprehensible and thoroughly disgusting crime lord, who had been using Brian’s Finder talent for evil revealed to Lori, Damon, and Brian that the baby Lori was carrying was actually made using Brian’s semen because Marston wanted a psychic baby he could control, was just the tip of the iceberg near the end of that second installment. So much more happened with Marston getting killed, the Russian mafia after the siblings, Lori and Brian getting new IDs and moving to North Carolina, and Nick quitting the Minneapolis PD and following Brian. Oh, and Nick’s best friend Charlie came along, too. Oy!
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
I had no idea what was going to happen after the exciting, and incredulous, ending of ‘Changes’. Warning: spoilers ahead but these books really MUST be read in order or they might not make any sense. The fact that Marston, the reprehensible and thoroughly disgusting crime lord, who had been using Brian’s Finder talent for evil revealed to Lori, Damon, and Brian that the baby Lori was carrying was actually made using Brian’s semen because Marston wanted a psychic baby he could control, was just the tip of the iceberg near the end of that second installment. So much more happened with Marston getting killed, the Russian mafia after the siblings, Lori and Brian getting new IDs and moving to North Carolina, and Nick quitting the Minneapolis PD and following Brian. Oh, and Nick’s best friend Charlie came along, too. Oy!
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
August 5, 2020
I thought I saw this was the last book in the series, so I am unsure why the issue with the baby and Brian and Lori touching it.
Aside from that I thought it was a satisfying ending to the series.
It would be nice for Charlie to get his HEA but as he is straight I won't be reading about it.
Aside from that I thought it was a satisfying ending to the series.
It would be nice for Charlie to get his HEA but as he is straight I won't be reading about it.
July 24, 2025
A very satisfying ending to Brian and Nicks journey.
Really enjoyed the action parts, but while I really like Brian and Nick I never really felt their chemistry.
I did however find myself liking Damon probably more than I should lol.
Really enjoyed the action parts, but while I really like Brian and Nick I never really felt their chemistry.
I did however find myself liking Damon probably more than I should lol.
August 3, 2020
It was worth the wait. This final book in the series was all kinds of awesome. I will admit there were parts I was adrift for and I had to do a quick re read of book two, as 2 years is a long time between books, and I read a lot in two years. But once I was refreshed about the ending of book two, it was full steam ahead. I found the relationships in this final book to feel much more settled right from the start of the book. Brian is amazing all the way through. Nick missed a huge sign until the very end, I still don't like Lori, but found Damon to be very close to fully redeemed.
I am fully in awe of how Kaje brought all those dangling strings to a believable conclusion AND had a primary mystery of book three develop and play out to resolution within the original conflict carried over from books one and two. Authors, love them and admire them. Kaje is one of my auto buy authors, and Tracefinders 3 is a fine example of why....simply brilliant execution, and a gripping conclusion.
I am fully in awe of how Kaje brought all those dangling strings to a believable conclusion AND had a primary mystery of book three develop and play out to resolution within the original conflict carried over from books one and two. Authors, love them and admire them. Kaje is one of my auto buy authors, and Tracefinders 3 is a fine example of why....simply brilliant execution, and a gripping conclusion.
June 14, 2021
Choices is a satisfying conclusion to the Tracefinder trilogy. Brian Kerr is now Brian Carlson. He and his sister Lori have moved to North Carolina where he is working on Doc’s mother’s sheep farm and Lori is waiting to have her (questionable) baby. Nick has left the Minnesota police department, and along with his disabled ex. law enforcement, best friend Charlie is moving with them for a fresh start. Damon is still Damon and is in the wind – except for when he’s in their living room. Lugar meanwhile is the most well-adjusted member of the whole group – he has struck the perfect balance between working dog and beloved furbaby.
Much like the second book Changes, Choices also meanders and has even more of a soap opera feel to it. Not in a bad way, sometimes a well-done soap opera with fully developed characters is a good thing. It’s just that sooo much happens, and the path to the eventual Brian and Nick HEA , taxi rides around town before it gets to its destination. I’m still not on the Nick and Brian sexy times train; but this installment sees Brian leave his Bry persona behind and really grow into himself and become a full and equal partner to Nick. I am totally on board with the Brian and Nick relationship – they are absolutely sweet together; and very realistically portrayed.
Brian isn’t the only one who has growing to do. Nick has issues to address related to his childhood and issues related to his sense of identity and purpose as he is leaving his law enforcement career behind. In addition to Brian and Nick working out their personal and family dramas; they also get drawn into the good old boy North Carolina Sheriff’s Office drama; and as if that isn’t enough – Damon’s Russian mafia drama. Choices continues to incorporate the paranormal element of Brian’s Finder ability – but with so much going on, it almost becomes incidental. Except for when he’s Finding.
The strength of these stories lies in the characters. They’re real and they’re likable. Even the crazy Kerr siblings are likable. Even brother Damon, who admittedly is a “bad guy” is redeemable; and damn it, likable. I hate leaving him in the wind, when it seems pretty clear he needs to be in NC with Doc. But then one does get the sense that he’d blow his brains out in boredom on a NC sheep farm. Perhaps the author will consider it a challenge 😊
Much like the second book Changes, Choices also meanders and has even more of a soap opera feel to it. Not in a bad way, sometimes a well-done soap opera with fully developed characters is a good thing. It’s just that sooo much happens, and the path to the eventual Brian and Nick HEA , taxi rides around town before it gets to its destination. I’m still not on the Nick and Brian sexy times train; but this installment sees Brian leave his Bry persona behind and really grow into himself and become a full and equal partner to Nick. I am totally on board with the Brian and Nick relationship – they are absolutely sweet together; and very realistically portrayed.
Brian isn’t the only one who has growing to do. Nick has issues to address related to his childhood and issues related to his sense of identity and purpose as he is leaving his law enforcement career behind. In addition to Brian and Nick working out their personal and family dramas; they also get drawn into the good old boy North Carolina Sheriff’s Office drama; and as if that isn’t enough – Damon’s Russian mafia drama. Choices continues to incorporate the paranormal element of Brian’s Finder ability – but with so much going on, it almost becomes incidental. Except for when he’s Finding.
The strength of these stories lies in the characters. They’re real and they’re likable. Even the crazy Kerr siblings are likable. Even brother Damon, who admittedly is a “bad guy” is redeemable; and damn it, likable. I hate leaving him in the wind, when it seems pretty clear he needs to be in NC with Doc. But then one does get the sense that he’d blow his brains out in boredom on a NC sheep farm. Perhaps the author will consider it a challenge 😊
August 10, 2025
RE-READ 8-6-25: LOL, all that gushing I did back in 2022 when I first read this series 100% stands. ALL the stars!
ORIGINAL REVIEW 8-22-22: Unghhhh SO GOOD. These three books, Brian and Nick's story, were everything 💫💫💫💫💫 (And I know I just said it about the last series I read, but it holds true here, too: this is probably one of the BEST I've read in MM, period... and LOL, maybe not surprising since both were by the same author 🤣)
ORIGINAL REVIEW 8-22-22: Unghhhh SO GOOD. These three books, Brian and Nick's story, were everything 💫💫💫💫💫 (And I know I just said it about the last series I read, but it holds true here, too: this is probably one of the BEST I've read in MM, period... and LOL, maybe not surprising since both were by the same author 🤣)
September 25, 2020
Choices is the third book in the Tracefinder series and needs to be read as such. This series follows the same couple through each book, with the same secondary characters following along with them. While Choices does still have the mixture of criminals, law enforcement and violence that is a signature of this series, the pace here feels a little different to the previous two books, as this one sees Brian and Nick attempting to put down roots and get on with a life that is as normal as possible.
Brian is loving his new job, working on the farm and sharing a little country home with Nick. Nick is still struggling with who he is now, maybe more so than in the last book, as now he’s no longer a cop. Brian is still dealing with the effect of being Bri for so many years, his natural default whenever things go wrong is to ‘play dumb’. The author did some thought provoking writing, exploring what was going on in Brian’s head and how his childhood had shaped his nature to depths more profound than he had realized.
But when things in their small town start going dangerously wrong, Nick and his BFF, fellow former police officer, Charlie, can’t help but involve themselves. Despite the new danger happening around them, Nick and Brian are solid. I think that’s what I loved most about this book, Brian and Nick’s relationship really felt established now, even though they were still learning things about each other, there didn’t feel like there was any doubt that this couple was in love and they were going to be together forever.
But a normal life for these characters, is not necessarily the same as a normal life for you or me. Because as always, big brother Damon is lurking, running cons, considering the angles, and pulling strings from behind the scenes. On top of that, Lori pops out one extra special baby, who is almost certainly the result of her being impregnated with her brother’s semen. That’s right, I just said that. But if you want to find out how the hell that happened (no, there’s no incest involved) you’ll have to start at the beginning of this series. Speaking of the other books, I’m pretty certain that we’re about due for Damon to get his story, since Doc Zander has been more than patient with Brian’s big, bad brother. I’m desperately hoping that that book will be next in this series.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
https://lovebytesreviews.com/2020/08/...
Brian is loving his new job, working on the farm and sharing a little country home with Nick. Nick is still struggling with who he is now, maybe more so than in the last book, as now he’s no longer a cop. Brian is still dealing with the effect of being Bri for so many years, his natural default whenever things go wrong is to ‘play dumb’. The author did some thought provoking writing, exploring what was going on in Brian’s head and how his childhood had shaped his nature to depths more profound than he had realized.
But when things in their small town start going dangerously wrong, Nick and his BFF, fellow former police officer, Charlie, can’t help but involve themselves. Despite the new danger happening around them, Nick and Brian are solid. I think that’s what I loved most about this book, Brian and Nick’s relationship really felt established now, even though they were still learning things about each other, there didn’t feel like there was any doubt that this couple was in love and they were going to be together forever.
But a normal life for these characters, is not necessarily the same as a normal life for you or me. Because as always, big brother Damon is lurking, running cons, considering the angles, and pulling strings from behind the scenes. On top of that, Lori pops out one extra special baby, who is almost certainly the result of her being impregnated with her brother’s semen. That’s right, I just said that. But if you want to find out how the hell that happened (no, there’s no incest involved) you’ll have to start at the beginning of this series. Speaking of the other books, I’m pretty certain that we’re about due for Damon to get his story, since Doc Zander has been more than patient with Brian’s big, bad brother. I’m desperately hoping that that book will be next in this series.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
https://lovebytesreviews.com/2020/08/...
November 28, 2020
It’s a must to read “Tracefinder” in order because “Choices” (may be) the final novel in the series and picks up right where the second novel “Changes” leaves off.
Nick is on his way to North Carolina to be with Brian. Brian has made a simple life for himself working on a pig farm for Yasmin Wydell, (Doc) Zanders mother. He still has problems with dyslexia and managing his psychic ability. But he strives to make life easier for himself. From the last chaotic situation Damon created, their sister Lori is living in the same area and about to give brith with a baby that everyone thinks is Marston’s. But Brian knows the secret and he’s very uneasy about the baby.
But the tables have turned where Nick is concerned. He’s on his way with Charlie to North Carolina and to Brian and get their life back together. He’s no longer on the police force and needs to find a job. Will he be able to keep away from law enforcement?
There’s always that danger hanging over their heads of Damon coming back and ruining the peace that Nick and Brian need to have a stable relationship.
“Tracefinder: Choices” is the final installment in this ever complicated series from Kaje Harper. I only tried to focus on Nick and Brian when it came to reviewing this series because there are so many troubled characters, with deep-seated issues that it’s impossible to even start to analyze each one. As for Nick and Brian all their struggles, hurts and a solid love, has gradually paid off.
If Kaje Harper ever decides to do another “Tracefinder” I would like to see something good happen for Charlie and maybe the baby can be part of it. Lori, I’m not impressed with at all and maybe she’ll give the baby to Charlie. Lori has too many traits like Damon but she’s not really sharp enough to make solid decisions and she’s greedy. As for Damon, there’s seems to be a connection with him and (Doc) Zander but Damon is such a danger to everyone. Even though he tries to show a bit of good, it all leads too danger and being illegal.
I highly recommend this powerfully emotional series “Tracefinder”. It’s a must that all three novels be read in order: “Contact”, “Changes”, and “Choices”. This series was a major page-turner for me, filled with psychological drama and I was highly entertained. Kaje Harper did an outstanding job with each and every novel!
Nick is on his way to North Carolina to be with Brian. Brian has made a simple life for himself working on a pig farm for Yasmin Wydell, (Doc) Zanders mother. He still has problems with dyslexia and managing his psychic ability. But he strives to make life easier for himself. From the last chaotic situation Damon created, their sister Lori is living in the same area and about to give brith with a baby that everyone thinks is Marston’s. But Brian knows the secret and he’s very uneasy about the baby.
But the tables have turned where Nick is concerned. He’s on his way with Charlie to North Carolina and to Brian and get their life back together. He’s no longer on the police force and needs to find a job. Will he be able to keep away from law enforcement?
There’s always that danger hanging over their heads of Damon coming back and ruining the peace that Nick and Brian need to have a stable relationship.
“Tracefinder: Choices” is the final installment in this ever complicated series from Kaje Harper. I only tried to focus on Nick and Brian when it came to reviewing this series because there are so many troubled characters, with deep-seated issues that it’s impossible to even start to analyze each one. As for Nick and Brian all their struggles, hurts and a solid love, has gradually paid off.
If Kaje Harper ever decides to do another “Tracefinder” I would like to see something good happen for Charlie and maybe the baby can be part of it. Lori, I’m not impressed with at all and maybe she’ll give the baby to Charlie. Lori has too many traits like Damon but she’s not really sharp enough to make solid decisions and she’s greedy. As for Damon, there’s seems to be a connection with him and (Doc) Zander but Damon is such a danger to everyone. Even though he tries to show a bit of good, it all leads too danger and being illegal.
I highly recommend this powerfully emotional series “Tracefinder”. It’s a must that all three novels be read in order: “Contact”, “Changes”, and “Choices”. This series was a major page-turner for me, filled with psychological drama and I was highly entertained. Kaje Harper did an outstanding job with each and every novel!
August 7, 2020
4 1/2 stars. I should have gone back and at least skimmed parts of the first two books, because I was having a hard time remembering some of what had happened in them.
In book # 3, Brian was trying hard to settle down into a decent kind of life, and getting used to working on a farm. Nick got bored with a quieter life pretty quickly and wanted to solve crimes. Nick didn't want to tell Brian about Nick's unauthorized attempts at crime-solving, because he thought it would upset Brian. And it did, plus Brian felt hurt that Nick had told many lies of omission. But Brian was able to express his feelings without resorting to his childlike persona. Brian felt like Nick was being a jerk. Brian had a point. I felt that way, too.
I had forgotten about the baby plot, but that really twisted stuff that Lori's late husband had said he'd done carried over a lot into this book. Nick still didn't like Lori that much. Lori acted pretty mean during most of her appearances in this book. It was understandable, but still annoying. Nick really still disliked Damon. Damon's handiwork showed that he was still way ahead of Nick in figuring things out, and that he was also functioning considerably better than Nick was.
I think I would have appreciated this more if I'd reread the previous couple of books, but I have a hard time getting enough peace and quiet to get into reading mode for anything longer than news articles. I'm glad I was able to concentrate enough to finish this book, though it involved reading late at night and very early in the morning. It answered a lot of hanging questions, and it was good to see Brian making the effort to act adult.
In book # 3, Brian was trying hard to settle down into a decent kind of life, and getting used to working on a farm. Nick got bored with a quieter life pretty quickly and wanted to solve crimes. Nick didn't want to tell Brian about Nick's unauthorized attempts at crime-solving, because he thought it would upset Brian. And it did, plus Brian felt hurt that Nick had told many lies of omission. But Brian was able to express his feelings without resorting to his childlike persona. Brian felt like Nick was being a jerk. Brian had a point. I felt that way, too.
I had forgotten about the baby plot, but that really twisted stuff that Lori's late husband had said he'd done carried over a lot into this book. Nick still didn't like Lori that much. Lori acted pretty mean during most of her appearances in this book. It was understandable, but still annoying. Nick really still disliked Damon. Damon's handiwork showed that he was still way ahead of Nick in figuring things out, and that he was also functioning considerably better than Nick was.
I think I would have appreciated this more if I'd reread the previous couple of books, but I have a hard time getting enough peace and quiet to get into reading mode for anything longer than news articles. I'm glad I was able to concentrate enough to finish this book, though it involved reading late at night and very early in the morning. It answered a lot of hanging questions, and it was good to see Brian making the effort to act adult.
April 6, 2021
4 plus intervening years between reads is probably a tad too long to enjoy some sort of plot continuity ... and yet I was surprised how much returned to me regarding the seriously dysfunctional Kerr sibling tribe. The interrelated bonds tying Nick and Charlie together as well as to the aforementioned trio is somewhat more obscure. It is clear however that time and distance has not really deepened my regard much for these characters ... the previous book rated somewhat better than the first book of this series.
A lot of loose ends did have to be tied up from previous volumes given this is the last of trilogy featuring Brian and Nick as MCs - with plot focus being diverted repeatedly away from the current 'arson' story-line in order to cover unresolved family losses and having a final reckoning with the malevolent reach of earlier criminal antagonists. On hindsight, my reactions would have been more positive if I had simply approached these titles as romance with a 'touch' of paranormal and an infusion of action/adventure. I have suspicion the author might be planning another series with Charlie as MC but I doubt I have sufficient invested interest to follow up on that. 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
A lot of loose ends did have to be tied up from previous volumes given this is the last of trilogy featuring Brian and Nick as MCs - with plot focus being diverted repeatedly away from the current 'arson' story-line in order to cover unresolved family losses and having a final reckoning with the malevolent reach of earlier criminal antagonists. On hindsight, my reactions would have been more positive if I had simply approached these titles as romance with a 'touch' of paranormal and an infusion of action/adventure. I have suspicion the author might be planning another series with Charlie as MC but I doubt I have sufficient invested interest to follow up on that. 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
June 6, 2021
I'm so happy where these two, Brian and Nick, end up in this book. That's not to say they didn't go through some stressful and nail-biting times in the process. Being in NC and setting up a life, along with Charlie, Lori, and the upcoming baby, is a slow process. Their past is always lurking out there, especially with Damon around. Add to it an unsettling and dangerous situation in the county, and you have a lot of tension.
But, this book definitely ends this great series in a happy place, and for that, I am so glad.
But, this book definitely ends this great series in a happy place, and for that, I am so glad.
August 3, 2020
This is the best of the series, mostly because we see the guys getting settled, becoming more comfortable with each other, and communicating as they should. This book makes a very satisfying end to the trilogy, but there were just a few small dangling threads to make a sequel or spinoff if the author wishes. I would be right there to read it if she does!
August 9, 2020
Perfect ending
There were lots of ups and downs but I was never bored. I liked that though there disagreements and questioning of feelings, there were no big misunderstandings in their relationship. It allowed for the other subplots to have some weight. I loved how things resolved and the epilogue was perfect.
There were lots of ups and downs but I was never bored. I liked that though there disagreements and questioning of feelings, there were no big misunderstandings in their relationship. It allowed for the other subplots to have some weight. I loved how things resolved and the epilogue was perfect.
August 12, 2021
Amen
Being smart is one thing being cunning is another, I have met many very wise and inelegant people who were not smart but in them was a thread of something, like an aura or glow of love that made me go to them and I'm glad I did. You have the power of love. Amen.
I'm hoping for more to this story.
Being smart is one thing being cunning is another, I have met many very wise and inelegant people who were not smart but in them was a thread of something, like an aura or glow of love that made me go to them and I'm glad I did. You have the power of love. Amen.
I'm hoping for more to this story.
July 31, 2020
Great addition to the series. I love seeing Bry become Brian and gain in confidence that he can be an equal partner to Nick. Full review to follow. (Advice...read/re-read the first two book in the series...my library had them in e-book form...to catch up on things)
August 27, 2020
I'm so excited to get back to Brian and Nick. The support they show for each other is wonderful. I love a couple who works with each other instead of always fighting. And then you get Brian's crazy family who won't let things lie. A fun and satisfying read.
September 28, 2021
It was good to visit Nick and Brian again. In this last book in series, we see them solving one final crime, few Findings and they settle down as family with Lori, Josh and Charlie.
A good series, though first book is the best of the three.
A good series, though first book is the best of the three.
July 8, 2021
The streak continues
Kaje Harper continues to impress. As usual great character development, excellent and often surprising plotting. An entertaining and fun ride.
Kaje Harper continues to impress. As usual great character development, excellent and often surprising plotting. An entertaining and fun ride.
August 24, 2020
This was a very satisfying wrap up of Kaje Harper's interesting and intense modern paranormal trilogy, Tracefinder.
The guys ended up a long way from where they started, but it's a good place to be. I enjoyed the ride.
The guys ended up a long way from where they started, but it's a good place to be. I enjoyed the ride.
July 31, 2025
This feels more like an extended denouement for the trilogy rather than a standalone story, but I like stories that explore the ramifications and complex compromises which follow life-altering events. The upheavals that Nick and the Kerr siblings experience in the first two books certainly qualify as life-altering.
Here, we get to see both Nick and Brian achieve equilibrium in who they want to be and who they are. It's nice to see Brian find a fulfilling job that doesn't violate his basic gentleness, while still exercising his Finding abilities for a good cause. I like that Brian finally trusts that Nick sees him as an equal. Nick's eventual career choice is probably the only possible outcome, as good a compromise as any.
Damon, through the course of the trilogy, has sort of morphed into a kind of masked superhero (or anti-hero). I think it's good that he appears so little - I think his being so "overpowered" would somehow diminish the hard-earned, "boring" work the other characters do in order to come to terms with themselves and each other.
All in all, a great trilogy that with high stakes and massive character growth. At times, it really did seem that our characters were threading the needle with an HEA almost out of the question... but in the end, Kaje Harper's ingenious plotting saved the day. :)
Here, we get to see both Nick and Brian achieve equilibrium in who they want to be and who they are. It's nice to see Brian find a fulfilling job that doesn't violate his basic gentleness, while still exercising his Finding abilities for a good cause. I like that Brian finally trusts that Nick sees him as an equal. Nick's eventual career choice is probably the only possible outcome, as good a compromise as any.
Damon, through the course of the trilogy, has sort of morphed into a kind of masked superhero (or anti-hero). I think it's good that he appears so little - I think his being so "overpowered" would somehow diminish the hard-earned, "boring" work the other characters do in order to come to terms with themselves and each other.
All in all, a great trilogy that with high stakes and massive character growth. At times, it really did seem that our characters were threading the needle with an HEA almost out of the question... but in the end, Kaje Harper's ingenious plotting saved the day. :)
October 1, 2024
Great conclusion
This series has really gripped me, and the third part didn’t let me down. Apparently I like a HEA where the MCs have to work for it, and this was no exception. Great stuff.
This series has really gripped me, and the third part didn’t let me down. Apparently I like a HEA where the MCs have to work for it, and this was no exception. Great stuff.
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