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Cassie Quinn #7

Born from Ashes

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A race against time in Savannah's sinister underworld leads Cassie Quinn on a harrowing chase, entangling her in a web of cold cases, dark secrets, and an omnipresent organization that watches her every move, threatening to unravel the very fabric of her life.

Cassie's return to Savannah was supposed to be a fresh start. Back in her beloved hometown, she's found her rhythm, juggling her roles at the museum, supporting Jason's fledgling private investigator business, and taking on a new position as a consultant for the Savannah Police Department. Yet a ghost from her past won't leave her be—Piper McLaren, an intrepid true-crime podcaster, threatens to unearth a secret Cassie wants to keep buried.

But a new mystery soon captures Cassie's an elderly woman's desperate search for her missing grandson leads Cassie and Jason to a tangled web of decade-old cold cases. The clues all point to a camp for troubled teens, a nexus of secrets and lies that could shake the very foundation of the community and destroy everything the Abbotts have worked so hard to build.

As Cassie delves deeper, the shadowy corporation known as Apex looms large, watching her every move. The more she uncovers, the more she realizes how far Apex's reach extends. They are everywhere, and they won't stop until they control everything. Cassie's pursuit of the truth puts her on a dangerous path, forcing her to make an agonizing What is she willing to sacrifice to expose Apex's dark machinations?

Join Cassie on a thrilling journey into the heart of Savannah's mysteries, where secrets are currency, trust is fragile, and every revelation could cost her everything. Will she find the strength to face the past and unravel the enigma that threatens not only her future but the lives of countless others? Dive into this gripping tale, where danger lurks in the shadows, and uncovering the truth could mean paying the ultimate price.

276 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 5, 2023

2228 people are currently reading
217 people want to read

About the author

L.T. Ryan

162 books1,442 followers
L.T. RYAN is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author. The new age of publishing offered L.T. the opportunity to blend his passions for creating, marketing, and technology to reach audiences with his popular Jack Noble series.

Living in central Virginia with his wife, the youngest of his three daughters, and their three dogs, L.T. enjoys staring out his window at the trees and mountains while he should be writing, as well as reading, hiking, running, and playing with gadgets. See what he's up to at ltryan.com.

BOOKS IN THE JACK NOBLE SERIES
The Recruit (prequel short story)
The First Deception (prequel)
Noble Beginnings
A Deadly Distance
Thin Line
Noble Intentions
When Dead in Greece
Noble Retribution
Noble Betrayal
Never Go Home
Noble Judgment
Never Cry Mercy
Deadline
End Game

BOOKS IN THE BEAR LOGAN SERIES
Ripple Effect
Blowback
Takedown
Deep State (coming January, 2020)

BOOKS IN THE CLARISSA ABBOT SERIES
Beyond Betrayal

BOOKS IN THE MITCH TANNER SERIES
The Depths of Darkness
Into the Darkness
Deliver Us From Darkness (coming soon)

Social Media Links

Facebook (L.T. Ryan): facebook.com/LTRyanAuthor
Facebook (Jack Noble Page): facebook.com/JackNobleBooks/
Twitter: twitter.com/LTRyanWrites
Goodreads: goodreads.com/author/show/6151659.L_T...

Contact L.T. Ryan at contact@ltryan.com
About the Author
L.T. RYAN is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author. The new age of publishing offered L.T. the opportunity to blend his passions for creating, marketing, and technology to reach audiences with his popular Jack Noble series.

Living in central Virginia with his wife, the youngest of his three daughters, and their three dogs, L.T. enjoys staring out his window at the trees and mountains while he should be writing, as well as reading, hiking, running, and playing with gadgets. See what he's up to at ltryan.com.

Social Media Links

Facebook (L.T. Ryan): facebook.com/LTRyanAuthor
Facebook (Jack Noble Page): facebook.com/JackNobleBooks/
Twitter: twitter.com/LTRyanWrites
Goodreads: goodreads.com/author/show/6151659.L_T...

Contact L.T. Ryan at contact@ltryan.com

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5 stars
1,487 (59%)
4 stars
770 (30%)
3 stars
194 (7%)
2 stars
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1 star
9 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Jackson Coppley.
Author 15 books55 followers
October 29, 2023
"Born from Ashes," the seventh installment in the Cassie Quinn series, manages to hold its own as a compelling murder mystery. Cassie Quinn, a consultant to the Savanah Police Department, possesses a unique ability – she see the spirits of the deceased. Surprisingly, this supernatural skill, while central in a few critical moments involving kidnap victims and murderers, doesn't dominate her crime-solving prowess.

The collaborative work of L.T. Ryan and K.M. (Karen) Rought in this series offers a distinctive perspective through Cassie Quinn's character. Rought likely provided the nuanced female viewpoint. Cassie teams up with Jason, a detective, and together, they confront adversaries who often are women.

The core of the story revolves around a serial killer who has been committing murders sporadically over a decade. What makes this killer distinctive is the unmistakable signature – each victim bears the sign of the cross in ash on their forehead and is laid to rest in a shroud, giving rise to the name "Ash Wednesday Murders."

As the narrative unfolds, the influence of a powerful publicity company named Apex becomes clear. This company boasts influential politicians among its clientele. Some of whom have deep-seated secrets that need to remain buried, both figuratively and literally.

With a plot full of unexpected twists and turns, "Born from Ashes" delivers all the elements one would anticipate in a gripping murder mystery. It a standalone gem in the Cassie Quinn series.
87 reviews
May 17, 2025
The Powerful only ever Want More Power and More Money to stay in Power

Jason is still getting his private detective business going. But his first assignments have involved lots of late nights, with hecqnd Cassie hiding in the car spying to find dirt on another person's spouse. He is almost ready to chuck it all when he finally gets his first missing person case with a grandmother ready to spend as much as it takes to find her grandson. However, when they arrived at the camp where the boy was staying when he disappeared, he was the first person Cassie saw. Of course, she was the only one who could see him. So we readers were allowed to know that he was already dead. A whole group of caring adults from counselors to detectives, psychics to reporters were all caught up trying to help the owners of this incredible campvto keep it gpimg. The leaders truly cared about the kids and even loved them, offering each of them their support and unconditional love thus givng them a safe place to grow and learn about the reasons they had terrible behavioral issues or helped those who went into crime to put food on the table for those they loved, no matter whact their problems, they were also given a chance to change, to become the person that life had not allowed them to become. So all the main characters, even Cassie's new partner, who was narcissistic and felt he was above otners, felt for these kids and their leaders. But as we learned a few books ago, there is always a group in the background that is thwarting their efforts to make the world a better place . They say they want the same thing, but Apex has decided to play God. They will do whatever upthry feel is necessary to achieve their goals. They had long ago quit trying to be right, ethical, or moral. They want complete power, and the fear that the author has carefully developed keeps the characters from stopping them. Anyone who has others whom they love will always be theirs for the picking. In Cassie's case, they have framed Jason o well, that that she had to agree as David before either of our two female heros had come upon the stage. So we readers see the trap, the problem that the characters face, while we are caught up in a similar position outside the book. How cleverly the author pulls
it all in together. And we readers are caught up in the back story, we must keep going, to find out how they win. Or at least how they figure out how to survive as they try to stop such a powerful group that only cares about becoming more powerful. Fear is the tool they use to motivate. How can this possibly be stopped? Read on my fellow readers. The book'#s the thing.
Profile Image for Donadee's Corner.
2,648 reviews64 followers
December 13, 2024
"Born from Ashes" by L.T. Ryan and K.M. Rought is the seventh installment in the Cassie Quinn series. The story follows Cassie Quinn as she returns to Savannah, hoping for a fresh start, only to be drawn into a harrowing chase through the city's sinister underworld. Cassie juggles her roles at the museum, supporting Jason's private investigator business, and consulting for the Savannah Police Department. When a true-crime podcaster threatens to unearth a secret from her past, Cassie is pulled into a web of cold cases and dark secrets. As she delves deeper, she uncovers the far-reaching influence of a shadowy organization known as Apex, which watches her every move. Cassie's pursuit of the truth puts her on a dangerous path, forcing her to confront her past and make agonizing choices to expose Apex's dark machinations.
Profile Image for Cattie Whaley.
300 reviews2 followers
June 18, 2024
Quick read

In this installment of Cassie's adventures, she's being hounded by Piper, the podcast sleuth that wants her to do an interview, helping Jason with his business as it is getting off the ground and helping out the police with a new partner. This all collides when they end up looking for the same missing kid. It was an interesting story and I liked how it all tied together. The biggest disappointment, I feel, is that they aren't focusing as much on her "skill" as they have in the past. I really like the paranormal aspect of her gift so the fact they are relying on it less, bums me out. Good read, nonetheless
Profile Image for Gail.
562 reviews1 follower
September 20, 2023
Exciting, intriguing thriller!

Another excellent Cassie Quinn mystery/thriller! This is an unputdownable book. L.T. Ryan and K.M. Rought have expertly crafted this book to keep your attention throughout to see what will happen next! The surprises, twist and turns make this book more compelling and interesting to try to figure out who is murdering children and why! I look forward to the next book! If you like thrilling mysteries with paranormal, you should really like this book. Happy reading! 😊
48 reviews
September 25, 2023
Little Insight for All That Introspecting

Clearly more K.M. Rought than L.T. Ryan ; more emotion examination than plot drive. But charming in its own way. While several moves by the protagonists are exasperatingly ill-conceived they do generate drama. Our dead case file clerk was a shallow diversion and Det. Stone's cardboard character would blow over in a not too stiff wind. And the build-up of the arch villain Apex doesn't miss a cliche: omnipresent, all-powerful, irredeemably evil. "What do you want from me Blowfeldt?" " Why nothing, Mr. Bond. I want you to die. "
Profile Image for Janet.
92 reviews
February 10, 2025
Surprise!

At times I felt like Cassie's and Jason's investigation was too slow. And then we'd be right back in the thick of investigation with surprises, twists and turns creating new challenges! It was almost like a roller coaster with the highs and lows, fast ups and downs. But, there was no greater surprise than the ending! Cassie and Jason solve their case, no doubt. In the end a new challenge rises up for Cassie to face. You won't be disappointed when you read Born From Ashes but, be sure you have the next book in this series ready at your fingertips!
Profile Image for Teresa.
1,120 reviews6 followers
September 21, 2023
Crooked company

When a new client requests they search for her grandson, Cassie and Jason are happy to look into it. Little did they know that this case would have so many pieces, be impacted by politics, and provide such a threat to Jason. Apex, a powerful security company, has promised to frame Jason for murdering the Ash Wednesday serial killer. All Apex wants is for Cassie to work for them. Is there anything Cassie can do to bring Apex down, from the inside?
Profile Image for Bianca.
987 reviews5 followers
October 11, 2023
A great read

I hesitated to start this book seeing that another is coming out next year so I knew I would be left on some kind of cliffhanger. I wonder how many is left in this series. Since reading some of the Hatch series it seems that this author likes using the big, shadowy corporation that moves things behind the scenes. I'm really anxious to see how they'll rap this up and whether it will be a satisfying ending.
36 reviews
February 17, 2024
Oh my goodness

This is another nail bitter. Cassie and Jason are given a lot of cash from an old grandmother wanting them to find her missing grandson. Jason had almost given up hope of his newly P.I. career when the case came his way. This book is filled with so many twists and turns you will think that you are riding a roller coaster. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes to try to solve murder mysteries.
Profile Image for Gale Albright.
2,936 reviews19 followers
September 7, 2023
These Cassie Quinn murder mystery books, just get better and better. I love the characters in this book, but I especially love how they interact and care about one another. I am really looking forward to the next book to see where the author takes us next. My heart broke in several places, but I was glad that there was finally closure in some areas. As for Apex what a disgusting corporation!
13 reviews
September 10, 2023
Another winner!

What can I say? Kept twisting and turning. I thought I knew who it was then, nope. Not that person. Cassie is good but not perfect and I like that. Good characters all around. Now I have to wait and wait and wait for the next one. Thank goodness ) L.T. Ryan has more series I enjoy as well!
Profile Image for Karla Thompson.
374 reviews2 followers
September 15, 2023
Fabulous, as always!

Love Cassie and Jason. This story was wild and exciting. You never know what dark twist is around the next corner. I just kept turning pages as this mystery unfolded! Well done! Can't wait for the next one. I am looking forward to Apex being burned to the ground!
30 reviews
December 24, 2023
Great Book

All Classics Quinn's books were great. You didn't want to put them down, they kept you on the edge of your seat. When I read the first book I didn't think I would like them but the more I read the more I was drawn in and couldn't put them down. Can't wait for the next one in August.
207 reviews
March 4, 2024
serial killer special

This book was not only about a serial killer, but also about Casey and her relationships with people around her.

It was a very interesting book but I do miss Casey interacting more with the dead. That is fascinating to me that the dead are still hanging around.

Looking forward to the next in the series.
Profile Image for Laurel Perkins.
274 reviews3 followers
July 30, 2024
Another Exciting Page Turner

Cassie Quinn, medium and detective extraordinaire! I love these books. Haven't found one I didn't burn through yet. Well developed characters and storyline. Exciting all the way through. Can't wait for the next one. I just hope Harris is back on the front line. Good stuff!
Profile Image for Shelbylynne.
121 reviews
September 10, 2023
Wow...

I did not see the ending coming. I figured out Whodunit pretty early on, but outside of the case, what happened to Cassie and Jason completely surprised me. I'm very curious how this is going to play out in the next book.
Profile Image for Brenna.
6 reviews
September 15, 2023
I love these books. What Cassie can do it both interesting and sad. She uses it for good though and I really respect her character. The only thing I have to say that’s negative is that the books are too short and that the release dates are too far apart.
Profile Image for Carol Michael.
104 reviews1 follower
September 29, 2023
thrilling

As always Cassie and Jason’s cases are so thrilling and suspenseful. It’s heartbreaking when she works with those that have been tortured and killed to find their killers. Unputdownable I can’t wait for their next case to see how they take down Apex
Profile Image for Michael.
573 reviews8 followers
October 12, 2023
The fight against Apex heats up!

Interesting plot twists and good character development. A couple of typos don't take away from the story. Good reading that will keep your attention.
Profile Image for Katherine.
1,217 reviews5 followers
October 19, 2023
3.5 Stars

A twisty murder mystery with paranormal and evil politically motivated big wealthy corporation trying to control the headlines story. There are things I like about this story, but I really liked the first four books in the series the best, so far.
28 reviews
January 23, 2024
Cassie Quinn takes moves to avoid Apex but..

The story moves at a good pace with enough references to prior book to make the story pull multiple books together and in a manner that is stretch but still plausible.
28 reviews
February 4, 2024
Amazing

I have read all the Cassie Quinn series. I particularly enjoyed Born from Ashes. I could not put the book down. I will definitely recommend the book to family and friends!
Profile Image for Todd Boggs.
37 reviews
February 26, 2024
Super solid read. Cassie Quinn finally, oops, don’t want to give that away. But wow. What a story and an ending. LT Ryan has me hooked. Now I’m caught up on Cassie and waiting for August release of the next in this series. Have to admit, I’m kinda excited for the next one now.
728 reviews1 follower
May 29, 2024
An interesting series

An interesting series but more like a continuing story. Definitely start from the beginning to fully understand what is going on. Paranormal but not really scary.
17 reviews1 follower
June 22, 2024
Great story line!

Love the story line and the passion with which it is written. Cassie's story has a lot of characters, some with very small roles. Too often I have to go back to remind myself who a character is and how they fit.
Profile Image for Robin Sizemore-Stewart.
178 reviews2 followers
August 7, 2024
Although I love this series, this one wasn’t a page Turner or as exciting as some of the other in the series are. Still worth the read to keep up with the long-term series plot. Looking forward to the next in line.
210 reviews1 follower
August 13, 2024
Born from Ashes

These books by L. T. Ryan only get better and better.. This book has it all, kidnapping, murder, and suspense. Our hero Cassie gets
slot of info, exciting it doesn't seem to help her solve the murders. The ending is surprising.
75 reviews1 follower
February 11, 2025
Love this series

I really enjoy this series. I read it and I can see the characters in my head. Cassie has went through alot . Now she has to go through more crud because of that Apex group. Hopefully she takes them down next book, especially that Anastasia woman.
Profile Image for Patricia A. Biba.
395 reviews1 follower
December 5, 2025
Children

The story was interesting because it addressed problem children and how they are treated. At least they verified who the killer was and stopped what they thought would be another death.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews

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