Title: Encounters of the Raven and the All-Father
Title: Embracing Primordial Shadows: Baxter Kincaid and the Odin Society's Bloody Rituals
Setting foot in the world of Ethan Cross's latest thrilling masterpiece, "Racheritual," listeners should brace themselves for an adventure-filled journey. "Racheritual," masterfully narrated by genre-maven Sascha Rotermund, and published by Piper and Hamburg Audiobooks, is a rollercoaster ride through the streets of San Francisco. Simply put, "Racheritual" is an electrifying exploration of crime and darkness.
The anticipation surrounding Ethan Cross, a celebrated author renowned for his chilling thrillers, is always high. The dark and twisted narrative surrounding serial killer Frances Ackerman Jr. has truly set the bar high. Cross doesn't disappoint with his latest offering - the bold, witty, and humorous portrayal of private investigator Baxter Kincaid.
The Modern Viking Detective
Baxter Kincaid is an ex-cop detective resigned from the San Francisco police department and now plunges headfirst into solving the enigma of the "Ravenkiller" - a serial killer with a penchant for ritualistic murders. The investigative duo has long been pursuing this mysterious killer, who meticulously removes the victim's hearts and carves runic symbols from the Nordic mythology onto their foreheads. Historically the rich and pompous leader of the Odin Society, Steinar Hagen, is their top suspect. Hagen is a father of three children raised with the strict traditions and beliefs of the Norse gods. Unfortunately, the picture of a happy childhood seems distant for his offspring.
The series begins when a suspenseful anonymous tip leads to Hagen's incarceration. The evidence, however, is circumstantial, at best - the carved runes and hearts of the victims are found under an altar in his sanctum. Despite the uncertainty, Hagen is sentenced to serve time, closing the chapter on the case.
A Duo Against All Odds
Baxter Kincaid's personal and professional life improve as he becomes a successful private detective. He loves his daily walks through the city and the salutations he shares with the locals nerby his humble apartment in San Francisco. Surprisingly, his appearance betrays his demeanor - he sports an old Casio watch and adores a first pressing of Pink Floyd's "Dark Side of the Moon," reminiscing of his past.
Onboard his private investigation boat, Baxter Kincaid collaborates with his invaluable ally - Corinne Campbell, the indomitable, tiny private investigator who conveys strength with every move and word she utters. Regardless of her petite stature, she is no stranger to violence. Corinne's command over martial arts such as Krav Maga and Mixed Martial Arts potently manifests fighters' dread as soon as they cross paths.
A Struggle From the Shadows
Suddenly rumors of Hagen's possible involvement in the Ravenkiller's reemergence resurface during a judicial proceeding. When Hagen breaks free and flees during his parole hearing, a bloodthirsty rampage ensues. A macabre quest for immortality and a place in Valhalla's hallowed halls follows. The Hagen family's name is poised to become infamous as the odious antagonist commits an appalling massacre.
Unsurprisingly, Baxter Kincaid and Corinne find themselves drawn into this twisted game of bloodlust, leaving them cornered and fighting for survival in an intricately woven pit of half-naked pagans armed with axes and swords, liberally sprinkled with terrified Christian families caught in the crossfire. The odyssey of Team Kincaid persists, wracked with irregular conflict but fueled by a single-minded determination for justice and survival. Only time will tell if Cross can discreetly end this battle in the sequel.
In the midst of their investigation, Baxter Kincaid and Corinne Campbell are met with a shocking question from a skeptical officer: "- What? You're pointing fingers at Steinar Hagen again?"
As the hunt for the Ravenkiller intensifies, Baxter Kincaid can't help but ponder: "- What if Hagen really is innocent this time?"
