Quick Study is the third book in the Murder 101 Mystery Series featuring professor Alison Bergeron. While participating in community service (as a result of an incident that occurred in Extracurricular Activities, book two), Alison befriends Hernan and his family. Needing painting done in her home, Alison hires Hernan and his nephew Jose. When Jose goes missing, Hernan reluctantly seeks Alison’s help.

Little does Alison know her police detective boyfriend, Crawford, has been assigned to a John Doe case. A man’s body was found floating in the river. Convinced it’s Jose, Alison begins to investigate on her own. As she delves deeper into Jose’s disappearance she uncovers a world of illegal workers and their employers. Can Alison solve the mystery before the killer stops her?

As much as I enjoy this series, I have to say Quick Study fell flat for me. The back and forth between Alison and Crawford’s relationship, the convenient run-ins Alison has with Jack, the man she dated while on she and Crawford were on a break, and the slow-moving plot, stalled my interest. I found myself skimming pages just to learn the killer’s identity. Towards the end, my interest started to peak just a bit when Max, Alison’s best friend, makes a surprising confession.

Despite my opinion about this book, other readers feel differently as it currently has a 4.5 star rating on Amazon.com. Hopefully my excitement for this series returns again with book four, Final Exam. ( )