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Lt. Kate Gazzara #1
Jasmine
It was late Friday evening when they discovered the body. The girl had been in the concrete pipe for more than a week. The daytime temperatures were hitting 120 degrees. It was the stench that drew the kids to her. Who was she? Who put her there? Who… killed her? It’s Kate Gazzara’s first case, a mind-bending riddle, and as if that wasn’t enough, she has a new partner to cope with. Check out this gripping, fast-paced thriller. The first in the new Harry Starke spin-off series featuring street-smart Lieutenant Kate Gazzara and a cast of fascinating characters, including the man himself, Harry Starke, and several other old friends. Grab your copy now.
220 pages, ebook
Published September 6, 2017
800 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
About the author
Blair Howard
291 books345 followersBlair C. Howard is a Royal Air Force veteran, a retired journalist, and the best-selling author of more than 50 novels, including the international best-selling Harry Starke series, and 23 travel books. In 2021, having been fascinated by the heavens almost from childhood, and a SciFi fan for almost as long, he decided to try his hand at writing a military space opera. His first journey into this genre resulted in the Sovereign Stars series. Book 1 in the series, Avenger was quickly followed by Gods of War and Armored Fleet.
Blair lives in East Tennessee with his wife Jo, and Jack Russell Terrier, Sally.
Blair lives in East Tennessee with his wife Jo, and Jack Russell Terrier, Sally.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
June 11, 2022
A spin off of the Harry Starke series, this series features Kate Gazzara, Harry's former partner, in more ways than one.
She catches a case of a female corpse found in concrete pipe during a heat wave. She has to break in a new partner, and as usual, her superiors are on her case.
Pretty decent. Adds a new dimension to the Harry Starke universe.
She catches a case of a female corpse found in concrete pipe during a heat wave. She has to break in a new partner, and as usual, her superiors are on her case.
Pretty decent. Adds a new dimension to the Harry Starke universe.
February 3, 2023
This book was about Kate Gazzara who's a sergeant in homicide. After her partner Harry leaves the force, she's dealing with a new partner and her first homicide being in charge. Her first homicide is of a teenage girl and it's made priority.
Review: I found the book to be pretty cut and dry. A good decent procedural. My only issue was that Kate Gazzara was not likeable. She seemed to be a hard ass but also very much a bitch. She was so hard on Det Tracy, her assigned partner. The poor guy couldn't do anything right. I absolutely disliked Kate. I found Detective Tracy to be likable. He seemed kind and hard working a smart ass but decent guy. I found myself feeling sorry for him. Ugh. Other than Kate being a bitch, the book was pretty good. I don't think it's the best I've read but decently enough. It had the good investigation to it. Pretty thorough. The only character I liked was Tracy.
I give this a four for a good mystery cop book. It wasn't thrilling or gripping though. It's just fast flowing. Short chapters.
Review: I found the book to be pretty cut and dry. A good decent procedural. My only issue was that Kate Gazzara was not likeable. She seemed to be a hard ass but also very much a bitch. She was so hard on Det Tracy, her assigned partner. The poor guy couldn't do anything right. I absolutely disliked Kate. I found Detective Tracy to be likable. He seemed kind and hard working a smart ass but decent guy. I found myself feeling sorry for him. Ugh. Other than Kate being a bitch, the book was pretty good. I don't think it's the best I've read but decently enough. It had the good investigation to it. Pretty thorough. The only character I liked was Tracy.
I give this a four for a good mystery cop book. It wasn't thrilling or gripping though. It's just fast flowing. Short chapters.
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May 20, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/20/2021)! 🎁
October 30, 2017
Great expansion of the Harry Starke series
I have enjoyed every Harry Starke book so just had to try Kate's first single.
A bit disorienting to find Harry and Kate a thing again, but it is several years behind in time and covers the first case Kate lead on after Harry left the force.
You get the pleasure of revisiting almost all you old friends. Doc Sheddon, Mike in forensics, Chief Johnston and naturally Harry himself.
The case itself is complex and entertaining as always in one of Blair Howard's books.
A great companion and hopefully the first of many Kate titles.
I have enjoyed every Harry Starke book so just had to try Kate's first single.
A bit disorienting to find Harry and Kate a thing again, but it is several years behind in time and covers the first case Kate lead on after Harry left the force.
You get the pleasure of revisiting almost all you old friends. Doc Sheddon, Mike in forensics, Chief Johnston and naturally Harry himself.
The case itself is complex and entertaining as always in one of Blair Howard's books.
A great companion and hopefully the first of many Kate titles.
July 2, 2022
Jasmine by Blair Howard is the first book in the Lt. Kate Gazzara Mystery series. Lt. Kate Gazzara's first case as lead detective is the body of a young girl found in a concrete pipe. This is the first book I read by this author but apparently it is a spin off another series. It did not affect my enjoyment of the book as I got to know the characters quickly. I liked Kate who is smart, determined and capable but still floundering a little in her new role. A quick solve to a baffling case and an enjoyable start to the series.
October 14, 2017
This is book one in the Lt. Kate Gazzara Novel Series. Blaire Howard doesn't disappoint with this book. It's fast paced and action packed. No shortage of suspense or surprises. Well written with a page turning storyline and captivating characters. A great read. I received an advance reader copy and voluntarily chose to review this book.
February 17, 2019
Kate’s first case on her own since Harry Starke, her former partner, left the force. Eager to prove herself and stuck with a new partner that is more a hindrance than a help she must wind her way through this twisty plot to find the killer. Another great book from this author. I definitely recommend this one.
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November 25, 2019Author gift BookFunnel
August 3, 2020
Jasmine had the potential to be a really good book. But, the main character Kate is not a very likable character. The case that was being investigated was very interesting. Listening to the audio version Angel Clark didn't do a good job with many of the characters voices. I will definitely read another book by Blair Howard. But, it probably won't be the audio version or the same main character.
October 2, 2019
Totally suspenseful all the way. Poor Kate. For her first detective job , she gets a really tough one. She proves herself quite capable in solving it.
October 7, 2017
Jasmine
A Lieutenant Gazzara Novel
By Blair Howard
Do you like reading a novel where you already know one of the main characters? Do you like reading a who-dun-it? If you answered yes to either of these questions then this novel is for you.
I have already read six novels in the Harry Starke Series. I finished the first in July of this year and the sixth just the other day. I eagerly await the next in the series.
Jasmine’s main character, Kate Gazzara, was introduced in the Harry Starke series. Now I am getting her back story and getting to see her in action from her point of view and not Harry’s.
Harry and Kate once worked together, once were lovers. In this novel they no longer work together but they are still lovers. Harry and Kate used to be partners in the police department; with him being the lead and her the second in command. With Harry no longer working for the department Kate is now the lead and in her first case she is questioning her abilities.
In Jasmine we get to “work” a case with Kate and try to figure out which of the characters play a major role and who killed Jasmine. This novel is an easy read. From the very first chapter I wanted to keep going; not put it down until I lived the entire case with Kate and discovered who actually committed the murder.
If you have never read any novels by Blair Howard, let this be your first. I guarantee you it won’t be your last.
10.06.17
A Lieutenant Gazzara Novel
By Blair Howard
Do you like reading a novel where you already know one of the main characters? Do you like reading a who-dun-it? If you answered yes to either of these questions then this novel is for you.
I have already read six novels in the Harry Starke Series. I finished the first in July of this year and the sixth just the other day. I eagerly await the next in the series.
Jasmine’s main character, Kate Gazzara, was introduced in the Harry Starke series. Now I am getting her back story and getting to see her in action from her point of view and not Harry’s.
Harry and Kate once worked together, once were lovers. In this novel they no longer work together but they are still lovers. Harry and Kate used to be partners in the police department; with him being the lead and her the second in command. With Harry no longer working for the department Kate is now the lead and in her first case she is questioning her abilities.
In Jasmine we get to “work” a case with Kate and try to figure out which of the characters play a major role and who killed Jasmine. This novel is an easy read. From the very first chapter I wanted to keep going; not put it down until I lived the entire case with Kate and discovered who actually committed the murder.
If you have never read any novels by Blair Howard, let this be your first. I guarantee you it won’t be your last.
10.06.17
September 11, 2017
Loved the book! A little back tracking from the Harry Starke series, but some nostalgia with some of the same characters. Jasmine is Lt. Kate Gazzara's first case after Harry leave the police department to strike out on his own. A gritty crime novel with just enough action for Kate's first murder case without Harry by her side. Although Harry Starke is still in the picture, Kate does this one on her own. Great insight into her character! A fantastic story. Great job Blair Howard, you bet this fan will continue following your career. For those that need to know, although I didn't get this posted yesterday as I had planned, I did receive an ARC copy for a fair and honest review. Being an ARC ready is an honor and a pleasure, I've yet to be disappointed. If you like a good "cops and robber" (usually murder's in this case) you can't go wrong with Blair Howard's books.
October 17, 2017
I loved this book. It is the backstory of Lt Kate Gazzara, introduced in the Harry Starke novels. This book tells of their relationship and follows Kate on her first case alone after Harry quit the police force. We saw her detective skills in the Harry Stark series. Here we see Kate as a strong heroine who deserves her own series. She is a bad-ass which is evident in her first meeting with new partner John "Dick" Tracy. The mystery in this book, the disappearance of Jasmine, has many twists and turns as a good mystery should. I like Mr Howard's style of writing and I look forward to reading more about Kate. I would like to thank the author for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for this review, which is my honest review. If I didn't like the book I would tell you. If you like mysteries with a strong female lead, you will like this book,
December 17, 2018
Another excellent book by Blair Howard. Missed at freshwAter Kate and Harry Stark solving the crime but Kate came back alone with a new partner. Kate continued to.be an excellent police offer and solve the murder of Jasmine with ease after talking with Harry about the case now that he has retired. A Fantastic.story with.the death of a young girl lots of action excellent story. Will continue to follow this author and read all.his books.
June 3, 2019
AWESOME. AWESOME READ!!
ABSOLUTELY LOVE Blair Howard's books!!
Whether it's a Kate Gazzara or Harry Starke book, the reader will find, it's hard to l lay down these books, until the end. Then wanting more...lol.
A young girl is found, brutally murdered and Kate is the Detective handed the case. Kate, with her not so brilliant assistant, must make their way thru the multiple possibilities to find out, who did the deed!
If you love "who done it's" this is a book for you!!
ABSOLUTELY LOVE Blair Howard's books!!
Whether it's a Kate Gazzara or Harry Starke book, the reader will find, it's hard to l lay down these books, until the end. Then wanting more...lol.
A young girl is found, brutally murdered and Kate is the Detective handed the case. Kate, with her not so brilliant assistant, must make their way thru the multiple possibilities to find out, who did the deed!
If you love "who done it's" this is a book for you!!
July 3, 2018
This is Kate's first murder after Harry left the police force. She is assigned an a** for a partner. She's nervous without Harry there but she closes the case in record time. To tell you the truth, I always wanted her and Harry to get together instead of Amanda so it's nice that these stories go back to the time when they were together. Very good book!
June 22, 2019
"Wow! Very Compelling"
I read and listened to the audio and was amazed how entertaining I found this murder mystery. Here Lt. Kate Gazzaro takes on the case of a murdered girl. She had been shoved into a concrete pipe, not found until days later. There are no clues but Kate is determined. This is a great investigative novel, very compelling.
I read and listened to the audio and was amazed how entertaining I found this murder mystery. Here Lt. Kate Gazzaro takes on the case of a murdered girl. She had been shoved into a concrete pipe, not found until days later. There are no clues but Kate is determined. This is a great investigative novel, very compelling.
August 28, 2020
Disclaimer: I received a free audiobook version of this book.
One thing, I'll note, is that there were times what the narrator said didn’t quite match up to what I was reading in the kindle version of the book.
For example, “....I told Doc I’d see him in the morning and left.” from the audiobook VS “...I told Doc I’d see him in the morning, and then I too left the site.” (p.7) in the kindle version. The changes were minor, but as I was reading along it got a bit annoying. I can’t verify if the paperback version is different, but both the kindle and paperback were published in September 2017 and I don’t see any disclaimer saying the kindle version was reworked. So, I don’t know why there are these differences.
The main character isn’t very likable. For example, Katie grabbed her new partner by the testicles because he referred to her by “Katie” instead of “Sergeant”. She had the gall, after that clearly unprofessional behavior, to call him out on not acting professionally (he was being unprofessional admittedly). Honestly, I’m pretty critical of police procedurals that show cops acting badly as if that is a good thing. For goodness’ sake, after this scene the whole room of cops applauded her behavior.
Overall, I wasn’t impressed with the progression of the investigation. At times, it felt like the story was an advertisement for the other series this author writes, with our main lead talking about how amazing Harry was.
The narration was okay. Although, there were some voices that grated on my ears (but frankly voices are super subjective and I’ve liked voices others have found annoying and vice-versa so that doesn’t really hold much weight).
I’m pretty glad I didn’t spend money on this audiobook. It was not for me.
One thing, I'll note, is that there were times what the narrator said didn’t quite match up to what I was reading in the kindle version of the book.
For example, “....I told Doc I’d see him in the morning and left.” from the audiobook VS “...I told Doc I’d see him in the morning, and then I too left the site.” (p.7) in the kindle version. The changes were minor, but as I was reading along it got a bit annoying. I can’t verify if the paperback version is different, but both the kindle and paperback were published in September 2017 and I don’t see any disclaimer saying the kindle version was reworked. So, I don’t know why there are these differences.
The main character isn’t very likable. For example, Katie grabbed her new partner by the testicles because he referred to her by “Katie” instead of “Sergeant”. She had the gall, after that clearly unprofessional behavior, to call him out on not acting professionally (he was being unprofessional admittedly). Honestly, I’m pretty critical of police procedurals that show cops acting badly as if that is a good thing. For goodness’ sake, after this scene the whole room of cops applauded her behavior.
Overall, I wasn’t impressed with the progression of the investigation. At times, it felt like the story was an advertisement for the other series this author writes, with our main lead talking about how amazing Harry was.
The narration was okay. Although, there were some voices that grated on my ears (but frankly voices are super subjective and I’ve liked voices others have found annoying and vice-versa so that doesn’t really hold much weight).
I’m pretty glad I didn’t spend money on this audiobook. It was not for me.
February 13, 2021
( Format : Audiobook )
"She was a good girl."
I have long enjoyed the Harry Starks books by Blaire Howard, so was familiar with Kate Gazzara, his partner who remained in the police force after he had left. So it is interesting to read about her, how she felt about the changes relationship and her cases after she made lead detective when he was gone. The book starts with a missing person case and the unpleasant discovery of a body in a pipe, and it proves to be a tough call for Kate as she tries to untangle truth and lies on this her first case as lead. Fortunately, she still had Harry to offer advice - if she was prepared to ask for it.
An enjoyable murder myystery, but without the sheer panache of the Harry Starks books. But it's early days yet. Narration was by Angel Clark and she gave a fine performance with pleasing timbre, clearly enunciated and with individual character voicings. The story is told, first person, from Kate's point of view so it is important that the reader chosen is a perfect fit. For me, she wasn't the Late I had pictured in my head from the Harry Starks stories, but, again, early days.
My thanks to Audio books Unleashed from whom, at my request, I received a freely gifted complimentary copy of Jasmine.
"She was a good girl."
I have long enjoyed the Harry Starks books by Blaire Howard, so was familiar with Kate Gazzara, his partner who remained in the police force after he had left. So it is interesting to read about her, how she felt about the changes relationship and her cases after she made lead detective when he was gone. The book starts with a missing person case and the unpleasant discovery of a body in a pipe, and it proves to be a tough call for Kate as she tries to untangle truth and lies on this her first case as lead. Fortunately, she still had Harry to offer advice - if she was prepared to ask for it.
An enjoyable murder myystery, but without the sheer panache of the Harry Starks books. But it's early days yet. Narration was by Angel Clark and she gave a fine performance with pleasing timbre, clearly enunciated and with individual character voicings. The story is told, first person, from Kate's point of view so it is important that the reader chosen is a perfect fit. For me, she wasn't the Late I had pictured in my head from the Harry Starks stories, but, again, early days.
My thanks to Audio books Unleashed from whom, at my request, I received a freely gifted complimentary copy of Jasmine.
October 27, 2021
This is an excellent mystery. Perfect example of police following proper procedures. Nailing down evidence. Canvassing the neighborhood of the crime. Talking to family members and identifying possible suspects. Sergeant Kate Gazzara is on her own after her long-time partner, Harry Starke, retires. She stays in touch with him since they are romantically involved, and he provides her moral support for this, her first case.
The victim is an 18-year-old girl who was first reported missing, and then found dead. It's a gruesome scene, and Kate's new partner, John Tracy, loses it during the autopsy. All of Kate's relationships are genuine. Her friends are members of the police force and they all seem to like her...except her new partner, who is a jerk. I loved seeing the way she handled the relationship that was thrust upon her by her boss, the chief of police.
Well the story is full of details of the police work that went into solving the crime, and it is well worth the time to get into those details. On a lighter note, Kate and Harry have a lovely and steamy relationship that provides a welcome distraction from the police work. I loved the entire story!
The victim is an 18-year-old girl who was first reported missing, and then found dead. It's a gruesome scene, and Kate's new partner, John Tracy, loses it during the autopsy. All of Kate's relationships are genuine. Her friends are members of the police force and they all seem to like her...except her new partner, who is a jerk. I loved seeing the way she handled the relationship that was thrust upon her by her boss, the chief of police.
Well the story is full of details of the police work that went into solving the crime, and it is well worth the time to get into those details. On a lighter note, Kate and Harry have a lovely and steamy relationship that provides a welcome distraction from the police work. I loved the entire story!
October 28, 2021
When a girl is found in a concrete pipe it is up to Kate Gazzara to find out who did it and why. It is her first case, without her partner Harry Starke and with a new partner to cope with.
Because of the heat in the pipe it is difficult to set an estimated time of death. Kate misses some clues but with a little help of Harry, who she still dates, she tries to solve this case. Will she find the killer and the reason why the girl is killed?
The chapters are of a good length and all written in a well-read manner. From the beginning you feel the urge to find the truth and killer together with Kate.
The characters are believable and it's not difficult to empathize with Kate.
She is not a superwoman who solves the case without any efforts and all along the story you can read her thoughts which also makes her more human.
Besides the suspense there is also some humor in the story which makes it all more realistic.
Overall Jasmine is a very good beginning of a new serie with Kate Gazzara as main character.
I've received a free copy of Jasmine (thank you for that) and leave my review voluntarily and honestly.
Because of the heat in the pipe it is difficult to set an estimated time of death. Kate misses some clues but with a little help of Harry, who she still dates, she tries to solve this case. Will she find the killer and the reason why the girl is killed?
The chapters are of a good length and all written in a well-read manner. From the beginning you feel the urge to find the truth and killer together with Kate.
The characters are believable and it's not difficult to empathize with Kate.
She is not a superwoman who solves the case without any efforts and all along the story you can read her thoughts which also makes her more human.
Besides the suspense there is also some humor in the story which makes it all more realistic.
Overall Jasmine is a very good beginning of a new serie with Kate Gazzara as main character.
I've received a free copy of Jasmine (thank you for that) and leave my review voluntarily and honestly.
June 22, 2021
Jasmine tells the story of Kate Gazzara’s first case without Harry Starke as her partner, and it’s a great story. However, Kate is not a very nice person. Her treatment of her new partner, in spite of his reputation, which may be well deserved, includes a blatant act of sexual harassment as well as her being just plain old mean and rude. Whether or not he’s a dick, it doesn’t excuse her actions. She never gives him a chance. And he’s not the only one she’s mean to. There is also a tragic event towards the end of the book that could have and should have been prevented if Kate had been more on top of things.
The narrator gives Kate a soft Southern accent which seems contrary to her harsh character but is actually somewhat fitting when you think about it. I had gotten so used to the voice from the Harry Starke books, that it took some getting used to. She does a nice job with the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook. This is my honest and voluntary review.
The narrator gives Kate a soft Southern accent which seems contrary to her harsh character but is actually somewhat fitting when you think about it. I had gotten so used to the voice from the Harry Starke books, that it took some getting used to. She does a nice job with the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook. This is my honest and voluntary review.
September 5, 2019
Another Blair Howard page turner. With Harry Starke having left the police force, Kate is now heading up her first murder investigation and is partnered up with a former narcotics undercover officer, who she finds impossible to work with. A young woman is found stuffed in a pipe in a quarry and Kate sets out to unravel the mystery. First up is discovering who the young woman is. The girl's father has his own idea about who is responsible and throws a lot of anger and suspicion on the neighbor who just might be innocent. Through all the twists and turns, Kate works through the few clues she has, trying desperately not to get too much help from Harry, although she does bounce things off of him, and he does hint at ways to move forward. But in the end, Kate finally solves her first murder and dispatches her new partner back to narcotics.
November 3, 2019
In looking over some of the previous reviews, I've concluded that it may not be a bad thing that I started with this book instead of the Harry Starke novels. I didn't have any preconceived notions of Kate and therefore didn't have the issues with her character that other readers seem to have. I enjoyed this story as an introduction to Kate Gazzara; learning her personality, watching her getting her feet wet as a new lead detective. I could have done without the character of Detective Tracy though. He didn't seem to have a single redeeming characteristic. And I did have a problem with the way Kate "handled" him the first time. That just seemed a little out there to me. But who knows; maybe a police department functions that way. I look forward to reading more books in this series and then moving on to the Harry Starke series.
September 22, 2020
This is the 3rd book in the starter series and has Kate beginning her career without Harry at her side. In this story, a girl's boody is found in a quarry inside a pipe. Kate gets a new partner who she instantly sees as a problem. Since he came from narcotics, his clothing was not appropriate.
Kate was lead detective for the 1st time on this case. She pursued what little clues she had since the body was found at a location other than the site of the killing. She was not getting any help from her new partner at all and he was more of a hinderance. Even with the lack of clues, Kate plunged onward and ultimately discovered an item which brought all of the pieces together. In this one she was able to do it herself except for the one hint Harry gave her.
To find out how the hint led to the solving of the case and who the murderer was, then you must read this book.
Kate was lead detective for the 1st time on this case. She pursued what little clues she had since the body was found at a location other than the site of the killing. She was not getting any help from her new partner at all and he was more of a hinderance. Even with the lack of clues, Kate plunged onward and ultimately discovered an item which brought all of the pieces together. In this one she was able to do it herself except for the one hint Harry gave her.
To find out how the hint led to the solving of the case and who the murderer was, then you must read this book.
April 16, 2021
Jasmine - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Introducing Lieutenant Kate Gazzara (previously as a love interest, in the other great Blair Howard Harry Starke series), now as a main character in her own, having moved up the Chattanooga PD Homicide (following Harry's 'retirement'), she's the go-to officer to attend the discovery of young Jasmine's body, (found in a construction site pipe, although murdered elsewhere), along with her new partner, Detective Tracey, (aka 'Dick'), appointed by Kate's Nemesis, Chief Henry Finkle.
It's Kate's first outing as lead investigator, though she's aided somewhat by Harry, whom she's kept in touch with, but she pulls through in the end by believing enough in herself to catch the killer.
Can you work out who he is, ahead of Kate and Detective Tracey's grande denouement?
Get your copy of Blair Howard's Jasmine, to check if you got it right first time!
Introducing Lieutenant Kate Gazzara (previously as a love interest, in the other great Blair Howard Harry Starke series), now as a main character in her own, having moved up the Chattanooga PD Homicide (following Harry's 'retirement'), she's the go-to officer to attend the discovery of young Jasmine's body, (found in a construction site pipe, although murdered elsewhere), along with her new partner, Detective Tracey, (aka 'Dick'), appointed by Kate's Nemesis, Chief Henry Finkle.
It's Kate's first outing as lead investigator, though she's aided somewhat by Harry, whom she's kept in touch with, but she pulls through in the end by believing enough in herself to catch the killer.
Can you work out who he is, ahead of Kate and Detective Tracey's grande denouement?
Get your copy of Blair Howard's Jasmine, to check if you got it right first time!
September 13, 2021
A detective series spin-off with a strong female lead…
Lt. Kate Gazzara, formerly Harry Starke’s partner in solving crime and part-time lover, is now working her own case and refusing to rely on Harry’s expertise. While dealing with a less than cooperative and experienced new partner, she is determined to get justice for the death of a young girl. With accusations and her own suspicions but no hard evidence she follows her gut and uncovers the clues she was missing that lead her in the right direction. I like Kate’s character and can see this series developing and enabling her to solve more crimes with confidence but can she endure her bosses’ arrogance? We’ll have to see where her story takes her but meanwhile this is another good addition to Blair Howard’s extensive repertoire of mystery novels.
Lt. Kate Gazzara, formerly Harry Starke’s partner in solving crime and part-time lover, is now working her own case and refusing to rely on Harry’s expertise. While dealing with a less than cooperative and experienced new partner, she is determined to get justice for the death of a young girl. With accusations and her own suspicions but no hard evidence she follows her gut and uncovers the clues she was missing that lead her in the right direction. I like Kate’s character and can see this series developing and enabling her to solve more crimes with confidence but can she endure her bosses’ arrogance? We’ll have to see where her story takes her but meanwhile this is another good addition to Blair Howard’s extensive repertoire of mystery novels.
October 31, 2017
Great Intro to Kate (and Harry)
I had previously read the first novel in the Harry Starke series. This book provides the backstory to the Kate and Harry relationship.
This is worthwhile reading on its own. The author (Blair) does great work of developing Kate's character while solving a tough mystery. The twists and turns are believable but not always foreseeable.
This was a relatively short read (part of a red-eye flight from coast-to-coast). Even though I was tired, I couldn’t stop reading until it was done. Then, I got some sleep. :)
If you haven't read the Harry Starke books, this also gives you a reason to get interested in them.
I look forward to seeing Kate in future adventures.
Disclaimer: I was provided a free copy of this book.
I had previously read the first novel in the Harry Starke series. This book provides the backstory to the Kate and Harry relationship.
This is worthwhile reading on its own. The author (Blair) does great work of developing Kate's character while solving a tough mystery. The twists and turns are believable but not always foreseeable.
This was a relatively short read (part of a red-eye flight from coast-to-coast). Even though I was tired, I couldn’t stop reading until it was done. Then, I got some sleep. :)
If you haven't read the Harry Starke books, this also gives you a reason to get interested in them.
I look forward to seeing Kate in future adventures.
Disclaimer: I was provided a free copy of this book.
May 17, 2021
FAST MOVING, WELL WRITTEN MYSTERY
I was on the edge of my seat as I read this well written mystery book by Blair Howard! I enjoy reading about a strong woman as the lead character. Everything was tastefully written. From the initial murder to the events that followed everything was skillfully written to let your imagination tell you more than words. Instead of a lot of gore or detailed sex, Blair Howard wove a great story and I look forward to reading more books by Blair Howard! Remember this author’s name because you will want to read the books that follow!
I greatly enjoyed reading this book that Blair Howard shared with me!
I was on the edge of my seat as I read this well written mystery book by Blair Howard! I enjoy reading about a strong woman as the lead character. Everything was tastefully written. From the initial murder to the events that followed everything was skillfully written to let your imagination tell you more than words. Instead of a lot of gore or detailed sex, Blair Howard wove a great story and I look forward to reading more books by Blair Howard! Remember this author’s name because you will want to read the books that follow!
I greatly enjoyed reading this book that Blair Howard shared with me!
November 27, 2017
Jasmine (s Lt. Kate Gazzara novel #1)
Kate, still mad at Harry for quoting the CPD and becoming a PI with him own detective agency, gets her first case as a lone Detective and she gets a new partner, Detective Dick Tracy from narcotics division. Kate's case a dead girl in a concrete drain pipe at the quarry. Turns out to be a missing teen named Jasmine. Kate's case is to find her killer and the crime are and without Harry! You're going to like this one. Turns out, Kate is quite a detective herself, with great instinctive response. Thanks for another great read.
Kate, still mad at Harry for quoting the CPD and becoming a PI with him own detective agency, gets her first case as a lone Detective and she gets a new partner, Detective Dick Tracy from narcotics division. Kate's case a dead girl in a concrete drain pipe at the quarry. Turns out to be a missing teen named Jasmine. Kate's case is to find her killer and the crime are and without Harry! You're going to like this one. Turns out, Kate is quite a detective herself, with great instinctive response. Thanks for another great read.
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