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From the bestselling author of the Young Adult novel “Away From Here” comes the 2nd in a 5 book series that follows the adventures of five NYPD detectives. Filled with action, suspense, true crime, and love stories, the New York City’s Finest series will take you on a roller coaster ride (sometimes literally) through the five boroughs of the city.

REVIEW BLURBS:

“I believe Jesse's story is the best yet by Christopher Harlan.”

“…I was enamored by the characters and their struggle to put themselves back together while trying to protect others around them…this book easily captivates your attention through its vivid and eloquently written details.”

“It was beautifully written from start to finish.”

SUMMARY:

In Jesse, the second of the New York's Finest series, Jesse McMann and Haddie O'Neil meet again in the most unlikely of coincidences. After a chance encounter reignites their attraction from last year, their lives quickly become intertwined in ways that neither could have expected when they first met.

Haddie is a woman starting over. After a failed business and a series of poor relationships pushed her from California to New York, she's now rebuilding her life in Queens. A year after surviving a near fatal encounter, she takes a job working at a shelter for at-risk teens, not realizing the danger she may be putting herself in.

Enter Detective Jesse McMann: Calem Walter's former partner, Jesse is dealing with the lingering impacts of PTSD from his experience in the military, while simultaneously doing some of the hardest work of his career. Transferred to the Queens gang unit from Manhattan homicide, he may have encountered a group of criminals more extreme than he is. Can he overcome the ruthless danger posed by the gangs?

The events of book 3, Quinn, will be set in Brooklyn.

*NOT suitable for readers under 18. Contains real crime situations and mature themes and language that are not appropriate for those under 18. Please do not read if under this age.

200 pages, ebook

First published September 28, 2017

23 people are currently reading
191 people want to read

About the author

Christopher Harlan

27 books1,271 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
Profile Image for Jessica Morales.
728 reviews61 followers
June 1, 2020
I'm upset at myself that I waited this long to read this book. I've been hoping for Jesse to get his happy ending with Haddie for a while. I'm happy they basically were able to get a do over. Plus that he was confident and not acting like a puppy chasing her.

Haddie started a new job working with youth in a troubled neighborhood. Once you read this book you will fall in love with Carlos who she meets at the shelter. A timid little boy who just wants to be left alone

I am crossing my fingers that Quinn book involves Jen. I can see the progress in Christopher writing when you read this book versus his new ones. I do love this series because I'm a queens/Brooklyn girl. He depicts Queens so real especially the neighborhood. Christopher Harlan is a great writer you should definitely pick up this series.
1,021 reviews18 followers
October 23, 2018
Jesse McMann is a war veteran and former Manhattan Homicide detective who is now working as an investigator with the Queens gang unit. One could say that" serve and protect" accurately describes Jesse's personality and his work ethic. He has a strong sense of responsibility which extends to his family, friends, and the people of Queens. Community policing is very important to him and he is dedicated to putting an end to gang violence in the neighborhoods he is protecting. His life would be perfect if he had someone to share it with and he knows who he wants it to be. He met Haddie last year and he was immediately attracted to her. On the night of their first date, Jesse was shot by the Manhattan rapist, who had also attacked Haddie. She nursed Jesse back to health, but then they went their separate ways. He has thought and dreamt about her this past year and he desperately wants and needs to see her again.
Haddie O'Neil is also living in Queens, where she has a new job as a counselor for an at-risk youth center. She is looking forward to helping the kids and hopes to make a difference in their lives. Jesse saved her life last year and she didn't think twice about taking care of him until he could go back to work. She would always regret that they never got to go on their first date. It just wasn't the right time for them to be together. Haddie knows that Jesse is working in Queens and she hopes that somehow their paths will cross.
One night after work, Jesse decided to go out for a beer. He was sitting at the bar, when he turned around and saw Haddie. She was just as beautiful as he remembered, with her sexy smile and sparkling eyes. He had wanted Haddie since last year and he wouldn't let her get away again.
Will Jesse and Haddie finally go on their first date and will it be worth the wait? Will Haddie be able to deal with the pressures of Jesse's job or will his past come between them? Can they work together to keep the kids at the youth center safe?
"Jesse" by Christopher Harlan is the second book in his New York City's Finest Series and it was amazing. Jesse and Haddie's road to happiness was filled with self reflection and personal growth. Jesse and Haddie were always meant to be together and this was the perfect ending to their journey. I really love this series and I am looking forward to the next book, "Quinn" , which takes place in Brooklyn.
Profile Image for Miana.
12 reviews
October 2, 2017
I think Jesse is my new favorite book this year.
After the events from the previous book Jesse is now working the Queens gang unit. Aside from dealing with the day to day issues of his job he finds himself dealing with symptoms of PTSD so he seek help in dealing with it.
Haddie has decided to move back to New York to start a new job with a shelter for at risk teens.
After running into each other sparks fly. But what happens when their two worlds intersect in a way neither of them could have ever imagined?
The characters are well developed and real with the struggles they faced and the dialogue was spot on in scene after scene.
It was beautifully written from start to finish. The chemistry between the two of them and the second chance they were both given.
It’s heartfelt, funny and steamy and will leave you wanting more.
**I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book**
Profile Image for Brandi.
1,159 reviews150 followers
October 2, 2017
Book Boyfriends are important. They're important because you get to fall in love with them slowly, surely, and completely.

Jesse is a new book boyfriend of mine. He's hot, he's strong, he's sweet, he's a lover. Jesse is going to show you the things you crave in a book boyfriend and he's going to raise the bar for future guys.

This is book 2 in the New York City's Finest series and I have fallen even more in love with Jesse than I did Calem. I'm looking forward to more from Christopher Harlan and I can't wait to see what he has in store for us in the future.
50 reviews20 followers
October 24, 2017
Christopher Harlan Delivers Again

Infusing this gritty story built around the NYPD with humor and emotion Christopher Harlan once again shows why he is on my Top 10 1-click list. His balanced story-telling takes thru a rich mix of emotions which keeps you glued to the page.
Profile Image for Monica Murphy.
275 reviews22 followers
October 2, 2017
Jesse is a character that was introduced in Calem – Book 1 in the New York’s Finest series. This time we get Jesse’s story.

I enjoyed this book. It is about a couple dealing with more current and relevant issues – ptsd from military experiences, fighting the war on drugs, rebuilding a career and trying to come together. And they have another wrinkle to contend with – trying to get past a shared bad experience. Just one of these would be enough to push any couple to the brink. So seeing how they work this out will keep you reading to the end. Find out what happens – buy the book!
Profile Image for Darlene.
190 reviews3 followers
October 1, 2017
Where does one start with Jesse? 

Let’s start with how much I love how Christopher Harlan starts this series with a preview. That preview is a glimpse of the story’s conclusion, that shows depth and love of the person whom you have entrusted your heart and love too. So beautiful to read this. The preview melted my heart.

Like any good series, familiar characters are reoccurring! Calem and his gorgeous lady Cordelia are regulars. it’s wonderful to catch up with past characters that you are invested in and see where they are at. Especially Cordelia - she is the one Jesse turns to, to help him cope with his PTSD symptoms. The compassion Cordelia has for her patients care and how she helps others that suffer (sometimes in silence) is beautifully handled within this book.

Jesse has issues not only the PTSD from his tours of duty but also the stigmas attached by others throughout his life. Even though we might not show it, words can and do hurt our emotional makeup. Jesse covers this by being the tough cop, first working with Calem in Homicide to transferring to Queens - into the Gang Crime Unit. While others may think Jesse is the renegade… Calem saw the person and the potential in Jesse right from the start. After a near fatal wound, saving a young women who will become so much more than a friend when the time is right. He now has a need to realign his life, work on his issues and work hard to clean up the gangs that infiltrate and menace the good citizens of Queens

Let’s face it… sometimes we meet people that make an impact on our heart and soul but timing doesn’t always work out. Not for lack of trying but maybe just feeling a little insecure that we were too vulnerable at that moment in time, exposed too much and not felt on an equal footing with the person we are attracted too.

So it’s fabulous that circumstances will lead Haddie to relocate to Queens, to make changes in her life., literally walk back into Jesse’s life. Her job working with disadvantaged youths is her way of giving back to society. Maybe not to the extent that some of these youths experience gangland indoctrination but she has been that rebellious youth - and now she wants to help, She is strong minded and caring to all those in her charge. With Jesse, to start out as friends, to grow their relationship, watch their trials and hurdles and become lovers. A good love story is bound to have some high suspenseful moments to capture our attention to see just how our young lovers cope and handle themselves and each other.

Again… I love human behaviour and how we react in any given situation both as individuals and as a community. Christopher shows both sides of a community that suffers under the continual pressure and fear from gangs - there are plenty of gangs to go around. Care and compassion verses law and policing. Great dichotomy of a community structure.

Like Calem and Cordelia, you will fall in love with Jesse and Haddie… and also be given a glimpse into our next NYPD hero - Quinn. Now that is another story I am looking forward too.

I would like to conclude with…
Sadly PTSD is a global issue that affects us all - our service men and women, our law enforcement officers, First Responders, Dr’s, Nurses, Teachers, even YOU, if you have suffered a traumatic event. I don’t know what the answer is other than more needs to be done to help others. Just to be compassionate, to care, to talk, and most especially LISTEN without judgement or fear.
Too many lives are lost to the affects of PTSD - that’s not acceptable!! More needs to be done to help those in need.
#PTSDIsReal #Stop22 #NotOneMore #ReachOut #IGY6
Profile Image for Denise.
267 reviews17 followers
October 2, 2017
Jesse is the 2nd book in the (New York City's Finest Series) by Christopher Harlan and is a second chance romance novel. It is the story of Jesse McMann, who is a NYC police detective who has recently transferred to Queens to work with the gangs unit, after working in Manhattan as a homicide detective for many years. Before becoming a NYC police officer Jesse served three tours in Afghanistan, and sees a psychologist to deal with the resulting PTSD. One evening when Jesse is alone and visiting a bar in the Flushing neighborhood that he and his police detective buddies sometimes frequent together after work, he recognizes the voice of a female that he is quite happy to hear come up and speak to him. It turns out that this voice belongs to Haddie O'Neal, who is the best friend and the former roommate of his former partner, Calem's fiancee. Haddie and Jesse were supposed to go on a date when he worked in Manhattan, but he was shot by a serial rapist who had appeared at Haddie's door the night that they were to go out on their first date. They had lost touch shortly after that even though they had both had been very attracted to one another.

It turns out that Haddie has recently moved to Queens, too, and taken a job at a shelter in the Flushing neighborhood where she now works with teenage students who are at-risk. The shelter is in a very dangerous neighborhood with a lot of the kids there being pressured to join gangs. Haddie is not deterred because she really wants to help these kids; it turns out that she had been a troubled teen who had deeply benefitted from the help of an adult who recognized that she needed some help when she was in the 10th grade. Haddie had been able to graduate with a high enough GPA to get into Cornell with a scholarship because of this help, and wanted to pay it forward. When Haddie runs into Jesse at the bar it was right after she had accepted the job at the shelter, and had gone there alone to have a drink to celebrate. After she recognizes Jesse and speaks to him, they end up going to a wine bar and spending the rest of the evening together talking, agreeing to go on a date together a week later. Can Haddie and Jesse get a second chance at romance after this unexpected encounter?

I really enjoyed this book by Christopher Harlan. He writes wonderful characters, and is extremely knowledgeable concerning the subject matter of police work, and working with at-risk teens, which makes the book very interesting. I highly recommend this book!



Profile Image for Denise.
267 reviews17 followers
April 29, 2018
Jesse is the 2nd book in the (New York City's Finest Series) by Christopher Harlan and is a second chance romance novel. It is the story of Jesse McMann, who is a NYC police detective who has recently transferred to Queens to work with the gangs unit, after working in Manhattan as a homicide detective for many years. Before becoming a NYC police officer Jesse served three tours in Afghanistan, and sees a psychologist to deal with the resulting PTSD. One evening when Jesse is alone and visiting a bar in the Flushing neighborhood that he and his police detective buddies sometimes frequent together after work, he recognizes the voice of a female that he is quite happy to hear come up and speak to him. It turns out that this voice belongs to Haddie O'Neal, who is the best friend and the former roommate of his former partner, Calem's fiancee. Haddie and Jesse were supposed to go on a date when he worked in Manhattan, but he was shot by a serial rapist who had appeared at Haddie's door the night that they were to go out on their first date. They had lost touch shortly after that even though they had both had been very attracted to one another.

It turns out that Haddie has recently moved to Queens, too, and taken a job at a shelter in the Flushing neighborhood where she now works with teenage students who are at-risk. The shelter is in a very dangerous neighborhood with a lot of the kids there being pressured to join gangs. Haddie is not deterred because she really wants to help these kids; it turns out that she had been a troubled teen who had deeply benefitted from the help of an adult who recognized that she needed some help when she was in the 10th grade. Haddie had been able to graduate with a high enough GPA to get into Cornell with a scholarship because of this help, and wanted to pay it forward. When Haddie runs into Jesse at the bar it was right after she had accepted the job at the shelter, and had gone there alone to have a drink to celebrate. After she recognizes Jesse and speaks to him, they end up going to a wine bar and spending the rest of the evening together talking, agreeing to go on a date together a week later. Can Haddie and Jesse get a second chance at romance after this unexpected encounter?

I really enjoyed this book by Christopher Harlan. He writes wonderful characters, and is extremely knowledgeable concerning the subject matter of police work, and working with at-risk teens, which makes the book very interesting. I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Hanan .
2,036 reviews20 followers
September 25, 2017
I really loved this story!
Not only because it's beautiful written but also because Mr. Harlan depicts so well exactly what cops go through. They see the ugly and despicable of society.
Jesse was in the military and now serves in the gang unit in the NYPD. He sees and witnesses the evil and bad side of people. Jesse suffers from PTSD and his strong enough in character to reach out for help. He reaches out to Cordelia to help him deal with it.
Haddie now lives in NY. She wants a fulfilling job where she can give back. She finds work at a shelter. She tries to help the vulnerable youth from going down the wrong path.
Fate brings them back together again. Neither had ever stopped think about the other.
Haddie knows she wants him. Jesse also wants her but he as a lot of struggles to overcome.
When a young teen goes missing Haddie asks Jesse for help.
Determination has Jesse vowing to help the boy and also work through his own personal demons so he doesn't lose Haddie.
This book is outstanding!
With very real life relatable characters and real life struggles and problems.
It's written perfectly!
Everything flows brilliantly.
Mr. Harlan wrote this book to perfection!
It's a beautiful love story.
That also encompasses the trials and tribulations that all relationships go through.
It has is filled action,suspense,tenderness and sexy hotness! A complete package!
I absolutely recommend this outstanding book to anyone looking for an excellent romance novel that they can relate to. That will have your heart pounding and melting for the characters and rooting for them!
661 reviews6 followers
October 1, 2017
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. If it's possible I love it even more than the first book in the series, Calem! This book follows Jesse and Haddie, who we met in book one (Calem's police partner and his girl Cordelia's BFF). The setting of the story takes place in Queens,NY , as Jesse has transferred to the gang investigation unit there. Haddie has moved from Cordelia's into a place of her own in Queens and finds a job at an at-risk youth center. Jesse has never stopped thinking about Haddie and what could have been with them, so it is definitely fate that they run into each other at a wine bar one evening after work. They get along so well that it is like no time has passed. Loved the hilarity that ensues on their "official" first date! The sparks are definitely still there for both of them. What will happen when the gang activity gets personal for Haddie and a youth she has become attached to? Will Jesse seek help for the PTSD he was diagnosed with after returning from Afghanistan or will he let it poison his new relationship? They do get their HEA, but it is through love, understanding and some kicka** NYPD takedowns. This is the 2nd book in the series, and I would recommend reading the first to better understand the characters, but I definitely suggest one-clicking this book.
Profile Image for Nora Fresse.
307 reviews9 followers
October 2, 2017
I loved this story. It's an awesome continuation of the NY City's Finest series. I was bummed when Haddie and Jesse couldn't make a go of it in the first book but I knew something special was coming for them in book 2. I love their chemistry and the fact that they couldn't quite forget about each other even when they both went their separate ways. As it turns out they both ended up in Queens, NY. Jesse is my kind of hero, ex-military, tough as nails and is always fighting for the safety of the community. He is one straight up good guy. As a cop in Queens he is now in charge of the unit fighting against gangs infiltrating and terrorizing the community. Haddie in her attempt to get her life straight, gets a job in a shelter helping at-risk teens, something she knows quite a bit about. They always regretted not being able to see where their relationship could go, but this time around both are determined to give a shot.

I love the pace of the story and the plot. I'm definitely in love with the characters. It's a toss up for me which one I love more, Calem or Jesse, but why choose? There suspense, drama, action - all the things a good story entails. I can't wait to read the next installment.

I voluntarily read an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Michaela Zankl.
448 reviews3 followers
September 24, 2017
More than just a Romance Novel...

Christopher Harlan has done it again with book 2 in his New York's Finest Series. Jesse is so much more than just a romance novel. This book goes into great detail about the struggles officers face on a daily basis investigating crime. This book picks up where Calem left off and goes fluently into Jesse's story.
After Calem's retirement from the force Jesse transfers to the Gang Task Force in Brooklyn. Struggling with the affects of PTSD Jesse seeks help from Cordelia. During that time he reconnects with Haddie and they slowly start a relationship. Everything comes to a standstill when Jesse's PTSD spikes and he pushes everybody away. When a teen comes up missing Haddie reaches out to Jesse for help and he is determined to not only safe the child but also his relationship with Haddie.
Christopher Harlan once again delivers a phenomenal book. The transition from Calem's story to Jesse's story is flawless and you can really relate to the characters and their struggles. This book is a great addition to anybody's library it will make you look forward to the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Ingrid .
94 reviews2 followers
October 2, 2017
Jesse is the second book in Christopher Harlan's New York City's Finest series and continues the story started in Calem. This time, Queens is the setting and Jesse has transferred from the homicide division to gangs investigation and has a new partner, Quinn. His job is tough because no matter how many gang members are taken down, more just spring up to take their places. We met Haddie in the first book also and she remains best friends with Cordelia. She is the one who got away from Jesse and both wonder what might have been. An unexpected meeting has them both wondering why they drifted apart. She is now working with kids at risk of joining or being recruited by gangs. Their jobs coincide in a stunning conclusion. This is a story of second chances, overcoming personal demons, learning to let go of the past, and trusting yourself. Mr. Harlan incorporates the sensitive issues of PTSD and gang violence into a beautifully crafted story with realistic, well-developed characters, believable dialogue, fast-paced action, and some really steamy sex. Although I love Jesse, I can't wait for Quinn's story in the third book of the series; he may be my newest (and hottest) book boyfriend!!
Profile Image for Suzanne .
17 reviews1 follower
September 30, 2017
Christopher Harlan has done it again in my opinion. Jesse has a strong story line, characters that are easy to believe in and come to care for, and a not so subtle look at a tough neighborhood in New York. . I love this book because it encompasses real life issues in a well told story about a man who is strong enough to know when he needs help and seeks it. I enjoy the way Jesse and Haddie reconnect and build a relationship by working together.

NYPD Cop Jesse McMann a Detective in the Queens Gang Unit his drive is to help the community live a safe life, while dealing with the residual emotional trauma from his military service and a recent run in with a Serial Killer. This man is sexy, sensitive and hot hot hot!!! Sexy Haddie O’Neil is starting over, building a new life in Queens when she once again crosses paths with Jesse. She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go for it with the hot detective. Together they help to change the live of a young boy trying hard to survive the streets of Queens.
Profile Image for Jessica Laws.
102 reviews3 followers
October 1, 2017
I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review

Jesse was a really great book. We met Jesse and Haddie in Calem. Jesse McCann is a war veteran and former Manhattan homicide detective. Jesse now works as an investigator for the Queens gang unit. He's in a place now where he wants to share his life with someone special. And he wants to spend it with Haddie. Last year on their first date he was shot by the Manhattan rapist who also attacked Haddie. Haddie nursed Jesse back to health and then they went to their separate ways. He has dreamed and thought about Haddie alot over the last year. Haddie really wishes and regrets that they didn't get to really go on their first date. Haddie is loving her job at the youth center as a counselor for at risk youth. She knows that Jesse is working in Queens now and hopes that their paths will eventually cross. Well they do run into each other at a bar and the attraction is still there. Will they have their first date? Can they protect the kids at the youth center? Can they get past everything and have a relationship and fall in love?
Profile Image for Lauren Lascola-Lesczynski.
1,104 reviews31 followers
September 19, 2017
Yikes...I think Jesse just took first place on my list of book boyfriends.
I mean who can resist a sexy as hell member of the of NYPD? Jesse is really a lover not a fighter despite his job choice. Haddie is the gorgeous gal that Jesse let get away, but he has set his sights on her once again and he won't be letting her slip by again.
These two have an intense connection. They have rocky moments, but how they pull through it what will count.
This story is action packed, and romance packed, with a few sides of HOT and DIRTY sex!
I loved the first book in this series Calem, but Jesse takes the cake for me...he is my #1. I kind of have a feeling that I might fall in love with Quinn (he is book 3 in this series) so will have to see.
I love Christopher's writing style and his attention to details. When your reading this words you really do feel like you are right in the story with the characters.
Profile Image for Keri Loves Books.
1,247 reviews206 followers
September 30, 2017
A real love story with suspense that will keep you on your toes.

Jesse and Haddie initially meet through mutual friends. It's an awkward meeting and Haddie is not so sure about Jesse. But before anything can really start between them, it comes to an abrupt halt after a near death experience. They end up parting ways.

However, timing is everything. And it wasn't their time then, but that changed. The two meet up again at a bar. By sheer coincidence they see eachother again. But this time there's a connection. The awkwardness is gone and what's left is mutual attraction.

Haddie and Jesse start dating and getting to know eachother. But Jesse's struggling with some demons. And Haddie's new job gets dangerous and Jesse has to step in and help out.

These two come together, but its not all sunshine and roses. Its real life. But their love and respect for one another brings them to their Happily Ever After. I cannot wait for Quinn's story! Who doesn't love sexy, hot-head?
23 reviews
October 2, 2017
Oh man, where to start? Jesse stole my heart from the very first chapter. He is the epitome of the "serve and protect" attitude. He wants to be the best for himself and for his burough. He recently transferred to the Queens Gang Unit and loves this new phase in his career. What's missing? Haddie! Another wonderful secondary character from the first book, Calem, come to life in all her glory as a lead in this book. She is working in Queens now as well, trying to support the underprivledged youth in the area and give them a safe place to spend their time away from the same gangs Jesse is fighting. A chance meeting throws these two back together and the sparks fly. Throughout this story, we got to see how their story developed as the evils in this world fought to come between them. Who won in the end? You'll have to read to find out.
Another stellar installment in the New York's Finest series by Christopher Harlan!
Profile Image for Shelly Reynolds.
702 reviews18 followers
October 1, 2017
"The smell of her hair filling my lungs, and the feeling of her body framing the negative space between us. It’s a great place to be. It’s the only place."

Oh my, is Jesse McMann one hot cop! He's my favorite kind of hero - Self-tortured, strong, trying to be the man she needs, and NYPD. What more can a girl ask for? I am truly loving this series!

Jesse McMann has a tough job. He fights to get the gangs under control, knowing that no matter how many members he takes down there are more to fill their places. Between his service in the military, and his job with the NYPD Gang Unit, his heart is hardened. Except when it comes to her. She's everything that's good in his world of evils. But, can he be the man he needs to be? Can he wrestle his own demons to the ground and be the man she deserves? He'll do anything for that to happen.

Haddie never stopped thinking about him. How close they came to being an "us" a year ago. But, people drift apart sometimes. Now, working in the same city as Jesse, they unexpectedly drift back in to each other's lives. But, she needs him to open up to her. Will he? Will she be able to help him? Will he even let Her?

When their jobs intersect in a terrifying way, their lives will never be the same.

I love Jesse and Haddie's story. I was rooting for them. My heart was breaking for Jesse and his struggle with his inner demons. Haddie is a strong, yet compassionate character and she was portrayed perfectly.

Can't wait for Quinn's story. I have a feeling his is going to be amazing too!
Profile Image for Stephanie S.
681 reviews2 followers
September 24, 2017
All I can say is these keep getting better and better. Book 2 in this series is like a good wine as I was reading it just got better and better. I laughed at times and felt for the kids that are in the shelter that Haddie works at as if I was one of the counselors myself.

Also seeing Jesse deal with his PTSD and see how it affects his life when it is just going good for him in his job and love life, makes you feel for him.

Haddie what can I say but loved her passion for her new job at the shelter and also her concern with Jesse when he goes down a path that he is working on so it will not affect his job or new relationship with her. He is a stubborn man but realizes that he needs help so he will not lose her again.

Loved all of the characters in this book and can't wait for book 3.
Profile Image for Sue Ouellet-Cofsky.
2,567 reviews49 followers
October 1, 2017
Jesse is the second book in Christopher Harlan's New York City's Finest series.

We now get the story of Jesse, Calem's former partner and Haddie, Cordelia's best friend. When they first met, Jesse could not get out of his own way. He was tongue-tied and very awkward. When Haddie finally decides to give him a chance, tragedy struck to throw things off again.

Forward nearly a year and life has changed for all these characters. Haddie and Jesse meet quite by accident. Is there still a spark there? Is there a chance for them? Jesse had demons to deal with...is Haddie prepared to deal with them as well? Haddie is changing her life and making changes in other's lives.

The two of them bring steam aplenty as well as working together to save the life of a young man!

Another great story in the series.
Profile Image for Lori Shankle.
440 reviews
October 2, 2017
JESSE is Calem's former partner. Jesse is with the NYPD Gang Unit. He is trying through his job to help get the gangs under control. While Jesse is battling with the gangs he is also battling his inner demons. He definitely has walls around his heart except when it comes to Maddie. He lost her once and does not plan on it happening again. Baddie is warm hearted and works at a local neighborhood shelter to help kids stay out of gangs. This book was even better than Calem. The plot was excellent and just flowed. The characters were well developed o ped and they felt very true to life. The book itself is action packed and suspenseful. And the sex scene? Ladies, when you get to this part please have a cool drink in hand, AC blowing full force on you and a change of panties. I cannot wait for book 3 to come out. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
Profile Image for Shirley.
859 reviews6 followers
December 20, 2017
Picking up where he left off, Christopher Harlan continues to spoil us with Jesse's story.
After learning under one of the top detectives in Manhattan, Jesse jumps in feet first and takes a position in Queens working with the gang unit. Haddie is trying to leave her past behind her and moves back across the country to New York after spending some time with her bestie Cordelia. Of course it didn't hurt that the hot young cop Jesse didn't stray far from her thoughts. They both have moments of wondering about the other, and what might have been, only to be thrown together unexpectedly through their jobs. Jesse struggles with PTSD, but knows he has to reach out for help to be the kind of man he needs to be to be with Haddie. These two have undeniable chemistry and you can't help but root for them after the way their first date was sidelined. Next up.... Quinn's story. :)
27 reviews
September 26, 2017
This story was a great continuation of a couple of the characters from the last story. It was great to see how Haddie and Jesse started out attracted to each other in the last story but drifted apart, only to rekindle their attraction in a different level in this one. Their personalities compliment each other so well and balance each other. It was also nice to see the author include current situations like PTSD and areas with gang activity. I love all the plot twists, romance, suspense, and the sexual chemistry between the characters. I'm looking forward to see where the characters wind up in the future (possible epilogues for the books) and what happens to the next mail story couple. I can't wait.... This was a great read
Profile Image for Kitka Buchanan.
Author 18 books135 followers
October 1, 2017
Jesse and Haddie had great potential to be a fiery hot couple in Calem, but so many things conspired against them. After going their seperate ways, they have another chance in Jesse. And Christopher Harlan definitely brought the heat with this couple.

As a detective in the gang unit in Queens, Jesse sees some of the worst on the street. Especially when it comes to dealing with mere kids. Haddie is enjoying her new job working with at risk youth. When Haddie's and Jesse's worlds cross again, will trauma once again derail all of their attempts for a relationship?

This is a must have on any e-reader or in paperback! All of the wit of Calem with Jesse and Haddie's own brand of heated appeal!
Profile Image for Kylee.
3,009 reviews57 followers
September 25, 2017
I received an ARC of Jesse and this is my voluntary and honest review. Jesse, Jesse, Jesse what can I say you had me at hello. This is the second book in New York City's Finest Series and just like the wine these characters like to indulge on; their story was complex, elegant, opulent with just a hint, no there was more than a hint, there was a big heaping gulp of hot and steamy to go along with it. Haddie and Jesse are characters that we were introduced to in Calem and we all wanted more, well we got it and so much more. Their story had me gripped and captivated as I took the journey with them to capture what possibly should have started earlier. Bring on the third book as Quinn has me intrigued.
Profile Image for Shannon Wetherelt.
25 reviews
September 25, 2017
The story of Jesse and Haddie opens the door to the reality of love in a world full of imperfections. As a reader, I was enamored by the characters and their struggle to put themselves back together while trying to protect others around them.

Adding to the dynamics of the character’s emotions, this book easily captivates your attention through its vivid and eloquently written details. The Author has created a fascinating picture of what it would feel like to slip behind the mask of the characters in the charismatic settings of New York City.

Can not wait for the next book in the series!
Profile Image for Chris.
1,934 reviews17 followers
September 21, 2017
I believe Jesse's story is the best yet by Christopher Harlan. Even though Jesse is a NY cop he isn't afraid to admit he is vulnerable to his PTSD and so he seeks the help he needs. Haddie is trying to settle into a new job. They both have the same goal to try to help the youth stay out of the local gangs. Haddie works at the neighborhood shelter and Jesse being a cop is trying to shut down the local gang recruiting activity.
The chemistry between Haddie and Jesse is strong so much so that when the run into each other again their relationship takes off stronger than ever.
Profile Image for Cindy Hughes.
1,640 reviews11 followers
September 26, 2017
Christopher Harlan has done it again!
Jesse, the second book in the New York's Finest series is great! I loved it!
Jesse transferred to the Queens gang unit from Manhattan homicide.
He suffers from PTSD from years in the service. He's getting help for it, but it's still a struggle.
Jesse runs into Haddie at a bar and wants the chance to explore what they started before the shooting.
There are twists and turns, romance, suspense and amazing chemistry!
I loved Jesse's story and can't wait for Quinn's in book three!
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