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Detective Kate Hamblin Mystery #9
Stalker On The Levels
Famous crime novelist Tamara Callaghan is on her patio late one night when a man appears from the woods.
He’s totally naked — apart from the hood over his head.
Tamara runs back inside and slams the patio door shut behind her. When she looks back, he’s pressed up against the glass.
Then, at a book signing, every copy of Tamara’s new novel is slashed to shreds. It’s clear someone is out to get her.
Detective Kate Hamblin is called in to investigate.
But things take a grisly turn when the flasher is found in an old converted barn nearby. The word ‘SORRY’ is scrawled on the floor beneath him.
Kate is not convinced it’s suicide.
The team might not only be dealing with a stalker on the Levels, but also a murderer . . .
He’s totally naked — apart from the hood over his head.
Tamara runs back inside and slams the patio door shut behind her. When she looks back, he’s pressed up against the glass.
Then, at a book signing, every copy of Tamara’s new novel is slashed to shreds. It’s clear someone is out to get her.
Detective Kate Hamblin is called in to investigate.
But things take a grisly turn when the flasher is found in an old converted barn nearby. The word ‘SORRY’ is scrawled on the floor beneath him.
Kate is not convinced it’s suicide.
The team might not only be dealing with a stalker on the Levels, but also a murderer . . .
- GenresFiction
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2021
232 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
David Hodges
24 books55 followersA former superintendent with Thames Valley Police, with thirty years experience in the force, David Hodges is a prolific crime writer and author of twenty crime novels plus an autobiography on his life in the police service. His debut crime novel received critical media acclaim and a welcome accolade from Inspector Morse’s creator, the late great Colin Dexter, and since then he has become the author of several successful stand-alone thrillers, including BLAST, TARGET and BURNOUT, published by Lume Books (formerly Endeavour Media).
In particular, his Somerset murder series, published by Joffe Books, which is set on the mist-shrouded Somerset Levels in England and features the exploits of feisty detective, Kate, and her easy-going partner, Hayden, has gone from strength to strength. It has attracted keen interest in Europe, the USA, Canada and Australia as well as in Britain.
The first six previously published thrillers in the series are also available on Audible for sight challenged readers and those who prefer the spoken word. All David's novels are available on amazon in paperback and Kindle format.
David's latest novel in his Murder On The Levels series, SHADOWS ON THE LEVELS, was published by Joffe books on 1st January 2025, and he has now been invited to talk about his books and his 'life of crime' at the Words In Watchet Literary Festival in Somerset. This will take place at the Methodist Church, Harbour Road, Watchet, from 2.00 - 3.30 pm on Sunday 23rd February 2025 and readers and non-readers will all be very welcome. (https://www.wordsinwatchet.com)
David has two married daughters and four grandchildren and lives in the UK with his wife, Elizabeth, where he continues to indulge his passion for thriller writing and to pursue his keen interest in wild life and the countryside.
He is a member of the Society of Authors, The Crime Writers Association, The Crime Readers Association and International Thriller Writers Inc.
In particular, his Somerset murder series, published by Joffe Books, which is set on the mist-shrouded Somerset Levels in England and features the exploits of feisty detective, Kate, and her easy-going partner, Hayden, has gone from strength to strength. It has attracted keen interest in Europe, the USA, Canada and Australia as well as in Britain.
The first six previously published thrillers in the series are also available on Audible for sight challenged readers and those who prefer the spoken word. All David's novels are available on amazon in paperback and Kindle format.
David's latest novel in his Murder On The Levels series, SHADOWS ON THE LEVELS, was published by Joffe books on 1st January 2025, and he has now been invited to talk about his books and his 'life of crime' at the Words In Watchet Literary Festival in Somerset. This will take place at the Methodist Church, Harbour Road, Watchet, from 2.00 - 3.30 pm on Sunday 23rd February 2025 and readers and non-readers will all be very welcome. (https://www.wordsinwatchet.com)
David has two married daughters and four grandchildren and lives in the UK with his wife, Elizabeth, where he continues to indulge his passion for thriller writing and to pursue his keen interest in wild life and the countryside.
He is a member of the Society of Authors, The Crime Writers Association, The Crime Readers Association and International Thriller Writers Inc.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
October 16, 2021
This is the 9th book in the Detective Kate Hamblin series, but it is the first one I've read. At the start of the book Kate is called out to an indecent exposure incident at Tamara Callaghan's house. Tamara is a famous crime author. Then, after a book signing, every one of Tamara's books in the bookstore is destroyed and a message left by the perpetrator. This looks like a very personal attack. It seems Tamara has a stalker. Then, the flasher is found hanging in an old barn. It seems this stalker is a murderer.
The book started off a little slow, but quickly got my interest. I enjoyed this crime thriller and raced through it to see what would happen. Kate has some help from a surprising source when she gets into some very scary situations where her life is threatened. I liked the character and her determination. I may pick up some of the earlier books in this series.
Thanks to Joffe Books through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on November 24, 2021.
The book started off a little slow, but quickly got my interest. I enjoyed this crime thriller and raced through it to see what would happen. Kate has some help from a surprising source when she gets into some very scary situations where her life is threatened. I liked the character and her determination. I may pick up some of the earlier books in this series.
Thanks to Joffe Books through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on November 24, 2021.
November 19, 2021
Detective Kate Hamblin #9
Detective Kate Hamblin is called out to an indecent exposure incident at the home of famous crime novelist Tamara Callaghan. Then at a book signing, every copy of Tamara's new novel is destroyed. It's clear someone has a personal vendetta against her. But things take a grisly turn when the flasher is eventually found hanging from a beam in an old converted barn nearby. The word "SORRY" is scrawled on the floor beneath him.
The pace is steady in this twist filled story. DS Kate Hamblin is looking for a flasher, then a body is found in a barn. At first, the police thought it was a suicide, but not all is what it first look like. The police think Tamara knows more than she is saying. I did enjoy this latest addition to the series. I was kept guessing for a while. It's well written and I had to keep reading to find out why the author wanted to be left alone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #DavidHodges for my ARC of #StalkerOnTheLevels in exchange for an honest review.
Detective Kate Hamblin is called out to an indecent exposure incident at the home of famous crime novelist Tamara Callaghan. Then at a book signing, every copy of Tamara's new novel is destroyed. It's clear someone has a personal vendetta against her. But things take a grisly turn when the flasher is eventually found hanging from a beam in an old converted barn nearby. The word "SORRY" is scrawled on the floor beneath him.
The pace is steady in this twist filled story. DS Kate Hamblin is looking for a flasher, then a body is found in a barn. At first, the police thought it was a suicide, but not all is what it first look like. The police think Tamara knows more than she is saying. I did enjoy this latest addition to the series. I was kept guessing for a while. It's well written and I had to keep reading to find out why the author wanted to be left alone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #DavidHodges for my ARC of #StalkerOnTheLevels in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2021
When crime novelist Tamara Callaghan is frightened by a man wearing a mask covering his face and nothing else except a pair of shoes. Later at a book signing, every copy of her new book is slashed to shreds.
Detective Kate Hamblin, along with her team, including her husband, Detective Haydn Lewis. Their investigation leads them to an old barn where they find the body of the flasher... the word SORRY scrawled on the floor next to him.
Kate is not convinced it was suicide .....
Although 9th in the series, this is easily read as a stand alone. It's well written by an author who has a history of 30 years of police service, bringing a great deal of credibility to the plot. The author's character development and story line never disappoints. Kate is married to one of her team ... Hadyn Lewis. He loves to eat and he's overweight. He's rather sloppy, with usually tangled blonde hair and wears shabby clothes. She's just about given up on changing him, but he also has a highly intelligent, analytical brain that balances Kate's rather headstrong instincts. He's also loving, kind, would do anything for Kate. In spite of the multiple insults she throws at him, she does love him and they work well together. The mystery is nicely paced and maintains a high level of suspense from start to finish.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Books n All Book Promotions / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Detective Kate Hamblin, along with her team, including her husband, Detective Haydn Lewis. Their investigation leads them to an old barn where they find the body of the flasher... the word SORRY scrawled on the floor next to him.
Kate is not convinced it was suicide .....
Although 9th in the series, this is easily read as a stand alone. It's well written by an author who has a history of 30 years of police service, bringing a great deal of credibility to the plot. The author's character development and story line never disappoints. Kate is married to one of her team ... Hadyn Lewis. He loves to eat and he's overweight. He's rather sloppy, with usually tangled blonde hair and wears shabby clothes. She's just about given up on changing him, but he also has a highly intelligent, analytical brain that balances Kate's rather headstrong instincts. He's also loving, kind, would do anything for Kate. In spite of the multiple insults she throws at him, she does love him and they work well together. The mystery is nicely paced and maintains a high level of suspense from start to finish.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Books n All Book Promotions / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
December 5, 2021
MEET DETECTIVE KATE HAMBLIN IN THIS BESTSELLING SERIES FROM A FORMER POLICE OFFICER.
Famous crime novelist Tamara Callaghan is on her patio late one night when a man appears from the woods.
He’s totally naked — apart from the hood over his head.
Tamara runs back inside and slams the patio door shut behind her. When she looks back, he’s pressed up against the glass.
Then, at a book signing, every copy of Tamara’s new novel is slashed to shreds. It’s clear someone is out to get her.
Detective Kate Hamblin is called in to investigate.
But things take a grisly turn when the flasher is found in an old converted barn nearby. The word ‘SORRY’ is scrawled on the floor beneath him.
Kate is not convinced it’s suicide.
The team might not only be dealing with a stalker on the Levels, but also a murderer . . .
This is a wonderful addition to this thrilling series!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review. I also purchased my own copy as I loved it so much!
Famous crime novelist Tamara Callaghan is on her patio late one night when a man appears from the woods.
He’s totally naked — apart from the hood over his head.
Tamara runs back inside and slams the patio door shut behind her. When she looks back, he’s pressed up against the glass.
Then, at a book signing, every copy of Tamara’s new novel is slashed to shreds. It’s clear someone is out to get her.
Detective Kate Hamblin is called in to investigate.
But things take a grisly turn when the flasher is found in an old converted barn nearby. The word ‘SORRY’ is scrawled on the floor beneath him.
Kate is not convinced it’s suicide.
The team might not only be dealing with a stalker on the Levels, but also a murderer . . .
This is a wonderful addition to this thrilling series!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review. I also purchased my own copy as I loved it so much!
November 2, 2021
Kate Hamblin has her work cut out with this one. A bestselling crime writer who finds a flasher in her garden but doesn't want the Police investigating because she 'likes her privacy'. Intrigued? So is Kate and since this flasher has scared other women Kate is determined to track him down and stop his antics before it escalates. She has a suspect in her sights but before she can arrest him he is found hanged. Suicide or murder? It looks like suicide but all is not as it seems.
And all is not as it seems in the home of Tamara, the bestselling author. What has she got to hide that is so important she is reluctant to allow the police to investigate her second stalker.
This is a very intriguing story which had me guessing all the way through. There are a lot of titbits thrown to the reader along the way but not enough to work out what is going on.
As the stalker escalates and anyone who gets in his way find themselves in danger can Kate and her team uncover the secrets and stop the psychopath before he stops them?
Absolutely brilliant , adrenaline pumping story that had me turning page after page all the way to the end. Another excellent read from one of my favourite authors.
And all is not as it seems in the home of Tamara, the bestselling author. What has she got to hide that is so important she is reluctant to allow the police to investigate her second stalker.
This is a very intriguing story which had me guessing all the way through. There are a lot of titbits thrown to the reader along the way but not enough to work out what is going on.
As the stalker escalates and anyone who gets in his way find themselves in danger can Kate and her team uncover the secrets and stop the psychopath before he stops them?
Absolutely brilliant , adrenaline pumping story that had me turning page after page all the way to the end. Another excellent read from one of my favourite authors.
November 17, 2021
Something's odd about crime writer Tamara Callaghan- mostly that she doesn't want the police to investigate a man who exposed himself or who destroyed her books. But then she has to deal with them because the man is found hung. DS Kate Hamblin is convinced it isn't suicide (she's right) and she digs around in Tamara's secrets to find the truth. I'd not read any of the earlier novels and at times felt like I might be missing something but largely this worked as a standalone procedural. The language, especially the dialogue, is a tad stilted in spots. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. An interesting read.
November 29, 2021
Procedural fans will be gripped by David Hodges’ latest Detective Kate Hamblin mystery, Stalker on the Levels.
Tamara Callaghan is a famous crime novelist who is on her patio one night when she sees something that stops her in her tracks: a naked man coming from the nearby wood wearing only a hood over his head. Naturally, a terrified Tamara runs back inside and locks the doors, but when she looks back she finds the man pressed up against the glass. Who is this man and what does he want with Tamara? Is it a crazy fan wanting to get too close to her? Or somebody who wants to cause her harm? When she arrives at a book signing event and finds every single copy of her latest novel slashed to pieces, it’s blatantly clear that there is someone with a grudge against her who is out to get her. Someone who will stop at nothing to make Tamara suffer.
When Detective Kate Hamblin is called in to investigate, she vows to leave no stone unturned to protect Tamara. Kate knows that if she wants to find out who is behind this campaign of terror against Tamara, then she must uncover the identity of her stalker. But when the mystery man is found in a converted barn nearby with the word Sorry scrawled on the floor beneath him, Kate is convinced that it’s not suicide, but something far more sinister.
Kate is now on the trail of a dangerous killer who she must find quickly before another body is found…
Stalker on the Levels is an excellent fast-paced thriller I read in a couple of sittings. David Hodges knows how to ramp up the tension and suspense and keep readers hooked and in Stalker on the Levels, his brilliant heroine Kate Hamblin is tenacious, determined and meticulous in her quest to bring a killer to justice.
A nail-biting crime novel, Stalker on the Levels was my first David Hodges novel, but it will certainly not be my last.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Tamara Callaghan is a famous crime novelist who is on her patio one night when she sees something that stops her in her tracks: a naked man coming from the nearby wood wearing only a hood over his head. Naturally, a terrified Tamara runs back inside and locks the doors, but when she looks back she finds the man pressed up against the glass. Who is this man and what does he want with Tamara? Is it a crazy fan wanting to get too close to her? Or somebody who wants to cause her harm? When she arrives at a book signing event and finds every single copy of her latest novel slashed to pieces, it’s blatantly clear that there is someone with a grudge against her who is out to get her. Someone who will stop at nothing to make Tamara suffer.
When Detective Kate Hamblin is called in to investigate, she vows to leave no stone unturned to protect Tamara. Kate knows that if she wants to find out who is behind this campaign of terror against Tamara, then she must uncover the identity of her stalker. But when the mystery man is found in a converted barn nearby with the word Sorry scrawled on the floor beneath him, Kate is convinced that it’s not suicide, but something far more sinister.
Kate is now on the trail of a dangerous killer who she must find quickly before another body is found…
Stalker on the Levels is an excellent fast-paced thriller I read in a couple of sittings. David Hodges knows how to ramp up the tension and suspense and keep readers hooked and in Stalker on the Levels, his brilliant heroine Kate Hamblin is tenacious, determined and meticulous in her quest to bring a killer to justice.
A nail-biting crime novel, Stalker on the Levels was my first David Hodges novel, but it will certainly not be my last.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 24, 2021
Another series I’m jumping into when it’s well established – but as each book is a stand alone read, it’s better late than never!
Author Tamara Callaghan is enjoying the cool night air on her patio when a naked figure appears with a black hood over his head; her quick wits get her inside her home with the patio doors locked in the nick of time. Freaked out, she calls the police. Then a local bookstore is broken into and the damaged books are all written by Tamara and the case falls onto Kate Hamblin to investigate. When the flasher turns up dead in a supposed suicide, Kate isn’t convinced; are the team dealing with both a stalker and a murder?
Again, this is another excellent mystery from Joffe Books – they do seem to have a habit of signing terrific authors. Although this is a new writer for me, I very quickly felt at home and up-to-date with the set up of the investigating team – although I did find it strange that both Kate and her husband were working alongside each other. There is a great camaraderie with the investigators and Kate is like a dog with a bone, unwilling to let go until she has got to the centre of things. An excellent mystery, and another author to add to my list. Well worth reading and I’m happy to recommend this one and give it 4.5*.
Author Tamara Callaghan is enjoying the cool night air on her patio when a naked figure appears with a black hood over his head; her quick wits get her inside her home with the patio doors locked in the nick of time. Freaked out, she calls the police. Then a local bookstore is broken into and the damaged books are all written by Tamara and the case falls onto Kate Hamblin to investigate. When the flasher turns up dead in a supposed suicide, Kate isn’t convinced; are the team dealing with both a stalker and a murder?
Again, this is another excellent mystery from Joffe Books – they do seem to have a habit of signing terrific authors. Although this is a new writer for me, I very quickly felt at home and up-to-date with the set up of the investigating team – although I did find it strange that both Kate and her husband were working alongside each other. There is a great camaraderie with the investigators and Kate is like a dog with a bone, unwilling to let go until she has got to the centre of things. An excellent mystery, and another author to add to my list. Well worth reading and I’m happy to recommend this one and give it 4.5*.
January 8, 2025
This was another twisty British crime thriller where Kate and her team investigate disturbing events.
I liked the puzzle of who was who and, obviously, Kate follows her intuition rather than the rules but...
Plenty of action, suspense and tense moments make for a compelling read.
Well-written, fast-paced and engaging.
Recommended.
I liked the puzzle of who was who and, obviously, Kate follows her intuition rather than the rules but...
Plenty of action, suspense and tense moments make for a compelling read.
Well-written, fast-paced and engaging.
Recommended.
December 14, 2021
Five 🌟stars read.😎
I have read most of this series of great reads.They are all very readable with plenty twists and turns,all flow and well written by the author.😛I look forward to reading more.😎😎
I have read most of this series of great reads.They are all very readable with plenty twists and turns,all flow and well written by the author.😛I look forward to reading more.😎😎
December 14, 2021
Great Series!!
Oh my goodness, these books are great! Stalker on the Levels kept me up all night. It was well paced and kept me guessing. That ending! Wow! I highly recommend this book.
Oh my goodness, these books are great! Stalker on the Levels kept me up all night. It was well paced and kept me guessing. That ending! Wow! I highly recommend this book.
January 5, 2022
A fast paced story with many murders following a mercenary on the run and his hunt for his sister and the fortune he felt was his. The ' Martin's detective nearly cops it twice before the true culprit finally is cast to the depths.
February 25, 2022
I have read all nine of the Detective Kate Hamblin series. The contrast between herself and her husband remains interesting. The situations that she lands herself in tend to set your heart racing. Her heart is in the right place as is Hayden's. Enjoyable.
March 8, 2022
Level Best
Another great story in the Kate Hamblin series featuring her usual team including husband Haydn. Certainly the best of the Levels series so far. A book I was unable to put down and an unexpected ending.
Another great story in the Kate Hamblin series featuring her usual team including husband Haydn. Certainly the best of the Levels series so far. A book I was unable to put down and an unexpected ending.
Read
November 28, 2021Addictive thriller
I have lost sleep over Detective Kate and hope she returns with a new adventure. Great well written thriller. Thank you Mr Hodges.
I have lost sleep over Detective Kate and hope she returns with a new adventure. Great well written thriller. Thank you Mr Hodges.
December 5, 2021
Good
Plot very involved and complcuicated. Characters are well.drawn and realisteic. Book was very enjoyable. Not very realistic but worth reading.
Plot very involved and complcuicated. Characters are well.drawn and realisteic. Book was very enjoyable. Not very realistic but worth reading.
December 13, 2021
Twists and turns
A great read as usual. Keeps you reading as you follow Kate through her investigations. Lots of twists and turns that keep you guessing where it all fits together.
A great read as usual. Keeps you reading as you follow Kate through her investigations. Lots of twists and turns that keep you guessing where it all fits together.
February 6, 2022
Another excellent installment in this action packed series.
I just hope there’s not a long wait for the next.
I just hope there’s not a long wait for the next.
February 15, 2022
Cold net get connected.
Not for me 😞
Not for me 😞
February 23, 2022
Misconceptions
Only a man would portray a policewoman as such a bungling idiot. You could have made her half worth her badge. What’s up?
Only a man would portray a policewoman as such a bungling idiot. You could have made her half worth her badge. What’s up?
January 16, 2023
Did not see that coming ! Another great read from this author !
June 2, 2023
Good
I enjoyed this story although a nearly empty supermarket with rows of cars in the car park does seem unlikely
I enjoyed this story although a nearly empty supermarket with rows of cars in the car park does seem unlikely
January 9, 2025
Great read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this fast paced story. I liked the way the characters develop throughout the tale.A really good read
I thoroughly enjoyed this fast paced story. I liked the way the characters develop throughout the tale.A really good read
January 15, 2025
Compelling
Now this book was so much better than the other 8 I have read really good plot thoroughly enjoyed reading this book now for book 10
Now this book was so much better than the other 8 I have read really good plot thoroughly enjoyed reading this book now for book 10
November 27, 2021
This is book number nine in the highly successful series featuring DS Kate Lewis (formerly Kate Hamblin before her marriage to DC Hayden Lewis, an overweight and slightly lazy public schoolboy type but who makes up for this with his sharp mind and unwavering devotion to her). New Acting DI Percival makes a very welcome and pleasant change after the abrasive dinosaur Ted Roscoe in CID but isn’t half as entertaining as the chauvinistic and bad-tempered previous DI! A clifftop fall in Pembrokeshire results in the death of a photographer. Accident or murder? At the start of this story the police at Highbridge station in the Somerset Levels are struggling to catch a naked hooded man who has been frightening women in the area. They have a likely suspect in mind but is he the same person stalking crime author Tamara Callaghan, destroying her books in a local bookshop and leaving a mysterious scrawled message for her. The woman craves privacy and insists she has no clue what it could be referring to but what secrets is she hiding from her past? Just who is the shady Mr Ed? Events turn much darker when the team’s prime suspect is found dead in suspicious circumstances. It looks like there is a second and far more dangerous stalker out there on the vast Somerset Levels but what is their plan and will the police catch this person before they reach their endgame?
All the way through the reader is privy to a lot more information about the stalker and what he is up to as the body count steadily rises. I like the way the author gives the reader an insight into what is going through their mind, and it's a terrific and engrossing read all the way to the end as the reader watches the detectives finally make the connections. Despite being a great copper, once again Kate is still a bit of a lone wolf and occasionally rushes in headfirst with no thought for herself, so it's a good job her husband is there at times to exact a more calming influence. Some of the characters like Hayden are certainly a bit eccentric (I do miss Roscoe) but this makes the books more fun and very distinctive, and together they all grow on the reader and compliment each other, forming a great team of detectives. Well written with a clever plot and a fast and furious dramatic ending, this book works fine as a stand-alone but it is definitely worth reading all the others in the series as they are all highly enjoyable. This series gets better with each new story and I am looking forward to the next one already! 5*
All the way through the reader is privy to a lot more information about the stalker and what he is up to as the body count steadily rises. I like the way the author gives the reader an insight into what is going through their mind, and it's a terrific and engrossing read all the way to the end as the reader watches the detectives finally make the connections. Despite being a great copper, once again Kate is still a bit of a lone wolf and occasionally rushes in headfirst with no thought for herself, so it's a good job her husband is there at times to exact a more calming influence. Some of the characters like Hayden are certainly a bit eccentric (I do miss Roscoe) but this makes the books more fun and very distinctive, and together they all grow on the reader and compliment each other, forming a great team of detectives. Well written with a clever plot and a fast and furious dramatic ending, this book works fine as a stand-alone but it is definitely worth reading all the others in the series as they are all highly enjoyable. This series gets better with each new story and I am looking forward to the next one already! 5*
November 13, 2021
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for an advance copy of Stalker on the Levels, the ninth novel to feature DS Kate Lewis, née Hamblin, of the Avon and Somerset Police.
Famous author Tamara Callaghan calls the police when a naked man chases her into her house, but refuses to give a statement. Then copies of her novel are destroyed at a local bookshop and the suspected flasher is found dead. Kate is convinced that the answer lies in the secretive Tamara’s past.
Stalker on the Levels is a plot driven procedural that didn’t overly appeal to me. I haven’t read many of the preceding novels, so I was puzzled at first by the series being billed as Kate Hamblin, but the protagonist is called Kate Lewis. Is it not a bit old fashioned that a professional woman would change her name on marriage? In fact, I think the whole novel has an old fashioned feel to it.
The plot is more than competent with a suitably deranged killer, a good bit of mystery about what Tamara is keeping secret, several tense action scenes and a determined protagonist. I can appreciate this, but it didn’t hold my attention due to the writing style. I really didn’t like much of the dialogue, which mostly consists of Kate being told not to do things and her being rude and belittling towards her husband, and I found the writing flat and, at times, repetitive. Simply, there is no fizz.
Kate is not a team player, tending to go off and do her own thing in the investigation. This is fine for readers who like a lone wolf, me, I just found her stupid and selfish.
Stalker on the Levels is a solid read, just not to my taste.
Famous author Tamara Callaghan calls the police when a naked man chases her into her house, but refuses to give a statement. Then copies of her novel are destroyed at a local bookshop and the suspected flasher is found dead. Kate is convinced that the answer lies in the secretive Tamara’s past.
Stalker on the Levels is a plot driven procedural that didn’t overly appeal to me. I haven’t read many of the preceding novels, so I was puzzled at first by the series being billed as Kate Hamblin, but the protagonist is called Kate Lewis. Is it not a bit old fashioned that a professional woman would change her name on marriage? In fact, I think the whole novel has an old fashioned feel to it.
The plot is more than competent with a suitably deranged killer, a good bit of mystery about what Tamara is keeping secret, several tense action scenes and a determined protagonist. I can appreciate this, but it didn’t hold my attention due to the writing style. I really didn’t like much of the dialogue, which mostly consists of Kate being told not to do things and her being rude and belittling towards her husband, and I found the writing flat and, at times, repetitive. Simply, there is no fizz.
Kate is not a team player, tending to go off and do her own thing in the investigation. This is fine for readers who like a lone wolf, me, I just found her stupid and selfish.
Stalker on the Levels is a solid read, just not to my taste.
November 20, 2021
Book 9 of the Detective Kate Hamblin series. My first read of the series which can be read as a stand-alone but i wonder if reading the previous books would have improved my understanding of the backstory. This book is set in the Somerset levels and West Wales.
Briefly, when a body is found at the bottom of a cliff it is treated as an accidental fall. With reports of a flasher in the area Hamblin is asked to investigate and find the perpetrator. She suspects who it is but catching him “in the act” is proving elusive.
A local author who was one of the flashers victims has the launch of her new book in the local bookshop disrupted. The shop and her books are vandalised and a strange message left. The author appears to have a secret she doesn’t want told. The flasher is now on the run but before he can be caught he is found hanging in a barn. Was it suicide or murder?
This is just the start of a fast paced story where there is a serial killer on the loose; but what or who are they after? Hamblin is a character who does tend to push the boundaries of what is acceptable behaviour; I’m not sure a real detective would be allowed get away with some of her antics! However it’s a good read, the identity of the murderer was a surprise and there’s an unusual twist at the end. I need to go back and read earlier books. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Briefly, when a body is found at the bottom of a cliff it is treated as an accidental fall. With reports of a flasher in the area Hamblin is asked to investigate and find the perpetrator. She suspects who it is but catching him “in the act” is proving elusive.
A local author who was one of the flashers victims has the launch of her new book in the local bookshop disrupted. The shop and her books are vandalised and a strange message left. The author appears to have a secret she doesn’t want told. The flasher is now on the run but before he can be caught he is found hanging in a barn. Was it suicide or murder?
This is just the start of a fast paced story where there is a serial killer on the loose; but what or who are they after? Hamblin is a character who does tend to push the boundaries of what is acceptable behaviour; I’m not sure a real detective would be allowed get away with some of her antics! However it’s a good read, the identity of the murderer was a surprise and there’s an unusual twist at the end. I need to go back and read earlier books. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 15, 2021
Detective Kate Hamblin is called out to an indecent exposure incident at the home of famous crime novelist Tamara Callaghan. A man is exposing himself wearing only a black hood. When he is found dead, it looks like murder. Has someone taken revenge on his misdoings or is there something else afoot? Tamara appears to be the target and Kate has a feeling she knows more than she is letting on. It appears that there is a skilled murderer around, one with an aim and determination to get to his target
Although number nine in the series this does stand happily alone . I'm fairly new to this series- I think I've previously only read one of them and already love Kate and her husband Hayden who is so very different from her. Her determination and tenacity are levelled by his laid back attitude and love for food. There's a camaraderie, a little humour and a good solid plot line to keep the reader interested all the way through.
A wonderful entertaining read to keep you gripped by the fireside!
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
Although number nine in the series this does stand happily alone . I'm fairly new to this series- I think I've previously only read one of them and already love Kate and her husband Hayden who is so very different from her. Her determination and tenacity are levelled by his laid back attitude and love for food. There's a camaraderie, a little humour and a good solid plot line to keep the reader interested all the way through.
A wonderful entertaining read to keep you gripped by the fireside!
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
November 5, 2021
I’m not too sure if I’ve read any of this author’s work before, but this was a really enjoyable thriller. The characters were wonderful, and I loved the way Kate referred to her husband as “the fat man”. Not really politically correct, but it did make me smile.
What starts off as a flasher at the home of a famous author, soon takes a turn for the worse and a body is found in a barn, with the words “sorry”, and at first the police think it’s a suicide, but doubts begin to creep in and all is not what it seems.
As time marches on, trying to find the perpetrator of the crimes being committed is proving difficult. However, with Kate and Hayden on the case, it soon gets sorted.
This was a very enjoyable book, nothing dark, just good writing and a wonderful storyline. I think, somewhere on my kindle I have a few more of Davids books, and when time allies I shall read them from the beginning. There’s nothing in them not to like.
My thanks to the author and Joffe Publishers for the ARC.
What starts off as a flasher at the home of a famous author, soon takes a turn for the worse and a body is found in a barn, with the words “sorry”, and at first the police think it’s a suicide, but doubts begin to creep in and all is not what it seems.
As time marches on, trying to find the perpetrator of the crimes being committed is proving difficult. However, with Kate and Hayden on the case, it soon gets sorted.
This was a very enjoyable book, nothing dark, just good writing and a wonderful storyline. I think, somewhere on my kindle I have a few more of Davids books, and when time allies I shall read them from the beginning. There’s nothing in them not to like.
My thanks to the author and Joffe Publishers for the ARC.
October 16, 2021
Thank you Netgalley and Joffe Books for the eARC.
Detective Kate Hambling is called to the house of a famous author who has just been flashed by a nude man with a mask, but the author refuses to lay a complaint...she wants her privacy. This man has scared several women, but is difficult to catch. When someone enters a bookstore and ruins the copies of her books, she still won't go public. The police are afraid she might be in danger, but she refuses all. help. The stalker won't stop and the police can't find him.
Kate and her husband Hayden, a policeman, are an odd couple. He's likened to Boris Johnson, which was fun, it made me see him clearly. But at times I felt sorry for him, she can be quite mean to him.
The story clips along at a good pace and is quite twisty. I remained curious as to why the author wanted to be left alone and the ending explained it well and was a good one.
Detective Kate Hambling is called to the house of a famous author who has just been flashed by a nude man with a mask, but the author refuses to lay a complaint...she wants her privacy. This man has scared several women, but is difficult to catch. When someone enters a bookstore and ruins the copies of her books, she still won't go public. The police are afraid she might be in danger, but she refuses all. help. The stalker won't stop and the police can't find him.
Kate and her husband Hayden, a policeman, are an odd couple. He's likened to Boris Johnson, which was fun, it made me see him clearly. But at times I felt sorry for him, she can be quite mean to him.
The story clips along at a good pace and is quite twisty. I remained curious as to why the author wanted to be left alone and the ending explained it well and was a good one.
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