Feathers

Lt. Kate Gazzara #13

by Blair Howard

There’s a serial killer on the loose! It’s not Kate Gazzara’s first rodeo, but this one is… different.

Four young women, all with their throats cut, all with different backgrounds. What’s the connection? Is there one? And then there are the feathers. What do they mean?

Kate is under pressure to solve this one quickly, but there are no leads and no suspects, just… the feathers.

Genres: Thriller

320 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2022

About the author

Blair 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.

Reviews

[Joy D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping and a must read.

I loved this book, couldn't put it down. Kate is so human and smart.

She respects her team is not a premadonna.

I can't get enough of Blair Howard.

[Anne G. Kasaba · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blair Howard has done it again! Great storyline and plotting. Some characters that feel like old friends and others just being introduced. Lots of action and a smidgeon of romance. Even a good guy that's acting out of character! A can't miss read.

I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.

[Caroline 'relaxing with my rescue dogs' · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate is a very well rounded protagonist but does not deal well with change which she is experiencing now with her new partner. I loved all the nuances of the book and just had to keep reading it - again it was another one afternoon session it was that good.

Cant wait to see what happens next.

I was given an advance copy by the author but this is now way impacted my review.

[TrishAM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another hit for Blair Howard in the popular Kate Gazarra series. It is a very different Kate that we see in this story, we are used to Kate with her close knit team who work well together a a chief, who although they don't always see eye to eye, has always had her back. Kate has new members in her team and as yet they haven't gelled and earned her trust, even the medical examiner has left her in the lurch, she still has a couple of her old faithfuls for which she is very grateful but Kate is loveless and lonely, having broken up with her military boyfriend, she seems to have lost some of her sparkle.
Faced with a series of exceptionally gruesome murders of young girls, murders that turned even Kate's hardened stomach, Kate knew that she had a fight on her hands, there were no clues, just a bunch of feathers linking the murders, each murder was more hideous than the last.
Could Kate trust her new partner, Sergeant Corbin Russell ? she found him a bit weird and somewhat irritating, not only was he a police sergeant he was also a church Deacon. a holy roller as her colleagues referred to him.
Solve these murders she must and Kate worked round the clock searching for a link or anything that would give her a break, as usual, the break came from an unusual source.
This action packed story is full of suspense, revulsion, mistrust, self doubt and sheer perseverance. Kates life and the life of her team are in danger, could the murderer take any of them out ? Could a new romance put the sparkle back into Kate's life ? Looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.

[Cyndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Howard has one of the best imaginations of anyone that I know when it comes to his books, lol well I don't know him personally so maybe he is a great conversationalist!. I have the hardest time when he comes out with a new book because I can't seem to stop myself from devouring it! Kate has so many problems in this book that you feel sorry for her. Here she is a beautiful 42 year old women and she is still on her own with no amazing guy in her life. Did Harry Stark ruin her from falling in love with someone else? I think this is actually the first book of Kate's that Harry wasn't even mentioned! So maybe she is ready for a new romance? Kate has some new members on her team in this book and Kate being Kate of course she doesn't know if they are trustworthy. She is also having issues with others who think she isn't working hard enough. To those of you who love Kate like I do it's hard to take but hopefully everything will work out for her! I have to repeat, grab this book up and let yourself go on a vacation into Kate's world in Chattanooga, you will be glad you did!
I received a free download of this book from the publisher. This review is my own honest opinion.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A complex scenario that intrigues…

What makes this Kate Gazzara story different is that there is so much out of place for her to deal with – topping a bizarre series of murders, she has a new partner, new team members, an odd substitute medical examiner filling in for Doc Sheldon, “over-her-head” political pressure to solve these crimes quickly and lots of room for self-doubt. Should she be concerned for her position on the force or is it time to just move on? Who could be so heinous as to commit these murders and why leave feathers at the scene of the crime?

While coping with all of the above we experience a different side of Kate along with her persistence in finishing what she started, working through her relationships with co-workers and possibly opening up to romance. In other words, there is enough to this well-conceived plot to hold one’s interest and result in a very satisfying read - another quality Blair Howard mystery/thriller with action and surprises…I received an ark and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Bonnie Blackledge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an amazing opening chapter! This first chapter is one of the best I’ve read. It draws you in, captivating you with images and teasing you with what you have to look forward to in the rest of the story. From the very beginning, the reader knows that this is going to be one of the most exciting books she has read in a long time, and it certainly did not disappoint.
Every time I read a new Blair Howard book, I can’t believe that it is better than the last because they are all so good. But Feathers is truly one of his best. Kate keeps getting more interesting, developing into a character with multiple levels of depth that we see in her interactions with her team, with Chief Johnson, and with the people she comes in contact during her investigation. Does this lady ever sleep? I got tired just following her from page to page.
I encourage you to delve into this book and all the other books this author has written. Although reading this series in order may enhance the journey for you, Feathers is a good enough book that it can stand alone on anyone’s shelf.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Feathers - a review by Rosemary Kenny.

Kimberley Krane comes home to a nightmare that threatens to overwhelm her and will haunt her for a very long time.
Captain Kate Gazzara and her new partner Lieutenant Corbin Russell are already investigating a serial-killing spree and that's not going well, with four domestic murders and no sign of the perp.
Indeed, the only link so far is the eponymous feathers left in and on each victim - mockingbird feathers!
When Kate works out what the link between the victims is after another survives, has she put herself and her whole team in terrible danger?

As always Blair Howard expertly and engagingly teases the answers, while dangling a line full of red herrings to keep you guessing.
Get your copy of Feathers to see what Kate makes of it all - and tell all your friends!

[Voracious Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first read of a book by Blair Howard so I cannot compare to other books he has written. I found this book to be very hard to put down once I really got caught up in the story. Kate came across to me as very human. She was exhausted, frustrated, and if she was wondering if it was time to turn in the badge who wouldn't be under these conditions. She was hunting for a serial killer who was seemingly leaving no trail to follow. Lack of sleep was contributing to the way she was feeling for who could sleep after seeing the victims.

I received an ARC of this book for which I appreciate and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. I will be reading more Kate Gazarra books in the future.

[Jacqueline · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a particularly nasty case for Captain Kate and her team, especially Kate, her new partner, Corbin Russell, and team member Anne Robar. All three end up in hospital, after quite a harrowing encounter. After a series a gruesome murders, they do their job but, as usual they get no praise except from each other. Chief Johnson has nothing to say about all they've been through, he seems to have other things on his mind. But, there is a ray of hope in the romance department at last. I really can't wait to read the next instalment! These Kate Gazzara books have me as hooked as the Harry Starke series! I'm only disappointed that the new Harry Starke Genesis series is not on Kindle Abonnament (Unlimited).

[Hope Gerhardstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate is working with a new partner in this book. (Janet has been promoted.) Kate doesn’t like Corbin. Is it because she doesn’t want anyone questioning her or giving her suggestions? They are after a serial killer and have no clues other than the feathers, until someone escapes the killer’s clutch. A flurry of activity occurs after the info given by the latest victim. I could hardly believe it when Kate was overpowered but I was expecting it to occur in a different manner. A new romantic interest appears. I found it to be a very interesting book but Kate was a bit off her game. But, in reality, are any of us always on our game? I received an Advance Reader Copy.

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really twisted killer is likely behind a string of murders, and Kate seems burnt out and frustrated

this bunch of cases really beats up Kate and her team, figuratively and literally

The Chief appears to have a lot to say about it being an election year, have plenty of scoldings and not many kudos, and I wonder if Kate will ho the way of Harry Starke - burnt out and following investigative life beyond the badge

The team appears to be reaching crossroads as mistakes are made, and less than ideal outcomes are faced

Is it time for a second wind, or a permanent ending?

twisted players and games

[Lonnie Huff · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an exciting book that has a lot of twists and turns all the way to the end. The first chapter draws you in and makes you feel like you were in the room with the girl as she arrives home and the horror she finds. Kate has new people on her team and some of them she is not confident in. But she continues to work through the crime. I think in this book you get the feeling she is human as she struggles with the crime and the people she is dealing with. I highly recommend this book you will not regret reading it. I think you will find the author will become one of your favorites.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gives you goosebumps and makes you gasp. From the very beginning to the end you are enthralled and cannot put this book down. Kate and her team does it again, only this time she is working with a new team mate and is not sure if she likes him or not. They have a serial killer who has a thing for feathers and slashing throats. I do like reading Kate’s adventures and love how her mind works. She knows how to catch her man but this time she may have met her match. I would recommend this book to everyone.

[Martha Greer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!!

This book was faster moving than the other Kate books, or was I just reading faster? This book, all kidding aside was so far my favorite Kate book. The back story was fantastic and the storyline was on point. The intensity of the book had me holding my breath. The characters are as always lined up to do the right thing at the right time. There were some twist and turns that I didn't see coming. But as always Blair Howard gets all the twists ironed out. Great book ...I'll read this one again!!!

[Javon50]

I have read almost all the Kate Gazarra books and have never been disappointed. Feathers, like all his other books does not disappoint. When Kate is called in to investigate a murder, she has no idea this case will have her, along with her team, investigating a serial killer. From page one to the last page in the book, I was on the edge of my seat, not willing to leave my chair until I had a resolution. Do not miss this excellent book. This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Laura R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate has a lot of change to deal with. One of her most trusted detectives is no longer on her team and her replacement rubs Kate the wrong way. Plus her team has been expanded with two other members. In addition to that, her last relationship has ended, and the team's latest case involves a serial killer who leaves feathers at the scene. Plus over the course of the killings, the violence of the killer is escalating. Loved the storyline and can't wait to see what happens next for Kate and her team.

[J Cowan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lt. Kate Gazzara not only gets a grizzly murder case with four dead women to solve, but has to deal with some new team members and a temporary medical examiner. She is getting frustrated with pressure to catch the serial killer and nothing seems to be going her way.
Just when it seems they may get a break in the case everything spirals out of control and you’re on the edge of your seat on a roller coaster ride. Doesn’t get much better than this.
I’m a big fan of this author and always look forward to the next book release. Strongly recommend.

[Karina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first came to know Kate’s character through the Harry Starke series. This series focusing on Kate has captured me from the start and just gets better with each new book! Kate faces some challenging issues both personally and professionally in this one, which certainly rounds out her character development..

Someone has been murdering women in a particularly gruesome manner. With nothing other than feathers (left at the scene) connecting the murders, Kate has quite a conundrum to solve..

Another well paced, well told story. 5 stars from me.

[blueyed_cntry_girl · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! Captain Gazzara is a great detective and even in moments of weakness she worries bout her team. This is one sick-o serial killer that mocks the police. Photos, sketches, finger prints, a victim, trap doors and more. Will they be able to catch him or die trying?

I’m new to Blair’s writing n let me tell you I’m hooked! His books are addictive.

I received this as an ARC and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Tara Stapledon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Fast paced, suspenseful,  and some witty dark cop humour made this another stellar read. Kate is a wonderful character,  she's strong, determined and takes very little bs. She's a great cop who occasionally draws the ire of her superiors by doing things her way.  I also liked the introduction of a couple of new characters. It's always interesting to change the dynamics of a team. I can't wait to see what comes her way next!

[Gary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for posting my honest review. *No spoilers*.

I was hooked as soon as I started reading Feathers. The book started strong and kept up the pace throughout. I finished the book in one day as it had a good pace and kept my attention. This is another great Kate Gazzara novel.

[Doreen Fernandes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Feathers from a psycho

Women are being brutally slaughtered and feathers are the killer's trademark. Kate and her partner are up against a killer who is one step ahead. I was hooked to this well crafted plot by Blair Howard. I recommend all his books for their originality and surprising twists.

[Sammye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Feathers is book #13 in the Kate Gazzara series. I was a bit curious about the title, but it soon began to make sense! It’s a great crime thriller with some intriguing twists and turns. The plot is well developed and entertaining. It’s another awesome addition to the series. *this honest review is based on a complimentary copy from the author*

[Robin Blanksguster · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kate G. is back in this slow build of murdered women found with feathers as a "calling card". Clues seem to be sparse at first and Kate and her team get a lot of pressure from her boss. The climax was very exciting and involved Kate's whole team. I loved how once they found the proverbial "string", the case came together. Good read.

Red Robin

[Terri Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am always thrilled when there is another of Blair Howard’s books out. At first I didn’t think I’d appreciate the Kate series without Harry but I was wrong. Every book in the series hooks you right away in the first chapter, then keeps you guessing and turning the “page” to see what is next. Again, I can’t wait to see where Kate leads us.

[Joanne Ranzell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate and her team must find a serial killer. They must find the link between the victims and understand why feathers are found at each crime scene. Is this the killer's signature? The plot flows smoothly and holds our interest. In parallel, we discover Kate in her new reality. She seems to be struggling a bit. Do not hesitate to read the series. I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.

[Susan Lichtfuss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Non-stop Action

I love this book! Blair Howard takes you inside the heart and soul of his characters and I just feel like I know them!! I didn’t want it to end but couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen! No spoilers from me but if you love thrilling action and great characters you will love Feathers.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This excellent read is fast-paced, filled with violent murders, a serial killer, twists, and suspense. The main characters are developed, relatable, determined, realistic, and have quirks in their nature. The team works well together in this riveting, entertaining, and engaging book. I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

Once again another great book in the series of Kate Gazzara. She has new members on her team which makes things difficult for her. The clues in the case are not many just some feathers.
This is about a serial killer of four women Kate leads her team well which makes a interesting case.

Denise