Ashes to Ashes

This book was first published twenty years ago. I still remember the opening scene because not only is it our introduction Kate, but it tells us at the core who Kate is. Hoag is brilliant in showing and not telling who the characters are. Kate is still one of my favorite characters of Hoag and everything I would want my kid to be when they grow up (if I ever decide to get around to having someone else have one (laugh)).

The other character I love just as much is Sam Kovac. If you want a tired, but still cares detective with a wise cracking mouth: Sam is your cop. I think he is just awesome.
Hoag plants plenty of red herrings and twists. Oddly enough even though I remembered the beginning very well, I actually forgot who the killer was. (laugh) I did not see it, though I kind of did see one betrayal but I think that is more because I am a cynical person more than anything.

There is a dash of romance that has a history. It is a nice break from the crazy killings and the politics of police work. Hoag brings both into its imperfect glare. This is why I love Hoag so much. Hoag does not allow the story to be perfect because life is not - especially police work.

Ashes is a great introduction to the Kovac and Liska series. It is available everywhere and in all formats.

I got this book from my library. I love my local library and you should check out yours too. Request LGBTQ+ books and they will stock them! #ebooksforall