Step into the gritty, pulse-pounding world of Harry Starke, where Chattanooga’s shadowy streets hide secrets that only a hard-boiled private investigator can uncover! Blair Howard’s Harry Starke series is a thrilling ride through the mystery genre, blending sharp wit, complex cases, and a hero who’s as charming as he is relentless. With over 20 novels, this series has carved a niche for fans of tough-as-nails detectives who navigate moral gray areas to deliver justice.
From the moment Harry Starke, a former cop turned PI, steps onto the scene, readers are hooked by his determination and knack for trouble. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Chattanooga, Tennessee, the series offers a fresh take on the classic detective story, making it a must-read for mystery lovers craving action and intrigue.
How Harry Starke Began
Blair Howard, a Royal Air Force veteran and former journalist, launched the Harry Starke series in 2015 with the eponymous novel, Harry Starke. Inspired by his love for hard-boiled detective fiction, Howard traded his camera and travel writing career for crafting mysteries. Chattanooga, with its scenic beauty and hidden underbelly, became the perfect setting. Howard’s goal was to create a modern PI who echoed Mike Hammer’s grit but carried a unique blend of wealth, education, and a wicked sense of humor. The series took off, with each standalone novel building Harry’s world and fanbase.
The Heart of Harry Starke
The series kicks off with Harry Starke (2015), where Harry witnesses a young woman’s tragic leap from the Walnut Street Bridge. Driven by guilt, he dives into a web of corruption involving a congressman, a crime lord, and high-stakes deceit. In Two for the Money (2015), Harry investigates the murder of a friend tied to a $350 million theft, unraveling financial crimes. Hill House (2016) explores a decade-old corpse and human trafficking, while Apocalypse (2018) shifts gears to a high-stakes thriller involving a missing nuclear weapon.
Themes of justice, corruption, and moral ambiguity run deep. Harry’s cases often pit him against powerful figures—politicians, crime bosses, or shady entrepreneurs—exposing Chattanooga’s darker side. Howard’s vivid prose paints the city as both beautiful and treacherous, with the Tennessee River and urban underbelly as recurring motifs. The series’ fast-paced style, packed with twists and action, keeps readers guessing, while Harry’s charm and flaws—especially his weakness for beautiful women—add depth.
Why Harry Starke Resonates
The Harry Starke series has earned thousands of five-star reviews for its gripping plots and relatable hero. Fans compare Harry to Jack Reacher and Spenser, praising Howard’s ability to craft standalone mysteries that feel fresh yet connected. The series’ focus on Chattanooga gives it a distinct regional flavor, appealing to readers who love a strong sense of place. Its blend of classic detective tropes with modern sensibilities ensures broad appeal, while Harry’s evolution from a guilt-ridden PI to a seasoned crusader keeps fans invested.
Howard’s prolific output—24 books and counting—has built a loyal following, with readers devouring each new release. The series’ influence lies in its ability to deliver white-knuckle thrills while exploring timeless questions of right and wrong, making it a standout in contemporary detective fiction.
- First Book Published: 2015
- Total Books: 24 (as of 2025)
- Setting: Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Protagonist: Harry Starke, ex-cop turned PI
Grab Harry Starke and dive into a world of mystery, where every case is a thrilling puzzle waiting to be solved!