Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Chasing Justice by Kathleen Donnelly
Series: National Forest K-9 #1
Published by Carina Press on May 24, 2022
Genres: Mystery
Pages: 351
Format: eARC
Source: NetGalley
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After losing her military K-9, former marine Maya Thompson swears she’ll never work with dogs again. But when she returns home to Colorado and accepts a job with US Forest Service law enforcement, fate brings K-9 Juniper into her life just as another tragedy unfolds.
Juniper, a beautiful two-year-old Malinois, isn’t the only new addition to Maya’s life. Josh Colten, the local deputy sheriff, insists on helping with her new case. Handsome and mysterious, he’s all anyone in town can talk about, but Maya can’t let herself like him, let alone trust him.
I’m a huge fan of K-9 stories, so when the author asked if I would review this one I was happy. The genre is usually connected with military or law enforcement and some kind of mystery, so it’s all my type of reading.
Chasing Justice has a lot to recommend it. I really liked how the dog, Juniper, was very involved in the story and we got to see her actually do some work. Maya is just back in town after leaving the military. Her grandfather is the sheriff but they have been a bit estranged since her grandmother died. She is working for the federal forestry service being trained by her friend, Doug.
Things fall apart when there are murders and a drug war happening. I was able to guess much, but not all of the mystery plot. There were a few twists. Maya works with her grandfather’s second, Josh, to find her grandfather who has gone missing. Maya has a pretty good skill and strategy set; she’s careful since she doesn’t trust Josh. She’s attracted to him, but the romantic element is in the background. The situations are very dangerous.
I enjoyed reading and the layers of story with the “police” investigations, K-9 training and work, personal relationships and romantic elements. I wouldn’t really call it a romance, as there is mostly just attraction, with no relationship. I’m hoping this will be a series and we will see more of these characters and setting.
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Reading this book contributed to these challenges:
- 22-COYER
I love K-9 reads because the dogs in them are always so great. (Sometimes better than the humans!)
I am always excited to read a new K9 story. I have things I like best and this one had plenty of dog time which I love.
I love that Juniper is a K9 with the Forest Service. Sounds like a fun book.
yes I really love K9 stories especially when the dog has actual role and tasks.
This sounds pretty good! I like that she shows the dog working, that seems like it would be so interesting.
Yes I really always want to learn all about the dog’s work and training.
Sounds like a fun read for sure.
The mystery is only better with dogs.
Another K-9 story! Wonderful review, Anne💜
I always like a good K9 story, especially when the dog has a strong role.
Maybe book 2!
yes I’m looking forward to another. The author tells me there will be more.