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Searching for Evidence

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With his K-9 partner’s help,

can he save an innocent life?

K-9 officer Jared Miles stumbles upon a crime scene on his day off and believes Kassie Ashbaugh is the victim of a random attack. However, as threats on her life continue, he realizes that Kassie is in grave danger. Her father's abandoned boat suggests foul play, and Jared suspects someone is after Kassie for something her missing father is hiding. Can Jared unravel the mystery before unknown enemies catch her?

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

Canine Defense

Book 1: Searching for Evidence

272 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published May 21, 2024

179 people are currently reading
101 people want to read

About the author

Carol J. Post

76 books425 followers
From medical secretary to court reporter to property manager to owner of a special events decorating company, my resume reads as if I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. But one thing that has remained constant through the years is my love for writing. I currently pen fun and fast-paced inspirational romance and romantic suspense stories. My books have won several awards and been nominated for two RITA® awards and an RT Reviewers’ Choice Best Book Award.

After spending most of my life in Florida, a few years ago, I moved to the mountains of North Carolina, where I write my stories outside on the back deck in the summertime and inside in front of the fireplace in the wintertime. When I’m not writing or doing writerly things, I enjoy hiking, camping, kayaking—almost anything outdoors. My two grown daughters and grandkids live too far away for my liking, so I now pour all that nurturing into taking care of two sassy black cats.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for Gloria.
1,137 reviews163 followers
May 6, 2024
I was pulled into Searching for Evidence from the opening scene where the two main characters, Kassie, police officer Jared, and Justice, his K-9 partner, meet on her family's docked charter boat right after she was attacked. But the danger doesn't stop there. Kassie and Jared are likable and realistic and there are secondary characters who add much to the story. There is an interesting plot with danger, suspense, and mystery. Both Kassie and Jared are carrying scars from the past that they have to overcome in order to have a relationship. Their faith sustains them through a stressful, action-packed time. I loved the setting of Pensacola and the Gulf Coast of the Florida Panhandle, near to where I live. I am so glad that this is the first of the series, with Kassie's twin and younger sister getting their own story in the future. Dog lovers will enjoy this one as will those who enjoy faith based romantic suspense.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review from the author. These are my thoughts.
Profile Image for Sheila.
3,093 reviews123 followers
June 21, 2024
I really liked the characters, the sisters are great.
Profile Image for J.E. Grace.
Author 23 books141 followers
May 1, 2024
I loved how the characters' faith in God had them relying on HIM in times of danger or uncertainty. The characters of Kassie and Jared had many layers. They appeared very real with strengths as well as faults. I loved the addition of the K-9 dog Justice.

The storyline was one roller coaster ride of suspense. Kassie had on situation after another thrown at her, and she had to be very brave and a quick thinker. I kept turning the pages as one twist after another kept me engaged. I couldn't put it down. The ending was amazing and wrapped up everything nicely. I can't wait for the next book in the series.

I received an ARC from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.
3,546 reviews40 followers
April 8, 2024
This first book in this new Christian suspense romance series starts with a bang and holds your attention from the first page to the last.
The author takes us to the Florida Panhandle were Kassie Ashbaugh, a hairdresser and part time boat crew member in her father’s charter business, lives. She’s also Jared grandmother’s neighbor.
Jared Miles is a K-9 officer that has moved to town to help his grandmother while she recovers from hip surgery. His past is one of lost love, a loss he has yet to recover from.
When Kassie’s father’s boat is found abandoned and he supposedly died at sea, things start to get dangerous for Kassie. Do they want to harm her just for kicks, or are they looking for something she has no knowledge of?
Add to all this an attraction between the main characters, and you have a story that will keep the readers on the edge of their seats.
A great start to the new series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
705 reviews
April 4, 2024
Wow! This book is full of mystery and action. Kassie and her twin live in Florida where they were raised. They recently lost their father due to drowning and need to help run his charter business. Now, a strange series of events happen. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Carrie Schmidt.
Author 1 book507 followers
December 17, 2024
A new romantic suspense series from Carol J. Post? Involving dogs trained in protection, detection, and search/rescue? And a trio of sisters with layered family dynamics? Yes please!

We’re not far into our story (like… the first couple of pages) before Kassie Ashbaugh is attacked by a masked assailant on her father’s charter boat. The same father who went missing from the boat two days before and is presumed dead, the aftermath of a drinking binge the only clue as to what happened to him. Enter K-9 officer Jared Miles (a wonderfully steady hero with a painful backstory) and his partner Justice who, as the story progresses, continue to demonstrate an uncanny knack for showing up when Kassie needs them. A good thing too, because poor Kassie barely gets a moment to breathe from dodging subsequent kidnapping attempts – and violent ones at that – by someone who insists she knows what her father is hiding and where he hid it. And that’s not the only twist that amps up the tension in Searching for Evidence! Every time I was tempted to relax, here comes this same bad dude again and, while I admired Kassie’s fierce independence and tenacity, I was also glad that Jared and Justice were on the job.

Which brings me to the romance of this romantic suspense. The relationship between Jared and Kassie builds from an initial friendship after their first meeting to something even deeper as they remain in close proximity, but there are some very realistic obstacles for them to navigate. Not only do they have to deal with the threats to Kassie’s life, they also must process some tricky family dynamics on Kassie’s side and some tricky emotions on Jared’s. I appreciated how the author wrote these aspects of their respective characters and gave them reactions that made sense given the events in the story. Though Jared may spend time fighting his growing feelings for Kassie (and has valid reasons for doing so), Justice has no such hesitations. I absolutely adored how quickly the German Shepherd developed an abiding love for Kassie. Post gives Justice a wonderful personality that delighted me too, but she also makes sure to honor how seriously he takes his role as a police dog. I enjoyed getting to know Jared and Kassie too, of course, but Justice definitely stole my heart in this book.

Bottom Line: Searching for Evidence by Carol J. Post starts off with a bang and doesn’t let up until the stunning finish! The author has constructed a well-layered plot that keeps readers invested in the story and the characters, and the fast-paced, high-stakes suspense makes it easy to devour this in one sitting. Jared and Kassie – and yes, Justice – are a pleasure to meet and get to know, and the stage is nicely set with Kassie’s sisters for the rest of the series, too. Kassie’s family isn’t full of warm and fuzzies, so I loved that Jared’s grandmother helps fill that need in Kassie’s life, and I appreciated the baby-steps growth in Kassie’s relationship with them across this quick-read (but not shallow) novel. Perfect for fans of Lynette Eason and Christy Barritt.

(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I purchased for my own collection.)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Profile Image for Edward Arrington.
1,176 reviews12 followers
April 24, 2024
Kassie and her sisters are struggling to deal with the death of their father when everything else breaks loose. Kassie keeps coming under attack from someone who wants what her father stole from him. Neither she nor her two sisters have a clue what the person is seeking. Even after someone ransacks their office and their homes, they are no closer to learning who the attacker is nor what he thinks their father stole from him. Jared, the grandson of Kassie’s neighbor, is a police officer and seeks to help her figure things out. It is not helpful that she and her twin sister have a tenuous relationship, while neither of them is close to their youngest sister. My favorite character is Justice, Jared’s German shepherd police dog. If I were ever being attacked, I would love to have Justice come to my rescue. Kassie and Justice quickly became best buds. She and Jared were both determined to avoid a relationship, but that did not deter Justice. I enjoyed the suspense that was at a fairly high level from the early pages of the book, but it ramped up exponentially as the story progressed, becoming super high octane near the end. The action kept mounting as well. I appreciated the strong emphasis the grandmother placed on prayer, particularly as the attacker became more desperate and bolder. I liked the progression of the romance thread in the story as it slowly morphed into more while Kassie and Jared worked through their feelings. Both of them had baggage that needed to be resolved no matter what direction the relationship took. I look forward to the next book from this author. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
65 reviews1 follower
April 16, 2024
“If this man was after Kassie, she was in more danger than she realized,” Jared concludes in Carol J. Post’s inspirational romance, Searching for Evidence.

~ What ~
A Love Inspired Suspense, this first book in the Canine Defense series is a two-hundred-and-thirty-three-page paperback that targets those who like suspenseful romance fiction involving search dogs. With no profanity but topics of abuse, murder, and death, it may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending includes the author’s note and advertisements.

In this quick read based in Florida, Kassie has her hands full running a salon and helping with her father’s charter business. But when her father is missing and she is accosted on his boat, K-9 Officer Jared and his trusted dog Justice help protect her as they search for the truth. As those who demand answers get more determined, the protagonists are challenged to let their guards down personally.

~ Why ~
This is a fast-paced story that keeps the reader running to keep up with the action while Kassie and Jared try to uncover what’s important and what’s not. I liked the realistic relationship between the two as they dealt with family dynamics and their pasts.

~ Why Not ~
Some may not like tales of dysfunctional families or sibling rivalries. Others may not care for the faith-based prayers, but there are only a few.

~ Wish ~
Without knowing what denomination the writer is, it would be thoughtful to include the eternal plan of salvation that Jesus Christ died on the cross, shed His blood for all sin, and rose the third day

~ Want ~
If you like a quick chase with a detective, his trained canine, and a daughter searching for evidence, this one is a fast page turner.

Thanks to the author for this complimentary book. I am under no obligation to give a positive review.
1,759 reviews33 followers
April 6, 2024
This story is full of gritty non-stop action, and I couldn't put it down! When Kassie's father disappears and is presumed dead, she must take over his charter boat service while also running her own hair salon. However, she immediately begins receiving threats, is assaulted and the boat service is ransacked for reasons she knows nothing about! Jared, her neighbor's grandson, who is also a police officer, happens to run across her on his day off with his K-9 and helps her after an assault. As the terror spiral out of control, they must find what these bad men what and hope that Kassie can survive to live another day! I loved Jared's K-9. What a sweet, but lethal, dog! Jared had his own issues to deal with but he was unwavering in his loyalty to find out what was happening with Kassie and her situation. This story had it all!
93 reviews3 followers
November 19, 2024
Kidnapping, drug smuggling, family

This book #1 searching for evidence by Carol J. Post was hard to put down. Twin sisters squabbling and a 3rd sister who is away and standoffish. Fishing charter business being run by the twins (sort of) after the supposedly drowning death of their dad, skipper of the boats, owner of the charter business and drug runner. What is the truth? Strange break-ins, next do neighbor cop with K9 partner Justice. What will happen with the kidnapped twin being held to get the drug dealers money that her dad had taken along with drugs he bought to sell for them?
I finished this in one in one sitting. All the danger, suspense, rescues, injuries, mayhem, etc. Will the good guys win? Will love prevail? Get this book and the next one in the series and find out. I.jave read both and they are GREAT
Profile Image for Robin Loves Reading.
2,898 reviews453 followers
January 10, 2025
Kassie Ashbaugh and Jared Mills meet after she’s attacked. Jared, a canine officer, was with his K-9 partner at the scene of the crime. Despite the instant attraction between them, romance is the last thing on Kassie’s mind. She’s deeply concerned about her father, who abandoned his boat, and that’s when she was attacked. This was just the beginning of her dangerous journey.

Kassie and her twin sister Kris soon discover that their father’s charter business is in disarray. Kassie not only faces danger from an unknown source but also grapples with numerous challenges. Jared, who works well with his dog Justice, carries personal baggage. Despite his struggles, he makes every effort to protect Kassie.

This is the first book in a new series. Kassie and Kris have a strained relationship, but with Kris’s story coming next, we can expect to see their bond improve. There’s also mention of their younger sister, Alyssa, whose story will be the third in the series.
22 reviews1 follower
April 8, 2024
Officer Jared Miles, accompanied by his police dog, Justice, temporarily moves in with his grandmother in a nearby town, across the bay in Pensacola, to help in her care post-surgery. Next door is beautician Kassie Ashbaugh, also helping her friend Ms. MaryAnn recover, through board games and hair care.

When Jared discovers that, ever since Kassie's dad did not return from an outing on a charter fishing boat he owned, her home and person have been under attack, his professional protective and investigative instincts kick in. With Ms. MaryAnn's matchmaking; drama with Kassie's twin, Kris, and their younger sister, Alyssa; and past romantic hurts for both Jared and Kassie, there comes a delectable story of suspense, romance, and family forgiveness.
1,065 reviews23 followers
June 1, 2024
Author Carol J. Post has written a sensational romantic suspense novel. Searching for Evidence is attention grabbing from the first word. The characters Kassandra, entrepreneur and first mate on a charter boat, and Jared, a police officer, are both very likeable and interesting characters. Justice the K-9 is sure to steal the reader's heart. Jared's grandmother is a sweetheart and none too subtle about her matchmaking. I enjoyed reading about the faith of Kassie and Jared and about their romance. The plot is action-packed and filled with twists and turns. The epilogue has a wonderful HEA. I highly recommend this well-written book of romantic suspense. I would certainly read more by this author. I received a complimentary copy and am sharing my opinion of this thrilling book.
Profile Image for Debra .
446 reviews39 followers
August 17, 2024
I loved the story of Kassie, Jared and Justice, his K-9 dog. Kassie's father's boat was found drifting about 40 miles offshore. Kassie's father was an alcoholic. Her father, Kassie and her twin sister Kris ran a charter company, Ashbaugh Charters. Kassie went to the marina to get the boat ready for the charter that would happen the next day. The next events add Kassie to consider maybe there was more to their Dad's disappearance than what meets the eye.

Jared and Justice came to the marina to take out his boat. Justice loves the water. They were there to help Kassie on the wild ride that was very intense at times.

This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Post. He will not be the last.
1,281 reviews9 followers
December 29, 2024
Tons of action and good character development

Kassie is cleaning out her dad's boat after he is presumed drowned when she is attacked. K-9 officer Jared and Justice are just getting ready to go out on a boat when they hear her groan. After that, there are multiple attacks and many places are searched. It is obvious that someone is looking for something, but what? Read this to find out.

The pace is breakneck and the tone is intense with an action and character oriented storyline that has a few kisses only. The characters are vivid and engaging. The Christian ideals move the story forward. This is a great introduction to a new canine series!
Profile Image for Debbie.
283 reviews12 followers
April 11, 2024
This book has so many great elements - complex characters, action, cunning bad guys, and did I mention a K-9?! The characters are so down-to-earth that they could be anyone you might know - except for the danger, or course. I love Jared's matchmaking grandmother and how she keeps trying to throw Jared and Kassie together. If you like a good mystery with action and suspense thrown in, this is the book for you! I received an advance copy from the author but all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Melmo2610.
3,620 reviews
May 18, 2024
Great start to a new series! Carol J Post is one of my must read authors in the Love inspired Suspense series, Her stories are always great plots with likable characters and ones I always enjoy. Searching for Evidence hit all those marks as usual. The mystery of this one is really good, and the twists kept me involved in the story. Looking forward to the rest of this series!

I received a copy of this from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts from my own.
Profile Image for Carlien Peens.
210 reviews4 followers
May 23, 2024
Carol J Post has the ability to draw you into her stories. Kassie is you new bff and you join her in her fight to stay out of the evil guys clutches and while you're at it, lets set some things straight with her family! Jared needs some advice and help to keep Kassie alive while overcoming his own past hurts. You want to reward Justice with treats for being his best K-9 self.
Carol you delivered again! Suspense, drama, family, romance and faith nuggets, perfect combination!
144 reviews
January 20, 2025
Great read

I so enjoyed this book and plan to read her others. I grew up in Pensacola, Fl so it was nice to see areas I once traveled.

This story kept you trying to guess what would happen next. It was hard to put down once I started the book.

Great story of how tragic circumstances can bring a family back together after so much hurt in the past. With God all things are possible.
832 reviews5 followers
May 21, 2024
Life was pretty good for Kassie she had her own business that she loved and she was happy. At least until the day her father goes missing and is presumed dead then danger is around every corner. This book was hard to put down because of the danger, the attacks, the fighting sisters, a dog named Justice and a sweet, sweet romance.
Profile Image for Teresa Reitnauer.
952 reviews5 followers
May 22, 2024
This edge-of-your-seat page-turner hooked me from the beginning. The suspense of what will happen next grips the reader's attention. The characters are smart, intelligent, and believable. I love stories with canines, and Justice is fun-loving and playful, but he knows to get his job done when commanded. I received a copy, and I'm voluntarily giving my honest review.
Profile Image for Ethelann.
422 reviews
June 10, 2024
Searching for Evidence was a real page turner.
Kassie and Jared get thrown together when Kassie is attacked. When it becomes clear, it's not a random thing. He then is more determined to protect her. Kassie hasn't a clue what the attackers are talking about but is determined to find out what's going on. With a great surprise ending, this was an exciting new read.
40 reviews3 followers
July 21, 2025
my hometown

This was so awesome!!! Reading an exciting action k9 crime mystery based in my hometown, loved it!!! Reading where I recognized the area, street names and parts of my hometown was incredible! Can’t wait to read the next one!!! Carol, I’d love to meet you and get a signed copy! 🙏🏼
9 reviews
May 22, 2024
This was a great story with lots of action to keep you reading. It had a good mix of suspense and romance. The dogs in the book were a great addition. I especially enjoy stories with trained working dogs. I’ve read many of this author’s books and they keep getting better.
Profile Image for Natalya.
530 reviews20 followers
May 22, 2024
Justice!
A skillfully told story of a journey to faith and healing.
Justice makes it more enjoyable to read. I didn't want it to end.
I received ARC of this book; I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.
333 reviews2 followers
May 25, 2024
Very good story

I liked this story a lot. He characters had their flaws and problems making them seem more realistic. There was a lot of tension and it kept me turning pages and wanting to find out how it would all come together.
23 reviews3 followers
July 21, 2025
Good but not mushy

A lot of Christian romance is so mushy!! This book has romance without mush, suspense without too much violence and likable characters. Looking for more from Carol J Post.
58 reviews
November 17, 2025
It is wonderful to read a book with lots of drama and suspense without the need for gore, sex and profanity. I really enjoyed this book and read it in a single day. I have already ordered book 2 in the series and can't wait to get started.
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