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Hidden Valor #4
Last Dog Out
Never leave a warrior behind.
Former Deputy Kate Holland has a new job. A special investigator with the governor's office, Kate's been tasked with solving Arkansas' highest profile cases, especially those involving her fellow veterans.
Kate's faithful German Shepherd's been promoted, too. Ruger is now Kate's fully-fledged K-9 partner. Their first case? A mutilated body was found in a ditch off the interstate. Evidence points to a former US Marine.
But as Kate investigates, the name and identity surrounding that veteran's card disintegrate. Both were fake. And while their victim was military, his skillset was far more specialized. He was also still actively serving his country.
So why was he in Arkansas? And did his private, unauthorized mission lead to his death?
As Kate digs deeper, other bodies surface—along with the reason for that mission. A warrior's gone missing. And Kate will do whatever it takes to bring him home.
Former Deputy Kate Holland has a new job. A special investigator with the governor's office, Kate's been tasked with solving Arkansas' highest profile cases, especially those involving her fellow veterans.
Kate's faithful German Shepherd's been promoted, too. Ruger is now Kate's fully-fledged K-9 partner. Their first case? A mutilated body was found in a ditch off the interstate. Evidence points to a former US Marine.
But as Kate investigates, the name and identity surrounding that veteran's card disintegrate. Both were fake. And while their victim was military, his skillset was far more specialized. He was also still actively serving his country.
So why was he in Arkansas? And did his private, unauthorized mission lead to his death?
As Kate digs deeper, other bodies surface—along with the reason for that mission. A warrior's gone missing. And Kate will do whatever it takes to bring him home.
- GenresSuspense
Unknown Binding
First published September 1, 2024
148 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Candace Irving
10 books1,358 followersA former US Navy Lt., CANDACE IRVING is the daughter of a librarian and a retired US Navy chief. Candace grew up in the Philippines, Germany, and all over the United States. Her senior year of high school, she enlisted in the US Army. Following basic training, she transferred to the Navy’s ROTC program at the University of Texas-Austin. While at UT, she spent a summer in Washington, DC, as a Congressional Intern. She also worked security for the UT Police. BA in Political Science in hand, Candace was commissioned as an ensign in the US Navy and sent to Surface Warfare Officer’s School to learn to drive warships. From there, she followed her father to sea.
Candace is married to her favorite soldier, a former US Army Combat Engineer. They live in the American Midwest, where the Army/Navy football game is avidly watched and argued over every year.
Go Navy! Beat Army!
Visit https://candaceirving.com/newsletter to sign up for Candace's newsletter & receive a free book.
*Candace also writes military romantic suspense under Candace Irvin.
Candace is married to her favorite soldier, a former US Army Combat Engineer. They live in the American Midwest, where the Army/Navy football game is avidly watched and argued over every year.
Go Navy! Beat Army!
Visit https://candaceirving.com/newsletter to sign up for Candace's newsletter & receive a free book.
*Candace also writes military romantic suspense under Candace Irvin.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
September 13, 2024
A great tribute to female veterans! Hidden Valor Military Veteran is a favorite series of mine!
Last Dog Out, book four of Candice Irving's Kate Holland Suspense is a welcome addition to the rest of Irving's series honoring the valor of female veterans. As much as I love books that feature hunky male special operators, Candice Irving's original idea of featuring a female veteran as the hero was awe-inspiring. Kate Holland is an inspiration and honor to female veterans, especially to those who have served overseas during some of our more recent conflicts. I appreciate how Candice Irving does not shy away from some of the special needs female veterans face. Her empathy and understanding brought tears to my eyes on several occasions. Candice Irving's writing is gritty and real. She is not afraid to tackle the hard topics, be it PTSD, suicide, and rape.
The character of Kate Holland is as real as many of the female veterans I interact with. Her struggles with PTSD and adjusting to her return to civilian life mirror the journey of women veterans everywhere.
In Last Dog Out, Kate Holland is coming to the of the six weeks of counseling, has a new job with Governor's office, and her relationship/ romance is heating up. Then, in true Candice Irving style, everything goes to " hell in a handbasket!" How Candice manages to balance all the different actions in all the different settings is amazing. The complexity of the story had me riveted in place, only getting up to refresh my coffee and giving the dogs and myself bathroom breaks. I had to apologize to my poor husband for snarling at him when he kept trying to have conversations with me while I was reading. I wanted to read this book slowly and thoroughly savor Candice's well written story. Sadly, I devoured this story, finishing in way less than the 10-hour reading time predicted. Then I sat and bemoaned the fact that I would now have to wait for Candice Irving to write the next edition to this fantastic series!
While Kate Holland is the main character of this amazing novel, no review would be complete without mentioning Ruger, the wonder Dog, and Katie's rescue support dog, and police dog extraordinaire! As well -developed a character as Kate herself, Ruger is an indispensable part of the series. In Last Dog Out, Ruger's backstory is fully defined. Without Ruger, there would be no story. In this fourth book in the series, the animal characters are as vital to the plotline as the human characters! I do love a good mystery, but a mystery involving a dog or dogs is even better! However, just because this book involves dogs, it is NOT a cozy mystery. It is as hardcore mystery, suspense thriller as any Lee Child's, Tom Clancy or James Patterson novel.
This brings me to the romance in this novel. I am a fan of romance novels that are a more explicit than cigarette smoking, wind softly blowing the curtains of the open windows, seen in the old Hollywood movies I used to watch with my mom too- many- to -count years ago. Yet, I appreciate that the romance in this novel helps to further the story, not overwhelm it. The language is as rough and raw as you would expect from a novel about military veterans, law enforcement, and, of course, criminals who are willing to commit murder to get their way. Again, it fits the narrative, and the story would suffer without it! Thus, Last Dog Out is not for those under 18.
I love every book I have read thus far in this series. If you are a fan of mystery, suspense, and romance, especially involving working dogs, law enforcement, and military veterans, I guarantee you will like Candace Irving's Kate Holland Suspense, Hidden Valor Military series.
Last Dog Out, book four of Candice Irving's Kate Holland Suspense is a welcome addition to the rest of Irving's series honoring the valor of female veterans. As much as I love books that feature hunky male special operators, Candice Irving's original idea of featuring a female veteran as the hero was awe-inspiring. Kate Holland is an inspiration and honor to female veterans, especially to those who have served overseas during some of our more recent conflicts. I appreciate how Candice Irving does not shy away from some of the special needs female veterans face. Her empathy and understanding brought tears to my eyes on several occasions. Candice Irving's writing is gritty and real. She is not afraid to tackle the hard topics, be it PTSD, suicide, and rape.
The character of Kate Holland is as real as many of the female veterans I interact with. Her struggles with PTSD and adjusting to her return to civilian life mirror the journey of women veterans everywhere.
In Last Dog Out, Kate Holland is coming to the of the six weeks of counseling, has a new job with Governor's office, and her relationship/ romance is heating up. Then, in true Candice Irving style, everything goes to " hell in a handbasket!" How Candice manages to balance all the different actions in all the different settings is amazing. The complexity of the story had me riveted in place, only getting up to refresh my coffee and giving the dogs and myself bathroom breaks. I had to apologize to my poor husband for snarling at him when he kept trying to have conversations with me while I was reading. I wanted to read this book slowly and thoroughly savor Candice's well written story. Sadly, I devoured this story, finishing in way less than the 10-hour reading time predicted. Then I sat and bemoaned the fact that I would now have to wait for Candice Irving to write the next edition to this fantastic series!
While Kate Holland is the main character of this amazing novel, no review would be complete without mentioning Ruger, the wonder Dog, and Katie's rescue support dog, and police dog extraordinaire! As well -developed a character as Kate herself, Ruger is an indispensable part of the series. In Last Dog Out, Ruger's backstory is fully defined. Without Ruger, there would be no story. In this fourth book in the series, the animal characters are as vital to the plotline as the human characters! I do love a good mystery, but a mystery involving a dog or dogs is even better! However, just because this book involves dogs, it is NOT a cozy mystery. It is as hardcore mystery, suspense thriller as any Lee Child's, Tom Clancy or James Patterson novel.
This brings me to the romance in this novel. I am a fan of romance novels that are a more explicit than cigarette smoking, wind softly blowing the curtains of the open windows, seen in the old Hollywood movies I used to watch with my mom too- many- to -count years ago. Yet, I appreciate that the romance in this novel helps to further the story, not overwhelm it. The language is as rough and raw as you would expect from a novel about military veterans, law enforcement, and, of course, criminals who are willing to commit murder to get their way. Again, it fits the narrative, and the story would suffer without it! Thus, Last Dog Out is not for those under 18.
I love every book I have read thus far in this series. If you are a fan of mystery, suspense, and romance, especially involving working dogs, law enforcement, and military veterans, I guarantee you will like Candace Irving's Kate Holland Suspense, Hidden Valor Military series.
September 3, 2024
There is only one word to describe the latest book, Last Dog Out, by Candace Irving in the Kate and Ruger series. That is WOW! From the very first paragraph you are caught up in a wild and exciting pursuit with Kate and Ruger trying to apprehend a suspect. The action, intrigue, excitement and suspense just continues to build. There is so much going on in this book, it is hard to stop reading.
If you have read the previous books in this series, you will learn the answers to quite a few questions about Kate’s and Ruger’s background in addition to other people in her past. You definitely feel the extremely close bond between Kate and Ruger and learn why it is still growing. No spoilers here. You need to experience this yourself. Of course there is a bit of romance thrown in as well. And there are some very difficult scenes to read, especially when it comes to those suffering from PTSD. Her attention to details and understanding are excellent.
Candace just keeps improving this series with each new story. I am totally captivated and look forward to the next adventure.
If you have read the previous books in this series, you will learn the answers to quite a few questions about Kate’s and Ruger’s background in addition to other people in her past. You definitely feel the extremely close bond between Kate and Ruger and learn why it is still growing. No spoilers here. You need to experience this yourself. Of course there is a bit of romance thrown in as well. And there are some very difficult scenes to read, especially when it comes to those suffering from PTSD. Her attention to details and understanding are excellent.
Candace just keeps improving this series with each new story. I am totally captivated and look forward to the next adventure.
September 3, 2024
An excellent addition to a great series.
Kate Holland has recently been made a Special Investigator for the Governor of Arkansas. She and her K9 partner, Ruger, "catch a body". An apparent Marine's body is found in a ditch by a highway.
How he got there, who and what he really was, and who was involved in him ending up there all become Kate and Ruger's assignment.
With assistance from friends, colleagues, and contacts old and new, she answers those questions. Along the way, we see her struggle with her PTSD and find that she's gotten some help to deal with those episodes when they come.
While it is possible to read this book without having read the previous books in the series, I don't recommend it. The author makes, at most, minimal introductions for characters that will be familiar from the previous stories. Plus each story in the series is well worth reading.
Kate Holland has recently been made a Special Investigator for the Governor of Arkansas. She and her K9 partner, Ruger, "catch a body". An apparent Marine's body is found in a ditch by a highway.
How he got there, who and what he really was, and who was involved in him ending up there all become Kate and Ruger's assignment.
With assistance from friends, colleagues, and contacts old and new, she answers those questions. Along the way, we see her struggle with her PTSD and find that she's gotten some help to deal with those episodes when they come.
While it is possible to read this book without having read the previous books in the series, I don't recommend it. The author makes, at most, minimal introductions for characters that will be familiar from the previous stories. Plus each story in the series is well worth reading.
September 1, 2024
A superb tour de force
This latest thrilling adventure for Kate Holland and her trusty, incredible dog Rutger is the fourth in the Hidden Valour series ( plus there is a prequel). It's Kate's first day in a new role with State Police and she immediately gets into gets into what quickly evolves into a huge case. Along the way, she involves trusted former colleagues and friends from her previous work in the military and some new ones. The encounter murders, drugs, people trafficking, brutality, corruption, organised dog fights and so much more.
Some scenes have very gruesome and distasteful violence but these are crucial to the story. Candace Irving handlles these situations extremely well, giving the reader the necessary information without descending into gratuitousness. Despite this, she gives readers an incredible amount of detail throughout the book, for example, showing them the workings of the various branches of the military, the different branches of the police a3nd even ambitious politicians.
This is a wonderful story that is very well written, with tension and suspense throughout. It's quite a long book but is definitely worth reading.
This latest thrilling adventure for Kate Holland and her trusty, incredible dog Rutger is the fourth in the Hidden Valour series ( plus there is a prequel). It's Kate's first day in a new role with State Police and she immediately gets into gets into what quickly evolves into a huge case. Along the way, she involves trusted former colleagues and friends from her previous work in the military and some new ones. The encounter murders, drugs, people trafficking, brutality, corruption, organised dog fights and so much more.
Some scenes have very gruesome and distasteful violence but these are crucial to the story. Candace Irving handlles these situations extremely well, giving the reader the necessary information without descending into gratuitousness. Despite this, she gives readers an incredible amount of detail throughout the book, for example, showing them the workings of the various branches of the military, the different branches of the police a3nd even ambitious politicians.
This is a wonderful story that is very well written, with tension and suspense throughout. It's quite a long book but is definitely worth reading.
September 27, 2024
I'm reading them faster than you can write them, but I NEED more Ruger and Kate in my life!! Impatiently waiting for the next!!
As for the book, a wonderful insight into the beginning, and sweet baby Ruger 💔❤️
The whole series contains such hard topics and presented so very well in each, with relatable characters who are REAL people- the heroes are flawed and the villains have good in them too
This isn't even my usual genre grab, but I couldn't read anything else until I'd finished them ALL and was left craving more!! Guess I'll have to reread the series while I wait for the next installment⏳️
As for the book, a wonderful insight into the beginning, and sweet baby Ruger 💔❤️
The whole series contains such hard topics and presented so very well in each, with relatable characters who are REAL people- the heroes are flawed and the villains have good in them too
This isn't even my usual genre grab, but I couldn't read anything else until I'd finished them ALL and was left craving more!! Guess I'll have to reread the series while I wait for the next installment⏳️
September 18, 2024
More Kate and Ruger adventures! I was immediately invested in this story as I followed Kate and Ruger as they tracked a suspect to bring him to justice. What I love about this series and the author Candace Irving is that her military background leads a haunting level of personal knowledge that means so much. This has been a great series and can't wait to see what comes next.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
September 23, 2024
I am not sure which I enjoyed more. The action between the characters or the actual story being told.
Involving both military and local authorities, this book has all the elements of intrigue and dirtiness that you would expect of a great write.
Tying together so many elements of our main character's life makes this book even more a must read. Hoping that the next one is just as good (which I am sure it will be).
Involving both military and local authorities, this book has all the elements of intrigue and dirtiness that you would expect of a great write.
Tying together so many elements of our main character's life makes this book even more a must read. Hoping that the next one is just as good (which I am sure it will be).
September 5, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. It has lots of action and dogs! Some unfortunate dogs, but it happens. I am really enjoying Seth. Hubba hubba! Can’t wait to read more about him! Ruger is a real good boy and plays quite a roll in this story. The story moves right along. I whole heartedly endorse this book!
September 8, 2024
I was so excited to jump back into Kate and Ruger's world. This book does not disappoint and I love the journey Kate is on. The honesty and hardships she has faced and witnessing her healing from PTSD has been emotional and honest. The bond between Kate and Ruger is truly special. This is an incredible series and I wish I did not have to wait so long to read the next one!
September 8, 2024
I was not aware of Combat Assault Dogs..
But am familiar with M alligators. Poor Baka, I hope that we haven't heard the last of him , or of Efram.
It was interesting to get the deeper backstory on Ares/ Ruger.
What a convoluted mess, the complexity of the story was well written.
But am familiar with M alligators. Poor Baka, I hope that we haven't heard the last of him , or of Efram.
It was interesting to get the deeper backstory on Ares/ Ruger.
What a convoluted mess, the complexity of the story was well written.
September 9, 2024
I like Kate
Book 4 is just as good as the previous books in the series. I love Irving’s depiction of Ruger and the other dogs in this volume. Kate’s continuing work at recovery from PTSD and her empathy for other suffering similar ills is great character development. I look forward to the fifth story.
Book 4 is just as good as the previous books in the series. I love Irving’s depiction of Ruger and the other dogs in this volume. Kate’s continuing work at recovery from PTSD and her empathy for other suffering similar ills is great character development. I look forward to the fifth story.
September 17, 2024
ready for book 5, 6, 7 to 100
I don’t leave reviews very often but this series and this book 100 percent deserve it! The characters are so vivid and realistic that reading these books are like watching an incredible action movie but way better! Reading about Kate’s journey with PTSD, her incredible pup Ruger and her family of friends has been amazing! Now… where is book 5???
I don’t leave reviews very often but this series and this book 100 percent deserve it! The characters are so vivid and realistic that reading these books are like watching an incredible action movie but way better! Reading about Kate’s journey with PTSD, her incredible pup Ruger and her family of friends has been amazing! Now… where is book 5???
September 17, 2024
Okay, I am about exhausted for Kate and Ruger and lots of other police officials. Boy, did they follow a twisted, complex and exhausting trail of murderers, dog-fight bad guys, human trafficking, drugs and illegal gun sales. Holy Moly. Somehow, Ms. Irving skillfully wound through it all and kept me able to keep up. Great, absorbing read. Looking forward to book 5.
August 31, 2024
This is an excellent read. I was engrossed from start to finish, with an ending I have to say I did not expect at all. I think it’s even better with the Armed Forces connections as well. I loved it. Cannot wait for the next one. Highly recommended.
September 4, 2024
Very involved murder mystery for Kate's first case at her new job. Ruger remains her partner. I liked this ARC except for the language. There are some very bad people involved in very serious crimes. Just saying in case that's not your cup of tea. I do like to see the bad people caught.
December 28, 2024
Five stars
Five stars? Why you ask? In this series you get a look inside the dedication, honor and deep sacrifice military dogs and service members give to our nation. Great plots. Amazing dogs.
Thank you Candace.
Five stars? Why you ask? In this series you get a look inside the dedication, honor and deep sacrifice military dogs and service members give to our nation. Great plots. Amazing dogs.
Thank you Candace.
January 5, 2025
A great read
This series never seems to disappoint. This is another great story! The twists and turns are unexpected and realistic. You will not be disappointed. Just make sure to read the novels in sequence.
This series never seems to disappoint. This is another great story! The twists and turns are unexpected and realistic. You will not be disappointed. Just make sure to read the novels in sequence.
September 5, 2024
An extremely well written book. Action from start to finish with a wonderful list of characters. Very unexpected, but great, ending.
September 12, 2024
Just Wow!!!:)
This was an absolutely enthralling read with a few twists & turns in the story to keep you reading until the end!!!!:)
Cannot wait for the next installment in this series:)
This was an absolutely enthralling read with a few twists & turns in the story to keep you reading until the end!!!!:)
Cannot wait for the next installment in this series:)
October 9, 2024
best of set
Each book in the series draws you into the story. Each book brings you closer to the characters. Each one better and better
Each book in the series draws you into the story. Each book brings you closer to the characters. Each one better and better
October 20, 2024
Amazing series
I have read all the first four books in the series and every single one has been outstanding! I’m getting ready to start the fifth one. I can’t wait.
I have read all the first four books in the series and every single one has been outstanding! I’m getting ready to start the fifth one. I can’t wait.
December 23, 2024
Another great story with a lot of very surprising twists. More and more of Kate’s past comes to light as she yet has to solve another mysterious death.
February 19, 2025
Where's the next book?! I just cannot put them down until the last page, then jonesin' for the next!
June 17, 2025
Riveting read!
Got these for my wife...she says if you are looking for intriguing action and suspense - then this series is what you want!
Got these for my wife...she says if you are looking for intriguing action and suspense - then this series is what you want!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews