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K-9 Search and Rescue #14
K-9 Alaskan Defense
A K-9 stands guard…
while a killer closes in.
Discovering a dead body in the woods turns into a fight for survival when Lily Peterson is attacked by an unknown assailant. Rescued by her retired police K-9, Timber, Lily calls the one man she trusts for help—her late fiancé’s partner, former officer Travis Beckett. Only, the danger proves to be far from over when Lily’s house goes up in flames. Someone wants her dead, and all clues lead to a connection to her departed fiancé’s final case. Investigating the past is the only way to stay alive…but can they elude a killer neither expects?
From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.
K-9 Search and Rescue
Book 1: Desert Rescue by Lisa Phillips
Book 2: Trailing a Killer by Carol J. Post
Book 3: Mountain Survival by Christy Barritt
Book 4: Search and Defend by Heather Woodhaven
Book 5: Following the Trail by Lynette Eason
Book 6: Dangerous Mountain Rescue by Christy Barritt
Book 7: Wilderness Hunt by Lisa Phillips
Book 8: Alaskan Mountain Search by Sarah Varland
Book 9: Alaskan Avalanche Escape by Darlene L. Turner
Book 10: Tracking Stolen Treasures by Lisa Phillips
Book 11: Alaskan Wilderness Rescue by Sarah Varland
Book 12: Lethal Mountain Pursuit by Christy Barritt
Book 13: Tracking the Missing by Sami A. Abrams
Book 14: K-9 Alaskan Defense by Sarah Varland
Book 15: Searching for Justice by Connie Queen
while a killer closes in.
Discovering a dead body in the woods turns into a fight for survival when Lily Peterson is attacked by an unknown assailant. Rescued by her retired police K-9, Timber, Lily calls the one man she trusts for help—her late fiancé’s partner, former officer Travis Beckett. Only, the danger proves to be far from over when Lily’s house goes up in flames. Someone wants her dead, and all clues lead to a connection to her departed fiancé’s final case. Investigating the past is the only way to stay alive…but can they elude a killer neither expects?
From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.
K-9 Search and Rescue
Book 1: Desert Rescue by Lisa Phillips
Book 2: Trailing a Killer by Carol J. Post
Book 3: Mountain Survival by Christy Barritt
Book 4: Search and Defend by Heather Woodhaven
Book 5: Following the Trail by Lynette Eason
Book 6: Dangerous Mountain Rescue by Christy Barritt
Book 7: Wilderness Hunt by Lisa Phillips
Book 8: Alaskan Mountain Search by Sarah Varland
Book 9: Alaskan Avalanche Escape by Darlene L. Turner
Book 10: Tracking Stolen Treasures by Lisa Phillips
Book 11: Alaskan Wilderness Rescue by Sarah Varland
Book 12: Lethal Mountain Pursuit by Christy Barritt
Book 13: Tracking the Missing by Sami A. Abrams
Book 14: K-9 Alaskan Defense by Sarah Varland
Book 15: Searching for Justice by Connie Queen
206 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 21, 2025
92 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 26, 2025
This is a Second Chance Romantic Suspense, and this is the 14th book in the K-9 Search and Rescue series. I have read some of the other books in this series before picking up this book. I do think you can read this book as a standalone without any problems. I listened to the audiobook for this book, and I really enjoyed the audiobook. This book was full of drama and action/suspense. I really loved the characters in this book, and the dog was my favorite. There were some really cute moments in this book as well. Wow...the twist in this book was so great and I really did not see it coming. Great Read. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
January 27, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up because of better characterization than normal LIS
Kept my interest to the end. Timber the dog was great. I found all the missed shots part unblvbl.
Kept my interest to the end. Timber the dog was great. I found all the missed shots part unblvbl.
January 13, 2025
This story is suspenseful and a heartfelt reminder of God’s faithfulness through unfulfilled dreams, second chances, and life’s toughest battles.
Lily’s path of letting go and trusting God’s plan felt real—her struggles mirrored the quiet battles we all face when we're unsure of where we're headed. Her strength grew from trusting Him for who He is. Paired with Travis’s courage and Timber’s fierce loyalty, this trio showcased a beautiful metaphor for God’s protective care and the power of redemption.
The tension kept me glued to the story, but it was the bond between Lily and Travis, along with the quiet strength of faith, that had me listening. As they faced their past and found their way back to each other, I was reminded that God remains unchanging, patiently waiting for us to come to Him.
The narration was spot on—each character’s emotions, the suspense, and the depth of faith came through perfectly. It brought the story to life in a way that made it all the more impactful.
This story is a vivid portrayal of grace, second chances, and unwavering hope.
I received a digital ARC of this audiobook from the publisher and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Lily’s path of letting go and trusting God’s plan felt real—her struggles mirrored the quiet battles we all face when we're unsure of where we're headed. Her strength grew from trusting Him for who He is. Paired with Travis’s courage and Timber’s fierce loyalty, this trio showcased a beautiful metaphor for God’s protective care and the power of redemption.
The tension kept me glued to the story, but it was the bond between Lily and Travis, along with the quiet strength of faith, that had me listening. As they faced their past and found their way back to each other, I was reminded that God remains unchanging, patiently waiting for us to come to Him.
The narration was spot on—each character’s emotions, the suspense, and the depth of faith came through perfectly. It brought the story to life in a way that made it all the more impactful.
This story is a vivid portrayal of grace, second chances, and unwavering hope.
I received a digital ARC of this audiobook from the publisher and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
January 27, 2025
This book was a real page turner. A definite must-read.
February 20, 2025
My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, K-9 Alaskan Defense. I'm a big fan of Sarah's work so I was glad to receive this book in the mail. It's well-written, action-packed, and full of intrigue. I know you are going to love it.
Lily Peterson is out running the mountain ridgeline as she had done with her now deceased fiancé. Her K-9, Timber is with her. Her dog ran off and she followed only to find a dead body. She was suddenly knocked sidewise by a blurry force. She slid down the mountainside but was able to stop before going over the edge. As the man reached for her the dog attacked him. He threw Timber off and ran. Lily calls the only man she can trust.
Ex-police officer Travis Beckett was shocked to hear from Lily. He hadn't been a part of her life since his partner, her fiancé was killed. He felt like he had failed her. He should have been the one killed not Matt. He dropped everything and ran up the ridgeline to meet her. She told him today was the one year anniversary of Matt's death. You could see the spot from where he die from where they stood. There was a piece of paper that fell from the dead man's pocket. It was her address. She was in trouble.
A terrifying journey to stay ahead of the killer and find answers. God has a plan for these two, a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. Give Him you heart and watch Him turn your life around
Lily Peterson is out running the mountain ridgeline as she had done with her now deceased fiancé. Her K-9, Timber is with her. Her dog ran off and she followed only to find a dead body. She was suddenly knocked sidewise by a blurry force. She slid down the mountainside but was able to stop before going over the edge. As the man reached for her the dog attacked him. He threw Timber off and ran. Lily calls the only man she can trust.
Ex-police officer Travis Beckett was shocked to hear from Lily. He hadn't been a part of her life since his partner, her fiancé was killed. He felt like he had failed her. He should have been the one killed not Matt. He dropped everything and ran up the ridgeline to meet her. She told him today was the one year anniversary of Matt's death. You could see the spot from where he die from where they stood. There was a piece of paper that fell from the dead man's pocket. It was her address. She was in trouble.
A terrifying journey to stay ahead of the killer and find answers. God has a plan for these two, a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. Give Him you heart and watch Him turn your life around
January 7, 2025
Lily Peterson is on a run with her dog, Timber, when they stumble across a dead body. Lily is alone if not for Timber, as she lost her fiancé, Matt, a year ago. Timber was Matt’s K-9 partner and was injured when Matt lost his life. While Lily is prepared to make a call to report her finding, she is attacked by a man in the woods. That is when she makes the quick decision to call Travis Beckett, Matt’s former partner.
Travis, having left the police force, promptly answers Lily’s call. Upon meeting, they both realize that the body’s discovery holds significant implications for the events of the previous year. Lily and Travis had dated in high school, and their reunion quickly rekindles their lingering feelings for each other. However, their attention is diverted to investigating the past to uncover the truth behind Lily and Timber’s findings.
As they delve deeper, Lily grapples with unanswered questions. She wonders if she’s emotionally safe or a danger now that she’s reconnected with Travis. This second chance romance for Lily and Travis forms part of a well-crafted story that balances suspense and reliance on faith. This book is perfect for a quick, one-sitting read. The audiobook version of this book was truly captivating, thanks to its excellent narration.
Many thanks to Love Inspired Suspense and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Travis, having left the police force, promptly answers Lily’s call. Upon meeting, they both realize that the body’s discovery holds significant implications for the events of the previous year. Lily and Travis had dated in high school, and their reunion quickly rekindles their lingering feelings for each other. However, their attention is diverted to investigating the past to uncover the truth behind Lily and Timber’s findings.
As they delve deeper, Lily grapples with unanswered questions. She wonders if she’s emotionally safe or a danger now that she’s reconnected with Travis. This second chance romance for Lily and Travis forms part of a well-crafted story that balances suspense and reliance on faith. This book is perfect for a quick, one-sitting read. The audiobook version of this book was truly captivating, thanks to its excellent narration.
Many thanks to Love Inspired Suspense and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
January 11, 2025
This audiobook is a clean, Christian, suspense story. Though part of a series, if like me, you have not read and/or listened to the previous ones, rest assure it’s a stand alone.
Lily Peterson’s cop boyfriend was killed a few months ago. Not wanting to let go of his retired K-9 dog, Timber, she rescued the dog and now he’s hers.
Taking a walk through the woods she not only encounters an attacker, but also a body. Frightened after surviving the attacker, she calls the only person she trusts, her boyfriend’s former partner and once upon a time her ex, Travis Beckett.
Still cautious of this tentative relationship, Travis is determined to keep her safe, especially after Lily’s cabin is set on fire.
Who is after her and why? Could it be related to the last case Matt was working on?
If they stay alive long enough to discover the culprit, is there a chance that they can have a second chance at love?
This action packed story will keep you wondering not only what will happen next , but also who is the criminal?
Mixed into it all , is the reminder that God is always there for us. We just need to trust Him, ourselves and others.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley and Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense.
The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Lily Peterson’s cop boyfriend was killed a few months ago. Not wanting to let go of his retired K-9 dog, Timber, she rescued the dog and now he’s hers.
Taking a walk through the woods she not only encounters an attacker, but also a body. Frightened after surviving the attacker, she calls the only person she trusts, her boyfriend’s former partner and once upon a time her ex, Travis Beckett.
Still cautious of this tentative relationship, Travis is determined to keep her safe, especially after Lily’s cabin is set on fire.
Who is after her and why? Could it be related to the last case Matt was working on?
If they stay alive long enough to discover the culprit, is there a chance that they can have a second chance at love?
This action packed story will keep you wondering not only what will happen next , but also who is the criminal?
Mixed into it all , is the reminder that God is always there for us. We just need to trust Him, ourselves and others.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley and Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense.
The opinions expressed are solely my own.
February 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had the pleasure of listening to this audiobook thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio. It was an exciting tale of a second chance love. I never saw the twist what an unexpected surprise but then again I usually don’t see the twists coming.
Lily Peterson finds a dead body in the woods then she is attacked by an unknown person only to be rescued by her retired police K-9, Timber. Timber steals the show I truly love it when animals are part of the story it always adds depth to it for me.
Lily calls someone whom she trusts, that person being her late fiancé's former partner and former officer, Travis Beckett.
But it’s not just the dead body she has to worry about her house then goes up in flame, now she knows someone wants her dead, but who? In the midst of finding a killer, she is falling for Travis again. They used to date before she was engaged and now this might be their second chance. Can she have the man and find out who wants to kill her?
Great narration as well I felt as though the narrator gave us her all and it showed in the audio.
I had the pleasure of listening to this audiobook thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio. It was an exciting tale of a second chance love. I never saw the twist what an unexpected surprise but then again I usually don’t see the twists coming.
Lily Peterson finds a dead body in the woods then she is attacked by an unknown person only to be rescued by her retired police K-9, Timber. Timber steals the show I truly love it when animals are part of the story it always adds depth to it for me.
Lily calls someone whom she trusts, that person being her late fiancé's former partner and former officer, Travis Beckett.
But it’s not just the dead body she has to worry about her house then goes up in flame, now she knows someone wants her dead, but who? In the midst of finding a killer, she is falling for Travis again. They used to date before she was engaged and now this might be their second chance. Can she have the man and find out who wants to kill her?
Great narration as well I felt as though the narrator gave us her all and it showed in the audio.
March 1, 2025
Lily is running the mountain with K-9 Timber on the anniversary of her fiancé Matt's murder and Timber's being shot and retired. She stumbles on a dead body and instinct has her calling Travis who used to be Matt's partner. Surprised by the call, he comes and runs interference with the police community despite having walked away from it after the shooting. As if finding a dead body isn't enough, Lily finds her cabin on fire when she heads home. Travis, Lily and Timber try to figure out who is after her and why. The action and suspense are through out the story and pushes Lily and Travis to find the friendship and love they once had in high school. I listened to the audio and wish the narrator has just a tad more emotional depth to her voices, but overall she did a great job making all the voices different. The story did a good job on the balance between faith and being preachy. I enjoyed the book.
January 13, 2025
K-9 Alaskan Defense series #14 by Sarah Varland. This is my first book I have listened to by her. The narrator, Dominique Dibbell, did a fantastic job with the narration. I honestly didn’t know that this was a series but definitely can be read as a standalone. I will go back and read the others.
Lily Peterson was on a run with her retired police dog Timber that she received after he was injured in the line of duty and his handler, her finance, Matt was killed. Timber leads her to a dead body and someone tries to throw her off the cliff. She calls his ex partner and her ex boyfriend for help. Can they try to find who wants her dead? Will they rekindle their romance? This is a Christian suspense, second chances clean romance.
I was given this arc audio by #NetGalley, #Harlequin Audio and the Author. This is my honest review!
Lily Peterson was on a run with her retired police dog Timber that she received after he was injured in the line of duty and his handler, her finance, Matt was killed. Timber leads her to a dead body and someone tries to throw her off the cliff. She calls his ex partner and her ex boyfriend for help. Can they try to find who wants her dead? Will they rekindle their romance? This is a Christian suspense, second chances clean romance.
I was given this arc audio by #NetGalley, #Harlequin Audio and the Author. This is my honest review!
January 15, 2025
Hallmark Mysteries meets Cozy Mysteries in one, is a great way to describe any Love Inspired Suspense reads. K-9 Defense stays true to this statement. Not "paying attention" that this was part of a series and #14 to boot - it works as a stand alone. and I didn't feel like I was missing bits of information because of that.
The book starts out with the main female lead, Lilly and her dog, a former K-9 dog, discovering a dead body on the mountain top and from there on, someone is watching her and trying to take her out.
If you are a fan of cozy mysteries or Hallmark style movies - this read will not disappoint, You get a good, clean romance with suspense sprinkled in.
The book starts out with the main female lead, Lilly and her dog, a former K-9 dog, discovering a dead body on the mountain top and from there on, someone is watching her and trying to take her out.
If you are a fan of cozy mysteries or Hallmark style movies - this read will not disappoint, You get a good, clean romance with suspense sprinkled in.
February 6, 2025
I so enjoy these Love Inspired Suspense K-9 series – such amazing variety in all these stories! ‘K-9 Alaskan Defense’ is an example of all that is good in this kind of romantic suspense.
First — the setting. I am so enamoured with stories set in Alaska particularly when it’s a romantic suspense. And the opening scene with Lily stumbling upon a dead body in the middle of nowhere. Phew! Cue the ominous organ music and buckle up for a rocky ride to her happily every after! Really loved the pacing — the way the author builds up the tension but includes enough breathing space for the relationship between Lily and Travis to grow.
So — second chance romance trope written with just the right amount of angst and redemption. Loved the way these two communicate, even when it comes to the hard to hear stuff. And the rich emotional layers in both their back stories add extra depth to an already riveting read.
Then there’s Timber – retired K-9 officer who hasn’t forgotten any of her training and is still all about serving and protecting. Love me a good fur-buddy bodyguard!
The suspense grabbed my attention from the very first scene and I found the mystery so compelling. I could feel my anxiety levels rise as I tried (along with Travis and Lily) to figure out why Lily seemed to be a target and then I got to an ‘aha’ moment waaaay before they did and I was on the edge of my seat waiting for them to catch up with me…or prove me wrong. Absolutely love how engaged I was with these characters and their story.
I enjoyed listening to the audio edition narrated by Dominique Dibbell. Her performance matched the tension and action of the story and enhanced my ‘reading’ pleasure that much more. Such a blessing to have so many of the Love Inspired books being made available in audio format now.
My thanks to Harlequin Audio and Net Galley for providing me with an audio copy of this book.
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2025/01/22/k...
First — the setting. I am so enamoured with stories set in Alaska particularly when it’s a romantic suspense. And the opening scene with Lily stumbling upon a dead body in the middle of nowhere. Phew! Cue the ominous organ music and buckle up for a rocky ride to her happily every after! Really loved the pacing — the way the author builds up the tension but includes enough breathing space for the relationship between Lily and Travis to grow.
So — second chance romance trope written with just the right amount of angst and redemption. Loved the way these two communicate, even when it comes to the hard to hear stuff. And the rich emotional layers in both their back stories add extra depth to an already riveting read.
Then there’s Timber – retired K-9 officer who hasn’t forgotten any of her training and is still all about serving and protecting. Love me a good fur-buddy bodyguard!
The suspense grabbed my attention from the very first scene and I found the mystery so compelling. I could feel my anxiety levels rise as I tried (along with Travis and Lily) to figure out why Lily seemed to be a target and then I got to an ‘aha’ moment waaaay before they did and I was on the edge of my seat waiting for them to catch up with me…or prove me wrong. Absolutely love how engaged I was with these characters and their story.
I enjoyed listening to the audio edition narrated by Dominique Dibbell. Her performance matched the tension and action of the story and enhanced my ‘reading’ pleasure that much more. Such a blessing to have so many of the Love Inspired books being made available in audio format now.
My thanks to Harlequin Audio and Net Galley for providing me with an audio copy of this book.
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2025/01/22/k...
January 20, 2025
Thank you to #netgalley #sarahvarland #harlequinaudio for the opportunity to listen to this book!
This story jumps right into the action when Lily Peterson discovers a dead body while on a trail run. This was disturbing enough, but when she realizes this event is on the anniversary of her fiancé's death, and she finds a note at the site with her own address written on it, she is truly shaken. Reluctantly contacting her high school sweetheart and previous partner of her fiancé for help, things become even more complicated. This is an enjoyable, satisfying, mystery with all the feels!
This story jumps right into the action when Lily Peterson discovers a dead body while on a trail run. This was disturbing enough, but when she realizes this event is on the anniversary of her fiancé's death, and she finds a note at the site with her own address written on it, she is truly shaken. Reluctantly contacting her high school sweetheart and previous partner of her fiancé for help, things become even more complicated. This is an enjoyable, satisfying, mystery with all the feels!
February 26, 2025
I loved this story. I couldn't put the book down. It drew me in right away and kept me turning the pages until the very end. I really liked the characters and loved how they related to each other and dealt with everything that was happening to them.
April 16, 2025
*****I received this audiobook free from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
I love a book with a dog on the cover! This one did not disappoint! Her fiancej is dead and now she is being attacked. They think it might be someone close to the case!
I love a book with a dog on the cover! This one did not disappoint! Her fiancej is dead and now she is being attacked. They think it might be someone close to the case!
January 12, 2025
Love Inspired Suspense with a 2nd Chance Romance intertwined. The suspense and storyline were on point and had a very unexpected ending.
3.75 stars
3.75 stars
January 25, 2025
Very good story
This was a page turner. I loved the suspense and how they had a history together a while back. I really enjoyed the story.
This was a page turner. I loved the suspense and how they had a history together a while back. I really enjoyed the story.
February 3, 2025
Great read
February 6, 2025
Great story! Fast paced!
March 2, 2025
I listened to the audio and the narration was fantastic! I was hooked from the beginning, I didn't want to put it down!
I received an ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.
April 21, 2025
An exciting read. Several twists and turns. Is someone trying to kill Lily or just scare her? If so, why? Check this book out!
July 27, 2025
This is a good read. I knew Matt was not a good person!! I felt for Lily!I cheered for Travis and Lily!
August 21, 2025
Great story line, kept attention well. Grammatical errors in book.
November 13, 2025
Suspenseful book that starts off with plenty of action. This book was entertaining and kept me reading to the end.
March 21, 2025
Very exciting
Read
January 2, 2025Inspirational Suspense, Wholesome Romance, Animal Fiction, Romantic Suspense
Miniseries
K-9 Search and Rescue (Book #14)
Miniseries
K-9 Search and Rescue (Book #14)
Read
January 2, 2025Inspirational Suspense, Wholesome Romance, Animal Fiction, Romantic Suspense
Miniseries
K-9 Search and Rescue (Book #14)
Miniseries
K-9 Search and Rescue (Book #14)
April 27, 2025
This was an interesting listen. I really enjoyed the setting. This was a great suspense read with some romance added in. Recommend.
Thank you to Net Galley for the audio copy in exchange for my honest feedback.
Thank you to Net Galley for the audio copy in exchange for my honest feedback.
November 1, 2025
Quick enjoyable read
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews