Mateo

The K9 Files #30

by Dale Mayer

Mateo, The K9 Files book #30, description coming soon.

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 4, 2025

About the author

Dale Mayer is a USA Today bestselling author best known for her Psychic Visions and Family Blood Ties series. Her contemporary romances are raw and full of passion and emotion (Second Chances, SKIN), her thrillers will keep you guessing (By Death series), and her romantic comedies will keep you giggling (It's a Dog's Life and Charmin Marvin Romantic Comedy series).

She honors the stories that come to her - and some of them are crazy and break all the rules and cross multiple genres!

To go with her fiction, she also writes nonfiction in many different fields with books available on resume writing, companion gardening and the US mortgage system. She has recently published her Career Essentials Series. All her books are available in print and ebook format.

To find out more about Dale and her books, visit her at http://www.dalemayer.com. Or connect with her online with Twitter at www.twitter.com/dalemayer and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dalemayer.author. If you like Dale Mayer's books and are interested in joining her street team, sign up here - https://www.facebook.com/groups/40238...

Books by Dale Mayer

Psychic Vision Series
Tuesday's Child
Hide'n Go Seek
Maddy's Floor
Garden of Sorrow
Knock, Knock...
Rare Find
Eyes to the Soul - fall/winter 2014

By Death Series
Touched by Death - Part 1 - Free
Touched by Death - Part 2
Touched by Death - Full book
Haunted by Death
Chilled by Death - fall/winter 2014

Second Chances...at Love Series
Second Chances - Part 1
Second Chances - Part 2
Second Chances - Full book

Novellas
It's a Dog's Life- romantic comedy

Charmin Marvin Romantic Comedy
Broken Protocols #1
Broken Protocols #2
Broken Protocols #3

New adult/adul crossover Books
In Cassie's Corner
Gem Stone (a Gemma Stone mystery)

Design Series
Dangerous Designs
Deadly Designs
Darkest Designs

Family Blood Ties Series
Vampire in Denial
Vampire in Distress
Vampire in Design
Vampire in Deceit
Vampire in Defiance

Non-Fiction Books
Career Essentials: The Resume
Career Essentials: The Cover Letter
Career Essentials: The Interview
Career Essentials: 3 in 1

Reviews

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great addition to this series. Plenty of action, dirty cops, suspense, and veterans who need help. HEA.

[TrishAM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another heart warming story in Dale Mayer's K9 Files series.
Mateo Montgomery, ex navy, was sorting his life out after being discharged from the military due to life changing injuries, he was helping build homes for other vets in the same position as him........that is until mischievous, matchmaker, Kat had him in her sights. Mateo was only too willing to help Kat and Badger in their search for a war dog that had gone off the radar although this was going to be a strange one, not only the dog, but the whole family had disappeared.
Teacher, Maraya Banks was worried about her neighbours, they had disappeared without trace, she had pleaded with the authorities to search for them but her abusive, controlling ex husband, who just happened to be the sheriff, didn't listen, he had done everything in his power to discredit Maraya and turn the town against her.
Maraya's life had been hard, she married Riley because she had nowhere else to go and she had spent her life regretting it.
When handsome Mateo arrived at her doorstep looking for the dog, Maraya felt hopeful, if he managed to find the dog, he may also find the missing family.
Little did Mateo think when he accepted this challenge that he would be fighting against the corrupt, cruel sheriff, his equally corrupt and cruel deputies and most of the town, but Mateo had Badger on his side and Badger's influence was far reaching.
This is a lovely gentle romance with just the right amount of angst, I love how Dale Mayer has linked this book to her equally enjoyable "Haven" series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's not home, it's purgatory!

Wow! Who knew there were such evil and selfish people in this world? Not only is he evil and selfish, but he has also managed to twist the whole town into not only believing completely unbelievable things but also accepting actions and behaviours that are never acceptable. It's like entering a twilight zone!
I love Maraya and her huge heart and I hate that she was not only drawn into the web of such a vile man when she was grieving, but that she is still fighting the terrible lies he has spread now. I really enjoyed her surprise when Mateo not only believes her and helps her, but also when he does the smallest things to take care of her. It is lovely to see that surprise become trust and then hope. They are awesome together as a couple, but also with Thorny, with Maria and her family and with the terrible residents of the town who are so quick to believe ill of her. Mateo takes no crap and defends her brilliantly.
A great addition to the series, I am so glad this is not the final book and I look forward to many more in this series.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mateo by Dale Mayer
K9 Files Book Thirty
Mateo Montgomery has been working for Badger and helping Timber out at the Haven. Now, Kat has asked him to go to Virginia to find a missing War Dog. The whole family and the dog have disappeared. It seems only one woman was concerned about them, and that was the one Mateo was to find and ask about the situation.
Maraya Banks is frustrated with the town she grew up in. After losing so many close to her and making a bad choice while she was going through a chaotic time, she’s living with the consequences. Rumors about her were started, leading to her losing her job and reputation. And now, she couldn’t get law enforcement to search for her missing neighbors.
Mateo’s appearance seems to rub some folks the wrong way for sure, but he doesn’t care. They have people and a dog to find. If the local law won’t do it…he will.
I always enjoy the K9 files. This story had me turning the pages from beginning to end, as usual.
**Mild sexual content and language
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...

[Wendy Hodges · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intricate plot that is both disturbing and interesting, it highlights abuse of power and racism. Also how this can affect someone already dealing with severe PTSD, instead of helping, sending them over the edge, fears for family paramount. Nobody will help or listen to Maraya's concerns about her missing neighbours, as she grows more concerned it is the families missing adopted war dog that finally gets the help. Mateo finds way more than expected when he goes looking for the dog, soon embroiled in a scenario of hate, abuse and more. Once started on reading this I was addicted to finishing, getting answers and trying to follow the scary twists and turns the plot took. Maraya and the family had and was going through hell with no support, standing completely alone until Mateo arrives, finally she finds someone and something to continue fighting for. Unpredictable, disturbing but fabulously gripping story you just need to keep reading and not put down.

[Linda Carlson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mateo & Maraya

A heartbreaking story about the hazards of PTSD and its effects on families. This story also deals with angry, narrow minded people that are in positions of authority and take advantage of those around them, because they can. They find joy in ruining people’s reputation and threatening their lives.

I love Maraya’s caring heart and her moxy to stand up to the local law enforcement. She naturally fights for the underdog and doesn’t give up, even when it gets personal and dangerous for her.
I have to give Mateo credit for jumping right in the middle of things when he arrives in town to look for Thorny. His persistence, with Maraya’s help, enables them to find Timmy and get him medical help.

This story has several threads to follow that contains mystery, conflict, and danger that is all connected in some way. It also has a growing attraction between Mateo and Maraya - of course!
Love how this story comes to its conclusion. Great read.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serving his country was the only life that Mateo has known so it is understandable that he is uncertain what happens next. The opportunity to look for Thorny, a missing K9 couldn’t have come at a better time however what was believed to be a single search mission takes a turn when people are missing and law enforcement doesn’t seem to be taking it seriously.

Maraya knows that something isn’t right but due to her past she isn’t able to get anyone to believe her let alone help or least that was the case until Mateo comes to town. He is the one person who wants to help but there is a lot more going on than first appears and it will put them at odds from those these should be able to trust.

Intrigue, action and surprises all combine into an entertaining story as Maraya and Mateo find love under less-than-ideal circumstances.

[Char Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A suspense filled story when a K9 goes missing Mateo to find him

Mateo is goIng to find a missing K9 and the family-friendly is missing too.When the neighbor Maraya comes an asks who he is he tells her he was sent by the war department to find the missing war dog .She gets upset but then says what about the family that's missing?He says we find the dog we will probably find the family. This is a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat and the characters will captivate you.. Will Mateo find love with Maraya?there is action suspense danger and romance.there are so many twists and turns to this story you will be riveted til the very last page.I can hardly wait to see what's next by this multi talented author.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading Mateo . It's part of the K9 files series . Kat and Badger ask Mateo Montgomery to look into a Missing retired K9 adopted by a family in Culpepper Virginia . Upon arrival he finds the family missing and the house abandoned . He meets Maraya Banks who lives next door . She's worried about the missing family . She also has trouble at her door . As Mateo works to get answers they find themselves in danger from Marayas twisted ex . This story is outstanding full of suspense and intrigue and a bit of romance . I highly recommend taking the time to read .

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbiebooknerdyoung · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mateo is sent to find Thorny, and meets Maraya. She's the neighbour to the missing family, and was the childrens teacher. This novel deals with the harsh realities of PTSD, and the collateral damage to the soldiers and their families. Maraya's ex-husband is the sheriff, and has spread ruthless lies about Maraya and her mental health. The community has been no help to Maraya, because they believe her ex. Getting help to find the missing family is next to impossible because the local law enforcement officers think she's crazy. Maraya won't back down, and with Mateo by her side, the family is located along with Thorny. A sad story with a happy ending!

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maraya has been worried about the family next door who went missing but no one will look for them. When Mateo shows up to search for the War Dog the family had taken in she finally has someone who believes her. Shortly after Mateo arrives the situation changes and Maraya finds herself in danger as well. This is an action packed story. Maraya has had a hard life but has survived it and is willing to stand up for herself and others. Her situation isolated her from others until Mateo came along.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Meg Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, in this series about K9 Files, volunteers check on the adoptions of war dogs that have been retired. In this story, not only is the dog, Thorny, missing but the entire adoptive family appears gone as well. Mateo has volunteered to follow up on Thorny's disappearance but did not expect to find the family not available and the only person who seems to be concerned is the family's neighbor Maraya. A complicated answer is involved along with enjoyable characters making this a great read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laura R · Rating 3 out of 5]

Multi-layered story involving abuse of power by males in a small town. A whole family, along with their War Dog, have gone missing but no one seems to care - especially not Maraya's ex-husband, who is currently the sheriff. He also has a couple of deputies who are more than eager to do what they can to please him. The story is filled with danger, corruption, towns people who just go along with the flow, and a veteran with PTSD.

[Fleur · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kat really is a great match maker and Mateo is going to be her next success and I just loved how we noy only had missing dog, but also the family who adopted Thorny. I loved Maraya who deserved to have someone like Mateo show her what it's like to have someone who believes and supports them and her ex needs a reality check.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mateo

Mateo didn't know that the town he would find himself in was so filled with totally toxic law and citizens. First meeting with Maraya he thinks she's the same. As the hunt for Torny and his missing people progresses, Mateo realizes the town is awful due to the Sheriff' s department and and their bigotry and lies. Maraya has been a victim and is really trying to help and he finds that he really likes her.

[Elizabeth Kemper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mateo for the Win

Great plot. Lots of action. Lots of unhappy people in a community run by a demanding, abusive and corrupt sheriff. When Mateo comes to town to find an a missing war dog, he also finds a woman in need of a friend, support and protection. She's the only person worried about the missing family and their war dog. Maraya's been targeted for bullying and violence. Mateo is just the man to help save her, the missing family and Thorny.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars for Mateo by Dale Mayer

Another excellent read for this amazing series of K9 Files. Another must read. It is so wrong for the way that Maraya was treated by everyone in town. Such small minded people in this book. But I love the way Mateo stood up for her and the lost family. Amazing storyline with lots of twists and turns. Happy for the somewhat happy ending. Can't wait for the next installment of K9 Files.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mateo has a missing K9 but, just as important, the War Dog's family is also missing. Mateo and concerned neighbor Maraya are on the hunt. Their search has many twists and turns, their journey complicated. I had problems putting it down (a common occurrence with the stories of Dale Mayer). Bravo!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[janelle beaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mateo is sent to find out what happened to the missing war dog but, when he gets there and talks to Maraya he finds out the whole family is missing, and she can't get anyone to listen to her or help find them. As the two team up to find the dog and the family they find danger, mystery and twists and turns and dealing with PTSD.

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mateo agreed to find a missing war dog but didn't realise it would change his life to a new direction. Maraya was about her missing neighbours when Mateo arrived. Working together they find more at play and wondering the out comes.
Love for Mateo and Maraya?
Maraya's neighbours. Do they find them? Do they find thr war dog?
A great story from start to finish.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book! Matteo and Maraya faced a lot in their quest to find Thorny. We had a missing family, corrupt law enforcement, a town that was questionable in their treatment of folks, and an ex who was a real piece of work . On top of all of that a lot of information came out regarding past incidents.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once I started reading I didn't want to stop which left me with some late nights. There are a mix of characters, some you like and some you don't, and you hope the good guys come out on top.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gladys · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was a good read. The story is very suspenseful, thrilling, dramatic and twisty. Mateo and Maraya were engaging and intriguing characters that were very likable had solid chemistry. I liked them together was rooting them on every step of the way.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heart wrenching the PTSD our veterans and others go through, especially when exacerbated by racism from a narrow minded Sheriff with selfishness and corruption in his veins. K-9 Thorny goes missing and Mateo is set to find out what's happening. Come to find out there is a whole family missing and no one seems to care, except for their neighbor Maraya who has issues of her own. Glad this had HEA, as well as one can. Thank you for the advance copy. I freely share my honest thoughts and opinions. #Mateo #TheK9Files #DaleMayer #ValleyPublishing #Booksprout

[gloria marquardt · Rating 5 out of 5]

You won't go wrong.

A vet with ptsd, A missing family a woman who is being abused a. woundEdnwarrior, what could possibly go wrong.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took a while to get into the story, but it got better.

[Sheri Jesse · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a tough read but only due to the topic and the "good old boys" attitude of the cops and the town folks. The story and the interactions between Mateo and Maraya were pretty darn good.

[Marilyn S Corke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good book

I love the these books about the k9s and also about who goes to find the missing the missing eat dog and the romance at the end

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great as always

A great book as all.of hers are .I love all her books but the ones about the dogs are really awesome

[Cynthia Siermienski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mateo (The K9 Files Book 30)

Another amazing story. This was very interesting with the dynamics of the town and the people. The sadness of it all made it fantastic reading.