Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Dakota K-9 Unit #8

Final Showdown

Rate this book
The suspect list is growing…
Can this K-9 team unmask a killer?

Investigating a gun smuggling ring leads ATF Special Agent Daniel Slater to a murder victim’s house—and right into a drive-by shooting. With his K-9 partner, Dakota, he helps save crime scene investigator Aurora Martin from flying bullets. But there are no clues as to why Aurora is a target. Suspecting a case of mistaken identity, Daniel insists she will be safe hiding out at his home—until gunmen infiltrate the property. Now, to protect Aurora, Daniel must hunt down their attacker. But can he catch the culprit in time…or will this case be Aurora’s last?

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

Dakota K-9 Unit

Book 1: Chasing a Kidnapper by Laura Scott
Book 2: Deadly Badlands Pursuit by Sharee Stover
Book 3: Standing Watch by Terri Reed
Book 4: Cold Case Peril by Maggie K. Black
Book 5: Tracing Killer Evidence by Jodie Bailey
Book 6: Threat of Revenge by Jessica R. Patch
Book 7: Double Protection Duty by Sharon Dunn
Book 8: Final Showdown by Valerie Hansen
Book 9: Deadly Christmas Trap by Lynette Eason
Book 10: Dangerous Holiday Manhunt by Lenora Worth

Kindle Edition

Published October 28, 2025

30 people are currently reading
60 people want to read

About the author

Valerie Hansen

180 books251 followers
Valerie Hansen is the pen name of Valerie Whisenand.

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

Although I have been a published author since the mid 1980s, I have been writing women's Christian fiction almost exclusively since 1999.

There is a longer, more detailed bio on my website so there's no need for me to repeat all that here. Right now, I write for all three Love Inspired lines, Romance, Suspense and Historical. I'm delighted to have been included that broadly and besides, it keeps me so busy that I stay out of trouble. Well, mostly.

You'll find me on the LI Historical blog as well as other LI features. If I try to do much more I won't have time to write my books!

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
108 (75%)
4 stars
25 (17%)
3 stars
8 (5%)
2 stars
2 (1%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Thereadingbell.
1,433 reviews40 followers
November 9, 2025
Final Showdown (Dakota K-9 Unit Book 8) by Valerie Hansen

This is book 8 of the series and the first one in this series I have read. The main character is ATF Special Agent Daniel Slater and his K-9 dog Dakota. He is investigating a gun smuggling ring. Aurora is saved by Daniel when she is shot at. Aurora is a crime scene investigator that seems to be in danger. Daniel takes her to his house where she will be safe in the meantime.

The action in the book was fast paced and made the story really good. I enjoyed the story especially the connection between Aurora and Joy. Joy is Daniel's half-sister's daughter. I would love to go back and read the other book in the series. It can be read as a standalone and it was not hard to follow along even if you haven't read the other books.

If you are a fan of suspense with a touch of romance, you will like this book. The audio book was narrated by Teri Schnaubelt who does a great job with bringing the characters to life with the story.

Thank You to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for a free audio copy of the Final Showdown for an honest review.
Profile Image for Nicole | Nicole's Bookstagram.
138 reviews7 followers
November 14, 2025
The Final Showdown is a fast paced, faith based, romantic suspense. It is book 8 in the Dakota K-9 Unit series. The relationship between ATF Special Agent Daniel Slater and crime scene tech Aurora Martin is a slow burn spark that builds beautifully over the course of the book. Seeing Aurora interact with his niece, Joy, his grandmother, and his terminally ill sister breaks down Daniel's defenses and softens his heart towards her. I loved the special bond between Aurora and Joy. Aurora does a great job explaining heaven to Joy and helping her understand everything that is happening with her mom. Aurora is strong, stubborn, and completely selfless when it comes to protecting those she cares about. Daniel is bossy and protective, wanting to ensure Aurora is safe without looking too closely at why it matters so much to him.

This book touches on God not answering prayers the way we want Him to and whether or not we will trust Him regardless of the outcome. Aurora prayed for her mother to be healed and she wasn't. Daniel's loved ones are in danger, and while he maybe be the officer in charge, he knows he isn't really in control of what happens. I like the way the characters wrestled with their trust in God and how the author navigated these questions.

This is the second book I've read in this series. While it can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the series in order. I didn't have trouble following the storyline but did find myself wondering about previous events mentioned. With this being the series finale, the whole team comes together for the final showdown. I plan to go back and read all the Dakota K-9 books from the beginning.

The audiobook was enjoyable. I listened to it in one day. The recording was high quality, crisp and clear. I thought the narrator did a good job with tone and pacing. At times it was difficult to distinguish between which POV I was hearing as I didn't hear much of a distinction between the two main characters. I could determine fairly quickly based on what was being said but it was something I was aware of. Still, I would recommend this audiobook to others.

Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
1,627 reviews28 followers
November 13, 2025
Final Showdown by Valerie Hansen

(Dakota K-9 Unit Book 8)

The suspect list is growing…
Can this K-9 team unmask a killer?

Investigating a gun smuggling ring leads ATF Special Agent Daniel Slater to a murder victim’s house—and right into a drive-by shooting. With his K-9 partner, Dakota, he helps save crime scene investigator Aurora Martin from flying bullets. But there are no clues as to why Aurora is a target. Suspecting a case of mistaken identity, Daniel insists she will be safe hiding out at his home—until gunmen infiltrate the property. Now, to protect Aurora, Daniel must hunt down their attacker. But can he catch the culprit in time…or will this case be Aurora’s last?
My favorite quote is
He shouted, “Dakota, come. Down,” then whirled, threw his arms around Aurora and propelled them both behind his SUV. Her evidence collection kit went flying.
Aurora’s head was spinning. Her vision blurred. She fought to catch her breath.
Strong arms held her as Daniel shielded her with his own body and Dakota took a place on the ground next to them. Every muscle of the dog’s massive body was tensed as if ready to launch an attack. If the K-9 had not been so well trained, Aurora imagined she’d be on her feet snarling and barking.
I recommend this book.
Final Showdown by Valerie Hansen
is a 5 - star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Valerie Hansen.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.


3,558 reviews40 followers
November 9, 2025
We are back in Dakota where a special group of law enforcement, some with K-9 partners, have been working diligently to find the ones responsible for gun smuggling in the area. One of these individuals is ATF Special Agent Daniel Slater. He’s always accompanied by his K-9 partner, Dakota. On his way to further his investigation, bullets are shot. He sees a woman about to be hit and protects her. She’s CSI investigator Aurora Martin.
Who were the bullets for, Daniel or Aurora? It seems someone might have mistaken her for her cousin, the ADA.
Determined to keep her safe, he brings her home where his young guardian, little Joy and his grandmother reside.
As the danger increases, so do the feelings between them.
This clean Christian suspense romance, keeps the readers wondering who is really the criminal, and if someone else will get hurt.
If you have read or listened to previous stories in the series, you’ll get a chance to “visit” with them.
There are tender moments with the young child, action packed ones, and some romance . The author also deals with hospice in some very touching scenes.
This was a well written story brought to life by the narration of Teri Schanaubelt.
I was entrusted this audiobook by Netgalley and Harlequin Audio. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Profile Image for Connie Hill.
1,885 reviews46 followers
December 2, 2025
Final Showdown is book 8 in the Dakota K-9 Unit series., This book is written by Valerie Hansen. This is narrated by Teri Schnaubelt. I have read several in the series and they are all written as stand alone books. In this one, Crime Scene investigator, Aurora is at the scene of crime, when there is a drive by shooting. She finds herself ducking for cover. ATF Special Agent Daniel Slater and his K9 partner, Dakota are also on scene. He knows that he will have to keep Aurora safe.

It becomes a race to see to stay ahead of the attacks. Aurora is not sure if she is the target, or if it is because she resembles her cousin, who is a DA. Daniel has had a lot going on. He is raising his sister's daughter. His sister is terminal and he has had a hard time explaining it to Joy. I loved the interaction between Joy and Aurora. He really feels that it's the best place to hide out - until it's not. The race is on to try and stop the threats.

The audiobook was enjoyable. I listened to it in one day. The recording was high quality, crisp and clear. I thought the narrator did a good job with tone and pacing. I love this Dakota K9 series.

Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to listen/read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
3,941 reviews1,764 followers
November 7, 2025
Woohoo! Epic takedown and superb ending to the Dakota K-9 multi-authored eight book series! Loved the way everything all comes together in ‘Final Showdown’ – and what an apt title! I’m totally a fan of a Great Dane K-9 officer! Dakota is equal parts committed guardian and fierce protector. And the instant attraction between Daniel and Aurora satisfied my romance loving heart. They are thrown together under extraordinary circumstances and there’s some fun snark (courtesy of Aurora) and banter and a whole lot of intrigue and danger before they can even dream of a happily ever after.

I’ll be honest and say that I do feel this story reads best if you are familiar with a few of the earlier books since it brings almost the whole team together as they finally bring a difficult case to a successful close. You could read it as a standalone but I think you’ll appreciate this ‘grand finale’ so much more if you have been with the team for at least part of the journey.

I really enjoyed listening to the audible edition narrated by Sharon Schnaubelt. She did a great job with all these characters and keeping pace with the exhilarating plot!
1,288 reviews10 followers
October 31, 2025
Action packed and keeps you guessing until the very end!

Crime scene investigator Aurora is standing next to Dakota Gun Task Force leader Daniel and his K-9 Dakota when they are shot at. Not knowing who was in the crosshairs, Daniel brings her to his secure home where she meets the toddler Joy who had been left to him and his grandmother, Charlotte. But someone has followed them there. Now Aurora is running with Daniel and Dakota, trying to keep his family safe and determine who exactly is in danger... even Aurora's cousin! Can they unravel all of the twisted strands in this web? Can they FINALLY take down the gun trafficking gang? Read this to find out!

The pace is breakneck and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with an action and character oriented storyline that has some kisses but no steam. The characters are vibrant and engaging. The Christian ideals are woven into the story. This is a super ending to the continuity/continuum. I can't wait for the Christmas 2-in-1 that will find heroes for the last two team members!
Profile Image for Trisha.
1,087 reviews17 followers
November 7, 2025
While investigating the gun smugglers the team has been chasing, ATF agent Daniel and K-9 Dakota (a Great Dane) get caught in a gunfight but they are not sure if the assailant is after Daniel or Aurora the crime scene tech or why. But, Daniel insists Aurora stay with him at his house, which Aurora soon finds is a big fortress loaded with cameras and many other safety features. In the meantime, Daniel and his Grandmother are taking care of a toddler, Joy, because her mother is dying and this is all the family she could find for her daughter. But when the killers find a way to infiltrate his house and threaten him, Aurora and his family, it is his team he calls for help.
This a very fast paced, suspenseful audio, with tons of action. I love the characters and really am not ready to see the team breakup, as they are now like family. The voice actor did a awesome job narrating this audio, she really brought the story to life. I really like this book and this series a lot.
Review copy provided by Netgalley
Profile Image for Denise Schenk.
1,064 reviews14 followers
November 10, 2025
ATF Special Agent Daniel Slater is leading the investigation on the gun smuggling ring. He is leaving a house where a murder was linked to the crime ring when he and crime scene investigator Aurora Martin are shot at from a fleeing car.
Aurora is driving her sister's car and it's now riddled with bullets and who were they targeting in this shot out. Daniel is taking care of and adopting his young niece and he takes Aurora home with him since she is now a target also. Joy the little girl takes to Aurora when she is staying in the home.
Now Daniel and Aurora are working together with the task force to find out who was behind the shotting. Another great piece of the puzzle in bring down the smugglers. This is the last book and ties up all the loose ends.
The narrator did a great job.
Profile Image for April.
3,188 reviews14 followers
November 12, 2025
This is the culmination of the Dakota K-9 Unit love inspired suspense series. The team is finally set to take down the gun smuggling group.
Daniel, the head of the special task force, is struggling with the threat to the team and the families of the team including his own.
Aurora is a crime scene investigator. When her path crosses with Daniel's, her life is thrown into danger.
As much as he tries to prevent it, Daniel and Aurora are drawn together by danger and by the needs of his family.
This is a wonderful book. I loved listening to the story and how things worked out. There was a good balance of romance and suspense.
Enjoyed the narrator.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Audio for the opportunity to listen to the book.
Profile Image for Wenona.
122 reviews4 followers
November 26, 2025
Final Showdown by Valerie Hansen is book #8 in the Dakota K-9 Unit series. Like the other books in this series, this read is non-stop action from the start!

Crime scene investigator Aurora Martin, seems to be in the line of fire and ATF Special Agent Daniel Slater is bent on keeping her safe at all costs. But who is after Aurora and is she really the one they are after?? Aurora's cousin, one of the DA's, favors her cousin - could they really be after her? Daniel Slater is with Aurora when bullets start flying, was he the target?

Danger lurks around every corner, can they make it to the end in one piece? Can Daniel put away past hurts to let his heart be open to love? This was an enjoyable read all around.
15 reviews3 followers
November 27, 2025
Final Showdown by Valerie Hansen is my first book by this author. I was given an advanced copy of the audiobook so my review is on more than just the story itself. This book was about a crime scene investigator named Aurora and an ATF specialist named Daniel who is trying to take down a gun smuggling ring. While this is book 8 from the love inspired suspense Dakota k-9 series, I didn't feel lost having not read the other books. The story was excellent, but listening to the audiobook version I think made it even better! The person reading managed to put plenty of emotion into their voice and was very pleasant to listen to. I definitely recommend this story!
Profile Image for Jodi.
2,756 reviews1 follower
November 7, 2025
First time reading this author and it is a clean, crime, adventure book. This appears to be part of a series which would defnitely added to the backstory and the overall story line but can be read as a standalone. Dakota the K9 star Daniel is taking care of his toddler niece Joy because Daniel's half-sister is terminally ill. I enjoyed the chemistry between Daniel and Aurora, and Joy is an adorable toddler. Great suspense read. A fast paced suspense filled with faith and action. Many thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity.
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,167 reviews49 followers
November 4, 2025
Such an action packed book with plenty of suspense and danger as Daniel and Aurora are caught in the crosshairs. Even Aurora's cousin is pulled into the crosshairs as the taskforce works on stopping the gun smuggling ring for good.
In addition to leading the taskforce team, Daniel is taking care of his toddler niece Joy because Daniel's half-sister is terminally ill. I enjoyed the chemistry between Daniel and Aurora, and Joy is an adorable toddler. Great suspense read.
314 reviews6 followers
November 10, 2025
Final Showdown by Valerie Hansen, narrated by Teri Schnaubelt is book 8 of her Dakota K-9 unit series. Fast paced, action packed romantic suspense. Great characters and plot. Love that the whole team makes an appearance from her previous books. Can be read as a stand-alone but I recommend reading them from the beginning. Thank you to #Harlequin Audio and #NetGalley for this Arc. This is my honest review. Released Oct 28, 2025
1,739 reviews7 followers
November 7, 2025
A most anticipated finale to the Dakota K-9 unit series did not disappoint! A fast paced suspense filled with faith and action. The narrator did a fantastic job bringing this story to life!

I received an audio ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Tami Willard.
2,410 reviews15 followers
November 7, 2025
This book is in a multi author interconnected series. It's best if read in order.
Leader of the task force
She's one of the CSI that has helped
Adjusting to raising a toddler
Surprise mastermind
Loss of loved ones
Profile Image for Mark.
2,501 reviews52 followers
October 23, 2025
Awesome conclusion to this great series
38 reviews1 follower
November 10, 2025
enjoyed reading this book and the suspense of what was going to happen all the way through.
Profile Image for Janet.
3,356 reviews24 followers
November 27, 2025
This book is action-packed. It was a super fast read for me. Loved it!
Profile Image for Tina Loves To Read.
3,480 reviews1 follower
November 17, 2025
This is a Romantic Suspense, and this is the 8th book in the Dakota K-9 Unit series. I have read most of the other books in this series before picking up this book. I read this book by listening to the audiobook, and I really enjoyed the audiobook for this book. This was a fast paced book filled with action and suspense with a little bit of romance sprinkled in. I really got into this story, and I loved the characters. I could not put this book down. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.