Buried Lies

National Forest K-9 #4

by Kathleen Donnelly, Hayli Henderson (Narrator)

When the man she loves is framed for murder, Maya Thompson and her K-9 will follow every trail to track the real killer down...

U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officer Maya Thompson and her K-9, Juniper, are both ready for a break. Ever since moving to Colorado, it’s been one investigation after another. Murder, arson, kidnapping…they’ve handled it all. Now that her boyfriend, Undersheriff Josh Colton, is coming home, Maya is looking forward to spending some quality time together.
Until she and Juniper find the body of a woman in a pile of forest debris meant to burn, that is. Then Maya’s just looking forward to having Josh’s help in solving the crime.
But when the victim turns out to be Josh’s volatile ex-fiancée, and all signs point to Josh as the main suspect, Maya and Juniper must dig into Josh’s past to uncover the truth…before the killer, fixated on revenge, finds them.

Genres: Mystery, Harlequin, Romantic Suspense, Suspense, Romance, Dogs

Audible Audio

Published January 27, 2026

About the author

Award-winning author Kathleen Donnelly is a K-9 handler for a private narcotics dog detection company. She enjoys using her K-9 experience to craft realism into her fictional stories. Kathleen lives near the Colorado foothills with her husband and her four-legged co-workers. Visit Kathleen on her website at www.kathleendonnelly.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/AuthorKathleenDonnelly, follow her on Twitter @KatK9writer or find her on Instagram @authorkathleendonnelly.

Reviews

[Paula (in & out)]

DNF. Not holding my attention at all and not my kind of an MMC.

MMC was a former cop who spiraled after he lost his partner and got fired from his job because he was drinking & doing drugs. He was engaged at the time to an OW and got hooked on drugs and became a junkie by another OW friend whom he found dead when he went to pick up his drugs.

In the present, he & FMC who is a Forest Ranger detective or something are living together and already a couple. Didn't read any of the previous series and don't know if this is a standalone or not, but it is mentioned that a few months prior, the OW ex-fiancée went a bit loco and caused some drama to the MCs and now supposedly she cleaned up her act and is seeking MMC's help to get some evidence on the OW friend that had died and he has some info on it BUT the ex-OW fiancée is killed before she can meet up with him and someone is framing him for her death. FMC to the rescue to solve the case.

Anyway, didn't like how this MMC was portrayed - not in the past as a junkie and not in the present as an idiot and a non-alpha type "hero". Seems as if FMC wears the pants here. DNF.

[Linden · Rating 3 out of 5]

Maya and her Malinois Juniper are with the forest service law enforcement in Colorado. Her boyfriend Josh arranges to meet his volatile ex to get some information, but someone has orchestrated the scenario to frame him for her murder. This book is fourth in a series, and I had trouble keeping all of the back stories and characters straight. I enjoyed reading about Maya and Juniper, but I wouldn’t recommend reading this book as a stand alone. Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for the ARC.

[Carl Vonderau · Rating 5 out of 5]

In BURIED LIES, Kathleen Donnelly delivers another exciting installment of her series with U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officer Maya Thompson and her K-9 partner, Juniper. Maya discovers a burned body in the wilderness, which turns out to be the nasty former fiancee of her boyfriend, Josh. She and Juniper must dig into the victim’s past, as well as Josh’s former drug addiction. All the evidence seems to point to Josh as the killer, but Maya knows better. She must balance her law enforcement duty with her love of Josh to search out who murdered Josh’s fiancee. With each step, she and Josh become more endangered. There are some great twists, and I never guessed the real killer. With each of Donnelly’s books I learn more about the amazing skills of Juniper. She also manages to bring new challenges to evolve these sympathetic characters from one book to the next. I highly recommend it.

[Laurie Buchanan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story leaves you feeling fiercely protective and perpetually on edge. There's a comforting sense of loyalty found in the K-9 bond, but the shattering betrayal lurking in the shadows keeps your pulse racing. It’s a jittery, high-alert experience that rewards you with an intense sense of justice.

[Donne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am really enjoying this series of Maya a former Marine MP and now a National Forest officer or “Tree Cop” as Bryce, a local CBI officer likes to call her. Maya is also a K9 handler for her partner, Juniper. LOVE JUNIPER!!! She is such an adorable “Maligator” in the way only a Malinois can be. This is another reason why I love this series; Juniper is a vital and integral character in the series. This is definitely not like some of those other series where the K9 is more of a prop and not a real character.

Anyway, the book summary basically just introduces the primary storyline of Maya and Bryce finding a torched body in the forest that turns out to be Josh’s ex-girlfriend, Amanda. What the book summary doesn’t say is that before Amanda was burned, she was shot with Josh’s gun. Amanda was with another woman, who can clear Josh, but now she’s on the run. Maya and Josh need to find her in order to clear him.

There is also the secondary storyline of “Pops”, Maya’s maternal grandfather who raised Maya, and his trial that has been going on since the second installment. Maya’s biological father, Eric, a criminal fugitive, is still around too, watching over Maya. None of these are spoilers since it’s all mostly how the story started. Most of the story flips back and forth between Maya and Josh and has them navigating the mountainous terrain and snow trying to clear Josh before a storm and some Chicago thugs catch up with them.

The continuing character development of Maya and Josh is well done, and the pacing was steady to fast. The storyline was interesting and provided more background on Josh and the writing was just the right amount of drama and crime thriller, and I especially loved all of Juniper’s antics. Josh has his own working dog now too, Finn, and I look forward to seeing more of Finn now. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.2 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley, Harlequin Audio and Harlequin Romance for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

#NetGalley #HarlequinAudio #HarlequinRomance #BuriedLies

[Happily Ever After Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance

Buried Lies is the fourth title in the National Forest K-9 series, bringing us another exciting chapter in Maya, Juniper, and Josh’s entwined lives. This is a series that I firmly believe needs to be read in order, if at all possible, as the story and the depth of the relationship between Maya and Josh (as well as Juniper) grew a bit more with each book. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to keep up, and I felt that very strongly, but sometimes life happens… and now I just need to get caught up before the next release, Deadly Revenge.

This time, the focus is on Josh and his history… relationships that will find him framed for murder as he, Maya, and her K-9 companion, Juniper, rush to follow the clues that will lead to the actual killer and keep Josh free. Anything you really need to know before picking up Buried Lies can be found in the cover description. However, that doesn’t give you the sense of a frantic rush to find the truth, or of the twisted plot of a very evil person who has set out to ultimately destroy Josh. I gripped my Kindle tightly as this story played out. The tension is intense, the story full of beautiful descriptive scenes, and the plot well-thought-out and compelling. And we’ll also witness Maya and Josh’s relationship deepen and grow stronger as only facing something so horrific can do to a couple.

I enjoyed myself back in this world. The story is well-written, emotional, full of suspense, red herrings, and surprises along the way. I’d not hesitate to recommend this story to any reader who loves a good mystery, as they watch a couple face hardship and danger and emerge stronger than ever from the chaos. If that sounds like your kind of Romantic Suspense, then you’d enjoy Buried Lies by Kathleen Donnelly.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

[Persnickety · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A gripping, emotionally charged K-9 thriller — and the perfect introduction to a fantastic series!

Buried Lies is an absolute standout in the National Forest K-9 series and an incredible introduction for a first-time reader. Even though this is book four, Kathleen Donnelly writes so seamlessly that I felt instantly connected to Maya, Juniper, and the world they work in — and now I’m excited to go back and devour the earlier books.

This story hooked me from page one. Maya Thompson is a brilliantly crafted heroine: strong, sharply intuitive, and deeply human. Her bond with Juniper adds such heart to the story — their partnership is not only believable but one of the biggest emotional anchors of the book.

The plot moves at a perfect pace: tense, layered, and full of genuine surprises. When Maya’s boyfriend Josh becomes the prime suspect in a murder, the stakes skyrocket. The blend of personal turmoil, forest-set suspense, and the looming danger of a revenge-driven killer creates an atmosphere you can practically feel. Every twist hit exactly right, and the moments between Maya and Josh added touching depth without ever slowing the tension.

The setting is another huge strength — Donnelly captures the Colorado wilderness so vividly that the forest feels like its own character, dark, unpredictable, and full of secrets.

I absolutely loved this book. It delivers everything you want from a K-9 suspense: strong emotional pulls, excellent character chemistry, compelling mystery, and a loyal, intelligent dog at the heart of it all.

Even as a newcomer to the series, I never felt lost — only eager to go back and read books 1–3 to see how Maya and Juniper’s journey began.

A powerful, addictive, and beautifully written thriller. Five stars without hesitation

[TinyVenusAfterDark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Buried Truths Run Deep 🐾🔍
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat Level:
Tear Drops:
🎧AUDIO 🎧

I received this ALC from NetGalley and was immediately intrigued by the synopsis—even though this is the fourth book in the series, I hadn’t read the previous ones and this was my first time discovering Kathleen Donnelly’s work. Buried Lies turned out to be a smooth, engaging romantic suspense with plenty of action and intrigue to keep me hooked. Maya, a U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officer in Colorado, works alongside her Malinois K-9 partner Juniper, and when her boyfriend Josh is framed for the murder of his volatile ex, the stakes skyrocket fast.

The story delivers everything you want from a K-9 suspense: a compelling mystery, strong emotional pulls, solid chemistry between the characters, and a loyal, intelligent dog right at the heart of it all 🐕‍🦺. That said, because the series is clearly interconnected, I did struggle a bit keeping all the backstories and secondary characters straight, and I’m pretty sure I would’ve enjoyed this even more had I read the previous books first. Overall though, this was a really enjoyable read—well paced, suspenseful, and satisfying—and it definitely makes me curious to go back and start the series from the beginning.

🐕‍🦺 K-9 Partner / Working Dog
🕵️‍♀️ Romantic Suspense
🚓 Law Enforcement Heroes
❤️ Established Relationship
🔪 Murder Mystery
⏳ Race Against Time
🧠 Framed for a Crime
🌲 Wilderness / Forest Setting
🤝 Partners in Danger
🧩 Interconnected Series

[Sharon Grow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maya Thompson, a former Marine, is working for the forest service with her tracking dog, K9 Juniper. She and her romantic partner, Undersheriff Josh Colton, will be in the race of their lives to prove that he didn’t commit a murder. Prior to moving to Pinecone Junction, Josh had become addicted and the woman, a senator’s daughter, who supplied his drugs was murdered. He is now “clean” and looking forward to a life with Maya. His former fiancée, Amber, contacts him to return his gun that she had stolen. He shows up at the meeting spot, but she is not there. He was unaware that her friend, Junior Prosecutor Elena Pierce, was with her and is now missing. As Elena struggles though the woods to evade those who killed her friend, Josh is arrested for Amber’s murder. Maya knows that Josh is not a killer, but when Josh is being transferred to another facility, the vehicle is targeted. Josh escapes, but now must save himself. When he realizes that Elena was searching for him and the private notes he had taken at a crime scene, he realizes that someone is willing to silence both of them. Maya and Juniper will receive help from her father, who is on run, as he leads her to Josh. Will they finally find the link to Amber’s murder as well as who wants him dead? A hold your breath thriller from the very first pages! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

[Marcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Looking for a bit of heart-pounding adventure? This is the book for you! Buried Lies is the fourth book in the National Forest K-9 series. Undersheriff Josh Colten, boyfriend of U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officer Maya Thompson is being framed for murder. Maya and her K-9 partner, Juniper will do anything to clear Josh's name.
If you are interested in learning anything about how K-9 tracking works, this series does an excellent job of explaining it while keeping you engrossed in the story. The author cleverly integrates the how and why without detracting from the adventure.
While these books can be read as stand-alone books, they are best enjoyed if you understand the backstory of each character and this entry in the series gives us an even deeper understanding of not just Maya and Josh, but also their families. It enriches the adventure and involves the reader more deeply in their lives. I know I can already hardly wait to read what's next for these characters.
One bonus I can see in this book are possibilities for a couple of the supporting characters, especially Deputy Rory. I'd love to see a spin-off series built around her.
If you like dogs, adventure, the great outdoors, or just a good story, this one is for you!
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.

[Jan Fore]

Buried Lies
Kathleen Donnelly
January 27, 2026

Tree cop Maya Thompson and her K-9 were more than ready to relax for a while. She would take Juniper out to the land where her cabin had been located. It had been set on fire and now all that was left was the brick chimney. Her boyfriend Josh and she put a Winnebago on the land to use when they had the dogs out running and training. In his past, Josh had been into drugs and caused his family much stress but since his time in de-tox had recovered. Since he had been placed back in the office as under-sheriff, he enjoyed the work and the freedom. He received a call from his ex,Amber. She said she needed to meet with him. She wouldn’t say why but they set up a place. He knew Maya would be unhappy that he did so but he was hoping that things would clear up in Chicago where Amber was working on getting help.
Buried Lies will be published on January 27, 2026 by Harlequin Romantic Suspense. I was able to read and review Donnelly’s recent novel via NetGalley. This is her 4th book in the National Forest K-9 series. Once I became more acquainted with the storyline I was able to follow the journey that Maya and Josh were being led to. It’s good suspense and if I had read the first three in the series I might have enjoyed it more.Her fans will be thrilled with the tough travels the duo had to follow. It’s a great mystery!

[Luis Nuñez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I became a fan of this series from book #1, and am glad that I read this one, which is the 4th. in the series. Author Kathleen Donnelly has a brilliant writing style, and I appreciate the huge amount of research she does for her books to become a reality.

At the end of the book, author Kathleen Donnelly gave thanks to all the people who helped her with her research, and the long list of professional experts was very impressive This greatly added a strong element of credibility to the story.

Within the first pages I was back in Maya and Juniper's world. It is always delightful to get drawn in right away when you start reading a book.
This book was very complex but totally believable, tense and gripping. I really did not want to put it down, but I did read it in a couple of sessions.

The characters are all very strong, and have past and current issues. Working with the police and with the forest service makes situations difficult.

The relationships of all the characters are all intertwined, otherwise things don't work. Each department has to coordinate technical and survival efforts and trust each other when they are on search missions.

I hope that there will be more books in this wonderful series.

Thank you to Ms. Connelly for writing this book, and to Carina Press for making an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) available for me to read and post a personal review.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great

This book is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone, the author includes just enough backstory for the reader not to feel lost.

Maya and her boyfriend Josh are living together, planning their future. Maya is a Forest Service K-9 officer, and Josh is a Deputy Sheriff. He's been through a lot in his past, drug addiction and attempts on his life; Maya struggled with alcoholism. The 2 of them finally see a hopeful future.

When a woman from their shared past shows up and asks to see Josh, he is reluctant but feels he has no choice; this one last time and that's it, Amber will no longer both him or Maya. When Amber doesn't show up for their meeting, Josh is confused but moves on....until someone discovers a dead body and evidence pointing at Josh. From that point on, both Maya and Josh are fighting for his innocence and his life.

I enjoyed this story, it moved along very fast and I was engaged in the outcome. I always like reading about law enforcement K-9's and their training and operational use, very interesting. I was glad to see that Maya's trust in Josh didn't waver throughout. Good read, I recommend it.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maya Thompson, a U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officer in rural Colorado. She and her Malinois K-9, Juniper, are called to a scene where a burning pile of forest debris contains the body of a woman. It turns out the dead woman was the toxic ex-fiance of Maya's boyfriend and Undersheriff Josh Colton, and Maya is concerned when Juniper's tracking leads to evidence that implicates Josh in the murder. Maya believes in Josh's innocence, and it may be up to her an Juniper to prove it. This is the 4th book in this series but the first one I've read, so I can attest to it being fine to read as a stand-alone or entry to the series; although some plot lines do carry over, enough information was provided that I didn't feel like I was lost by not reading the previous books, while at the same time, enough details were omitted that I don't feel like reading this book spoils the earlier ones for me. I thought the characters were well developed and multifaceted, and the details on how a K-9 and their partner work to track evidence and people were interesting and educational. The plot moves at a good speed, with lots of tracking action and twists. I'll definitely be adding this author and series to my TBR list!

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author's experience handling dogs shines in this 4th book of the National Forest K-9 series. Every book in the series is a learning experience about these magnificent dogs. I can't get enough of Juniper! The author does an amazing job in these books of making her an integral part of every story. She is a true partner and character rather than a minor character like in some other books out there. I have such an appreciation for this.

This book further develops the characters that we already have enjoyed reading about like Maya and Josh and "Pops". We get a little more into the mysterious biological father, Eric, as well. The pacing is steady and then picks up for the action scenes which I really enjoyed. The author did a great job creating suspense and piecing together the clues thanks to the assistance of the dogs! I'm happy to see Finn getting in on the action alongside Juniper!

I would recommend reading the entire series to get the entire background story. It really is important to this series and the experience will be so much more impactful if you do. Another great job by the author in creating an enjoyable and exciting read with a heavy dose of K-9's getting in on the action.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This action packed suspense romance takes the listeners back to Colorado and belongs to US Forest Service law enforcer Maya Thompson, her K-9 Juniper and her boyfriend former cop and now undersheriff, Josh Colton.
When the body found in the forest belongs to Josh’s ex, Josh becomes the main suspect. Working against time and the evidence, Maya, with the help of Juniper, is determined to find the murderer while staying alive.
The story is filled with twists and turns, unexpected surprises, secrets as well as emotional moments. It also deals with families or lack there of.
Both main characters are well developed though it took me a while to warm up to Josh.
The one caveat is that not having listened or read the previous stories, I was at times confused/lost with the multiple characters from previous stories that make an appearance.
Kudos to Hayli Henderson, the narrator, who brought the story to life.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley and Harlequin Audio. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Stephanie Herron · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audio version of this and found myself stopping what I was doing to really pay attention to the story. There are a lot of storylines in this yet they all manage to come together. Maya is worried about her granddad, Pops, who is on trial being represented by her boyfriend Josh's father. Josh's ex calls and wants to meet and exchange the gun she stole from him for the notes he has on a murder. He goes to the meet up by doesn't see her so leaves. Later, Maya is called to a scene of a fire because a body has been found. As the clues pile up, they point more and more to Josh even though they know he is being set up. He ends up on the run with the witness to his ex's murder. It becomes a race for survival, finding the true killer, and who is behind it all and why. There are plenty of suspects but the ending is surprising. A well done suspense story with a great cast of characters.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Buried Lies by Kathleen Donnelly is the fourth National Forest K-9 book. Reading earlier books would help with character background as well as knowing the characters from the other books that make an appearance. Buried Lies features a complex plot, with the central story focusing on Maya and Josh, while subplots involve Pop’s trial and Maya’s father, Eric. The point of view switches between characters which took me out of the story. Learning about K-9s in police investigations was informative, though some sections dragged due to slow pacing. The story is filled with twists, secrets, and emotional moments that kept me engaged. I really enjoyed the suspense and mystery elements. Maya and her K-9 partner, Juniper, were characters I liked right away, though it took me some time to connect with Josh. By the end, the storyline about Maya’s father remained unresolved. I will have to wait until the next National Forest K-9 book to see what happens next.

[Rita A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Action packed and character driven, this fourth book in Donnelly’s National Forest K-9 series was, for me, another thrilling read. I’ve become a fan of U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officer Maya Thompson and her K-9, Juniper. They’ve shaped up to be a dynamic team. In this book, their skills are tested to the max when Maya’s undersheriff boyfriend, Josh, is suspected of killing his ex-fiancée, who caused him plenty of trouble in the past. Donnelly switches points of view to a variety of characters as she builds suspense up to a climax in which K-9 Juniper proves her worth as a fearless, powerful force. I also enjoyed reading about Maya and Juniper off the job when Maya gets to be a lovable pet as well as a crime fighter. And I’m ready to read more about Maya and Josh’s romantic relationship.

[Trisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maya Thompson and her K9 partner Juniper are ready for a break and looking for a few days just to rest, especially since her boyfriend, Josh the undersheriff, are coming home after being away certifying his K9 partner in tracking mostly evidence. When all seems as it should Joshgets a call from his crazy ex and they set a date to trade a gun of his she stole for some evidence she needs that includes the murder of Josh’s friend, anad dealer.
This book has a ton of twists and turns right from the start, and will continue till the end. It is well written and the narrator is amazing. This story will grab you from the start and not let good until it is done. I loved it!
Review copy provided by Netgalley

[Debbie Caswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have thoroughly enjoyed all the books in this series and this latest offering was no exception While it can be read as a stand alone do your self a favour and read the entire series

Maya Thompson, a United States Forest Service officer, and her incredible Malinois, Juniper, are faced with a nightmare scenario: a body found in the woods leads to evidence that points directly to Maya’s boyfriend, Undersheriff Josh Colton.

The character development is multifaceted and authentic, but the real standout for me was the educational detail regarding K-9 tracking. Watching Maya and Juniper work together to find the truth adds a fascinating layer to the fast-paced, twisty plot. It’s a perfect mix of procedural detail and emotional tension.

[BookD · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series!! Each book has me more and more invested in the characters. The twists and turns have me on the edge of my seat!

This book in particular had me constantly guessing who was involved. I was back and forth and all over the place. The suspense was pretty intense and I found this hard to put down.

I love these K9 Mystery series so much!! Especially when there’s a bit of romance, family and friends throughout the series. You watch the relationships grow and loyalty becomes stronger. I don’t want this series to end!! Although she’s already started another K9 series and I read the first book and loved it. I highly recommend Donnelly’s books if you like mystery suspense with K9 search involved!!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back in Pinecone Junction, CO in Buried Lies, the fourth book in the National Forest K-9 series. I was hooked from the beginning with a lot of suspense and danger. Maya and Juniper work to clear Josh’s name when he is arrested for the murder of his ex-fiance. Maya knows he is being framed but trying to prove that proves challenging. There is a lot of action along with some twists and turns and surprises at the end. Each book can be read as a standalone, but it is worthwhile to read all the books for the continuity of the characters. I can’t wait for more adventures with Maya and Josh, as well as their dogs, Juniper and Finn.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series! So good to be back with Maya and Josh and Pops. Maya is out at her cabin, what's left of it and is letting Juniper run as well as training with her. Josh is headed home from a certification with Finn (his K9) and that's is the last happiness for awhile as Josh is being framed. There are a few twists and surprises. I highly recommend this series! If you like intriguing plot, characters to care about and awesome K9's you won't be disappointed. Thank you for the advanced copy. I freely share my honest thoughts and opinions. #BuriedLies #NationalForestK9 #KathleenDonnelly #Harlequin #NetGalley

[Amy Avila · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this as a standalone but I will definitely be reading the rest of the series.

Maya and her boyfriend Josh are living together and planning a quiet life on Colorado. Josh is a deputy and Maya is a forest service K-9 officer. Her K9 is named Juniper. Maya and Josh both have darker pasts where Josh had struggled with substance abuse and Maya with PTSD. Someone from Josh’s past shows back up and everything they’ve worked so hard to build is threatened when Josh is framed for murder.

This book was action packed and fast paced with plot twists, messy family dynamics, and the best part was Juniper.


*I got this as a free ARC through NetGalley for an honest review thank you to everyone who made this happen*

[Martha Brindley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another good read in the consistent National Forest K9 series. I love the Colorado setting and the characterisation, which feels very realistic. Juniper has stolen my heart, I must admit and I love the tracking descriptions. There is plenty of suspense and mystery in the plotting, as Maya tries to work out who is framing Josh and a little twist at the end added to the enjoyment. I would recommend reading the whole series for background information but you could read as a stand alone too. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.

[Anne - Books of My Heart · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
 

Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

4.5 hearts

Wow.  I really enjoyed Buried Lies.  In fact, I devoured it in one sitting.  The earlier books in the National Forest K-9 series were good but this one felt great to me.  Throughout we have been with the point of view of Maya, a forest service ranger.  Her grandfather is sheriff and her fiancé, Josh is his deputy.  Maya has a K-9 Juniper, and Josh is just finishing training with Finn.  Maya is looking forward to his return.

Then it seems like everything blows up. Her on-the-run father has been leaving her notes.  Maya is worried about Pops and Josh.  She is also busy with murder investigations and trying to keep calm, rather than being furious or scared. Plus Josh's family is in town.

There were multiple plot lines here which made it exciting.  The pace was pretty steady.  Maya and Josh did everything they could to solve the case and investigate smartly.  Maya had to trust a CBI agent friend where she would have a conflict of interest.  Best of all,  the dogs did quite a bit of work and were key in the story.

We knew Josh wasn't guilty but it was tough seeing him arrested.  The rich have a lot of tools to keep themselves safe and to remain powerful.  The ending was a relief and hopefully a good foundation for Maya and Josh going forward.  I'm thrilled to see there's another book, Deadly Revenge coming.

[BecReadReview · Rating 4 out of 5]

Josh and Maya find themselves in unexpected trouble when the past comes back to bite hard. What truly shines is how their love and trust remain rock-solid, no matter how dire the situation becomes. Trouble seems to stalk Josh at every turn, while Maya is right there beside him—smart, steady, and clearing the path forward.

The K9s are an absolute delight, seamlessly woven into the story and stealing hearts with ease. With danger ramping up, sharp instincts, teamwork, and love once again crack the case for this dynamic duo.

[Rachel Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this National Forest K-9 book by Harlequin.

Maya and her K-9 dog Juniper are trying to find a missing woman Elena and Maya’s boyfriend Josh, who is an under-sheriff and accused of murder. This gripping story had gangs, bribery, drugs, and twist around every corner. This story had language throughout, but no bedroom scenes or anything explicit. I really enjoyed it!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.

[Denise Schenk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maya Thompson and her K-9, Juniper are taking a break from her U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officer job. Undersheriff Josh Colton her boyfriend is returning to town, he gets a call from his crazy ex-girlfriend to meet up.
When they are called out to a body found in a buried body they find it's the ex-girlfriend. The clues are pointing to Josh being the murderer. When Josh's family come to town and their friends follow them, it is calling more trouble.
The narrator did a good job.