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Gideon and Sirius #4
Gideon's Rescue
#1 Bestselling Series
Something wicked his way comes…
LAPD detective Michael Gideon and his German shepherd K-9 partner, Sirius, walked through fire to catch an infamous serial killer, and Gideon is still paying the price with his PTSD fire dreams. To assist the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit, Gideon has agreed to monthly prison visits with Ellis Haines, aka the Weatherman. This time, a homicide case the FBI wants Haines to analyze sparks a chilling discovery: A new serial killer has struck, and he's lacing his crime scenes with hidden messages intended for Haines.
Haines isn't the only killer whose twisted game Gideon must try to break up. A missing man's love poems are delivered to his fiancée with the message: So sorry for your loss. And when a sweet pit bull named Emily is rescued after being left for dead, Gideon and Sirius pull out all the stops to try and bring down the dogfighting ring that abused her.
Something wicked his way comes…
LAPD detective Michael Gideon and his German shepherd K-9 partner, Sirius, walked through fire to catch an infamous serial killer, and Gideon is still paying the price with his PTSD fire dreams. To assist the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit, Gideon has agreed to monthly prison visits with Ellis Haines, aka the Weatherman. This time, a homicide case the FBI wants Haines to analyze sparks a chilling discovery: A new serial killer has struck, and he's lacing his crime scenes with hidden messages intended for Haines.
Haines isn't the only killer whose twisted game Gideon must try to break up. A missing man's love poems are delivered to his fiancée with the message: So sorry for your loss. And when a sweet pit bull named Emily is rescued after being left for dead, Gideon and Sirius pull out all the stops to try and bring down the dogfighting ring that abused her.
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 17, 2018
355 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Alan Russell
24 books290 followersFollow Alan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/alanrussellmysteryau...
Alan Russell is the author of The Last Good Dog, the sixth book in the #1 bestselling series featuring LAPD detective Michael Gideon and his K-9 partner, Sirius.
In 1990 Walker & Company published Alan's first book, No Sign of Murder, which received positive reviews, including a standalone rave from The New York Times. The work was followed up by The Forest Prime Evil and comedic mysteries The Hotel Detective and The Fat Innkeeper, which won him the Lefty Award, given to the best humorous mystery of the year, and a Critics’ Choice Award. His novel Multiple Wounds, a psychological thriller, earned him a nomination for both an Anthony Award and the Macavity Award for best novel of the year. Russell then published Shame, a novel of psychological suspense. His novels Exposure, Political Suicide, A Cold War, and The Homecoming, have been categorized as suspense novels. Alan is also the author of St. Nick, a Christmas Cop Novel, and the Gideon & Sirius novels, which include Burning Man, Guardians of the Night, Lost Dog, Gideon's Rescue, L.A. Woman, and The Last Good Dog.
Alan Russell is the author of The Last Good Dog, the sixth book in the #1 bestselling series featuring LAPD detective Michael Gideon and his K-9 partner, Sirius.
In 1990 Walker & Company published Alan's first book, No Sign of Murder, which received positive reviews, including a standalone rave from The New York Times. The work was followed up by The Forest Prime Evil and comedic mysteries The Hotel Detective and The Fat Innkeeper, which won him the Lefty Award, given to the best humorous mystery of the year, and a Critics’ Choice Award. His novel Multiple Wounds, a psychological thriller, earned him a nomination for both an Anthony Award and the Macavity Award for best novel of the year. Russell then published Shame, a novel of psychological suspense. His novels Exposure, Political Suicide, A Cold War, and The Homecoming, have been categorized as suspense novels. Alan is also the author of St. Nick, a Christmas Cop Novel, and the Gideon & Sirius novels, which include Burning Man, Guardians of the Night, Lost Dog, Gideon's Rescue, L.A. Woman, and The Last Good Dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
July 27, 2019
This one is all about philosophy, dry humor and DOGS much more than it is about the various crimes being handled. Emily will absolutely steal your heart.
This was a fun book to listen to and I will definitely seek out the next in the series.
This was a fun book to listen to and I will definitely seek out the next in the series.
July 17, 2018
Great crime/mystery
I absolutely love the story that gets the imagination going. Proof positive you don't need a lot of curse words or detailed information of the violence, but only an amazing story to imagine the evil behind it all. Perfect book to read if you really like detective novels and not just the graphic story.
I absolutely love the story that gets the imagination going. Proof positive you don't need a lot of curse words or detailed information of the violence, but only an amazing story to imagine the evil behind it all. Perfect book to read if you really like detective novels and not just the graphic story.
October 19, 2025
Strong episode in this series. Love the weaving of several cases, with satisfactory closed cases and intriguing over-arching story.
November 21, 2021
As much as I like this author's ability to create an exciting scene and put me right in the middle of it, no matter how much I like watching his K-9 partner work, this is the last Gideon & Sirius mystery I'll be reading. Why? It's got nothing to do with the marvelous Sirius and everything to do with the human half of the partnership, Gideon.
In the first two books, Gideon angered me by not paying attention to what Sirius was trying to tell him, and both times Gideon got the stuffing punched and kicked out of him. (That's what you get for not paying attention, stupid!) Here in Gideon's Rescue, he didn't ignore any canine messages, but he showed callous disregard for the situations he put a very traumatized dog in. Not only that, but he rationalized the need to put himself in a TSTL (Too Stupid To Live) moment, and if not for the clear thinking and action of a friend, Gideon's bacon would have been well and truly fried.
This is a shame because Russell does know how to tell a good tale. The investigations into the missing fiance and the dogfighting ring were very well-done, and the whole serial-killers-communicating-with-each-other scenario gave me plenty of food for thought. I tend to be a pacifist, a live-and-let-live type of person, but there are times when I think throwing the switch is best. Just how many serial killers are being kept alive because they're "helping" law enforcement? And how many are actually providing information that brings closure to grieving families or puts killers behind bars? Pardon me for being cynical in my belief that the number is a very low one. There is no real reason to put any faith in a serial killer because they've proved time and time again that their only concern is for themselves.
As you can see, although I've run as far down this track with LAPD Detective Michael Gideon as my patience will allow, Alan Russell does create stories that draw me in, keep me interested, and make me think.
In the first two books, Gideon angered me by not paying attention to what Sirius was trying to tell him, and both times Gideon got the stuffing punched and kicked out of him. (That's what you get for not paying attention, stupid!) Here in Gideon's Rescue, he didn't ignore any canine messages, but he showed callous disregard for the situations he put a very traumatized dog in. Not only that, but he rationalized the need to put himself in a TSTL (Too Stupid To Live) moment, and if not for the clear thinking and action of a friend, Gideon's bacon would have been well and truly fried.
This is a shame because Russell does know how to tell a good tale. The investigations into the missing fiance and the dogfighting ring were very well-done, and the whole serial-killers-communicating-with-each-other scenario gave me plenty of food for thought. I tend to be a pacifist, a live-and-let-live type of person, but there are times when I think throwing the switch is best. Just how many serial killers are being kept alive because they're "helping" law enforcement? And how many are actually providing information that brings closure to grieving families or puts killers behind bars? Pardon me for being cynical in my belief that the number is a very low one. There is no real reason to put any faith in a serial killer because they've proved time and time again that their only concern is for themselves.
As you can see, although I've run as far down this track with LAPD Detective Michael Gideon as my patience will allow, Alan Russell does create stories that draw me in, keep me interested, and make me think.
September 15, 2018
A family of four🐶🐶😃😁
So pleased to read another Gideon & Sirius book.
Alan Russell has a gift for putting words into animals mouths. His comment about looking into a dog's eyes is so true.
His human character, Gideon has an entertaining sense of humour, frequently self-depreciating, whilst acknowledging Sirius' obvious intelligence. Dogs have this way of looking at you, if you screw up - as if to say i told you so. Sirius & new canine pal, Emily are in accord in this.
The theme of the story is dog fighting, which i find abhorent. Mr. Russell deals with this sensitively, without giving any leeway to those guilty, whom he treats with all the disgust & contempt they deserve. Watching Emily's recovery & ultimate partnership with Sirius in saving Gideon's life is heartwarming. Affirming her recovery from a brutalized bait dog left for dead st a roadside, to a sweet natured loving family member who will defend her family with all her being.
This book is a must for fans of a good, well written thriller & compulsory reading those who also love dogs.
Thanks to Alan Russell for sharing his gift for superb penmanship with all of us bookworms.
Delighted to learn another two Gideon books on the way Hope the family of four all feature in many many more books in the series.
So pleased to read another Gideon & Sirius book.
Alan Russell has a gift for putting words into animals mouths. His comment about looking into a dog's eyes is so true.
His human character, Gideon has an entertaining sense of humour, frequently self-depreciating, whilst acknowledging Sirius' obvious intelligence. Dogs have this way of looking at you, if you screw up - as if to say i told you so. Sirius & new canine pal, Emily are in accord in this.
The theme of the story is dog fighting, which i find abhorent. Mr. Russell deals with this sensitively, without giving any leeway to those guilty, whom he treats with all the disgust & contempt they deserve. Watching Emily's recovery & ultimate partnership with Sirius in saving Gideon's life is heartwarming. Affirming her recovery from a brutalized bait dog left for dead st a roadside, to a sweet natured loving family member who will defend her family with all her being.
This book is a must for fans of a good, well written thriller & compulsory reading those who also love dogs.
Thanks to Alan Russell for sharing his gift for superb penmanship with all of us bookworms.
Delighted to learn another two Gideon books on the way Hope the family of four all feature in many many more books in the series.
October 18, 2018
Love dogs? You’ll love this series!
This is the fourth novel in the Gideon and Sirius series, by Alan Russell. Though they can all be read and enjoyed as stand-alone novels, do yourself a favor and get to know these partners from the beginning. You’ll fall in love with these well-crafted characters, both human and canine. Meet Detective Gideon, K-9 Sirius, Angie, Heather, Lisbet, Emily, and a host of others who will become as familiar as friends. But like any good story, there are conflicts and bad guys to go around. The Weatherman is a haunting villain in the best tradition of Moriarty or Jack the Ripper.
Treat yourself and get to know Gideon and Sirius. You won’t be disappointed.
This is the fourth novel in the Gideon and Sirius series, by Alan Russell. Though they can all be read and enjoyed as stand-alone novels, do yourself a favor and get to know these partners from the beginning. You’ll fall in love with these well-crafted characters, both human and canine. Meet Detective Gideon, K-9 Sirius, Angie, Heather, Lisbet, Emily, and a host of others who will become as familiar as friends. But like any good story, there are conflicts and bad guys to go around. The Weatherman is a haunting villain in the best tradition of Moriarty or Jack the Ripper.
Treat yourself and get to know Gideon and Sirius. You won’t be disappointed.
August 29, 2020
I liked this mystery novel, just not quite as well as a couple others in the series. If you haven't read the first books in the series, there is enough of a recap that you can just jump right in.
Maybe it was just my mood at the time, or maybe it was because there was less emphasis on his girlfriend and on his dream-revelations. Or maybe it was because there were multiple mysteries - some of them got resolved fairly early in the book, and others will presumably get resolved in the next book. But the story did engage me and make me laugh out loud, wince and have other reactions.
The story partly focuses on dog-fighting, and that might be painful for some readers. But all animal lovers should appreciate that the author brings attention to this crime.
Maybe it was just my mood at the time, or maybe it was because there was less emphasis on his girlfriend and on his dream-revelations. Or maybe it was because there were multiple mysteries - some of them got resolved fairly early in the book, and others will presumably get resolved in the next book. But the story did engage me and make me laugh out loud, wince and have other reactions.
The story partly focuses on dog-fighting, and that might be painful for some readers. But all animal lovers should appreciate that the author brings attention to this crime.
July 28, 2018
"Intriguing, Lots of Humor, And Suspense"
Here comes another great story of a man and his devoted dog partner. LAPD detective Michael Gideon and his German Shepherd Sirius have been through fire and brimstone on a previous case. Gideon has now stepped down to assist the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit tasked with visits to prisoner Ellis Haines, a known serial killer called The Weatherman. There is now a new serial killer who appears to have links to Haines. Gideon and Sirius pull out all the stops to get this evil man. An absolutely entertaining novel with a surprising, scary ending. Great author who writes well and definitely knows how to please his readers.
Here comes another great story of a man and his devoted dog partner. LAPD detective Michael Gideon and his German Shepherd Sirius have been through fire and brimstone on a previous case. Gideon has now stepped down to assist the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit tasked with visits to prisoner Ellis Haines, a known serial killer called The Weatherman. There is now a new serial killer who appears to have links to Haines. Gideon and Sirius pull out all the stops to get this evil man. An absolutely entertaining novel with a surprising, scary ending. Great author who writes well and definitely knows how to please his readers.
February 7, 2019
This one seemed to sail into the doldrums. The author seemed to double down on the dog dimension, introducing another canine character, and making the central crime animal abuse. Meanwhile another massive serial murder streak goes nowhere until the next volume.
Cliff hangers and teasing annoy me and I check out from an author who just seems to be milking the book deal. Won't be reading the next.
I can't help but wondering if Gideon's snap decision to adopt a pit bull with a dog-fight background, mirrors the real life reason the rescue facilities are full of pitties. Where art imitates life.
Cliff hangers and teasing annoy me and I check out from an author who just seems to be milking the book deal. Won't be reading the next.
I can't help but wondering if Gideon's snap decision to adopt a pit bull with a dog-fight background, mirrors the real life reason the rescue facilities are full of pitties. Where art imitates life.
March 6, 2019
I love these books!
The Sirius and Gideon series is special. Between the complex and some very loveable characters core to the series, and the wry and sometimes dark humor of these same characters, these are real people come alive on the page.
I learn something about the geography and history of southern California and am introduced to others writers via their quotes, in every book. Though I only found Alan Russell a free years ago, I am happy to buy any books in this series. Now I'm working backwards through his other books. Thrilled to hear there are 2 more Gideon and Sirius books coming!!
The Sirius and Gideon series is special. Between the complex and some very loveable characters core to the series, and the wry and sometimes dark humor of these same characters, these are real people come alive on the page.
I learn something about the geography and history of southern California and am introduced to others writers via their quotes, in every book. Though I only found Alan Russell a free years ago, I am happy to buy any books in this series. Now I'm working backwards through his other books. Thrilled to hear there are 2 more Gideon and Sirius books coming!!
November 17, 2019
When this book ended, I was actually upset the 5th book of the series was not out yet. I was so engrossed, I was ready for more. I don't typically read series and when I do, I usually only read past the 4th book out of obligation to finish the series, and not because I actually want the series to keep going. I find that the longer a series goes on, the less engaging the story becomes.
That is simply not true with Gideon and Sirius. I WANT MORE!
The addition of another dog with a bold personality drew me even deeper into the series. And the resurgence of the sidelined sociopath left me eager for this one to continue.
That is simply not true with Gideon and Sirius. I WANT MORE!
The addition of another dog with a bold personality drew me even deeper into the series. And the resurgence of the sidelined sociopath left me eager for this one to continue.
November 25, 2019
For the first time in a very long time, I actually jumped ahead to make sure a character was going to be okay because once bad things started happening, I couldn't stand the thought they might be seriously damaging-that's how invested I've become in Michael Gideon and Sirius (and now Emily). Yes, placing your main characters in jeopardy (especially when they're police) is part and parcel of the mystery/thriller genre but there was some SERIOUS threat this time and so well-crafted that I really didn't see the way out until it came along. As much as I want to read the next installment immediately, I need to give myself some time so I don't get quite so concerned.
October 12, 2021
I have enjoyed all of Gidgeon and Sirius books. I enjoy their neighbor Seth too. In this book Gideon gets involved in a dog fighting quest. He sees an injured pit at the rescue he volunteers and both Gideon and Sirius develop a bond with “Emily”. Gideon adopts her and helps her heal. Gideon also makes his monthly trips to San Quentin and in this book becomes more entwined with the prisoner. The book is easy reading and the characters are enjoyable. There is intrigue and mystery. Gideon gets trapped by three fighting dogs and is injured but luckily Sirius and Emily come to his rescue and are injured too. All ends well. I will soon start the next in the series.
October 15, 2018
A howling good whodunit
Warning! This author is seriously addicting. The seamless blend of several cases with the Detectives personal life is so realistic that you can almost taste the dog bones. Then there is Gideons caseload overlaying Sirius flawless work. I suggest you might want to start with book one. However, the author includes just enough detail from previous books that each one is a stand alone opus. Four cheers for this great series, I wait with "baited" breath for the next one.
Warning! This author is seriously addicting. The seamless blend of several cases with the Detectives personal life is so realistic that you can almost taste the dog bones. Then there is Gideons caseload overlaying Sirius flawless work. I suggest you might want to start with book one. However, the author includes just enough detail from previous books that each one is a stand alone opus. Four cheers for this great series, I wait with "baited" breath for the next one.
August 21, 2021
I love, love, love the Gideon and Sirius books. I was over the moon to discover this series was on Kindle Unlimited. As usual, the dogs (plural in this tale) enrich the story in the same way dogs enrich our lives. I was on the edge of my seat, worrying about new addition Emily, a Pittie used as a bait dog in a dog fighting ring. Would she survive her wounds? Gideon's interactions with the serial killer were wonderfully creepy, and the storylines about the dog fighting ring and missing fiancé were both satisfying. Looking forward to more!
July 19, 2018
In October 2016 I took a chance on a new-to-me author when Amazon was offering books 1, 2 & 3 of the “Gideon & Sirius” series at £1.00 each. I became an instant fan reading them almost back-to-back and have subsequently read 8 more of his titles, pre-ordering G&S book #4 as soon as it was listed. This is a great series with believable characters two legged and four. The themes in it include organised dog fights but AR conveys the atrocities without recourse to pages of graphic violence.
July 29, 2018
Another in the series of Gideon and Sirius that left me ready for the next book
I have enjoyed all in the series about the ex K9 officer and his dog. This one seemed a bit different in format, in that it did not have as much personal story with Lizbeth, and the ongoing storyline with the "weatherman" seems to take a backseat.
I enjoyed the book, and had a hard time putting it down till the end, then was hoping for the next book. Good to hear the will be 2 more in the series.
I have enjoyed all in the series about the ex K9 officer and his dog. This one seemed a bit different in format, in that it did not have as much personal story with Lizbeth, and the ongoing storyline with the "weatherman" seems to take a backseat.
I enjoyed the book, and had a hard time putting it down till the end, then was hoping for the next book. Good to hear the will be 2 more in the series.
August 6, 2018
Can't I give this book a Six?
Alan Russell is a top rated author in every book. Det Gideon and Sirius make the perfect team. They are tough, dedicated, honest and real. Gideon is fairly humble and realize Sirius is the real brain in this team. Russell 's humor and great dialog make the horrid cases go down easier. I can't say enough praise so just read them yourself. I highly recommend getting The Burning Man and start your own adventure.
Alan Russell is a top rated author in every book. Det Gideon and Sirius make the perfect team. They are tough, dedicated, honest and real. Gideon is fairly humble and realize Sirius is the real brain in this team. Russell 's humor and great dialog make the horrid cases go down easier. I can't say enough praise so just read them yourself. I highly recommend getting The Burning Man and start your own adventure.
September 3, 2018
This series just keeps getting better. Absolutely adore the protagonist and his partner and now he has added to his pack. The only bad thing I can say is that the story came to an end too quickly as always left me wanting to dive into the next in the series now I will have to wait. Going back next and reading the first two books by this author in a different series. If you have not read any of Alan russels books you need to start you are missing out.
September 22, 2018
Wonderful Book, Exciting Read
This is the fourth in the series about Detective Gideon and his K-9 partner Sirius. I've certainly enjoyed these stories. The great musical references, the corny puns, the plots, the fantastic editing, and so much more have made me want to read more. At the conclusion of this book, the author left it open ended so I hope there are more tales (tails) about Detective Gideon and Sirius. I would highly recommend this book.
This is the fourth in the series about Detective Gideon and his K-9 partner Sirius. I've certainly enjoyed these stories. The great musical references, the corny puns, the plots, the fantastic editing, and so much more have made me want to read more. At the conclusion of this book, the author left it open ended so I hope there are more tales (tails) about Detective Gideon and Sirius. I would highly recommend this book.
December 9, 2018
Alan Russell's ongoing mystery series featuring LA detective Michael Gideon and his K-9 partner Sirius is always entertaining, and this fourth book continues in the spirit of the earlier volumes. A nice twist is that the book keeps one mystery unsolved, so we have more of Gideon and Sirius to look forward to. Jeff Cummings is an excellent narrator again, and I'm bumping my rating to a full four stars.
August 4, 2025
Another great story and mystery. Gideon and Sirius investigate the murder of a day worker when they meet the fiancé during the murder support group. He finds and falls for a dog that was used as a bait dog in a dog fighting ring while volunteering at the shelter. He decides to go after the fighting ring and adopts the dog. There is a serial killer on the loose who has a connection to The Weatherman. The ending has a surprise twist.
July 26, 2018
Most Excellent book ever!!!!
I love dogs dearly so it stands to reason that Alan Russell would be my all time favorite author who has assured us that he will keep writing Gideon, & Sirius, & Emily novel reads!!!! I can't get enough of his easy reading style of writing, nor of the way he communicates with his dog.. Gotta love him!
I love dogs dearly so it stands to reason that Alan Russell would be my all time favorite author who has assured us that he will keep writing Gideon, & Sirius, & Emily novel reads!!!! I can't get enough of his easy reading style of writing, nor of the way he communicates with his dog.. Gotta love him!
August 3, 2018
Gideon and Sirius ride again
Love the next book in the series. I like that the horrible atrocity that is dog fighting was highlighted and described how low on the human spectrum you must be to fight dogs. Love a good dog rescue story too. I'm curious how the next mystery will play out with Haines. I highly recommend this series of books.
Love the next book in the series. I like that the horrible atrocity that is dog fighting was highlighted and described how low on the human spectrum you must be to fight dogs. Love a good dog rescue story too. I'm curious how the next mystery will play out with Haines. I highly recommend this series of books.
August 5, 2018
What a great book, another hit for Russell! Everyone should read his story, great characters and I have to say love reading about the dogs in this one. As a k9 guy, this series always makes me smile, especially the details that goes into the interaction between handler and dog. Can’t go wrong with reading this book.
August 6, 2018
There Had Better Be More! (SPOILER, sort of)
You can’t leave us hanging like that! Good resolution for two of the cases, but leaving that other one hanging...normally I don’t give 5 stars to a book that ends with a cliffhanger, but I so enjoy the writing that I’ll make an exception in this case.
You can’t leave us hanging like that! Good resolution for two of the cases, but leaving that other one hanging...normally I don’t give 5 stars to a book that ends with a cliffhanger, but I so enjoy the writing that I’ll make an exception in this case.
August 21, 2018
I absolutely loved this book! It amazes me every time how Russell can have so much going on in each book and have it all wrapped up nicely by the end. The witty banter between Gideon and various characters is always my favorite. Gideon is definitely one of my favorite characters. I can’t wait for the next book, this one has left me dying to know what happens!!
August 27, 2018
I enjoyed this book with my favorite cop, Gideon and his dog Sirius. Alan's humor is sparkling throughout and I burst out with chuckles many times reading it at night, disturbing my wife no doubt. Not as intense as the last two, kind of like a ride along with Gideon and Sirius, but an enjoyable read. One I was always looking forward to when there were pages yet to turn.
February 10, 2019
Love this series!
Alan Russell's Hudson and Sirius novels are great mystery reading. Book 4 doesn't disappoint! Well defined characters, and the perfect bond between man and his dog, now dogs, to solve a series of murders, that began in book 1. I'm so looking forward to book 5, hopefully not too long...
Alan Russell's Hudson and Sirius novels are great mystery reading. Book 4 doesn't disappoint! Well defined characters, and the perfect bond between man and his dog, now dogs, to solve a series of murders, that began in book 1. I'm so looking forward to book 5, hopefully not too long...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews