Courage Under Fire

True Blue K-9 Unit #7

by Sharon Dunn

A killer in the shadows watches…and waits

A deadly stalker has rookie K-9 officer Lani Branson in his crosshairs, and he won’t stop until she’s dead. Her boss, K-9 police chief Noah Jameson, won’t let that happen on his watch, especially since there’s a chance this is the same person who killed his brother. Can they unmask the murderer who’s been terrorizing the unit before he strikes again?

Genres: Romance, Suspense, Harlequin, Love Inspired Suspense, Christian Fiction, Mystery, Audiobook

368 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2019

About the author

After almost 27 years of marriage Sharon's beloved husband Michael passed away in 2014. Together they had a life filled with adventure, laughter and unconditional love. She considers herself blessed to have been loved that way. She has three grown children and a busy cat named Sparky.

Her love for mystery and suspense began in the fifth grade, when she found a whole set of Nancy Drew mysteries with pink covers in the school library. Sharon is the author of five humorous mysteries that were written for Christian readers. Her second book in her Ruby Taylor mystery series was voted book of the year by American Christian Fiction Writers. She has written over thirty books for Love Inspired Suspense many of which have appeared on USA Today Bestseller lists. Night Prey (Love Inspired Suspense) won the Carol Award from American Christian fiction writers.

Sharon has a bachelor's degree in film production and a master's degree in history. She loves old movies like Double Indemnity and anything by Frank Capra or Alfred Hitchcock. She enjoys reading all kinds of books but is partial to the nonfiction of C. S. Lewis. She loves to hear from readers. You can contact her and sign up for her newsletter at her website http://sharondunnbooks.net/

Reviews

[Paula · Rating 3 out of 5]

In book 7 of the True Blue K-9 Unit series, rookie K-9 officer Lani Branson has a stalker on her trail and her boss, K-9 police chief Noah Jameson is there to protect her and to help apprehend the stalker (who may also be the person responsible for the murder of Noah's brother). This was another good read in the continuing series, although I did think the villain in this one was way too all-knowing of everywhere Lani and Noah would always be and it was a bit repetitive with the villain’s surprise attacks over and over. I did adore both dogs in this book though (Scotty and Oscar), the New York City locations were great, and the story was still an enjoyable read.

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Romantic Suspense, and this is the seventh book in the True Blue 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 for this book, and I really enjoyed the audiobook. This book has a slow moving romance in it with a fast pace with a lot of action and suspense. I really enjoyed this book. Great Read that I really enjoyed. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

My heart is overflowing with all the K-9 love in this series. This time it's Rottweiler Scotty who is always ready to offer up"moral support and doggie kisses." (p 22) Especially where Lani is concerned which kinda makes Noah jealous. :-) Love the impossible circumstances of their romance -- he's the police chief, she's a rookie in his department. I couldn't figure out how they'd manage to work through that without one of them losing out big time. Luckily, the author is very clever at creating HEAs.

And if one dog sends me into a swoon, the addition of K-9 wannabe Oscar sent me into a tailspin (pun intended.) He's a gangly pup who might not make the cut due to his exuberantly rambunctious nature. Talk about puppy love!

A stalker suspense is always thrilling and Dunn draws out the tension with expert skill. Plus she allows enough down time for Noah and Lani to let down their defenses. But when it's time for action, it comes fast and furious. Another wonderful addition to the True Blue K-9 Unit series

[Patrizia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finalmente scopriamo chi è perché ha ucciso il capo dell'unità cinofila all'inizio della serie, anche se temo che bisognerà aspettare l'ultimo libro affinché giustizia sia fatta.
Per quanto riguarda questo libro, bella storia, ma il finale è davvero affrettato per quanto riguarda la parte romance.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the engaging seventh book in the True Blue K-9 series, rookie K-9 officer Lani Branson finds her life in serious jeopardy. Someone is targeting Lani, and it appears they won’t stop until she is dead. Although she has her loyal K-9 partner, Scotty, right by her side, Lani is forced to rely on the help of temporary police chief Noah Jamison.

Despite the danger surrounding Lani, sparks are definitely flying between her and Noah. However, Noah is very close to accepting the permanent position of chief, and department policy would firmly prevent them from having any type of relationship.

The tension never lets up as Lani remains in constant danger, while the reader is left wondering what will happen between her and Noah. This kept me riveted to the story from beginning to end. Throughout it all, faith provides a strong foundation for both Lani and Noah.

Megan Tusing was a wonderful choice to narrate this warm story.. I have thoroughly enjoyed every book in this delightful series, and I am looking forward to continuing it!

Many thanks to Love Inspired Suspense and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Rachel Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received this book in my monthly subscription box with Harlequin Reader Service. I have read the other books in this True Blue k9 and have enjoyed all of them. They all can be read as stand alone books because each one will mention briefly what happened in book 1 to start off the new series.

This story was awesome! I loved the non stop suspense and drama. I finally got some answers about Snapper the dog and Chief Jordan that I've been waiting for since book 1. I really loved the main character Lani and how strong and courageous she was through out the entire book. I also liked reading about her and Noah's blossoming friendship. I can't wait to read more in this series!

[Glenda Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Courage Under Fire. This is book seven in the True Blue K-9 Unit Series. This has been a great series and this book is no exception. Sharon did a great job on this story.

Rookie K-9 Officer Lani Branson is being chased by a stalker. It was only suppose to be a training exercise to prove herself to the K-9 officers but it quickly turns deadly. As she rides her bike, then run she is overcome by uneasiness.Who could be out there? She had been followed for days. Pretending to be a five year old she huddles on the ground. Hearing noises she tries to call in but the man throws her radio a way. They struggle and she manages to escape but he catches her only to hit her in the head with a rock. Can her fellow officers protect her?

K-9 Police Chief Noah Jameson has been appointed interim chief of the NYC K-9 Command Unit after his brothers death. He isn't about to let any one close to his beautiful rookie. He has been attracted to the woman since he met her but has kept his distance. Can he protect her? Can this man somehow be the man who killed his brother? Is this the man who is terrorizing his unit? How can he keep Lani close and not lose his heart? He's the boss he can't have a relationship with a rookie.

A terrifying journey as a mad man goes after the young beauty. They must learn to trust each other and lean on God. God has a plan for these two; a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. A good plan and not for evil, give Him your heart and watch Him move in your life.

[Elaine · Rating 3 out of 5]

So.... although I enjoyed the book overall, I feel like it was way too much and I did not leave as a happy camper in the long run...

Lani is now in the K9 Unit and is a rookie trying to prove herself. For some reason she is having a really hard time finding a suitable dog too... why???

When she finally gets a puppy that she feels will be terrific, her temporary boss (Noah) does not think it will work out. AND THEN, the dog is stolen away. Also, not OK.

During the entirety of the book, someone is after Lani. Or at least, that's how it looks. She is almost abducted and hurt MULTIPLE times. Now, mind you, she is made out to be the toughest of the tough and she can certainly fend for herself.... EXCEPT, each time she is attacked, she falls apart and cannot do anything until Noah arrives to rescue her! WHY??????

Again, I loved the premise of the book and I loved all the dogs too! I did not love that the female heroine is portrayed to be useless when under attack and needing to be 'rescued' by a man... every time....

I also did not love the ending! Why are we leaving it that way and leaving all of us hanging on the edge??? Not ok.

So, because of all of these detractors, I am only giving 3 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️

#CourageUnderFire by @SharonDunn and narrated nicely by @MeganTusing.

This has not been released yet, but look for it soon! Coming August 4th!

Thanks so much to #NetGalley and @HarlequinAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

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And as always, thanks for reading along with me! 📚⭐️📖🩷

[Alyson Buxey]

I’m not rating as I’m not the audience but I’ve chosen to keep reading to get resolution but this was unfortunately really unsatisfying.
Suspense - we have the killer but he’s on the loose so the suspense is not satisfied. In the other stories they had their own suspense so even though we were no closer to Jordans killer really there was still resolution. Stating Lani is safe was not really enough
Characters - despite Lani by all accounts being kick ass she was constantly the damsel in distress. She wasn’t sitting around waiting to be rescued but it seemed like she could never be saved without Noah. Noah who is apparently invincible. Concussion, delays drinking for 20mins, hit with a crowbar held by a speeding motorcyclist, no worries he will be in pursuit again in 5 minutes
Romance- I had come to terms with the course at least in this series of sweet Christian romance, the space between acknowledging feelings and getting married is quite narrow but this story was at best a HFN. They shared only 2 kisses and one of them was in the last paragraph. Do I read the last book?

[Holley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not my favorite in the series.
Although the romance arc wraps up in the book, the story is basically a cliffhanger for the next book.
Also, the bad guy seems to become this all knowing person who always knows what the good guys are up to. The first encounter is on a training exercise where he should have no way of knowing where the heroine will be to set his trap. SPOILER:** I am also annoyed that the heroine has to transfer to another division when the hero wants to be in the field and there is another character who has been injured and is perfect to take over as chief**
The dog main character is a Rottweiler, but there are at least two references to him thumping his tail on something. Umm, hello, it's a nub; not long enough to thump on the floor or a persons leg. Somewhat forgivable but very poor editing and research.
I will probably finish the series as there is only one book left, but it might need to wait a few months.

[Tina Lowery · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED Courage Under Fire by Sharon Dunn, and this is the second book I have read that's been written by her. This book was about dangers that seem to face the K-9 cops of the NYPD. It also brought to life the emotional rollercoaster the Chief of NYPD's K-9 Unit faced in falling for courageous trainee, Lani Branson. As danger lurked in every single shadow that crossed Lani's path, Chief Noah Jameson sought a way to keep Lani safe, while hiding his growing emotions. At every instance when danger crept into Lani's life, Noah immediately found ways to keep her safe --even if it had her stuck by his side. This book showed dedication to the careers that each of them held, respect for their duty, and an amazing, growing love that fortified their bond. As each of these individuals faced the truth of what they felt, their faith in God helped them by strengthening their ever growing bond. I give it 4 out of 5 stars. I enjoyed everything about this book!!

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great installment in the True Blue K-9 Unit series. I loved the personality of the K-9, Scotty, in this one. So many doggie kisses to balance out the working side of the dog. It made me smile in between all the suspense in this story.

I have read all the prior books in this series but I do feel that you have enough background from the author to pick up this book and read it as a stand alone.

I love Lani being a rookie in the story. It added an extra layer to the tension of the romance side of the story because of Noah being the police chief. They had a lot on the line to make it work and the author handled it very well while keeping us on track for our happy ending.

For those of you who have been following this series, I was thrilled to get some more information about Snapper! I have been rooting for the dog since Book One.

Overall a great suspense filled addition to the series. I listened to the audiobook version of this one and enjoyed the narrator as well.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back in NYC , where the murder of the former K-9 Chief of the NYPD still remains unsolved. Meanwhile his brother Noah Jameson, the current K-9 Chief , and the rest of the team continue the search of the killer.
Rookie K-9 officer Lani Branson is determined to prove her value while also dealing with a dangerous stalker.
Noah wonders if this stalker is the same person that killer his brother. This belief has him becoming Lani’s protector.
What neither expected is that feelings would develop. Feelings they are keeping close to their hearts.
In the end, will they capture the stalker and possibly the murderer, as well as find their HEA?
This audiobook was brought to life by the narrator Megan Tusing.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley and Harper Collins. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m so glad that Harlequin is re-releasing this True Blue K-9 series on audiobook. I’ve started following along and really care about the Queens K-9 unit and the Jameson family.
Courage Under Fire has a female main character who wants to be a k-9 officer but her background as an actress and dancer make her coworkers doubt her abilities. Seven months in and she still hasn’t been paired with a K-9. Lani is determined, but she encounters issues when it appears she has a stalker.
Noah Jameson, acting chief, is drawn to Lani, but that is a no go because he is her commanding officer. They grow close as Noah helps keep Lani safe from the stalker, who may have a bigger role in the overarching theme of the series.
I love how their story unfolds even if the ending leaves the stalker situation unresolved.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Audio for the chance to listen to this audiobook.

[Toth Jo-Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh does Sharon do a excellent job with this book. In this one Reed's sister Lani is being stalked by someone. The question is why. Who is this person. Is it related to Jordan's murder? The person to help with this is his brother Noah. The one thing this whole series has in common is that love comes slowly. Which I really like. I like how in this book the mystery is tied to the murder. Its interesting to read. The action is excellent for you can feel what Lani goes thru in some of the scenes. For its really subtle. Its like a well done stitch without realizing it the pieces are coming together without anyone knowing. I'm off for the finally done by Shirlee McCoy that should be awesome! J

[Rosemarie Grainer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Almost there!

We are almost to the end of this continuity! Noah has struggled with taking his brother's place as chief of the K-9 Unit in Queens. Now Lani, one of his rookies is being stalked, and he is not about to let another cop die. So they work together to try and find the stalker. But he is getting more and more bold. Will she survive this? And if she does what can she do about falling for her boss?

The pace is breakneck and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character and action oriented storyline that has some kisses but no steam. The characters are vivid and engaging. You do want to read these in order. If you like your action romances with some inspiration, then these are for you! Enjoy!

[Mary Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was another good read in the True Blue K-9 Unit series. In this book, the reader finally finds out who killed Chief Jordan Jameson although the perpetrator escapes. Lani Branson, a rookie K-9 trainee, has been assaulted several times by a man who seems to be infatuated with her; and her superior, Noah Jameson, tries to protect her and keep her safe while searching for the attacker. Unfortunately, the bad guy always seems to know where they are and what they are doing until Lani begins to wonder if she will ever feel safe again. There is a lot of action in this novel which is set in New York City where there are lots of crowds and events to consider. I enjoy learning what the K-9 dogs are able to do when they are working and am amazed at their courage and faithfulness.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Courage Under Fire" is a Christian romantic suspense. Lani had an unusual career path before the K-9 unit, so she feels she needs to prove she's capable and reliable in dangerous situations. And she does. Noah's impressed but can't pursue his growing feelings toward her because he's her boss. He helped to protect her and pursue the mentally ill man targeting her, so they spent time together and worked well together as a team. The bad guy was unpredictable and very strong, so the suspense was exciting. The main characters were engaging and reacted realistically to events. I think this was the one where the hero felt that bad situations brought you closer to God as you had to depend on Him more. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable suspense.

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Another fantastic installment in the True Blue K-9 Unit series! Courage Under Fire by Sharon Dunn is a fast-paced and truly captivating story that I couldn't stop listening to. The characters were deeply interesting, and the suspense kept me hooked from start to finish. Megan Tusing’s narration was excellent, bringing the perfect amount of emotion and tension to the story. A well-deserved 4 stars!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.


Courage Under Fire (True Blue K-9 Unit) by Sharon Dunn
Narrator: Megan Tusing
Publisher: Harlequin Audio | Love Inspired Suspense
Genre: General Fiction (Adult) | Romance
Expected Publication Date: August 4, 2026

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

It starts off with suspense and carries through. Enjoyed listening to the audio, the narrator was good, the plot was good and of course the K-9's. As noted in the title this is part of a series, and book 7. They all take place in New York. Rookie Lani is still trying to find a dog and trying to prove herself. Noah is the acting chief, so you know romance is a no-no. I like the suspense and the faith woven through. I kept thinking the perp had to be in law because of all he accomplished. Thank you for the advance audio. I freely share my honest thoughts and opinions. #CorageUnderFire #TrueBlueK-9
#SharonDunn #LoveInspiredSuspence #HarlequinAudio #NetGalley

[Janet Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

NYC K-9 Unit Suspense and Romance
The books in this series are clean romances with a touch of faith. They center around a K-9 unit of the New York City police. There is an over-arching storyline and well as a different romance in each book. Most of the characters show up in each book. I can't discuss the plot of this book without some serious spoilers. Because each story builds on the last, these should be read in order. Some of the same cops and K-9s show up in the sister series
'True Blue K-9 Unit: Brooklyn'

[Elaine Applebury · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the seventh book in the True Blue K-9 Unit series. The books are centered around finding Chief Jordan Jameson's killer, and locating Jordan's missing K-9partner, Snapper. This story is about Jordan's brother, Noah, who is now acting chief of the unit, and rookie K-9 officer, Lani. Lani has a stalker. What does that have to do with their case? Action, suspense, a little romance, and some important answers. Bring on book eight!

[Ann Manning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent suspense!

A suspense filled story of finding a stalker in New York with the (True Blue K-9 Unit ), lots of heart stopping action and intriguing moments are all in this story. One young woman who is facing danger and hope to become a member of the special k-9 unit and get her own k-9 partner is plagued with the unwanted advances of a stalker. Inspiring romance, suspense and drama make this a incredible story.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Courage Under Fire by Sharon Dunn, True Blue K-9 Unit #7, narrated by Megan Tusing. Well, I’m loving K-9 officer Lani Branson’s last name..hahaha. She has a stalker, murderer still on the loose, this series is action packed. I’ve been enjoying this series. Could be read as a standalone but you would be missing out. Thank you to #NetGalley and #Harlequin Audio for this arc. This is my honest review. Releases Aug 4, 2026

[Rebecca Trump · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read from Sharon Dunn and I loved it!! She had such an excellent story that really held me captive with its intensity. I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator's voice was so perfect for this action-packed book. This is the seventh book in the True Blue K-9 Unit series. If you love the Blue Bloods police show, you will love this series.

I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lani is working in the k9 unit, Noah is her boss. she has not found a dog yet someone is after her and Noah is trying to help her. this is a wonderful story if you like mystery and romance and dogs you will want to read the book. looking forward to the next book. if you have read any of the other books you have to read this one . i do not want to do a spoler so you have to read the book

[Library Queen · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to like this, but I found the writing style annoying, and the lead guy kept getting hit in the head and after shaking it off he was fine. Literally, one time, he was hit and knocked unconscious and he was totally fine after a minute, no need to see a doctor or anything. Totally unrealistic.

[Cathy Beckett · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 rating. I really loved this story. Lani had a larger role in the previous book but this book was her story and i really liked her in Noah Jameson.
They found Chief Jordan Jameson murderer and they found love. The Chief’s murderer has targeted Lani because she resembles Katie Jameson, Jordan’s widow.
Lani and everyone around her are in danger.

[Laramee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving this series! Would highly recommend reading this series in order. I loved the tension in this one! I especially enjoyed all the K-9s featured in this suspense. The narrator did a fantastic job bringing this story to life!

I received an audio ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky to get an audio as I have never read/listened to a book by this author. The story is so good, it’s a slow paced romance with Lani and Noah but a high paced suspense book involving a stalker and the K-9 unit. There is a lot going on and I had to keep listening. ALC provided by Netgalley for a honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.