What do you think?
Rate this book
Alaskan Adventures
Alaskan Showdown
What she uncovers sheds light on a cold case…
and can put her in a grave.
After finding the body of a missing hiker in her small Alaska town, search-and-rescue dog handler Adriana Steele becomes the target of a serial killer thought to have been inactive for decades. Now Adriana’s determined to help Officer Levi Wicks catch the murderer. But with the cold case heating up…the jaded officer is all that stands between her and death.
and can put her in a grave.
After finding the body of a missing hiker in her small Alaska town, search-and-rescue dog handler Adriana Steele becomes the target of a serial killer thought to have been inactive for decades. Now Adriana’s determined to help Officer Levi Wicks catch the murderer. But with the cold case heating up…the jaded officer is all that stands between her and death.
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published August 4, 2020
99 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
August 19, 2020
Alaska? Search-and-rescue dog? Romance and intrigue? I am so in!!! And I absolutely love the way Varland balances it all out. There's plenty of danger (hello -- creepy serial killer on the loose!) but it's not all tilt-a-whirl trauma every second. There's down time for casework and relationship building which gives a reader a chance to get her racing heart slowed down before the next bump in the road. :-)
The fur face on the cover is Blue. She's not only a search-and-rescue dog but a cadaver dog as well. She's a solid part of the team as she leads Levi and Adriana on a hunt for burial sites. There are some great tidbits about this kind of canine training and how it can be just as psychologically hard on the dogs as the humans. And I loved how fiercely protective Adriana was in guarding Blue from overwork that could lead to depression. They have a great relationship and Levi recognizes -- and more importantly -- respects that special bond.
While they've known each other for years on a professional basis, Adriana and Levi have never quite taken to each other until they are thrown together on a case. And suddenly it seems all too obvious that, not only are they attracted to each other, but neither is interested in pursing a relationship. There's a lovely wary awkwardness about them both as they stutter-start towards building up a camaraderie, struggling to find the courage to let go of past hurts in order to discover hope in a future together.
Compulsive-read-in-one-sitting good!
The fur face on the cover is Blue. She's not only a search-and-rescue dog but a cadaver dog as well. She's a solid part of the team as she leads Levi and Adriana on a hunt for burial sites. There are some great tidbits about this kind of canine training and how it can be just as psychologically hard on the dogs as the humans. And I loved how fiercely protective Adriana was in guarding Blue from overwork that could lead to depression. They have a great relationship and Levi recognizes -- and more importantly -- respects that special bond.
While they've known each other for years on a professional basis, Adriana and Levi have never quite taken to each other until they are thrown together on a case. And suddenly it seems all too obvious that, not only are they attracted to each other, but neither is interested in pursing a relationship. There's a lovely wary awkwardness about them both as they stutter-start towards building up a camaraderie, struggling to find the courage to let go of past hurts in order to discover hope in a future together.
Compulsive-read-in-one-sitting good!
November 25, 2020
I really enjoyed this book set in Alaska, where Adriana Steele works with K9 cadaverdogs to find missing people and sometimes dead bodies. She works a case with Levi Wicks, a local police officer, of a series of brutal serial murders that resemble crimes committed 20 years ago. They are shot at, the car is blown up, and threatened to stay away from the crimes, but they are persistent. Also, during this time, they both fall in love (which is sweet). Really good story, hard to put down.
I received this book via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I received this book via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
November 21, 2020
I enjoyed this little book.
The plot was quite interesting and very well thought out and written well. I really enjoyed the author's digging into the POV of all of her characters and making them think real, human thoughts. I really enjoyed the story.
I felt that the Christian message wasn't quite as strong in this book, but it was still there and true. I also felt like the author maybe rushed a few scenes but it wasn't bad and it wasn't all through the book. All in all, it was a very good story surrounding the Alaskan culture and made for a great lunch-read!
The plot was quite interesting and very well thought out and written well. I really enjoyed the author's digging into the POV of all of her characters and making them think real, human thoughts. I really enjoyed the story.
I felt that the Christian message wasn't quite as strong in this book, but it was still there and true. I also felt like the author maybe rushed a few scenes but it wasn't bad and it wasn't all through the book. All in all, it was a very good story surrounding the Alaskan culture and made for a great lunch-read!
July 31, 2020
3 1/2 STARS
Adriana Steele is a member of a search and rescue team in Raven Pass, Alaska. Her dog Blue is a cadaver dog and can also search for live victims. Blue has the exceptional skill of scenting a dead body underwater. On the present search Blue alerted in the middle of a lake during their search for a missing hiker named Lara Jones. Subsequently it was ascertained that the woman was actually the victim of the area's serial killer. Adriana had participated in other searches where the victims weren't found alive but this time felt different. When Officer Levi Wicks started talking to her about the discovery of the body for some reason she fell apart. She has experienced panic attacks before but it was disquieting to break down in front of Levi. Somehow he made her feel okay about it though. When Levi mentioned he suspected this was related to the serial killer case he was investigating Adriana knew she had to offer to help even if it was assisting Levi Wicks. Adriana's impression of Officer Wicks from past encounters is that he is laid back, too easy-going and seems to lack concern. Working with him told her she has been all wrong in her thinking of him. She now finds him super dedicated, focused and caring. Adriana is still mourning the loss of her boyfriend five years ago when the ice on a lake cracked and he fell through on his snow machine. She isn't ready to dip her toe into the relationship waters yet. Or is she?
Officer Levi Wicks is working a serial killer case. When he got the call about the recovery of the body of Lara Jones from a local lake he didn't suspect it could possibly have anything to do with the case he was investigating. But it did. The woman's body was found with the same zip ties used on the murder victims. Dumping the body in the lake didn't fit the serial killer's MO though. Adriana Steele, along with her cadaver dog Blue, ended up being a real boon to his investigation and his life as she offered to help him with his investigation. Levi hasn't gotten over his ex-wife cheating on him yet and Levi fights his attraction to Adriana.
Alaskan Showdown by Sarah Varland is the second book in her Raven Pass Search and Rescue series. This story has a lot of emotion involved. The main characters both have to overcome the difficulties of their pasts. The storyline is interesting. I found the writing style to be a little choppy at times but I enjoyed the story.
Adriana Steele is a member of a search and rescue team in Raven Pass, Alaska. Her dog Blue is a cadaver dog and can also search for live victims. Blue has the exceptional skill of scenting a dead body underwater. On the present search Blue alerted in the middle of a lake during their search for a missing hiker named Lara Jones. Subsequently it was ascertained that the woman was actually the victim of the area's serial killer. Adriana had participated in other searches where the victims weren't found alive but this time felt different. When Officer Levi Wicks started talking to her about the discovery of the body for some reason she fell apart. She has experienced panic attacks before but it was disquieting to break down in front of Levi. Somehow he made her feel okay about it though. When Levi mentioned he suspected this was related to the serial killer case he was investigating Adriana knew she had to offer to help even if it was assisting Levi Wicks. Adriana's impression of Officer Wicks from past encounters is that he is laid back, too easy-going and seems to lack concern. Working with him told her she has been all wrong in her thinking of him. She now finds him super dedicated, focused and caring. Adriana is still mourning the loss of her boyfriend five years ago when the ice on a lake cracked and he fell through on his snow machine. She isn't ready to dip her toe into the relationship waters yet. Or is she?
Officer Levi Wicks is working a serial killer case. When he got the call about the recovery of the body of Lara Jones from a local lake he didn't suspect it could possibly have anything to do with the case he was investigating. But it did. The woman's body was found with the same zip ties used on the murder victims. Dumping the body in the lake didn't fit the serial killer's MO though. Adriana Steele, along with her cadaver dog Blue, ended up being a real boon to his investigation and his life as she offered to help him with his investigation. Levi hasn't gotten over his ex-wife cheating on him yet and Levi fights his attraction to Adriana.
Alaskan Showdown by Sarah Varland is the second book in her Raven Pass Search and Rescue series. This story has a lot of emotion involved. The main characters both have to overcome the difficulties of their pasts. The storyline is interesting. I found the writing style to be a little choppy at times but I enjoyed the story.
July 6, 2020
"Alaskan Showdown" is a Christian romantic suspense. Adriana is a logical, no nonsense type of gal, and I loved her dialogue. Adriana has a search and rescue dog that can also find dead bodies. She volunteered to help Levi with a serial killer cold case. If they could find more of the serial killer's burials, then Levi would have a better chance at finding evidence or solid leads. Both Adriana and Levi were complex characters that reacted realistically to events. Levi treated Adriana as a full partner and listened when she made suggestions. Since he could be impulsive, sometimes Adriana got him back on track. Both were good at asking good questions and thinking through the implications of the evidence. Of course, the serial killer didn't want to be found, so they became targets and the danger to their lives added suspense. Some aspects of the murders were left unexplained (though they were probably explainable) since whodunit didn't explain how, just why.
I liked that the dog played an ongoing, active role (with search and rescue and cadaver work, not just as a friendly dog). Adriana and Levi knew each other before the events in the story and got to know each other during the story. I liked how well they worked together and did think that they could have a good marriage together. However, they went from "I'm bad at relationships" and "I don't want to risk hurting that much again" to suddenly saying "let's get married as soon as possible" at the end. Since both seemed to hold married in high regard, it just seemed rushed.
Both main characters struggled with trusting God after He allowed bad things to happen to them. Levi thinks at one point, "Why was he willing to trust a dog, but not the God who had created him and the universe?" There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd highly recommend this fun suspense because I enjoyed characters so much.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
I liked that the dog played an ongoing, active role (with search and rescue and cadaver work, not just as a friendly dog). Adriana and Levi knew each other before the events in the story and got to know each other during the story. I liked how well they worked together and did think that they could have a good marriage together. However, they went from "I'm bad at relationships" and "I don't want to risk hurting that much again" to suddenly saying "let's get married as soon as possible" at the end. Since both seemed to hold married in high regard, it just seemed rushed.
Both main characters struggled with trusting God after He allowed bad things to happen to them. Levi thinks at one point, "Why was he willing to trust a dog, but not the God who had created him and the universe?" There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd highly recommend this fun suspense because I enjoyed characters so much.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
August 26, 2020
My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Alaskan Showdown. I'm always thrilled to receive one of Sarah's books in the mail. She does an awesome job on intrigues. This book is no exception. It's well written, fast paced, and full of action. Faith is woven through this story like a fine tapestry. I know you are going to love it.
Search and rescue worker Adriana Steele and her partner, Blue were out looking for a missing hiker. They find her at the bottom of the lake. (Blue is also a cadaver dog) She sets on her tail gate as she watches law enforcement deal with the body. She knows they will want to talk to her. It was her dog that found the body after all; just as long as it isn't the one officer she can't work with. It's so hard for her and Blue to find dead bodies especially after the loss of her love five years ago. As she sits there thinking about that day she has a panic attack. It's witnessed by the man she least wants to deal with. He comforts her and saves her life.
Police Officer Levi Wicks had been investigating a serial killer. His boss had told him there wasn't enough evidence to continue the search so now feeling defeated, he's out in the field with another dead woman. A woman the right age for the serial killer's victim. Could this be related? Could the cold cases he found be the killer's first victims? As he comforts Adriana someone takes a shot at them. Can he keep her safe. What have they got themselves into?
A journey to find the victims of the serial killer and keep Adriana safe. The killer doesn't want the bodies found. Can Adriana be the next victim? 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 of evil. Give Him your heart and watch Him straighten out your life even in a pandemic.
Search and rescue worker Adriana Steele and her partner, Blue were out looking for a missing hiker. They find her at the bottom of the lake. (Blue is also a cadaver dog) She sets on her tail gate as she watches law enforcement deal with the body. She knows they will want to talk to her. It was her dog that found the body after all; just as long as it isn't the one officer she can't work with. It's so hard for her and Blue to find dead bodies especially after the loss of her love five years ago. As she sits there thinking about that day she has a panic attack. It's witnessed by the man she least wants to deal with. He comforts her and saves her life.
Police Officer Levi Wicks had been investigating a serial killer. His boss had told him there wasn't enough evidence to continue the search so now feeling defeated, he's out in the field with another dead woman. A woman the right age for the serial killer's victim. Could this be related? Could the cold cases he found be the killer's first victims? As he comforts Adriana someone takes a shot at them. Can he keep her safe. What have they got themselves into?
A journey to find the victims of the serial killer and keep Adriana safe. The killer doesn't want the bodies found. Can Adriana be the next victim? 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 of evil. Give Him your heart and watch Him straighten out your life even in a pandemic.
August 20, 2020
The discovery of a dead hiker's body sends Adriana Steele and her search and rescue dog, Blue, on the run from a serial killer. Adriana, though shaken, is determined to help Officer Levi Wicks catch the killer, will they be able to catch the killer before it's too late?
A high stakes suspense, with strong characters and a fantastic dog. Adriana has always had to be strong, she knows dogs better than people, and has trained Blue to be a remarkable asset in recovery of bodies. I admired how much she wants to help Levi find the killer, despite the toll it takes on her.
I admired Levi's never-give-up attitude, and how he and Adriana make such a good team. He is committed to seeing justice served, and has a way of cheering others up, and trying to stay hopeful.
Overall, a fantastic read from beginning to end. I loved how it took two acquaintances and gives them the opportunity to work and get to known each other. Well built characters, strong themes of faith, and I just really enjoyed how this book was executed. Part mystery, and suspense, but also showing the harder sides and the emotional toll, and the people who are brave enough to walk that line. Highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A high stakes suspense, with strong characters and a fantastic dog. Adriana has always had to be strong, she knows dogs better than people, and has trained Blue to be a remarkable asset in recovery of bodies. I admired how much she wants to help Levi find the killer, despite the toll it takes on her.
I admired Levi's never-give-up attitude, and how he and Adriana make such a good team. He is committed to seeing justice served, and has a way of cheering others up, and trying to stay hopeful.
Overall, a fantastic read from beginning to end. I loved how it took two acquaintances and gives them the opportunity to work and get to known each other. Well built characters, strong themes of faith, and I just really enjoyed how this book was executed. Part mystery, and suspense, but also showing the harder sides and the emotional toll, and the people who are brave enough to walk that line. Highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 15, 2020
Adriana seems to have landed herself in the middle of a case when her dog finds the body of a missing hitch hiker. Officer Levi is the man on the case and to continue his current case as well as a close case Adriana dog dug up that might have connection. Now they both with work together to find the murder as the murderer seems to be alive and well and coming after them.
I enjoy a good mystery suspense novel. I loved getting to know the characters and seeing her relationship with the dogs. It never occurs to be to think a bit more when it came to search and rescue dogs when it comes to finding someone dead or alive that it would impact the dog in anyway and I thought it was interesting how it was pointed out there. I loved seeing that there was that bit of attraction going on but that this book remained clean which I appreciate. I loved that there was enough mystery surrounding the cases and watching as they solved it. I loved that there was a few close calls to keep things interesting. Overall this was a pretty great book I really enjoyed it.
I enjoy a good mystery suspense novel. I loved getting to know the characters and seeing her relationship with the dogs. It never occurs to be to think a bit more when it came to search and rescue dogs when it comes to finding someone dead or alive that it would impact the dog in anyway and I thought it was interesting how it was pointed out there. I loved seeing that there was that bit of attraction going on but that this book remained clean which I appreciate. I loved that there was enough mystery surrounding the cases and watching as they solved it. I loved that there was a few close calls to keep things interesting. Overall this was a pretty great book I really enjoyed it.
September 1, 2020
Who are Adrianna and Levi? What is going on in their lives? How do they meet or know each other? What does each of them do for a living? I loved Blue and Babe! I was not certain how I felt about Judah and his attitude and actions/comments at first, but he grew on me as the story progressed. He really showed me a different side after the explosion. Who is Nathan? What do we learn about him? I suddenly have a thought about what is going on after the call to Levi and the visit with Nathan. Who are Jim, Rosie, and Jenny? What is going on that puts Levi and Adrianna in danger? Read and see who is behind it all and why!
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT from Netgalley FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT from Netgalley FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
September 26, 2024
I had never read any of Sarah Varland's books before this one. Man was it an interesting read. Search and rescue for live and dead bodies. Adriana and her dog Blue, a beautiful husky find a body and end up working to help Officer Levi work on a 30 year old cold case connected to current murders and becomes a target herself. Will they connect the dots of cold and newer murders or get killed in the process? Will they find the murderer who has been inactive for decades and then becomes active again or will these cases go cold as well? Get this suspense filled book now and find out all the answers. Great read Sarah Varland. I will be reading more of your books.
November 16, 2020
Adriana had a dog to help with her search and rescue services in Alaska. Blue was always by her side while she searched for bodies that a would-be serial killer have dumped. But this killer has been on the run for over 2 decades and no one has caught him or her yet so would she be successful Adriana helped the police officer, Levi, with this job and soon her faith got the best of her and they fell in love. This was a quick read and an enjoyable one.
November 21, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It is a love inspired suspense inspirational romance. It is a easy quick book to read and I was kept guessing trying to figure out the ending and who the criminal was. I will say I was very surprised in the end to discover who did it so to speak. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes suspense and inspirational books. I will also be looking for more books from Sarah Varland.
October 8, 2025
Outstanding!
Sarah tells a great story! I thoroughly enjoyed the rhythm of the words. The characters were strong and lovable. They weren't perfect but they were honest. The storyline was captivating and when the killer was revealed, it made sense! I enjoyed this book tremendously and I'd highly recommend it!
Sarah tells a great story! I thoroughly enjoyed the rhythm of the words. The characters were strong and lovable. They weren't perfect but they were honest. The storyline was captivating and when the killer was revealed, it made sense! I enjoyed this book tremendously and I'd highly recommend it!
September 24, 2020
Adrianna works with search and rescue dogs who find dead bodies. When she becomes the target of a serial killer, Officer Levi Wicks is determined to keep her safe and find the killer. A surprise twist at the end!
January 4, 2021
This was a pretty good book. The story was well paced and very enjoyable. I really like Adriana and Levi. I liked following along as they uncovered the mystery. I highly recommend.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
June 17, 2021
Ummmmmm
I kept reading, but there was too much emotionalism for the male character. Most men I know don’t focus so much on their feelings while walking towards a murderer. It was not realistic and believable. I wanted to help the guy get counseling.
I kept reading, but there was too much emotionalism for the male character. Most men I know don’t focus so much on their feelings while walking towards a murderer. It was not realistic and believable. I wanted to help the guy get counseling.
August 10, 2023
great story
I loved this book. Hated to have it end. Great story line. Thrilling clean mystery with just enough romance building throughout the story. Great twist at the end. More please thank you!
I loved this book. Hated to have it end. Great story line. Thrilling clean mystery with just enough romance building throughout the story. Great twist at the end. More please thank you!
August 5, 2020
Wonderful story
This story was great. I really enjoyed the dog and the brothers working together and how they solved the case...
This story was great. I really enjoyed the dog and the brothers working together and how they solved the case...
August 31, 2020
Disjointed & not interesting.
September 18, 2020
WOW!!!!
Good book!! A lot of action and mystery. A lot of faith in action. The two characters blended their different fields of expertise to solve a very difficult case.
Good book!! A lot of action and mystery. A lot of faith in action. The two characters blended their different fields of expertise to solve a very difficult case.
December 29, 2020
Really enjoyed the characters and setting in this book. Book two of the Raven Pass Search and Rescue series.
April 30, 2021
Great book. Lots of suspense well written and makes me want to read all her books. I have read several of hers and all good.
May 20, 2021
Liked the suspense and not knowing right until the end!
January 18, 2022
Alaskan Showdown
A very different story nonetheless very interesting. The author did a good job of keeping the secret of the killer until almost the end.
A very different story nonetheless very interesting. The author did a good job of keeping the secret of the killer until almost the end.
February 18, 2022
Love comes unexpectedly.
Even Police People can have a past that makes it easier to have learned that some people are just warped.
Even Police People can have a past that makes it easier to have learned that some people are just warped.
May 24, 2022
Loved this story about two broken people and how working together began the healing process. Also the mystery/suspense was great in this book.
August 21, 2022
Quick easy read.
April 8, 2023
I didn't get any chemistry between the characters. They both seemed depressing. The mystery was alright.
November 2, 2020
The adventure follows a fairly predictable path for these romantic suspense tales - the lady with a search and rescue dog becomes the target of an unknown crook, and the rugged policeman decides to protect her. As background we see that a possible serial killer is at work, though most serial killers don't alter their pattern to stalk someone in this way. Plenty of action and two nice lively dogs to keep us occupied.
I enjoyed the read.
I read an ARC from Net Galley and Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
I enjoyed the read.
I read an ARC from Net Galley and Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
August 7, 2020
A delightfully diverse story filled with intense suspense, sweet romance, soul searching, and the amazing abilities and connections search and rescue dogs and their handlers have.
The suspense is fierce and explosive. The serial killer's patterns arise questions, the twists in the plot managed to take me by surprise. How Blue reacted in different situations, how the dog's moods changed as bodies were found was palpable and heartfelt. As well as was the connection developing between Officer Levi Wicks and Adriana Steele. Yes, it was building up fast and under duress, yet it was believable and authentic.
I admired how naturally Adriana and Levi talked about their faith in God, how they shared about their life struggles and losses. As the story started to unfold the friction from the beginning dissolved, the growth and character development were tangible as they battle the attacks towards them and fight to stay alive.
Alaskan Showdown was a compelling story that was hard to put down. All the three main elements, suspense, romance, and faith in God, were well imbedded into the twists of the plot making it entertaining, inspirational, genuinely wholesome tale.
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
The suspense is fierce and explosive. The serial killer's patterns arise questions, the twists in the plot managed to take me by surprise. How Blue reacted in different situations, how the dog's moods changed as bodies were found was palpable and heartfelt. As well as was the connection developing between Officer Levi Wicks and Adriana Steele. Yes, it was building up fast and under duress, yet it was believable and authentic.
I admired how naturally Adriana and Levi talked about their faith in God, how they shared about their life struggles and losses. As the story started to unfold the friction from the beginning dissolved, the growth and character development were tangible as they battle the attacks towards them and fight to stay alive.
Alaskan Showdown was a compelling story that was hard to put down. All the three main elements, suspense, romance, and faith in God, were well imbedded into the twists of the plot making it entertaining, inspirational, genuinely wholesome tale.
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews