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K-9 Search and Rescue #1
Desert Rescue
With his K-9’s help,
can he save the son he didn’t know existed?
Rescuing a kidnapped child is part of the job for search-and-rescue K-9 handler Patrick Sanders—but this time it’s his son. Now Patrick and his furry partner must work with his high school love, Jennie Wilcox, to shield the little boy he just learned about. But with someone targeting them, will Patrick and Jennie survive to face their painful past and become a family?
From Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
can he save the son he didn’t know existed?
Rescuing a kidnapped child is part of the job for search-and-rescue K-9 handler Patrick Sanders—but this time it’s his son. Now Patrick and his furry partner must work with his high school love, Jennie Wilcox, to shield the little boy he just learned about. But with someone targeting them, will Patrick and Jennie survive to face their painful past and become a family?
From Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
189 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
586 people are currently reading
543 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Phillips
167 books872 followersLisa Phillips is a USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over 80 books that span Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line, independently published series romantic suspense, and thriller novels. She’s discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.
Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Lisa is a worship leader, tea aficionado, and dog lover of two crazy Airedales.
Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Lisa is a worship leader, tea aficionado, and dog lover of two crazy Airedales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
December 15, 2025
This is a Clean Romantic Suspense, and this is the first book in the K-9 Search and Rescue series. I have to say I love the characters and the K-9 dog in this book. I have to say the beginning was a little bit weird. The beginning is one that you are just dumped into an action part and you do not know what is going on or why. I have to say once I figured out the characters and what was going on I really loved the book.
September 22, 2024
2.5 Stars for Dessert Rescue: K-9 Search and Rescue, Book 1 (audiobook) by Lisa Phillips read by Tim Paige.
I like the idea of stories set around a search and rescue dog but the angst over a second chance romance while searching for someone who is lost just seems strange.
I like the idea of stories set around a search and rescue dog but the angst over a second chance romance while searching for someone who is lost just seems strange.
January 27, 2025
This one wasn't my favorite. I did enjoy that it featured a loyal and hard working dog, and that the setting was in New Mexico. But I found almost every scene highly unlikely. There was some faith based content but the way it was worked in also seemed like a stretch for one of the characters. Not sure if I'll read more from this author but I did see that every book in this series is written by a different author so I will likely try other books in the series.
January 20, 2021
I think this is my first book featuring an Airedale terrier, and isn't our furry hero a stunning specimen? An interesting choice for a K-9 partner as well. I did a little digging based on a snippet from the story (I'm kinda book nerdy like that) and discovered that Airedales were introduced to police work in Glasgow in the early 1900s. Who knew? I'd always assumed that terriers wouldn't have the discipline for K-9 work but Tucker is a great example of terrier tenacity with just enough quirks to keep things interesting. :-)
Phillips has created another heart-stopping, adrenaline-rush of a read with plenty of action and not a small amount of emotional trauma. Hello, secret baby trope, which I'm not a huge fan of BUT this one is done really well. Jennie's backstory drew me in and, while I felt for Patrick's missing out on the early years of parenthood, I still felt compassion for Jennie. (I'm always worried a heroine will come across as selfish and heartless for keeping the father in the dark. )
An emotional roller-coaster reunion romance paired with hair-raising suspense made Desert Rescue a page-turning delight.
I listened to the audible edition, narrated by Tim Paige. I usually prefer a female narrator -- I have an issue with the way male voice artist's shift their voice for the female roles...kinda makes me want to giggle -- like I'm listening to a comedy skit and waiting for the punchline. I know, I'm strange but I did enjoy Paige's performance and happily compulsive-listened to the end. :-)
Phillips has created another heart-stopping, adrenaline-rush of a read with plenty of action and not a small amount of emotional trauma. Hello, secret baby trope, which I'm not a huge fan of BUT this one is done really well. Jennie's backstory drew me in and, while I felt for Patrick's missing out on the early years of parenthood, I still felt compassion for Jennie. (I'm always worried a heroine will come across as selfish and heartless for keeping the father in the dark. )
An emotional roller-coaster reunion romance paired with hair-raising suspense made Desert Rescue a page-turning delight.
I listened to the audible edition, narrated by Tim Paige. I usually prefer a female narrator -- I have an issue with the way male voice artist's shift their voice for the female roles...kinda makes me want to giggle -- like I'm listening to a comedy skit and waiting for the punchline. I know, I'm strange but I did enjoy Paige's performance and happily compulsive-listened to the end. :-)
January 10, 2021
Questo libro mi è proprio piaciuto nonostante i riferimenti religiosi siano più del solito. Mi meraviglio sempre come in questa collana le situazioni pericolose si susseguono quasi senza interruzione; in questo caso ciò accade senza che la cosa appaia irrealistica.
October 2, 2024
I like when a book starts out right in the middle of the action, as this one did. It was well-paced enough that I was able to catch up to where I needed to be and stay there throughout the novel. And, my suspicions about one of the 'bad guys' was correct. (I like when I'm able to fit clues together like that!)
I also liked that Jennie and Patrick had a history together, which made the 'requisite romance' more believable, though it was definitely not a main focus of the story. I appreciated that Jennie's quiet trust in God was able to remind Patrick that God is still good, even when things don't go the way you want them to.
3.5 stars
I also liked that Jennie and Patrick had a history together, which made the 'requisite romance' more believable, though it was definitely not a main focus of the story. I appreciated that Jennie's quiet trust in God was able to remind Patrick that God is still good, even when things don't go the way you want them to.
3.5 stars
July 28, 2021
The book opens with Jennie escaping with her son, Nate, after being kidnapped. They were running for their lives when Jennie fell down a mountain. Patrick and his Search and Rescue dog heard Nate shouting for his mother and went to help.
To say Patrick was surprised to see that the woman was someone he loved in the past was putting it mildly. And then to find out the child was his! After he rescued them, they were still in danger. Who was after them and why?
Jennie and Patrick had a messed-up history with lots of misunderstandings. Especially when it came to their breakup.
Fans of Christian romantic suspense would enjoy this book.
To say Patrick was surprised to see that the woman was someone he loved in the past was putting it mildly. And then to find out the child was his! After he rescued them, they were still in danger. Who was after them and why?
Jennie and Patrick had a messed-up history with lots of misunderstandings. Especially when it came to their breakup.
Fans of Christian romantic suspense would enjoy this book.
February 27, 2023
First in a new series.... about about a K-9 dog and his State Policeman handler.
December 27, 2020
“Come on.” Jennie Wilson held tight to her son's hand as they crept down the back steps of the house. A house where they'd been held for hours. Nearly a whole day, if she'd correctly tracked the rise and subsequent fall of the sun.
Whoa, what an opening scene that is! Can you imagine being held against your will in your own house, all while trying to keep yourself and your son safe making your escape? Yikes! Talk about a hyper-tense start to a story. I was wondering how in the world they were going to make it anywhere under the shadow of the night when they were surrounded by bad guys. Guys who had evil intent; talk about sending shivers down my spine! Who will come to their rescue? Enter K-9 Search & Rescue dog Tucker, a handsome curly haired Airedale terrier trained to find the lost just by scent. He stole the show for me because I love K-9 officers slightly more than their two-legged counterparts. Though I have to say, state police officer Patrick Sanders makes for an imposing figure (and just as handsome)! These two work in sync, almost as if they were connected at the hip. Things get even more complicated because both Jennie & Patrick have a past history together, and a son he didn't even know he had. Cue the extra layer of drama!
I won't spoil the story by giving anything away, but Desert Rescue is a multi-dimensional suspense that engages both mind & body. It also draws so many emotions out when the author unfolds Jenna & Patrick's backstories with so much misconception & heartache to work through! Second chance romance is also a favorite of mine because there are reasons why a couple didn't make it the first go-round. Watching the characters work though all that mess just adds so much depth for me. The hard-won happily-ever-after is so much sweeter because of it. There's also the faith thread that's very evident, Jenna helped Patrick re-prioritize the importance of it in his life. Forgiveness & the ability to move on when we lean on God's strength is a huge part of what this story is about. I think readers of inspirational romantic suspense will love this new book penned by Lisa Phillips. And an exciting new series called K-9 Search + Rescue by Love Inspired Suspense! I can't wait for the next installment.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author & was not obligated to leave a positive review. All opinions are mine alone. *
Whoa, what an opening scene that is! Can you imagine being held against your will in your own house, all while trying to keep yourself and your son safe making your escape? Yikes! Talk about a hyper-tense start to a story. I was wondering how in the world they were going to make it anywhere under the shadow of the night when they were surrounded by bad guys. Guys who had evil intent; talk about sending shivers down my spine! Who will come to their rescue? Enter K-9 Search & Rescue dog Tucker, a handsome curly haired Airedale terrier trained to find the lost just by scent. He stole the show for me because I love K-9 officers slightly more than their two-legged counterparts. Though I have to say, state police officer Patrick Sanders makes for an imposing figure (and just as handsome)! These two work in sync, almost as if they were connected at the hip. Things get even more complicated because both Jennie & Patrick have a past history together, and a son he didn't even know he had. Cue the extra layer of drama!
I won't spoil the story by giving anything away, but Desert Rescue is a multi-dimensional suspense that engages both mind & body. It also draws so many emotions out when the author unfolds Jenna & Patrick's backstories with so much misconception & heartache to work through! Second chance romance is also a favorite of mine because there are reasons why a couple didn't make it the first go-round. Watching the characters work though all that mess just adds so much depth for me. The hard-won happily-ever-after is so much sweeter because of it. There's also the faith thread that's very evident, Jenna helped Patrick re-prioritize the importance of it in his life. Forgiveness & the ability to move on when we lean on God's strength is a huge part of what this story is about. I think readers of inspirational romantic suspense will love this new book penned by Lisa Phillips. And an exciting new series called K-9 Search + Rescue by Love Inspired Suspense! I can't wait for the next installment.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author & was not obligated to leave a positive review. All opinions are mine alone. *
December 28, 2020
First of all, that is the cutest rescue dog on the cover. I did not know that Airedales could serve in this way. We used to have an Airedale mix when I was 10 and they are so energetic. I learned a lot about the training and operation of working canines.
This was a suspenseful tale about Jennie and her son Nate who meet up with a Patrick Sanders, the dog handler who Jennie knew in her youth. They have to overcome old hurts and rely on God to see them through terrifying events that come out of their past. The scenes with the dog were interesting and the interaction with the boy and the dog were very sweet.
First of a series that I am anxious to continue.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
This was a suspenseful tale about Jennie and her son Nate who meet up with a Patrick Sanders, the dog handler who Jennie knew in her youth. They have to overcome old hurts and rely on God to see them through terrifying events that come out of their past. The scenes with the dog were interesting and the interaction with the boy and the dog were very sweet.
First of a series that I am anxious to continue.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
January 10, 2021
Desert Rescue by Lisa Phillips is book 1 of K-9 Search and Rescue. Patrick Sanders and Jennie Wilcox have a past and have to survive the crisis and see if they can overcome the past to create a family.It is well written . Lisa Philips has included all of the elements that I love in a story. It includes a reunion, family , K-9 officer, kidnapping, small town. Lisa Philips has created a mystery that keeps you interested.
May 6, 2021
K-9 search
Liked the story started right off but some of the dialog was repeated over and over. Then to keep losing the son over and over became disappointing. The story line could have been written better.
Liked the story started right off but some of the dialog was repeated over and over. Then to keep losing the son over and over became disappointing. The story line could have been written better.
April 11, 2022
Desert Rescue is by Lisa Phillips. This is the first book in the Search and Rescue team. These books are very easy to read and yet are full of suspense and action.
Jenna Wilson and her son Nate (9) are running for their lives from men who had kidnapped them. They know of no reason the men would be kidnapping them and don’t stay to find out. However, running into the desert is not a very good idea; but it is the only direction they have to go. Jenna was able to call the police.
The officer sent to find her and protect her was Nate’s father, Patrick Sanders. However, he did not know about Nate. Patrick and his mother had left the area before Jenna could tell him. Jenna’s father had told Patrick she no longer wanted to see him and tried to pay him to leave. He then told Jenna that he had told Patrick about the baby but he wanted nothing to do with Jenna or the baby. Heartbroken, Jenna raised Nate on her own. However, when he finds out that night, he immediately accepted that Nate was his.
Now, someone wanted to get her and Nate and no one knew any reason they would. Could Patrick protect them?
Jenna Wilson and her son Nate (9) are running for their lives from men who had kidnapped them. They know of no reason the men would be kidnapping them and don’t stay to find out. However, running into the desert is not a very good idea; but it is the only direction they have to go. Jenna was able to call the police.
The officer sent to find her and protect her was Nate’s father, Patrick Sanders. However, he did not know about Nate. Patrick and his mother had left the area before Jenna could tell him. Jenna’s father had told Patrick she no longer wanted to see him and tried to pay him to leave. He then told Jenna that he had told Patrick about the baby but he wanted nothing to do with Jenna or the baby. Heartbroken, Jenna raised Nate on her own. However, when he finds out that night, he immediately accepted that Nate was his.
Now, someone wanted to get her and Nate and no one knew any reason they would. Could Patrick protect them?
April 9, 2023
In Desert Rescue, Patrick rescues Jennie and her son from kidnappers. Jennie was his high school sweetheart and their reunion brings up old feelings. I thought this was a good romantic suspense. I'm not usually a fan of keeping a child's existence from his father, but there were extenuating circumstances in this one. I did love how Patrick embraced being a father. I also enjoyed watching him and Jennie fall back in love. It is a Christian romance, but wasn't too heavy in the religious talk.
Desert Rescue is the first book in the K-9 Search and Rescue series from Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense line. The books in the series are written by different authors so I'm not sure they all take place in the same "world" . So, I guess we will see. It's a quick read and I do recommend it.
Desert Rescue is the first book in the K-9 Search and Rescue series from Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense line. The books in the series are written by different authors so I'm not sure they all take place in the same "world" . So, I guess we will see. It's a quick read and I do recommend it.
July 28, 2025
3.5🌟
Audiobook
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Glad I read it. Will read more by this author.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed others so much more.
1🌟 = I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
Audiobook
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Glad I read it. Will read more by this author.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed others so much more.
1🌟 = I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
July 22, 2023
I have enjoyed this K-9 Search & Rescue book, this is the second one I read loved them both. Kinda cool that Patrick the police officer using a Airedale as his canine partner, usually you see German Shepherds.
In this book Patrick (Officers Sanders) was called back to his old hometown, the is a child and mother abduction. CA Patrick save them? Can he keep them safe? He sure as is going to try because they gets there he knows the mother very well she was the great love he once had. He can never forget the day her drug lord father had him and his mother ran off from their home.
He is a cop he has to suck the hurt all up and do his job, that is what he intends to do then bet back of this stinking' town.
In this book Patrick (Officers Sanders) was called back to his old hometown, the is a child and mother abduction. CA Patrick save them? Can he keep them safe? He sure as is going to try because they gets there he knows the mother very well she was the great love he once had. He can never forget the day her drug lord father had him and his mother ran off from their home.
He is a cop he has to suck the hurt all up and do his job, that is what he intends to do then bet back of this stinking' town.
January 1, 2021
From the first page this story grabbed my attention and didn't let go until I finished the last sentence. Usually suspense novels that start out in the middle of the action leave me bored and uninterested. Not this one. I had to know what happened. Each chapter ended on just enough of a cliffhanger that it kept me wanting to read the next chapter and then the one after that. This book is one that you can stay up all night reading without even realizing it.
Not every moment was filled with suspense though. The characters had moments when they could relax. It was a false sense of security, however, they didn't know that. It was in those moments when they would have to deal with their mixed up emotions and straighten out the lies of the past.
The main characters kept a strong focus on protecting their child. That was the number one priority. Their relationship and the love they still had for each other showed through their concern for the other, but they had so much preventing them from letting go of past hurts. They had to forgive each other and move past the things that had happened that were out of their control.
In the midst of life threatening events, they were able to find the truth of the past and accept it for what it was. Together they would heal from their trauma and become the family they always wanted to be.
You know you've read a really good book when you get that feeling of loss after reading it. You had been so absorbed in the book that it became your reality for a split second. Then, when the story is over, you're forced back into your everyday life. You've left an amazing story and you feel happy having been there. At the same time, you feel empty and lost because that moment is gone. I usually only get that feeling when I finish a series, yet this book was able to do it.
I am able to overlook any errors or choppy writing because the story kept me hooked the entire time. The style of the story calls for a different writing style to really build tension, shorter sentences are used at times, and I thought for this story they had been overused a little bit. It didn't take away from the story though.
I am so thankful that the author gifted me a copy of this book. I am happily and willingly leaving this review. I hope to read more from this author and publisher.
Not every moment was filled with suspense though. The characters had moments when they could relax. It was a false sense of security, however, they didn't know that. It was in those moments when they would have to deal with their mixed up emotions and straighten out the lies of the past.
The main characters kept a strong focus on protecting their child. That was the number one priority. Their relationship and the love they still had for each other showed through their concern for the other, but they had so much preventing them from letting go of past hurts. They had to forgive each other and move past the things that had happened that were out of their control.
In the midst of life threatening events, they were able to find the truth of the past and accept it for what it was. Together they would heal from their trauma and become the family they always wanted to be.
You know you've read a really good book when you get that feeling of loss after reading it. You had been so absorbed in the book that it became your reality for a split second. Then, when the story is over, you're forced back into your everyday life. You've left an amazing story and you feel happy having been there. At the same time, you feel empty and lost because that moment is gone. I usually only get that feeling when I finish a series, yet this book was able to do it.
I am able to overlook any errors or choppy writing because the story kept me hooked the entire time. The style of the story calls for a different writing style to really build tension, shorter sentences are used at times, and I thought for this story they had been overused a little bit. It didn't take away from the story though.
I am so thankful that the author gifted me a copy of this book. I am happily and willingly leaving this review. I hope to read more from this author and publisher.
January 8, 2021
"There was a missing boy and his mother. It was Jennie."
Jennie, the single mother of nine-year-old Nate, lives on the edge of the desert, building a new life for her son in the shadow of her shattered past.
Then, one night, they're kidnapped. And Jennie has no idea why.
When they're rescued by police officer Patrick Sanders—who doesn't realize he's Nate's father—and his K-9 partner, they embark on a mission to stay alive. Jennie and Patrick must uncover the mystery surrounding the kidnapping and discover why Jennie and Nate are being targeted—all while struggling to overcome their past and become a family for their son.
As I read the last 75 or so pages, I couldn't put this book down. Lisa Phillips is one of my favorite authors because of the way she crafts her characters, their families, and uses their broken lives to show how God can use anything to bring us closer to Him. I loved the multi-generational aspect to the story and couldn't wait to see how it'd turn out. There's great setup and great promise for twists and reveals. Desert Rescue was tense and emotional, continually making you wonder what will happen. It definitely satisfies in the end and is a roller coaster of action and suspense all throughout. If you enjoy romantic suspense, check this book out!
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.*
Jennie, the single mother of nine-year-old Nate, lives on the edge of the desert, building a new life for her son in the shadow of her shattered past.
Then, one night, they're kidnapped. And Jennie has no idea why.
When they're rescued by police officer Patrick Sanders—who doesn't realize he's Nate's father—and his K-9 partner, they embark on a mission to stay alive. Jennie and Patrick must uncover the mystery surrounding the kidnapping and discover why Jennie and Nate are being targeted—all while struggling to overcome their past and become a family for their son.
As I read the last 75 or so pages, I couldn't put this book down. Lisa Phillips is one of my favorite authors because of the way she crafts her characters, their families, and uses their broken lives to show how God can use anything to bring us closer to Him. I loved the multi-generational aspect to the story and couldn't wait to see how it'd turn out. There's great setup and great promise for twists and reveals. Desert Rescue was tense and emotional, continually making you wonder what will happen. It definitely satisfies in the end and is a roller coaster of action and suspense all throughout. If you enjoy romantic suspense, check this book out!
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.*
January 10, 2021
What a great romantic suspense read! Second chance is one of my favorite romance tropes and I absolutely loved that this book featured it! From the first page I was enthralled with this story and hated to stop reading! Jennie and Patrick were fantastic main characters, and I loved Nate too, but I think my favorite character was Patrick's K-9 partner, Tucker! I loved Tucker so much and he totally made the story for me, he was so amazing and such a sweetheart and I found myself wishing I could transport myself through the pages so I could pet him and get doggy kisses! I also learned a couple of things from this book, 1. That they use Airedales as police dogs in Scotland, and 2. That Airedales have been used by police since WWI. I had no idea and I loved learning these things! The suspense was phenomenal (as I have come to exect from this author) and the author did a fabulous job of describing the setting. I felt like I was traversing the New Mexico desert right alongside the characters!
I absolutely loved Desert Rescue and most highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
I absolutely loved Desert Rescue and most highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
February 2, 2022
I enjoyed reading this story, however, it seemed to be choppy in some way. The plot was repetitive with just slight changes to justify the same event. I still would recommend reading this book. I always enjoy Lisa Phillips' writing. When reading this series I was aware the quality of writing might be just a little less.
February 25, 2022
More love story than mystery.
I really got tired of the "mind dialog". Why did they not just talk to each other and work their problems and misconceptions out?
I really got tired of the "mind dialog". Why did they not just talk to each other and work their problems and misconceptions out?
March 19, 2022
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
Desert Rescue is the first story in the multi-author series, K-9 Search & Rescue. Patrick and Jennie must face their past (part of which Patrick had no idea about) and the danger that threatens them all in an emotional, tense romance.
We are thrust into the action from the opening page as Jennie and her son Nate silently creep down the backsteps of the house they’ve been held captive in… and that is the only spoiler (hopefully) that I’ll be willing to tell you about. Now I wanted to know the details, the why, and who are the bad guys which will be revealed in time. Still, it’s one heck of an opening and a certain way to grab my attention and keep me focused on figuring out what is going on here.
Nate was near their location with his K-9 partner, Tucker, an Airedale Terrier when he heard the cry for help. Nothing could have ever prepared him to see his former love, Jennie, or the son he never knew existed. Now begins the mad dash to escape the danger, the determination to have questions from the past answered, and the hope of putting this family back together again beyond the bad guys being taken down. While not every moment is filled with danger, it would also be fair to say that Desert Rescue is full of action-packed situations.
I’m not always a huge fan of the secret baby trope, but this time the reasoning made sense – even if there were so many misunderstandings between this couple in their past, and maybe even now. Nate stole my heart, and Tucker certainly made me smile and grin in pride at his antics and his defense of those under his doggy care.
I liked Patrick and Jennie, found them believable, at times stubborn, and often operating on incorrect information which is where those misunderstandings come into play. If you love putting puzzle pieces together, and a couple that obviously does belong together in spite of themselves then this opening story of the K-9 Search & Rescue series would be a perfect match for you. I had a blast here, and even though at this time these stories have been on my TBR pile for far too long – Patrick, Jennie, Nate, and Tucker have made sure that this series gets more attention from me, like right now.
I own a Kindle edition of this title.
Desert Rescue is the first story in the multi-author series, K-9 Search & Rescue. Patrick and Jennie must face their past (part of which Patrick had no idea about) and the danger that threatens them all in an emotional, tense romance.
We are thrust into the action from the opening page as Jennie and her son Nate silently creep down the backsteps of the house they’ve been held captive in… and that is the only spoiler (hopefully) that I’ll be willing to tell you about. Now I wanted to know the details, the why, and who are the bad guys which will be revealed in time. Still, it’s one heck of an opening and a certain way to grab my attention and keep me focused on figuring out what is going on here.
Nate was near their location with his K-9 partner, Tucker, an Airedale Terrier when he heard the cry for help. Nothing could have ever prepared him to see his former love, Jennie, or the son he never knew existed. Now begins the mad dash to escape the danger, the determination to have questions from the past answered, and the hope of putting this family back together again beyond the bad guys being taken down. While not every moment is filled with danger, it would also be fair to say that Desert Rescue is full of action-packed situations.
I’m not always a huge fan of the secret baby trope, but this time the reasoning made sense – even if there were so many misunderstandings between this couple in their past, and maybe even now. Nate stole my heart, and Tucker certainly made me smile and grin in pride at his antics and his defense of those under his doggy care.
I liked Patrick and Jennie, found them believable, at times stubborn, and often operating on incorrect information which is where those misunderstandings come into play. If you love putting puzzle pieces together, and a couple that obviously does belong together in spite of themselves then this opening story of the K-9 Search & Rescue series would be a perfect match for you. I had a blast here, and even though at this time these stories have been on my TBR pile for far too long – Patrick, Jennie, Nate, and Tucker have made sure that this series gets more attention from me, like right now.
I own a Kindle edition of this title.
February 15, 2023
"Desert Rescue" is a Christian romantic suspense. Patrick is a jerk. He has anger issues and a giant grudge, holding Jennie's criminal father's actions (and the results of his own actions) against her. He won't forgive her for not telling him about her pregnancy even after he learned that she thought he knew and yet still tried to contact him. He's all "I'll spend time with my son but ignore that woman" until she's upset. He wanted her to stop crying, so he held and kissed her...and decided he still liked kissing her. Then, suddenly, he wanted a family. At the end, he claimed he'd never stopped loving her. Well, fella, if your attitude at the beginning was love, then Jennie would be better off without that.
Patrick also made stupid mistakes. He skipped town with his mother without telling Jennie. They moved and changed their names so her father couldn't find them. THEN he wrote to her father's house (where she lived) to tell her about these changes--great way to stay hidden! And he's surprised the bad guy never gave her the letters? Hm. Patrick doubted her love, yet held it against her that she doubted his when he abandoned her. Jennie's attracted simply because he's a better man than her father or brother.
Jennie never wanted anything to do with her father's drug trade, but everyone seemed to hold her father's actions against her. She relied on God to help her through life. When everything was out of control, she prayed to the One who is in control. Patrick went from doubting God existed because he didn't like that God let bad things happen to suddenly praying to God even though it didn't seem like God was helping any to deciding he's blessed and God's real. His conversion seemed abrupt.
Anyway, I did like Jennie's stand for doing what's right and to forgive past hurts. The suspense was created by multiple kidnapping attempts. There was no sex or bad language.
Patrick also made stupid mistakes. He skipped town with his mother without telling Jennie. They moved and changed their names so her father couldn't find them. THEN he wrote to her father's house (where she lived) to tell her about these changes--great way to stay hidden! And he's surprised the bad guy never gave her the letters? Hm. Patrick doubted her love, yet held it against her that she doubted his when he abandoned her. Jennie's attracted simply because he's a better man than her father or brother.
Jennie never wanted anything to do with her father's drug trade, but everyone seemed to hold her father's actions against her. She relied on God to help her through life. When everything was out of control, she prayed to the One who is in control. Patrick went from doubting God existed because he didn't like that God let bad things happen to suddenly praying to God even though it didn't seem like God was helping any to deciding he's blessed and God's real. His conversion seemed abrupt.
Anyway, I did like Jennie's stand for doing what's right and to forgive past hurts. The suspense was created by multiple kidnapping attempts. There was no sex or bad language.
January 2, 2021
Men are trespassing on Jeannie's land, but the local sheriff doesn't seem interested in doing anything about it - until the day she and her son are kidnapped and he is forced to call in a K-9 search and rescue team. What he could never have anticipated was that the handler, Patrick, would hang around after finding Jeannie and Nate - because Patrick had discovered that Nate was his son, and the pair were still in danger. Will Patrick (with terrier Tucker's help) be able to keep Jeannie and Nate safe while putting the kidnappers behind bars? And why were they kidnapped in the first place? Most importantly, though, what really happened on that long-ago day when Patrick and Jeannie were separated - and can they have a future together?
Lies drove them apart - can the truth bring them back together? A good mix of romance and suspense, with a kid and a dog thrown in as well, this is an enjoyable read. We get to see both points of view, which is done well, and the suspense is, well, suspenseful, without being over-the-top. It was interesting to hear about the working of a K-9 team, too. My one more negative comment would be that the tying up of the romance at the end felt to me to be fairly rushed - but it's not a major quibble. All in all, a good read.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
Lies drove them apart - can the truth bring them back together? A good mix of romance and suspense, with a kid and a dog thrown in as well, this is an enjoyable read. We get to see both points of view, which is done well, and the suspense is, well, suspenseful, without being over-the-top. It was interesting to hear about the working of a K-9 team, too. My one more negative comment would be that the tying up of the romance at the end felt to me to be fairly rushed - but it's not a major quibble. All in all, a good read.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
January 18, 2021
My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Desert Rescue. This is a K-9 and Research Romance. I really enjoy Lisa's work and this one is an excellent example of her suspense stories. It's well written, action packed, and full of drama. Faith is interwoven throughout the story and that's so important to me.
Jennie Wilson and her nine year old son, Nate were kidnapped but they managed to escape.They are running for their lives when she falls down a mountain. Nate cries "Mom". A State Patrol Officer and his K-9 hears his cry and comes to their aid. This is the man who had left her pregnant with a criminal as a father. How can she trust him? He didn't want her or the baby.
State Police Officer Patrick Sanders and his K-9 partner are called in to find the kidnapped victims. Little did he know it would be the only woman he ever loved and a son he didn't know existed. After the rescue he finds their lives are in danger and he must protect these two for someone is out to destroy them. Does it have something to do with her criminal father?
A journey of terror as someone refuses to give up but is out to kill them. The police want nothing to do with the whole situation. God has a plan for this little family. Although broken God can make a way where there seems to be no way. God can make a way for you too, even in this time chaos. Give Him your heart and stand strong. He's got this.
Jennie Wilson and her nine year old son, Nate were kidnapped but they managed to escape.They are running for their lives when she falls down a mountain. Nate cries "Mom". A State Patrol Officer and his K-9 hears his cry and comes to their aid. This is the man who had left her pregnant with a criminal as a father. How can she trust him? He didn't want her or the baby.
State Police Officer Patrick Sanders and his K-9 partner are called in to find the kidnapped victims. Little did he know it would be the only woman he ever loved and a son he didn't know existed. After the rescue he finds their lives are in danger and he must protect these two for someone is out to destroy them. Does it have something to do with her criminal father?
A journey of terror as someone refuses to give up but is out to kill them. The police want nothing to do with the whole situation. God has a plan for this little family. Although broken God can make a way where there seems to be no way. God can make a way for you too, even in this time chaos. Give Him your heart and stand strong. He's got this.
April 19, 2021
In most books I read, I find certain characters that I really like and others that are so easy to dislike. Typically, there is little debate about the ones I dislike because most often they are the villains. At times the hero and heroine are my favorites. In this story, my favorite characters were Tucker and Nate. For a guy who isn’t a pet-person, I enjoy stories that have well-trained animals, especially those that are trained for special purposes as Tucker is, and that also get along great with kids. Nate takes to Tucker the first time they meet. He is such a loving boy who is at the age where he thinks he’s too grown up to show outward affection. Obviously, he does not apply that same concept to dogs. His single mother has done an outstanding job raising him all by herself. The setting for the story has good and bad aspects. In normal situations, I think I would enjoy spending some time there. However, with the possibility that there are drug-runners on the backside of the property owned by Jennie, I think I will pass. Reading about the vicious criminals is as close as I want to get. The story has some great plot twists and keeps the reader turning pages. The faith element in the story is always appealing to me. I truly enjoy books that contain some redeeming values.
September 26, 2024
Jennie and her son Nate live in her Dad's old house. Her father was a criminal who never got caught but has passed away a while back. Her Mom owned the house and the land and left it all to Jennie after her father was gone.
Noe Jennie has trespassers on the land and she doesn't want those kind of people around her son or on her property. She keeps telling the Sheriff but nothing is done. So she calls the DEA. One night, the trespassers kidnap Jennie and Nate and hold them.
The Sheriff calls in a search and rescue team to find them. The team is Officer Patrick Sanders and K-9 Officer Tucker. Patrick is also the boy she fell in love with in High School and is Nate's father. But no one knows that at the time he was called in.
This book is really good and I can't wait to hear what you think about it.
Noe Jennie has trespassers on the land and she doesn't want those kind of people around her son or on her property. She keeps telling the Sheriff but nothing is done. So she calls the DEA. One night, the trespassers kidnap Jennie and Nate and hold them.
The Sheriff calls in a search and rescue team to find them. The team is Officer Patrick Sanders and K-9 Officer Tucker. Patrick is also the boy she fell in love with in High School and is Nate's father. But no one knows that at the time he was called in.
This book is really good and I can't wait to hear what you think about it.
April 25, 2025
This is 2.5 stars rounded up. I'm not keen on Love-Inspired Suspense books as the type of writing they want is not my cup of tea, but it met a challenge. I did enjoy learning about how well-trained Airedale terriers who are excellent air-scent dogs and are used in K-9 Police, Protection Unit, Guard Dog and Military service because they can be courageous and clever.
The story begins when a mother and son attempt to escape from kidnappers while a K-9 officer and his dog are out to find them. The blurb tells you that her son is his but he doesn't know it. The story behind why he doesn't know even though she thinks he did is plausible, but honestly I don't care for the writing and the repetition of the same thoughts over and over about that until suddenly there is a breakthrough.
The pacing is good and the child is believable.
The story begins when a mother and son attempt to escape from kidnappers while a K-9 officer and his dog are out to find them. The blurb tells you that her son is his but he doesn't know it. The story behind why he doesn't know even though she thinks he did is plausible, but honestly I don't care for the writing and the repetition of the same thoughts over and over about that until suddenly there is a breakthrough.
The pacing is good and the child is believable.
May 22, 2021
I really reading this story of Lisa's. It was full of mystery, action and romance. We were introduced into a world that wasn't healthy for Jennie Wilcox. Lisa shows us Jennie's strengths she has gained from living in the world she was. She had a weakness that gets revealed as the story develops. There is some interesting plot twists in this story that will keep you turning the pages. The hero of the story is Patrick Sanders. Lisa did a excellent job of creating each of the characters with their strengths and weaknesses. She develops them through out the story. But the one that steals the show is the dog Tucker. His quirks are unique to his breed. I look forward to reading more of her books. J
December 19, 2021
Have read many of the Search and Rescue books, really liked most. In this one Jennie and her son, Nate are kidnapped from their farm. Her father, now dead, ran a shop in town but he was also the resident dealer with many out of town bad guys. Long after his death the problems started up again. Jennie nor the Sheriff and regional law enforcement could not understand why. She was rescued by a State Trooper who knew her in school. The story continues and to me got too involved and tough to follow. I finished but it was a long 2 days of reading. I will still read the series. Not all books by one author or in a series can be terrific. I bought this and it was not a dud by any means. Y´all may really like it so try it.
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