High Stakes Suspense: Colorado K-9 Unit by Kathleen Donnelly

Written By Maria (Angie) B.

📚 Release Date: September 30
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

I honestly didn’t think another book could grip me the way Tracking a Killer by Elizabeth Goddard did—that story had me on the edge of my seat with suspense and completely unnerved by its chilling serial killer. But then Colorado K-9 Unit by Kathleen Donnelly landed in my hands... and wow. I was wrong. This book had me completely on edge from start to finish. Here is a short synopsis:

A kidnapper’s twisted game is on. And a trusty K‑9 won’t let him succeed. Years after being abducted, Mckenna Parker’s worst nightmare has come true—her kidnapper is out on parole. And he’s after her again. Now an FBI victim specialist, she and her crisis canine, Mocha, have been assigned to a case with FBI agent Evan Knox. Together they must find two local girls who disappeared. As passionate as Mckenna is about helping others, Evan is ambitious about his career. Both have sworn off love. But when Mckenna vanishes into the mountain wilderness, it’s Evan—with Mocha’s amazing help—who braves danger at all costs.

What I Loved:

Compassionate Treatment of Real-World Issues
One thing that really stood out to me was how the story handled the topic of missing women—especially missing Indigenous women. It didn’t feel forced or like it was just thrown in for drama. Kathleen Donnelly approached it with real care and compassion, and it added a layer of depth that made the story hit harder emotionally. It was still a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat read, but it also made space for something real and important. I love when a suspense novel can be both gripping and meaningful, and this one absolutely delivered on both fronts.

Unrelenting Suspense with a Killer Twist
This book brings all the suspense I love in a good romantic thriller—red herrings, near-misses, and that edge-of-your-seat tension that makes it impossible to put down. I usually pride myself on figuring out the twist early, but this one totally surprised me. I didn’t see the villain coming until about 80% in, and when the reveal happened, it hit. The bad guy is seriously twisted in a way that adds a dark, chilling vibe without feeling overdone. The pacing was just right too—fast enough to keep things moving, but with enough build-up to really let the tension simmer.

Evan & McKenna’s Chemistry
I really liked how the relationship between McKenna and Evan was written. It felt natural and believable—no insta-love, no over-the-top drama. Their connection builds slowly as the story unfolds, and it never takes over the plot. The focus stays on the mystery, but their growing bond adds just the right emotional layer. McKenna is strong and driven, with her own history and reasons for doing what she does, and Evan balances her out in a really grounded, genuine way. Their chemistry made the story even better without ever pulling attention away from the suspense.

The Supporting Cast (Yes, Including Mocha!)
The side characters are more than just filler—they’re fully fleshed-out individuals who add to the realism and emotional weight of the story. From colleagues to community members, each character brings something to the table. And then there’s Mocha, McKenna’s brilliant and loyal K-9 partner. Mocha is more than just a cute sidekick; she’s a vital part of the team and the story. Her intelligence, training, and unwavering loyalty add heart and a unique dynamic to the plot. Honestly, she’s one of my favorite characters.

 
 

If you’re new to K-9 Unit books, let this be your sign—they’re intense, emotional, and full of high-stakes action. Colorado K-9 Unit checks every box:
✅ Nail-biting tension
✅ Thoughtful storytelling
✅ A four-legged hero to root for

Add this one to your TBR now—it’s out September 30 and absolutely worth the read. Huge thanks to NetGalley, the author, and Harlequin Books for the ARC!

Book Link-Ups I Enjoy Joining

Maria (Angie) B. https://angiebaer.com
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