Maya Thompson, a U.S. Marine has returned home from Afghanistan to Colorado with PTSD after losing her K-9. Best friend Doug Leyton is now Maya’s field training officer (FTO) to become a U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement Officer. On the 2nd last day of training Maya makes a promise to Doug under emergency conditions that she doesn’t know if she can keep.

There is a note at the beginning of the novel advising:

“Chasing Justice includes material some readers might find difficult, including violence against women, drug and alcohol use, and discussion of suicide.”

I felt all subject matter was vital to the story and handled with care not to exploit or minimize.

After finishing the novel it was not surprising to learn that Kathleen Donnelly is a co-owner and K-9 handler for Sherlock Hounds Detection Canines, a private narcotics detection company. Authenticity and realism add heightened interest to the relationship between Doug and his K-9 Juniper and as Juniper responds to changes in his handling have genuine sparks of detail and emotions.

I was engrossed in Kathleen Donnelly’s debut novel! I am thankful that Kathleen Donnelly began following my book reviews on Instagram or I might not have discovered her writing.

Exploring the author’s social media, it was very exciting to read an announcement made on FB this summer.

“I have exciting news…I signed a two book deal with Carina Press! I'm so excited…‘Hunting the Truth’ is scheduled to come out in the summer of 2023 and ‘Killer Secrets’ will be out in 2024.”

I’ll be watching for the pre-order buttons! ( )