I admit I chose to read this book because of the GSD on the cover. A lesbian romance featuring a German Shepherd? Bring it on. I enjoyed learning about K-9 bomb detection work and all that goes into the training of bomb sniffing dogs and their human partners. Chase the dog was a highlight for me in this read. I struggled to enjoy the dynamics of the relationship between his handler and her trainer.

Early on I enjoyed the light flirting between Sara and Isabella.It’s easy to see they are attracted to one other even with Sara laying down her ground rules at the outset. She doesn’t date students and she doesn’t date cops. Izzy’s enthusiastic approach to her new career as a dog handler matches her enthusiastic pursuit of Sara. She won’t take no for an answer. Rather than respect Sara’s efforts to keep their distance, Izzy turns into a lovestruck teenager and a jealous lover. Some readers might find Sara weak and indecisive and that Izzy has every right to worry about Sara’s past relationship with Nicole. I found Izzy to be controlling. When the green-eyed monster raises its ugly head Izzy comes across as an immature and petulant child challenging and questioning Sara at every turn.

Their declarations of love felt hollow to me. Yes, my personal triggers might have influenced my opinion of this romance. It is what it is.

2.5 stars

ARC received with thanks from publisher via Net Galley for review.