Trapped in Yosemite by Dana Mentink is an action packed thriller/adventure. Ms Mentink did a fantastic job interspersing suspense throughout this novel, so much so in fact that it can be hard to put this novel down. This novel is unique because the danger comes from two sources: a villain out to get the protagonist, and the elements during and after a major earthquake. The portrayal of Yosemite felt authentic, although I would loved to have more of this. Overall, I enjoyed this book and would’ be interested in subsequent stories. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

Though I’m not one for hiking or outdoors in general Yosemite is one of those places that I hope to visit one day, and until that day comes, I like to indulge in fictions that take me there.

I have had this title on my TBR for months and knew this summer was the perfect time to read it. I can see why I dragged my feet as it was nowhere near a favorite of mine, though there were times that held promise.

The imagery is breathtaking in this novel as I was able to see the beauty and terror in my mind's eye. I cannot imagine having to go through what Von, Stella, and the whole MDWG crew endured in Yosemite. The thought is truly terrifying and when it’s revealed who’s behind it all it makes it even more frightening.

I feel like there are inconsistencies in the plot and the introspection really brought the pace down a lot. I get with all of the baggage that is carried in this book that there is going to be some self-reflection, but I feel like it was too much and made it really hard for me to like these characters.

The scenes that kicked up the suspense were quite enjoyable but when feelings and thoughts were voiced, I found myself again checking out. If this would’ve been more suspense and less emotion, I think I would’ve enjoyed it a lot more.

There are a few cute moments with one of the dogs and a baby, which added some lightheartedness, but it wasn’t enough to save this novel for me. I really wanted to love this novel, but it was mid. The suspense was great, and the writing is decent, it was all the rest that brought it down.

A fairly fast paced romantic suspense novel that kept me up a little too late at night turning pages. But I just had to know what happened next.

Nonstop action from beginning to end which is what I’ve come to expect from this author.

I was sitting on the edge of my seat the whole time. Ms Mentink always delivers novels that keep the readers guessing.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy of this book

A big thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin/Love Inspired Trade for the eARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. I don't believe I have ever read this author before. Well this is a convoluted read! Lots of twists and turns. I am unsure of my feelings for the main characters. Stella has a 9 month old but somehow never told the dad? Who is conveniently her rescuer? Hmm...Murder, suspense and unanswered questions for me. 3.5 stars

I received an ebook copy of this from NetGalley. I appreciated that. There are plenty of thrills and chills in this book. There was also a twist I didn't see coming. I have to say that the the male MC, Von, was a little over-the-top on his ability to handle the cold and pain. But hey, so is Dirk Pitt and Kurt Austin and I enjoy those books. There is plenty of action. Plenty of mystery. I really like Christian romantic suspense if it isn't too preachy and this one was right where it should have been in that aspect. The reasoning for the murder attempts was a little odd when it all came down to it, in my opinion but it didn't take away from the enjoyment of the book. I like this Love Inspired series. Some of them are just too corny but the level of writing on this one was well done for this series.

Trapped in Yosemite is written by Dana Mentink. This is a full size Love Inspired Suspense Trade book. I always try and read everything that Ms. Mentink releases, as she is one of my go to authors. I really enjoyed getting to read a longer story by her. I felt that we got to know the characters on a deeper level, and you get to see more of their back stories. In true Mentink fashion the book starts off with heart pounding suspense, and continues through the whole story.

Stella is an arborist. She drives to meet a potential client and she is excited about building her business. However when she meets with them, something feels off. Just as the potential client is handing her an envelope, he is shot. Stella tries to back track and get out of there before she becomes the next victim. As she is feeling, an earthquake hits and she finds herself falling into the water. The one person she never thought she would see again is the one that rescues her. Von, who is her ex fiancé, is very surprised to come across Stella like this. He brings her back to the camp he is helping to manage.

Von is a K9 handler and wants to keep Stella safe. He knows she is holding onto something. He gets frustrated that she will not talk to him about it - but in reality, there are things that he is holding back. Both of their stubbornness can potentially get in the way of trying to stay alive. Stella has no idea why someone would want her dead.

The author did a great job at drawing you into the story within the first few pages. I loved the complexity of the characters. I loved reading about Yosemite. Suspenseful story line, hidden baby, and Yosemite. What more can you ask for?

Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own,

My first exposure to books by Dana Mentink was with what I’d describe as cozy mysteries that featured dogs. Those tales showcased the author’s sometimes wacky sense of humor and I thoroughly enjoyed them. Later I read quite a few of her Love Inspired Suspense novels which had more focus on the suspense and I also loved reading them. Needless to say I was excited to have the opportunity to review Mentink’s latest trade suspense published by Harlequin. What could be better than a full-length novel by one of my favorite suspense authors? Trapped in Yosemite was all I expected and more and proved to be a fine example of just how multi-talented Dana Mentink is.

Imagine if you will, a young woman so determined to prove her qualifications at her job that she agreed to meet a client in a remote area near Yosemite where she witnessed his murder and was forced to flee for her own life on icy back roads. She is rescued by her former fiancé but rather than a happy ending, their problems have just begun when a massive earthquake hits the park. Trapped in Yosemite park during the winter with no way out, at least one murderer on the loose, and one weather or earthquake mitigated disaster after another, Von Sharpe and Stella Rivers are forced to work together to save themselves and the others stranded with them. Did I mention secrets?

Trapped in Yosemite was an intense, high-voltage suspense. Just when I thought everything had settled down a bit, something else would happen to increase the suspense. All characters were well developed and of course readers can expect at least one dog featured by this author. The plot moved at a rapid pace and vivid descriptions of the setting made me feel like I was there. Not sure I want to go back after that experience!

I have only hinted at a fraction of what was going on in this novel so you will need to pick up your own copy if you want to know more. It is a great book and I do not think you will be disappointed.

I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

Stella is on a assignment when her client is killed in front of her. As the killer chases her she wrecks her car and is rescued by her ex fiancé and his dog. Soon after a major earthquake hits the area and they are trapped in Yosemite park. As things unfold Von finds out he has a child and the killer is closing in. I enjoyed this book written by this new to me author.

I’m a sucker for a natural disaster book. Give me an earthquake happening and impossible survival odds (in a fictional environment, of course) and I’m there to read all about it. Trapped in Yosemite sounded like it might be just what I like to read.

Mentink is a new author to me, I think. I looked her up on Goodreads and saw that she has a solid catalog of titles. None of them looked familiar, though I didn’t look at the story summaries. I went into this novel with one expectation. OK, two expectations: thrills and suspense. After all, someone is trying to murder the MC in the midst of life and death survival during an earthquake, according to the blurb. I figure this could be a tension filled thrill ride or a “throw everything but the kitchen sink” author strategy.

Turns out, the latter was true. The earthquake did not ring true. Catastrophic damage claimed on one hand, but then on the other there was little sign that the rest of the world realized there was even a quake happening. The protagonists have a difficult time moving around the damaged landscape, yet the killer and other people seem to move freely. Secrets are revealed steadily throughout the story, but are they really needed? Where is the focus of the story? On drama, on natural disaster, or on murder? Too much and it turns into a soap opera.

The main characters have suffered horrific personal tragedies. Our “hero” is kind of a jerk in my opinion. The strong, silent type. The main character is a jerk too. She was immature, then when she realized she was immature, she made excuses for it. To be sure, she found herself in tough situations. Perhaps the author was trying to help us empathize with their situations, but I just didn’t much like either one.

This is presumably inspirational fiction. I think there was plenty of room to strengthen that element. This was a central part of the main character’s change, but was not discussed as much as I would have expected.

Because of the lack of disaster development, too many plot points thrown in Willy nillybto unnecessarily complicate the plot, and slow development of the characters, I give this book 3 stars. The thrills and suspense that I expected was simply not there expected in the very beginning.

I enjoyed the mystery of this book. It kept me riveted for sure! For the first third or so of the book, I kept double-checking to make sure it wasn't part of a series because I felt like I had missed things that happened prior to this book. The way it was written made me feel like I should know some of the side characters already, but I didn't, so I found that a little off-putting, but not enough to take away from my overall enjoyment of the book. I enjoyed the themes of second chances and forgiveness and allowing for people to change.

4.5 stars

Before I say anything else about the wonderful Trapped in Yosemite by Dana Mentink, I have to gush over Bear – Von Sharpe’s military-trained Malinois who becomes instantly and absolutely besotted with Stella’s baby daughter Hannah. I adored watching him adore her and chuckled when Von bemusedly asked his dog, “You do know that’s not your baby, right?” Bear’s obvious love for Hannah didn’t take away from his focused, protective working dog mode though, so it’s much like seeing a big tough guy melt over a baby.

Speaking of tough guys, Von is a military man through-and-through, except for a unique passion for plants that reminds us he has a sensitive side too. He’s an innately good guy with a high sense of duty and some hefty emotional baggage. Just as the massive earthquake in this story upends Yosemite, Stella and Hannah shake Von to his core, and Mentink does a great job of using the external & internal upheaval to lead him closer to God with authenticity and relatability. It’s a journey that Stella has already been on through past upheavals of her own, and I appreciated the grace that Mentink weaves into their stories.

The suspense in this book is so heart-racingly good. Constant danger without and within. Among other things, they’re dodging earthquakes, gunshots, blocked roads, no cell signals and I did not know the GROUND CAN TURN TO LIQUID during an earthquake!! Oh my stars, I held my breath so much while reading that I’m surprised I didn’t expire from lack of oxygen. Von, Stella, Hannah, and the other people at the MDWG camp (including siblings Tate & Camy and their hilariously endearing dogs… who I hope will get their own books too) are truly on their own, and Mentink throws some stunning twists at them in the process.

Bottom Line: Trapped in Yosemite is an intense fight for survival, a touching faith journey, and a sweet second-chance romance all wrapped up in vibrant characters of both the four and two legged varieties. I melted over both of our heroes – Von and Bear – and their interactions with adorable baby Hannah, and I admired Stella’s strength even in her vulnerability. The characters in this captivating story can’t let their guard down until the very end, and neither can readers and I loved every minute of it. I didn’t want to put it down! This is Dana Mentink at her best!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

*more like 3.5 stars. This was pretty good. The dialogue seems clunky and cheesy. The thought processes are more suited to a teenager (he loves me, he loves me not) and the action isn’t very thrilling. It feels like it’s in slow motion because of all the words and I see everything coming from a mile away. I did like the end and actually teared up for a second but I for sure saw it coming. If you love Christian fiction, then you’re sure to love this. My mom would love it. I am more into thrillers and suspense but the non Christian novels out there have gotten ridiculous with the inappropriate content so I’m trying to change what I read.

Content: squeaky clean

Earthquakes, Snipers, Secrets and Much More!

This book was all about secrets and surprises! I was shaken by many of them and couldn’t wait to find out what was going to be revealed next!

Stella was a strong woman character and had secrets and regrets. Von was protective and the past would make him vulnerable with Stella. It was interesting the emotions that came out.

Audiobook: Narrated by Abby Craden
I enjoyed listening as I did housework and found those chores like dishes and mopping just happening because I was so absorbed in this book! Abby Craden was easy to listen to and I would definitely choose to listen to any book she narrates in the future.

I will continue to seek out Dana Mentink’s past books that I haven’t read yet as well as keep an eye out for future books!

I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the Author and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.

A thrilling, high-octane adventure to escape the crosshairs of a dangerous killer in the midst of a sudden, deadly earthquake in Yosemite National Park... If you love an exciting race-against-time, found family and hidden secrets, you'll want to try this story!

Highlights:
- A Young Mother Escaping a Murderous Killer
- Former Military K9 Handler and His Dog
- A Natural Disaster in the National Park
- Secrets, Lies, Deceit and Hidden Grief
- Found Family
- Strong, Faith-Based Motives
- Second Chance Romance

New-to-me author Dana Mentink delivers an thrilling, fast-paced story that immediately drew me in with its riveting first chapter.

With a strong thread of faith, many twists, turns, revelations and discoveries, Mentink carefully weaves a story of overcoming grief, moving forward, protecting family and discovering love. Plenty of suspense, a touch of romance, a dose of tension and a surprise, yet happily-ever-after ending make this a great read for readers who love romantic suspense.

When it came to the characters, the male lead, Von, took center stage with his tough, broken exterior and strong bond with his MWD/K9, Bear. There were several moments with Von and his dog, or his child, that melted my heart! I enjoyed the character growth that took place for Von during the story and the push-pull tension between him and his faith. Stella, the female lead, struck me as a young, protective mother who sometimes made naive decisions, but also had suffered some heavy losses. I admired how she kept pushing forward.

The ending left a little to be desired for me in terms of length. I wish it had been shorter, sweeter and faster. I was also left with some questions, but they weren't enough for me to go back to see if I'd missed them.

Overall, a solid four-star story!

Content and Trigger Warnings: Death of an infant, Child loss, Death of a Close Family Member

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to post a positive review.

deadly circumstances thrust stella rivers and von sharpe back together. of course, their past is full of complications, but they must survive if they want any hope of figuring out their future.

trapped in yosemite is a high-stakes, action-packed adventure. the characters must contend with a killer, nature, and their history together—in yosemite national park. between twists and truth-telling moments, tension and suspense abound, and the story proves to be mysterious with a hopeful dose of faith, growth, and healing.

if you love inspirational romantic suspense, check out this new release from dana mentink!

i received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. i was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions i have expressed are my own.

Trapped in Yosemite by Dana Mentink. What an exciting book. Captured me from the very first chapter. While it felt like this was part of a series at times (not sure if it is or not), there was enough context that allowed it to stand alone as its own book (which maybe it is). The background of the characters was set so well that I felt like not only was I learning about these individuals in the “now”, but also in the “past”. I loved this book! The dog relationships were some of my favorites! If you’re looking for an exciting read set in nature, this is the book for you!


Thank you to the author, Harlequin publishers, and Netgalley for an advanced copy.

Plenty of action, suspense, danger, and angsty relationship drama in Mentink 's newest Christian Romantic Suspense. I thought the storyline was intriguing, and the characters interesting in their flaws, and, of course, Yosemite was a characters in it's own right. As I knew in advance, and happen to enjoy, Christian Romantic Suspense, I was not put off by any of the religious undertones in this book.
Recommended

Many thanks to the author, Love Inspired Trade, and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or favor or expectation.

Trapped in Yosemite by Dana Mentink is a wonderful inspirational romantic suspense that you definitely don't want to miss reading.
When the Yosemite area experiences a major earthquake that traps a group of people in the park with no way in or out they soon realize they are in more danger than just from the chaos and destruction caused by the earthquake, but also having a limited supply of food and other necessities, freezing cold temperatures and from someone who is trying to silence K-9 handler Von Sharpe's ex-fiancée, Stella Rivers after she witnessed a murder. Von will do everything in is power to keep Stella safe, but in doing so he now finds himself in danger as well.
I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more books by this author in the future.

I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.

Stella’s in Yosemite to meet up with a client claiming to have tree damage. As a new arborist she’s eager for the job. However, when she shows up things don’t add up. Shots are fired and Stella runs for her life. Running into her ex-fiancé, Von Sharpe, is a shock, but all this must be put on the back burner when a major earthquake strikes. Stella is stunned both by the shooting and earthquake and beyond worried about her baby, Hannah, staying with her aunt.

Von Sharpe, an ex-military K-9 handler, is shocked when he comes upon his ex-fiancée on the side of the road, but answers can wait until they get to safety and escape the dangers caused by the massive earthquake. Landslides, flooding, sinkholes, not to mention a storm rolling in.

Trapped in Yosemite was an action-packed read with a lot of moving parts. A massive earthquake, a shooter in pursuit, and a desperate mother determined to reach her baby daughter in all the chaos. There’s also the drama of Stella and Von’s broken engagement and resultant pregnancy, something Von didn’t know about. Stella and Von’s romance had imploded previously because of immaturity and outside tragic events. I liked seeing them work out things as they tried to survive.

This mystery/romance/thriller is Christian Fiction, so faith and reliance on God is mentioned, but I didn’t find it overwhelming or preachy. More of an inspirational feature in the story. I loved that it was set in Yosemite, a place I’ve visited and hiked through multiple times. Being a native Californian I could easily picture the destruction brought on by the earthquake and aftershocks! The constant attempts on Stella’s life were a mystery and one I was eager to figure out!