Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Kirk Russell’s Wolf Tracks is a gripping wilderness crime novel that blends suspense, mystery, and a touch of romance (which I am less than thrilled with, but all mystery books seem to be "romance combos" these days).

The narrative begins with McCabe returning from a long undercover assignment, only to be thrust into a personal crisis when Jesse’s bullet-riddled SUV is discovered. Jesse had been studying the only known wolf pack in the area, which was brutally killed the day she vanished. 

Russell excels in crafting complex characters. McCabe is a compelling protagonist, driven by a mix of professional duty and personal anguish. His interactions with a diverse cast, including poachers, hunting guides, and FBI agents, add depth to the story. 

Wolf Tracks delves into themes of environmental conservation, the ethical dilemmas of wildlife management, and the personal cost of dedication to one’s work. Russell’s writing is vivid and evocative, painting a detailed picture of the wilderness that is both beautiful and menacing. 

IWolf Tracks  is a refreshing take on the crime genre. The wilderness setting adds a unique twist, and the plot is both engaging and thought-provoking. While the resolution is satisfying, some subplots could have been explored further. Nonetheless, Russell’s ability to weave a compelling narrative with well-developed characters makes this a must-read for fans of crime fiction and wilderness adventures.

Wolf Tracks is a testament to Kirk Russell’s storytelling prowess. It’s a ride through the wild, filled with suspense, emotion, and unexpected twists.

Rating 3.5 stars.

Wolf Tracks is a fast paced wilderness crime novel. Mark McCabe, our main character is a special agent from Fish and Wildlife Services and is fresh off two years undercover working in poaching rings. Upon his return home he gets a call from the FBI stating that his ex-girlfriend, biologist Jesse Hall's vehicle was discovered riddled with bullets and the wolf pack she was studying was found dead. She's missing and McCabe is stubborn in believing she's alive, he won't hear of anything else. He begins to work with the FBI as a wilderness consultant but he also searches all angles on his own time. He knows she's out there and he's dead set on finding her.

This was fast paced from the get go and did not slow down once. There are a lot of character names and people you get introduced to, and it made the book give off the feeling of a chop show episode. Where you'll see the characters in the next episode. It has great ambience when it's describing the mountains and rivers and the forest. Gives me the feeling of Longmire in that way.

I'd like to thank Kirk Russell, NetGalley and Strawberry Creek LLC for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Trigger warnings I gathered: kidnapping, drugs, gun violence, animal death, animal cruelty, rape, alzheimers, cancer

What worked for me: the atmospheric wilderness setting, the character of Mikayla Herbert.

What didn't work for me: the abundance of undistinguishable side characters, the repetitive pacing.

This book grabbed my attention from the get-go. It starts strong and ends strong.

When Mark McCabe learns that his ex-girlfriend’s truck is found abandoned and riddled with bullets, he consults with the FBI to find out what happened to her. He isn’t privy to much information as he’s not an FBI agent, but he is determined to find Jesse and hopes to find her alive, even as most of his leads end up being a dead-end.

There is much drama and suspense in this thriller. The descriptions of the wilderness and wildlife make the story even better. Thank you, NetGalley and Strawberry Creek LLC for the advanced reader copy.

I was hooked from page one and could not turn the pages fast enough. I really enjoyed the character of Special Agent Mark McCabe and his skepticism of the “by the book” FBI agents he is asked to assist in pursuing leads for his missing ex-girlfriend. The suspense is believable and non-stop. If you enjoy the outdoors with plenty of action, this is a definite must read. I hope the author plans additional adventures for McCabe! I received an ARC from NetGalley, and the opinions expressed are my own.