About the Book
Title: Hunted on the Trail
Series: Security Hounds Investigations, Book 3
Author: Dana Mentink
Genre: Christian Fiction Suspense
Release Date: December 24, 2024
A killer out for vengeance… but this bloodhound has his scent.
Ambushed by sudden gunfire, former cop Stephanie Wolfe realizes the tracking competition she entered with her bloodhound is a setup. An escaped fugitive has lured her into the remote wilderness to exact his deadly revenge. And her ex-boyfriend, bounty hunter Vance Silverton, has fallen into the fatal trap, too. Now cut off from civilization with only minimal supplies and their two dogs, the pair must depend on each other to survive. But with a treacherous storm approaching, it’s not only a cold-blooded killer they’ll have to escape.
About the Author
Dana Mentink is a USA TODAY and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author. She’s written more than forty mystery and suspense novels for Love Inspired Suspense, and Poisoned Pen Press. Her debut novel with Revell releases in the summer of 2025. She is honored to have received two ACFW Carol Awards, a Holt Medallion Award, and a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award.
More from Dana
My life has gone to the dogs! No joke! While readers enjoy the Wolfe family humans, I hear on the regular that their favorite characters are the bloodhounds. In book #1, Wally was just an irrepressible disaster, and he continues his naughty ways throughout the series. In book #2, we met Pinkerton who is a model canine, unless squirrels enter the picture. And now, you’ll get to know Chloe who is fabulous, but I will venture to say she is going to be outshined by her mutt companion Brutus (you’ll have to read the book to discover his real name and identity!) As this book launches, I’m deep into writing the last two and there are a couple more unpredictable hounds you have yet to meet. Such fun! Thanks for galloping along with me on this series!
Devoted To Hope's Review of Hunted on the Trail
If you’re craving a pulse-pounding, heart-racing adventure filled with humor, heart, and the unbreakable bond of loyalty between humans and their lovable dogs, Hunted on the Trail is a must-read. From the very first page, this story seizes you—not just with its nail-biting suspense, but with the fierce, witty chemistry between Vance and Stephanie, two people thrust together in a deadly race for survival, where every moment counts. The tension between them is palpable, and their banter? Hilarious. It's clear that the author knows how to blend heart-stopping action with moments of lightheartedness—thank you, Vance, Pudge, and Chloe, for the comic relief.
While the suspense keeps you on the edge of your seat, it's the relationship between the characters (and, of course, their dogs) that really carries the heart of the story. Stephanie and Vance may have a complicated past, but their partnership in this dangerous game of survival is what really shines. Their shared faith in God, especially in moments of desperation, grounds the entire narrative. There's something so authentic about how they lean on God for strength when all seems lost. The action-packed moments—dodging bullets, navigating treacherous wilderness, and the approaching storm—are terrifyingly intense, but it’s their quiet moments of prayer, trust, and vulnerability that tug at your heart.
And can we talk about the dogs for a second? I can’t get enough of them! Vance talking to Pudge like he’s a fellow human being is enough to make anyone smile. Pudge rises to the occasion in a way that shows just how deep the bond between human and dog can be. Chloe, too, is more than just a companion; she's integral to their survival. The animals aren't just props—they’re favorite characters in this reader’s heart!
The fast pace of the plot and the twist-and-turn action kept me turning the pages as quickly as possible. Mentink delivers a suspenseful ride while weaving in faith, hope, and a subtle reminder that we don’t have to face our fears alone. Whether you’re a fan of suspense, Christian fiction, or just looking for a story with unforgettable characters (two-legged and four-legged), this one hits the target.
Highly recommend Hunted on the Trail. It’s a thrilling read with a wonderful mix of suspense, humor, and heart, all wrapped up with a thread of faith that brings everything into perspective.
I received an eARC of this book from Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the super writing and story’s beautiful content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Blog Stops
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 3
She Lives to Read, December 3
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, December 4
Wishful Endings, December 5
An Author’s Take, December 5
Betti Mace, December 6
Life on Chickadee Lane, December 6
Texas Book-aholic, December 7
Devoted To Hope, December 7 (this blog)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 8
Stories By Gina, December 8
Locks, Hooks and Books, December 9
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 9
The Avid Reader, December 10
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 10
Blogging With Carol, December 11
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, December 11
Simple Harvest Reads, December 12 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)
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For Him and My Family, December 13
Leslie’s Library Escape, December 13
Blossoms and Blessings, December 14
Labor Not in Vain, December 14
Holly’s Book Corner, December 15
Pause for Tales, December 15
A Good Book and Cup of Tea, December 16
Lights in a Dark World, December 16