Saturday, August 7, 2021

About the Book

Book: Missing in the Desert

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Inspy suspense

Release date: July 27, 2021

Five years ago, her sister disappeared…
Now someone is coming for her.

Who would believe that Mara Castillo’s sister—missing and presumed dead—suddenly sent a one-word text? Now Mara wants answers, even if it means stepping into a killer’s sights with her brother’s best friend, rancher Levi Duke, as her only protection. But with someone who has everything to lose after her, uncovering a long-buried secret could save her life…or claim it.

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About the Author

Dana Mentink is a two time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award and a Holt Medallion winner. She is a nationa and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of over forty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Harlequin Heartwarming and Poisoned Pen Press. You can connect with Dana via her website at danamentink.com, on Facebook, YouTube (Author Dana Mentink) and Instagram (dana_mentink.)

More from Dana

Hello, readers! Boy am I excited! Since the virus-that-not-shall-be-named is being brought under control, I am cautiously venturing out again and our first vacation spot will be a return to Death Valley. Papa Bear and I love the amazing diversity of Death Valley, from the salt flats, to the sand dunes, mountains, and everything in between. Writing this book allowed me to relive the incredible topography, as well as let my mind run loose imagining a cold case that warms up to fiery levels in this ferocious climate. Part of this story revolves around “Camp Town Days” which was inspired by the Encampment Days, an event held in November by a volunteer group called the Death Valley 49ers that aims to capture the pioneer spirit with their wagon rides, parade, poetry readings, a vendor show, and historical talks. I hope you can feel the desert wind in your face and hear the distant howl of the coyote as you dive into the second book in the Death Valley Justice series.

MY REVIEW

This is one book that I couldn’t put down. Oh I know people say that about a lot of books, but this one is different. It has elements of intrigue, secrets, surprises and yes a bit of romance. You put all those qualities together and you have a story that accelerates with each page. Get ready for a book that will have you bitting your nails, sitting on the edge of your seat or whatever you do when something you are reading gets your adrenaline going.

Imagine driving on the road with a family member and suddenly a shot shatters the windshield. You feel yourself losing control of the vehicle and then everything is dark. Mara is in for a shock as she tries to piece together what just happened. Is her brother okay? Does it have something to do with her missing sister? She remembers seeing someone just before she lost consciousness but her memory is clouded. The author illustrates with depth the sheer panic Mara feels as she awakens in a hospital bed.

Let’s talk about Mara and her past for a moment. She has not given up hope that her sister is still alive even though she has been missing for quite awhile. I think coming back to the town where her sister disappeared will once again give Mara a push to look for clues that the police might have overlooked. I loved this part of the story because I wanted Mara to get closure so she could at least find peace.

Levi was a great character but he sure has no business sense. Well maybe he just bit off more than he could chew. Trying to help his buddy out who just happens to be Mara’s brother does complicate things. Has he let his friend down? Can he save the ranch while helping Mara uncover a secret that has been hidden for years?

Their interaction was refreshing because it shows real emotions that anyone could have when unresolved issues stare them in the face. Oh yes these two could either walk away from each other once again, or they could find a way to forgive. I couldn’t wait to see how the author untangles the past as Mara and Levi work together to not only try to save the ranch, but expose someone who has caused a family to grieve.

I loved that the setting of the story is set in Death Valley with unforgiving terrain that is hard to adjust to. The author has definitely done her research by the description of the trails that horses travel and the feel of emptiness across the area. I think I would like to visit the place and learn more about its history.

Before I end the review I must give special recognition to three very special characters. Banjo, Rabbit and Tiny you have captured my heart and I loved every moment of your appearances in the story. Thank you for reminding me that animals are a gift.

Well my time is up and I hope I have enticed you enough to pick up a copy of this book. It will deliver excitement, danger, secrets and an ending that I was not prepared for.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.