Survival, Suspense, and Second Chances

Dana Mentink has delivered another heart-pounding adventure with Hunted on the Trail, a gripping tale of survival, trust, and determination.

The book follows Stephanie Wolfe, a former cop, and her loyal bloodhound, as they’re drawn into a deadly trap orchestrated by an escaped fugitive seeking revenge. The plot thickens when Stephanie’s ex-boyfriend, Vance Silverton, is also caught in the danger. Together, the two must navigate the perilous wilderness with only their wits, limited supplies, and their faithful dogs to depend on.

Mentink’s skill at weaving suspense with emotional depth is on full display here. The relationship dynamics between Stephanie and Vance add layers to the story without overshadowing the action. Their shared history and forced collaboration make for an engaging subplot that feels natural and relatable. The dogs, too, play a significant role, not just as loyal companions but as integral parts of the story, adding an element of heartwarming connection amid the relentless tension.

The setting is beautifully rendered, with the wilderness itself becoming a character—treacherous, unforgiving, and stunningly vivid. Mentink masterfully balances the external threats of the fugitive and the storm with the internal struggles of trust and survival. The twists and turns in the plot are unpredictable, with each revelation upping the stakes.

What truly stands out is the pacing. The story never lags, and just when you think the characters might have a moment to breathe, a new challenge arises, keeping you on edge. The finale is as satisfying as it is surprising, tying together the threads of suspense and emotion in a way that feels both thrilling and earned.

Note: I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.

Hunted on the Trail is on Tour with Celebrate Lit.

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: 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.

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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!