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Smoky Mountain Escape
Two killers on the loose and threats around every corner...
Sheriff Heath Dalton accidentally stumbles upon two gunmen trying to hide a body in the Smoky Mountains and barely escapes with his life. And when traveling nurse Kayla Eldridge finds herself stranded in the stormy wilderness with Heath, she now has a target on her back. They must work together to navigate the treacherous terrain and evade the criminals who are tracking their every move. Can they outrun their merciless hunters before they both lose their lives?
Can an officer and his K-9 partner catch a criminal with a deadly plan?
Sheriff Heath Dalton accidentally stumbles upon two gunmen trying to hide a body in the Smoky Mountains and barely escapes with his life. And when traveling nurse Kayla Eldridge finds herself stranded in the stormy wilderness with Heath, she now has a target on her back. They must work together to navigate the treacherous terrain and evade the criminals who are tracking their every move. Can they outrun their merciless hunters before they both lose their lives?
Can an officer and his K-9 partner catch a criminal with a deadly plan?
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 20, 2025
This book was a heart pounding edge of seat suspense. I loved the chase with Sheriff Dalton and traveling nurse Kayla Eldridge just one step ahead of their pursuers. Sheriff Heath Dalton, while hiking in a remote park in the Smoky Mountains discovered two men burying a corpse in a secluded area . When he tried to arrest the men they overpowered him and caused the Sheriff to fall down a steep hill. This is where Kayla comes into the story. They have both seen more than the murderers wanted them to see . The killers have Heaths gun . The chase begins as Kayla and the Sheriff run for their lives. It seems the killers have the advantage and are always just one step behind
Kayla and Sheriff Dalton!
This was a gripping and riveting suspense that had me turning pages . When I wasn’t reading the book I was thinking about how things would turn out in the story. I was quickly drawn into the book and thought it was entertaining . There was also romance. This one goes on my favorites shelf. I haven’t always been a reader of Suspense books but lately I’ve gained a new interest in them. I probably will be reading a lot more suspense in the future.
I highly recommend this book to readers of Suspense thrillers and Love Inspired books. This book is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
I won a copy of this book in a Facebook Group giveaway. All thoughts and opinions expressed here about this book are entirely my own.
Kayla and Sheriff Dalton!
This was a gripping and riveting suspense that had me turning pages . When I wasn’t reading the book I was thinking about how things would turn out in the story. I was quickly drawn into the book and thought it was entertaining . There was also romance. This one goes on my favorites shelf. I haven’t always been a reader of Suspense books but lately I’ve gained a new interest in them. I probably will be reading a lot more suspense in the future.
I highly recommend this book to readers of Suspense thrillers and Love Inspired books. This book is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
I won a copy of this book in a Facebook Group giveaway. All thoughts and opinions expressed here about this book are entirely my own.
August 14, 2025
Good characters, good story line.
April 28, 2025
I thought I was just picking up a quick read. I should’ve known better. And y’all, when I say I couldn’t stop? I mean I was dodging imaginary bullets and praying like I was the one running through the woods.
This book felt like survival. Not just physically—but spiritually, too.
There’s nothing peaceful about two killers in the woods and nowhere safe to run. But that’s what pulled me in. The chaos. The urgency. The quiet moments where the characters leaned hard into their faith instead of fear. That’s what stayed with me.
Heath and Kayla felt like people I’d pray for. People I’d root for. People who reminded me that courage sometimes shows up as steady steps through the dark when you're absolutely terrified.
And the lines I highlighted? “Heath was in awe of God’s beauty. Even with evil lurking in the dark, the Light of the world would always be close.” And “Life is a series of mountains and valleys. When we’re traveling in the valley, we must support each other and rely on God to see us through it. And when we’re on the mountaintop, we must remember to be grateful for all of life’s blessings and appreciate those who helped lift us up when we were down.”
Even when the plan unravels, His purpose doesn’t!
The story moved fast, but the truth in it stuck. If you're looking for a story that keeps you flipping pages and pointing your heart back to the One who never loses track of us, this one belongs on your list.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher, Harlequin – Love Inspired Suspense, and Net Galley. 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 writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
This book felt like survival. Not just physically—but spiritually, too.
There’s nothing peaceful about two killers in the woods and nowhere safe to run. But that’s what pulled me in. The chaos. The urgency. The quiet moments where the characters leaned hard into their faith instead of fear. That’s what stayed with me.
Heath and Kayla felt like people I’d pray for. People I’d root for. People who reminded me that courage sometimes shows up as steady steps through the dark when you're absolutely terrified.
And the lines I highlighted? “Heath was in awe of God’s beauty. Even with evil lurking in the dark, the Light of the world would always be close.” And “Life is a series of mountains and valleys. When we’re traveling in the valley, we must support each other and rely on God to see us through it. And when we’re on the mountaintop, we must remember to be grateful for all of life’s blessings and appreciate those who helped lift us up when we were down.”
Even when the plan unravels, His purpose doesn’t!
The story moved fast, but the truth in it stuck. If you're looking for a story that keeps you flipping pages and pointing your heart back to the One who never loses track of us, this one belongs on your list.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher, Harlequin – Love Inspired Suspense, and Net Galley. 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 writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
April 16, 2025
My heart hurt for Kayla. Before she was trapped on Smoky mountain she did what she could to survive after being the victim of a notorious serial killer. The poor girl had to transition from a television and then a nightlight for protection, while I probably would’ve never left home again The second she stops to help sheriff Heath, she’s plunged into her worse nightmare—well, second only to being Lovelorn’s last victim. Without revealing any twisty turns, I’ll turn my attention to Heath. What a hero! He rock climbed without equipment (obviously he had worse perils, but I just love how he’d do anything to protect Kayla. Great ending.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. All words are my own.
4.5 stars
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. All words are my own.
4.5 stars
April 14, 2025
I received an e-copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
At first, I wasn’t sure I was reading what everyone else was reading. I found the first 1/3 or more of the book to be a bit of a slog fest to get through. Why? Well, this may just be a cultural thing, but I found a lot of the actions of the sheriff to be highly questionable. If you can suspend your disbelief of the amount of poor choices the Sheriff makes in the first third of the book, you’ll probably get along fine on this one. Because I found that once Heath and Kayla are out of the woods, things became a lot more reasonable.
Again, it might be a culture thing to some extent. You know, the whole sheriff goes hiking in the woods and ends up trying to arrest two armed people burying a body in the forest….without back up or letting anyone know. He didn't even take pictures or recordings of the crime in action for proof. Or how about stepping in front of a moving vehicle and forcing the driver to crash into the ditch to avoid killing him…or going back to try and find his gun when he has a civilian in tow (apparently because he wanted to avoid paperwork). Or going to the look out that gives a view of a chunk of the valley and not thinking about the fact that if you can see them, they can see you. You know, those things. Or hiking another 24 hours instead of going back to the road and getting someone else to pick you up. The place has forest ranger who apparently stop to tell people it's illegal to hitchhike in a national park! I could keep going, but I think you get the point. Maybe it was fatigue mixed with a bit of desperation, but I feel that, as a sheriff, Heath should have made better choices and should have thought about the civilian he was putting in danger more.
Heath, the sheriff, does confess to Kayla that he IS sorry for a few of those moves, such as jumping in front of her vehicle, but it’s only maybe half of them. As a person with a friend in law enforcement who agreed some of those things were reckless and against better judgement for someone in law enforcement (and then tacked on a “buuuttt things are different down south"), I still don’t understand some of his logic, but for the sake of figuring out the rest of the story I did my best to ignore these poor choices. But if you are looking for something potentially exciting to read where your brain has little involvement analyzing the actions taken by characters, this might do it for you. I dunno, I just couldn’t get over the decisions these people were making. When the civilian is asking you if you’re sure it’s a good idea, it’s probably time to take a second and reevaluate your plan, my dude. Lol
That aside, once the two of them are out of the bush, the story completely changes and I was riveted. I may have finished the last half in an afternoon! I actually wish the second half was longer and the first half was shorter.
I actually really liked Kayla. She seemed like a real person who is trying to grow after experiencing a significant betrayal and trauma. My only grievance is how often the author described her giggling instead of branching out and maybe using additional words like chuckle, or laugh. Kayla giggles a fair bit in a short span. But Kayla herself is a pretty well thought out, well fleshed out character. As a 26 year old, she is a spitfire and I respect her. Keith...not so much (see above for why if you have forgotten).
For the Christian part of this romance, I thought the religious aspect of the book was very well done. It doesn't feel forced or preachy at all. It just feels like two Christian people living their lives by their moral and religious values. They pray and plead to God in a way that I full heartedly believe would be natural to some people. The author does a great job showing Christian values to the reader through the actions and thoughts of her characters without any of it coming off a preachy monologue smacking you over the head, which I have unfortunately experienced through other authors.
As usual there is a whirlwind romance experience, but I 100% respect the author for deciding to keep to reality and have her two characters date, despite their love confession to each other after a week of knowing each other. Thank you Rhonda Starnes for not falling into the rushed marriage trap that seems to plague a lot of Christian suspense romances!
All in all I thought this book was decent enough. It might not be for everyone and people from other countries may struggle to follow Heath's thought process and actions while in the bush.
At first, I wasn’t sure I was reading what everyone else was reading. I found the first 1/3 or more of the book to be a bit of a slog fest to get through. Why? Well, this may just be a cultural thing, but I found a lot of the actions of the sheriff to be highly questionable. If you can suspend your disbelief of the amount of poor choices the Sheriff makes in the first third of the book, you’ll probably get along fine on this one. Because I found that once Heath and Kayla are out of the woods, things became a lot more reasonable.
Again, it might be a culture thing to some extent. You know, the whole sheriff goes hiking in the woods and ends up trying to arrest two armed people burying a body in the forest….without back up or letting anyone know. He didn't even take pictures or recordings of the crime in action for proof. Or how about stepping in front of a moving vehicle and forcing the driver to crash into the ditch to avoid killing him…or going back to try and find his gun when he has a civilian in tow (apparently because he wanted to avoid paperwork). Or going to the look out that gives a view of a chunk of the valley and not thinking about the fact that if you can see them, they can see you. You know, those things. Or hiking another 24 hours instead of going back to the road and getting someone else to pick you up. The place has forest ranger who apparently stop to tell people it's illegal to hitchhike in a national park! I could keep going, but I think you get the point. Maybe it was fatigue mixed with a bit of desperation, but I feel that, as a sheriff, Heath should have made better choices and should have thought about the civilian he was putting in danger more.
Heath, the sheriff, does confess to Kayla that he IS sorry for a few of those moves, such as jumping in front of her vehicle, but it’s only maybe half of them. As a person with a friend in law enforcement who agreed some of those things were reckless and against better judgement for someone in law enforcement (and then tacked on a “buuuttt things are different down south"), I still don’t understand some of his logic, but for the sake of figuring out the rest of the story I did my best to ignore these poor choices. But if you are looking for something potentially exciting to read where your brain has little involvement analyzing the actions taken by characters, this might do it for you. I dunno, I just couldn’t get over the decisions these people were making. When the civilian is asking you if you’re sure it’s a good idea, it’s probably time to take a second and reevaluate your plan, my dude. Lol
That aside, once the two of them are out of the bush, the story completely changes and I was riveted. I may have finished the last half in an afternoon! I actually wish the second half was longer and the first half was shorter.
I actually really liked Kayla. She seemed like a real person who is trying to grow after experiencing a significant betrayal and trauma. My only grievance is how often the author described her giggling instead of branching out and maybe using additional words like chuckle, or laugh. Kayla giggles a fair bit in a short span. But Kayla herself is a pretty well thought out, well fleshed out character. As a 26 year old, she is a spitfire and I respect her. Keith...not so much (see above for why if you have forgotten).
For the Christian part of this romance, I thought the religious aspect of the book was very well done. It doesn't feel forced or preachy at all. It just feels like two Christian people living their lives by their moral and religious values. They pray and plead to God in a way that I full heartedly believe would be natural to some people. The author does a great job showing Christian values to the reader through the actions and thoughts of her characters without any of it coming off a preachy monologue smacking you over the head, which I have unfortunately experienced through other authors.
As usual there is a whirlwind romance experience, but I 100% respect the author for deciding to keep to reality and have her two characters date, despite their love confession to each other after a week of knowing each other. Thank you Rhonda Starnes for not falling into the rushed marriage trap that seems to plague a lot of Christian suspense romances!
All in all I thought this book was decent enough. It might not be for everyone and people from other countries may struggle to follow Heath's thought process and actions while in the bush.
April 13, 2025
I chose to read this book because of the beautiful animal on the cover, never having read romantic suspense before. It looks so dramatic! And I enjoyed the story. Very different from the contemporary romance books I normally read. This story is a sweet, slow romance that takes place amid kidnapping and pursuit of escaped murderers. There is a lot at stake for Heath and Kayla, and there is a lot of suspense. I can see why people enjoy reading books like this. Through this story, Kayla overcomes trauma from her past and realizes that she is brave and worthy of love.
I liked these characters a lot. Heath is the Sheriff of this small community in the TN mountains, just across from the NC border. Kayla, a travel nurse, arrives to the area for a short, temporary assignment at a local medical clinic. Just as she is driving thru the mountains into town, she finds herself a part of Heath’s pursuit of two murderers, making her a target and putting her life at risk. As the story progresses, Heath and Kayla grow to know one another and fall in love in the most stressful of circumstances. Kayla’s family and Heath’s friends-all already living in this community-are very supportive and I loved them all instantly.
The setting is wonderful. I love this area of the NC/TN mountains, and I love hiking. It was fun for me to visualize the terrain and feel the atmosphere of the Great Smoky Mountains as Heath and Kayla trekked thru the mountain forest to safety.
My quibble with this book is that it became clear early on that there was more to Kayla’s story. As I researched, I found that she has a major role in a previous suspense story by this author, and her experiences in that story directly affect her in this story. As more characters were introduced, it also seemed like there was more to their stories, and further research proved that many of them are featured in at least three previous books. Only, I don’t see where these connected books are labeled as such or numbered in a series. I most enjoy reading when I’m able to collect the stories from the beginning, in the order they were written. In choosing this one on NetGalley and checking Goodreads and peeking at the details on Amazon, I really thought this was a standalone story. If I had known there were so many connections to previous books, I would have started with the earlier books and progressed in order. Readers that don’t care as much about this won’t care about it here. But series/standalone status is something I always research before choosing what I read, so I wanted to mention it.
Either way, I feel invested in the lives of all of these characters now, so I may go back and try to read the prior books in order.
I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher via NetGalley. Thank you to Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense for sending it my way.
I liked these characters a lot. Heath is the Sheriff of this small community in the TN mountains, just across from the NC border. Kayla, a travel nurse, arrives to the area for a short, temporary assignment at a local medical clinic. Just as she is driving thru the mountains into town, she finds herself a part of Heath’s pursuit of two murderers, making her a target and putting her life at risk. As the story progresses, Heath and Kayla grow to know one another and fall in love in the most stressful of circumstances. Kayla’s family and Heath’s friends-all already living in this community-are very supportive and I loved them all instantly.
The setting is wonderful. I love this area of the NC/TN mountains, and I love hiking. It was fun for me to visualize the terrain and feel the atmosphere of the Great Smoky Mountains as Heath and Kayla trekked thru the mountain forest to safety.
My quibble with this book is that it became clear early on that there was more to Kayla’s story. As I researched, I found that she has a major role in a previous suspense story by this author, and her experiences in that story directly affect her in this story. As more characters were introduced, it also seemed like there was more to their stories, and further research proved that many of them are featured in at least three previous books. Only, I don’t see where these connected books are labeled as such or numbered in a series. I most enjoy reading when I’m able to collect the stories from the beginning, in the order they were written. In choosing this one on NetGalley and checking Goodreads and peeking at the details on Amazon, I really thought this was a standalone story. If I had known there were so many connections to previous books, I would have started with the earlier books and progressed in order. Readers that don’t care as much about this won’t care about it here. But series/standalone status is something I always research before choosing what I read, so I wanted to mention it.
Either way, I feel invested in the lives of all of these characters now, so I may go back and try to read the prior books in order.
I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher via NetGalley. Thank you to Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense for sending it my way.
February 15, 2025
Heath is such a great sheriff and brother. I loved how throughout the story he had such a sense of duty to those around him.
Kayla's story broke my heart and made me angry that she was part of this debacle in the woods. Her strength and determination amidst the struggle in the mountains was remarkable.
Kayla's big brother, Sawyer, was a force to be reckoned with. His wife, Brenda, knew how to maintain his sanity and be there for Kayla.
There was just the right amount of suspense in the story!
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
Kayla's story broke my heart and made me angry that she was part of this debacle in the woods. Her strength and determination amidst the struggle in the mountains was remarkable.
Kayla's big brother, Sawyer, was a force to be reckoned with. His wife, Brenda, knew how to maintain his sanity and be there for Kayla.
There was just the right amount of suspense in the story!
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
April 19, 2025
Thank you Rhonda Starnes ( @rhonda_starnes ), Harlequin Books ( @harlequinbooks ),and NetGalley ( @netgalley ) for allowing me to read Smoky Mountain Escape early (out April 29, 2025).
Blount County Sheriff Heath Dalton stumbles upon two gunmen burying a body while he’s camping in the Smoky Mountains. As he is escaping, he accidentally causes a car to run into a ditch. Kayla Eldridge is now on the run in the wilderness with Sheriff Dalton, while the gunmen pursue them.
I was originally drawn to this book because of the title. I live near the Smoky Mountains and am a sucker for any book set there. But I was not expecting to be hanging on every word in this book. The suspense was intense and just when I thought the main characters were safe, something else would happen.
As part of the Love Inspired Suspense, you will find this to be a sweet romance, full of mutual respect with a faith centered core.
#SmokyMountainEscape #NetGalley #RhondaStarnes #HarlequinBooks
Blount County Sheriff Heath Dalton stumbles upon two gunmen burying a body while he’s camping in the Smoky Mountains. As he is escaping, he accidentally causes a car to run into a ditch. Kayla Eldridge is now on the run in the wilderness with Sheriff Dalton, while the gunmen pursue them.
I was originally drawn to this book because of the title. I live near the Smoky Mountains and am a sucker for any book set there. But I was not expecting to be hanging on every word in this book. The suspense was intense and just when I thought the main characters were safe, something else would happen.
As part of the Love Inspired Suspense, you will find this to be a sweet romance, full of mutual respect with a faith centered core.
#SmokyMountainEscape #NetGalley #RhondaStarnes #HarlequinBooks
January 29, 2025
I decided to give this author a chance to wow me since I absolutely love the concept of the story. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
My favorite stories these days consist of a suspenseful romance and this one for the bill!
Kayla is back home to work for a month as a traveling nurse. She’s overcome a lot to even be in this town after what happened to her. Sheriff Dalton, Heath has been camping for a week when he stumbles upon two men who are burying a body. A body of a man one of them killed thanks to them complaining so much amongst each other..
While looking for help, Heath manages to scare Kayla enough to wreck her car and now they are both trying to escape the two men.
This story has everything you hope for in this type of story - I loved every chapter!
My favorite stories these days consist of a suspenseful romance and this one for the bill!
Kayla is back home to work for a month as a traveling nurse. She’s overcome a lot to even be in this town after what happened to her. Sheriff Dalton, Heath has been camping for a week when he stumbles upon two men who are burying a body. A body of a man one of them killed thanks to them complaining so much amongst each other..
While looking for help, Heath manages to scare Kayla enough to wreck her car and now they are both trying to escape the two men.
This story has everything you hope for in this type of story - I loved every chapter!
March 16, 2025
Smoky Mountain Escape by Rhonda Starnes is dedicated to Starnes' mother who loved the Newfound Gap overlook area of TN/NC. I love it also and have a panoramic oil painting of that exact spot which made reading the book exciting.
Smoky Mountain Escape is fast-paced, page turning action. Starnes did an excellent job describing the setting as I could picture each location. Strong characters and their faith play a major role in the plot.
Releases Apr 29th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#SmokyMountainEscape #NetGalley
Smoky Mountain Escape is fast-paced, page turning action. Starnes did an excellent job describing the setting as I could picture each location. Strong characters and their faith play a major role in the plot.
Releases Apr 29th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#SmokyMountainEscape #NetGalley
April 6, 2025
Smoky Mountain Escape by Rhonda Starnes. Sheriff Heath Dalton runs into two killers who are burying a body while hiking in the woods. Being shot at, he runs into the road flagging down a vehicle driving by traveling nurse Kayla Eldridge, causing her to crash. Now they are in the run. I really enjoyed this story full of suspense and Faith. Kayla is so resilient even after already almost being killed by her serial killer finance and now chased by 2 killers. Thank you to #NetGalley and #Harlequin-Romance god this Arc. This is my honest review.
February 9, 2025
Such a well written suspense book that held my interest from page 1. If you enjoy mysteries and trying to figure out what is going on and who is behind the turmoil, this book is for you. It will definitely hold your interest. This book is from the Love Inspired Suspense series and is scheduled to be released on April 29, 2025.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All words are my own.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All words are my own.
March 13, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. This is a new to me author and I'm so glad to have found her. A great mystery suspense book with characters to root for. It held my interest and I truly enjoyed reading this. Highly recommend.
May 2, 2025
Fabulous fast-paced story!
March 20, 2025
This was really a good story with a fresh take at being pursued through the woods by criminals.
I received an advanced reader’s copy from Harlequin and Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
I received an advanced reader’s copy from Harlequin and Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
February 17, 2026
I feel like I am so lucky to have stumbled upon Rhonda’s books. If it hadn't been for reading the book that came after this, I wouldn't have known how much I like her writing. And I always say I am a suspense then romance girlie, but she has this way of making me enjoy both equally in her books.
In this story, I was able to step back and experience Heath and Kayla's story, who I met in the following book in Brenda's story. Heath has overseen a man being buried, and now he's at risk. When he's fleeing and runs into Kayla, he's not wanting to pull her into the risks. But it leaves them both at risk and on the run. It's while on the run and in forced proximity that the sparks start to fly. But none of that matters if they can't lock up the murderers and eliminate the risks to their lives once and for all!
Loved this! Rhonda pulled me in instantly, and mentally I was in this story until I got to the final page. She is quickly becoming a go to for LIS for me, and I can't wait to see what she writes next!
I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley. This review reflects my honest opinion.
In this story, I was able to step back and experience Heath and Kayla's story, who I met in the following book in Brenda's story. Heath has overseen a man being buried, and now he's at risk. When he's fleeing and runs into Kayla, he's not wanting to pull her into the risks. But it leaves them both at risk and on the run. It's while on the run and in forced proximity that the sparks start to fly. But none of that matters if they can't lock up the murderers and eliminate the risks to their lives once and for all!
Loved this! Rhonda pulled me in instantly, and mentally I was in this story until I got to the final page. She is quickly becoming a go to for LIS for me, and I can't wait to see what she writes next!
I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley. This review reflects my honest opinion.
August 31, 2025
4 stelle e mezza
Questa storia mi è piaciuta e si svolge in un periodo che mi è parso più lungo del solito. Anche se non fa parte di una serie, questo libro è chiaramente legato ad almeno due precedentemente scritti da questa autrice: ci sono dei riferimenti a precedenti storie, ma il libro si può leggere come un stand-alone.
Questa storia mi è piaciuta e si svolge in un periodo che mi è parso più lungo del solito. Anche se non fa parte di una serie, questo libro è chiaramente legato ad almeno due precedentemente scritti da questa autrice: ci sono dei riferimenti a precedenti storie, ma il libro si può leggere come un stand-alone.
June 8, 2025
What a wild ride! Heather and Kayle encountered every worst case scenario you could imagine! It kept me on the edge of my seat, just like a good suspense book should. I didnt want to stop reading to go to sleep!
2 killers on the loose, then 1. A pregnant woman in labor being held hostage? So many twists & turns throughout the entire story. It was great!
2 killers on the loose, then 1. A pregnant woman in labor being held hostage? So many twists & turns throughout the entire story. It was great!
April 24, 2025
Smoky Mountain Escape by Rhonda Starnes
Two killers on the loose
and threats around every corner…
Sheriff Heath Dalton accidentally stumbles upon two gunmen trying to hide a body in the Smoky Mountains and barely escapes with his life. And when traveling nurse Kayla Eldridge finds herself stranded in the stormy wilderness with Heath, she now has a target on her back. They must work together to navigate the treacherous terrain and evade the criminals who are tracking their every move. Can they outrun their merciless hunters before they both lose their lives?
This is Sheriff Heath Dalton's story.
This is traveling nurse Kayla Eldridge's story.
Sheriff Heath Dalton wiped the rain out of his eyes, tilted his head and pulled his poncho hood lower, attempting to encourage the rain to run off his hood instead of into his eyes. “You better appreciate what I’m going through for you, little brother,” he muttered under his breath.
His only vacation since he’d taken the office of sheriff two and a half years ago, and Heath had allowed Parker to convince him to go on a solo camping trip and test gear for the adventure camping supply store Parker had opened in Barton Creek.
Kayla Eldridge increased her wiper speed and leaned over the steering wheel to peer at the ominous sky. It seemed the weather wasn’t any happier about her return to the Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee than she was. Why had she let Leslie talk her into accepting a one-month traveling nurse position here, of all places? Because you wanted to spend time with your brother and sister-in-law. And your sweet baby nephew. If Sawyer, Bridget and Vincent didn’t live in Barton Creek, Kayla would never return to this part of Tennessee.
I recommend this book.
Smoky Mountain Escape by Rhonda Starnes is a 4 star book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Rhonda Starnes .
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
Two killers on the loose
and threats around every corner…
Sheriff Heath Dalton accidentally stumbles upon two gunmen trying to hide a body in the Smoky Mountains and barely escapes with his life. And when traveling nurse Kayla Eldridge finds herself stranded in the stormy wilderness with Heath, she now has a target on her back. They must work together to navigate the treacherous terrain and evade the criminals who are tracking their every move. Can they outrun their merciless hunters before they both lose their lives?
This is Sheriff Heath Dalton's story.
This is traveling nurse Kayla Eldridge's story.
Sheriff Heath Dalton wiped the rain out of his eyes, tilted his head and pulled his poncho hood lower, attempting to encourage the rain to run off his hood instead of into his eyes. “You better appreciate what I’m going through for you, little brother,” he muttered under his breath.
His only vacation since he’d taken the office of sheriff two and a half years ago, and Heath had allowed Parker to convince him to go on a solo camping trip and test gear for the adventure camping supply store Parker had opened in Barton Creek.
Kayla Eldridge increased her wiper speed and leaned over the steering wheel to peer at the ominous sky. It seemed the weather wasn’t any happier about her return to the Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee than she was. Why had she let Leslie talk her into accepting a one-month traveling nurse position here, of all places? Because you wanted to spend time with your brother and sister-in-law. And your sweet baby nephew. If Sawyer, Bridget and Vincent didn’t live in Barton Creek, Kayla would never return to this part of Tennessee.
I recommend this book.
Smoky Mountain Escape by Rhonda Starnes is a 4 star book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Rhonda Starnes .
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
April 23, 2025
What should be an enjoyable day hiking turns into the things of nightmares. Sheriff Heath Dalton encounters two men bent on causing death and destruction, and in doing so, he has put a target on his back, which puts him on the run for his life.
Kayla Eldridge is coming into town for her new job as a traveling nurse when she encounters Heath. Unfortunately their chance meeting has now put a target on Kayla's back as well.
The action was literally non-stop as the two main characters are running through the mountains to evade these two men who want to kill them. Cell service is spotty which presents another dilemma. Adding to all of this drama is the fact that Kayla is deathly afraid of being in the woods due to a traumatic experience in her past. Heath was so incredibly kind to Kayla as he realized she was having to face her fears, whether she wanted to or not.
Heath is a protector and has so much empathy. He treats Kayla with care while not pitying her. Kayla was a survivor, literally. She was much stronger than she gave herself credit for. Her past experience and her strong faith had made her into the woman she is today. The ending showed just exactly the kind of woman Kayla was. I loved it. The action and suspense kept me thoroughly invested in this story. This was romantic suspense at its best.
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Kayla Eldridge is coming into town for her new job as a traveling nurse when she encounters Heath. Unfortunately their chance meeting has now put a target on Kayla's back as well.
The action was literally non-stop as the two main characters are running through the mountains to evade these two men who want to kill them. Cell service is spotty which presents another dilemma. Adding to all of this drama is the fact that Kayla is deathly afraid of being in the woods due to a traumatic experience in her past. Heath was so incredibly kind to Kayla as he realized she was having to face her fears, whether she wanted to or not.
Heath is a protector and has so much empathy. He treats Kayla with care while not pitying her. Kayla was a survivor, literally. She was much stronger than she gave herself credit for. Her past experience and her strong faith had made her into the woman she is today. The ending showed just exactly the kind of woman Kayla was. I loved it. The action and suspense kept me thoroughly invested in this story. This was romantic suspense at its best.
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 4, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley for my review copy.
Wow what can I say. This is my first book by Rhonda Starnes and won't be my last. The action starts from the start. Then like the eye of a storm we think things are ok and bam the storm is back with a vengeance.
The book starts with Heath the local Sheriff is out on a camping trip and one the final leg when the action starts. He stumbles across a scene where a body is being buried. After a standoff he is running for safety. This is where Kayla comes into the picture. She is taking up a temporary nursing job and seeing her brother and his family. She wasn't going to the woods that was the last thing she wanted to ever do again. But circumstance and need to survive means she and Heath are in the woods running for their lives.
There is so much to unpack in this book that you will need to read yourself. Kayla has been a victim before and is still recovering. She has come a long way but like another reviewer I felt for her, why does she have to suffer again. Heath has his own issues from a previous relationship. The growth and determination of Kayla as she battles demons and then the choices to survive were good to see.
As an Aussie I was expecting a wolf till I googled what a coyote looks like then I understood the cover. It is very relevant. I have fallen back in love with LIS books. If you like Romantic Suspense and LIS books I am sure you will enjoy this book.
Wow what can I say. This is my first book by Rhonda Starnes and won't be my last. The action starts from the start. Then like the eye of a storm we think things are ok and bam the storm is back with a vengeance.
The book starts with Heath the local Sheriff is out on a camping trip and one the final leg when the action starts. He stumbles across a scene where a body is being buried. After a standoff he is running for safety. This is where Kayla comes into the picture. She is taking up a temporary nursing job and seeing her brother and his family. She wasn't going to the woods that was the last thing she wanted to ever do again. But circumstance and need to survive means she and Heath are in the woods running for their lives.
There is so much to unpack in this book that you will need to read yourself. Kayla has been a victim before and is still recovering. She has come a long way but like another reviewer I felt for her, why does she have to suffer again. Heath has his own issues from a previous relationship. The growth and determination of Kayla as she battles demons and then the choices to survive were good to see.
As an Aussie I was expecting a wolf till I googled what a coyote looks like then I understood the cover. It is very relevant. I have fallen back in love with LIS books. If you like Romantic Suspense and LIS books I am sure you will enjoy this book.
April 29, 2025
Sheriff Heath Dalton is at the end of a week-long hiking vacation when he comes across 2 men trying to bury a body. He tries to arrest them, but is shot at and injured when one man throws a shovel at him.
Traveling nurse Kayla Eldridge is driving along a road near the forest when Heath jumps out in front of her car causing to crash into a ditch. He tells her about the men and they hide. The men find her car and look through it.
Running for their lives, Kayla and Heath take off through the forest. Because Kayla was kidnapped and held in a forest a few years prior, running into the forest is her worst nightmare come true. She really doesn't need to experience another traumatic forest event.
They manage to elude Joe and Larry, the killers, but time after time, Joe and Larry catch up to them. Eventually Kayla and Heath are rescued by Parker Dalton, Heath's brother and by Sawyer Eldridge, Kayla's brother. Joe is arrested, but Larry flees.
Being kidnapped by Larry, along with his sister-in-law, Joe's wife, who had no idea of Larry and Joe's activities is yet another terrifying event for Kayla. However, she manages to badly wound Larry and after he is taken away, she delivers Brenda's baby girl.
Traveling nurse Kayla Eldridge is driving along a road near the forest when Heath jumps out in front of her car causing to crash into a ditch. He tells her about the men and they hide. The men find her car and look through it.
Running for their lives, Kayla and Heath take off through the forest. Because Kayla was kidnapped and held in a forest a few years prior, running into the forest is her worst nightmare come true. She really doesn't need to experience another traumatic forest event.
They manage to elude Joe and Larry, the killers, but time after time, Joe and Larry catch up to them. Eventually Kayla and Heath are rescued by Parker Dalton, Heath's brother and by Sawyer Eldridge, Kayla's brother. Joe is arrested, but Larry flees.
Being kidnapped by Larry, along with his sister-in-law, Joe's wife, who had no idea of Larry and Joe's activities is yet another terrifying event for Kayla. However, she manages to badly wound Larry and after he is taken away, she delivers Brenda's baby girl.
April 23, 2025
Smoky Mountain Escape by Rhonda Starnes is an engaging suspense novel. I like that the action started at the beginning. I was drawn into the story, and, for the most part, my attention was held. There were some slow parts here and there. I liked the main characters, especially Heath Dalton. He is a strong, caring, and thoughtful man. I could tell that there was more to Kayla Eldridge’s story. After checking out the author’s other books, I discovered that Kayla was in another book along with a couple of the other characters. I wish the books were listed as a series (it would make them easier to find plus it would allow me to read the books in order which is my preference). I felt for Kayla who fell for the wrong man and suffered for it. I could understand why being in the forest would be difficult for her. The author’s picturesque descriptions allowed me to envision the settings. I like how faith was integrated into the story. Smoky Mountain Escape is a suspenseful story with a hiking holiday, a deceased chap, kinsmen with guns, an accidental car accident, a waterfall shelter, and fighting fear.
February 5, 2025
"Smoky Mountain Escape" is a Christian romantic suspense. Apparently these characters were in a previous novel, but this novel can be understood and enjoyed without reading the previous one. Kayla was previously held in a cabin in the forest by a serial killer, so she had to deal with traumatic memories of the past as well as escaping from the current killers. The suspense was mainly created by the bad guys trying to kill Health for witnessing them commit a crime, and Kayla because she soon knew, too. Kayla and Heath worked well together, and Heath made Kayla feel safe around him. The main characters were likable and reacted realistically to events.
My only complaint is that coyotes generally avoid humans, and a lone coyote would generally run from humans rather than seem determined to attack them for no apparent cause. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable suspense.
I received a free ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in return for my honest opinion in this review.
My only complaint is that coyotes generally avoid humans, and a lone coyote would generally run from humans rather than seem determined to attack them for no apparent cause. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable suspense.
I received a free ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in return for my honest opinion in this review.
April 14, 2025
This suspenseful novel drew me in, and the fast pace kept my attention from the start! While on a backpacking trip, Sheriff Health Dalton stumbles upon two men burying a body. When he tries to intervene, things go wrong, and he barely escapes. Flagging down the next available vehicle for help results in an accident and the driver, nurse Kayle Enbridge, suddenly finds herself caught in the crosshairs along with Heath. As the two work to get out of the woods and get help, tension and harrowing circumstances ensue. Although they reach safety, one criminal is still on the run and returns to wreak havoc. Can Heath and his officers apprehend the suspect before it's too late?
I was gifted a copy of this novel by the publisher through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own
I was gifted a copy of this novel by the publisher through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own
April 26, 2025
Part of an interconnected series with overlapping characters. Can be read as a standalone but probably better if read in order. This is my first book by this author but hopefully not my last.
She's taken a new assignment as a traveling nurse near her brother and his family. Unfortunately it's also near the place that the most traumatic time in her life occurred as well. He's the local sheriff. When he stumbles upon a crime being committed while on vacation things get out of control causing her to be ensnared also. Now they are both running for their lives and praying they can get help in time. How does her brother react when he learns what is happening? Will they be able to stop the suspects before anyone else is hurt? What will this do to her progress towards recovering from the first incident?
She's taken a new assignment as a traveling nurse near her brother and his family. Unfortunately it's also near the place that the most traumatic time in her life occurred as well. He's the local sheriff. When he stumbles upon a crime being committed while on vacation things get out of control causing her to be ensnared also. Now they are both running for their lives and praying they can get help in time. How does her brother react when he learns what is happening? Will they be able to stop the suspects before anyone else is hurt? What will this do to her progress towards recovering from the first incident?
May 14, 2025
Sheriff Heath Dalton stumbles upon two gunmen burying body, and the tables quickly turn leaving Heath without a weapon and killers on his tail. He tries to get help, but ends up stranded in the mountains with nurse, Kayla Eldridge, as they fight the odds together against man and the elements.
Heath and Kayla have plenty of time to get to know each other while fighting for their lives in the wilderness. They bond over their shared situation and faith. They both have to use their wits and think on their feet.
Intense and action packed, with killers always a step behind. It seemed like everything that could go wrong did for a while.
Overall, a fast paced read with a lot going on and plenty of tension throughout. Great ending, and engaging romance!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Heath and Kayla have plenty of time to get to know each other while fighting for their lives in the wilderness. They bond over their shared situation and faith. They both have to use their wits and think on their feet.
Intense and action packed, with killers always a step behind. It seemed like everything that could go wrong did for a while.
Overall, a fast paced read with a lot going on and plenty of tension throughout. Great ending, and engaging romance!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 23, 2025
Once again, author Rhonda Starnes has penned a story that will grab and hold attention from the first page to the end. Heath didn’t expect to find two men arguing as they worked to bury a body in the deep woods. He’d taken a few days off to his brother’s camping gear and hoping for a peaceful break from the stresses of being sheriff.
When he’s spotted, they attack, one guy hurling a spade and the other shooting him. He runs toward to the road and accidentally scares Kayla into hitting the ditch. Against her will, she joins him in fleeing the killers.
But they don’t give up.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, as Heath and Kayla face not only their pursuers but their past traumas. Their faith in God brings them closer, and the final pages let me breathe again. Smoky Mountain Escape earns five stars. Recommended!
When he’s spotted, they attack, one guy hurling a spade and the other shooting him. He runs toward to the road and accidentally scares Kayla into hitting the ditch. Against her will, she joins him in fleeing the killers.
But they don’t give up.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, as Heath and Kayla face not only their pursuers but their past traumas. Their faith in God brings them closer, and the final pages let me breathe again. Smoky Mountain Escape earns five stars. Recommended!
April 30, 2025
While I have enjoyed other books by this author, this one had enough instances in which one of the characters acted in an illogical manner that it spoiled the story for me a bit. The premise was good: a young woman previously targeted by a serial killer, now running from two killers after she encountered a sheriff who had stumbled upon them while hiking in the Smoky Mountains. The main characters are people that are easy to like. The setting is perfect for the events. This book has a lot going for it. It is true that I read an advanced reader copy provided by Love Inspired Suspense via NetGalley without obligation. Some of the concerns I had were likely reconciled prior to the final draft being published. All opinions expressed here are my own.
March 29, 2025
Sheriff Heath Dalton is hiking back to his truck when he runs into two killers burying a body. When he confronts them, he is shot and loses his weapon. When running from the killers he jumps in front of traveling nurse Kayla Eldridge car. She wreaks her car and now the two are on foot in the Smokey Mountains trying to evade the killers. Kayla knows who Heath is and he knows she is the sister of a friend who is former FBI. Kayla is having a really hard time since a few years ago her fiancé took her into the mountains and tied her up with a bomb attached. This is a faith-based story and the author has done a great job with the suspense theme in the book.
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