Trail of Mountain Secrets

National Park Protectors #2

by Darlene L. Turner

A case of mistaken identity.
A K-9 to the rescue.

Park archaeologist Violet Hoyt’s wilderness search for a missing family’s remains takes a deadly turn when a gunman mistakes her for someone else. The discovery of a grave of skulls reopens a cold case, and someone is determined to keep the truth hidden. With the help of K-9 handler Maverick Shaw and his human-remains-detector dog, Wolf, Violet must find the final family member—and evade the masked man who has targeted her. Soon Violet learns a shocking She has a presumed dead twin sister who may still be alive, and now they’re both in danger. Can Violet and Maverick expose a conspiracy before this Christmas becomes their last?

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

National Park Protectors

Book 1: Danger in the Wilderness
Book 2: Trail of Mountain Secrets

Genres: Suspense, Romance, Romantic Suspense, Inspirational, Family, Christian Fiction, Mystery

210 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 25, 2025

About the author

Darlene L. Turner is an award-winning, best-selling author and lives with her husband, Jeff in Ontario, Canada. Her love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message. You can connect with Darlene at www.darlenelturner.com where there’s suspense beyond borders. Be sure to follow her on BookBub https://bit.ly/33TYIS2

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to read book two in Turner’s National Parks Protectors series!

In book one, readers met Dekker Hoyt, a Park Warden. In book two, we meet another sibling, archaeologist Violet Hoyt and visit another Canadian setting. Although Asterbine National Park in Alberta is a fictional setting, Turner brings the Canadian wilderness alive. This is the second installment of a series, but it can be read alone.

Turner never fails to get my adrenaline pumping. Her race against time plots with armed villains, mistaken identity, and characters I don’t know if I can trust, always keep me glued to the pages. With only 6 days before Christmas, the clock is ticking as the team hopes to bring closure to the Hancock case and find the last remaining body of the murdered family.

I did enjoy Violet’s character, but K-9 handler Maverick Shaw and his HRD dog, Belgian Malinois, Wolf, found a place in my heart. I appreciated the message about putting the past where it belonged, about the danger of carrying guilt, and the importance of facing our fears head on.

I’m looking forward to book three and meeting another Hoyt sibling.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Romantic Suspense, and this is the second book in the National Park Protectors series. I have read the first book in this series before picking up this book. I read this book by listening to the audiobook for this book, and I loved the audiobook. I really got into this story, and I loved the dog in this book. This was a fast paced book with a ton of action, suspense, and drama. I really enjoyed reading this book. There were some good twists and turns in this book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[Renee Helton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book.
Wonderful Story and great characters. Full of action and plot twists.
Looking forward to reading more books by this author.

[Christina Menhennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put it down!!

Darlene L Turner has done it again! Another great faith based thriller that keeps you guessing through the twists and turns of fires, kidnappings, attempted murders and more all while Violet (Park Archeologist) and Maverick (K9 Handler) along with his Cadaver dog, Wolf  try to find the missing skeleton of Amy Hancock the last remaining member missing from the Hancock murders. Through the process of everything Violet learns she has a long presumed dead twin who is very much alive, but can her twin be trusted? 

Why is someone out to permanently eliminate Violet and Maverick along with Wolf? Will the reason and the person or persons be trying to eliminate Maverick, Wolf and Violet be discovered and stopped before they succeed? 

Can anyone be trusted? Will Violet mend her turbulent relationship with her mother and tell Maverick how she really feels about him before it's too late? Will Maverick reciprocate her feelings? Will she learn to rely on God again after all that happened to her with Jesse? Will she learn that God doesn't cause evil?

Will Violet be able to open her heart after an abusive ex-boyfriend stabbed her? This is something I can relate to after almost 6 years in an abusive marriage myself. I can completely relate to Violet's fear and trust of men? Her questioning of each one and their motives. Like Violet I have had to learn that not everyone is like my ex-husband. Logically I knew that, but the fear lingered and sadly I allowed it to rule my life for years. Recently I have learned that I still resented my ex-husband even though I thought I had given all to God. Like Violet I have had to work hard on that and realize that like her I can't let resentment and fear rule my life. Violet had to learn that and learn that God is there for her no matter what we have gone through in life. 

I loved reading the twists and turns in this book and honestly it really helped me see myself in Violet's fear and lack of trust. It made me examine my feelings and give them over to God completely. It is a work in progress just as it was for Violet. I can't thank Darlene L. Turner enough for creating Violet with her abusive past relationship with Jesse! Plus this book was just so interesting I hated putting it down! 

**Disclaimer** I received Trail of Mountain Secrets (very fitting title) as an ARC copy in exchange for my honest and unbiased review. I am in no way compensated or promised anything in return for receiving the book. 

[Lisa Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Trail of Mountain Secrets book 2 of the National Park Protectors by Darlene L. Turner. I have said it before and I will say it again all of her books are truly amazing. 

Darlene L. Turner has done it again. I am not sure how she keeps coming up with these stories, but I am excited that she does and I am already looking forward to the next book.

The story from cover to cover is filled with action that will keep you on the edge of your seat, make your heart pound, gasp out loud and is emotional, toss in some mistaken identity, a cute but fierce K-9, named Wolf, a little romance, a cold-case, second chances and a suspenseful mystery and is faith based. You won't be able to put the book down.  Just when I thought I knew who did it, I found out I was wrong. I was left guessing until the very end of who did it. 

This is a true winner. Of course, I highly recommend this entire series.

[Laramee · Rating 4 out of 5]

A second chance inspirational suspense that hits the ground running from the first page. The narrator did a fantastic job bringing this story to life!

I received an audio ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, set in Alberta, Canada's fictional Asterbine National Park, is the second unputdownable installment in the National Park Protectors series. As the suspense built, the danger escalated, and the romantic connection between park archeologist Violet Hoyt and K-9 handler Maverick Shaw grew, I became completely absorbed in their world, devouring this book in one sitting. This story delivers everything I enjoy in romantic suspense--danger that kept my pulse pounding, romance that warmed my heart, a whodunit that kept me guessing right up to the exciting reveal, and unforgettable characters (including amazing HRD K-9 Wolf and precious 5-year-old Riley). The fast-paced plot masterfully balances relentless suspense, unexpected twists, and emotional intensity while sprinkling in some holiday spirit, sweet second chance romance, and meaningful spiritual truths. I totally enjoyed this captivating, heart-stirring read and highly recommend it. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I read an early copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[April Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who can you trust?

This novel throws you right into the danger in the first paragraph! Secrets abound and danger comes from every direction. You will not be disappointed!

Maverick and Wolf act as one smooth fighting machine; Maverick is trying to navigate the role of instant dad and gain Violet’s trust once more. Their past makes it hard, but God is able.

Violet is in a dangerous situation and it keeps getting worse. Unexpected twists and turns keep her questioning God’s love and care. Her secrets also threaten to come between her and Maverick, but God is able.

They face down the bad guys or gals, forge a new path in their relationship, keep family as a priority, and get a great Christmas in the end. Great story with a great lesson on trusting God in the hard times

I enjoyed it very much. I enjoyed the novel. I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.

[Laura Prindable · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Christians romance/ mystery. I loved it. I thought it was highly imaginative and the narrators did an awesome job.

5 stars

Many thanks to Net Galley and Christian Audio for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[SARAH TAYLOR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trail of Mountain Secrets by Darlene L. Turner , This was another great book that will keep you reading and turning the pages from start to finish one that has such amazing characters and that will keep you up late to see what is going to happen next! I was given a compilatory copy and this is my own honest opinion! I can't wait for book 3 in this series!

[Kimberly Bowie · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Violet starts uncovering buried bodies in the national forest, she unwittingly becomes the next target! Teaming up with Maverick, her former friend, is a bad idea. Not only did she have feelings for him back then, her best friend was killed when Maverick acted impulsively to a man with a gun. But when Maverick and his Belgian Malinois save her life, she begins to soften her stance. And when she learns about his checkered past, she can't help but reexamine her feelings. When secrets from her past come to light, she needs all the help and support she can get--not just to survive the newest developments in her life but to survive someone trying to take her life.

I highly recommend this story to all who love Christian fiction with high action and suspense!

I received an ARC from the author; however, my review is my own opinion and done of my own volition.

[Tara Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness!! I've read a lot of Ms. Turner's love inspired suspense books and have never been disappointed!! Trail of Mountain Secrets is no exception!! I definitely fell in love with this awesome, christian story!! I loved reading about Violet and Maverick and K9, Wolf!! Exciting, action packed, heart stopping, heart pounding sitting on the edge of your seat suspense with unexpected twists and turns and a surprise ending I didn't expect. Faith, family, learning to trust God and forgiveness. A page turner for sure and a must read!! I look forward to more books in this new National Park Protectors Series. I was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC with no expectations of a positive review. This book is so well written. It caught me on the first page. I could not turn the pages fast enough. How does a park archaeologist, Violet Hoyt, get caught up in the cross hairs of a person who have henchmen trying to stop her from from finding the bodies of the Hancock family as well as their youngest daughter Amy. This story is fast paced with wonderful characters that include a K-9, Wolf, who has been trained to find skeleton remains as well as protective duties. His handler Maverick Shaw is college friend who Violet had lost contact with after a tragic incident during college. You will laugh, cry and sit on the edge of your seat as you read this fabulous book.

[Kimberly Heck · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good I literally could not put it down. It was action packed with great characters. The ending was a total surprise. I had my guesses of who was the mastermind but was wrong. One of those books that just keep you guessing. I started it in the morning and finished it the same night. As usual, Darlene has done it again! Definitely an incredible read.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trail of Mountain Secrets by Darlene L. Turner is the 2nd book in her National Park Protector’s series. Get ready for a fast paced, murder mystery Christian romance. Great characters and engaging plot. Faith, Family and Forgiveness…enjoy. Thank you for this Arc. This is my honest review.

[Trudy Cordle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Violet and Maverick's story!! Violet and Maverick have known each other for years, as they went to the same university and were friends. At least, until something happened that Maverick blamed himself for, and thought that Violet did, too. Now, they meet again when Maverick moves to the same town to start a business with his brother. When Violet is put in the crosshairs of a killer, Maverick and his K-9 Wolf are called in to help her and to protect her. Violet had a crush on Maverick back at university, and Maverick had one on her, too. Now, can these two stay alive long enough for the old flames to rekindle, get their past behind them? Love how both of them come to realize that God is trustworthy and in control of everything, to bring good out of all the bad. I thought I had the bad person picked out, and I was a tad right, but the one I thought wasn't the person in charge! Love when I don't get it figured out!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.

[Ethelann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Darlene Turner had done it again! Trail of Mountain Secrets was just so exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat figuring out who was after Violet and trying to stop her from identifying a skeleton. Maverick as her protector with his K9, Wolf, who can help in detecting remains and also protects her from paid killers.
Every time I thought I had the boss behind the attacks figured out I was proven wrong and when the real boss was revealed I was shocked!! Excellent story.

[Marilyn Rushing · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love a good suspense story? If so you will want to read this book Trail of Mountain Secrets by Darlene L. Turner. It is a 5 star read. I have read other books of Darlene Turner and they just keep getting better.

Violet Hoyt, a park Archaecogist is working a cold case after finding a grave of skulls buried in the park wilderness. An old friend Maverick Shaw and his K-9 Wolf are on the case with her. After several threats and attempts have been made on her life. Violet is determined to solve this case before Christmas. A new personal case has been thrown her way when she discovers her dead twin may not be dead after all and the threat may involve her also. Maverick has a few secrets of his own. What will happen when the buried secrets are revealed?

[Ausjenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the author for my review copy.

This is the second book in this series although its very much a stand alone read. I enjoyed book fron from page one. We meet Violet Hoyt a park archaeologist searching for remains of a body. Her boss has enlisted Maverick Shaw and his K-9 Wolf who is trained to find human remains. Maverick is also someone she knew back in college and is the last person she wants to see. While searching They are attacked by a masked man who calls her by a different name. He insists she is hiding and has something of his.

This starts the beginning of a lot of danger and action and suspense. Violet finds out some information about the person they think she is and Maverick is determined to protect her. I can't forget Riley the 5 year old daughter Maverick only recently found out about. She has lots of issues and the relationship with Maverick isn't going well. I did enjoy watching this relationship develop and Riley is a scene stealer.

There are a lot of twists and turns in this book and at times I felt like grabbing Violet and saying stop and think a moment before she rushed into danger. I had different ideas about who was the villain but was often wrong. The way the story played out was satisfying and I look forward to the next book in the series.

If you enjoy Love Inspired Suspense I am sure you will enjoy this book. Also if you like K-9s hero's (cos I think they are just as much a hero as the humans) this is a book for you.

[Danielle Turko · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for a review
When Violet unearthed 3 skeletons without skulls on her archaeological dig in Asterbine National Park, she never imagined it would end with her face being splashed all over the news for finding 3 of the 4 members of the local family who disappeared 2 years before. Now she's receiving pressure from her boss to find the skulls and the final member of the family, their young daughter Amy. With it being only 6 days until Christmas, the pressure is on to bring closure to Amy's aunt. Violet's boss arranges for her to work with a K9, and Violet is shocked to realize the handler is Maverick, a friend from university she had a crush on but lost touch with after her friend is shot and killed in a campus shooting. Maverick blames himself for her friend's death, and feels his rash action to surprise the shooter ended with the fatality. Now that he has Violet back in his life he wants to do whatever it takes to prove to her he's not the same rash young man he was when she knew him before. When somebody begins threatening Violet, Maverick vows that he and Wolf will do whatever they can to keep her safe, but will that be enough?
This was the second book in the series and really well done. There was a lot of back and forth over who did it, and you could feel the connection between Violet and Maverick. I'm excited to read the next book in the series

[Christine B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a cute romance with great suspense! Violet is an archeologist who is tasked with finding some victims’ remains. Danger attacks when she is mistaken for a twin sister she never knew existed! Maverick is someone from her past who helps in the present with his human remains detector dog. This book was action packed and had many twists and turns. If you are looking for a sweet romance, lots of danger and wonderful service dogs this one is for you! I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in trade for my honest opinion. My thoughts are my own.

[Deena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another adventure with a member of the Hoyt family? Sign me up! Get ready to meet Violet and Maverick, and their furry sidekick Wolf!

Violet has been tasked with finding the remains of the Hancock family, specifically those of Amy, the 8 year old who vanished years ago without a trace.
A nest of three skulls is unearthed, accounting for some of the family.

Maverick appears in the nick of time and saves Violet from a violent attack and abduction. Now he and his dog are tangled up in Violet’s case, and neither seems too unhappy about it.

A series of breathtaking events follow, and the danger increases with every new discovery. Family secrets come to light and threaten the fabric of the Hoyt family as well as the tenuous relationship between Violet and Maverick.

I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. I highly recommend this exciting story!

[Laura Hamby · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two but can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed it so much! It was high octane keeping you engaged from the beginning. There were surprises along the way. I love books with dogs and Wolf stole my heart. The book delved into forensic analysis of bones and remains. It also dealt with the dangers of keeping secrets as well as the evil in this world. Overall it was an uplifting book. Darlene Turner, “the plaid queen “ is one of my favorite authors! Once you read one of her books you want to read them all!

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another amazing read by Darlene L. Turner. Just when you think a series can't get any better than the first book it does get better with Book 2. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Violet and Maverick's story and of course I loved Maverick's K-9 partner Wolf. I had a hard time putting the book down and was shocked by who the suspect ended up being in the very end. I definitely was not expecting it.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I have a new favorite Darlene Turner story! This one with all its twists and turns(and there are several!)kept me up way too late reading to see how all the pieces were going to fit. Excellently plotted and a lot fun to read. Great story!

I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

[Emily Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book! I will honestly admit, I guessed wrong about the bad guy - that's how good Darlene L. Turner writes!!! Definitely give this story a try 📚
I can't wait to read more by this author.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic Romantic Suspense book by Darlene Turner. This one is set in the beautiful Canadian Wilderness which is brought to life by breathtaking descriptions.

Violet Hoyt, a park archeologist, is racing to bring closure to a family. The Hancock family was murdered in the National park and 3 skulls have been found but 8 year old Amy is still missing. With only 6 days left before Christmas, Violet is determined to help give the family the closure they desperately need. She is helped along the way by handler Maverick Shaw and his K9 Wolf.

While Trail of Mountain Secrets is the second in the series it also works great as a stand alone.

I loved this book and Wolf was such a hero. I highly recommend this book.

I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Harlequin Books]

Inspirational Suspense, Wholesome Romance, Animal Fiction, Romantic Suspense
Miniseries
National Park Protectors (Book #2)

[Harlequin Books]

Inspirational Suspense, Wholesome Romance, Animal Fiction, Romantic Suspense
Miniseries
National Park Protectors (Book #2)

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An archeologist, the discovery of skulls, a K-9 human remains detector and a man determined to protect all make this book unputdownable. Violet Hoyt is intelligent and intuitive and when she is on a job, like the one to find the remains of the murdered Hancock family, she is intrepid and sometimes foolhardy. Wolf, the dog who intervenes and tries his best to keep her safe is a character like none other. He is highly trained to detect remains but he also seems to be able to sniff out danger before it gets too close. And his owner Maverick is as determined to keep Violet safe as she seems to be determined to pursue danger. All of these elements made this fast-paced book a riveting and unforgettable story of courage and an indomitable spirt. There are family secrets uncovered as well as a villain who is unbelievably evil and dogged about the goal of keeping Violet and Maverick from discovering the truth. This is a book with memorable characters and a well-crafted and absorbing plot that is not to be missed by fans of compelling fiction.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.