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Gil Mason #11
The Wrong Tree
Gil, Max, and Pilgrim head to Aspen for a weekend of dog training with Pappy, a Marine Corps friend, and Max’s son, Dan Dailey. But before they arrive, a blizzard sweeps the state, and a deadly terrorist assault descends on the ski town.
Pappy teams up with a ragtag group of survivors—a former biathlete, the last surviving cop, a savvy prepper, and a band of resilient youths—fighting to stay alive and uncover the terrorists’ true motives. But as the chaos unfolds, they begin to suspect this isn’t a simple attack. Could it be a distraction for something far more sinister?
Meanwhile, Sarah Gallagher and young Irmgard face their own dangers back home, stalked by a serial killer from the past. As a drone pilot uncovers the possibility of nuclear weapons and troops advance through the storm, Max, Pilgrim, and the K9s are pushed to their limits.
Packed with high-stakes action, intrigue, and a touch of faith, this is the battle of the century. Grab your coffee and settle in—you won’t be able to put this thriller down.
Pappy teams up with a ragtag group of survivors—a former biathlete, the last surviving cop, a savvy prepper, and a band of resilient youths—fighting to stay alive and uncover the terrorists’ true motives. But as the chaos unfolds, they begin to suspect this isn’t a simple attack. Could it be a distraction for something far more sinister?
Meanwhile, Sarah Gallagher and young Irmgard face their own dangers back home, stalked by a serial killer from the past. As a drone pilot uncovers the possibility of nuclear weapons and troops advance through the storm, Max, Pilgrim, and the K9s are pushed to their limits.
Packed with high-stakes action, intrigue, and a touch of faith, this is the battle of the century. Grab your coffee and settle in—you won’t be able to put this thriller down.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2025
About the author
Gordon Carroll
18 books82 followershttps://www.facebook.com/pg/OfficialG...
Gordon Carroll is the author of GUNWOOD USA. Gordon was raised at the foot of the great Rocky Mountains in Colorado. He joined the United States Marine Corps at eighteen and served for seven years achieving the rank of sergeant (selected for staff sergeant). After that he became a police officer in a small (wild) city nestled snugly in the middle of Denver Colorado before moving on to become a sheriff’s deputy. Because of his love for dogs he became a K9 handler, training and working three separate dogs over two decades (a hundred and twenty pound German Shepherd named JR, a ninety pound Belgian Malinois named Max and a fifty-six pound Belgian Malinois named Thor.
After years of telling stories to his children and friends his wife insisted he start writing some of them down. After that he was bitten by the dreaded writing bug and started sending stories to different publications. He was quickly published in several magazines in genres ranging from Sci-Fi to horror to mainstream and Christian before writing GUNWOOD USA, a fictionalized compilation of real life scenarios that he has seen, heard of or been involved with over his years in law enforcement and military service.
Gordon is a member of Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers (RMFW) and served on speaking panels for three years as well as performing K9 demos at the annual conferences.
Gordon Carroll is the author of GUNWOOD USA. Gordon was raised at the foot of the great Rocky Mountains in Colorado. He joined the United States Marine Corps at eighteen and served for seven years achieving the rank of sergeant (selected for staff sergeant). After that he became a police officer in a small (wild) city nestled snugly in the middle of Denver Colorado before moving on to become a sheriff’s deputy. Because of his love for dogs he became a K9 handler, training and working three separate dogs over two decades (a hundred and twenty pound German Shepherd named JR, a ninety pound Belgian Malinois named Max and a fifty-six pound Belgian Malinois named Thor.
After years of telling stories to his children and friends his wife insisted he start writing some of them down. After that he was bitten by the dreaded writing bug and started sending stories to different publications. He was quickly published in several magazines in genres ranging from Sci-Fi to horror to mainstream and Christian before writing GUNWOOD USA, a fictionalized compilation of real life scenarios that he has seen, heard of or been involved with over his years in law enforcement and military service.
Gordon is a member of Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers (RMFW) and served on speaking panels for three years as well as performing K9 demos at the annual conferences.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
September 1, 2025
A War
The bad guys are barking up the wrong tree in this Gil Mason novel. But that doesn't mean anything is easy for Gil and his dogs Pilgrim and Max, or for his former boss Pappy and his dog Dan Daily, Max's son. And while they are taking care of business, an escaped serial killer we've seen before is on the loose wanting vengeance on Billy, Tina, Irmgard and Sarah -- setting his own trap. Thor and the rest of the pups are watching the home front, but how can puppies help? The pages fly by as the reader wonders... How could this possibly all come right?? I was astounded at Gordon Carroll's knowledge of weaponry and the National, State, and Local Forces that protect U.S. citizens. Not to mention how God is working. Another satisfying read, definitely not for the faint of heart.
The bad guys are barking up the wrong tree in this Gil Mason novel. But that doesn't mean anything is easy for Gil and his dogs Pilgrim and Max, or for his former boss Pappy and his dog Dan Daily, Max's son. And while they are taking care of business, an escaped serial killer we've seen before is on the loose wanting vengeance on Billy, Tina, Irmgard and Sarah -- setting his own trap. Thor and the rest of the pups are watching the home front, but how can puppies help? The pages fly by as the reader wonders... How could this possibly all come right?? I was astounded at Gordon Carroll's knowledge of weaponry and the National, State, and Local Forces that protect U.S. citizens. Not to mention how God is working. Another satisfying read, definitely not for the faint of heart.
May 15, 2026
No words
I don’t know why I agreed to do a review of this book. There is no way that I could do it the justice it deserves. I am not a writer. However, I am a reader. I have well over a thousand books on my Kindle and have read them all, enjoying each one. I have read all eleven of Mr Carrolls books. I have no words that can adequately express the impact that each book had on me. Parts of them have changed my life. I’m beyond grateful that I found the author and these stories. Mr Carroll is a masterful story teller. In one way I’m glad I’m-through them all, now maybe I can get something done. My advice, don’t start reading if you have something you need to get done because you will be captured by the whole.crew and unable to stop until you’re finished. Thank you Mr Carroll from the bottom of my heart.
I don’t know why I agreed to do a review of this book. There is no way that I could do it the justice it deserves. I am not a writer. However, I am a reader. I have well over a thousand books on my Kindle and have read them all, enjoying each one. I have read all eleven of Mr Carrolls books. I have no words that can adequately express the impact that each book had on me. Parts of them have changed my life. I’m beyond grateful that I found the author and these stories. Mr Carroll is a masterful story teller. In one way I’m glad I’m-through them all, now maybe I can get something done. My advice, don’t start reading if you have something you need to get done because you will be captured by the whole.crew and unable to stop until you’re finished. Thank you Mr Carroll from the bottom of my heart.
March 9, 2026
OK I did stick through the series BUT……..
Story lines are entertaining, and for the most part I enjoyed the series, BUT more and more religious dogma started showing up - whole chapters of philosophical musings about Gods purpose and meaning. A bit of a non sequitur, when you factor in all the killing (including vivid descriptions of killings by man and dog, sometimes bite by bite or bullet/slash sequence).
Author also has an extensive knowledge of firearms and military gear whose descriptions are shared in detail throughout.
The author also gives amazing attributes to his K-9 characters. Wonder how many of these instincts I can ascribe to my lovable, mixed breed fur baby?
Story lines are entertaining, and for the most part I enjoyed the series, BUT more and more religious dogma started showing up - whole chapters of philosophical musings about Gods purpose and meaning. A bit of a non sequitur, when you factor in all the killing (including vivid descriptions of killings by man and dog, sometimes bite by bite or bullet/slash sequence).
Author also has an extensive knowledge of firearms and military gear whose descriptions are shared in detail throughout.
The author also gives amazing attributes to his K-9 characters. Wonder how many of these instincts I can ascribe to my lovable, mixed breed fur baby?
March 15, 2025
This is a terrific book, especially if you like to see murdering terrorists get their throats pipped out by Max or Pilgrim. It wasn't supposed to be that kind of a weekend. Gill, Ma and Pilgrim were just going to Aspen to help Pappy train Little Dan, Max's son. A blizzard delays they and when they arrive, they find Pappy has his hands full. Terrorists, for some reason, are trying to take over the town and a lot of citizens have already been killed. It is up to them, and a rag tag group Pappy has put together, to do something about it. All 3 dogs more than earn their keep in this one. Excitement on every page.
May 9, 2025
Once again Gordon has written a fantastic suspense thriller that I didn’t want to put down. Max, Pilgrim, Dan Dailey, Gil & Pappy were complex, determined, and strategic in fighting the bad guys. Sarah & Thor had a lesser role this book but i still enjoyed their story. I even liked the IT drone guy as i never thought about that being a real role in todays military. Highly recommend this series and am looking forward to book 12.
June 13, 2025
This series is on fire. From the beginning I was hooked. Gil, Max, and Pilgrim are awesome. Max is scary at times, kinda like Houdini now you see him, now you don’t. I am anxiously awaiting the next one in the series. These books have it all. Action, thrills, and dogs. What’s not to like.
These characters invade your life. So be prepared, to reach for book after book. On a scale of 1-10 I would give the series a 12. I love them.
These characters invade your life. So be prepared, to reach for book after book. On a scale of 1-10 I would give the series a 12. I love them.
July 26, 2025
Another fantastic book from Gordon Carroll!
I don't want to say too much to give away any spoilers, but man oh man what an exciting, fast paced, wonderful book! I was happy to see Gill and Pappy together along with Max, Dan Daily (Max's son) and Pilgrim. Thor, Arrow and Atlas are in the story as doing what they do best. It's a great cast of animals and people, if you're familiar with Gordon's Gill Mason books then this one won't disappoint, happy reading!
I don't want to say too much to give away any spoilers, but man oh man what an exciting, fast paced, wonderful book! I was happy to see Gill and Pappy together along with Max, Dan Daily (Max's son) and Pilgrim. Thor, Arrow and Atlas are in the story as doing what they do best. It's a great cast of animals and people, if you're familiar with Gordon's Gill Mason books then this one won't disappoint, happy reading!
October 20, 2025
Gil Mason books cause binge reading
I devoured these books. The combination of point of view of human characters as well as dogs was appealing to me as a dog lover. I also liked the battles between good and evil characters as well as the fast action in the scenes. I also got very attached to Gil and Sarah. Max and Pilgrim were so different and such great warriors. Great job, Gordon!
I devoured these books. The combination of point of view of human characters as well as dogs was appealing to me as a dog lover. I also liked the battles between good and evil characters as well as the fast action in the scenes. I also got very attached to Gil and Sarah. Max and Pilgrim were so different and such great warriors. Great job, Gordon!
March 14, 2025
Exciting action for Gil, Max and Pilgrim abounds in this latest installment in the series. A few new characters are woven in with some we've come to know throughout the series. Aspen is the main setting for this harrowing adventure. Snow, high tech gadgets and bad guys galore provide a stage for Gil, Max and Pulgrim to do what they do best. Another winner from Gordon Carroll
March 16, 2025
Totally riveting !
I Checked every day in anticipation of this book being available. And,as always, it was totally worth the wait! Looking forward to number 12. And, I disagree with your statement of not being a great writer! You are absolutely a great writer! Just keep them coming!
I Checked every day in anticipation of this book being available. And,as always, it was totally worth the wait! Looking forward to number 12. And, I disagree with your statement of not being a great writer! You are absolutely a great writer! Just keep them coming!
June 1, 2025
I love the Gordon Carroll books. Being a man of faith I understand your need to use your forum, but you are starting to detract from the story. Don't get me wrong I will continue to read you unless you kill off one of the dogs. Please be careful because new readers will be turned off. I'm not saying to stop, but maybe not such a heavy hand.
July 28, 2025
It's not the wrong tree, but the best whole story.
Well so much snow and many crazy enemies it's hard to see who will survive this time! But stop shooting at the dogs! Well at our good guys too. But the really nice ending is still so satisfying. Way to go Gil. " we need more stories"♡
Well so much snow and many crazy enemies it's hard to see who will survive this time! But stop shooting at the dogs! Well at our good guys too. But the really nice ending is still so satisfying. Way to go Gil. " we need more stories"♡
September 28, 2025
By far an excellent read
Gordon Carroll never disappoints. I absolutely love His characters Gil Mason, pilgrim, Max, Sarah, Billy, Imagard, Happy, Thor, Dan Daily, Atlas. This book was action packed and a fabulous read. You won't be disappointed. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did. Didn't put it down often finish in a 2 days.
Gordon Carroll never disappoints. I absolutely love His characters Gil Mason, pilgrim, Max, Sarah, Billy, Imagard, Happy, Thor, Dan Daily, Atlas. This book was action packed and a fabulous read. You won't be disappointed. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did. Didn't put it down often finish in a 2 days.
April 26, 2026
I can breathe again!
If this were a TV show, and it should be!, this would be a show that you would binge watch and stay up all night to finish!
It is also interesting timing with what’s happening around the world. I now picture our troops gathering barrels of nuclear “dust” with a new perspective. I don’t want anyone anywhere near the stuff.
If this were a TV show, and it should be!, this would be a show that you would binge watch and stay up all night to finish!
It is also interesting timing with what’s happening around the world. I now picture our troops gathering barrels of nuclear “dust” with a new perspective. I don’t want anyone anywhere near the stuff.
March 14, 2025
Another Awesome Chapter!!
Gordon does not fail to keep the reader spell-bound. This series keeps getting better and better. Can't hardly wait to see what comes next! Excellent read!!
Gordon does not fail to keep the reader spell-bound. This series keeps getting better and better. Can't hardly wait to see what comes next! Excellent read!!
March 15, 2025
another winner.
I just love these stories. They are real fiction. Good guys win even though some may die, all the bad guys die and the dogs are all amazing. I know some may not like the “Bible stuff” but it’s who Gil is, his struggle in a sinful world.
I just love these stories. They are real fiction. Good guys win even though some may die, all the bad guys die and the dogs are all amazing. I know some may not like the “Bible stuff” but it’s who Gil is, his struggle in a sinful world.
March 18, 2025
Wrong tree
Non stop action with a terrifying problem. Terrorists on rampage in Aspen Colorado. Gil Mason is not as present in this book, but his canine cohorts certainly are, along with a few new people who we hope will stick around.
Non stop action with a terrifying problem. Terrorists on rampage in Aspen Colorado. Gil Mason is not as present in this book, but his canine cohorts certainly are, along with a few new people who we hope will stick around.
March 23, 2025
Powerful action in this book
Good for Gil, Pappy, Max, Pilgrim and all of their great team. The good guys fight a hard battle but win again. But now I have finished reading and will have to wait for the next book. Rest up, team. Another danger will likely come later.
Good for Gil, Pappy, Max, Pilgrim and all of their great team. The good guys fight a hard battle but win again. But now I have finished reading and will have to wait for the next book. Rest up, team. Another danger will likely come later.
April 23, 2025
Perfect Read
I’m not sure how Gordon Carroll keeps on getting better and better. His very first Gil Mason book was absolutely great and somehow he goes up from there. I love Mr. Carroll’s novels!!
I’m not sure how Gordon Carroll keeps on getting better and better. His very first Gil Mason book was absolutely great and somehow he goes up from there. I love Mr. Carroll’s novels!!
June 5, 2025
Fantastic story!!
Another outstanding book! The thrills and the suspense are all there. This book is thrilling all the way through.
You're on the edge of your set trying to figure out how they're going to get out of this one. Great book!!
Another outstanding book! The thrills and the suspense are all there. This book is thrilling all the way through.
You're on the edge of your set trying to figure out how they're going to get out of this one. Great book!!
June 11, 2025
Awesome Read
I have read The Sheepdogs series and each book has been the best book! One would not think the next one could be better, BUT! It always is! Try the first one and you will see!
I have read The Sheepdogs series and each book has been the best book! One would not think the next one could be better, BUT! It always is! Try the first one and you will see!
September 23, 2025
This series just keeps on getting better. Action and suspense from the very beginning. There were a number of different storiy lines running concurrently, but that was in no way distracting, as they were all inter-related. Fantastic reading, just hanging out for the next one.
February 10, 2026
Great Series.
I loved everyone of the books in this series. Loved the dogs most. Great characters. Thought provoking references to the Bible. I wish there were more books in this series.
I loved everyone of the books in this series. Loved the dogs most. Great characters. Thought provoking references to the Bible. I wish there were more books in this series.
March 16, 2026
Another Amazing Read!
These stories just get better and better! All of the characters, the dogs, and the settings! I can only hope that there will be more. Please let there be more!
These stories just get better and better! All of the characters, the dogs, and the settings! I can only hope that there will be more. Please let there be more!
May 24, 2026
Once again, a bit far fetched…
As always a good read, if a rather far fetched story line.
Not to ruin any surprises for other readers, this is the first book of the series in which I cried real tears…
As always a good read, if a rather far fetched story line.
Not to ruin any surprises for other readers, this is the first book of the series in which I cried real tears…
June 9, 2026
It's over! 😭
This is the last of 11 books in the Gil Mason series. I'm sad! Every book is great. I now feel like all the bad guys have been eliminated and there's nothing left to read. If you enjoy intense action, seatbelt suspense, then this series is for you. Highly recommend.
This is the last of 11 books in the Gil Mason series. I'm sad! Every book is great. I now feel like all the bad guys have been eliminated and there's nothing left to read. If you enjoy intense action, seatbelt suspense, then this series is for you. Highly recommend.
March 14, 2025
Thrilling. Keeps your focus. Definitely for mature audiences.
March 19, 2025
More!
I am ready for a lot more of Gil, Max and the crew! You best get ready to put in long hours, your fans are impatient for more! I thoroughly enjoy this series! Thank you!
I am ready for a lot more of Gil, Max and the crew! You best get ready to put in long hours, your fans are impatient for more! I thoroughly enjoy this series! Thank you!
March 26, 2025
Avid reader
I read a review before I read this book and it said that this was the best book in the series so far. THEY WERE RIGHT✔️
I read a review before I read this book and it said that this was the best book in the series so far. THEY WERE RIGHT✔️
April 11, 2025
Another one knocked out of the park
Two woofs and three growls for a must read. Little Dan is growing up while Max looks on in approval.
Two woofs and three growls for a must read. Little Dan is growing up while Max looks on in approval.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews