Scent of Sabotage

by Dana Mentink

To track down the truth,
they’ll need to unravel the clues

Detective Beth Wolfe’s reunion with investigative journalist Jack St. James is a matter of life or death—and when a masked assailant attacks them, a severe blow leaves Jack with amnesia. Beth and her K-9, Arthur, are determined to keep Jack safe while he regains his lost memories. Was he targeted due to a case he was working on…or does it have something to do with the son they placed for adoption decades ago? When their investigations lead them inside a booby-trapped amusement park, it’s a race against the clock to put all the pieces together and uncover the park owners’ nefarious plot…or die trying.

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

Security Hounds Investigations

Book 1: Tracking the Truth
Book 2: Fugitive Search
Book 3: Hunted on the Trail
Book 4: Following the Clues
Book 5: Detecting Concealed Evidence
Book 6: Scent of Sabotage

Genres: Christian Fiction, Suspense, Mystery, Romantic Suspense, Contemporary

213 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication December 30, 2025

About the author

USA TODAY bestseller Dana Mentink enjoys writing in many different capacities. She currently writes for Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense and Poisoned Pen Press.

Dana is the recipient of a Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award, two ACFW Carol Awards as well as a Holt Medallion.

Dana loves feedback from her readers. Contact her via her website at www.danamentink.com. and be sure to follow her on Bookbub!
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/dana-...

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a perfect way to end this wonderful series - with a focus on Beth Wolfe, the owner of the Security Hounds Detective Agency and the martiarch of the Wolfe family!

This story might be my favourite one of the series. There was a perfect balance between the love and support of the Wolfe family and their pack of dogs, with the tension that Jack St. James’ return brought to the story, a well-plotted and unpredictable mystery, a light yet impactful faith thread, and the pulse-pounding, race-against-time factor.

Mentink held my attention from cover to cover, and I was absorbed in a great mystery that demanded my attention.

This may be the final book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone. If you haven’t discovered the Wolfe family and their Security Hounds Detective Agency, consider this a gentle nudge to investigate for yourself. You won’t be disappointed.

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

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I read this one in a single sitting!

Here’s what you can expect from this story:
->A detective and investigative journalist duo
->A heartfelt second chance romance
->A loyal K9 helper named Arthur
->Amnesia
->Family secrets
->A suspenseful amusement park rescue
->Nonstop, page turning suspense

I’ve read a few of the other books in this series (though not all), and now I definitely need to go back and catch up on everyone’s stories. But if there was ever a perfect series finale, this is it. Even reading out of order didn’t take away from my experience; if anything, it made me eager to dive into the rest of the Wolfe family’s stories now that I’ve read Beth’s.

When Beth gets a text from Jack, her first instinct is to ignore it. Thankfully, she decides to meet him, and what she learns changes everything. Jack has been in contact with their son, the baby they gave up for adoption decades ago.But is Adam hurt or needs her, what was Jack contacting her for? And why were Jack and Adam in contact and for how long? But before Beth can learn more, Jack is attacked and loses his memory.

Now a widow and (somewhat) empty nester, Beth feels drawn to uncover the truth about Adam, their son, and about Jack, the man she once loved deeply. As Jack and Beth work to recover his memories and piece together the danger surrounding them, they find themselves at risk, not just physically but emotionally. Could they get a second chance at love and a chance to truly know the son they once gave away? And why was Jack attacked....was it related to their son?!

This story was an absolute page turner! The mystery kept me guessing until the end, and the romance was perfectly balanced, sweet, emotional, and beautifully woven through the suspense. I loved how the story explored adoption, guilt, healing, and long buried secrets with so much heart.

The fact that I read it from start to finish in one sitting says it all...I couldn’t put it down!

I gave this 4.5 stars rounded up to 5!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review reflects my honest opinion.

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amusement park after hours is a strange place.
Bright structures built for joy stand silent.
Metal groans in the wind.
Paths meant for laughter become places where life and death hang in the balance.

This is the kind of attraction you choose knowingly, then realize survival requires more than you were ready to give.

This story moves once the machinery is engaged, like an old ride that lurches forward with a jolt. Past and present collide mid-motion. Memory surfaces at the worst possible time. Faith is lived out here, under pressure.

What unfolds carries urgency and weight. Years of faithfulness prove themselves when danger arrives. Love reveals its cost. There is something deeply honest in watching a life shaped by obedience suddenly asked to face what was long set aside. The tension here is physical, emotional, and spiritual all at once, like navigating a darkened midway where every step matters and missteps carry serious, lasting consequences.

Grace appears as Scripture describes it, freely given and unearned, beautiful, blessing us beyond measure when everything has been placed in God’s hands.

The writing carries depth, momentum, and faith with confidence, and the audiobook elevates the experience even further. Abby Craden delivers a narration that is fully engaged, emotionally grounded, and perfectly paced. The tension holds. The quieter moments matter. Nothing is rushed or overstated. The listening experience matches the strength of the story itself.

By the time the ride slows and the lights come back on, there is gratitude in the air, the kind that comes from finishing a long journey well. Characters have been loved deeply. Lessons have been learned honestly. Seasons have closed with blessing. You step off aware that every turn mattered, every risk shaped something lasting, and none of it unfolded outside God’s design.

This story will resonate with readers drawn to faith-anchored suspense, grace that carries real weight, and an ending that lets you step off the ride knowing the journey mattered.

I received a digital ARC from Celebrate Lit Publicity Group and the audiobook from the publisher via NetGalley. 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 great writing and the story’s wonderful content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, wow, wow!. What a high adrenaline rush! Excellent from start to finish. I almost cried at one point I was so invested in the story. That saying...saved the best for last? True in this series. While I totally enjoyed the other stories, this was my favorite and I'm sad to see it end.
While you could read it as a stand alone, you'd miss out on the meeting of other characters and canines. Each story is brilliantly written.
Well done. Definitely reccommend reading.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner in the Security Hounds series. Scent of Sabotage is a wonderful end to the series. I was kept on the edge of my seat many times throughout the story, holding my breath before I even realized it. The story kept me guessing from one twist to another.

It has nonstop action and is a page-turner that will keep you wondering what will happen next. The addition of the bloodhound, Arthur, and a pup called Poe stole the show a few times. The closed-down amusement park made for an exciting cat-and-mouse chase to try and stay alive. I loved the ending, which wrapped everything up nicely. I highly recommend Scent of Sabotage.

I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

“A wound she’d carried for thirty-eight years had broken open, and she wasn’t sure how to bind up the ragged edges.”

Aw, the final chapter ( book) in the Security Hounds Investigation series by Dana Mentink. How bittersweet! Scent of Sabotage is a welcome and fast-paced addition to the series, featuring matriarch Beth Wolfe, who has been the backbone of the family and their bloodhound team leader. A widow of several years, Beth is shocked to get a text out of the blue from Jack, a man she hasn’t seen in 30 years.

Jack’s sudden request to see her brings to the surface a multitude of unwelcome memories and emotions. None of Beth’s family are aware of this part of her past, except her deceased husband . Before Jack can confirm Beth’s fears, though, the attacks begin and Jack and Beth begin to run for their lives.

One reason Beth and Jack are largely on their own, is Beth’s reluctance to let go of her hidden past. She has many talented adult children who are people seekers along with their bloodhound counterparts, yet Beth keeps them out of the loop. “…maybe because she didn’t want them to have a chance to ask him too many questions about their past? Her scars were deep. His too.”

So many times, my heart ached for the help that could have been theirs with a little more forthcoming with Beth’s family. But don’t we act like that in real life sometimes? Trying to find our way on our own, without the help of others, because of fear of what they may think of us?

I give Jack points for being wise. Although he originally tells Beth, “…I don’t need a wingman,” he quickly realizes he is not going to dissuade Beth from joining his investigation. At that point, he doesn’t waste a lot of time trying. When Beth gets upset at him over matters, he doesn’t take it personally, but realizes that her reaction is normal. This patient man will go far!

And the requisite goofy bloodhound. Meet old, arthritic Arthur. He could only be a liability, right? But no, this elderly dog is an unexpected hero to both canine and people alike. I was amazed.

The mystery is well-plotted. I loved the amusement park setting and the twists certainly surprised me. I would not have survived this adventure, pure and simple!!
And, of course, Mentink made me feel like I was in the middle of the action with Beth and Jack. Fortunately for me, the reader, Mentink inserts some humor and witty comebacks that break the tension. Otherwise, this story will really cause the blood pressure to skyrocket!

I received a copy of the book from the author and from Celebrate Lit via BookFunnel. I also pre-ordered my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“God has a way of growing people up, doesn’t He?” - Jack

“She wasn’t his. She never was and never would be, but during occasional sleepless nights, he allowed himself to stray to the “what could have beens.” Deadly and depressing. God didn’t want him to dwell in the past.” (Jack)

“…everyone’s an enemy until we’re shown otherwise.” - Jack

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

This riveting story, brimming with suspense and danger, brings the Security Hounds Investigations series to a powerful, rewarding close. The intricately woven plot seized my attention immediately and held me tight through every twist and turn. In a harrowing, high-stakes quest, private investigator Beth Wolfe and investigative reporter Jack St. James must untangle the web of clues to bring to justice those responsible for an attack on Jack and a kidnapping. Arthur, an amazing, aging K-9 bloodhound, steals the scene on more than one occasion! The vividly described Northern California mountain setting, featuring an abandoned amusement park in the path of a raging wildfire, encases the action heightening the suspense and escalating the danger. Heart-tugging second chance romance enriches the story adding tension and depth. I appreciate the light but stirring faith thread woven through the narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it and the series. NOTE: Although this book is part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone.
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.

[Debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC with no expectations of a positive review. WOW! I loved the conclusion of he Security Hounds Investigation series. This is Beth, the Mom's, story. Her high school and college boyfriend, Jack, contacts her after all these years. He had information about the son they had given up. Not a day had gone by that Beth had not thought about that precious baby boy. Join Beth and Jack as they had into a mystery of their son's missing girlfriend, Tess. The last that Tess was seen was at Meadowlands Amusement Park. Join Beth, Jack and Arthur, Beth's aging bloodhound, as they work to unravel this case.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat. It is a must read for all suspense fans.

[Pianosue · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good story! Detective Beth Wolfe meets investigative journalist Jack St. James to see what he feels is important. They haven't seen each other in years. Their meeting turns into a time of terror as someone attacks Jack and leaves him with short-term amnesia! Beth is determined to help him uncover what is going on and keep him safe until his memory returns. Who is trying to kill him and now her? What is going on?

I received this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to give a favorable review. I honestly enjoyed reading this book. I read it in two days. It was a riveting story.

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a Second Chance Romantic Suspense, and this is the 6st book in the Security Hounds Investigations series. I have read some of the other books in this series before picking up this book. I read this book by listening to the audiobook, and I found the narrator was not my favorite. I did not have a problem understanding the audiobook, and I did listen to the whole audiobook. I just did not love the narrator. I got pulled into this book at first, but I felt the middle was boring at times. I just wanted more action or drama or something because it felt like the same things kept coming up over and over. I did enjoyed the ending. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[Deana Dick]

Another great story from a very talented author that gives readers thrills and chills. There is nothing better than reading a story with K-9s. I love how the characters seem realistic and the intrigue is paced perfectly. The setting of an amusement park adds definition to the book and increases the danger to our main characters. The author creates a story filled with faith, intrigue and relatable characters.

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

[Christine B · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a second chance romance with rescue dogs and action give this one a try! Beth works with her search and rescue dog alongside her grown children. When she receives a message from her ex, Jack, her world spins. He comes into her life after 30 years telling her his current case might have to do with their son they gave up for adoption all those years ago. They start working together as danger ensues. This book was a great second chance at love. There was action and sweet rescue dogs! I enjoyed this read! I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in trade for my honest opinion. My thoughts are my own.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a fast-paced and absorbing book that it was hard to put down. I really loved that the main characters got a second chance at love and also that they were older and still actively engaged in life and helping others. The bloodhound Arthur is a favorite canine now, since he is older, heroic and an intrepid investigator on his own. Arthur discovered some real twists in the story all on his own and it was a pleasure to read about his tenacity in tracking and finding victims and truth. The story centered around Beth and Jack who had a relationship in high school and are just now being reintroduced to each other as they search for their son’s missing girlfriend. The setting of an amusement park was perfect, creepy and with lots of places to move the action around. The plot was well written with surprising twists as well as clues all along the way about who the real villain was. I loved reading about characters from previous books in the series and the closeness of the family and how much they cared for each other was heartwarming. This is a realistically told suspense tale with plenty of action, some romance developing and a dog that is absolutely adorably intelligent.
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.

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the different setting of this book. I thought it was an interesting way to go when the majority of the book takes place in a closed down amusement park. I love that each of the books in this series focuses on a different person from the Wolfe family. Beth and Jack’s story was so good, and I definitely loved every minute as they navigated their investigation! I would definitely recommend this book!

**I received a copy of this book as part of the CelebrateLit blog team. I was not required to write a positive review and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart-pounding suspense with a compelling second chance romance.

After reading the other books in the series, I loved that this book was about Beth and her bloodhound, Arthur. There is a lot going on, with a lot of action, and a heartfelt story of faith and family. Jack and Beth make a great team, they do a great job working together, and have good interaction. Secrets from the past threatened the future, but can the truth set them free?

The story has all sorts of twists and turns, set in an abandoned and booby-trapped amusement park that is the stuff of nightmares. Engaging storytelling, strong faith, with wonderful characters and a compelling storyline.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Susan Simpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful story
! I'm so glad Beth got her own book. This is the sixth book in the Security Hounds Investigations Series but can easily be read as a stand-alone. The plot moves fast from the very beginning, and characters are so believable you will feel like you know them. Dana Mentink expertly combines elements of suspense, romance, and faith. I very highly recommend this book!

[Ethelann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What an ending to Dana Mentink's Security Hounds Investigation series. I absolutely loved how this story was totally about the mom, Beth. It's a story that started with a run in with her old love, Jack. And then it takes you to bad guys who are targeting Jack and now she's in their sights.
But Jack also opens old wounds from her past that only her deceased husband knows about. Now things are coming to a head. Beth and Jack must work together to bring the bad guys down and protect others.
This book was a real page-turner!!

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent end to Dana's Security Hounds series. While I hated to see the series end already because I loved meeting each character and their bloodhound I enjoyed all of the characters in each book of the series. Of course I wanted Beth to have her own happy ending and was glad when she got her own happy ending in the last book of the series with Jack. I felt it was the perfect ending for such an excellent series of books. I also loved how Arthur took to little Poe. And to see Poe get a happy ending too was great as well.

[Misty Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A dynamic ending to the series! Nonstop danger and intrigue from the opening pages. It captured me with heart pounding suspense, and I was completely shocked at the twists in the book that I never guessed or saw coming.

This book could be read as a stand alone, but do yourself a favor and read the entire series! It contains all the best parts of a great book/ series with suspense, danger, and fantastic characters. This final book did not disappoint, but I am sad to see this wonderful series end.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

[Alyssa Amey Madjeski · Rating 4 out of 5]

Upon requesting this book, I didn’t realize it was the last book in a series I hadn’t read… but it didn’t matter! It took me just a minute to get my bearings but I was able to dive right in and really enjoyed this quick romantic suspense escape with an older heroine and her trusty K9! Arthur the dog was such a great character!

I enjoy second chance romances, and this one is a doozy. Beth and Jack have quite this history, but it was so long ago. When Jack reaches out, is this widow brave enough to find out what he needs to tell her about the son they gave up for adoption? But then Jack is attacked- is it related? How long will it take for him to regain his memories to help the case?

A great suspense ride! This story kept me turning pages. I also would love to get the opportunity one day to go back and read the rest of the series, because this finale was really well done.

I received a complementary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not asked to leave a positive review and my opinions are my own.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!! This was such a unique story! Here's some of the things that stood out to me in a good way. Both the MMC and the FMC are older (both older then 50) which is something I don't see often and it gave a really interesting dynamic to the story. I also loved how something in their shared past that was so horrible, turned out for good! (Reminding me that God ALWAYS has a plan! Even when we don't see it) The book is a perfect blend of suspense and mystery,with a dash of romance. Highly recommend it and give it 5 stars!

I was given this book to read by the author - all thoughts are my own.

[Sheri Jesse · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very fitting end to this wonderful series.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good! It is very realistic. It also has a wonderful storyline. Beth has moved on in her life. Jack never really did. Loaded with action and you want to keep turning the pages.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read several books by this author and she is on my must read list. This book started out with the suspense beginning within the first two chapters. It also had a really good mystery that started in chapter two when the main male character has amnesia. I think it is really cool that the main characters in the novel are both older than a lot of books have them be. There were several twists and turns that made the book so good until the very end. I highly recommend this book.

I received a complimentary copy from the author. The opinions in this review are my own.

[Inspirationalfictionreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so happy to hear we were getting a story centered around Beth in the Security Hounds series! Her character has been such a steady presence throughout the rest of the books, and seeing her step into the spotlight was great! I especially loved that this was a second-chance romance—the emotional history between Beth and Jack added so much depth to this story, and it made their journey all the more meaningful.

Arthur, Beth’s bloodhound, absolutely stole my heart. His role wasn’t just cute or convenient; he was truly essential to the plot, and Dana Mentink did a wonderful job showcasing the intelligence, loyalty, and personality of these incredible working dogs.

The suspense was exceptionally well done. Mentink has a real talent for blending danger, mystery, and heart, and Scent of Sabotage delivered all of that in spades. The pacing kept me fully engaged.

I’ve genuinely enjoyed each and every story in the Security Hounds series, and this final installment wrapped things up beautifully. Scent of Sabotage is an exciting, heartfelt, and satisfying conclusion to a fantastic series. I’ll miss these characters—and their heroic hounds—so much! 5 stars!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is light.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Bloodhound drool is no small thing.”

The Wolfe siblings, their mom Beth, and their team of hilariously endearing bloodhounds have thoroughly entertained me and claimed my heart over these last six books, with Scent of Sabotage wrapping everything up in such a satisfying way. Except I don’t want to say goodbye yet – I really love these characters (especially the 4-legged ones) – and I’m pretty sure this has been my favorite Dana Mentink series so far, which is saying a lot because I’ve read most of her series and loved them all. So, even though I pouted a little about this being the last book, I mostly just immersed myself completely in the danger, the fight for survival, the mystery, the romance (because, duh), the heart, and the humor, staying thoroughly entertained and on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.

I’ve always adored the way Mentink writes dogs, and crafting the Security Hounds Investigations team has really showcased these talents. In Scent of Sabotage, we get to spend more time with Arthur, the senior dog who’s immensely loyal to his handler Beth (aka the matriarch of the Wolfe pack) and still has a nose for news. Or, rather for someone needing a rescue. Despite his advanced age, Arthur is still protective and steady and skilled at his job… and he amusingly makes a great nanny to a certain precocious puppy who crosses their path. (Oh my goodness, I kept catching myself giggling out loud as I pictured some of those super-cute scenes while reading.) I really appreciated Mentink giving an older dog his own time in the spotlight with such honor and affection too.

Now, on to the human stars of our story. (Don’t worry, Arthur, we all know you’re the real MVP here but I’ve gotta at least mention Beth and Jack too.) Beth isn’t expecting her high school sweetheart to contact her out of the blue and request an urgent meeting with her… nor is she expecting Jack to lose his memory in an attack right after mentioning the baby they gave up for adoption almost 4 decades ago. Her mind is swirling with questions, and his mind is blank when it comes to the answers. Talk about high stakes! I couldn’t look away as they pieced together this puzzle while dodging more attacks and danger and their own resurfaced feelings, not to mention juggling the complex emotions stirred up by talking about their son. Both Beth and Jack are great characters to hang out with on the pages too. Beth is engaging and warm, savvy and independent, and she’s got some kick-butt moves when needed! (I loved how one of the characters reacted to watching her and Jack take down a bad guy lol) And Jack… whew. Pardon me while I pull out my fan. He is quite a swoony and charming middle-aged hero, a good guy with just enough rogue in him to keep things interesting. Plus, he doesn’t drool like Arthur does so there’s that. (Kidding, Jack! And Arthur!)

Bottom Line: Scent of Sabotage is signature Dana Mentink – riveting suspense, pulse-pounding danger (that I can almost tangibly feel), sweet romance, naturally-occurring faith threads, laugh-out-loud humor, and unforgettable dogs who steal every scene they’re in. Watching Beth and Jack navigate that danger, Jack’s missing memories, their long-buried feelings for each other, and decades of unresolved emotion over their son’s adoption added a beautiful depth and poignancy too. And not only does the suspense have some very high stakes, it left me stunned more than once at plot twists I hadn’t seen coming. I must give special mention to Arthur, that sweet, senior, heroic good boy who deserves his own medal, parade, and unlimited treats for bravery and babysitting alone. If you’ve loved these dogs, these characters, and this series even half as much as I have, Scent of Sabotage is the tail-wagging, heart-swooning finale you need to make saying goodbye (wail!) more bearable.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Kay Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

SCENT OF SABOTAGE by Dana Mentink is the spectacular story of the riveting, action-packed reunion between Detective Beth Wolfe and Jack St. James, investigative journalist. It’s where the past meets the present and they just pray there’s a future for them all.

Beth has a secret from her past that only her deceased husband and Jack know, not even her five children. She’s at the January Jubilee when she gets a text from the past. After more than thirty years, why would Jack be reaching out to her now and asking her to meet him as soon as possible? As careless teens, Jack and Beth had a baby boy – Adam. Knowing their on again-off again romance won’t last, Beth made the hardest decision of her life – giving up her son for adoption. While she went on to be an Air Force flight nurse, married and had other children, she has never forgotten her first born son.

Jack had always known Beth held his heart. No one compared. Was it that love or curiosity that had him searching and eventually finding their son? While he’d planned on approaching Beth about finding him, the when was taken out of his hand. His frantic son asked him to find the woman he loves, who had fallen off the radar. He knew he had to tell her. His heart skipped a beat when he first saw her. Before he could tell her what the meeting was about, a man rushed at him hitting him in the head with a lead pipe knocking him out. It resulted in a bit of amnesia with him not remembering why he had asked to meet her or the assignment he was on. Why did he drag Beth into something that could get both her and her K-9 hurt?

Will Jack get all his memory back? Can they find Tess? What is inside the Meadowlands Amusement Park that that someone is willing to kill to keep everyone out – or in? Who is behind all the attacks? Once they get inside, will they find answers or more than they were looking for? Will they all get out alive?

SCENT OF SABOTAGE is an exceptional story that is impossible to put down once you start reading it. You are bound to fall in love with Beth, K-9 Arthur and Jack while take an instant disliking to the Cumberland brothers. Dana Mentink gives us a story of determination, trust, forgiveness, second chances, good vs evil, romance, family and wraps it in a wonderful thread of faith. SCENT OF SABOTAGE is without a doubt a FIVE STAR book that I highly recommend to everyone! What an amazing way to end a series!

SCENT OF SABOTAGE is the sixth book in the Security Hounds Investigations series, but can definitely be read as a standalone book.

I received an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#ScentofSabotage #SecurityHoundsInvestigation #DanaMentink #LoveInspiredSuspense #InspirationalRomance

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scent of Sabotage by Dana Mentink is an Inspirational Romantic Suspense novel. It is the sixth book in the Security Hounds Investigations series. What happens when the one person who holds the truth can’t remember it—and someone is willing to kill to keep it that way?

This gripping romantic suspense wastes no time pulling readers into danger. Detective Beth Wolfe’s long-awaited reunion with investigative journalist Jack St. James turns terrifying when a masked attacker strikes, leaving Jack injured and suffering from amnesia. Suddenly, Beth isn’t just protecting a witness—she’s guarding a man who once meant everything to her.

With her fiercely loyal K-9 partner, Arthur, at her side, Beth races to keep Jack alive while piecing together a mystery filled with shadows and secrets. Was Jack attacked because of a dangerous investigation he was working on? Or does the threat reach deeper—into a painful choice they made decades earlier when they placed their son for adoption?

The emotional stakes are just as intense as the physical danger. Jack’s memory loss creates poignant moments of vulnerability and rediscovery, forcing Beth to confront unresolved feelings and long-buried regrets. Watching their connection slowly re-emerge—even without Jack’s memories—adds a tender layer to the relentless suspense.

Just when you think the tension can’t get any higher, the investigation leads to a deserted, booby-trapped amusement park. This chilling setting becomes the perfect backdrop for a heart-pounding race against time, filled with close calls, shocking revelations, and a villain willing to destroy anyone who gets too close to the truth.

Faith themes of redemption, forgiveness, and hope are woven naturally throughout the story, offering quiet moments of reflection amid the chaos. Beth’s courage, Jack’s perseverance, and Arthur’s steadfast loyalty create a trio readers will root for long after the final page.

This novel delivers everything fans of Christian romantic suspense crave—danger, emotion, faith, and a love story tested by time, tragedy, and truth. If you enjoy fast-paced mysteries with high stakes and heartfelt depth, this book deserves a spot on your must-read list. It is a thrilling reminder that even when memories are lost, love—and God’s grace—never truly are. 📚✨

So if you want an Inspirational Romantic Suspense novel, check out Scent of Sabotage by Dana Mentink, along with the rest of the Security Hounds Investigations series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scent of Sabotage by Dana Mentink
To track down the truth,
they’ll need to unravel the clues

Detective Beth Wolfe’s reunion with investigative journalist Jack St. James is a matter of life or death—and when a masked assailant attacks them, a severe blow leaves Jack with amnesia. Beth and her K-9, Arthur, are determined to keep Jack safe while he regains his lost memories. Was he targeted due to a case he was working on…or does it have something to do with the son they placed for adoption decades ago? When their investigations lead them inside a booby-trapped amusement park, it’s a race against the clock to put all the pieces together and uncover the park owners’ nefarious plot…or die trying.
My favorite quote is
They hadn’t cleared the lot when her question bubbled out. “I want to know why you mentioned Adam.”
Jack cocked his head and a new rush of anxiety twisted her insides.
“I don’t remember,” he said.
Jack tried to keep the pain out of his voice as the miles rolled by. It was strange, driving along in a car with Beth Wolfe, the woman he’d known as Beth Camden.
I recommend reading this book.
Scent of Sabotage by Dana Mentink is a 4 -star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Dana Mentink.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

[Donna C · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I think you should know:
Scent of Sabotage, an Inspirational Suspense by Dana Mentink is the sixth book in the Security Hounds series. This book features matriarch of the family Beth Wolfe. While this book *could* be read as a standalone, I highly recommend that you read the previous books in the series prior to starting this book as it gives spoilers for all of the previous characters.


What you might need to know:
Beth gave a baby up for adoption prior to getting married and starting her family, none of her kids know about the son she gave up.


What I think about this book:
I have fallen in love with the Wolfe family and their unique pack of dogs over the past five books, while I am very interested to learn more about their mother and her story. Beth once again starts the readers off with a bang, when Beth is contacted by someone from her past she finds herself in the middle of a dangerous mystery. Jack was attacked immediately after meeting up with Beth, which gave him amnesia, but he also held information back. This really made for an intriguing story. Once again Mentink kept me on my toes from the first page to the last! It is so bittersweet to see this series end, but I can’t wait to see what Mentink has in store for her readers in the future.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own