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Call of the Wild #1

Track of Courage

Not yet published
Expected 6 Jan 26

Win a free print copy of this book!

4 days and 04:14:36

10 copies available
U.S. only
Rate this book
A hijacked plane. A pursuing killer. And a K9's instinct to help them make it out alive.

Pop Singer Keely Williams's search for her biological mother in Alaska has been painfully unsuccessful. Now she just wants to escape this wild frontier and never look back. But when her plane is hijacked, she's suddenly plunged into a race against not only an Alaska blizzard but also a killer who's on her tail.

After a career-ending injury, ex-cop Dawson Mulligan has only one friend--Caspian, the stray dog he adopted. Dawson just wants to figure out how to get his life on track, but during a flight home to Copper Mountain, he spots a downed plane and stops to help. Except when his not-a-rescue dog runs off into the woods and discovers the trail of a missing survivor, it's up to the former cop to stage a rescue.

But Dawson has no idea he's being pulled into a deadly pursuit, or that Caspian is more than he seems. There might be redemption and second chances waiting for both Dawson and Keely if they have the courage to face their wounded pasts and fight for their future.

Join master storyteller Susan May Warren for a propulsive ride through the Alaskan wilderness, where love might be the riskiest--and most rewarding--adventure of all.

Prepare to experience edge-of-your-seat action combined with heart-stirring romance and heroic K9 companions in this exhilarating romantic suspense that will thrill fans of Lynette Eason and Elizabeth Goddard.

320 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2026

10 people are currently reading
3126 people want to read

About the author

Susan May Warren

217 books3,630 followers
I can't help be amazed at the gifts God has delighted me with - a wonderful husband, four amazing children, and the opportunity to write for Him.

I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.

Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.

Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.

Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.

Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.

I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.

I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.

God Bless and Happy Reading!

In His Grip,
Susan May Warren

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for theliterateleprechaun .
2,449 reviews217 followers
November 5, 2025
Another winner from a trusted author!

This book focuses on Dawson Mulligan and Keely Williams as they learn (1) the importance of dealing with trauma and confronting old wounds and (2) that uncomfortable circumstances are simply opportunities to wake them up, getting them to pay attention to what’s inside them.

Adoption is one of Warren’s themes and I’m sure it’s no coincidence that Dawson came to adopt Caspian, a Doberman-Labrador, or that Keely walks into Dawson’s life when she did. Caspian ends up rescuing Dawson in more ways than one and Keely learned to trust again, thanks to both Dawson and his dog. Sometimes the very things that we need are the last things we are looking for in the last place on Earth that we think we’d find them!

Divine purpose is another of Warren’s beautifully executed themes. I love the thought that there isn't anything that can happen to us in this life that can’t used or isn't designed by God to know Him better. It’s so easy to complain about circumstances when they don’t go according to our plan. I appreciated the encouragement to pivot and see them as invitations.

I loved the thought about forgiveness leading to abundance and about prescriptive ‘time-outs’.

Warren has crafted another wonderful romantic suspense series, spinning off her widely successful Sky King Ranch, Alaska Air One Rescue and Minnesota Kingstons. It highlights all the things we love about Alaska and this extended family with big hearts. I’m looking forward to Jericho’s story next.

This book may connect with characters from other series, but it can be read without previously reading any Susan May Warren books.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Profile Image for DevotedToHope.
660 reviews96 followers
January 1, 2026
I caught myself holding my breath several times while reading this suspense-chilling novel. I felt the searing cold that steals your very breath, tightens your chest, and makes every hard-earned step feel urgent. The danger isn’t distant or abstract. It presses in with wild wind, blinding snow, and the full knowledge that one wrong decision could mean the end.

Everything felt urgent. The wilderness. The pursuit. The isolation. Yet the tension went deeper than survival. Keely carries longing, grief, and unanswered questions she has tried to outrun for too long. Dawson lives inside the weight of loss and guilt, his body moving forward while his heart remains tethered to what went wrong. Their connection forms under pressure, stripped of pretense, and every interaction felt charged with both fear and hope.

And Caspian … oh, Caspian. He was the emotional heartbeat of the story, loyal to his core, his presence marked by bark, instinct, and unwavering devotion. I worried about him. I smiled because of him. I felt the ache of his loyalty and the beauty of his faithful purpose. Watching him work, protect, and love pulled at me in deeply emotional and memorable ways.

Threaded through it all was faith that clearly showed up. Scripture, prayer, and spiritual truth met fear, trauma, and regret right where they lived. The book speaks honestly about suffering, forgiveness, and peace … not as ideas, but as realities and actions that must be chosen again and again as we keep our eyes on Jesus and our hearts obedient to Him.

Courage within these pages took shape as loyalty, obedience, commitment, and mercy. It looked like frozen wounds yielding to God’s touch, forgiveness loosening its grip on fear, and peace settling deep in the knowledge of being forgiven, accepted, and safe. Many lines in this book stayed with me, including this one: “Peace doesn’t come from inside. It comes from knowing that you’re forgiven. Accepted. Safe.”

Community moments brought genuine warmth in the middle of the storm. People showed up, offered shelter, and chose sacrifice. Those scenes grounded the story and reminded me how often God supplies the needs of others, gently nudging those whose hearts are fully surrendered to Him.

I closed this book grateful and moved, not because my life looks like this story, but because the ache beneath it felt familiar and invited a quieter, deeper attentiveness to Jesus.

Readers who love chilling, heart-racing suspense where faith in Jesus and relationships with others truly matter.

I received a digital ARC from the publisher and 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 writing style and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Profile Image for Joanne | wellreadcoffeeaddict.
384 reviews163 followers
December 16, 2025
This book would make a great tv series with cozy winter vibes and lots of action. I’d have to check to make sure, but I think I read roughly 10 Susan May Warren books this year. Track of Courage is my favourite by far. The stakes are high and action keeps rolling but in a realistic, not too far out there way. It makes for a great suspenseful read set in snowy Alaska — which, to be fair, most books set in Alaska tend to lean to action and mystery.

Susie May has a lot of books with interwoven plots and characters, but you can definitely pick this book up without reading the previous novels. If you do want more backstory, Alaska Air One is a five book series where Dawson Mulligan was first introduced.

I started the year with a five star Susan May Warren and it looks like I just about ended the year with another one.

“I’m convinced that nothing can happen to me in this life that isn’t used or designed by God to know Him better.”
Profile Image for MJSH.
1,320 reviews74 followers
October 31, 2025
"He's caught in the past, and the more he looks back to what might have been, the less he can function today."

The first book of Call of the Wild series is full action, suspense, faith lessons, music, and romance - all the things Susan May Warren is famous for. I loved going back to Alaska and catching up with the Air One Rescue crew and the Sky King Ranch crew. Dawson is not a new name in Alaska, being a Mulligan cousin. My heart hurt for his justice loving spirit, sidelined from his job as a detective with a physical injury and a huge helping of guilt and grief on the side. Caspian was an unforgettable four-legged hero, complete with dog version of ADHD and uncanny ability to track and provide comfort. Keely and Dawson both had past family trauma but learn to forgive and heal. I loved watching Keely create music and loved her resilience, compassion, and grit. The secondary characters at the art colony were super fun and I hope to see more of them in future books. It looks like we have a new set of Alaskan villains - the Sorros brothers - and I am curious to see if they will lead us closer to the rogue CIA agent who has been slippery and elusive since the Montana Marshall series (though I have it on good authority that The Hunt for Alan Martin series will release next summer so I guess we must wait).
If you enjoy romantic suspense, you will love this book that kicks off a promising series of action, faith, and romance in the wintery wilds of Alaska.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell via Interviews and Reviews and NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Tracey.
291 reviews
October 30, 2025
What a story! Just when I think Susan May Warren has maxed out her capacity for suspenseful adventure she goes and ups her game with Track of Courage! 5 stars!

I loved Dawson Mulligan in the final book of the Alaska Air One series, One Last Storm. He's back as the main character In Track of Courage, along with his sidekick Caspian. He meets up with Keely Williams in the most unexpected way, and the thrill ride is on! Non-stop action and suspense will have readers turning pages at warp speed. I found myself holding my breath more than once. As a sidenote, I will say the fighting action is ramped up pretty high.

One of the things I love about a Warren book is she always has the most meaningful and inspirational quotes of any author I know. A few favorites:

*"I'm convinced that nothing can happen to me in this life that isn't used or designed by God to know Him better."
*"God uses circumstances to wake us up, get at things inside."
*Trust God, and surrender to Him...You not only get salvation, but you'll be set free to discover yourself too. The person you were made to be."

Track of Courage is a really great story encompassing issues of self doubt, worthiness and giving ourselves and all our problems to God. I like that this new Call of the Wild series is branching out to include K9 dogs and how they can be of service to us. I enjoyed Dawson and Keely's story to the very last page and will be waiting with great anticipation for the second book, Scent of Hope with Jericho Bowie. I appreciate Revell Publishers making a copy available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.
Profile Image for Heather Wood.
Author 7 books254 followers
Read
November 16, 2025
The stakes are high in Track of Courage, with danger present from the very beginning when Keely finds herself being pursued through the Alaska bush with a storm closing in. I don't know if it was me or this story that made the suspense element feel more intense in this one, but certain elements felt too close to home, with the way danger came to the safest of havens. It was well developed and paced. I could hardly think of falling in love in such danger-filled moments, but our characters did! The characters were challenged in their faith and grew in their trust of God.
I read a copy provided by the publisher and netgalley so that I could write an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kristen.
1,179 reviews
October 31, 2025
Track of Courage is a spellbinding combination of romance and suspense. The book begins as Dawson and Keely are getting to know each other and we see into the life of the residents of Woodcrest. Then the suspense ramped up and I couldn’t put it down! I loved it! And I have to say, Caspian, lovable and underrated service dog, stole the show! I enjoyed getting to see members of the Alaska Air One Rescue team and Sky Kings Ranch, although reading those series first isn’t essential. I will now anxiously await the next book in this series!
Profile Image for Meagan.
289 reviews126 followers
November 27, 2025
Loved this one! Super fast-paced adventure!
Profile Image for Mark.
2,491 reviews51 followers
Review of advance copy
January 2, 2026
Awesome read. Warren never disappoints, and man....what a read. Dawson and Keely were great and likable characters in this amazing suspenseful read.
65 reviews1 follower
November 14, 2025
“Pop singer Keely Williams’s search for her biological mother in Alaska has been painfully unsuccessful. Now she just wants to escape this wild frontier and never look back,” states online regarding Susan May Warren’s novel, Track of Courage.

~ What ~
The first book in the Call of the Wild series, this 320-page advanced reader copy targets those who like a Christian contemporary romance about being hunted in rural Alaska and protected by a canine while dealing with personal issues. Focusing on suspense, topics of PTSD, illness, injuries, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending includes a note to the reader, the author’s biography, and advertisements.

In this story, Keeley, an international pop star, travels to Alaska to find her birth mother and make an important decision. Without getting the answers she needs, she grabs a flight home, but the plane is hijacked and she becomes a target in the remote, wintry landscape. Dawson, an injured cop, and his adopted rescue dog find Keeley, and the two protagonists try to keep the killer at bay while they learn to trust each other and God.

~ Why ~
This is a trek across the backwoods of rural Alaska as survival of the elements becomes the focal point. I enjoyed the relationship between Keeley and Dawson, especially when Caspian, the dog, was included. The growing awareness of how the past can hinder or help the future was tender because it included God’s love and goodness. The descriptions of the terrain and the beauty of Alaska were well written.

~ Why Not
Some may not like a story that includes the importance of having a relationship with Jesus Christ, but it is not overdone. Readers who have not read other books by the author may not know the backstories of other characters. I found parts too “Hallmarkish,” and the book cookie-cutter in its plot.

~ Wish ~
Although there are prayers to God, quoted Bible verses, and hymns, the author, once again, missed the perfect opportunity to give the important eternal plan of salvation that Jesus died on the cross for our sins and rose the third day. I prefer all pronouns of the Almighty capitalized for reverence. A list of characters would be helpful, especially since a few are from other series.

~ Want ~
If you are into a contemporary Christian suspense romance series involving a charming rescue dog, this first book in a new series tracks courageously trusting God and not succumbing to one’s fear.

Thanks to Revell and Interviews & Reviews for this complimentary book. I am under no obligation to give a positive review.
Profile Image for Rick Norris.
Author 3 books21 followers
December 5, 2025
Northern Exposure meets Twin Peaks

Track of Courage is an action-adventure, mystery, and love story that brings the Alaskan wilderness to life. Susan May Warren takes time to expose the struggles of living in the wilderness given the many challenges troubling the characters.

The story centers around a New York City pop singer Keely Williams searching for her biological mother in Alaska. Losing confidence, she gives up the hope of revealing her identity to her mom and decides to escape the wild frontier and never look back. But upon her return flight, her plane is hijacked and she's suddenly plunged into a race against not only an Alaskan blizzard but also a killer who's on her tail.

The novel also circles around an ex-cop, Dawson Mulligan, who had a career-ending injury and the stray dog he adopted—Caspian. Dawson just wants to figure out how to get his life on track, but as he was flying in a small plane home to Copper Mountain, he spots a downed aircraft and stops to help. His not-a-rescue dog runs off into the woods and discovers the trail of a missing survivor, Keely Williams. Although Dawson doesn’t know it yet, it’s up to him to stage a rescue and protect her from the killer.

The novelist shows her extensive experience by weaving the current tense story of Keely and Dawson with their past traumas, showing motivation for their steps and missteps throughout the Alaskan tundra.

Ms. Warren peppers the novel with excellent writing style. In this scene, she allows the reader to feel the tension in a room between Kelly and two residents of a small town. “And now, all the air seemed to leave the room too. Donald stiffened and Keeley lost her ability to breath. And even the woman by the fire—Nance? –looked away, her arms wrapped around her body.”

Another great example is Ms. Warren’s description of scenes. “A vapor misted off it [River], caught in the swirl of the blizzard, as if it held secrets, a lethal breath.”

The story also has a nice interplay between the prose and musical lyrics sung by our rock star protagonist, Keely.

I recommend this book, not only to Susan May Warren fans, but to all those who are looking to follow an author who writes about human struggles and accomplishments so well.



I received a review copy courtesy of Baker Publishing Company through Interviews & Reviews for an unbiased and objective review.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,355 reviews164 followers
November 18, 2025
3.5 stars
"I'm convinced that nothing can happen to me in this life that isn't used or designed by God to know him better."

It began as a simple plane ride, just a quick way to get from one place to another. Unfortunately, in this case Keely Williams is caught up in a set of circumstances that were doomed to fail, her flight was going to crash in the Alaskan wilderness. Second guessing her decision to leave New York City in order to locate her birth mother, the famous pop singer makes a run for her life after surviving the crash, only to be chased by an unknown assailant.

Former law enforcement officer Dawson Mulligan is slowly adapting to life after a horrific knee injury, his peculiar adopted rescue dog sticking close by his side during the entire rehabilitation process. Too close on most days, if the truth were known. When man and dog happen upon a distressed woman at the bottom of a ravine, everything changes. Every single thing.

As you might imagine, Keely and Dawson's trek to safety takes multiple twists and turns. The danger stalking Keely is bigger and broader than they could have ever imagined, making them completely vulnerable and totally unprepared for what will be required of them; virtual strangers standing together against continual mental, physical, and spiritual onslaughts. Thankfully, a team forms around them, but little do they realize that returning to their real lives might prove to be the biggest challenge of all.

There are so many spiritual blessings in the form of wise words of advice sprinkled throughout this story. Readers will admire both the rushes of adrenaline and respites of quiet conversations that this adventurous narrative ushers onto the page. However, it may be the whispers of music that will resonate the loudest.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Baker Publishing through Interviews and Reviews.
Profile Image for Debbie.
3,631 reviews86 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
December 17, 2025
"Track of Courage" is a Christian romantic suspense. Dawson has PTSD from trying to save a child's life, but he failed and got a major injury to his knee in the process. He's mostly recovered physically but is in denial about his emotional trauma. He hasn't make the connection that his dog--left behind by a traveler--is trained to help those with PTSD and emotional distress (not to mention, the dog's great at finding lost people). The dog played a major role throughout the story, helping Dawson, Keely, and several other characters.

Keely's a famous pop singer who may have lost her voice--time will tell. She was adopted by a relative and now must decide if she should take back her suddenly-orphaned child that she gave up for adoption. It doesn't help that a killer hijacked the small plane she's on, causing it to controlled-crash, and now she's being hunted by the killer while in a remote wilderness area in the winter.

The main characters were complex, realistic people, and I cared about what happened to them. Keely was unexpectedly resourceful and quick-thinking for a rich, city girl (thanks to her adoptive father). Dawson's impressed by her grit and her caring nature. They became friends as they spent time together, and they built each other up. The suspense stayed high throughout the story as they battled to survive the weather, the wilderness, and the killer. They learned to trust God even when bad things happen. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this suspenseful novel.

I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Profile Image for Christine Barth.
1,858 reviews3 followers
November 19, 2025
This review by librarian Christine Barth first appeared in the November 2025 issue of Library Journal.

Keely Williams is perhaps better known as American pop music sensation Bliss, but she is hoping to journey through the Alaskan wilderness incognito in search of her biological mother. Unfortunately, her quick charter flight turns into a plane crash, followed by murder and an escape to a remote artist's enclave during a blizzard.

Thankfully, ex-cop Dawson Mulligan's newly adopted Doberman-Labrador may have had more training than Dawson suspects, although it will take all of both of their skills to rescue Keely and untangle the mystery surrounding the charter flight passengers. Everything is made more difficult by the remote landscape and frigid air temperatures.

VERDICT: Warren ("Alaska Air One Rescue" series) knows what readers crave in romantic suspense. In her trademark style, her new series features characters from other books flitting in and out as Keely and Dawson fight the sparks and the danger in a remote and beautiful setting. Pair with other adventures from "the last frontier" that focus on faith and belonging, including Dani Pettrey's "Alaskan Courage" books and Elizabeth Goddard's "Missing in Alaksa" saga.
Profile Image for Scott County Library System.
283 reviews18 followers
November 19, 2025
This review by librarian Christine Barth first appeared in the November 2025 issue of Library Journal.

Keely Williams is perhaps better known as American pop music sensation Bliss, but she is hoping to journey through the Alaskan wilderness incognito in search of her biological mother. Unfortunately, her quick charter flight turns into a plane crash, followed by murder and an escape to a remote artist's enclave during a blizzard.

Thankfully, ex-cop Dawson Mulligan's newly adopted Doberman-Labrador may have had more training than Dawson suspects, although it will take all of both of their skills to rescue Keely and untangle the mystery surrounding the charter flight passengers. Everything is made more difficult by the remote landscape and frigid air temperatures.

VERDICT: Warren ("Alaska Air One Rescue" series) knows what readers crave in romantic suspense. In her trademark style, her new series features characters from other books flitting in and out as Keely and Dawson fight the sparks and the danger in a remote and beautiful setting. Pair with other adventures from "the last frontier" that focus on faith and belonging, including Dani Pettrey's "Alaskan Courage" books and Elizabeth Goddard's "Missing in Alaksa" saga.
Profile Image for Nora St Laurent.
1,651 reviews113 followers
November 20, 2025
What's not to love about exploring Alaska? All of nature’s beauty, plus some drama Keeley, famous pop stars created. Sprinkle in an unexpected love match for Dawson and Keeley. They both were looking for a fresh start. I enjoyed these intriguing larger-than-life characters as they worked together to unravel an unsettling mystery.

This gripping, romantic suspense novel was enjoyable from beginning to end. I was intrigued and ready for a wild journey that not only dealt with Alaska's outdoors but also had readers learn about each character's prior struggles. This book is a romantic suspense, action-packed adventure, and much more. Your book club will love it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
Profile Image for Jessica.
346 reviews60 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
December 21, 2025
Thank you to Revell Fiction for the ARC and finished copy of Track of Courage by Susan May Warren. All opinions are my own.

Track of Courage is an exciting story with lots of danger, romance, and character growth. I stayed up multiple nights because I didn’t want to put the book down.

Both Keely and Dawson were great main characters with flaws, and I liked how their time spent together helped them both grow spiritually and to start making progress in healing from past trauma. They quickly opened up to each other, which I thought was realistic considering the circumstances that they survived together.

I also loved the community aspect of this story and that there were so many people willing to help each other whether they knew them well or not. There were a lot of great moments where people stepped up and sacrificed their time and safety to help others.

The adoption aspect of the story was also special, and I appreciated that some regrets and worries were resolved when the characters finally connected.

One of the best parts of this book was Dawson’s dog Caspian. He was so loyal and loving, and I loved his relationship with Dawson and then the other characters he connected with.

Overall, I would recommend this book!
324 reviews21 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
December 30, 2025
I am a Susan May Warren fan and this book delivers. I can’t wait for more in this series. It has all the things, some romance, mystery and the great outdoors.

A hijacked plane. A pursuing killer. And a K9's instinct to help them make it out alive.

Pop Singer Keely Williams's search for her biological mother in Alaska has been painfully unsuccessful. Now she just wants to escape this wild frontier and never look back. But when her plane is hijacked, she's suddenly plunged into a race against not only an Alaska blizzard but also a killer who's on her tail.

After a career-ending injury, ex-cop Dawson Mulligan has only one friend--Caspian, the stray dog he adopted. Dawson just wants to figure out how to get his life on track, but during a flight home to Copper Mountain, he spots a downed plane and stops to help. Except when his not-a-rescue dog runs off into the woods and discovers the trail of a missing survivor, it's up to the former cop to stage a rescue.

But Dawson has no idea he's being pulled into a deadly pursuit, or that Caspian is more than he seems. There might be redemption and second chances waiting for both Dawson and Keely if they have the courage to face their wounded pasts and fight for their future.
Profile Image for Randi Sampson.
1,756 reviews92 followers
October 25, 2025
Susan May Warren never fails to deliver stories that are the perfect blend of edge-of-your-seat adventure and swoon-worthy romance... and this one was absolutely no exception! Right from the start, I found myself drawn into Dawson and Keeley's stories. Now, if you've read Susan's Alaska Air One Rescue series, you might recognize Dawson as he was introduced in that series. While this is the first book of the series, the author always does a great job of connecting her many series, which is fun if you've read them... but don't worry, this can absolutely be enjoyed as a standalone if you haven't as well! These two had a lot going on in their lives... even before the danger... and I found myself at the edge of my seat wondering how it was all going to play out in the end. This was a great start to the new series and has me very much looking forward to seeing what is going to happen next. If you enjoy Christian romantic suspense, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.

**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,084 reviews51 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
December 28, 2025
I hate the cold and certainly blizzard-like conditions, but Susan May Warren’s books that are set in Alaska keep me coming back for more. Her books are well written, packed with action, danger, and romantic relationships that the outdoor elements provide suspenseful scenes and a glimpse into the tenacity of the people who live there. The story of Dawson and Keely was one that has several layers with not only the plot of criminals on the loose, but also deeper stories of adoption and trusting God.

Be sure to read the author’s notes. It was so interesting to see that Ms. Warren had drawn from her personal experiences to write this amazing story.

I loved this story and highly recommend reading it if you like Christian romantic suspense. While this is the first book in the Call of the Wild series, there are characters from past books who are a part of this story. It makes it all that richer because it is like reuniting with old friends and seeing what they are doing.

I received a copy of the book from Revell and NetGalley, but I was not obligated to write a positive review.
Profile Image for This Is What I Read  (Nitzan).
42 reviews30 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
January 1, 2026
Wow, this book took me for a wild ride! There were no dull moments...

First of all, I requested the ARC without knowing anything about the book, the plot, or the author... The guy on the cover looked good... yes, my thought process is that deep 😅

The story begins when a very famous pop star goes to Alaska to meet her biological mother. She chickens out and takes the first flight out. The flight gets kidnapped, the pilot is murdered and she's running away from the murderer through the woods in the Alaskan winter.

And believe me, it is only the beginning.

There is also a guy (remember the handsome one from the cover? well, him) he is a police detective who got injured and is quite grumpy.

And there's also a dog, who is the main character of the story in my point of view.

I very much enjoyed this book.

keep in mind that it is classified as Christian romance, which means that it is a clean romance, and there are quite a few talks about God.

Thank you, Netgalley, for an ALC copy of this book
Profile Image for Jasmine.
19 reviews1 follower
December 9, 2025
I'm new to Susan May Warren's work with my first foray being the Track of Courage. And it will certainly not be my last! I was hooked and enamored by the unfolding story—ahem, perilous journey, blossoming romance, road to redemption tale—that Warren wove through these pages. I especially loved the momentary inner dialogue that would pop up that reveals extra layers of the main characters' thoughts. This is a great read that will have you eager to just finish another chapter after a long reading binge sesh....and then unrelentingly keep you clamouring for more waking hours just to see what happens next. And you won't even be mad at it. Looking forward to getting into the other books in this series and explore more of Warren's wider work! Oh, and I don't think it's too much of a spoiler for other reader's to say that I personally think Caspian the dog is probably the greatest hero in the book. :-)
1,174 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
December 12, 2025
This is my favorite book by Susan May Warren so far. Pop star Keely has quietly come to Alaska to find her biological mother, but she isn't ready. When the small plane she rides back to Anchorage on is hijacked and downed in the wilderness, Keely runs for her life. Former cop Dawson is healing from a knee replacement and is at a crossroads in his life and flying home. When Dawson spots a downed plane, he stops to help any survivors. Keely and Dawson connect and are quickly looking for protection from an approaching blizzard and from the man hunting Keely. I received a free copy of this ebook from the publisher through Netgalley. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. For me, this is a perfect Christian romantic suspense book. It has strong characters, a wonderful protective dog in Caspian, inspiring faith messages, an action-packed story, and life issues to deal with for Keely and Dawson. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Profile Image for LA.
461 reviews22 followers
November 1, 2025
Another fantastic romantic suspense from Susan May Warren that will have readers staying up to the wee hours of the morning while soaking up the adventure.

Dawson Mulligan and Keely Williams are two characters that readers will love. Dawson’s dog, Caspian is an adorable side character who is every bit hero as Dawson. Keely’s last minute decision to board an earlier flight from Alaska turns out to be the catalyst for this action-packed novel.

A purely suspenseful ride, readers will get to catch up with previous Alaskan characters as they assist Dawson in rescuing Keely. Just when things seem to be going well, a crazy twist (or several) are thrown at the readers (I may have even shouted a few times…).

A great read and I can’t wait for the next one.

I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
340 reviews13 followers
Read
November 8, 2025
Track of Courage is everything I love about a Susan May Warren story — faith, danger and romance. The Alaska setting is vivid: think The Mountain Between Us meets The Rescue. Warren’s knack for combining physical danger with spiritual reflection really shines. Both Keely and Dawson are broken in different ways, but their courage (and growing trust in God and each other) feels authentic rather than forced.

Overall, Track of Courage is a fast-paced, faith-filled romantic suspense that fans of Warren’s Montana Rescue or Sky King Ranch series will devour. It’s about survival, second chances, and learning that true courage often comes when you’re most afraid. Plus, there's a dog!

I receive complimentary books from various sources, including NetGalley, authors, and others. I am not required to write a positive review, and I have not received any compensation for my thoughts.
Profile Image for Danielle Turko.
382 reviews1 follower
November 29, 2025
I received an early copy for a review.
When Keely arrive in Alaska, she has one goal in mind: Meet her biological question and ask her if she regrets giving her up as a child. Instead, Keely leaves the bar her mother works at without asking her, and gets one the first plane out she finds. When that plane is hijacked, she finds herself running for her life from the hijacker and facing a blizzard in the Alaskan wilderness. Found by a large black dog and his owner Dawson, she goes with them to wait out the storm, but soon discovers that the elements aren't the biggest threat in Alaska.
I thought this was a good first book in a series. It set up the next character and came to a neat conclusion in the end. There may have been have a couple too many dramatic elements, but I'm thinking they were there to set up things in future books
Profile Image for Michaela | Reading in the Heartland.
3,684 reviews68 followers
December 23, 2025
This is a great read. If you were pulled in by the cover, just wait, the interior is even better. Christian romantic suspense set in Alaska. A pop singer who gets in a plane crash and is soon running for her life. An ex-cop - due to an injury he sustained in One Last Storm - who happens to see the crash when flying over and chases after his dog and finds her. Dawson and Keely both have pains in their pasts and presents to work through. This book is filled with faith and danger, songs, friendships, an insightful dog, second chances and more. I loved the snowed in aspect as they got to know the people of the community better. This was a well written book that has me eagerly anticipating the next one! The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 2.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Kristine Morgan.
670 reviews55 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
January 1, 2026
Susan May Warren is well known for her romantic suspense. Her readers will surely enjoy the first book in her new series, Track of Courage. The setting is one of her favorites, Alaska near the Copper River in winter. I loved the characters and the growth they showed throughout the book. It is always enjoyable to read one of Ms. Warren's books as you get cameos of old friends from previous books and series. Track of courage is full of drama and suspense with romancefor added fun. I love the way she works faith into her plots. The only reason i gave it 4 stars instead of 5 is that I would prefer to have normal down to earth characters rather than super stars. That said Track of Courage is still a great book and well worth reading.

I was given a copy by NetGalley for review purposes. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Julie.
777 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
December 29, 2025
I love the familiarity of reading books with characters that intertwine. The characters become more real and feel like family. While this is a new series it has that familiarity of characters. Dawson has so much depth. He is a genuinely good guy that is trying to do his best. He is fighting past demons and a knee injury that is slowing him down.
Keely is a pop star who came to Alaska to meet the mom who gave her up for adoption and to recover from overused vocal cords. She also has a few secrets. She is tough as nails and has a heart of gold.
This book is an adventure. A plane crash, murderers, drug traffickers, a kidnapping with heroes, romance and faith mixed in. A fantastic book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Revell for the opportunity to read this book early.
735 reviews11 followers
November 15, 2025
Track of Courage was an adrenaline rush from page one. From a plane crash to the wilds of Alaska there were heart pounding moments of suspense and unlikely yet sweet romance.

This book was everything I’ve come to expect from Susan May Warren with highly developed relatable characters, the beautiful backdrop of the Alaskan wilderness, and a suspenseful storyline that has you coming back for more.

Dawson may be an injured soul but somehow he relates to Keely, a superstar celebrity singer with some secrets of her own. How do you fall in love running from a group of criminals? Get this book and find out.

I was given a copy courtesy of Revell. This is my honest opinion of the book.
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