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Elements of Danger
Raging Waters
As the dam crumbles and water sweeps across the terrain, their battle for justice and survival is just beginning.
When Mackenzie Bardine's brother Aaron was murdered in a drug deal gone wrong, she started a true crime podcast dedicated to exposing "Bullseye," the drug kingpin responsible. But her protective heart has never let go of the blame she places on herself and Aaron's best friend, Gideon Landry. On the run to the wilds of Washington to chase a recent lead, she meets none other than Gideon himself.
While conducting a wilderness survival class in remote Washington, Gideon never expected to cross paths with Mackenzie, and he's certainly not interested in helping her after he's already declined to participate in her vigilante podcasting. He carries a mountain of guilt about Aaron's fatal choices, but not for the reasons she suspects.
As killers begin to circle Mackenzie, it's clear to Gideon she's in over her head, and in light of his troubled past with her brother, he can't bring himself to ignore her perilous situation. Then a flood threatens the town, turning their investigation into a race to escape the raging waters and the wrath of a powerful kingpin who wants to sink them both.
When Mackenzie Bardine's brother Aaron was murdered in a drug deal gone wrong, she started a true crime podcast dedicated to exposing "Bullseye," the drug kingpin responsible. But her protective heart has never let go of the blame she places on herself and Aaron's best friend, Gideon Landry. On the run to the wilds of Washington to chase a recent lead, she meets none other than Gideon himself.
While conducting a wilderness survival class in remote Washington, Gideon never expected to cross paths with Mackenzie, and he's certainly not interested in helping her after he's already declined to participate in her vigilante podcasting. He carries a mountain of guilt about Aaron's fatal choices, but not for the reasons she suspects.
As killers begin to circle Mackenzie, it's clear to Gideon she's in over her head, and in light of his troubled past with her brother, he can't bring himself to ignore her perilous situation. Then a flood threatens the town, turning their investigation into a race to escape the raging waters and the wrath of a powerful kingpin who wants to sink them both.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published March 3, 2026
14 people are currently reading
5049 people want to read
About the author
Dana Mentink
205 books2,245 followersUSA 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-...
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-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Raging Waters is one action-packed novel with lots of rain, a flood stage river, and a possible dam failure that the main characters are fighting along with some bad guys who are after them. Zee is consumed with finding Bullseye, the drug lord who had her brother killed. Gideon was her brother's best friend. Both are carrying some guilt. Someone connected to Bullseye is chasing them. What an adventure they have. This story has twists, surprises, danger from human and water, with healing and resolution in the end. Great inspirational read.
I received a copy for an honest review. These are my thoughts.
I received a copy for an honest review. These are my thoughts.
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February 16, 20265 ⭐
THIS is Mentink at the top of her game!
I was absorbed in a superb read from cover to cover; an engaging and unpredictable narrative, complex characters, high emotional impact, and layered with flood truths and natural disaster response.
Mentink’s examination of family and connection in its many forms - blood, chosen, and traumatic bonding - elevates this natural disaster story. She explores the pull of ‘family first’ and the battle between the heart and the head, the heartfelt connection of love and forgiveness and how it shapes us, and the heartwarming tales of family resilience. It’s stuffed full of parent-child relationships, sibling bonds, chosen family, and found connections. Setting this theme against the backdrop of a natural disaster allows Mentink to show how this brings out the best and worst in people. She leaves us with a thought-provoking question: Wouldn’t it be grand if we were all able to step up for our neighbors as God intended?
I loved the thought that characters were receiving help from people who chose to be the hands and feet of Jesus in our hour of need.
Mentink held me in the palm of her hand with her spectacularly crafted hero and heroine, Gideon Landry and Mackenzie Bardine. I think they are my favourite Mentink characters. These two reminded me that appearances can be deceiving and alliances can shift, and I need to be honest and hypervigilant.
Now that I’ve discovered what a “Fluffernutter cracker” is, I’m off to taste test!
I can’t wait for my next Mentink novel.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
THIS is Mentink at the top of her game!
I was absorbed in a superb read from cover to cover; an engaging and unpredictable narrative, complex characters, high emotional impact, and layered with flood truths and natural disaster response.
Mentink’s examination of family and connection in its many forms - blood, chosen, and traumatic bonding - elevates this natural disaster story. She explores the pull of ‘family first’ and the battle between the heart and the head, the heartfelt connection of love and forgiveness and how it shapes us, and the heartwarming tales of family resilience. It’s stuffed full of parent-child relationships, sibling bonds, chosen family, and found connections. Setting this theme against the backdrop of a natural disaster allows Mentink to show how this brings out the best and worst in people. She leaves us with a thought-provoking question: Wouldn’t it be grand if we were all able to step up for our neighbors as God intended?
I loved the thought that characters were receiving help from people who chose to be the hands and feet of Jesus in our hour of need.
Mentink held me in the palm of her hand with her spectacularly crafted hero and heroine, Gideon Landry and Mackenzie Bardine. I think they are my favourite Mentink characters. These two reminded me that appearances can be deceiving and alliances can shift, and I need to be honest and hypervigilant.
Now that I’ve discovered what a “Fluffernutter cracker” is, I’m off to taste test!
I can’t wait for my next Mentink novel.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay, I FLEW through this one. It is my favorite in the series so far! If you want enemies to more, page turning suspense, and lots of banter, as well as water constantly threatening everything, this is the book!
When Gideon and Mackenzie are reunited after time apart, he is not expecting to be pulled into her plan for justice over her brother’s death. Aaron's death has never made sense to Mackenzie, and she wants answers, even if it risks getting herself killed. While Gideon and she are very much at odds, he cannot bring himself to stand by and watch, and so starts a heart pounding journey away from the threat of deadly water but closer and closer to the truth behind Aaron's killer. Also, as forced proximity and the threat of death are constant, the two must unpack their past and perhaps uncover their true feelings for each other before their grief and pain took over.
This was a page turner for sure. I found myself rushing to get to the next page. I did have moments during the heart pounding action where the story felt too wordy, but I am used to Dana's shorter books, so it may just be that this longer format is taking some adjustment. That said, the length did not take away from the story, and I was completely invested in unpacking Aaron's killer’s identity and motive and delving into the true feelings between Mackenzie and Gideon.
Curious if more is to come with this series! This was wonderful!
I gave this 4.5 rounded to a 5 star read.
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
When Gideon and Mackenzie are reunited after time apart, he is not expecting to be pulled into her plan for justice over her brother’s death. Aaron's death has never made sense to Mackenzie, and she wants answers, even if it risks getting herself killed. While Gideon and she are very much at odds, he cannot bring himself to stand by and watch, and so starts a heart pounding journey away from the threat of deadly water but closer and closer to the truth behind Aaron's killer. Also, as forced proximity and the threat of death are constant, the two must unpack their past and perhaps uncover their true feelings for each other before their grief and pain took over.
This was a page turner for sure. I found myself rushing to get to the next page. I did have moments during the heart pounding action where the story felt too wordy, but I am used to Dana's shorter books, so it may just be that this longer format is taking some adjustment. That said, the length did not take away from the story, and I was completely invested in unpacking Aaron's killer’s identity and motive and delving into the true feelings between Mackenzie and Gideon.
Curious if more is to come with this series! This was wonderful!
I gave this 4.5 rounded to a 5 star read.
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
March 3, 2026
Dana Mentink’s books are a thrill ride and a half, and have me so bunched up the entire time!
She is NOT kind to her characters, but that created a sense of urgency that kept me reading well into the night.
Mackenzie is determined to find and destroy the man who murdered her brother. She encounters Gideon, her brother’s supposed best friend. Someone she holds equally responsible for her brother’s death.
She’s determined to find answers and to bring the murderer to justice. But she won’t do it with Gideon’s help…
until she has no choice.
Rain pours throughout the story, creating pressure on the dam. If it breaks everything in the path of the water doesn’t stand a chance. But if the men working for the big boss find them their lives are as good as over.
Talk about a rock and a hard place! It’s fast paced, mega intense, and Mentink has to be exhausted after writing it! I know I was just reading it!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Highly recommend!
She is NOT kind to her characters, but that created a sense of urgency that kept me reading well into the night.
Mackenzie is determined to find and destroy the man who murdered her brother. She encounters Gideon, her brother’s supposed best friend. Someone she holds equally responsible for her brother’s death.
She’s determined to find answers and to bring the murderer to justice. But she won’t do it with Gideon’s help…
until she has no choice.
Rain pours throughout the story, creating pressure on the dam. If it breaks everything in the path of the water doesn’t stand a chance. But if the men working for the big boss find them their lives are as good as over.
Talk about a rock and a hard place! It’s fast paced, mega intense, and Mentink has to be exhausted after writing it! I know I was just reading it!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Highly recommend!
February 20, 2026
(I received a complimentary copy of this title from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.)
What a ride!
I really enjoyed this book and these characters. I appreciated that the main characters, Gideon and Mckenzie (Zee) really grew as the story progressed, and all of the faith elements of the story were handled well.
When I say this book was action-packed, I mean it was action-PACKED–truly! This story is fast paced and full of danger and suspense. I seriously did not want to put it down!
If you’re looking for a clean, Christian romantic suspense title, I’d definitely recommend “Raging Waters” to you!
What a ride!
I really enjoyed this book and these characters. I appreciated that the main characters, Gideon and Mckenzie (Zee) really grew as the story progressed, and all of the faith elements of the story were handled well.
When I say this book was action-packed, I mean it was action-PACKED–truly! This story is fast paced and full of danger and suspense. I seriously did not want to put it down!
If you’re looking for a clean, Christian romantic suspense title, I’d definitely recommend “Raging Waters” to you!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I felt like I was white water rafting reading this book! The amount of time spent in the water by these characters was terrifying!!
Gideon is the all outdoors guy who you want on your side. His knowledge and preparedness came in handy in this book!
Zee is out for vengeance and won't stop until the kingpin is taken down. She is as tough as nails and at some point, you are left begging her to stop!
The story is fast paced and will leave you guessing on who is friend or foe.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
Gideon is the all outdoors guy who you want on your side. His knowledge and preparedness came in handy in this book!
Zee is out for vengeance and won't stop until the kingpin is taken down. She is as tough as nails and at some point, you are left begging her to stop!
The story is fast paced and will leave you guessing on who is friend or foe.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
January 15, 2026
This was a book that was constantly full of action with twist and turns. You never knew what was going to happen next. There’s a very strong, willed female protagonist in this book. I was given a complementary copy of this book and the opinions are my own.
March 8, 2026
Wow! Raging Waters by Dana Mentink was so exciting. From the first page to the last it captured my interest.
Mackenzie Bardine is determined to find out her brother's killer. When she is following a lead to Washington she runs into her brother's best friend, Gideon Landry, who she blames for her brothers death.
Gideon carries extreme guilt for the choices her brother Aaron made and he certainly doesn't want to help her, especially since she is so angry with him.
But when killers start targeting her he knows he can't leave her alone. As they try to find answers they realize they both carry guilt about Aaron's death that they had no control over. But now they need to figure out just who is calling the shots in trying to stop them from finding out the truth. And if they can have a future together.
Mackenzie Bardine is determined to find out her brother's killer. When she is following a lead to Washington she runs into her brother's best friend, Gideon Landry, who she blames for her brothers death.
Gideon carries extreme guilt for the choices her brother Aaron made and he certainly doesn't want to help her, especially since she is so angry with him.
But when killers start targeting her he knows he can't leave her alone. As they try to find answers they realize they both carry guilt about Aaron's death that they had no control over. But now they need to figure out just who is calling the shots in trying to stop them from finding out the truth. And if they can have a future together.
March 1, 2026
A thriller from beginning to end! The opening pages plunge you into an intense, suspense, danger filled storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Your heart races as you follow Gideon and McKenzie as they struggle to stay alive both from the raging flood waters and the enemy Bullseye. They are faced with talking about the past to be able to work together to save their future as the danger intensifies.
This book consumes you with its nonstop action and trying to figure out who and where the danger is coming from with surprising twists that you do not expect. A thrilling read that leaves you longing to pick your book back up. It will not disappoint!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
This book consumes you with its nonstop action and trying to figure out who and where the danger is coming from with surprising twists that you do not expect. A thrilling read that leaves you longing to pick your book back up. It will not disappoint!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
February 17, 2026
Raging Waters, the second book in the exciting Elements of Danger series, takes us on a harrowing adventure with podcaster Mackenzie Bardine and survivalist instructor Gideon Landry as they are challenged by both nature and man in their quest to bring down a drug lord responsible for the death of Mackenzie's brother. I was drawn into the story from the beginning and stunning twists kept me reading eagerly to see how it would all unfold. The plot moves along as swiftly as the raging waters, powered by non-stop action and high-risk danger. Thanks to Ms. Mentink's super-talented storytelling skill and immersive writing style, there were several instances when I felt I was being engulfed and swept along by the flood waters along with the characters! Memorable, realistic characters give life to the story and were easy for me to make an emotional connection with. Add in Mackenzie and Gideon's challenging romance and a gentle, inspiring faith thread, and the result is inspirational romantic suspense at its best. I totally enjoyed this story and highly recommend it.
I read an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I read an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 3, 2026
“Being around Mackenzie Bardine was hazardous to a man’s health.”
When Dana Mentink publishes a new Romantic suspense, I run, not walk, for my favorite bookstore! This newest series of hers, Elements of Danger, now includes bk #2, Raging Waters. As someone who has only experienced being on the edges of a hurricane, Mentink’s descriptions of a violent storm, waterlogged earth, and threatened dam break were terrifying. But in a good way. The kind of terrifying of watching a scary movie or choosing a wild ride at the fair. Adrenaline pumping fast, I made sure I was breathing air, not choking on water, as I swiped my pages hoping that MacKenzie ( Zee) Bardine and Gideon (Gid) Landry could learn to get along. Maybe that would make the job of staying alive and out of the enemy’s crosshairs a tad bit easier.
Unfortunately, MacKenzie, now a cold crimes podcaster, has lost her brother Aaron a few years back. After helping police solve a few other cold cases with her results, Zee takes on her brother’s murder. She is upset when Gideon won’t help her in her endeavors, as he was Aaron’s best friend. “Their rapport since Aaron’s death had been at the matches and gasoline type of reactivity level.” Will the secrets that Gideon is hiding protect MacKenzie or will they backfire and leave her ripe for attacks? Fighting the awesome power of nature, some extremely powerful people, their own secrets, plus their attraction for each other...Whew! That’s a lot of conflict that makes for a very fast-moving, nail-biting suspense. Every character they meet is suspect. Can they trust anyone they meet? Can they trust each other? Most importantly, can they trust God?
Great twists! I loved the faith arcs, and loved how Gideon chooses to be present for MacKenzie even when he doesn’t feel like she has all the information, and she can treat him like a heel at times. As Gideon tells Zee, ““I have a choice in all this, too. I choose to stay.” Sometimes I thought he was crazy! I was grateful to still be on dry land when the book was done, feeling safe and satisfied with the mystery of the novel worked out.
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought an ecopy, and a few pb copies for myself and a friend. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“In that moment he knew she was trapped, unable to free herself any more than her brother could from his torment. She was bound to this man by her need for revenge. It would blind her.
It would kill her.” ( Gideon)
“How easy it would be to kiss him properly, to let the feeling seep into her fragile glass heart that hadn’t beat right for a very long time. But there was such a thin coating around that battered organ. One crack, one tiny fissure and it might disintegrate into a pile of useless shards.”
(MacKenzie)
“Whom to trust? The environment might be hostile, but it was nowhere near as dangerous as a human enemy, the kind pretending to be a friend.”
“God will bring justice in this world or the next. In His time, not yours.”- Gideon
“Ugly and vengeful . . . Mackenzie wondered suddenly if that described her too. She shook the thought away. Maybe it had until Gideon convinced her otherwise. She’d let that be her core for way too long. That wasn’t the identity God meant for her, and he’d used Gideon to deliver the message.”
When Dana Mentink publishes a new Romantic suspense, I run, not walk, for my favorite bookstore! This newest series of hers, Elements of Danger, now includes bk #2, Raging Waters. As someone who has only experienced being on the edges of a hurricane, Mentink’s descriptions of a violent storm, waterlogged earth, and threatened dam break were terrifying. But in a good way. The kind of terrifying of watching a scary movie or choosing a wild ride at the fair. Adrenaline pumping fast, I made sure I was breathing air, not choking on water, as I swiped my pages hoping that MacKenzie ( Zee) Bardine and Gideon (Gid) Landry could learn to get along. Maybe that would make the job of staying alive and out of the enemy’s crosshairs a tad bit easier.
Unfortunately, MacKenzie, now a cold crimes podcaster, has lost her brother Aaron a few years back. After helping police solve a few other cold cases with her results, Zee takes on her brother’s murder. She is upset when Gideon won’t help her in her endeavors, as he was Aaron’s best friend. “Their rapport since Aaron’s death had been at the matches and gasoline type of reactivity level.” Will the secrets that Gideon is hiding protect MacKenzie or will they backfire and leave her ripe for attacks? Fighting the awesome power of nature, some extremely powerful people, their own secrets, plus their attraction for each other...Whew! That’s a lot of conflict that makes for a very fast-moving, nail-biting suspense. Every character they meet is suspect. Can they trust anyone they meet? Can they trust each other? Most importantly, can they trust God?
Great twists! I loved the faith arcs, and loved how Gideon chooses to be present for MacKenzie even when he doesn’t feel like she has all the information, and she can treat him like a heel at times. As Gideon tells Zee, ““I have a choice in all this, too. I choose to stay.” Sometimes I thought he was crazy! I was grateful to still be on dry land when the book was done, feeling safe and satisfied with the mystery of the novel worked out.
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought an ecopy, and a few pb copies for myself and a friend. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“In that moment he knew she was trapped, unable to free herself any more than her brother could from his torment. She was bound to this man by her need for revenge. It would blind her.
It would kill her.” ( Gideon)
“How easy it would be to kiss him properly, to let the feeling seep into her fragile glass heart that hadn’t beat right for a very long time. But there was such a thin coating around that battered organ. One crack, one tiny fissure and it might disintegrate into a pile of useless shards.”
(MacKenzie)
“Whom to trust? The environment might be hostile, but it was nowhere near as dangerous as a human enemy, the kind pretending to be a friend.”
“God will bring justice in this world or the next. In His time, not yours.”- Gideon
“Ugly and vengeful . . . Mackenzie wondered suddenly if that described her too. She shook the thought away. Maybe it had until Gideon convinced her otherwise. She’d let that be her core for way too long. That wasn’t the identity God meant for her, and he’d used Gideon to deliver the message.”
March 2, 2026
Mackenzie has been consumed with revenge since her brother’s murder. Not just dwelling on it… she’s devoted herself to a crime podcast, and has caught the attention of the drug kingpin who had her brother killed. She’s done so many things in her pursuit of her revenge that she barely recognizes herself. Her risky path puts her in terrible danger in a town on the brink. With dam failure imminent, Zee makes a last ditch effort to get critical information- pulling her childhood friend Gideon into the mess. To say this book reads like a non-stop action movie is an understatement! I couldn’t help but be swept away by Zee and Gid’s quest for survival and truth and was kept on the edge of my seat. Down the rapids, pursued and hunted, not sure who to trust- this story has it all.
The dam failing feels like a metaphor for everything in Mackenzie’s world falling apart. It’s like she needed a force of nature to set her on a journey to return to herself- a journey that is fraught with twist after turn. But the culmination of her letting go and choosing life is this story’s absolute triumph. Not only does this read give you all the thrills, but it also digs deep into where the line of justice and revenge falls. Absolutely pursue justice. But vengeance belongs to God.
I received a complementary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.
The dam failing feels like a metaphor for everything in Mackenzie’s world falling apart. It’s like she needed a force of nature to set her on a journey to return to herself- a journey that is fraught with twist after turn. But the culmination of her letting go and choosing life is this story’s absolute triumph. Not only does this read give you all the thrills, but it also digs deep into where the line of justice and revenge falls. Absolutely pursue justice. But vengeance belongs to God.
I received a complementary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I’ve been eagerly anticipating Raging Waters ever since finishing Fire Mountain by Dana Mentink. Fire Mountain was such a fantastic read, and I absolutely loved Gideon’s character, so I couldn’t wait to dive into his story. (See what I did there? 😉)
Raging Waters delivers everything I enjoy in a romantic suspense novel. The action is intense and fast-paced, and the suspense keeps you guessing about who can—and can’t—be trusted. The ending genuinely surprised me; several twists caught me completely off guard in the best way.
While I was fully invested in the gripping plot, I did struggle at times to connect with Mackenzie. Her headstrong nature often led her to make risky decisions that put herself and others in danger. However, I appreciated that Gideon recognized this and didn’t simply go along with her choices, which added some meaningful tension and realism to their dynamic.
Overall, I highly recommend this book. The combination of action, suspense, and romance will keep you turning pages right up to the very end. I’m truly hoping there’s a third installment in the Elements of Danger series—it has been such a strong and engaging series so far!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. 4 stars! The faith thread is present but light.
Raging Waters delivers everything I enjoy in a romantic suspense novel. The action is intense and fast-paced, and the suspense keeps you guessing about who can—and can’t—be trusted. The ending genuinely surprised me; several twists caught me completely off guard in the best way.
While I was fully invested in the gripping plot, I did struggle at times to connect with Mackenzie. Her headstrong nature often led her to make risky decisions that put herself and others in danger. However, I appreciated that Gideon recognized this and didn’t simply go along with her choices, which added some meaningful tension and realism to their dynamic.
Overall, I highly recommend this book. The combination of action, suspense, and romance will keep you turning pages right up to the very end. I’m truly hoping there’s a third installment in the Elements of Danger series—it has been such a strong and engaging series so far!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. 4 stars! The faith thread is present but light.
March 11, 2026
MY THOUGHTS
One of my most favorite things to read is a Dana Mentink book. Her stories will draw you in within the first few pages and you will want to sit and read. In her newest book Raging Waters you will be on the edge of your seat the entire time.
In this story, Mackenzie‘s brother Aaron was murdered in a drug deal gone wrong. She has started a true crime podcast that was dedicated to exposing the kingpin that was responsible. However, she holds a lot of resentment and places blame on Aaron’s best friend Gideon. Mackenzie and Gideon have a history so there’s a lot of emotional tension in this story. They are literally thrown together when a dam is about to break.
One of the things that this author knows is how to write a story with several plot twist. She also knows how to write a story with a lot of outdoor survival. I love how the author has really brought the worst out in people during a natural disaster.
Both characters are relatable. They’re well written. The storyline is engaging. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
One of my most favorite things to read is a Dana Mentink book. Her stories will draw you in within the first few pages and you will want to sit and read. In her newest book Raging Waters you will be on the edge of your seat the entire time.
In this story, Mackenzie‘s brother Aaron was murdered in a drug deal gone wrong. She has started a true crime podcast that was dedicated to exposing the kingpin that was responsible. However, she holds a lot of resentment and places blame on Aaron’s best friend Gideon. Mackenzie and Gideon have a history so there’s a lot of emotional tension in this story. They are literally thrown together when a dam is about to break.
One of the things that this author knows is how to write a story with several plot twist. She also knows how to write a story with a lot of outdoor survival. I love how the author has really brought the worst out in people during a natural disaster.
Both characters are relatable. They’re well written. The storyline is engaging. Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
March 3, 2026
Mentink writes action packed novels and this is another good one. Gideon and Mackenzie are pitted against nature in anticipated flooding and against villains in a nefarious drug king and his henchmen. There is also the potential of romance between them but the obstacles are big. They knew each other before but the death of Mackenzie's brother who was Gideon's good friend has put a wedge between them. Gideon has survival skills that are put to the test. Mackenzie is after the murderer of her brother and that leads to more danger. The drug king is so powerful in the small town Gideon and Mackenzie are not sure who they can trust.
This is a novel for readers who like people surviving nature and villains. The action is nearly continuous, including a surprising twist near the end.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
This is a novel for readers who like people surviving nature and villains. The action is nearly continuous, including a surprising twist near the end.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
March 5, 2026
Raging Waters is an action packed, emotionally charged, suspense filled with twists and "danger around every corner". The second in the Elements of Danger series, it continues with brilliant writing, analogies to batural disasters,, and adrenaline scenes that keep the reader turning the pages.
Mrs.Mentick's outstanding character development had ne not liking "Zee" at first; but led me to understanding where she was coming from. I enjoyed Gideon and Zee's relationship development and wondered along with them who could be trusted.
The reader is reminded that allowing seeking revenge to be a focus, "drowns " one in negatives to the entire body...spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically. Vengeance is not ours to give and things aren't always as they seem.
I'd give the book more than 5 stars if I could.
Mrs.Mentick's outstanding character development had ne not liking "Zee" at first; but led me to understanding where she was coming from. I enjoyed Gideon and Zee's relationship development and wondered along with them who could be trusted.
The reader is reminded that allowing seeking revenge to be a focus, "drowns " one in negatives to the entire body...spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically. Vengeance is not ours to give and things aren't always as they seem.
I'd give the book more than 5 stars if I could.
March 2, 2026
Fast paced and full of action! I enjoyed the ride this one takes the reader on. It’s different than most suspense storylines I’ve read because of the high stakes of the weather on top of the suspenseful chase that is underway. I enjoyed the characters and I always like when two characters are reunited after being connected in their past. I thought the characters were well developed and I liked watching the romance slowly blossom. It’s definitely a quick paced read and every twist and turn something happened. I do feel like sometimes it seemed a little unbelievable, just because I don’t know how they survived some of the situations they were in, but I guess we did have a wilderness survival guide as a character. The book definitely felt high stakes. I really enjoyed it a lot!
*I was sent a copy of this book by the publisher. All my opinions are my own.
*I was sent a copy of this book by the publisher. All my opinions are my own.
March 4, 2026
After loving book 1 of this series last summer, I have been looking forward to this one for months. “Raging Waters” is a very exciting read. Trying to outrun not only the bad guys out to kill them, but an imminent flood as a massive dam is about to break, made for a hard to put down story! The added complicated history of the two main characters and the tragedy that tore them apart really added a significant amount of drama that upped the ante even more. This was a fabulous read and I enjoyed it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
February 18, 2026
4.5 stars
This Christian romantic suspense thriller definitely started off running. I was totally with Gideon in not knowing what to think about Mackenzie and her antics. He had his hands full and and work cutout with that one.
Mackenzie, Gideon’s late best friend’s sister, waltzed back into his life when he was leading a wilderness survival training in Washington and promptly turned his life upside down. While on leave from the Air Force, Gideon never expected Zee to show up - or get arrested! Ever since her brother was murdered, she’s been running a podcast on cold cases and a lead led her up into his territory.
With warnings of the dam’s potential failing and bullets flying, this thriller takes us on a harrowing adventure. Through water, around trees, car accidents, and more, this tangled web of danger and suspense never lets up.
While they both had crushes on each other during high school, Zee is firmly against Gideon and he struggles to keep her safe - from the elements, their pursuers, and herself. I would’ve liked more on the romance angle, but this book was just jampacked full of action and adventure. I liked book 1 of this series, but this one is even better. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This Christian romantic suspense thriller definitely started off running. I was totally with Gideon in not knowing what to think about Mackenzie and her antics. He had his hands full and and work cutout with that one.
Mackenzie, Gideon’s late best friend’s sister, waltzed back into his life when he was leading a wilderness survival training in Washington and promptly turned his life upside down. While on leave from the Air Force, Gideon never expected Zee to show up - or get arrested! Ever since her brother was murdered, she’s been running a podcast on cold cases and a lead led her up into his territory.
With warnings of the dam’s potential failing and bullets flying, this thriller takes us on a harrowing adventure. Through water, around trees, car accidents, and more, this tangled web of danger and suspense never lets up.
While they both had crushes on each other during high school, Zee is firmly against Gideon and he struggles to keep her safe - from the elements, their pursuers, and herself. I would’ve liked more on the romance angle, but this book was just jampacked full of action and adventure. I liked book 1 of this series, but this one is even better. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 23, 2026
Fantastic Book!! I absolutely loved it!! I loved all the twists and turns in this book! There were a lot of things I did not see coming and I loved it!! I highly recommend this book!! Loved it!!
February 22, 2026
This is one of my go-to suspense authors. This is the second book in the Elements of Danger series. You do not have to have read the first to read and to enjoy this one. The chapters in this book are a little long but since the book kept my attention it still read pretty quick. The action and intrigue started at the very beginning and went to the very end. There were so many twists and turns in this book. I really enjoyed reading it and had a hard time putting it down. I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. The opinions in this review are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. The opinions in this review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Raging Waters is an action-packed adventure with twists and turns along the way...not just from the icy flood waters. Dana Mentink uses vivid imagery and has great character development. This is definitely a page turner. If you are ready for for an adventure, pick up Raging Waters and get to know Mackenzie and Gideon while they fight against the clock and a dam threatening to fail!
February 21, 2026
Really enjoyed this suspense from Dana Mentink. Fast paced.. Clean. Cute romance. I enjoyed it. The ending did feel a little tidy and rushed.
Thanks to NetGalley & the publishers for an advanced copy of this book. In exchange, I gave an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley & the publishers for an advanced copy of this book. In exchange, I gave an honest review.
March 14, 2026
Another excellent story by Dana Mentink! Mackenzie and Gideon are characters you immediately love, and I was quickly drawn into their story. I had to know what happened next, from one quick turn to the next. Who could they trust? Will Mackenzie ever find out the truth about what happened to her brother, and if so, would she get the justice she longed for? I could not put this book down. I needed to finish so I could find out how it all came together. I highly recommend it!
**I received 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.
**I received 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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars
Warning: before beginning Raging Waters by Dana Mentink, please take the following safety precautions. First, go ahead and stretch your muscles – particularly your shoulders and neck – because they’ll definitely tense up from the start of this heart-in-your-throat novel and will likely stay that way until the very end. (I would suggest stopping mid-way through for another stretch break, but you won’t want to stop reading to do so.) Second, search for an alternate source of oxygen or, if one is not available, set a timer to remind yourself to breathe every so often because the danger stays high-stakes almost from the first word to the last. Third, have some tasty snacks and a beverage of choice handy to ward off sympathy stress over when Mackenzie & Gideon’s food and water supply will run out. And finally, wrap up in a blanket (or keep one close by) and read this from the comfiest of your fave nooks because these poor characters are so miserably uncomfortable in this novel and you’ll need the reminder that you’re not suffering out there in the wilderness with them.
Now that we’ve got the safety guide covered, let’s talk more about Raging Waters. Y’all. As you might have figured out from my first paragraph, Dana Mentink puts her characters through the wringer in this one, and I felt like I was right in the middle of it too, thanks to Mentink’s vivid writing. Mackenzie (hereafter known as ‘Zee’) and Gideon have a layered history, so the emotional tension sparks between these two from the moment they reconnect… in the pouring rain… while Gideon (who is Cullen’s brother from Fire Mountain) tries to free a panicked deer from a tangle of branches in a freezing, rushing river. (As you do.) Before those sparks can turn romantical, however, they need to work through the way that the death of Zee’s brother (who was also Gideon’s best friend) has affected their life trajectories, their relationships, their faith, and particularly Zee’s reckless quest for justice. While also dodging people who want them dead. Through an unforgiving wilderness. With a dam about to break.
How do they get from Gideon’s deer rescue to a fight for their own survival? Well, you’re just going to have it read it for yourself. I know you’ll be just as riveted to the story as I was! And I have a feeling you’re really going to like these characters too. Over and over, survival training notwithstanding, Gideon proves himself to be a true hero – the kind who sticks around and puts other people first. And Zee’s determination to see justice served fortifies her with an admirable courage, even if she could stand to be a bit more prudent in how she goes about it. Their enemies-to-more romance had me cheering them on, and their opposite approaches to the tenuous situations they encounter entertained me (and kept those aforementioned sparks zinging between them too).
Bottom Line: Between the ruthless forces of nature, the ticking clock of the looming dam failure, the people hunting Zee and Gideon through the wilderness, and the very real threat of running out of everything they need to survive, I could not put Raging Waters down. Dana Mentink skillfully balances external danger with internal restoration and sweet romance in a way that kept me fully invested in each outcome. Zee and Gideon are layered and relatably flawed, and I loved getting to know them and watching how their forced proximity plays out. Granted, there’s not much downtime as they try to outrun looming disaster and murderous goons at every turn, so Mentink makes every moment count in creating meaningful personal & spiritual growth in her protagonists. Add in the fact that they – and I – didn’t know who could be trusted, and my heart stayed in my throat from the first sentence onward!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Warning: before beginning Raging Waters by Dana Mentink, please take the following safety precautions. First, go ahead and stretch your muscles – particularly your shoulders and neck – because they’ll definitely tense up from the start of this heart-in-your-throat novel and will likely stay that way until the very end. (I would suggest stopping mid-way through for another stretch break, but you won’t want to stop reading to do so.) Second, search for an alternate source of oxygen or, if one is not available, set a timer to remind yourself to breathe every so often because the danger stays high-stakes almost from the first word to the last. Third, have some tasty snacks and a beverage of choice handy to ward off sympathy stress over when Mackenzie & Gideon’s food and water supply will run out. And finally, wrap up in a blanket (or keep one close by) and read this from the comfiest of your fave nooks because these poor characters are so miserably uncomfortable in this novel and you’ll need the reminder that you’re not suffering out there in the wilderness with them.
Now that we’ve got the safety guide covered, let’s talk more about Raging Waters. Y’all. As you might have figured out from my first paragraph, Dana Mentink puts her characters through the wringer in this one, and I felt like I was right in the middle of it too, thanks to Mentink’s vivid writing. Mackenzie (hereafter known as ‘Zee’) and Gideon have a layered history, so the emotional tension sparks between these two from the moment they reconnect… in the pouring rain… while Gideon (who is Cullen’s brother from Fire Mountain) tries to free a panicked deer from a tangle of branches in a freezing, rushing river. (As you do.) Before those sparks can turn romantical, however, they need to work through the way that the death of Zee’s brother (who was also Gideon’s best friend) has affected their life trajectories, their relationships, their faith, and particularly Zee’s reckless quest for justice. While also dodging people who want them dead. Through an unforgiving wilderness. With a dam about to break.
How do they get from Gideon’s deer rescue to a fight for their own survival? Well, you’re just going to have it read it for yourself. I know you’ll be just as riveted to the story as I was! And I have a feeling you’re really going to like these characters too. Over and over, survival training notwithstanding, Gideon proves himself to be a true hero – the kind who sticks around and puts other people first. And Zee’s determination to see justice served fortifies her with an admirable courage, even if she could stand to be a bit more prudent in how she goes about it. Their enemies-to-more romance had me cheering them on, and their opposite approaches to the tenuous situations they encounter entertained me (and kept those aforementioned sparks zinging between them too).
Bottom Line: Between the ruthless forces of nature, the ticking clock of the looming dam failure, the people hunting Zee and Gideon through the wilderness, and the very real threat of running out of everything they need to survive, I could not put Raging Waters down. Dana Mentink skillfully balances external danger with internal restoration and sweet romance in a way that kept me fully invested in each outcome. Zee and Gideon are layered and relatably flawed, and I loved getting to know them and watching how their forced proximity plays out. Granted, there’s not much downtime as they try to outrun looming disaster and murderous goons at every turn, so Mentink makes every moment count in creating meaningful personal & spiritual growth in her protagonists. Add in the fact that they – and I – didn’t know who could be trusted, and my heart stayed in my throat from the first sentence onward!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
March 11, 2026
Raging Waters, an Inspirational Romantic Suspense novel by Dana Mentink is the second book in the Elements of Danger series set in small-town Washington.
When Justice Collides with the Flood: A Pulse-Pounding Tale of Danger and Redemption
What happens when the past you can’t escape collides with a danger you never saw coming? This gripping romantic suspense plunges readers into a relentless race for justice, survival, and healing.
Mackenzie Bardine has spent years haunted by the murder of her brother, Aaron. Determined to bring the man responsible to light, she pours her heart into a true crime podcast focused on exposing the mysterious drug kingpin known as “Bullseye.” But beneath her fierce determination lies a heavy burden of guilt—one that keeps her from truly moving forward. Mackenzie believes she failed her brother…and she’s never quite forgiven his best friend, Gideon Landry, either.
Following a new lead, Mackenzie heads deep into the rugged wilderness of Washington state. What she doesn’t expect is to come face-to-face with Gideon himself—the very man she blames for Aaron’s downfall.
Gideon Landry has done everything he can to leave the past behind. Now a wilderness survival instructor, he spends his days teaching others how to endure the harsh beauty of the outdoors. When Mackenzie suddenly appears chasing dangerous leads for her podcast, Gideon wants nothing to do with her investigation—or the painful memories she brings with her. But the truth about Aaron’s death is more complicated than Mackenzie realizes, and Gideon carries his own secrets.
When ruthless criminals begin circling Mackenzie like predators, Gideon knows she’s stepped into something far more dangerous than a podcast investigation. Despite the tension and unresolved anger between them, he can’t turn his back on her when her life is clearly at risk.
Then disaster strikes.
A dam collapses, unleashing a violent torrent of water across the terrain and throwing the entire town into chaos. Suddenly, Mackenzie and Gideon are fighting on two fronts—escaping the deadly floodwaters and staying one step ahead of a powerful criminal determined to silence them forever.
The tension in this story is relentless. Between the high-stakes investigation, the growing threat from dangerous enemies, and the natural disaster bearing down on them, the pacing rarely slows. The rugged Washington wilderness becomes the perfect backdrop for a story filled with survival, suspense, and heart-stopping danger.
What truly elevates this novel, however, is the emotional journey between Mackenzie and Gideon. Their enemies-to-love dynamic is layered with grief, guilt, and long-buried truths. Watching them confront their past and learn to trust again brings a powerful depth to the story. Their journey is not only about solving a crime—it’s about forgiveness, redemption, and letting God heal wounds that once seemed impossible to mend.
Fans of clean romantic suspense will find so much to love here: a determined heroine seeking justice, a protective hero with a complicated past, forced proximity in life-threatening circumstances, and a storyline packed with twists and adrenaline.
With its compelling characters, thrilling plot, and meaningful themes of grace and second chances, this story is a captivating read from beginning to end. If you enjoy suspense that keeps your heart racing while reminding you that hope and healing are never out of reach, this book will leave you breathless.
So if you enjoy Inspirational Suspense novels, check out Raging Waters by Dana Mentink along with the rest of the Elements of Danger series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
When Justice Collides with the Flood: A Pulse-Pounding Tale of Danger and Redemption
What happens when the past you can’t escape collides with a danger you never saw coming? This gripping romantic suspense plunges readers into a relentless race for justice, survival, and healing.
Mackenzie Bardine has spent years haunted by the murder of her brother, Aaron. Determined to bring the man responsible to light, she pours her heart into a true crime podcast focused on exposing the mysterious drug kingpin known as “Bullseye.” But beneath her fierce determination lies a heavy burden of guilt—one that keeps her from truly moving forward. Mackenzie believes she failed her brother…and she’s never quite forgiven his best friend, Gideon Landry, either.
Following a new lead, Mackenzie heads deep into the rugged wilderness of Washington state. What she doesn’t expect is to come face-to-face with Gideon himself—the very man she blames for Aaron’s downfall.
Gideon Landry has done everything he can to leave the past behind. Now a wilderness survival instructor, he spends his days teaching others how to endure the harsh beauty of the outdoors. When Mackenzie suddenly appears chasing dangerous leads for her podcast, Gideon wants nothing to do with her investigation—or the painful memories she brings with her. But the truth about Aaron’s death is more complicated than Mackenzie realizes, and Gideon carries his own secrets.
When ruthless criminals begin circling Mackenzie like predators, Gideon knows she’s stepped into something far more dangerous than a podcast investigation. Despite the tension and unresolved anger between them, he can’t turn his back on her when her life is clearly at risk.
Then disaster strikes.
A dam collapses, unleashing a violent torrent of water across the terrain and throwing the entire town into chaos. Suddenly, Mackenzie and Gideon are fighting on two fronts—escaping the deadly floodwaters and staying one step ahead of a powerful criminal determined to silence them forever.
The tension in this story is relentless. Between the high-stakes investigation, the growing threat from dangerous enemies, and the natural disaster bearing down on them, the pacing rarely slows. The rugged Washington wilderness becomes the perfect backdrop for a story filled with survival, suspense, and heart-stopping danger.
What truly elevates this novel, however, is the emotional journey between Mackenzie and Gideon. Their enemies-to-love dynamic is layered with grief, guilt, and long-buried truths. Watching them confront their past and learn to trust again brings a powerful depth to the story. Their journey is not only about solving a crime—it’s about forgiveness, redemption, and letting God heal wounds that once seemed impossible to mend.
Fans of clean romantic suspense will find so much to love here: a determined heroine seeking justice, a protective hero with a complicated past, forced proximity in life-threatening circumstances, and a storyline packed with twists and adrenaline.
With its compelling characters, thrilling plot, and meaningful themes of grace and second chances, this story is a captivating read from beginning to end. If you enjoy suspense that keeps your heart racing while reminding you that hope and healing are never out of reach, this book will leave you breathless.
So if you enjoy Inspirational Suspense novels, check out Raging Waters by Dana Mentink along with the rest of the Elements of Danger series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
March 7, 2026
Dana Mentink has a hit on her hands with her latest release, Raging Waters, the second installment of Ms. Mentink’s Elements of Danger series! Mackenzie Bardine is on a mission to avenge her brother, Aaron’s death. After Aaron’s murder in a drug-deal-gone-wrong, Mackenzie starts a true crime podcast to help solve cold cases, while gathering clues about Aaron’s case along the way. The latest clues lead Mackenzie to hunt down a man named “Bullseye” deep in the wilderness of Washington State where she learns Aaron’s best friend, Air Force SERE instructor Gideon, works in the community. Surprised and upset to see Mackenzie, whom he lovingly refers to as “Zee”, doesn’t even begin to describe it for Gideon. The last time Zee and Gideon saw one another was at Aaron’s funeral where Zee basically blames him for letting Aaron get killed. Gideon is also against Mackenzie’s Crusade to avenge Aaron’s death because it has put her life in danger and turned her into someone he doesn’t even recognize. As torrential rains ascend on the wilderness of Washington, it puts both Gideon and Mackenzie’s lives in danger, especially as more clues become unearthed and the elusive “Bullseye” is on their tails.
I honestly love Raging Waters by Dana Mentink! In the Dana Mentink fashion that I have come to know and love, Ms. Mentink has packed the suspense from the get-go and has centered the plot on a central theme—this time it is the torrential rains and overflowing waters in the Washington wilderness. (Raging Waters is a very apt title for the book because of the events surrounding the plot!) I thought Ms. Mentink portrayed Mackenzie and Gideon beautifully in the book, making them equal parts oil and water personality-wise. I love the thread of revenge and how it corrupts those who seek it that was woven through the book. I love how Gideon saw right through Mackenzie and her reasoning for revenge and pointed her back to God. The way that Gideon explained what revenge does to a person was right on point! I love how Mackenzie was stubborn and hard hearted in the name of revenge! I loved the journey that Mackenzie went on and how she realized the truth about herself. The water and rain scenes were so vivid to me— I felt cold, heard the sound of the raging waters, and felt the weight of moving through them along with the characters. Like the raging waters that confounded Mackenzie and Gideon at every turn, Raging Waters had unexpected twists and turns at every bend in the story that Readers will enjoy! (Trust me, the suspenseful waves around “Bullseye” will shock you—they did me!) Raging Waters by Dana Mentink is a fast-paced read with a Powerful Message that I highly recommend!
Have you read Raging Waters? What did you think of the book?
I would like to thank the Publisher and Celebrate Lit Blogging Tours for giving me a copy of Raging Waters to review, for letting me be a part of the Raging Waters Celebration Tour, and for providing the information needed for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My review is also on my blog Leslie’s Library Escape, NetGalley, and Amazon.
I honestly love Raging Waters by Dana Mentink! In the Dana Mentink fashion that I have come to know and love, Ms. Mentink has packed the suspense from the get-go and has centered the plot on a central theme—this time it is the torrential rains and overflowing waters in the Washington wilderness. (Raging Waters is a very apt title for the book because of the events surrounding the plot!) I thought Ms. Mentink portrayed Mackenzie and Gideon beautifully in the book, making them equal parts oil and water personality-wise. I love the thread of revenge and how it corrupts those who seek it that was woven through the book. I love how Gideon saw right through Mackenzie and her reasoning for revenge and pointed her back to God. The way that Gideon explained what revenge does to a person was right on point! I love how Mackenzie was stubborn and hard hearted in the name of revenge! I loved the journey that Mackenzie went on and how she realized the truth about herself. The water and rain scenes were so vivid to me— I felt cold, heard the sound of the raging waters, and felt the weight of moving through them along with the characters. Like the raging waters that confounded Mackenzie and Gideon at every turn, Raging Waters had unexpected twists and turns at every bend in the story that Readers will enjoy! (Trust me, the suspenseful waves around “Bullseye” will shock you—they did me!) Raging Waters by Dana Mentink is a fast-paced read with a Powerful Message that I highly recommend!
Have you read Raging Waters? What did you think of the book?
I would like to thank the Publisher and Celebrate Lit Blogging Tours for giving me a copy of Raging Waters to review, for letting me be a part of the Raging Waters Celebration Tour, and for providing the information needed for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My review is also on my blog Leslie’s Library Escape, NetGalley, and Amazon.
Review of advance copy received from Author
RAGING WATERS by Dana Mentink is the riveting, suspense-filled story of Mackenzie “Zee” Bardine, true crime podcaster, and Gideon Landry, wilderness survival instructor. With the impending disaster of the Cotton Flower Dam breach and danger around every corner, will they live to tell the tale?
Mackenzie idolized her brother and was devastated by his assassination-style murder. She starts a podcast on unsolved crimes. She wanted the drug kingpin responsible in her brother’s murder to be held accountable. She goes to Oakleaf to meet an informant to get a name only to find her in jail. Gideon didn’t realize he was part of her plan to get herself in jail too until it was too late, but will her plan backfire?
Stepping down from SERE and starting up the wilderness survivor classes will make it possible for Gideon to help his parents. He had heartedly grieved Aaron’s murder. Maybe if he hadn’t taken the blame for the fire at the diner they both worked at in high school, the same one where he sustained the shoulder injury that caused his folks all that financial debt, Aaron might have grown up to take responsibilities for his actions. Out on his first survival class, rain had all but one cancelling and Zee, the last person he expected to see, managed to scare off that one. What is she doing in Oakleaf?
How did Zee’s plans land her in a life-or-death situation with chances of surviving slim to null? When a jail van is shoved off the bridge into the raging waters and knowing who was inside, will Gideon be able to save them? Getting her out is only a fraction of their problems. Gideon will do anything to save Zee – from others and from herself. With those determined to kill them, will luck remain on their side or are they just barely treading water staying alive a fraction of inches ahead of those determined to end it all – if the waters don’t? To survive, they must get out of where Bullseye’s control is evident and one can’t tell friend from foe.
RAGING WATERS will keep you both spellbound and captivated as you quickly turn the pages trying to figure out who Bullseye is, who is on his payroll and who really wants to help Zee and Gideon. Through the suspense and the danger, watch respect turn to sweet growing romance as they learn more about the past and present answering questions for them both. Dana Mentink gives us a story of determination, danger, survival, suspense, friendship, romance and wraps it all in a wonderful thread of faith. RAGING WATERS is magnificently FIVE-STAR reading and I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone.
RAGING WATERS is the second book in the Elements of Danger 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.
#RagingWaters #ElementsofDanger #DanaMentink #RevellFiction
Mackenzie idolized her brother and was devastated by his assassination-style murder. She starts a podcast on unsolved crimes. She wanted the drug kingpin responsible in her brother’s murder to be held accountable. She goes to Oakleaf to meet an informant to get a name only to find her in jail. Gideon didn’t realize he was part of her plan to get herself in jail too until it was too late, but will her plan backfire?
Stepping down from SERE and starting up the wilderness survivor classes will make it possible for Gideon to help his parents. He had heartedly grieved Aaron’s murder. Maybe if he hadn’t taken the blame for the fire at the diner they both worked at in high school, the same one where he sustained the shoulder injury that caused his folks all that financial debt, Aaron might have grown up to take responsibilities for his actions. Out on his first survival class, rain had all but one cancelling and Zee, the last person he expected to see, managed to scare off that one. What is she doing in Oakleaf?
How did Zee’s plans land her in a life-or-death situation with chances of surviving slim to null? When a jail van is shoved off the bridge into the raging waters and knowing who was inside, will Gideon be able to save them? Getting her out is only a fraction of their problems. Gideon will do anything to save Zee – from others and from herself. With those determined to kill them, will luck remain on their side or are they just barely treading water staying alive a fraction of inches ahead of those determined to end it all – if the waters don’t? To survive, they must get out of where Bullseye’s control is evident and one can’t tell friend from foe.
RAGING WATERS will keep you both spellbound and captivated as you quickly turn the pages trying to figure out who Bullseye is, who is on his payroll and who really wants to help Zee and Gideon. Through the suspense and the danger, watch respect turn to sweet growing romance as they learn more about the past and present answering questions for them both. Dana Mentink gives us a story of determination, danger, survival, suspense, friendship, romance and wraps it all in a wonderful thread of faith. RAGING WATERS is magnificently FIVE-STAR reading and I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone.
RAGING WATERS is the second book in the Elements of Danger 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.
#RagingWaters #ElementsofDanger #DanaMentink #RevellFiction
March 5, 2026
Get ready for a heart pounding adventure in this exciting book. As I began the story I was immediately transported to the dangerous water rushing by. The author does an excellent job of illustrating how dangerous flood waters can be. It comes up suddenly and covers you with ice cold water that takes your breath away.
Mackenzie is on a mission to find the killer of her brother. She will not rest until justice is done. Her life has been filled with his death and all she cares about is finding out the truth about her brother’s death. Mackenzie blames herself and someone who was her brother’s best friend. Her job as a cold case podcaster is well known. She has caught the attention of a certain someone who wants her dead. she seeks revenge instead of allowing God’s justice to prevail.
Gideon is a welcome addition to the story as he finds himself once again facing MacKenzie. They haven’t seen eye to eye in a while but now he will do anything he can to keep her safe. I like how the author slowly unravels their relationship that is in need of repair. Mackenzie seems to be filled with rage at times and considers everyone an enemy. Will she be able to trust Gideon? He sure has patience with her which I found to be a great quality.
The action is nonstop as they race to find safety against the waters that are unforgiving. Like MacKenzie, I wasn’t sure who to trust. A few minor characters caught my attention when they seemed to want to help. There is a little twist in the story where a relationship is revealed. I’m not sure if I believed this person and was excited to see which direction the author would go with this new information.
The ending is one of the most powerful parts of the story. Sometimes an ending seems abrupt or leave readers questioning if there should have been more. In this case, the author delivers an epic ending where decisions must be made and bitterness needs to go. I could feel MacKenzie struggle as she was faced with a life or death situation. Can she let go of her anger in order to do the right thing? Don’t miss the letter at the end of the book written by the author. It completes the story in a loving, God filled way. As I finished the book I thought about the tragic flood at a camp in Texas recently. In the midst of loss, people came together to help others. This story reflects the same. People helping others with no thought to their own safety.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Mackenzie is on a mission to find the killer of her brother. She will not rest until justice is done. Her life has been filled with his death and all she cares about is finding out the truth about her brother’s death. Mackenzie blames herself and someone who was her brother’s best friend. Her job as a cold case podcaster is well known. She has caught the attention of a certain someone who wants her dead. she seeks revenge instead of allowing God’s justice to prevail.
Gideon is a welcome addition to the story as he finds himself once again facing MacKenzie. They haven’t seen eye to eye in a while but now he will do anything he can to keep her safe. I like how the author slowly unravels their relationship that is in need of repair. Mackenzie seems to be filled with rage at times and considers everyone an enemy. Will she be able to trust Gideon? He sure has patience with her which I found to be a great quality.
The action is nonstop as they race to find safety against the waters that are unforgiving. Like MacKenzie, I wasn’t sure who to trust. A few minor characters caught my attention when they seemed to want to help. There is a little twist in the story where a relationship is revealed. I’m not sure if I believed this person and was excited to see which direction the author would go with this new information.
The ending is one of the most powerful parts of the story. Sometimes an ending seems abrupt or leave readers questioning if there should have been more. In this case, the author delivers an epic ending where decisions must be made and bitterness needs to go. I could feel MacKenzie struggle as she was faced with a life or death situation. Can she let go of her anger in order to do the right thing? Don’t miss the letter at the end of the book written by the author. It completes the story in a loving, God filled way. As I finished the book I thought about the tragic flood at a camp in Texas recently. In the midst of loss, people came together to help others. This story reflects the same. People helping others with no thought to their own safety.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
March 9, 2026
A dam break, outdoor survival, bringing down a drug kingpin, & second-chance love make this Elements of Danger sequel unputdownable! Raging Waters is an apt name. Dana Mentink delivers an exciting romantic suspense with a complicated heroine seeking justice for her brother’s murder, if she can convince her brother’s best friend that her cause is just. Facing wicked storms in a remote Washington town with a dam on the verge of breaking, Gideon & McKenzie fight both nature & a vicious drug kingpin to survive.
When McKenzie Bardine’s brother Aaron is murdered in a drug deal gone wrong, she vows to bring down “Bullseye,” the mysterious kingpin responsible for his death. When she receives a tip during her podcast dedicated to fighting injustice, she travels to a small Washington town to finally learn the name of the man who killed her brother & bring him to justice. But her plans are derailed when she accidentally runs into Gideon, her brother’s best friend whom she once had a crush on & also blames for Aaron’s death.
Wilderness survivalist Gideon Landry carries a great deal of guilt when it comes to Aaron, but not for the reasons McKenzie believes. When she appears out of nowhere during a tense moment in his survival course, his world is turned upside down. Forced to help with her vigilante quest, Gideon tries to keep them both alive when “Bullseye” & his minions discover her presence. Fighting both nature & man, Gideon & McKenzie must work together if they’re going to survive.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! It’s a white-knuckle adventure filled with twists & turns. The setting & descriptions were so vivid. I could feel the achingly cold temps, the freezing water, & the desperation of wilderness survival. Not only are they facing unimaginable danger from the elements, but a ruthless mobster bent on destroying McKenzie. His people are everywhere, & it’s hard to know whom to trust.
I also enjoyed the second-chance romance between “Zee” & Gideon. Her brother was no angel, & Gideon is forced to reveal hard truths as he tries to convince Zee that her need for revenge & justice is misplaced, & becoming all-consuming. I loved how their enemies-to-lovers dynamic shifted as they’re forced to rely on each other.
Highly recommend this dynamic story of faith, courage, making peace with the past, & love. I received an advanced copy from the publisher with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily. 4-4.5 stars!
When McKenzie Bardine’s brother Aaron is murdered in a drug deal gone wrong, she vows to bring down “Bullseye,” the mysterious kingpin responsible for his death. When she receives a tip during her podcast dedicated to fighting injustice, she travels to a small Washington town to finally learn the name of the man who killed her brother & bring him to justice. But her plans are derailed when she accidentally runs into Gideon, her brother’s best friend whom she once had a crush on & also blames for Aaron’s death.
Wilderness survivalist Gideon Landry carries a great deal of guilt when it comes to Aaron, but not for the reasons McKenzie believes. When she appears out of nowhere during a tense moment in his survival course, his world is turned upside down. Forced to help with her vigilante quest, Gideon tries to keep them both alive when “Bullseye” & his minions discover her presence. Fighting both nature & man, Gideon & McKenzie must work together if they’re going to survive.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! It’s a white-knuckle adventure filled with twists & turns. The setting & descriptions were so vivid. I could feel the achingly cold temps, the freezing water, & the desperation of wilderness survival. Not only are they facing unimaginable danger from the elements, but a ruthless mobster bent on destroying McKenzie. His people are everywhere, & it’s hard to know whom to trust.
I also enjoyed the second-chance romance between “Zee” & Gideon. Her brother was no angel, & Gideon is forced to reveal hard truths as he tries to convince Zee that her need for revenge & justice is misplaced, & becoming all-consuming. I loved how their enemies-to-lovers dynamic shifted as they’re forced to rely on each other.
Highly recommend this dynamic story of faith, courage, making peace with the past, & love. I received an advanced copy from the publisher with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily. 4-4.5 stars!
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