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Montana Rescue #3

A Matter of Trust

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Champion backcountry snowboarder Gage Watson has left the limelight behind after the death of one of his fans. After being sued for negligence and stripped of his sponsorships, he's remade his life as a ski patrol in Montana's rugged mountains, as well as serving on the PEAK Rescue team. But he can't seem to find his footing--or forget the woman he loved, who betrayed him.

Senator and former attorney Ella Blair spends much of her time in the limelight as the second-youngest senator in the country. But she has a secret--one that cost Gage his career. More than anything, she wants to atone for her betrayal of him in the courtroom and find a way to help him put his career back on track.

When Ella's brother goes missing on one of Glacier National Park's most dangerous peaks, Gage and his team are called in for the rescue. But Gage isn't so sure he wants to help the woman who destroyed his life. More, when she insists on joining the search, he'll have to keep her safe while finding her reckless brother, a recipe for disaster when a snowstorm hits the mountain.

But old sparks relight as they search for the missing snowboarder--and suddenly, they are faced with emotions neither can deny. But when Ella's secret is revealed, can they learn to trust each other--even when disaster happens again?

330 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2017

207 people are currently reading
1415 people want to read

About the author

Susan May Warren

221 books3,670 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 320 reviews
Profile Image for Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...).
1,677 reviews582 followers
January 3, 2018
This series is so EPIC. I was pulled right into the story and felt like I was there on the mountain in the snowy powder cutting a line and dropping off cliffs. I loved the backstory between Gage and Ella, the way they connected and felt like they could be themselves with each other. There is plenty of conflict and angst as they are reunited and work together in tense and strenuous circumstances. Being thrown together again made them face parts of their past that they had tried to forget, and they had great discussions about faith and God while resolving their difficulties. Their chemistry was amazing and I loved the way Ella could keep up with Gage on the mountain and the joy they found in the extreme sport, even as they raced against a storm to find her brother. Themes of trust, family, and finding one's purpose are strong in this story with fast-paced adventure and toe-curling romance! Highly recommend!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
582 reviews
June 14, 2017
How can a book series get any better, the characters dig deeper in your heart and make you want more like a bad addiction? I seriously don't know how this author does it!

Heart-pounding adrenaline ride from the first mention of snowboarding down the mountain. You can literally feel the spray of snow in your face, the biting cold down your neck & your stomach dropping after each jump. Gage is definitely in his element! I could not wait to meet him in this book and I was not disappointed. Flawed, hurting, and riddled with guilt, he leapt off the pages as someone I connected with. Trying to make up for a past by becoming part of the PEAK team and burying the man he once was. Until he meets up with the lawyer who prosecuted him years ago after he fell in love with her. These two definitely clash! With a common mission to save her brother Ollie from making the same mistake he did, they must learn to work together.

I enjoyed catching up with the other members of the PEAK team and their unbreakable bonds. There are many layers to this as the story progresses. I also love the strong faith theme and reminders that in spite of our past mistakes, God doesn't stop loving us.

If you love stories full of depth, flawed characters you can connect with, reminder of God's love, and romance rising out of the ashes of the past, then you'll want to pick up this one! I highly recommend reading previous books to get the full effect of this series. Lastly, like a good reader friend of mine says “I”ll be waiting on tenterhooks until the next installment”!

* I received a copy through Netgalley and wasn't required to leave a review. All opinions are strictly my own*
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,890 reviews207 followers
July 4, 2017
Wow! A simply amazing addition to the Montana Rescue series. I enjoy these stories so much!

Gage and Ella were great characters. I really liked Gage and felt for him and all that he had lost. He was such an admirable character. He pushed on, even though he carried some guilt and regret, and worked hard to help others. I have to admit that I resented Ella some when I first met her on the pages. But I quickly became a fan of hers, as well! These two were perfect for each other in so many ways and this book was packed with danger, romance, and thrilling situations! Once I started reading, it was almost impossible to stop.

The Montana Rescue series has ongoing situations and characters that build on each other, however, I think A Matter of Trust can stand alone pretty well. The author does a good job of mentioning some past events to catch the reader up. I highly recommend the entire series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Profile Image for Madison.
1,088 reviews70 followers
June 18, 2017
4.5 stars

There is something about Susan May Warren's writing that grabs you and drags you into the story. Not that I mind that one bit. Her writing is truly evocative. In A Matter of Trust, readers are taken on a wild, death-defying adventure through the snowy peaks of Montana. I could practically smell the fresh, crisp snow and feel the sharp snap of the freezing air. But don't worry, there is plenty of romance to keep you warm.

Gage left behind his life as a champion freestyle snowboarder after a tragic death and vicious lawsuit left him stripped of sponsors and determined to never take such risks again. Now he is a member of the PEAK Rescue team and the snow patrol unit, working to save lives. But then Ella Blair, the girl who he once upon a time thought might be the love of his life and who played a role in the lawsuit that saw him lose everything, renters his life. Together Ella and Gage face the dangers of untamed wilderness and the secrets and hurts of their past as they fight to rescue Ella's brother.

I have enjoyed all the books in this Montana Rescue series and A Matter of Trust, the third book was no different. It has a potent mix of suspense as the characters face the elements, and wonderful romance that reaches right into the hearts of the characters, exploring their pasts, fears, hurts and hopes. There is a nice bit of kissing, too.

I totally lost my heart to Gage. His regret and the way he blamed himself was heartbreaking. He longs to be someone who does the right thing, saves people, is a hero, but fears his mistakes outweigh any good he might achieve. Ella, too, has many regrets, most notably the one that cost her a future with Gage. I liked how Ella also had another layer of motivation that stemmed from her family history. The rekindling of their romance was wonderful. I also enjoyed the few chapters that went back to the time they first met, giving readers an insight into the dept of their relationship.

I particularly like how each of the books in this series continue the stories of multiple characters. Readers get to see the continuation of previous main characters, as well as on-going stories. A Matter of Trust, in addition to Ella and Gage's story, features the continuation of Jess' story. She too is an EMT. Readers learned in book two of the secret Jess is carrying and now we see how this is preventing her from truly connecting with Pete. A Matter Of Trust also introduces a new character, Ella's friend Brette who too has a fantastic story to share which I have no doubt will be continued in the next book, as will (finally) Ian and Sierra's story (yay!). Considering this continuity of characters and their stories that overlap books, I would recommend that readers read this series in order, although each book has its own main story arch. And, if the included teaser is anything to go by, the fourth book in this series is going to be epic.

A Matter of Trust is a fantastic addition to the Montana Rescue series, perfect for readers who enjoy plenty of high-stakes adventure with their romance and characters who grab your heart.

The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.

Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library.
Profile Image for Melanie.
2,215 reviews598 followers
August 6, 2017
A Matter of Trust is the third book in the Montana Rescue series and it surprised me. Because of the way it started, I wasn't sure what I was going to think of the read, but I really shouldn't have doubted Warren's storytelling because as I continued reading it got SO GOOD and I didn't want to put it down.

I loved the characters and there were so many dangerous scenes in this book that I didn't know what was going to happen...so the story definitely kept me on my toes.

All in all, I loved A Matter of Trust and if you've been enjoying this series I'm sure you will like it too. The ending was a cliffhanger and I can't wait to read the next book, which releases January 2018.

*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Profile Image for MJSH.
1,326 reviews73 followers
August 27, 2019
Could. Not. Put. This. Book. Down.
I just finished the book 5 minutes ago and my heart is still pounding. Wow.
The Montana Rescue series is the first series I've read from Susan May Warren. I have to say that I'm proud of myself for having read the series in order - from the prequel to this book. Each book keeps getting better and better. And now I'm fidgeting to read the next book!

Though I don't particularly have interest in skiing and/or snowboarding, the details of these two sports and freeriding were educational and fascinating. The beautiful description of the snow-covered mountain and the grace and beauty in the sport totally created vivid pictures throughout the book.

Gage and Ella. Ella and Gage. They are such amazing characters. Despite broken pasts and perceived sins, they rebuild their lives and emulate strength, compassion, and integrity. Their story is heart-gripping and a tear-jerker.

This book also has more subplots dedicated to the other PEAK Rescue team members, namely Ty, Jess, and Pete. Ian and Sierra stay far in the background, but I'm sure every bit of their story is being saved up for the next book ;)

And there is a strong thread of faith, hope, and redemption in this book, as in all her other books.

What a delightful read! The writing sucked me right into the story at page one, the fast-moving plot kept me turning the pages in anticipation, the wonderfully flawed yet lovable characters made me swoon, cry, hurt, and laugh with them as they found their path.

I received an ARC from the author and Revell in exchange for an honest review as a part of the author's Superstar Influencer group. I was not required to give a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Profile Image for Caitlyn Santi.
Author 4 books105 followers
July 9, 2017
This was such a fabulous addition to the Montana Rescue series!
I loved both Gage and Ella, they were both such fabulous characters! I especially loved that Ella was from Vermont, I always love it when I find connections to my home state in books!
I personally have zero interest in skiing, but I was surprised that the snowboarding scenes in this book completely engaged and enthralled me!
I loved everything about this book, as evidenced by the fact that I read it in a little over 24 hours!
A Matter of Trust contains all the elements that I have come to expect from one of Susan May Warren's books: clean knee weakening romance, adrenaline pumping action, characters that feel like family to me and a heart-touching, soul-stirring, life-changing faith story! This book, just like the whole series so far touched my heart in so many ways. I love the giddy feeling I always get when I crack open a new Susan May Warren book, and I cannot wait for Ian and Sierra's story (especially with that cliffhanger ending, Ms. Warren how can you leave us hanging like that! LOL!) thankfully I only have about six months and counting to wait!
I highly recommend A Matter of Trust, these books can probably be read as standalones but there is a plot thread that builds throughout so I think it would be best to read them in order! Besides this series is so awesome you won't want to miss out on a moment with the heroes of PEAK Rescue!


I received an ebook copy of this book from Netgalley. No review required. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
3,949 reviews1,764 followers
November 2, 2017
Nail-biting adventure high on a mountain top makes for a page turning read. You'll want to bundle up before you start in reading A Matter of Trust because most of it takes place in the frigid outdoors. Brrrrr. Mind you, having Gage around to keep you warm is a real plus. :-)

If you're familiar with this series, you've already met Gage and I have to admit to being really anxious for his story though surprised that it turned up in Book 3. I really expected Pete and Jess to take centre stage this time, based on the lead in from Book 2, but Warren delivers us some more foreshadowed angst where those two are concerned in this story. As well as even more romantic angst involving Ty. Oy, I will be on pins and needles until every member of the PEAK Rescue Teams finds their happily ever after. Lot's of delightful reading anticipation for me! And you -- hopefully.

Having said all that -- you could read A Matter of Trust as a standalone...but this series is so awesome with its realistic characters and action-packed adventures and toe-curling romance that you should really read the books in order. Plus there's a bit of a mystery that has been on the back burner in these first books that is going to amp up as the series progresses. Might as well get in on the emotional roller-coaster from the very start!

As in the other books in this series, Warren has woven an exceptional inspirational thread throughout her characters lives. Both Gage and Ella struggle with the need to be in control. It affects their lives in different ways until their journey in the wilderness leads them to face some hard truths. "And suddenly, despite the cold, a knot began to unravel in his chest. He could almost feel it -- the full breath of grace filling his lungs." (p 280) There are always so many great takeaway quotes in Susan May Warren's books and that one shot a thrill right through me.

This winning combination of romance and adventure makes for the kind of book you don't want to put down until you reach the end...which is kind of a cliffhanger...and whatever you do, don't read the teaser for the fourth book that comes at the end of this one -- not if you want to sleep from now until Troubled Waters releases in January!
Profile Image for Gretchen.
131 reviews6 followers
July 13, 2019
ugghhh. I'm a sucker for everything involving snow. As someone who lives in Texas, a ridiculously hot and never snows state. Because of that, I've always been an avid watcher of the winter olympics, specifically ice skating and snow boarding. This book had snow boarding which made it 10x more awesome. Gage Watson was a snowboarding hero in this book and in my heart. Snowboarding is just so awesome.

Snowboarding wasn't the only awesome part about this book though. The journey that Ella and Gage took down the mountain after Ella's brother was incredible. This book was so well written. All the details about backcountry snowboarding made me live out my dream of snowboarding. I felt like I was right there with them. The characters were so easy to get along with and understand and their backstory was highly intriguing. So far, this has been my favorite book in the series.
Profile Image for Karen R.
740 reviews93 followers
July 8, 2017
Another exciting installment in the Montana Rescue series, an action-packed story of second chances, full of faith and romance! Book three focuses on Gage and Ty, two members of the PEAK rescue team, who find themselves involved in a life and death situation in snowy Glacier National Park.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Gage and Ella's story, plus getting more background on Ty, and additional clues in the ongoing investigation from book one (and the prequel).
Gage and Ella dance around each other, dealing with their past, and learning that forgiveness and honesty free them up to start over. Loved how they encouraged each other to believe in God's grace, love and desire to help them. It was a good example of learning to trust Him, as well as each other, as they struggled to survive their ordeal on the mountain. This author has a talent for describing the snowy ski scenes and the peril they were facing so well, it made me shiver reading this in the summer! Love all of the discussions of faith connected to the storyline too, drawing parallels between their physical and spiritual struggles. So many uplifting quotes!
"...maybe that was the reason God sent him up there...to remind him that whatever line he cut behind him, grace always lay before him. A pristine, white, unblemished future."
"... don't base God's love or desire to help you on your opinion of yourself. Base it on who God says he is."

Recommend reading this series in order, starting with the prequel, to fully enjoy it. Looking forward to the next book, with more of Ty's story. 4.5 stars

(An e-book was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)
Profile Image for Staci.
2,308 reviews673 followers
December 12, 2017
This Montana Rescue Series has no shortage of action and romance. In A Matter of Trust, the main characters are Gage and Ella, however, there is a bit of time focused on Ty, Pete, Jess and Ian. Gage and Ella connect after a three year break due to her brother's risky behavior snowboarding. This novel is heavily focused on how mistakes will happen and it is how we respond to them that matter.

The best part of this novel was the final pages and Epilogue. Readers are completely set up to want book four stat!!

Susan Warren is a new to me author this year. I am liking her style!
Profile Image for Just Commonly.
755 reviews108 followers
July 25, 2017
"It's those we love who have the power to hurt us most . . ." (back cover)

A Matter of Trust, the third installment of Montana Rescue series by Susan May Warren focuses on the Montana Rescue Team. A team with "a country singer who moonlights as a rescuer, a billionaire cowboy hiding out in Montana after the tragic loss of his family, a snowboarder rewriting his life as a rescuer, and a war hero dedicating her life to saving civilians." (123) In this installment, we dive into the story behind Gage Watson and what brings him to the team. And boy, was it as thrilling as the sport he was once famous for! Just as a warning, this review will be a long one. There are so many great things about it!

"No one in trouble should be worried about whether they deserve help." (168)
"That's the point. You gave me a line. A safe one. It was my job to ride it. And if I didn't, it wasn't your fault." (165)

A Matter of Trust has it all - action, romance (make that two!) and message of love, forgiveness and sacrifices just oozes in between the lines. This series just keeps getting better and better, and I can't wait to dive into Ty and Brett's story, Ian and Serena, Jess and Pete and can't leave out Kacey! Yes, I'm throwing a lot of names out there, but you'll fall in love with them just the same with each book. And you can read each book by itself, but I tell you, you will want to read the full series for sure!

Everyone has secrets, and if you look hard enough, we're all just hiding behind how we hope people view us." (124)

As we see from the back cover quote I started this post with, love is at stakes, especially when betrayal takes hold. And that's what readers get to experience along with the characters in A Matter of Trust. A theme of betrayal, as well as trust plays a pivotal role in giving our characters the journey to freedom.

"You're sorry because you knew the truth but let me burn anyway." (259)
"I hear God saying, 'You messed up, but that doesn't mean I did. Trust me.'" (187)

I love Gage and Ella's story, but Ty and Brett's meeting to understanding was also a strong pair that gives the story a little more, allowing the theme of trust to continue its rounds. Yes, we're talking about trust with each other, a key element in any relationship, but how the author personifies and strengthen the message of trust in God was just superbly done. And with that, I leave with you the final quote that just embodies the title and the story of A Matter of Trust, and pray that you and I, all will believe and trust, always.

"Don't for a minute think that God has forgotten about you or doesn't have your back. And don't base God's love or desire to help you on your opinion of yourself. Base it on who God says He is." (112)


This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Susan Snodgrass.
2,002 reviews273 followers
June 12, 2017
When a US senator's brother goes missing, Gage Watson is tasked to save him. He's only got one problem: the bossy and beautiful young senator wants to come with them. The same woman who tore Gage's life apart 3 years earlier. Can these two learn to trust each other and, more importantly, trust God, on the snow-filled mountains where danger seemingly awaits nearly every moment?

Susan May Warren again takes us on a journey that will nourish us spiritually as she explores the depth of God's grace and forgiveness. I absolutely love Warren's books. She is one of my all time favorite authors. Has been since I read the first book of hers. I never, ever, miss her stories. One thing I enjoy about Susan May Warren's work is that she is always bold enough to proclaim the message of Christ. She never shies away from that. I know that when I pick up one of her books, I am going to be blessed and I am going to carry away from that reading a deep spiritual nugget to encourage me in my walk with Christ.

This book, as in her others, tells the story not only of the two main characters, but is populated by the stories of their friends. And we know that each of those friends will most likely have a book of their own to star in at some point! I love every single bit of Warren's books. When I begin one, the world just kind of fades away into the background and I'm lost in her world.

This one taught me a lot I didn't know: snowboarding, skiing, freeriding. Well, I didn't know anything about it, but I learned a lot. And it was very exciting! Her descriptions are so vivid, I felt as if I were out there on those mountains, soaring through the air on a snowboard.

Seriously, I loved every single minute of this book. I highly recommend it and I don't think you will be disappointed.

*I was given a preview copy of this book by the publisher. I was not pressured to leave a positive review and my opinions are my own and honest.
Profile Image for Natacha Ramos.
137 reviews16 followers
July 6, 2017
Now we’re talking!

This novel is awesome! I read it in one day, and I loved it from beginning to end.

I was having a good time with this series so far, but “A Matter of Trust” took it all to the next level. I’m fully committed now.

Gage is amazing. Definitely, my favorite character in the book. In the entire Montana Rescue series, actually. He’s real and always ready to help others no matter what. I can’t believe how much I enjoyed reading his story, his hopes, his past, and his dreams. I felt a special connection with him. Ella was great too, but Gage will have a place in my heart forever.

Also, this book is so well-written. Susan May Warren is an artist with words. I was totally involved with everything that happened throughout the book, even the sub-plots. It’s incredible how the author is building the tension between the other characters in order to make you want more and more of them.

It’s working, Susie!

The PEAK Rescue team is far from over! I know that this series will keep getting better and better, and I can’t wait to see how all the details in the stories finally connect.

**I received a copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own**
Profile Image for Cathy.
819 reviews23 followers
September 6, 2017
This book was just ...WOW!! Gage was a man after my own heart with his heroic rescues and Samson long hair. I will admit that I just wasn't overly impressed with Gage in the other Montana Rescue books but he absolutely stole my heart in this book. This book made me want to try snow boarding with the incredible descriptions of "following the line" and "slarve". Most of all it showed that God is a Father who can be trusted ALL the time. This has been a tough year for me personally as I have seen my husband heroically fight a life threatening disease...He is my Gage. Love this book and can't wait to read more about Brette and Pete. All of the characters in these books feel so real to me. Susie May is an incredible author!!
Profile Image for Abigail.
Author 2 books205 followers
January 20, 2018
*cries* I just want to curl up in a ball and cry right now. All these books leave off on a romantic cliff hanger for certain couples. It's never the main couples but always the side romances that you are rooting for. I know that one of the two side romances have their own book in two books, but I still can have a broken heart about how their romance ended in this book!!

I love how Susan writes these books. They all connect so you have to read one book in order to read the next but even though they do all connect and have around the 'same' plot, but really they don't. Yes, the guy is a rescuer who somehow throughout the book saves the girl from her death, while their trying to save other people from their deaths. But, every book has it's own unique plot that the other books before it didn't.

I really loved Gage's character. He was so sweet and nice, I was so happy that

Okay, I literally could on and on about how awesome this book was, but you can just go read this series for yourself and see for yourself.

How about this I explain the book in gifs.

1. There was a snowborder named Gage, who was part of the PEAK team and a ski patrol.



2. There was a guy dressed in a t-rex costume! XD



3. There was a girl named Ella, who was the senator of Vermont and a snowboarder! (She also was a lawyer, once upon a time.)



4. Ella the senator, and Gage the snowboarder, had to go after T-rex kid, who was Ella's kid brother.



And now you get to find out what happens to T-rex kid, Ella, and Gage by reading the book! ;D

Oh, one more thing, there's two avalancha's!! (One they out ran, and the other........well you better read the book! XD)

Profile Image for Aimee .
3,073 reviews298 followers
July 17, 2017
I absolutely love this series by Susan May Warren. Well, this and the Montana Fire series. They are both so good. They have cross over characters that really give you a sense of community and family. Each book feels like coming home.

Just like previous books in this series, this book is full of danger and adventure set in the great outdoors. I loved the forward momentum in this story and how I was on the edge of my seat, holding my breath and white knuckled gripping my kindle for half the book.

Gage is a snowboarding magician- the greatest back country boarder of his time. He's known for his no fear attitude and love for the thrill of danger. Then something went wrong and that hotshot life he knew was wiped away. You can't help but feel sympathy for Gage who got the raw end of a deal. While trying to be the hero, he was made out to be a villain. Now he's rebuilding his life and finding value in helping other people. I thought Gage was savvy and an all around solid character. I really liked him.

The other thing I love about these books are the side stories going on around the main story. It sets the stage for future books by giving you a prequel of sorts. I cannot wait for the next book!

Content: mild peril, kissing, mild Christian fiction elements

- I received a copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,368 reviews167 followers
June 14, 2017
"You're a good guy, Gage. I've always known that."

Gage Watson's stellar snowboarding career was upended by the lovely lawyer- turned- state- senator who spoke those very words. Found liable for a petulant teen's accidental death in a civil law suit, Gage has retooled his career by serving on the PEAK rescue team and patrolling some of Montana's most challenging slopes. Three years later, Ella Blair still has the ability to scare him, for he "never has been able to take a full breath around her"; it had been love at first sight, or so he thought.

Ella Blair can scarcely believe that she has the opportunity to make amends with Gage Watson, or at least to tell him how sorry she is for ruining his career, for she has never forgotten the kind, charismatic man that she imagined once loved her. Their opportunity to clear the air is cut short, however, when Ella's rebellious brother decides to mimic Gage's greatness by making a run down a dangerous series of peaks; succeeding in going off the grid ahead of foul weather. A fine boarder herself, Ella insists on joining Gage for a search and rescue mission, but can they lay aside their differences long enough to re-establish peace on that mountain?

Susan May Warren has hit her stride in this episode of the "Montana Rescue" series; for in spite of being inundated with fascinating ski lingo, the story allows room for its characters to break free of the guilt and regret that has entombed them; discovering that it is the nature of God to "love the lost and broken and scared . . . . and buried".

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Susan.
787 reviews84 followers
May 10, 2017
Susan May Warren has produced another great novel in the Montana Rescue series. For those readers who are new to the series, there is enough information given to provide the back-stories that will allow new readers to jump right in. The Montana Rescue series centers around a heroic team of search and rescue members.


The themes of grace and forgiveness are skillfully threaded in Gage and Ella’s story in A Matter of Trust. Gage and his team are called to rescue Ella’s missing brother and friend on one of the most dangerous peaks in Glacier National Park. Not only do they have to battle the elements in this dangerous setting, they have to fight personal demons from the past as well. Can Ella and Gage put past mistakes and hurts behind them long enough to work together? It will take both of their combined skills to not only stay alive but to provide a rescue of the missing snowboarders. As they work together, can they learn to forgive and trust again? Can they learn to trust God?

Not only did I enjoy Gage and Ella’s story, my interest was peaked by hints at possible future storylines. I cannot wait to read more in this series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Hannah.
2,894 reviews1,436 followers
May 24, 2018
Gage and Ella are some of my favorite characters so far. I truly enjoyed the details of all the rescue ops and of how they go about finding the lost people. I still felt distracted by a lot of the other subplots, but not as much as in the previous book. The characters are all colorful and interesting, which makes it a hard one to put down.

Content: There are some minor expletives/crudities that got on my nerves a bit. There was a lot less kissing than the previous book, and I really was grateful for that.

Thanks to the publisher for a free review ecopy, though the one I actually read was a library book.
Profile Image for Raechel Lenore.
Author 4 books28 followers
August 7, 2017
I finished this last night, and when I woke up and remembered I finished it, I was sad because that means...I'm done! And I have to WAIT till the next book comes out! So sad. *sniff*.
Official review to come soon!

**Official Review:**

This series has been just excellent. And so easy to get caught up in and then get lost in!
“A Matter of Trust” was full of adventure, danger, and a good romance.
I hadn’t previously read many “Search and Rescue” series before this one, but my was it gripping! And now I’m even more excited to read SMW’s other SAR books.
But yes, this book. I loved the snowy setting because I love the cold. And spending time in a cold book made me imagine it was just a little colder here. ;)
Gage is a very strong character. I wasn’t sure if I’d fall in love with him as a character or not at first, but I shouldn’t have worried at all. Out of the three book heroes of this series I think maybe he’s at the top of my list…it’s hard to decide for sure though, because I love Sam as well, and Pete, and Ty…Okay, so these books have swoonworthy characters.
And the leading gals! They’re amazing. Ella was a very likeable character, and I could relate to her in her desires to be “perfect” before God but realizing that even if we’re not perfect, He loves us anyway – unconditionally.
And that brings me to the faith strand. These books are pretty short, but there’s always a faith strand, which is a big draw for me. And while they are not super loud, they are also not just sideline plots either – the message is woven in the story and touched on throughout it. It’s gentle and beautiful. Trust was the theme of this book, of course, and I really appreciated this as it was a much-needed reminder for me. We can trust God in ALL things, because He is good in ALL things. Love that lesson!
So yes, I very much enjoyed this book – loved it, in fact. This series, if you haven’t gathered, has made me very happy. :)
Profile Image for Rachael.
Author 3 books17 followers
July 9, 2017
I enjoy the occasional survivalist-type book, and chasing two amateur snowboarders down a massive, dangerous mountain--with the hopes of finding them before they kill themselves--definitely qualifies. I have not particularly enjoyed my experiences skiing, but the sport is much more enjoyable when experienced through a book.

Over all, it's a very well-balanced book, with intense, suspenseful adventure, romance, and spiritual themes of grace and forgiveness. I definitely recommend reading the other books in the series first, since there are a fair number of characters and complicated relationships, plus a series-long case that has yet to be solved.

Being as the next book doesn't come out for nearly six months, I'm not particularly thrilled with the way this book ended (with quite the teaser of an epilogue). However, it promises another exciting adventure to come! Perhaps the unclosed case will at last be solved . . .

Thank you Revell and NetGalley for proving a free e-book; I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Becky.
752 reviews44 followers
July 1, 2017
I've really been enjoying Susan May Warren's Montana Rescue series, and I think that A Matter of Trust just may be my favorite installment so far! (It's not my favorite book cover, though—that would be Rescue Me, with the upcoming Troubled Waters a close second!)

One thing that I've loved about all of the books so far—and this one in particular—is that they feature multiple romances. Sure, Gage and Ella are the main romantic pairing in A Matter of Trust, but Pete and Jess (whose romance started and flamed out in Rescue Me) and Ian and Sierra (whose story began in the prequel If Ever I Would Leave You) might not make gigantic relationship strides in the novel, but their romances are present. And then there's Brette and Ty. Brette is Ella's reporter friend who accompanies her to Montana, and Ty was the PEAK Rescue pilot before a crash sidelined him. Their story is full of secrets and miscommunication, and it's not resolved at the end of the novel in the way that Gage and Ella's story is. In fact, it's pretty much a cliffhanger. Still, I found this relationship to be the most compelling part of the novel, and I can't wait to see it continue! (This seems to be Susan May Warren's pattern for this series: the main couple gets their story told to a satisfying conclusion, while the other couples' stories are drawn out through multiple books. It could be annoying, but I find that I don't mind it. At all. And I'm practically giddy that the next book is finally about Ian and Sierra!)

Besides the romances, there's also plenty of action and danger, as well as themes of guilt, regret, and redemption. The four major characters—Gage, Ella, Ty, and Brette—are fleshed out and compelling, and I enjoyed checking in with the other PEAK Rescue members, as well.

This is one series that you definitely want to read in order (otherwise you won't understand what's going on with several of the relationships!), so if you haven't started yet, get yourself a copy of If Ever I Would Leave You (it's perpetually free for Kindle) and see what all the fuss is about! And if you have read the previous novels in this series, you'll definitely want to read A Matter of Trust. This series just keeps getting better!

Disclosure of material connection: I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Sydney Young.
1,244 reviews98 followers
August 17, 2017
Love this. Snow ❄️ cold setting 🏂🗻/ 💃🏻🚶🏻hot hot 🔥 story! Definite page turner with substance, perfect summer romance read. I'm going to have to read the whole Series.

"A Matter of Trust" is just that, a book that makes you trust the author and her delivery from the beginning, while settling you so far into the story itself that you also forget the talented Susan May Warren is in the background, weaving the story of Gage and Ella as it comes alive before you.

Their story takes place during winter in Montana, with an ex-freeriding-snowboarder turned rescue EMT/ski patrol, and an immigrant American who is now the State Senator of Vermont, (and who also happens to have some talent on the slopes herself). I've been to this very area in Montana in the summertime, and continually long to go back. "A Matter of Trust" showed me the beauty and danger of the mountain in the winter, all while it made me very curious as to what was going to happen to every single person in this story. It was like 90210, only with so much more meaning (does that make it #911-90210?), so I loved experiencing the stories of the additional team members, too. I also loved reading a ski story, something else I fondly remember from my youth. "A Matter of Trust" was a great vicarious trip that only served to enhance my desire to revisit the area.

I know myself. I'm going to have to pick up Book One of the series and go through it all to find out the stories as they develop from the beginning. Even so, jumping in at Book Three was not at all distracting.

This is a great summer read, because it is so well done, it is good escape and easy to digest, and because it is about something so cold while the heat of the story is always there. I also like the smidgen of faith element sprinkled in here and there, just that way many of us encounter in real life.

This is yet another "Highly Recommend" book that I would never have found were it not for this Lone Star Book Blog Tour. I encourage you to enter the giveaway, and add to your TBR pile. *Also I noticed a Bonus: this book is coming out in Audio form at the end of the month.

Thank you Ms. Warren for providing me a copy of your book for an honest review. It was so good, a definite page-turner, and I'm looking forward to more!
Profile Image for Gloria.
1,145 reviews146 followers
June 17, 2017
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and give an honest review.

This is one of those books that stay with you after you finish it. Susan May is one of my go to authors that never disappoints. I can expect to be transported to another world. A Matter of Trust is great on so many levels. It is action packed with danger on the slopes at the mercy of weather, terrain and natural events, such as avalanches and deep snow drifts. There are different relational conflicts that make the characters so normal and developed. Her characters are so real that I can imagine them walking off the pages. I could see the beautiful scenery of the rugged mountain ranges and feel the cold of the snowy conditions.

Ella Blair and Gage Watson met three years ago and hit it off but a tragic event severed their relationship. When Ella's brother takes a break from college to spend time working on his snowboarding skills, Ella follows Oliver to Montana to try to talk him into going back to school. Once there, she found out that his goal is to traverse down a dangerous course in Glacier National Park.

Gage is a former champion snowboarder that lost his sponsorship after a tragic accident of a fan. Gage is now working as an EMT with the PEAK rescue team in Montana near Glacier. When Ella's brother takes off to snowboard down a ragged peak that Gage was famous for making a video going down, Ella begs Gage to help her brother. He agreed because he didn't want another fan's life to end tragically. Gage and Ella, who is an accomplished snowboarder herself, follow Oliver and his friend down the mountain to make sure they make it down safely. They encounter a snow storm that moves in, very cold temperatures, dangerous terrain and conditions that keep you on the edge of your seat. On the other hand, they also have some history to work through.

We see other members of the PEAK rescue team from other books in the series that are involved in the rescue efforts and other call outs with the storms. There are conflicts between some of those members and secrets that are held close.

Faith plays a big part in the lives of some of the characters especially as they are put in danger and just dealing with others. But the bigger part is recognizing that God loves us no matter what we do. We are saved by grace, not by anything that we do but because He loves us and has loved us before we ever knew Him. When in danger, peril, or dealing with matters of the heart, we must trust Him to help us through events that happen to us. We also need to see ourselves and others as God sees us. Forgiveness is important to heal relationships. Sometimes it means forgiving others and sometimes we need to forgive ourselves. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Mimi.
790 reviews119 followers
December 4, 2020
Just making a note here for when I get to reviewing... where did Gage come from? hahaha He's been mentioned in the first 2 books, but this story seems like it came out of nowhere. I figured the next story would be Pete's, Ty's, or Ian's. lol I would've liked getting to know Gage better like we have all of the other characters to WANT to know his story. :)

Once again this was a fun story! Gage and Ella have quite the past and Ella's brother really didn't seem to have a clue to anyone around him. I love the Peak Team and how they all work together. We also get to learn more about Ty and Jess. And that's where Brett comes into the picture, which sets us up for a future story.

Do you ever get so involved with the characters you're yelling at them? Like when Ella is helping save her brother and all he has to say is, "I didn't need your help. I didn't need you to save me." Um... really? And he never even apologizes or takes responsibility for the situation he got his friend, Gage, and Ella into. So annoying. HA!

And then Brett. She got on my last nerve because after knowing Ty for a whole THREE days she can't believe he hasn't told her everything. Once again... um... He's not going to spill the beans to a reporter who he's only known 3 days while he grew up with Jess. Honestly... I wanted to give her the "what for!"

There was definitely adventure and hitting the trails because both Gage and Ella are boarders. I really liked that Ella could keep up with Gage. I didn't get the feel that she was a US Senator, though. She seemed like someone who would be able to join the Peak Team and rescue people. lol

I'm already on to book 4 of the series. Looking forward to Ian and Sierra's story! It's been a long time coming...at least in "book time".
Profile Image for Katie.
508 reviews
June 16, 2017
Each book in this series has gotten better. This is Gage's story (and we get a little Ty and more Pete and Jess). I am not a skier and I know nothing about skiing, however, I was never confused about all the skiing details. I found it interesting. The story itself was very fast paced with an occasional flashback. All the storylines connected and flowed. The epilogue is a teaser for book 4, which looks to be very good as well.
This is a series that will be easier to understand if read in order.

Thanks to Netgalley and Publishers for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kathleen (Kat) Smith.
1,613 reviews94 followers
June 27, 2017
"No one in trouble should be worried about whether they deserve help. They need help, and that's the point."

For Gage Watson, a member of the PEAK Blackbear Ski Patrol, find the lost was just another day at work. Being a former national free-riding snow boarder, this was all that remained of his time as a champion. But that didn't mean that in the world of social media and YouTube, that younger adults didn't dream of following in his proverbial footsteps. With enough research, the things that Gage achieved in his former lime light, he now had to find those thrill seekers before they did something foolish and got hurt or even worse, killed. That was the past Gage was still trying to recover from. The day when Dylan was killed trying to follow in Gage's line along Outlaw Mountain. Even though he tried to dissuade this kid from trying the same thing he had success at, this time, an unfortunate avalanche claimed Dylan's life, but also the life Gage had known. Lawsuits lead to a settlement that cost him sponsorships, awards and his future as a professional snow boarder. Now he spent his hours saving those who got caught up in that fame to prevent another death from occurring if he could help it. He just never thought that Ella Blair would waltz back into his life three years later.

Ella was always trying to convince her younger brother Oliver that his need for thrills might just get himself killed. When she followed him to Montana, the last person she expected to run into was Gage Watson again. He had revoked Oliver's season pass along with his buddy Bradley who thought dressing up as an inflatable T-Rex and videotaping it was the thing to begin their own road to fame and garner some viral videos. Ella knew that Oliver wanted to try the same thing as Dylan had done but this time with success. So when she awoke the following morning and discovering that Oliver and Bradley were missing, she knew exactly where he was headed and who she needed to ask for help. The only one brave enough to find her brother especially when a blizzard was just hours away from them and they discover that a helicopter had already been charted to drop the two off at the top of the summit.

Gage knew that there was no one else to go after them but himself. He was the only one who possessed the skills needed to find two amateurs lost in Glacier National Park with a blizzard only hours away. When Ella insisted that she be allowed to accompany Gage on this mission, she knew she had to convince him to let her come. She could lose the only family she had left and the one man she loved but had never managed to tell him. She was the one responsible for taking him to court as a junior attorney working for a large firm that Dylan's family had hired. She knew that some of the evidence that was uncovered would exonerate Gage from all the charges and even if it meant losing her law license she knew she would need to tell him the truth, if he will let her come with him.

I received A Matter of Trust by Susan May Warren compliments of Baker Publishing Group and Net Galley. Since this is the third novel in the Montana Rescue Series, there were some back stories that I missed because I picked this one up without reading the prior novels, Wild Montana Skies and Rescue Me, but I hope to pick those up and enjoy reading it from beginning to end. As a random group of people that make up the PEAK rescue team, each of them has their own novel dedicated to their story as they weave into each consecutive one in the series. In this one, Gage and Ella get a chance to discover the true meaning of trust and also what forgiveness means if they are to have any hope of a future.

What happens when those choices go south? So often we blame ourselves or others - and maybe rightly so. But we also seem to forget that God doesn't stop loving us because we make a mistake or even a bad choice. Some people, like Ella, live their lives trying to do everything right, fearing that if they mess up, God won't like them, won't rescue them. And others like Gage, refuse to believe that God could be on their side because of their biggest failures. Lies. We can't live a life free of mistakes - they're one of our biggest tools for learning. And God lets us walk into mistakes! He warns us, yes, and suggests we stay in his line, but he not only lets us choose our line, but he stays with us if we take our own course. And helps us pick up the debris when we wipe out. Not because we're so awesome. But because He is awesome. And He loves us. Period. I easily give this a 5 out of 5 stars simply because I couldn't put it down til it was finished. Like a great piece of chocolate cake smothered in creamy frosting. It is that great and there is a fourth novel coming soon!
Profile Image for Amy.
685 reviews42 followers
June 12, 2017
Another fast paced, edge of your seat adventure from Susan May Warren. I'm thoroughly enjoying the Montana Rescue series, that follows that risks and daring rescues of the PEAK team. It's Glacier NP, my favourite and I love reading about everything they have to tackle in this gorgeous, but so dangerous park. Being on this team requires being masters at their particular skills. In book 3 we get to discover the tragedy behind Gage's once illustrious fame as an extreme free riding snowboarder. The woman who was responsible for tearing it all down. It's been 3 years, and he's working his job as Ski Patrol at Blackbear. A certain wreck less teenager and his sister are staying at the resort. Their paths cross and a stunned Gage is left flailing. Not only is history repeating but what were laid to rest, but the repressed feelings for the sister rise to the surface.

Ella Blair has followed her brother to the resort. Entitled and out to prove himself she fears he will do something that is way out of league. She's here to stop him, but she never imagined she'd discover the one man she's loved and then destroyed with the most brutal of betrayals working on the Ski Patrol.

In the acknowledgment the author shares this insight, which perfectly lays out the spiritual troubles raised by Gage. "...lets us choose our line, but he stays with us if take our own course. And helps us pick up the debris when we wipe out." God allows us to make our own choices in life. Agency is a great gift, one we misuse over and over, and He lets us. Meanwhile He sticks by us and helps us deal with the mess afterward.

I'm giving this book 4.5 stars. There's a few things that niggled in regards to the camping element. Gage takes a 2 man bivvy with him on the rescue to Heaven's Peak. All campers know that the sleeping berth rating of tents would never actually fit the number it says, especially bivvys. They are designed as Emergancy tents or backpacking, with minimal space, they aren't tall. In fact many are designed for just lying down in. Gage is hanging stuff from the top, and then later all 3 of them seem to be able to get inside. Second, all instruction for camping stoves tell you to not use inside a tent. You need proper ventilation. A minor few details, maybe, but they bothered me. Everything else just wowed me from start to finish. I love the characters Susan has created for this team, and the continual inclusion of all of them to some degree with each book. Ty has always been somewhat a mystery, and I absolutely loved getting to know him through the minor second story within the plot. Where is Brette? Will we see her again?

I always love an epilogue, but it seemed real jumpy the sudden switch to summer (?) and fires and Jess being in trouble. I'm looking forward to Troubled Waters (book 4). This team has wormed their way into my heart.
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