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Peril in the Park #2
Dangerous Ground
It started with an anonymous note--but would it end in disaster?
Uncle Owen had died mysteriously, and Deputy Marshal Kate Phillips wants to know why. After arriving at Great Smoky Mountains National Park in search of answers, Kate finds herself at the center of an ancient family feud and a land dispute. It turns out a surprising number of people have an interest in her uncle’s estate. Even David Jennings, Kate’s handsome Good Samaritan who rescued her when she arrived, thinks he has a claim on Owen’s property—which some say is cursed.
Amid the mounting secrets and rumors circulating in the seemingly peaceful community, Kate has a secret of her own—one that could threaten her life and any future she might have with David. It soon becomes clear someone is targeting her. Could Kate’s troubled past have come back to haunt her, or have the clues she’s uncovered about her uncle’s suspicious death put her life in danger? To solve the mystery, Kate needs David’s help. But can they pull together before time runs out? Or will they become the next victims when it all explodes?
Uncle Owen had died mysteriously, and Deputy Marshal Kate Phillips wants to know why. After arriving at Great Smoky Mountains National Park in search of answers, Kate finds herself at the center of an ancient family feud and a land dispute. It turns out a surprising number of people have an interest in her uncle’s estate. Even David Jennings, Kate’s handsome Good Samaritan who rescued her when she arrived, thinks he has a claim on Owen’s property—which some say is cursed.
Amid the mounting secrets and rumors circulating in the seemingly peaceful community, Kate has a secret of her own—one that could threaten her life and any future she might have with David. It soon becomes clear someone is targeting her. Could Kate’s troubled past have come back to haunt her, or have the clues she’s uncovered about her uncle’s suspicious death put her life in danger? To solve the mystery, Kate needs David’s help. But can they pull together before time runs out? Or will they become the next victims when it all explodes?
319 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2017
109 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Gayla K. Hiss
7 books37 followersAward-winning author Gayla K. Hiss began her writing journey painting landscapes. In her imagination, characters and scenes came to life as she painted beautiful natural settings. Her inspiring novels combine her love for the great outdoors with romance, suspense, and adventure. Her book WILDFIRE won the Faith, Hope, and Love Reader’s Choice Award for romantic suspense, and her book COLD PURSUIT was a finalist in the romantic suspense category for both the Faith, Hope, and Love Reader’s Choice Award and the Selah Awards.
Gayla and her husband often tour the country with their RV, visiting many state and national parks. She enjoys hiking, camping, and traveling, and lives in the Pacific Northwest.
Gayla and her husband often tour the country with their RV, visiting many state and national parks. She enjoys hiking, camping, and traveling, and lives in the Pacific Northwest.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 27, 2021
Characters: My favorite character in this book had to be Kate. She was a great shot with a bow—something I don’t think I’ve seen in a romantic suspense book before. I wasn’t as big of a fan of David. He was always too quick to jump to the wrong conclusions about Kate, and he didn't seem very remorseful. I prefer flawed characters, but I like to see growth over the story. On the other hand, I did like Grace and her family. They added a lot to this book.
Language: Clean.
Moral: Bad reviewer alert … I can’t remember a moral. I do know that both David and Kate were Christians.
Plot: I struggled a little with the plot, but that was a problem with the reader. Not a problem with the book. The romance got much more focus than the suspense, and I was in the mood to read more of a suspenseful story. Also, as a writer, I understand having to do things to make the plot work, but I feel like Kate and David should’ve figured a few things out a lot sooner. I liked the addition of bow hunting, as that’s not something commonly found in this genre.
Romance: Clean. Just a few kisses. Now, I know I said the romance got more time than the suspense aspect, but that doesn’t mean the romance was over the top or inappropriate.
Writing: Gayla K. Hiss has an easy-to-read writing style that fit this book well.
Overall: Dangerous Ground was an enjoyable read, and I’d recommend it to readers of Christian fiction, romantic suspense, and contemporary romance.
Language: Clean.
Moral: Bad reviewer alert … I can’t remember a moral. I do know that both David and Kate were Christians.
Plot: I struggled a little with the plot, but that was a problem with the reader. Not a problem with the book. The romance got much more focus than the suspense, and I was in the mood to read more of a suspenseful story. Also, as a writer, I understand having to do things to make the plot work, but I feel like Kate and David should’ve figured a few things out a lot sooner. I liked the addition of bow hunting, as that’s not something commonly found in this genre.
Romance: Clean. Just a few kisses. Now, I know I said the romance got more time than the suspense aspect, but that doesn’t mean the romance was over the top or inappropriate.
Writing: Gayla K. Hiss has an easy-to-read writing style that fit this book well.
Overall: Dangerous Ground was an enjoyable read, and I’d recommend it to readers of Christian fiction, romantic suspense, and contemporary romance.
March 16, 2020
Dangerous Ground is a fantastic romantic suspense. I enjoyed the fast paced plot and well crafted characters. I really enjoyed the Cade’s Cove Smokey Mountains setting.
August 6, 2017
In the first book of the Peril in the Parks Series, we met Kate, a U.S. Deputy Marshal, based in Nashville. As this story opens, she is on her way to Cades Cove Campground in the Great Smoky Mountains for some vacation time and to check out the death of her last remaining relative. But events seem to continually spiral out of control beginning with an accident caused by a stranger stepping onto a rain-slickened road directly in front of her as she heads into the park. I will say right now that I never want a vacation like hers, but it made quite an interesting story. Gayla Hiss does a great job of keeping the reader in suspense with just enough information at a time to keep you reading to learn more. Kate and several others have some serious lessons to learn about forgiveness, openness, acceptance, and trust. Even my favorite character, Grace, was still learning but also teaching. It seemed everyone had secrets and struggled with who to tell, when to tell, and how much to tell. Those were the good guys. The bad guys did not want anyone to learn their secrets ever. Besides the suspense, the action and romance kept things exciting. I enjoyed the way the lead characters were ultimately guided by their faith to do what was right. Doing the right things are not always easy but the end results are much better. I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
November 13, 2020
Dangerous Ground
Peril in the Park, Book 2
By: Gayla K. Hiss
Narrated by: Michael Cahill
Family secrets, mystery and intrigue kept me completely engaged in this romantic suspense story by Gayla K Hiss. It's my first audio listen from her and I am sold! Uncle Owen has passed away, and an anonymous letter brings Kate to the Smoky Mountains to see what happened to him. Bad luck seems to follow her there from the minute she arrives. She finds out she is in the middle of an ancient family feud and needs to pick and choose who to trust with her reason for coming. But the danger just keeps increasing and her newly forming relationship with David could be compromised. Will they find out who is after them and why? I have to say, this is an intricately planned story, with fantastic characters. I spent a good portion of the book right along with Kate, trying to decide who to trust, what was going on and what to do in the future. It's one of those stories that pulls you in and makes you part of it. This is my kind of story, one that makes you think and makes you love.
Michael Cahill gives an outstanding performance. It's my first listen of his, and I really enjoyed his voice. He easily transitions between men and women, and even does the ages from young to old perfectly. He has a good pace and is easy on the ears. I will be watching for more from him.
Peril in the Park, Book 2
By: Gayla K. Hiss
Narrated by: Michael Cahill
Family secrets, mystery and intrigue kept me completely engaged in this romantic suspense story by Gayla K Hiss. It's my first audio listen from her and I am sold! Uncle Owen has passed away, and an anonymous letter brings Kate to the Smoky Mountains to see what happened to him. Bad luck seems to follow her there from the minute she arrives. She finds out she is in the middle of an ancient family feud and needs to pick and choose who to trust with her reason for coming. But the danger just keeps increasing and her newly forming relationship with David could be compromised. Will they find out who is after them and why? I have to say, this is an intricately planned story, with fantastic characters. I spent a good portion of the book right along with Kate, trying to decide who to trust, what was going on and what to do in the future. It's one of those stories that pulls you in and makes you part of it. This is my kind of story, one that makes you think and makes you love.
Michael Cahill gives an outstanding performance. It's my first listen of his, and I really enjoyed his voice. He easily transitions between men and women, and even does the ages from young to old perfectly. He has a good pace and is easy on the ears. I will be watching for more from him.
September 24, 2017
After reading this second book by this author, I am amazed at how well she weaves the mystery and suspense together, keeping me on the edge of my chair and captivated until the end! I was in continual suspense, suspecting almost all of the characters, and surprised at the unexpected turns & twists of the story. The characters are well-developed, as is the story line. Not only is it a story of forgiveness, second chances, acceptance, and learning to trust, but it’s also a story of realizing & not being ashamed of who you are, of realizing that “You’re a gift from God, no matter what anyone says.” I received an advanced copy and this is my own honest review which I chose to freely give, and to encourage readers that this is a WONDERFUL read!! I was wonderfully captivated by the mystery & suspense!!
December 17, 2017
"Dangerous Ground" is the 2nd book in the "Peril in the Park" series. We were introduced to Kate Phillips in the first book (Avalanche) and it was fun to get to know her better. I liked Kate. She was tough and resilient after the childhood she'd had, but was also able to let people help her. David was a knight in shining armor, always ready and willing to lend a hand and be helpful. The mystery kept me hanging throughout the book and I never knew what was going to happen next. It was well written and kept me wanting to read more. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I was given a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received.
I was given a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received.
September 15, 2025
Audiobook: This was my first experience with this author's work, and it was entertaining. I enjoyed the puzzle like mystery with so many clues and red herrings. I liked Deputy Marshal Kate Phillips as she was strong and decisive, but I thought David Jennings was almost too good to be true, except when he interacted with his brother. I appreciated the humorous moments. I thought Michael Cahill's narration was great, and his performance enhanced the story's entertainment for me. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
September 18, 2017
Gayla Hiss holds readers’ attention in Dangerous Ground with a good blend of action-suspense and character development. The romance had just the right pace. I especially enjoyed the secondary characters (Grace and Rick) and their contributions to the story. Although this title is a sequel to Avalanche, it stands on its own, enabling readers who have not yet read the first book in the series to enjoy this one.
I was given this book by the publisher as an advance copy, with no expectation of a review, positive or otherwise.
I was given this book by the publisher as an advance copy, with no expectation of a review, positive or otherwise.
November 1, 2019
Dangerous Ground
US Marshall Kate is on vacation to discover her connection with an uncle she's just discovered. Once she arrives in the town, after being rescued by her uncle's neighbor David, she discovers her uncle is not only gone, but that he was murdered. There is no way, she can let this one go. Though she and David have sparks, she's not sure who she can trust. And why is there now a target on her back? Kate must discover the truth before more die. I enjoyed this one so much, I bought the next book in the series. Page-turning plot, great setting and memorable characters.
US Marshall Kate is on vacation to discover her connection with an uncle she's just discovered. Once she arrives in the town, after being rescued by her uncle's neighbor David, she discovers her uncle is not only gone, but that he was murdered. There is no way, she can let this one go. Though she and David have sparks, she's not sure who she can trust. And why is there now a target on her back? Kate must discover the truth before more die. I enjoyed this one so much, I bought the next book in the series. Page-turning plot, great setting and memorable characters.
May 25, 2025
Thrilling mystery romance
This book did not disappoint with its mystery and non-stop twists and turns. I’m a big fan of Karen Kingsbury and Kristin Hannah. Gayla’s protagonist is a strong woman with a checkered past, but grows strong in her faith. It’s so refreshing to find books with intrigue without the smut and foul language. I was impressed with all the research since I’m familiar with the Smokies. I could picture this book as a full length featured movie. Can’t wait to read book three!
This book did not disappoint with its mystery and non-stop twists and turns. I’m a big fan of Karen Kingsbury and Kristin Hannah. Gayla’s protagonist is a strong woman with a checkered past, but grows strong in her faith. It’s so refreshing to find books with intrigue without the smut and foul language. I was impressed with all the research since I’m familiar with the Smokies. I could picture this book as a full length featured movie. Can’t wait to read book three!
May 23, 2020
Fantastic! Clean, well-written, well-edited, etc.
Nothing about Kate's "vacation" goes as planned, starting with not reaching the campground before a wild storm hits.
It's not all bad, though. In fact, the handsome local boy next door, David, is quite an unexpected perk.
Together they painstakingly interpret a dozen tiny clues to figure out what's really going on in Tyler's Glenn.
Every thread ties together by the end of the story. Absolutely amazing.
Nothing about Kate's "vacation" goes as planned, starting with not reaching the campground before a wild storm hits.
It's not all bad, though. In fact, the handsome local boy next door, David, is quite an unexpected perk.
Together they painstakingly interpret a dozen tiny clues to figure out what's really going on in Tyler's Glenn.
Every thread ties together by the end of the story. Absolutely amazing.
January 12, 2021
Romantic suspense in a beautiful place...
The Great Smoky Mountains are one of my favorite places to be. Having worked in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, I'm more familiar with the NC side, but it was nice to visit the TN side, too. I love a good romantic suspense, and Ms. Hiss provided enough of both aspects of this novel to keep me turning the pages. It'll keep you guessing right up till the end.
The Great Smoky Mountains are one of my favorite places to be. Having worked in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, I'm more familiar with the NC side, but it was nice to visit the TN side, too. I love a good romantic suspense, and Ms. Hiss provided enough of both aspects of this novel to keep me turning the pages. It'll keep you guessing right up till the end.
October 5, 2017
I loved this book. Well-drawn setting, excellent suspense, I had no idea who the perp was until very close to the end. Loved the romance element, it moved at the right pace, wasn't rushed, and the characters were very believable. I'd highly recommend this one to anyone who enjoys romantic suspense.
December 23, 2017
Dangerous Ground
A very exciting story, great suspense and mystery. I was so involved with the characters that I was talking to them. I really loved Kate, and her determination and Grace who is so caring. This book was interesting from start to finish. I am looking forward to reading the next book. I received an advanced copy of the book from the author. Definitely recommend it.
A very exciting story, great suspense and mystery. I was so involved with the characters that I was talking to them. I really loved Kate, and her determination and Grace who is so caring. This book was interesting from start to finish. I am looking forward to reading the next book. I received an advanced copy of the book from the author. Definitely recommend it.
October 24, 2019
I loved this book! I was sucked in from the first page and didn't want to put it down. The characters were varied and complex. The plot moved swiftly and steadily and took many twists and turns. Wonderful!
October 27, 2019
Good book
Loved the story of Kate and David. From the first page of the book until the end, I couldn’t put it down! Danger, excitement, mystery, family and love all wrapped up in this wonderful book!
Loved the story of Kate and David. From the first page of the book until the end, I couldn’t put it down! Danger, excitement, mystery, family and love all wrapped up in this wonderful book!
October 27, 2019
Hard to put down.
This book was so great I couldn't stop reading without being dragged away the reason I have it a 5 star revue . My favorite vacations are in the Pigeon Forge area which made me love it that much more.
This book was so great I couldn't stop reading without being dragged away the reason I have it a 5 star revue . My favorite vacations are in the Pigeon Forge area which made me love it that much more.
September 15, 2020
Christian Contemporary Suspense Romance
Lots of secrets and gossip prevent answers when Deputy Marshall Kate comes to town to discover the truth about her uncle. Such a thrilling and emotional book! Narration was very good!
Lots of secrets and gossip prevent answers when Deputy Marshall Kate comes to town to discover the truth about her uncle. Such a thrilling and emotional book! Narration was very good!
October 14, 2020
Loved this book, finished it in two days. Great story, which will keep you guessing who done it to the very end. A good, clean read that will satisfy your desire for love and mystery!! Second book in the series and I enjoyed it just as much as the first book. Thank you Gayla!!
October 18, 2017
Stavolta ero conscia di leggere un inspirational così me lo sono goduta di più. La storia, poi, mi è davvero piaciuta, anche se alla fine il mio istinto aveva visto giusto su chi fosse il colpevole.
November 1, 2018
It was a good book. I recommend reading it.
March 5, 2020
I really enjoyed this book; it's one of my favourites. The plot and the characters were well thought out. Grace reminded me of my grandma.
June 9, 2020
Wow. This was a supremely well done and thorough suspense novel! It went above and beyond. I never suspected any of it! It was an incredible read. I can’t wait to read the next one in this series!
October 9, 2020
A gripping and emotional suspense full of twists and turns that will leave you wondering about family secrets… I had a hard time putting it down.
January 14, 2021
Another fabulous read. The order of the books doesn't matter that much, but I still recommend reading these books in order for a little extra context.
Excellent author with a writing style I love.
Excellent author with a writing style I love.
December 10, 2019
I liked that Kate was a deputy marshal but out of her jurisdiction and unable to act officially. But she had skills that helped her investigate her uncle's murder. David was a great neighbor and Good Samaritan even though he also wanted Kate's land. A nice combination of romance and suspense in a Christian based story.
December 17, 2017
Review to come.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews