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Amish Country Justice #4

Amish Country Ambush

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Hidden in Plain Sight

An Amish Country Justice story

After police dispatcher Elise St. Clair’s home is invaded by her murderous brother-in-law, her nephew is hidden in Amish Country by her cleaning lady. Now relying on police officer Ryan Parker is Elise’s only hope of reuniting with the child…and evading the killer. And Elise and Ryan quickly discover their temporary partnership has long-term potential—if they can stay alive.

224 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published August 7, 2018

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Dana R. Lynn

85 books283 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for Sandra.
746 reviews6 followers
January 11, 2022
Police dispatcher Elise St. Clair gets a 911 phone call from her own home by her young Amish cleaning lady (Leah) telling her that her home has been invaded. Elise rushes home, worried about her little three-year-old nephew Mikey (who Elise has custody of since her sister’s death). She discovers that her babysitter has been killed, Leah is now missing and is obviously on the run with little Mikey. (Elise thinks her late sister's crazy and evil ex-husband is responsible for the break-in and murder). Elise teams up with police officer Ryan Parker to help find Leah and Mikey and along the way they find out that someone put a hit on Elise and she is now in danger…

This was a fast-paced and exciting story. I liked both Elise and Ryan and I thought they were well-suited for each other. I also liked the young Amish girl Leah, who went out of her way to protect little Mikey. An entertaining read with a crazy and slippery villain, a tornado, and some good action and suspense.
Profile Image for Susan.
4,808 reviews126 followers
June 23, 2018
errific book that grabbed my attention from the first page and didn't let go until I'd finished it. Elise is a 911 dispatcher whose worst nightmare comes true. She's at work when a call comes in, describing a home invasion and attack - and it's her house. By the time she gets home, her babysitter is dead and her nephew and the cleaning lady have disappeared, and her brother-in-law is waiting for her. My heart was pounding as he attacked Elise, screaming about something she has and wanting his son. My relief was intense when he was chased off by the sound of approaching sirens. This was just the beginning of a roller coaster ride of action and emotion.

Ryan was the first officer on the scene. I liked his calm intensity as he took care of Elise and started the search for Mikey and Leah. That sense of calm was exactly what Elise needed later when he came to question her at the hospital. In spite of everything she'd been through, Elisa quickly came to trust Ryan and believe in his desire to help her.

I liked both Ryan and Elise. Ryan is a truly nice guy who is a cop because that's what he really wants to do. He isn't Supercop, with perfect instincts, but he is smart enough to know when he needs help. He has a deep love for his family, even though there is some tension with his father. Those tensions create occasional bouts of self-doubt, but those don't last long. Elise is an amazingly strong woman. She and her sister made it through a difficult childhood by supporting and watching out for each other. It was Elise who gave her sister the courage to get out of her abusive marriage. I ached for Elise's pain over her sister's murder, and loved the way that her nephew Mikey became her focus. Elise also has some self-worth issues thanks to a jerk of an ex-fiancé.

I loved the development of the relationship between Ryan and Elise. It began with Ryan's natural protectiveness, which quickly became personal. He was surprised at how she moved into his heart and mind. I loved how well he understood her and her need to stay involved in the search for Mikey. Elise was equally drawn to Ryan. For her, just being able to trust him was a huge deal. I loved seeing them open up to each other about their fears and vulnerabilities, and how sharing those things made them stronger. It was sweet to see Ryan start to think about a future with Elise and Mikey in it. I ached for Elise as she let her fears push Ryan away, believing that it was for his own good, and for Ryan as he tried to figure out what was wrong. A pep talk from an unexpected source gave him the courage to go after what he wanted. I loved seeing him confront Elise and her stunned reaction at what he told her. The epilogue was sweet and romantic with Ryan's big moment. I also loved his conversation with his father.

The suspense of the story was outstanding and had me glued to the pages from start to finish. The fear for the safety of Leah and Mikey was palpable and always at the forefront of every step that Ryan and Elise took. There were also several twists and turns that kept them on their toes. The final confrontation was heart pounding as I wondered how it was all going to end. Now I can't wait for the next book!

I also enjoyed catching up a little bit with characters from previous books. I especially liked seeing Miles and Rebecca and the important part they played.
Profile Image for Marilyn.
1,270 reviews
July 7, 2018
Dana R. Lynn created a heart pounding and gripping action packed story in Amish Country Ambush that kept the pages turning quickly. A 911 call while Elsie St. Clair is on duty turns her world upset down when she realized the call was about her own home. Lamar Pond Police Office Ryan Parker and others are in the midst of trying to capture the offender but there are multiple attempts on their lives. All Elsie wants is to be reunited with her three year old nephew who was missing along with her housekeeper Leah, who is Amish. There are multiple twists and turns with multiple individuals involved in trying to capture or destroy Elsie than she suspected as the offender. This story has it all with the suspense, action, romance, and a nice faith message. I appreciate Dana R. Lynn’s research that involves how criminals think and actions of investigators that shine through in this book, along with the others in her Amish Country Justice series. I look forward to reading the next book Lynn releases.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, without being required to write a positive review. I have expressed my sincere thoughts for this amazing Love Inspired Suspense story.
Profile Image for Leslie McKee.
Author 8 books72 followers
June 29, 2018
911 worker Elise experiences every dispatcher’s worse nightmare: the call pertains to an incident at her house. A home invasion occurred, and now her nephew is missing. Elise is confident that her former brother-in-law is responsible, but the police believe he’s dead. Can she convince Sgt. Ryan Parker that she’s telling the truth and that her life, and her nephew’s, is now in danger?

This is the fourth installment in Lynn’s “Amish Country Justice” series. It’s a quick read and grabs the reader from the first chapter. Vivid descriptions and an active pace have the reader turning the pages, even though they know early on who the bad guy is that Elise and Ryan are trying to track down. It’s nice to see familiar characters again. Elise is a strong heroine, and her love for her nephew, and her willingness to do whatever it takes to find him, is heartwarming. The epilogue is a nice completion for this quick read.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.
Profile Image for Melmo2610.
3,636 reviews
July 3, 2018
Wow! This book opened with a bang and kept up that pace throughout! This book was a perfect mix of characters, excitement, suspense, twists and turns, and a great mystery! Safe to say this is my FAVORITE Dana R. Lynn book! I couldn't put it down...except when life made me :) If you enjoy great Love Inspired Suspense books put this one at the TOP of your to-read list! Looking forward to the next book in this set :)
Profile Image for Renee Green.
14 reviews2 followers
July 6, 2018
The fourth book in the Amish Country Justice series, Amish Country Ambush is no disappointment! From the very beginning pages, you are pulled into the heart and feelings of Elise St. Clair, as her very worst fear as a 911 dispatcher are realized. The call she takes is from her own home! Prepare to not be able to put the book down until you know the outcome! You will come to love Elise, her 3 year old nephew, Mikey, her teenage Amish housekeeper, Leah, and the handsome policeman, Ryan, who is determined to keep Elise and her loved ones safe. Will he succeed, and if he does, can he do it while guarding his own heart? Can Elise resist the attraction she feels for him? You won’t want to miss this suspense filled book by Dana R. Lynn.
96 reviews
June 30, 2018
I read this in 2 hours. Dana is awesome as a Amish Mystery writer. I could not put this book down. i have read every one by her. They are great Amish stories. She is one of my favorite Amish Authors.
Profile Image for Jess Holden .
560 reviews10 followers
June 24, 2018
Amish Country Ambush is the fourth book in the Amish Country Justice series by Dana R. Lynn. I adored this book. It was a page turner from page one. Amish Country Ambush was a slight surprise to me from the rest of the series. This is not what I had remotely expected but still yet it was Amazing. It didn't really hold the surprise factor of trying to figure out who the villain Ryan and Elise are up against pretty early on. I love the feel of the constant Amish setting in which this book takes place.
2 reviews
June 26, 2018
I literally could not put this book down. It only took me 6 hours to read. The plot of the characters were so thrilling and exciting. My mind was blowing up with such detailed descriptions and my heart was pumping as I turned each page. Dana R. Lynn has really given each character life and has continued to tell a compelling story with each book she writes.
408 reviews8 followers
June 25, 2018
I really enjoyed this story and the characters. The story kept me on the edge of my seat during the whole book.
Profile Image for Linda Rainey.
2,348 reviews21 followers
August 7, 2018
Suspense grabs you and pulls you through this book.
We watch with gnashed teeth as Ryan,Elise and the LaMar Pond police department as they race to find the unknown assailants that killed the babysitter and caused Leah and little Mikey to run for their lives.
I loved this well crafted story and intriguing mix of characters against the back drop of Amish country.
This book is recommended for those who like Christian romantic suspense.
I received an Advance Review Copy from the author. My opinions are 100% my own.
Profile Image for Glenda Parker.
Author 14 books21 followers
September 26, 2018
My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Amish Country Ambush. This is the fourth book in the Amish Country Justice Series. I really enjoy Amish books and I also enjoy suspense so this book is awesome as far as I'm concerned. This story is well written, action packed, and full of faith. I know you are going to love it.

Police dispatcher Elise St. Clair is taking calls when her Amish housekeeper calls. She is so upset that Elise can't understand half of what she is saying. She does understand that someone has broken into her home and that they are in danger. Elise shouts to call the police and then races home. She finds her home trashed; her babysitter dead, the housekeeper and her nephew missing. She is confronted by her brother-in-law; a man who killed her sister and is believed to have died two years ago. A man that was once handsome now damaged and distorted; his voice cold and cruel. He attacks her but leaves when he hears sirens. A police officer rescues her.

Sergeant Ryan Parker answers the call from dispatch. He arrives to find the beaten woman barely conscious lying in a sea of glass. His colleague recognized her as one of the dispatchers. When she comes to she is frantic; begging him to find her and Mikey. They weren't safe. She really wasn't making much sense. Were two people still missing? Ryan and his team are confused but he does know he must protect her and find the child.

A journey of trying to find a killer, a man no one believes is alive, and to find the Amish housekeeper and the child. God has a plan for these broken souls, a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. A good plan and not for evil. Give Him your heart and watch Him work in your life.
Profile Image for Debora Wilder.
562 reviews2 followers
August 14, 2018
This is an incredible adrenaline rush, romantic suspense novel!

I love the main characters in this book. They are very well developed and it was easy for me to understand where they were coming from. Both Elise and Ryan have problems from their pasts that they have to deal with on a regular basis. That is what defines them and their commitment to following through in taking care of others. They are thrust together by circumstances and they learn to trust each other as they reveal their pasts.

The plot of the story is great. It has many twists and turns that kept me guessing. It was fascinating to see who all was involved in the attack at Elise’s house. It was interesting to see what the motivation was for the bad guys.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I have chosen to write this review to express my personal opinion.

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Profile Image for Darlene.
Author 64 books933 followers
August 13, 2018
911 operator Elise St. Clair receives a distress call that rocks her world. The person on the other end of the line is calling from Elise’s house. She rushes home to find her babysitter dead on the floor and her nephew and cleaning lady missing. Her supposed dead brother-in-law is lurking about and confronts her. The police arrive in time and he leaves, promising her he’ll return for his son and what she stole from him. She’d pay for what she cost him.

LaMar Pond police sergeant Ryan Parker arrives at the house of their head dispatcher bent on saving her life. What he discovers is a game of cat and mouse when she’s targeted by more than one madman.

Elise and Ryan must search for her nephew and cleaning lady among the Amish community while numerous attempts are made on Elise’s life. Can they beat the clock and ignore their growing feelings for each other?

Amish Country Ambush is an exciting addition to the Amish Country Justice series by Dana R. Lynn. Its heart-pounding action will keep the reader turning the pages while cheering the hero and heroine on. I enjoyed it from start to finish. The plot keeps you glued.

The characters draw the reader in quickly and are well-rounded. Elise’s deep feelings for her nephew will grip your heart while Ryan’s need to keep everyone safe will keep you engaged.

It’s apparent the author has done her research on the Amish Community as you can picture everything and the area she writes about. I loved the deep emotion, faith aspect, and action in this amazing book.

I give Amish Country Ambush five stars. It’s one riveting tale you’ll want to devour!

**Book has been provided courtesy of the author in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Pamela Pavkov.
1,263 reviews24 followers
January 5, 2020
Amish Country Ambush is the fourth enthralling story involving the Amish and the LaMar Pond police department. This amazing nail biting series is written by Dana R Lynn and is called Amish Country Justice. As in the previous three books the author has developed just the right mic of characters to bring this story to life. The storyline is so fast moving it keeps you reading.

With the mix of a murderous brother in law, a 911 dispatcher, an Amish cleaning girl, and a police officer determined to catch the murderer you get an outstanding mystery. There is so much suspense in this story I found it difficult to put it down. The friendship that forms between Elise, the dispatcher, and Ryan, the officer is very endearing.

I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a truly amazing story filled with friendship, loss, love, and even murder.

Congratulations to Dana R Lynn for continuing her fantastic series with another exciting story.
Profile Image for Wendy.
525 reviews23 followers
November 21, 2018
BACK OF THE BLURB

After police dispatcher Elise St. Clair's home is invaded by her murderous brother-in-law, her nephew is hidden in Amish Country by her cleaning lady. Now relying on police officer Ryan Parker is Elise's only hope of reuniting with the child...and evading the killer. And Elise and Ryan quickly discover their temporary partnership has long-term potential--if they can stay alive.

MY REVIEW

How would you handle it if you were working as a 9-1-1 operator and the call came in from your house stating that your babysitter is dead and there is still someone in the house? I don't think I would do very well, Elise has lived through a lot and it has just gotten worse. A lot of action and suspense, just how many people do want her dead? Yep, you better grab your copy. This is a series that I think you could read out of order and it wouldn't ruin the prior books, just little hints here and there of the previous books. A good book, a good series!
Profile Image for Jasmine.
1,295 reviews43 followers
October 1, 2018
One misstep could mean their lives...

Wow, what a spine-tingling tale of danger and romance! Amish Country Ambush is another edge-of-your-seat story from that talented pen of Dana R. Lynn, a story that I really enjoyed.

Dana R. Lynn has quickly become one of my favorite Love Inspired Suspense authors and I find myself eagerly awaiting each new book as they only seem to get better and better. Amish Country Ambush was no exception. I quickly found myself immersed in the story, desperately hoping that Ryan and Elise could outwit a killer and find her nephew before someone more sinister did.

Twists and turns abound and readers will find themselves guessing and second guessing everything and everyone before the last page is turned.

(I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are entirely my own.)
1,552 reviews12 followers
September 29, 2018
Wonderful

Ryan come from a medical family, but he decides to become a cop. If he solve this case will he finally has his father's approval., Elise feel she is not good enough to be a wife after her fiance call off their engagement. God has other plans for both of them. Elise a 911 operator, get a call from her housekeeper that someone is in the house. Racing home she finds her babysitter dead and her nephew and the housekeeper missing. This story has attempted murder, murder, hit men, and action from beginning to end.
Profile Image for Virginia Winfield.
2,915 reviews14 followers
July 29, 2018
This is a great story of suspense and romance. There were a lot of twists and turns throughout. Elise and Ryan have to work together to find Elise’s nephew before a very bad guy finds him. It is so well done on how they learn about each other while trying to evade capture themselves. I hope there will be many more books in this series. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Lopez.
18 reviews10 followers
August 1, 2018
Dana Lynn keeps proving how comfortable she is in creating characters and stories that encompass the Amish culture even when the they may not themselves be part of it. With gripping suspense that will keep you up until you finish the book, Mark any book by Ms. Lynn for your keeper/re-read shelf. A stand alone novel with subordinate characters that make you itch to read the next in the series. I received a free copy of the book. The opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
345 reviews17 followers
May 27, 2019
Another good one! Amish Country Ambush is the 4th book I’ve read of Dana R Lynn and I really like all the action that she puts in her books!
Police officer Ryan Parker is determined to find out who’s trying very hard to harm police dispatcher Elise St Clare and where her nephew is before the bad guys find him. As Ryan and Elise grow closer so do the attacks increase as well. Can they survive to have a future together?
1,363 reviews
January 1, 2019

This was a thriller with some spiritual overtones. It involves the mob (some violence/murder) and some on-the-run adventure. While the plot was OK, it didn’t answer some background questions for me, and the writing was a bit unpolished and repetitive at times. Some of the dangerous moments were too convenient and seemed far-fetched to me as well.
490 reviews10 followers
June 7, 2019
Suspense in Amish Country! Elise St. Clair is a 911 operator and imagine the heart-stopping agony when her home address was displayed on her monitor! The caller falling into Pennsylvania Dutch in high distress, "I think she's dead"!
There's an opening paragraph that will keep you turning the pages furiously!
1,407 reviews16 followers
July 17, 2018
this is a very good story could not put it down ..if you like suspense and romance you have to read the book. she is raising her nephew and is a police man. her house is broken into and the baby sitter is killed, where is the boy and the girl who cleans her house? read the book in one day
Profile Image for Gina.
2,392 reviews31 followers
July 31, 2018
An amazingly written story of suspense taking place in beautiful Amish Country. This story was a real page turner with surprises around every corner. Engaging characters and storyline. I received a complimentary copy and I am voluntarily reviewing.
94 reviews
March 28, 2019
Did not like

This book said Amish country. The only thing I found Amish about the book was the word was mentioned a few times. I am so sorry I wasted my money. I would love a refund. 1 star is too many. 0 stars fits better. If you are looking for Amish fiction, look elsewhere.
121 reviews3 followers
February 13, 2024
EnJOY

Amish Country Ambush has all of the elements you hope the book you’ve selected will have. They are what keep you from putting the book on the nightstand and turning off the light before you’ve read the last page. Thank you,
Ms. Lynn for this entertaining story.
Profile Image for Dorel.
4,344 reviews38 followers
November 26, 2025
I liked this book's storyline. I liked the action in this story. I liked the Christian ✝️ theme in this story. I liked Elise's character. I liked Ryan's character. I loved ❤️ Mikey. I liked the ending.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
Author 17 books405 followers
August 2, 2018
I was excited to pick up Amish Country Ambush. Dana R. Lynn did not disappoint in her newest La Mar Pond book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews

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