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Roughwater Ranch Cowboys #3

Cold Case Connection

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Hunting down old leads puts a murderer on their trail.

Convinced his sister's death wasn't an accident, private investigator Sergio Ross is determined to catch her killer. But with all the clues hinting at a connection to another unsolved murder, he has to join forces with Helen Pike -- a woman linked to both deaths -- to find the truth. Can they follow the cold evidence trail to get justice...before they become the next victims?

Mass Market Paperback

First published February 1, 2020

120 people are currently reading
178 people want to read

About the author

Dana Mentink

205 books2,219 followers
USA TODAY bestseller Dana Mentink enjoys writing in many different capacities. She currently writes for Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense and Poisoned Pen Press.

Dana is the recipient of a Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award, two ACFW Carol Awards as well as a Holt Medallion.

Dana loves feedback from her readers. Contact her via her website at www.danamentink.com. and be sure to follow her on Bookbub!
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/dana-...

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
Profile Image for Laura.
854 reviews208 followers
March 30, 2022
The premise was intriguing enough; is a current murder related to a cold case one. Sadly, I didn't connect with the characters and the story dragged.
Profile Image for MJSH.
1,320 reviews74 followers
February 25, 2020
Another fantastic romantic suspense from Dana Mentink! This is book 3 in the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys series but can be read as a stand-alone (I highly recommend the other books in the series as well). The suspense in the plot is strong and well played out as Sergio searches for the one responsible for his sister's death. As the deceased sister's best friend, Helen feels responsible and does what she can to help Sergio figure out the truth. Sergio starts out as a bitter and hardened man but softens up considerably to Helen as they get to know each other. Helen is a tender but strong-willed manager of the ranch who doggedly searches for the answer. The romantic thread between Sergio and Helen is well-done and Sergio's twin nieces add a dimension of cuteness to the story. Sergio's bumps and mistakes in parenthood as he goes from carefree bachelor to overnight caretaker and father of two are so real, funny, and totally relatable. There is also a good faith thread and a lesson on forgiveness and letting go of vengeance.
If you're following along in the series, you'll get some extra love by being able to catch up with Liam, Mitch, and the rest of the crowd from the previous books.

Dana Mentink has to be one of my favorite Love Inspired Suspense authors. I can't wait for the next book where we'll learn about Chad and his stoic ways.
I received a copy of the book from the author/publisher via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Profile Image for Hannah.
2,836 reviews1,437 followers
July 26, 2020
Not my favorite of Mentink’s work. It felt more like a rush job, with multiple editing issues which pulled me out of the story and a few scenes (such as the drawn-out brake failure scene—also, it was never explained why cutting the brake line affected the transmission and made it not cut the engine speed to downshift) which were just too far beyond the scope of reality. However, Helen and Sergio were interesting characters and I did enjoy the majority of the story.
Profile Image for Carrie Schmidt.
Author 1 book507 followers
February 19, 2020
Dana Mentink is one of my go-to authors & Cold Case Connection reminds me why. Heart-in-your-throat suspense, endearing characters, and swoony romance plus a sweet faith thread equals the perfect formula for a riveting read!

I love the Roughwater Ranch team – particularly the way they’ve forged a family that goes beyond biology to the cemented bond of shared life and deep love. We’ve watched Mitch and Liam survive mortal danger and falling in love – and now it’s Helen’s turn. Her story involves two intriguing cold case murders connected to her past, as well as a heaping helping of guilt over the ‘should have done differentlys’ and complex feelings for the brother of her late best friend.

Helen and Sergio are wonderful characters who grab your heart right away, their layered back stories connected by Sergio’s sister Fiona who was also Helen’s best friend. As such, there are a lot of emotions involved between them, which leads to some very swoony moments (aka kisses!) too. I’ve liked Helen in the first two books, and I really liked her in her own story! She’s levelheaded, brave, and determined but while she’s stubborn about not being left out of the investigations surrounding her friends’ deaths she’s also not stupid about needlessly putting herself in danger. Sergio at first is a rather growly tough guy but we soon see his softer side, brought out by the ladies in his life – his sister’s two adorable twin daughters now in his care & his growing affection for Helen. He’s just downright swoony when he’s being a daddy or protective over his woman!

Bottom Line: Danger, mystery, romance – Cold Case Connection has it all, plus engaging characters and a multi-layered plot that keeps your attention from start to finish! The sense of urgency on nearly every page heightens the suspense and tension, leading to some harrowing moments and sweet & swoony kisses! If you haven’t yet discovered Dana Mentink’s books and the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys, you are really missing out!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Profile Image for Susan Snodgrass.
2,002 reviews273 followers
January 20, 2020
'Let's get something straight right now. I don't want or need you involved in this investigation. Am I clear?'

Dana Mentink brings us another novel in her Roughwater Ranch series and it's the best yet! I think. Each one she writes I feel is the best. But this one is great.

Fifteen years ago a high school girl was killed in a series of tunnels she and her friends were exploring. The case was never solved. Three years ago another woman is killed, one of the ones who helped explore the tunnel. Sergio Ross has come to town to find his sister's killer. He is raising her two year old twins and is determined to get vengeance for her death. Helen is one of the ones who helped explore the tunnel and lives in town but Sergio holds her partly responsible for his sister's death. Now someone is trying to kill Helen! What is happening? Why is this murderer still trying to kill everyone who was in that tunnel? It's up to Sergio, Helen and Helen's brothers to figure it out before anyone else dies.

Mentink once again proves her ability to write a great suspense novel here. I read it in just a few hours. Great characters, good plot and enough intrigue to keep your nose planted in the book till you've finished. Recommended.

*My thanks to the publisher and author for a copy of this book. The opinion here is my own.
3,922 reviews1,763 followers
March 4, 2020
Bwahahaha! Jingles makes his triumphant return in this third Roughwater Ranch Cowboys book. The escape artist fur ball stole my heart in Deadly Christmas Pretense so I was overjoyed to see that Helen has temporary custody of Jingles while Liam and Maggie are on their honeymoon. :-) No worries if you haven't read the previous book, you'll enjoy Jingles and everything else about this story just fine. It reads well as a standalone -- but -- Mentink has created a posse of great characters in this foster family saga and you'll probably want to read all their stories once you meet up with them here.

True to form, Mentink delivers her unique spin on the romantic suspense genre. Lots of edgy tension and hair-raising close calls with a side order of humour to soothe an avid reader's frayed nerves. Sergio and Helen grapple with two cold case murders and the layers of emotions that uncovers. Their strained relationship is fraught with emotional undercurrents. Lots of lovely unease to heighten the angst and confuse the developing awareness crackling between them. Happy sigh.

Another incredible addition to the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys series and I'm more than ready to tackle Chad's venture into happily-ever-afterhood. :-) I did some sleuthing and Secrets Resurfaced releases in June 2020. Eeeeeepppp!
Profile Image for Melanie.
2,215 reviews598 followers
February 1, 2020
Wow! Cold Case Connection was SO good! I found the "cold case" to be intriguing and the tunnels sounded creepy.

I liked that the characters had to work together to try and solve the case. It was sad the way certain things happened, but realistic. This is the third book in the series, but I think you can definitely read it as a stand-alone.

All in all, a good read. The romance was fine, but not a favorite. I recommend this book for the suspense/mystery.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above 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 and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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 Phyllis.
1,288 reviews35 followers
February 16, 2020
A fast-paced adventure

My rating is 4.5 stars

Cold Case Connection is a fast-paced adventure as Helen and Sergio attempt to find the person who murdered his sister (her best friend) Fiona, three years earlier, and whom they suspect also murdered a high-school girl in the nearby caves fifteen years earlier. Danger lurks on every side and likely suspects seem to pop up everywhere.

I enjoyed seeing how Sergio was so devoted to his lovely toddler nieces he adopted at Fiona's death. His love for them was so strong! Unlike some daddies in stories who are a bit of a superman, he was quite a bit at a loss of what to do - which made me like him more.

Sergio's strong sense of family caused him to desire vengeance - enough that he became licensed as a private investigator so he could pursue the case! He had such a lesson to learn about allowing the Lord to be the one to take vengeance instead of taking matters into his own hands.

Helen's many brothers were familiar from the other stories in the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys series. Though not brothers through blood, they were a close-knit family, sometimes smotheringly so. I loved the way they all cared for each other.

One of the things I really enjoyed was the way each character's relationship with the Lord was so natural and so much a part of who they were. There was nothing preachy about the story and yet the spiritual aspects flowed throughout.

While the real murderer was not very high on my suspect list, this person really was there. (Do you like the way I'm not giving away the gender?!) I confess, I really liked my own convoluted theory and the way it would have thrown a wrench into things but the real solution worked, too. :-)

Though Cold Case Connection can easily stand alone, I recommend reading the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys series in order in order to get the full backstory of all the characters.

Read my full review at Among the Reads


I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Connie Saunders.
1,834 reviews159 followers
February 20, 2020
Within twelve years of each other two young women who were high school classmates are murdered but could these two deaths be related? Helen Pike and Sergio Ross both are determined to find answers but there's no love lost between them until threats and suspicious activities force them to work together. What follows is a tale filled with suspense, danger, and eventually, friendship and respect.

Helen and Sergio are both intriguing characters but what kept me glued to this book were their constant efforts to escape gun fire, explosions, and a fire that was deliberately set. I admired Sergio's efforts to provide a stable environment for his orphaned three-year-old twin nieces and I also enjoyed watching his animosity toward Helen turn into grudging admiration. As they continue to search for the truth, a change occurs and "He knew in that moment, he would give up everything, including his craving for justice, even his life, it it meant saving hers. If that wasn't love, he realized nothing was."

Author Dana Mentink has written a story that reminds us that even when evil appears, faith and trust will prevail. If you enjoy Christian fiction and romantic suspense you will certainly want to read Cold Case Connection.

I received a copy of this book from the author via Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required and these are my own thoughts.
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,877 reviews209 followers
January 31, 2020
Cold Case Connection is a really good suspense story! It is book three in the Roughwater Ranch series, but can absolutely be read as a stand alone novel.

The author kept me guessing throughout the book. It was intriguing to learn how these two cases were related and there were quite a few possible suspects that could have been behind the two murders.

The tunnels were a scary place to be, both in the past and in the present story! It definitely added a sense of urgency to the book when the main characters had to venture down into them.

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

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Profile Image for Michelle.
1,035 reviews62 followers
February 27, 2020
I just love Dana's stories and this book is one of my favorites! I loved the characters and the suspense kept me flipping the pages. This book takes you into a murder from the past and digs up old memories and people who might have been the killer. It was really fun to "investigate" along side Helen and Sergio. The romance is sweet and for such a short book it is very well written. This series has been great so I highly recommend that you read all the books!

Five Stars.

"I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
Profile Image for Hallie (Hallie Reads).
1,652 reviews155 followers
February 26, 2020
It comes as no surprise to me that this third Roughwater Ranch Cowboys novel is delightful romantic suspense.

Due to his sister’s murder, Sergio Ross is now responsible for his nieces. For their sakes—and his—he determines to find the killer. This search leads him to Roughwater Ranch—and Helen Pike, his sister’s best friend. With her guilt surrounding the murder, she cannot keep from helping Sergio, and the closer they get to discovering the truth, the more dangerous it becomes—and the more romance sparks between them.

It was easy to enjoy Dana Mentink’s Cold Case Connection. It is a quick, fun read, and I definitely recommend it to interested readers.

This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Caitlyn Santi.
Author 4 books102 followers
February 18, 2020
I loved this book! Dana Mentink has earned a spot on my list of favorite romantic suspense authors, I love how she combines sigh-worthy romance with spine-tingling suspense, and she has a knack for writing in just the right amount of humor at just the right moment, all of this combined equals books that I love to read!
I have been so enjoying the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys series, and Cold Case Connection is my favorite of the series so far! I tend to really enjoy stories that feature cold cases and this one was incredibly well done, I had no clue why the first person had been murdered or what exactly was the link between the two murders until it was revealed! There were several possibilities as to the villain's identity, and I kept changing my mind about who I thought it was and ultimately I was surprised by who the villain was, something that doesn't happen often because I read a lot of suspense books and love to play armchair detective, so bravo Dana Mentink!
I really liked Helen in the first two books in the series so I was really excited to read her story, and I was not disappointed! Helen was a great heroine, I liked that she was strong and determined, but that at the same time she had a lot of common sense and wasn't so determined to be independent that she ended up doing reckless and downright stupid things, that is something that you sometimes see with suspense novel heroines and I was so glad it wasn't the case with her. And Sergio, oh my word, there's just something about a hero who is a devoted daddy to the children in his care that makes my heart go pitter-pat, Sergio was such a good dad to Lucy and Laurel that I totally melted right along with Helen!
This book is so good, and I absolutely loved everything about it! I highly recommend Cold Case Connection, and can't wait for Chad's story!
(5 Stars!)


I received a copy of this book from the publisher and also purchased a copy of the audiobook. My review was not required or influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own
Profile Image for Sarah.
639 reviews56 followers
February 18, 2020
“They’d lost their childhood that night, all of them, any last vestiges of innocence had been sucked away by those dark tunnels.”

Two murders from among a group of former high school friends, one in the past and one more recently, spark this “Cold Case Connection” by Dana Mentink. This is an author I’ve not read before, but I will now be watching for her books. This one puts me in mind of the Nancy Drew series that I grew up reading, with romantic interest slowly developing around the heroine, who finds herself in multiple dangerous situations that increase in peril the closer she gets to the truth. Some of the scenes in this book caused a chill, with enough romance to lighten the atmosphere and provide relief from the tension.

Weaving together two crimes related yet with fifteen years between them, Mentink strategically uses characters and events to ultimately showcase God’s enduring love and forgiveness. Blaming herself for negligence after finding out her friend is dead, Helen Pike has not truly healed and moved on. It doesn’t help that her friend’s brother, Sergio Ross, also holds her partially responsible, a wound that reopens when Sergio shows up to conduct his own investigation of sorts. With danger dogging their heels, this unlikely duo doesn’t have much time to solve the “Cold Case Connection.”

Christian suspense is always a treat because it offers the thrill and mystery without undue violence and in a clean environment. No scene is wasted, and there is undeniable suspense throughout. With this particular book, adding in an extended timeline and previous history between the characters enhances the mystery and intrigue. The lines are not always clear-cut, as in real life, but the promise of hope and deliverance never wavers.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Nana.
652 reviews
January 27, 2020
The third in the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys series, Cold Case Connection can easily be read as a stand alone. Connections from prequels are well defined and easily understood. This is another fast paced and unpredictable suspense story that kept me hooked throughout. A murderer has struck twice in the same circle of friends, and with no clues to his identity the author takes us back to the events surrounding the first murder committed several years ago.

Characters in this series are likeable and realistic, and it's easy to feel swept away and a part of their lives. That is not to say that all characters are upstanding and honest. Relationships are strained as events from the past have not been redeemed, but forgiveness becomes a strong point in this book.

Dana Mentink has a talent for keeping her readers interested and involved in her suspense stories. There is no time for boredom as action and mystery lurk around every corner, and the plot moves along swiftly. I love these books for numerous reasons. They're easy to read, fast moving, and they take me away from the more pressing issues in my life. Highly recommend, and looking forward to the fourth in this series!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. All expressed opinions are honest and my own.
Profile Image for Ruth Hill.
1,115 reviews646 followers
February 19, 2020
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

First of all, this is a clean young adult/new adult romance/inspirational/suspense/mystery book. Sometimes young adult books have a universal appeal, but in my opinion, I believe the target audience is young adults in their twenties and thirties. So while I was not overly invested in the story nor the romance, I can state that there is nothing offensive in this book. In addition to this, it is a Christian/inspirational book, but there is not a whole lot of Christian references in it. The main strength of the book is that it is completely clean.

Now, while I was not overly enthused about the book and its content, I understand I am not the target audience. I did appreciate the way the action never lagged, but sometimes, I felt the story was a bit over-the-top. Then again, that's a hallmark of young adult books in general. I prefer more realistic suspense-filled books, but I cannot fault this book for givng readers exactly what is a promised. If you are in the mood for a high-stakes story with an inspirational bent, this book just might be for you.
Profile Image for Debbie.
2,559 reviews4 followers
February 29, 2020
"Cold Case Connection"is fast-paced and keeps you turning the pages to found out who murder the two woman and if they really are connected. The dangers just kept happening and I am really surprised about who the real murderer was.
This book could be read as a standalone, but I question why would a reader who likes romance and mystery stories with a faith element what to be left in the dark about all the background of the other characters. This is a story revolving around a family, although not are all blood related. So I say read the other two first.
In this book, Helen and Sergio learn to forgive themselves and each other for guilt and blame.
I really liked this short story by Dana Mentink and awaiting book 4 in the series.
I truly have enjoyed every book by Dana Mentink that I have read. She writes stories about real people who are struggling in their faith as we all are.
I received a contemporary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
1,189 reviews
January 24, 2020
Cold Case Connection ( Roughwater Ranch Cowboys-#3)
By: Dana Mentink
Cold Case Connection is book three in the series Roughwater Ranch Cowboys. This can be read as a stand-a-lone . This is a Love Inspired Suspense Inspiration Romance that grabs you at the start. I was not disappointed. A cold case about a young woman that was killed fifteen years ago and now some friends wants to find answers. This is a great mystery with twist and turns that keeps you turning the pages. After all these years can they find the truth before it is to late?
I was given a complimentary copy of this book , but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Janice Sisemore.
1,647 reviews15 followers
February 14, 2020
Cold case connection

I love a story that has kids and a dog in it. Sergio is taking care of and being the father of his sister twin girls. Sergio wants to find the person that killed his sister Fiona. Helen was Fiona best friend and wants to find the killer also. Will they find the killer?

I loved how Sergio cared for the twin girls and how he played with them. I also enjoyed the dog that was always getting in the middle of things.

This is a wonderful, suspenseful, fast moving story. I did not figure out who did it.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. This book review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,354 reviews164 followers
March 15, 2020
"This wasn't a place she wanted to come; it was a place where her childhood innocence had died along with her friend. "

Two deaths; years apart, two best friends; a third remained among the living, but silently suffering underneath layers of guilt. When private investigator Sergio Ross arrives in Driftwood with his dead sister's twin daughters, he is determined to remain until he finds some answers; answers that he is hopeful that Helen Pike can provide. Unfortunately for both of them, someone is trying very hard to thwart their efforts, making it dangerously clear that cold case connections needed to be left alone.

For a short novel, this book boasted a dizzying array of characters, which often made the story line feel a bit crowded. Nonetheless, the author wrapped up this episode quite nicely, adding sparks and spice in all the right places.
Profile Image for Suzie Waltner.
Author 13 books148 followers
February 19, 2020
Dana Mentink has quickly become a favorite go-to author for romantic suspense. Cold Case Connection cements her place in my favorites list.

Two murders, years apart, and one man’s determination to find justice for his sister lead him to Roughwater Ranch. And the woman he’s held partially responsible for the death of his sister. As Sergio’s blinders are removed, will he learn that seeking justice above all else might cause him to lose the more important and meaning blessings in his life?

Mentink delivers fast-paced suspense with many suspects, lots of danger, a simmering under the surface of attraction, and Jingles the dog.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Profile Image for Betti.
1,371 reviews37 followers
February 8, 2020
High school seniors exploring some old tunnels, racing to see who can get out first - a race that ends in tragedy. One of the 5 does not get out alive - a case never solved. 12 years later, another is killed in a hit and run after doing some sleuthing on her own. Now there are only three left and someone is out to make sure that there will soon be only 2!

What a fabulous, spell-binding, action-filled book! A note that seems to indicate there is more to the first murder and perhaps the reason for the second, fire, gun shots, explosions and more possible accidents had me glued to my chair until the mystery was solved. I must admit the author did a fine job of suggesting many suspects which only heightened the suspense.

This novel was published by Love Inspired Suspense and Harlequin Heartwarming with a copy given to me through CelebrateLit. The comments, impressions and five star rating are my own and were in no way solicited.
Profile Image for Joan.
4,347 reviews122 followers
February 14, 2020
I enjoyed this romantic suspense. The characters were well developed and there was a good balance of character story and plot suspense. My favorite aspect of the novel was the faith of the characters, especially Sergio. Their Christianity was a natural part of the story and not forced at all.

This is a short novel and is good entertainment for an evening. It is the third in a series. While it reads pretty well on its own, there is no initial setting developed. We know a lodge and a ranch are involved but the location is left unknown. Characters do go where they can see the ocean but whether the lodge is in a valley or in the mountains remains a mystery. Perhaps those kinds of details are found in the earlier books in the series. If you don't mind lack of geographical context, this is a good Christian romantic suspense novel.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Profile Image for Patrice Whynott.
12 reviews
January 17, 2020
Helen Pike whose friend was murdered 15 years ago and she wants answers . Then another friend dies from a hit and run accident which Helen is positive is murder that happened only 3 years earlier . But also Helen believes these deaths are definitely related . One of the victim's brother Private Investigator Sergio Ross wants to find the killer and bring them to justice . But he finds he has to work with Helen Pike who was best friends with Sergio's sister . Helen is almost killed in her cabin when it is set on fire and someone tries to smother her after she is drugged . Just in time Sergio rescues her . Then they try to find more clues in a tunnel , but as they were looking someone they find out is Kyle Burnett who tells them to leave. They come back later with some others , then there's an explosion someone sets off . Almost killing everyone . It's very obvious somebody doesn't want them there. Sergio knows he has to find his sisters killer so that all the questions are answered . As well as raise his orphaned twin nieces . But now he's falling for Helen as well as her for him and his nieces . Will they have a future together ? Or will they be the next victims ? Find out when you read this excellent novel !!
Profile Image for Maureen Timerman.
3,230 reviews490 followers
December 22, 2019
The author gives us a story that has many years in the making, and sad results from the beginning.
We meet a young man who now has the responsibility of raising his sister’s twin daughters, and blames her friend for not being there for her when she too was murdered.
Sergio wants answers and now has his sister’s friend on his side looking into who is covering up the original murder.
My mind ran the list of the characters and who could be responsible, and with more attempts, and more murders, my guesses kept changing.
This is a fast pace read, and you will be quickly page turning for answers.

I received this book through Celebrate Lit. and was not required to give a positive review.
Profile Image for Deana Dick.
3,081 reviews134 followers
February 15, 2020
Adrenaline rush. Action packed. Intrigue. Exciting characters. That is how I would describe this story. The author is well versed in grabbing a readers attention in the first few pages. As the story continues the author draws you in further with characters that are flawed and looking for answers. I love a good inspirational suspense romance that as all the elements that keeps me entertained throughout the book. This story is exactly that and so much more.
I was already invested in the story simply because I love the writing style of the author. She always delivers a well rounded story that is easy to follow. I wanted to know more about what happened years ago to a young girl who was murdered. How would these characters come together and unravel a mystery that has plagued people for years? One night as teenagers go out to have fun, tragedy strikes. Will the murder ever be solved?
Helen has seen her share of tragedies and most recently having to grieve her friend’s death was hard on her. I wanted to know why she felt guilty for Fiona’s death. More importantly is why Fiona’s brother shows up suddenly and why does he blame Helen for his sister’s death? There is nothing more attention getting than a mysterious man who is determined to find a killer. When it is a family member that has been killed, the need to dig for the truth intensives. Sergio is easy to root for because he has taken on the role of raising his sister’s children and will protect them at all cost. The friction between Helen and Sergio can be felt by the curt attitude Sergio throws at Helen.
With every turn of the page, the mystery deepens and Helen and Sergio start to get closer to the truth. I love how the author has a way of connecting the dots in a story with unforeseen twists. I loved the lessons the author gives us in this story. Helen has carried guilt around for years. She will need to learn to forgive herself and trust God to bring the truth to the surface. Sergio has had an anger issue that has caused him to blame others for his sister’s death. Will he learn to let God soften his heart? The author uses faith as a way to guide characters to lean on Him, trust Him and allow Him to soften their hearts. The writing is exceptional and I say move over mystery authors because this is author is taking intrigue to a higher level. I will be anxiously awaiting the next book in this series.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own
Profile Image for Kristina Anderson.
4,051 reviews83 followers
February 10, 2020
Cold Case Connection by Dana Mentink is the third book in the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys series. It can be read as a standalone. Helen Pike is checking out the old cabin one last time before it is demolished when she hears a noise outside. Everything fades to black when she is whacked on the head. Sergio Ross arrives at the cabin to find it on fire and quickly gets Helen outside. Fifteen years ago, Helen and four of her friends entered the old tunnels on a dare. Only four of them walked out alive. Three years ago, Fiona Ross was at the cabin and died later that day from a hit-and-run driver. Neither culprit has been apprehended. Helen recently found a note from Fiona in the cabin and turned it over to the police which is why Sergio has returned to Driftwood. He wants justice for Fiona and Helen is determined to help him. Cold Case Connection is a riveting tale with suspense, mystery and action. Sergio Ross wants to find the person responsible for his sister’s death and he believes Fiona’s death is connected Trish’s who died fifteen years prior. Helen feels responsible for Fiona’s death and she knows that Sergio blames her. They end up working together especially after someone tries to kill Helen in the cabin fire. Helen’s older brothers would prefer to wrap Helen in cotton wool and keep her locked in her bedroom, but Helen is just as stubborn as her brothers. The characters are developed, and I like how they progress. There are two adorable little girls along with a cute dog which add humor and lightness to the story. I like how faith is woven into the tale along with the importance of forgiveness. The mystery was interesting, but it was a cinch to solve. However, I enjoyed following our characters on their journey for the truth and justice. It has me eager to read Chad’s story. The ending of Cold Case Connection will leave readers smiling. Cold Case Connection is a well-written story with solid characters, an intriguing plot, and two mysterious deaths. Cold Case Connection is an enticing suspense with sweet twins, a precious puppy, a callous killer, overbearing brothers, and two cold cases.
Profile Image for Erin.
2,108 reviews17 followers
February 20, 2020
My Thoughts on Cold Case Connection:
I have read the other books in this series and was definitely on board to read this one. It’s a great suspense series that reads fast and furious. You’ve got mystery and a race against time to solve the case before the lead characters end up dead. Always makes for a great story!

Helen was the character I’ve met before as she is the sister to Liam who starred in his own book in this series which you had better go read too. They had a super rough childhood and Helen relied on Liam to keep her going. They’re very close.

When Helen was in high school just trying to survive she was friends with a group of kids. One of them ended up dead on a dare gone the wrong night. They went into some caves and she never came out again. The murder still is unsolved.

Helen’s friend and sister to Sergio go investigating the case and then ends up dead as well. The killer is still around and taking out anyone who’s asking questions. Can Helen and Sergio find out who the killer is before they too end up dead?

Read this one! Read the whole series!
Wonderful book! Loved how it ended up and I do have to say that I knew who the killer was from near the beginning just because I pay attention to details!

Highly recommend not only this book but the entire series. You will not be disappointed. Dana Mentink is a wonderful writer with a style that draws you in and won’t let you go! Because the author has done such an amazing job writing this series that I am going to have to keep reading all of her books. Now that I’ve read this series I’m hoping she has another one with five or six books to keep me reading. It might take me two days to read that many.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Profile Image for Cathy Cermele.
782 reviews14 followers
February 7, 2020
Get ready to hold on because you are going on another wild ride in Cold Case Connection., the third book in the series by Dana Mentink. It doesn't matter if her characters are in a car, motorcycle, horseback or on foot you can be sure someone is going to be chased until the mystery is finally solved.
This time it's Helen Pike and Sergio Ross, two people with little in common except for the murdered sister of Sergio and best friend to Helen. I adored these two, she is a hardworking young lady haunted by the loss of her two friends, he is private investigator searching for the person who killed his sister. I thought he was going to be tough throughout the story which he was until he was with is twin nieces and that's when his softer side is on full display.

I loved reconnecting with some of the characters from the previous books in the series because I have grown so fond of the folks at Roughwater Ranch. No matter what happens in their lives they always have each others backs because they are honorable people who care about each other, their ranch and give so freely of their time to help in anyway they can.
There is always a lot of suspense, a little romance and a strong family connection in this series which is why it has become one of my favorites in the LIS line and why Dana Mentink is one of my must read authors.

So, if your looking for a fast paced read with likable characters do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of this wonderful novel then sit back and enjoy.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.

Profile Image for Glenda Parker.
Author 14 books21 followers
February 3, 2020
My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Cold Case Connection. This is book three in the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys Series. I was thrilled to get this book as I'm a great fan of Dana. This story is well written, action packed and full of faith. I know you are going to love it.

Private Investigator Sergio Ross is now a daddy of two three year old girls. His sister was killed. He is convinced it wasn't an accident. He returns to Driftwood to find the killer. A note was found that linked his sister's death to a fifteen year old murder that took place in a cave just up the road. He is here to get answers but only Helen Pike seems to have any idea what is going on. He must team up with her to find the killer but can he keep them alive long enough to find justice.

Helen Pike was involved in a murder fifteen years ago. She and her teen friends went to a cave one night. They all left in different directions but one of the girls was killed. Years later Fiona Ross left a message to meet her but she couldn't go. Fiona was killed. She found a note four days ago saying Fiona had proof of Trish's death. She took it to the police but they didn't seem interested. Now Fiona's brother shows up wanting her help to find the killer but they are attacked at every turn.

A terrifying journey into the past to find who killed the girls. A killer that doesn't want to be found. Two broken souls trying to bring closure to the two families. God has a plan for these two; a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a good plan and not for evil.
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