Missing in the Desert

Desert Justice #2

by Dana Mentink

Five years ago, her sister disappeared…
Now someone is coming for her.

Who would believe that Mara Castillo's sister—missing and presumed dead—suddenly sent a one-word text? Now Mara wants answers, even if it means stepping into a killer's sights with her brother's best friend, rancher Levi Duke, as her only protection. But with someone who has everything to lose after her, uncovering a long-buried secret could save her life…or claim it.

A DESERT JUSTICE STORY

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

Desert Justice

Book 1: Framed in Death Valley
Book 2: Missing in the Desert

Genres: Romance, Suspense, Christian Fiction, Romantic Suspense, Mystery, Love Inspired Suspense, Love Inspired

224 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2021

About the author

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-...

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Romantic Suspense book, and this is the second book in the Desert Justice series. This book starts off with a ton of action and suspense, and the suspense stays up though out this book. The romance was something that built through out this book. I found the two main characters fit together really well. I have to say I love all the animals in this book. The animals take over the book at times, but who does not love when misfit animals take over the story. I did not see all the twists coming. The ending was so good. If you are looking for a book fill of action and a light building romance then this is the book for you. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Love Inspired Suspense) or author (Dana Mentink) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much enjoy Dana Mentink’s inspirational suspense books. This in the second book in her new series and is populated with good characters and an especially good plot. Totally surprised me. Great job! And I saw people in this book that I Hope Mentink gives their own story.

My thanks to the publisher and author for a copy of this book. I am also part of the Celebrate Lit tour for this book. The review here is my own.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whew, can you imagine getting a brief text from a long-missing sister? Most people would probably think it a tasteless prank but this heroine isn’t about to let this clue go. She’s going to turn over enough stones to prove once for all what happened to her sister—but will she die trying? Someone sure doesn’t want her poking around!

Excellent story with a second chance romance. Be sure to read the series in order.

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good read and characters.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 1 in this Desert Justice series, Framed in Death Valley, is full of layered characters, heart-in-your-throat suspense, and a sweet, renewed romance for a struggling young couple on the brink of divorce after the husband is wrongfully imprisoned for murder. One of the characters we meet in book 1 is Levi Duke, and his story in Missing in the Desert will keep you on your toes!

Hold on to your cowboy hat from word one because our protagonists are in mortal danger right off the bat. Along with the breathless fight to survive & keep Mara safe from whoever is trying to kill her, Levi and Mara must figure out how to save the ranch Levi owns with Mara’s brother (who is in the hospital recovering from the initial attempt on Mara’s life) and why Mara is suddenly getting clues about her younger sister’s missing-presumed-dead disappearance from the same area years before. Mentink does such a great job of continuing to come up with compelling characters, unique plots and stunning twists – I rarely can predict what’s going to happen next. True to form, Missing in the Desert took me by surprise more than once, and I loved every minute of it!

Bottom Line: Levi Duke & Mara Castillo have a bumpy ride from ‘once upon a time’ to ‘happily ever after’, and you may very well have to remind yourself to breathe as the story progresses. Not just because of the sweet romance (which will leave you swooning), but also because of the heart-racing action & suspense. Besides trying to figure out who wants to kill Mara and why, you’re also trying to determine what, if any, significance the clues she’s been getting about her sister’s disappearance have on these murder attempts. You’ll also be grinning widely as Banjo the rescue dog & his misfit band of other rescue animals steal the scene in some lighter moments meant to let us catch our breath. Fantastic characters and a wonderfully intriguing plot – can’t wait for more time with the Duke family & Death Valley!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love series! In Missing in the Desert, the second book in a six-book series by Dana Mentink, I really loved the first book in this series, Framed in Death Valley, and went right on to read this book.

Mara Castillo's sister Corinne disappeared five years ago, and due to a specific piece of evidence, is assumed dead. When Mara receives a strange one-word text - Marbles - which is her childhood nickname, Mara finds that her hopes are raised. Who but Corinne knew that Mara's nickname was Marbles? Mara gets together with her brother's best friend Levi Duke in order to track down that mysterious text - and hopefully her sister. Levi proves to be a good protector for Mara as someone is not too keen on her looking for answers when it comes to Corinne's disappearance.

What a thrilling story - answers regarding Corinne, the danger that faces Mara at every turn, the brewing romance between Mara and Levi, and hope. Yes, hope that Mara is determined to hold onto. Factor in cute pets, such as Banjo the dog and Tiny the kitten, and of course a Rabbit, and this story proved absolutely wonderful. I also enjoyed the emotional edge in this story, especially after Mara's brother Seth was injured. Levi's sensitivity and concern for Seth's future was really nice. This extended to the fact that Levi and Seth had recently purchased a ranch together, and this has an impact on Levi's future. This is where Levi's selflessness shined.

As things turned out, the text Mara recived was only the first clue, and again, this kept Mara hopeful. This story also had an emotional edge that captured my attention from beginning to end. Factor in faith as a basis for not giving up and this book definitely proved a winner for me. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.

Many thanks to Love Inspired Suspense and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

After he brother is injured Mara comes out to protect her brother's investment, working on the ranch alongside Seth's best friend and business partner, Levi Duke. But when a text message arrives that brings the past blaring back into the present with full force, Mara is determined to get answers. with Levi by her side will she finally find out what happened 5 years ago?

This is a fast paced read with a lot going on, Mara is a likable and outgoing heroine, with a get-er-done attitude. Levi is more silent and solid, he is supportive of Mara every step of the way, and I loved how their relationship grew over the course of the book.

Overall, this was a suspenseful read with a lot of great characters and a twisting plot that kept me guessing. My heart went to the people who were dealing with immensely difficult things, and the aftermath of it all. I really enjoyed Levi and Mara together, and hope to read more about some of the other characters in the future!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whew! This was a fast paced suspense book, full of harrowing situations! The imminent danger that Mara faced was compounded by the fact that she had recently received mysterious messages that could be a cry for help from her sister…the one who had been missing, presumed dead for almost five years!

Mara had a lot to deal with in the book. She started out angry with Levi and frustrated that he and her brother were starting up a ranch together. She then had to fight for her life multiple times, yet through it all, Levi proved strong, caring and faithful. It was nice to watch as her heart softened to who Levi really was.

This story was definitely a page turner and filled with disturbing happenings that made me wonder what exactly the villain was trying to cover up. A very exciting and chilling story!

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...

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of "Missing in the Dessert" by Dana Mentink. Levi Duke buys a ranch with Seth Castillo. They have plans for a horse ranch. Because all their money is in the Ranch, Levi trying to earn money with horse tours at Camp Town Days. As Seth and his sister, Mara, are headed to Ranch they are shot at. Seth in coma for some time. Mara stays at Ranch to be near her brother and help with his dream. Mara had received a text of one word - Marbles. Only her sister called her that. It rekindled hope she may still be alive. Then at Camp Town Days. Mara buys a painting she believes is done by her sister. So many attempts on Mara's life. The text, painting, and more keep Mara hoping her sister is still alive after 5 years. Mara is targeted over and over, romance, Seth in coma, and so much more. The book grips you immediately. Family are important and hope.

[Inspirationalfictionreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always know when I start a Dana Mentink story that I’m in for a suspenseful read that will keep me turning the pages long into the night. She is one of those authors where you just keep saying “one more chapter” until you’ve turned the last page.

Levi and Mara’s story is so good! It takes place in Death Valley, which is really interesting. It starts with a bang - literally- and never lets up. It kept me riveted to the pages the entire time.

Mara’s missing sister and the clues that were being dropped kept me guessing throughout the story. Was she dead? Alive? Who has her? Why? I accused pretty much everyone in the story of everything! I was so surprised with the way the story played out! It was excellent and unexpected.

If you’re looking for a quick suspenseful read with a nice romance, this is the story for you! I can’t wait for the next story in this series!

[Ebosereme Nwamu · Rating 3 out of 5]

Slow build romantic suspense with wonderful characters and a good plot filled with intrigue, action and a lot of mystery.
I love when suspense books start with action. It sets the pace of the book for me. And the author did just that here.

If you love crime books that are not too fast paced but captivating enough then this is for you.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Patrice Whynott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not going to be really descriptive in my review this time . Basically I want to say that I really enjoyed this suspense story . The characters of Mara Castillo and Levi Duke are wonderful characters , as well as the sweet menagerie of animals . This story is one I highly recommend ! It has a lot of action and a surprise ending ! And the love of course ! Dana You are so talented !

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic story by Dana Mentik. I absolutely love her suspense books! She captures my attention all the way through and doesn't let go until the end.
A lot of twists and turns going on to make it exciting.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Exciting second book in Desert Justice takes Levi and Seth and Mara on a dangerous journey into the unknown. Could whoever is targeting them be connected to the disappearance of sister Corrine 5 years ago? Could Mara and Levi make a go of the Rocking Horse Ranch when Seth winds up in the hospital!
Ms Mentink wows us with the scenery, cute animals, Banjo, Tiny and Rabbit and a mystery that someone wants covered up. With family drama and a romance that heats up, you won’t want to miss this story.
* I borrowed this ebook from Prime Reading. All opinions are my own. *

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Missing in the Desert" is a Christian romantic suspense novel. It's the second in a series, but it works as a standalone. The suspense came from repeated attacks on Mara, some more deadly than others. The people around her also got injured, increasing the suspense. Since Mara refused to stop investigating what happened to her missing sister, she agreed to allow her friends to provide protection. She says, "I'm stubborn, not stupid." Even though she did everything right, her attacker was so desperate that they kept trying anyway.

I loved the characters. Mara and Levi followed up on the clues while also trying to save Levi's ranch. Mara initially misjudged Levi's motives but changed her opinion when she saw examples of his good, caring character. Even before she admired him, she did her best to make his ranch prosper. They were a good team, especially when it came to running the ranch. She had good ideas and was willing to sacrifice her time and effort to help others. However, I found a few parts possible but not very probable, like what really happened to her sister. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable romantic suspense.

I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Vickie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy a good romantic suspense book and when it’s a Love Inspired book, that is even better because faith becomes a focus of the characters as they work to resolve their problems. This is the second book in a series, but it is the first one that I have read by this author so I can attest to the fact that it can be read as a standalone. The main characters are Mara Castillo and Levi Duke. Levi has partnered with Mara’s brother Seth to purchase a failing ranch in the desert outside of Las Vegas. Furnace Falls is not a paradise by any means but Levi and Seth hope to turn the ranch around and raise horses. Unfortunately, before Seth can even arrive, he is seriously injured and in a coma, leaving Mara to fill in the gaps on the ranch. I really enjoyed how responsible Levi was, to Seth and to Mara and to his own obligations. I read intently as Mara’s character developed from one who was bitter about what she has had to give up into one who accepts things the way they are. The plot is complicated by the fact that Mara’s sister Corinne disappeared about five years earlier and now it seems that Mara has received a text from her. So, in addition to finding out what happened to Corinne, visiting her seriously injured brother in the hospital, dealing with her feelings for Levi and working on the ranch, Mara is trying to discover the secrets that seem to be threatening her life. There were surprising twists along the way to the end of the story and a lot of back-and-forth romance between Levi and Mara. The suspense never let up and the romance was a light one, in the background but always there. The animals were my absolute favorites of the story! There was Banjo the intuitive dog, a kitten named Tiny whom Banjo seems to adopt as his own and a Rabbit living under the porch. Plus, of course, there were lots of horses on the ranch. I enjoyed the story, the characters, the themes of family and persevering and the intrigue of a good mystery.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harlequin via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The 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 Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

[Harlequin Books]

Categories
Inspirational Suspense, Wholesome Romance, Suspense, Romantic Suspense
Miniseries
Desert Justice (Book #2)

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

My Goodness! This book comes in with a bang and never let’s up. Mara wants answers after she receives a one word text from a phone that has to know something about her sister who has been missing for five years. But she is headed head on into a danger she has no idea what or who it is. Or what they want with her.

Dana Mentink writes a story that is sure to have your head spinning by the time you finish reading this book. When I started reading Missing in the Dessert, I didn’t put the book down until it was finished. And I’m telling you I had to find out what this wild mess was that was chasing Mara and trying to kill her. With characters that are believable and realistic, I felt as though I was living the story with Mara and Levi. I felt bad for Levi because Mara’s family blamed him for everything, when it came to their son, and he wasn’t at fault. The story is so twisted that it’s impossible to know who is doing what. It seemed as though this person was everywhere. And the almost ending, I don’t want to give anything away so I’ll just say I actually had parts of it figured out but not the worst parts. Then for the final ending, it is something that will make the whole story worthwhile. Wow! What a story! This gets a Five Stars from me and wish I could give it more!

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's something about this stark, alien (to this Canadian) desert setting that adds extra umph to the suspense vibe for me. I have a hard time imagining anyone willing to live with those kind of temperatures but then I googled images and I can see how a person could become beguiled by the other-worldly landscape. And that sky!!!!!

It's cast a spell on Levi who is determined to make a go of ranching in this harsh environment. And partnering with his long-time best friend means that his dreams are within reach. But his friend's sister isn't convinced that they can make a go of it.

Mara is all kinds of stubbornly opinionated and just a tad miffed at Levi for dragging her brother into his schemes. This is a kind of frenemies to more love story with plenty of charged scenes and a whack of misunderstandings to wade through. Not including the suspense which ups the ante even more.

Someone's gunning for Mara and it might have to do with her missing, presumed dead sister. With 'accidents' escalating to dangerous levels, Levi and Mara are tasked with finding new answers to a closed case. They have lots of help from family and friends and I enjoyed meeting up with folks from the first Desert Justice book. (No worries, if you missed that one -- other than missing out on a fabulous story -- this second book reads beautifully as a standalone.)

And it wouldn't be a Mentink novel without a rescue dog sporting personality plus. You'll love Banjo and...well, he has some special critter friends that you'll enjoy meeting along the way. :-)

[Novel Obsession · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me preface this by saying that historically I have not enjoyed the Harlequin Inspired line. I find myself groaning every time I open one and find myself reading only to realize that it is from this line of books. The reason being is that all of the other books from this line have not just been Christian but go into great detail to tear down anyone who isn't Christian. They tend to not only proselytize but go to great lengths to villainize anyone who doesn't believe the same. So, my first instinct when I realized this was a Love Inspired book was to set it down. I decided to give the book a chance, and I am glad I did.

Dana Mentink's Missing in the Desert is what a Christian book should be. The characters may send up a quick prayer, but they don't wax on regarding the evils of non-Christians.

As for the story line, it has a nice slow suspenseful build-up. The events in the book are believable, and you find yourself liking the characters, minus the ones you shouldn't. It's a small town mystery out in the desert, with murder attempts throughout to cover up a crime. Certain animal characters, especially Banjo the dog, found a special place in my heart.

Disclaimer: An advance copy was provided by Harlequin.

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Missing in the Desert by Dana Mentink delves into Levi Duke’s story (those who read Mentink’s previous book have already met Levi).

The setting of this series brings home the challenges of living and surviving in Death Valley along with the ruthless people out to harm the heroine (in this case). I always appreciate Mentink’s ability to come up with original scenarios to put her characters in peril and the high stakes that go along with it.

If you haven’t read anything by Mentink but love action-packed suspense with a believable romance, then you need to pick up one of her books. Why not start with this one?

Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

Missing in the Desert is the second book in Dana Mentink's Desert Justice series, but speaking as someone who hasn't read the first book, this one works well as a standalone. The story is a good mix of slow-burn romance and suspense, and it starts with some action to pull you in and get things started. Mara and Levi are likable characters and it's easy to root for them both separately and together. The story is a pretty quick read, easily finished in an afternoon, but if you're planning to only read a chapter or two before bed, I'd advise planning to spend a little longer with this one. It's a great combination of mystery, romance, danger, family, and faith.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great suspense by Dana Mentink. I was caught up from the first and was carried all the way through to the end. I loved the characters of Levi and Mara. Mara is determined to find out the truth behind her sister’s disappearance 5 years ago. Someone doesn’t want her to find out, because she becomes a target. Levi is trying to run a ranch and keep Mara alive while she is searching for clues about her sister. I was kept guessing throughout the book. I would think I had it figured out, then things would take a turn. The non-human characters were great, too. I would recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.

[Audrey Stars in Her Eye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Missing in the Desert is thrilling and intriguing and easy read, it's a great summer book.

Mara Castillo is headed to Rocking Horse Ranch, an investment her brother has thrown his money into. She hopes by going with him so can change his mind. Or that is her cover story—she has received a text from her long-missing and presumed dead sister from the same city the ranch is in, the city they grew up in. But an attempt on their lives leaves her brother in a coma and her brother's best friend as her only help in her mission. Hopefully, she can knock two birds with one stone.

This is one of the better (if not the best) books I've read from Harlequin and, specifically, Love Inspired Suspense. While it's written in a structure that is light and airy, it doesn't read like an elementary school book. The author uses some wonderful words I would never have imagined with a novel of this kind.

Another positive is that this book isn't instant stranger love and that was a huge win. It's another typical setup, lost chances when younger.. This has always been my favorite of the romantic setups because it seemed more realistic. I felt Dana Mentink balanced the romance with the intrigue in the mystery.

Some people may not like the religious aspects, but it's well done. I have read Christian books that mention God a few times, a big prayer, and then moves along. The religious moments are realistic and echo times that I would have been on my knees as well. I don't feel like it's in your face though as a Christian I am biased.

Though second in the Desert Justice series, Missing in the Dessert stands on its own and a reader won't be left out by not reading this book. This is a thrilling story that's perfect for the beach or a day by the pool.

I received an ARC from the publisher; all opinions are my own.

[Phyllis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story!

My rating is 4.5 stars

Bullets flying. Cars rolling. Danger from an unknown source hounded Mara as she searched the clues to explain a text she received.

Once again, Dana Mentink has written a sweet, gripping, sensitive, and romantic mystery. The story worked and flowed well.

Levi and Mara were great together! Each had a secret crush on the other in the past, but their relationship started out on rocky ground as the story began. Mara's distrust of Levi and his motives was clear...

I really enjoyed the other aspects of the story as well but wanted to point out how much I loved Banjo, the wounded dog who adopted Levi. And Tiny, the kitten Banjo adopted. And the shy, injured Rabbit who came for food but kept away from Banjo!

Readers of inspirational romantic suspense will enjoy the Desert Justice series. Be sure to read all the books in order!

Originally Reviewed on 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.

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a suspenseful story with plenty of action and an intriguing twist to the story: What really happened to Corrine Castillo when she disappeared five years ago? Mara, her older sister, is trying to answer that question and unexpectedly finds herself facing great danger. Her friends in Furnace Falls are trying to assist Mara in finding answers about her sister, but none of them could ever be prepared for the truth they will uncover.

I liked the characters in this book, especially the aspect of friends and family going to any length to help each other in times of distress. The background of Death Valley adds its own mystery and suspense to the story. There’s a “good friends to romance” storyline between Levi and Mara that adds sweetness to the book, but the main focus of this story is the mystery and intrigue surrounding the disappearance of Mara’s sister. It’s another wonderfully entertaining mystery from Dana Mentink. I’m already looking forward to her next book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent, fast-paced story from Dana Mentink! I always know that I will get a lot of action and thrills from her! This book was no exception! The characters are three-dimensional and realistic and you feel like they could live next door! I loved Levi. He had been through so many hard times but he just kept going. He had faith that things were going to work out, even when it looked bleak! Mara accused him of dragging her brother into investing in a broken ranch and that doesn't sit well with her. When her brother is nearly killed and then Mara is in the sights of a killer herself, Levi will do anything in his power to keep her safe. As I said, there is so much action that I can't put the book down! I loved the animals that Levi has adopted! They really tugged at my heartstrings! I definitely recommend this book!

[Tabitha Bouldin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mara and Levi! This couple is now the couple to beat when it comes to fiction. I love Levi's soft-spoken ways and how Mara took the time to learn to understand all Levi said without saying much at all. The action and suspense were there, but for me, the best part was watching the relationship unfold through the forced proximity. With Levi's heart and Mara's life on the line, Missing in the Desert is a must-read book. I couldn't get enough and hope we get to see more of them in later books. What Dana Mentink does best is weave faith into the story in such a way that it's a natural journey for the characters while she builds their trust and faith in God and each other. I received a copy of this book from the author through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Missing in the Desert
Dana Mentink
Missing in the Desert is the second book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone. It is a Love Inspired Suspense Inspirational Romance and I really enjoyed it. The story is well written and the characters are well developed. I was grabbed at the first and did not want to put it down. Danger, Courage, faith, suspense, action, and romance all makes this story what it is. The author knows how to hold your attention and keeps you guessing till the end. I hated to see it end.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book . All opinions are my own.

[Kay Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

MISSING IN THE DESERT by Dana Mentink is the second book in the Desert Justice series. It’s the wonderful written story of Mara Castillo and Levi Duke in Furnace Falls - a small town outside the Death Valley National Park - that will keep you turning pages through all the action, danger, and mystery with a budding romance thrown into the mix.

Though classmates in school, Mara hadn’t seen Levi in several years after her family moved away. It was during that time that Corinne, her sister, disappears assumed dead somewhere inside the national park. After receiving a postcard and then strange text with only the word “marbles” and both having a connection to her missing sister, she decided to pay a visit back to her home town to check it out. Plus she wanted to figure out why Seth, her brother, would invest all his money into a partnership with Levi, who had already had one business go belly up, in buying Rocking Horse Ranch. However, it’s not long after arriving to town while headed out to meet up with Levi on a horse purchase that someone started shooting at Seth and Mara. It led to Seth losing control of the truck and it tumbling to a crash after he was shot. The accident left Seth on the brink of death with possible lifelong injuries and Mara banged up and bruised.

Determined to look after her brother’s interested, once released from the hospital her only thoughts are to make the upcoming November Camp Town Days Festival profitable for the ranch. However, it seems that danger lurks around every corner and more attempts are made on Mara. It soon becomes apparent that she is target of all these attacks, but she refuses to be bullied or to stop her mission. What had she done that someone wanted her dead? Was she getting too close to digging up clues on her sister’s disappearance?

Levi and Seth have always been the best of best friends. They enlisted into the military together and it was only natural that Levi would offer partnership in the ranch to Seth. Looking back, that might not have been the best of ideas because he seems to be hanging on by a thread. The upcoming festival may make or break him financially. Levi has always had a crush on Mara, but being shy and best friends with Seth, he’d never had the nerve or ability to act on his feelings – other than he did ask her to the prom. When she moved off, it seems his heart went with her. One thing he knows – he will defend her with his life – both for his deep friendship with Seth and for his feelings for Mara. But will his desire to keep her safe be enough?

It seems that this person out to get Mara is always one step ahead of them managing to get away and leaving no clues behind. After all the attempts, Sheriff Jude Duke, Levi’s cousin, is more determined than ever to get this attacker caught. He’s hoping along the way that they can find answers for the Castillo family to bring them closure. Is there a connection between the two? Why does Corinne’s old boyfriend and his wife act so funny – almost hateful – when Mara is around? Will spending some time together have Mara seeing Levi and the ranch a different light? Because she gave up her dreams after Corinne’s disappearance in order to help her parents out mean that everyone should? Will Levi ever be able to admit to himself and to others his true feelings where Mara in connected?

MISSING IN THE DESERT is one of those can’t put down books that will have you reading it in one sitting. The excitement and mystery will have you quickly turning pages. Through Dana Mentink’s words you will see the ranch through Levi’s eyes and watch as Mara warms up to the ranch and Levi. You will fall in love the odd and lovable connection between a mutt, a rabbit and baby kitten as they find a home on the ranch. It will leave you wishing you could sit on the porch, admire the view and welcome in the peaceful atmosphere of the ranch. Although part of a series, it can be read as a standalone book. Looking back I can see many more stories that could branch off and I would be anxious to read them all. For me it was most definitely a FIVE STAR book and I high recommend it!