Not much has gone according to plan for mechanic, Pippa Freling, recently. With lots of bridges burned behind her, she decides to stick close to her sister and give Montana a try. Things are looking up when she joins a local group of animal activists, buys an auto shop for a steal, and even tries her luck with the opposite sex. But it doesn’t take long before her hopeful new future is derailed once again. This time permanently.
Maintaining tight control is the stronghold in Sully Eckhart’s life. It served him well during his years in special forces and has kept him out of trouble since. But his self-restraint stretches only so far whenever he finds himself faced with the one woman who has the ability to shake his determination. A woman he’s tried to avoid for months—since the first time she shook his resolve—but who now finds herself in the middle of a serial murder case.
However, when she not only ends up a person of interest to the FBI, but firmly in the crosshairs of a killer, he has no other option but to stick close. And give up all control.
USA Today bestselling author Freya Barker loves writing about ordinary people with extraordinary stories. Driven to make her books about 'real' people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.
Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!
HIGH GROUND (High Mountain Tracker Book #3) by Freya Barker
Pippa finds herself being investigated as a person of interest by the FBI in a serial murder case. She has more on her plate than she can handle by herself and when the solitary Sully finds out about the news she has yet to share, he refuses to leave her side. As Pippa and Sully learn to share all aspects of their lives, their future life together is being endangered.
The High Mountain Trackers series of romantic suspense books never disappoint. Pippa and Sully are both so independent and I enjoyed their journey to becoming a couple. I loved the way both had to learn to give and take and how they did what was right for them without worrying what others felt about their choices. There is always crossover between the books in the series, but there is even more in this book due to Nella, Pippa’s sister’s pregnancy and delivery and the entire team assisting in the serial murder case. There are several plotlines in this story, but all are answered by the HEA. The sex scenes are steamy and explicit, but not gratuitous. This series has mature heroes and heroines, and the author deals with their personal problems in an adult manner and does not hesitate to give them mature love lives, also.
I highly recommend this book, this series and this author!
So much to love in this one. Sully turned out to be quite the hero even if he didn't have the greatest start with Pippa. I really like how he got his bits together and man'd up. He ended up being one of my favorite heroes in this series.
This author is known for her very independent heroines and you do get that with Pippa but you also get to see a soft side to her. I felt like the balance was just right for her characters. I think she handled Sully perfectly. She was hurt by him at first but she didn't keep holding it against him. She's the reason we got to see him become such a great hero.
As always, the storyline was great. It keeps your attention and really just makes me want to read the book in one sitting like usual. I love seeing all the side characters in this series and I'm really excited for the next book. Great read!
I’m used to this author’s stories revolving around mature couples who are past their prime for having children, and I enjoy them immensely. However, the accidental pregnancy is one of my favorite tropes . It was absolutely delicious when it involved Pippa and Sully. While they are still older, I loved watching them deal with the surprise and then the journey through pregnancy. The fact that that time is layered with danger and accusations made it all the more wonderful.
Pippa was a tough as nails heroine but she had moments of softness that made me love her. Her process through the pregnancy had me loving her all the more as it’s a storyline I adore.
Sully was amazing with all his delicious alphaness, especially when you add a forthcoming baby into the mix. Again adding to that storyline I can’t get enough of. Their initial conflict was believable and watching them come together was everything I love.
This was filled with lots of drama as they work to solve a serious problem that Pippa is facing. There is a wealth of wonderful characters included, all making this not only a bit more dramatic at times, but fun as well. I loved seeing past characters and regardless of the fact I just finished this one, I can’t wait to get my hands on the next.
HIGH GROUND is the third instalment in Freya Barker’s contemporary, adult HIGH MOUNTAIN TRACKERS, erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on a group of former US Special Forces soldiers who own and work for High Mountain Trackers in Libby, Montana. This is forty-four year old former Special Forces soldier Sullivan ‘Sully’ Eckhart, and forty year old, mechanic/environmentalist Fillippa ‘Pippa’ Freling’s story line. HIGH GROUND can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Pippa is Nella Freling’s sister (High Stakes #2).
Told from dual first person perspectives (Sully and Pippa) HIGH GROUND follows months after a one-night stand between forty-four year old former Special Forces soldier Sullivan ‘Sully’ Eckhart, and forty year old, mechanic/environmentalist Fillippa ‘Pippa’ Freling, the morning after in which Sully ghosted our story line heroine. A number of bodies, each shot with a rifle, have been found in and around the area in which Pippa has parked her trailer, making Pippa the prime suspect for the murders as she is an active member with Fair Game Alliance. Someone is targeting our story line heroine, ensuring all clues and information point to Pippa F, and with it, Sully is determined to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love. All does not go according to plan when one of their own goes missing, and an emotional and tired Pippa is still considered the prime suspect. What ensues is the building relationship between Sully and Pippa, and the potential fall-out as a killer’s need for vengeance places suspicion on our story line heroine.
The relationship between Sully and Pippa begins as a one-night stand in which Sully keeps his distance in the following months. The fall-out forces Pippa to reconsider everything she does, including living too close to the man who ultimately broke her heart. Pippa had fallen hard for our story line hero but the heart wants something more than Sully is willing to give. As a Canadian citizen, Pippa is unable to work, and finds herself dependant upon others to help her out. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters include ranch and High Mountain Trackers owner Jonas Harvey and his wife Alexandra Hart; Fletch Boone and Nella Freling: Jonas’ teammates James Watike and his wife Ama, Bo, Sully Eckhart, as well as Jonas’ father Thomas Harvey, Sully’s twenty-one year old niece Sloane, and his sister Isobel; FBI Agents Power and Wolff, real-estate agent Marcie, mechanic Ira Nelson, conservationist Cade Jackson, and Sheriff Ewing. The requisite evil has many faces. Lucy and Bo’s story is next in HIGH IMPACT.
HIGH GROUND is a story of perceived betrayal and vengeance, obsession and murder, second chances and surprises, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic, intriguing and engaging; the romance is impassioned; the characters are energetic, determined and dynamic.
HIGH GROUND is the third instalment in Freya Barker’s contemporary, adult HIGH MOUNTAIN TRACKERS, erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on a group of former US Special Forces soldiers who own and work for High Mountain Trackers in Libby, Montana. This is forty-four year old former Special Forces soldier Sullivan ‘Sully’ Eckhart, and forty year old, mechanic/environmentalist Fillippa ‘Pippa’ Freling’s story line. HIGH GROUND can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Pippa is Nella Freling’s sister (High Stakes #2).
Told from dual first person perspectives (Sully and Pippa) HIGH GROUND follows months after a one-night stand between forty-four year old former Special Forces soldier Sullivan ‘Sully’ Eckhart, and forty year old, mechanic/environmentalist Fillippa ‘Pippa’ Freling, the morning after in which Sully ghosted our story line heroine. A number of bodies, each shot with a rifle, have been found in and around the area in which Pippa has parked her trailer, making Pippa the prime suspect for the murders as she is an active member with Fair Game Alliance. Someone is targeting our story line heroine, ensuring all clues and information point to Pippa F, and with it, Sully is determined to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love. All does not go according to plan when one of their own goes missing, and an emotional and tired Pippa is still considered the prime suspect. What ensues is the building relationship between Sully and Pippa, and the potential fall-out as a killer’s need for vengeance places suspicion on our story line heroine.
The relationship between Sully and Pippa begins as a one-night stand in which Sully keeps his distance in the following months. The fall-out forces Pippa to reconsider everything she does, including living too close to the man who ultimately broke her heart. Pippa had fallen hard for our story line hero but the heart wants something more than Sully is willing to give. As a Canadian citizen, Pippa is unable to work, and finds herself dependant upon others to help her out. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters include ranch and High Mountain Trackers owner Jonas Harvey and his wife Alexandra Hart; Fletch Boone and Nella Freling: Jonas’ teammates James Watike and his wife Ama, Bo, Sully Eckhart, as well as Jonas’ father Thomas Harvey, Sully’s twenty-one year old niece Sloane, and his sister Isobel; FBI Agents Power and Wolff, real-estate agent Marcie, mechanic Ira Nelson, conservationist Cade Jackson, and Sheriff Ewing. The requisite evil has many faces. Lucy and Bo’s story is next in HIGH IMPACT.
HIGH GROUND is a story of perceived betrayal and vengeance, obsession and murder, second chances and surprises, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic, intriguing and engaging; the romance is impassioned; the characters are energetic, determined and dynamic.
Oh my goodness...if it wasn't for bad luck Pippa would have no luck. It's bad enough what happened to her in the last book, but in this one, just as she's getting her life back together so much comes at her fast! From the whoops surprise! To being the center of an investigation where people are dying left and right, to vandalism done again and again and her new shop her blood pressure keeps rising. There are some good things amid all the chaos. First Sully, while that took a bit, things ended well for them, to the point where they are building something real and loving every step. To getting her business started and finding a great employee, to getting to know Sully's family more. By the end of the book there is so much to be happy for with Pippa and Sully.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
The third book in the series brings Sully and Pippa's story. The author brings a cast of strong characters centering on Sully and Pippa. When Pippa is in danger Sully and his friends step in. There's mystery, suspense and action along with some humor and tons of emotions. It's well written, moves fluidly and is a fantastic read. I'm looking forward to the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
Wow, what a fantastic book! Once I started, I couldn’t put it down. This is one of my favorite books in this series. I absolutely loved Sully and Pippa. I loved them together. I loved Sully’s niece Sloane. She was awesome. This book kept you guessing until the very end. I really didn’t see who it was coming. Now I can’t wait for Lucy’s book!!!
I’m not enjoying this so I’m not going to make myself finish it.
* There’s no characterisation here. Series or not, each book needs to establish who the central protagonists are. Like, internally and externally.
* There’s no romance here. A one night stand. Hurt feelings. A particular situation that, in conservative circles, creates forced proximity. No talking, divulging, resolving. Just convenience, lame sex, and continuation.
* There’s no story here. There’s anxiety over a dangerous situation, but that’s not a richly textured story with setting, pacing, plot, development, interiority, and interesting exposition.
* There’s no joy here. Just drama. Drama in the mountains. Drama on the ranch. Drama in the coupling. Drama left unstaunched.
* There’s no emotional intelligence here. I’m tired of men being bullies and that being presented as protective, masculine, attractive, or appealing. No one’s an immediate open book. But poor treatment, through which the little woman understands, until she earns the insights into his burly bearish scars is a terrible and tired trope.
* There is no modernism here. Yeahhhh, I’m over the Kirsten Ashley-esque, Robyn Carr-ish bucolic places that are really hidden sites of archaic mentalities and conservative ideologies.
Pippa has decided to stay close to her sister and make a permanent home for herself.
Sully and Pippa had a moment and then he opened his mouth and messed it up.
“We need to talk,” he finally says. “We’ll have privacy here.” “You seem to want to talk a lot,” I snap. “But you don’t tend to say a whole lot. If I recall correctly, talking hasn’t provided much clarity between us.”
There is always some suspenseful moments and this time she is the center of murder investigation. It gets quite intense.
I love Thomas he is my favorite character.
“Dadgummit, boy…ya got me jumpin’ like fleas on a farm dog,” he mutters as he tries to hide his cigar behind his back. “What the heck are you doin’ up?”
Jesus, the old guy is a card.
I’m loving every minute of this series but I have to say this is my favorite so far.
This is the third book in the series. They should be read in order to get the full affect. This book focuses on Sully and Pippa. Pippa is introduced in the second book in the series. Her sister is the main character in that book. Sully was attracted to Pippa right away. They even shared a night together. But then he pulled back. He doesn’t believe that he can offer Pippa what she deserves in a partner. Pippa is starting over. She has dreams and she is going to make them come true. She has bought a business and gotten involved with some community activism. Then things take a turn when she becomes a suspect in some local murders. Sully knows right away that he must help her. Then things get even more interesting when Pippa finds out she is pregnant. Sully never saw himself having a family. But he won’t give it up for anything. He is going to protect Pippa and his child with everything he has. This book was a fantastic read. Pippa and Sully don’t have a great start to their relationship. But Sully acknowledges his part and makes it up to her. Sully shows Pippa that is was not because he didn’t like her but because of how he though she deserved more than he thought he could give. Sully’s niece plays a part in this book as well. Will Sully and the guys be able to figure out who is behind these killings before they try to arrest Pippa? Pippa is amazing. She is strong, resilient, and so confident. I love how these books are about people that some may consider old (40’s), I think they are really in their prime. These men may think that they are too old to find their one but these books are proving them wrong. They are finding their one and their happily ever after. I can’t wait for the next book. I hope one of the books will be about Sully niece finding her one as well. Fantastic job Freya.
Pippa has bought an auto shop in Montana so that she can be close to her sister. While she waits for her immigration status to be finalized, she is focusing her attention on protecting animals and trying to forget about the man she spent a night with who wasn’t looking for more. She finds herself caught in the crossfire as she finds herself being hunted both by law enforcement and person who intends her harm.
Sully has transitioned from his military career and is now working for High Mountain Trackers. He gave into temptation and spent one night with Pippa knowing that was all they could have until a surprise that neither expected and an escalating threat will find them both reconsidering their future together.
Pippa’s strength and resilience finds her challenging the protector in Sully which only makes them more perfect together as they take us on a journey filled with romance and intrigue.
Who is Pippa? Where is she? What does she do for a living? Why did she pick the place we find her in at the beginning? Who is Sully? What does he do for a living? Why does the FBI get involved in this story? Who is Jonas and what are he and Sully up to at the beginning? How does Pippa meet and know Marcie and Nella? What in the name of Hades does Sully have against Pippa? I laughed when I realized what business Pippa bought. What happened when Pippa went for a doctor's office visit? What conversation do Pippa and Nella have? Was that just a microphone drop on what Pippa said to Nella? What happens with Nella that Sully and Fletch have a conversation in Sully's truck that another microphone drop happens??? Oh, I really think I like Ira. When the sheriff shows up though... oh, the gang is so much fun to read about! Who was behind all the murders? I did not see that one coming! I have to tell you that the last line of the book had me laughing so hard, then continuing to giggle for some time after. I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did.
High Ground is filled with mystery and suspense that keeps you guessing and glued to the pages! Sully and Pippa are at odds with each other when one night of intimacy ends on a bad note. Pippa has moved to town to be with her sister. She even purchases a business and when she finds herself in the middle of a murder case and in the crosshairs of a killer, Sully no longer fights his feelings for her. Will he be able to keep her safe and will they get their chance for a happily ever after? Ms. Barker's weaves stories that are descriptive along with cunning plots and dialogues that is a representation of her writers craftmanship.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I haven't read all of Freya's books yet, but I'm already a fan. Her stories are enthralling and her characters are relatable and realistic. They have flaws and make mistakes; they're mature and with a good head on their shoulders. They are humble enough to admit their wrongs and brave enough to fix them.
I usually get annoyed at characters for being stupid or exaggerated, but that's not a concern for me when I read this author's books. Her characters' personalities and their idiosyncrasies only make them more enticing. Reading their stories becomes an addictive journey and all I can do is love their paths and quirks.
Sully and Pippa were incredible together. Their chemistry was tangible, no matter how hard they tried to fight it, and their connection was genuine. I loved how they had their differences but knew how to handle them with care and responsibility. Their story was built on danger and blossomed with surprises and suspense, just like their love and affection.
This is book 3 in the series and revolves around Sully and Pippa who have been instrumental in the other books, so while it could be read as a standalone story, I strongly recommend getting reading the series for the full effect. Ms Barker has completely pulled me in with her Alpha cowboy, ex military men but I equally love her strong willed, sassy ladies who can hold their own.
Pippa has decided to make roots her in Libby Montana to be closer to her sister. Finding the perfect place to start her mechanic shop where she plans to work and build something for herself. She just need to wait for her green card and she will be off and running. While doing what she can, she finds her self in the middle of some things she wishes she wasn't. Add in the surprise of a lifetime and she finds herself having to re plan her path once again.
Sully is a loyal as it comes with her team and friends but he is a closed up box when it comes to his feelings. Other than his sister and niece, he doesn't show much emotion. He finds himself drawn to Pippa but the last thing he wants or needs is a relationship. Protecting her and being the rock she needs he can handle so long as he tries to keep his heart firmly locked up but once Pandora's box is open there is not stopping this Alpha.
The setting of this series has drawn me in, between the wilderness and wildlife, the ranch and camping and the found family that has been carefully picked speaks to my heart. Freya's characters that pull me in from the first words, making me feel things I am often not ready for. Her suspense and crafted stories that keep me guessing from the first signs of something bad, I couldn't put it down. I sense she is working on finding us some new characters that might extend the series and I am keeping my fingers crossed.
Grab your copy today, you won't be sorry.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
Once again, Ms. Barker has given us a suspenseful, completely compelling and twisted tale to add to our never-ending "favourite Freya Barker read" list! With every book in her High Mountain Trackers series, High Ground is the third (and MY personal fave), she just simply keeps you hooked and wanting MORE!
High Ground is Pippa Freling and Sully Eckhart's explosive and addictive story that starts out with a one-night stand, a broken heart, a few murders that point straight at Pippa as the #1 suspect that also activates Sully's Alpha-mode, ensuring an entertaining and engaging, fast-paced and edge-of-your-seat suspenseful roller coaster ride of a romance! I LOVED the banter and sexual tension between Pippa and Sully! You could literally FEEL the emotions jumping off the page...and the hilarious banter amongst the close-knit group of the men of High Meadow Ranch (who are actually CHOSEN family) makes this one an un-put-downable MUST READ! High Ground CAN be read as a standalone, BUT I would strongly recommend reading the series in order as you get acquainted with all the AMAZING secondary characters who play extremely important roles in every book in the series! And having said that, I can't WAIT for Lucy and Bo's book, High Impact!
I loved this one! Both characters are a little rough around the edges, but I felt that made them both more relatable. Family friends who have a one night stand and end up with an accidental baby. Oops!!! Pippa and Sully now seem to avoid each other…. Too bad she finds out she’s pregnant and he finds out on accident. Oh - and add in a string of unsolved murders in the local area. No worries, this one ends with a wonderful happily ever after!
Merged review:
I loved this one! Both characters are a little rough around the edges, but I felt that made them both more relatable. Family friends who have a one night stand and end up with an accidental baby. Oops!!! Pippa and Sully now seem to avoid each other…. Too bad she finds out she’s pregnant and he finds out on accident. Oh - and add in a string of unsolved murders in the local area. No worries, this one ends with a wonderful happily ever after!
Wow this was such a great story. Sully was just so alpha and a man to take charge but had to learn to curb that a little around Pippa. Pippa was already getting herself in trouble and gets noticed by a serial killer when ex special forces Sully has to step up and protect her. I really did love these two. Their connection became so strong and passionate and not just in the bedroom. I liked how they were together. Great plot, lots of action and drama really amped up the intensity of the story and I really enjoyed that most of all. Such a great book! Very well done!!! This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
I loved this book. Sully was trying to fight what he felt but there was no use, the pull was too strong. Pippa was a very independent and determined woman, I like that. I love the surprise pregnancy trope and this did not disapoint. He was alpha male already but after learning about the baby, he went into another other level of protectiviness. I just love to watch all this men fall for their woman, it's addicting really
Pippa and Sully get their story.Pippa is trying to gain some control of her life back. Sully, is being stubborn. These two have great chemistry and banter. Life throws them yet another curveball. Facing challenges head on these two have a suspense filled trip to their HEA.
This is the third in a continuing series of standalone books that connect through the work done at a horse ranch and by a group of ex-Special Forces trackers. There are shared characters and timelines within the books but it’s not essential that the other books are read first, it just enriches the experience. This means there are no cliffhangers.
Pippa is a mechanic who has spent the last year and a half driving over the continent in her RV after her divorce. She loves boondocking and experiencing the solitude and silence of nature, it’s her solace. When she was attacked and left for dead several months ago, she was found by her sister Nella. When Nella, her only living relative, got married and pregnant, she decided to set up a permanent home near her.
As a Canadian citizen she’s allowed to buy a business but not work in it until she gets her green card, so she’s spending time in nature again when a body is found near her campsite, by Sully.
Sully is very wary of relationships. His family does not have the best history when it comes to them, and he’s scared to follow in their footsteps. However, from the moment he met Pippa he was drawn to her, despite her being seriously injured. When he finally succumbs to his desires months later, he messes it up by sneaking away in the night.
Pippa and Sully are barely speaking to each other when Pippa discovers she is pregnant, around the same time as dead bodies start appearing in the wilderness nearby. Sully’s protective nature and Pippa’s stubborn one, butt heads as they try to navigate their changed circumstances.
I admit I’ve got a certain weakness for accidental pregnancy books. I don’t really expect them from Freya Barker as she writes books about slightly more mature characters, but at 40 years old, unplanned pregnancy still happens and there are more physical difficulties to face at that age than at 25. This adds a different dimension to the trope, which, to me, makes it more interesting.
This book combines a fascinating whodunnit, danger, passion, family issues and the slow building of a relationship in difficult circumstances. Freya Barker handles this blend incredibly well and I couldn’t put the book down, once I started it.
I liked Pippa when we first met her in ‘High Stakes’, the second book of this series. She’s determined, independent and strong. In this book we get to see some of her weaknesses as well as her strengths and it makes for a much more interesting character, who exhibits depth and poignancy. Sully was always a bit of an enigma in the previous books who seemed quite private, though friendly and pleasant. Getting to know him in this book was really interesting as he really opened up to Pippa in an effort to show she could trust him. I’m not sure if the circumstances had been different he could have forced himself to open up and show his weaknesses as he did, so the plot set up a great reason for his character to do so.
I really enjoyed this book and these characters. The ensemble cast of the series are great people which provide a rich tapestry of a background on which to build the individual stories. It makes diving into a new book even more enjoyable as you re-visit old friends at the same time as making new ones. I also really enjoyed the mystery of this story which was complex and intriguing. I think I worked it out just before the characters did.
If you want to read something intriguing, romantic and filled with fascinating characters this is the book for you.
There was no denying that these two would get together at some point. Sully felt something from the first moment he saw her (High Stakes). Pippa was working her way back from an major ordeal. She never imagined her life would take the twist and turns that it did.
Pippa’s thirst for feeding space and beautiful land scapes brought her in contact with the more real thing of life hunting and the natural outdoors.
I enjoyed seeing Sully and Pippa’s relationship grow. They had a lot thrown at them including being suspect in the middle of a five victim murder investigation. In her short time in town Pippa was able to make a few friends. Some wanted others take a little too far.
I would say that I did not feel that unwanted relationship was resolved. I wanted more on that one. There familiar character and even a few new ones. Fresh blood for the High Mountain Trackers would real good.
If you've never read anything by Freya Barker, excuse me for saying, but what the heck is wrong with you?! Her writing is wonderfully addictive, with more mature characters that have intriguing stories to share. Barker's High Mountain Trackers series has easily become one of my favorites. Three books in and my interest for this group of men who use their smarts and skills to help locate and find missing people. High Ground is all about Fillippa Freling and Sullivan Eckhart, aka Pippa and Sully. If you aren't a weirdo and have actually read this awesome series, you'll remember what happened to Pippa in the second book, High Stakes, and how there seemed to be something starting between her and Sully. That being said, you can still read this new book as a standalone--but why do that when you can grab the first two novels and see how all the awesomeness began?
Ah, Pippa and Sully were stubbornness personified, but I rooted for these two because they simply felt like they belonged together. They may have needed a bit of a nudge (one that I won't get into here, so you're just going to have to read the book!), but once they decided to give it a go, there wasn't a whole lot of unnecessary drama when it came to their relationship. Of course, with the romance comes the mystery and the suspense, and while I did have the eventual villain on my list of suspects, I confess that it took me a wee bit longer to figure everything out! Not that I'm complaining because I do love it when a romantic suspense author keeps me on my toes. We also have the rest of the recurring cast of characters out and about, but I do wonder if something may be on the horizon regarding something Jonas said. Either way, I thoroughly enjoyed High Ground. Five stars!
Sully got a surprise he least suspected. At forty - four years of age his life is to be forever altered. Pippa caught his interest and a one night stand means he will be a dad. To complicate matters Sully must protect Pippa from the implications of a murder investigation. Narrators Connor Crais and Ada Sinclair bring this book to life.
I enjoyed Sully and Pippa’s accidental pregnancy suspense filled romance as they struggle with impending parenthood, a serial killer and changes at the ranch now that Sully’s team members are settling down. Watching this alpha male fall head over heels is quite satisfying as Sully struggles between being overprotective and not undermining Pippa’s independent nature. When he does she quickly pits him in his place and feisty capable women are my jam since it takes one to know one. The serial killer storyline is detailed, well written and kept me guessing while Sully’s niece Sloane’s criminal justice skills help solve the case. On a side note I’m still scratching my head over one character’s name changing from Alma in the first audiobook to Ama in the kindle book. I don’t think I have ever had this experience in decades of reading and I have to admit it was distracting for me. Go figure.
High Ground (High Mountain Trackers #3) Written by: Freya Barker
Freya Barker continues to bring readers strong female leads and men who are damaged and in need of a good woman to complete them.
In High Ground, Pippa Freling who we’ve met in book two of this series and Sully (Sullivan) Eckhart find out that sometimes one night can change your life. The question becomes can the hurt of rejection can be healed.
We met both Freling sisters in High Stakes book two and we get to learn so much more about Pippa in this book. We know the Freling sisters are close. We find out that she is also very much her own woman and she has learned the hard way to never rely on a man. She’s been bitten before and is now twice shy, but in my mind she and Sully are perfect for each other. Now if only they can work as a team for the better good.
However in this book Pippa, who is trying so hard to become a member of her new community, has a habit of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Much like the incident that sent her sister Nella looking for her in book two, we find Pippa right in the thick of what ends up becoming not just a potential murder to multiple murders and the FBI becoming involved.
The relationship between Pippa and Sully has other challenges besides them working past their histories, when a family member shows up unannounced, it’s just another thing for them to deal with.
There were so many twists and turns, incidents that can’t be explained, threats being made and a disappearance will just add more stress to this newly minted couple. When you think you might have figured it all out, no, sorry Author Freya Barker has you swearing under your breath…. following up with a “well done Freya, well done!”
This series continues to be up there in my top series reads. I’m looking forward to Book 4….High Impact.
****Audio Review****
High Ground (High Mountain Trackers #3) Written by: Freya Barker Narrated by: Brenda Scott-Wlazlo & Connor Crais
High Ground is full of suspense! Not only does Pippa Freling (yes Nella’s sister) has decided to stay in Montana. She purchases a garage and it looks like Sully Eckhart has an eye on her…..it seems these two have a thing and that thing turned into a change in both their lives.
Sully has always been one of my favorite mountain trackers and so when he and Pippa become a (couple) they become one of my favorite couples. Listening to these two together shows you how opposite they might be, Sully over protective and Pippa feels she has done for herself for years and she can’t stand it when she feels she is being controlled and maybe she is, maybe it’s to keep her safe.
Again the narrators bring Pippa and Sully to life while we listen to all that goes on in this story! Whether you read this book or listen to this book or possibly do both, you can’t help but enjoy theses characters and Author Freya Barkers writing.
This is book 3 in the Mountain Trackers series and while it can be enjoyed as a standalone, reading book 2, High Stakes first, offers insight into who these trackers are all about and what the back story of our heroine Pippa is all about.
If you haven’t it’s ok this author offers enough insight to learn what happened to Pippa that had her ending up Libby.
I have been loving this series since book one and I always say this series is getting better, but this installment knocked it out of the park, and it is definitely my absolute favorite. I absolutely fell in love with Pippa and Sully.
As always the author treats us with her never ending magical powers of creating extraordinary characters out of ordinary folks. In this story not only are they in they older, our hero and heroine are perfectly flawed and have a lifetime of experience and baggage between them, making them comfortable confirmed bachelors. Pippa survived a near death experience and is now ready to set down roots near her family doing what she loves the most…opening her own car service station. Sully is one of the heros responsible for her near death rescue, but despite his instant attraction to her…he’s a confirmed bachelor resigned to stay single and unattached.
Despite their instant attraction, neither is ready for nothing more than a spin in the sheets, except a one night stand led to some unpredictable consequences. The result was a unique, intense blend of bittersweet and heartfelt romance.
Add to their combustible chemistry, and snarky humor and banter, a series of bizarre crimes in town have Pippa right smack front and center. The suspense, the twists and the mystery leading to who’s behind these crimes made this book totally unputdownable. It also made Sully more protective and rethinking his “old” ways. There is so much going on in this story and it all fits in perfectly. The result was one of those reads you start to read and before you know it, it’s the end.
How this occurred and what happens you’ll have to read and find out!!
The High Mountain Trackers series has become one of my favorite series. All of the characters are real, flawed, unique and captivating. Each book continues to bring intensely suspenseful action, emotional depth and some humor that entertains and keeps my attention to the last page.
Pippa/Fillipa was introduced in the previous book when her sister Nella came to town to investigate her disappearance. Nella not only found love, but helped rescue her sister. In the third book in the series, Pippa is getting settled in Libby, Montana and trying to live a less eventful life, but she seems to be a magnet for trouble!
Sully helped bring Pippa back to town after she was found in book two, and he was reluctantly attracted to her despite her condition. His reluctant attraction is due to the carnage he has seen and experienced both in the military and his childhood. He doesn’t trust himself due to lingering nightmares and other emotional remnants of his service in special ops.
Pippa is suddenly dealing with an unexpected medical condition that leaves her both emotionally vulnerable and stressed, on-going vandalism to the business she purchased and is trying to reopen, and is the apparent target of someone who is trying to frame her for several murders.
Sully is determined to protect her and finds himself handling more than he ever dreamed.
High Ground is a fantastic read. I enjoy how the author shifts the focus to the developing relationship of a specific couple while continuing to keep all of the other characters very much in the story. She has woven a strong tapestry of characters that continues to get stronger with each addition to this series. I’m excited and eager for the next book to see what she has planned for Bo and Lucy!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
High Ground by Freya Barker High Mountain Trackers #3
Could not put this book down. Love the author, the series, and this book. Can’t wait for more!
What I liked: * Pippa: strong, survivor, mechanic, divorced, capable, harrowing introduction in previous book, PTSD, unexpectedly surprised early in the book, targeted by more than one and in danger, attracted to Sully * Sully: ex-military, member of the High Mountain Trackers, PTSD, good with animals, difficult backstory, cares for his sister and niece, team player, strong, lethal, reserved, fighting his attraction to Pippa * Seeing the members of the team along with their partners and hearing how they are doing * Thomas: Jonas’s father, like a father to the team, adds to the story * The writing, plot, location * The way the relationship between Sully and Pippa developed * How well-suited Pippa and Sully were for one another * The mysteries: Pippa’s business being vandalized and who the serial murderer was * Sloane: Sully’s niece, at a crossroads in her life, curious, intelligent, enjoys puzzles, studied law enforcement, lucky to have Sully as her uncle * The small town setting * What the trackers do for a living * Wondering about Lucy and Bo – think their story is next * Hoping that the team will bring in new blood and the series will grow…I can think of at least two men they could/should take in already * The way the mysteries were solved * Knowing that there is another book to look forward to
What I didn’t like: * Who and what I was meant to dislike * Thinking about baiting animals to make shooting them easier
Did I enjoy this book? Yes Would I read more in this series? Definitely
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.