Ambush in the Mountains - by Mary Alford (Paperback)

I received this book as an ARC with no expectations of a positive review. This book brings human trafficking to the forefront. Summer was torn away from her Amish family by trusting a Ray whom she met. She left her family at 18, now being 26 years old. Summer had aged out and pregnant with Ray's child, but he would not allow her to leave. This is a story of survival when she finally sneaks away from Ray. He is determined she will not get away. Axiel and Camo (his dog) find her on the road. Join their journey as they work to stay alive .

With themes of helping a stranger in trouble and a second chance at love and life, this book dealt with the dark topic of humans in bondage in a compassionate and informative way, Summer is running from her captors, specifically a man named Ray, when she stumbles onto the road where Axel Sterling is returning home from a shopping trip. Axel sees her need and meets them the best that he can, with a fast-paced and intense journey over and around the mountains during a blizzard in order to avoid her tormentors. The plot is a compelling one, with action that never slows down and an intricate plot of evil versus good where evil seems to be stronger. But nothing can beat Axel’s determination to keep Summer safe, even at the cost of his own life, if necessary. I enjoyed the complex and well-developed characters, including Summer’s backstory and how she got caught up by the evil men to begin with. I was also captivated by Axel’s heroic dog Camo who consistently throws himself into danger to protect those around him. This is an intricately woven tale, told in a mesmerizing way and with characters that I just wanted to reach out and hug. Unputdownable, skillfully plotted and with characters that are easy to cheer for, this book was edgy and crackled with tension. This story is a relevant and eye-opening page turner, with twists galore and plenty of action. With a strong message of hope, this is a must read book for those who enjoy quick reads that are as intriguing as they are intense. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

Ambush In the Mountains is another thrilling suspense by Mary Alford. Summer is a woman on the run from men who want to kill her because she did escape from their human trafficking ring. Axel is an ex soldier looking to see where he belongs now that he's out of the military. When he runs into Summer running for her life, what can he do but protect her. This story has exciting twists and obstacles that make it a real page turner. I don't want to give anything away, but you really need to read this book.

Staying alive was his only priority right now. As a former soldier, Axel had seen many things he would rather forget, but how to stay alive was not one of them. After almost hitting Summer on the road, he and his dog, Camo, realize that keeping themselves and her alive will be the real battle. This is a real nail biter! There were times when I really wondered if they would manage to survive the next onslaught of those who wanted to kill Summer. Lured into what she mistakenly thought was a life of love, had become the horror of human trafficking. Would she ever get away and learn that this was not her fault? Could she find redemption? An early copy was received through Love Inspired Suspense and BookFunnel. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.

This book features non-stop action and suspense with one attack after another as Summer and Axel along with trusty canine Camo run from human traffickers bound on recapturing Summer at any cost. Treacherous Montana mountain terrain and freezing, snowy weather conditions intensify the suspense. The characters are well-crafted and realistic. A light faith thread and a bit of sweet romance round out the story. I was drawn into the story from the beginning and stayed glued to the pages for the entirety of the story. I was so caught up in it, I read it in one sitting! I think fans of inspirational romantic suspense will enjoy this story of courage and redemption as much as I did. I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.