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?
Experience more action-packed mystery and suspense in the rest of the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys series:
Cold Case Connection
Deadly Christmas Pretense
Danger on the Ranch
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
more
What a thrilling ride with pacing that is spot on. Trying to put the clues together is like working a thousand piece puzzle. First it goes here, no I think it goes here, wait that’s where it goes. I loved the characters and how they grew and learned to let go. Add impish twins and Jingles the dog and you have a winning combination. I had not read the previous books in this series but found it worked fine as a stand-alone. I won a copy of this book from a blog. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
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.
This is an enjoyable cold case mystery I partly read and partly listened to on Audible. I liked the fact it was more mystery than romantic suspense with couples on the run, which is what I have usually found on Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line. I recently heard they are going to try out more cold cases.
The characters were well developed with a strong romantic conflict. He partially blames her for his sister’s death. That is hard to overcome. The main characters were all likable and the mystery was well planned out. The kids were cute, too. I liked the fact they weren’t perfect little angels.
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.
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.
2 dead…is there a Cold Case Connection?
Well, I really shouldn’t be surprised. After all, Dana Mentink is right up there on my list of top favorite Love Inspired Suspense authors. But, boy did I get involved in Cold Case Connection! I loved Helen right from the start but I got so mad at some of Sergio’s attitudes that I stewed over them even when I wasn’t reading the book! Though,I have to be honest and say that when I wasn’t reading didn’t happen very often. I pretty much read right on through because I couldn’t put it down. One of those reasons, was, of course, because I just HAD to know if my guesses as to the killer’s identity were correct. And one of them was, but wasn’t, I had the right clue and the right person but not for the reason I thought. Dana Mentink really did a great job leading her characters, and readers, on one wild ride of danger and romance!
Cold Case Connection is the third book in the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys series and it can be read standalone but I don’t recommend missing any of these exciting stories. I’ve enjoyed all of them so far and I know I am eagerly anticipating the next book…
(I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are entirely my own.)
“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.
READING PROGRESS
I just finished reading Cold Case Connection by Dana Mentink and loved it! You definitely don’t want to miss this one if you love inspirational romantic suspense stories. This is the first book by Dana Mentink that I’ve read and I will definitely be reading more by her in the future.
Sergio Ross is in town investigating the death of his sister. He believes it wasn’t an accident like local law enforcement believe, but murder and it is somehow related to a murder that happened years ago.
Helen Pike wants to find answers about her friends’ deaths, but opening the investigation back up has put her life in danger the closer they get to finding out the truth.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
Cold Case Connection by Dana Mentink is the third book in her Roughwater Ranch Cowboys series. Private Investigator Sergio Ross believes his sister was murdered. While hunting for clues he discovers a connection to an old unsolved murder from years ago. Joining forces with his sisters’ best friend, Helen Pike, he races to find the answers before they become the next fatality. The story starts you out on the edge of your seat and keeps you there all the way to the end. I enjoyed getting to know Sergio and Helen and their struggles to leave the past in the past and move on. To not let their guilt, ruin the rest of their lives. I loved the way Sergio took time to spend with the girls even though he was busy looking for a killer. It was good to connect with some old friends, too. That’s what’s so nice about a series. So, if you’re looking for a suspense-filled romance then this book is for you.
I received this book from Celebrate-Lit for my honest review.
From the very beginning this book is full of suspense and it captured their attention. The plot is believable and enjoyable. I wanted to finish the book once I started reading. Two unsolved murders claim the stage in this book. I loved how Sergio and Helen interact.
Trying to solve the two unsolved murders puts their own lives in danger in the present. The two have to work together when Sergio realizes his sister’s unsolved murder may be connected to another unsolved murder. But Helen is linked to both deaths and therefore the two have to find a way to work together.
If you enjoy Christian Suspense novels, you should definitely check this book out.
I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review.
Cold Case Connection is another page-turner from Dana Mentink who in my opinion is an expert writer. I especially enjoy her suspense novels. Once again she has written a tale that held my attention to the very end and I was reluctant to put it down to attend to mundane things like housework.
The steady plot dropped plenty of hints in just the right places yet I didn’t manage to solve the mystery on my own until it was revealed within the story. Plenty of action and suspense kept those pages turning. I loved the sparks between Sergio and Helen despite the initial conflict and distrust. Both characters were well-rounded with unresolved guilt feelings that drove them to find the murderer of Sergio’s sister and the possible connection to a death in the past.
I thoroughly enjoyed this riveting suspense with a strong hint of romance. It was fun to touch base with characters from earlier books in the series. I look forward to future releases by this author.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
Case Connection by Dana Mentink is a wonderful romantic suspense novel. Helen lost one friend in childhood and another recently. The deaths seem related and she finds herself drawn to solving the mysteries. Readers of romantic suspense will not be disappointed, since there is plenty of suspense at every turn and great clean romance as well. This is the perfect weekend read, both due to its length and due to how well written it is– you’ll read it so fast to find out the truth! The tension between Sergio and Helen is palpable and adds much to the story. Even though this book is a quick read, the plot is definitely not simple. The author created a well-developed story line that holds your attention and interest to the very end. I highly recommend this novel. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.
Cold Case Connection by Dana Mentink is a Love Inspired Suspense novel that keeps the reader on the edge of the seat. Readers are drawn immediately into the story when Roughwater Lodge manager, Helen, begins to relive a tragic event from 15 years ago. Two friends, two killings. Are the murders connected? Are there any new leads to solve a 15-year-old murder? Everyone in town had their secrets. Who wanted these women dead? Is Helen in danger too now? Can Sergio, the brother of one of the murdered women, keep her safe? This is a fast-moving story with several action-packed scenes, good dialogue, strong characters, a sweet romance, and a thread of faith in a God who loves to forgive. I look forward to reading more of this author’s works.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required, and opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.
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.
“Cold Case Connection” is part of the “Roughwater Ranch Cowboys” series and I liked this story the most! I have read the other two books in this series but they can be read as stand alone stories because they all focus on different characters and story line.
This story has full of danger, suspense and clean romance with great characters and a steady interesting plot. The characters and story line grabbed me right from the beginning and I didn’t put the book down until I had finished.
Helen and Sergio have both had losses in their life but they are determined to figure out who killed their friend/sister Fiona a couple years earlier. As they investigate further, their new case keeps intertwining with an old cold case; and they have to keep dodging bullets and attempts on their life as they get closer to the truth.
I absolutely loved reading this intense, suspenseful story and highly recommend! Once you start reading, you won’t want to stop!
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
Cold Case Connection by Dana Mentink is a marvellous contemporary Christian suspense that will have the reader on the edge of their seat.
A desire to know the truth about past murders puts lives at risk in present day. Suspicion lurks in the dark as modern amateur sleuthing tries to uncover the secrets in the past.
Some desire vengeance, whilst knowing that “I’m supposed to leave vengeance to the Lord, but I want it for me.” When we place our hurts in God’s hands, we will be set free from the burden that is dragging us down.
Guilt ties in with vengeance as characters feel guilty for their inaction and inability in the past. “Guilt stabbed through her.” Guilt is not something for us to carry. “God forgave them, and so they should forgive themselves.” God did not send His Son to die so we could live under the weight of guilt. He wants us to forgive ourselves and to live in the freedom for which He died. If we fail to forgive ourselves, we will be guilty of hubris.
The novel shows the dangers of the comparison trap. “She was a better Christian… There isn’t a grading scale for Christians.” We are not to compare ourselves to others. Our standard is Jesus. We need to look to Him.
Dana Mentink has drawn a wonderful set of characters who will lodge in the reader’s heart. I particularly loved the three year old twins whose mannerisms were perfectly captured by Dana Mentink.
Cold Case Connection was the perfect way to spend an afternoon. I loved it.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
What I think you should know:
Cold Case Connection is the third book in the Roughwater Ranch Cowboys series by Dana Mentink. This book does include characters from the first two books in the series , however it can be read as a standalone novel. (I personally recommend starting at the first book in the series as this series is action packed and will keep you on your toes!) This book features Helen, the lone sister in the group of cowboys.
What you might need to know:
Two of Helen’s friends have been murdered and she is searching for answers.
What I loved the most:
Mentink has done it again, she has a gift for writing books that keep me turning the pages and keep me guessing. Once again she has written a book that is full of danger and intrigue while giving me the ability to get glimpses of old friends. In this story newcomer Sergio is crippled by the pain of losing his sister and is determined to find justice for her no matter who he hurts in the process. Helen was a wonderful lead, being surrounded by brave and strong men she doesn’t just rely on them to take care of her problems, she is just and strong and as loyal as they are. Even though she is haunted by her past and losing her friends she does not let that paralyze her or deter her from finding the truth for them. I loved this book and can’t wait for the next book in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
I have loved the characters in this series. Each of the books in this series have been so fun to read. I love the suspense and the romance. This was one that I did not want to put down. I needed to find out who was trying to kill Helen. She and Sergio were great together and the twins were so sweet. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
Could there be a connection between a teen’s death years ago and a recent murder? And why is someone now targeting Helen Pike? Do they want to kill her too or just steal something in her possession? Join the Roughwater Ranch group as they try to protect Helen and figure out the mystery. Sergio Ross also wants to solve the crimes, only he seeks revenge for his sister, Fiona, Helen’s best friend. Can they work together or will the past keep them at odds? Add in Fiona’s young twins, whom Sergio is raising, and you get an even more compelling story. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
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.