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To expose a suspect, he needs evidence…

and a K-9’s instincts.

After Emery Duncan is abducted and dumped in a lake, private investigator Roman Wolfe and his bloodhound partner rescue her from an icy death. Someone doesn’t want Emery to find out what really happened the night her father confessed to attempted murder. To keep Emery and her baby nephew safe, they must uncover the connection between her father’s confession and the attack…or they’ll be silenced for good.

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

Security Hounds Investigations

Book 1: Tracking the Truth

208 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published March 1, 2024

72 people are currently reading
212 people want to read

About the author

Dana Mentink

197 books2,192 followers
USA TODAY bestseller Dana Mentink enjoys writing in many different capacities. She currently writes for Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense and Poisoned Pen Press.

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

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

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
Profile Image for theliterateleprechaun .
2,331 reviews191 followers
June 17, 2025
This book kicks off Dana Mentink’s Security Hounds miniseries. It features a private detective agency that relies on highly trained bloodhounds to help solve their cases. Wally is the star of this story; he’s a two-year-old black and tan bloodhound. You’ll have to read this one to find out Wally’s kryptonite and what rascally things he gets up to!

Tracking the Truth centers around second chances and unconditional love. Both Emery Duncan and Roman Wolfe learn to appreciate the second chances they’ve been given and Mentink uses this opportunity to remind readers about the qualities of God’s love.

The book opens with an adrenaline-fuelled rescue and continues with subplots featuring characters who’ve been disappointed and have lost faith in loved ones. There’s even a murder mystery! I was hooked and this was a binge read for me. I’m frustrated with myself for leaving this sitting so long on my Kindle.

⁉️ "Did you know that bloodhounds have the best scent receptors of any dog breed? They can out sniff even the beagle and the basset hound. Bloodhounds have been known to stick to a trail for more than 130 miles."
Profile Image for Sheila.
2,884 reviews97 followers
April 12, 2024
This was a good read, cant wait to read the rest in the series.
190 reviews8 followers
December 24, 2024
I actually read the second book in the series first, then this one. All just to say that they don't have to be read in order, but you will get to know the characters better if you read it in order. The story is about Roman and Emery but Wally the bloodhound steals the spotlight. Emery's dad is in prison, her sister is in the hospital and she is raising her nephew. She comes back into town and first thing that happens is she finds herself being thrown into the lake. Roman who is trying to train Wally happens to hear the splash and between him and Wally , rescue Emery. Just who is trying to kill Emery and how far are they willing to go to complete the mission? Grab your copy today to find out and to find out what treat that Wally wants after he is done with a training session.
Profile Image for DevotedToHope.
580 reviews91 followers
March 27, 2024
Everyone who loves to read mysteries, prepare to be hounded by Dana Mentink's heart-pounding novel, Tracking the Truth. It’s an emotional odyssey that will leave you breathless and begging for more.

Emery Duncan isn't your average heroine. Ripped from her life in a terrifying abduction, she finds herself grappling with a past shrouded in secrets and a chilling present that threatens her very existence. Yet, even in the face of unimaginable fear, Emery's spirit flickers like a defiant ember. Her unwavering determination to unearth the truth ignites a fire within you, urging you to race alongside her on this perilous quest.

Enter Roman Wolfe, a knight in slightly worn armor. This rugged PI, with a heart as fierce as his loyalty, throws himself into the case, vowing to shield Emery from further harm. His canine companion, Wally, the bloodhound with a heart of gold, becomes their silent but loyal partner.

As the investigation twists and turns, danger lurks around every corner. The stakes climb higher with each chilling revelation, forging an unbreakable bond between Emery, Roman, and Wally. Theirs is a story of unwavering courage, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and a heartwarming ode to the power of friendship found in the most unexpected places.

Get ready to laugh, cry, and hold your breath as Tracking the Truth takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. This is a novel that will stay with you long after you turn the final page, and you'll probably find yourself missing Wally's slobbery kisses and ear-flapping enthusiasm for justice.

I received a digital copy of Tracking the Truth via Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

Profile Image for Madisyn Carlin.
Author 28 books356 followers
March 28, 2024
In Tracking the Truth, Mentink creates a story of nonstop action and danger.

Roman and Emery are both given excellent character arcs, which are both well-written and guaranteed to make the reader sympathetic. The adoption thread is beautiful and touching, and was my favorite part, and cast of secondary characters were well-done as well.

I signed up to read Tracking the Truth because I remembered thoroughly enjoying Mentink's Love Unleashed series, and I wasn't disappointed. Wally, the canine shenanigan-instigator, is a lovable, slobbery mess of adorableness. I also enjoyed the fascinating author's note at the back regarding the facts about bloodhounds.

There is violence typical of suspense, including attempting drowning, gun wounds, stalking, and more. Nothing is gruesome or over-the-top. Infidelity is mentioned.

In short, Tracking the Truth is a romantic suspense sure to delight everyone who enjoys Christian suspense.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in conjunction with Celebrate Lit in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Carrie Schmidt.
Author 1 book485 followers
May 26, 2024
4.5 stars

If there was no other reason to love Tracking the Truth besides Wally the quirky bloodhound, that would be enough. Fortunately, Dana Mentink has this story packed with edge-of-your-seat suspense, witty writing, and sweet romance – as well as setting up this new series so perfectly – so there are plenty of reasons to love the book.

Wally and his longsuffering handler Roman (who really adores him) make a great comedy duo, with Roman playing the straight man, and while Wally definitely has his own way of doing things he gets it right when it counts. For his own part, Roman has a layered backstory peppered with painful abandonment and betrayal but also the kind of fierce love that welcomed him with open arms & made him family by choice. His relationship with Emery is caught up in the middle of this complexity, and I thought the author realistically paced both Roman and Emery’s feelings as they worked through the hurt. Along those same lines, Roman’s faith journey read very authentically without overpowering the story. Emery has her own share of complications, and I really loved her personality, her inner strength (though I sighed at some of her stubbornness – say yes to the hunky guy who wants to help you!! lol) and her loyalty to her family in spite of the pain they’ve caused her.

The suspense is, true to form for this imprint, a whirlwind of danger and suspects and exudes the sense of ‘look-over-your-shoulder-constantly’ while you read. We start off with Emery’s life on the line, and the poor girl doesn’t get to enjoy the reality of her rescue for long! She and Roman and Wally, as well as her nephew and a friend, go through the wringer while trying to figure out who wants her dead, what really happened to her sister, and if her dad might be innocent of murder after all. Every time I found myself in a scene that felt relaxed or peaceful I knew that more tension and danger would show up at any minute, and I loved it! There are some great twists that the author saves for just the right moments, and she gives Wally plenty of time to shine as the unlikely hero.

Bottom Line: Tracking the Truth by Dana Mentink is a high-stakes fight for survival, a witty comedy, a touching story of faith & found family, and a sweet romance all in one. The star of the show (and don’t tell me otherwise) is Wally, the remedial bloodhound with a personality as big as his nose. I always love the way Mentink writes her dog characters, but Wally may have just edged out Sweetness as my fave. Watching Roman and Emery work through their layered backstories, including their shared trauma, made their romance all the sweeter, and the exploration of forgiveness rang true. Fast-paced, action-packed suspense rounds out the mix to keep you on the edge of your seat, and I’m already eager for the next book in the series!

(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I purchased for my own collection.)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Profile Image for Nancy.
2,508 reviews61 followers
April 7, 2024
Could not read every word. I was interested in the bloodhounds training but the story turned “soapy” very quickly and it did not get better as I skimmed the rest of the story :(
I might read another Security Hounds book (Walls was the best part of this one) but I hope for a more engaging story.
New physical book size (bigger but thinner) .. first one this 2024 year, Love Inspired Suspense.
Bought new.
Profile Image for Ethelann.
395 reviews
April 8, 2024
Tracking The Truth is an exciting book of a bloodhound, second chances, and murder.
This book was a real page turner. And the ending, I had the wrong one pegged as the killer.

Can't wait for more like this.
Profile Image for Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read.
1,173 reviews24 followers
April 12, 2024
I love the books that Dana Mentink writes for Love Inspired Suspense. She always has the perfect blend of interesting characters and an intriguing storyline with just the right touch of suspense. She does a great job with the pacing of the plot and allowing her characters to grow in their walk of faith in a way that blends naturally with what’s happening in the story. This is the first book of a new series, “Security Hounds Investigations”, and if this is an example of the rest of the series, it’s going to be a good one.

In this book, the suspense begins immediately and continues all throughout the book. The characters of Emery and Roman have to learn to work together to solve the mystery of who is trying to kill Emery. Roman had deeply hurt Emery in the past, and they both have to learn to trust each other again. The faith thread in the book is about forgiving others, but also forgiving ourselves. But best of all, I absolutely loved Wally the bloodhound. Wally has a personality all his own and I had to laugh at some of his antics. However, Wally could be called on to be a hero when needed, and I loved that part of the story. As you read this book, you’ll enjoy getting to know Wally!

I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

Profile Image for Tressa (Wishful Endings).
1,822 reviews196 followers
April 11, 2024
TRACKING THE TRUTH is about a man who has found family in others but doesn't feel worthy of being love and has a tough time trusting in others, and a woman whose whole world imploded when her dad was accused of attempted murder and her sister was left in a coma leaving her young baby to be cared for. Add that they're both likable characters, put in a dangerous situation, surrounded by found family with a dog full of personality and you have a story that fans of this line of books and of the genre will enjoy.

I've been a fan of this author for some time and so I always give her books a read. This one started off strong, which made me more excited to jump in. I liked both of the characters and jumping immediately into the suspense with a touch of humor from a very stubborn working dog. I also liked that the two love interests have a history so there is a bit of a genuine relationship already present, although it's a strained one. I loved Roman's found family who legally adopted him when he was in his young 20s. That whole aspect was heartwarming. I loved Wally! He's the bloodhound working dog and he was hilarious. The suspense was fairly constant as the villain shows up a few times in this book to try to get to the heroine, so the book definitely keeps you engaged. The inspirational element was present but not too heavy. The romance was very sweet. On a sidenote, I found the title to be a bit genius with its play on words.

I did want more development from this story. As I said, it started strong, but then I felt like it kind of lost its way. Things weren't always realistic, nor did it all logically work for me, including some of the characters' reactions and choices. I had to just go with the flow and ignore some stuff. I also felt like the romance was too fast. I think this one could have ended with just a kiss and more open-ended than it did.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a light inspirational romantic suspense. I overall enjoyed the story and especially loved the dog that kept trying to take center stage.

Content: Some violence and reference to affairs, but clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Lucy.
1,134 reviews107 followers
April 10, 2024
This new series of Security Hounds Investigations starts off with a bang. I love that the author’s humor shines through in the character of a funny bloodhound named Wally. Wally is quirky but comes through when needed and sometimes when not expected. He was the real hero of the story. I enjoyed the determination of Emery to uncover the truth to the secrets and believing in her family when no one else did. I loved how Roman was kind hearted, loyal, and compassionate towards others and how he stuck by Emery after rescuing her multiple times. It was evenly balanced with suspense, romance, and humor and made for an entertaining and interesting story. The story flowed well and kept my attention guessing who was the killer. I look forward to more in this series.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
898 reviews20 followers
March 1, 2024
A great story unlike any I’ve read. This book which is the beginning of a series promises to be great! Looking forward to the other books. Great story for those who like suspense and dogs. I received a copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Janice Sisemore.
1,625 reviews15 followers
February 23, 2024
Tracking the truth

Emery is in danger. Roman is determined to protect her. Love how Emery is taking care of her baby nephew. Enjoyed Roman bloodhound,he added so much to the story. Emery’s father confessed to attempted murder. Emery believes her father is innocent, will she find out who did it? Great suspense and mystery, great family.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. This book review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Gina Holder.
Author 14 books376 followers
March 30, 2024
What a fun read! Small enough to easily be read in one sitting (though I didn't), but deep enough to feel like you enjoyed a well-written, well-rounded story. There were a lot of characters--I had some trouble keeping them all straight, especially if I put the book down for any length of time. I enjoyed the comradery between Roman and his "Wolfe" siblings, and the dogs, especially Wally, just made the story by adding such an interesting element and a few laughs. Emery's love and loyalty to her family, in spite of how they'd wronged her, was admirable. Suspects abound, and no one is to be trusted. I enjoyed trying to unwind the mystery of who was after Emery, and I could understand her angst in trying to keep her nephew safe. I highly recommend this series. Yes, Tracking the Truth is just the beginning. I can't wait to read more about this family and their private investigations, complete with their furry detectives.
Profile Image for Kay Garrett.
576 reviews91 followers
June 23, 2024
TRACKING THE TRUTH by Dana Mentink is the adrenaline pumping, fast-paced story of Emery Duncan, traveling nurse, and Roman Wolfe, former Navy master-at-arms and now private investigator with Security Hounds Investigating in Whisper Valley, California.

The frigid water brought Emery to consciousness to find herself with her head covered and her hand and feet bound. Apparently, someone was trying to kill her and she wasn’t going down without a fight. Trying to escape, she hadn’t been able to get very far tied the way she was while fighting for a breath of air and the frigid conditions when she heard someone approaching. Fearful that it was her attacker coming back to finish the job, she was ready to fight with everything within her. Roman had been on the long drive home when he spotted a man in a boat toss a woman into the frozen lake. He knew immediately he had to try to save her from certain death, but would he be in time. Between him and Wally, his 2-year-old black and tan bloodhound, they had managed to fight off further attacks from the man in the boat, only sustaining a cut to the arm from a knife before the attacker fled. He then was able to swim the woman to shore. Although they had a past that ended on a bad note and a rocky present, both Emery and Roman are determined to keep Emery and her little nephew Ian safe while trying to figure out who is out to kill her and why.

Emery hasn’t been handed a smooth life by no means, but she’s determined to make a good home for Ian and herself. Her father had confessed to attempted murder of his daughter’s future brother-in-law, her sister has been hospitalized unresponsive since the incident, and Emery had custody of her 9-month-old nephew. Now she has no memory of time leading up to finding herself immersed in the frozen lake and worse yet is getting the police department to take the attacks on her life seriously and investigate them. First determined to do it on her own, she soon learns that she “needs” Roman, his family and the skills they have in Security Hounds Investigating.

Roman owes his life to three people - Jax, his uncle who tried to show him love of family; Theo Duncan, who at one time was the man he looked up to – the man who he wanted to be like, taught him to manage his anger and set him towards a military career; and Beth Wolfe, who took a rebellious teen and showed him he was worthy and loved him enough to adopt him. He had felt Uncle Jax turned against him when he married, brought in another family and in his mind turned him out – becoming the Betrayer. When Theo confessed to shooting an unarmed man, it went against everything he had instilled in Roman making him think he had been a fake all along – the Murderous Hypocrite. Beth was the only one that stayed true in his mind. That’s why he had returned home to work in the new company his family started up using the bloodhounds they trained.

Will Emery’s undying love for her father, have Roman having second thoughts? Will her word - “Love doesn’t turn of and off like that. It doesn’t with God and it shouldn’t with us.” give him reason to pause and rethink things? How will they be able to keep Emery safe when they don’t know what or who they are trying to guard her from? Will Emery’s words “You have to look in the mirror and decide you’re worth loving because God said so and He’s the only one that’s going to do it perfectly. No man, or woman, can delivery Roman, Only God.” also having him seeing his part in the void between his uncle and himself? While working to keep Emery safe also have them finding answers about the shooting, Emery’s father’s part in it and the truth of what happened? What will it take before the police force believe their accounts on the attacks on Emery’s life and take their reports seriously? Will feelings develop between Roman and Emery and if so, what will they do with them? Will Willy, Roman’s bloodhound, help find the answers? Will his stubbornness in following directions work for against them or for them?

TRACKING THE TRUTH is a superb, excellently executed, suspenseful story that will have you turning pages unable to put this story down until you know all the answers. Love the way the characters shine in their good points, but also have their flaws making them both believable and loveable. Dana Mentink seamlessly wraps a thread of faith around this story bringing it to life and with words we can all do better to live by. TRACKING THE TRUTH positively deserves FIVE STARS and I highly recommend it to everyone! As the first book of a new series - Security Hounds Investigations, it sure has me excited for the other upcoming books in this series!

I receive a copy of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#TrackingTheTruth #SecurityHoundsInvestigations #DanaMentink #LoveInspiredSuspense #InspirationalRomance
Profile Image for Becky Lewis.
1,032 reviews53 followers
April 4, 2024
“It’s not a question of can he find the trail, it’s a question of does he want to…He tends to decide which scents he’s interested in following.”

“Wally, the disobedient bloodhound…” the blurb read. I double-checked the genre for Tracking the Truth. Romantic Suspense. How is author Dana Mentink going to present a romantic suspense book with a search and rescue dog, Wally, who has a mind of his own? Not only is Wally the main K-9 representative from Security Hounds Investigation in this novel, but he provides much of the humor relief I so appreciate in a romantic suspense book.

The human main characters are Emery Duncan and Roman Wolfe. Having been close years before, Emery’s father’s confession of attempted murder sharply separates them. Roman’s bitterness towards Emery’s father almost keeps Emery from letting the Wolfes’ Security Hounds Investigation team take her case. Roman’s past threatens to capsize his future.

With her sister comatose, and her father in jail for attempted murder, Emery is forced to return to her father’s cabin with her sister‘s baby. Instead of a place to call home, Emery finds someone is out the kill her, and the townspeople hold her father’s crime against her.

As someone else had said, Wally is my fave character. He’s a hoot, but can he get the job done when the chips are down?

I find Emery’s strength of character and determination to keep going amazing. When she thinks she can’t go on, she revisits her father’s words: “If there’s too much, Ree Ree, pick the top three things you have to do for that day. Three is easy, right?” Sometimes, we can find life so overwhelming, we have to focus on just doing the next, most important thing. I love that Emery doesn’t give up on her dad, despite his confession. “This might rock your world but I’d love him just as much if he was guilty…
“Love doesn’t turn on and off like that. It doesn’t with God and it shouldn’t with us.” Wow, words to chew on!!

I tried to solve the case. Let’s just say I would have arrested the wrong person(s). Great job, Ms. Mentink!!

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought my own ecopy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“You have to look in the mirror and decide you’re worth loving because God said so and He’s the only one that’s going to do it perfectly. No man, or woman, can deliver.”

“Patience wins over force.”

“Home is the people who chose you.”
Profile Image for Deana Dick.
3,027 reviews125 followers
March 30, 2024
The start sets the pace for this story. Out of the corner of his eyes Roman sees a woman being tossed over board into the freezing water. His instincts tell him to rescue this woman but he has no idea who she is and what danger is coming. I loved how Roman is such a compassionate person. His willingness to help is a blessing.

Dumped into the freezing lake with hands and feet tied, Emery barely gets her head above water. She fights to stay afloat even though she can’t see or move. I could sense her anxiety and how cold her body must be. When someone grabs her she starts to fight them. She has no idea it is someone there to save her. Roman finally gets her to cooperate and trust him.

When they both realize they know each other, thus begins secrets, twists and suspense that drives the plot to an increase of intense danger. We learn some background on Emery that explains that there is more behind what happened in the past with her sister and father. A murder that now seems suspicious and the person who did it make Roman wonder what he has gotten himself into.

The star of this story for me was Wally. This bloodhound is comical and very determined to listen to commands when he wants. His shenanigans fill the pages with adventure and much needed laughs in this story. I loved how Roman acts frustrated with him, but we all know that Roman loves this dog. Wally has potential if Roman has the patience.

The author has once again delivered a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat and gives you characters that are well developed. I loved how Roman and Emery learn to trust each other as an investigation takes them into uncharted territory. I’m thrilled to know that we have two more books in this series.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. This review is my own opinion.
93 reviews3 followers
March 29, 2024
This first book in a series of 3, 2 more coming this year was a totally awesome fun suspenseful read. Dana Mentink out did herself again. Emery is taking care of her sweet nephew Ian while her sister is in hospital after an attempt to murder her because of her claim Ian was the boy of member of the wealthy Taylor clan. Her dad is in prison for arriving on the scene of this attempt finding his daughter a shot but alive Mason Taylor. Daddy confessed to shooting Mason because he thought his daughter attempted to kill him and he didn't want her to go to prison. His daughter Emery is kidnapped, druged, and dumped in a lake. She was rescued by security specialist out on a "training mission" with his 100+ pound bloodhound Wally who has a mind and nose of his own. I fell in love with Wally when he helped rescue Emery from the water as the killer tried to run all of them over with his boat. What also caused me to laugh is sweet Wally loves LOVES pacifiers. So funny to me. As the plot thickens, yes thickens. What I told you above was in the first few chapters. Will Roman, the security specialist with all his baggage with Emery and her dad be able to figure out who wants Emery dead. Will the murderer win in the end? Will Wally learn to track? Get this book and read it ya'll I couldn't put it down. Dana Mentink painted such great visual pictures in my head of the players and antics of bloodhounds in this book it was like a running movie in my head as I read it. I wrote this review and it is entirely my opinion. I am a member of her launch team and offer this review on my own. Great book. Great author. Looking forward to the next 2 books
Profile Image for Connie Hill.
1,849 reviews45 followers
April 4, 2024
Tracking the Truth is the first book in a new series that is written by Dana Mentink. The series is called Security Hounds Investigations. This book starts the series off with a bang. The author has written several books about dogs - but Wally the stubborn blood hound is my most favorite. I love him and just want to rub his slobbery face.

Emery Duncan has returned home due to a cryptic message from her father. "Come Home" is what the message said. Her father is currently in jail for attempted murder, and Emery thinks that he is innocent. Emery thinks that her father is covering for her sister, Diane. However, while on the way into town someone runs her off the road and duct tapes her wrists and ankles. She awakens when she is about to be dumped into the lake. She has no idea who is trying to throw her overboard.

Roman Wolfe is working with Wally trying to train him. Wally is stubborn and tries to take off on his own missions. Roman hears commotion in the lake and goes to investigate and rescues Emery. While trying to get to safety, the killer doubles back and tries to take them both out.

Emery is trying to figure out who is trying to kill her. She is worried that it's connected to the reason that her father is In jail. She has to trust Roman and the rest of the Security Hounds Investigation team to help her.

In true Mentink fashion, this book starts off with lots of action and suspense. The author throws in twists and turns. I am so excited for this series.

Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Susan Simpson.
Author 21 books95 followers
January 29, 2024
Every time I think I’ve read the best Dana Mentink book ever, she tops it with a new one! Tracking the Truth is a phenomenal book that is nearly impossible to put down. The suspense begins in the first chapter and builds throughout the story.

Emery Duncan doesn’t know why she was abducted and tossed into a lake or why someone would even want to kill her. She has spent the past few months caring for her infant nephew after her sister’s injury in a fall and trying to come to terms with her father’s imprisonment for attempted murder. Could the threats she has begun receiving be related to that fateful night when her life was turned upside down?

Roman Wolfe is training his bloodhound to be a search and rescue dog when he hears strange noises on the lake. He sees someone thrown over the side of a boat and hurries to rescue the person who turns out to be the daughter of the man he believes betrayed his trust. He doesn’t want to care about Emery, but he finds himself drawn to her and is determined to keep her and the baby safe. Can he figure out who wants Emery out of the way and what actually happened that disastrous night six months ago before someone makes good on the escalating threats?

Plot twists and turns will keep you guessing as you rapidly turn the pages. You will identify with the characters, enjoy the descriptions, and fall in love with the dogs (especially Wally!). Dana Mentink is an expert at weaving superb stories blending suspense, romance, and faith. Tracking the Truth is a five-star book you won’t want to miss.
2,003 reviews
April 11, 2024
Roman Wolfe, once military now private investigator with his family firm, has a lot to uncover to get to the truth when Emery Duncan splashes back into his life again. Especially after her father and the man he looked up to the most has been accused and jailed for attempted murder. The situation that he finds Emery in is peculiar. Someone was trying to murder her but why?

Emery can barely remember how she ended up almost being drowned by her abductor. Nor does she understand why. True, her family business has been all over the news. Her father and sister, whom she believes started this mess are both in hospitals. Her father admitted to the charges against him, her sister is in a coma, why is someone after her and trying to kill her? And thank goodnes her baby nephew was not with her.

Emery feeling betrayed by everyone doesn't know who to trust. She doesn't believe her father is guilty, but she is pretty much the only one. Her sister got messed up with a married man, didn't she already pay the price? Why is anyone after Emery? Roman would like to know that too.

This was a twisty suspense full of suspicious characters that did not quite seem who they claimed to be, not should they be trusted. There was a lot of uncovering to get to the truth of who was really guilty.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Profile Image for Glenda Parker.
Author 14 books21 followers
May 23, 2024
My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Tracking the Truth. This is the first book in the Security Hounds Investigations. Dana is one of my favorite authors. I love her work so I was thrilled to get this book in the mail. It's well-written, action-packed, and full of faith. I know you are going to love it.

After a horrible childhood Roman Wolfe was adopted at the age of twenty-two. He now works for the Wolfe family as an investigator in the Security Hounds Investigations Business. His new dog is headstrong and doesn't obey most of his commands only the ones he wants to. Roman is testing him late at night when the dog doesn't follow the command but goes off and pulls a water rescue. When a woman is thrown into the icy water of the lake and Roman is attacked.

Emery Duncan wakes up in a lake. Her hands, feet, and mouth all duck taped. She was also blindfolded. All she could try to do was float but that didn't seem to be working very well. A man grabs her. She fights but he identifies himself as a good guy and pulled the duct tape off her mouth. The man in the boat comes after them. Roman tries to get on the boat but is sliced by a knife. Wally, the hound dog rescues them both.

A terrifying journey to find out why Emery's father and Roman's mentor confessed to trying to kill a unarmed man. God has a plan for these two, a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. A good plan and not for harm. Let go and let God.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,715 reviews45 followers
March 30, 2024
Christian Fiction if one of my favorite genres. Dana Mentink has become one of my favorite Christian Suspense authors. I am very excited that I recently read Tracking the Truth by Dana Mentink. It is Book 1 in the Security Hounds Investigation Series.

I can honestly say that there has not been ONE book by Dana Mentink that I did not like and this one did not disappoint! Roman Wolfe and his bloodhound rescue Emily Duncan from the Water. She was thrown into the water in an attempt to prevent her from revealing the truth about a murder confession her Dad made. Roman and Emery know they are not safe yet and are determined to figure out who doesn't want Emery to find out the truth behind her father's confession. I truly believe Roman is an AMAZING character as he does all he can to protect Emery and her nephew Ian from further harm. I also LOVED Wally, Roman's Bloodhound. Wally is an GREAT dog and his antics in the story had me laughing. Emery and Roman work together to figure out who is behind the attack to Emery and is trying to hurt her. The book has many twists and turns, and the story reads at a GREAT pace. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Suspense, Romance and Faith based books! AMAZING BOOK!
3,812 reviews1,759 followers
April 3, 2024
Spectacularly brilliant!

Say what you will, but you’ll never convince me that Wally, the ‘nose with a dog attached’, isn’t the hero of this romantic suspense. Okay, maybe not in the romance department (though he is a lovable goofball) but definitely in every other way. Even if he has some unusual quirks that Roman can’t fix no matter how hard he tries. Mind you, without them Wally would just be your run-of-the-mill bloodhound. Instead he’s a one-of-a-kind rock star hound! Seriously, getting to meet Wally is worth the read.

And, yes, Roman makes a great straight man for Wally’s comedic schtick, but he’s also the perfect blend of flawed hero and knight in shining armour. And just the guy to help Emery out of a perilous situation that embroils them both in mystery and danger. Loved the way the author blends intrigue and romance while upping the suspense in tantalizing measures until — Whoooshhhh, it’s finally safe to let go of that pent-up breath!

I listened to the audible edition of ‘Tracking the Truth’ and thoroughly enjoyed Abby Craden’s narration. So thrilled that we are seeing more Love Inspired Suspense novels available in this format. I’m preordered all the way up to November and it’s such a bibliophile rush when I get the notification that a book is waiting for me!
Profile Image for Gail Hollingsworth.
983 reviews46 followers
April 6, 2024
Lots of intrigue, lots of mystery and lots of suspense. The story begins with Emery finding herself overboard with her hands and feet bound, her lips taped and a cloth covering over her eyes. She is trapped and sinking fast. Will the boat she was on come back and the culprit finish her off?
Roman is training a bloodhound for search and rescue when he and his dog Wally hear sounds coming from the nearby lake. Roman sees a woman being thrown from a boat. Thus begins so many close calls on Emery’s life. Her father is in prison for a crime he confessed to but one that Emery believes someone else did. Do these connect in some way? Emery is also taking care of her sister Diane’s baby after a fall that puts her in a coma. Just so happens this fall is the same night the crime is committed.
Wally the bloodhound was fun to get to know. He led to some comedy and strange quirks as he lumbered along. Was he going to be good enough to be admitted to the Security Hounds? Wally also had a strange treat he often begs for. Want to know what it is? Sorry…you’ve have to read Tracking the Truth.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.
Profile Image for Erin.
2,058 reviews19 followers
April 9, 2024
Tracking the Truth is a wonderful suspense-filled novel that reads quickly. The characters are amazing and flawed at the same time. I truly enjoyed making their acquaintance and getting to know them. I’d love to see more of this series.

She gets thrown into a lake. They want her dead. But why? What has she done to threaten them?

Emery believes her father is innocent. She always has. As she raises her nephew she determines to prove it as well. But will she get herself killed in the process? Who could the real killer be?

Roman didn’t believe Emery when she said her father was innocent. He’s been let down by too many people and his trust once lost is hard to earn back. But now he and his dog (don’t get me started on that wonderful yet frustrating guy) manage to save Emery from the lake. Can he keep her alive until they sort out who is after her and why?

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.
1,711 reviews31 followers
February 11, 2024
I loved the characters in this book! Roman is prickly but yet caring at the same time! He's been through a lot in his life by not having a real family growing up and never having that consistent love and feeling settled. He's been passed around by people and been disappointed. Finally, the person who was a mentor confesses to attempted murder and he's shocked and questions everything in his life. Although he's settled into a loose-knit family of sorts training bloodhounds & setting up a security service with them, he's still shocked by this confession from someone who meant so much to him earlier in his life. When he's out with his bloodhound (who I adored, by the way!), training and runs across a woman being thrown into the water to drown, he's glad he was in the right place! Thus begins a non-stop action case for the Security Hounds service that he is hoping to set up with the other family in his life. It gets complicated when he knows this woman, Emery, and she happens to be the daughter of his mentor who just confessed to attempted murder! I loved the bloodhounds in this book and the family that Roman lives with! Can't wait for more of this series!
1,052 reviews19 followers
March 20, 2024
Author Dana Mentink starts the Security Hounds Investigations series off with a 5-star worthy book. Tracking the Truth jumps right into the action. The main characters are introduced in the first chapter as they fight for their lives. Both Emery Duncan and Roman Wolfe are likeable yet fallible characters. The hound in this book is Wally, and he's a hoot! I couldn't resist him. I love found families, and Roman found an excellent one with Beth Wolfe and her children. The action and suspense kept me glued to this book far too late into the night. I wasn't sure who the villain was. That mystery increased my interest. I highly recommend Tracking the Truth to readers of clean and of Christian romantic suspense and to readers who enjoy K-9 stories. I definitely want to read the other books in this series, and any more romantic suspense that Ms. Mentink writes. This is a book that I would recommend to family and friends without hesitation.
I received a complimentary copy and am sharing my opinion of this very well-written book.
Profile Image for Joan.
4,277 reviews114 followers
March 27, 2024
This inspirational romantic suspense starts off with a bang and keeps going with the continuous tension of further possible attack. I like the idea of training dogs to track and especially Wally the bloodhound involved in this novel. He has a mind of his own but when someone's life is on the line, he steps up to the canine hero task.

Mentink has done a good job of crafting believable characters with issues and needs. Emery's needs are real and Roman and his family well suited to help her. There are a number of support characters in Roman's family and I am sure we will see each of them them lead in future novels.

The plot develops well as Emery and Roman try to uncover the truth behind an attempted murder. There is a bit of suspense near the end that caps off a good novel. The romance is well done and there is a good faith message too. This is the beginning of a new series by Mentink and I will be watching for the next adventure.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Profile Image for Donna C.
485 reviews11 followers
April 3, 2024
What I think you should know:
Tracking the Truth by Dana Mentink is the first book in the Security Hounds Investigation Series. It is a contemporary Romantic Suspense set in Northern California. This book features K-9 Handler Roman Wolfe and his bloodhound Wally.

What I think about this book:
Roman has been paired with what might be the world’s silliest bloodhound and just as he seems ready to give up on him, Wally steps up and saves the day ! Roman feels betrayed by his mentor, but will not give up when it comes to helping Emery. Emery was determined to prove her father’s innocence, even when the rest of the world had given up on him. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters! This was such a fast paced story. I am so excited for a new Mentink series, she has definitely set readers up for a great adventure with the dogs and handlers of Security Hounds! I can’t wait for the next one!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
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