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Race for the Gold
WHO WANTS TO ICE A WORLD-CLASS SKATER?
Speed skater Laney Thompson still has nightmares about the car crash that almost shattered her lifelong dream. But as she's poised to compete in the world's most important games, she finds worse trouble. Someone wants her out of contention…badly. Laney won't let anything stop her—not sabotage, a stalker or partial amnesia. As she and her brooding trainer Max Blanco strive to overcome past tragedy, the ice between them starts to melt. But as the race draws closer, a killer becomes more desperate, and a race for the gold becomes a race for their lives!
Speed skater Laney Thompson still has nightmares about the car crash that almost shattered her lifelong dream. But as she's poised to compete in the world's most important games, she finds worse trouble. Someone wants her out of contention…badly. Laney won't let anything stop her—not sabotage, a stalker or partial amnesia. As she and her brooding trainer Max Blanco strive to overcome past tragedy, the ice between them starts to melt. But as the race draws closer, a killer becomes more desperate, and a race for the gold becomes a race for their lives!
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
15 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Dana Mentink
209 books2,236 followersUSA 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-...
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 32 reviews
February 23, 2026
This was a great read to coincide with watching the 2026 Olympics!
It features a short-track speed skater and her coach and focuses on (1) how to accept disappointment with grace and (2) a great mystery.
I liked the warning not to become “too interested in winning to notice what [we] are losing,” not to “race through life alone,” and was intrigued with the Achoo Syndrome enough to Google it!
We may never get the chance to ‘go for gold,’ but we all have defining moments. It’s good for us to see the value in ‘one moment’.
It features a short-track speed skater and her coach and focuses on (1) how to accept disappointment with grace and (2) a great mystery.
I liked the warning not to become “too interested in winning to notice what [we] are losing,” not to “race through life alone,” and was intrigued with the Achoo Syndrome enough to Google it!
We may never get the chance to ‘go for gold,’ but we all have defining moments. It’s good for us to see the value in ‘one moment’.
February 14, 2026
*sighs in absolute bliss*
5 stars (maybe even 6?! idk I LITERALLY DEVOURED THIS)
This book…. OH THIS BOOK! It will forever be a myth to me that this is not a NYT bestseller. It has everything readers want in a skating book: sweet, tender romance built on trust and love not on physical attributes, electric action, blissfully sweet moments, and raw emotion all bound together with intrigue and mystery.
With some better editing and revision, as well as a new cover this book would be SOLD OUT.
PLEASE, FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THINGS SKATING, READ THIS!!!
MAX FRIGGIN BLANCO EVERYONE!!! AND LANEY?! Oh my word I was getting major sunshine x grump vibes (and golden retriever girl x black cat boy, except she’s a cat person and he’s a dog person lol)
I loved how thier chemistry wasn’t based on how physically attractive the other was, as most iceskating romances go. Frankly, they hardly even mentioned what the other looked like, except Max’s blue eyes (as well as he was tall) and her blonde bob at the very start of the book. Their chemistry was based on their trust and admiration for the other, and how they relied on the other for support and to feel whole.
This was the perfect iceskating romance -all sweetness without any of the spice. I loved that it not once ever edged on them “wanting more” (i.e taking it to bed, making out, etc) they were just happy to talk and hug and figure things out without getting spicy. They frankly didn’t even kiss all that much (he always gives her forehead kisses tho which was FRIGGIN ADORABLE)
And the God aspect? ✋😭 oh my word Max finding healing and strength again and Laneys way of keeping notes of everyone she wants to pray for was so precious. And the way she was always so happy even in the hardest times was inspiring.
I guessed the antagonist right before it was revealed, but it still was wild. Like eXcUsE mE?!
I relate to Laney on another level with the forgetfulness tho. I have the memory of Dory and am always misplacing things.
PLEASE READ THIS
Content: kissing only, no swearing:)
5 stars (maybe even 6?! idk I LITERALLY DEVOURED THIS)
This book…. OH THIS BOOK! It will forever be a myth to me that this is not a NYT bestseller. It has everything readers want in a skating book: sweet, tender romance built on trust and love not on physical attributes, electric action, blissfully sweet moments, and raw emotion all bound together with intrigue and mystery.
With some better editing and revision, as well as a new cover this book would be SOLD OUT.
PLEASE, FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THINGS SKATING, READ THIS!!!
MAX FRIGGIN BLANCO EVERYONE!!! AND LANEY?! Oh my word I was getting major sunshine x grump vibes (and golden retriever girl x black cat boy, except she’s a cat person and he’s a dog person lol)
I loved how thier chemistry wasn’t based on how physically attractive the other was, as most iceskating romances go. Frankly, they hardly even mentioned what the other looked like, except Max’s blue eyes (as well as he was tall) and her blonde bob at the very start of the book. Their chemistry was based on their trust and admiration for the other, and how they relied on the other for support and to feel whole.
This was the perfect iceskating romance -all sweetness without any of the spice. I loved that it not once ever edged on them “wanting more” (i.e taking it to bed, making out, etc) they were just happy to talk and hug and figure things out without getting spicy. They frankly didn’t even kiss all that much (he always gives her forehead kisses tho which was FRIGGIN ADORABLE)
And the God aspect? ✋😭 oh my word Max finding healing and strength again and Laneys way of keeping notes of everyone she wants to pray for was so precious. And the way she was always so happy even in the hardest times was inspiring.
I guessed the antagonist right before it was revealed, but it still was wild. Like eXcUsE mE?!
I relate to Laney on another level with the forgetfulness tho. I have the memory of Dory and am always misplacing things.
PLEASE READ THIS
Content: kissing only, no swearing:)
March 10, 2017
An unusual and interesting mystery...it was set around ice skating and competition for the US team, and there were so many suspects that it was hard to decide who was up to mischief. Definitely a good tale to kick back and enjoy...
April 14, 2020
Four years ago Laney and Max had just won the World Short-Track Speed Skating Qualifiers. They were on the team to represent the US at the Winter Games. But then they are victims of a hit-and-run. Their dreams are crushed, along with their bodies.
Laney Thompson has managed to fight back and is now again at the venue for the World Short-Track Speed Skating Qualifiers. Her aim: to qualify again for the chance to win gold at the Winter Games.
Max is back again too, but this time as Laney's coach.
Only someone is determined that Laney is not going to qualify.
Who is sabotaging her?
Who is covering up for that person?
Who is the reporter who is hanging around?
Does this have anything to do with the accident four years ago?
As the race draws closer, the stakes are raised, and Laney and Max are in a fight against time for their lives.
A great, fast-paced and faith-filled suspense. I really loved that the story was set during the qualifiers for the Winter Games. A unique setting ~ and a perfect backdrop for a suspense. It was also very nice to read as the Paralympics were on during my reading of this ~ I didn't get the book in time for the Olympics.
I enjoyed Laney's faith and belief in her God and other people. I ached for Max as he battled his own demons of the past along with the battles of the present.
I did wish though that Laney would have had a battle in herself over loving an unbeliever. She knew where Max stood in regards to God, but it didn't seem to be a problem for her. I wanted her to take hold of 2 Cor 6:14 and take it to heart; not to find it easy, but to do it because it's what the Bible requires us to do. (Paragraph added in 2020).
I won this book through the Goodreads FirstReads giveaway. I wasn't required to give a positive review, but to give my view of the story. Thank you Dana Mentink for a great story in an interesting setting, with heartwarming and relatable characters.
Laney Thompson has managed to fight back and is now again at the venue for the World Short-Track Speed Skating Qualifiers. Her aim: to qualify again for the chance to win gold at the Winter Games.
Max is back again too, but this time as Laney's coach.
Only someone is determined that Laney is not going to qualify.
Who is sabotaging her?
Who is covering up for that person?
Who is the reporter who is hanging around?
Does this have anything to do with the accident four years ago?
As the race draws closer, the stakes are raised, and Laney and Max are in a fight against time for their lives.
A great, fast-paced and faith-filled suspense. I really loved that the story was set during the qualifiers for the Winter Games. A unique setting ~ and a perfect backdrop for a suspense. It was also very nice to read as the Paralympics were on during my reading of this ~ I didn't get the book in time for the Olympics.
I enjoyed Laney's faith and belief in her God and other people. I ached for Max as he battled his own demons of the past along with the battles of the present.
I did wish though that Laney would have had a battle in herself over loving an unbeliever. She knew where Max stood in regards to God, but it didn't seem to be a problem for her. I wanted her to take hold of 2 Cor 6:14 and take it to heart; not to find it easy, but to do it because it's what the Bible requires us to do. (Paragraph added in 2020).
I won this book through the Goodreads FirstReads giveaway. I wasn't required to give a positive review, but to give my view of the story. Thank you Dana Mentink for a great story in an interesting setting, with heartwarming and relatable characters.
December 21, 2013
Maybe as much as 4½. None of these "love inspired suspense novels" upon which I am hooked will ever be Chaucer, but, for this genre, this is a Very good one. It began as no other I've ever read (and I've read lots of these), it was a great story, the "inspirational" parts only got a little "preachy" once (the rest of the time it was two persons of faith speaking naturally), and the characters were believable even in the milieu of the book. It was a little too easy to figure out who the "bad guys" were, but, again, I've read a lot of these books.
October 24, 2015
The book starts with an accident and this drew me in right away, I wanted to know what happened. I connected with the main characters and wanted things to work out for them. I enjoyed that it was centred around speed skating, I have always liked watching the Olympics especially the skating, so that made drew me to this book. I am glad I picked it up, it was an enjoyable read.
August 23, 2021
I have trouble giving 5 stars to any cheesy romance novel, but this one was very well done. I loved that this book centered around training for Olympic speed skating. The "bad guys," even though most of them were more misguided than actually bad, were well-foreshadowed. Laney and Max's relationship was both sweet and tense in the right spots. I liked the mystery elements were all about the same accident.
September 14, 2022
This was a good, safe read built around the theme of trying to get a place on the USA Olympic ice skating team. Laney Thompson has a good chance of achieving her dreams until someone tries to prevent them from happening. There are lots of twists and turns in the plot until the villain is finally exposed. I enjoyed this book.
April 17, 2025
This was a bit young for me, and I also wasn’t aware of the religious undertones when I picked it up, but it was an easy read, and an engaging story that made me want to continue the book. A bit predictable at times, but nonetheless kept me on the edge of my seat. Would recommend to teens and young adults who are looking for a quick mystery read!
July 16, 2022
Love this story! No matter what happens to us in this life we can know that God has us right where we are for a reason. The people He has placed around us are just the ones we need to get through the trials and joys of the perfect plan He has for our lives.
May 16, 2024
This was a fun setting - training for getting onto the Olympic speed skating team. This romance had hints of second chance and friends to more. This Christian suspense was wrapped with faith, family, friends, teammates, and dangers. There was a brain injury and recovery within these pages too.
October 11, 2019
Slow in spots, but a great story line. Fantastic plot twist and surprise ending.
December 15, 2021
I liked the skating scenes & theme but the storyline didn't hold my interest.
June 4, 2023
This one reminded me of those 2 skaters a few years ago, Tonya Harding and Nancy Kerrigan. Great story!
July 28, 2024
So good!
February 14, 2025
I loved this one. Great story! I read it all in one sitting.
January 5, 2026
Read for a challenge. Better than I expected. And not as Jesus-y as I'd assumed a Love Inspired book would be.
February 13, 2017
Ever think about trying out for the Olympics and it being dashed out of reach; read Race For The Gold by: Dana Mentink it will show heart brake along with a pain full recovery and getting a second change to try again. Along with that trying to figure out way someone wanted Laney and Max out of the way of going to the Olympics. See how far people will go so someone else can take their place for the Gold.
August 28, 2015
Ouch! Someone is seriously trying to wreck Laney’s chance at the Olympics!
I have to admit, I wanted to smack Max, when he doubted her. I mean, come on! Does he trust her — or not? Well, I guess I got sucked into the story again. But it’s not difficult when I’m reading great books. One minute I’m sitting on my couch reading — the next minute I’m sliding on the ice, trying to lesson the impact when I slam into the wall in the next few seconds!
Nope; I’ve never skated on ice (I’m not even allowed on roller skates anymore, since I took a tumble and started having seizures)… but when I read Race For The Gold, I could feel myself gliding, the cold air rushing past me, as I skated faster and faster.
I would love to share more with you, but if I do, I might give too much away. So read it for yourself — you are really going to love it!
Dana Mentink writes awesome, believable stories with characters you would love to get to know better — at least the good guys. You really shouldn’t want to meet the bad guys, even if you are intrigued by them.
I highly recommend this book… actually, I recommend ALL of Dana’s books!
August 15, 2014
On their way to represent the US in the Winter Games, Laney
Thompson and Max Blanco win the Speed Skating Qualifiers.
But nothing goes as planned for out of nowhere a car speeds
into them leaving them lying injured on the road.
Four years later Laney, still challenged from a brain injury is
back to try to qualify again. Max due to a hip injury that keeps
him from skating has become Laney’s coach. But someone is out
to stop Lacey again!!!.
It is amazing to realize just how much time, effort and
commitment it takes for an athlete to compete to become an
Olympian. This is a great setting for a story with well developed
characters. The story is full of suspense, mystery and provides
us with a good cast of suspects. As Lacey tries to qualify she
needs to overcome her handicaps left from the accident such as
nightmares, memory loss and general unrest. This is where faith
And romance make their way into the story.
For a fast paced adventure with suspense, love and faith, read
Dana Mentink’s Race for Gold.
Thanks to the Goodreads giveaway for this book. My opinion is
own.
Thompson and Max Blanco win the Speed Skating Qualifiers.
But nothing goes as planned for out of nowhere a car speeds
into them leaving them lying injured on the road.
Four years later Laney, still challenged from a brain injury is
back to try to qualify again. Max due to a hip injury that keeps
him from skating has become Laney’s coach. But someone is out
to stop Lacey again!!!.
It is amazing to realize just how much time, effort and
commitment it takes for an athlete to compete to become an
Olympian. This is a great setting for a story with well developed
characters. The story is full of suspense, mystery and provides
us with a good cast of suspects. As Lacey tries to qualify she
needs to overcome her handicaps left from the accident such as
nightmares, memory loss and general unrest. This is where faith
And romance make their way into the story.
For a fast paced adventure with suspense, love and faith, read
Dana Mentink’s Race for Gold.
Thanks to the Goodreads giveaway for this book. My opinion is
own.
June 24, 2014
This was a fun read. Not knowing anything about the grueling preparations for world-class speed skaters, I enjoyed this book because that aspect was totally interesting to me. It was informative and eye-opening, and I enjoyed learning about the total experience of speed racing.
What I loved: The suspense. Several times I sat on the edge of my seat and said, “Noooo. Don’t go in there!” Ms. Mentink did a good job building tension until you were really concerned for the characters’ safety.
What I didn’t like: The antagonist was clearly obvious to me from the beginning. Although the author tried to hide the potential criminal character traits, the actions and attitudes of the antagonist were telling. Also, I felt the motives of the main characters were somewhat weak.
Overall, I give this book four stars and recommend it to anyone loving a good suspense.
What I loved: The suspense. Several times I sat on the edge of my seat and said, “Noooo. Don’t go in there!” Ms. Mentink did a good job building tension until you were really concerned for the characters’ safety.
What I didn’t like: The antagonist was clearly obvious to me from the beginning. Although the author tried to hide the potential criminal character traits, the actions and attitudes of the antagonist were telling. Also, I felt the motives of the main characters were somewhat weak.
Overall, I give this book four stars and recommend it to anyone loving a good suspense.
February 28, 2014
Awesome story of Laney Thompson and Max Blanco as they face the race that will determine if Laney will make the Olympic team or not. Four years before, both had been looking towards making the team when an apparent accident where they were hit by a hit and run driver ruining their changes for speed racing. Laney has recovered and is making the attempt again while Max, who didn't recover enough to skate, acts as her trainer. As things begin to look up, strange things begin happening which make it evident that someone does not want Laney to race.
January 2, 2014
should be a 10 for this one!! Absolutely great!! I love the winter games and the olympics and this is the best book ever on the subject!!! As usual, I missed guessing the bad guys, so you know it was a nail biting suspense when you cant guess from the git-go who did it!!! And the ending was so emotional and inspiring....joyful tears.....Thanks Dana, for another great one...May God continue His blessings on you and thanks so much for sharing your talent!! <3
October 26, 2014
Four years ago, just before the race of their lives, Laney and Max were in a hit and run that tried to end their skating careers. Now Laney has a chance again and Max has stayed by her side as her coach. Then unexplainable things start to happen and the past is brought back to life.
Enjoyable story, with the heartbreaking competition of the Olympic speed skating. Very well told story.
Enjoyable story, with the heartbreaking competition of the Olympic speed skating. Very well told story.
Read
January 12, 2016"As Mentink's characters struggle with failure and trials that test their faith, they remind the reader to make the most of each day (RT Book Reviews)". 4 stars
Read
January 12, 2016received 4 stars @ RT Book Reviews
March 7, 2014
Fantastic!
June 10, 2014
A good story with believable characters and a lot of conflict.
July 29, 2014
Double thumbs up for this one! Most unique story-line in a suspense novel that I've read lately. So many different angles that tied up nicely at the end.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews