It's a Heart Race

Smoky Mountain Escape

Written by Rhonda Starnes

Published by Love Inspired Suspense | Harlequin

Release Date: 04.29.25

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

5 Stars!

I thought I was just picking up a quick read. I should’ve known better. And y’all, when I say I couldn’t stop? I mean I was dodging imaginary bullets and praying like I was the one running through the woods.

This book felt like survival. Not just physically—but spiritually, too.

There’s nothing peaceful about two killers in the woods and nowhere safe to run. But that’s what pulled me in. The chaos. The urgency. The quiet moments where the characters leaned hard into their faith instead of fear. That’s what stayed with me.

Heath and Kayla felt like people I’d pray for. People I’d root for. People who reminded me that courage sometimes shows up as steady steps through the dark when you're absolutely terrified.

And the lines I highlighted? “Heath was in awe of God’s beauty. Even with evil lurking in the dark, the Light of the world would always be close.” And “Life is a series of mountains and valleys. When we’re traveling in the valley, we must support each other and rely on God to see us through it. And when we’re on the mountaintop, we must remember to be grateful for all of life’s blessings and appreciate those who helped lift us up when we were down.”

Even when the plan unravels, His purpose doesn’t!

The story moved fast, but the truth in it stuck. If you're looking for a story that keeps you flipping pages and pointing your heart back to the One who never loses track of us, this one belongs on your list.

I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher, Harlequin – Love Inspired Suspense, and Net Galley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.