Trails That Change Everything

Trail of Mountain Secrets

Written by Darlene L. Turner

Narrated by Leonor A. Woodworth

Series: National Park Protectors, Book 2

Published by Love Inspired Suspense Harlequin Audio    HarperCollins

Release Date: 11.25.25

Genre: Christian Mystery & Suspense

4 Stars!

Trails can shift beneath you in unexpected ways. They turn, disappear, return, and lead you straight into places you never planned to go. That is how this story felt to me. The danger rises quickly, the secrets run deep, and Violet Hoyt finds her world widening in a way she never could have prepared for.

Violet begins her search with a calm strength I appreciated right away. She is steady, determined, focused on the work in front of her, and completely unaware of how close danger already is. When the gunman appears, it is sharp and alarming, yet what follows carries even more weight. Violet learns that her life has never been a single story. She has a twin sister she never knew existed. The revelation brings fear, hope, and a new ache she never expected to feel.

Maverick Shaw and his K-9 partner, Wolf, bring a dependable steadiness to every moment they enter. Wolf’s instincts, Maverick’s quiet insight, and the connection these two share with Violet give each scene a fuller, richer feel. Their teamwork feels natural and earned. Nothing forced. Nothing exaggerated. Just a steady presence when the danger around them keeps tightening.

The pacing worked beautifully for me. It moved with intention and never drifted. I could picture the rugged landscape and the cold settling into the air. I could feel the tension of someone dangerous staying just out of sight. Mistaken identity, hidden evidence, long-standing secrets, and the fear of what Violet will uncover next all blended together in a way that stayed engaging from beginning to end.

The faith moments were sincere. A quiet prayer. A breath of dependence. A reminder that the Lord sees what we cannot. Those touches grounded the story for me in a real and steady way. Authentic Christian faith content is what matters most to me.

Leonor A. Woodworth’s narration added warmth, tension, and clarity to the entire experience. She carried the emotional weight of Violet’s journey and handled the suspense with care.

By the end, it felt as if I had walked beside Violet through a season marked by danger on one side and unexpected truth on the other. A winter setting that heightens every feeling. A chase that keeps tightening. A story that grows more personal with each step.

For listeners who enjoy fast-paced suspense, authentic faith elements, loyal K-9 partners, and characters who carry both strength and vulnerability, this story offers a compelling and memorable experience.

I received a digital audio ARC of this book from HarperCollins via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this review are my own. I focused on its faithfulness to Christian themes, the writing style, the pacing, the characterization, and the quality of the narration, ensuring transparency and reliability.