Ambush in the Mountains

by Mary Alford

Innocent lives at stake…

Can a former soldier and canine save them?

Helping a pregnant woman he comes across in a mountain storm puts Axel Sterling right into the path of ruthless human traffickers. Now it’s up to the ex-soldier and his dog to keep Summer and her unborn baby safe from the abductors she’s finally escaped. But between the icy wilderness and the armed gunmen following them at every turn, one wrong move could cost Axel and Summer their lives.

Genres: Suspense, Fiction, Romance, Christian Fiction, Love Inspired Suspense

214 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 23, 2024

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author, Mary Alford, loves giving her readers the un-expected, whether it be in a rugged mountain setting or a peaceful Amish community.
Her titles have appeared on the USA Today Bestselling List, Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling List, and have been finalists in the Daphne Du Maurier award of excellence, The Beverly, The Maggie, and The Selah Awards.
Mary is very active online and would love to connect with readers on Face-book and Twitter or any social platforms listed at www.maryalford.net.

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 2 out of 5]

I did not care for this book at all, to much action and violence.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are a fan of almost non-stop action, Ambush in the Mountains is a great choice for you! The heroine in the story, Summer, was formerly an Amish woman who ended up kidnapped and trapped in a trafficking ring. Even though she was Amish and there are a couple of Amish side characters who make an appearance, this is not an Amish focused fiction title. This romantic suspense story follows the harrowing escape of Summer and the subsequent journey across the mountains in a blizzard that she makes with Axel.

There are tough subjects in this story and the author handles them very well. Summer obviously carries a lot of trauma after years of abuse, while also trying desperately to survive and give the baby she is expecting a chance at life.

Axel has his own trauma and had pretty much shut himself off from most of the outside world. But stepping out and helping Summer brought him back to life. His military dog was a nice addition to the story and helpful at some key moments, as well. I enjoyed this harrowing story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Jacquelyn 💐 {This Rapunzel Reads} [Jesus Christ, my Living Hope] · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick, action packed romance and suspense filled book. A good read overall.

[Judy Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very intense edge of the seat thriller. It had me turning the pages so fast.

I love that the book started out with a fast pace and didn't let up until the end.

I loved it so much! I was so pleased to be able to read this great book.

Thank you

[Phyllis Whitaker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Normally I like Mary Alford’s books. This one I had to force myself to finish. It reads more like an action movie film script. How many encounters with the bad guys can a person have and keep escaping?

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

With themes of helping a stranger in trouble and a second chance at love and life, this book dealt with the dark topic of human trafficking in a compassionate and informative way, Summer is running from her captors, specifically a man named Ray, when she stumbles onto the road where Axel Sterling is returning home from a shopping trip. Axel sees her need and meets them the best that he can, with a fast-paced and intense journey over and around the mountains during a blizzard in order to avoid her tormentors. The plot is a compelling one, with action that never slows down and an intricate plot of evil versus good where evil seems to be stronger. But nothing can beat Axel’s determination to keep Summer safe, even at the cost of his own life, if necessary. I enjoyed the complex and well-developed characters, including the Summer’s backstory and how she got caught up by the traffickers to begin with. I was also captivated by Axel’s heroic dog Camo who consistently throws himself into danger to protect those around him. This is an intricately woven tale, told in a mesmerizing way and with characters that I just wanted to reach out and hug. Unputdownable, skillfully plotted and with characters that are easy to cheer for, this book was edgy and crackled with tension. Giving insight into the dark work of human trafficking was a bonus that made the story relevant and eye-opening as well as a definite page turner. With a strong message of hope, this is a must read book for those who enjoy quick reads that are as intriguing as they are intense.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

[Ethelann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ambush In the Mountains is another thrilling suspense by Mary Alford.
Summer is a woman on the run from men who want to kill her because she did escape from their human trafficking ring. Axel is an ex soldier looking to see where he belongs now that he's out of the military. When he runs into Summer running for her life, what can he do but protect her.

This story has exciting twists and obstacles that make it a real page turner. I don't want to give anything away, but you really need to read this book.

[Sarita · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a novel where the action never ended. But for some reason I just couldn’t connect fully with the story.

It might have been that too much has been going on and some small things didn’t make 100% sense to me logistically. There was just small little things I missed which I would have wanted to connect better with the story.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

[Hallie (Hallie Reads)]

ambush in the mountains is for the readers who love action-packed suspense!

years ago, summer left her amish life behind for a man full of false promises. now, she's finally escaped from her traffickers because she has her unborn baby to protect—but they refuse to let her go without a fight.

while chased across mountainous terrain and through a treacherous snowstorm, summer runs into axel sterling and his dog, camo. with their military training and knowledge of the area, they just might be able to keep her safe...

of course, danger lurks after every choice axel and summer make. between the weather and the traffickers' tireless pursuit, their odds of survival seem insurmountable, at times, and they must keep moving to have a chance. in theory, this constant motion should make ambush in the mountains exciting to read—but halfway through the book, i was just exhausted. there's never a point to breathe and enjoy the characters because the bad guys are always about two minutes behind them (implausibly though, because they really don't have the right equipment to give chase in the mountains in a snowstorm). i usually love an action-packed story, but it didn't work for me this time.

camo, though, was the highlight of the book. he provides a comforting presence throughout the chaos and uncertainty, but also proves capable of fierce protection when necessary. i loved seeing how he fit into all the choices and circumstances, never forgotten or left behind.

all in all, ambush in the mountains is full of action, adventure, and suspense. while it wasn't the perfect book for me, the right reader could still enjoy this quick read, i'm sure.

(i received a complimentary copy from the publisher. i was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions i have expressed are my own.)


considerations:
—language: none
—spice: none
—faith: praying, references to God and amish lifestyle
—content: gun violence, mentions of human trafficking, torture, murder, and death

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ambush in the Mountains is the second book that I’ve read by Mary Alford that deals with human trafficking. It’s such an important topic, and Alford has given us a look at one woman’s story. She treats it with sensitivity yet shows how serious trafficking is in the United States.

When former Amish woman Elizabeth “Summer” was 18 and on her rumspringa, she met a charming, wealthy man who convinced her that he loved her. She went willingly with him to what she thought was going to be a wonderful, new life; instead, she was led to a nightmare. Summer was beaten down and scared enough to stay, but then she got pregnant and was told her baby would be sold. This led her to take drastic measures and escape. This is when she meets ex-soldier, Axel Stirling and his dog, Camo. He rescues her from her pursuers but only temporarily. That’s when they go on the run.

I easily read this in a couple of hours because I didn’t want to stop reading. I always love a good blizzard in the mountains setting. It makes the escape even more difficult and intense! The fact that there’s a woman in her eighth month of pregnancy along really made it exciting. Traffickers don’t want their victims to escape. In this case, Summer knew a lot of things that could take down the organization, so the traffickers pulled out all of the stops to get to her. Summer and Axel were in constant danger, and I had to know how they would avoid capture!

I definitely recommend Ambush in the Mountains to romantic suspense lovers. Axel and Summer develop feelings for each other, but obviously Summer had lots of issues to work through. I don’t know how anyone could lead a normal life after being rescued from trafficking, but there are wonderful organizations out there to help the victims. Alford shows just how easily a young woman can fall victim to a trafficker. It’s important to tell our children as much as they are mature enough to handle regarding this issue to help keep them safe.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story that captivates your attention.


This one is about a young amish girl who is led away from her home. Sometimes talking to strangers can be deadly. Not knowing what's going to happen. Or Where that road is going to lead you.


Axel,
The good guy just happen to be driving by.
Not knowing what was going to happen that Snowy afternoon. Getting involved in something. Sometimes things happen in life.You aren't ready for or even aware. you help people because you're in the right place at the right time.

An ambush on the mountain, absolutely a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat, This story was absolutely thrilling.A great read.

A story about human trafficking. How a young girl gets involved and finds her way out.
And so much more.

This author writes absolutely wonderful stories.Happy endings, and I absolutely love them.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 4 out of 5]

A super exciting read! This story had me on the edge of my seat for most of it and it was one I could not put down. Enjoyed the story.

[Virginia Winfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this fantastic story filled with action, romance and lots of suspense. I loved that Axel and Camo help Summer after she escapes from human traffickers. I enjoyed as Axel and Summer begin to heal from the scars they have built up over the years. I could not put this book down. I received a copy of the book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[Heather Pickett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Buckle up, because the pedal hits the metal from start to finish in Ambush in the Mountains! Axel Sterling lives a solitary life (well, with his former military dog, Camo) in the Montana mountains, and that’s just the way he likes it. So who would be out in the middle of nowhere - on foot - in a snowstorm? Pregnant Summer has finally escaped from her captors. She’ll do anything to keep her unborn child safe, including fleeing in freezing weather. When Axel stops to help her, little did he know what he and Camo would be thrust into. With armed gunmen seemingly behind every boulder, tree, and curve in the mountain roads, former soldier Axel is determined to protect this stranger with terror in her eyes.
Author Mary Alford tackles the dark and terrifying subject of human trafficking, while deftly showing the rays of hope that can cut through the darkness. Summer and Axel both have thick, deep emotional scars that won’t heal overnight, but the Lord shows them each a hope for the future where those scars could shrink and fade with His love and help.
I couldn’t put this book down, plus it has my favorite, an epilogue! I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though this book included the hard subject of human trafficking, the author handled it well. My heart went out to Summer and all she went through. I admired her bravery and strength despite her turmoil. I pray that God will heal the hearts of those who have suffered from trafficking in the real world.

The story is filled with despair, humiliation, and danger, but also has times of compassion and even joy. With Axel's help and others, plus God's intervention, the ending wrapped everything up nicely. The story was so engaging that I read it in one sitting. The twists kept me turning the pages, along with the non-stop action from beginning to end. I highly recommended it.

I received a complimentary copy from the author, and a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[DeeAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense!

Axel Sterling and his dog Camo did not know what they were in for when they stopped to help Summer!

Summer AKA Elizabeth Wyse is an Amish girl that was conned by Ray to leave her family. Little did Summer know Ray wanted her for his human trafficking ring.

After many years, Summer finally escapes! She is pregnant and will do anything to save her baby.
Axel just so happens to see Summer on the road during a snowstorm and he stopped to help her. he figures out quickly that she is in trouble. The military man in him knows he needs to help her.

This is an amazing story that will keep you on the edge of your seat! There were times I just held my breath.

This is a book on human trafficking, but Mary did a great job. She stuck to the issues without a lot of description on abuse.

I loved it and I highly recommend it !
Thank you, Mary for this ARC and this in return is my honest review.

[Kay Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

AMBUSH IN THE MOUNTAINS by Mary Alford is the wonderfully written, edge of your seat suspenseful story of Elizabeth “Summer” Wyse and Axel Sterling as they meet under extenuating circumstances, flee danger and learn that they can trust one another while each learns they are worthy of a second chance.

Elizabeth Wyse was born and raised Amish. At 18 and during the last of her rumspringa, she let an Englisch man persuade her to leave her home, her family and everything she’d ever known to be with him in what she thought would be her happily ever after. With threats to her family and physical abuse, she immediately learned that her dreamboat was to be her living nightmare for 8 long years. Forced into the tragic life of human trafficking, Summer, as she became known as, saw and did things she would have never dreamed of. When she aged out as being too old and not what the clientele were looking for, she was allowed to “help” with the new girls and became Ray’s personal woman. When she became pregnant, Ray was furious. However, he soon decided a baby could bring him big bucks. Although Summer had been and was still petrified at what Ray would do to her – worse than in the past when she was severely beaten or to the many girls that went “missing”, she also knew she had to do anything and everything to get away, to save herself and her baby. She’d grown to love this child before it was born. Her baby deserved more out of life than to be sold like some kind of merchandise and she wasn’t going to give her baby up to anyone. She also knew she had to try to bring Ray down in order to bring justice to the girls of the past, save those of the present and to prevent any girls in the future falling victim to this monster. She’d save incriminating evidence from his computer onto a thumb drive. Fearful of him finding she had it, she hid it in with the walls of the house they were living in. It was during a moment of bravery and 8 months pregnant that her chance to escape came. After running through the woods in the Tobacco Root Mountains during a heavy snowstorm to get away, she was found missing and the hunt to find her started. She was chased right into the path of a vehicle. She hoped the driver wasn’t one of the one’s trying to capture her, but someone that would be willing to help her.

Axel Sterling had been trained as a sniper in the military and he was good at it. However, after losing the love of his life, the one that kept him balanced, his life because extremely out of kilter and had him leaving the service. Thanks to a military buddy, he found his new home in an isolated parcel of land on top of a mountain. Along with Camo, a Belgian Malinois and his faithful companion, they were happy off to themselves. It was on a trip for supplies before the big storm hit that he barely missed hitting a woman in the middle of the road. When he stopped to check on her and to find out why she was out walking in this storm with no clothing to protect her from the weather (no coat and wearing flip flops), they were fired upon and survival mode kicked in, which meant getting this terrified, very pregnant woman, himself and Camo to some place safe and to protect those in his charge. Through spells of his own with PTSD, he instantly recognized that this woman had seen and experienced more than she should have ever had to endure. His feeling and need to protect her soon has him knowing that he will do anything and everything within his power to protect both her and her baby.

After Ray instilled a fear of men, can Summer learn to trust men again? Can she learning to trust Axel, knowing that her life depends on his ability to shelter her from harm, be a new beginning for Summer? Will the skills Axel has learned through out his life, be enough to keep them ahead of those chasing them? How many times can they outsmart their captures or will their luck run out? Will Axel’s sniper skills once again be called upon? Can Summer and Axel find solace in knowing that each of them understands the other’s past and present situation? Is it possible for that connection to grow into friendship – and maybe more? Learning what all Summer’s been through, can Axel keep all the pent-up anger at bay in order to stay clear headed and do what needs to be done? Will Summer ever be able to put her past behind her and become Elizabeth again? Will she ever see her parents and brothers again? Can she become the mother to this precious baby that she wants and needs to be?

AMBUSH IN THE MOUNTAINS is the exceptionally written story that will have you quickly turning pages and unable to put this suspense filled book down. As you fall in love with both Summer and Axel, their story will bring to life a story of second chances, forgiveness, self-healing, compassion, unbridled trust, friendship, love and redemption. Mary Alford wraps it all in a wonderful thread of faith. AMBUSH IN THE MOUNTAINS is most definitely FIVE STAR reading at its best. I highly recommend it to those that love Christian fiction, love the Love Inspired Suspense stories, a great suspense story that will have you on the edge of your seat, or just an all-round fabulous read.

I receive an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#AmbushInTheMountains #MaryAlford #LoveInspiredSuspense #ChristianFiction #readmaryalfordbooks #romanticsuspense

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Summer …wished she could erase the things that were forever imprinted in her heart, keeping her from experiencing anything close to a human emotion again. But she couldn’t. She was damaged beyond repair. “

Mary Alford. To me, a name synonymous with fast-moving, heart-thumping romantic suspense, generally involving Amish and Englischers. Ambush in the Mountains lives up to Alford’s reputation, but in this novel, Alford is also tackling a very tough social injustice: human trafficking. I loved that there is a trigger warning at the beginning.

I could not imagine! I have lived through a few blizzards in my lifetime, but never have I been in Summer’s position! Running out into a superstorm, 8 months pregnant, knowing that getting caught means certain death. I could imagine every bump and jar as Summer and Axel traversed the blizzard-swept countryside, though! How can Summer and Axel keep looking for alternate ways of escape as each one gets thwarted? How do they have the energy, courage, stamina, and ability to think clearly in those situations? And, because of a very real fear, they have no one else to turn to. “Was Summer right about not trusting the cops? If that was true, who could they go to for help... No one. They were on their own.”

Axel is the perfect foil for Summer. As a former soldier, he, too, knows what it means to be hunted, where one slip-up could cost him his life. Now he is responsible for at least three. Yet, he is so kind and thoughtful, never putting himself first.

Don’t forget the former K-9 soldier! While the Malinois seems very dangerous and dedicated to keeping his master safe at all cost, Camo trusts Summer immediately. God gives animals a sixth sense and it is great to see how this bears out in Alford’s book. I am pretty sure I love Camo just as much as Summer and Axel.

I loved that Axel realizes that one of Summer’s deep needs is to be seen as not only worth, but free from fault in the horrible events that had happened to her. I also loved that Summer isn’t willing to stay a victim. “I hate that word.” She scraped her hair back from her face. “Even though I am a victim, I don’t want to feel like one.” She touched her belly. “This little one needs me not to be a victim.” Such courage! And Alford shows many times where Summer and Axel’s courage comes from. There are many desperate prayers to a God they know and love.

Get your copy of Ambush in the Mountains today! Maybe you’ll be as shocked as I was by one of the twists!

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

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been craving a good suspense and Ambush in the Mountains fit the bill perfectly. The edge-of-your-seat nonstop action is positively nail-biting as we follow Summer run from a horribly bad man with the help of Axel and his canine companion Camo doing everything they can to protect her from the threat.

Let me tell you, this is how a clean suspense is done! Wow! Every time I picked it up, I was right back in the action and felt like I read this novel in mere minutes with how absorbing it is. The characters are as real as the threats that constantly follow them, and seeing the satisfying completion go full circle was truly heartwarming.

Due to the heavy subject matter this novel was a tougher read as there were moments that were a tad triggering for me. I have never been a victim of trafficking, but I am a victim of abuse and that feeling of hopelessness in a dire situation took me back. In saying that, Summer was able to escape with help from the Lord and others, and so was I.

While this whole novel is a living nightmare there is also a fight to hold onto hope that is undeniable. Camo was one of my favorite parts of this story, his calming canine presence was felt and added a silent sense of strength that was a great counterbalance to the chaos. He also was right there to fight for his owner, and I loved to see it. The ending was sweet and satisfying, and I would expect nothing less from a Love Inspired novel. I closed the book with nothing but admiration for Summer’s incredible bravery and a prayer that we can one day find an end to human trafficking as a whole and that those affected will find the same peace and freedom.

Though this is a tougher subject matter it is well worth the read. The characters are incredible, the action is nonstop, and you will leave the story with a sense of grace and hope.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer is pregnant and escaping from human trafficking when she runs into Axel an ex-soldier and his dog Camo. Summer not only is escaping the criminals, but has taken evidence that puts her life and anyone involved at risk. Axel may not know a lot about Summer, but he can see that she is hurting, pregnant and someone is trying to kill her. He puts his life at risk as he fights to keep her and her baby alive despite the nonstop threats on their life. Summer has only ever known distrust when it comes to men, her first love proved to have targeted her for human trafficking and now she is under the watchful eye of another man. She struggles given her past to trust Axel, but as time goes on and she sees the risks he is willing to take for her... she can not help but see he is nothing like the bad men she had encountered. As they get closer to each other, the ever-increasing danger gets closer to them. Can they get Summer to safety, is there a future for her and Axel, what's to come of the Human trafficking ring?!

Mary has written a story PACKED with suspense! It is majority suspense which will have you at the edge of your seat the entire time. But then every once in a while there is a lingering gaze, holding of a hand, a kind word, and you are pulled into the growing affection that's happening between Axel and Summer. Such a wonderfully written story, and for all the suspense lovers, this one WILL keep you engaged!

*** I have recieved this book at no cost, but the review is all my own opinion.

[Glenda Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Ambush in the Mountains. This is an incredible book. It's well-written, action-packed, and full of faith. I know you are going to love it. I love Amish stories and they are so much better when there is suspense in them. Human trafficking is very close to my heart.

Summer woke up in the snow. She was so cold. She thought of happy memories back on the farm, then she remembered why she was out her in the snow. She had run from Ray, a human trafficker. She was to old now and had been forced to keep the other girls in line. She was now eight months pregnant and must save her baby. Someone was following her. She ran. A car was coming Could they be help. She ran into the road but her strength gave out and she fell.

Axel Sterling stomped on the brakes. He had a hard time stopping. The girl was pregnant, wearing jeans, a sweatshirt, and flip-flops, no coat. When he tried to give her his coat she backed up in terror. Men were coming with flashlights. He had to get her out of here. Almost to the car he heard a sound he never wanted to hear again. Someone was shooting at them. Could he get her safety?

A terrifying journey through this the icy wilderness trying to stay a step ahead of these human traffickers. God has a plan for these two broken souls, a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a good plan for peace and not for harm. Give Him your heart and watch Him move in your life even in our messed up world.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

She often writes Amish suspense novels, but this newest book by Mary Alford isn't the usual Amish story! Yes, there are Amish characters, but the primary focus is on an Englisch human trafficking ring in Montana. Alford shares a gritty, eye-opening story that shows how easy it is to be drawn into this world of evil and how difficult it is to escape. Elizabeth Wyse was an innocent eighteen-year-old Amish girl until she placed her trust in the wrong person, and her life was turned into an unending cycle of pain and abuse.

Ambush in the Mountains tackles an important subject and Alford poignantly conveys the many emotions involved! I felt the fear, guilt, and helplessness of the young woman now known as Summer, and I was both horrified and disgusted by the abuse experienced by her and other victims of this crime. This is an exciting story that's filled with unending danger, heart-pounding suspense, and intense emotions, and it's one that I won't soon forget.

Memorable characters, a suspense-filled plot, and a powerful message of hope and faith make this one of Alford's best books yet. I recommend it to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense!

I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is about human trafficking (nothing graphic ) and how a young lady is kidnapped and made to work (sex slave) for a very abusive (it was implied) individual. Once Summer ages out but she isn’t disposed of like many before her, but is kept to help with the chores of the new comers (young girls that are being brought in to work) and to remind the young girls of the rules and the punishment. Summer gets pregnant and the leader wants to sell her baby in the black market. She knows she needs to get out of this place in order to save herself and her unborn child. Escaping at night, they quickly realize she’s gone and are out looking for her. While running on a cold, snowy winter night…she runs into Axel who lives on the mountain. Axel and Camo, his dog (both retired from the military) almost hit her with their truck as she stumbles out of the woods and into the roadway. With the bad men behind her…bullets start to whizz by. Axel doesn’t ask questions and gets Summer into his truck. It’s non-stop action! I can see the scenes playing out before me. I really did enjoy this action packed book. So good!!!!

[Lela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Axel Sterling is an ex-soldier minding his own business with his dog, Camo on their way home before the storm hits their mountain when he comes across a pregnant woman, Summer. He can't figure out what she's doing out in a storm dressed the way she is. But he didn't have much time to think and ask her story before they were attacked. He sees the panic in Summer's eyes and the fear of the bad guys getting ahold of her again, Axel then knows he must protect her and her baby. He slips back into soldier mode to keep her, the unborn baby, himself and Camo safe and alive as they battle not only the abductors but the mountain storm that's moved in fast. These evil men will stop at nothing including hurting innocent people to kill Summer and keep her quiet from the information she learned while in captivity. Summer, Axel and Camo are continually on the run and are being chased by the bad men. Will they survive long enough to get help and stop these bad men? Full of twists and turns. Great read Mary!

[Trudy Cordle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Axel almost hits a pregnant Summer as she's standing in the road. Taking a good look at her face, he can tell she's terrified. As he tries to get her away from the ones following her, he learns that she's been held for eight years by human traffickers. Now, it's up to him and his retired K-9, Camo, to try to keep Summer and her unborn child alive to start a new life. Axel is also learning to trust God, and as he does, he keeps praying for God's guidance. Summer relies on her Amish background to get her through her ongoing ordeal. Summer helps Axel to see he needs to stop wallowing in his grief and move on with his life. Axel helps Summer to see that men like Ray are in the minority, and helps her to see what true love really is. Both realize they're better off with God in their lives, and that He's with them through everything, and can bring good out of any situation.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy the LOVE Inspired Suspense books. I have become a fan of Mary Alford and I really enjoy her writing. Ambush in the Mountains is her most recent book that I had the oppurtunity to read.


WOW, this book really captured my attention in the very first chapter. The main characters are Summer and Axel. Summer, who grew up Amish, but left at age 18, has escaped from Human Trafficking Captors is pregnant, and is on the run. Axel was driving by and notices Summer. He decides to help her and they are both now in danger. I LOVE how Axel and Summer also begin to get attracted to one another, even in the midst of all that is happening. Axel is determined to protect Summer and her unborn baby. The twists and turns in the storyline really kept me intirigued enough to not put it down until I finished the book! The Author does a GREAT job at writing about the sensitive topics in a gentle way! The book is one of Faith, Love, Danger and Courage. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Suspense! FANTASTIC BOOK!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH MY GOSH! The very first sentence of Ambush in the Mountains by Mary Alford had me hooked line and sinker. What can be more exciting than a pregnant woman running for her life in the midst of an all white-out blizzard in the mountains? I am a sucker for snowstorms, so this was right up my ally. There was so much action. Behind every single corner, there were pursuers determined to catch this pregnant woman. Luckily for Summer, she ran right in front of a former soldier and his former k-9 dog. Thankfully, Axel Sterling was determined to keep her alive until she could get help. If you are looking for heart pounding action that won't let you catch your breath then stop right there and buy this one. It's a heart stopping exciting christian romantic suspense that you won't want to miss. It also has an epilogue which made me so happy. I always love the epilogues. I was given a copy of this book, but all opinions are my very own.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terrible things can happen and they did to Summer when she believed what a evil man had to say. This fast paced suspenseful book follows her as she runs as fast as she could away from human traffickers. Summer finally found the courage to run but it took faith to put her trust in Axel and his dog who only wanted to help.

The descriptions made me feel as though I was there with Summer and Axel as they tried to get to safety in blizzard conditions. I could feel the cold of the blinding snow as they almost went off a cliff and I felt how scared they were as they seen lights from the enemy approaching. The danger was always around the corner as they tried to get to safety.

The suspense kept me turning the pages and I never wanted to put the book down even for a minute. What a great book!

[Tara Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh wow!! Ms. Alford grabbed my attention from the very beginning of the story till the end!! This book brings the story of human trafficing to light. It's very sad, but things like this really happen. Summer was naive and believed Ray loved her, which wasn't true. She runs away from her family and is thrown into a web of darkness. Being forced to stay. After managing to escape, Summer and ex soldier Axel Sterling are in a fight for their life's as they try to escape the clutches of the enemy. I absolutely loved this exciting, intriguing roller coaster of a ride in suspense!! I felt like I was a part of the story feeling Summers pain and betrayal. I couldn't put this story down!! I was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summer and Axel meet because Summer was being shot at. Axel saved her even though he did not know her. He has been a soldier. Camo was Axel's dog who served with him. Summer is pregnant. Abram and Lainey help them out while running from danger. Abram and Lainey were Amish. Axel's friend, Braydon, was not home when they went there to escape danger. The he shows up shot in stomach. He is a deputy. Baby girl, Abby , enters picture near the end. This book will open your eyes to how many people harmed due to human traffickers. God's protection of all is very evident. All of it happens on a mountain during bad snow storm. Summer eventually gets to feel her family's love again. Be prepared to read in one setting if you can because hard laying it down. Love wins in the end