Book Review of 'Blue Ridge Mountain Escape' by Loretta Eidson

Happy Tuesday Bookworms!!

Summer is in full force here in Texas and thus ushers my least favorite season. When I was a kid summer was my favorite, but as an adult I enjoy the cooler weather so much more, so fall can't get here quick enough!

Speaking of heat, today's novel highlights something that many parts of the country has already started battling: wildfires. So, go grab something cool and yummy to drink and enjoy my take on this latest Love Inspired read.

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Blue Ridge Mountain Escape by Loretta Eidson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Blue Ridge Mountain Escape
Series: Mountain Rescue
Author: Loretta Eidson
Publisher: Love Inspired / Inspirational Mountain Rescue Collection
Release Date: June 27, 2023
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

The firefighter rescued her once…

But can they outrun the dangers?

A peaceful vacation is what Haley Gordon needs to put her troubles behind her. Instead, she finds herself fighting for her life against a raging forest fire. Forest Service firefighter Kendall Simpson vows to protect Haley—although he has questions about her story. But with the firestorm out of control and news of escaped convicts on the mountain, can Haley and Kendall trust each other enough to survive?

My Review

Blue Ridge Mountain Escape is a heart pounding, edge of your seat read that starts out with suspense and doesn’t let up until the final page.

Poor Haley Gordon is at the wrong place at the wrong time when she decides to go alone on a camping trip, despite her having reservations of being in the wilderness alone. Haley is a woman with a strong faith, and she knows she’s never really truly alone, but she ends up with a vacation unlike anything she could’ve imagined, complete with escaped convicts, a fearless fireman, and a relentless wildfire.

As with most suspense novels, there is an almost constant ebb and flow of tension coming from several factors throughout the novel, which balances perfectly with the picturesque scenery and the characters internal thoughts. The details about the area that they’re in, as well as wildlife that they encounter are very educational, but my favorite part was learning about the firestorms, and just exactly what first responders have to contend with in these types of situations, thanks to fireman Kendal’s vast wisdom. I cannot even begin to imagine the bravery that each and every individual must possess to risk their lives on a daily basis as they fight these blazes, and I will never not be thankful for their sacrifices.

Though the novel is teeming with suspense I struggled to connect with the characters, especially Haley. I felt like there could’ve been more depth and development to the characters, and the whole romantic arc with Haley and Kendal was just too perfect, especially the ending. I was really craving a little more grit, but then again this is a Harlequin novel, so it comes as no surprise that everything magically falls into place, and everyone lives happily ever after.

Despite a few misgivings I overall enjoyed Blue Ridge Mountain Escape. The faith aspect was vocalized as well as acted upon, and was a major part of this narrative, which is always inspiring, and it was a quick read with a good flow, and lots of action and suspense. One of my favorite parts of the story was a redemption arc from one of the supporting characters. Seeing someone change for the better is always great, and always puts a smile on my face. A great summer read!

My Rating: ★★★★

Also Available

About the Author

Loretta Eidson is an award-winning author who loves writing romantic suspense. Tamela Hancock Murray of The Steve Laube Agency is her agent. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Faith Hope, & Love Christian Writers, Sisters in Crime, Heart of Christian Writers Network, Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, and attends the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference.

She loves chocolate, caramel, and coffee. Loretta lives in North Mississippi close to her family.

Connect with Loretta by visiting lorettaeidson.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $50 Amazon Gift Card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 20, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 27, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!