Following Wheeler’s previous successes, “Ranch Under Fire” and “Ranch Showdown,” this latest novel continues the series’ tradition of solid thriller storytelling featuring strong, principled characters. Established fans will appreciate the return of previous characters, particularly the steadfast and honorable Walker family, who once again provide sanctuary to an innocent in turmoil.
A Killer She Can’t Remember
Janel Newman’s life is thrown into utter disarray when she wakes up in an Arizona hospital bed with no memory of the last 48 hours. She’s confused and injured, but the doctors think her short-term amnesia should clear up before too long. But the big problem now is: Will she live long enough to piece her missing days back together?In the few hours before Janel awoke, Deputy Sheriff Zach Walker had been on the trail of an unknown suspect who had killed a local landscaper. After tracking the assailant to a remote wooded area, he was shocked to come across Janel, someone from his church community, on the run for her life. Before he could rescue her, she received a nasty concussion, and the killer slipped through his fingers.
Zach immediately suspects she had likely witnessed something crucial to the murder case. She might even be able to identify the murderer himself. Secretly, Zach always had a romantic interest in Janel, but she was in a committed relationship. His strong moral compass meant he would never consider making a move.
Janel’s twin sister, Karla, shows up at the hospital with some upsetting news: The struggling art gallery that Janel owns in Sedona, Arizona, has been broken into, and their mother’s art was stolen along with several other pieces.
Are the events connected? If so, the list of suspects would now include people that Janel thought were trustworthy, like her coworker Charlene and Janel’s ex, Todd—but without more details, they admit they’re completely in the dark.
Soon afterward, another attempt is made on Janel’s life. The three are forced to flee the scene for their lives, narrowly escaping the assassin. When it becomes clear that the threat to Janel’s life isn’t going away anytime soon, Zach offers to protect her at his family’s ranch.
Warm Thrills
When creating a thriller for faith-based audiences, the story must provide the expected action of the genre without tipping over into conventional gaudy violence found in many mainstream books.For some authors, this can be a tall order. But in this case, it’s one Ms. Wheeler succeeds at quite effectively.
The action sequences come in regular waves, avoid the temptation of “bigger is always better.” The perilous events in “Ambush on the Ranch” remain firmly in the realm of plausible, making for a more satisfying read.
The characters are recognizable as people you might actually meet in the run of your day (hopefully not so much for the bad guys). The Walkers, in particular, are a tightly-knit, competent, and charismatic family with whom many readers would enjoy spending time.
Wheeler also allows her character to develop, especially regarding the evolving relationship between Janel and Zach. A bond quickly emerges between them, built on trust, shared danger, and mutual respect. It makes their romance feel natural rather than rushed despite the breakneck speed of events.
A Satisfying Addition a Romance Library
With its gripping suspense, heartfelt relationships, and strong faith-driven themes, “Ambush on the Ranch” will likely appeal to fans of romance thrillers with its uplifting messages. It’s a refreshing alternative to many mainstream thrillers—a fast-paced work that doesn’t resort to coarse language or graphic content. Even though this is the third installment in Wheeler’s “Ranch” series, the novel stands well on its own, providing enough backstory to welcome new readers.
