Picture a California storyteller who weaves faith, suspense, and heart-pounding adventure into every page—meet Dana Mentink! A USA TODAY bestselling author, Mentink has captivated readers with her Christian suspense novels, blending pulse-racing mysteries with soul-stirring themes. From her sunny home in the Golden State, she crafts stories that keep you up past bedtime, clutching your e-reader, wondering what twist awaits.
With over fifty novels to her name, Mentink’s journey from theater enthusiast to award-winning author is as inspiring as her books. Her knack for storytelling, paired with a deep-rooted faith, has made her a beloved figure in the Christian fiction world, earning her accolades and a loyal readership eager for her next release.
The Making of Dana Mentink
Dana Mentink grew up in California, a land of golden weather and divine cheese, as she fondly describes. Before becoming a prolific writer, she dabbled in theater, even meeting her husband during a production of The Velveteen Rabbit, where they played—fittingly—husband and wife. Her early career included teaching elementary school and reviewing cookbooks for a local newspaper, but her passion for storytelling soon took center stage. Inspired by her faith and a love for quirky characters, Mentink began writing mysteries that reflected her values and knack for suspense.
Dana Mentink’s Unforgettable Stories
Mentink’s novels are a thrilling blend of cozy mysteries and romantic suspense, often infused with Christian values like hope and redemption. Her work for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense and Poisoned Pen Press has earned her a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award, two ACFW Carol Awards, and a Holt Medallion. Her stories feature relatable characters, witty humor, and settings that come alive, from the scorching Death Valley to the icy trails of Yosemite.
Key works include Trouble Up Finny’s Nose (2008), a quirky cozy mystery about a widow unraveling her husband’s murder in a small town, and Betrayal in the Badlands (2010), a suspenseful tale of danger and faith that won a Reviewer’s Choice Award. Trapped in Yosemite (2024) showcases her knack for high-stakes adventure, with an earthquake-stricken park and a K-9 handler racing against time. Death Valley Double Cross (2022) dives into family secrets and revenge, proving Mentink’s skill at weaving emotional depth with gripping plots.
Her writing style is fast-paced yet heartfelt, balancing edge-of-your-seat tension with moments of humor and spirituality. Whether it’s a plucky heroine or a loyal dog sidekick, Mentink’s characters leap off the page, inviting readers into worlds where faith triumphs over fear.
Why Dana Mentink Matters
Dana Mentink’s impact on Christian suspense is undeniable. Her stories resonate with readers seeking clean, faith-driven narratives that don’t skimp on thrills. By blending mystery with messages of hope, she’s carved a niche in a genre often dominated by darker tones. Her awards and bestseller status reflect her ability to connect with audiences, while her active engagement on social media and her website fosters a warm community of fans.
Beyond her books, Mentink’s journey inspires aspiring writers. Her persistence through rejection and her humility in the face of success—once noting that every author knows the sting of a “no”—offer a roadmap for resilience. For readers and writers alike, Mentink’s work is a reminder that stories can entertain, uplift, and strengthen faith.
- Key Works: Trouble Up Finny’s Nose, Betrayal in the Badlands, Trapped in Yosemite, Death Valley Double Cross
- Awards: Two ACFW Carol Awards, Holt Medallion, Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award
- Genres: Christian suspense, cozy mystery, romantic suspense
Ready for a thrilling read that warms the heart? Snag Trapped in Yosemite and dive into Dana Mentink’s world of suspense and faith!