Wild Within by Christine Hartmann

Book Description:
A year after a family tragedy, Grace Mori embarks on the journey of a lifetime… 
Two thousand, six hundred miles of blistering heat, wilderness, and soul searching—that’s what Grace signed up for when she decided to hike the Pacific Crest Trail. It’s not a voyage for beginners, but with no husband and her family still recovering from her brother’s death, Grace is more alone than ever. 
This trail meant something to her brother, and she’ll hike it in his memory, but she can’t do it alone. So with her brother’s gear and a small group, Grace takes the most important first steps of her life. 
Grace finds something more than peace and magic on the trail… 
When her first day of hiking ends in heat stroke, Grace is rescued by a handsome, red-haired hiker who calls himself Lone Star. Grace has an immediate connection with him, and their brief encounter leaves her fearing her soul mate has slipped through her fingers. Although he vows to keep in touch, Grace doubts she’ll ever see him again. 
When fears become reality, the only people Grace can rely on may be killers... 
Grace is surprised to find notes left at supply posts along the trail. Lone Star’s eloquent letters keep Grace going, clinging to the hope she’ll find him—and happiness—at the end of her journey. But as the trail becomes more perilous, menace grows within the group. And when Lone Star’s letters mysteriously stop coming, Grace fears the worst. 
As tensions flare and a killer emerges, Grace must battle to survive…and reunite with the man she’s sure is her future.

My Thoughts:
Good book!  Grace is on a journey of healing and self-discovery.  Not to mention a dangerous trail that isn't for the faint of heart.  That being said, she does have an issue and meets a man she immediately connects with.  He doesn't stick around but promises to be in touch.  As she hikes, a bigger threat than she ever anticipated appears and she must do what she has to so she can survive.
I wasn't certain about this book.  I loved the cover and the description was good, but I just wasn't sure how the author was going to weave it all together.  I must say I completely enjoyed it!  Grace is a great character.  I loved the reason she did this hike and the scenery was gorgeous (seriously, you can 'see' it as you read!).  I enjoyed the back stories of the characters, but was left wanting more in Lone Star.  I did like the mix of mystery, romance, suspense and outdoors.  Learned a bit about hiking as well!
This was a 4/5 for me.  I am glad it is the first in a new series!
Thank you to PUYB for the review copy of this book.  I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.