Prey

A Novel

By: Linda Howard

Narrated by: Abby Craden

Length: 11 hrs and 27 mins

Publisher's summary

In this captivating novel of romantic suspense, New York Times bestselling author Linda Howard brings us deep into the wild, where a smart and sexy outdoor guide and her ruggedly handsome competitor must join forces to survive—and avoid becoming what they never expected to be: PREY.

Thirty-two-year-old Angie Powell has always spoken her mind, but in the presence of Dare Callahan she nurses a simmering rage. After all, why give Dare the satisfaction of knowing he can push her buttons and push her to the edge?

Three years ago, Dare returned home to rural western Montana and opened a hunting business to rival Angie’s. Complicating matters is the fact that Dare has asked Angie out (not once but twice) and has given her a gift of butterflies in the process. Angie has no patience for butterflies. They only lead to foolish decisions. And now the infuriatingly handsome Iraq war vet has siphoned away Angie’s livelihood, forcing her to close up shop. Before Angie is to leave town, she organizes one last trip into the wilderness with a client and his guest, who wants to bag a black bear. But the adrenaline-fueled adventure turns deadly when Angie witnesses a cold-blooded murder and finds herself on the wrong side of a loaded gun. Before the killer can tie up this attractive loose end, a bear comes crashing through the woods—changing the dark game completely.

Luckily, Dare is camping nearby and hears the shots. Forced together for their very survival, Angie and Dare must confront hard feelings, a blinding storm, and a growing attraction—while being stalked by a desperate killer and a ferocious five-hundred-pound beast. And neither will stop until they reach their prey.

©2011 Linda Howard (P)2011 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

“Gripping . . . When it comes to romantic suspense, Prey is about as good as it gets.” (The Romance Reader)

“For those readers who love adventure, and surprising twists and turns.” (Fresh Fiction)

Very good

It started out a little slow in the beginning but picked up pace. I enjoy the character development

Loved it!

The story was very good. Plenty of action to balance the romance. The narrator was above average.

This is one of my all time favorite books.

Prey is one of my most favorite Proximity-Danger, Frenemies Contemporary Suspense Romance novel. I have read this novel many times since it was 1st published but this was my 1st time w audio. I am so glad I purchased the audio and know I will listen again to it in the future more than once. I love everything about this title - low angst, antagonists who get their just desserts, MCs I can identify with and care about, a slow burn relationship, a setting in a remote harsh world and a much deserved HEA. Love love ❤️

Intense

Wow this book keep's ones heart in their throat. I for one will always remember how very dangerous all bears are.

I really liked the multiple POV

I really liked the multiple POV. Even the bear had a POV! Edge of your seat suspense with great dialogue and relatable characters.

Stubborn - Angry

Are people this angry and stubborn? I enjoyed the book, but could have used a bit less confrontation between the Dare and Angie. The weaving of the tale with the bear killings and her clients was pretty good.

Terrific suspense book with a side of romance

Where does Prey rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Above the top!

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

Absolutely, the heroine went through serious obstacles any other romance heroine would never be allowed to face. She didn't have a knight in shining armor. She saved herself. Then the knight showed up to help finish her saving. They were real people.

What does Abby Craden bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

The gruff voice of Dare and the sarcastic nature of Angie.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

When Dare tells Angie he loves her.

Any additional comments?

I loved this book mostly because it gives you a good solid story that's believable, and real. Gives you a sweet romance with just a touch of good sex thrown in. No over the top, describe every sexual detail down to the guys freckle between his but cheeks! It was refreshing to read a book that leaned much more on its story instead of how raunchy the author could make the sex scenes.

So Disappointed!

This is the second "so close to great" book from Linda Howard lately. Frustrating when you only get one book from her a year (or more) and then it doesn't live up to expectation.

This book was a bit tough for me and at the end...I was simply disappointed. I was highly anticipating this story...one because of course it's LH; two - book selection for me has been dwindling in the midst of vampires and werewolves, and three - the story line had me expecting this great dash through the woods.

While I like the characters of the book and the plot had promise it was a bit of a lull and then sudden event...and back to a lull. I mean c'mon. All of the action took place in a span of 2 hrs...once in the middle of the book...and at the end. That's all I get...really?? I wish there had been more interaction with the "man killer", that was a major miss for me.

Overall, this book is still enjoyable; but if you are expecting a mad dash (not to ICE's crazy standard) more like Up Close and Dangerous...you won't get. Are there still things about the book to make it worth the listen? Yes...

The suddenness of the events is more like Open Season without the funny. Great book by the way...an unabridged version would be welcome. (Hint, hint)

In the interest of fairness, several of LH's books has the sudden wrap up of the "suspense" factor - and she makes it work. The last two books for me though - have just left me with the impression that there was more that could have been pulled out of the characters/plot...and though enjoyable...not what I was expecting.

Love it!

Enjoyed this book from start to finish. My friend and I listened on a road trip and it had us both anticipating Dare to the rescue!

Bear Hunt hides a murder~ 4 STARS

PLOT: a killer schemes to hide his deed but a bear hunts him.

Angie Powell is about to loose her guide business. And Dare Callihan is to blame. is that any reason to turn him down for a date? LOL Angie is nearly broke so she books one last bear hunt. Nerdy Chad and his boss from hell a world class complainer makes Angie grit her teeth but she sets up camp only to discover the bear hunt is a cover for a murder. Now Angie is on the run and Dare finds her. The two struggle through a storm but find shelter and the real "heat" between Dare and Angie is lights UP. As they stuggle to walk down the mountain the BEAR is hot on everyones trail. I liked this one but it not Howards Best. Try Mr. Perfect or Open Season. I always love Howards details and character development. I give this one 4 stars all the way. and a pretty good new reader.