Dead Drift #4 Chesapeake Valor by Dani Pettrey

This last book in the Chesapeake Valor series is the long awaited story of Kate Maxwell and Luke Gallagher. We could feel their love radiating through all three stories even though Luke has been missing in each one of them. Where has he been and what has he been doing all those years?. . .I am not going to say and spoil it. But, oh, what a story he has to tell and the unbelievable dangerous situation he brings right to the door of the Valor-Team (as I call them), setting things into motion that escalate to a race against time. Of the pair, Kate is my favorite character. I love her devotion and dedication to her carrier, yes, but more so for her love for Luke and never giving up on finding him. . .alive.

I like that there is a duel story-line in this one as well. As much as I wanted to read Luke and Kate’s story, I hoped to read about the case Griffin and Finely are pursuing in this story. That case is one that is very special to Griffin and I so wanted him to find a credible lead and thereby a “release/closure” of sorts. I am glad it is included in this book. Not saying more as I don’t want to give anything away. What they uncover certainly was a surprise to them as well as to me.

Dead Drift is a fast-paced, gripping story with mystery and dangerous situations that had me on the edge of my seat at times. A complected plot and story-line with twists and turns, unexpected surprises along the way, unraveling twisting threads of secrets, lies and betrayal while on the brink of a biological disaster. . .whew! In the midst of this there is sweet romance—I love how these men love their women!, forgiveness, second chances and faith. I appreciate the faith elements woven within the story-line and series. I will miss the endearing characters in the Chesapeake Valor series. Well done Dani Pettrey!

~I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author/&/or NetGalley (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255~

The final book in the Chesapeake Valor series wraps up the series with a high action, suspense and romance. Kate and Luke's story is highlighted throughout the book along side Griffin's search for his sister's killer. There are lots of characters plus aliases that I did find hard to keep straight at times. But this conclusion wraps up the series admirably. Highly recommended!

Dead Drift by Dani Pettrey is book 4 in the Chesapeake Valor series. Luke is back after 7 years undercover with the CIA. But can he pick up with Kate where they left off? Or has he hurt her too deeply? And can they work together to prevent an act of terrorism in the process? The entire Chesapeake Valor series is phenomenal and Luke has been missing throughout. Now, he's back and the suspense is greater than ever. Ms. Pettrey is a master at building suspense and continuing to build it throughout the novel. You won't be able to put this book down once you start! I highly recommend it to anyone who loves novels of suspense. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher. These opinions are entirely my own.

This is a fast-paced, gripping, and intense book, the conclusion of the Chesapeake Valor series that follows a group of friends that serve in various fields of criminal justice. I was so excited to read Kate and Luke's story, especially since he's been such a mystery from the beginning. This is a series that I think is best read in order, but honestly you could still read Dead Drift on its own and be fine. I appreciate that the author catches the reader up with the characters and their relationships without info-dumping the plots of the previous books, so even if you read this book first, you can still go back and enjoy the stories of the other friends in the previous three books (which are all excellent!)

I loved learning more about Luke and Kate's relationship from when they were together before his prolonged absence courtesy of the CIA. It showed why they never gave up on each other and made their reunion that much sweeter- after Kate gave him heck to pay, of course ;) The highly dangerous cases they are working on solving and attacks they are trying to prevent bring them closer together, and also heighten the fears they have of losing each other again. They have issues to work out and also get to know each other again as the changes people they have become- although the important things haven't changed. They have amazing chemistry, and I also loved the deeper ways they connect, through their faith and supporting each other.

Besides the terrorist case Luke is leading, Griffin and Finley are following up clues from his sister Jenna's murder, and the two plots woven together create a nice balance and kept the pace cracking along, making the book impossible to put down. With twists and turns along the way and dramatic, nail-biting climaxes, the story wraps up with satisfying conclusions for this group of friends that have become tight-knit and stalwart once again. Highly recommend this book and the entire series!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Luke finally gets his book!!!!! I cannot tell you how wonderful it was to finally get his story. Also, if you've been reading the whole series then you'll be glad to know this book brings excellent closure to the series (even though I'm terribly sad to say goodbye to these characters!).

This book truly has everything! It has great characters, adventure, mystery, crime solving, and my favorite: romance! This group of friends have made for amazing characters and I loved getting to know a little bit more in each book. But I definitely love Luke because I knew the least about him. His character was quite impressive. He's been through a lot and still stayed so grounded. And I loved how dedicated he was to both his mission but also to Kate. I'll admit that if I was Kate I probably wouldn't have come around as quickly as she did to his return but at the same time, I'm glad she did. I really liked how dedicated all of the characters in these books have been spiritual. I love how they pray together and for each other. I love how they rely on God and not just themselves, even though they are quite impressive in their careers.

Ever since the first book I've been anxious to see how things would wrap up. Pettrey has so much skill for drawing her readers in and keeping us engaged over the whole series. This book wrapped up every loose end without feeling like a major catch-all for all the dangling pieces. I really liked how it was basically two stories in one. One story was Luke and Kate and the other was the culmination of the series. Another part I really love about this series is how well all the characters work together. Especially the characters involved romantically. I love my husband dearly but I cannot imagine working so closely with him every day.

I would especially recommend this book to anyone that likes CSI or Cold Case or Criminal Minds. It isn't near as gory as any of those shows but contains elements from all of them. I enjoy watching TV but I'm so thankful for Christian Fiction bringing me the same type of story with a Christian element to it. I got just as much action and suspense but none of the gore or cursing or sex.

It's going to be a while before I stop thinking about Kate and Luke. They are just such a great pair.

I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest review.

"Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened."
Dr. Seuss

I think this quote perfectly sums up my feelings about this series ending. I'm sad to say goodbye, but thrilled that I got to become friends with these characters and live vicariously through them for a little while! Where do I even begin to describe the amazingness that is Dead Drift?! Kate and Luke's story was phenomenal!
As with all of Dani's books I devoured this one in under 24 hours! Dani's books always knock my socks off, but Dead Drift takes the awesomeness to a whole new level. My old friends Griffin & Finley, Parker & Avery, Declan & Tanner, and Luke & Kate grabbed hold of me and yanked me through the screen of my Kindle and into their story, and it didn't take long before I forgot I was reading and instead felt that I was tagging along and living their story right alongside them, that is how fabulous this book is!
Once again Dani's writing thrilled me, chilled me, and inspired me, at the same time it encouraged and challenged my faith, and made a lasting imprint on my heart! I don't really know what else I can say without risking spoilers, so I will finish with this: I absolutely adored every single moment I spent reading this book, everything was tied up perfectly, and even though I hated to see it end, when I turned the final page a sigh of pure contentment escaped my lips which were temporarily frozen in the giddiest grin of all time! Dead Drift is on my list of favorite reads of 2018, and I highly recommend it! Everyone should read the Chesapeake Valor series, each book can stand alone but they are best read in order to get the full amazing experience!
I simply cannot wait for Dani's next book! READ DANI PETTREY'S BOOKS, YOU WON'T BE SORRY! Now, if you'll excuse me! *Goes to reread Submerged yet again*



Thank you to the author and publisher for sending me a copy of this book to help promote it. Which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own (except the quote from Dr. Seuss, of course LOL!)

I have been anticipating this book for so long! It's the final book in the Chesapeake Valor Series! I would recommend reading these books in order. They follow a group of friends and while each book is focused on one main character, each friend has story development in each one. The books are so intertwined that reading them in order is essential. I was so excited to finally get to Kate and Luke and reach some resolution for all these friends.

This book, as with all the other books in this series, is full of fast paced action and suspense. It is balanced so well with character interaction and story development. I love reading these kinds of books and Dani Pettrey is a master at writing them.

I have loved getting to know these characters. They feel real to me which is exactly where I want to be as a reader. I am glad to see the conclusion of this series and some resolution for the characters. They deserve a nice, long rest! ha.

Content: violence, murder (some described in details), Christian fiction (talk of God, praying, forgiving)

- I received a complimentary copy of this book and all opinions expressed are my own.

Action, adventure, suspense, bioterrism, murder, and romance...what’s not to love! In this stunning conclusion of the Chesapeake Valor series there are so many twists and turns, it will keep you up at night. I love the interaction between characters.The team is pulled in multiple directions to stop a terror plot and another murder. Luke and Kate’s chemistry leap off the page. I love Luke and his protectiveness, even as he left all those years ago, his heart has been to protect and serve his country. To protect the woman he loves and his friends, he has to learn to work with them as a team. And, oh how I love this team! There is another murder mystery in the midst that keeps you on the edge of your seat. My heart almost stopped at the intensity of searching out a serial killer, too. This is the long awaited conclusion to a story we all wanted. It has an amazing ending and friends you wish you could bring to life. I received an ARC copy for my honest opinion...and honestly, I loved it. It was hard to put down!
Here’s the book order, so you don’t miss a thing!

Book One: COLD SHOT
Book Two: STILL LIFE
Book Three: BLIND SPOT
Book Four: DEAD DRIFT

From the first book in Dani Pettrey’s Chesapeake Valor series, there have been two unanswered questions: Is Luke alive? And what happened to Griffin’s sister?

While that first question was answered in book three (Blind Spot), readers get to delve further into where Luke has been in the series finale.

The entire gang is back, and in Pettrey’s signature style of keeping readers involved in two investigations, Dead Drift is as intense and swift moving as always. As Luke rejoins his friends after years of functioning as a lone wolf, he must learn to lean on them as they hunt for a terrorist on US soil. All that while keeping the woman he’s never stopped loving safe.

I’ve said this before, but it’s worth saying again if you’ve not yet enjoyed a Pettrey book. Each one is much like watching one of the first season episodes of 24 where pieces of the big picture puzzle are dropped into place. With twists, turns and surprises along the way and high-stakes for the entire country, give yourself plenty of time to read this in one sitting.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

DEAD DRIFT is the fourth and final novel in DANI PETTREY's Chesapeake Valor series. Having read the first three novels, I have been looking forward to seeing how the author was going to finish everything off, and I am definitely not disappointed! The book can be read as a stand alone, but I really recommend that you read the novels in sequence.
I have read and enjoyed all of Dani PETTREY's books, but I think Dead Drift has become my new favourite. I like the way she balances an exciting story and quite a lot of romance with good Christian content. In fact we see how the characters have grown in their commitment to the Lord over the years.
It is interesting to see how Kate will react to Luke after he has been gone for over seven years, and we also wonder if Griffin will ever be able to solve his sister's murder. Add to this the very real threat of a terrorist attack in America, and the search for the elusive Ebeid, and you have a really riveting story!
I can highly recommend Dead Drift for anyone enjoying romantic suspense novels.
I was given a free copy of the book by Bethany House Publishers from NetGalley. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

Dead Drift is the thrilling conclusion to master suspense writer Dani Pettrey's Chesapeake Valor series. This is a real page-turner with assassins, anthrax and all manner of suspenseful action. Although this is Katie and Luke's story, everyone else from the series makes an appearance. I love the camaraderie between the characters and Ms. Pettrey as always creates memorable dialogue. I love the suspense and faith in God that intertwine throughout the story. Ms. Pettery did an awesome job of tying all of the loose threads together for a truly satisfying conclusion. But make sure you read books 1, 2 and 3 first. So grab a steamy mug of black tea and curl up for a good read.

I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley.com with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

Suspense filled thrilling conclusion!

This is the fourth and final book in the series, and I would highly recommend reading them in order as the overall story continues. With this series each book became my new favorite, and this final story certainly did not disappoint. Dani Pettrey continues to blow me away with her amazing talent! I very much appreciate her use of prayer by her characters in these stories. While this is very much Luke and Kate's story, we also get to see the entire team working together again. The secondary storyline also follows Griffin and his search for answers to bring justice to his sister's killer.

Luke Gallagher left over seven years ago to track down a terrorist. When that mission brings him back home, he must face those he left behind. Kate Maxwell never stopped searching for Luke when he disappeared, but she never believed he would walk away by his own choice. When he returns and she learns the truth, she doesn't know if she can ever trust him again. Luke is determined to stop the terrorist before their next attack. But, that choice may cost him everything... including the only woman he has ever loved.

*I received an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

Dead Drift is the suspense-filled and satisfying conclusion to Pettrey's Chesapeake Valor Series. If you've been keeping up with the series, then I'm sure you are anxious to read about Luke and Katie's reunion. Will Luke be able to fan the flames of their college love back to life? Have the embers gone cold? Furthermore, will he finally catch Ebeid--the mission that drew him away from Katie some eight years ago?

In true Pettrey style, no story is over just because it was highlighted in a book earlier in the series. I've relished reading how Griffin and Finley, Declan and Tanner, and Parker and Avery's relationships have matured through each book. I also loved the bombshell Pettrey drops in book four; because it drew an interesting connection between Tanner and Luke.

If you haven't started this series, you could pick it up here, but I highly encourage you to go back to the beginning! Otherwise, you'll miss out on the rich family-like feel and camaraderie the author develops among the characters. Not to mention, you'd be cheating yourself out of the epic build-up to this memorable finale.

Fun Fact: I received an early reader copy of this book on April 2nd through NetGalley which has given me enough time to read this book twice. Yes, it's that good!
4.5 Stars

Christian Shelf-Esteem received a book to facilitate this review. The views and opinions expressed are 100% honest and my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC's 16 CFR, Part 255 Guidelines, concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising.

Luke Gallagher is back after suddenly disappearing 8 years ago, he didn't tell his friends, or even the girl he was dating. He was recruited in college for the Black Ops, and didn't think that his assignment would take him away for so long. But when his assignment bring him home, he has to face Kate and stop a biological terrorist before it's too late.



Kate has never stopped looking for Luke, and she has since started a CCI. The whole crew works together to help Luke stop the terrorist before it's too late.



This final book in the Chesapeake Valor Series, ties everything together with the four friends and their partners fighting against time to shut down a terrorist.



Luke has done a lot of living and has his regrets. He is highly skilled, and is happy to be joining forces with his friends, in hope of finally bringing this chase to an end. Luke is dedicated to his job, and he has sacrificed a lot for his country.



Kate became friends with Luke's friend when he disappeared, and became part of their team. She's understandably upset when Luke returns, but still loves him despite everything.



This book also follows Griffin and Finley who are working to solve his sister's murder, they finally have a new perspective and a lead that might finally lay this case to rest.



Overall, fast paced, explosive conclusion to this fantastic series. I loved how it tied everything together, and we finally get to see Luke come home. I love the interaction and relationship between all of the characters. This is a fast paced read that was difficult to put down. I was thrilled to get the chance to review this book. I highly recommend the whole series!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Dead Drift by Dani Pettrey is the fourth and final book in the Chespeake Valor series. Pettrey ties up the loose ends of the search for a terrorist, what happened to Luke Gallagher,and the serial killer behind the murder of Griffin's sister.. Readers should start with first book and buy the subsequent books as each book leads into the next. The series was excellent. I am re-reading book 1 and starting the series over as Pettrey has written a series that allows you gain new insights during subsequent readings. Dont just buy this book, but buy all of them!

Luke Gallagher vanished without a trace seven years ago. Now he has reappeared, wreaking havoc on Kate Maxwell’s carefully reconstructed life. She never stopped loving or searching for him, but she also never imagined he chose to walk away at his own volition.

For years, Luke has been part of an elite team hunting a terrorist. The search has brought him back to his own backyard and the group of friends he abandoned, including the woman he loved. Though used to working alone, Luke must join forces with Kate and the guys to thwart a deadly biological attack. As Luke and Kate work to unravel the case, they fall into the terrorist’s sights, suddenly at risk of losing more than just their hearts.

The explosive conclusion to Dani Pettrey’s Chesapeake Valor series has arrived. I have been chomping at the bit for Luke’s story ever since book one landed, and let me say, he does not disappoint. Dead Drift delivers everything readers have come to expect from a Pettrey novel, high-octane suspense, adrenaline-pumping action, and of course, a bit of romance to sweeten the deal.

I probably wouldn’t have dealt with Luke’s return as gracefully as Kate did, but he is a persuasive fellow, and I enjoyed watching the couple’s story develop.

Our beloved team pursues two mysteries — the terrorist plot and the killer of Griffin’s (book one’s hero) sister. I enjoyed both, but finally uncovering what happened to Jenna was definitely the highlight. The deceased young woman we never met in life, seemed to become more real and watching justice prevail was reason to rejoice.

Fans of Chesapeake Valor won’t want to miss Dead Drift. Those who are new to the series will probably want to start at the beginning since a lot of details carry over and enhance the understanding of the story.

We meet both Kate and Luke in the previous books in this series, and I have been waiting to finally get into their story and have my questions answered. Why has Luke been gone for so many years? Now that he is back, will things pick up with Kate, or has there been too much hurt there? I have also been waiting for the conclusion to Jenna’s story. This fourth book in the Chesapeake Valor series answers all of the questions I have been asking throughout this series and does not disappoint! This book is fast paced and once I picked this book up, I could not put it down, reading it all at once in one day. This was a satisfying conclusion to a favorite series for me. This is a series that is best read in order.

Dead Drift is Dani Pettrey at her best. In the fourth and final book in the Chesapeake Valor series, readers are finally given the answers to the top two questions raised throughout the series: Who killed Jenna and What happened to Luke? Along the way, the story unfolds in Dani's signature nail-biting, have you on the edge of your seat writing style, and I found myself glued to the story right from the first page.

One of my favorite parts of reading one of Dani Pettrey's novels is the way that the cast of characters from the previous books play a prominent role in each continuing additon to the series. In Dead Drift, all of the characters from the previous novels come together to try and help Luke stop the terrorist threat he's been chasing for the past seven years-since he walked out of all of their lives. Luke's stayed away until now, believing he was only putting a target on the back of those he loved otherwise, especially Katie. However, when events take a turn that he never saw coming, he finds himself entwined with his old college buddies, and Katie, the woman he never fell out of love with. It'll take everyone working together to put a stop to one of the worst pending terrorist attacks the United States has ever seen, and failure is definitely not an option.

This was definitely the most action packed of all the books in the Chesapeake Valor series, and it was honestly hard to even put down. Twists and turns were around each and every corner, and the side mystery of Griffin and Finley investigating Jenna's murder was just as compelling and intriguing as the main mystery was. Throughout this series, the characters have started to feel like family, and I'm really happy with the way Dani Pettrey chose to wrap everything up, and how the readers were given one last glimpse into each and every one of the main characters, not just Luke and Katie.


Dead Drift gets the highest recommendation from me. It was action packed and fast moving from page one, it was spine chillingly terrifying, and most of all, it emphasized the true importance of a close personal relationship with our Heavenly Father. Dani Pettrey's novels are addicting, refreshing, and hard to put down, and Dead Drift may just be her best yet. As a bonus, I was pleasantly surprised with this series to see a character (Finley), that had Raynaud's syndrome, as usually when I tell people I have this, they never know what I'm talking about, and I really enjoyed that addition.


All in all, Dani Pettrey once again proved why she's a top voice in Christian Suspense, and this novel gets a perfect five star rating from me. I definitely recommend picking this one up when it releases on July 3rd, as it was the conclusion I've been waiting for since I picked up the first book!

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐


I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher (Bethany House) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This is a “no spoiler” review. I’m not going to write anything about the plot because I don’t want to lessen the suspense in this book in any way,

My first thought when I finished this “every-page-has-a-heart-stopping moment” book was that I could finally breathe normally again. My second thought was to wonder when Dani Pettrey would have another new book published. If you’ve followed this series, you’ll agree that this is the perfect ending to all the storylines through the books, However, you can read this book without having read the others and it will still keep you on the edge of your seat. I loved the fact that it was completely clean Christian fiction with no bad language or embarrassing scenes.

Forget watching your favorite TV drama. The suspense, intrigue, romance and faith in this book will far surpass any TV show. This book gets five stars from me.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Dead Drift is the thrilling fourth (and sadly last) book in the Chesapeake Valor series by Dani Pettrey. Dead Drift concludes the series in stunning style, with touching romance, non-stop action and life and death tension that will keep you guessing and hanging on the edge of your seat.

Kate has always believed -hoped- that the love of her life, Luke Gallagher was alive and out there somewhere. Meanwhile, Luke has spent the last seven years with one mission - bring a major criminal and terrorist to justice and finally return home to Kate. Now, Kate knows Luke is alive, but his being back in her life and the lives of their friends threatens them all. Luke and Kate must team up as the terrorist threat to US soil increases and overlaps with FBI Agent Declan Grey’s case. As danger looms ever closer, Luke, Kate and the whole gang will have to push harder than ever before to find answers and justice.

The Chesapeake Valor series has so far brought this loveable group of friends through heartache, murder cases, near-death experiences and ever closer to the answers they seek about what happened to their friends, Luke and Jenna, so many years ago. The threads of mystery that have woven throughout the entire series all start to weave together in this final book. The action starts from the first page and literally doesn’t stop. While most of the gang work with Luke to prevent a bioterrist attack and bring to justice the man Luke has been chasing these past seven years, Finley and Griffin work to solve the cold case of Jenna, Griffin’s sister, who was murdered eight years ago. While the terrorist case brings non-stop action and big dramatic scenes, I enjoyed the detective legwork that Griffin and Finley engage in to bring a serial killer to justice.

The story jumps perspective between a number of the main characters, predominately Luke, Kate and Griffin, which enables the readers to stay fully immersed in the enfolding action. Of course, Dani Pettrey leaves one perspective just when major intel is about to be revealed or a character’s life hangs in the balance, only increasing the already high suspense and making Dead Drift impossible to put down.

I have really loved the Chesapeake Valor series and Dead Drift is the perfect conclusion. It celebrates the friendship this talented group share, and their dedication to finding justice. I enjoyed Kate and Luke’s story of reunion and the opportunity they have to rekindle their romance. There are a lot of pent up emotions surrounding anger, passion, grief and betrayal they must work through while juggling the enfolding case and constant attempts on their lives. There is no doubting their connection, and the sweet moments of competition and trust they share are very enjoyable. I also loved the celebration in Dead Drift of each of the other romantic relationships that have been forged throughout the series. I loved Griffin and Finley’s support for one another as they face the difficult task of finding Jenna’s killer, and their enjoyment of married life, and treasured the moments of new-found closeness between Tanner and Declan. Avery and Parker take more of a backseat, but their relationship and the conclusion of Parker’s history with Jenna are also wonderful parts of this story.

If you have not yet read the Chesapeake Valor series, I highly recommend it. I can’t wait to devour Dani Pettrey’s next series which is sure to be just as brilliantly written, engaging and loveable as this one has been.

The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.