I have always enjoyed Dani Pettrey's books. She is a gifted writer in Christian suspense. But this book was not a favorite of mine. I can't quite put my finger on it because I liked and connected with the characters and the story. I did have a little trouble remembering all the characters. There did seem to be a lot of dialog and the going back and forth between the two stories was confusing at times.
I will try her again.
I received a Kindle copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I’ve been a long time fan of Dani’s, thoroughly enjoying her Alaskan Courage series from years ago. Now, she’s back with another highly anticipated novel that delivers exactly what readers want… Mystery, murder, suspense, romance, and a team of friends who are fiercely equipped and devoted to protecting those they love. Also, can we just take a moment to swoon over the gorgeous cover?

Without giving too much of the story away, I’ll say that I loved Finn and Gabby, and their unique dynamic together. It was interesting learning about these two characters who had a history together and watching them reconnect on a new level.

Pettrey keeps readers on the edge of their seats from the dramatic opening chapters to the nail biting ending with exciting events taking place throughout The Killing Tide. She kept me guessing until close to the end when process of elimination really helped me determine the villain and even then, I was still surprised with how the story played out.

One of my favorite parts of Pettrey’s series is how the books interlock, following the lives of friends, who in this case also happen to be teammates on the CGIS team. Readers will meet the entire team in this novel and as they dive into Finn and Gabby’s story, they’ll get a peek into the lives of the characters from the next novel she has planned. I always enjoy the strong friendship and fierce determination Pettrey’s characters have. Their faith, their loyalty, and their morals are always honorable. I also really enjoyed the coastal setting, for obvious reasons!

The only tiny drawback for me was the part of The Killing Tide that Pettrey penned from the villian’s point of view. I found myself rushing through those parts, not really caring what the villain was up to or thinking because I was enjoying Finn, Gabby and CGIS team more! I preferred to be surprised with the next turn of events just as the character’s were, always wanting to side with them and cheer on their defeat of whatever bad circumstances came their way.

I highly recommend The Killing Tide to those who enjoy romantic suspense, mysteries and even popular, fictional investigative television shows.

Coast Guard officer Finn Walker finds one fellow officer is dead and another missing. He wants to find justice for them, but the clues are leading to a direction that will affect a number of people. Can he find the killer before he strikes again?

Investigative reporter Gabby Rowley is on her way home from a press awards dinner when someone starts shooting at her. Is the drug lord she wrote about in her expose behind the attempt on her life?

Pettrey creates an ensemble of characters whom readers enjoy getting to know – they are realistic, strong but flawed, facing challenges in their life that help the reader to connect with them. The story is filled with end-of-your-seat suspense.

The Killing Tide drew me in with the beautiful and intriguing cover. It is my first taste of Christian suspense, and it has me counting down the days until the next book in the series releases! What a ride!
The Killing Tide throws you into the action from the very first chapter, and you’ll be left guessing which way the plot is going to twist next until the very end. I loved getting to know every member of the CGIS team. All the working parts of the investigation kept the plot moving quickly and kept you turning page after page to get the next lead. Oh, to be a fly on the wall in that place!
Gabby is a headstrong, brave reporter. I loved her inspiration to be a journalist. She believed her ability to hunt down the truth was a God-given gift, and she should use it to expose those who do wrong in the world. What better motivation is there? She was reckless on several occasions, but I loved her big heart--how she loved all her family and friends with such a fierceness, she was willing to put herself in danger over them.
Finn is nothing short of a hunk. But it is his gentle heart that makes him irresistible. I loved his protective instinct for Gabby, and how he was willing to be vulnerable for her despite their past. He is forgiving of others but is stubbornly hard on himself. I think a lot of people can relate!
The danger in this book is riveting and lurking around every corner. There are a few twists and turns and a giant pretzel at the end! You won’t want to miss the riveting conclusion!
I can’t wait for the next book in the series, so I can get to know the other members of the team even more. If you love crime/suspense (think NCIS or CSI)...you will LOVE this book!
I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

I have been a fan of Dani Pettrey since her first novel, Submerged. She has a fantastic ability to merge the thrill of suspense with the warmth of romance. This latest novel, The Killing Tide, continues her now-signature, headlong-rush-into-peril style. The plot twists and turns with one unexpected danger after another and is sure to keep you turning the pages to find out what happens next. The only thing holding me back from awarding it a full five-star rating is a wish for more development of the main characters, Finn and Gabby, and their relationship. The abundance of secondary characters—who are sure to star in their own books soon—and a tendency to overdo background details were a bit of a stumbling block. All in all, though, this book is an exciting read that will keep you guessing until the heart-stopping end.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

What an excellent way to start Dani’s new series, Coastal Guardians. The Killing Tides was a quick read, but full of surprises and suspense. Several things happened throughout the story that I did not expect especially the ending. Will Finn and Harper be able to ignore the sparks between them? Will they be able to see past their preconceptions long enough t9 track down an elusive killer before they come his next Mark? Looking forward to the second book.

This is a series that should be on everyone’s to be read pile.

I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest opinion.

There are a few authors for which I wait, agonizingly, for their next release; Dani Pettrey is one of them. People sometimes ask who is your favorite author, to which I honestly cannot reply. Seriously, how would a confirmed lifelong bibliophile choose just one favored author or book? It just cannot be done. However, I do have a number of authors whose storytelling skills are top-notch, in my opinion, and Dani Pettrey is one of them.

The Killing Tide is the first in Dani Pettrey’s newest series, Coastal Guardians; set in the riverfront town of New Bern, near the coast of North Carolina, the series focuses on the US Coast Guard unit based approximately 35 mile northeast, this series promises to be full of Pettrey’s trademark exciting romantic suspense.

Gabby Fowler, an investigative reporter based out of Raleigh, is in the crosshairs of a very angry drug kingpin, a man who is determined to find and kill the woman who put him in prison, one nosey reporter. When an attempt on her life fails, Gabby’s siblings determine she needs to go home so her brothers, members of a Coast Guard Investigative unit can protect her. Gabby wants nothing to do with going home as she fears putting her family in danger.

Agreeing that it would not be well for Gabby to stay at the family home, she is instead ensconced in the garage apartment of Finn Walker, a special agent with the unit. Finn and Gabby have a history together, one that includes broken hearts. Sparks fly and hearts pound as Finn and Gabby struggle to maintain a safe “distance”. Until a killer strikes, and Finn is all about protecting Gabby from harm, while Gabby’s investigative reporter instincts rare up.

Things get interesting when the killer strikes again, and Gabby becomes a target. But, is she a target of the killer on the loose in New Bern or has the drug kingpin tracked her down? Even more, will her brothers and Finn, all members of the same team, be able to keep her safe plus stop the killer?

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and am under no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions therein are solely my own, and freely given.

There's plenty of action and suspense in this quick-paced novel that introduces us to a new team of agents, their friends and family. Gabby has a tough shell and is 100% devoted to her job and identity as an investigative reporter- and the risk to her life seems like an afterthought. I was surprised at how cavalier her attitude is about the safety of herself and others, but perhaps that's just her defense mechanism. She and Finn have had a relationship in the past but she left him behind to pursue a new job opportunity in another city. So in this book the chemistry and angst is already present in their interactions. Part of the story is told from Rissi's point of view as well, and I'm hoping the next book features her as the main character. She is the youngest member of the CGI team as well as the only female, and she also competes in various water sports competitions during the story with Gabby's brother Noah and Travis, another agent. The different loose threads and angles they are each investigating in the beginning tighten up as the plot progresses and the reading was full of tension as it drew closer to the climax. A great one for suspense fans!

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

I’ve read most of Dani Pettrey’s book and this wasn’t my favourite. At times I found the faith elements in the book felt forced and a little preachy. They didn’t seem as natural as some other books I’ve read. There were also a lot of different strands that almost seemed like different plots at times. Nevertheless, the book was fast-paced and suspenseful, with some romance and Christian elements thrown in. I liked that we got to see a little bit of the grieving process for the wife of one of the murder victims as it’s not generally seen in books unless it’s one of the main characters. It was a decent book in the Christian romantic suspense genre.

The Killing Tide by Dani Pettrey kept me on the edge of my seat. The twists in the plot were clever and the connections between characters were intriguing. Highly recommend any of Dani Pettrey books.

This book opens with gunshots and action and it continues until the very end! There is heart pounding danger and suspense that keeps you as a reader on your toes. I liked the romance sprinkled throughout the story, especially since the characters have a past that make their interactions more interesting. I was not a big fan of Gabby because I sometimes felt like she went too far for a story. Also, I think I was introduced to too many characters too quickly and I had a hard time keeping them all straight at first. The villain was the perfectly creepy type that you love to hate, and overall, this story was a great read! I look forward to more in the series!

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley/Bethany House Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

Once again Dani Pettrey gives readers a fast paced and intense story! As well, she gives us strong characters that you love or learn to love before the story is over.

This story grabbed me from the opening pages, with the action. It continued to hold me hostage with the action and the surprising ending. It kept me up late reading more than once!

The characters was so good. I feel in love with Finn as soon as I met him. I had to learn to love Gabby, as an investigative reporter, her personality and lack of boundaries bugged me, a lot. But as the story progressed it was fun to watch her grow and become more likable.

I’m looking forward to book 2 in the series, especially with how Pettrey leaves us hanging at the end of book 1! Great stuff!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via netgalley.com. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Dani Pettrey’s The Killing Tide is the first book in a new series, Coastal Guardians. Once again Pettrey has written a book filled with mystery, suspense, and romance. Finn Walker is a special agent with the Coast Guard Investigative Service. When a suspicious death of a Coast Guard officer occurs, Finn is called in to investigate this horrendous crime. Gabby Rowley is a curious reporter who once had a relationship with Finn. Could this crime be linked to attempts that were made on her life? Are the old feelings still there?

Pettrey keeps the reader guessing to the very last of the book. There are a number of characters in this book and almost everyone seems to be a suspect. If you are looking for a book heavy on the action, I highly recommend this book. An enjoyable read, indeed.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions expressed are my own.

Wow! Starts out with the attempted murder of an investigative reporter, Gabby Rowley, and explodes from there. Gabby's brother works for the Coast Guard and brings her home where he can protect her from the drug boss that's trying to kill her. Coast Guard Investigative Officer Finn Walker is assigned to protect her. He is trying to solve the murder of another CG officer and Gabby tags along. This book is action from the beginning to the end. Highly recommended, five stars. One of Dani's best.

Dani Pettrey’s latest novel is a trifecta of reading pleasure. There’s suspense, intrigue, and romance. Who doesn’t like that combination? Add in some really bad guys, two engaging and likable characters (Finn and Gabby), and you have the recipe for a “can’t put it down until it’s finished” novel. There's a faith element in the book, which if you’ve read any of Pettrey’s other books is always present. I like the Christian element, so I don’t think it’s preachy. And, you never have to worry about anything foul or gratuitous in her books. The mystery is tight and if you’re like me you won’t know the true bad guy until the end. Definitely worth your time to read.

When Gabby Rowley's investigative reporting puts a drug kingpin behind bars, attempts on her life send her running home. Her brother, Noah is a Coast Guard Investigative Services officer, and is far better able to protect her than the police can. While home is her best chance for protection, is she prepared to face Finn Walker, the man she fell in love with last time she was home but ran from rather than lose out on a story?

Finn's feelings for Gabby never went away. Can he protect her from herself, when she pokes around in his dangerous investigation? Her nose for a story is what sent her home in the first place. As fellow Coasties are killed and evidence points to drug runners, can Finn solve the case with his attention divided between keeping Gabby out of trouble, and the murderers intent on keeping their identities secret?

Gotta say, I did NOT like Gabby Rowley very much. It wasn't enough that she was foolhardy with her own safety. She had to take her pregnant, newly-widowed friend into danger, too. As if that wasn't enough, then she comes within seconds of getting her own sister killed by a madman. All for a story. If I were her friends and family, she would be off my Christmas card list! Her change of heart feels a bit "too little, too late" for me.

Dani Pettrey is amazing at keeping the suspense screaming. Every time i thought everyone was safe, someone else stepped into danger, or another bad guy crawled out from under his rock.

Suspense lovers will love this story. It's a great beginning to the Coastal Guardians series!

Coast Guard Investigator Finn Walker has his work cut out out for him, assigned to the case of a murdered officer discovered in suspicious circumstances, and another Coast Guard member has also disappeared. His job is not made easier when his boss's sister, investigative journalist Gabby Rowley, whom he has history with, comes digging around looking for her next big story.



The story jumps around following multiple characters, which made it a little trickier to understand everything that was going on at first. But as the story progressed the following multiple characters became as strength with the rising intensity, as the stakes rose and the threads of the story slowly started to connect. Fast paced action and a suspenseful mystery that kept me on my toes, with abounding cliffhangers.



Gabby is like a dog with a bone when she's on the tale of a good story, she showed up to fight for answers. She is stubborn and determined to the point of near recklessness. She has a passion for truth and justice. I liked how though she is determined and has an all-in attitude, she is recovering from an event that left her scarred more vulnerable than her ready-for-anything exterior would suggest.



Finn is struggling with the aftermath of a diving mission gone wrong, he is fiercely protective by nature and feels privileged to be serving his country in the way that he does. The Coast Guard was a natural choice for Finn, and is a natural in the water. He struggles to trust and losing control.



A wonderfully complex thriller with multiple twists and great leading characters. I really liked Rissy the only woman on the Coast Guard team, she is new to the team and wants to do her best to prove that she's earned her spot on the team. A heart pounding adventure, with great tension and a plot that keeps you guessing. Highly recommend checking this one out!



I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Killing Tide, the first book in Dani Pettrey’s new romantic suspense series, is just what fans of Pettrey have come to expect — fast-paced action, complex characters, an ensemble cast, and spark-filled romance. From the opening chapter to the last page, the reader is fully engaged in this twisting, turning novel. I never knew what to expect as the author kept me and the characters on edge. This one is definitely a recommended read!

The North Carolina coast is the setting of The Killing Tide. Many of the characters are members of a US Coast Guard investigative team that participates in ocean rescues, retrieval dives, and investigations of criminal cases. Among the investigators is Finn Walker who is enlisted to keep journalist Gabby Rowley safe following an attempted hit by a drug dealer. Gabby is good at her job, and soon inserts herself into the CGIS investigations. She is not, however, good at keeping out of trouble! 😉 Finn and Gabby have a past and unresolved relationship issues, and their chemistry is still firmly in place. Fans of romantic suspense will love their interactions and the tough spots in which they find themselves. The cases being investigated seem unrelated, but soon a common thread emerges. I liked the ways the group worked together to piece the puzzle together. I also liked that I was kept guessing and was surprised by just whodunit. The faith element in The Killing Tide is strong. Main characters Gabby and Finn are believers, yet have struggles common to the Christian life — guilt, feelings of not being good enough, and superimposing desires over God’s will. The two encourage each other to silence the accusing voices in their heads and find God’s truth and purposes.

The Killing Tide is a great start to the Coastal Guardians series. I can’t wait for more!

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

To purchase, click HERE.

(Thanks to Bethany House Publishing for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

Whoa. Buddy. This book was incredible.
From the first page my heart was racing and I don't think it stopped racing throughout the entirety of the book.

Whether it was a gun fight, or a hot chase, or the sweetest little moments where I asked, "Are you going to kiss her yet?" I don't think my heart calmed down at all during the story.

I'm not usually totally satisfied by suspense novels but this one did the trick.
The suspense was grueling, (in the best sort of way,) and it was not overpowered by the romance and Christian themes. They were all balanced perfectly.

Now the short chapters irritated me and I didn't appreciate the constant jumps in POVs but it's something I can live with.

The story line was incredible. The characters were amazingly built.
The character growth for both Finn and Gabby was truly satisfying.
Not only their growth as individuals, but in their relationship.

They dated back in the day or almost started dating or something, but the feelings were there, as evidence by their inability to stay away from each other.

Their relationship was very pleasing, though there were times I wanted to slap them both on the head. Especially Finn. But then again, especially Gabby. XD

I personally would prefer a heavier Christian theme but I know a lot of people prefer it to be at a minimum. I think there was good balance between the two.

I can't say say enough about the suspenseful moments. The mystery had me never wanting to stop reading.

Hearts and lives were on the line throughout the whole book and it had my heart racing probably above a healthy level.

By the end of the story I was speechless
It pained me because I knew I'd never be able to get out the words to explain how friggen awesome this book was!!

-Rebekah

Grab your copy now!

**I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. I was in no way obligated to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are purely my own.**

Full of the action-packed suspense and romance that Pettrey is known for. The author grabs your attention at page one and keeps it all the way to the end. This rapid page turner will have you on the edge of your seat from cover to cover.