Member Reviews
Pettry has crafted another entertaining novel centered on Coast Guard investigators. I liked the setting of an off shore oil rig although I wish we could have learned more about its operation. The sabotage of the rig operation by an environmental group is certainly believable.
I liked the budding romance between Rissi and Mason. I like that Pettry kept them focused on their work and did not let their emotions rule during the investigation. I also liked how both of the characters rose above their shared painful youth experiences, independently became Christians, and found renewed love as adults.
I did not like Brooke's side story and found it very distracting. It did not add to the main plot story and almost seemed like just filler to make page count. The main plot would have been sufficient to provide an entertaining read with additional background on oil rig function. I also found the fights by a couple of the men on the rig to be nonessential to the plot and a bit puzzling as to their inclusion.
This is an entertaining novel with a little bit of information about off shore oil rigs and protesters. I do not think it is the best Pettry has written. I do like her work though and will be looking for her next book.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
“It’s easy to regret the past or choices
we’ve made. But living in the past
only gives people who’ve hurt you more
power over you. It’s best to forget
them and move forward,
never looking back.”
[Dani Pettrey, Crushing Depths]
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Its NCIS. No, it’s the Coast Guard, so it must be CGIS. A well-written plot focusing on a stalker seeking to harm a Coast Guard Medic and a series of suspicious accidents aboard an offshore oil platform provide the core of this newest piece of suspense from acclaimed writer Dani Pettrey. The excitement is spell-binding and holds the reader’s attention from the first page to the end. This reader did not want to put it down - though he had to, he had to sleep.
Dani Pettrey’s thrillers are not only full of suspense, but also romance. Now, I do like watching Hallmark movies with my wife, but there were too many romantic relationships in this newest book - some dating from a decade ago and others just starting to make their appearance in this 350+ page book. Following one relationship at a time is difficult enough (ala Hallmark), but trying to track 4 or more couples with relationships at different stages in the midst a single story is a bit more complex.
This book belongs in the local public library (my wife tells me it is already in ours), the shelf of the church library, and is worth being read by anybody that enjoys a good, faith-based, romantic, thriller.
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This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
What an intriguing, multi-faceted story! This author does a great job of writing compelling team interactions in her novels, with characters who feel very real to me.
I loved the romance between Rissi and Mason. What a history these two had, full of difficulties and trauma from their youth. Knowing what they had both endured as teens, and the bond they developed in the past, made seeing them find each other again even more heartwarming.
The investigation into all that was going wrong on the offshore oil rig was fascinating and kept me guessing, as more and more seemed to go wrong. The step by step way that Mason and Rissi worked to uncover the facts felt very realistic to me and I appreciated seeing the way the entire team worked using their individual strengths to follow leads and solve the case.
I enjoyed the glimpses into the lives of some of the other team members, making me excited to find out who will be the lead characters in the next book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The Crushing Depths offers readers the beautiful, broken story of Rissi Dawson and Mason Rogers, Coast Guard investigators with a past that has bound their hearts together over the years.
Their romance and connection is what won me over for this story. I absolutely loved these two characters and enjoyed seeing their romance unfold and deepen.
Both overcoming trauma from their past and finding the promise of a future together is the heart of this novel, in my opinion. I’ve read all of Dani Pettrey’s previous books and while this story and plot were definitely enough to hold my interest, I felt this particular story didn’t have as many dramatic events for the main characters as others have, so the suspense feels a bit more mild. Don’t misunderstand me though, there is some action, it just revolves around secondary characters. Regardless though, Pettrey delivers another great story rich with friendship, faith and teamwork. Also, bonus points the location and for working a story around the U.S. Coast Guard while educating readers in an entertaining way about the services they offer and sacrifices they make. Another great feature is that readers get a great foundation for the upcoming story of Brooke and Noah, whom I’m excited to read more about. Lastly, can we all just appreciate the breathtaking cover? Gorgeous!
The Crushing Depths was written by Dani Pettrey and is book two in the Coastal Guardians series. It is not necessary to have read the first book in order to read this one.
Summary: Coast Guard investigators Rissi Dawson and Mason Rogers need to find out what is happening on an oil rig off the coast of North Carolina. Someone is dead, and while it looks like an accident, they need to look at all the evidence.
As they dig deeper though, things are not as they seem. More and more “accidents” begin to happen. Is someone out to destroy the oil rig, or is there something to the rumors of an ancient curse……
My Thoughts: This book was OK. For some reason, it didn’t hit the sweet spot for me, and I don’t know that I can really pin down why. The characters were interesting, and there was plenty of action, but it just wasn’t my favorite. Oh well. Not every book is for everyone, right?
Anyway, I would like to thank Bethany House for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for my review. Thank you.
When I finished the first book in this series, I couldn’t wait for Mason and Rossi’s story! It did not disappoint. As usual, Dani Pettrey knows how to craft characters and a storyline in such a way that grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let you go until the final page. Then, you realize you want to know more so you can’t wait for the next book in the series or for her next series to begin. This book has everything I want in Christian suspense - mystery, action, adventure and some romance to round it out. You don’t want to miss The Crushing Depths, book two in Coastal Guardians.
If you like lots of suspense with a little romance this is the book for you. The Crushing Depths is a great book with non stop action and it did not disappoint. I can't wait to see what comes next in this amazing series.
Rissi and Masons story is woven into this book amidst danger at sea on an oil rig. There is a lot of suspense, danger, mystery going on in this book. I couldn’t set it down because I wanted to find the answers and see how the story played out! Non-stop action and suspense is found here! I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated here are my own.
I was so happy when I found out this book was coming out I could not wait to catch up with the CGI Team and the author did not disappoint. I could not put this book down, it will have you on the edge of your seat from page one. I really liked Rissi and Mason's story and I love that they just worked, the chemistry between them did not seemed forced but very natural. As in like book one the author has a few main characters not just 2 or three, but each character plays a huge part in the story and without them the story would not be what it was, also that being said it was not that hard to follow either. I so hope we will get to read more about Em and Logan in the future. This book was a good clean read. This book will not disappoint in any way. If you love a good suspense grab this series.
This book was so amazing. Characters were believable, storyline kept my attention the whole time and I can’t wait to read her next book. This and any other story by Dani pettrey is worth the read. You won’t be disappointed.
The Crushing Depths is exactly what you would expect in a Dani Pettrey novel -- excitement, danger, mystery, romance, hope and redemption -- from the very first page to the last. This second book in the Coastal Guardians series is not for the faint of heart, with multiple deaths, lots of potential suspects, and even a tropical storm and a fisherman's curse thrown in for good measure. And unless you are extra good at solving mysteries, you might be surprised at some of the plot twists! This is definitely a book that you won't want to put down once you start reading.
The characters are all strongly developed and play well into the story. If you have read book one, The Killing Tide, you will recognize some of the characters in this story. Each of the books works fine as a stand-alone, and both are well worth your time if you are a fan of great romantic suspense.
Thanks to the author and her publisher, Bethany House, for providing a copy of The Crushing Depths. I am happy to share my own thoughts in this review.
The Crushing Depths has two romantic suspense story lines, both involving members of the Coast Guard Investigative Services. Each story line is equally intriguing with lives at stake. The adventure-loving members of the investigative team and the beautiful North Carolina beach setting are perfect compliments to the story's plot. The Crushing Depths is the second book in Pettrey's Coastal Guardian series, but would work well as a stand-alone read. I would say that this book would make the perfect beach read, but since many of us won't be vacationing at the beach during the pandemic, let's just say it is a great summer read, one I highly recommend.
I received a copy of The Crushing Depths from Bethany House via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and I received no monetary compensation.
The Crushing Depths
It’s been a while since I read a great suspense novel. This book (and book 1 in The Coastal Guardians series) are just that. Intriguing suspense built around well developed characters I felt invested in, including elements of faith and romance that felt natural to the story. I also enjoyed the closer look into the Coast Guard.
I just finished reading Dani Pettrey’s The Crushing Depths - Book 2 of The Coastal Guardians series, and it was CRAZY GOOD!
Not having read Book 1, The Killing TIde, I immediately purchased and downloaded it. Both books were high intrigue and perfect reading for my summer vacation. I loved following the different storylines and the characters of the Coast Guard investigative team. The characters were engaging, and I found myself wanting to spend more time with them. There were constant surprises around each corner!
Coast Guard investigators and childhood friends, Rissi Dawson and Mason Rogers, investigate a fatal explosion that claims the life of an oil rig worker on a drilling platform. What initially seems to be an unfortunate accident becomes one of a series of deadly events. With a cursed oil rig, sinister environmentalists who will stop at nothing, and a growing list of questionable suspects, Rissi and Mason along the CGIS team must race to find the murderer.
I love a great Christian suspense novel with a sweet love story, and this book delivered both! It was a delicious beach read!
I received an advanced copy of The Crushing Depths from the publisher through Net Galley. The opinions expressed in this review are mine entirely.
These stories have the perfect balance between action-packed plotlines and sweet, romantic undertones. And true to the author's style, I was hooked right from the get-go and left guessing all the way through.
One of the things I love about Pettrey is the incredible way in which she weaves multiple storylines, building the intensity scene by scene, chapter by chapter. Her books are fun to read and there's no predicting how everything will tie together in the end. I'm super excited to read the next (& last) book in the series, as each one gets better and better (and my nails shorter and shorter!)
"The Crushing Depths" is a Christian romantic suspense novel. It's the second in a series. You don't need to read the previous novel to understand this one, and this one didn't spoil the previous novel. Rissi and Mason were close friends in their childhood and are thrilled to have a chance to work together now. They're teamed up to investigate a suspicious death on a drilling platform off the coast. The danger's only beginning as more "accidents" occur, and many on the platform attribute the deaths to an old curse. At the same time, team leader Noah has to protect a friend from her stalker. The whole team investigates both cases, while Rissi and Mason rediscover their close friendship and attraction.
The frequent danger faced by the main characters kept the suspense high. The characters were engaging, complex, and reacted realistically to events. I cared about what happened to them. Rissi and Mason built each other up and supported each other, making a great team and couple. Some of the characters prayed to God to help them, etc. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this suspenseful novel.
The Crushing Depths, by Dani Pettrey, is a genuine page-turner! This second book in the Coastal Guardians series offers a thrilling mix of mystery, suspense, action, faith, and romance. From beginning to end, this faced-paced novel is truly entertaining and thoroughly gripping.
Brimming with sand and surf, the Atlantic coastal setting enriches the plot and contributes to the authentic feel of the story. The vibrant characters also make this book special. They are relatable, likable, smart, and interesting. The engrossing plot is detailed with layers of mystery that are utterly compelling especially as investigative clues and suspect motivations are revealed. Like swelling ocean waves, the themes of adversity, courage, faith, perseverance, and restoration add depth and meaning to a riveting story that uplifts while it entertains.
The Crushing Depths is more than a story of romance and suspense. It also shines with an emphasis on friendship and second chances. As the characters grapple with difficult and dangerous events, they move closer to wholeness as they heal from events of their past. Their faith and trust grows stronger as they discover that true security is found in the promises of God and in the love and support of friends.
With its integral setting, perceptive characters, and captivating plot, The Crushing Depths easily held my attention page after page. Ms. Pettrey is a talented author with a real gift for writing stories that are hard to put down. The Crushing Depths is a book I can easily recommend to all readers who enjoy clean, suspenseful, romantic fiction, and I am eagerly looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and NetGalley. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.
"The Crushing Depths" is another exciting suspense novel by Dani Pettrey! This is the 2nd book in the Coastal Guardian series. This book picks up right where the first one left off, but you could still read this one without reading the first novel.
This book centers on Rissi and Mason. These are characters who I loved at the very beginning. Dani Pettrey does such a great job with character development. She always makes you feel like you are part of the story and friends with the characters. There is definitely a twist in this novel that I didn't see coming.
The only thing that was a little difficult that there were many characters in this novel. It just took awhile to become familiar with all the characters but once I did, I couldn't put the book down!
I definitely recommend this book and all of Dani Pettrey's books if you enjoy good, clean, romantic suspense. Dani Pettrey is one of my favorite authors. I have read all her books and never been disappointed!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and NetGalley for my honest opinion.
So, in the past, I believed that the Alaskan Courage Series had to be my favorite of Ms. Pettrey’s, but this book is phenomenal! This book is probably my second favorite book by Ms. Pettrey (I don’t think any of her books will ever top Shattered). This book focuses on two Coast Guard investigators, Rissi and Mason. Rissi has been working with this group of investigators for a while in North Carolina. She had a rough childhood, but has turned bad into good with her life. Mason and Rissi knew each other as kids, but had been apart for a long time. Mason has just recently moved to North Carolina and joined the Coast Guard team there. This book focuses on their past and present relationship and how they have changed since childhood. As they get to know each other again, they begin investigating a death on an oil rig. They have to determine whether it is an accidental death or murder. As they begin their investigation, they feel like they are being sabotaged before they even start. This book not only focuses on these two investigators, but examines other members of the team. Readers will get updates on the previous main characters of the first book in this series and will learn new information about others. I am anxiously awaiting the third book in this series now! I highly recommend this book and feel you will not be disappointed! This book can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend you read the first book if you haven’t. The first book in the series is fantastic as well.
***I was given a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review. This is my honest opinion. Even though I received this copy free, I have purchased her books before.
Thank you NetGalley, Bethany House Publishers and Dani Pattrey for gifting me an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
I’ve been reading a crap-ton of light romance books the last few months and I needed something a little grittier. While there is romance, it’s totally clean and really not the main focus throughout. Instead we’re pulled into the thrilling and suspenseful work of the U.S. Coast Guard. Dani Pettrey had me sucked in right from the beginning and kept me guessing throughout. There were multiple suspects and I truly wasn’t sure how it was all going to wrap up. I will keep an eye out for book number 3!