There are so many words to express this wonderful story. Intrigue, action, murders, investigations, love story and a supposed curse. Several character's stories take place in this book. You feel as if the characters are people you know. It will keep you enthralled. It is easy to Immerse yourself into "The Crushing Depths." I received a copy through Netgalley and my review is voluntary.

THE CRUSHING DEPTHS is the second book in this series (The first is The Killing Tide) but it easily stands alone. This series follows a CGIS team as they work together to investigate a death at sea.... and discover way more than they expected.



A second chance love, a strong faith message, and plenty of action keep the pages turning. I couldn't wait to see what happens next and now I'm anxious for the next book.



There were some expected cases of who-dun-it and why and some out-right surprises.



Grab your copy today! Ms. Pettrey is one of my favorite romantic suspense writers,





I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.

This book. Wow. It’s raw. It’s real. And it’s such an authentic read. I feel so connected to the characters as I’ve traveled through their life journeys with them. Dani Pettrey allows readers to see glimpses into the past of her characters in ways I don’t experience with a lot of authors. I find myself drawn so much deeper into her stories and understand the character’s future so much more because of it.

The story is gripping - with moments of joy and suspense and romance and loss laced throughout the entire book.

The Crushing Depths is the second book in Dani Pettrey’s newest series, The Coastal Guardians.
This is Rissi & Mason’s story.
I loved these characters. Their back story is told, in part…they both were orphans and got to know each other when they were placed in the same foster home as kids. Mason was Rissi’s protector when she was at the mercy of their abusive foster dad. After he aged out, they lost contact. Now they meet again as adults and their connection is still there.
I had to choose a quote for an Instagram tour I was a part of, and I picked this one, because I felt like it says a lot about the story line. “He didn’t believe in curses, but even he had to admit the Dauntless seemed to beckon Danger.”
Mason and Rissi are sent as a team to investigate the happenings on board the Dauntless, an oil rigger out in the ocean. (The main event being a mysterious death) On their way out, the copter they are in crashes into the ocean. They just barely make it out of that close call, and keep going. Once they finally arrive at the Dauntless, things continue to happen. The employees on board are all but convinced it is Henry’s curse.
Ms. Pettrey unfolds this mystery in a superb manner. Lots of action, danger, a bit of romance thrown in.
I do like the secondary characters, but there are quite a few of them, and it takes a bit of concentration to keep them all straight. One of the reasons I am looking forward to the next book is because I can’t wait to see what happens to another possible romance that appears to be happening in this book.
This story has a lot going on, and I found it to jump around a bit between characters, which was a bit difficult at times.
Overall, this newest suspense novel by Dani Pettrey is once again intriguing and full of danger and mystery, with just enough faith elements thrown in to make it a delightful Christian suspense.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Dani continues to exceed any and all expectations I have when it comes to her books. She truly is an amazing author who inspires me daily through her writing.

The Crushing Depths takes place almost immediately after The Killing Tide ends so you don’t miss a moment and it’s the best thing ever. You’re quickly thrown back into the middle of the adventure, joining the CGIS team and the sometimes deadly cases they take on.

The suspense in this book will have you on the edge of your seat, holding your breath as your pulse races. You’ll desperately turn the pages trying to find out what’s going on and if everyone will be okay, because with Pettrey’s books you never know.

I personally thought this book had a little more romance than some of Dani’s other books, but that’s what makes it truly special and stand out among the amazingly brilliant stories she writes. The heavier romance thread was well written and woven perfectly into the suspense thread, not overshadowing it, which made for a unique and wonderful story.

I will admit Rissi and Mason are one of my favorite couples I’ve read so far which is saying a lot because I loved Avery and Parker.

Their relationship was filled with sweet, tender moments that had you holding the book close and wanting only the best for them. I really loved the theme of strength and perseverance that both of the characters went through before finding their way back to each other and how it strengthened the bond between them.

I also loved the extra glimpses and heartfelt moments we got of the rest of the CGIS team. In The Killing Tide we get an introduction to the close knit group and the family dynamic between them, but in The Crushing Depths it explores that dynamic further making you love the beloved CGIS team even more if it was possible.

My finally thought on The Crushing Depths is that Dani delivers another fantastic book that will have you hanging on to every word and diving head first into the suspense. There’s a certain character who I hope gets the next book because cue swooning over Noah Rowley, but I’m also very intrigued by Caleb Eason and his story. I wouldn’t mind reading a book about him as well.

WOW!! I always love Danni Pettrey's books because they captivate me and keep me intrigued and this is becoming one of my favorites!!
And I think that is because of the characters. Rissi and Mason are already a favorite couple of mine!
Their story is special because they knew each other from childhood and their teens, where they shared a special bond, and Mason was like Rissi's guardian at the orphanage, even so young, because he was always trying to rescue her, protect her and soothe her after the beatings she unfairly received. But ten years have passed after Mason left the orphanage and they haven't being in contact with each other, but neither forgets the other.
Rissi Dawson is an agent of the CGIS team (coastal guards) and we met her on the first book "The Killing Tide". That's where we get to see a bit of her past and her nostalgia of Mason. But after a member of the team dies, they need to substitute him with an expert diver, and Mason Rogers is summoned for the job. That's how the first book ends. So now, not only is Rissi still dizzy from absorbing the news of having Mason back in her life, but she can't believe it when they are both sent on a mission together, to uncover what's behind a supposedly accidental death on an oil rig in the middle of the ocean. Rissi has always being a strong and guarded woman, that's how she has survived and thrived in her profession. But will Mason appearance bring down the walls she has erected around her heart?
Mason has always loved Rissi and thought she was lost to him. And now that he has found her, he doesn't want to let her go. How can he show her his love without frightening her? But first, he has to protect her and get her out of this rig alive. But things aren't easy, as they discover that the death on the rig was no accident. The murderer could be an environmental activist, bent on impeding the completion of this rig, or is it a person of the victim's own crew?
This is enough to make a suspenseful and intriguing story, but throw in a dangerous tropical storm, and you won't be able to put this book down since page one, I assure you I couldn't!!
The best part of the story for me was the character's relationship and romance. It was truly sweet and swooning! Mason is truly my hero right now! I loved his quiet strength, his tender love and admiration for Rissi, and his protectiveness, while giving her the space she needed. His love for Rissi was so sweet! And Rissi was equally in love with him, but never imagining he already was in love for her too! I loved how they start opening to each other again, after so many years. This is one of the best romances from Danni Pettrey I've read!
But the romance never dulls the intrigue and suspense, which is always there. I loved that I never quite knew who was the real criminal until almost the end. And this kept me guessing and wanting to read more so I could get to the bottom of the case!
This book with definitely keep you at the edge of your seat and will make you sigh at the same time! And that's not an easy feat for a suspense writer, but Danni Pettrey did it!
I definitely recommend this book to Romantic Suspense lovers. It can be read as a standalone, but it will be richer if you start by the first book. One of the things I love most about this series is the close-knit relationship of the CGIS team members. They are like a family, loyal to the bone, and ready to serve their lives for each other and for their community. I love all these characters! And I hope to get to read all of their stories. I'm particularly interested in Noah's right now! Hopefully, he'll have his own story soon...
Don't miss this series! A total page turner!
I received a copy of this book from the Publisher vía NetGalley and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.

Romance, suspense, contemporary; Christian faith elements
A perfect romantic suspense read! More of a 4.5 for me as a reader, but loved the pacing, characters, and the back and forth between the characters, suspects, and the unfolding clues to the two crimes that were paralleled in the novel. Great cast of the CGIS team, and their back stories that gradually come out over the course of the novel. The prayers and faith expressed by the characters as they navigated their jobs, and lives was naturally woven into the novel, just as it would be in real life for a Christian, perfectly incorporated and a nice aspect to this novel.
The two main characters, Rissi and Mason's, unfolding romance was so beautifully crafted and told. Their past hurts, past history, and the feelings they had and have were so well portrayed as they worked their case. Loved the hints of other romantic interests in this novel, and can't wait to read their stories as well. Setting on the Oil Rig with all the intricacies of the crimes and case made for an even more intense and suspenseful read.
This was a book I made time to read all in one day (meals got in the way). Can't wait to read the next book in this series, and go back and read the first!
I received an ARC from the publisher, my opinions and thoughts are my own.

***Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Sadly, I could not even get through half of the book. The inner monologues were cringe-worthy and the characters were not very complex. This book felt rushed.

When a oil rig death appears to be more than accident, Coast Guard Investigator Rissi Dawson and newcomer to the team, Mason Rogers are put on the case.



The team is back in this thrilling companion to The Killing Tide, while it's not necessary to read the previous book, and this book could stand well on it's own, I felt that there was a lot more reader payoff for me coming into this book already familiar with much of the team. Rissi grew up in the foster care system, a survivor of abuse, with a passion for bringing criminals to justice, using her gifts of observation to draw out details that help her team. She's always looked up to Mason, and saw him as a hero with a heart for others.



Mason is a man of action, naturally protective and daring, he courageous fights to keep people safe, a job transfer brings him face to face with Rissi, after years apart.



I loved the camaraderie of the whole team, as they work together and tease each other, and challenging each other to bring their best to the table. I also liked getting to know Noah, Caleb, Emmy, Brooke, and Logan better. There are some great supporting storylines, that add to the suspense and drama. I liked how this book had a driving plot, thrilling yet not as violent in nature as the previous book in this series, which I actually enjoyed more.



Overall, this was a engaging and immersive read that had me hanging on, not wanting to put it down. This book is a very entertaining and captivating read, I loved that I enjoyed the character and relationship building, as well as supporting storylines, just as much as the action packed scenes, and it made the book so much more enjoyable and balanced as a whole. Highly recommend this fantastic read, and I can't wait to see what is next for this amazing team!



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

Learning Mason and Rissi’s history and story was exciting. Pettrey does a good job of making you fall in love with them and look forward to the next characters stories.
I expected some different scenes that didn’t surface in the book but I still enjoyed the story. There were multiple stories playing out at the same time and I enjoyed trying to figure each of them out as I went.
Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book! I love Dani Pettrey’s writings.

When an accident claims the life of an oil-rig worker on the first drilling platform off the North Carolina coast, Coast Guard investigators Rissi Dawson and Mason Rogers are sent to take the case. Tensions surrounding the oil rig are high and the death has everyone on edge. Environmental activists are threatening to do whatever it takes to stop the structure from being completed, while rumors are being whispered about ancient curses surrounding this part of the ocean.

Mounting evidence shows the death may not have been an accident at all. Was he killed by one of the activists or, perhaps more frighteningly, a member of his own crew? Rissi and Mason have to sort through not only a plethora of suspects, but also their own past and attraction to each other.

Just as the case seems like it'll break open, worse news arrives. A tropical storm has turned their way and soon they're cut off from any rescue--and right where the killer wants them. It's a race to discover his identity before he eliminates the threat they pose.

Another great book by Dani Pettrey. Coast Guard investigators Rissi Dawson and Mason Rogers have known each other for years. They were in the same foster home as teens. Mason looked after her and made sure Rissi was safe from the foster father. It's been years since they have seen each other. But Rissi still remembers her crush. Rissi and Mason are sent on a case involving a death on a drilling platform. It seemed like there were two different stories going on. Noah, the one in charge of the CGIS group, and Brooke, a CGIS medic. It was still a good book and hard to put down.

I recommend this book to everyone who likes a good mystery.

I was given this book by Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any awy.

I tried to read this book but found my mind wandering. I was not engaged in the characters. Thus in turn the storyline was not engaging to me as well. In addition, it seemed to move a bit slow to pick up speed and this was even with a plan crash.

I did try to stick with this book but after getting to the half way point and realizing that I could not remember anything that I had just read; I put this book down. I might give it another try some other time.

“She’s on watch.” “In this storm?” Emmy asked. “We’re talking about the Coast Guard. When everyone else heads home, we go out.”

Intense. Riveting, Suspenseful. Romantic.

This is a multilayered story between members of a Coast Guard team known as CGIS. Though I loved the storylines, I did find it a bit confusing catching up with all the players and their POV’s. However, once I caught up, I found it rich, entertaining, and gripping with suspense. I look forward to the continuing stories of this dynamic team. Learning about CGIS tasks was interesting and educational, as not many authors have written about their impressive team work, investigative skills and rescue efforts. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters’ banter, layered feelings, and deep commitment to team work. It was interesting learning about the contentions between environmental efforts and oil rig work in the oceans, too.

“He’d dreamt of this moment more times than he could count and now that it was here, he didn’t want to rush a thing. After a decade, he was finally kissing the woman he loved.”

Did I mention romantic? The brimming feelings for a few of the team members kept me engaged and looking forward to the rest of the series. However, Mason and Rissi’s relationship was a truly inspiring romance and stole the show. I loved their adventure with beach, sand, and ocean scenes that had me longing for a seaside trip. Their long ago friendship moved the relationship quickly and I loved getting to know their hearts. Their shared ways of overcoming a difficult past was filled with a beautiful finding faith element. I was intrigued with how God had worked on healing their hearts and pasts before reuniting them, too. The spiritual side of this novel was beautifully interwoven between all the characters.

“Thank you, Jesus. This was all you. How can I thank you for all you’ve done?”

Inspiring and courageous, this couple will have you wanting to conquer all your fears to reach for all God has to offer. The simple prayers of thanks, need for help and wisdom was encouraging. The strong desire to work as a team even through difficult relationships was awesome. I can’t wait for more adventure and romance from the rest of this CGIS team. If you love adventure, romance and learning about the Coast Guard, I think you’ll love this series.

I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley and a print copy by Bethany House Publishers. All opinions given in this review have been given honestly.

Dani Pettrey crushes it in the second installment of the Coastal Guardian Series. The Crushing Depths starts off with a bang, literally, and offers one harrowing turn after another. I didn’t know who was responsible for the things that were happening until the very end, so that was intriguing. Readers were introduced to Rissi Dawson and Mason Rogers in The Killing Tide, and as characters go, they are great. I liked them both, and liked their backstory, which allowed for several tender moments that made you say “Ah.” There were funny moments when the whole team was working together to solve the mystery, and a great set-up for book three. I liked that Rissi and Mason were both Christians and that faith played a great part of their story. If you decide to read this before book one, you won’t be lost. Book one would offer you a little more information about the characters, but nothing so monumental you’ll feel like you’ve entered a story in the middle. There’s a lot to enjoy about this book.

Wow! Talk about unexpected. There was no way I could guess how this book would end. I’m pretty sure my jaw actually dropped. Pettrey kept me on my toes and I loved every moment of it. The Crushing Depths is the second novel in the Costal Guardians series, and I could barely wait to get my hands on it. I was blessed by reading the first book, and was dying to get to spend more time with the team. If you haven’t read The Killing Tide don’t worry, you will be able to enjoy this novel as a stand alone. That being said, I would totally recommend you read both, they are so good. It’s not often that I get caught by surprise as much as I did in this book. I am an avid Christian Fiction reader, and can usually figure out who the “bad guy” is pretty early on in a story. But that isn’t the cast when I pick up a Pettrey novel. I enjoyed the journey from beginning to end and can’t wait to see what she does in the next book. The romance between Rissi and Mason might have made me swoon a time or two. I loved their history, and the connection they have with each other. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Romance and Suspense. This book will keep you up late into the night, and is worth every page turning moment. I received a copy of this book from the publisher, and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Coastal Guardians series continues in book two, where an explosion onboard an off shore rig causes the death of a man. There are multiple stories wrapped into this book of mystery. With not as many fictional stories about Coast Guard investigators, this was a nice change. Lots of action and intrigue plus a little romance makes for a great read. Readers may want to read the Killing Tide first for stories about the rest of the team. Recommended!

I like the mystery/suspense stories that Pettrey writes. This one didn’t grab me as much as the stories in Alaska, but I did like the characters and most of the story. There was very good build up, but with multiple focuses it was somewhat distracting and the end sort of fell flat for me. I would read more in this series though.

Yes, this book hit the spot for me. There are a lot of characters, and side stories, which can sometimes get a little confusing, but I thought this book did a better job at staying focused on Rissi and Mason. There seems to be a little side story with all the team members, but Noah and Brooke have the most cover time (probably to set up their story in the next book?) Sometimes I do wish the story would just focus on the two main characters, but that just isn't how Pettrey writes. All of her characters interact and have their own back and forth going. It can get a little confusing, but this book stayed more on what I wanted my target to be, so that was nice.

The oil rig aspect was really interesting for me since I know absolutely nothing about them. I also really enjoyed the mystery aspect in this story. The romance moved along well since Rissi and Mason knew each other from before, and again, other romances were set up nicely for follow up books.

The end was slightly abrupt for me. Not enough to dampen what I thought was a good story, but it did seem to just happen all of a sudden.

I can't wait for her next book in this series!

Fantastic. The group of characters are working two different cases so the action keeps going. I really like the romance that is budding between many of the characters. I liked learning a little bit about the oil rigs in the ocean and how they are run. We also learn some about ecoterrorists. This had many twists and turns. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

Book two in the Coastal Guardians series begins with a bang (literally) - an explosion that kicks off the need for our two heroes to enter the scene.

Rissi Dawson and Mason Rogers were in the same abusive foster home as teens. Although their time together was short, it bonded them deeply. When the trajectories of their lives re-intersect after a number of years, they discover that bond has not broken at all; in fact, they are adults who are deeply connected (and now, attracted to each other). Rissi and Mason are now agents working with the Coast Guard Investigative Services; when they are assigned to a case that has one tragic "accident" after another, agendas on both sides, and even "Henry's curse", they quickly find the only ones they can trust are each other.

Overall, I did enjoy this story. I have long enjoyed Dani Pettrey's books and was excited to read this one. The main disconnect I found was in the number of characters (I could not keep up OR keep track of who was connect to who, and when you are reading a mystery or suspense novel, you want to keep track of all the players to see if you can solve the mystery....this was a challenge.) But, the main characters are likeable and the mystery is fine. Check it out for yourself!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.