"stranded" by dani pettrey

About the book (from Goodreads): When her friend vanishes from a cruise ship, reporter Darcy St. James isn't satisfied with their explanation that she simply left her job of her own accord. Something isn't lining up, and Darcy believes the only way to find the truth is to put herself in Abby's position. Within days, Darcy learns her friend wasn't the only person to disappear mysteriously. Last summer, a woman vanished under almost identical circumstances.

Gage McKenna has taken a summer-long stint leading adventure excursions for the passengers of various cruise lines that dock for a few days of sightseeing. He's surprised to find Darcy working aboard one of the ships, investigating a troubling report. Something sinister is going on and the deeper they dig the more Gage fears they've only discovered the tip of the iceberg.

My take: Dani Pettrey's "Alaskan Courage" series is one of my favorite in-progress series, and Stranded continues the high-octane suspense and romance from the previous two books. Gage and Darcy, whose attraction in Shattered was undeniable, are the central romance in Stranded. Watching them fight their attraction and then finally acknowledge it is so much fun. Also, the mysterious Jake Westin's past is finally revealed to everyone, setting up his romance with Kayden McKenna in book four.

As for the mystery, it's a good one. As Darcy and Gage get closer to the truth of what happened to the women who vanished from the cruise ship, the stakes become higher and higher, and the ultimate reveal? Well, let's just say I'm going to be hesitant to ever take a cruise!

I really enjoyed Stranded—it's a great continuation of a fantastic series.

My rating: 4-1/2 stars

Buy the book.
Read my reviews of Submerged and Shattered.

About the author: Dani Pettrey is a wife, home-schooling mom, and the acclaimed author of the romantic suspense series Alaskan Courage, which includes her bestselling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, and her latest release, Silenced. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves–the thrill of adventure, nail biting suspense, the deepening of her characters’ faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland, where they enjoy time with their daughters, son-in-law, and super adorable grandson.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I purchased this book myself and reviewed it of my own free will. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. 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."