Showing posts with label Alaskan Courage Series. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alaskan Courage Series. Show all posts

Monday, February 16, 2015

Sabotaged by Dani Pettrey

Sabotaged (Alaskan Courage Series #5)Overview: Finally Returned Home, Reef McKeena
Finds His Beloved Alaska Facing Its Greatest Threat


Growing up, goody-two-shoes Kirra Jacobs and troublemaker Reef McKenna were always at odds. Now, working together as search-and-rescue for Alaska's arduous Iditarod race, a growing attraction seems to be forcing aside old arguments. Then Reef catches Kirra sneaking from camp in the middle of the night.

Kirra's uncle, a musher in the race, has disappeared. Kirra and Reef quickly track the man, but what they discover is harrowing: Frank's daughter has been kidnapped. Kirra and Reef, along with the entire McKenna family, are thrown into a race to stop a shadowy villain who is not only threatening a girl's life--but appears willing to unleash one of the largest disasters Alaska has ever seen.

ISBN-13: 9780764211966
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Publication date: 2/3/2015
Series: Alaskan Courage Series , #5
Pages: 336
Buy It: B&N | Amazon | CBD

My Review: I absolutely loved this book. I hated putting it down for even a minute! Action-packed from the very beginning, Dani Pettrey captures the adventurous spirit of our hero, Reef, perfectly. The Iditarod race provided the perfect background for the story and brought to light the amazing setting that is Alaska. The plot was fast-moving, well-developed, and amazing. I love that Dani incorporates all of the McKenna clan in each book, but this can definitely be read as a stand-alone.

The characters are fantastic. This book focuses on Reef, the wayward, wild, crazy brother (who makes his first appearance in Shattered). We get to see a new side to him, and it makes me love him so much more. Kirra is the perfect girl for Reef. She is adventerous, strong, and stubborn enough to test him, but vulnerable and sweet enough to make Reef better. I loved their story and who they became together.

The message of the story focuses on letting go of your past and focusing on the future. Dwelling on our past isn't what God wants us to do, even if our pasts are difficult. With His help, we can face the past, and move on. "Love in the difficult parts of life. God in them - in the sorrow and the pain." God knows the plans He has for our future, and that can give us hope!

Overall, this book was the perfect ending to a fantastic series. I was SO excited to receive my copy and a little sad at the same time. Our time with the  McKenna's has ended, but I can't wait to see what else Dani Pettrey has in store for us!

**Thank you Bethany House for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.**
View my reviews of the other books in the Alaskan Courage Series: 

http://authordanipettrey.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/dpettrey1sm1.jpgAbout 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. Find Dani on Facebook or Twitter.

Monday, May 19, 2014

Silenced by Dani Pettrey

Silenced (Alaskan Courage Series #4) 
  • ISBN-13: 9780764211959
  • Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
  • Publication date: 5/6/2014 
B&N | Amazon | CBD

Overview: Jake Knew Something Was Wrong.
But He Never Guessed
How Wrong.

A relaxing day of rock climbing takes a disturbing turn when Kayden McKenna's route brings her face-to-face with a dead climber. Is it a terrible accident or something darker? When the case is handed to overburdened sheriff Landon Grainger, he turns to Jake Westin for help. With Jake's past now revealed, he's ready to use his talent for investigation again--but he could never prepare for where the mystery will take him. 
 
Kayden's climbing expertise soon leads her and Jake to the realization that the death was no accident. And worse, it seems the killer is onto them. When strange things begin happening in Yancey, Jake is terrified that once again his world may put someone he loves in danger. But the truth is far worse than he could ever imagine.

My Review: Oh. My. Goodness. I LOVED THIS BOOK! Dani Pettrey has really outdone herself. I have been waiting in agony since the last book, Stranded, to find out more about Jake and Kayden. This book didn't disappoint. The story was exciting. The details about the land and rock climbing provided an added element to the story that made it more interesting and easier to imagine.

 The characters were phenomenally written. I have been waiting to hear Kayden's story since the first book of the series. I wanted to know what made her the way she is. She is strong, beautiful, stubborn, and fiercely independent. She guards her heart, and for most of the book we don't understand why. When Jake, kind, caring, patient, and strong Jake, finds out why, I admire her even more. Their romance was so sweet. It was fun watching them dance around their feelings for each other, and that provided an added level to the story and took the tension out of the suspense.

The message of the book was sublty hinted at throughout the entire story, but brought to amazing clarity at the end. You cannot live your life in fear of what might happen. No matter how hard you try, you are not in control of what happens in your life. God is. He knows what you need, when you need it. So don't be afraid! Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.  It was nice getting to hear from the other characters again and my love for the McKenna family has grown even more. I am anxiously awaiting Reef's story!!!

Suspense, romance, and a little action/adventure all packed into one amazing book.
**Thank you Bethany House for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.**

View my reviews of the other books in the Alaskan Courage Series: 

http://authordanipettrey.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/dpettrey1sm1.jpg 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. Find Dani on Facebook or Twitter.

Thursday, October 3, 2013

Stranded by Dani Pettrey: Blog Tour + $25 Giveaway!

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Stranded by Dani Pettrey! I am excited to be a part of the blog tour, hosted by I am a Reader, because I absolutely LOVE Dani Pettrey's books. I've read and reviewed the first two books in this series, Submerged and Shattered, in my early blogging days. (It's definitely cool to look back at the beginning of my short blogging career and see how far my posts have come!) I've been waiting for this book to come out since then!

stranded


Stranded (Alaskan Courage #3): Overview

strandedWhen 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 Review:
 This book was absolutely fantastic! I read it in a day! I was very excited to learn more about Darcy and Gage. I also loved hearing about how the rest of the characters' lives were progressing. Darcy St. James is a strong Christian lead character. She lives her faith as best as she can, and she trusts God to show her what she is supposed to do with her life. When she stumbles, you stumble with her. The author has a way of writing the characters that endears them to you. Gage is a mystery to me. One moment, he's pushing Darcy away. The next moment, he's tugging her to him (which he does A LOT in this book). I understand his struggle with trust and love. I also understand his anger at God.

The mystery and romance is as intriguing and captivating as ever. Dani Pettrey is a master story teller. There were parts of the story where I said to myself, "wow! I didn't see that coming!" The development of the romance between Darcy and Gage was sweet and natural. As Gage and Darcy struggle with their pasts, as well as their budding romance, the message of the book becomes clear: Jesus can mend even the most broken of hearts, if we're willing to let him. We need to be patient and wait on Him. Also, Darcy comes to the realization that she can't force someone to believe in Jesus. All she can do is tell them about Him and pray. That's all any of us can do.

Overall, this story was intriguing, captivating, and just all around fantastic. It's exactly what I've come to expect from Dani Pettrey and more. I look forward to reading the next book in this series, Silenced, which is slated to come out next year (oh the agony of waiting!).

Author Dani Pettrey

daniDani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom and author. 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 one’s faith and plenty of romance. She’s a huge fan of dark chocolate, is always in search of the best iced mocha and her dream is to one day own a little cottage on a remote stretch of beach. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters.


Tour Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 10/10/13

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by Rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

**I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley as part of the blog tour in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.**


Monday, September 16, 2013

Stranded by Dani Pettrey: Book Blast + $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway!

Stranded (Alaskan Courage #3)

stranded
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.

dani 
Author Dani Pettrey

Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom and author. 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 one’s faith and plenty of romance. She’s a huge fan of dark chocolate, is always in search of the best iced mocha and her dream is to one day own a little cottage on a remote stretch of beach. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters.

stranded




BookBlast Giveaway

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 10/6/13

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

Thursday, March 7, 2013

Shattered by Dani Pettrey



Shattered
Alaskan Courage Series, Book 2
Bethany House, Jan 2013
ISBN: 9780764209833

When her prodigal brother Reef's return to Yancey, Alaska, is shattered by his arrest for murder, Piper McKenna is determined to protect him.

Deputy Landon Grainger loves the McKennas like family, but he's also sworn to find the truth. And he knows those closest to you have the power to deceive you the most. With his sheriff pushing for a quick conviction, some unexpected leads complicate the investigation, and pursuing the truth puts Landon's career in jeopardy.

When Piper launches her own investigation, Landon realizes he must protect her from herself--and whatever complications await as the two follow clues deep into Canada's rugged backcountry. Not only does their long friendship seem to be turning into something more, but this dangerous case is becoming deadlier with each step.

Read an excerpt.
Grab Your Copy: B&N | Amazon | CBD

My Review: After the agonizing wait I endured for this book to come, Shattered by Dani Pettrey, did not disappoint.  Dani Pettrey is an excellent writer.  She makes the characters come alive.  I feel like they are real (or maybe that's just my wild imagination). I get so involved with the characters and the story she tells that I don't want the book to end. This book leads us back to the side story from book one, Submerged. Piper McKenna and Deputy Landon Grainger are the main characters in this exciting story of murder, mystery, and of course, God's love.

Deputy Landon Grainger has sworn to uphold the law, see justice done, and protect those he loves.  He was "adopted" into the McKenna family and has known them for years.  He is strong, protective, and honest.  He is also in love, and fighting it every step of the way. I don't really know how else to describe Landon, except that I would want him fighting for me and protecting me :) (haha).

Piper McKenna is the baby of the family. She is sweet, loving, and tenderhearted woman who loves adventure, and can be independent and stubborn to a fault. Her and Landon have a unique relationship, him always trying to keep her out of trouble and from harm, and her pushing him to the limits whenever possible.  I love how everyone in these two books tries to shelter Piper as much as possible. Whenever something happens, the characters first reaction is "this will kill Piper"  or something to that effect. It really brings to light her character and how much everyone in the community, and especially her family, loves her.

The plot starts moving from the first page! The McKenna's long lost brother, Reef, shows up covered in blood, shortly after a woman has been murdered. He is arrested as the most logical suspect, and the evidence is unreal.  It's up to Piper to prove his innocence.  The twists and turns of this story will keep you on the edge of your seat, while the romance and the blossoming love will make you yearn to get to the ending (because of course, it's a happy one!). The message in this book is the same as in the first. God's love is all encompassing, and when a person REALLY, TRULY submits their lives, their hearts, their whole beings to God, they can change, no matter what they've done in the past.

I read this book in three days. THREE! That's how much I loved it. I wish the next book in the series (because there HAS to be another one) was out already! I need to know what happens between Darcy and Gage, Kayden and Jake, and then Reef! READ THIS BOOK! You won't regret it, I promise! ;)

**I was provided a free copy of this book by Bethany House Publishers for an honest review**



Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom and author. 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 one’s faith and plenty of romance. She’s a huge fan of dark chocolate, is always in search of the best iced mocha and her dream is to one day own a little cottage on a remote stretch of beach. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters.

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Submerged by Dani Pettrey



Submerged
Alaskan Courage Series, Book 1
ISBN-13: 9780764209826
Baker Publishing Group, 5/2012

A sabotaged plane. Two dead deep-water divers.

Yancey, Alaska was a quiet town...until the truth of what was hidden in the depths off the coast began to appear.

Bailey Craig vowed never to set foot in Yancey again. She has a past, and a reputation--and Yancey's a small town. She's returned to bury a loved one killed in the plane crash and is determined not to stay even an hour more than necessary. But then dark evidence emerges and Bailey's own expertise becomes invaluable for the case.

Cole McKenna can handle the deep-sea dives and helping the police recover evidence. He can even handle the fact that a murderer has settled in his town and doesn't appear to be moving on. But dealing with the reality of Bailey's reappearance is a tougher challenge. She broke his heart, but she is not the same girl who left Yancey. He let her down, but he's not the same guy she left behind. Can they move beyond the hurts of their pasts and find a future together?

Buy It: B&N | Amazon | CBD

My Review: I am so excited to be reviewing this book, because I know in a few days I'll have book #2 in the series! This was an excellent book, and I read it in 2 days! Submerged by Dani Pettrey is the first book in the Alaskan Courage series.  It takes us to a small town Yancey Alaska (I know, who would have thought!) :p and introduces us to a range of characters, but focuses on 2 main characters: Bailey Craig and Cole McKenna.

Cole McKenna is a search and rescue diver. He also owns an adventure tourist post in Yancey. So, when the plane carrying his friend Henry and the town's most beloved "Lady Agnes" he was immediately ready to help in the search and rescue mission.  As events unfold and it becomes clear that Agnes is not going to make it, his thoughts turn to Bailey. Bailey and Cole have a past. He hasn't seen  her in almost 12 years, not since she broke his heart and went on a downward spiral that absolutely killed him to watch.  However, 12 years have past and he's a different man. He's determined to befriend her again.

Bailey Craig is the niece and only family of Agnes. She is devastated at the news of her aunt's passing. She doesn't, however, want to go back to Yancey. She'd spent years after all, trying to forget her life there. She returns, with the intention of only staying a week, TOPS. She doesn't want to deal with her past, and she definitely doesn't want to see Cole, the one man she ever truly loved.

This book is filled with suspense, mystery, and a sweet love story.  As both characters struggle to come to terms with the past and all that happened between them, we see the underlying message of the book come to life. God loves us, and when we accept Him into our lives, we become NEW CREATURES! (Let me take a minute to shout right there, HALLELUJAH!) Old things are passed away, and we become like new. It also reminds us that when we hurt, we need to run TO God, not away from Him. He's the only one who can heal the hurt.

I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next one!!



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. Find Dani on Facebook or Twitter.