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Lantern Beach harbors a deadly secret.

With the remote North Carolina island thrown into chaos, scientist Rachel Atwood must use her expertise to find answers and try to stop a savage plot.

When Rachel is drawn into the danger, Jonah Gray—the man who stole her heart and then left her behind—returns to protect her.

Whether she wants him to or not.

Jonah made the biggest mistake of his life when he deserted Rachel. After someone attempts to abduct her, he knows he’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe—even if she doesn’t want to have anything to do with him.

Rachel and Jonah must put their minds together and their hearts at risk in order to stop the madness. Will they discover the truth in time? Or will the island’s secrets spill over onto distant shores?

338 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 21, 2023

238 people are currently reading
77 people want to read

About the author

Christy Barritt

340 books1,675 followers
Christy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.

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5 stars
747 (74%)
4 stars
203 (20%)
3 stars
52 (5%)
2 stars
4 (<1%)
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3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,172 reviews49 followers
August 26, 2023
Enjoyed reading Rachel and Jonah's story. Jonah left but returned to Lantern Beach when someone comes after Rachel. Rachel and Jonah are in a race to uncover a sinister plot involving Ocean Essence where Rachel works at before more people in Lantern Beach are affected.
I enjoyed the suspense and romance in this story and how the mystery surrounding Ocean Essence unfolded throughout this series and came to a satisfying conclusion in Secret Shores.
Profile Image for Marylin.
1,309 reviews44 followers
August 30, 2025
If you’ve read any of the Lantern Beach Exposure series, then you know there are a few crazy things going on and questions of how they might all be linked together.
In this final story, we revisit some of the past characters and learn about the developments in their lives. We also get to see how Police Chief Cassidy Chambers handles more threats to her sweet island. Will they find a solution to all the crazy things happening before the island is taken over? Can they find the help they need in time?
I LOVE all of Christy Barritt’s books because they are filled with action, intrigue, drama, suspense, and sometimes romance. She also has a way of keeping you on the edge of your seat, reading until the very last word.
Christy Barritt is a truly gifted author because her books are always filled with fascinating adventures, making it hard to put them down. How does she think of all these things?
This story is marked by a wave of crimes that seems to have no end. I didn’t want to put the book down until I finished it. I really wanted to find out what was happening and who the bad guy was.
My heart was pounding, and my mind was going fast, trying to figure out how it was all going to end. Oh, and what an ending!
Wow, what a ride!
If you like books that will take you on a ride for your life, then this is one you want to pick up!
I received this book from the author, which did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Robyn Seitzler.
216 reviews6 followers
August 25, 2023
Great Series Finale

Ocean Essence has raised suspicions since arriving on Lantern Beach and brilliant Rachel is in the midst as a two-Phd employee. Things get out of hand as a secret lab, states away, is found experimenting illegally on unsuspecting people, and Rachel’s name is on the project!
Jonah broke up with Rachel a while back because he wanted to keep her safe from the criminals coming after him. Now he’s back to protect her from threats of her own.
This is the kind of fast-paced, well written, clean suspense-mystery novel I have learned to expect from Christy Barritt. Realistic characters, vibrant settings, twisting plot, yep, it’s got it all. Enjoy!
256 reviews1 follower
August 25, 2023
Algae Lotion?

Christy Barritt and a couple more of my favorite Christian mystery/romance writers continue writing their constantly new, exhilerating and deeply woven mysteries in such diverse ideas that they can't keep up with my thirst for more of their stories. They take me away from this stressful, increasingly chaotic daily life to a place that gives me hope and joy.
I am constantly trying different authors, while waiting for another of their books to hit the shelves, only to be sadly disappointed in anything else.
I don't know how you are so inspired CHRISTY BARRITT, but please don't stop writing!
Profile Image for Holly.
708 reviews21 followers
September 5, 2023
Another fantastic ending to a great series!

I love how Christy brought this series full circle. Book 1 started with Rachel and Jonah and it's Rachel and Jonah who ultimately solve the mystery around Ocean Essence.

The action was good and a little intense from time to time. Watching Rachel and Jonah navigate their relationship while fighting to stay alive and stop the spreading madness on Lantern Beach.

In many ways the books in this series can stand alone, but to get the fullest impact of book 6 you really want to read them all (in order)!


Disclaimer: I did receive the book from the author, but was under no obligation to provide a review. All opinions expressed here are my own.
1,438 reviews12 followers
August 30, 2023
I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Wow! What a great ending to this series. It certainly keeps you on your toes in suspense and trying to determine who the bad guys are. Dr Rachel Atwood is again in danger, and Jonah Gray returns to protect her. When people start acting very strangely on the island, Police Chief Chambers has her hands full trying to figure out what is going on before more people are infected. Ocean Essence lab is the focus of the problems.
1 review
September 4, 2023
great characters and plot

I love your characters, I love the plots, but some of the descriptions and scenarios seem like cut and paste! You’re better than that, I’ve been reading all your series for years. Keep it fresh! You’re creative, positive, faith building and the world of literature needs you to be relevant too. Nefarious 5 times? Really? How about; illegal? Illicit? Evil? Criminal? Shady? Sketchy? I’ve never heard that word overused! Nor should anyone! Proof readers matters. Apparently. 🥹
195 reviews5 followers
September 28, 2023
Rachel was blindsided when she and Jonah were in a dating relationship, and with no explanation, he broke it off and left town. Then when Rachel's life is in danger, Jonah knows he has no choice to go back to Lantern Beach to protect her, whether she wants him there or not. Rachel doesn't understand why he left, Jonah thinks he did it for her own good. Even with a lot of tension between him, Rachel knows she is safer with Jonah at her side as they try to figure out the evil plot about to be rained down on Lantern Beach. I received a copy of this book to review. The opinions are my own.
88 reviews
February 5, 2024
Wow! Great story!

Ms. Barritt never disappoints, She is a master storyteller who has a way of grabbing your attention on the first page and keeping it until the end. And this is one of best.
I have read almost all of her books set on her Lantern Beach and would love to go there for real, but I since it's fictional, I let her take me there in her books.
Her characters are so full of life and even as she introduces new ones, she brings her others into the story, keeping the richness of Island alive. I can't wait for the next one!
414 reviews2 followers
August 22, 2023
A foster kid finds the love of his life on a island.

Loved being with this author again. Rachel and Jonah story was exciting from start to finish. He had left to protect her. She had thought she never see him again. Then the unexpected happened and Jonah was back. So save the woman who made his heart soar. So happy for another happy ending on Lantern Beach. Hope to see another story from Vanishing Ranch and also Lantern Beach.
769 reviews4 followers
August 24, 2023
have you ever dated

Someone you both knew it was right all the way to your toes and back. This is what Rachel felt about Jonah. BUT he broke her heart in a million pieces. With this mystery craziness going on at Latern Beach, Jonah is called Back to the Beach to help with the mystery. Once you start this book, don’t think you can lay this book down and come back and finish. Not gonna happen. Read and try to figure out the mystery and enjoy.
Profile Image for Kim.
721 reviews14 followers
August 24, 2023
Fantastic suspense with a chilling storyline wraps the Lantern Beach Exposure series. Bravery combined with hope leave a sweet aftertaste for fans who are invested in Jonah, Rachel, their friends and colleagues.

I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
86 reviews1 follower
August 24, 2023
Glad this series is over

I slugged thru them all. I have read a lot of Christy's books over the years but lately and especially with this series it has gotten to be sloppy writing. Similar plots, lots of same conversation in each book. Too many filler words and pages. She is a better writer than this. Pulp fiction. Hope she gets back on her game. For now I am loving on.
6 reviews
August 27, 2023
Oh, WOW!

Christy Barritt has once again kept me up, turning page after page, wanting to know what was going to happen next. Well done! God has blessed your writing talents mightily. Thank you for another great 👍 book. Looking forward to reading much more from your talented ability.
Profile Image for Karen O'Herron.
220 reviews2 followers
September 2, 2023
Beautiful

This book, as with all the books Christy Barritt writes, was beautifully written. There is always such a good plot and romance. All the books written based in Lantern Beach are awesome. Christy, please keep writing books based in Lantern Beach, but I also love your other books too. You keep writing and I will definitely keep reading.
1,435 reviews10 followers
September 3, 2023
Secret Shores by Christy Barritt is the fantastic conclusion to a series. With a secret formula, a terrorist on the island, and someone following Rachel- there is no shortage of suspense. I loved Jonah and Rachel’s story so much. I received a digital copy of this book from the author with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.
122 reviews7 followers
June 25, 2024
My thoughts: Secret Shores is another romantic suspense by Ms. Barritt. Fans will love revisiting Lantern Beach and recognizing some of the characters. The book is fast paced and will keep you guessing what will happen next and who=dun-it, If you like romantic suspense you will want to read this book. I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.
347 reviews1 follower
August 26, 2023
Another win for Lantern Beach

Hopefully the new development with Ocean Essence lab will bring tranquility back to Lantern Beach. With Jonah finding peace with Rachael all should be smooth sailing ahead for them. But then its Lantern Beach so who knows.
1,836 reviews12 followers
August 28, 2023
We come to the end of this series, I think. I've enjoyed the adventure. We learn who is behind using Ocean Essence for nefarious purposes. It's another good mystery that reaches many miles from Lantern Beach. I'll enjoy going back to the beginning to read this series straight through.
148 reviews
August 31, 2023
Another good one!

As expected Christy Barritt has given her readers another intriguing story. She has filled this series with entertaining characters, adventure, suspense and clean romance. If these are qualities you look for in your reading then give this book and series a try.
1,659 reviews11 followers
September 7, 2023
Exciting

Exciting conclusion to the Exposure series on Lantern Beach. I like how Jonah and Rachel work together as well as with Cassidy and all to find the answers. Really enjoyed this.
Profile Image for Barbara Carter.
459 reviews21 followers
September 12, 2023
Bad guys abound all around

The book was a good read. Full of intrigue and excitement. People needing reconciliation, love in suspense….anyone wanting an escape, and a challenge to see what comes next.
197 reviews1 follower
September 13, 2023
good read

There's no another writer that capture my reading greed. I love reading and Christy Barritt is my answer. God answer prayers. Thank you for letting him use you in this profession.
352 reviews1 follower
December 16, 2023
All is well that ends well.

A fast paced somewhat religious story with adventure and intrigue. Don’t think Lantern Beach is a place I would think about staying at. But maybe with all the bad guys caught it might be a place worth visiting. Recommended
181 reviews
December 30, 2023
Such a wonderful, intriguing mystery!! I love lantern beach novels so much! You will not be disappointed by this book or series at all!! The plots and characters are fantastic and the mysteries are intriguing. So, so good! Would recommend to everyone!
Profile Image for Conny Orr.
25 reviews1 follower
January 9, 2024
Another perfect plot

I always try to figure out who done
it as I'm reading. As usual Christy Barrett kept me pondering on all the events. This book was just another reason I just can't get enough of Christy Barrett!
2 reviews
June 22, 2024
Christy Barritt books

I've read every book Christy Barrier has written. She's my favorite author, and she can't write fast enough. My favorites are the ones about Lantern Beach. How about some more with Serena, Christy and keep us updated on Cassidy!
Profile Image for Cherie Melbourne.
1,378 reviews15 followers
July 29, 2025
Secret Shores

The unexplained has now been explained. A very huge way for the mystery to come out. I liked the way this story unfolded and I'm glad Rachael and Jonah have their HEA.
829 reviews3 followers
August 23, 2023
Wow!

Suspense complete with red herrings, realistic characters to root for, and a second chance romance kept me reading straight through. You won't be disappointed.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews

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