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Desperation Reef
In this high-stakes thriller by three-time Edgar Award winner and New York Times bestselling author T. Jefferson Parker, ("A marvel...hits the high-water mark for crime fiction every time out." ―Gregg Hurwitz), a big wave surfer and her sons compete in the same contest that killed her husband many years before.
Jen Stonebreaker hasn't entered into a big-wave surfing competition since witnessing her husband's tragic death twenty-five years ago at the Monsters of the Mavericks. Now, Jen is ready to tackle those same Monsters with her twin sons Casey and Brock, who have become competitive surfers in a perilous sport.
When he’s not riding waves, modeling for surfing magazines, or posting viral content for his many fans, Casey Stonebreaker spends his days helping with the family restaurant ― catching fish in the morning and bartending at night. Casey’s love for the ocean and his willingness to expose illegal poachers on his platforms puts him on a collision course with a crime syndicate eager to destroy anyone threatening their business.
Outspoken Brock Stonebreaker couldn’t be more different from his twin. The founder of Breath of Life, a church and rescue mission that assists with natural disasters that no one else will touch, Brock has lived an adventurous and sometimes violent life. Not everyone appreciates the work that Brock's Breath of Life mission accomplishes, and threats to destroy his mission―and his family―swirl around him.
As the big-wave contest draws closer, a huge, late fall swell is headed toward the Pacific coastline. Jen's fears gnaw at her ― fear for herself, for her sons, for what this competition will mean for the rest of her life.
Jen Stonebreaker hasn't entered into a big-wave surfing competition since witnessing her husband's tragic death twenty-five years ago at the Monsters of the Mavericks. Now, Jen is ready to tackle those same Monsters with her twin sons Casey and Brock, who have become competitive surfers in a perilous sport.
When he’s not riding waves, modeling for surfing magazines, or posting viral content for his many fans, Casey Stonebreaker spends his days helping with the family restaurant ― catching fish in the morning and bartending at night. Casey’s love for the ocean and his willingness to expose illegal poachers on his platforms puts him on a collision course with a crime syndicate eager to destroy anyone threatening their business.
Outspoken Brock Stonebreaker couldn’t be more different from his twin. The founder of Breath of Life, a church and rescue mission that assists with natural disasters that no one else will touch, Brock has lived an adventurous and sometimes violent life. Not everyone appreciates the work that Brock's Breath of Life mission accomplishes, and threats to destroy his mission―and his family―swirl around him.
As the big-wave contest draws closer, a huge, late fall swell is headed toward the Pacific coastline. Jen's fears gnaw at her ― fear for herself, for her sons, for what this competition will mean for the rest of her life.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published July 16, 2024
109 people are currently reading
5649 people want to read
About the author
T. Jefferson Parker
99 books852 followersT. Jefferson Parker is the bestselling author of 26 crime novels, including Edgar Award-winners SILENT JOE and CALIFORNIA GIRL. Parker's next work is coming-of-age thriller, A THOUSAND STEPS, set for January of 2022. He lives with his family in a small town in north San Diego County, and enjoys fishing, hiking and beachcombing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
July 16, 2024
Both empowering and cautionary, T. Jefferson Parker’s high-stakes thriller examines how far we’ll go (1) to protect those we love, (2) to overcome fear, and (3) to deal with loss and recovery. Parker’s subplot shows readers the ripple effects of standing up for one’s beliefs.
I chose this book because I wanted to know why someone who had witnessed her husband’s death would want to compete in the same contest years later. To me, a non-risk taker, this seemed absurd.
Parker’s book spotlights big wave surfer, Jen Stonebreaker, and her twin sons, Brock and Casey, as they compete in Monsters of the Mavericks, the same contest that killed her husband many years ago.
I appreciated how the author opened up the world of surfing and showed readers what keeps these extreme sports enthusiasts racing to the water, surfboard in hand. I also appreciated how he invited readers into the Stonebreakers’ relationship from the beginning as it connects us to them and the trauma has a bigger impact. As I age, I notice that I have an increased self-preservation drive and I wondered if this was the same for Jen. As the late Fall swell headed for the Pacific coast and the date of the Mavericks neared, would she feel an increase in her anxiety and/or stress? Would her age play a factor? What about the mental impact? I had to find out what this competition would mean for Jen as well as her sons. Could she get closure?
I felt that the subplots and ‘antics’ of her sons at times overpowered Jen’s struggle. As I neared the end, I could see how her renewed sense of emotional resilience despite being stripped of everything and experiencing profound loss. The sons’ actions played a part in savoring the sweet success. I closed the book wondering if the occasion arose, would I feel as strongly as Casey about speaking up for what’s right?
This was a deliciously intense and compelling read!
I was gifted this copy by Tor Publishing Group, Forge Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I chose this book because I wanted to know why someone who had witnessed her husband’s death would want to compete in the same contest years later. To me, a non-risk taker, this seemed absurd.
Parker’s book spotlights big wave surfer, Jen Stonebreaker, and her twin sons, Brock and Casey, as they compete in Monsters of the Mavericks, the same contest that killed her husband many years ago.
I appreciated how the author opened up the world of surfing and showed readers what keeps these extreme sports enthusiasts racing to the water, surfboard in hand. I also appreciated how he invited readers into the Stonebreakers’ relationship from the beginning as it connects us to them and the trauma has a bigger impact. As I age, I notice that I have an increased self-preservation drive and I wondered if this was the same for Jen. As the late Fall swell headed for the Pacific coast and the date of the Mavericks neared, would she feel an increase in her anxiety and/or stress? Would her age play a factor? What about the mental impact? I had to find out what this competition would mean for Jen as well as her sons. Could she get closure?
I felt that the subplots and ‘antics’ of her sons at times overpowered Jen’s struggle. As I neared the end, I could see how her renewed sense of emotional resilience despite being stripped of everything and experiencing profound loss. The sons’ actions played a part in savoring the sweet success. I closed the book wondering if the occasion arose, would I feel as strongly as Casey about speaking up for what’s right?
This was a deliciously intense and compelling read!
I was gifted this copy by Tor Publishing Group, Forge Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
June 23, 2024
Desperation Reef. It sounds so sinister. The title, the cover, the blurb-they all drew me in and I couldn’t wait to listen to the audiobook. Womp womp.
Maybe it’s my mistake, but I got the impression this would be more of a murder mystery/thriller, but rather it’s a love letter to surf culture (which to be fair, it hits) layered with social commentary, race issues, immigration politics, and some awkward stereotyping. Not what I was expecting. 2 ⭐️
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to listen to and review this advanced audiobook!
Maybe it’s my mistake, but I got the impression this would be more of a murder mystery/thriller, but rather it’s a love letter to surf culture (which to be fair, it hits) layered with social commentary, race issues, immigration politics, and some awkward stereotyping. Not what I was expecting. 2 ⭐️
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to listen to and review this advanced audiobook!
May 31, 2024
I'm a huge fan of Parker's books and this one was a delight in so many ways! Jen and John got together as surfers in Newport Beach, married and had twins, Casey and Brock. But John was killed by a huge wave and Jen blames herself as she was piloting the wave runner that took him out to the massive swell but was unable to save him when he crashed into the rocks. Now 25 years later, she writes a "blog" of sorts about surfing and what happened in those early days. She also owns The Barrel, a popular bar and restaurant her sons work at and both tourists and regulars rave about. But when a "turf" war begins, things run amok and tensions are high as violence escalates and we are never sure what the outcome may be. Parker captures the surfing culture, the migrant situation, as well as family loyalty and lies. It kept me on the edge of my seat and had me weeping at the end. This is Parker at his finest!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
August 16, 2024
An homage to big wave surfing as much as a mystery.
I struggled understanding the relationship between one young man and the woman who kidnaps his dog…dealbreaker!
I struggled understanding the relationship between one young man and the woman who kidnaps his dog…dealbreaker!
May 31, 2024
I feel like I wasted a bit of my time with this one. So glad it was a listen while I clean read and not an actual read. Not trying to be rude. Just really didn’t care for the storyline, the characters, or the unnecessary politics. Not for me.
Thank you netgalley for the AAC
Thank you netgalley for the AAC
April 5, 2024
ARC for review. To be published July 16, 2024.
Jen Stonebreaker’s husband John was killed in a surfing competition twenty-five years ago and Jen hasn’t entered one since. Now she’s ready to compete in the very competition where he lost his life, alongside their twin sons, Brock and Casey.
Casey works in the family restaurant and is a part-time model along with being a professional surfer. He recently exposed some illegal poachers and they are seeking revenge.
Brock is also a big-time surfer but he spends most of his time with Breath of alice, a church and rescue mission he founded that helps with natural disasters. Not everyone appreciates the work he does and he has to keep an eye on his enemies.
As the surfing contest approaches, bad weather is on the way, so much is at risk for the Stonebreakers, on all fronts.
I did not love this book, but maybe if you really appreciate surfing. Or like this author, he has written a bunch of books, so I’m assuming he has some sort of following. I did not buy Casey’s relationship at all….she kidnapped and ransomed your beloved dog. That is really a dealbreaker. You don’t come back from that. The whole premise felt stilted and I just wasn’t a fan.
Jen Stonebreaker’s husband John was killed in a surfing competition twenty-five years ago and Jen hasn’t entered one since. Now she’s ready to compete in the very competition where he lost his life, alongside their twin sons, Brock and Casey.
Casey works in the family restaurant and is a part-time model along with being a professional surfer. He recently exposed some illegal poachers and they are seeking revenge.
Brock is also a big-time surfer but he spends most of his time with Breath of alice, a church and rescue mission he founded that helps with natural disasters. Not everyone appreciates the work he does and he has to keep an eye on his enemies.
As the surfing contest approaches, bad weather is on the way, so much is at risk for the Stonebreakers, on all fronts.
I did not love this book, but maybe if you really appreciate surfing. Or like this author, he has written a bunch of books, so I’m assuming he has some sort of following. I did not buy Casey’s relationship at all….she kidnapped and ransomed your beloved dog. That is really a dealbreaker. You don’t come back from that. The whole premise felt stilted and I just wasn’t a fan.
July 27, 2024
Years ago, while living in the Bay Area, I found TJP while wandering down the aisle in my local library and took a chance.
Since then, I have read everything TJP has written starting with California Girl then Silent Joe...then backing up and starting his books from his first. He had the devil by the tail with his cartel/border wars series. After that was over, he kind of lost his footing but never his art.
With this book, it is astonishing how much of an artist this man is - his research, word and concept crafting, pacing, his depth of understanding. I put this book on par with Silent Joe. I only hope/wish I could express myself in print as well as he does. Someday maybe. He is a benchmark as no other author I have read.
Subject Matter: Comments about climate change and stereotyping bad guys: One - climates change, that is what they do and always have. Just ask the dinosaurs. Two - Not all those on the right are gun-toting Neanderthals - that treatment is just too pat for the bad guys. This lowered the overall quality of this book a bit.
I realize that the author probably tears his hair out on occasion when trying to reach for his muse BUT he has found it again and then some with this book.
Bravo TJP, bravo.
Since then, I have read everything TJP has written starting with California Girl then Silent Joe...then backing up and starting his books from his first. He had the devil by the tail with his cartel/border wars series. After that was over, he kind of lost his footing but never his art.
With this book, it is astonishing how much of an artist this man is - his research, word and concept crafting, pacing, his depth of understanding. I put this book on par with Silent Joe. I only hope/wish I could express myself in print as well as he does. Someday maybe. He is a benchmark as no other author I have read.
Subject Matter: Comments about climate change and stereotyping bad guys: One - climates change, that is what they do and always have. Just ask the dinosaurs. Two - Not all those on the right are gun-toting Neanderthals - that treatment is just too pat for the bad guys. This lowered the overall quality of this book a bit.
I realize that the author probably tears his hair out on occasion when trying to reach for his muse BUT he has found it again and then some with this book.
Bravo TJP, bravo.
dnf
July 29, 2024DNF'd at 20%. I'm not sure what exactly wasn't working for me, but this book was just not keeping my attention. It might be because it's somewhat of a multigenerational family story and I didn't find their situation or perspectives particularly interesting. I was hoping for more of an action-packed thriller - maybe I'll come back to this someday to get further, but for now it wasn't giving that to me from the start.
July 25, 2024
T. Jefferson Parker doesn't need my approval or my endorsement. He doesn't even need the pr a good review provides. I've gotten starred reviews in PW, been nominated for awards, and he and I even shared an agent once. But if I received one-hundredth, no, one-thousandth the accolades he's gotten I might be well-known enough to make a living writing thrillers.
Here's the thing, T. Jefferson Parker has never written a book I didn't like, that wasn't in some way masterful. There's something about "Desperation Reef," however, that's special, lyrical. It just might be his best book since "California Girl." Just saying...
Here's the thing, T. Jefferson Parker has never written a book I didn't like, that wasn't in some way masterful. There's something about "Desperation Reef," however, that's special, lyrical. It just might be his best book since "California Girl." Just saying...
June 27, 2024
I loved this big-wave, big-drama, suspenseful read. Set in Southern California and starring a family of very intense surfers—a mom, her twin 24-year old sons, and the very large presence and legend their husband/dad left behind when he died during a surf competition 25 years ago.
There’s a mob connection, a surf competition, a kidnapped dog, sabotage, rough riders, and so much more. If you’re looking for an adventure-focused summer read with no dull moments, you’ve found it!
There’s a mob connection, a surf competition, a kidnapped dog, sabotage, rough riders, and so much more. If you’re looking for an adventure-focused summer read with no dull moments, you’ve found it!
January 9, 2025
Sadly, the best thing about this book, was that it ended.
I really wanted to like this book, I tried. I’m a true CA girl spending the first half of my life on in the bay on the peninsula in NorCal just above HMB and the 2nd half of my life in OC. So many odd plot points that didn’t relate to each other, unlikeable characters, lots of build up that didn’t pan out. It was hard to pick this story back up, it felt like it never ended.
I really wanted to like this book, I tried. I’m a true CA girl spending the first half of my life on in the bay on the peninsula in NorCal just above HMB and the 2nd half of my life in OC. So many odd plot points that didn’t relate to each other, unlikeable characters, lots of build up that didn’t pan out. It was hard to pick this story back up, it felt like it never ended.
September 21, 2024
DNF.
Caught my eye on the library shelf.
I’ve never been 50% of the way through a book and just be done.
Not a fan. Not what I expected from the description.
Too much politics where it doesn’t even fit.
Sorry. I tried.
Caught my eye on the library shelf.
I’ve never been 50% of the way through a book and just be done.
Not a fan. Not what I expected from the description.
Too much politics where it doesn’t even fit.
Sorry. I tried.
July 16, 2024
A family of surfers confronts giant waves and their personal demons at the Monsters of the Mavericks. Jen Stonebreaker lost her husband, John, 25 years ago in a tragic accident at the Mavericks. She hasn't surfed competitively since. Now she and her twin sons, Casey and Brock, are preparing to enter the competition.
Jen has never gotten over the guilt and grief of John's death. She has poured her life into running her seaside restaurant and caring for her two sons.
Casey and Brock are twins with strikingly different personalities. Both are world-class surfers, but the resemblance ends there. Casey is more of a typical laid-back surfer. He fishes for his Mom's restaurant in the morning and bartends there at night. In between he models and surfs. While fishing, Casey sees a group of pirates illegally finning sharks. He captures it on video and shares it to his social media and law enforcement. This kicks off a high-stakes confrontation with the pirates.
Brock is an unconventional do-gooder and preacher. He and his wife and his Go Dog organization run to the sites of hurricanes, floods and fires to provide aid and relief. He also has his own church and a compound that assists people who need help getting back on their feet. While Casey is more of a turn-the-other-cheek type, Brock is more likely to turn your cheek with his fists. He has drawn the ire of a local white supremacist group that doesn't like the color of the skin of those Brock chooses to help.
All three are training hard for the Mavericks. Casey and Brock for the love of the sport, and for Jen it is an effort to conquer the fear and guilt that has dogged her for 25 years. The story remains interesting throughout in Parker's hands and moves along quickly, spending time with each of the main characters. The surf scenes are exciting and feel realistic. All the individual plots come to a head at or around the Mavericks.
The story is never boring, but neither is it ever truly exciting. The family relationship and struggles are well done. The individual trials seemed a bit dry and none of the reveals were ever truly shocking. The treatment of the illegal fishers/pirates felt unrealistic, particularly in their interactions with Casey.
If you are a big fan of surfing, you are likely to enjoy this book. It is also a really interesting story of family dynamics. As a straight-up thriller, it is more of a miss.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher.
Jen has never gotten over the guilt and grief of John's death. She has poured her life into running her seaside restaurant and caring for her two sons.
Casey and Brock are twins with strikingly different personalities. Both are world-class surfers, but the resemblance ends there. Casey is more of a typical laid-back surfer. He fishes for his Mom's restaurant in the morning and bartends there at night. In between he models and surfs. While fishing, Casey sees a group of pirates illegally finning sharks. He captures it on video and shares it to his social media and law enforcement. This kicks off a high-stakes confrontation with the pirates.
Brock is an unconventional do-gooder and preacher. He and his wife and his Go Dog organization run to the sites of hurricanes, floods and fires to provide aid and relief. He also has his own church and a compound that assists people who need help getting back on their feet. While Casey is more of a turn-the-other-cheek type, Brock is more likely to turn your cheek with his fists. He has drawn the ire of a local white supremacist group that doesn't like the color of the skin of those Brock chooses to help.
All three are training hard for the Mavericks. Casey and Brock for the love of the sport, and for Jen it is an effort to conquer the fear and guilt that has dogged her for 25 years. The story remains interesting throughout in Parker's hands and moves along quickly, spending time with each of the main characters. The surf scenes are exciting and feel realistic. All the individual plots come to a head at or around the Mavericks.
The story is never boring, but neither is it ever truly exciting. The family relationship and struggles are well done. The individual trials seemed a bit dry and none of the reveals were ever truly shocking. The treatment of the illegal fishers/pirates felt unrealistic, particularly in their interactions with Casey.
If you are a big fan of surfing, you are likely to enjoy this book. It is also a really interesting story of family dynamics. As a straight-up thriller, it is more of a miss.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher.
July 4, 2025
While the storyline is somewhat interesting, the execution of this one is just strange. The writing is strange, the characters are very one dimensional, and in most cases, stupid. Also, holy stereotypes, Batman!
January 6, 2025
Kept waiting for it to get better, build to a climax. Never really happened. Then it went *pfffft* and it was done. Good descriptions, thin plot line. 🤷🏼♀️
May 28, 2024
Jen lost her husband 25 years ago, to some massive waves when they were surfing, and since then she stopped surfing.
Now, 25 years later, her twin sons have become professional surfers (even though they lead different lives now and in different states) and Jen herlself decided that, to overcome her fear of the sea and to fight her demons over her husband's death, at last she will enter a surf competition and surf the same waves that killed her husband.
Other characters are related and connected with this small family and everything takes places at an adorable coastal town, which becomes threatened by an imminent natural disaster.
Personally, I don't mind surf - don't mind the sport itself but also don't mind reading a book about it, so to read those characters talking surf was fine to me. I know it's bothered some readers, but I was okay with that. Actually, if all that talk is accurate, I admire the author for taking time and patience to do some research on the subject.
I also enjoyed the family dynamic, when they were all together.
However, I didn't particularly like the POVs of the characters separetely. And there were some characters that just didn't interest me.
What's more, because there is a church and religious characters, there is (obviously) some religious topics being adressed.
I am not a Christian, so, in theory, I don't enjoy reading Christian stuff of any kind. However, I might not dislike or feel annoyed if I feel the authors/characters are not preaching; if they're just making comments. Sadly, this book was not the latter case. I did feel like the author was preaching. So, it bothered me. It annoyed me. Everytime the religious...Jesus..God...whatever plot was being discussed, it completely pulled me out of the story. I just didn't care and I wanted that to be over.
I'm sure people who think the opposite of me won't mind that at all, and I'm happy for them.
In general, this story intrigued me at first and I was curious till the end - and there is some revelation at the end that I was not expecting!
But it failed to hold my attention in different moments with certain characters.
The audiobook, however, was really good, in my opinion. I highly recommend the audio version. The 2 narrators did a terrific job.
Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher Macmillan Audio, for allowing me to listen to a free advanced copy of this novel.
Now, 25 years later, her twin sons have become professional surfers (even though they lead different lives now and in different states) and Jen herlself decided that, to overcome her fear of the sea and to fight her demons over her husband's death, at last she will enter a surf competition and surf the same waves that killed her husband.
Other characters are related and connected with this small family and everything takes places at an adorable coastal town, which becomes threatened by an imminent natural disaster.
Personally, I don't mind surf - don't mind the sport itself but also don't mind reading a book about it, so to read those characters talking surf was fine to me. I know it's bothered some readers, but I was okay with that. Actually, if all that talk is accurate, I admire the author for taking time and patience to do some research on the subject.
I also enjoyed the family dynamic, when they were all together.
However, I didn't particularly like the POVs of the characters separetely. And there were some characters that just didn't interest me.
What's more, because there is a church and religious characters, there is (obviously) some religious topics being adressed.
I am not a Christian, so, in theory, I don't enjoy reading Christian stuff of any kind. However, I might not dislike or feel annoyed if I feel the authors/characters are not preaching; if they're just making comments. Sadly, this book was not the latter case. I did feel like the author was preaching. So, it bothered me. It annoyed me. Everytime the religious...Jesus..God...whatever plot was being discussed, it completely pulled me out of the story. I just didn't care and I wanted that to be over.
I'm sure people who think the opposite of me won't mind that at all, and I'm happy for them.
In general, this story intrigued me at first and I was curious till the end - and there is some revelation at the end that I was not expecting!
But it failed to hold my attention in different moments with certain characters.
The audiobook, however, was really good, in my opinion. I highly recommend the audio version. The 2 narrators did a terrific job.
Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher Macmillan Audio, for allowing me to listen to a free advanced copy of this novel.
July 16, 2024
Rating: 2/5 Stars ⭐️⭐️
•
Let me first and foremost say this cover is absolutely stunning. As soon as I saw it, I was like yeahhhh I need that book. Synopsis sounded even more enticing. Totally thought I was going to get the ultimate surfing / beach vibes….
•
This unfortunately didn’t really work for me, what I expected as a thriller turned out to be more of a saga of different events. This was a huge ode to surfing - which I absolutely love because surfing will always hold a special place in my heart. Personally, I’d have rather the story focused on the surfing aspect rather than the whole “thriller” part. There was also a love story thrown in there that was meh.
•
Desperation Reef is told in multiple points of view, between Jen, Brock and Casey. The characters weren’t anything overly special, a few were a smidge annoying for my taste - but thats totally a me problem.
•
I listened to this one via audiobook and it was super easy to follow. It was narrated by Major Curda and Stephanie Nemeth-Parker. They were great, loved them.
•
Overall, this one was a miss for me, but that does not mean that it will be a miss for you. Check this one out! It released on 7/16. Huge thank you to NetGalley, MacMillan Audio and T. Jefferson Parker for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
•
Let me first and foremost say this cover is absolutely stunning. As soon as I saw it, I was like yeahhhh I need that book. Synopsis sounded even more enticing. Totally thought I was going to get the ultimate surfing / beach vibes….
•
This unfortunately didn’t really work for me, what I expected as a thriller turned out to be more of a saga of different events. This was a huge ode to surfing - which I absolutely love because surfing will always hold a special place in my heart. Personally, I’d have rather the story focused on the surfing aspect rather than the whole “thriller” part. There was also a love story thrown in there that was meh.
•
Desperation Reef is told in multiple points of view, between Jen, Brock and Casey. The characters weren’t anything overly special, a few were a smidge annoying for my taste - but thats totally a me problem.
•
I listened to this one via audiobook and it was super easy to follow. It was narrated by Major Curda and Stephanie Nemeth-Parker. They were great, loved them.
•
Overall, this one was a miss for me, but that does not mean that it will be a miss for you. Check this one out! It released on 7/16. Huge thank you to NetGalley, MacMillan Audio and T. Jefferson Parker for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
August 16, 2024
I know little about surfing, but I imagine surfer aficionados will love this book. No one else need apply. The author seems to know a lot about the sport, dropping names, lingo and locations. That is good. The rest is almost juvenile. Several of T. Jeff’s latest books have left me wondering where the guy has gone. I’ve been a reader since his early books and found most of them exciting and well written. But this latest book is filled with cardboard characters: a bible thumper son whose twin brother is an alternative religion preacher, throw in shark fin thieves, right wing goons. Their mother lost her surfer husband before the kids were born, but no matter that the father died in a surfing competition, she pushes them on. There are some bad guys, targeting each brother, but they are pretty standard, too. I did not dislike these main characters, but they did foolish things, all in the name of the surfer paradise of finding God or “freedom” in the sport. The confession story embedded in the novel is pure high-school jealousy. I hope surfing fans get a thrill from the surfing scenes. The whole book left me bored.
December 21, 2024
I picked this book up from the "new reads" section of my local library. I'm obsessed with the sport of big wave surfing, and have read so many books about big waves and surf culture (my favorite one being the Pulitzer prize-winning "Barbarian Days," also listed by this author in his "acknowledgements"), so this one about a woman surfer who lost her husband to a monster wave appealed to me. There are quite a few different stories woven into the central theme, with elements of crime, religion, mystery and disloyalty amongst its pages. I really enjoyed this, T. Jefferson Parker! It took me on a wild, exciting surfing journey!
September 19, 2024
This was not what I was expecting and was the closest I have come to DNFing a book. The dialog was so cringy and like something out of a bad YA story. Did they even read out load before they sent it to print? The cultural and racial stereotyping was strong and awkward at times. There was not much "thriller" or "mystery" as much as surfers, religion, eco warrior, and turf war with a fall for the bad girl who turns good thrown in for good measure. For a book so bad, there was a lot going on and nothing at all. I have also never been over hearing Brah.
July 9, 2024
This thriller was a real page turner for me. It was set in the surfing world where surfers compete in contests to ride huge waves. Jen hasn't entered the big-wave surfing competition in 25 years, ever since her husband was killed while competing. Now she's ready to try to overcome her fear and compete again along with her 25 year old twin sons who are both well known in the surfing world. Casey is a world class surfer who bartends at the family restaurant, models surf clothing and fishes to provide the restaurant with fresh fish. At the beginning of the novel, he records illegal poachers at sea which puts him in danger with a crime syndicate . His twin brother Brock, is the founder of a church that helps people and takes chances in natural disasters that other groups won't. He also opens his church to the homeless no matter their background. This puts him in danger from a group of people who want to get rid of the immigrants and the homeless. As Jen and her two sons continue to prepare for the big wave competition her fears began to grow as she worries about her life and the safety of her sons.
I really enjoyed this book and it had me quickly turning pages to find out the results of the surfing competition. Along with that both sons had people that were threatening them and their family as they tried to do work that helped other people.
I always enjoy reading a book that teaches me something new. As a Midwesterner, I know nothing about surfing -- my knowledge of the subject has probably come from Beach Boys songs. There was a lot of surfing information in this book -- I found some of it redundant and boring but some of it was very interesting especially about Mavericks waves and the surfers who compete to surf them. The massive waves at a beach in California can routinely crest at over 25 ft and top out at over 60 ft. The videos of the surfers on these massive waves was fantastic and very frightening.
The author has written 26 novels - including two that won the Edgar Award - but he's still a new author to me. I enjoyed this book so much that I've just ordered his two award winning books and am really looking forward to his page turning suspense stories.
I really enjoyed this book and it had me quickly turning pages to find out the results of the surfing competition. Along with that both sons had people that were threatening them and their family as they tried to do work that helped other people.
I always enjoy reading a book that teaches me something new. As a Midwesterner, I know nothing about surfing -- my knowledge of the subject has probably come from Beach Boys songs. There was a lot of surfing information in this book -- I found some of it redundant and boring but some of it was very interesting especially about Mavericks waves and the surfers who compete to surf them. The massive waves at a beach in California can routinely crest at over 25 ft and top out at over 60 ft. The videos of the surfers on these massive waves was fantastic and very frightening.
The author has written 26 novels - including two that won the Edgar Award - but he's still a new author to me. I enjoyed this book so much that I've just ordered his two award winning books and am really looking forward to his page turning suspense stories.
June 10, 2024
Book Title: Desperation Reef
Author: T. Jefferson Parker
Publisher: Tor Publishing Group/Forge Books
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: July 16, 2024
My Rating: 3.3 Stars!
Pages: 320
Twenty-five years ago Jen Stonebreaker lost her husband John in a surfing competition Jen has stayed away from surfing competition until now. She and her twin sons Brock and Casey are going to compete in the competition where John was killed. Jen and her sons are hopeful of winning the $50,000 prize.
Although the boys both love surfing, their lives are very different.
Casey works in the family restaurant and is a part-time model for a surfing magazine.
On day he was filming and saw poachers illegally finning sharks. When he posts the video on social media, the illegal poachers are upset and out for revenge.
Brock is also a surfer but he spends most of his time with Breath of Life, a church and rescue mission he founded that helps with natural disasters. Brock has lived an adventurous and sometimes violent life. Not everyone appreciates his involvement and they are threats to destroy his mission—and his family.
T. Jefferson Parker is a hometown guy! He lived in Tustin (where I live) moved from LA when he was 5 years old and attended local schools as well as college. Then moved to nearby Laguna Beach and worked in Irvine. He now lives in Fallbrook in North San Diego County. Many of his stories are based in SoCal.
I have to admit not my fav but I will read his next story.
I was looking forward to his acknowledgements or Author’s Note and enjoyed that he told us about going to Newport Beach for his somewhat short wave-riding career.
I completely understand as a high school guidance counselor at a high school 12
miles away and often had students come to school wet from their morning ride in
the Newport Beach Surf!
Want to thank NetGalley and Tor Publishing Group/Forge Books for granting me this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for July 16, 2024.
Author: T. Jefferson Parker
Publisher: Tor Publishing Group/Forge Books
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: July 16, 2024
My Rating: 3.3 Stars!
Pages: 320
Twenty-five years ago Jen Stonebreaker lost her husband John in a surfing competition Jen has stayed away from surfing competition until now. She and her twin sons Brock and Casey are going to compete in the competition where John was killed. Jen and her sons are hopeful of winning the $50,000 prize.
Although the boys both love surfing, their lives are very different.
Casey works in the family restaurant and is a part-time model for a surfing magazine.
On day he was filming and saw poachers illegally finning sharks. When he posts the video on social media, the illegal poachers are upset and out for revenge.
Brock is also a surfer but he spends most of his time with Breath of Life, a church and rescue mission he founded that helps with natural disasters. Brock has lived an adventurous and sometimes violent life. Not everyone appreciates his involvement and they are threats to destroy his mission—and his family.
T. Jefferson Parker is a hometown guy! He lived in Tustin (where I live) moved from LA when he was 5 years old and attended local schools as well as college. Then moved to nearby Laguna Beach and worked in Irvine. He now lives in Fallbrook in North San Diego County. Many of his stories are based in SoCal.
I have to admit not my fav but I will read his next story.
I was looking forward to his acknowledgements or Author’s Note and enjoyed that he told us about going to Newport Beach for his somewhat short wave-riding career.
I completely understand as a high school guidance counselor at a high school 12
miles away and often had students come to school wet from their morning ride in
the Newport Beach Surf!
Want to thank NetGalley and Tor Publishing Group/Forge Books for granting me this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for July 16, 2024.
June 17, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC (in audiobook format).
I wasn't a fan of the narration of this audiobook - it made the story seem even more lightweight somehow, the high pitched female voice, ear slitting sharp, and Casey's voice, with a lack of solidity somehow.
In the vast ocean of thrillers, T. Jefferson Parker’s “Desperation Reef” offers a ride through the high-stakes world of big-wave surfing and the tumultuous waters of family bonds.
The novel plunges us into the life of Jen Stonebreaker, a woman who has navigated the treacherous currents of grief and guilt since the tragic death of her husband at the Monsters of the Mavericks competition. After a hiatus of twenty-five years, she’s ready to face the monstrous waves again—this time with her twin sons, Casey and Brock, by her side.
Casey, the charismatic surfer and social media sensation, finds himself in choppy waters as he confronts illegal poachers threatening the marine sanctuary he cherishes. Meanwhile, Brock, the founder of Breath of Life, a church and rescue mission, grapples with the undercurrents of hostility from those who oppose his altruistic endeavors.
Parker masterfully weaves these narratives together, building a swell of suspense that crests as the Stonebreaker family confronts their fears and adversaries at the fateful surf competition. The author’s prose is as crisp and invigorating as the sea spray, with each subplot unfurling like a wave, drawing us deeper into the Stonebreakers’ world.
“Desperation Reef” is a gripping tale that rides the wave of family drama to deliver a story as powerful and unpredictable story.
Wasn't my favorite by this talented author, but if you are a surfing fan, might be just your cuppa.
I wasn't a fan of the narration of this audiobook - it made the story seem even more lightweight somehow, the high pitched female voice, ear slitting sharp, and Casey's voice, with a lack of solidity somehow.
In the vast ocean of thrillers, T. Jefferson Parker’s “Desperation Reef” offers a ride through the high-stakes world of big-wave surfing and the tumultuous waters of family bonds.
The novel plunges us into the life of Jen Stonebreaker, a woman who has navigated the treacherous currents of grief and guilt since the tragic death of her husband at the Monsters of the Mavericks competition. After a hiatus of twenty-five years, she’s ready to face the monstrous waves again—this time with her twin sons, Casey and Brock, by her side.
Casey, the charismatic surfer and social media sensation, finds himself in choppy waters as he confronts illegal poachers threatening the marine sanctuary he cherishes. Meanwhile, Brock, the founder of Breath of Life, a church and rescue mission, grapples with the undercurrents of hostility from those who oppose his altruistic endeavors.
Parker masterfully weaves these narratives together, building a swell of suspense that crests as the Stonebreaker family confronts their fears and adversaries at the fateful surf competition. The author’s prose is as crisp and invigorating as the sea spray, with each subplot unfurling like a wave, drawing us deeper into the Stonebreakers’ world.
“Desperation Reef” is a gripping tale that rides the wave of family drama to deliver a story as powerful and unpredictable story.
Wasn't my favorite by this talented author, but if you are a surfing fan, might be just your cuppa.
August 6, 2024
This is my first book by this author. I alternated between the ebook and the audiobook. The audio was narrated by Major Curda and Stephanie Nemeth-Parker. They both did a fantastic job with the characters and story. Unfortunately, it was not for me. The story was told in third person and follows a family of surfers in Southern California. The narrative is interspersed with an article written by Jen Stonebreaker about her history with surfing and what happened to her late husband. She raised two sons, Casey and Brock.
Casey works in the family restaurant and fishes for the catch of the day. While I wanted to root for Casey with his good heart and optimism, it later becomes impossible due to his romantic entanglement with a character I just couldn’t support. Brock is an activist and runs a kind of rescue mission described using words that I found to be misappropriated, but I’m don’t want to spend any more time thinking about the etymology around that situation. Brock was angry at the world, disrespectful to his family and spent as much time in confrontations with trolls and petty criminals as he did helping people.
I was interested in the surfing aspects of the novel and the family’s history with it. However, I found the issues surrounding both sons and another storyline with a bunch of not so bright criminals trying to take over the family restaurant to be a disappointing distraction. Maybe if the book had focused more on Jen and her struggles with raising two boys amidst a complicated relationship with surfing and loss, I might have enjoyed it more.
Thank you to Netgalley, Macmillan Audio, and Forge Books for a copy provided for an honest review.
Casey works in the family restaurant and fishes for the catch of the day. While I wanted to root for Casey with his good heart and optimism, it later becomes impossible due to his romantic entanglement with a character I just couldn’t support. Brock is an activist and runs a kind of rescue mission described using words that I found to be misappropriated, but I’m don’t want to spend any more time thinking about the etymology around that situation. Brock was angry at the world, disrespectful to his family and spent as much time in confrontations with trolls and petty criminals as he did helping people.
I was interested in the surfing aspects of the novel and the family’s history with it. However, I found the issues surrounding both sons and another storyline with a bunch of not so bright criminals trying to take over the family restaurant to be a disappointing distraction. Maybe if the book had focused more on Jen and her struggles with raising two boys amidst a complicated relationship with surfing and loss, I might have enjoyed it more.
Thank you to Netgalley, Macmillan Audio, and Forge Books for a copy provided for an honest review.
December 1, 2024
I’ve read some pretty good books by T. Jefferson Parker ... this was not one of them. The story was ... well, adolescent. The book read like it was meant for YA audiences. I read it to the end but it was a real slog. I’m a California native, grew up hanging around the beach, and absolutely love the town of Laguna Beach that Parker so often includes in his stories. I’m not a surfer but lots of my friends growing up were and I love watching the sport. But the surfing scenes in Desperation Reef, the surfing jargon, etc. were way too tedious.
And, the story was completely unbelievable. A twenty-something young woman loses her husband in a surfing accident, trying to ride giant 30 foot waves in a big wave competition. And his death was sorta her fault. Yet we are expected to believe that decades later this now forty-something mother of two sons is preparing to compete in the very same surfing contest (after not riding big waves for over 20 years) and is vigorously encouraging her two sons to do likewise.
But wait ... there’s more. A Chinese crime gang threatens to kill the surf mom, kidnaps a beloved member of the surf family, attempts to virtually steal the surf family restaurant business, and then burns down the restaurant. Yet, the beautiful, cunning daughter of the crime family becomes friends with, and the eventual lover of, the surf family son. Sure ... murder threats, kidnapping, arson of the family business ... of course we can be friends. Why not?
Sorry ... not at all T. Jefferson Parkers’ best work.
And, the story was completely unbelievable. A twenty-something young woman loses her husband in a surfing accident, trying to ride giant 30 foot waves in a big wave competition. And his death was sorta her fault. Yet we are expected to believe that decades later this now forty-something mother of two sons is preparing to compete in the very same surfing contest (after not riding big waves for over 20 years) and is vigorously encouraging her two sons to do likewise.
But wait ... there’s more. A Chinese crime gang threatens to kill the surf mom, kidnaps a beloved member of the surf family, attempts to virtually steal the surf family restaurant business, and then burns down the restaurant. Yet, the beautiful, cunning daughter of the crime family becomes friends with, and the eventual lover of, the surf family son. Sure ... murder threats, kidnapping, arson of the family business ... of course we can be friends. Why not?
Sorry ... not at all T. Jefferson Parkers’ best work.
June 2, 2024
This was an ARC from NetGalley In this novel, Jen Stonebreaker confronts her past by returning to the treacherous big-wave surfing competition that claimed her husband's life 25 years ago. Now, she and her twin sons, both skilled surfers, are set to compete. However, danger lurks beyond the waves: one son faces threats from a criminal syndicate, while the other grapples with threats against his disaster relief mission. As a massive swell approaches, the competition and their personal lives collide, raising fears for their safety and forcing them to confront their demons.
While the novel delves into the world of surfing and family dynamics, it lacks the suspenseful elements of a traditional thriller. The focus lies more on the characters' emotional journeys, particularly Casey. However, his naivety and quick forgiveness, likely stemming from strong religious beliefs, felt less than believable. The religious themes themselves weren't for me, but I thoroughly enjoyed learning about surfing culture and the lives of surfers. The dynamic between Jen, Brock, and Casey was also a highlight. The two narrators of this audiobook were easy to understand and very engaging.
While the novel delves into the world of surfing and family dynamics, it lacks the suspenseful elements of a traditional thriller. The focus lies more on the characters' emotional journeys, particularly Casey. However, his naivety and quick forgiveness, likely stemming from strong religious beliefs, felt less than believable. The religious themes themselves weren't for me, but I thoroughly enjoyed learning about surfing culture and the lives of surfers. The dynamic between Jen, Brock, and Casey was also a highlight. The two narrators of this audiobook were easy to understand and very engaging.
August 25, 2024
What do I know about surfing? Only what I remember from reading Kem Nunn's seminal "Tapping the Source" and two novellas of Don Winslow's, all of which Mr. Parker mentions in his Acknowledgements. Oh, and what I learned from "Desperation Reef".
It is too soon to proclaim this the best that T. Jefferson has written. He has given us some superb novels, for sure. And I think the strike that hit Hollywood recently may have made a difference. We have been given more movies on streaming services featuring women sporting Eastern world beauty. Maybe that perks up one's emotional receptors. In any event, I want Mr. Parker to write a sequel to this, one with a large dose of Bette Wu. The Stonebreaker family is welcome to be along for the ride.
"Desperation Reef" is a ride, mostly on big waves. The tension in the book comes from some bad guys and the threats they pose, and from the big waves some of the characters insist on 'riding'. These are not East Coast waves and not most of the West Coast waves. We are talking about walls of water as high as a five-story building. When those waves fall on you it might as well be the building.
Recommended.
It is too soon to proclaim this the best that T. Jefferson has written. He has given us some superb novels, for sure. And I think the strike that hit Hollywood recently may have made a difference. We have been given more movies on streaming services featuring women sporting Eastern world beauty. Maybe that perks up one's emotional receptors. In any event, I want Mr. Parker to write a sequel to this, one with a large dose of Bette Wu. The Stonebreaker family is welcome to be along for the ride.
"Desperation Reef" is a ride, mostly on big waves. The tension in the book comes from some bad guys and the threats they pose, and from the big waves some of the characters insist on 'riding'. These are not East Coast waves and not most of the West Coast waves. We are talking about walls of water as high as a five-story building. When those waves fall on you it might as well be the building.
Recommended.
September 3, 2024
Someone must have put a gun to T. Jefferson Parker's head and said, "Write a 300-pg book right now or I'll blow your head off." It's just that bad. Didn't finish. Stopped at around pg 70. I promised myself I'd hang on until pg 100, but just couldn't do it. It's supposedly just hot off the press but it feels like I've read it before. I've read comic books with more character development and better dialogue.
This is my take on the plot: Woman and man marry. Man gets killed surfing. Woman is pregnant with twin boys (not identical?, not sure, don't care). At the point I gave up there is nothing about raising the boys, the plot magically moves to them all grown up. One son has moved away and is a do-gooder. Other son sticks close to home and helps at the restaurant. There is some drama out in the ocean with bad guys and a woman who I suspect becomes a love interest of the non-do-gooder son. There is a surfing contest coming up in the future. There is a dog in the story. Of note, even the dog has little character.
Mr. Parker has written some wonderful books. This is not one of them.
This is my take on the plot: Woman and man marry. Man gets killed surfing. Woman is pregnant with twin boys (not identical?, not sure, don't care). At the point I gave up there is nothing about raising the boys, the plot magically moves to them all grown up. One son has moved away and is a do-gooder. Other son sticks close to home and helps at the restaurant. There is some drama out in the ocean with bad guys and a woman who I suspect becomes a love interest of the non-do-gooder son. There is a surfing contest coming up in the future. There is a dog in the story. Of note, even the dog has little character.
Mr. Parker has written some wonderful books. This is not one of them.
March 15, 2025
Followed your writings from the beginning, of course Laguna heat my, fav, but never gave up even when you went to oceanside with car dudes.Loved the surfing theme, as I grew up in Laguna and Newport in the 60's and 70's. visiting dodge town a few times too, with boyfriend ,no way was I going to go in there alone. too heavy for me. Remember me? had you sign all my books , Soft cover too when
younger, signing a new one in the Laguna Beach book store.saw your with your long coat, as u walked on the beach afterward.thought I would wave you over but did not want to deal with another broken heart. Way too much surf jargon in the book ! understand you were trying to create poetry of what it is like when you sutf but words do not cover it. Giggled as you introduced some bad guys with big guns, u always had tom have a little action in that way. all in all a good read . Very familiar with many people mentioned and places to surf, even some new ones I have never heard of.
Made it comfortable for me reading.. keep it up .struggling withy lifelong urge to write a book, think it is the bravest thing on earth! what restaurant is the Barrel? The royal Hawaiian?
younger, signing a new one in the Laguna Beach book store.saw your with your long coat, as u walked on the beach afterward.thought I would wave you over but did not want to deal with another broken heart. Way too much surf jargon in the book ! understand you were trying to create poetry of what it is like when you sutf but words do not cover it. Giggled as you introduced some bad guys with big guns, u always had tom have a little action in that way. all in all a good read . Very familiar with many people mentioned and places to surf, even some new ones I have never heard of.
Made it comfortable for me reading.. keep it up .struggling withy lifelong urge to write a book, think it is the bravest thing on earth! what restaurant is the Barrel? The royal Hawaiian?
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