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Craig is the best at what he does.

He can find anyone. Anywhere.

Any time.

Doesn’t matter how hard they try to hide.

But locating his friend’s lost family is proving to be more of a challenge than he anticipated. Shadow Pine, Washington is Craig’s last lead, one built on nothing but rumor and hearsay.

But sometimes that’s all you need.

That and maybe a little luck, and Craig’s luck comes in the form of a tall blonde with a knack for bringing the dead to life.

Danny is strong. Smart. Driven.

Fearless.

And hiding secrets of her own.

Secrets wound together so tightly even Craig might not be able to unravel them. If he can’t, everything that matters to him is in jeopardy.

Wedged between her past, and their future.

****

You don’t get to pick your parents.

It’s a hard truth to swallow.

Especially when your father is crazy.

But Danny thought she’d left that all behind her. Then he showed up, looking like nothing she’d ever seen before. Clark Kent in a well-cut suit, with dimples deeper than the Grand Canyon and a voice that could melt the ice off Mount Rainier, Craig is a man who does what he says he will.

Makes promises he keeps.

Gives more than he takes.

Except he wants to dig through a past she has no desire to remember, let alone discuss.

Because her past is more than crazy. It’s dangerous.

Maybe even deadly.

304 pages, Paperback

First published April 24, 2020

478 people are currently reading
154 people want to read

About the author

Janice Whiteaker

67 books145 followers

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5 stars
482 (59%)
4 stars
222 (27%)
3 stars
74 (9%)
2 stars
23 (2%)
1 star
12 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for EducatedBookFreak.
642 reviews
April 26, 2020
I’m honestly speechless when I think about this book. I was absolutely blown away by the words that were on this page. It was so amazing. I have not read a book by this author before and could just pick this book up and read it. I did not feel lost at all and completely followed the story. She offers a series previously that links to this story, but it is not a have to read series.

My go to troupe is NOT paranormal. But, this book totally brought me over to the paranormal realm. She makes it seem so real and life-like. The characters are big and overwhelming. They will overtake your world until you finish this story.

I absolutely loved these characters. The kind-of instalove that Craig feels. The strong willed character that Danny is and doesn’t roll over for anyone. The love of family is very strong in this book. It is a favorite of mine, that totally resonates with how we feel in life. I loved the storyline with this book and the type of mystery that is created. It is one that totally floors you.

Craig shows up and takes over in a way that Danny does not feel. Their story if a constant push/pull of feelings and emotions. They are a rollercoaster of emotions that you will continuously feel. The possession that Danny is with Jude is totally sweet and amazing. The things these women and men have been through will make you so emotionally invested. I have o say this story will stay with you long after you finish. I would recommend this book to any romance reader that enjoys some paranormal, mixed with steam and romance.
Profile Image for Claudia, Cmarie927.
2,050 reviews41 followers
December 9, 2025
A great start to this series

Wow! Lots of suspenseful and addictive twists in this one.

I really appreciate the way Craig plopped himself down in town, and made it so these sisters had no choice but to accept him. Danny and Jude definitely needed his support and what he brought into their lives.

That Lance and Kari also show up for them just made this even better. Although the danger to their freedom from their past is very unwelcome, getting more people who can help keep them safe is a step in the right direction.

This was a steamy, addictive, entertaining, suspenseful read that I wholeheartedly recommend.
On to Alex's story now... :)
Profile Image for Sashka.
5 reviews
November 24, 2025
I gave this one a shot, but I didn’t enjoy it as much as I hoped I would.

The first third of the book felt like reading about... not much, really. I had trouble keeping track of all the names, and I wasn’t sure where the story was going. Craig, the male lead, was honestly just too perfect for me, though I guess that’s what you should expect in a romance like this.

If you're looking for very light reading, it’s not bad. But for me, it lacked the depth I usually struggle to find in this genre. That said, I’ll admit I’m probably too picky when it comes to romance reads.

What I did like, though, were the women characters. They weren’t overly bubbly (which I really appreciated), and while some of their reactions felt a little over the top at times, they still felt more grounded than what I often find in romcoms and romances. Also, Jude, the boy, was a highlight. His scenes were sweet and added a touch of warmth that stood out.

I don’t want to be mean, it wasn’t a bad book, it just didn’t click with me.
562 reviews3 followers
February 20, 2025
I was expecting a romantic suspense book. What I got was a book about shapeshifters. There is nothing about shapeshifters in the blurb about the book. Otherwise I would never have bought it and attempted to read it as it is not the type of book that I like.

I was obviously missing something since I had not read the previous series as the whole first chapter was totally confusing. I made it a little ways into the second chapter then skipped to the last two chapters.

I will not be reading anymore of this author.
136 reviews2 followers
December 31, 2020
Nice beginning to the BIG Northwest series. Nothing especially deep or angsty or mysterious but a nice story nonetheless. This is Craig's story and what he found when he went off looking for Lance's family. We first meet Craig in "Magni". He's a PI who was hired by his friend Joel to find Joel's long-lost family. Having been one of Joel's only friends, Craig understands the nature of the beast and isn't scared by it. As the "Big" series moves along, Lance hires Craig to find his biological father who seemingly doesn't exist and Craig ends up in the Northwest territory chasing leads in one tiny town after another.

Six sisters and a 10-year old nephew are in Lance's family tree along with a crazy father with a God-complex who ran a spiritual retreat with the goal of world domination and population. Lance's mother was lucky and managed to return from the retreat. The girls' mother wasn't and fell under the thrall of a charismatic leader... sounds kinda like a Branch Davidian set up to me so I can't wait to see where the author takes it. Craig's instant obsession with Danny was a bit unreal. Yes, she's a bigfoot like her brother. Yes, Craig was smitten with Kari until Lance came on the scene and swept her off her feet. Yes, Craig is looking for his HEA, comes into town, sees Danny and -boom- is set on her being his.

The foundation has been set - an enemy identified, potential newcomers to town, Lance building a house, Craig staying & building a life with Danny, Jude (Danny's son) coming of age. There was no cliffhanger to speak of but it leaves you wondering: How will it spin? Will Craig's jealousy and feelings of inferiority cause problems? Will Lance help Jude with his transition from boy to beast? Who has been hanging in the woods spying on the girls? Will they find more branches on the family tree? Will those branches help or hinder? Who does JD love and will he get his girl?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Booklover Judy Lynn.
1,644 reviews30 followers
March 1, 2024
Book one in the series gives readers a HEA for Danny and Craig. It is written in third person from an alternating dual POV. Though technically a standalone, this series of interconnected books is a spin-off to another series. I have not read the Big series yet, and I will admit that this book initially left me very confused. Even at the end, I wasn't quite sure what the girls actually were (along with human). It wasn't until I finished this book and went back to read the blurbs for the other series' books that I would say I have even the beginning of an understanding of the paranormal aspect of things along with a few unconfirmed guesses about how the genetics play between males and females. Knowing what I know now, I think it would have been beneficial to read the Big series before starting this one. Now that I have started though, I am committed to staying the course.

Danny is the second oldest of six sisters who had an interesting and troubled upbringing. They don't appreciate strangers in their small town, and when Craig arrived they tried to send him on his way. Craig is a wonderful hero. He is remarkably persistent, and surprises Danny almost every time she underestimates him. He recognizes that Danny needs him long before she does. His arrival triggers a huge change for the sisters and Danny's son, Jude. I adore the relationship Craig forms with Jude. I love how attentive he was with Danny while recognizing how special and strong she was. Their physical attraction was mutual and strong, which lead to hot times within a few days of meeting. Danny is strong, intelligent and protective of her son and her sisters. I love Danny and her sisters and the bond they share.

Open-door bedroom scenes, banter, and a suspenseful subplot made this and enjoyable read. I am excited to read more of the series.
Profile Image for Alexandra Alston Reviews.
237 reviews9 followers
October 11, 2020
“Danny" Big Northwest Series book 1 by Janice M Whiteaker

**Spoiler Alert**

Danny thought she could hide forever... she thought her son and her sisters would be safe... He father was evil but he is gone... or so she thought....

Craig is on a mission to find Lance’s family. Lance needs closure and he needs to know where he came from. Craig never thought he would find them let alone the 1 woman who could be his forever but her insecurities has him tied up in knots. He has to make her see that he can be trusted and that he is what she so desperately needs.

Her son triggers his gift a lot sooner than expected and she has no idea how to help him. Craig steps in and walls come crumbling down.

An emotional read with loads of passion. A story of epic survival from a devastating past.

Great character build up with all the feels. What powers will the kids hold... what will their stories be... cannot wait!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kelly.
113 reviews2 followers
November 10, 2023
Danny (Big Northwest Book 1)
by Janice Whiteaker

I am a fan of Janice Whiteaker/ Jemma Westbrook and her many diverse romantic fiction series. I just read Danny (Big Northwest Book 1) and am very intrigued by the mysterious plot. There are a family of six sisters who live in a small rural town. The sisters are tall, blond, mysterious, and extremely loyal to one another. A personal investigator named Craig invades their small town and snoops around asking too many questions. The plot is slowly pieced together with little clues and Craig actually becomes a “good guy.” But by the end of this novel, one sister is missing and their never-discussed father may be connected. I am absolutely hooked on this mystery and cannot wait for Book 2! I am intrigued who these women are and why their genetic ancestry is so important.

~~~ Kelly Wolf, PhD 11/10/2023

Profile Image for Celtic Chic Books.
241 reviews14 followers
January 27, 2024
Janice Whiteaker's "Danny," the first book in the Big Northwest series is a total page-turner! This book is the perfect combo of suspense and steam, keeping me hooked from start to finish. Danny, our main girl, is a total powerhouse – strong, badass, and absolutely unforgettable. And then there's Craig – he's not just a love interest; he's the kind of guy who truly appreciates Danny's strength, which is so refreshing.

Their chemistry? Off the charts! It's not just the steamy scenes that had me swooning; it's the way they just get each other. Plus, the laugh-out-loud moments scattered throughout the book? Absolute gold. It's not often that a suspenseful read also gives you those belly laughs, but Janice Whiteaker nails it. "Danny" is one of those rare books that's not just going on my shelf; it's going on my 'must re-read' list. Whether you're into suspense, romance, or just a fan of strong female leads, this book's got you covered.
1,343 reviews4 followers
August 31, 2021
She is Lances long lost sister, and there are six others, all tall, blonde, and good looking.

The girls have been living on their own since the eldest, Sam, was 18 and could take them legally. Danny is next oldest and has a ten year old son, Jude, who carries the Bigfoot gene, just like their father did. They think he's dead, and that they are the only ones with beasts within them. Then Craig shows up, searching for Lances family, A brother that turns out to be a whole bunch of sisters, known locally as the Backwoods Beauties. They just want to live their lives as normal humans, not in a three ring circus, but there are always a few men hunting them to claim a Beauty. Craig and Lance have their work cut out for them, to protect these sisters, the youngest of which is already missing.
Profile Image for PepperP0t .
5,108 reviews86 followers
January 29, 2023
With the guys all mated in Greenlea, PI Craig O’Neal turns his attention to Lance’s job (Mountain Claiming). Tracking Lance’s father’s estranged family, Craig follows a lead to get to Danny Karlson it’s near where the ‘Backwoods Beauties’ are rumored to live.

Arriving in a town similar to Greenlea but not as prosperous, Craig is turned away by a young boy and two gorgeous women but finally learns, Danny is short for Danielle, the boy is her son Jude and the women were two of six sisters. Taxidermist Danny isn’t buying whatever Craig is selling, she knows nothing about a brother, has yet to meet a worthwhile man and this one is handsome but pesky.
Rating: 3,75stars
Profile Image for Zoë Braycotton.
743 reviews10 followers
April 22, 2020
This is the first of Janice’s books I’ve read.

I love a good book with that supernatural element to it.

As I had not read the Big series, it was a test.

This can be read without the first series, even though characters interlope, knowing the background isn’t too much of a problem. However having finished this it certainly makes me want to go and read them, and think that having read the Bigs series would enhance this new series.

I thoroughly enjoyed Danny and getting to know the sisters and Jude.

Great storyline with a very big twist.

Can’t wait for the next book to see what will happen next.
1,092 reviews1 follower
July 4, 2021
A good start

I do like this author and her stories are good. I just wish this series was a bit stronger. There seems to be pieces missing, which I get that the author wants to leave us wondering, but I don't get what's going on with JD, why cutting Sam's hair was such an issue (are we talking Samson & Delilah and the bible?), and how this can end if there really are so many beasts. Not sure if I'll keep going.
Profile Image for Jenn O'Leary.
1,000 reviews20 followers
February 5, 2024
Craig is trying to track down his friend Lance's family.
He ends up in Shadow Pine, where he comes across the tall, beautiful Danny and her sisters.
He instantly feels a connection to Danny and their chemistry is off the charts.
Danny, her son Jude and her 5 sisters, live a quiet life, thinking they are safe after the horrible life their crazy father put them through.
This was an exciting read, that I could not put down. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series
419 reviews
September 4, 2020
Wow

Pleasantly surprised and now hooked. This is an incredible story and the author weaves the story together so artfully at you don’t realize your at the end till you turn the last page. This is a terrific book and story and I can’t wait to start the next one. If you like the protection type guys you will absolutely love this book.
1,063 reviews
November 18, 2020
Great book

This book is great. Craig is such a sweet, yet strong guy for Danny. I really enjoyed how their relationship blossomed. It’s great to have Lance & Kari in the book. I was not ready to let go of the Greenlea folks from the BIG series. This is a great first book as a spinoff. I look forward to future books.
33 reviews
February 20, 2021
Another amazing series

I love this author so much. This spinoff is going to be as engaging as the previous series. Well developed characters that get better the farther we go. Glad that Craig finally found what he had been searching for. Happy to see Lance, Kari, and the girls. Can't wait to see where this spin-off goes.
390 reviews1 follower
January 21, 2023
Reviewed by Beth

I was surprised how much I enjoyed this story/book. I believe this was the first book of Janice Whiteaker I have read.

I like how their is a string family bond (sisters) just to name one thing.

The story has the good guys and bad.

I know this isn't much to go on but trust me it's a great read.
1,137 reviews12 followers
April 16, 2025
My rating: four stars. I have an issue with Insta love … it’s just not realistic. My other issue with this book was that it was a cliffhanger. I have no issues with books that are part of a series, but … make it with HEA, not a cliffhanger. I would have been really pi**ed if this was the beginning of the series and I’d have to wait for the next five novels to come out
2,509 reviews16 followers
August 30, 2020
Great book

I'm loving this new series. Happy that Lance finally found his family. Danny and her sisters are an interesting mix of spunk a d sass. Cannot wait to read the next book now.
Profile Image for Tisha Johnson.
367 reviews1 follower
January 5, 2021
LONG DRAWN OUT STORY

I really like this book but just like the other series to get to the main plot takes forever. That is probably why it took me forever to read this book. But I’m happy Craig finally found LOVE. Yes, he went in search of Lance’s father.
66 reviews1 follower
March 5, 2021
Great book to start a series

I'm really happy to see Lance and his family as part of this series it's so interest to meet his sisters and see how different their lives have been. Can't wait to read the next 5 books hope I don't have to wait too long for them to be released
Profile Image for Mary Ann.
2,746 reviews11 followers
June 29, 2021
New setting, new characters and shared ones help the reader to avoid withdrawal from an intriguing series that precedes this series. A host of beauties will entice the curious to pursue more books by this author.
1,347 reviews5 followers
March 11, 2023
Craig came looking for his friends sister, and found five of them.

I would recommend this book for mature readers that enjoy stories that are something more than romances, or filled with suspense, it is also funny, and steamy. Well done.
Profile Image for Jennifer Thompson.
245 reviews15 followers
May 23, 2023
Perfection

I'm so happy with Craig's book! I love Danny and Craig. They're so perfect together. Add in Jude and it couldn't be any better. What a wonderful little family they are. I'm so excited for the rest of these sisters to fall.
211 reviews
August 9, 2020
Good Book

It was interesting. The characters are written very much in Janice's style! They are all fierce women that don't take no for an answer!!
14 reviews
February 16, 2021
Big Stories, big story.

Loved the Big Series from the 1st book. One of my go to rereading series. Big characters, great story lines and they all follow well. Love them all.
29 reviews
October 24, 2021
Wow

Very nice start to a new series. I love the shifting and suspense in this book. Also totally love the idea of Amazon-type women here. Can't wait for more
Profile Image for Janet Martin.
565 reviews
March 1, 2023
Enjoyed this story. I loved that Craig finally got his perfect match. I'm interested in finding out more about the girls with male names.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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