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Wrecked and Rising
What’s the cure for heartbreak? Apparently, a little island intrigue.
Lena Rodriguez has her whole life under control. She’s running her coffee shop Café Mesa, keeping her boundary-pushing family in order, and leveling up her relationship with a proposal she’s sure is coming. Life is just as she planned. But when her pre-vacation dinner turns into an unexpected—and very public—breakup, Lena is forced to make a suffer heartbreak at home or take the romantic trip she planned . . . by herself.
Bermuda is objectively paradise, with pink sand beaches, crystal clear caves and pastel-colored houses. It’s also the home of Ash Hayward, a local marine archaeologist, who pushes Lena’s buttons from the moment they meet. Try as she might, Lena’s efforts to relax and “enjoy herself” on vacation prove impossible.
So hen Lena learns her haunting island dreams overlap with a secret in Ash’s family, it feels like a sign. She is determined to solve the century-old mystery buried in the ocean for both of them. This trip will mean something, if she can just get Ash to listen to her. But Ash—and the island—aren’t taking Lena’s directions so easily, and she is forced to face herself and her past.
Will the ocean give Lena the healing she needs or will the riptide pull her under?
For readers who love Katherine Center, Emily Henry and Maddie Dawson, Wrecked and Rising is a wity story full of love, wanderlust, and the strength to create your own happily ever after.
Lena Rodriguez has her whole life under control. She’s running her coffee shop Café Mesa, keeping her boundary-pushing family in order, and leveling up her relationship with a proposal she’s sure is coming. Life is just as she planned. But when her pre-vacation dinner turns into an unexpected—and very public—breakup, Lena is forced to make a suffer heartbreak at home or take the romantic trip she planned . . . by herself.
Bermuda is objectively paradise, with pink sand beaches, crystal clear caves and pastel-colored houses. It’s also the home of Ash Hayward, a local marine archaeologist, who pushes Lena’s buttons from the moment they meet. Try as she might, Lena’s efforts to relax and “enjoy herself” on vacation prove impossible.
So hen Lena learns her haunting island dreams overlap with a secret in Ash’s family, it feels like a sign. She is determined to solve the century-old mystery buried in the ocean for both of them. This trip will mean something, if she can just get Ash to listen to her. But Ash—and the island—aren’t taking Lena’s directions so easily, and she is forced to face herself and her past.
Will the ocean give Lena the healing she needs or will the riptide pull her under?
For readers who love Katherine Center, Emily Henry and Maddie Dawson, Wrecked and Rising is a wity story full of love, wanderlust, and the strength to create your own happily ever after.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2025
3 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Dani Keen
4 books13 followersDani Keen is an contemporary fiction author who writes witty stories full of romance, wanderlust and creating your own happily ever after.
Dani loves hearing from other readers, writers, and creatives. Connect with her through her substack, Keen Musings (danikeen.substack.com), where she chats about the wild and wonderful process of creating.
Dani loves hearing from other readers, writers, and creatives. Connect with her through her substack, Keen Musings (danikeen.substack.com), where she chats about the wild and wonderful process of creating.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 23, 2025
I had read the first book and novella in this series so I thought I had a pretty good idea of who Lena was. But in Wrecked and Rising, I got to really understand the weight she carries and what she's like behind all the sass and confidence. I loved Lena's story from start to finish. She seems like she has conquered the world and yet, she has set backs and missteps just like all of us. But the way she figures out her life, never losing sight of her values, even while she struggles is so inspiring to me. While there's a romance element to Wrecked and Rising, the real plot-driver is Lena accepting who she is and growing into something she can be proud of. The romance with Ash is a delightful bonus -- they are perfect for each other once they get out of their own way! I think book can stand alone and someone could read this series out of order and it's still going to make sense. But I'm excited to go back and reread Chasing Dust now that I know Lena even better.
March 17, 2025
This is an amazing book of self-discovery. Lena, who first appears in the book Chasing Dust, finds herself on an engagement trip - sans fiancé 😅 I loved the vacation vibes, chances Lena takes, and the heart of the story around finding herself again.
Lena was an enjoyable character in Chasing Dust, but I found I related to her so much more in Wrecked & Rising. You never know what is under the snarky exterior. With so much responsibility and family expectations, sometimes distance gives you a new perspective.
The mystery and romantic sub-plots were the icing and the cherry on top! I loved how it developed in a realistic way and kept me engaged through all the twists and turns. I am so excited for the companion Novella for Ash next year! He's such a fun and interesting person!
You do not need to read Chasing Dust to enjoy Wrecked & Rising. They are interconnected but can also stand alone. I highly recommend Wrecked & Rising for a contemporary vacation romance that is honest, engaging, and heartfelt (with a side of banter)! Don't miss out on this read! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Lena was an enjoyable character in Chasing Dust, but I found I related to her so much more in Wrecked & Rising. You never know what is under the snarky exterior. With so much responsibility and family expectations, sometimes distance gives you a new perspective.
The mystery and romantic sub-plots were the icing and the cherry on top! I loved how it developed in a realistic way and kept me engaged through all the twists and turns. I am so excited for the companion Novella for Ash next year! He's such a fun and interesting person!
You do not need to read Chasing Dust to enjoy Wrecked & Rising. They are interconnected but can also stand alone. I highly recommend Wrecked & Rising for a contemporary vacation romance that is honest, engaging, and heartfelt (with a side of banter)! Don't miss out on this read! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
March 17, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing me with a free ARC of this book.
So glad that I had the chance to read this wonderful story! I truly deeply enjoyed the book.
The writing was beautiful. The scenery description was so stunning that I could feel island wind on my skin and hear ocean waves next to me.
I love how the main characters’ relationship and feelings were developed. No need for any love declaration, their adoration for each other was overflowing through each word and each gesture. The mystery side was a nice extra touch to the story. I cannot wait for the second book.
In the mean time, I need to check out the first book about Lena’s best friend, Cali.
So glad that I had the chance to read this wonderful story! I truly deeply enjoyed the book.
The writing was beautiful. The scenery description was so stunning that I could feel island wind on my skin and hear ocean waves next to me.
I love how the main characters’ relationship and feelings were developed. No need for any love declaration, their adoration for each other was overflowing through each word and each gesture. The mystery side was a nice extra touch to the story. I cannot wait for the second book.
In the mean time, I need to check out the first book about Lena’s best friend, Cali.
August 31, 2025
Lena is what you might call a cringe protagonist—the kind of person who does wildly outlandish things that I would pay GREAT sums of money to never have to do in my life. And yet, you can’t help but love her anyway—or maybe even because of it all. She’s like an alter ego version of yourself to whom the rules simply do not apply, and there’s a thrill in living vicariously through her. Even as she drinks straight from a margarita pitcher in a very crowded restaurant. (I mean, haven’t all of us kind of wanted to do that at some point?)
Perhaps what makes Lena so likable—despite the secondhand embarrassment—is how beautifully organic she feels on the page. Dani Keen does an incredible job distinguishing her from the other characters (and from the protagonists in her Six Degrees series). Her dialogue flows naturally, her body language mimics that of a real, breathing woman, and her thoughts come alive in a way that feels authentic.
Dani also does an incredible job bringing Bermuda to life on the page. She has a strong command of descriptive language and strikes the perfect balance between Lena’s observations of the world around her and action/dialogue. I felt like I was surrounded by sparkling blue sea right with them.
But perhaps the novel’s strongest element is the chemistry between Ash and Lena. They have great banter, electric physical attraction, and just the right number of classic “funny to run into you here” moments to keep the romance unfolding at a perfect pace. Their interactions feel both effortless and earned—and any rom-com reader can tell you how important that is.
So why not that elusive fifth star? (be WARNED, the following includes small spoilers!)
Because genre-blending is hard. It’s unexpected, it’s creative, it’s compelling—but it also means juggling multiple audience expectations. Dani nails the rom-com elements, but Wrecked & Rising also weaves in historical fiction, mystery, and magical realism. That’s a lot, and at times, the stitching between genres feels a little forced.
Take the dream sequences, for example. Lena has prophetic/historically accurate dreams that are genuinely eerie. But the way they’re introduced feels abrupt. She immediately takes them seriously, analyzing every last detail, while the reader is left thinking, Is this a known ability? Why does she care so much about a weird dream? We’re never really given a solid answer for why she has them and why she believed they were real. A small tweak, like introducing a family history of dreams or a cultural significance behind them, could have made this element feel more natural and believable (because magical realism only works well when it feels grounded in reality).
I also had a small problem with the detective/mystery elements of the novel. Clues in Wrecked & Rising fall delicately into Lena’s lap, with little misdirection or guesswork required. Where’s the suspense? The thrill of solving the mystery alongside the protagonist? The gut-punch twist when things aren’t what they seem? Without those elements, the mystery arc feels more like a checklist of discoveries rather than a puzzle the reader is dying to solve. I also just wasn’t quite convinced by Lena’s dogged determination to solve Ash’s family mystery—even she didn’t seem to know, either! Multiple times, Lena wonders why she needs to figure it out, only knowing that something is telling her she must. That “something” was a plot hole.
And yet—despite these hiccups—the ending makes up for it and more. Dani managed to weave the different genres together in a way that was both surprising and satisfying. I thought the ambiguous ending was both refreshing and brought much-needed realism to the story.
Perhaps what makes Lena so likable—despite the secondhand embarrassment—is how beautifully organic she feels on the page. Dani Keen does an incredible job distinguishing her from the other characters (and from the protagonists in her Six Degrees series). Her dialogue flows naturally, her body language mimics that of a real, breathing woman, and her thoughts come alive in a way that feels authentic.
Dani also does an incredible job bringing Bermuda to life on the page. She has a strong command of descriptive language and strikes the perfect balance between Lena’s observations of the world around her and action/dialogue. I felt like I was surrounded by sparkling blue sea right with them.
But perhaps the novel’s strongest element is the chemistry between Ash and Lena. They have great banter, electric physical attraction, and just the right number of classic “funny to run into you here” moments to keep the romance unfolding at a perfect pace. Their interactions feel both effortless and earned—and any rom-com reader can tell you how important that is.
So why not that elusive fifth star? (be WARNED, the following includes small spoilers!)
Because genre-blending is hard. It’s unexpected, it’s creative, it’s compelling—but it also means juggling multiple audience expectations. Dani nails the rom-com elements, but Wrecked & Rising also weaves in historical fiction, mystery, and magical realism. That’s a lot, and at times, the stitching between genres feels a little forced.
Take the dream sequences, for example. Lena has prophetic/historically accurate dreams that are genuinely eerie. But the way they’re introduced feels abrupt. She immediately takes them seriously, analyzing every last detail, while the reader is left thinking, Is this a known ability? Why does she care so much about a weird dream? We’re never really given a solid answer for why she has them and why she believed they were real. A small tweak, like introducing a family history of dreams or a cultural significance behind them, could have made this element feel more natural and believable (because magical realism only works well when it feels grounded in reality).
I also had a small problem with the detective/mystery elements of the novel. Clues in Wrecked & Rising fall delicately into Lena’s lap, with little misdirection or guesswork required. Where’s the suspense? The thrill of solving the mystery alongside the protagonist? The gut-punch twist when things aren’t what they seem? Without those elements, the mystery arc feels more like a checklist of discoveries rather than a puzzle the reader is dying to solve. I also just wasn’t quite convinced by Lena’s dogged determination to solve Ash’s family mystery—even she didn’t seem to know, either! Multiple times, Lena wonders why she needs to figure it out, only knowing that something is telling her she must. That “something” was a plot hole.
And yet—despite these hiccups—the ending makes up for it and more. Dani managed to weave the different genres together in a way that was both surprising and satisfying. I thought the ambiguous ending was both refreshing and brought much-needed realism to the story.
February 28, 2025
An absolute MUST READ 💕 Not just an amazing sequel but a meaningful & fun read in its own right.
Give it a read if you’re:
🌊 Headed to the beach (physically or mentally)
🙅♀️ Getting over a guy
🌵 A fan of Lena in book #1
🍹In the mood for a cocktail & a good book
Can’t wait to see what comes next!
Give it a read if you’re:
🌊 Headed to the beach (physically or mentally)
🙅♀️ Getting over a guy
🌵 A fan of Lena in book #1
🍹In the mood for a cocktail & a good book
Can’t wait to see what comes next!
May 18, 2025
WHAT. A. BOOK!
Wrecked and Rising is the perfect balance of vacation vibes, mystery and romance. Lena is a firecracker protagonist 🧨 I love that she pushed herself out of her comfort zone and hopped on that plane to Bermuda. Insert Ash, the handsome marine archeologist, new friends and the mysterious connections Lena has and makes to the island, this story is full of adventure, tension, spice and revelations that will make you root for Lena the whole way through.
Wrecked and Rising is the perfect balance of vacation vibes, mystery and romance. Lena is a firecracker protagonist 🧨 I love that she pushed herself out of her comfort zone and hopped on that plane to Bermuda. Insert Ash, the handsome marine archeologist, new friends and the mysterious connections Lena has and makes to the island, this story is full of adventure, tension, spice and revelations that will make you root for Lena the whole way through.
April 17, 2025
If you like Katherine Center this story has the wit and sass of a fun and strong main character! Thank you to Netgalley, Dani and the team at Paper Moth for the eARC!
What To Expect:
⭐ Healing after heartbreak
⭐ Forced single vacation
⭐ Vacation Hook Up
⭐ Romantic Holiday
⭐ Strangers to lovers
⭐ A definite beach read
My Thoughts:
I wanted MORE from the ending! The whole YEAR in between leaving her vacation & reconnecting is TOO LONG!!!! I did not read the novella... I didn't know there was one that went with this. It is very well written the main characters are lovely and the way they connect to each other in the story seems authentic and real. Lena is witty and snarky all at once. She brings her sass out in some of the best ways. She is an amazing and strong main character. When she meets Ash she is fearless and a go getter. She does at times allows her insecurities get in her way a bit, but eventually heals the hurt that causes it and finds she is so much stronger than she thinks. Seeing her find herself, rebuild herself, and take what she wants with life is inspiring.
Synopsis:
Lena Rodriguez has her whole life under control. She’s running her coffee shop Café Mesa, keeping her boundary-pushing family in order, and leveling up her relationship with a proposal she’s sure is coming. Life is just as she planned. But when her pre-vacation dinner turns into an unexpected—and very public—breakup, Lena is forced to make a choice: suffer heartbreak at home or take the romantic trip she planned . . . by herself.
Bermuda is objectively paradise, with pink sand beaches, crystal clear caves and pastel-colored houses. It’s also the home of Ash Hayward, a local marine archaeologist, who pushes Lena’s buttons from the moment they meet. Try as she might, Lena’s efforts to relax and “enjoy herself” on vacation prove impossible.
So when Lena learns her haunting island dreams overlap with a secret in Ash’s family, it feels like a sign. She is determined to solve the century-old mystery buried in the ocean for both of them. This trip will mean something, if she can just get Ash to listen to her. But Ash—and the island—aren’t taking Lena’s directions so easily, and she is forced to face herself and her past.
Will the ocean give Lena the healing she needs or will the riptide pull her under?
What To Expect:
⭐ Healing after heartbreak
⭐ Forced single vacation
⭐ Vacation Hook Up
⭐ Romantic Holiday
⭐ Strangers to lovers
⭐ A definite beach read
My Thoughts:
I wanted MORE from the ending! The whole YEAR in between leaving her vacation & reconnecting is TOO LONG!!!! I did not read the novella... I didn't know there was one that went with this. It is very well written the main characters are lovely and the way they connect to each other in the story seems authentic and real. Lena is witty and snarky all at once. She brings her sass out in some of the best ways. She is an amazing and strong main character. When she meets Ash she is fearless and a go getter. She does at times allows her insecurities get in her way a bit, but eventually heals the hurt that causes it and finds she is so much stronger than she thinks. Seeing her find herself, rebuild herself, and take what she wants with life is inspiring.
Synopsis:
Lena Rodriguez has her whole life under control. She’s running her coffee shop Café Mesa, keeping her boundary-pushing family in order, and leveling up her relationship with a proposal she’s sure is coming. Life is just as she planned. But when her pre-vacation dinner turns into an unexpected—and very public—breakup, Lena is forced to make a choice: suffer heartbreak at home or take the romantic trip she planned . . . by herself.
Bermuda is objectively paradise, with pink sand beaches, crystal clear caves and pastel-colored houses. It’s also the home of Ash Hayward, a local marine archaeologist, who pushes Lena’s buttons from the moment they meet. Try as she might, Lena’s efforts to relax and “enjoy herself” on vacation prove impossible.
So when Lena learns her haunting island dreams overlap with a secret in Ash’s family, it feels like a sign. She is determined to solve the century-old mystery buried in the ocean for both of them. This trip will mean something, if she can just get Ash to listen to her. But Ash—and the island—aren’t taking Lena’s directions so easily, and she is forced to face herself and her past.
Will the ocean give Lena the healing she needs or will the riptide pull her under?
April 15, 2025
Big thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
I'm stuck between 2.5 or 3 stars...
Right away, the cover and premise totally grabbed me—emotional chaos, a dramatic breakup, and a getaway that promised something new and maybe even healing. That kind of story arc is right up my alley, so I went in excited.
And honestly, the story had so much potential. I loved the idea of Lena having dreams that might hold clues to her past and some bigger truth to help Ash solve his family mystery. But the way those dreams played out felt really disconnected. They were intriguing at first, but nothing ever really came of them, and she never even shared them with Ash, which felt like such a missed chance to deepen their connection. I think the storyline suffered without a clear understanding of why the dreams were included.
Now, about the romance... I wanted to root for Lena and Ash, I really did, but it just didn’t work for me. Their relationship felt rushed and kind of awkward. Lena often came off as immature, and Ash had moments where he just seemed kind of mean or dismissive. Their dynamic didn’t feel emotionally grounded—it was more like plot points strung together than a natural progression. And that cave scene? Hurricane passion? It didn’t hit.
On the upside, I did appreciate Lena’s personal growth. Her learning to let go of control and lean on her family was a highlight for me. That part of her story felt real and meaningful.
In the end, I really wanted to love this book. The concept was there, but the execution, especially around the characters and their relationships, just didn’t land the way I hoped.
I'm stuck between 2.5 or 3 stars...
Right away, the cover and premise totally grabbed me—emotional chaos, a dramatic breakup, and a getaway that promised something new and maybe even healing. That kind of story arc is right up my alley, so I went in excited.
And honestly, the story had so much potential. I loved the idea of Lena having dreams that might hold clues to her past and some bigger truth to help Ash solve his family mystery. But the way those dreams played out felt really disconnected. They were intriguing at first, but nothing ever really came of them, and she never even shared them with Ash, which felt like such a missed chance to deepen their connection. I think the storyline suffered without a clear understanding of why the dreams were included.
Now, about the romance... I wanted to root for Lena and Ash, I really did, but it just didn’t work for me. Their relationship felt rushed and kind of awkward. Lena often came off as immature, and Ash had moments where he just seemed kind of mean or dismissive. Their dynamic didn’t feel emotionally grounded—it was more like plot points strung together than a natural progression. And that cave scene? Hurricane passion? It didn’t hit.
On the upside, I did appreciate Lena’s personal growth. Her learning to let go of control and lean on her family was a highlight for me. That part of her story felt real and meaningful.
In the end, I really wanted to love this book. The concept was there, but the execution, especially around the characters and their relationships, just didn’t land the way I hoped.
March 22, 2025
Wrecked and Rising is the perfect blend of vacation vibes, mystery, and romance, wrapped up in a story that’s as heartfelt as it is engaging. Dani Keen delivers a tale of self-discovery, adventure, and love that will have you rooting for the characters from the very first page.
Lena, the snarky and relatable protagonist, takes a leap of faith (and a plane to Bermuda) after her life takes an unexpected turn. What starts as an engagement trip—sans fiancé—turns into a journey of rediscovery, complete with a handsome marine archaeologist (Ash, swoon 🥰), new friendships, and a mysterious connection to the island that adds layers of intrigue. Lena’s growth throughout the story is inspiring, and I found myself cheering for her as she stepped out of her comfort zone and embraced the unknown.
The romance is slow-burning and beautifully developed, with Ash and Lena’s chemistry practically leaping off the page. Their adoration for each other is shown through subtle gestures and meaningful moments, making their connection feel authentic and deeply satisfying. And let’s not forget the spice—this book has just the right amount of heat to keep things sizzling! 🔥
If you’re looking for a contemporary romance that’s equal parts heartfelt, adventurous, and steamy, don’t miss this gem. Dani Keen has crafted a story that’s honest, engaging, and impossible to put down.
Thank you NetGalley & Paper Moth for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Lena, the snarky and relatable protagonist, takes a leap of faith (and a plane to Bermuda) after her life takes an unexpected turn. What starts as an engagement trip—sans fiancé—turns into a journey of rediscovery, complete with a handsome marine archaeologist (Ash, swoon 🥰), new friendships, and a mysterious connection to the island that adds layers of intrigue. Lena’s growth throughout the story is inspiring, and I found myself cheering for her as she stepped out of her comfort zone and embraced the unknown.
The romance is slow-burning and beautifully developed, with Ash and Lena’s chemistry practically leaping off the page. Their adoration for each other is shown through subtle gestures and meaningful moments, making their connection feel authentic and deeply satisfying. And let’s not forget the spice—this book has just the right amount of heat to keep things sizzling! 🔥
If you’re looking for a contemporary romance that’s equal parts heartfelt, adventurous, and steamy, don’t miss this gem. Dani Keen has crafted a story that’s honest, engaging, and impossible to put down.
Thank you NetGalley & Paper Moth for the ARC in return for an honest review.
April 20, 2025
Lena might be my favourite of the series so far. She has the kind of confidence most of us only dream about. She moves through life with a certain loudness, and it’s addictive. She is written in a way that makes us know her and love her while rolling our eyes. The connection between her and Ash is undeniable - the physical chemistry is well described but then the emotional connection that interrupts the physical desire makes it even better. It honestly made me cry because it’s the kind of love story that we all want to have. Now I want to go to Bermuda.
I also really loved the emphasis on Lena’s family coming together for her business - “It may have started as your dream but now it’s a family business. And we take care of family.” This line made me tear up. It was great to see how Lena started to lean on her family more towards the end of the book, even simply by trusting Vic with more responsibilities around the shop - loved the cohesive approach there. The casual mentions of Alex and Cali and their family was sweet as well if you’ve read the other books.
The dreams in between and the journal readings were gradually building up, and I was looking forward to hearing more about the Bermuda love triangle between Mary, Henry and Edith. But hopefully it will be explored further in Ash’s story.
I also really loved the emphasis on Lena’s family coming together for her business - “It may have started as your dream but now it’s a family business. And we take care of family.” This line made me tear up. It was great to see how Lena started to lean on her family more towards the end of the book, even simply by trusting Vic with more responsibilities around the shop - loved the cohesive approach there. The casual mentions of Alex and Cali and their family was sweet as well if you’ve read the other books.
The dreams in between and the journal readings were gradually building up, and I was looking forward to hearing more about the Bermuda love triangle between Mary, Henry and Edith. But hopefully it will be explored further in Ash’s story.
April 25, 2025
Wrecked and Rising by Dani Keen is a captivating blend of romance, mystery, and self-discovery. The story follows Lena Rodriguez, who, after a public breakup, embarks on a solo trip to Bermuda. There, she meets Ash Hayward, a marine archaeologist, and together they unravel a century-old mystery, all while navigating their growing attraction.
dani keen
What to Expect:
-Romantic Chemistry: The slow-burning romance between Lena and Ash is beautifully developed, with their connection deepening through subtle gestures and meaningful moments.
-Mystery and Adventure: The plot weaves a compelling mystery that keeps readers engaged, blending seamlessly with the romantic elements.
-Vivid Descriptions: Keen's evocative writing transports readers to Bermuda, making them feel the island's breeze and hear the ocean's waves.
If you're seeking a contemporary romance that's equal parts heartfelt, adventurous, and steamy, Wrecked and Rising is a must-read. Dani Keen has crafted a story that's engaging and impossible to put down.
Thank you to the publisher and @NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
#WreckedAndRising #DaniKeen #RomanticAdventure #MysteryRomance #BookTokRecs #SwoonyReads
dani keen
What to Expect:
-Romantic Chemistry: The slow-burning romance between Lena and Ash is beautifully developed, with their connection deepening through subtle gestures and meaningful moments.
-Mystery and Adventure: The plot weaves a compelling mystery that keeps readers engaged, blending seamlessly with the romantic elements.
-Vivid Descriptions: Keen's evocative writing transports readers to Bermuda, making them feel the island's breeze and hear the ocean's waves.
If you're seeking a contemporary romance that's equal parts heartfelt, adventurous, and steamy, Wrecked and Rising is a must-read. Dani Keen has crafted a story that's engaging and impossible to put down.
Thank you to the publisher and @NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
#WreckedAndRising #DaniKeen #RomanticAdventure #MysteryRomance #BookTokRecs #SwoonyReads
April 12, 2025
When Lena Rodriguez breaks up with her partner in a very public manner, she is forced to go on the romantic holiday to Bermuda that she planned by herself. There she meets Ash Hayward, a local marine archaeologist, who pushes Lena’s buttons from the moment they meet. Yet as she spends time with Ash, she learns that the dreams she is having connect to his grandparents. Try as she might, Lena’s efforts to relax and “enjoy herself” on vacation prove impossible. She is determined to solve the century-old mystery buried in the ocean; if only others would believe her.
A slow-burn romance with plenty of chemistry adds to the story, connecting Lena to the mystery of Ash’s family. From the start, the attraction between them is evident, and their witty exchange made for a great read. I enjoyed reading about Lena’s dreams, and it is only with these dreams that Lena gains resolution.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A slow-burn romance with plenty of chemistry adds to the story, connecting Lena to the mystery of Ash’s family. From the start, the attraction between them is evident, and their witty exchange made for a great read. I enjoyed reading about Lena’s dreams, and it is only with these dreams that Lena gains resolution.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 9, 2025
So I thought Chasing Dust would be my favorite because I was able to relate so much to the main character however the author, Dani Keen has helped me decide that isn't always the case. Wrecked and Rising surpassed my expectations and I loved it so much more than I thought I would! We are first introduced to Lena in Chasing Dust and then learn more about her as the protective sister in One Sunset in Taos: A Chasing Dust Novella. However Wrecked and Rising helps the reader get to know her so much better.
Lena can be described as a workaholic but who would blame them for that - she created and grew her business so getting away isn't for anything small but instead reserved for special occasions...until it isn't. (Not giving that spoiler away!). Instead her trip away to Bermuda brings a bit of mystery and suspense to her life, not to mention let's add a bit to her love life as well.
If you like witty banter, slow burn, secrets to discover with a bit of romance along the way, this book is definitely for you! I highly recommend Wrecked and Rising and if you haven't read Dani's first two books, I recommend those as well!
Thank you so much Dani for this ARC and fabulous read! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
Lena can be described as a workaholic but who would blame them for that - she created and grew her business so getting away isn't for anything small but instead reserved for special occasions...until it isn't. (Not giving that spoiler away!). Instead her trip away to Bermuda brings a bit of mystery and suspense to her life, not to mention let's add a bit to her love life as well.
If you like witty banter, slow burn, secrets to discover with a bit of romance along the way, this book is definitely for you! I highly recommend Wrecked and Rising and if you haven't read Dani's first two books, I recommend those as well!
Thank you so much Dani for this ARC and fabulous read! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
March 30, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Paper Moth Publishing for this ARC!
I really felt like Bermuda came to life in this book! I went in expecting the typical tourist meets island local trope romance novel, but the historical fiction woven with mystery and romance felt much more unique than your typical rom-com. The only element I wasn’t sold on were the dreams. I’m not a huge fan of magical realism though!
This book was such a fun mix of romance, mystery, and self-discovery. I loved how the author wrapped up the story in the last chapter - and I’m still left wondering what happens next!! I’d love to know what happens back in Bermuda after Lena leaves too!
I really felt like Bermuda came to life in this book! I went in expecting the typical tourist meets island local trope romance novel, but the historical fiction woven with mystery and romance felt much more unique than your typical rom-com. The only element I wasn’t sold on were the dreams. I’m not a huge fan of magical realism though!
This book was such a fun mix of romance, mystery, and self-discovery. I loved how the author wrapped up the story in the last chapter - and I’m still left wondering what happens next!! I’d love to know what happens back in Bermuda after Lena leaves too!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2026
I wasn’t super sure if this one to begin with but read other reviews and thought I’d stick it out and I’m glad I did! It was a cute story about self discovery with a dash of mystery and romance!
It follows Lena, a cafe owner who takes a vacation to Bermuda for, what should have been, her engagement. Only to be dumped before she goes. Lena takes the trip alone and ends up on a journey of self discovery and self worth and finds a couple of lifelong friends who help her along the way. A budding romance and a chance to lean into the islands history makes for an exciting adventure.
This would be a good summer or holiday read.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It follows Lena, a cafe owner who takes a vacation to Bermuda for, what should have been, her engagement. Only to be dumped before she goes. Lena takes the trip alone and ends up on a journey of self discovery and self worth and finds a couple of lifelong friends who help her along the way. A budding romance and a chance to lean into the islands history makes for an exciting adventure.
This would be a good summer or holiday read.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 5, 2025
I really feel in love with his book. When I wasn’t reading it I was thinking about it and couldn’t wait to pick it up again. I loved seeing the growth in the characters. The writing was so beautiful and truly had me feeling like those were real people. I’m definitely going to be reading more books by this author. This book is so perfect for summer.
April 2, 2025
Wrecked and Rising is another great story from Dani Keen!
She has great character development and some mysterious/ fun historical fiction!
You’ll love this book, Lena and Ash are magnetic!!
She has great character development and some mysterious/ fun historical fiction!
You’ll love this book, Lena and Ash are magnetic!!
February 9, 2025
Be ready to pack your bags for Bermuda . . .
Am I bias because I wrote this book? Yes. Is it everything I want out of a great story? Also yes. Lena’s adventure in Bermuda is one with all the feels. You will be rooting for Lena post heartbreak, melting in the banter between her and Ash, and clamoring for them to find answers to a centuries old mystery.
This is your next feel good read and a world you will want to spend a little more time in.
Am I bias because I wrote this book? Yes. Is it everything I want out of a great story? Also yes. Lena’s adventure in Bermuda is one with all the feels. You will be rooting for Lena post heartbreak, melting in the banter between her and Ash, and clamoring for them to find answers to a centuries old mystery.
This is your next feel good read and a world you will want to spend a little more time in.
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