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Lantern Beach Blackout: Detonation #1
Chain Reaction
When an explosion rocks Lantern Beach, authorities scramble into action. Was the WWII relic that washed ashore merely bad luck—or something far more sinister?
Dr. Raven Newton, a forensic archaeologist, is called to investigate the bomb that killed one person. With her specialized knowledge of military artifacts, she’s the perfect person for the job—until she discovers who else is on the case.
Former Navy SEAL Jake Laudner never forgot his whirlwind romance with Raven. Once assigned as her protector during a high-risk overseas mission, Jake broke his cardinal Never get emotionally involved. Now working for elite security firm Blackout, Jake is stunned to find himself face-to-face with the woman who still haunts his dreams.
As the investigation intensifies, so does the tension between Raven and Jake. Raven insists their previous relationship was nothing but adrenaline and proximity. Jake knows differently—and he’s determined to prove it.
With a killer targeting Raven and time running out, she needs protection whether she wants it or not. And Jake won’t fail her twice, even if it costs him everything.
Dr. Raven Newton, a forensic archaeologist, is called to investigate the bomb that killed one person. With her specialized knowledge of military artifacts, she’s the perfect person for the job—until she discovers who else is on the case.
Former Navy SEAL Jake Laudner never forgot his whirlwind romance with Raven. Once assigned as her protector during a high-risk overseas mission, Jake broke his cardinal Never get emotionally involved. Now working for elite security firm Blackout, Jake is stunned to find himself face-to-face with the woman who still haunts his dreams.
As the investigation intensifies, so does the tension between Raven and Jake. Raven insists their previous relationship was nothing but adrenaline and proximity. Jake knows differently—and he’s determined to prove it.
With a killer targeting Raven and time running out, she needs protection whether she wants it or not. And Jake won’t fail her twice, even if it costs him everything.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 17, 2025
581 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Christy Barritt
340 books1,673 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 25, 2025
Yay! I was excited to return to Lantern Beach in this new series by Christy Barritt. Familiar faces from her past Lantern Beach series showed up, and we get to meet new characters. This was an explosive thrill from start to finish in Chain Reaction. Who has been creating the bombs? Who is behind the mounting attacks against Raven? In addition to the danger and suspense, there is tension between Jake and Raven, who are exes, but they must clear the air between them. I'm looking forward to the next installment.
April 30, 2025
I’m glad for a new series by a favorite author set back in Lantern Beach. It’s fun to see characters we know from past series in the story that begins with a bang and doesn’t let up until the final page. Packed with suspense and plenty of action and close calls, this mystery keeps readers engaged and scratching their heads as they try to figure out who is behind the explosions and threats. Whether you’ve read any other books by this prolific writer or not, get this new one. I think it will whet your appetite for more—and there are plenty to choose from. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
July 18, 2025
I just inhale these books! I love the characters, the intensity, and the twists! Christy Barritt brings the total package!
July 24, 2025
The story starts out kinda slow for me, but mostly because Raven comes across as a boring character at first. The bombs are written in incredible detail and the Barritt writing is excellent, as usual. I just didn't get into the story until almost halfway through.
The reason for Jake "ghosting" Raven was a weak plot point. He really compromised himself out of duty, not love, for someone even if it seemed for a noble reason. And I guess he figured Raven could never forgive him when it was all a misunderstanding on his part. If Raven was the true love of his life, then he should have trusted her with the truth at the first opportunity instead of thinking she was better off and hopefully they never see each other again. I'm glad it all worked out. Hopefully off page, he will finally remove the wedding ring around his neck (I would consider that the right thing to do-isn't there another way he can honor his deceased?).
Never would've guessed the culprit in this story and it didn't end conclusively, just that the ones responsible are in custody as the story ends. Definitely want to know more about Atlas's story next!
The reason for Jake "ghosting" Raven was a weak plot point. He really compromised himself out of duty, not love, for someone even if it seemed for a noble reason. And I guess he figured Raven could never forgive him when it was all a misunderstanding on his part. If Raven was the true love of his life, then he should have trusted her with the truth at the first opportunity instead of thinking she was better off and hopefully they never see each other again. I'm glad it all worked out. Hopefully off page, he will finally remove the wedding ring around his neck (I would consider that the right thing to do-isn't there another way he can honor his deceased?).
Never would've guessed the culprit in this story and it didn't end conclusively, just that the ones responsible are in custody as the story ends. Definitely want to know more about Atlas's story next!
April 17, 2025
We make an explosive return to Lantern Beach in the newest series from Christy Barritt. When what looks like an old explosive device washes up on shore, things begin to heat up in Lantern Beach - in more ways than one! Dr. Raven Newton is called in to verify the explosive and meets up with her ex, former Navy Seal Jake Laudner, who now works on Lantern Beach. When another bomb washes up, everyone on Lantern Beach begins to help to figure out what is going on and find what the connection is to Raven. Be prepared for lots of action and suspense, lots of clues to follow, and complex characters - both old and new - if you have read any of the Lantern Beach series. I can't wait to read the next book!! I received an advance copy from the author but all opinions are my own.
April 22, 2025
WOW!! Chain Reaction by Christy Barrett had it all!! Excitement, mystery, danger, and sparks!! This story was about two souls who had it all at one time -- and lost it all. The danger of the past led to the current ever present danger, however this time Raven and Jake have a chance to end this game by working together. Will this be a reconnecting to free themselves from their past, or will they take a chance on the future? Only time will tell as they seek the truth. I loved the energy, action, and well-written story to reach the last page. I think it definitely deserved the 5 out of 5 stars I'm giving it!!
May 20, 2025
Full of danger, suspense, and heart-pounding action, Chain Reaction was a thrill ride from the start. My anxiety was high and just kept ramping up as I furiously flipped through the pages.
It was nerve-wracking trying to figure out who was planting the bombs and when another one might go off. Who was doing it, and what was their motive? I was so invested in the outcome.
I loved being back in Lantern Beach! I always enjoy visiting the island. I loved seeing old characters and meeting new ones.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the next one! It’s a standalone, so it’s perfect for new fans and old alike.
It was nerve-wracking trying to figure out who was planting the bombs and when another one might go off. Who was doing it, and what was their motive? I was so invested in the outcome.
I loved being back in Lantern Beach! I always enjoy visiting the island. I loved seeing old characters and meeting new ones.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the next one! It’s a standalone, so it’s perfect for new fans and old alike.
April 14, 2025
I had a BETA copy of this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Jake Laudner, a bomb diffuser expert now working for Blackout Security, meets Rachel Newton when a bomb deploys on Lantern Beach. He had protected her ten years ago, and fell in love with her then, but circumstances prevented him from contacting her after they parted. Now they’re both working on finding who is planting bombs, and it looks like they’re targeting one or both of them. An action packed story of working together, and trying to find answers. Super start to a new series.
May 25, 2025
Raven is brought in as expert on older bombs. Jake is the expert on newer bombs. Together they are a great team.
Raven has been brought in to authenticate the bomb that just showed up on internet before blowing up an older woman who thought she had a dud brought in by the storm. Jake is brought in because there is some dought that bomb was really older. Then a second bomb is set off in the same place and causes even more damage. The two reluctantly join forces to find who is behind these bombs.
Raven has been brought in to authenticate the bomb that just showed up on internet before blowing up an older woman who thought she had a dud brought in by the storm. Jake is brought in because there is some dought that bomb was really older. Then a second bomb is set off in the same place and causes even more damage. The two reluctantly join forces to find who is behind these bombs.
June 28, 2025
Chain Reaction
What a wonderful team Dr Raven Newton an Jake Laudner make in this Lantern Beach Blackout Detonation book! The two have a history together but neither expects to see the other when they begin investigating a bomb that had killed a person in Lantern Beach. Someone is making bombs that look like older military ordnances. When it appears Raven is being targeted, Jake is her protector. He had ghosted her after a whirlwind courtship when they were younger. Will she be able to forgive him enough to let him keep her safe?
What a wonderful team Dr Raven Newton an Jake Laudner make in this Lantern Beach Blackout Detonation book! The two have a history together but neither expects to see the other when they begin investigating a bomb that had killed a person in Lantern Beach. Someone is making bombs that look like older military ordnances. When it appears Raven is being targeted, Jake is her protector. He had ghosted her after a whirlwind courtship when they were younger. Will she be able to forgive him enough to let him keep her safe?
July 8, 2025
You may think you can forget your past.. But then it reappears
Raven had moved on, put Jake behind her but never quite forgotten. Jake had made some choices that he felt like Raven wouldn't understand. But today was not the day to dwell on them. Something big was happening right in front of them, and one of the other or both were targets.
This is another mystery you are led through putting clues together as a puzzle. Love Ms Barritt's writings and looking forward to next book.
Raven had moved on, put Jake behind her but never quite forgotten. Jake had made some choices that he felt like Raven wouldn't understand. But today was not the day to dwell on them. Something big was happening right in front of them, and one of the other or both were targets.
This is another mystery you are led through putting clues together as a puzzle. Love Ms Barritt's writings and looking forward to next book.
October 13, 2025
A navy man turned security specialist falls back in love with an old flame.
Enjoyed being with this author again and starting a new series. Jake and Raven story was exciting from start to finish. Someone was after Raven and Jake became her hero once again. They had quite the past and some things needed to be forgiven and clarified. All was taken care of during Jake and Raven time together. They fell back in love. So good to be back with Coltan, Cassidy and Ty. Will read more in this series and by this author.
Enjoyed being with this author again and starting a new series. Jake and Raven story was exciting from start to finish. Someone was after Raven and Jake became her hero once again. They had quite the past and some things needed to be forgiven and clarified. All was taken care of during Jake and Raven time together. They fell back in love. So good to be back with Coltan, Cassidy and Ty. Will read more in this series and by this author.
April 18, 2025
Chain Reaction
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes suspense. This book kept me turning the pages until I finished it in one day. I loved the a Lantern Beach books. I’m so glad to have more adventures with the characters on Lantern Beach again. I also love how these characters bring their relationship with Christ in to these books. This book kept me wondering how things would turn out and who was the enemy. I can’t wait for The next book in this series.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes suspense. This book kept me turning the pages until I finished it in one day. I loved the a Lantern Beach books. I’m so glad to have more adventures with the characters on Lantern Beach again. I also love how these characters bring their relationship with Christ in to these books. This book kept me wondering how things would turn out and who was the enemy. I can’t wait for The next book in this series.
April 25, 2025
Enjoy the read, especially if you're near the beach. It's great to return to the fictional, yet realistic, Lantern Beach, with some new and favorite residents. Unfortunately, A series of dangerous events by unknown villains hits the island. Stay tuned for surprises at the ending plus a cover reveal for Pressure Point.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation for a positive review. This review is my opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation for a positive review. This review is my opinion.
April 30, 2025
I never tire of returning to Lantern Beach, a fictional town in the Outer Banks of North Carolina and this one does not disappoint. A WWII relic, a disaster, a past love, danger, twists and turns, and a mega dose of suspense all come together to draw the reader in. I am looking forward to Book #2 in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions are entirely my own.
May 2, 2025
I love being back on Lantern Beach with this new series. The two main characters, Jake and Raven each have very interesting backgrounds which adds a lot to the story. As a series of bombs occur, Jake and Raven are brought together to solve who is behind these incidents. There are many twists and turns throughout the story which ends with a surprise ending. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series!
April 19, 2025
Jake and Raven
Oh my, I hate when friendships get messed up and you don’t know who you can trust. You feel kinda lost. But then when you are in a life or death situation your heart knows. Enjoy this jammed packed action, friendship, love all in one great book. Can’t wait until the next one
Oh my, I hate when friendships get messed up and you don’t know who you can trust. You feel kinda lost. But then when you are in a life or death situation your heart knows. Enjoy this jammed packed action, friendship, love all in one great book. Can’t wait until the next one
April 26, 2025
Chain Reaction is a great mystery, full of suspense, twists, regrets, forgiveness, and romance. Events from the past come back to haunt Jake and Raven, as they navigate the current life-threatening events and their own romantic history. I look forward to the next book in this series, and enjoy reconnecting with characters from Lantern Beach.
April 30, 2025
We are back in Lantern Beach for more excitement!
Another great story with wonderful characters. Jake is self-sacrificing on so many levels. Raven was smart and easy to like.
As a typical Barritt book the action was well paced and I was never bored.
I'm looking forward to more from this series.
Another great story with wonderful characters. Jake is self-sacrificing on so many levels. Raven was smart and easy to like.
As a typical Barritt book the action was well paced and I was never bored.
I'm looking forward to more from this series.
July 21, 2025
I’ve just started this book but it’s so fantastically suspenseful! With a literally explosive beginning, I have high hopes for what looks to be a thrilling adventure. This is the first Christian novel I’ve read after converting, but honestly? It seems like it’d appeal to pretty much any reader who likes thriller and/or romance books.
January 10, 2026
Chain Reaction
This was an action packed book! Christy Barritt has written another great book filled with suspense, romance and intense turning of events. I had to keep on reading , I couldn't put it down until it was finished. The book is well written and a sequel must be coming.
This was an action packed book! Christy Barritt has written another great book filled with suspense, romance and intense turning of events. I had to keep on reading , I couldn't put it down until it was finished. The book is well written and a sequel must be coming.
April 19, 2025
Awesome
As all books that have read by Christy Barritt this new book was awesome. It kept me guessing and I can't wait to read the next book in this series. I some happy that it's based in Lantern Beach.
As all books that have read by Christy Barritt this new book was awesome. It kept me guessing and I can't wait to read the next book in this series. I some happy that it's based in Lantern Beach.
April 24, 2025
3.5 rounded up
This book was a bit repetitive and not very much character development. I felt like there was something missing the whole book and then it just ended. Not sure if I will read the next one.
This book was a bit repetitive and not very much character development. I felt like there was something missing the whole book and then it just ended. Not sure if I will read the next one.
April 24, 2025
I didn’t see that coming!
Yes! An excellent beginning to another Christy Barritt series! Good clean suspense with a surprising villain and enough dangling threads to make me eager for the next book!
Yes! An excellent beginning to another Christy Barritt series! Good clean suspense with a surprising villain and enough dangling threads to make me eager for the next book!
April 26, 2025
Future
A future that was so clear in their lives only to be shattered then brought back together to heal and love, and fill the empty spaces of lost years to finding the path to forever.
A future that was so clear in their lives only to be shattered then brought back together to heal and love, and fill the empty spaces of lost years to finding the path to forever.
May 4, 2025
Interesting….
Interesting story and opening a lot of options for the books to come. There was one or two things that didn’t hit me quite right, but it’s more of a personality thing. Other than that, very good!
Interesting story and opening a lot of options for the books to come. There was one or two things that didn’t hit me quite right, but it’s more of a personality thing. Other than that, very good!
May 9, 2025
Chain Reaction
Intriguing! I started reading this and just couldn't put it down. The explosiveness of the plotting was almost unbelievable! I cannot wait to read on in this series of Blackout operations.
Intriguing! I started reading this and just couldn't put it down. The explosiveness of the plotting was almost unbelievable! I cannot wait to read on in this series of Blackout operations.
May 12, 2025
Great story
Really enjoyed this book. Christopher Barritt has written another wonderful series. I love all the Latern Beach series. Hope she will continue to keep them coming
Really enjoyed this book. Christopher Barritt has written another wonderful series. I love all the Latern Beach series. Hope she will continue to keep them coming
May 15, 2025
Great mystery
This book was very good, love the suspense z Christy puts in her books. Lantern beach is being assaulted, first a bomb that takes a older ladies life. Then bombs to confuse people about the first, who exactly is the target.
This book was very good, love the suspense z Christy puts in her books. Lantern beach is being assaulted, first a bomb that takes a older ladies life. Then bombs to confuse people about the first, who exactly is the target.
August 9, 2025
What a good book!!! The Lantern Beach novels are my favorite and the Detonation series is starting off with a “bang”. This book was SO good. The characters and their backgrounds/occupations were well thought out and the storyline was original and excellent. Looking forward to the next book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews