Deadly Currents

Hidden Bay #3

by Elizabeth Goddard

Investigative journalist Cressida arrives in Hidden Bay after a worldwide journey to finish her late father's manuscript on shipwrecks. As she tries to discover the story behind the "ghost ship" Specter's Bounty, her only lead is a name her father left behind--Evelyn Monroe. As Cressida uncovers more about the ship, she quickly realizes that her research has placed her in the crosshairs of dangerous forces.

County detective Braden is in Hidden Bay for one reason--to get his niece lifesaving medical treatment. To do that, he is assigned to protect Cressida from a revenge-driven enemy. Together, Braden and Cressida dig deeper to discern the myth from the facts surrounding the Specter's Bounty. Entangled in secrets, they must unravel the past before it destroys their future.

Brace yourself for Elizabeth Goddard's final adrenaline-inducing installment in the Hidden Bay series.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Suspense, Contemporary, Mystery, Romance, Romantic Suspense, Inspirational

352 pages, Paperback

First published February 17, 2026

About the author

Elizabeth Goddard is the PW, ECPA, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of over sixty novels, including the Missing in Alaska and Rocky Mountain Courage series. Her books have sold more than 1.5 million copies. She is a Christy Award, Carol Award and Reader's Choice Award winner and a Daphne du Maurier Award and HOLT Medallion finalist. When she's not writing, she loves spending time with her family, traveling to find inspiration for her next book, and serving with her husband in ministry. For more information about her books, visit her website.



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Reviews

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

What do you get when you combine an investigative journalist on a mission to finish her late father’s last book, a county detective torn between his sworn duty and his heart, a bay full of secrets, a mysterious octogenarian (or two), and a ghost ship? If you answered ‘a book Carrie gobbled up in one sitting’, you would be correct. I have been intrigued by Hidden Bay’s infamous ghost ship – Specter’s Bounty – since I read about it in book one of this series, so I was thrilled to discover that it’s the focus of Deadly Currents! Talk about a fascinating concept that I’d love to read more about, especially given the author’s note at the end of the book. This aspect of the novel adds to the atmospheric tension that builds at a steady pace from beginning to end and the suspense that kept Braden & Cressida on their toes – and me on the edge of my seat.

I also loved getting to see swoony Detective Braden Sanders again (whom we met in book two), delving into his secrets, and watching him fall head over heels for the courageous Cressida Dane – a heroine who can definitely hold her own when it comes to persistence in investigating. Each of these protagonists is deeply layered, and there were times when I couldn’t have predicted how their backstories and their secrets were going to affect their budding romance or their fight to stay alive as danger constantly nips at their heels. Other than the two of them and the protagonists from the other two books in the series, I wasn’t sure who else could be trusted, especially when the twists just got twistier. Plus, Goddard throws in some old journals and mysterious shipwrecks and answers to questions I’ve had since book one. Needless to say, I stayed completely engrossed in this story, and I also appreciated the spiritual threads on forgiveness and surrender that the author tucks into the characters’ growth journeys too.

Bottom Line: With its moody (and sometimes eerie) coastal setting, tangled secrets, sweet romance, and steadily escalating tension, Deadly Currents by Elizabeth Goddard hooked me early and refused to let go. Braden and Cressida’s search for answers and their race against time – and against whoever wants Cressida dead – balanced perfectly with their growing feelings for each other and kept me rooting for wins on both fronts. Deadly Currents is also a rewarding read for series fans, weaving together long-standing questions with fresh danger and emotional depth while also giving us page-time with dear-to-us characters like Remi, Hawk, Jo & Cole. (And a lovely epilogue at the very end ties up any loose ends and gives us hope that they’ll all live happily-ever-after, even without us looking over their shoulders anymore.)

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Compelling and action filled to the end.

Elizabeth Goddard had me invested in this story since the beginning. I loved the characters and the mystery surrounding them. It kept me guessing until the end. I loved the setting of Hidden Bay in all of the stories of this series and I couldn't get enough. I especially loved the "ghost ship" aspect.

*thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book to read, all thoughts are my own.

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth Goddard brings us back to the Washington coast with this third book in the Hidden Bay series. A hunt for a ghost ship, secrets controlling people’s actions, imposing danger and questions on who to trust. I was captivated from the beginning, loved all the twists and turns, and enjoyed every minute of this book! A wonderful setting, engaging characters, unexpected turns, and compelling emotion kept me glued to the story. An excellent adventure!

[Laura (kroosreadsandreviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A maritime suspense read complete with pirates, ships criminal activity!

This book will have you guessing as the story unfolds. There are so many players involved and it's difficult to figure out who is a friend or a foe.

Braden is quite the guy as he will do anything to support his sister and niece. Cressida is as tough as nails and is out to finish her deceased father's novel. These two are stuck together as they unravel the mystery including Cresssida's estranged mother and her involvement.

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read a dozen books by Goddard, and I’m always impressed by her creative storytelling, how great her characters are, the sweet romances, and the exciting suspense. Deadly Currents shows exactly why I love reading her books.

This adventure story kept my heart pounding and eager to discover the truth. Cressida stands out as a character (and her name does too), and I liked how she and Braden worked together to find answers. The suspense is strong, and Braden’s journey especially moved me.

This is a great story, series, and author. If you like romantic suspense with faith, love, action, and danger that keeps you totally immersed, you should try Elizabeth Goddard’s Hidden Bay Series. You won’t regret it.

First Line: “The sea never gives back what it claims…”
Series: Hidden Bay, book 3
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense, Mystery
Author: Elizabeth Goddard
Page Count: 352

#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are my own.

[Holly (IG Hollys_Book_Musings) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the mystery in this one. I was very intrigued by it and the plot twists.

I wish there was a little more romantic chemistry between the two MCs.

Overall enjoyed this one!

Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: Kissing only (not overly descriptive)
Violence/gore: Mild-gun violence, woman gets attacked and left for dead, other mild violence, peril, stalking
Substance use: none that I remember
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: Christian-characters pray a lot throughout
Other: troubled past, broken family relationships, nothing major that I remember

[IrenesBookReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although this is book three in the Hidden Bay series, you do not have to read the other ones to enjoy the story. I liked the two main characters a lot and thought they were written well. I enjoyed the conversations as they felt true to life and not forced. The setting was a help to the story. The story itself was entertaining and kept me reading. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys lifelike Christian fiction mysteries or dramas.

I would like to thank the publisher and Netgalley for the temporary ARC digital copy that I read and left my personal thoughts on.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 3 was a really interesting book, I was intrigued and on the edge of my seat the whole time. Lots of Wows and No Ways. I have not ever read a gothic style book such as this with ghost ships but I found myself really emersed in the story. So many wonderful characters and surprising twists and turns. I really liked Cressida's spunk and drive to get to the bottom of her father's death while finishing his book all the while through her own danger she's experiencing. Braden is a special man, he's got his own life troubles but he is tasked by Cressida's mother who a big wig in the State Department, to protect her at all costs. His own story I won't share and spoil but it will pull at your heart strings the way he loves his family. I truly loved every book in this series and hate to see it ending but that's okay I fully support every book Elizabeth Goddard has ever written.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.

[Misty Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ghost ships, gothic, secluded mansions, and town secrets create the perfect backdrop for this dynamic book! The mystery, danger, and romance kept me coming back until I had devoured the book. We met new characters and caught up with beloved ones from the previous two books in the series. Goddard wove together a tale that not only entertains with its twists and mysteries, but also concludes with a satisfying ending.

I have absolutely loved this series! It has fantastic characters and stories with each book being even better than the last. I really hated to see this one end.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

[Emily Waits (emilylovesreading_) · Rating 5 out of 5]

(I received a complimentary copy of this title. All opinions are my own.)

I’ve so enjoyed the first two books in the Hidden Bay series, and I’ve been so excited for this third and final book of the series. 💜

This is a Christian romantic suspense story. Deadly Currents is light on the romance and heavy on all the action and suspense—just how I like it! 🙌🏻 I loved these characters, and there were so many twists and turns in this story. A couple of the plot twists I did NOT see coming. 🤯

If you are a romantic suspense lover, you have to pick up the Hidden Bay series! You could start with Deadly Currents if you wanted to (it might actually be my favorite of the series!) but I think you’d miss out on the fun of seeing the other characters appear in this story. I loved especially all of the MMCs throughout this series teaming up in this book! 👏🏻 I’d suggest reading in order. 😊

Though the Hidden Bay series is complete now, Elizabeth Goddard has a brand new series coming soon with the first releasing in August 2026!

And there’s still time to preorder Deadly Currents. 🤭🙌🏻💜

Highly recommend!

[Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed 'Deadly Currents' by Elizabeth Goddard. It was fast-paced, suspenseful, and kept me turning the pages because something was always happening. The setting along the Pacific Northwest coast added so much tension and atmosphere, especially with the constant danger from the water and the fog.

The suspense was solid and kept me guessing, but what I liked most was that the characters actually had depth. Their past experiences and emotional struggles felt real and made their choices believable. The romance built gradually and didn’t take over the story, which I appreciated.

The faith element was present but subtle and woven into the story in a way that felt genuine rather than preachy. If you like clean romantic suspense with plenty of action, danger, and a strong setting, this is definitely worth reading.

I receive complimentary books from various sources, including NetGalley, authors, and others. I am not required to write a positive review, and I have not received any compensation for my thoughts.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh my goodness, this final book in Elizabeth Goddard's Hidden Bay series is awesome. it drew me in from the first page and wouldn't let go. Lots of mystery and action and danger and suspense. And of course a budding romance that has quite a few obstacles. I loved seeing the characters from the previous books and getting updates about their lives.
This story focused on Cressida and Braden. Cressida has traveled to Hidden Bay to finish research for her late father's book. An intriguing book focusing on ghost ships and sunken vessels. However, there's a lot more going on than she bargained for. She's in danger from the very first chapter. But she's determined to honor her father and finish the book.
Detective Braden is in Hidden Bay for reasons even he doesn't quite understand. Until he sees Cressida for the first time and realizes her connection to his past (and his present). Things are tricky to say the least as he tries to protect her without letting her know his main goal is to protect her.
I loved how strong of a character Cressida was and empathized with her struggle to grant forgiveness. I loved the relationship that developed between Cressida and Braden, and was rooting for them even through the obstacles
I loved getting to know Evelyn Monroe more and learn her story. And I love how the author connected everything. Loved the twists, and there were quite a few of them. Definitely took me by surprise. Though I admit I did have my suspicions about who one of the bad guys might be.
The author really kept the suspense going, especially the way she ended chapters on a cliffhanger from the one pov and then moving to the other pov. I had a hard time setting the book aside to get things done.
I am sort of sad this series is over. But I am thankful everything was wrapped up and we got a wonderful conclusion and updates on everyone. And that last paragraph was perfection.
Highly recommend this series. And if, like me, you don't like character relationships spoiled, you'll want to read the series in order. Though each book could stand alone with their individual stories.

I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I completely devoured this book! Who doesn’t love a story complete with mystery, pirate elements, a smart and brave FMC and a MMC that has protector written all over him? I for sure love this story! This is a very satisfying conclusion to a series I have loved reading. The setting is perfection, and the cast of characters for this series have been such fun. I’m sorry to see this series end but I’m looking forward to the next adventures Elizabeth will write!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, but also purchased my own audiobook copy. I was not required to post a positive review and all thoughts are my own.

[Kristi W - Book Love By Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Well, no point in dancing around what’s obviously between us.” “And what’s between us?” “You know. It’s there. Now it’s son the table.” “Honestly, I kind of liked the dance.” “Oh, we can keep dancing. Don’t worry.”

This forced proximity story is packed with mystery, secrets, danger, faith, and a little romance. There were so many twists and turns I couldn’t put it down. An amazing setting, fantastic characters, and lots of action!

Cressida is brave, determined, and talented. She definitely got more than she came for in her search to complete her father’s book. I loved her resolve to reveal the secrets and solve the mystery. I loved that she trusted Braden immediately and even when that trust was tested she sought truth. Braden is protective, determined, and devoted to his sister and niece. I loved that even though he was in a situation not of his choosing he gave his all. I loved that he clung to his faith and trusted God to lead him. Cressida and Braden had amazing chemistry. I loved how they worked together to solve the mystery and escape the danger. The messages of redemption and restoration were beautiful.

A few more quotes:
“I’m saying, regardless of your connections, I would be here, Cressida, for you . . . You. Do you understand?”

“I’ll let you figure out how to save the day.” “Seriously? You trust me with your life?” “Didn’t say that. I trust you with your life and hers, and I won’t be far behind.”

“You’re alive.” “What, me? No. I couldn’t die before knowing what it would be like to kiss you.”

Note: This is the third book in the series and can be read as a standalone (the characters from the first two books do show up in this story!). I highly recommend the first two books too!

This book was provided by the author and publisher @revellfiction. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romantic Suspense fans will LOVE Deadly Currents by Elizabeth Goddard. I have a long list of what I loved about it: suspense and danger from page one, Cressida's research and finishing her Dad's book have become important to her to see to the end, unfortunately it has put her in grave danger. I loved the suspense, the beautiful and wild beauty of the pacific northwest, and the cameo appearances from beloved characters in the series. I love the mystery with the side characters too. I loved the cliff hangers at the end of chapters that helped fuel this captivating, page-turning mystery! Detective Braden Sanders is there to do a job without being given any information other than "he should watch for something unexpected." He feels he has no choice but to do as his boss says, as she is helping to provide life-saving treatments for his niece.

Secrets, a lost ship, and the search for truth make this story unputdownable!

"He'd always been upfront and honest, and to find himself in this predicament was like being in a moral dilemma nightmare."

"His presence, the longing to be with him, free from all this drama, courses through her. But he was just like everyone else- untrustworthy."

I highly recommend Deadly Currents and the whole Hidden Bay series!

Thank you to the author and Revell publishing for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

deadly currents.

captivating story.
from the first sentence.

Pirates lost ghost ships.
very intriguing story. the perfect story.
Cressida Dane is working on finishing her father's book. but danger is all around.

Braden Sanders
County detective has but one job.
will he be successful.

a intriguing story keeps you turning those pages, a killer on the lose.that won't stop.

absolutely perfect Ending.

I loved the author's note.
we learn so much about the author and tid bits how the story became about.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fantastic! Deadly Currents is a page turning, nail biting, suspense. It is a story of secrets, lies, manipulation and somewhere buried deep is the truth. A truth some are willing to kill for and others are willing to fight to learn.
There's also romance and plenty of twists. I sincerely wish I could give more than 5 stars. Mrs. Goddard outdid herself on this one. Definitely recommend.
I had an ARC. Opinions are definitely my own.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read several books by this author and she is one of my go-to suspense authors. This novel is the third book in her Hidden Bay series. You do not have to have read the other two in order to enjoy this one. While it takes place in the same town as the other two and has some of the same characters, it can be read as a standalone. This story not only has the suspense and romance but it has a lot of mystery to it. I really enjoyed the historical maritime element to it especially because it included folklore that dealt with ghost ships. I was captivated from the beginning to the end. I had a hard time putting the book down. It is a must read in my book.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. The opinions in this review are my own.

[Alison Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun pirate and ghost ship story that could "possibly" be true. If you've read the first two books in The Hidden Bay series, you will enjoy learning more about the mysterious Evelyn Monroe, while Cressida and Braden unravel secrets people want to keep hidden. If you like romantic suspense, make sure to read Deadly Currents.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a thrill to return to the Washington coast for this heart-racing conclusion to the amazing Hidden Bay series! The story revolves around determined journalist Cressida Dane and county detective Braden Sanders as they become ensnared in a complex web of secrets, forcing them to race against time to piece together a mystery that threatens their lives. The rapid-fire, action-filled story hits the ground running with a chilling, beachside attack on Cressida and keeps the tension and suspense high throughout. An atmosphere of looming danger, heightened by a vividly drawn Pacific Northwest setting, kept me reading with eager anticipation from the first page to the last. A compelling, realistic cast of characters kept me emotionally invested in their lives and struggles. The slow-burn romance takes a backseat to the action, yet it enriches the story, adding warmth and meaning to every twist. I appreciate the subtle thread of faith woven through the story. I totally enjoyed this book and the series and highly recommend both. Note: Each book in the series can easily be read as a standalone. Reading them in order, however, will offer a richer reading experience.
I read an early copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this third book of the series, the setting is in Alaska. I had not read the first two books. There’s plenty of mystery and intrigue involved. It’s difficult to know what’s really going on in the story, which makes for a good mystery. There’s also a little romance. I was given a complementary copy of this book and the opinions are my own.

[DevotedToHope · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some currents move beneath the surface, unseen until they begin to pull. Hidden Bay carries that kind of tension. The waters crash against rugged cliffs, yet the deeper danger runs quiet … grief, secrets, unfinished stories that refuse to stay buried.

Cressida’s search for the Specter’s Bounty feels like more than research. It feels like stepping into something her father left behind, something still moving beneath the surface. The mystery surrounding the ghost ship pulls her forward, yet the strongest current in this story is not the ocean. It is forgiveness.

“How, Lord, how? How do I forgive?” That cry reaches beyond investigation. It names the cost of obedience when pain feels justified. The external danger tightens, and the inward struggle grows just as urgent.

Then comes the sharper question: “So that’s it, Lord, I just have to forgive someone even if they don’t deserve it?” Forgiveness asks for surrender that feels costly. The tide does not always turn easily. I found myself thinking of C. S. Lewis: “To be a Christian means to forgive the inexcusable, because God has forgiven the inexcusable in you.” That truth rests heavy in a story where justice feels pressing and mercy feels undeserved.

Braden’s steadiness anchors the shifting waters. His protectiveness and devotion to family give weight to every choice he makes. When he tells Cressida, “God answered our prayers,” the simplicity of that confession stands firm. In a story shaped by threat and suspicion, that acknowledgment of God’s hand feels sincere and grounded.

The Washington coastline is rendered with vivid depth … mist, crashing surf, shadowed coves. The cover captures that depth beautifully, the shifting blues and shadowed mist reflecting the unseen currents moving through the story. The pacing rises and falls like the sea itself, drawing the reader steadily forward.

I loved the characters, the layered plot, and the way past and present press against each other. Secrets surface. Motives shift. What has been pushed down rises, and the heart must respond.

Deadly Currents brings the Hidden Bay series to a close with atmosphere and emotional weight. Readers who appreciate coastal suspense, driven heroines, protective heroes, and stories where forgiveness becomes the truest current will find much to engage them here.

I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden Bay holds secrets—some myth, some fact. And Cressida Dane, investigative journalist, and County Detective Braden Sanders must distinguish between the two. When Cressida arrives in Hidden Bay, she becomes a target for people who want to keep the truth well hidden. Detective Sanders has a secret, too, one which he dreads Cressida discovering.

While they dig deeper into the mystery surrounding the “ghost ship” Specter’s Bounty, Cressida and Braden develop a relationship that may be doomed before it even starts once she discovers Braden’s secret and learns that he may not be so trustworthy after all.

Goddard continues to wow with her memorable characters and compelling plots. Characters become friends and, quite often, the situations are so tenuous, it’s tempting to read ahead just to be sure your favorite author knows what she is doing.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, as part of Elizabeth Goddard’s “Hidden Bay” Launch Team. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Betti]

The sea never gives back what it claims. It’s not the storms that sink sailors, it’s the calm before them - Dad. Cressida is following in her father’s footsteps with the plan to finish writing the book he started before he died in an accident. Hidden Bay holds tightly to many secrets and does not give them up easily. Will her search bring closure or danger? Time will tell.

Detective Braden Sanders has been hired by Octavia Dane, State Department for exactly what, he does not know. However, when Cressida, her estranged daughter arrives, his mission becomes clearer. Protect her at all costs. But what will be the cost in this search for truth?

An early copy of Hidden Bay, Book 3 was received through Revell, Baker Publishing Group and NetGalley. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.

[Alyssa Amey Madjeski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an exciting, twisty, and fulfilling conclusion to the Hidden Bay series! I loved this chance to visit this town and these characters. Right from the start, the air is as full of mystery as the fog surrounding the Washington coast. Investigative reporter Cressida is on a mission to finish her late father’s book on ghost ships, but something far bigger is at play.

“Seemed like her entire life had passed before her eyes- like she'd heard happens. Fortunately, she lived to talk about it, which only put her in more danger. Good. Bring it. She was all for living to fight another day.”

One thing after another comes at Cressida, and county detective Braden is there to try to protect her. There’s so many secrets at play- secrets that throw a twist in everything they thought they knew.

Goddard brings all the delightful suspense as we follow Cressida and Braden’s pursuit of the truth. With themes of forgiveness and restoration, this book was a great example of how heart-stopping suspense can still glorify the Lord. I loved the journey to forgiveness in this book. A real highlight for me.

While each book stands alone, this series does build on itself, so I recommend reading in order. If you love romantic suspense, you’ll love your visit to Hidden Bay.

I received a complementary copy of this book from the author and publisher. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.

[Ethelann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Currents is an exciting story about investigative reporter Cressida Dane is now out of a job, thanks to the strings her mother pulled. Now she's on a mission to finish his father's book about a ship called Specter's Bounty. And her hunt leads her to Hidden Bay.
Detective Braden Sanders is on Hidden Bay himself, to protect Cressida, which is her mother's orders and she'll keeping helping his niece get the life saving medical treatment she needs.
As they search for the information they discover her father may have been murdered doing the same research. And for every clue they find about Specter's Bounty the danger keeps growing. Someone wants to find the ship first and will stop at nothing to do so.

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyable Suspense, But With Cautions

DEADLY CURRENTS returns us to Hidden Bay, a place of secrets, where no one is who they appear to be. Not even the good guys. Detective Braden Sanders is no exception, even as our hunky but secretive hero, and yet Cressida Valentine, who has spent her life being burned by the people she thought she could trust, feels safe with him. She still keeps her secrets, and he keeps his. But he knows that if his ever come to light, he'll lose her forever.

And there's much more at stake than their tentative and rocky relationship. There's a lot of pieces in this chess game. A game that seems to have been set into play by a very powerful, and very narcissistic, woman who connects them both.

I was excited that this story focuses on the mystery of a ghost ship drifting with the tides, appearing and disappearing with the fog. From its brief mentions in the last two books, I wanted to know more. I was also glad that we get Braden's story, with his previous introduction.

With its suspenseful and breathless beginning, we dive into a complex mystery involving several key characters, all with unknown ties to the ghost ship. Or, ships? The story was a bit confusing and I had trouble keeping track of what was going on and what and how the tangled threads connected. The conclusion brings a large information dump, when I was still trying to wrap my mind around answers and questions I still had. Maybe a second read would help, it all just came across very rushed. It always bothers me how tight and strict publishers are with their deadlines, because in stories like this, it shows. The potential was there, it just didn't come together as well as it should have.

Upon meeting, main characters Braden and Cressida form a strong insta-attraction. It's mentioned early on, and later confirmed, that Braden formed a bond with Cressida in the past via a photograph he saw of her, and that seems to anchor his attachment to her in the present. That seemed really strange. Throughout the story, Braden shows himself a steady, patient, and dedicated man, if a little too emotionally-guided.

Cressida is strong-willed, with a take-charge attitude that borders on manipulative at times. She acknowledges this tendency to herself, but sees the end goal as important enough to proceed in that fashion. Unfortunately, many times that means purposefully putting Braden in harm's way. He's trained; he can protect them both. However, this made her come across as shallow and self-centered.

In the midst of the mystery and danger, Cressida struggles with the theme of forgiveness. She's wisely cut ties with her narc mother, although messily - and when dealing with a manipulative person, walking away is never easy. The question remains: how do you forgive someone who has deeply wronged you? I think the better question needed to be: what IS forgiveness? It's not just words that you say. Abuse of any kind is a very difficult subject to tackle in a story, and this one could have been handled better. Readers need to understand that forgiveness does NOT mean you must embrace a toxic person back into your life, and yet this story leaves off with this impression.

I think this finale could have been a real gem if it had been more polished and if it had better addressed these relationship issues, both between a mother and daughter, and between the love interests. The romance level is super-sweet with just general attraction, hand holds, simple embraces, and a non-descriptive brief kiss. We get to see return characters from the previous two books, which I love, and besides couple pairing, there are mild to no spoilers to their specific stories.

I would highly recommend reading the first two books, because those are my favorite!

I was given a book from the publisher for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are mine.

[Kay Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

DEADLY CURRENTS by Elizabeth Goddard is the exceptional, adrenaline-pumping, suspense-filled story of Cressida Valentine, investigative reporter, and County Detective Braden Sanders. Cressida is trying to finish her father’s research for a book on shipwrecks and ghost ships. Braden has secretly been assigned to keep her safe. Finding answers may not be as hard as staying alive!

Cressida was investigating for a very prestigious story when her mother used her power and influence to not only stop her in her tracks, but also got her fired, which ended up with her being blackballed in the industry leaving her unemployed and at loose ends. After her father’s death, she’s determined to finish his research and submit her book for publication in honor of her father. All has been going well until Captain Everett “Salty” Malloy, who she had paid handsomely, refused to take her further than Hidden Bay. He left her with a warning to watch her back. She didn’t realize that her adventure and grave danger had just begun!

Braden met Octivia Dane while a special agent with Diplomatic Security Services. His job ended after taking the blame for someone else. His sister’s daughter is gravely ill. Her only chance is an experimental drug. He was thrilled and extremely grateful when he found out Octivia was willing to help her get it. He should have known that anything free comes with strings attached. Problem is – he’s in the dark on what is expected other than her string pulling has him now County Deputy stationed at Hidden Bay. It isn’t until he comes upon an attempted murder and recognizes the victim that he knows his assignment. He will risk life and limb to protect Cressida because he will do anything to help Elise to get the medicine she needs!

Will an attempt on her life dissuade Cressida? Or murders? Neither are looking for romance, but will working so closely together have feelings developing? What does Evelyn Monroe’s name in her father’s notes mean? Can they decipher between friend and foe? Can Cressida take the words to heart about forgiveness when it comes to her mother? Will they find answers or their deaths in their search?

DEADLY CURRENTS is the magnificently written romantic suspense story that will take your breath away as your heart races in the excitement as you quickly turning pages in this can’t put down book. Elizabeth Goddard gives us a story of strong family bonds, grief, determination, alienation from one’s profession, suspense, grave danger, new friendship, and sweet growing romance all expertly woven with a thread of faith. DEADLY CURRENTS most definitely gets my FIVE STARS (deserves twice that) and positively recommend it to everyone!

While DEADLY CURRENTS is the 3rd book in the Hidden Bay series, it can most definitely be read as a standalone book.

I received an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#DeadlyCurrent #HiddenBay #ElizabethGoddard #RevellFiction #christian-romantic-suspense #ChristianFiction

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart-pounding action, a ghost ship, hidden identity, secrets, betrayal, & a swoony romance with a touch of faith—Deadly Currents is unputdownable! Elizabeth Goddard delivers a thrilling finale to the Hidden Bay series, & I loved every minute.

Investigative journalist Cressida Valentine heads to Hidden Bay to finish her late father’s book about mysterious shipwrecks, but quickly lands in the crosshairs of a killer. As bodies pile up, she & Detective Braden Sanders must uncover the truth about the Specter’s Bounty before it’s too late.

After her estranged, politically powerful mother gets her fired, Cressida heads to Hidden Bay to interview Evelyn Monroe, the last person her father spoke with about the ship. But from the moment she arrives, she’s assaulted & nearly drowned. Braden takes her case & soon becomes her protector as her investigation uncovers secrets someone is also desperate to learn. The closer Cressida gets to the truth, the more dangerous it becomes. Braden is right there beside her, but can she trust him?

Desperate to secure a life-saving drug for his niece, Braden agrees to a secret assignment from Cressida’s mother, Octavia Dane, a high-ranking State Department official. Tasked with protecting Cressida while hiding his mission, he struggles under the weight of deception, especially as their feelings deepen. He knows the betrayal will cut deep if Cressida discovers the truth. As danger escalates, can he keep her safe without losing her trust?

I loved this book! Modern-day pirates, buried secrets, & plenty of twists kept me quickly turning the pages. Loved Cressida & Braden’s instant attraction, & their slow burn romance sizzles on the page. Cressida’s strong & determined, but does not handle secrets well, especially from someone she’s falling for. The strained relationship with her mother adds even more tension.

Along with the nonstop action & unique, suspenseful storyline, I appreciated the theme of forgiveness, even when it’s undeserved. The twists lead to a stunning, action packed conclusion that perfectly wraps up this series & I loved seeing familiar faces along the way.

Highly recommend! Though I’m sad to see this series come to an end, I can’t wait to see what’s next! I received an advanced copy from the publisher with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily.

[Paty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another page turner and great finale to the series!

When investigative journalist Cressida Dane arrives in Hidden Bay to finish her late father’s work on a legendary ghost ship, she never expects her search to put her in danger. The deeper she digs into the mystery of the Specter’s Bounty, the clearer it becomes that someone wants the past left alone.

Detective Braden Sanders is assigned to protect her, but what begins as a duty soon becomes personal. As secrets surface and threats close in, Cressida and Braden must fight for the truth… and for a love neither of them saw coming.

Deadly Currents captured my attention from page one, and I struggled to put it down. The plot is intriguing, with constant action and unexpected twists until the end, which I didn’t expect.

This story pulled me in with its suspense, but what stayed with me was the heart underneath it. Cressida is chasing answers left behind by her father, trying to make sense of the past while danger quietly closes in. And Braden, carrying his own burdens and fears, steps in not just as her protector, but as someone learning what it truly means to trust.

The romance was sweet and clean, although it was not the main focus of the book. Braden melted my heart with his protectiveness and also with his love for his family. Cressida is hesitant to trust and vulnerable after being deceived by her mother. Her journey to forgiveness was inspiring.

What I loved most of this story was the gently reminder that God never leaves us, and he sustains us even through the darkest storm. And that even when we can’t see beneath the waves, God can.

There’s something powerful about watching two people fight for truth while also learning to surrender control - to let faith steady them when the current feels too strong.

If you love romantic suspense with emotional depth, quiet faith threads, and a love story forged under pressure, this one is worth diving into.

I’m only sad this series had to end! But can’t wait to see what more the author has in store for us.

I received a complimentary copy from Revell Publishers and wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.