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, Mystery

352 pages, Paperback

Expected publication 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

[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!

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
"International. An abandoned salvage ship. Murders. Cressida's father and his research."

Everything in Cressida Dane's life revolved around finishing her deceased father's manuscript, leaving her with just one one additional unresolved shipwreck tale to unravel. Arriving in Hidden Bay seemed fairly innocuous at first, but she had barely put one foot in front of the other on its sandy beach when she was attacked and presumed dead by her assailant. After being shuffled to safety, county detective Braden Sanders becomes involved in the case. Unbeknownst to Cressida, Braden knows more about her and her reason for visiting Hidden Bay than he lets on.

Working hard to discover the answers that her father had been unable to ferret out about the infamous Specter's Bounty, Cressida is yet to talk to anyone who has the kind of reliable information that she seeks, in fact, she gets warned off time and time again. Equally as confused, Braden cannot piece together why he has been tagged to protect the daughter of a high level government bureaucrat, knowing that Cressida will be furious when she discovers what her mother has done . . . . again.

Fighting a tight time schedule, this plot begins rapidly and maintains a brisk pace, even for the characters. Fans of the series will be delighted to learn more about the life of Evelyn Monroe, an enigmatic character with a generous heart. Meanwhile, Cressida and Braden will be discovering anew how to trust and forgive, because their hearts desperately long for something lasting, even amidst the ever present deadly currents.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Revell through Interviews and Reviews.

[Sara Wise · Rating 5 out of 5]

** “And her father’s secrets? He told her that he learned early on that a sunken shipwreck might tell a story, but the rest of its secrets sank deeper than the wreckage.” **

Elizabeth Goddard wraps up her Hidden Bay series with the thrilling “Deadly Currents.”

Cressida Valentine finds herself in Hidden Bay, seeking to finish her late father’s works on shipwrecks and maritime mysteries, including the ghost ship Specter’s Bounty. When travesty hits her immediately though, she knows there’s more to the story.

Detective Braden Sanders steps up to help keep her safe while she conducts her investigations. But what she doesn’t realize is there is more to Braden’s story and his willingness to help her.

Will Cressida ever find the missing ghost ship? Will she discover what knowledge her father gained, and why it’s so dangerous? And will she learn to trust Braden?

Goddard does a great job of filling her story with lots of twists, never really allowing the reader to know whom can be trusted. She creates characters that are flawed and relatable, as well as enigmatic and even loathsome. She also fills “Deadly Currents” with several great themes, like having a sense of responsibility and loyalty; prioritizing family; God opens doors for us; secrets versus revelations; and “submerged secrets, haunted pasts, hidden lives, and the search for truth in a world clouded by fog and shadows.”

Fans of authors like Dani Pettrey, Lynette Eason and Irene Hannon will love “Deadly Currents,” which is due out Feb. 17.

Five stars out of five.

Revell provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elizabeth Goddard never fails to deliver suspenseful reads that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish... and this one was no exception. In this story, we meet Cressida as she is researching to finish her late father's final manuscript- one he never finished before his passing. We soon discover that the mystery of the 'ghost ship' he was researching isn't the only one in this action-packed story, with danger showing up at every twist and turn. This book was a great blend of action and suspense, family secrets... and of course a fantastic romance too. While I think the suspense was definitely the star of this story, I really enjoyed the complicated romance between Cressida and Braden as well. This was a great conclusion to a fantastic suspense series and one that fans of Christian romantic suspense are sure to want to experience for themselves.

Deadly Currents is a Christian romantic suspense. It is the third and final book in the Hidden Bay series. While I really enjoyed this series and would recommend it as a whole, I do believe this could be enjoyed as a standalone with no problems.

**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are 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!

[Laura Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This third and final book in the Hidden Bay series set in the magnificent Pacific Northwest did not disappoint—it’s such an intriguing page-turner!

The story follows feisty investigative journalist Cressida Dane, who is in Hidden Bay on a quest to finish writing her late father’s manuscript on shipwrecks—until her life is threatened.
County detective Braden Sanders is on a secret mission in Hidden Bay, with the strong incentive of saving his dying young niece’s life.
When the two of them meet, they both attempt to suppress their mutual attraction as they work together researching a complex mystery involving ghost ships, murders, and local secrets—until both their lives are in jeopardy.

Deadly revenge, familial reconciliation, and sweet romance make this a thrilling read to the very end!
Although it’s book 3 in the series, Deadly Currents can absolutely be read as a stand-alone title. Although you’ll probably want to go back and read the other two books because they are ALL SO GOOD!
I received a complimentary copy from Revell through Interviews & Reviews in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Anna B · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Deadly Currents” is a great title which starts out with our heroine nearly drowned when she first arrives in Hidden Bay. From this point the action ramps up to a fevered pace as Cressida seeks to complete her father’s work, catalogue a ghost ship, and stay alive in the process.

The overall feel of Hidden Bay is an eerie, we have secrets vibe that enhances the urge to look over your shoulder and raises the hair on the back of your neck.

Sometimes you need a hero who’s just a solid guy who’s smart, good looking but not an over the top alpha looking to flex his muscle. Braden is that guy. He’s smart, able to handle himself, and has depth that I appreciate.

With each pulled thread exposing a different part of the mystery of the Specter’s Bounty and connecting a small northwest coastal town all the way to Washington DC I was pulled right into the story.

I loved this book and I will surely return to it. Thanks to Revell for providing me an advance copy of this book through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion of the book.

[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.

[LA · Rating 4 out of 5]

Readers are finally introduced to the mysterious Evelyn Munroe in this final book of the Hidden Bay series by Elizabeth Goddard.

The story follows Cressida Dane as she travels to Hidden Bay to finish research on ghost ships that her recently deceased father started. Braden Sanders has been secretly planted in Hidden Bay to watch for something (he doesn’t know what it is). When Cressida is attacked on the beach, Braden is determined to protect her at all costs and uncover the truth of why both of them are in Hidden Bay. A slow-burn romance peppers the pages as Evelyn’s connections to the island are finally revealed.

The story starts out slowly - unusual for a Goddard novel – but picks up about mid-way. From there, readers need to hold onto their seats for the rest of the twisty ride. People are not who they claim to be, while buried treasure and international secrets wrap this series up with a perfect nautical bow.

A great end to a mysterious series.

I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

[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.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in this series, but this can be read alone, with some recurring characters.
This read has a lot of twist and turns, and I was kept wondering just whom was the culprit, and what did they want?
Cressida is hurting after the death of her beloved father. After loosing her job, she has made it her mission to finish her Dad's book. Now someone wants her dead, and as we journey this picturesque Washington State Pacific Harbor town. Why?
Answer do come, along with some really big surprises. We are offered some sweet romance, and forgiveness, along with danger around every corner.
This read will keep you up for answers, and also holding your breath as to whom will survive!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was required to give a positive review.

[Amber Thiessen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed the first two books in Elizabeth Goddard’s series, and Deadly Currents is a strong third installment. Cress is tracing her father’s old journals, determined to finish the research for the book he never completed. But when she’s suddenly attacked, it becomes clear that someone is willing to go to great lengths to stop her. She turns to the local detective for protection and help, though he’s carrying secrets of his own—and this investigation brings him face-to-face with things he’s been avoiding for years.

With a controlling mother working behind the scenes and a long-buried truth coming to light, the story kept me fully engaged. The mix of danger, hidden motives, and family pressure made it a compelling read from start to finish.

*Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review

[Karen R · Rating 4 out of 5]

An exciting conclusion to the Hidden Bay series!
An investigative reporter encounters trouble as she tries to finish her father's book on shipwrecks. Attempting to put together the truth behind a 'ghost ship' sighted on the bay, Cressida steps into danger at every turn.

This brought together characters from the first two books and tied up a few loose ends also. It was one of those stories that was hard to predict the ending, as more clues deepened the plot as it went. The ending was quite thrilling--action-packed and suspenseful--definitely worth the wait. So much was going on behind the scenes that it was hard to guess the full story until revealed.
I liked how the author showed a vulnerable side to Braden's tough character, and put him in an ethical dilemma. He and Cressida showed they had issues with trusting people for good reason. The need to forgive played a big part in her story. Their friendship was tentative, but sizzled later on.
Readers who enjoy clean romantic suspense with some moments of inspiration may like this one. It can be read as a stand alone, but better if followed by the previous books. Good series! 4. 5 stars

(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)

[Irene S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Due to her estranged mother Octavia's manipulation and connections, Cressida Dane is no longer an investigative reporter. Now she is on her last stop to discover the story behind the "ghost ship" Specter's Bounty and finish her late father's book on shipwrecks. From the start of the book until its action-packed conclusion, there are warnings, danger, and suspense. County detective Braden Sanders is in Hidden Bay because Octavia has placed him there for an unknown purpose. With Cressida in danger, he knows who he needs to protect, but not from who or why. Braden just can't let Cressida know or Octavia will stop experimental treatment needed for his niece. I received a free copy of this ebook from the publisher through Netgalley. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. I like how Cressida is both courageous and resourceful in finding out the truth of what happened. Braden cares for Cressida and wants to tell her the truth, but he also needs to safeguard his niece's treatment. This is a good, clean romantic suspense story.

[Naomi Shores · Rating 5 out of 5]

The suspense in this one was off the charts. Constant action from the very beginning. Cressida Valentine arrives in Hidden Bay to finish her father's legacy, a book about ship wrecks with the "ghost" ship wreck being the final one, The Specter's Bounty. She has unknowingly brought danger upon herself with trying to finish this. Braden Sanders, a local detective becomes her self appointed bodyguard after the first attempt on her life. Together they try to discover the truth behind the Specter's Bounty. Remi and Hawk and Jo and Cole from the first two books in the series make their appearances too. The story is full of suspense, great descriptions of the climate and scenery (you feel like you're there in the fog encased beach), inspiration, danger, mystery, and romance.

[Ashlyn Boutilier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Currents is a fast paced, edge your seat romantic suspense! The setting was perfect and immersed you right into the story! Cressida Dane is a journalist determined to finish her Dads work. As she works to figure out the story behind the ghost ship she treads in uncharted waters. Detective Braden Sanders is assigned to protect Cressida in order to save his niece. Together, they must solve the tale of the ghost ship before death closes in. With high action, amazing characters, and wonderful faith woven in, you will catch yourself reading Deadly Currents well into the night!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Currents brings us back to the Pacific Northwest for the third book in Elizabeth Goddard’s Hidden Bay series. Cressida is working to finish the book her late father started regarding shipwrecks. She arrives in Hidden Bay to finish the final chapter not realizing the danger involved. There are secrets lost at sea in the legend of a ghost ship. The danger ratchets up as she and Braden, a county detective, try to unravel the mystery and the long buried secrets. There are lots of twists and turns with a couple surprises I did not see coming. This book can be read as a standalone but I recommend all three books in order to enjoy the character development of everyone involved.

[Allyson Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fast-paced, edge of your seat romantic suspense. Deadly Currents brings us back to Hidden Bay, where investigative reporter Cressida Danes is determined to finish her late father's book. She soon finds herself in danger. Detective Braden Sanders is assigned to Cressida's case in order to for his niece to receive treatments for her illness. This story has twists and turns, a cold case, a missing ship, secrets controlling people's actions, and faith elements.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Meagan | The Chapter House · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hands down my favorite book in the series! WOW! Nonstop action from start to finish.

As ever, I adored the PNW setting, and the whole read rekindled my interest in all things maritime. Can't wait to do a deep dive into that!

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All 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.

[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.