When FBI forensic botanist Harper Grace returns to Jeopardy Falls scarred from a traumatic assignment, she seeks refuge at the MacLeod ranch. Her time to recover is short-lived when she learns her dear friend Taylor Jackson has died of a heart attack in her thirties. As questions arise from Taylor's premature death, Harper wonders if something sinister is playing out.
Deckard MacLeod, PI, is thrilled at Harper's return, though troubled by the haunted look in her eyes. When Harper begins investigating Taylor's suspicious death, Deckard realizes she's walking into dangerous territory and joins her in discovering what happened. The closer they get to the deadly truth, the more treacherous their mission becomes. In a race against time, they cannot fall behind or their next breath might be their last.
In Three Steps Behind,bestselling author Dani Pettrey presents another heart-racing countdown in her thrilling romantic suspense series.
Dani has sold over a million copies of her novels to readers eagerly awaiting the next release. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance. Her novels stand out for their “wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters” (Publishers Weekly), “gripping storyline[s],” (RT Book Reviews), and “sizzling undercurrent of romance” (USA Today).
Her series have received praise from readers and critics alike and spent multiple months topping the CBA , ECPA and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists. Dani has also been honored with multiple awards, including the Daphne du Maurier Award, two HOLT Medallions, a Christy Award finalist, two National Readers’ Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, and Christian Retailing’s Best Award.
She researches murder and mayhem from her home in sunny Florida. For more information about her novels, visit danipettrey.com
This is the third book in Dani Pettrey’s Jeopardy Falls series, and unfortunately, I think it was my least favorite in the series. It was not a bad book, but I think things were a little too fast for me. This is already a short book (270 pages), but it follows two different romances and two different cases that don’t really intertwine with each other. I think I would’ve loved if they’d been split into two separate books so we can spend more time with the characters and the investigations. This book was not the book for me, but I’ve loved pretty much all of Dani Pettrey’s past books, so I’d still recommend her work.
Content Notes: No spice (just kisses) or language. Trigger warning for kidnapping, imprisonment, estranged family, and childhood trauma.
Thank you to Bethany House Fiction for sending me a free copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions above are my own.
“I want you to know you’re safe here. No one will hurt you. I’ll protect you with my life.” “Thank you,” she whispered, the words getting choked in her throat.
This slow-burn romantic thriller had me hooked from the first page to the last. It’s a wonderful friends to more romance, filled with gentle faith, danger, and crazy twists.
Deckard is protective, caring, and supportive. I love his devotion to his siblings. Their connection and loving relationships really enhance the story, whether they’re together at home or working a case. I loved that Deck prayed for, shared his faith with, and encouraged Harper. And that he supported her and gave her space to heal. Harper is wounded, brilliant, and brave. I loved that she went to Deckard to feel safe again when she was scared and hurting. I loved how his gentleness helped her to realize God never left her alone. I loved Deck and Harper’s deep connection and their honest conversations. Such a tender moment when they finally confessed their love, melted my heart. I enjoyed the addition of Bristol and Aubry’s storyline too! Their chemistry and the resulting tension was fantastic. I sure hope we get the rest of Bristol’s story next.
A few more quotes: 🧡 He’d stay like this all night, every night, if it eased her fears. And maybe his raw, unfiltered honesty would help her too. It would take a lot, but for the first time in his life, he wanted to give a lot to a woman. She didn’t know it, but he loved her and would do anything for her, including this. 🧡
“I love you exactly as you are, and you are the strongest woman I know—and that’s saying something with Cool Whip around.” She stared at him. “You think I’m stronger than Riley?” He nodded. “And did you just say . . . ?” “What? Did I say something wrong?” She tilted her head. “You love me?”
“You’re a mess.” “Yes, but I’m your mess now.” She laughed.
This complimentary copy was provided by the author as part of @justreadtours via NetGalley . I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
This story was full of heart pounding action right from the very first sentence! Harper and Deckard were characters who were drawn together, cared deeply for each other, and had a lot to work through both emotionally and psychologically.
I loved that Deckard was Harper’s safe space and that she leaned on him and knew he was there for her. I also loved the way Deckard was so patient and understanding with Harper. They were great at working together in order to figure out what had really caused Harper’s friend’s death.
The secondary suspense story involving Deckard’s sister, Bristol, was also very intriguing and packed with some very tense moments. I’m excited to see how things continue for her in the final novel of the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
A woman returns from a humanitarian effort in the Near East after a harrowing experience that has left her feel broken and she heads straight to the man who is her lodestone. Only, coming home to the states doesn’t bring the sense of safety for which she hoped when a friend mysteriously dies, someone is spying on them, and the friends only relationship she tries to fit Deck into doesn’t remain that way.
Dani Pettrey is a new-to-me author whose romantic suspenses I have seen around and wanted to try at some point. I spotted Three Steps Behind and had the chance to fit it in. Now, Three Steps Behind is the third book in the Jeopardy Falls series. I hoped I wouldn’t have any struggles reading it out of order and I didn’t.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 10.4.26 for the Partners In Crime Tour.
Deckard and Harper had a second chance romance vibe in this book as they reconnected. They already knew each other well but this time around Harper had trauma to heal from and Deckard had to reassess his stance on relationships. Harper’s trauma was the prologue of the book and it was difficult to read. I enjoyed how well they worked together; Deckard protected and investigated while Harper thought through all possible scenarios and connected the dots. Their investigation into Harper’s friend’s death took interesting twists and turns. There was also a subplot involving a colleague of Harper’s.
We were also introduced to Aubry the FBI agent and Bristol, the oldest of the MacLeod siblings, in this book. They had their own criminal to catch and their interaction was snarky, witty, and full of fire. The fourth book of the series promises to be explosive and redemptive as Bristol and Aubry take the stage.
I love the MacLeod siblings but there were too many subplots in this book which distracted me. But if you enjoy romantic suspense, I’m sure you will enjoy this book and the series. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House via Interviews and Reviews and NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Bethany House and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Dani Pettrey returns to Jeopardy Falls with the third novel, 'Three Steps Behind', in her series. While part of a series, this novel can be read as a standalone. After a traumatic assignment in Syria, FBI forensic botanist Harper Grace returns to the MacLeod ranch in search of refuge. While recovering there, she learns of her friend Taylor Jackson's death. Only in her thirties, Harper questions if there is something more going on.
Deckard MacLeod, PI, is grateful for her return and hopes that the time spent on the ranch will help ease Harper's mind. Deckard insists on helping her and together they search for the truth about what happened to her friend. As the questions continue, they realize that there is more going on and that they may in the crosshairs.
While this is the main story line, there is a duo story line with his sister, Bristol Reynolds and Special Agent Aubry Marshall. Bristol has been surviving time and the FBI has asked for her help in bringing down her boyfriend, Dalton Shaw. They are trying to gather evidence to bring him down for drugs, human trafficking and a host of other crimes. Bristol doesn't believe it but agrees in exchange for being released from prison. I found this second story line to be just as intriguing and suspenseful. It is necessary for both of these story lines to come together as it goes into the fourth novel in the series. As Max is going to be common enemy for both groups.
I enjoyed this novel as much as the first two. From start to finish, I was at the edge of my seat. The twists and turns that the author takes the reader on are filled with non-stop action and adventure that involve the whole family. I appreciate they way that each character works through their issues with God. It is very thoughtfully done. I will be patiently waiting for the next installment in this series. If you are looking for a Christian Romantic Suspense novel, then look no farther.
This book drew me in from the very beginning and never let go. I was surprised it followed not one but two siblings as they navigated their personal life choices dealing with childhood trauma. Throw a little romance into the mix and you have an intriguing book that you don’t want to put down until the end.
Harper seeks refuge with Deckard after she’s kidnapped overseas and held in a shipping container. The book begins with her experience and determination to escape when opportunity presents itself. My heart was pounding right along with hers through her harrowing experience. Well written!
Deckard and Harper have much to navigate including her questions and doubts about why God allowed others to die while she was saved. His faith helps her to see how God was always present.
Though his parents were criminals he chose the legal side of justice in his job as a PI but he doesn’t see himself as worthy because of the things he did when he was young and helping con people. He hasn’t seen his sister in years and isn’t sure he ever wants too since she abandoned her siblings as a teenager.
My favorite parts of the book were actually with Deckard’s sister Bristol who chose to follow in her parents footsteps conning people and spends time in jail for it. The difference is she cons criminals operating under her own moral compass.
Aubry the FBI agent who hunted her down and is now working with her isn’t sure what to make of her and that very thing makes their situation interesting. I love how he can’t help but like her, crossing a professional line as his feeling grow.
The conflict of emotions with both of them had me wondering where things bbetween them would go. I appreciated how Aubrey’s faith began to draw Bristol and change her despite herself. There’s something about her and her situation that had me rooting for her and hoping for redemptive change in her life.
I received a copy courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews via NetGalley. This is my honest opinion of this book. I recommend it.
Three Steps Behind is such a wonderful story with so many great elements! The way the story unfolds makes this a very hard book to put down.
As the story begins, Harper is fleeing from being held captive overseas. She is not sure how she will overcome all she went through and she is questioning how God could allow this to happen. Her only focus is getting to Deck, since she knows that she will feel safe with him. Her return home is not easy. She has lost friends from the humanitarian group she was traveling with and returns home to learn that her best friend died shortly before her return. This is where the story takes a turn. Harper immediately feels that something sinister happened to her friend, and it becomes her mission to uncover the truth.
Three Steps Behind is a dual story so we learn about Bristol, Deck’s sister, who has been in jail for conning people. She has the opportunity to be released early if she will help the FBI find evidence about Dalton, her boyfriend, that will lead to his arrest for an array of crimes. Bristol faces danger in helping discover the truth, but in the end, she faces even greater danger than she realized.
There is a Christian element to the story of having faith and believing in God’s forgiveness. I found this element to be enlightening, and it really added dimension to the characters and their development throughout the story. The focus on finding God’s presence even in extremely difficult situations is somewhat of a guiding force as both Harper and Bristol work to process their experiences.
Overall, I really loved this book for so many reasons! I loved the suspense, and the two stories were interwoven perfectly. I also loved how relationships were portrayed in the story. This is a romance, after all.
Thank you so much to Great Reads Book Promotion for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Three Steps Behind and for the #gifted copy of the book.
I enjoyed reading Three Steps Behind, the third book in Dani Pettrey’s Jeopardy Falls series set in New Mexico. Harper is a FBI forensic botanist who travels overseas to do humanitarian work. She escapes a life threatening situation in a war torn country and lands in Jeopardy Falls, battered and bruised physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Harper is struggling with trauma and she seeks refuge with Deck and his family at their ranch.
Deck is a private investigator who works with his siblings in their family PI business. Danger is lurking and Harper stays with Deck for safety reasons. I loved Harper and Deck’s sweet romance and journeying with them as they learn to trust each other, deal with their emotional baggage, and consider the possibility of a serious relationship. They’d previously friend zoned each other and tried to ignore their growing feelings.
The twists and turns in the suspense plot kept me guessing. Deck’s family is being targeted by an enemy connected their parents’ shady past. There are multiple mysteries to solve, including a suspicious death that might be murder. Many characters are dealing with grief and loss. The story explores faith issues including trusting God, justice, and forgiveness themes.
I was intrigued by the suspense subplot and the fascinating side characters who were in danger. I loved the satisfying story ending and the series mystery connected to Deck’s family.
I recommend Three Steps Behind to romantic suspense readers who like friends-to-more romances with high octane suspense, danger, forced proximity, multiple mysteries, grief and loss, family drama, international intrigue, a suspense subplot, and strong faith elements in the story.
Many thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.
"God had forsaken her in this godless country. She would die in a land of ghosts."
Miraculously surviving a violent kidnapping while serving overseas on a humanitarian trip, forensic botanist and federal agent Harper Grace makes her way home; not necessarily a place so much as a person, her dear friend Deckard MacLeod. Mentally, physically, and spiritually traumatized, Harper finally feels a measure of safety when Deck assures her that she is welcome to stay on his ranch as long as she needs to recover a sense of normalcy.
Just one look at Harper's beautiful, battered face and Deckard knows that what she needs is time. And refuge. Unfortunately, their reunion is almost immediately interrupted by the news that one of Harper's dearest friends has died of a heart attack. Harper isn't buying that story, and teams up with Deckard to find some answers. The more they discover, the more troubling the entire case becomes.
Meanwhile, one of Deckard's sisters has been given the chance of a lifetime, if you consider getting out of prison to become an informant a positive step forward. The master class con of the family, Bristol, is on a mission to prove one particularly infuriating federal agent wrong about her boyfriend, but instead stumbles into a scenario that even she may not be able to squirm her way out of.
Watching the guardrails dissipate around Harper and Deck's deep regard for each other provides a sweet temper to this adrenaline laced story, while the author hands readers the perfect incentive to anticipate what's coming next in the series. A fascinating book that dares to plunge the depths of faith and fear, and my solid favorite in Jeopardy Falls thus far.
"You're going to have to trust me. Can you do that?"
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from the publisher through the Partners in Crime Tours. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
Every time I pick up a book by Dani Pettrey, I know that I am in for a story that is going to have me on the edge of my seat from start to finish... and this one was certainly no exception! Right from the first page, I found myself absolutely drawn into the story and it didn't let up even through to the very last moment. Deckard and Harper were the primary focus of this story and was truly a perfect blend of romance and suspense as they tried to unravel the mysterious death of her friend. It was full of twists and turns that kept me guessing until the end. But in addition to their story, we also get a secondary story with Bristol and Aubry that I couldn't help but find equally as intriguing (though the back and forth did confuse me a bit at the start). The main story might have wrapped up in the end, but this secondary story has me looking forward to what is still to come! I can't wait! Truly, this was a great suspense read and one that fans of Christian suspense are going to want to add to their TBR!
Three Steps Behind is the third book in the Jeopardy Falls series. While the rest of the series is great and I would recommend them as well, I do think this could be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Dani Pettrey is good about writing flawed, broken characters and having them overcome with the help of like-minded friends. “It came down to trust, and she trusted God was good, even when traumatic events happened in this fallen world. And He had her.” Harper Grace has returned to Jeopardy Falls after a traumatic experience overseas. She seeks the only place she feels safe, the McLeod Ranch and Deckard McLeod. Deck is facing his own past but helps Harper as readily as he would his own family. When her best friend Taylor dies, Harper and Deck try to make sense of what they believe is something more than natural causes. This leads them to many puzzling facts. Ms. Pettrey weaves a tale of danger with something that is screaming to be uncovered. And the slow-burn romance ignites with a steady flame. Meanwhile, an estranged member of the McLeod family, Bristol is on an adventure of her own. A twisty plot that holds many surprises but with a faith that keeps the main characters grounded, this was an exceptional page turner. *A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through PICT tours and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
This story was absolutely gripping!! I was hooked from the very beginning and genuinely did not want to put it down😍 The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat and I was dying to know how everything was going to come together!
I really loved the way the two storylines unfolded alongside each other. There were so many pieces to the mystery and watching everything slowly connect made this such an addictive read.
And THAT ENDING?!? I need the next book immediately!! I seriously cannot wait to see where this series goes next.
If you love Christian romantic suspense that grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go, definitely pick this one up!
This is book three in the Jeopardy Falls series, and I definitely recommend reading the series in order for the best experience✨
✨ Christian Fiction 🔎 Romantic Suspense ✨ Healing From Trauma 🔎 Mystery/Thriller ✨ Dual Storylines
This third book in the Jeopardy Falls series is a gripping romantic suspense read. The well-paced, high-stakes plot drew me in immediately with the harrowing prologue and kept me completely engaged to the end. The main storyline of this page-turner features Private Eye Deckard MacLeod, a protective hero, and forensic botanist Harper Grace, a courageous but traumatized heroine. As they investigate the suspicious death of Harper's best friend, danger ensues and a friends-to-more romance blossoms. The parallel narrative featuring the Macleod family's estranged sister Bristol and FBI agent Aubry adds a compelling layer of emotional impact, danger, and suspense. Endearing, memorable characters compelled me to stay deeply invested in their journeys. A gentle faith thread enriches the story. I enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next book in the series to experience more of Bristol and Aubry's story. I give this book my highest recommendation. NOTE: Even though this book is part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review.
I received an advanced copy of this book to review. The following is my personal opinion and truthful review…
I love to read Dani’s books because they are always edge-of-your-seat suspense and an amazing romance. I don’t have to read the blurb on the back either. If it has Dani Pettrey’s name on it, I know it will be phenomenal and this book did not disappoint! I sat down to read and literally could not put it down until I finished. I devoured it!!! Just sad I can only give it five stars. This book will definitely go on my keeper shelf and I need to read it again to see if I missed anything the first time through. The characters and scenarios are relevant to what’s happening in our world today, and my heart raced several times during the course of the story. It was a very satisfying read! Do yourself a favor and get this book plus the first two books in the series.
A humanitarian mission that ends very badly brings Harper to Second Chances Ranch to recuperate and hopefully to reconnect with Deckard, with whom she had a relationship before leaving for Syria. The death of her best friend under questionable circumstances keeps Harper and Deck busy trying to discover the real reason behind her death. The sudden appearance of a father considered long dead and Bristol, a lost sister just adds to the tension and mystery of what is really bringing drones and armed men into their compound.
This third book in the Jeopardy Falls will have you sitting on the edge of your seat and wishing that you did not have to wait a year for the next installment. Received through NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers these thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
I need a breather after reading this one. This was so full of energy and suspense that I thought my Kindle might ignite. There is a lot going on in this book with more than one storyline. So, buckle up before you start. Though there is lot going on with different characters, the author's smooth writing style makes it easy to follow along and keep up with everything going on, including who was who.
Harper's story was heartbreaking and gave me goosebumps. Deckard was exactly what she needed, both mentally and spiritually. Her spirit was broken, as well as her faith.
This twisty mystery was dynamite and easy to get sucked into. The tension was vibrating off of the pages in some places. This one is well deserving of five stars. I love it when the good guys win.
Thank you to Bethany House and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Protective.....that word describes Deckard, especially with Harper. They've had a friendship for a long time and feelings for each other but have never crossed that line. When Harper comes home from a traumatic humanitarian trip she turns to Deckard for safety, she knows she can trust him. The action starts at the very beginning and doesn't end until the conclusion of the story. There is plenty of suspense and mystery involved too and a side story with Deckard's sister Bristol and an FBI agent trying to bring down a human trafficker, among other things he's involved in. I loved the way Deckard showed his love to Harper by being protective and letting her know that he was there for her and wasn't going anywhere and wouldn't let any harm come to her. And in the side story with Bristol, Aubry is the same way with her. I'm looking forward to reading their story in the next book.
4.5 stars Danni Pettrey didn’t pull any punches at the beginning of Three Steps Behind. Harper is at her lowest point and readers who’ve endured anything like this may even continue to grow from reading how she process. As someone who’s worked with similar victims I felt Pettrey did an awesome job, not watering anything. Deck was everything she needed, a protector, and really a gift from God, helping pull her through. Expect two romantic suspense storylines that both deliver mystery and suspense. I wish the subplots tied back into each other with the main storyline, but really liked Harper and Deck’s ending and even how Bristol was led back home. The perfect read for fans of Christian romantic suspense. Thank you Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Dani Pettrey really puts Harper and Deckard through the wringer in her new book Three Steps Behind! The stakes can't get any higher than these on a personal level, and you'll be engaged with this story from the very first page.
There's a lot happening in this story, and it isn't all wrapped up neatly between these pages, but I love the camaraderie and the friendship that exists in every single one.
Three Steps Behind ends on a major cliffhanger, so while I was already antsy to know what was going to happen next, I'm counting down the weeks until the next book releases now. If you're a fan - like me - of mysteries and trying to solve them, you don't want to miss this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
"Three Steps Behind" by Dani Pettrey is the third installment in the series, but it easily stands on its own. It’s a gripping mix of suspense and romance that keeps you on your toes, with multiple mysteries intertwined and characters you’ll want to root for.
Although this book wraps up its storylines in a satisfying way, it leaves just enough intrigue to make you eager for the next one. It's a engaging read that’s perfect for fans of romantic thrillers.
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
Three Steps Behind is the third book Jeopardy Fall series. haven't read the other two books but I think it might have been helpful to have some of back story on some of the characters. After a humanitarian trip to Syria and fleeing for her life to make it back to the states Harper seeks out her friend Deckard Macleod for protection she's weary from ooking over her shoulder to see if someone's coming after her. Then a Harper hears that her best friend died from a heart attack and she suspects foul play. The story follows two female characters who have been in situations where they haven't felt safe. The book was fast paced and kept me turning pages.
Three Steps Behind is the third book in Dani Pettrey’s Jeopardy Fall series, and I loved diving deeper into Harper’s world after first meeting her in book one.
Harper and Deckard’s slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance kept me wondering, will they or won’t they? The mystery grabbed me from the first page, and I kept trying to figure out how the subplot would connect to the main story and set up what’s next.
I also loved the more overt faith element in this one. And Bristol, the lost sheep of the family, beginning to find her way home at the end left me wanting more.
Three Steps Behind delivers the up-all-night suspense Dani Pettrey fans have come to know and love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I’ve been waiting a long time for Harper and Deckard’s love story, and Three Steps Behind doesn’t disappoint! Both believe they’re too broken for a real relationship, but thank goodness they’re wrong. Of course, it’s great to revisit Riley and Greyson, Christian and Andi, but for some extra excitement, we are introduced to the siblings’ long-lost sister, Bristol. The suspense kept me turning pages far too late into the night. Both of the mysteries presented in this book are neatly wrapped up by the end of the book, but there’s more trouble right around the corner, perfectly cued up for book 4. Can’t wait!
We return to Jeopardy Falls in Dani Pettrey’s third book in the series, Three Steps Behind. It starts off with a jolt of adrenaline and just keeps going. This is primarily Harper’s and Deck’s story after Harper returns from a humanitarian stint in Syria that turned south. However, it is also Bristol’s story, Deck, Christian, and Riley’s sister. There are twists and turns with lots of suspense and mystery which kept me totally enthralled. This can be read as a standalone but I recommend the entire series.
Loved this story! It starts off very intense which draws the reader in. The characters are strong but real. Trauma plays a huge part in how a person reacts to the life around them. Deck and Harp make such a cute couple. There is intrigue and danger woven throughout the storyline. Step by step, to solve a murder. Step by step to stop crime. I received a complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are my
Jeopardy Fall #3, Three Steps Behind, by Dani Pettrey is a fantastic enemies to lovers story. It is book 3 of a series and would be best read in order. This book is fast paced and suspensful. I recommend you get a goodcup of tea, a cozy blanket and after putting your phone on do not disturb, settle in for a great suspenseful read.
I read an ARC of Three Steps Behind with no requirements. All thoughts are my own.
…which meant action and danger. Trying to guess who was responsible for what. People renewing their faith. Some romance. And a solid introduction to Bristol, the fourth sibling. I was so riveted I couldn’t put this book down! Excited already for the final chapter.