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Deep River #1
Whispers in the Water
One small town. A love that never faded. And deadly secrets that lurk beneath the surface.
Maggie Sinclair didn’t think she’d ever return to Deep River. The town held too many memories—of her mother’s death, her aunt’s cruelty, and of Ethan Moore, the man she once loved. The man she ran from. But when life in LA begins to feel unsafe, she retreats back to the small town she knows. The same place where Ethan’s also returned. And he’s more of everything she remembers—stronger, more protective, and even easier to fall for all over again.
Former Navy SEAL Ethan Moore is home. But Deep River isn’t the town he once knew. People have started going missing—women, specifically. Some tourists, some local. And when the sheriff can’t be bothered to keep their town safe, the mayor—with help from an anonymous benefactor—hires Ethan and his friends to create an elite search and rescue team. That should be his only focus. But the moment he sets eyes on Maggie Sinclair, the woman who broke him years ago, old wounds reopen, and his heart starts to remember what his mind tried to forget.
Ethan never stopped loving Maggie. But he’s not the only one with eyes on her. Danger followed her to Deep River. As a threat closes in, Ethan will do whatever it takes to protect her. Because he’s not just fighting an invisible threat—he’s fighting for a second chance at forever.
A Small Town, Second Chance, Romantic Suspense.
Maggie Sinclair didn’t think she’d ever return to Deep River. The town held too many memories—of her mother’s death, her aunt’s cruelty, and of Ethan Moore, the man she once loved. The man she ran from. But when life in LA begins to feel unsafe, she retreats back to the small town she knows. The same place where Ethan’s also returned. And he’s more of everything she remembers—stronger, more protective, and even easier to fall for all over again.
Former Navy SEAL Ethan Moore is home. But Deep River isn’t the town he once knew. People have started going missing—women, specifically. Some tourists, some local. And when the sheriff can’t be bothered to keep their town safe, the mayor—with help from an anonymous benefactor—hires Ethan and his friends to create an elite search and rescue team. That should be his only focus. But the moment he sets eyes on Maggie Sinclair, the woman who broke him years ago, old wounds reopen, and his heart starts to remember what his mind tried to forget.
Ethan never stopped loving Maggie. But he’s not the only one with eyes on her. Danger followed her to Deep River. As a threat closes in, Ethan will do whatever it takes to protect her. Because he’s not just fighting an invisible threat—he’s fighting for a second chance at forever.
A Small Town, Second Chance, Romantic Suspense.
306 pages, Paperback
Published March 27, 2026
About the author
Nyssa Kathryn
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Australian Romantic Suspense Author, Nyssa Kathryn, is a passionate reader and writer of all things romance. Living in South Australia with her hubby and daughter, when she's not spending time with the family, she's either plotting her next story or got her head stuck in a book.
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https://www.nyssakathryn.com/vip-newsletter
Australian Romantic Suspense Author, Nyssa Kathryn, is a passionate reader and writer of all things romance. Living in South Australia with her hubby and daughter, when she's not spending time with the family, she's either plotting her next story or got her head stuck in a book.
Follow Nyssa here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nyssakathrynauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authornyssakathryn/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 205 reviews
March 28, 2026
This is a new romantic suspense series set in a small town called Deep River. The lead characters,
Maggie Sinclair and Ethan Moore,
They are both great characters, but Maggie’s upbringing has severely damaged her self-confidence.
Maggie and Ethan—a former Navy SEAL—both return to their hometown but find some things have changed, including themselves. Having always been protective of Maggie, Ethan continues to try to ensure she is safe. Her stalker has other ideas, though. With plenty of emotion, their relationship, which is rocky to start with, struggles a bit but physically they feel the same sexual attraction as before.
Overall, the characters are fabulous, and I look forward to reading Polly and Joel’s story, as well as all of the other elite search and rescue team members.
The suspense element is twofold as women have gone missing. Is it Maggie’s stalker? I will let you read the book and find out but know that as the story unfolds so does the tension and excitement.
An amazing start to this brand new series.
Maggie Sinclair and Ethan Moore,
They are both great characters, but Maggie’s upbringing has severely damaged her self-confidence.
Maggie and Ethan—a former Navy SEAL—both return to their hometown but find some things have changed, including themselves. Having always been protective of Maggie, Ethan continues to try to ensure she is safe. Her stalker has other ideas, though. With plenty of emotion, their relationship, which is rocky to start with, struggles a bit but physically they feel the same sexual attraction as before.
Overall, the characters are fabulous, and I look forward to reading Polly and Joel’s story, as well as all of the other elite search and rescue team members.
The suspense element is twofold as women have gone missing. Is it Maggie’s stalker? I will let you read the book and find out but know that as the story unfolds so does the tension and excitement.
An amazing start to this brand new series.
August 11, 2026
Perfect book
Another great book and start to a new series. It has spice, suspense, quirky side characters... second chances and an old mystery. Seriously cant go wrong!
Another great book and start to a new series. It has spice, suspense, quirky side characters... second chances and an old mystery. Seriously cant go wrong!
May 3, 2026
Overall, this was an okay book. I really liked the relationship, and the communication between the characters. Everything felt a little surface level, though. I think I will keep reading the series, if only to see who the serial killer ends up being.
Sex Stuff:
- 1 scene, not very explicit.
Sex Stuff:
- 1 scene, not very explicit.
April 13, 2026
Book 1 in the Deep River series: Ethan and Maggie. This is a small town, stalker (not MMC), former Navy Seal x former flight attendant, protective MMC, push pull, high school sweethearts, “it was always her/him”, return to hometown for both MCs, mystery/suspense, third person POV, second chance romance.
This was such an interesting story that had me totally invested. The only thing that I am not a fan of is the miscommunication trope that the book starts out with but other than that this was a solid story. I loved the mystery plot on who is stalking Maggie and kidnapping the women in their town and I really enjoyed Ethan and Maggie’s journey.
The audiobook narration was done really well and in complete duet narration.
I definitely recommend this read and this audiobook.
This was such an interesting story that had me totally invested. The only thing that I am not a fan of is the miscommunication trope that the book starts out with but other than that this was a solid story. I loved the mystery plot on who is stalking Maggie and kidnapping the women in their town and I really enjoyed Ethan and Maggie’s journey.
The audiobook narration was done really well and in complete duet narration.
I definitely recommend this read and this audiobook.
May 24, 2026
Honestly I’ll read anything this author writes - these are my favourite kind of guilty pleasure reads. Drama, protective MMCs, suspense … like what more do you want? It was fun to see the MMC in this book introduced in another one of her series - cool little cross over.
Both Maggie and Ethan got out of their small town as soon as they could. But life and other things tore the childhood sweethearts apart within a few years. Both devastated and heartbroken - they don’t see each other for 11 years - until they both return to the small town they once called home. Maggie is back looking for a safe place as she has an unwanted admirer getting far too close for comfort. Ethan has returned with his navy seal friends to start a search and rescue team - trying to find answers for the two women who have gone missing in the massive woods surrounding their town. But even as sparks fly between them, the issues and people that pulled them apart are still there. And with unknown dangers creeping in closer - everyone is a suspect. Will Ethan figure it all out before he loses Maggie again, or will he maybe lose her permanently.
Both Maggie and Ethan got out of their small town as soon as they could. But life and other things tore the childhood sweethearts apart within a few years. Both devastated and heartbroken - they don’t see each other for 11 years - until they both return to the small town they once called home. Maggie is back looking for a safe place as she has an unwanted admirer getting far too close for comfort. Ethan has returned with his navy seal friends to start a search and rescue team - trying to find answers for the two women who have gone missing in the massive woods surrounding their town. But even as sparks fly between them, the issues and people that pulled them apart are still there. And with unknown dangers creeping in closer - everyone is a suspect. Will Ethan figure it all out before he loses Maggie again, or will he maybe lose her permanently.
April 2, 2026
Whispers in the Water, book one in the new series by Nyssa Kathryn called Deep River. Maggie Sinclair returned to Deep River after she caught a stalker of her best friend, Polly. Maggie thought no one would find her. However, she was wrong. Strange things started to happen again, and her childhood friend Ethan Moore, who was back in town to find two missing women. When Ethan realised that someone was terrorising Maggie, he stepped in to protect her. Maggie was not happy. Will Ethan and Maggie have a second chance at love? The readers will continue to follow Maggie Sinclair and Ethan Moore to discover what happens.
I was so excited when I found out that Nyssa Kathryn had started writing another romantic suspense series. When I opened the first page of Whispers in the Water, I was hooked on the story and the characters. I like the way Nyssa Kathryn introduced the twist in this book's plot so that readers didn't guess until the end. Reading Whispers in the Water, you will learn about living in a small rural community in the USA.
Whispers in the Water is well-written and well-researched by Nyssa Kathryn. I love Nyssa Kathryn's writing style and the way she portrays her characters and their interactions throughout this book. I feel part of the book's setting because of the way Nyssa Kathryn describes it.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I recommend this book.
I was so excited when I found out that Nyssa Kathryn had started writing another romantic suspense series. When I opened the first page of Whispers in the Water, I was hooked on the story and the characters. I like the way Nyssa Kathryn introduced the twist in this book's plot so that readers didn't guess until the end. Reading Whispers in the Water, you will learn about living in a small rural community in the USA.
Whispers in the Water is well-written and well-researched by Nyssa Kathryn. I love Nyssa Kathryn's writing style and the way she portrays her characters and their interactions throughout this book. I feel part of the book's setting because of the way Nyssa Kathryn describes it.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I recommend this book.
March 28, 2026
WHISPERS!!
Maggie left her home me town years ago to get away from a cruel relative and the love of her life.
“That man was made for you, Maggie Sinclair.
Nathan has come home to run the SAR’s program with his team. He want’s Maggie back and to find out why she left.
With an incompetent sheriff and women are going missing he’s thrown right in the middle of a whirlwind.
“You never left me. Not for a single day. You lived here.” He took her wrist and lifted it so her palm sat over his heart.
Small town drama at its finest. This new series starts out with a huge bang. I can tell it’s gonna be another fantastic ride.
Maggie left her home me town years ago to get away from a cruel relative and the love of her life.
“That man was made for you, Maggie Sinclair.
Nathan has come home to run the SAR’s program with his team. He want’s Maggie back and to find out why she left.
With an incompetent sheriff and women are going missing he’s thrown right in the middle of a whirlwind.
“You never left me. Not for a single day. You lived here.” He took her wrist and lifted it so her palm sat over his heart.
Small town drama at its finest. This new series starts out with a huge bang. I can tell it’s gonna be another fantastic ride.
August 15, 2026
I had a really difficult time with this one.
Maggie is probably one of the most insufferable FMCs I have ever had the displeasure of coming across. I don't think I've ever met ANYONE as insecure and jealous and flighty as she is.
Let me begin at the beginning.
Apparently, Maggie's mother died when she was young and she was taken in by her godawful aunt. This woman spends 90% of the book berating, degrading, and tearing Maggie apart in as many ways as she can think of.
This has left Maggie with MASSIVE image issues and insecurities.
11 years before the book begins, it is one such fight with her aunt that drives her to break up with Ethan in the first place - because she's convinced that she's not good enough for someone like him. She doesn't explain, and he doesn't get the chance to explain and the bam, it's a decade later.
Already I'm pissed off.
Second-chance romances are often hit or miss for me and this one was a BIG miss right from the prologue. I need there to be a GOOD reason why the two break up in the first place - and I don't think Maggie's reasoning was very good at all.
It especially doesn't make sense because Maggie knows and has always known that her aunt is an awful human being. That nothing she says is true. Yet still she lets this woman's terrible words drive her away from the love of her life.
Sure Jan.
THAT was the prologue. By chapter 2, we've been told no less than 112 times that Maggie is better now. She's stronger, more mature, in possession of a shiny new backbone! She's her own woman! She's confident!
We're shown exactly NONE of that.
She moves back to her home town a quivering mess because she's terrified of running into her aunt and she can barely look at and/or talk to Ethan when she runs into him, because she thinks he's dating some other woman.
And look - I liked Ethan. The man never does anything wrong. But these two assholes do NOT know how to communicate with one another.
AT ALL.
It takes 30% of the book before he gets around to informing Maggie that he's not dating this other random townswoman named Nel.
And while they're talking - do they clear the air about what went down 11 years prior? NOOooooo! That'd be too easy! We have 70% of the book left! No way can a plot move forward if these two idiots TALKED to each other!
Even after Maggie and Ethan sleep together (at the 50% mark) and he announces to her in no uncertain terms that it's just the two of them, from that point forward, Maggie's insecurities keep her from fully buying into that love for another 30% of the story.
She's constantly uncertain about Ethan and insecure about other women who exist in his periphery. She's jealous and obsessive about texting him worrying when he doesn't get back to her that it's 11 years ago all over again.
Now remember! In chapter TWO we are told that she's better! That she's been to therapy to deal with her issue!
LIES. She's still that mess.
And she pushes me almost to the point of thinking she doesn't deserve to be happy. She makes everybody around her miserable. EVERYBODY. Her friends, Ethan, herself, his friends, EVERYBODY walks on eggshells so the poor little miss doesn't start sobbing for no reason.
I hated her. But she did have one thing right - Ethan deserves someone way better.
All of that, and I'm expected to believe these two people are going to spend their lives happily ever after?
I call bullshit.
There's NOTHING in this story to make me believe these two people won't continue to misunderstand shit and break things off (IE, Maggie will overhear something out of context or catch a glimpse of a woman staring at her man just a little too long and assume she's just the most loathsome little worm who ever did exist and then instead of talking to Ethan to figure out what's happening, she'll run from him off into the darkness alone and vulnerable so someone else can clobber her over the head again.)
You'd think that'd be enough to bitch about when it comes to this book.
Alas. I'm only halfway done.
Not only is Maggie woefully insecure. She's also criminally stupid. She's got a bad habit of walking into danger when she KNOWS better.
See - outside of the pathetic attempt at a romance going on in this story, there's a stalker/serial killer plotline that was, at least in the beginning, pretty interesting.
The entire town is aware that several women over the years have disappeared in the woods surrounding the town of Deep River. That's the whole reason Ethan and his team are there - they're setting up a Search and Rescue unit to try and prevent people from disappearing in the area.
And yet this idiot.
On the way back into town Maggie spots a wrecked car on the side of the road. The door's open, there's blood everywhere. It's dark, she's alone - so, naturally, what does she decide to do?? Yeah. She stops, goes wandering into the woods and gets washed down a river.
👏👏👏👏
Well done.
It was a good bit of action the book desperately needed - but come ON. Did we have to manufacture that by turning our FMC into the world's biggest dumbass?
It's not the only time, either, that she insists on doing things alone, or goes wandering around on her own, or disappears from where she's supposed to be so Ethan has to go hunt her down.
It's the direct reason why she ends up nearly dying when the person stalking her finally shows up to claim their prize.
And insufferably insecure FMC who's also too stupid to live?????
Barf.
So why did I keep reading? Well. The mystery. The suspense. I wanted to know what was going on. I wanted to understand who Maggie's stalker was. Where the missing women were and what had happened to them. And if any of that was related (it wasn't).
We only really learn about the stuff involving Maggie - I suspect the rest of the mystery is the through-line of the series. Which is fine. It's interesting enough, although I suspect it'll be VERY predictable by the end.
Maggie's stalker, however... I don't know if I buy it. It comes out of left field, too many things being explained at the 11th hour to make the stalker fit. There were other, much better choices - and they choose the one person who's had less than a page of story-time.
The story wasn't ENTIRELY godawful. If the FMC hadn't made me want to punch her in the face every other page, this might have been an enjoyable little small town romantic suspense. If you're not like me and you don't mind this kind of FMC, sure. Go for it. But I wouldn't personally recommend this book to anybody I know.
We're going to try book 2 - because I DO like Polly and Joel. Hopefully she won't be as insufferable as her BFF.
Maggie is probably one of the most insufferable FMCs I have ever had the displeasure of coming across. I don't think I've ever met ANYONE as insecure and jealous and flighty as she is.
Let me begin at the beginning.
Apparently, Maggie's mother died when she was young and she was taken in by her godawful aunt. This woman spends 90% of the book berating, degrading, and tearing Maggie apart in as many ways as she can think of.
This has left Maggie with MASSIVE image issues and insecurities.
11 years before the book begins, it is one such fight with her aunt that drives her to break up with Ethan in the first place - because she's convinced that she's not good enough for someone like him. She doesn't explain, and he doesn't get the chance to explain and the bam, it's a decade later.
Already I'm pissed off.
Second-chance romances are often hit or miss for me and this one was a BIG miss right from the prologue. I need there to be a GOOD reason why the two break up in the first place - and I don't think Maggie's reasoning was very good at all.
It especially doesn't make sense because Maggie knows and has always known that her aunt is an awful human being. That nothing she says is true. Yet still she lets this woman's terrible words drive her away from the love of her life.
Sure Jan.
THAT was the prologue. By chapter 2, we've been told no less than 112 times that Maggie is better now. She's stronger, more mature, in possession of a shiny new backbone! She's her own woman! She's confident!
We're shown exactly NONE of that.
She moves back to her home town a quivering mess because she's terrified of running into her aunt and she can barely look at and/or talk to Ethan when she runs into him, because she thinks he's dating some other woman.
And look - I liked Ethan. The man never does anything wrong. But these two assholes do NOT know how to communicate with one another.
AT ALL.
It takes 30% of the book before he gets around to informing Maggie that he's not dating this other random townswoman named Nel.
And while they're talking - do they clear the air about what went down 11 years prior? NOOooooo! That'd be too easy! We have 70% of the book left! No way can a plot move forward if these two idiots TALKED to each other!
Even after Maggie and Ethan sleep together (at the 50% mark) and he announces to her in no uncertain terms that it's just the two of them, from that point forward, Maggie's insecurities keep her from fully buying into that love for another 30% of the story.
She's constantly uncertain about Ethan and insecure about other women who exist in his periphery. She's jealous and obsessive about texting him worrying when he doesn't get back to her that it's 11 years ago all over again.
Now remember! In chapter TWO we are told that she's better! That she's been to therapy to deal with her issue!
LIES. She's still that mess.
And she pushes me almost to the point of thinking she doesn't deserve to be happy. She makes everybody around her miserable. EVERYBODY. Her friends, Ethan, herself, his friends, EVERYBODY walks on eggshells so the poor little miss doesn't start sobbing for no reason.
I hated her. But she did have one thing right - Ethan deserves someone way better.
All of that, and I'm expected to believe these two people are going to spend their lives happily ever after?
I call bullshit.
There's NOTHING in this story to make me believe these two people won't continue to misunderstand shit and break things off (IE, Maggie will overhear something out of context or catch a glimpse of a woman staring at her man just a little too long and assume she's just the most loathsome little worm who ever did exist and then instead of talking to Ethan to figure out what's happening, she'll run from him off into the darkness alone and vulnerable so someone else can clobber her over the head again.)
You'd think that'd be enough to bitch about when it comes to this book.
Alas. I'm only halfway done.
Not only is Maggie woefully insecure. She's also criminally stupid. She's got a bad habit of walking into danger when she KNOWS better.
See - outside of the pathetic attempt at a romance going on in this story, there's a stalker/serial killer plotline that was, at least in the beginning, pretty interesting.
The entire town is aware that several women over the years have disappeared in the woods surrounding the town of Deep River. That's the whole reason Ethan and his team are there - they're setting up a Search and Rescue unit to try and prevent people from disappearing in the area.
And yet this idiot.
On the way back into town Maggie spots a wrecked car on the side of the road. The door's open, there's blood everywhere. It's dark, she's alone - so, naturally, what does she decide to do?? Yeah. She stops, goes wandering into the woods and gets washed down a river.
👏👏👏👏
Well done.
It was a good bit of action the book desperately needed - but come ON. Did we have to manufacture that by turning our FMC into the world's biggest dumbass?
It's not the only time, either, that she insists on doing things alone, or goes wandering around on her own, or disappears from where she's supposed to be so Ethan has to go hunt her down.
It's the direct reason why she ends up nearly dying when the person stalking her finally shows up to claim their prize.
And insufferably insecure FMC who's also too stupid to live?????
Barf.
So why did I keep reading? Well. The mystery. The suspense. I wanted to know what was going on. I wanted to understand who Maggie's stalker was. Where the missing women were and what had happened to them. And if any of that was related (it wasn't).
We only really learn about the stuff involving Maggie - I suspect the rest of the mystery is the through-line of the series. Which is fine. It's interesting enough, although I suspect it'll be VERY predictable by the end.
Maggie's stalker, however... I don't know if I buy it. It comes out of left field, too many things being explained at the 11th hour to make the stalker fit. There were other, much better choices - and they choose the one person who's had less than a page of story-time.
The story wasn't ENTIRELY godawful. If the FMC hadn't made me want to punch her in the face every other page, this might have been an enjoyable little small town romantic suspense. If you're not like me and you don't mind this kind of FMC, sure. Go for it. But I wouldn't personally recommend this book to anybody I know.
We're going to try book 2 - because I DO like Polly and Joel. Hopefully she won't be as insufferable as her BFF.
April 12, 2026
Automatic 3 🌟 because it’s a romantic suspense and I just can’t help myself 🤷♀️ Was this anything special? No but also I eat it up every time. The perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon with nothing to do 😎🦦
March 31, 2026
This book completely pulled me in and refused to let go—and paired with this narration? It’s an unforgettable experience.
The story itself is the perfect blend of emotional second-chance romance and edge-of-your-seat suspense. Maggie returning to Deep River after everything she’s been through instantly sets the tone, and you can feel the weight of her past in every moment. Watching her face old wounds while trying to survive a very real, present danger makes her journey so gripping and emotional.
And Ethan he is that hero. Protective, intense, and still completely gone for Maggie after all these years. The “he falls harder” energy is strong with him, and it hurts in the best way. Their history adds so much depth—the tension, the heartbreak, the lingering love—it all feels raw and real. Every interaction between them is loaded, like one moment could change everything.
The suspense element takes this story to another level. The missing women, the secrets buried in this small town, the constant sense that something isn’t right—it keeps you on edge the entire time. Just when you think you have it figured out, the story pulls you deeper.
Now add in the narration by CJ Bloom and Walker Williams—and it becomes something even more powerful.
CJ Bloom brings Maggie to life with so much emotion and authenticity. You can hear her fear, her strength, and that vulnerability she tries so hard to hide. She makes you feel every internal battle.
Walker Williams delivers Ethan with that perfect mix of calm control and underlying intensity. His voice captures Ethan’s protective nature so well, but it’s the emotional moments that really stand out—you can hear how much Maggie still owns his heart.
Together? Their chemistry is incredible. The tension, the longing, the love—it all translates so effortlessly through their performances. They don’t just narrate the story, they elevate it.
🎧✨ This is one of those rare combinations where:
• The romance hits deeper
• The suspense feels sharper
• And the characters stay with you long after it ends
If you love small-town romantic suspense, second chances, and a fiercely protective hero—with narration that completely immerses you—this is one you don’t want to miss.
The story itself is the perfect blend of emotional second-chance romance and edge-of-your-seat suspense. Maggie returning to Deep River after everything she’s been through instantly sets the tone, and you can feel the weight of her past in every moment. Watching her face old wounds while trying to survive a very real, present danger makes her journey so gripping and emotional.
And Ethan he is that hero. Protective, intense, and still completely gone for Maggie after all these years. The “he falls harder” energy is strong with him, and it hurts in the best way. Their history adds so much depth—the tension, the heartbreak, the lingering love—it all feels raw and real. Every interaction between them is loaded, like one moment could change everything.
The suspense element takes this story to another level. The missing women, the secrets buried in this small town, the constant sense that something isn’t right—it keeps you on edge the entire time. Just when you think you have it figured out, the story pulls you deeper.
Now add in the narration by CJ Bloom and Walker Williams—and it becomes something even more powerful.
CJ Bloom brings Maggie to life with so much emotion and authenticity. You can hear her fear, her strength, and that vulnerability she tries so hard to hide. She makes you feel every internal battle.
Walker Williams delivers Ethan with that perfect mix of calm control and underlying intensity. His voice captures Ethan’s protective nature so well, but it’s the emotional moments that really stand out—you can hear how much Maggie still owns his heart.
Together? Their chemistry is incredible. The tension, the longing, the love—it all translates so effortlessly through their performances. They don’t just narrate the story, they elevate it.
🎧✨ This is one of those rare combinations where:
• The romance hits deeper
• The suspense feels sharper
• And the characters stay with you long after it ends
If you love small-town romantic suspense, second chances, and a fiercely protective hero—with narration that completely immerses you—this is one you don’t want to miss.
March 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advance reader copy of Whispers in the Water. All thoughts are my own.
This small-town romantic suspense delivers exactly what it promises: second chances, simmering tension, and a steadily building undercurrent of danger.
Maggie Sinclair’s return to Deep River sets the emotional tone from the start. Her past is heavy—marked by grief, betrayal, and a love she never truly let go of. Watching her navigate old wounds while trying to stand her ground added depth to the romance. Ethan Moore is a classic protective hero, but he’s more than just muscle and intensity. His unresolved feelings for Maggie feel authentic, and their chemistry rekindles quickly while still acknowledging the hurt between them.
The suspense element unfolds at a measured pace. The missing women storyline creates a persistent sense of unease, and I appreciated how the danger feels close and personal rather than distant. The formation of the search and rescue team adds structure to the plot and gives Ethan a clear external purpose that conflicts nicely with his emotional one.
The small-town setting is vivid and atmospheric. Deep River feels like a character in its own right—tight-knit, complicated, and layered with secrets. That said, there were moments where I would have liked a bit more unpredictability in the suspense arc, as some elements felt familiar within the genre.
Overall, Whispers in the Water is a strong start (or addition) to a romantic suspense series. If you enjoy protective heroes, second-chance romance, and small-town mysteries with emotional stakes, this one is worth picking up.
I’m definitely curious to see where the series goes next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2026
I was so excited to start this book as it is the first book and a new series from Nyssa. She builds the most wonderful but dangerous towns and I always love seeing what is going to unfold. It seems like this series is going to have quite a few books based on the number of teammates Ethan has which is so exciting.
Maggie and Ethan were the love of each other‘s lives until….things broke them apart. Now they’re back in their hometown, surprised to see each other and surprised (or not 😉) that all the feelings are still there. I really enjoyed how everything unfolded from the case that seems like it’s going to be an overarching theme throughout the series or the danger coming to Maggie, and how secrets were exposed, Nyssa wove it altogether beautifully making such a wonderful book.
This was already going to be a highly rated book for me from the beginning just from the vibes, all of it sucked me in, but the way Ethan dealt with certain situations when they came to his knowledge; that sealed the deal for me. Five stars, no notes. That’s how I want my man to respond.
Ethan and Maggie’s HEA was so deserved.
I can’t wait to see what happens next in Deep River!
Maggie and Ethan were the love of each other‘s lives until….things broke them apart. Now they’re back in their hometown, surprised to see each other and surprised (or not 😉) that all the feelings are still there. I really enjoyed how everything unfolded from the case that seems like it’s going to be an overarching theme throughout the series or the danger coming to Maggie, and how secrets were exposed, Nyssa wove it altogether beautifully making such a wonderful book.
This was already going to be a highly rated book for me from the beginning just from the vibes, all of it sucked me in, but the way Ethan dealt with certain situations when they came to his knowledge; that sealed the deal for me. Five stars, no notes. That’s how I want my man to respond.
Ethan and Maggie’s HEA was so deserved.
I can’t wait to see what happens next in Deep River!
April 3, 2026
A massive thank you to Nyssa for creating allowing me to be part of the ARC team
Unfortunately, this one didn’t connect with me as much as Nyssa’s previous books. I found the main character a bit hard to warm to — she leaned heavily into a “poor me” mindset, which made it difficult for me to fully invest in her journey.
That said, the storyline itself is strong. I really enjoyed the blend of suspense and romance, and the overall concept kept me engaged. I just wish we had a bit more depth around her past — particularly more clarity on why she left and what exactly happened between her and the love interest.
While I usually love a second-chance romance, this one didn’t quite convince me — I’m not sure their relationship fully earned that redemption
Unfortunately, this one didn’t connect with me as much as Nyssa’s previous books. I found the main character a bit hard to warm to — she leaned heavily into a “poor me” mindset, which made it difficult for me to fully invest in her journey.
That said, the storyline itself is strong. I really enjoyed the blend of suspense and romance, and the overall concept kept me engaged. I just wish we had a bit more depth around her past — particularly more clarity on why she left and what exactly happened between her and the love interest.
While I usually love a second-chance romance, this one didn’t quite convince me — I’m not sure their relationship fully earned that redemption
April 14, 2026
Nyssa Kathryn has us visiting a new town in this suspense filled series where love finds a way and mystery abounds.... at least it does for Maggie and Ethan.
Once high school sweethearts, their love was unmatched, but life knocked Maggie down and beat her self worth into the ground- so she did what any normal person with self esteem issues would do...she left the love of her life.
Fast forward 11 years and Ethan has moved back to Deep River trying to care for his home town, at least more than the actual sheriff does, and he runs into Maggie! He can't believe his eyes and his luck and his heart started beating again...and now...the missing women, the murders, the stalker, all the questions need to be answered....and what more could a reader want in a book right!?
This is definitely a MUST READ!
Once high school sweethearts, their love was unmatched, but life knocked Maggie down and beat her self worth into the ground- so she did what any normal person with self esteem issues would do...she left the love of her life.
Fast forward 11 years and Ethan has moved back to Deep River trying to care for his home town, at least more than the actual sheriff does, and he runs into Maggie! He can't believe his eyes and his luck and his heart started beating again...and now...the missing women, the murders, the stalker, all the questions need to be answered....and what more could a reader want in a book right!?
This is definitely a MUST READ!
Review of advance copy
Starting with narration, it was duet and both narrators were very good
While this was book 1 in an interconnected standalone series, there was a serial killer subplot that I was particularly invested in; I look forward to seeing where it goes. Overall I enjoyed this second chance romantic suspense; I liked Maggie and Ethan, though was Joel and Polly that stole the show for me - their banter and bickering made me excited for their book!
Starting with narration, it was duet and both narrators were very good
Thank you Blue Nose Audio for this ALC in exchange for an honest review
While this was book 1 in an interconnected standalone series, there was a serial killer subplot that I was particularly invested in; I look forward to seeing where it goes. Overall I enjoyed this second chance romantic suspense; I liked Maggie and Ethan, though was Joel and Polly that stole the show for me - their banter and bickering made me excited for their book!
Starting with narration, it was duet and both narrators were very good
Thank you Blue Nose Audio for this ALC in exchange for an honest review
March 27, 2026
Being wisked away to another small town called Deep River, love it so much. Of course, it’s full of its own band of characters, along with the couple and their friends. Maggie and Ethan have been connected for most of their lives that’s one of the perks for living in a small town. Growing up together, falling in love, but then the fallout of the break up and grow apart. Their second meet cute after all the years apart was worth the wait. It’s interesting to see them try to re-integrate into each other’s lives after so many years apart, somethings are the same and others are completely different. Maggie‘s best friend Polly is absolutely hysterical. I love her. They are two peas in a pod, ride or die. Never a dull moment between the two of them. They made me laugh so hard. Maggie is a woman with lots of issues in her past that she’s trying to overcome. And just when she thinks she’s over them they were jump in knocker down a peg. Ethan comes back into her life it’s like the world makes sense they are so perfect for each other, they are truly soulmates it’s magical seeing them together. Ethan is a protector. He will do anything for his friends and his family no matter what. I love seeing him with his team they are like a band of Brothers and they are so funny. When Ethan and Maggie finally get back together, it is a chefs kiss. But it’s not all sunshine and roses. They gotta go through a lot before they get their actual happily ever after but when they do, it’s worth it I absolutely love this new series. I cannot wait to see everyone else meet their partners, it will be epic.
April 1, 2026
This was a solid three-star read for me. I really loved that it was a second-chance romance, which I am a sucker for. There is just something so compelling about characters finding their way back to each other. That said, I was a bit surprised by how quickly everything came back together between them. I was hoping for more tension, more buildup, and a deeper sense of longing before they reunited.
The story itself was enjoyable and easy to read, but it didn’t quite hit the emotional depth I was expecting. I wanted to feel more of that push and pull, that unresolved history lingering a little longer.
Overall, it was okay... definitely not a bad start to a new series, but I am hoping future books bring a bit more depth and emotional intensity.
The story itself was enjoyable and easy to read, but it didn’t quite hit the emotional depth I was expecting. I wanted to feel more of that push and pull, that unresolved history lingering a little longer.
Overall, it was okay... definitely not a bad start to a new series, but I am hoping future books bring a bit more depth and emotional intensity.
April 14, 2026
First time reading this author and I really liked the story and characters, a few quirky ones within the small town. Ethan and Maggie had a 11 year separation before seeing each other again, personally it annoyed me as to the reason why, but as the story progressed you get a stronger reason, however it still annoyed me lol 🤷🏻♀️
I adored the secondary characters, especially Polly and Joel, can’t wait for their book!
I adored the secondary characters, especially Polly and Joel, can’t wait for their book!
April 4, 2026
Whispers in the Water is the first book in the new Deep River series by Nyssa Kathryn, and it sets the tone in a way that feels both haunting and deeply emotional from the very start.
Maggie’s return to Deep River isn’t just about going home, it’s about facing everything she tried to outrun. The grief, the history, and especially Ethan. Their second-chance romance carries this quiet intensity, where every look and conversation feels loaded with years of love, hurt, and things left unsaid. It’s not rushed or overly dramatic, it lingers in the best way, letting you sit in those moments where you can feel how much they still matter to each other.
And then there’s the undercurrent of danger woven through it all. The missing women, the sense that something isn’t right beneath the surface, it creates this constant tension that makes the town itself feel like a character. You get that push and pull between comfort and unease, where even the familiar doesn’t feel entirely safe.
Ethan brings that steady, protective presence, but it’s the way he shows up for Maggie without forcing, without forgetting that really hits. It’s not just about rekindling something old, it’s about deciding if they’re willing to trust it again.
It’s the kind of story that pulls you in slowly, wraps you up in emotion and suspense, and leaves you completely invested in what happens next in Deep River.
Maggie’s return to Deep River isn’t just about going home, it’s about facing everything she tried to outrun. The grief, the history, and especially Ethan. Their second-chance romance carries this quiet intensity, where every look and conversation feels loaded with years of love, hurt, and things left unsaid. It’s not rushed or overly dramatic, it lingers in the best way, letting you sit in those moments where you can feel how much they still matter to each other.
And then there’s the undercurrent of danger woven through it all. The missing women, the sense that something isn’t right beneath the surface, it creates this constant tension that makes the town itself feel like a character. You get that push and pull between comfort and unease, where even the familiar doesn’t feel entirely safe.
Ethan brings that steady, protective presence, but it’s the way he shows up for Maggie without forcing, without forgetting that really hits. It’s not just about rekindling something old, it’s about deciding if they’re willing to trust it again.
It’s the kind of story that pulls you in slowly, wraps you up in emotion and suspense, and leaves you completely invested in what happens next in Deep River.
June 13, 2026
If anyone can bring me out of a reading slump, it’s Nyssa Kathryn and her cast of ex-Navy SEALS
July 6, 2026
Great read. Reads fast and easy.
No cheating between mcs.
Ow drama. Two women. He was kissed by one and it caused a bit of issues.
No Virgins
Separations-11 years.
No Epilogue. It continues into the next story.
HFN.
No cheating between mcs.
Ow drama. Two women. He was kissed by one and it caused a bit of issues.
No Virgins
Separations-11 years.
No Epilogue. It continues into the next story.
HFN.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
August 6, 20263.5 ⭐️
August 13, 2026
Audiobook listen 🎧 Always enjoy a romantic suspense! Im more excited for Polly and Joels story up next!
March 28, 2026
A new series from this author….YAY!!! Ethan has moved back to his small town after years serving, his team joins him as they start a new SAR team with the help of the mayor, which irritates the sheriff, who makes it clear he doesn’t want them there. Women have gone missing, no clues or investigations, the main reason for Ethan and his team being there. Maggie has also moved back to town, her and Ethan were inseparable for years, until one night Maggie walked away. She had her reasons but has always loved Ethan, and Ethan has always loved her. In a small town it’s hard not to bump into each other and everything they had comes rushing back, each touch, smile and kiss, there’s now denying they were always meant to be together…too bad someone doesn’t want them to be happy.
Another page turner from start to finish, suspense, steam, surprises, second chances for a love that never died and great characters. Ethan and Maggie deserved this chance, rebuilding what they lost for years and trusting each other no matter what. Loved the no drama between them and their HEA…can’t wait for the next one!!!!
Another page turner from start to finish, suspense, steam, surprises, second chances for a love that never died and great characters. Ethan and Maggie deserved this chance, rebuilding what they lost for years and trusting each other no matter what. Loved the no drama between them and their HEA…can’t wait for the next one!!!!
July 29, 2026
First in the series. Second chance romance. I liked it and have enjoyed several books by this author.
March 30, 2026
4.5 stars
One of my favorite suspense authors has a new series. It helps that I also get a small town, second chances story. This storyline was a fantastic start to this new series. The suspense was edge of your seat, the underlying thread that will carry though the series kept me engaged and our couple Maggie and Ethan, are they going to get their second chance?
Both Maggie and Ethan are returning home, but not all is good. Ethan is pulled into a special search and rescue team to get to the bottom of the missing women. The mayor wants his townspeople safe. Maggie has returned to the home of many bad memories, when her current home in LA, no longer feels safe.
As Maggie and Ethan's story unfolds we find the strength of Ethan's feelings towards Maggie come to the surface. As the threats get closer we find out how far he will go to protect her.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
One of my favorite suspense authors has a new series. It helps that I also get a small town, second chances story. This storyline was a fantastic start to this new series. The suspense was edge of your seat, the underlying thread that will carry though the series kept me engaged and our couple Maggie and Ethan, are they going to get their second chance?
Both Maggie and Ethan are returning home, but not all is good. Ethan is pulled into a special search and rescue team to get to the bottom of the missing women. The mayor wants his townspeople safe. Maggie has returned to the home of many bad memories, when her current home in LA, no longer feels safe.
As Maggie and Ethan's story unfolds we find the strength of Ethan's feelings towards Maggie come to the surface. As the threats get closer we find out how far he will go to protect her.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
March 28, 2026
Whispers in the Water by Nyssa Kathryn
Whispers in the Water surprised me in the best way. I went into it a little hesitant because duet narration isn’t usually my preferred style, but this one won me over. The voices brought an emotional depth to the story that really suited Maggie and Ethan’s journey, and by the end I found myself genuinely enjoying the format.
At its heart, this is a beautifully crafted second‑chance romance. Maggie and Ethan have a history that feels lived‑in, tender, and complicated in all the right ways. Their reconnection is paced with care, giving you time to feel the weight of their past and the hope of what could be rebuilt.
Although this book sits within a standalone series, it absolutely holds its own. You can jump in without feeling lost, yet it still leaves you curious—and excited—for the other stories to come.
A heartfelt, atmospheric read that blends romance, emotion, and a touch of mystery. I’m definitely looking forward to continuing the series.
Whispers in the Water surprised me in the best way. I went into it a little hesitant because duet narration isn’t usually my preferred style, but this one won me over. The voices brought an emotional depth to the story that really suited Maggie and Ethan’s journey, and by the end I found myself genuinely enjoying the format.
At its heart, this is a beautifully crafted second‑chance romance. Maggie and Ethan have a history that feels lived‑in, tender, and complicated in all the right ways. Their reconnection is paced with care, giving you time to feel the weight of their past and the hope of what could be rebuilt.
Although this book sits within a standalone series, it absolutely holds its own. You can jump in without feeling lost, yet it still leaves you curious—and excited—for the other stories to come.
A heartfelt, atmospheric read that blends romance, emotion, and a touch of mystery. I’m definitely looking forward to continuing the series.
April 11, 2026
Not much romance and huge story errors
This book had some good points, but the romance portion is very scant. It's second chance, but with no build up and no fleshing out of why these two love each other except for a romantic history. Then they just reconnect with almost no tension or explanation. We don't know even one reason why these the characters love each other or belong together.
My biggest issue was the many story errors. The primary error being a trained Navy SEAL doing CPR chest compressions on a person with a pulse. I'm always surprised when authors do no research on such a vital but rudimentary topic as basic CPR.
SPICE LEVEL: Rated R / 2-4 descriptive intimate scenes, may have harsh language.
CONTENT WARNING: Romantic Suspense related violence, emotional abuse
POV: Dual - M/F - 1st Person
This book had some good points, but the romance portion is very scant. It's second chance, but with no build up and no fleshing out of why these two love each other except for a romantic history. Then they just reconnect with almost no tension or explanation. We don't know even one reason why these the characters love each other or belong together.
My biggest issue was the many story errors. The primary error being a trained Navy SEAL doing CPR chest compressions on a person with a pulse. I'm always surprised when authors do no research on such a vital but rudimentary topic as basic CPR.
SPICE LEVEL: Rated R / 2-4 descriptive intimate scenes, may have harsh language.
CONTENT WARNING: Romantic Suspense related violence, emotional abuse
POV: Dual - M/F - 1st Person
April 13, 2026
This book has all the feels. Ethan never got over Maggie and hopes he can get answers why she disappeared from his life years ago. Now they are both back home in their small town, but can Ethan protect her from the danger stalking her? I absolutely loved how this story unfolded! Never saw the ending coming!
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