Below the Surface

On the Gold #1

by Elizabeth Lee

Daniella Alvarez and Dylan McKendrie used to be in love. They used to be a team. An inseparable force to be reckoned with. But, when tragedy struck, their relationship sank faster than the ships they used to scour the ocean floor for. Now all that's left are scattered remains of what used to be. In the five years that Dylan has been gone from the island paradise of The Florida Keys, he's made a name for himself and the ramshackle marine salvage business his father left behind. He's no longer seeking the mysteries on the ocean floor, now he goes for the sure things and the guaranteed paychecks. When a longtime friend suggests he has hard proof that one of those legends that used to keep Dylan up at night could be real, he's torn between going after the gold and maintaining the life he'd built for himself and his sister. Daniella was always a dreamer. From the time she spent dreaming of being a part of a real family to the dream of making a name for herself as a deep sea diver. She's always been chasing what would most deem unattainable. What does an orphan from the Midwest know about being a part of a family or the ocean? Everything she'd ever wanted seemed to slip through her fingers the day he left, which is exactly why his return has her seeing red. Can the two of them put their past aside long enough to figure out a mystery that has plagued them both for years? Can they work together to see what lies below the surface?

Genres: Second Chance, Contemporary Romance

264 pages, Paperback

First published May 12, 2016

About the author

Born and raised in the middle of a Midwestern cornfield (not literally, that would be weird), I’ve spent my entire life imagining stories. Stories where the right guy always gets the right girl, first kisses are as magical as they are on the big screen and anything is completely possible if you believe.

Although this journey began years ago, it recently took on a whole new life. After years of devouring hundreds of Romance, YA and New Adult novels, I had an epiphany... I should write a book. And I did it!

If I’m not reading, writing, enjoying drinks with my amazing group of girlfriends or chasing around a sarcastically funny kid, I’m probably watching television shows that were created for teenagers, while my husband teases that I’m too old to watch them.

Reviews

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were two things I absolutely knew for sure: finding treasure on the bottom or the ocean was every bit as exhilarating as my father had said it was, and Danielle Alvarez was the love of my life.

This was my first book by Elizabeth Grace and I doubt it'll be the last. Below The Surface marks book one in what will be a series based on treasure hunters and it's certainly different from anything I've ever read.

I'm a sucker for a second-chance romance, and the story here gave me serious Into The Blue vibes, which certainly didn't hurt my metal visual...uhem.

It's been five years since Daniella 'Dani' and Dylan have seen each other. Their relationship didn't end on the best of terms and both still hold on to the resentment and anger of the past. But when a mutual friend claims that he has proof of the existence of sunken Spanish ship that many believed to be just a legend and had been a borderline obsession of Dani's to find, it brings them back together again.

Dani stayed on the little Florida Keys island and barely making ends meet as a diver on boat tours. Dylan left her five years ago to make a different life for himself in Boston. If they find the ship, it can make all their dreams come true...or shatter them altogether if it proves to be just a legend.

As interesting as it was to read about underwater treasure hunters, I got a little bored with a lot of the details. I wanted a deeper look into the characters and their past. As it was, I felt like it barely grazed the surface. The reader gets bits and pieces of what happened to Dani and Dylan's relationship five years ago, but it wasn't nearly enough to make me truly understand why each made the decision they did. I wanted more development on the characters individually and wouldn't have minded more focus on them as a couple. As it was, it felt like the romance came secondary to the treasure hunting and the rest of the story. I just never connected to the characters or their relationship to really get invested in the story and so I found myself skimming quite a bit.

That's not to say it still wasn't a fun read, because it was. The deep sea diving, the history of the sunken ship, the found diary, all of it made for an adventurous little read. I just wish the romance itself was a touch more developed. If you're looking for something different, definitely give this book a go. It's well written and the romance is quite steamy. I'll certainly be keeping an eye out for the next book in the series, especially after that tease in the synopsis.

ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review

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[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review



“I'd found lots of things underwater, but none of them were ever worth much. Hurricane ravaged and owner error sunken fishing boats were the main hauls of our operation. Finding Dani was like finding the entire contents of the ocean floor in one well-kept, long, lean, and sexy package.”

Elizabeth Lee has somewhat become my new favorite go-to author. Seriously, she is one of those authors who deserves to be on the spotlight. I love reading her books and getting swept away with her romance novels. And in her newest series, she has readers coming aboard on her sexy, emotional, wet and wild second chance romance. So if you are ready to set sail, dive and anchor your hearts to one beautiful push and pull romance then all there is left to say...aye aye Captain!!!!



If you have been following my reviews, then you are well aware I am sucker for second chance romance and when I found out that Elizabeth Lee was writing an light angsty second chance romance, I couldn’t wait to get my greedy hands on this book..

“I wanted to find that ship more than ever . For her. And for me. The idea of putting down a marker on a map for this wreck was going to be the closure I didn't even realize I needed. It would solidify that I was good at my job. It would put an end to any of the doubt I had about being able to do this. That and it would also be the final chapter of my story with Daniella Alvarez.”

Below the Surface was a fun, fresh, modern day second chance love story that had the old world romance FEEL. Yes, I am talking about those romance novels where love is brimming to the max. And in Below the Surface, Elizabeth beautifully incorporated a romance that will have you wanting to find your very own treasure. LOVE.



Five years ago, Daniella Alvarez and Dylan McKendrie were madly in love with each other. Their lives revolved around each other. They were best friends. Lovers. Soul Mates. But when Dylan’s father died, everything changed. Decisions were made. Different paths were chosen. Dylan made the choice to leave and find work in order to support his sister. Dani stayed behind in Key West. Their love went off course and slowly it was sinking below the surface.

“As his hands swept sand away to reveal the broken wood and decaying wood below, I watched in awe. He was so meticulous with his movements. I was more inclined to wave my hands frantically to unearth what was below, he took his time. He made each movement with deliberation. I could have watched him all day. He was sexy when he was working the deck of the boat, or gripping the steering wheel with his commanding presence, but down here, in my world, it was even better. It was my two favorite things combined. The fluid hug of ocean and seeing the man I loved hard at work. I would have kept drooling into my mask, had he not motioned for me to swim over to him.”

Dylan took over his father’s failing business and turned it into a profitable business in marine salvage. When he left Florida Keys, he knew he left his heart with Dani as well. And so when his best friend, Cal calls him up with leads on this missing Spanish ship that was known to have treasures, Dylan found himself coming back home and facing Daniella Alvarez.

“As much as the possibility of getting hurt scares me, the possibility of not being with you hurts even more.”

Daniella Alvarez had love until the day Dylan left her for good. She wants to hate him for all the hurt that he caused her but deep down she knows the truth. She still loves him and has this lingering hope that they belonged together. And so when she saw Dylan, she is taken aback in seeing him after five years. When her friend Cal informs her that they found the missing ship that Dani has been searching for, how will Dani react to seeing her ex after five years?



Dani and Dylan’s relationship can only be described as a push and pull type. There is strong sexual tension brewing between them. Dani holds the resentment that Dylan didn’t stay for her. And Dylan holds the resentment that Dani didn’t want to go with him and his sister, Madison when he asked her five years ago. The hurt, the anger, and the resentment still lingers and so there is this constant back and forth of who is right. But one thing is for certain, the love that they have for each other is just as intense and strong as before. Their love didn’t sink. It was just waiting to resurface. Can Dani and Dylan find a way to work together and see what they are searching for might be a map right back to each other’s heart?

“I never felt more alive than I did diving a wreck. This is what I wanted to do with my life. This is where I was meant to be. It's too back mermaid wasn't a job possibility. I would have rocked a seashell bikini top. The only thing that would have stopped me from signing up immediately was the man I knew was waiting for me on the surface. Could I, would I, be able to give up warm air and clear waters of The Keys for a life in the frigid north east?”

I seriously LOVED this book. It had everything you could want in a second chance romance. It had humor, banter, sexual tension, romance, raw emotions, and of course, passion. Dani and Dylan were that couple you rooted for. That couple you wanted to put on time out so you can tell them what the hell are they fighting for. But they are also that couple who made you believe in second chances. That couple who anchored your hearts. That couple who finally saw what they have been searching for. That couple who had weathered the storm and found their peace, happiness and love. So if you are looking for a romance that weaves tragedy, beauty, hope, forgiveness, second chances, love and new beginnings then I urge you to read Below the Surface. Fall in love with Elizabeth Lee’s gorgeous prose. Fall in love with her characters. Fall in love with a story that Ms. Lee describes one part Into the Blue, one part The Longest Ride, and a dash of Pirates of the Caribbean.



Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Elizabeth Lee

[Gi's Spot Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's LIVE early!!!
Review to follow...

ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review

[Mojo_Mama · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars

Thanks BB for today's quick buddy-read.

This was short and therefore had moments of serious info dump. They were jarring but not DNF worthy.

This was a pretty straight forward 2nd chance novel. There weren't any twists. It was engagingly written and I was game for a little treasure hunting.

But, in the end, this was a novella that grew a bit bigger but really couldn't grow into novel proportions. Everything was so surface, not a lot of depth or growth. I mean there was some, but it was all telling, not showing...and that just leaves you uninvested in, and unconnected to, the characters.

I pretty much skimmed it from ((spoiler: the moment they found the silver)). Not to say this wasn't a great, quick, fun read. It just didn't have a lot of depth. It totally reminds me of the kind of romance you read on vacation. You don't have lots of time for serious reading, but you need something for the plane/drive/beach.

This is cute and fluffy and totally SAFETY GANG SAFE ;)

My only real complaint:

They're both with other people during the 5 years they're part. That doesn't bother, it's the disparity that does. Thankfully though, he's not a man-ho.

The H however, as well as casually dating other women, actually manages to have a year-long relationship with another woman. He claims in headspace POV that it didn't work out cuz he wasn't over the h. I don't know...he was into it enough to get a year's worth of nookie.

The h though, true to form, had almost no romantic involvements. Just a few random hookups and not one in the last year...all of which she seemed a bit depressed about. I get really tired of the h's always getting second-best or nothing whenever it's a second chance trope. Why can't the girl move on and have a successful relationship with an awesome guy that in the end she just decides isn't for her? And THEN she could get her second chance with The One??

It doesn't really matter anyway. The h doesn't even seem phased by the H's sexy times with others even though she swears she does.

I wasn't dazzled, but I definitely liked it enough to read another from this author NEXT.

[Teri Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by author

Below the Surface is an unique, fun, and sexy second-chance romance. Dylan and Dani broke up five years ago and it wasn't an easy break-up at that. But now they're brought back together in search of a sunken ship and potential treasure. Tensions are running high and the chemistry is sizzling between Dylan and Dani as they search the sea. This was an easy couple to root for, every interaction had me wanting them to kiss and make up already! I greatly appreciated the low angst level of Below the Surface, there wasn't any unnecessary drama. Feelings felt valid and realistic for what this couple had gone through. The history of the ship they were searching for was incredibly intriguing and the highlight of the story for me, talk about a heartbreaking love story! The setting, the characters, the story easily made this a great read. And now I'm already dying for Cal and Minx's book!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Finding Dani was like finding the entire contents of the ocean floor in one well-kept, long, lean, and sexy package.”

“She was my once in a lifetime find and I’d make sure she knew it every single day.”

Below The Surface is an exciting new book from author Elizabeth Lee. Below The Surface follows the story of Dani and Dylan. Dani and Dylan used to be in love. They had it all. Until one day, tragedy struck and separated these two lovers. Now, years later, the two of them will be reunited. They are presented with a chance of lifetime and no matter how much they may want to say no, this is an opportunity that can’t be missed. Can Dani and Dylan push away their differences? Will they ever be able to forgive and move past all the hurt? There’s only one way to find out…..

Below The Surface was such an exciting and refreshing read for me. I really enjoyed the story-line. It was unlike anything I’ve read before. I loved the idea of searching and discovering the mysterious that lie beneath the ocean. I loved the push and pull between Dani and Dylan. The chemistry between the two of them was undeniable and built some delicious sexual tension. You could just feel it oozing off them. However, the road to HEA for them was not an easy one. There were a lot of obstacles, feelings and misunderstandings to get past. But, if they can just listen to each other and learn to forgive, the love that they share can get them through anything and in the end, make them come out stronger.

Below The Surface is a wonderful second chance romance. It will take you on a fun and exciting journey that will have you laughing and swooning and crossing your fingers that the past can be forgotten. And while Dani and Dylan’s story does wrap up in Below The Surface, I can tell you that the next story is set up perfectly and will leave you not only begging for more, but dying to know what will happen next. I know I am. This new series is off to an exciting start and I can not wait to read more!

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh, I was not expecting an adventure!

An actual adventure! With pirates! And treasure! And, of course—true love.

I am fascinated by the bottom of the ocean, mostly because I am also terrified by it. So the storyline here—that of adventure and excitement under the sea—immediately appealed to me, and in the end, it did not disappoint. The adventure pieces play out as more of a side-story to the romance, but I found them exciting and fun, adding a little kick to the lovely second-chance love story in which it lay nestled.

That love story, while indeed lovely and sexy and sometimes achingly intense, was also a bit choppy for me. I didn't always feel connected to Dani and Dylan; I wanted to dive deep with this book, and while I completely enjoyed the story, it didn't stick with me—or hit me deep in the feels the way I wanted it to.

I loved how Dani and Dylan were with each other, however. I loved how their personalities clashed and also how tender they could be. They went to extremes with each other, but I bought it—I liked it. I loved their banter and their relationships with Minx and Cal. I loved the team that they formed and I loved their happy ending so hard. So, while it wasn't a perfectly executed romance for me, make no mistake—I enjoyed it very much.

If you’re looking for an adventure and a heart-happy second chance love story all wrapped into one, Below the Surface is not to be missed. ~ Shelly, 4 stars

[Christine (Shh Moms Reading) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love an adventurous treasure hunt combined with a second chance romance. This one reminded me too much of Fool's Gold with Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey.
I found some editing issues while I was reading. Nothing too terrible but they were noticeable. Also sadly I did skim.
For second chance romances to work for me, I want that emotional build up, that connection, that conversation that explains why it didn't happen the first time but why it's forever now. That happened somewhat but I felt like it was more of a surface conversation and missed that in-depth feeling I wanted to really FEEL this couple's love.
All in all it was a quick read that was fun but I just wanted more.

[Elizabeth Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

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[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this one. Romance, mystery, a second chance at love and treasure hunting what more could you ask for. Full review to come.

ARC provided by the author for an honest opinion.

[Chrissy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyable story. The diving and treasure hunting was fun to read about and there was a story within a story because they were reading the journal from Dani's ancestor. I thought it was a pretty good book, it just doesn't have anything in particular that really stood out for me to make it exciting or emotional. It's a good story and I would recommend it if you aren't looking for anything emotional or attention grabbing. I would say it's more sweet and fun.

[Hanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I reread this book on 08/01/2016. I loved it as much as the first time. It deserves its place on my 'favorite' shelf. I highly recommend it.

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5 -- The Starry Night -- stars

I adored this book! It was a light angst second chance love story. There was banter, romance and adventure. The treasure hunt was something I have never read before and I enjoyed the search. I highly recommend Below The Surface!

Five years ago, Dylan’s dad died. He wanted to leave so he could make the family company profitable and give his little sister a better future. He had a relationship with Dani for a while and he asked her to go with him, but she couldn’t leave her home behind. Their break up was awful and painful.

Now, a friend of them has a clue about where a Spanish sunken ship is. Dani wants to find that ship for years now. When there are more clues about where the ship actually is, Dylan decides to help them. The reunion between Dani and Dylan wasn’t a happy one. They are still angry at each other, but they decide to focus on finding the treasure and to not let their past distract them. But all that time spend together on a ship brings them closer again. The feelings and attraction never left.

I loved Dylan and Dani! Dylan is a hardworking, sweet, caring man. He does what he thinks is the best for his family. He regrets leaving Dani and still thinks about her, but he knows she will never leave her home behind. He wants her back when they meet again. Dylan will do everything he can to help Dani find that ship and he believes that she will find it.

Dani is very passionate about diving and that Spanish ship. She loves the sea and can’t imagine not being able to spend time in the sea. She was really hurt when Dylan decided to leave her and she missed him very much, but she keeps her distant because she doesn’t want to get hurt again. She can’t imagine losing him again, she won’t survive that. She eventually does decide to act on the feelings and she’s very happy afterwards.

This book is a winner for me because something I generally don’t like in books, didn’t bother me at all in this book. Dylan and Dani only really become a couple in the second part of the book. There was a lot of push and pull between them because of their past. They were hurt and angry, and still feel that way. They still love each other and always will. I was rooting for them, because I could feel the attraction between them. I just kept turning the pages, reading how they got closer again and got a second chance at love with each other. The pace was perfect for me. Dylan and Dani are perfect together and a great team!

There are also amazing secondary characters. Minx, Dylan’s little sister, is funny, carefree and a little wild. She loves to tease her brother. She sees Dani as her sister and missed her all those years, just like Dani missed her. Cal is also great! He has been a good friend for Dani when Dylan left. He’s smart and helps them with finding the ship. Cal and Minx will be the couple in the next book. They look great together. I can’t wait for their book, especially after the epilogue.

-- ARC provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! --

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Below the Surface has me totally hooked on Elizabeth Lee’s new On the Gold series! This novel took me on an unforgettable journey overflowing with heart, passion, and adventure. I immediately fell in love with Dani and Dylan’s story and was swept away by the unconventional and fascinating world of deep-sea salvage and treasure hunting. Elizabeth Lee’s writing is intoxicating and addictive, effortlessly capturing the thrill and intrigue of this one-of-a-kind storyline. With a voice that is fresh and youthful, Elizabeth Lee submerges readers in a world rich with history and emotion. Between the allure of undiscovered treasure and the heartache of searching for lost love, I found myself at the mercy of an emotional hurricane as I read. While their sparkling chemistry certainly set the pages ablaze, it was Dani and Dylan’s undeniable pull that demanded to be felt – effectively drowning me in this unforgettable novel.

The relationship that Elizabeth Lee has so perfectly cultivated with this couple is utterly enchanting. Dani and Dylan not only shared snarky banter, moments of vulnerability, and plenty of steamy encounters, but they felt genuine in a way that allowed them to slip right inside my heart. They made me laugh and want to throw things all in the course of a single page. I loved the way these two challenged each other and pushed one another to step outside their comfort zone. They both grew a great deal over the course of the novel, opening up about their shared past as they examined the history that would lead them to their goal. In true Elizabeth Lee fashion, Dani and Dylan’s world was made more vibrant by the addition of colorful and charming secondary characters. I loved getting to know Minx and Cal and am excited to hear more about them as the series continues.

Below the Surface was everything I love about second chance romance and then some. I adored the heartbreak, regret, and longing that poured from the pages of this book while Dani and Dylan’s inexplicable connection completely captivated me. The concept of this novel was original and I quickly found myself enthralled by the many layers of our couple’s journey, especially the love story within the love story. Elizabeth Lee did a phenomenal job building this storyline. She carefully constructed this fictional world, bringing an uncommon setting to life and infusing it with just enough history to be undeniably intriguing without taking away from the novel’s relaxed feel and easy relatability. The story was fluid and well paced, and I loved every moment of riding the waves of Dani and Dylan’s journey. Below the Surface was the perfect balance of heat, humor, history, and heart, leaving me no choice but to devour it.

[Jenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Dani was like finding the entire contents of the ocean floor in one well-kept, long, lean, and sexy package.

Below the Surface is a book that takes you on an adventure. One filled with old flames and an even older treasure.

Dani’s passion is discovering treasure from shipwrecks, that and one Dylan McKendrie. Problem is she and Dylan haven’t spoken in 5 years, not since he up and moved to Boston leaving her in The Keys. Not only did he take his heart with him, he also took any possibility of locating La Noche Estrellada with him since Dani didn’t have a boat. After searching for years for the ship with no luck, they finally get a lead on the possible location of La Noche Estrellada, the only problem is now Dani will have to be around Dylan again. The question she has to ask herself is can she put her anger and heartbreak aside in order to find the treasure she’s been chasing?

I was a free spirit. Going in any direction with no rules and little regulations. I was the ocean.

After facing the loss of someone close to him, Dylan left The Keys and Dani behind. He decided he couldn’t afford to keep chasing the treasures at the bottom of the ocean without the promise of finding something real. He needed to make money to survive so he headed to Boston, to guaranteed income. But he left Dani behind.

I love a good second chance romance and this one had everything I needed plus a treasure hunt! Elizabeth Lee does a fantastic job weaving a story full of adventure, long lost love, and excitement. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see if everything Dani had heard about La Noche Estrellada was true and if they would finally find what they have been looking for all these years.
This is a promising start to another great series by Elizabeth Lee and she sets things up perfectly for the next book in this series! I know I cannot wait to find whatever treasure is waiting Below the Surface!
5 stars!!!
***ARC provided via the author in exchange for my HONEST review. Thank you!***

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a new favorite author to keep tabs on and her names is Elizabeth Lee. This book! I am in love with it. Below the Surface is a brilliant blend of adventure, second chances, danger, and history. It takes the every day adventures and makes them stunning with the story that unfolds. This book has a love story but what hooked me was the chance to read about an adventure of a lifetime.

I feel like I might end up sounding like a broken record but this book nailed it. The story was well paced, full of drama and appropriate angst. There is a healthy dose of relationship drama and two people who are stubborn, yet oh so perfect for each other. Dani and Dylan seem to be opposites but the more you read and the more they have in common and their differences compliment each other. The push and pull, along with a steamy and frustrating relationship dynamic to the book, allows for possibilities. Lee does great job of sharing their story and passions in a fun and unique way. Add in some fun and vital secondary characters and you have a cast set to make waves.

By far my favorite part of Below the Surface was the treasure hunting theme. I love movies where people go on adventures and dive for hidden treasure. Surprisingly, I have not read very many books about this theme but after reading this story, I need more! Lee does a fantastic job of blending history into the present, adding an authenticity to the story. Dani's connection to the legend makes everything come alive. You live and learn the experience with her. It draws the reader in deeper and you cannot help but be intrigued.

This book has everything New Adult readers want. There is angst, romance, and heartache. There are choices to be made and life decisions to work through. For those who love action and adventure, there is a fantastic story of danger, mystery, and hope. This book encompasses so much and the only way for me to truly convey how great it is would be to tell you to see for yourself and read it now. You will not want to miss it. Lee, you have a new fan. I cannot wait for Cal and Minx's story!

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

"She was my once in a lifetime find and I’d make sure that she knew it every single day."

This book was AHHHH-MAZING!!!! I am a huge fan of Elizabeth Lee's books and this story was everything I love about her writing. This is a story of second chance love, discovery and hope.

When I started this book, I wasn't sure what to expect in terms of the subject matter, as I had no idea about underwater treasure hunters and ships. But once again, just like Ms Lee did in her Wild Riders series, I became fully immersed in this world of treasure hunters and their quest to locate the mysterious La Noche Estrellada. As the story progressed, I found myself wanting to read the artefact journal of Francesca; wanting to find some sunken treasure; and wanting to revel in the experience of discovering a sunken ship!! Completely. Immersed.!!

Dylan is determined, sexy, hot, caring and sweet. He regrets the decision he made five years ago that saw him leaving Daniella. And Daniella is beautiful, strong-willed and nurturing. When these two past lovers are thrown together in their quest to locate the sunken ship, the passion between them is palpable, intense and all consuming. I could FEEL the chemistry radiating off these pages as I read.

I loved Dylan and Daniella together - when they were in the throes of an argument, and when they were sharing their most intimate moments. I wanted more of them!! Second chance love stories are one of my favourites to read, and this one doesn't disappoint. Thank you Ms Lee for once again giving me a world that I can throw myself into and forget the real one around me!! This story left me with a heart warming feeling and a lovesick smile. I cannot wait for Minx and Cal's book next! 5 stars!!

[Diane Plourde TDC Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing adventure this deep sea treasure hunting story was and that also deserves a 5 entertaining star.

ARC of Below The Surface by Elizabeth Lee provided by the author in exchange of an honest spoiler free review.

Dani lives for the sea but due to a disagreement and an unwillingness to make some sacrifices, she is separated from Dylan for almost 5 years. When faced with the chance to find a 18th century sunken ship called La Noche Estrallada they are willing to work yet again, together. Sparks will fly, their tempers will get the best of them again. They will get a second chance. Will they take it and be willing to compromise? Will they find the treasure?

I really enjoyed this second chance story that was intriguing and highly entertaining. It was not an overly sad full of drama kind of story, it was fun, sweet and adventurous. The plot with the unique storyline that was paced just right. From Dani, Dylan, Minx and Cal, they all played important parts to bring to life this great sea adventure. I just couldn't put it down for very long.
The story from the diary was heartbreaking and sad but had an happy ending to it. That part added positively to this already amazing story. It was like living through two stories in one book.

This standalone was told in a dual POV with an amazing HEA. I really enjoyed the nicely written epilogue. Also I was left with a glimpse of a future story that involves Minx and Cal. I highly recommend this story. This author as a great selection of amazing books to choose from.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read a series by this author a few months ago and loved it so when the opportunity came to read a early copy of Below the Surface I jumped at the chance. I can tell if I really love a book, if I find it difficult to put the book down. I did not want to put this one down at all! I read this book basically in one sitting (only reason I stopped once was to make dinner for my husband and two kids). This story was so sweet, exciting, and sexy and I loved every word! I am sucker for the second chance romance trope. The hero, Dylan, and heroine Daniella (Dani), have spent five years apart after a bad breakup that involved the hero moving away. As a deep sea diver and a captain of a salvage ship they are brought back together after a mutual friend finds a lead for a ship that was lost at sea that they've wanted to find for years. The hero and heroine struggle with being thrown back together again after so many years apart and some bitter feelings. Will Dylan and Dani find a way to confront their past and work together? Will this be their HEA or the closure they need to move on?
The deep sea diving and treasure hunting added even more to the story. I was at the edge of my seat reading about their dives hoping they would find their treasure. I've never read a story with this type of aspect and I loved it. I can't wait to read Cal and (Dylan's sister) Minx's story.
5 stars!!! Highly recommend this book!!

[Teresa Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first works of Elizabeth Lee that I have had the opportunity to savor. I was so happy to receive an ARC of this delicious book. This is the story of Dylan and Dani who were in search of sunken treasure. Dylan gave up the dream to take care of his teenage sister Minx and in doing so gave up on his love Dani. 5 years have passed and the dream is back in the forefront and Cal, Dylan's best friend coaxes him back into the hunt with a new found journal pointing them in the direction of the lost ship and the lost jewels. Can Dani and Dylan work together again? Will they rekindle their love? Or will they get in each others way? I adore a good love story and this one made me smile all over the place. The sub characters Cal and Minx have a great roll in the story as well, since Minx is no longer a teenager and is a woman lusting after her brothers best friend. I am routing for them at the end of the story. There are also two block heads which add a little bit of angst to the story. Can't have a book just full of love and all you know! This was a great read and I am now a fan and will be reading all of Elizabeth's other works!

[Brandi · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Love of my Life stars

Below the Surface by Elizabeth Lee is a second chance romance that will warm the heart. As with many romances, tragedy strikes and the pair are ripped apart. Dylan returns home after his father’s death and Dani stays behind. Dylan knows he is leaving his heart with Dani, but duty calls and he can’t remain.

Since this is a second chance romance, these two find each other again. A sunken ship with the promise of unfound treasure has Dylan heading back to the Keys and Dani. But what will this reunion do to these two souls? Will they harbor resentment or will they find their way back into each other’s arms?

"She was my once in a lifetime find and I’d make sure that she knew it every single day."

As the adventure, yes! adventure, unfolds Dani and Dylan realize very quickly that their love isn’t over. They fight it because their love has hurt them in the past, but they know they belong together. The hunt for a treasure, the search for the one true love, and the unknown are all lying Below the Surface.

[Sonja · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate to get an ARC of this book and absolutely loved it. It's fresh, unique and enticing, drawing you in from the very first page. The fairy tale, magical feeling of their hunt for the lost treasure was skillfully balanced by the realistic interactions between the characters and the steady pace of events.

I loved the fact that there was raw emotion and palpable sexual tension between Dylan and Dani, but their reactions to each other never felt exaggerated and unnatural. Their internal struggle to overcome the mistakes in the past made them even more real and relatable.

Another thing I enjoyed was the parallel love story of Dani's ancestor. It was heartbreaking but hopeful at the same time and I was eager to learn what happened at The Starry Night as much as I was invested in Dani and Dylan's story. It was the perfect combination of present and past, loss and hope, heartbreak and trust, and love as the common thread that tied everything so beautifully into one book.

[Charity.cooper123gmail.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not have read a more perfect book for my weekend at the beach. Fun, sexy, and a little mysterious. Once again, Elizabeth Lee has impressed me with her writing. This amazing book based in the Florida Keys will take you on an adventure and while on this adventure you will fall in love with Dani, Dylan, Minx and Cal. Treasure, goons, old love, new love, and a little side love story. This book has it all. Dani and Dylan get their second chance at an epic love and who knows what the deal is with Minx and Cal but I'm sure we will be finding out.

[Ashleigh Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this second chance love story by author Elizabeth Lee. From the very first chapter, I was completely drawn into this fresh and exciting storyline. The uniqueness of it made for an exciting ride that left me not only on the edge of my seat, but wishing I were one of these characters!
It was a fast paced story filled with angst, suspense, determination, hopes, regrets and love. I liked that the story itself wasn't a cliffhanger, but the prologue set us up for the next book that I'm now anxiously awaiting!

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

After hearing about Dylan and Dani in Clutched, I couldn't wait to get my hands on their story which is somewhat of a spin-off from the Wild Riders. Below the Surface was very well developed and the characters were defined and relatable. The story was so well written I was able to envision the details as though a movie was playing in my head. I loved everything about this book, and can't wait for Minx and Cal's story.

[Maura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Below The Surface by Elizabeth Lee was a great read. It had 2nd chance romance, treasure hunts, angst, sexual tension AND a journal w/in the story that was also exciting to read. After I read this book, I wanted to take a boat ride on the open seas and dive for sunken treasure (I can't swim and I get sea sick..haha).

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars

A good read with a different storyline to most, which was a nice change. I found there to be a few typos or words in wrong places throughout the story which stood out to me in the end, but if this type of thing doesn't bother you, then I definitely recommend you having a read :)

[Barbara Abney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story! It was so different from most! It is a second chance romance (my favorite! ) about Dylan and Dani. And about looking for sunken treasure! Loved learning the story about the sunken ship! Rooted for this couple to get together again and find their treasure! Highly recommend!

[Alison Maxwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this story. It was unique and interesting. Dylan and Dani were perfect and I couldn't wait for their HEA!

[Tee Loves Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review to come!

[Doris · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars