Thirty feet underwater when her oxygen tank fails, Caley Flynn fears it's been sabotaged--and she'll be the next to die. Her intern's already dead, her home breached and something's amiss at her Florida marine-life rescue center...but no one believes she's in danger. Except Shepherd Lightman. When Caley's brother asked him to check on her, the marine turned security specialist hoped it would be a case of calming down a nervous veterinarian. But the threats are all too real. Rescuing Caley and remaining alive isn't easy, but resisting his boss's sister is where the real danger lies. Because with his heart in the balance, he'll do whatever it takes to stop a killer who's desperate to keep a secret hidden.
Jessica R. Patch is a New York Times and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than thirty novels. Known for her pulse-pounding plots, emotionally charged characters, and signature twists, Jessica's stories explore themes of justice, resilience, and the unshakable power of hope.
Whether weaving inspirational stories of danger edged with romance or crafting chilling thrillers that probe the shadows of the human heart, Jessica delivers fiction that thrills while shining light in the darkest places.
She makes her home in Northwest Mississippi, where she enjoys life with her family, a good cup of tea, and dreaming up her next edge-of-your-seat story usually over tacos and queso.
Sign up for her newsletter "Patched In" at www.jessicarpatch.com. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Management.
This one was a fast-paced and enjoyable thriller. It's not easy to figure out who the bad guy(s) are and just as you figure out one element there's another person or motivation or threat coming around the corner. I had a fun time trying to figure things out, but was only a couple chapters ahead of the characters in doing so.
Thirty feet underwater when her oxygen tank fails, Caley Flynn fears it's been sabotaged..and she'll be the next to die. Her intern's already dead, her home breached and something's amiss at her Florida marine-life rescue center...but no one believes she's in danger. Except Shepherd Lightman. When Caley's brother Wilder Flynn asked him to check on her, the marine-turned security specialist hoped it would be a case of calming down a nervous veterinarian. But the threats are all too real. Rescuing Caley and remaining alive isn't easy, but resisting his boss's sister is where the real danger lies. Because with his heart in the balance, he'll do whatever it takes to stop a killer who's desperate to keep a secret hidden.
I'm so glad I discovered Jessica Patch's books. I have now read them all and I can't wait for a new one when I finish the current one. She has a great ability to create characters that are real to the reader, along with scenarios that hold your interest. The suspense in incredible, too.
Patch starts her Security Specialists series off with a bang here. Things start to heat up fast after Caley Flynn's intern is found dead and she suspects it's not the accidental death the police ruling says. When her brother, Wilder Flynn, sends his employee Shepherd Lightman to watch over Caley, things heat up in another way as well.
Jessica Patch is terrific at what she does. Her heroes are swoon worthy and the romance is very well done. I declare to goodness, she is good! And Patch's dry wit...well, I love it! I found myself laughing out loud more than once. The interplay between Wilder and Shepherd is wonderful and I am hoping Wilder gets his own book soon. I loved every single minute and now I wish I hadn't finished it so soon!
*I was given a preview copy of this book . I was not pressured to leave a positive review. My opinion is my own and honest.
If you like the strong, silent type in a hero, look no further. Shep is the man for you. My pulse still jumps at the thought of this tough, often brusque, ex-marine. He likes to "keep words and emotions hostage" (p.79) which drives Caley to distraction. But it's hard to vent at someone "more machine than man." (p.20) Cue the delightful banter and sardonic comebacks. Like Caley complaining to the tight-lipped Shep that she's "not fluent in grunt." (p.29) Bwahahaha! These two made this such a fun read despite the dead body and the ever present danger. I was alternately giggling and swooning while nervously glancing over my shoulder the entire read. An exhilarating mix of romance and suspense. (And the first book in a new series -- can't wait to read them all!)
The search for truth has never been more dangerous!
First of all, I’m an animal lover. Second of all, I enjoyed the unique angle of sea turtle study and their rescue & rehabilitation. Especially learning almost everything about them, from the laying of eggs to the many dangers in the sea and land that can affect their health and well-being. I had no idea how vastly interesting these beautiful creatures were. The flipside to this, how people can abuse them in vile & sickening ways, especially making a huge profit off of the precious eggs!
That being said, this story touched me in so many ways. Not only learning new things about sea turtles, but how the hero & heroine were real people with real problems. Shepherd Lightman aka Shep—former Marine turned security specialist—is tasked with the job of checking up on Caley Flynn; his best friends not-so-little sister. Tough guy with a sordid past who doesn’t get emotionally attached to anyone. While Caley is just the opposite; gentle-spirited & caring, living the life she always wanted with the sea creatures she’s come to love. Until life turns into a deadly game of cat & mouse! Someone's hiding a secret they'd kill to keep hidden. I like how the suspense builds to a crescendo in this one with each page turn. A classic whodunit where you don't know who's friend or foe until the end and it comes from a source you never expect! Lastly, I loved how Shep learned that no matter how many times he's messed up in his past, God will never withhold His love from him. It's a great reminder to us all, God never changes His mind about choosing us as His people! Faith-filled fiction, don't-turn-your-back-for-one-minute suspense, and rewarding romance is what you'll find in this thrilling new novel!
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. I was not obligated to leave a positive review and all opinions are strictly my own. *
I’ve recently become a big fan of Ms. Patch’s and was SO excited to find out this book was the first in a new series! I had high expectations for this story and can happily say that it exceeded them all! Though after reading it, I now want to start at the beginning and read all of her books over again, while I anxiously await the next book in the series! Ms. Patch did an excellent job with this story, as always. She had me pulled into the mystery immediately and trying to guess “whodunit” through the entire book. I was befuddled to the very end and definitely wasn’t ready for it to be over, though I was anxious to find out if I was right (I wasn’t). I also loved the banter between Caley and Shepard and found myself grinning like a loon more than once. I very much enjoyed getting to know these two characters and definitely wasn’t ready to say, “goodbye” as I turned the final page. They stepped right off the page and became friends during these 200+ pages. I loved Caley’s strength and determination, even when she was scared spit-less. I enjoyed seeing her step outside of the shell she had built around herself and learn how to fully live again. And I think it would be almost impossible not to fall for Shepard. For the big man determined to protect Caley, regardless of the cost. And the little boy deep inside, still expecting to be found wanting and be abandoned again. He is so strong and confident, but also a bit awkward too, especially with “physical contact.” I so enjoyed following them through this story, as they chased answers to the mystery, but also too their personal questions and sometimes found them in unexpected places. I highly recommend this book! And am impatiently waiting for the next one!
*My thanks to the author for my copy of this book! I was not required to write a review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Deep Waters ( Security Specialist - #1 ) By: Jessica R. Patch Deep Waters is book one in Security Specialist series. Jessica Patch did not disappoint me in the start of this new series . She did an excellent job of weaving Deep Waters together . She grabbed me right at the start and I was hooked. This is one of those stories where you are on the edge of your seat and cannot read fast enough to see what is going to happen next. The mystery will keep you guessing. I love the two main characters, Caley, and Shepard. Patch starts off with action, mystery , and suspense. Someone is trying to kill Caley underwater or anyway they can . Her oxygen tank failed on her thirty feet underwater. Her intern has been found dead and Caley does not think it was an accident. No one will believe her when she says that she is in danger except one person, Shepard. Shepard was ask to check up on Caley. Shepard is a Marine turned Security Specialist. Shepard’s job is to keep Caley safe. Can he do this and does he believe her ? Can she trust him? I Was given a complimentary copy of this book, but was not told that Had to give a positive review.
I had a little bit of trouble getting into this story at first then the action took off and I got hooked the more I read. Jessica R. Patch usually writes really good suspense and so this book is worth the read.
Caley Flynn is having a series of bad experiences lately and some are life threatening at her rescue center and are affecting those around her. Her brother sends Shepherd Lightman from his team to check on his sister to make sure she’s not overreacting but Shep soon finds out that these are some serious threats against her life. Question is, is he willing to risk everything for Caley even his heart?
Jessica Patch delivers again! Do you love sea turtles, and a good murder mystery, too? Every time you think you know 'who done it,' think again! The characters are very real. The knowledge of sea turtles presented gives many of us something new to learn in an entertaining way. You'll love this book, but be warned there may be times it's intense enough you need to set it down and come back a little later for another bite. I read this one that way, even though I often plow straight through.
Deep Waters starts off with a bang and never lets up! I identified with Caley and her love of family and sea turtles. And Shep is my type of hero--strong, quiet and conflicted. Loved the chemistry between these two, and the Florida setting was perfect for this July read!
What a great suspense/romance. Deep Waters has a plot that will keep you on the edge of your seat and characters that you can relate to. I love this author's books and I am waiting impatiently for the next one.
This book first grabbed my heart when I learned that Caley worked with sea turtles. I love sea animals, and have always been interested in sea turtles and their egg laying process. For those who do not know much about sea turtles, this book is full of facts about them. So not only is it fun to read, it's educational too! But I also must warn you, you will be amazed at the secret the bad people are trying to hide. It totally shocked me and tore at my heart a little.
I loved the characters in this book. Caley is very passionate about her animals, as well as finding out the truth behind all the unusual things that are happening. She was a tad naive at times - in fact I found myself disagreeing with how she saw people some of the time. But to be honest, it wasn't a totally bad trait on her. It was actually kind of endearing that she saw the good in so many people, and throughout the book her character grew and understood the importance balance of seeing the good in people, and listening to that feeling in the pit of your stomach.
The hero in this story could be a hero in every book as far as I am concerned! To be honest, I'm kind of glad that the cover did not feature him because that allowed me to picture him in my mind. He had this rough and tough exterior, but on the inside....complete teddy bear (although you don't see a lot of it in the book, you can just tell it is there). His interactions with Caley are priceless, and at times leave you frustrated. You just want them to open their eyes, throw away their stubbornness, and just go for it already. Mix in the suspense factor and I was immediately sold.
Yes, not only is this book for animal lovers and cute hero lovers, it is also for suspense lovers. The chase is on and Caley is the target. There were moments I was sitting on the edge of my seat, and times that I kind of ignored the world because I wanted to finish the book. I was not going to be satisfied until the mystery was solved, and Caley was (hopefully) safe from harm! There were a few surprises thrown in - some of the guilty parties were not who I expected, and that was a nice addition for me. All in all, wonderful read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
"When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown . . ." - Isaiah 43:2 (NLT)
"I know this isn't part of your assignment, but I need physical contact. . . a hug. a pat. Whatever.." (51)
That line from Jessica R. Patch's latest suspense, Deep Waters, which is the first book in a new series, The Security Specialists cracks me up. It's honest and cute. I've had the pleasure of reading Concealed Identity and Final Verdict from the author and just absolutely loved it. I knew coming into Deep Waters, we'll meet some familiar characters, and I just enjoyed catching on on their action. It's real fun to see the overprotective side of Wilder, when I've enjoyed the humorous and charming part of him 0 at least that's what I remembered. With Deep Waters, the suspense lies in the uncertainty of who's trying to harm Caley, Wilder's sister, and why.
The setting of sea turtle studies and rescues are interesting, and gives a "lighter" atmosphere for our "machine-man body guard," Shepard. These two are so much fun to read. The quiet hero who's like an "iron wall" that keeps his "words and emotions hostage" (79) may just met his match of a heroine who's skilled at melting his wall. A great start to a new series that's sure to start a fan base for the "security specialists" and for the author, if you haven't already fallen in love with her words of romance and suspense. With that said, I'm ending this this lovely message:
"Don't let fear rob you of loving someone and being loved. 'Cause loving someone . . . that's the best kind of living. That's like walking on water. Get out there. Trust God to hold your hand if your faith sinks." (179) Yep. Get out there, and be sure to pick up a copy of Deep Waters, out July 4th!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
This is the first book in The Security Specialists Series. I really enjoyed this book, it's well written, action packed, and full of intrigue. I loved the faith woven into the story and I really liked the characters, especially Shepherd he reminds me of my son and my grandson.
Caley Flynn works as a marine biologists in Florida. After the death of her sister her brother became smothering and she needed to be away from him. Florida seemed a good choice. She finds her intern dead on the beach. Authorities believe it's an accident but when Caley's home is ransacked she is convinced she is the next one to die. Suddenly her brother's over protection isn't such a bad thing. She is thrilled to see Shepherd and find out he believed her.
Security Specialist Shepherd Lightman is scheduled to take a vacation when his boss calls and asks him to check up on his baby sister. The ex-Marine Shepherd isn't comfortable around Caley. She is so beautiful and intelligent he is unable to even communicate with her. She is his bosses baby sister after all, he can't allow himself to even dream of her, she is so far above him. There is no doubt that someone is trying to kill the beautiful woman. Fighting his attraction is proving harder than keeping her safe and finding the killer.
A journey of two souls struggling against someone stealing her turtle eggs and selling the baby turtles. God has a plan for these two, a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. Trust Him to take control of your life and watch Him work.
Shepherd Lightman and Caley Flynn stole my heart and my breath away in this novel. Caley is the little sister of Wilder Flynn who we met in Final Verdict. When she finds the body of a young friend of hers, she calls Wilder to ask him to check into it believing it's foul play...and in walks Shepherd. He's known for his wild past but it's his skill at his job that brings him to check things out even while on vacation to put Wilder at ease knowing his sister is in good hands.
Breaking away from her other novels, Deep Waters is the first in a new series (Security Specialists #1) from one of my all time favorite authors, Jessica R. Patch. I found a whole new love for sea turtles(especially loggerheads!) and I found myself wanting to book a trip to Florida and sink my toes in the damp sand as I listen to the sound of the ocean drowning out all other noise.
I found myself being drawn into the mystery and twists (as always!!!!) but I am even more drawn to the depth of the characters and the spiritual growth, grace and compassion between these two people that I grew to love.
Despite tragedy in her past, Caley loves the Lord even though she questions the why of the loss of her sister in years past, yet she holds to her faith. Shepherd has never experienced real, pure and honest love being raised in different foster homes in his youth. I will not reveal any spoilers but this is a must read ASAP!!!!!!!!
Shep’s mission is to keep Caley safe, from a killer and from himself. Who killed Caley’s intern? What are they hiding? As Caley and Shep untangle what’s going on, their feelings for each other get stronger. But Shep can’t let that happen. With his past, Caley would never be able to trust him.
A marine turned security specialist with a past of leaving people before they could leave him, Shep can’t be distracted by Caley. He’s there to protect her. Nothing more. But as they delve deeper into exotic animal trade, will he be the only one who can rescue her?
Shep’s spiritual journey pulled me into this story. God as Father. Shep’s never known one. Bounced from foster family to foster family, he’s never felt love, or acceptance. Shep’s discovery will encourage your own walk with God. My favorite quote from this story says it all. “It’s in the deep waters you really learn to trust God.” If you enjoy Christian suspense and romance, you will love Deep Waters.
I received a free copy in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a fast-paced action-packed book. The book starts out with Caley walking on the beach. It was her favorite place to be. She wadded out into knee deep water. She thought seaweed had brushed up against her…. Then she realized it was hair, Human hair. Mary Beth a student that was in the college intern program was floating listlessly in the tide. The investigator had labeled it an accidental drowning, but Caley had a gut instinct that Mary Beth’s death was no accident. Caley whole family was military. She ended up calling her big brother Wilder. He was stuck on a mission, but he asked a buddy of his to check up on his little sister. Shepherd Lightman was on vacation and about to go on a cruise when Wilder asked him to go check up on his little sister that was the head Marine life veterinarian at the Arnold Simms Sea Turtle rescue center. Shepherd thought it would be a few minutes of calming Caley down. He got there and found out the threats were all too real, and Caley was in danger. Her oxygen tank failed thirty feet underwater. Caley always checked her equipment, so she knew someone had sabotaged it. This book never slowed down. I loved the action, suspense, and romance.
Carly stumbled into something she's not sure where to turn so she reaches out to her brother knowing her will know what to do. However the last thing she expected was for her to send someone to "baby- sit" her. But when comes to protecting those she loves and her turtles she's take what she can. Shepard would rather be anywhere other then helping Carly, but he will do anything her can to help and protect her. Will the two be able to protect themselves and there hearts? If I could give this book 6 oh heck 10 stars I would. This book was truly amazing, I felt like I was on this "roller coaster" of suspense and not knowing where the next twist or turn was coming from. From the very first page to the very last one the author kept you guessing and drawn in, I remember in the end think I was not ready for the book to end. I really enjoyed the love from Mrs. Whittle oh how I wish we could be all so lucky to have her in our lives. I loved how the chemistry in the book between the characters just seemed organic it didn't seemed forced by the author. Truly if you are looking for a super fun suspense book then grab this one you won't regret it.
“Deep Waters” is the second novel I’ve read by Jessica Patch and it has been confirmed – I must read each and every one of her books. Not only does this author live in my general part of the country but she has a definite talent with words that make me want to keep turning the pages. Unfortunately that means I reach the end much too quickly and have to wait for her next book.
Character development and dialogue are nearly perfect as far as I’m concerned. An excellent balance of romance and suspense is relieved by a touch of humor, something I always appreciate. The plot moves at a quick pace with escalating danger and suspense as well as secrets and some surprising twists.
I particularly enjoyed learning more about sea turtles and the setting made me wish for another visit to the ocean. “Deep Waters” has everything I look for in a suspense novel and I would recommend it to those who enjoy good, clean suspense with a message of faith interwoven throughout the story.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Oh My Gravy! This book gets the action going right out of the gate. It has twists and turns and kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Meet Caley and Shep who are so likeable and real that you just want to reach out and touch them. The one thing I love about Ms. Patch's books is all her characters have flaws. They have a past, they have true issues that every day people deal with. It's nice to read a character that you can relate to. Caley works with sea turtles, who now I just want to learn so much more about. Shep a friend of her brothers who comes and tries to help Caley sort out all the madness around her. If you have not read anything from Ms. Patch yet, grab this book up today. It's the start of a new series and you will NOT be able to put it down.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. I was not obligated to leave a positive review and all opinions are strictly my own. *
I am a huge fan of this author and have to say this is her best book yet. The quality of the words in faith and love shined through the suspense and heart pounding moments. Shep was a man in need of love and a reason to feel at home. Caley gave him that and so much more. I really loved that both characters had a strong faith value and yet both had some struggle to have that be seen. The story line was perfect and I never saw that show down!
One aspect that Ms. Patch always brings is the romance and boy does she have a way of making a reader melt and feel the love. I truly was heart broken in some moments then it was put back together and soaring. It feels like a real romance not just one made of fiction.
I wouldn't wish the suspense element on anyone in real life. For fiction it was a home run! It was insightful and well researched. I felt as though I was kicking butt right along side the crew. Can't wait to see where the next suspenseful romance takes me.
Members of the Flynn family tend to hold dangerous jobs. All except for Caley. She purposely avoids danger, living her life rescuing and studying turtles instead.
When she finds the body of one of her interns on the beach, she fears it's foul play.
At the request of Caley's brother, Shepherd Lightman detours from his vacation to check on Caley and make sure everything is all right. But Shepherd agrees with Caley that the intern's death was no accident, and he seems to be the only one who agrees.
As they search for evidence, Caley's life is put into more danger. Shepherd must protect her, while trying not to fall for her more than he already has.
This is a great short novel. An easy read that will keep the pages turning. Be it suspense or romance, there's tension on every page with characters that will keep you engaged.
Deep Waters is the first in a new series by Jessica Patch. This book was set in Florida and is about a Marine Vet named Caley Flynn. Her intern mysteriously shows up dead and Caley has suspicions that this wasn't an accident. Her brother Wylder is a Security Specialist and calls in former Marine Shepherd Lightman to look after his little sister. Shep has his hands full as he and Caley have one dangerous action filled adventure after another. Caley and Shep start to develop feelings for one another, but can they survive and pursue a relationship? I highly recommend you get the book and find out. I loved it and can't wait for the other books to come out in the near future. *I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and was under no obligation to leave a review.
Wonderful story, Caley loved her job as a vet, but she has promised herself that she will not fall in love with a man that has a dangerous job. Shepherd is all soldier, and because of his up bringing he hold his emotions inside. He will never put his heart out there. He has done so many bad things that no one will ever love him. Oh! But he forgot about God. No matter what we have done our Heavenly Father is a forgiving Father and a Father that loves us unconditionally. This story has murder, attempted murder, kidnapping, and love. Caley learned you have to step out of the boat, it is better to love than not love at all. Shepherd learned that he deserves love. The person that I thought was behind everything was not. Wow author did a great job.
This is by far my favorite book by Jessica Patch. She just keeps getting better and better! I really liked both Caley and Shepherd. Shepherd is my favorite hero. He is so strong and tough, getting into hilarious situations because he has absolutely zero skills at personal interactions. It comes from a very broken place and that definitely tugged at my heartstrings. Caley is bookish but she is determined to prove that she is strong and capable. I can relate to that kind of fight and determination. And it is set in Florida on the beach so how can that be bad?
I loved absolutely everything about this book. Please take the time to read this exciting, wonderful book.
Jessica just so happen to do it again, what's that you ask? She left me speechless! I loved Shep and Caley! Caley is a fabulous heroine! I absolutely adored her. She had some amazing passion about her family as well as her Turtles. Shep is a lone wolf and he doesn't understand why he is so tore up about Caley's feelings and intuition. This book takes many twist and turns and is suspenseful all the way through! The pages just turned one after another and I literally didn't move away from my chair the entire book! You will not be disappointed by this book get your copy now!
Oh my! Another edge-of-my-seat, up all nighter by this fabulous author! From the first page she grabs you with her characters and mystery. Caley and Shep’s banter and chemistry leaps off the page. The suspense was nail-biting and kept getting deeper as they kept running into problems. I couldn’t figure out who was guilty! It was a refreshing story line – the turtle rescue center was neat to read about. I love how this author keeps coming back with winning stories for me to add to my bookshelf.
Oh my gosh! If I could post a GIF as my review it would be the one where the guy screams, "My emotions!" Jessica never fails to write a story full of forgiveness, and this one is no different. Shepherd is filled with regrets from his past and is doing everything in his power to redeem himself. And protecting his best friend's sister is the thing that can do that. He's lived his life with no attachments. Caley Flynn is an animal loving, all around calm person. And you can't help but feel at ease around her. I just love how these two grew closer together, despite their fears.
Hold on to your seat! Action packed adventure involving mystery, intrigue, danger, sea turtles and more. The author tells a story which kept me anxious to know what would happen next. I learned a lot about sea turtles in this story and also how they have been used for criminal activity. I could not stop reading. The characters are well developed and the story is exciting. I received a copy of this story from the author and this is my personal honest opinion.