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A FORMER SEAL UNDER SCRUTINY
Benjamin James knows there’s a traitor within his former command. The rest of his team might even think it’s him. As danger closes in, he must clear himself and stop a deadly plot by a dangerous terrorist group.

A WOMAN CAUGHT IN THE CROSSFIRE
All CJ Compton wanted was a new start after her career ended under suspicion. Working as the house manager for private security group Blackout seems perfect. But there’s more trouble here than what she left behind.

A BATTLE TO THE END
As the tide rushes in, the stakes continue to rise. If the Blackout team fails, it’s not just Lantern Beach at stake—it’s the whole country. Can Benjamin and CJ overcome their differences and work together to find the truth?

338 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 31, 2020

645 people are currently reading
161 people want to read

About the author

Christy Barritt

340 books1,674 followers
Christy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
Profile Image for Kelly Bridgewater.
1,208 reviews61 followers
March 28, 2020
What a finale! It happens around the carnival in Lantern Beach. I have read all the novels in Lantern Beach, and I don't remember a carnival. Barritt does a wonderful job at crafting the suspense to reach higher as the raging hurricane bears down on the tiny island. The romance between Benjamin and CJ happens predictably. As for the suspense, it was handled well, and the story played out nicely. I can't wait to see what else Barritt comes up with.
Profile Image for Melissa.
395 reviews11 followers
March 28, 2020
What an intense finale!! Loved CJ and Benjamin's story!! Can't say too much for fear of giving too much away, but definitely was blown away by an unexpected character that shows up.

Although this can be read as a standalone, do yourself a favor and read the entire Lantern Beach series because this novel includes visits and updates from all the characters from Lantern Beach we as readers have grown to love.

I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,363 reviews165 followers
September 6, 2025
3.5 stars
"Just when I think it can't get worse, it does."

With a category two hurricane heading straight towards Lantern Beach, time is of the essence. If only that was the island's only problem; the electricity is down and Blackout team members are certain that a terrorist plot is well underway. Then there's the matter of Benjamin and CJ, more than one kind of spark is flying between those two . . . . will they get burned . . . . or will they find a way to unite?

Some carefully guarded secrets are going to see the light of day in this exciting conclusion to Christy Barritt's "Lantern Beach Blackout"series.
Profile Image for Kevin.
804 reviews20 followers
March 25, 2020
I was right (mostly) 😀

Another Lantern Beach series ends, with loose ends tied up and more stories promised (kind of).

I enjoy Christy Barritt's novels and can't wait to read each one. The challenge for me is usually the same: whodunnit and why. Answering who is a lot easier than why a good part of the time.

Benjamin and CJ's story answered all of the lingering questions regarding the Savages and their plans for the USA. But one question remains, and it's become a bit of a joke: Why is Lantern Beach such a draw for criminal activity? I wonder if that question will ever be answered. 😀
Profile Image for Laura.
Author 39 books654 followers
June 27, 2020
RISING TIDE is the 4th (and final, I think) book in the Lantern Beach Blackout Series. This series would be best read in order to get the most out of them. I didn't and while I wasn't hopelessly lost, I was confused.

CJ and Benjamin were the main characters in this story, and being former Navy Seals (and Top Gun) they are true super heroes. While not able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, they came close.

The voice of the story didn't have a Christy Barritt feel, but maybe because these are different than her normal characters. Fans of military super heroes will love this book and series.

I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Anne Wolters.
478 reviews24 followers
March 27, 2020
My advice is to not start reading this book unless you have the time to keep reading to the very end. From the first few pages it is intriguing and nearly impossible to put down. If you have read the other books in this series, you'll be pleased to see this one starts right where the previous one ended.

The terrorist group, the Savages, is still causing havoc on Lantern Beach and Benjamin and C.J. manage to get caught right in the midst of their dangerous schemes. All the power in that section of the nation, to include Lantern Beach goes out unexpectedly causing a mass exodus of all the visitors on the island. The power outage continues for several days without discovering the reason or a way to fix it. At the same time, a hurricane is predicted to make land-fall on Lantern Beach any time. Among the chaos, the Savages are plotting more evil directed to the Blackout team. This book is a bit scary, as well as touches your heart as they all come together to make sacrifices to help one another. There are definitely a few surprises along the way that you'll have to read about yourself.
195 reviews5 followers
March 29, 2020
Benjamin has long known that some of the Blackout Team (ex-SEALS) on Lantern Beach do not quite trust him, and he doesn't quite trust house manager CJ. After all, they know there is a mole in the government, one that likely cost them the death of their leader, Daniel. Is it Benjamin? Is it CJ? One of the other team members? With important guests coming to the island, a hurricane headed their direction, a far reaching black-out, deadly drones, and mysterious dealings at the hotel site, no one knows who they can trust trust. Then a surprising figure appears that throws everyone for a loop, and could have a major impact on several team members. Benjamin and CJ try to figure out who to trust, whether their eyes are deceiving them, and who the mole could be -- all the while trying to stay alive! You don't want to miss this exciting conclusion to the Lantern Beach Blackout Series. I received a copy of this novel for free. The opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Teri.
3,918 reviews37 followers
March 30, 2020
I am very confused after reading this book in the series and it's something I didn't read about in other reviews which confuses me more. Early in the series we first hear Daniel is really and truly dead in the FBI safe house and this is after the guys lost him in battle and now here we have him once again raised from the dead. I liked finding out the story behind Benjamin and all that is revealed but it fell flat since the entire time I was thinking back and trying to figure out if I missed or imagined things but I clearly remember that being the reason Colton couldn't be with his lady and here they are together. I think I am good on this author. The reason I kept reading her books was because of there being no sex and pretty good action. The things that bothered me were few enough that I could enjoy her stories but not following your own character plots in the same series is a big no for me.
Profile Image for Meghan.
3,398 reviews8 followers
April 21, 2020
The best for last?

CJ and Benjamin might just be my favorite. The came together to prove others wrong about them, find some answers and to solve the overarching problem the team was facing. Both are independent and weary of trusting/opening up, but it is that action that makes them successful in finding out one heck of a heartbreaking surprise and solving the issue of who was the traitor which was another big twist and gut punch to the series.

Good balance of action with the intrigue and just a dash of the romance and relationship they are building. I would not recommend reading this book without reading the rest of the series because those books really built the team dynamic that Benjamin was addressing in his story, the questions CJ wanted answers to and the need to find the traitor. Also this is just a fun and action packed series so it would be a great binge read!
Profile Image for Marji Laine.
Author 20 books475 followers
March 20, 2024
This final element of the Blackout series breathes a huge sigh of relief at the end. I do love the way Christy Barritt ties up the loose ends into a lovely little bow!

In this book, the hero, Benjamin James, has secrets that he doesn't even know he has. Add to that the fact that the team has finally realized that there is a traitor in their midst. Not only a traitor to their team but one guilty of treason against the US.

Since he was the last member to be hired, and not one of their former SEAL team, the rest of the Blackout group believes it is him. And a final member of the team, CJ who takes care of meals, paperwork, and other non-action assignments for the Blackout team, somehow gets caught in the crosshairs as well.

There was a lot to unravel in this story - and several delicious twists and surprises.

Christy Barritt weaves an amazing mystery with this one with just the right amount of tension and suspense.
Profile Image for Margaret Russell.
41 reviews3 followers
March 29, 2020
This was a mostly satisfying ending to the Lantern Beach Blackout Series. The plot was well laid out, with some great twists. Benjamin’s story was hinted at in the first 3 books of this series, making me want to know more, and this novel wrapped everything up well. However . . .

Once again, this novel doesn’t really have Christy Barritt’s voice. Many familiar characters were included, but they lacked real familiarity. There were long sessions of repetitious reverie that are not typical for Barritt, and the quirky humor is missing. What little humor there is in the dialogue seems to be added “on purpose” rather than instinctively. Why not just publish this series as a collaborative effort, rather than assume Barritt’s loyal readers aren’t really that bright? I’m feeling a little underestimated here.
Profile Image for Kim.
720 reviews14 followers
March 26, 2020
Former SEAL Benjamin is the newest and youngest member of Blackout Security. CJ Compton acts as the House Manager for Hope House. She's former Navy and former bounty hunter and Benjamin's nemesis.

With multiple crises on the island and danger from an international gang bent on destroying the team, locating a betrayer is top priority. The attackers ramp intensity and frequency as all are targeted. The only breather you'll have in this edition is the first page.

With the team set up for criminal charges, they turn on each other. Will the true perpetrator be revealed or is this the finale for Blackout?

Readers of intense suspense will enjoy this one.

I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
1,429 reviews10 followers
March 29, 2020
Rising Tide by Christy Barritt is the astounding conclusion to the Lantern Beach Blackout series. This entire series is inspirational, clean romantic suspense and I highly recommend all of the books. While you could definitely read then out of order, why would you? Ms Barritt is skilled at weaving a larger story throughout her series’s and reading them in order only highlights the story even more. Benjamin’s story always intrigued me and it was the perfect way to end the series. I honestly loved the way it ended, including a surprise I ever saw coming. I loved the book and entire series so much! I received a digital copy of this book from the author with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Jan L.
1,003 reviews22 followers
March 31, 2020
Blue skies ahead

I'm sad to see this series end. Hold-your-breath suspense from beginning to end, as a growing attraction between the unlikely duo of Benjamin and CJ sparks. It weaves through all of the hunt for the leader of the violent group filled with hatred for America and a desire for revenge against the Blackout Security group. There's a huge storm brewing on the island and if they make it through that, still more surprises are ahead. I'm going to miss Lantern Beach. The characters have from the very beginning captured my heart and the stories have been tender, exciting, romantic and full of suspense!
Profile Image for Sheila McIntyre.
Author 1 book3 followers
March 18, 2020
This book is the last one in the series, but can stand alone by itself without having to read the others in the series first. If you are looking for mystery/suspense story that you can settle into a cozy chair with a cup of coffee for hours (until you finish!), look no further than this book! It is an excellent end to this four-book series, and I highly recommend not only this book but all of her book series!

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Debbie.
286 reviews13 followers
March 25, 2020
Rising Tide is a great blend of mystery, suspense and the power of nature. I love the former military characters and the way Christy Barritt builds the mystery and suspense as the hurricane "builds" in the story. Great example of friendship and love and how true friends always "have your back" whether they are military or not!. If you like suspense or have read any of the Lantern Beach books, you will want to read this one!! I received an advance copy from the author but all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Mary Hake.
Author 4 books413 followers
March 25, 2020
This on-the-edge story keeps you engaged and ready to jump into the action, which seems nearly nonstop. Danger and secrets abound—Lantern Beach seems to attract them. The Blackout team has to deal with past trauma and present threats, but maybe the truth will finally come out. If there is someone in the government or military working with the terrorists, they must be stopped. Join Benjamin James and CJ Compton as they work to stop the plot and save their own reputations. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Author 1 book29 followers
March 25, 2020
This last story in the series keeps you engaged and jumping into the fray.

Secrets abound around Blackout—a former team of navy SEALS now located on Lantern Beach. They are ready to tie loose ends and to find answers to the mystery behind the death of their leader—Daniel.

Is there a mole in the government? If so, who is it?

Is BenjaminJames—one of their team members— the mole? Is it CJ Compton since she was less than forthcoming in divulging all the truth? Can the answers be found before the hurricane hits and certainly before the Savages wage war on the United States?
Profile Image for Ashley.
1,178 reviews45 followers
April 7, 2020
What a fantastic conclusion to this thrilling series! Loose ends are tied up, lingering questions are answered, and a jaw-dropping surprise make this an absolute must read. There's so much danger swirling around the island and lots of threats on multiple fronts. Suspicions and accusations fly, making for some tense moments between the team. I wondered how on earth everything would work out in the end. I won't say much else because I don't want to spoil any of the twists. I'll just end by saying that if you're a fan of romantic suspense, this series is a must read. I loved every second of it.
7,766 reviews50 followers
June 25, 2021
The banter continues between CJ and. Benjamin, pretending to be a couple as they work a case. In following a man and the meeting he was now at.
When the town of LB has a total black out. .Benjamin wonders if Bree and what they uncovered with the company she worked with The Savages are behind this. Trying to get answer that this team wanted was not coming forth. Overall a good series as we meet each of them. Will Daniel get the proper burial due him, and the evidence against him and this team cleared.
11 reviews
April 15, 2020
The final book in this series answers questions raised earlier in the series, but not necessarily how you would expect. As the blackout team races to prevent the savages committing acts of terror, they must also clear their names from serious allegations. Can they even trust each other, or is there a traitor closer to home than anyone would guess? At the very time they need to pull together to get answers, that pulling together could prove a disaster

Profile Image for Megan Byrd.
Author 10 books49 followers
May 3, 2020
A blackout along the Eastern seaboard has the Blackout team concerned that the Savages are beginning to carry out their revenge plan against them and the U.S. There’s a traitor somewhere close by and everyone is a suspect. When Benjamin thinks he sees Daniel Oliver, the man who was killed during a black ops mission over a year ago, he isn’t sure what to think. Can the truth be discovered and the bad guys stopped?

A good ending to the series.
Profile Image for Diane Higgins.
654 reviews13 followers
February 4, 2021
This was a great conclusion to the Blackout Series! This book had action and a lot of suspense. There were a couple twists thrown in there, also. I loved all the characters in the Blackout series. This is one of those books that stays with you even when you close the page.

I highly recommend this book if you enjoy good, clean, suspenseful books. Christy Barritt is one of my favorites!

I received this book from the author for my honest opinion.
32 reviews
June 21, 2021
End of series?

Rising Tide wrapped up the mystery surrounding the failed black ops mission which haunted the team of Blackout Security Services, but it leaves the reader wondering if the newly formed relationship between CJ and Benjamin will flourish or flop as the couple works together in a highly stressful and often dangerous environment. Is Rising Tide the final episode, or is there more to come for the growing group of friends on La tern Beach?
144 reviews
March 26, 2020
I enjoyed this book! The Blackout team is a wonderful bunch of people and Christy Barritt has an amazing way of bringing their personalities to life. There is plenty of action in this book to keep the reader wanting to turn the pages and not stop till finished with the story. I am looking forward to the next book in this series!
1,437 reviews12 followers
March 27, 2020
I had a BETA copy of this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. What a great conclusion to this series! Christy has another wonderful suspense filled book. I enjoyed the twists and turns in the book, and the interactions between characters. The book certainly keeps you turning pages to see what happens next.
1,046 reviews11 followers
April 1, 2020
Blackout bingo

Rising Tide is the 4th book of this Lantern Beach series, and in my opinion, the best of the batch. The action was nonstop, and the suspense kept building along with th he hurricaneheaded their way. Loose ends were tied up neatly. Christy Barritt polished the apple with this one!
Profile Image for Holly.
708 reviews21 followers
April 3, 2020
What a fantastic finish to a great series!

CJ and Benny-O made a powerful duo! The action was non-stop and there was a couple of serious twist that I didn't see coming.

This is the final book of a series, if you've not read the previous books, you'll enjoy this one, if you've read the previous books, you'll be blown away.
Profile Image for Linda Rainey.
2,348 reviews21 followers
April 4, 2020
A Fantastic Book.

This was an awe inspiring book that shows how brave and resiliant people can be in times of crisis.
In these trying times we all need to remember as Americans when the worst happens we stand together.
The Seals are an example of our spirit.
This nook is recommended for eveyone in these trying times.
Good job on this book.
Profile Image for Faith Posten.
313 reviews11 followers
April 8, 2020
Who’s the Inside Traitor?

An incredible 5 star suspense with romance. I have particularly enjoyed the Lantern Beach stories. I’m sure hopeful that there might be more of them. One of the Seals mentioned in an earlier story is back in this one too. This one is primarily the story of Benjamin and C.J. C.J. was a pilot with her own story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews

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