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When a group of strangers purchase land on Tortola and Norman Island to set up a commune, the locals simply write them off as an odd sort—until one of their bloated bodies washes up on the shore of a nearby resort island.As luck would have it, Jesse McDermitt is visiting a friend on Norman Island after tracking a terrorist submarine from the Windward Islands. The sub was destroyed by locals on the Dutch island of Saba, so Jesse had nothing much else to do. What he wasn’t looking for, was a murderous cult at the center of a drug manufacturing and distribution ring.If a person didn’t succumb to the rules of this cult, they might end up riding the chum sluice. If they do, they might meet Jesse.

358 pages, paperback

Published July 1, 2019

893 people are currently reading
109 people want to read

About the author

Wayne Stinnett

55 books635 followers
I'm a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps and now, a full time novelist. Between those careers, I've also worked as a deckhand, commercial fisherman, divemaster, taxi driver, construction manager, and truck driver. I live in the Sea Islands, near Beaufort, SC, with my wife and youngest daughter. We also have three grown children, five grand children, three dogs and a whole flock of parakeets. I grew up in Melbourne, FL and have also lived in the Florida Keys and Cozumel, MX.

You can like me on Facebook, to get updates at https://www.facebook.com/WayneStinnet...

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5 stars
1,543 (67%)
4 stars
586 (25%)
3 stars
122 (5%)
2 stars
25 (1%)
1 star
12 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
70 reviews4 followers
August 27, 2019
Book 15 = 5 stars

Absolutely love this series. Hooked on Book 1, I have patient!y waited and devoured every book in the series. This one Rising Water was just as exciting as they have all been. Jesse is a loveable character and the characters that are his friends are stoic and trustworthy. Living in a southern state on the east coast, I am familiar with hurricanes. I was two when Hazel wiped out the beaches in the 50's and lived through Hugo with 135 mph winds howling around my house in 1989. Jesse's concern about a Cat 5 hurricane was sincere and necessary to the realistic nature of his novels. Well worth the read and because I don't like to know the ending before I read a book, I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
6,211 reviews80 followers
November 21, 2022
A cult sets up shop on an island. Jesse is there to find a submarine, but the sub is already destroyed, so Jesse doesn't have much to do. Luckily, there's a murderous cult for him to take down.

The usual stuff. All these cults seem about the same in fiction.
Profile Image for Don Rich.
Author 36 books72 followers
September 14, 2019
Even with age, Jesse just keeps getting better and better. Rising Spirit has all the elements that you want and expect to find in a Jesse McDermott story, and there are plenty of them to be found in this latest installment of the franchise. Well done, Wayne Stinnett!
258 reviews3 followers
March 9, 2020
Cults, crime, murder, boating, men with guns, women with bad intentions, Caribbean cruising, scuba diving models, and a bit of wind named “Irma”, this book has got it all. Wayne Stinnett’s “Jesse McDermitt” is back. Three hundred and sixty pages of thrilling enjoyment.

“Rising Water” is a fun read, as have been all of the previous books, in “all” of the “Caribbean Adventures Series have been. Hard to believe but I’ve read all 15 now, so I’ll be waiting for me.

While I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all of them, this one I liked a bit better than others. I don’t really know why but perhaps, possibly, because I too have experienced a South Florida Hurricanes, and though I was not there for “Irma” I was there for the “2004 hurricane season”.

With that bit of my history out of the way let me move on, though I won’t give you any spoilers I will state that you are, should you read it, going to be introduced to what I perceive as a couple of reoccurring characters in future books.

In addition to the new characters you will also, if you’re perceptive, get a glance into what may be coming down the pike and into “Jesse McDermitt’s” life in future books. All of which I’m looking forward to reading.

Yes, I recommend this book. I opened it. Started reading and didn’t stop until I was finished. Spellbinding is the word that seems to fit in describing it best.
105 reviews
October 5, 2019
The big blow

The first mission was a bit ridiculously short and lack of any information, all l fell was confused and frustrated. Hated the wavy Davy characters talk about vapid and one dimension bit parts. Total waste of time mentioning them. As for them taking out the sub, that was beyond belief and reaching. Totally unsatisfactory.
Commue thing was okay to start with, then became paint by numbers. The woman was unbelievable at best, she had money, yet revenge was the driver. Very doubtful, her not hearing about a cat 5, worse. She could afford to wait, she is a manger and knows the risk of loss and failure as you expand. She had what was needed her liberty, money and friends in low places. She knew the risk of an storm by the sea she lived on the back of an island for 4yrs. Death is breathing down your neck, well aware of her small size in all things she would get other's to play, she knew his tattoo and he was a pro. She isn't.
Author lack of understanding of the woman is unforgivable considering he did the other potions woman so well, who regrouped l might add. Plus the boring and unsatisfactory use of all the technology, toys and full might OF ARMED. plus the repeat of another storm I give 3 stars it was just okay.
20 reviews
December 6, 2019
Rising Water

I have read all but 1 of the Jesse books and like them all. The characters are like a large family or extended family but much closer. Having lived in that situation for all of my life, living through Hurricane Audrey, and others helping with clean up afterwards with people living and dead this book describes the real deal. 5 stars obviously. Thanks for the accuracy of your narrative and the real people in it.
Please if the killer uses a revolver to shoot something/someone state they reload and don't just talk about finding fired cases along with discussion of firing semi-autos as some may not understand the revolver cases were manually ejected and the gun reloaded. Also how can Jesse carry a go bag with a hidden bottom with a Sig hidden on a commercial flight and unpack it on his boat with no stops or contacts between.
Ward A KINDLE READER
2 reviews
December 7, 2024
very accurate

As a longtime resident of St. John for the past 14 years, I was thrilled to read this book after spending a day on Norman Island, a place close to my heart since the days of Billy Bones. The author's attention to detail is exceptional; it feels as though they have walked the islands themselves.

The references, like the IPA from St. John Brewers and the picturesque locales of Privateer Point and Flanagan Island, brought back memories that vividly colored my journey. Having endured the trials of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, I appreciate the authenticity and depth in the writing.

This book captures the essence of our islands wonderfully, encapsulating both the beauty and challenges we face. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this book is a must-read that resonates on many levels! Highly recommended!
14 reviews
Read
August 4, 2019
Excitement fill the pages.

Wayne understands what his readers like. There is a bit of violence, fun in the sun, romance and surprise in every day of life for Jesse , his friends and even his enemies. There is weather that will keep you guessing as you sail the ever changing high seas. Sadly there is loss of life and property. Good neighbor spirits rise up when most needed. It is just another few weeks in the life of Jesse that make you want to be right in the middle of it all with him, occasionally Sara and all the rest. Hemp is legal but what other illegal items and activities are thriving in parts of The Keys until Jesse steps in as a one man Justice System. Get this book before the author has his next one but the shelves.




180 reviews
July 4, 2019
Another excellent book.

In the preface to this book, Wayne Stinnett talks about the difficulties of dealing with time to keep the storyline in sync. I know some readers are very particular about that, but I think we readers should be forgiving of authors using literary license. We are after all, reading fiction. If a book is good, as all the Jesse McDermott books are, I don't have a problem with some revisions of history. All of the books in this series are consistently good. I think any of them could be enjoyed as a stand-alone, but I think reading them in order is best. Great book, fast-moving, interesting and exciting. I'm ready for the next one!
Profile Image for Patty.
69 reviews3 followers
August 22, 2019
Always exciting

I've been reading the Jesse McDermitt & Charity series for quite some time. They are always well written & exciting. The hurricane section made me feel as if I was right there. My husband & I spent a week in Panama City Beach in May. One day we drove to Appalachicola since we are both Dawn Lee McKenna fans. A person can describe the fallen trees & trees stripped of leaves but you can only imagine the devastation until you've seen it with your own eyes. Wayne you did a good job of describing the aftermath especially the house moved off the foundation onto the highway. As Jimmy said, "The hand of God."
186 reviews1 follower
September 20, 2019
Quite the marathon....pun maybe intended

19 books in total. All 15 of the Jesse McDermitt novels and four of the Charity novels. They are just darn good interesting characters and locations all around Florida and the Caribbean (that I am familiar with) with real\realistic features and people and other characters.
I am intimately familiar with the Caribbean and hurricanes as that has been part of my job for decades, as we as much of Florida, though not so much the Keys.
Very interesting read for me as I have extensive experience in the Caribbean and in fact some of the locations in the novels.
Well done Mr. Stinnett
Profile Image for Robyn Balmer.
192 reviews1 follower
January 25, 2024
I am reading all of Wayne Stinnett’s books and have just read “Rising Water”. It was a trifle sad because it was written including the devastation of Cyclone Irma and the description was heartbreaking. I didn’t enjoy the extensive cyclone description and information but the story is about life, of course, and Mr Stinnett is good at depicting it.
There is lots of violence and, sadly, loss of life. There are also hateful villains in the story, who eventually get their comeuppance from the heroes, who are well-resourced.
“Rising Water” is an exciting read and I am looking forward to reading the next book of the Caribbean series.
13 reviews2 followers
July 4, 2019
Great read.

Jesse’s imperfect world continues to weave it’s story thread in the weave of the fabric of the Keys amongst the many other threads of stories that make up life in the south of Florida. I especially enjoy the threads of others coming into Jesse’s story and persisting then moving on.This is gritty ups and downs of real life and, in reading, I share the bumps and setbacks and the hopeful advances without suffering the heat and humidity. A great read and the possibility of the direction of the next book are palpable and I want to jump in and write it myself.
17 reviews1 follower
July 13, 2019
Jesse and friends are in it again!

Great adventures, and good enough time has transpired since Irma to appreciate Stinnetts storytelling of how everyone came through it. Wayne Stinnett is very current with what technology and sinister minds threaten, causing the reader to pause at the evils in this world. Thank goodness for good guys and gals to counter balance it all, and right the shio!
25 reviews
July 22, 2019
Excellent read! Very exciting and interesting. A real page turner and spell binding novel. Each of your books in these series has left me eager for the next one.

I recommend these books to everyone who enjoys a great book. The details and descriptions of events and people and places along with scenery and boats are as if the reader is beside the characters at all times. The intrigue keeps you reading long after your eyes droop and your body requires sleep.
459 reviews
October 8, 2019
Enjoyable

I enjoy this author goes into details but I didn't wish the story had more of an adventure to it. I have read all the books in this series so far and I'm looking forward to reading the next book. I'm glad Jessie is back to his strong conventions. I miss the rest of the gang and hope to have them back in the next book along with the details of the rebuilding of Jessie island.



Profile Image for BJ.
465 reviews5 followers
June 27, 2020
A loose end blowing your way, Jesse!

Jesse seems to have trouble find him, even though he's off taking care of another trouble. This (second) trouble involves a cult and, in Stinnett's words, "abhorrent behavior in people." A larger portion of the book is a blow by blow primer of riding out a category 4-5 hurricane, interesting in itself. And a loose end is taken care of in an interesting way.
Profile Image for Michael.
376 reviews6 followers
July 3, 2019
Hurricanes and Mayhem

Another excellent Jesse McDermott novel in keeping with the books before it. The novel begins easily enough but quickly evolves into a dangerous adventure involving murder, drugs and a new character, Naomi. At the same time, Savannah's ex-husband is put to rest and Flo will finally meet her father. Looking forward to Book 16.
38 reviews
July 6, 2019
Another great Jesse McDermitt story

I'm always left wanting the story to go on. Interesting how 2 different stories were intertwined in this book. The incorporation of hurricane Irma & the destruction make one almost feel like being there. Thanks for bringing the Savanna story line back in. Read the book to get every detail.
228 reviews4 followers
July 9, 2019
Probably Mixed Emotions

Continuing great story and character and situational development, but not quite as exciting as many of Jesse's encounters! I did very much enjoy the Hurricane description and information (albeit extensive)... But, the ending made up for any negativity... Very heartwarming and emotional. I look forward to the story continuing!
16 reviews
July 9, 2019
Jesse rocks

Just finished this and am eagerly awaiting the next adventure in Jesse's life. Hopefully he'll go up against some more lowlife*s and take them out with the help of his new employer. And his description of a hurricane*s sheer destruction, comes pretty close to reality.
Profile Image for Karen Kearns.
346 reviews2 followers
July 17, 2019
Drug Manufacturers, a Semi-Religious Cult, & a Cat 5 Hurricane

Another great depiction of the life and times of Jesse McDermitt, a retired, career Marine. Wayne Stinnett crafts each successive book to be more riveting and exciting than any of the previous books. Each one leaves me feeling bereft until the next book arrives.
2 reviews
August 14, 2019
Another in a great series

The story keeps you locked in and the level of detail is such that you feel like you are there. A book that can illicit an emotional response is great. Read this series and the Charity series. I love the interlinked plots between books. Can’t wait for next book.
139 reviews
August 25, 2019
Storm coming...

And a bad one it was. But the good guys mostly survived. The nasty female stayed to the end causing trouble and doing people in. The storm raged past leaving the usual devastation in its wake and there is much rebuilding to do. Jesse lost a lot, and has some rebuilding to do, in his personal relationships as well as his island. We wait to join him.
Profile Image for Rose Mclaughlin.
87 reviews2 followers
September 23, 2019
Awesome!!

Spent the most of reading this book! I love Jesse and his friends, I know people who live in the keys,I want to visit just because of this series .this is easy to get hooked on can't wait for next one with great characters ,mystery and action that keeps you coming back for more
Profile Image for Ola Atkins.
52 reviews1 follower
March 20, 2020
This can't be the end

These books are the best adventure books I've ever read and I've been reading for 60 years. They will hold you on the edge of your seat to the very last page. I don't want this series to end. I have fallen in love with the characters and the exploits of Jesse McDermitt.
56 reviews1 follower
March 22, 2020
Hurricane

I was living in Arlington when hurricane Camille went through Northern Florida..I was in Key West for Betsy. I thought it strange that when the warnings went out, men with trucks and ladders went out and started harvesting the coconuts. It was brought to my attention what damage coconut could do when winds were blowing at 80 mph.
184 reviews2 followers
April 7, 2020
This series never disappoints! Jesse is tough, kind, smart and driven to help others. He wants a life where he can be with his family and protect them and will always put them first. Very well done. Actually drove the Marathon area a few years ago just to say I’d been in the area where all the stories take place!
23 reviews
March 30, 2022
Enjoyed. Great story.

Great mystery story who done it and with who.
Living on the Texas gulf coast and riding out a few big hurricanes myself, Wayne described the prep, feeling of sitting through so storm and the clean up to a T..
Been there done that got the t-shirt..
On to the next book.
129 reviews1 follower
July 12, 2025
3 stories in 1

I thought this book was 3 stories in one. It starts with some terrorists in a submarine, morphs into a commune making drugs and finishes with a narrative about hurricane Irma. Since I spent 5 months with an agency that worked with the aftermath of Irma in Puerto Rico, it was interesting to see the perspective of Irma in the Keys. Excellent read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews

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