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When a small homemade boat drifts under the Seven Mile Bridge, Jesse McDermitt doesn’t hesitate to jump in and pull the boat ashore on Pigeon Key with an injured boy aboard. The boy provides more questions than answers. He’s believed to be a Cuban refugee, yet when he regains consciousness, he speaks perfect English, but can’t even remember his name. Clues point to the boy coming from Fort Myers, Jesse’s hometown. After going to war with drug smugglers there, Jesse has no desire to go back. But something is pulling at his wife’s heart strings. With only a week before he has to leave for bigger, broader horizons, will Jesse be able to solve the mystery of the “lost boy” in time. Will the clues he finds along the way lead him deeper into the world of gang warfare than he wants to go? Things are about to get hot in the Florida Keys, and it’s not just the spring weather.

290 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 19, 2021

402 people are currently reading
92 people want to read

About the author

Wayne Stinnett

56 books630 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
1,583 (73%)
4 stars
475 (22%)
3 stars
70 (3%)
2 stars
23 (1%)
1 star
5 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
Profile Image for Jim A.
1,267 reviews82 followers
April 30, 2021
Typical and more predictable Jess McDermitt thriller. I think Stinnett is running out of story lines for the Jesse series.
67 reviews2 followers
April 21, 2021
You can sleep when you’re dead...reading keeps the mind limber

As usual with a Jesse story, you never know what is going to happen. Well, you know that truth, real justice and the American way that the framers of the constitution envisioned will happen, turd fondlers will be dealt with appropriately and good people can sleep safe in their beds. I read half the book waiting early on 4/20 for a friend who thankfully had something else they had to do. At 0 dark hundred I woke up and sadly finished this amazing read much too quickly! Many thanks to a truck driver with imagination and grit! Semper Fi Wayne! The gang was mostly here with ebb and flow of many of the usual characters and talk of others. New friends joined the family and Goodness prevailed...Bravo Zulu
203 reviews6 followers
April 19, 2021
The 20th and best so far

Wayne Stinnett came up with a hero 20 books ago - Jesse McDermott was mustered out of the Marine Corps as of 1999. In realty, FYI, that was seven years ago as books go. Jesse had been a Marine sniper, an instructor, and someone for whom the values of the Corps were as ingrained as his blood flow. Emerging into the world, he headed south to the Florida Keys and began civilian life. Over the course of the books a cast of characters has emerged - and Stinnett has grown dramatically as an author.

Jesse is a do-gooder. He's a wrong-righter. If you haven't followed him and are thinking of picking him up, start with Fallen - the first in the series (and generally free) - for an introduction. Or start here instead. this one's managed to poke into p!aces in Jesse we hadn't seen before. He's not just a Marine with a cause, he's now a husband, a father of three daughters, and suddenly on the verge of becoming a father to a son. He experienced echoes of how his grandfather raised him as he cares for an orphaned young boy that he and his new bride - but old love - rescue.

Beginner's done a delightful job showing a gruff old warrior discovering joy and fulfillment, while at the same time having him take apart rival gangs that were warring in his old home town. The only quibble I have is that picking up a Jesse adventure is not merely a guarantee that I'll do nothing else until it's done (unless I start late at night, in which case I might be too tired to finish, but that simply means I won't be getting out of bed in the morning until I finish), but that I'll also be starving for fresh fish, salt air and the next chapter in his universe.
Profile Image for BJ.
465 reviews5 followers
April 29, 2021
Mr. Stinnett, you've done it again

Usually, an author starts writing a series that starts out holding your interest, but slowly but surely becomes cookie-cutter boring by the third or fourth book. Some of the good ones keep up the interest into the tenth or even twelfth, but Wayne Stinnett has held my interest into this twentieth (20th!) story! As Jesse is getting ready for a new chapter in his life, as captain of a large research ship, stuff happens. Of course. A boy who has a partial memory loss, warring gangs in his old home town, hooker's bodies showing up, naturally, Jesse has to get involved! Nothing that a few phone calls to a few friends, a lot of bullets flying and a bunch of $100 bills can't cure. Right?
Profile Image for D Thatcher.
15 reviews1 follower
July 30, 2021
Wonderful. Wayne, you have again created a great read. It's really fun watching what goes on with the Coastal Writers and the Tropical Writers groups, and how characters from each writer can end up blended into each other's books. This book, RISING TIDE, is no different and is a fun read. When you are reading a Jesse McDermitt book and all of a sudden Mac Travis pops up, it's kind of a "hey! I know him!" feeling. I guess it's kind of like people at a concert applauding when the artist starts a piece they know. It makes things feel friendly and familiar. This book is a lot of fun and you should read it. Okay, why haven't you gone and bought RISING TIDE yet? Hurry up, the next book is coming. GO! BUY IT! NOW!
David Thatcher Wilson, writer
Smith Beach Press
106 reviews2 followers
April 20, 2021
Fisherman's Delight

I am always happy to read another of Wayne's books which takes place in such a lovely part of the world and his knowledge of seafaring matters is unequalled. The story this time around fairly belted along, from his island to Rusty's Bar and all points in between his largesse fairly helped along with the action, but the best was when they saved Alberto and have now got the chance to really put down roots.
Really looking forward to the next book in the series aboard Ambrosia as the Captain with Savannah and Alberto, not forgetting the two dogs, sure to be a blast.
Profile Image for scott c johnson.
13 reviews2 followers
April 21, 2021
Steady as she goes!

Another great Jesse mcdermitt Book. I love the way so many characters stay in the plot. New characters added, really expand the series. I can not believe its been 20 books. This book has more focus on the new character addition. Does not disappoint with some action , using the "toys".....
Glad to see the storyline to be continued. " steady as she goes" for the next 10 books! Can't wait for book 21, glad to hear you and your family are well. Covid is unsettling our lives, but on the positive... I have more time to read! Stay safe, an avid fan.
46 reviews1 follower
April 21, 2021
The best one yet!

As much as I have enjoyed the previous books in this series, I have to say that this one is even better! Not only were some real world issues brought to bear ( I.e., the MS-13 gang and other related issues), but I especially enjoyed the closeness between Jesse and Savannah as well as the introduction of the newest family member, Alberto. Although some of the events that lead up to the adoption were heart breaking, the overall aspects are promising! I agree that this should help Jesse stay young! So very well done by a master storyteller! Thank you!
36 reviews
June 10, 2021
STEADY AS SHE GOES

I put this as my title because I hope there will be ten more, though I may not be around to read them. I am seventy three and not I the best health and already used up my nine lives. I would just like to tell you Mr. Steinberg how much I have love your Jesse McDermott books. It has helped me pass a lot of hours and made me crave to see the keys but alas THIS is to be my only form of travel. If my review is to help others then please read Mr. Stinnetts CHARITY AND JESSE BOOKS, you won't regret it. Thank you sir.
3 reviews
April 20, 2021
Enjoyable as ever

Wayne Stinnett has produced yet another very readable chapter in the life of Jesse McDermitt. I've been engrossed from the very first book and as always, drop everything to enjoy it from start to finish as soon as it drops on my Kindle. With so many free books available online, it is not often that I buy one but this authors work is something I am very willing and happy to pay for . Looking forward to 'Steady As She Goes' in August.
22 reviews1 follower
Read
April 22, 2021
A must read novel A 5/5 rating!

Every book in this series has.been a story that has kept me up at night. This book keeps us up to date on characters and gives us anticipation as we look forward to the next story. I absolutely appreciate your giftedness in telling a story. I learn so much in your books as you give details about everything. Thank you for sharing with us, your readers.
Mary Rumbley
Profile Image for Jane Marler.
11 reviews
April 24, 2021
Fast moving read

I really enjoyed this book. There is plenty of action to keep it interesting and lots of characters from the previous Jesse books. Jesse and Savannah settle into their daily life together. They rescue a young boy who was kidnapped and set adrift in a small
boat. Much of the book revolves finding out who the boy is. The other story line deals with drug dealers and prostitutes and the gangs fighting for turf.
29 reviews
April 24, 2021
This is another outstanding book in the Jesse McDermitt series. If you have been following this series you have been lucky to watch Jesse’s life unfold before you! Much like the author’s favorite fictional character, Travis McGee, we see Jesse evolve over a number of years .... but his core of loyalty and honesty shines through. It’s great to hear that this series is continuing.....grab ahold and start enjoying a great series!!
18 reviews
May 3, 2021
Best of a great series. I've read them all and this last one followed neatly on the heels of the previous ones in the series. I felt like I had been through the journey along with Jesse. Looking forward to the next!

There is nothing to dislike this series and I find it easy to become immersed non each book. Enjoying the new character, Marco to see how he fits into the Mcdermitt world. All I can say is keep them coming Mr Shimmery
237 reviews
May 7, 2021
They're back! Great books!

I'm so glad to have found another book in this series! This Caribbean adventure series along with Doc's and Charity's stories are the best of Mr Stinnett's work! I've tried a couple of his other series, but they were a bit too violent for me. I didn't know if he would write more in this favorite series of mine, but, thank goodness, he has. These books are fun in the keys and the Caribbean with plenty of adventure and excitement!
234 reviews4 followers
May 9, 2021
Thank God...Back to Normalcy and Quality!

What a joy to have the writing and storytelling of this magnificent writer, Wayne Stinnett, back to writing alone in the style and quality of ALL his books. This was as good, if not better than every Jesse McDermitt story... action packed, new twists, turns and characters, and leading Jesse into another new Chapter! Thanks Mr. Stinnett and please continue writing alone!!!
19 reviews3 followers
May 11, 2021
Best writing and story to make your emotions roller coaster!

This series of books is one of the few that makes me feel like I am living in the adventure. It makes me hold my breath, wish I were looking at the stars with them, I get very hungry for delicious seafood, and then feel like my heart is being crushed in my chest with emotions - both happy and sad while I follow along on Jessie’s journey of life.
3 reviews
June 3, 2021
Hopefully Twenty more years!

I’ve been a Jesse fan for the past 15 years. The series made my years before retirement fly by. This series will make you proud you live in a country that produces men like Jesse from our military. I know Jesse is fictional, but based on so many good men that have come from our military ranks.
Can’t wait for the next chapter of Jesse’s life to begin.
13 reviews
June 14, 2021
Good read with authentic flow of details. I liked the boating and fishing action background. Recommend this book all that love action and the sea. Rated 4 stars because no one is perfect.

Authentic flow of details with lots of boating and fishing action as background for exciting plot and action. I recommend this book for all that love adventure and the sea. Rated 4 stars only because no one is perfect.
74 reviews2 followers
April 21, 2021
Another great read. Wayne never fails to deliver the best. These books are so well written that I forget they are about fictional characters. I have actually thought about taking a trip to the Keys and drop into the Rusty Anchor. Just as I can almost taste the seafood, rum and beer, reality jumps up and makes me remember it's not real.
Keep up the awesome work, Wayne.
5 reviews
April 27, 2021
Keep the Adventures Coming.

j have read many of the McDermott novels and got caught up in his adventures. I live and love the state of Florida and always learn more about the state and our fragile environment from this series. Hope this series continues for many more fights for justice.
1,716 reviews1 follower
May 1, 2021
This series never gets old, even after 20 installments, still as engaging as the first one. Jesse has aged and weather many tragedies and joys. The adventure doesn't stop and this page turner is very hard to put down. I am really looking forward to reading book 21. So glad to hear Wayne and his wife recovered from covid.
Profile Image for Janis Brown.
80 reviews
June 13, 2021
No disappointment here!

Another believable adventure of Jessie and the gang. I wonder if there are actual people out there doing these amazing acts, keeping us all safer. I sure hope so. Looking forward to the continuation of his life. Keep writing, Wayne. Will tune into your YouTube channel.
Profile Image for Ron Wagner.
61 reviews
July 11, 2021
Good people facing darkness

I have missed a few books in the middle so not sure how everybody got to this read. No matter a throughly enjoyable read. Facing ugly and ruthless gangs don't play by any rules. Jesse and friends handle the situation. Don't want to say much more except Alberto is an amazing addition to the crew.
9 reviews3 followers
July 28, 2021
Rising Tide Reviewed

As always, I loved the accurate detail and realism in this novel. I feel like Jesse is an old friend and am who doesn’t revel in a new adventure with an old friend? The addition of Alberto was a breath of fresh air! I felt it showed more of Jesse’s tender side. All in all a great book and a fun read! Can’t wait for Steady As She Goes!
25 reviews
August 10, 2021
Exciting and Rewarding

This novel had me hooked from beginning to end. Only necessary breaks along the read were made because the story was exciting and a true page turner through to the end. My mind was filled with anticipation for each new page. This novel is a true test of Mr. Stinnett's work on facts and wording.
Profile Image for John  Halajko.
92 reviews
April 30, 2024
McDermitt ends Gang Warfare and Prostitution in Ft Mayer

Amazing what a few good men can accomplish in a weeks time! But as usual a good story Stinnett did not disappoint the addition to Alberto to the family was nice Jesse needs a boy he can bring up among all the women in his life.
Profile Image for Patricia .
66 reviews3 followers
July 23, 2024
Jesse

Oh Thank You so Much…. I loved both the Fallen series and the Rising series and was afraid I had come to the end.. Now I’m excited to read “Steady As She Goes “.. Did I get that right? You’re a great writer and I’ve enjoyed every book. Please keep Jesse and family alive for me.. TY
Profile Image for Paula Huot.
79 reviews1 follower
April 20, 2021
Another thriller

What can I say. I’m a tried and true fan of anything Wayne. I will admit Jesse is my favorite and I can only hope he continues his awesome adventures aboard Ambrosia.
Profile Image for Stephen Cruickshank.
35 reviews2 followers
April 20, 2021
Rising Tide

Another fantastic book from Wayne Stinnett I have read and re read all the books so far and I have enjoyed them more each time I enjoy the exploits of Jessie and his crew and cannot wait for the next one
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews