What do you think?
Rate this book
Fiona Carver #2
Crash Site
Fiona Carver has landed a dream assignment: conducting an archaeological inventory of Ruby Island, a privately owned, pristine gem in the Caribbean. Two months in paradise exploring and mapping a lush rain forest, vast caves, and a seventeenth-century star fort and following up on legends of hidden Spanish gold. Add a simmering reunion with wildlife photographer Dean Slater and it’s enough to take Fiona’s breath away. But the sparkle fades when Dean’s arrival is met with sudden, terrifying danger.
Reunited and determined to see the project through, Fiona and Dean find themselves in a swirl of intrigue as they delve into the complex history of the unspoiled refuge, now a tropical haven for billionaires and their secrets. But the work isn’t easy, as someone appears determined to kill the project—by any means necessary.
As betrayal casts tropical storm clouds over Ruby Island and treasured friendships dissolve into distrust, one thing becomes clear: Fiona and Dean are trapped in a dangerous paradise.
Reunited and determined to see the project through, Fiona and Dean find themselves in a swirl of intrigue as they delve into the complex history of the unspoiled refuge, now a tropical haven for billionaires and their secrets. But the work isn’t easy, as someone appears determined to kill the project—by any means necessary.
As betrayal casts tropical storm clouds over Ruby Island and treasured friendships dissolve into distrust, one thing becomes clear: Fiona and Dean are trapped in a dangerous paradise.
395 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 4, 2022
262 people are currently reading
2478 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Grant
49 books1,630 followersCOMING SOON
AVAILABLE NOW:
USA Today bestselling author Rachel Grant also writes thrillers as R.S. Grant. She worked for over a decade as a professional archaeologist and mines her experiences for storylines and settings, which are as diverse as excavating a cemetery underneath an historic art museum in San Francisco, survey and excavation of many prehistoric Native American sites in the Pacific Northwest, researching an historic concrete house in Virginia (inspiration for her debut novel, CONCRETE EVIDENCE), and mapping a seventeenth century Spanish and Dutch fort on the island of Sint Maarten in the Caribbean (which provided inspiration for the island and fort described in CRASH SITE).
She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her archaeologist husband and demanding cat.
AVAILABLE NOW:
USA Today bestselling author Rachel Grant also writes thrillers as R.S. Grant. She worked for over a decade as a professional archaeologist and mines her experiences for storylines and settings, which are as diverse as excavating a cemetery underneath an historic art museum in San Francisco, survey and excavation of many prehistoric Native American sites in the Pacific Northwest, researching an historic concrete house in Virginia (inspiration for her debut novel, CONCRETE EVIDENCE), and mapping a seventeenth century Spanish and Dutch fort on the island of Sint Maarten in the Caribbean (which provided inspiration for the island and fort described in CRASH SITE).
She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her archaeologist husband and demanding cat.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
January 4, 2022
Crash Site by Rachel Grant
Fiona Carver book 2. Contemporary suspense with a bit of romance. Can be read as a stand-alone but better if the first book was read.
Fiona travels to Ruby Island near Dominica to research a seventeenth century star fort and the island history. When a helicopter explodes, only narrowly allowing the passengers to bail, does Fiona realize her old friend Jude is manipulating her and Dean. For what purpose is the question.
A suspense filled novel with copious archaeological details that allow you to visualize the history of the island and feel the wetness of the rain forest.
The relationship between Fiona and Dean becomes more romantic but he reminds her over and over that he cannot do a long term commitment. His heart is broken by his first love and he won’t open himself to that kind of pain again.
I felt bad for him, sure. But wanted to slap him at the same time and say “get over it”.
I loved Fiona’s strength and courage, and give her major points for forgiving Dean for ghosting her (between books 1 and 2 so not a spoiler). Her ability to see the humor in a situation is admirable.
Engaging and smart.
Fiona Carver book 2. Contemporary suspense with a bit of romance. Can be read as a stand-alone but better if the first book was read.
Fiona travels to Ruby Island near Dominica to research a seventeenth century star fort and the island history. When a helicopter explodes, only narrowly allowing the passengers to bail, does Fiona realize her old friend Jude is manipulating her and Dean. For what purpose is the question.
A suspense filled novel with copious archaeological details that allow you to visualize the history of the island and feel the wetness of the rain forest.
The relationship between Fiona and Dean becomes more romantic but he reminds her over and over that he cannot do a long term commitment. His heart is broken by his first love and he won’t open himself to that kind of pain again.
I felt bad for him, sure. But wanted to slap him at the same time and say “get over it”.
I loved Fiona’s strength and courage, and give her major points for forgiving Dean for ghosting her (between books 1 and 2 so not a spoiler). Her ability to see the humor in a situation is admirable.
Engaging and smart.
January 6, 2022
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I hold Rachel Grant to a higher standard. She is a star in the literary firmament who has written the most amazing Romantic-Suspense books. The setting for this book has it all: a Caribbean Island with significant history, a volcano, caves, a rain forest and an historic star fort. Throw in Spanish sunken treasure and so much more and this should be an awesome book, right? Not quite. Be prepared to be schooled in the debate between colonizers and Indigenous people. You also need to be prepared for a tad too much techie talk. We are also treated to Dean's Relationship Avoidance, Part 2. If you read the first book you know what I mean. The first half was 3-Star, but the second half was 5-Star.
Wildlife photographer Dean Slater ghosted archaeologist Fiona Carver after their adventure in Chiksook, Alaska nine months ago. Fiona knew Dean didn't do relationships, but having survived a life-or-death adventure together, she was very disappointed when he just vanished. When the opportunity of her career came knocking in the form of handsome billionaire shipping magnet, Jude Reynolds, she can't say no, even if her history with Jude could be a problem. Fiona has been hired to conduct an archaeological inventory on his private Caribbean Island, Ruby Island. Cost is no barrier. Jude also is financing a documentary about the project. But Jude has hidden agenda and when Dean shows up things get interesting with a big bang.
Someone doesn't want this project finished and is willing to go to extreme lengths to see that it doesn't. Dean and Fiona are right in the center of the dangerous incidents but are determined to figure out who is behind all the mysterious happenings while they move from friends to lovers. Fiona has no expectations, but dammit, I do.
I hold Rachel Grant to a higher standard. She is a star in the literary firmament who has written the most amazing Romantic-Suspense books. The setting for this book has it all: a Caribbean Island with significant history, a volcano, caves, a rain forest and an historic star fort. Throw in Spanish sunken treasure and so much more and this should be an awesome book, right? Not quite. Be prepared to be schooled in the debate between colonizers and Indigenous people. You also need to be prepared for a tad too much techie talk. We are also treated to Dean's Relationship Avoidance, Part 2. If you read the first book you know what I mean. The first half was 3-Star, but the second half was 5-Star.
Wildlife photographer Dean Slater ghosted archaeologist Fiona Carver after their adventure in Chiksook, Alaska nine months ago. Fiona knew Dean didn't do relationships, but having survived a life-or-death adventure together, she was very disappointed when he just vanished. When the opportunity of her career came knocking in the form of handsome billionaire shipping magnet, Jude Reynolds, she can't say no, even if her history with Jude could be a problem. Fiona has been hired to conduct an archaeological inventory on his private Caribbean Island, Ruby Island. Cost is no barrier. Jude also is financing a documentary about the project. But Jude has hidden agenda and when Dean shows up things get interesting with a big bang.
Someone doesn't want this project finished and is willing to go to extreme lengths to see that it doesn't. Dean and Fiona are right in the center of the dangerous incidents but are determined to figure out who is behind all the mysterious happenings while they move from friends to lovers. Fiona has no expectations, but dammit, I do.
September 13, 2021
If you call this book a suspense-thriller-adventure, then ‘Crash Site’ is a superlative addition to the Fiona Carver series. Just like its predecessor, it’s a tale of survival and heart-pounding action as things—par for the course—start to go wrong one after the other like stacked dominoes falling with the slightest touch. Rachel Grant’s intelligent, descriptive writing shines when it comes to putting together her research and her academic experience into a tight, adventure-driven plot with enough intrigue and twists and turns to keep your eyes glued to the page.
But call this a romance and the cracks start to show up early when it comes to the dance Fiona and Dean do this far down the line. In the first book, Dean’s constant insistence on living life ‘to the fullest’ for self-preservation purposes continues here right up to the last page, his grating (and perhaps cowardly) commitment issues contrasting sharply to Fiona’s helpless pining and inability to pull away from a man who doesn’t want a relationship enough after his last great heartbreak a decade ago.
Fiona’s strength and compassion would easily endear Grant’s female readers; on the other hand, Dean’s own uncertainty about his willingness to fight for anything more with Fiona, while understandable, turned frustratingly irksome by the end, compounded by a so-called abrupt change of heart that never quite materialises convincingly.
With this rushed ending and not much of a hint as to how they might move forward, Fiona/Dean together as a couple raises more questions than answers: is there more in this series that Grant intends to build on? Is Dean ever going to be the one who finally steps up emotionally to help validate the romantic aspect of the story? Or is the end of Dean’s and Fiona’s uneven character growth as protagonists of the series? Will Dylan get his own story?
While ‘Crash Site’ doesn’t end in too much of a cliffhanger, its conclusion—from a suspense-thriller perspective, is a satisfying one: questions answered, the loopholes closed and the bad guys dealt with…though not without some regretful collateral damage. But as a book classified as romantic suspense, its emotional, romantic ending is more muted and more disappointing than what I’d hoped to read.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
But call this a romance and the cracks start to show up early when it comes to the dance Fiona and Dean do this far down the line. In the first book, Dean’s constant insistence on living life ‘to the fullest’ for self-preservation purposes continues here right up to the last page, his grating (and perhaps cowardly) commitment issues contrasting sharply to Fiona’s helpless pining and inability to pull away from a man who doesn’t want a relationship enough after his last great heartbreak a decade ago.
Fiona’s strength and compassion would easily endear Grant’s female readers; on the other hand, Dean’s own uncertainty about his willingness to fight for anything more with Fiona, while understandable, turned frustratingly irksome by the end, compounded by a so-called abrupt change of heart that never quite materialises convincingly.
With this rushed ending and not much of a hint as to how they might move forward, Fiona/Dean together as a couple raises more questions than answers: is there more in this series that Grant intends to build on? Is Dean ever going to be the one who finally steps up emotionally to help validate the romantic aspect of the story? Or is the end of Dean’s and Fiona’s uneven character growth as protagonists of the series? Will Dylan get his own story?
While ‘Crash Site’ doesn’t end in too much of a cliffhanger, its conclusion—from a suspense-thriller perspective, is a satisfying one: questions answered, the loopholes closed and the bad guys dealt with…though not without some regretful collateral damage. But as a book classified as romantic suspense, its emotional, romantic ending is more muted and more disappointing than what I’d hoped to read.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
September 7, 2021
This book is a pure adrenaline rush.
January 31, 2022
Review in English, on my blog.
Crítica amplia (en español), en mi blog.
Four stars for the romance, two for the suspense. After Dangerous ground, I needed Dean and Fiona to have their happy ending, now! That’s why I read the ARC in NetGalley. Archaeologist Fiona Carver seizes the opportunity to do a private job on a Caribbean island. Unbeknownst to Fiona, Dean Slater is also hired. This is a ‘second chance at love’ romance. Fiona really likes this rich and handsome wildlife photographer with his blue-blue eyes and amazing body, but he does not want a relationship. They have not seen each other for nearly a year. Now they are together in this Caribbean job and their physical and emotional attraction sparks. Of course, they can only have a happy ending if Dean changes his mind –and the baddies let them live.
Their relationship is what I liked the most. And I found quite absorbing the final part of the book, with a lot of action, and very clever thinking on the part of Fiona.
It is one of those novels that I call ‘catenary type’: strong at the beginning and at the end, but tracing a downward curve from the beginning to the middle, and then going up from that midpoint. The setting and the few historical references were not very interesting for me. And the suspense was not very gripping until the last quarter of the book. It's not one of those novels full of surprises or twists and turns.
I think it can be read as a standalone, but it’s much better if you read both novels of the series.
Crítica amplia (en español), en mi blog.
Four stars for the romance, two for the suspense. After Dangerous ground, I needed Dean and Fiona to have their happy ending, now! That’s why I read the ARC in NetGalley. Archaeologist Fiona Carver seizes the opportunity to do a private job on a Caribbean island. Unbeknownst to Fiona, Dean Slater is also hired. This is a ‘second chance at love’ romance. Fiona really likes this rich and handsome wildlife photographer with his blue-blue eyes and amazing body, but he does not want a relationship. They have not seen each other for nearly a year. Now they are together in this Caribbean job and their physical and emotional attraction sparks. Of course, they can only have a happy ending if Dean changes his mind –and the baddies let them live.
Their relationship is what I liked the most. And I found quite absorbing the final part of the book, with a lot of action, and very clever thinking on the part of Fiona.
It is one of those novels that I call ‘catenary type’: strong at the beginning and at the end, but tracing a downward curve from the beginning to the middle, and then going up from that midpoint. The setting and the few historical references were not very interesting for me. And the suspense was not very gripping until the last quarter of the book. It's not one of those novels full of surprises or twists and turns.
I think it can be read as a standalone, but it’s much better if you read both novels of the series.
September 22, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyed this second installment in the Fiona Carver series! It's sexy, pulse-pounding, and suspenseful all in one package. And, if you, like me, were hoping to see Fiona's relationship with a certain sexy photographer get to the next level, well I've got good news for you. This book does, indeed, bang. From literal fiery explosions and metaphorical ones.
Can't wait to see what more adventures are in store for Fiona and Dean!
Can't wait to see what more adventures are in store for Fiona and Dean!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2022
I've given this a B at AAR.
The second in Rachel Grant’s Fiona Carver series, Crash Site is the sequel to 2021’s Dangerous Ground, and it picks up around nine months after the events of the first book. Although the mystery/suspense plot here is self-contained, the central relationship between the two leads was left unresolved at the end of Dangerous Ground, so I’d advise anyone interested in this one to read that first. And that being the case, there are spoilers for the previous book in this review.
Naval Archaeologist Fiona Carver has landed herself a dream job on the gorgeous, privately owned (and fictional) Ruby Island in the Caribbean where, together with two other archaeologists, she has been employed to conduct an archaeological inventory of the island and its seventeenth century fort –which comes complete with legends of hidden Spanish gold. Fiona has known its wealthy owner Jude Reynolds (the island has been owned by his family for generations) for over a decade, from when they met as fellow students at archaeological field school – although they’re not exactly friends; she went on a date with him back then but he behaved like a complete tosser and she hasn’t seen him since. But the Ruby Island job was just too good to pass up – especially as Jude’s wealth means there will be no budget worries, and he genuinely cares about the work. He also seems to be working hard to convince Fiona that he’s not the same selfish, entitled brat he was back then – but Fiona isn’t sure how to feel about that. Sure, Jude is handsome and rich, he’s interested in her and understands her work… but she’s hung-up on someone else.
Wildlife photographer Dean Slater had been on the remote Alaskan island of Chiksook trying to find out what happened to his missing brother Dylan when he and Fiona found themselves stranded in a hostile environment and forced to rely on each other in order to survive (Dangerous Ground). The adrenaline-fuelled days they spent together engendered a real trust and closeness between them, and fed the flames of the mutual attraction that had sparked between them from their first meeting – although a basic incompatibility in their approach to sex and relationships seemed destined to separate them. Dean is unwilling to risk experiencing the hurt and devastation he felt on the death of his beloved wife from a brain tumor a decade earlier and made it very clear that he doesn’t do relationships, while Fiona has never been one for NSA sex or short-lived flings. It’s clear by the end of the book that they’re head-over-heels for one another, but Dean is adamant that he’s not about to break his no relationships rule and they part, both of them obviously unhappy and not expecting to see each other again.
It’s clear that neither has been able to forget the other over the nine months they’ve been apart, and when Fiona learns – at the very last minute – that Dean is due to arrive on the island at any moment, she’s both furious and suspicious. She’s sure that Dean wouldn’t be coming to the island had he known of her presence, and is almost certain this is a set-up. The media interest surrounding them after what happened on Chiksook was pretty intense, and she believes Jude is trying to use her and Dean to generate publicity for his new venture – a new streaming channel focusing on travel and adventure. Before she can decide what to do – should she yell at Jude, up and leave or both – the helicopter carrying Dean and a couple of other personnel explodes and crashes into the sea.
Thanks to the quick-thinking and skilful flying of the pilot Dean and everyone on board is able to escape before the helicopter pitches into the sea. He initially puts down the sight of Fiona running towards him down to disorientation – he must’ve hit his head after he jumped – but just seconds later, she’s soft and warm in his arms, crying tears of relief.
Once the initial shock of the crash – and nearly losing Dean – has worn off, Fiona begins to wonder about it – was it an accident or sabotage? If the latter, then who was the intended target? It seems, however that she’s not going to find out – the day after the crash, every single piece of wreckage has disappeared, leaving nothing for the not-yet-arrived crash investigators to go on. But the crash is only the beginning of a series of disasters as Fiona and Dean are thrown from one life-threatening situation to another… clearly there’s something about Ruby Island that someone is prepared to go to great lengths to conceal – and who has decided Fiona and Dean are surplus to requirements.
As in Dangerous Ground, the locations are vividly imagined and Ms. Grant does a great job of setting the scene, introducing and fleshing out the characters and setting in motion the wheels of her intriguing, complex plot. I always enjoy the way the author incorporates her impeccable research, experience and obvious knowledge and love for archaeology into her novels, and although the story is perhaps a little slow in places in the first half, things pick up considerably in the second, and the final chapters are a thrilling rollercoaster ride that had me glued to the pages.
Fiona and Dean make a great team when they’re working together and I liked them as individuals. Fiona is smart, compassionate and just a bit nerdy, and although Dean is still irritatingly stubborn about never wanting another relationship, he’s otherwise great hero material – protective, gorgeous and highly competent. They’re very intuitive as to the other’s thoughts and needs, and that part of their relationship works incredibly well, but their romance is less successful. They’re obviously very much in love, but Dean refuses to acknowledge it or contemplate having a relationship with Fiona for almost the entire book, telling himself he isn’t capable of giving her what she deserves. He’s completely honest about not wanting a relationship and the reasons for it, and those are clear and well-articulated, but Ms. Grant did such a good job of convincing me that Violet (his late wife) was the love of his life and that he really wasn’t ready to move on, that by the time he gets his head out of his arse as regards Fiona, I wasn’t completely convinced by his about-turn (and thought he should have grovelled a bit more!) The fact that this happens on practically the last page doesn’t help with that – but if there are to be more books in this series, then perhaps we’ll get to see their relationship develop from the HFN we get here.
The suspense plot is tense, exciting and well put-together, and even though I’d have liked a little more certainty in the romance, I enjoyed Crash Site and would recommend it to fans of romantic suspense.
The second in Rachel Grant’s Fiona Carver series, Crash Site is the sequel to 2021’s Dangerous Ground, and it picks up around nine months after the events of the first book. Although the mystery/suspense plot here is self-contained, the central relationship between the two leads was left unresolved at the end of Dangerous Ground, so I’d advise anyone interested in this one to read that first. And that being the case, there are spoilers for the previous book in this review.
Naval Archaeologist Fiona Carver has landed herself a dream job on the gorgeous, privately owned (and fictional) Ruby Island in the Caribbean where, together with two other archaeologists, she has been employed to conduct an archaeological inventory of the island and its seventeenth century fort –which comes complete with legends of hidden Spanish gold. Fiona has known its wealthy owner Jude Reynolds (the island has been owned by his family for generations) for over a decade, from when they met as fellow students at archaeological field school – although they’re not exactly friends; she went on a date with him back then but he behaved like a complete tosser and she hasn’t seen him since. But the Ruby Island job was just too good to pass up – especially as Jude’s wealth means there will be no budget worries, and he genuinely cares about the work. He also seems to be working hard to convince Fiona that he’s not the same selfish, entitled brat he was back then – but Fiona isn’t sure how to feel about that. Sure, Jude is handsome and rich, he’s interested in her and understands her work… but she’s hung-up on someone else.
Wildlife photographer Dean Slater had been on the remote Alaskan island of Chiksook trying to find out what happened to his missing brother Dylan when he and Fiona found themselves stranded in a hostile environment and forced to rely on each other in order to survive (Dangerous Ground). The adrenaline-fuelled days they spent together engendered a real trust and closeness between them, and fed the flames of the mutual attraction that had sparked between them from their first meeting – although a basic incompatibility in their approach to sex and relationships seemed destined to separate them. Dean is unwilling to risk experiencing the hurt and devastation he felt on the death of his beloved wife from a brain tumor a decade earlier and made it very clear that he doesn’t do relationships, while Fiona has never been one for NSA sex or short-lived flings. It’s clear by the end of the book that they’re head-over-heels for one another, but Dean is adamant that he’s not about to break his no relationships rule and they part, both of them obviously unhappy and not expecting to see each other again.
It’s clear that neither has been able to forget the other over the nine months they’ve been apart, and when Fiona learns – at the very last minute – that Dean is due to arrive on the island at any moment, she’s both furious and suspicious. She’s sure that Dean wouldn’t be coming to the island had he known of her presence, and is almost certain this is a set-up. The media interest surrounding them after what happened on Chiksook was pretty intense, and she believes Jude is trying to use her and Dean to generate publicity for his new venture – a new streaming channel focusing on travel and adventure. Before she can decide what to do – should she yell at Jude, up and leave or both – the helicopter carrying Dean and a couple of other personnel explodes and crashes into the sea.
Thanks to the quick-thinking and skilful flying of the pilot Dean and everyone on board is able to escape before the helicopter pitches into the sea. He initially puts down the sight of Fiona running towards him down to disorientation – he must’ve hit his head after he jumped – but just seconds later, she’s soft and warm in his arms, crying tears of relief.
Once the initial shock of the crash – and nearly losing Dean – has worn off, Fiona begins to wonder about it – was it an accident or sabotage? If the latter, then who was the intended target? It seems, however that she’s not going to find out – the day after the crash, every single piece of wreckage has disappeared, leaving nothing for the not-yet-arrived crash investigators to go on. But the crash is only the beginning of a series of disasters as Fiona and Dean are thrown from one life-threatening situation to another… clearly there’s something about Ruby Island that someone is prepared to go to great lengths to conceal – and who has decided Fiona and Dean are surplus to requirements.
As in Dangerous Ground, the locations are vividly imagined and Ms. Grant does a great job of setting the scene, introducing and fleshing out the characters and setting in motion the wheels of her intriguing, complex plot. I always enjoy the way the author incorporates her impeccable research, experience and obvious knowledge and love for archaeology into her novels, and although the story is perhaps a little slow in places in the first half, things pick up considerably in the second, and the final chapters are a thrilling rollercoaster ride that had me glued to the pages.
Fiona and Dean make a great team when they’re working together and I liked them as individuals. Fiona is smart, compassionate and just a bit nerdy, and although Dean is still irritatingly stubborn about never wanting another relationship, he’s otherwise great hero material – protective, gorgeous and highly competent. They’re very intuitive as to the other’s thoughts and needs, and that part of their relationship works incredibly well, but their romance is less successful. They’re obviously very much in love, but Dean refuses to acknowledge it or contemplate having a relationship with Fiona for almost the entire book, telling himself he isn’t capable of giving her what she deserves. He’s completely honest about not wanting a relationship and the reasons for it, and those are clear and well-articulated, but Ms. Grant did such a good job of convincing me that Violet (his late wife) was the love of his life and that he really wasn’t ready to move on, that by the time he gets his head out of his arse as regards Fiona, I wasn’t completely convinced by his about-turn (and thought he should have grovelled a bit more!) The fact that this happens on practically the last page doesn’t help with that – but if there are to be more books in this series, then perhaps we’ll get to see their relationship develop from the HFN we get here.
The suspense plot is tense, exciting and well put-together, and even though I’d have liked a little more certainty in the romance, I enjoyed Crash Site and would recommend it to fans of romantic suspense.
January 2, 2022
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
We pick up 9 months after the events of Dangerous Ground. Fiona has a new assignment, this time conducting an archeological survey of a private island in the Caribbean. It’s a simple enough assignment until 1) Dean, the wildlife photographer she had a “fling” with in the previous book shows up on the island and 2) a colleague goes missing. Like the previous book, Fiona and Dean find themselves thrust into really intense and dangerous situations and have to work together to make it out alive.
I honestly have no idea how Rachel Grant churns out multiple books a year because the amount of research and the attention to detail is incredible. I will never tire of her adventure/thriller plots and Crash Site is definitely a 4-star read in terms of suspense alone. The romance however in her last few books has fallen short for me, and I’m sad to say it was particularly disappointing in this one.
Fiona is a great MC – tough, brave, resourceful – but her actions in this book puzzled me. It grated on my nerves to see her pining over Dean for the entirety of this book (not to mention that we’ve already been through this in the first book). Dean, who is emotionally unavailable and still grieving for his dead wife. Dean, who literally broke things off with her right before they were about to have sex in the previous book and had me thinking I received an incomplete ARC. Dean who, quite honestly, is a coward and not worthy of her love. While I understood Dean’s reservations in the first book, I was disappointed to read about the same hang-ups rehashed in the second book. I realize this is a multi-book series, but I wanted to see a little character development in Crash Site, or in the very least, some groveling by the end of the book.
I’m a little disappointed because this series had so much potential – and I think I would’ve really enjoyed reading about the same MCs over multiple books – but if every book is going to rehash the same romantic conflict then I’m gonna have to pass on the next installment.
We pick up 9 months after the events of Dangerous Ground. Fiona has a new assignment, this time conducting an archeological survey of a private island in the Caribbean. It’s a simple enough assignment until 1) Dean, the wildlife photographer she had a “fling” with in the previous book shows up on the island and 2) a colleague goes missing. Like the previous book, Fiona and Dean find themselves thrust into really intense and dangerous situations and have to work together to make it out alive.
I honestly have no idea how Rachel Grant churns out multiple books a year because the amount of research and the attention to detail is incredible. I will never tire of her adventure/thriller plots and Crash Site is definitely a 4-star read in terms of suspense alone. The romance however in her last few books has fallen short for me, and I’m sad to say it was particularly disappointing in this one.
Fiona is a great MC – tough, brave, resourceful – but her actions in this book puzzled me. It grated on my nerves to see her pining over Dean for the entirety of this book (not to mention that we’ve already been through this in the first book). Dean, who is emotionally unavailable and still grieving for his dead wife. Dean, who literally broke things off with her right before they were about to have sex in the previous book and had me thinking I received an incomplete ARC. Dean who, quite honestly, is a coward and not worthy of her love. While I understood Dean’s reservations in the first book, I was disappointed to read about the same hang-ups rehashed in the second book. I realize this is a multi-book series, but I wanted to see a little character development in Crash Site, or in the very least, some groveling by the end of the book.
I’m a little disappointed because this series had so much potential – and I think I would’ve really enjoyed reading about the same MCs over multiple books – but if every book is going to rehash the same romantic conflict then I’m gonna have to pass on the next installment.
October 16, 2021
Crash Site by Rachel Caine a thrilling five-star read. This is number two in the Fiona Carver series, and I have loved them both, I will be honest though, I didn’t love the first half of this story, it felt a little over long and jumped in places, but the second half made up for the whole thing. The second half had me gripping my seat and reading ignoring everything else in my life, much like the first story. I loved the details, the descriptions of the island, I could smell the smoke and fell the jungle encompassing me, that is what made this five-star worthy house.
August 19, 2022
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in return for my opinion. This book is very well written and goes into so much detail about Fiona's job and the people both past and present living in this area she's exploring. For me, like the first book, all of this narration zoned me out, because I'm not particularly interested in the subject. That being said, lots of readers obviously love it and that's fine. The romance is ongoing from the last book after a separation for the H/h of nine months. I listened to the audio (after publication), as it was included in kindle unlimited and it's very well performed. For me, it was just an okay sort of book because it didn't hold my attention.
January 18, 2024
Great audio book!!!
Wonderful narrated by several speakers...
Story and character development blurred and rather the whole thing quite woolly!!!
Well, one star for the story, and three stars for the audio book...
Maybee other books by this author are much better.
Nevertheless, for me apply this saying: "life is too short for bad books"!!!
Wonderful narrated by several speakers...
Story and character development blurred and rather the whole thing quite woolly!!!
Well, one star for the story, and three stars for the audio book...
Maybee other books by this author are much better.
Nevertheless, for me apply this saying: "life is too short for bad books"!!!
December 9, 2021
A dream assignment on a private Caribbean Island attracts the attention of archaeologist Fiona Carver and wildlife photographer Dean Slater. Fiona arrives planning to map the rainforest and explore the 17th-century fort and caves. Dean and Fiona have unfinished issues from book 1 and neither is aware that the other has agreed to this assignment. Once the initial shock at seeing each other wears off, they agree to work together and put the past behind them. Unfortunately, someone doesn’t want them on Ruby Island and goes to great lengths to force them to leave.
The love triangle and relationship tension that Grant creates is magnificent. At times I felt awkward just reading the narrative….as though I was there experiencing firsthand the tension between the characters. This is a good thing as not many authors achieve this! The author's sense of place and ability to describe the setting is stellar. I could place myself on Ruby Island. The mystery was nail-biting and propelled the novel. I also loved that this was an intelligent novel, stuffed with lots of new things to learn about archaeology and history….until the sex scenes happened…and then it went downhill. Unfortunately, I was reading for the adventure and the mystery. The sex and the choice of words used just cheapened the novel. I forced myself to finish reading.
If an open door ‘romance’ is your thing, this one’s steamy. Sadly, I won’t be reaching for the remainder of the series.
I was gifted this advance copy by Rachel Grant, Montlake, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
The love triangle and relationship tension that Grant creates is magnificent. At times I felt awkward just reading the narrative….as though I was there experiencing firsthand the tension between the characters. This is a good thing as not many authors achieve this! The author's sense of place and ability to describe the setting is stellar. I could place myself on Ruby Island. The mystery was nail-biting and propelled the novel. I also loved that this was an intelligent novel, stuffed with lots of new things to learn about archaeology and history….until the sex scenes happened…and then it went downhill. Unfortunately, I was reading for the adventure and the mystery. The sex and the choice of words used just cheapened the novel. I forced myself to finish reading.
If an open door ‘romance’ is your thing, this one’s steamy. Sadly, I won’t be reaching for the remainder of the series.
I was gifted this advance copy by Rachel Grant, Montlake, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
September 18, 2021
Another thrilling romantic suspense steeped in archeology as only Rachel Grant can write them!
November 27, 2021
Archeologist Fiona Carver lands a dream job on a private Caribbean Island to conduct an archaeological inventory, exploring and mapping the lush rain forest, caves and 17th century star fort that comes complete with legends of hidden Spanish gold. Unbeknownst to Fiona, wildlife photographer Dean Slater has also been hired and she begins to feel manipulated for the cameras that are recording the expedition. A helicopter crash, a blown up boat and missing guests generate an underlying impression of intrigue and danger. Fiona and Dean have a complex relationship. Dean lost his wife at a young age and vows never to risk his heart to that extent again but he is inexplicably drawn to Fiona but tells her he cannot commit to a relationship. They must depend on each other to stay safe but we don't know how this will affect their relationship.
Grant does a wonderful job of describing the environment surrounding the characters. You can almost smell the smoke from the fire and feel the furtive heat and humidity of the rainforest. As always, her research is complete and she shares the facts with you while still immersing you in the story. It is a great mix of adventure, suspense and romance.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Grant does a wonderful job of describing the environment surrounding the characters. You can almost smell the smoke from the fire and feel the furtive heat and humidity of the rainforest. As always, her research is complete and she shares the facts with you while still immersing you in the story. It is a great mix of adventure, suspense and romance.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2022
Crash Site picks up the Fiona Carver series nearly a year after her first adventure on the remote Aleutian Islands where she met and fell for wildlife photographer Dean who she's not spoken too since. But now she's on her dream assignment on Ruby Island only she's just found out Dean is about to join her and so unfortunately is the danger that seems to follow the couple around. As Dean's arrival on the island isn't as smooth as he expected and that's only just the beginning.
And with a story steeped in archaeology detail, intrigue, suspense and romance that actually begins to see Fiona and Dean make strides at a relationship together this was an enjoyable and engaging read and I'm looking forward to more adventures with this pair in the future.
Would recommend.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
And with a story steeped in archaeology detail, intrigue, suspense and romance that actually begins to see Fiona and Dean make strides at a relationship together this was an enjoyable and engaging read and I'm looking forward to more adventures with this pair in the future.
Would recommend.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
November 17, 2021
CRASH SITE is a continuation of Fiona Carver and Dean Slater’s story, which started in “Dangerous Ground.” You don’t necessarily have to have read the previous story to enjoy this one, but it does give you more context to their relationship. Regardless, this is an exciting, edge of your seat romantic suspense that will tear at your heartstrings and hold you totally captivated from start to finish. There’s an underlying sense of intrigue as evidenced by the resulting elements of danger, that becomes interwoven within the characters’ complex relationships. It’s filled with fast-paced action and intense drama that will keep you riveted to the very end and leave you hoping for more adventures with these two.
January 7, 2022
Wow! This book was a surprise for me, but a very good one.
Crash side iscmy very first book from this author, but I'm sure that I will come back for more.
Last few years, I mostly read romances and with starting this book, I expected a good romance, and author delivered everything what I expected. From the firsr pagest, I felt hooked up and couldn't put this book down. What suprised me, was a suspense! It was absolutely mind blowing. Author mixing everything. together in a story line that made me breathless, I Didn't know what the next page will bring.
I will recommend this book for readres of all kind - I believe everyone will find something, what will melt Your heart, and leave You in awe.
Crash side iscmy very first book from this author, but I'm sure that I will come back for more.
Last few years, I mostly read romances and with starting this book, I expected a good romance, and author delivered everything what I expected. From the firsr pagest, I felt hooked up and couldn't put this book down. What suprised me, was a suspense! It was absolutely mind blowing. Author mixing everything. together in a story line that made me breathless, I Didn't know what the next page will bring.
I will recommend this book for readres of all kind - I believe everyone will find something, what will melt Your heart, and leave You in awe.
December 29, 2021
The first book was exceptionally exciting. The sequel was even far better than the first. Fiona and Dean are stuck on an island, however this time there’s a team of people and mysterious events keep happening. As part of a team to do a job they find themselves in dangerous situations but remain for the sake of finding historical sites and uncovering island secrets. There’s friendships, lovers, bad guys, crashes and the possibility of gold. This is a book worthy of a movie, developed characters and many sub plots kept me reading. I received my copy from Netgalley and I wrote this review voluntarily.
November 16, 2021
I received Crash Site by Rachel Grant for free through Netflix in exchange for an honest review. I had already red Dangerous Ground by Rachel Grant and had loved that book. It kept me up at night to finish it. I could not wait to read the next in the series (once I realized that it would be a series.) Imagine my surprise to find that the book was available on Netgalley! I immediately downloaded it and started reading it the next day. It was a great sequel to the first book in the series and I sincerely hope that there are more. It was the perfect mix of adventure, mystery, and romance.
January 21, 2024
Excellent conclusion to the romantic story of Fiona and Dean. I really enjoyed learning more about the history of the Caribbean peoples. As always the authors note with additional readings was excellent.
January 12, 2022
Delightful Romantic Suspense - Fiona Carver #2!!
Once again on an island - this time it is warm - with 5-star accommodations and food.
But all is not as it seems. Starts with a bang - and provides intricate twists and turns as the action races till the very last page.
Surprise appearances. The importance of history. Outsmarting those who have an army on their side.
Facing your greatest fears and finding a reason to truly live your life.
A Stunning read. An adrenaline rush from beginning to end. I absolutely recommend this story!
Once again on an island - this time it is warm - with 5-star accommodations and food.
But all is not as it seems. Starts with a bang - and provides intricate twists and turns as the action races till the very last page.
Surprise appearances. The importance of history. Outsmarting those who have an army on their side.
Facing your greatest fears and finding a reason to truly live your life.
A Stunning read. An adrenaline rush from beginning to end. I absolutely recommend this story!
August 6, 2022
I liked this better than the first one. It was non stop action and twisty turns in the story. The ending was great, I don’t know if there will be more to this series but if so, I’ll be reading them.
January 4, 2022
This story was an enjoyable mystery/suspense read with a romantic piece. However, I do not consider this a romantic suspense. First, I really do not like Dean. He is so opposed to commitment I wanted to bang his head into something. Fiona on the other hand is endearing and likable! This is the second book where these two are still push/pull with each other. Maybe they will end up together in the end, but honestly, I kind of hope they don't. If you took the "romance" subplot out of the book, I would have given it a higher rating. Maybe because I read SO MUCH romance I have a different set of standards, but I went into this book thinking it was a romantic suspense and it is a suspense with a "love story".
January 11, 2022
I am a fan of Rachel Grant so reviewing book 2 in the Fiona Carver series I was beyond excited to read.
Rachel Grant creates a beautiful tropical world readers find themselves wanting to visit even with the twist and turns and betrayal the two leads find themselves going though.
This is a can't miss series by Rachel Grant.
Thank you to Netgalley for for a copy off Crash Site.
Rachel Grant creates a beautiful tropical world readers find themselves wanting to visit even with the twist and turns and betrayal the two leads find themselves going though.
This is a can't miss series by Rachel Grant.
Thank you to Netgalley for for a copy off Crash Site.
April 23, 2022
2 1/2 - 3 Stars (Rounded up)
This is the second book in the series. I read the first. Although the situation is different, it picks up basically where the last book left off. The MCs left matters unresolved between themselves. This is mainly the male character's Dean at fault. He has totally ghosted Fiona since the last book ended (with no contact for NINE months). But they are reunited in a dramatic fashion.
Interestingly this time around, we get the POVs of several of other characters. The first book did not do that, we only got the MCs. I don't know if it added anything really. I would have liked maybe to hear from Dylan more, but he was only included for a very brief time at the beginning. I actually liked him a lot, probably more than Dean because he was just a lot more open with his feelings. As in the first book, Dean is still pining away for his deceased wife. And he still won't do relationships. Spoiler, it's like this for the majority of the book. (Sigh) All in all, I don't think Fiona and Dean spent more than maybe two-maybe three-actually weeks together. And most of that time is spent lusting after each other. And although it's unstated, it's pretty much insta-love with these two.
There's a lot that happens with these two. A few near-death experiences, another mystery to solve, Dean resisting his strong emotions/attraction to Fiona. I did not love the ending. I am all for being understanding and all that. I don't need a bunch of groveling but nah, Dean needed to grovel. Fiona deserved groveling (come on nine months of being ghosted, repeatedly telling her almost every other minute that he couldn't/wouldn't be with her) and she just...aah...SMH. Anyway....
Content:
Sex: Yes, there's sex this time around.
Violence: There's explosions, beatings, folks get killed (some almost get killed).
Violence: Yes, there strong language usage. Moderate.
This is the second book in the series. I read the first. Although the situation is different, it picks up basically where the last book left off. The MCs left matters unresolved between themselves. This is mainly the male character's Dean at fault. He has totally ghosted Fiona since the last book ended (with no contact for NINE months). But they are reunited in a dramatic fashion.
Interestingly this time around, we get the POVs of several of other characters. The first book did not do that, we only got the MCs. I don't know if it added anything really. I would have liked maybe to hear from Dylan more, but he was only included for a very brief time at the beginning. I actually liked him a lot, probably more than Dean because he was just a lot more open with his feelings. As in the first book, Dean is still pining away for his deceased wife. And he still won't do relationships. Spoiler, it's like this for the majority of the book. (Sigh) All in all, I don't think Fiona and Dean spent more than maybe two-maybe three-actually weeks together. And most of that time is spent lusting after each other. And although it's unstated, it's pretty much insta-love with these two.
There's a lot that happens with these two. A few near-death experiences, another mystery to solve, Dean resisting his strong emotions/attraction to Fiona. I did not love the ending. I am all for being understanding and all that. I don't need a bunch of groveling but nah, Dean needed to grovel. Fiona deserved groveling (come on nine months of being ghosted, repeatedly telling her almost every other minute that he couldn't/wouldn't be with her) and she just...aah...SMH. Anyway....
Content:
Sex: Yes, there's sex this time around.
Violence: There's explosions, beatings, folks get killed (some almost get killed).
Violence: Yes, there strong language usage. Moderate.
December 12, 2021
3.5*
It’s no secret that I am an unabashed Rachel Grant fan. It’s also no secret that the Fiona Carver series hasn’t been my favourite of Ms. Grant’s extensive list, though I liked CRASH SITE more than its predecessor– largely because I haven’t been a big fan of either protagonist. In the first novel, male protagonist/love interest Dean Slater, wildlife photographer extraordinaire and man too brokenhearted by the demise of true love to ever love again, is an absolute wanker whose insistence in being a horndog but never letting his heart get involved again grated on my every nerve from about a quarter of the first book on through to the last few pages of CRASH SITE, the second book. I love me a broken hero, but the second-chance romance trope is far from my favourite, and with Dean it felt more like (grating) emotional cowardice than anything else. Fiona has the makings of a solid character– strong, compassionate, delightfully nerdy (I’m a trained scientist as well), and surprisingly sensual– but her helpless pining for an emotionally unavailable wanker like Dean for the bulk of two books was a bit of a downer for me. At least make him grovel, girl! Uneven and somewhat uncompelling (to me) characters aside, CRASH SITE is chock-full of Ms. Grant’s characteristic high-stakes action and taut (but educational) writing, so it makes for a pulse-pounding and educational read. Curious to see what comes next for these two given the… somewhat abrupt… end.
**ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It’s no secret that I am an unabashed Rachel Grant fan. It’s also no secret that the Fiona Carver series hasn’t been my favourite of Ms. Grant’s extensive list, though I liked CRASH SITE more than its predecessor– largely because I haven’t been a big fan of either protagonist. In the first novel, male protagonist/love interest Dean Slater, wildlife photographer extraordinaire and man too brokenhearted by the demise of true love to ever love again, is an absolute wanker whose insistence in being a horndog but never letting his heart get involved again grated on my every nerve from about a quarter of the first book on through to the last few pages of CRASH SITE, the second book. I love me a broken hero, but the second-chance romance trope is far from my favourite, and with Dean it felt more like (grating) emotional cowardice than anything else. Fiona has the makings of a solid character– strong, compassionate, delightfully nerdy (I’m a trained scientist as well), and surprisingly sensual– but her helpless pining for an emotionally unavailable wanker like Dean for the bulk of two books was a bit of a downer for me. At least make him grovel, girl! Uneven and somewhat uncompelling (to me) characters aside, CRASH SITE is chock-full of Ms. Grant’s characteristic high-stakes action and taut (but educational) writing, so it makes for a pulse-pounding and educational read. Curious to see what comes next for these two given the… somewhat abrupt… end.
**ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2021
A heart racing, page turning, suspenseful romance filled with a slow burn attraction between Fiona and Dean with more twists and turns and whodunits that you won't see coming. Grab this edge of your seat, romantic mystery and get ready for a thrilling ride!!
January 25, 2022
Reviewed for Dear Author.
https://dearauthor.com/book-reviews/r...
https://dearauthor.com/book-reviews/r...
October 23, 2021
I read an ARC of the first Fiona Carver book and ultimately rated it three stars (after being a solid five stars for the suspense) because of how it left things hanging between Fiona and Dean. When I had the opportunity to read book 2, I was both thrilled and wary. Would I get the HEA that eluded me at the end of book 1? To that end, it stayed on my Netgalley bookshelf for longer than it deserved while I mustered up the courage to give it a chance. I'm glad I did.
First off, while the book can be read as a standalone, it is really a better novel when read soon after the first. Even having read the first novel, the several months (and dozens of novels) between reading Dangerous Ground and Crash Site meant that I forgot a lot of details that would have enhanced my enjoyment of Crash Site. In short, do read the books as a pair.
Government archaeologist Fiona Carver has taken a leave of absence to work on a project on Ruby Island, a private Caribbean retreat leased by an old friend(ish). She and her team are unexpectedly joined by Dean Slater, National Geo wildlife photographer extraordinare. He's also Fiona's disaster buddy and near fling from Chiksook and someone Fi hasn't seen in nine months. She's both elated and devastated to see him.
Dean is equally ecstatic to see Fiona because he thinks she's one of the most amazing and wonderful people in the world. Unfortunately, he believes he buried his heart more than a decade earlier when his wife died after a two-year illness, and he has decided that he never wants to extend his heart to another woman again. It's obvious to everyone that he already has extended his heart to Fiona, so his clinging to the past is annoying (I've always hated the the "I can't love again" trope).
Anyway, things happen, and once again Fiona and Dean find themselves depending on each other as they fight their way through the rainforest and jungle, both running away from and venturing toward danger depending on the hour. It's pretty clear that both will survive. What we don't know is what the collateral damage will be and what their relationship will look like on the other side.
Between the two books, Dangerous Ground is a much more exciting one. Dean and Fiona are new to each other, and they really are on their own trying to survive in the frozen and inhospitable tundra. Here on Ruby Island, their digs are luxurious and food is plentiful (most of the time). There is definitely danger from the people on the island, but otherwise, there's not a lot of danger from their surroundings. Their forays out into the rainforest and jungle are not easy of course, but you don't get the sense that the land is going to swallow them whole. Still, though the book seems slow in the beginning the adventure and suspense eventually kicks in and the second half of the book is a fun and fast read.
The book is parenthetically referred to as Fiona Carver #2. Series books typically come in three or more, and I'm wondering if we'll get to enjoy more of Fiona and Dean's adventures together (desert? savanna? concrete jungle?). There are also secondary characters who deserve time in the spotlight. If a book 3 or a spinoff makes an appearance, I'm all in.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!
First off, while the book can be read as a standalone, it is really a better novel when read soon after the first. Even having read the first novel, the several months (and dozens of novels) between reading Dangerous Ground and Crash Site meant that I forgot a lot of details that would have enhanced my enjoyment of Crash Site. In short, do read the books as a pair.
Government archaeologist Fiona Carver has taken a leave of absence to work on a project on Ruby Island, a private Caribbean retreat leased by an old friend(ish). She and her team are unexpectedly joined by Dean Slater, National Geo wildlife photographer extraordinare. He's also Fiona's disaster buddy and near fling from Chiksook and someone Fi hasn't seen in nine months. She's both elated and devastated to see him.
Dean is equally ecstatic to see Fiona because he thinks she's one of the most amazing and wonderful people in the world. Unfortunately, he believes he buried his heart more than a decade earlier when his wife died after a two-year illness, and he has decided that he never wants to extend his heart to another woman again. It's obvious to everyone that he already has extended his heart to Fiona, so his clinging to the past is annoying (I've always hated the the "I can't love again" trope).
Anyway, things happen, and once again Fiona and Dean find themselves depending on each other as they fight their way through the rainforest and jungle, both running away from and venturing toward danger depending on the hour. It's pretty clear that both will survive. What we don't know is what the collateral damage will be and what their relationship will look like on the other side.
Between the two books, Dangerous Ground is a much more exciting one. Dean and Fiona are new to each other, and they really are on their own trying to survive in the frozen and inhospitable tundra. Here on Ruby Island, their digs are luxurious and food is plentiful (most of the time). There is definitely danger from the people on the island, but otherwise, there's not a lot of danger from their surroundings. Their forays out into the rainforest and jungle are not easy of course, but you don't get the sense that the land is going to swallow them whole. Still, though the book seems slow in the beginning the adventure and suspense eventually kicks in and the second half of the book is a fun and fast read.
The book is parenthetically referred to as Fiona Carver #2. Series books typically come in three or more, and I'm wondering if we'll get to enjoy more of Fiona and Dean's adventures together (desert? savanna? concrete jungle?). There are also secondary characters who deserve time in the spotlight. If a book 3 or a spinoff makes an appearance, I'm all in.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!
January 8, 2022
Book # 2 in the Fiona Carver series, Crash Site is a must read for fans of adventure thrillers. It can be read as a stand alone but I strongly advise reading in the series order, to get the complete picture of the relationship of its protagonists.
Fiona and Dean are back after the adventures in book #1 Dangerous Ground, but this time it is not their choice but the strings that have been pulled at their backs to milk their popularity to the fullest. The setting of the story in Dominica is like a dream, the beautiful locale providing the perfect background for the thriller. I was thoroughly impressed with Rachel Grant’s research in the first book, and in here too, she doesn’t disappoint one bit. The culture and traditions of the Kalinago people of Dominica have been woven thru the story wonderfully by the author and the atmosphere is enhanced by the flawless descriptive writing.
Ruby Island hides many mysteries and it is left to Fiona and Dean to unearth the hidden truth of the place. The danger is always around the corner as, like a house of cards, incidents keep piling up one after another upon their arrival. Unlike the first book, Crash Site doesn’t offer much suspense. The antagonists more or less become clear from the outset but the author lures in the reader with the adrenaline pumping action and deathly dangers that hang around them. There’s also a subplot of Fiona’s friend Sadie and a glimpse of attraction between Sadie and Dylan, Dean’s twin brother, hopefully, which we will be explored in future series.
The romance between Fiona and Dean does take a leap forward but I did wish that Dean’s non-commital attitude had changed somewhere midway thru the book, coz the constant harping about his commitment issues which carry over from book 1 did tend to become off-putting after a while. Fiona is of course a character that I absolutely loved, her no-nonsense approach to things and dealing with matters of the heart giving her an endearing quality.
I would happily read all the books in this series for the thrill of discovering such exotic places and Rachel Grant’s historical detailing does deserve a special mention.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Montlake Publishers, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog Rain'n'Books, ##Goodreads, ##Amazon India, ##Book Bub, ##Medium.com, ##Facebook, ##Twitter.
Fiona and Dean are back after the adventures in book #1 Dangerous Ground, but this time it is not their choice but the strings that have been pulled at their backs to milk their popularity to the fullest. The setting of the story in Dominica is like a dream, the beautiful locale providing the perfect background for the thriller. I was thoroughly impressed with Rachel Grant’s research in the first book, and in here too, she doesn’t disappoint one bit. The culture and traditions of the Kalinago people of Dominica have been woven thru the story wonderfully by the author and the atmosphere is enhanced by the flawless descriptive writing.
Ruby Island hides many mysteries and it is left to Fiona and Dean to unearth the hidden truth of the place. The danger is always around the corner as, like a house of cards, incidents keep piling up one after another upon their arrival. Unlike the first book, Crash Site doesn’t offer much suspense. The antagonists more or less become clear from the outset but the author lures in the reader with the adrenaline pumping action and deathly dangers that hang around them. There’s also a subplot of Fiona’s friend Sadie and a glimpse of attraction between Sadie and Dylan, Dean’s twin brother, hopefully, which we will be explored in future series.
The romance between Fiona and Dean does take a leap forward but I did wish that Dean’s non-commital attitude had changed somewhere midway thru the book, coz the constant harping about his commitment issues which carry over from book 1 did tend to become off-putting after a while. Fiona is of course a character that I absolutely loved, her no-nonsense approach to things and dealing with matters of the heart giving her an endearing quality.
I would happily read all the books in this series for the thrill of discovering such exotic places and Rachel Grant’s historical detailing does deserve a special mention.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Montlake Publishers, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog Rain'n'Books, ##Goodreads, ##Amazon India, ##Book Bub, ##Medium.com, ##Facebook, ##Twitter.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews