Submerged by Dani Pettrey

Submerged by Dani Pettrey
Series: Alaskan Courage Series
Publisher: Betthany House Publishers on May 1, 2012

REVIEW BY STACI TROILO

I stumbled across this author’s body of work when her name was listed as a member of a panel of writers, all of whom write Christian fiction. She was one of two who wrote mystery/suspense, and as I’d already read everything by the other author, I figured I’d give this one a try.

I’m so glad I did. This story, a first in series, offers everything I could ask for—danger, high stakes, tense scenes, a mystery involving historical artifacts, strong family bonds and equally strong friendships, a second-chance romance (with no explicit scenes), and best of all, a focus on faith that’s not preachy but is prominent. What’s not to love?

Bailey returns to Yancey, Alaska, a place she hoped never to set foot in again. Her beloved aunt passed away in a tragic plane crash, and she returns for the funeral. She’d left behind bad behaviors and worse memories, and revisiting them takes strength she isn’t sure she possesses. Little did she know facing her demons would be the least of the evils she’s forced to confront. 

Cole is the one who got away. Rather, he’s the one she scared away. They both wish they’d done things differently then and are surprised to find they’re still interested in each other now. It’s hard to protect your heart while taking a risk. It’s a path each considers and both struggle with. Regardless of their feelings, they can’t avoid each other. They’re too embroiled in the mystery to walk away.

Also of note is Cole’s family, both those of blood and those of choice. His brother and sisters have small roles that make a big impact, and his best friend is every bit as loyal and interesting. I’m looking forward to seeing where all these characters go in this series.

I love the way things that feel like color in the beginning of the book turn out to be significant later. That writing technique, when used effectively, makes a mystery something to strive to solve… far preferable to enduring the tedium of watching oblivious characters miss obvious clues. It was fun to try to piece everything together before the leads did.

In addition to the characters and plot, I was pleased with the Christian element in this story. Some books in this genre are heavy on mystery, light on faith. Others suffer from the opposite problem. This one landed in the Goldilocks zone. The mystery is engaging, and the Good News is organic to the characters’ journeys rather than author intrusion to preach at readers.

“When people hurt they usually want to run away from God instead of to Him—
even though He’s what they need most.” 

Cole held her gaze. “Very insightfully spoken.” 

She swallowed. “Just been there myself.”

Dani Pettrey, Submerged

All told, I really have no complaints. The writing was solid, the editing clean. The contents ticked every box for me. There’s nothing on my list of things I could have done without and nothing on my list for things I’d have wanted more of. Not unless you count more books in the series… and I’m happy to see there are a few more waiting for me. 

Five easy-to-award fish.

_{I read Submerged through Kindle Unlimited.}