Two Seconds Too Late

 

About the Book

Book: Two Seconds Too Late (Jeopardy Falls Series: Book Two)

Author: Dani Pettrey

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release date: April 29, 2025

A missing woman. Two hit men. When every second counts, who will survive?

In the stark but beautiful wilds of northern New Mexico, a couples’ retreat at a luxury resort turns into a chilling nightmare when a woman vanishes. Skip tracer Riley MacLeod and private investigator Greyson Chadwick pose as a couple to hunt for clues that might reveal the missing woman’s location. Those leads uncover a harrowing truth: They’re not the only ones looking for her. What begins as a normal tracking case turns into a deadly chase when they, too, become the hunted.

As Riley and Greyson work together, their partnership ignites a tumultuous attraction, but Greyson’s secrets prevent him from acting on his feelings for her, and Riley can’t bring herself to fully trust him. Delving deeper into the case, they find themselves fighting not only for justice and the chance at a loving relationship . . . but also for their very survival.

 My Review: 

Riley MacLeod, her brothers, and Greyson Chadwick are all part of an investigation firm that becomes involved in a missing persons case. What Riley doesn’t realize that she has received a critical part of the key to Kelly’s disappearance.

With action and suspense at every turn, the author keeps you engaged in the story. It was rewarding to see justice served to the villain and the case being brought to an end. If you like a romance with your story, you’ll enjoy the relationship that deepens between Riley and Greyson. Her overprotective brothers made me smile as they make sure their will be consequences should things not go well with the couple.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. All opinions are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.

Click here to get your copy!

 About the Author

Publishers Weekly and #1 Amazon bestselling author, Dani Pettrey has sold nearly one million copies of her novels to readers eagerly awaiting the next release. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance.

Her novels stand out for their “wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters” (Publishers Weekly), “gripping storyline[s],” (RT Book Reviews), and “sizzling undercurrent of romance” (USA Today).

Dani loves to mentor aspiring and newly-published authors. Seeing them grow and spread their wings is so rewarding. She recently was awarded ACFW’s Mentor of the Year. She researches murder and mayhem from her home in Florida, where she lives with her husband.

More from Dani

Hi friends! Thanks so much for taking time out of your day to stop by and say hi. I deeply appreciated. I have loved writing Riley and Greyson’s story. They are my favorite couple since Landon and Piper in my Alaskan Courage series. She’s fiery and independent and he is smitten by her, but also fears for her safety and after you read Two Seconds Too Late, you’ll understand why. Taking them out of their regular environment and placing them as a couple at high-end spa and resort brings on the opportunity to test out their feelings for one another under the guise of playing along. It’s a close proximity, opposites attract, and fake relationship story that tugged at my heart and I hope it’ll dug at yours too.

Every time I release a new book, I get a bunch of questions, which I love. I love sharing more about the story and digging into my hope for it, so I’m sharing several of the questions I get asked most and I wanted to share the answers to them with you. Please feel free to ask any other questions in the comment section below and I’ll respond within a day. Thanks again for stopping by! I hope you enjoy reading Riley and Greyson’s adventure as much as I enjoyed writing it.

• What do you hope readers will take away from this book?

That despite a strong, complexed and nuanced antagonist, that light can come from the darkest places and bring peace or, at the very least, closure to not only the families of the victims but to the hero and/or heroine as well. It might not be perfect, and it certainly doesn’t fix anything, but I still believe in the hero/heroine triumphing over the villain.

2) What authors or books have influenced your career as a writer, and why?

So many. I would say my top three influencers were Sue Grafton and are Lisa Gardner and Dee Henderson. The three write very different style of stories. Sue perfect the mystery with some edgy suspense scenes. Lisa creates the best or worst, I suppose. They are a force to be reckoned with and I love her twists and surprises. And, Dee’s book are paced so well and laid out so methodically. I’ve learned something different, and continue to do so, from these three, excellent authors.

3) Which took shape first: plot, character, or setting?

To me it’s a combination of knowing the hero and heroine’s jobs. I like to think about what kind of person would do that job and how it will affect them and the story itself. I also know the setting as it’s a character its own right and adds to and affects the story overall. I also know the crime, but I don’t know who did it. I like to leave my options open to see the direction the story goes, and where the investigation leads.

4) What was the biggest challenge this book presented? What about the biggest opportunity?

The balance between what was occurring on the surface in contrast to what was simmering beneath the surface and rising up in subtext. Creating that balance and keeping things on track was interesting, but It provided the perfect opportunity to delve into the deepest part of the characters. Overall, it was tricky to strike the right balance and have the subtly rise to the surface in a natural and authentic way.

Homemade Butterscotch Recipe:

Butterscotch is Riley’s favorite candy & the bane of Greyson’s existence (you’ll see why in the book J).Ingredients:

2 ½ cup sugar

1 cup unsalted butter

1/3 tsp. salt

¾ cup water

½ cup molasses

¼ cup honey

1 tsp. Vanilla extract

And a little sea salt for an added touch.

Directions:

Put ingredients in pan. Cook mixture to 250 degrees.

Pour into a lined pan with parchment paper and leave it alone.

Sprinkle some sea salt if you’d like.

Let it sit overnight.

Cut it up into squares (a pizza cutter works great) and store in fridge.

Blog Stops

Book Looks by Lisa, April 23

CeCe Reads and Sings, April 23

The Sacred Line, April 24

Southern Gal Loves to Read, April 24

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 24

Where Faith and Books Meet, April 25

Wishful Endings, April 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 26

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 27

Inklings and Notions, April 27

Texas Book-aholic, April 28

For Him and My Family, April 28

Maureen’s Musings, April 29

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 29

Betti Mace, April 30

Bizwings Book Blog, April 30

Leslie’s Library Escape, May 1

Just Your Average reviews, May 1

Blogging With Carol, May 2

Inkwell Inspirations, May 2

Stories By Gina, May 3 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, May 3

Cover Lover Book Review, May 4

Labor Not in Vain, May 4

Holly’s Book Corner, May 5

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, May 5

Lights in a Dark World, May 5

Pause for Tales, May 6

Roads to Everywhere, May 6

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dani is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card, a copy of the book in winner’s choice of eBook or paperback, and a $20 Starbucks gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54203

Storm Warning

About the Book: 

Haunted by a half-forgotten past, former army photographer Remi Grant works at an isolated storm-watching lodge on the rugged Washington coast when she receives a mysterious puzzle piece. This piece might hold the key to unlocking a disturbing incident she struggles to remember—an event that drove her into hiding. As heavy storms approach, Remi must focus on the present rather than dwell on the past.

When a mysterious man at the lodge saves her life twice, Remi becomes suspicious and confronts him. Former military pilot Hawk Beckett, seeking perspective after a personal catastrophe at his commanding officer's suggestion, finds himself caught in the fiercest storm to hit the coast in a decade. As they face the storm together, they discover they're not alone at the lodge.

My Review
If you are looking for a high octane suspense that is action packed, Storm Warning is the book for you. Things don’t add up as  Hawk Beckett is assigned to take down an assassin and is drawn into a dangerous situation with Remi Grant’. Remi's memory begins after a horrific accident on a military mission, but will what she remember put her in danger? I loved the twists that took place throughout the story. I thought I had things figured out, only to realize that things weren’t what they seemed. I was happy to see the romance occur between Remi and Hawk, who was always there to protect her. 

Things to love: 

helicopters

danger

intrigue

rugged scenery

military secrets

I highly recommend reading this book for its suspense and clean romance. This is the first in the Hidden Bay series, and I am looking forward to reading more! 

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

While the City Sleeps

 While the City Sleeps 

Amid the hushed city, two hearts must navigate danger and deception, bound by a love that outshines the stars.

Katherine Schneider's life as a dentist in 1913 New York is upended when a patient reveals details of a deadly plot while under the influence of laughing gas. As she is plunged into danger, she seeks help from the dashing Lieutenant Jonathan Birch, a police officer she has long admired from afar.

Jonathan has harbored powerful feelings toward Katherine for years but never acted on them, knowing his dark history is something she could never abide. Now, with her safety on the line, he works alongside her through the nights as they unravel the criminal conspiracy that threatens her . . . even as he keeps his deepest secrets hidden at all costs.

My Review: 

I loved this book as Ms. Camden writes like only she can with her attention to details and an intriguing plot that make her stories come to life. Dr. Katherine Schneider learns of a dangerous plot that threatens New York City. She is one, bold young woman as she doesn't stop at seeing things made right and helping avert a disaster if at all possible. I enjoyed when she goes into the territory of a deadly Mafia family. I laughed when she faces off with Jonathan's grandmother. It took real guts to find her and ask for help.

I highly recommend this story with danger, suspense, interesting characters, and intrigue, you are sure to want to read this first book in the Women of Midtown series. Readers of all ages will certainly enjoy it.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through AustenProse book tours. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Crossfire

 About the Book: 

FBI special agent Julianna Jameson is a top-notch negotiator who has never lost a hostage. Surely she can manage to take care of her much younger sister, Dottie, who showed up unannounced to live with Julianna while she finished her senior year of high school.

A former sniper with the 75th Ranger Regiment, Clay Fox left the army after a tragic incident that he can't get past. Now he's working as a high school resource officer until he can figure out what to do with the rest of his life.

Their paths cross when Julianna is called in to negotiate a courtroom hostage situation involving Clay's sister. Impressed and a bit intimidated by the calm, capable woman with the dark hair and blue eyes, Clay invites her to speak at his school. Dottie's school.

But as the anniversary of a school shooting from Julianna's past approaches, it becomes clear that her perfect record is about to be tested and that Dottie is at risk. If Julianna and Clay can't figure out who's behind the attacks, more innocent people will die--and Dottie is next in line.

This intense story of revenge and redemption from bestselling author and master of suspense Lynette Eason will have you up all night as you race toward the explosive finish.

My Review: 

Getting to see the story of Julianna Jameson and how her mistakes as a teen were turned from tragedy to triumph made this such a great book. The subplots were well done, giving an air of mystery and suspense, and the masterful telling of the story had all of the pieces fit together with a satisfying conclusion. I was happily surprised by some and saddened and surprised by other parts of the story. 

I really enjoyed the characters of courageous Julianna, her love interest Clay Fox, and her tough yet compassionate little sister, Dottie. Julianna had what it took to be a hostage negotiator: calm, clear-thinking, and cool under pressure when things were tense. Clay is a steadying force in the lives of Julianna and his students. He was a wonderful influence on the students who needed someone to care. Dottie had faced a great number of difficulties growing up, but she chose not to let them embitter her. She was one of my favorites and hopefully she will be in future stories. 

This is the second book in the Extreme Measures series, but it can be read as a standalone. However, you would enjoy the first book too! If you like suspense with some mystery and romance, and a faith element, this is one to read. 

I received a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

Fatal Forensic Investigation

About the Book:

Remembering a serial killer’s face…could be deadly

While interviewing the Coastline Strangler’s only surviving victim, forensic artist Scarlet Wells is attacked and left with amnesia. Now she’s his next mark and has no choice but to work with constable Jace Allen to unlock the criminal’s true identity trapped in her mind. Will they be able to recover the hidden memory and hunt down the killer before he strikes again?

My Review: The Coastline Strangler has an agenda in mind and he seems unstoppable. This was one creepy serial killer! How could he be everywhere? His killings are escalating and he has his sights set on Scarlet Wells, a forensic sketch artist. The scary thing is that she is injured and cannot remember a lot of details, especially anything that would help catch the killer. 

This was very suspenseful with nonstop action as not only is Scarlet a target, but also is Officer Jace Allen. He's a man from her past and now a part of the investigation. It seemed like I could hardly catch my breath before something else happened! But, evil men do not win and Scarlet is one clever young lady who outsmarts the horribly vile and deranged man. 

Watching the faith in God, that Scarlet had just about given up, be restored was so encouraging. Through all of the difficulties she faced, she realized that God “used her amnesia to cleanse me. Renew the old Scarlet and shape her into a stronger woman.” 

I recommend reading this if you like Christian suspense story with romance and mystery. I received a copy of this book with no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own. 

The Vanishing at Loxby Manor

With plenty of red herrings, unreliable, suspicious people sharing cryptic tales, I was left wondering what was really happening and who to believe. Masterfully told, The Vanishing at Loxby Manor includes spine tingling Gothic elements of old buildings falling into disrepair, women in distress, bumps in the night, omens, and an ominous mystery. Combining all of these things with a romantic element was just what was needed to make this a five star book for me.  

When I read a mystery, I love to be able to see if I can solve it with the clues that have been given. Ms.Wilson gave just enough breadcrumbs to lead me down a path, only to have me stop and retrace my (mental) steps time and again. I was thoroughly engaged in the story and was delighted to have solved it, even if it was just right before all was revealed. If you like Gothic mysteries, I highly recommend reading this. 

Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

About the Book: 

A story of second chances and secrets, this mysterious Regency romance will transport you to 19th-century England as one young lady reunites with her childhood love to find his missing sister. 

Her friend is missing.

After five years abroad, Charity Halliwell finally returns to Loxby Manor, the home of dear friends - and her lost love. No longer a young girl, she is now haunted by a painful secret and the demise of her dreams. Instead of the healing and happiness she hopes to find, she encounters a darkness lurking in the shadows of the once-familiar house. When her friend, Seline, disappears the very night of her arrival, Charity is determined to uncover the truth. 

Her only hope is the man who broke her heart.

Branded a coward, Piers Cavanaugh has lived the last five years as an outcast far from his family home. When his sister presumably elopes with a stable hand, Piers joins forces with an unlikely partner - the one woman he thought he’d never see again. Together, they launch an investigation that leads to strange nightly meetings in the ruins of an old abbey and disturbing whispers of a secret organization. The more they learn, the more desperate the situation becomes. 

The house seems determined to keep its secrets.

As they struggle to piece together the clues, Charity and Piers also endeavor to rebuild their friendship. One cryptic letter changed everything between them. To find happiness, they will have to overcome the grief and shame keeping them apart. But first they must discover why Seline vanished and confront the growing fear that she may never return. 

The Purple Nightgown

A.D. Lawrence’s fictionalized story of a true crime at a “health spa” was fantastic. The writing was excellent in bringing about some tense moments. I found my heart racing along with Stella's flight through the forest.  I wanted to close my eyes, hoping she could escape from this awful place, hoping someone would help her. But, having your eyes closed doesn’t work when you are reading! 

The pacing, the characterization of the diabolical, crazed Dr. Linda Hazzard, and the events that take place at the spa make this a goosebumps kind of read. The romantic element was just right. It was not too much to take away from the story and it added to the mood throughout the story. If you enjoy suspense with a dash of romance, I recommend you read this debut novel by A.D. Lawrence’s in the True Colors series by Barbour. 

Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

* The release date is March 1, 2021, but you can preorder now. 

About the book: 

Step into True Colors -- a series of Historical Stories of Romance and True American Crime
 
Marvel at true but forgotten history when patients check into Linda Hazzard’s Washington state spa in 1912 and soon become victim of her twisted greed.
 
Heiress Stella Burke is plagued by insincere suitors and nonstop headaches. Exhausting all other medical aides for her migraines, Stella reads Fasting for the Cure of Disease by Linda Hazzard and determines to go to the spa the author runs. Stella’s chauffer and long-time friend, Henry Clayton, is reluctant to leave her at the spa. Something doesn’t feel right to him, still Stella submits herself into Linda Hazzard’s care. Stella soon learns the spa has a dark side and Linda a mean streak. But when Stella has had enough, all ways to leave are suddenly blocked. Will Stella become a walking skeleton like many of the other patients or succumb to a worse fate?

Alabama Days

 Alabama Days by Daphne Self shows how even when we are afraid and face hard times, we don't have to do it alone.  This story of crime and corruption, love and redemption was one in which I was rooting for  Scott and Angela to win. Angela was just what Scott needed to help him be free of his past regrets and Scott helps Angela to trust once again. 

The town's corruption that was part of Angela's news story for the Garrettville Gazette was the interesting suspense element in the book. It kept me guessing throughout as to who was involved and how far it affected the town. I wasn't sure who to trust, which created a sense of uncertain expectancy in the plot throughout. 

It's a great read with a satisfying ending. I was glad to see that Scott was able to let go of the past and see a promising future. I hope that there are more stories of the endearing characters who are part of Scott and Angela's life. 

Thank you to the author for a free copy of this book. I was not required to write this review. All thought and opinions in this review are my own. 

About the Author:

Daphne Self, formerly published under the name D.M. Webb, resides in Iowa. A transplant from Mississippi who fell in love with the Midwest state, she spends her days writing, editing, antiquing, and planning adventures with her husband and sons.

Having always dreamed of being a writer she pursues this dream with only one goal in mind: To Glorify His Name. Daphne is also an avid reader who devours books in many genres and an editor for a Christian publishing company. Daphne is a long time member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers). She volunteers her time helping upcoming authors polish their manuscripts through a multitude of programs.