Sea State by J.M. Simpson
Published: December 3, 2021
J.M. Simpson
Pages: 404
Genre: Suspense/Thriller
KKECReads Rating:
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
J.M. Simpson, or Jo, was originally born in Essex; Jo was predominantly raised in the West Country, enjoying childhood in Devon and Cornwall, never far from a rugged coastline, sandy beach, or harbour. Jo currently lives in Kent, with her two (occasionally stroppy) teenage daughters, her incredibly long-suffering husband, and her two writing partners, Max (who features as Brock in the series) and Merlin, both rescue Border Collie’s.
The rugged coastline and tight-knit community of Castleby offers her that chance. Her new job with the local lifeboat crew gives her the stability and comfort she craves. Her skipper, Doug Brodie, faces his own demons. He is struggling with survivor’s guilt, physical and mental scars, and a marriage teetering on the brink.
Jesse is desperate to put aside the dark nightmares and terrible memories. As she and Doug grow closer, she wonders whether she can ever really live a normal life and be happy. But Jesse is in grave danger. Someone is watching her; trying to control and manipulate her life. Someone plans to make her life a living nightmare and return her to the hell she thought she had left behind. Will she ever be free?
“Trust your gut, no buts.”
Jesse is starting over and in a new place, trying to put herself back together. Still haunted by nightmares, she is looking forward to getting to work. Doug is passionate about his job, his kids, and his crew. When the newcomer becomes more than just a member of the team, neither Doug or Jesse realize what lies ahead. Sink or swim- together.
I enjoyed this novel very much! The characters were fantastic, the plot was engaging and fast paced, and the way things unraveled was fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat.
I absolutely adore Jesse. She is so strong, so smart, so fierce. I love that she is a mechanic, a completely gifted and capable woman in a traditionally male dominated field. I love her sass and her wit. She is an amazing leading character.
Doug is a skipper through and through. I loved his strength, his intelligence, his heart, and his drive. He had such a natural charm, and he isn’t afraid to do the work. Brave and kind, he is a devoted father, a hardworking skipper, and a fair leader.
I absolutely did not see the twist in this coming until it fell into my lap. The writing was very well done, the storyline was clearly well plotted, and the characters were all written so beautifully.
This is going to be an amazing series. The themes are fantastic, I love the cast of characters, and Brock. I am looking forward to book two!