Obsession Under the Southern Stars

Southern Stars #2

by Serenity Woods

She’s the one treasure I’ll risk everything to keep…

I’m a successful maritime archaeologist, but the two things I truly desire—my father’s respect, and Zoe Moon—elude me. I may never earn the former, but I’m obsessed with winning the latter.

Zoe is brilliant, quirky, and impossibly sexy—a rising star at the National Museum in Wellington who keeps everyone, including me, at arm’s length. Determined to find a way to get her alone, I seize the opportunity when a lead on the wreck of the Relentless surfaces. I offer Zoe a chance she can’t to recover the legendary opal necklace lost with the ship for her Valentine’s Day exhibition.

Our dive expedition is supposed to stay professional, but a sudden storm leaves us stranded on a remote island in the Bay of Islands. Forced into close quarters, our chemistry ignites in ways I’ve only imagined. But just when I think I’m breaking through her defenses, Zoe reveals the emotional scars she carries—and why love and family aren’t in her future.

I’ve fallen for her hard, and I’m not one to back down. But mending her heart might be the one thing beyond my control…

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance

250 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 16, 2024

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Serenity Woods writes small-town romances about strong, capable men who work harder and love harder. Most of her stories are set in Aotearoa New Zealand, where she lives.

Reviews

[Erin Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Star Review Obsession Under the Southern Stars ( Southern Stars #2 )by Serenity Woods

When I read the blurb for this book, I was so excited and couldn’t wait to read. Serenity Woods transported me to the Bay of Islands and New Zealand with her descriptive writing.

I always wanted to be an archaeologist and this book captivated me from the first word to the last.

This is Zoe Moon and Joel Bell’s friends to lovers story and what a well written and entertaining story it was as they explored the shipwreck and investigated.

The Māori culture which Serenity Woods weaves throughout the story added an additional layer.

There were equal amounts of heat and romance with characters who I could easily relate to. This booked ticked all my boxes and is one of my favourite reads from Ms. Woods.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book.

[TrishAM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I thought is couldn't get any better along comes Joel and I am once more an emotional wreck, Serenity Woods has knocked it out of the ball park with this one.
Marine archaeologist, Joel Bell's two main aims in life are to elicit some praise or even recognition from his father for his successes and to capture the heart of Zoe Moon.
Zoe, a marine archaeologist works for Joels brother, Fraser, who is director of the National Museum in Wellington. Zoe and Joel are best friends but Joel wants more, he wants Zoe.
Zoe and Joel exchange witty banter and flirt outrageously but that is as far as Zoe will let it go. Joel is certain that Zoe had feelings for him and he can't understand why she won't even go on a date with him, not for lack of trying on his part.
Undeterred, Joel invites Zoe to go on a dive with him, they would be searching The Relentless, a ship known to have carried treasures, one necklace in particular Zoe would love to find and exhibit it at the museum. Joel has an ulterior motive, he will try his level best in their few days together to steer Zoe to his way of thinking.
Zoe is gorgeous, witty, sassy, she loves her job but Zoe has a secret, a secret that will change the way Joel looks at her'
Joel is handsome, if unkempt, he is caring, never happier than when he is in the water and he would walk over hot coals for Zoe.
This story follows Zoe and Joels bumpy journey to their HEA, Joels patience, he will wait for Zoe for as long as it takes, he will gain her trust. Zoe fights against her emotions, she fights to stop her heart getting broken, she must let Joel go.
Being shipwrecked in a tropical storm and spending the night together on a remote island could be make or break.
This book takes romance to the next level and the authors paints a picture with words of the beautiful Bay of Islands making me long to visit.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.

[Cathy Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obsession Under the Southern Stars by Serenity Woods
Southern Stars #2

Warm, wonderful, and witty friends to lovers romance set under the southern stars ~ Love this author, this series, and the couple in this book ~ They are perfect for and with one another ~ Great way to spend the day!

What I liked:
* Joel Bell: Maritime Archeologist, brilliant, holds many records, sincere, genuine, calm, self-possessed, team player, loves his family, knows what he wants - and he wants Zoe
* Zoe Moon: conservation archaeologist, bright, open, witty, loves her family, has a big secret and difficult backstory that impacts her ability to trust, grows a lot in this story
* Learning about Zoe’s backstory and wondering how it will all work out for her and her family
* Joel’s wise counsel, calmness in difficult situations, and constancy throughout
* The romance between Joel and Zoe and how it proceeds
* The time in and on the water and how they managed various situations that occurred
* The overlap of characters from previous books with this one and knowing that there will be another book in the future
* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing
* The way Zoe and Joel managed to strengthen their friendship and relationship while uplifting one another while getting closer
* The tie-ins to mythology of the area
* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about how tough Zoe and it and wishing it could have been dealt with differently
* Having to wait for the next book

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series/ by this author? Definitely

Thank you to the author for the ARC – this is my honest review.

5 Stars

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the title you would think someone in this book, like Joel, would be a creepy stalker or worse. But no, he is just persistent. Who else does Zoe know who would ask her out 15 TIMES and still not be faed by her consistent NO. My husband was like that. And well, he IS my husband now, so I know that persistence works in real life, so why not in fiction? What Joel can’t understand is why Zoe does turn him down after breaking up with Charlie, who everyone else knew was...not right for her? Here is this sweet, good-looking, perfectly nice (not to mention rich) guy who only has eyes for her, and she just can’t—or won’t—believe he really does care for her already, even though they haven’t dated.

So he figures out a way to get her time with him, have an adventure, and help her complete a task for her job (working at a museum for his brother).

It doesn’t always go well, but you are treated to amazing descriptions of many beautiful areas of New Zealand’s North Island and the Bay of Islands. I live on a gorgeous beach in Central America, but I was ready to jump on a plane and head out to NZ to see for myself if it was really as beautiful as Serenity describes it.

There are fun, frightening, wild, sad, and crazy happenings, that ultimately lead to Zoe and Joel’s HEA. Believe me, reading about their journey from friends to lovers is definitely worth every minute of your time, and you might, like me, wish it would go on! But the two of them go through more than enough to end up together, so I guess we will just have to let them enjoy their love, family and friends.

I received an ARC for this book and this is my honest, non-paid, true review of this book.

[Karen Shrock-jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bring on the next installment!

I thought book #3 was coming out in December, but now I see April? I've just read the first two installments back to back although I was supposed to have read the ARC's of each and reviewed them. I did receive the ARC's, but chose to reach them in my Kindle Unlimited account. I was concerned that I might miss something between the ARC and the public release. I doubt that I would have, but just in case ... by missing something, I mean some last-minute edit.

All of Serenity's novels and series are wonderfully unique. Although Elora's story and this story do share some similarities in themes and circumstances, she treats her characters and individuals with their own personalities and characteristics.

I love also that all of her novels are strung together as jewels on one beautiful work of art. The series are each separate, but there are crossovers that connect the characters together across series.. By now, I'm feeling as though I might know half of the population of New Zealand.

I have one request that may be a folder on requests instead. This novel has made me particularly antsy to have pictures to visually accompany the written visual travelogues of NZ that Ms Woods also incorporates within the stories.

Another P.P.S.: This "Serenity Woods" name is driving me nuts! That cannot possibly be the author's given name! I demand full disclosure!!!

Pretty please. With sprinkles and whipped cream on top?

[Cheryl Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another dose of real life down under from Serenity Woods. This is the second book of the Southern Stars trilogy.

I love Serenity's books because they always have the ingredients I love in a good romance.
-Relatable (if wealthy) heroes
-Girl next door heroines
-Thoughtfully handled problems
-Fabulous New Zealand backdrop

Joel is a marine archeologist who has had a persistent crush on Zoe, who works for his brother Fraser.

"She absolutely fascinates me, and despite having turned me down fifteen times since she broke up with her boyfriend, I'm determined to convince her we're meant to be together."

Zoe is an archeologist who works for Joel's brother Fraser at the National Museum of New Zealand. Since her break up she doesn't trust men.

"Joel Bell is my best friend Elora's older brother. I've known him for a couple of years, and over that time we've developed a strange friendship."

As usual the author treats a disturbing subject with extreme sensitivity. Joel is yet another brilliant book boyfriend and Zoe is sensitive and likeable enough that I'm not jealous.

Book one "Seduction Under the Southern Stars" featured Elora and Linc. All of the books take part during the same period of time. I'm looking forward to reading about the last brother Fraser, in the final book.

[Susan Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely story, with delightful people. Joel is a marine archaeologist, he adores Zoe, an archaeologist who works for his brother Fraser, at the well respected National Museum of New Zealand. Zoe broke up with her boyfriend two months previously, and since then Joel has asked her out fifteen times, to which she has always replied ‘No’. He has just invited her to spend a week with him, diving to excavate a wreck he and his team have found, which they believe is a famous artifact, the Relentless. The museum is putting on a Valentine’s Day exhibition called Love under the Southern Stars, and Joel thinks there is the possibility of finding a beautiful necklace that the Captain of the ship had bought in Australia, as a gift for his wife. Zoe cannot resist the opportunity!

They head north, their first outing is to a rather grand awards dinner, where Zoe finds out quite a lot about Joel, he is nothing like the playboy she thought he was. Both of them have issues from their past that need to be dealt with for them to achieve happiness. They travel further north to the site of the wreck, and Zoe spends a couple of idyllic days learning how marine archaeology is undertaken. Then things go awry. For several reasons they are forced to spend a few days alone together and this gives them the opportunity to talk about their issues, and learn each other’s point of view. They realise there are ways to deal with the outside influences that they hadn’t considered before. Their hopes and dreams are possible!

When they return home they have their future plans sorted. They can have their happy-ever-after! This is a well thought through story, Serenity clearly had to do a great deal of research for parts of the narrative and it makes it very interesting. Well worth reading.

[Karen Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joel and Zoe's story is filled with intriguing twists and turns. Joel repeatedly asks Zoe out, but she consistently declines. Although he's trying not to pressure her, he's running out of ideas. When he invites her to join him on an archaeological dive in search of a lost necklace, she eagerly accepts, and excitement ensues.

Both Joel and Zoe grapple with family issues, and Zoe struggles to trust men—even as she finds herself drawn to Joel. Their adventure unfolds beneath the sea as they search for treasure.

During the dive, a series of harrowing events nearly cost them their lives. Afterwards, they realize they must confront their challenges before going any further. Both have secrets and having to spend time alone in a cabin gives them plenty of opportunities to talk.

I love Joel; he is patient, kind, funny and exactly what Zoe needs, though she fears trusting him. On the other hand, Zoe is good for Joel, giving him the confidence boost he truly requires to face his father.

Their story is sweet and enriched by good friends, stunning locations, and lots of chemistry between them.

Book one, "Seduction Under the Southern Stars," featured Elora and Linc. All the books take place within the same timeframe, and I eagerly anticipate reading about the final brother, Fraser, in the concluding instalment.

[Jackie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obsession Under The Southern Stars is Joel and Zoe’s opposites attract romance and it’s book two in the Southern Stars Series. As you would expect from Serenity Woods this is a well written, entertaining and emotional story as you find yourself transported to the beautiful Bay of Islands Area of New Zealand.
Joel is Zoe’s friend and coworkers older brother and when he invites her on a dive expedition she jumps at the chance. Looking for nothing but a successful expedition she is surprised when she finds herself trying to keep Joel at arms length. Problem is Joel is determined to win the girl…..
Joel is a man on a mission, he knows what he wants and nothing is going to get in his way. But getting Zoe to trust again is not going to be easy and when secrets are revealed will he stay or will he run for the hills. One click now to find out.
I loved everything about this book, I fell hard and fast for Joel and my heart broke for Zoe. This book has twists and turns you don’t see coming, it’s well written with wonderful characters but what takes it to another level is the way this author transports you to New Zealand with her wonderful descriptive writing. Looking forward to the next book in this wonderful series.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joel and Zoe have been friends for years. Joel has wanted much more, but Zoe has been holding him at an “arm’s length” firmly putting him in the friend zone. Now with the offer to join a ship wreck exploration Zoe puts her unease aside to join Joel for this exciting chance.
As their trip proceeds Joel and Zoe learn more about each other, experience profound situations affecting them greatly while bringing them together.
This is a story of romantic relationships, but also of family dynamics and family relationships. How each event, each comment made by each family member effects the future of all involved. Joel’s father who we have met in early books has drilled into his head to “not be a tall poppy,” do not boast about his achievements believing each achievement is because of God, not the person who accomplished it. Zoe has secrets from her teenage years which to this day have a profound effect on her. As they spend time together the two help each other deal with the hurdles their families placed before them.
A lovely story of perseverance, friendships, family and of course, romance. Another terrific book by Serenity Woods

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joel and Zoe's story is filled with lots of interesting twists and turns. Joel keeps asking Zoe out and she keeps saying no. He's trying not to pressure her, but he's running out of ideas. Then he asks her to go on an archeological dive for a lost necklace, and things get really exciting.

Both Joel and Zoe have issues with family,and Zoe doesn't trust men, but she really likes Joel. Their story is exciting set below the sea, searching for treasure.

A lot happens while the dive is taking place and Joel and Zoe nearly lose their lives. Afterward, they realize they need to meet personal problems head on before they can further seek a relationship together.

I loved Joel. He was such a sweetheart and just what Zoe needs, but she's afraid to trust him. Zoe was good for Joel and gave him a confidence boost he really needed.

Their story is sweet and filled with good friends, beautiful locations, and lots of steam.

Ms. Woods always makes you feel like you are part of the story, and her indepth description and detail always fascinates me. She's one of my favorite authors.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zoe and Joel’s friends-to-lovers story in Obsession Under the Southern Stars by Serenity Woods, book two in her Southern Stars series, is an amazing, very emotional, sizzling, and heartwarming story. Family dynamics and the problems that overly religious and protective parents can cause their children are also explored. As usual, the author treats a disturbing subject with extreme sensitivity.

Joel Bell, a marine archeologist, has had a relentless crush on Zoe, an archeologist, who works for his brother Fraser at the National Museum of New Zealand. Joel knows what he wants and is determined not to give up. Zoe has been seriously hurt in past and knows she will fall for Joel easily, but she fears getting hurt again.

Joel convinces Zoe to join him and his team as they explore an underwater shipwreck; searching for items, but especially an opal necklace. With adventure and danger, these two explore the sizzling chemistry that sparks between them. The more time they spend together the more they learn about one another as well as support each other as insecurities slip into their cracks; with some surprising reveals along the way.

Ms. Woods provided vivid descriptions of the Bay of Islands in New Zealand and all the underwater and ocean delights, including Maori myths that make the story come to life. This story also ties into the first book in the series and segues nicely into a hint of book three; as all three books take part during the same period of time. I'm looking forward to reading about Fraser and Hallie in the final book.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This friends-to-lovers romance between archeologists Zoe and Joel has some fun and fascinating plotlines! This is a steamy and very satisfying love story with lots of sexual tension and secrets. But the adventures of Zoe and Joel exploring an underwater shipwreck and taking a picnic by boat that could turn deadly, also make this story fresh, exciting and unique. The descriptions of the Bay of Islands in New Zealand and all the underwater and ocean delights, including Maori myths, make the story come to life. As always, Ms. Woods explores family dynamics and the problems that overly religious and protective parents can cause their children. I was worried that this time Serenity was not going to pull off a happy ending but as always you will be very pleased with how things turn out for the lovers! This story also weaves in the first book in the series and segues nicely into a hint of book three. I volunteered to read and review an early copy.

[JigsawGirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't know that underwater or marine archeology was a thing. I guess I never really thought much about it. Once again I was gifted with beautiful detailed descriptions of the Bay of Islands and other NZ locations. The storm had me holding my breath for a minute.

Despite Zoe's determination to not give in to her feelings for Joel, I liked the way they came together, both so supportive of one another. I had to admire Zoe's strength and courage in her situation. I also respected Joel's honest counsel about it. I was happy for Joel after he made his decision about Moana and Manu.

I am amazed at how this author manages to provide an intriguing story and weaves not only a romantic thread throughout, but a sensual one as well. This was just the getaway I needed. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Lilpep · Rating 5 out of 5]

You wouldn't think a couple of archeologists would have a sexy love story, but here it is. Joel and Zoey have been friends for ages. He is more than ready to step out of the friend zone but Zoey keeps him at arm's length.  Joel's quest to win her over is stymied by past trauma and family secrets she refuses to share.


I can always count on Ms. Woods for complex characters in equally complex situations, handling a sensitive issue with delicacy. She also adds the bonus of a fascinating glimpse into both archeology and underwater exploration, as well as Maori culture. Her detailed scenic descriptions paint a lovely picture of New Zealand. 


While this is the second book in the Southern Stars series, it definitely works as a stand-alone.  It does occupy the same point in time as the first book so there is a bit of interaction with those characters and I liked that. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment, so get writing Serenity! 

[Robyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joel has been interested in Zoe since he first met her but he didn't ask her out until she broke up with her previous boyfriend. However, Zoe keeps turning him down. Then Joel tempts Zoe with a week long trip diving on a wreck with the possibility of finding a historical necklace. This was too much for Zoe to resist. Then they get caught by a storm and trapped on an island overnight. There is no doubt about the attraction between Joel and Zoe but both have been affected by things that happened years ago. Will they be able to make things work.

This book is part of a series but it can be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed meeting Joel and Zoe. I loved the laugh right at the end of the book. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start by saying that I really enjoy all of Serenity's books, however she just keeps getting better and better with each new book. Obsession under the Southern Stars continues this and exceeded my expectations.
Zoe and Joel are the protagonists in this book and each has baggage and history that they need to work through and learn to trust each other. As always in Serenity's books, there are some deeper issues that are explored - this is a book you can read down the beach but also a book that makes you think and imagine yourself in the protagonist's position, without getting too heavy or preach-y. A fine line that Serenity walks with aplomb. All the Under the Southern Stars books tie into the same timeline and I enjoyed seeing snippets of the first book tied into this one. I look forward to how Fraser and Haley's story ties in to this timeline
I received an ARC of this novel.

[Tanja Glavnik · Rating 4 out of 5]

I so very kindly got sent an ARC of this book, then fell sick and couldn't do anything but bare minimum functioning until today.

For me, it was so worth the wait tho.

I love Joel and Zoe, and I especially like Joel's job, because I also happen to be a David Gibbins and his Jack Howard series fan, so this was right up my alley! I think the both of them have a lot of work left ahead to recover from their past experiences, and my heart broke a little for them both, but they have each other now, and Elora and Linc.

I would have perhaps liked a bit more resolution regarding Joel's relationship with Atticus, and Zoe's situation as a whole, but I'm confident we'll see some more of that in book 3.

Overall, Ms Woods continues to deliver heartwarming (and wrenching!) stories wrapped in beautiful prose, and I can't wait to conclude this trilogy with Fraser.

Absolutely recommend!

[Kasey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book of the Southern Stars series and it features Zoe and Joel. Zoe is Elora's (Seduction Under the Southern Stars) friend and coworker and Joel is her older brother. This book plays out on a similar timeline to the first, just a little behind.

Joel was just the sweetest. He encourages Zoe to come with him on a dive expedition to uncover an artifact Zoe could display at the museums Valentine’s Day exhibition. Zoe has been hurt in the past and tries to hold Joel at arms length but Joel is determined to win her over.

Yet again Ms Woods handles a difficult subject well, with compassion and honesty. Would definitely recommend this book and can’t wait for Fraser's story.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Alison R · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. Joel and Zoe are such a sweet couple. He doesn't understand why Zoe won't date him but as he continues to be gently persuasive, Zoe warms to the idea. I mean what could be cuter than going over their top 10 Disney/Pixar movies, right?! I do have to say I did not suspect for a moment what Zoe's secret was but to no surprise, Joel handled it with the grace I expected from his character.

I also really enjoyed the ocean recovery aspect of the story and how Joel wasn't the simple recovery guy that Zoe thought he was. It was rant cool and I found myself hoping that they found what they were looking for.

Great book and I gladly provided an unbiased review on an ARC

[Helen Key · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely story, I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Zoe and Joel and as with all of Serenity's books her character development gives the story an extra dimension. Her description of beautiful New Zealand helps you to imagine being there, even the not-so-good bits such as a storm. This is, however, an opportunity for another of Serenity's writing skills, Zoe and Joel getting hot and steamy while stranded in a hut overnight. The story isn't a plain sailing friends to lovers, happy ever after from the start and it's a bit of a tear-jerker in places as Zoe's past unfolds. They get there in the end and you will be cheering them on.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book

[Lesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Opposites Attract.
Having her previous boyfriend reject her on having told her secret, Zoe has no intention of getting involved with Joel. She knows that if they ever got together, she would fall hard and fast and having him reject her would break her wounded heart still more, and ruin their friendship group. Joel however is determined to win Zoe as his own and goes all out to woo her. A delightful story with two opposites who have wounds in their past getting a HEA.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Donna Wolz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obsession Under The Southern Stars is the 2nd book in the series. Joel and Zoe are friends who met due to them being archaeologists. Joel has feelings for Zoe but she has been hurt in the past and holds him at arms length. Eventually, Zoe admits to herself that she has feelings for Joel that can't be denied. I loved how Joel was a sensitive man who wasn't afraid to show his feelings. That is one of the reasons Zoe finally admitted to her feelings for him. I loved the story. Serenity Woods never disappoints.

[Cara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am heading from the United States to New Zealand in February for a trip on my bucket list, largely inspired by reading Serenity Woods’ entire catalogue of books. Her beautiful writing makes me feel like I am in this gorgeous country, and this book was especially rich with description.

I love how her setting descriptions are always enriching to the plot and romance and never just boring filler. The romance between Zoe and Joel was a refreshingly unique story, and I loved their journey. Highly recommended.

[Jackie Human · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just loved this book

Loved the 2nd book in this series as much as the first and can’t wait now to read the 3rd.
This is Joel & Zoe’s story. Full of emotions but thankfully no real angst.
Serenity is so good at describing the characters and places, I really feel like I am there.
This is a must read, it can be read as a standalone, personally I recommend reading all 3, you get to know a bit more about previous characters.
Well done Serenity, so looking forward to the next book ❤️

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obsession Under the Southern Stars is the love story of Zoe and Joel! They go away on a diving expedition and get swept up in a storm and some passion. Secrets threaten to tear them apart, but in the end, love wins out. This is a bit of a rollercoaster of a story, but Serenity Woods has a knack for drawing us in and keeping us hooked with great characters, and steamy romance. This is a favorite for sure! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this story.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful and exciting story about Zoe and Joel. They have known each other for years. They are both involved with archaeology. Joel loves to go diving into the deep oceans of the world in search of remnants of sunken treasures. Zoe mainly works at the museum. They both suffer from the difficulties with their pasts. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more books by Ms Woods.

[Nati · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joel’s mission is make Zoe fall in love with him. They’ve been friends for some time and their banter is epic. But Zoe has trusting issues after her recent break up and she is not interested in falling in love and have her heart broke again. This not only an intense romance, but it’s a story about forgiviness, resilience, trust and so much more. Serenity’s stories always have a deepeer meaning and lots of feelings, conflicted emotions and so much more.

[Mary Willard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story from beginning to end. A wonderful peek into not only the world of archaeology but also diving. The thrill, the dangers and the disappointments along with the triumphs. Joel is exciting, larger than life and Zoe is sweet and shy with secrets that she is cannot share. She doesn’t trust easily because she has been burned. An HEA for her is hard to come by but Joel knows it will be worth the wait. A great read! Well done! 5⭐️.

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading the story of Joel and Zoe. I felt as though I were right there during everything. Serenity painted an amazing picture. It’s the sign of a great author that can put the reader into the story as much as I got into this one.
I love the way that the books in the series interweave with each other, so that the different character stories come together to make a larger story as a whole.