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Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit #3
Girl in the Water
He doesn't mind breaking rules, just never his own. Rule #1: You don't seduce the woman you protect.
An epic romantic adventure that will transport you to another world, a spellbinding story about love and hate, honor and evil, hope and justice set against the exotic backdrop of the teeming Amazon rain forest.
After the death of his wife and twin sons, Army vet Ian Slaney is a shadow of his former self. On the path of self-destruction, only his best friend's disappearance in South America pulls Ian back from the ledge. He rushes to Brazil, only to discover that his friend was murdered. The single lead in the case is also the single biggest obstacle--Daniela, a mysterious beauty very much in need of protection, with a host of secrets hidden in a dark past. As the two of them track down clues and try to untangle an impossible case, they draw the attention of all the wrong people, and danger follows them back to the US.
Ian wants the murderers. Daniela wants Ian to acknowledge the hot sparks of passion between them. But convincing Ian to set aside his protective instincts proves more difficult than turning an anaconda vegetarian.
An epic romantic adventure that will transport you to another world, a spellbinding story about love and hate, honor and evil, hope and justice set against the exotic backdrop of the teeming Amazon rain forest.
After the death of his wife and twin sons, Army vet Ian Slaney is a shadow of his former self. On the path of self-destruction, only his best friend's disappearance in South America pulls Ian back from the ledge. He rushes to Brazil, only to discover that his friend was murdered. The single lead in the case is also the single biggest obstacle--Daniela, a mysterious beauty very much in need of protection, with a host of secrets hidden in a dark past. As the two of them track down clues and try to untangle an impossible case, they draw the attention of all the wrong people, and danger follows them back to the US.
Ian wants the murderers. Daniela wants Ian to acknowledge the hot sparks of passion between them. But convincing Ian to set aside his protective instincts proves more difficult than turning an anaconda vegetarian.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 11, 2016
176 people are currently reading
683 people want to read
About the author
Dana Marton
146 books834 followers Dana Marton writes fast-paced action-adventure romances that take her readers all over the globe. She is a Rita Award finalist and the winner of the Daphne du Maurier Award of Excellence. She loves writing stories of intrigue, filled with dangerous plots that try her tough-as-nails heroes and the special women they fall in love with. Her books have been published in seven languages in eleven countries around the world.
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Sign up for Dana's newsletter and never miss a new release, sale or giveaway. You’ll receive a free copy of her #1 Amazon bestselling book DEATHSCAPE (Broslin Creek #2) for signing up, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Your email will never be used for any other purpose.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
October 1, 2016
Girl in the Water by Dana Marton is a 2016 publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have read Dana Marton’s romantic suspense novels for some time now, and always enjoyed them. But, her latest releases have taken on a different tone, by becoming grittier, faster paced, and more adventurous, featuring exotic locales and emotional love stories.
This story is set in Brazil, and features the beautiful Daniela, who was forced at an early age to do whatever it took to survive in the Amazon. Her luck changes when Finch takes her in, but then the worst happens and she must once again fend for herself…
Until Ian Slaney arrives, searching for his friend, Finch, only to find he’s been murdered. Once Daniela explains the situation, Ian realizes she is in danger, and takes her under his wing.
While life is much improved for Daniela, she yearns to prove she is capable, independent, and smart enough to work alongside Ian on his missions. She also wants to prove to Ian, she is not just his ward, or like a sister or daughter …
She is a grown woman and the two of them are perfect together.
Ian lost his wife and twin sons and has blamed himself ever since. When he finds Daniela he only wants to take her away from the harsh circumstances she has been subjected to and give her a real chance in life. He never allowed himself to think of her in any other way.
But, when a baby is kidnapped, Daniela’s experience and knowledge of Brazil makes her the perfect person for the job.
Despite Ian’s misgivings, the two return to the Amazon to find the missing infant and search for clues regarding the murder of Ian’s friend. This is Daniela’s chance to show Ian what she’s capable of, professionally and personally.
‘He had a heart, but he refused to acknowledge it. As she locked away her past, Ian had locked away his heart. The difference was that her past had to be locked away. The past was a ballast around her neck, dragging her down to drown. And Daniela wanted to fly. She wanted to live the life Ian had promised her, being anything she wanted to be, because everything was possible. She could live without her past. She was better off without her past. But Ian couldn’t live without his heart.’
Can Ian open his heart up to Daniela or will he send her away to live her own life without him?
This story has a lot going on, with Finch’s murder to solve, and with the case involving the kidnapped baby. There are several big surprise twists, the action and pacing is brisk. I enjoyed seeing Daniela mature and have a normal life. Naturally, she is wiser than her years, and is very intuitive. She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it.
Ian is a bit of an enigma. On one hand, I admired his treatment of Daniela and found it appropriate to the circumstances. I think she needed to know that kind of unconditional love. But, he could also be obtuse, which was frustrating. He was very hard to convince and of course, he had to learn his lessons the hard way.
This love story is unconventional and I applaud the darker tones, which makes the outcome more rewarding.
Overall, this is a solid romantic suspense novel, with a unique plot line and an absorbing story filled with danger and intrigue, and is highly recommended to fans of this genre.
4 stars
I have read Dana Marton’s romantic suspense novels for some time now, and always enjoyed them. But, her latest releases have taken on a different tone, by becoming grittier, faster paced, and more adventurous, featuring exotic locales and emotional love stories.
This story is set in Brazil, and features the beautiful Daniela, who was forced at an early age to do whatever it took to survive in the Amazon. Her luck changes when Finch takes her in, but then the worst happens and she must once again fend for herself…
Until Ian Slaney arrives, searching for his friend, Finch, only to find he’s been murdered. Once Daniela explains the situation, Ian realizes she is in danger, and takes her under his wing.
While life is much improved for Daniela, she yearns to prove she is capable, independent, and smart enough to work alongside Ian on his missions. She also wants to prove to Ian, she is not just his ward, or like a sister or daughter …
She is a grown woman and the two of them are perfect together.
Ian lost his wife and twin sons and has blamed himself ever since. When he finds Daniela he only wants to take her away from the harsh circumstances she has been subjected to and give her a real chance in life. He never allowed himself to think of her in any other way.
But, when a baby is kidnapped, Daniela’s experience and knowledge of Brazil makes her the perfect person for the job.
Despite Ian’s misgivings, the two return to the Amazon to find the missing infant and search for clues regarding the murder of Ian’s friend. This is Daniela’s chance to show Ian what she’s capable of, professionally and personally.
‘He had a heart, but he refused to acknowledge it. As she locked away her past, Ian had locked away his heart. The difference was that her past had to be locked away. The past was a ballast around her neck, dragging her down to drown. And Daniela wanted to fly. She wanted to live the life Ian had promised her, being anything she wanted to be, because everything was possible. She could live without her past. She was better off without her past. But Ian couldn’t live without his heart.’
Can Ian open his heart up to Daniela or will he send her away to live her own life without him?
This story has a lot going on, with Finch’s murder to solve, and with the case involving the kidnapped baby. There are several big surprise twists, the action and pacing is brisk. I enjoyed seeing Daniela mature and have a normal life. Naturally, she is wiser than her years, and is very intuitive. She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it.
Ian is a bit of an enigma. On one hand, I admired his treatment of Daniela and found it appropriate to the circumstances. I think she needed to know that kind of unconditional love. But, he could also be obtuse, which was frustrating. He was very hard to convince and of course, he had to learn his lessons the hard way.
This love story is unconventional and I applaud the darker tones, which makes the outcome more rewarding.
Overall, this is a solid romantic suspense novel, with a unique plot line and an absorbing story filled with danger and intrigue, and is highly recommended to fans of this genre.
4 stars
December 18, 2016
When I was asked if I would like to review Dana Marton’s latest book GIRL IN THE WATER, I agreed right away because she has always given me an all-around enjoyable and entertaining romantic suspense read. What a surprise I was in for! This story is more intense, dark, intricate and emotional than any of her previous works.
In the beginning of this story you are introduced to a man who only lives to drink and fight since his discharge from the Army. Ian Slaney blames himself for the death of his wife and twins while he was in Afghanistan. A world away in the Amazon rain forest, Daniela has grown up dirt poor, but happy with the dream of becoming a teacher. One day, a logger stops at her hut and Daniela is raped and becomes a prostitute like her mother. She is then trafficked to a whore house up the river when her mother drowns in a flood.
Their lives intersect with the murder of Ian’s friend and Army buddy, Finch. Finch had bought Daniela from the whore house to cook and clean for him. When she returns to find a dead body, she stays and pretends nothing has changed so she won’t have to return to her old life. But Finch has sent an S.O.S. out to Ian that he needs help and by the time Ian arrives he is dead. Ian must now deal with the mystery of Finch’s murder and what to do with Daniela.
They return to the U.S. and four years of growth and major changes occur. Ian is sober and working for the Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit of the DOD. Daniela has graduated from college. The secondary plot then pulls them back to Brazil to the area of Daniela’s youth for the recovery of a missing 7 month old baby of U.S. charity workers. The book takes off from here at a rapid pace revolving around stolen diamonds, helping trafficked children, and a romance that can no longer be denied.
Ms. Marton has written a romantic suspense novel that delivers a unique couple that both had to forgive themselves of their pasts to get to their HEA futures. It is also a unique and strong suspense novel filled with exotic locales, intrigue and danger. This is the third book in The Civilian Personnel Recovery Series, but is easily read as a standalone. This is a read that satisfied me on every level. This story is a banquet, not fast food. I recommend this book highly!
In the beginning of this story you are introduced to a man who only lives to drink and fight since his discharge from the Army. Ian Slaney blames himself for the death of his wife and twins while he was in Afghanistan. A world away in the Amazon rain forest, Daniela has grown up dirt poor, but happy with the dream of becoming a teacher. One day, a logger stops at her hut and Daniela is raped and becomes a prostitute like her mother. She is then trafficked to a whore house up the river when her mother drowns in a flood.
Their lives intersect with the murder of Ian’s friend and Army buddy, Finch. Finch had bought Daniela from the whore house to cook and clean for him. When she returns to find a dead body, she stays and pretends nothing has changed so she won’t have to return to her old life. But Finch has sent an S.O.S. out to Ian that he needs help and by the time Ian arrives he is dead. Ian must now deal with the mystery of Finch’s murder and what to do with Daniela.
They return to the U.S. and four years of growth and major changes occur. Ian is sober and working for the Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit of the DOD. Daniela has graduated from college. The secondary plot then pulls them back to Brazil to the area of Daniela’s youth for the recovery of a missing 7 month old baby of U.S. charity workers. The book takes off from here at a rapid pace revolving around stolen diamonds, helping trafficked children, and a romance that can no longer be denied.
Ms. Marton has written a romantic suspense novel that delivers a unique couple that both had to forgive themselves of their pasts to get to their HEA futures. It is also a unique and strong suspense novel filled with exotic locales, intrigue and danger. This is the third book in The Civilian Personnel Recovery Series, but is easily read as a standalone. This is a read that satisfied me on every level. This story is a banquet, not fast food. I recommend this book highly!
September 25, 2016
A dark and very unconventional romance. This book is divided into 3 parts. Part 1 was so dark and dealt with a subject matter that was very hard to read. I will admit I struggled with continuing but I pushed through and I am so glad I did.
Daniela was born in Brazil and is part Baniwa. She grew up dirt poor and after her mother died she was sold into child prostitution at the age of 15. The author holds nothing back in her descriptions of what Daniela went through. At 18 she was temporarily sold to a white man who treated her kindly but when he is murdered she fears she will have to go back to the life of sexual slavery. That is until another white man show up who wants to know what happened to his friend.
Ian Slaney when we first meet him is not a good man. He's an ex military man who has become alcoholic with anger issues. He thinks nothing of using women for sex and discarding them. But once we find out his history of losing his wife and twin sons you have some sympathy for him. When an buddy from his days in the military calls and leaves a message that he's in trouble and then no communication after the message Ian refuses to lose one more person in his life and hops a plane to Brazil. When he gets there he finds his friend is dead and some young girl is living in his place.
Both Ian and Daniela have endured hell, Daniela more and sadly its the only way of life she has ever known. These two together helped each other – Ian to get sober and back to the land of the living and vows to protect and get Dani out of Brazil and Daniela to get to come to America and learn what its like to live like a normal person.
As Dani is just 18 and Ian 30 when they meet its a long time before any thing romantic happens. But there is plenty of story during those 4 years that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I could go on and on about what all happens in this book – going back to Brazil to find a kidnapped American baby, finally discovering who killed Ian's friend and why – but that would ruin it for the reader. This was an unbelievably good book that yes made me uncomfortable in the beginning but turned out to be one hell of a story.
Daniela was born in Brazil and is part Baniwa. She grew up dirt poor and after her mother died she was sold into child prostitution at the age of 15. The author holds nothing back in her descriptions of what Daniela went through. At 18 she was temporarily sold to a white man who treated her kindly but when he is murdered she fears she will have to go back to the life of sexual slavery. That is until another white man show up who wants to know what happened to his friend.
Ian Slaney when we first meet him is not a good man. He's an ex military man who has become alcoholic with anger issues. He thinks nothing of using women for sex and discarding them. But once we find out his history of losing his wife and twin sons you have some sympathy for him. When an buddy from his days in the military calls and leaves a message that he's in trouble and then no communication after the message Ian refuses to lose one more person in his life and hops a plane to Brazil. When he gets there he finds his friend is dead and some young girl is living in his place.
Both Ian and Daniela have endured hell, Daniela more and sadly its the only way of life she has ever known. These two together helped each other – Ian to get sober and back to the land of the living and vows to protect and get Dani out of Brazil and Daniela to get to come to America and learn what its like to live like a normal person.
As Dani is just 18 and Ian 30 when they meet its a long time before any thing romantic happens. But there is plenty of story during those 4 years that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I could go on and on about what all happens in this book – going back to Brazil to find a kidnapped American baby, finally discovering who killed Ian's friend and why – but that would ruin it for the reader. This was an unbelievably good book that yes made me uncomfortable in the beginning but turned out to be one hell of a story.
October 10, 2016
This book carries a big impact it deals with human trafficking, doing what you must to get by, dealing and learning to overcome you past, starting over, learning to forgive not only yourself but those around you. Ms. Marton covers some very touchy issues that are still going on today. My heart went out to so many of these characters from Ian and Daniela to Finch (lord my heart broke for him) to the babies and children who are taken and their families left wondering, worrying and crying. This is a story of hate believe me you will hate some of these characters so much you would love to jump inside the book to take care of them. There is evil all around you just waiting to take you out or away no one is safe, you will find no help here not even from the police who turn a blind since they are in the middle of the crimes. The book is full of a mystery that you won’t know the full impact until close to the end. It isn’t all doom and gloom there is a lighter side to the story with smiles and humor, along with a little baiting, some getting even. You will find fights, running for your life, rescuing, love and passion. Which makes this a five star read giving you everything you want in a suspenseful read all in one place.
We all have go to author for whatever our mood might be for me when I am in need of danger, suspense, thrills and a few chills this is the author I run to. She gives me the excitement I crave and need. I know whatever book she puts out will be thrilling, hold your breath, hang on to the edge of you seats as it leaves my mouth hung open giving me an exciting ride. I know whatever book she will put out I want it, need it for my fix. This is another author I just about beg to review any book she writes.
I loved the characters they are very down to earth each having so much pain in their lives both just trying to get by. One not caring if he makes it out alive looks for danger and action at every turn. The other doing what she has to just to make it out alive, so sad she thinks this is how everyone’s life is. Man does she have a lot to learn and learn she does. She is about to not only take the world by storm but blows Ian out of the water with her compassion, strength, smiles, laugh and her need for justice why trying to save the world.
Let’s talk about Ian for a few minutes he is a man above men to serve and protect until he loses his whole family. He kicks his self every day for not being home to take care of them, to keep them safe. I just about broke down when I read his story it is so touching and heartbreaking. To lose them in such away is just more than he can handle. He spends his times picking fight not caring if he lives or dies. When his best buddy leaves a message he is off to the other side of the world giving a helping hand. What he finds is one girl who has been used more ways than one by just about everyone around her. He now makes it his life goal to protect her even when she doesn’t want it. He shows her how to protect herself and then brings her home treats her like his little sister. The only problem is little sister won’t stay in her role giving him some very trying times. This is a true man of honor giving back and helping others but at the same time trying his best to make things up to his dead family. He is going to have to face some strong facts about his self that he doesn’t want to face.
Daniela oh my Lord I wanted so much to reach in grab her from the pages of this book and keep her safe. At the same time I really wanted to grab a few dozen men and a few women teaching them a lesson they would never forget. The author spins a story here that is heartbreaking but at the same time thrilling giving you a scared little girl who turns into a very strong women who can take care of herself. I was so proud of the fine young women she grew up to be. She was so shamed of a past she had no control over. She really shines through as you see her delightful humor taking each day as it comes hoping for the best but preparing for the worse. I just about cried when she stood up and told it how it was. Going back now remembering her story and writing this reviews I have tears in my eyes. It’s such a touching heartbreaking tale with wonderful twist and turns that will leave you with a smile as you come to the end. I just wish for all those out there finding themselves in the same place would get the justice they deserve and be able to leave wearing a smile on their faces.
I truly loved how the passion and love these two have unfolded. It is overtime not all at once. I totally enjoyed how these two characters grew not only as a person but as a team. I really enjoyed the humor they shared as well as the baiting. It was a pleasure watching Ian not only protect Daniela but to teach her how to protect herself. This is a story filled with evil, honor, passion from more than one side, but is also fill with faith and justice not only for Daniela but for those around her.
Ms. Marton knows how to draw her readers in giving you a highly entertaining read. Once you pick up one of her books you have no doubt why she is a bestselling author. This is part of the Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit series. Each are standalone reads with each getting better than the last. I can hardly wait to see what this very talented author comes up with next. Be prepared to love the characters and really dislike a few. Get ready to feel emotion like you never have as you are pulled in with your heart rate going fast and you tempter getting hot over the injustice and finally the pleasure of finally getting the justice and doing a well done job. There is no greater pleasure than knowing you have give back going beyond the call of duty and walking away with a smile on your face. Ms. Marton you should be wearing a very big smile for a job well done in keeping me so well entertained and keeping me coming back for more. I love you writing style, the thrills, chills you give me as well as the smile I wear when I come to the words THE END.
This review does not give justice to the book I have just close there is no way I can write how deeply this story touched me. I honestly did not realize how much this story touched me until I started writing this review for that reason I have picked it as one of my favorite reads for the year.
We all have go to author for whatever our mood might be for me when I am in need of danger, suspense, thrills and a few chills this is the author I run to. She gives me the excitement I crave and need. I know whatever book she puts out will be thrilling, hold your breath, hang on to the edge of you seats as it leaves my mouth hung open giving me an exciting ride. I know whatever book she will put out I want it, need it for my fix. This is another author I just about beg to review any book she writes.
I loved the characters they are very down to earth each having so much pain in their lives both just trying to get by. One not caring if he makes it out alive looks for danger and action at every turn. The other doing what she has to just to make it out alive, so sad she thinks this is how everyone’s life is. Man does she have a lot to learn and learn she does. She is about to not only take the world by storm but blows Ian out of the water with her compassion, strength, smiles, laugh and her need for justice why trying to save the world.
Let’s talk about Ian for a few minutes he is a man above men to serve and protect until he loses his whole family. He kicks his self every day for not being home to take care of them, to keep them safe. I just about broke down when I read his story it is so touching and heartbreaking. To lose them in such away is just more than he can handle. He spends his times picking fight not caring if he lives or dies. When his best buddy leaves a message he is off to the other side of the world giving a helping hand. What he finds is one girl who has been used more ways than one by just about everyone around her. He now makes it his life goal to protect her even when she doesn’t want it. He shows her how to protect herself and then brings her home treats her like his little sister. The only problem is little sister won’t stay in her role giving him some very trying times. This is a true man of honor giving back and helping others but at the same time trying his best to make things up to his dead family. He is going to have to face some strong facts about his self that he doesn’t want to face.
Daniela oh my Lord I wanted so much to reach in grab her from the pages of this book and keep her safe. At the same time I really wanted to grab a few dozen men and a few women teaching them a lesson they would never forget. The author spins a story here that is heartbreaking but at the same time thrilling giving you a scared little girl who turns into a very strong women who can take care of herself. I was so proud of the fine young women she grew up to be. She was so shamed of a past she had no control over. She really shines through as you see her delightful humor taking each day as it comes hoping for the best but preparing for the worse. I just about cried when she stood up and told it how it was. Going back now remembering her story and writing this reviews I have tears in my eyes. It’s such a touching heartbreaking tale with wonderful twist and turns that will leave you with a smile as you come to the end. I just wish for all those out there finding themselves in the same place would get the justice they deserve and be able to leave wearing a smile on their faces.
I truly loved how the passion and love these two have unfolded. It is overtime not all at once. I totally enjoyed how these two characters grew not only as a person but as a team. I really enjoyed the humor they shared as well as the baiting. It was a pleasure watching Ian not only protect Daniela but to teach her how to protect herself. This is a story filled with evil, honor, passion from more than one side, but is also fill with faith and justice not only for Daniela but for those around her.
Ms. Marton knows how to draw her readers in giving you a highly entertaining read. Once you pick up one of her books you have no doubt why she is a bestselling author. This is part of the Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit series. Each are standalone reads with each getting better than the last. I can hardly wait to see what this very talented author comes up with next. Be prepared to love the characters and really dislike a few. Get ready to feel emotion like you never have as you are pulled in with your heart rate going fast and you tempter getting hot over the injustice and finally the pleasure of finally getting the justice and doing a well done job. There is no greater pleasure than knowing you have give back going beyond the call of duty and walking away with a smile on your face. Ms. Marton you should be wearing a very big smile for a job well done in keeping me so well entertained and keeping me coming back for more. I love you writing style, the thrills, chills you give me as well as the smile I wear when I come to the words THE END.
This review does not give justice to the book I have just close there is no way I can write how deeply this story touched me. I honestly did not realize how much this story touched me until I started writing this review for that reason I have picked it as one of my favorite reads for the year.
dnf
April 1, 2020DNF at 25%.
This story is creeping me out. The hero, who so far is a jerk, is paired with a sex slave survivor who is somewhere between 14 and 18. The book is vague on her exact age, maybe it becomes clearer later on. I had to read some reviews to see if that was in fact the romantic pairing and it is. Apparently, 4 years pass by before they get involved, putting her around 18 - 22 & him early to mid 30s. The more I think about it, the more it skeeves me out. Lots of 4 and 5 star reviews on here, but a nope for me.
This story is creeping me out. The hero, who so far is a jerk, is paired with a sex slave survivor who is somewhere between 14 and 18. The book is vague on her exact age, maybe it becomes clearer later on. I had to read some reviews to see if that was in fact the romantic pairing and it is. Apparently, 4 years pass by before they get involved, putting her around 18 - 22 & him early to mid 30s. The more I think about it, the more it skeeves me out. Lots of 4 and 5 star reviews on here, but a nope for me.
August 7, 2017
If I could recommend one book this year, I'd recommend this one.
I'm Brazilian, therefore whenever I see a book set in my home country or featuring Brazilian characters, I have to say-- I can get overly critical. It's easy for people to follow stereotypes, etc.
NOT this book. Dana Marton did a wonderful job portraying the Brazilian culture, the lush setting, everything really. She also created memorable characters, the type we root for. I loved to see Daniela's growth.
This story is beautiful, sad, and breathtaking all in one. Broken characters find their HEA. A must-read!
I'm Brazilian, therefore whenever I see a book set in my home country or featuring Brazilian characters, I have to say-- I can get overly critical. It's easy for people to follow stereotypes, etc.
NOT this book. Dana Marton did a wonderful job portraying the Brazilian culture, the lush setting, everything really. She also created memorable characters, the type we root for. I loved to see Daniela's growth.
This story is beautiful, sad, and breathtaking all in one. Broken characters find their HEA. A must-read!
October 17, 2016
5 Stars!
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, murder, suspense, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Forced Disappearance (Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit #1)
Flash Fire (Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit #2)
This is Daniela and Ian’s story. On a path of self-destruction Ian has nothing left to lose. He lost the only close people that mattered to him or so he though. But when he finds out his best friend disappeared he knows he has to pull himself together and get answers. What he finds is a lot of questions and only one person who might have information. That one person is not so willing to give up the info. But danger hunts them around every corner. Even when they go back to the US it follows. Will Ian get his answers? Will he be able to let Daniela into his heart or is the danger going to get her and take her away from him forever?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, murder, suspense, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Forced Disappearance (Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit #1)
Flash Fire (Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit #2)
This is Daniela and Ian’s story. On a path of self-destruction Ian has nothing left to lose. He lost the only close people that mattered to him or so he though. But when he finds out his best friend disappeared he knows he has to pull himself together and get answers. What he finds is a lot of questions and only one person who might have information. That one person is not so willing to give up the info. But danger hunts them around every corner. Even when they go back to the US it follows. Will Ian get his answers? Will he be able to let Daniela into his heart or is the danger going to get her and take her away from him forever?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book.
November 1, 2017
I've read a large amount of Dana Marton's work, but in my humble opinion, this is her best yet!
Darker than her other work, the characters are all too real and the suspense - staggering. While reading an advanced copy, I often found myself sitting up in bed and hunching over my Kindle, breathless. The intensity was exhilarating, and I could not help cheering for Daniela. Cheering her on, encouraging her to be strong or find the strength she needed.
Daniela is such a strong female character, and honestly - her character made me think. I mean, REALLY think! The way women and girls are treated in other countries, other cultures, is so very different from the US. Most people have no idea what life is like for them, and condemn them for not being stronger. Daniela was given a rare opportunity to escape from her situation - one she had no idea was not acceptable in 1st world countries - and turn around and help others in turn.
Darker than her other work, the characters are all too real and the suspense - staggering. While reading an advanced copy, I often found myself sitting up in bed and hunching over my Kindle, breathless. The intensity was exhilarating, and I could not help cheering for Daniela. Cheering her on, encouraging her to be strong or find the strength she needed.
Daniela is such a strong female character, and honestly - her character made me think. I mean, REALLY think! The way women and girls are treated in other countries, other cultures, is so very different from the US. Most people have no idea what life is like for them, and condemn them for not being stronger. Daniela was given a rare opportunity to escape from her situation - one she had no idea was not acceptable in 1st world countries - and turn around and help others in turn.
December 19, 2016
An intense and intriguing epic romantic thriller that is both heartbreaking and heartfelt....
She could live without her past. She was better off without her past. But Ian couldn’t live without his heart.
I was extremely fortunate to read two fabulous romantic suspense books back-to-back a few weeks ago. GIRL IN THE WATER by Dana Marton was one of those books! I can’t say enough amazing things about it. It’s an intense and intriguing epic romantic thriller that is both heartbreaking and heartfelt. It’s beautifully written, perfectly paced and highly poignant. The story takes place in various exotic locations and, as I read, I became privy to the culture and ways of the foreign populations featured. So, it doubles as being educational in an entertaining way. The passion and love in it will honestly blow you away.
It featured two emotionally scarred individuals who made outstanding characters. Our beautiful heroine was Daniela, who the book is named for, and Army vet Ian Slaney was our hero. He works for the Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit, (CPRU), a DOD department that deals with recovering US citizens who have gone missing abroad. Ian’s army buddy has gone missing and Ian is determined to find him. He believes Daniela to be his best lead – only to discover that she desperately needs his protection instead.
You should know that this is a darker read than those I’ve previously read by Dana as the subject matter deals with serious issues including human trafficking, learning how to forgive yourself and others for doing what had to be done and becoming comfortable in your own skin even when others don’t accept you. The characters were extremely realistic - thanks to Dana’s strokes of rich strong and stirring visualization. I experienced a myriad of emotions along with the characters as I laughed, cried, felt cradled, horrified, hurt, scared, sickened, confused, breathless, proud and in love.
I could not help cheering for Daniela. Her strength of character was truly an inspiration. This story will make you think – really think – about how women are treated in other cultures and our expectations for those women. Daniela was given a rare opportunity to escape – but, in America, she was still judged by our standards and condemned for an upbringing that was considered normal in her culture and over which she had no control.
Ian served our country with honor and distinction. Then… he lost his entire family because he was away doing his duty and not home to keep them safe. The guilt he felt was unimaginable. He was at the point of not caring if he lived or died. When he finds Daniela, he vows to ‘save’ her – even though she doesn’t know that she needs saving. It may be that she actually ‘saves’ him. He thinks of her as his little sister…
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from GIRL IN THE WATER:
The Potomac had taken away Linda and the boys.
The Rio Negro had given him Daniela.
One river had swallowed his heart; another river, halfway around the world, had gifted it back. A different heart, beaten up, scarred, but a beating heart at least.
---
Quickly, Ian learned the danger of holding her. Once he allowed his arm around her, letting her go was nearly impossible.
---
As he waited for her, he braced himself for the sight of her, ready to turn out the light as soon as she reached her bed.
But when Daniela came in, she wasn’t wearing her nightgown. She returned from the bathroom in a bath towel. And then she locked the door behind her and dropped the towel. Drops of water glistened on her naked skin as if she’d been painted with diamonds.
“Christ,” he breathed.
---
“I love you more than piranhas love chicken wings.”
GIRL IN THE WATER is nothing short of amazing. I’m so enamored of it that I consider it to be a strong contender for one of my top ten reads list this year. GIRL IN THE WATER ranks up there with her very best! Just a heads up - You will want to read this in one sitting. Your reward will be the huge smile on your face at the end.
My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
She could live without her past. She was better off without her past. But Ian couldn’t live without his heart.
I was extremely fortunate to read two fabulous romantic suspense books back-to-back a few weeks ago. GIRL IN THE WATER by Dana Marton was one of those books! I can’t say enough amazing things about it. It’s an intense and intriguing epic romantic thriller that is both heartbreaking and heartfelt. It’s beautifully written, perfectly paced and highly poignant. The story takes place in various exotic locations and, as I read, I became privy to the culture and ways of the foreign populations featured. So, it doubles as being educational in an entertaining way. The passion and love in it will honestly blow you away.
It featured two emotionally scarred individuals who made outstanding characters. Our beautiful heroine was Daniela, who the book is named for, and Army vet Ian Slaney was our hero. He works for the Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit, (CPRU), a DOD department that deals with recovering US citizens who have gone missing abroad. Ian’s army buddy has gone missing and Ian is determined to find him. He believes Daniela to be his best lead – only to discover that she desperately needs his protection instead.
You should know that this is a darker read than those I’ve previously read by Dana as the subject matter deals with serious issues including human trafficking, learning how to forgive yourself and others for doing what had to be done and becoming comfortable in your own skin even when others don’t accept you. The characters were extremely realistic - thanks to Dana’s strokes of rich strong and stirring visualization. I experienced a myriad of emotions along with the characters as I laughed, cried, felt cradled, horrified, hurt, scared, sickened, confused, breathless, proud and in love.
I could not help cheering for Daniela. Her strength of character was truly an inspiration. This story will make you think – really think – about how women are treated in other cultures and our expectations for those women. Daniela was given a rare opportunity to escape – but, in America, she was still judged by our standards and condemned for an upbringing that was considered normal in her culture and over which she had no control.
Ian served our country with honor and distinction. Then… he lost his entire family because he was away doing his duty and not home to keep them safe. The guilt he felt was unimaginable. He was at the point of not caring if he lived or died. When he finds Daniela, he vows to ‘save’ her – even though she doesn’t know that she needs saving. It may be that she actually ‘saves’ him. He thinks of her as his little sister…
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from GIRL IN THE WATER:
The Potomac had taken away Linda and the boys.
The Rio Negro had given him Daniela.
One river had swallowed his heart; another river, halfway around the world, had gifted it back. A different heart, beaten up, scarred, but a beating heart at least.
---
Quickly, Ian learned the danger of holding her. Once he allowed his arm around her, letting her go was nearly impossible.
---
As he waited for her, he braced himself for the sight of her, ready to turn out the light as soon as she reached her bed.
But when Daniela came in, she wasn’t wearing her nightgown. She returned from the bathroom in a bath towel. And then she locked the door behind her and dropped the towel. Drops of water glistened on her naked skin as if she’d been painted with diamonds.
“Christ,” he breathed.
---
“I love you more than piranhas love chicken wings.”
GIRL IN THE WATER is nothing short of amazing. I’m so enamored of it that I consider it to be a strong contender for one of my top ten reads list this year. GIRL IN THE WATER ranks up there with her very best! Just a heads up - You will want to read this in one sitting. Your reward will be the huge smile on your face at the end.
My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
October 5, 2016
A dark and gritty book that touches onto the all too real subject of child sex slavery in what is by far Dana Marton's best book yet. If you are looking for a light and fluffy romance, look elsewhere. If you are looking for a plot with meat on it's bones and great character development then this is the book for you. I'm not usually one to give out 5 star ratings, but this book deserves it for being a book of substance, plot, character development, intrigue, murder, kidnapping and more.
October 11, 2016
Quite a mesmerising read, although it's admittedly not the type of story that is easy to get into where the leads have a clear path to each other. In fact, I nearly gave up on it in the beginning because of the subject matter and the vast distance that separated the characters which couldn't seem to be closed at all.
But Dana Marton has a style that sucks you in easily and Daniela's and Ian's fraught history is spellbinding yet far from perfect. It's forged over years of connection and moves from guardian/child to partners and equals in a way that makes you want to root for them. Above all, it's memorable because of how unusual and unconventional this pairing is, I liked that the age difference wasn't played up in a way that made this gulf even wider, even though they never quite got together until the end.
There's also a strangely jaunty tone at times - I found myself laughing out loud - that might or might not have been intentional and added some quirk to a book that would have been more gravely intense and angsty without it. That being said, I still find myself at a proper loss for words having got to the end in a single sitting, which can only be a good thing, isn't it?
But Dana Marton has a style that sucks you in easily and Daniela's and Ian's fraught history is spellbinding yet far from perfect. It's forged over years of connection and moves from guardian/child to partners and equals in a way that makes you want to root for them. Above all, it's memorable because of how unusual and unconventional this pairing is, I liked that the age difference wasn't played up in a way that made this gulf even wider, even though they never quite got together until the end.
There's also a strangely jaunty tone at times - I found myself laughing out loud - that might or might not have been intentional and added some quirk to a book that would have been more gravely intense and angsty without it. That being said, I still find myself at a proper loss for words having got to the end in a single sitting, which can only be a good thing, isn't it?
October 10, 2016
Daniela has been raised by her mother to survive the rainforest and whatever life has to throw at her. So when her mother dies and she is sold into a house of prostitution, she does just that...survives while dreaming of something better. Ex-army vet Ian has spent the last two years drinking and getting into fights, all to erase the memory of the drowning deaths of his wife and two young children. Their meeting may prove to have a momentous impact on both their lives. This story explores the seamy side of Brazil, especially the trafficking of young girls. But the two main characters, Ian and Daniela, manage to learn that mere survival is not enough. I enjoyed this story and their journey, both separately and together. This is definitely not a cozy mystery, so be advised that there is sex and brutality during the course of the book. Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 13, 2016
Congratulations to @Dana Marton ! Where do you find all that inspiration ?
November 28, 2016
4.5 stars
Dark and troubling beginning. Great action and intensity. Review to follow
Dark and troubling beginning. Great action and intensity. Review to follow
September 18, 2017
Muddy pasts, tainted futures, inexplicable murders. Girl in the Water is absolutely irresistible.
Girl in the Water is set in the Amazon. Umm, okay that's worth 5 stars in itself. You don't need to read the rest of this review, just scroll down and purchase it. But really.
This is romantic suspense done RIGHT, people!
We are first introduced to Ian Slaney. He is a drunken idiot–albeit a sexy one. He's belligerent, barbaric and aggressive. My kind of hubba hubba! *eyebrow waggle*
Ian has succumbed to his inner demons after losing his wife and kids while serving in Afghanistan. He harbors all the blame for their deaths; him not being there to protect them.
Oh, sweet man. This is where I started to cry inside. What page are we on? Page three? 😭
We are then introduced to Daniela our wounded heroine. She is a victim of sex trafficking and is fortunately saved by a man who treats her well, doesn't abuse her and she cooks and cleans from him. Well, until he's murdered.
This man happened to be Ian's best friend and before his death he called Ian for help. Snort. Except Ian only arrives too late–always too late–and his friend is dead. Talk about S.O.S. gone wrong.
Now Ian is stuck with this eighteen year old woman and a dead man. Daniela is freaking out because she doesn't want to go back to her old life. Ian is freaking out because he has no idea who killed his friend!
Fast forwarding four years, we re-meet Ian and Daniela after their first encounter. Ian is not an aggressive drunk anymore (so it appears) and Daniela has graduated college. They're living their own lives until a seven month old baby goes missing in the Amazon.
So–you guessed it–Daniela, with her experience in Brazil is naturally the best option to help! Ian, too, is brought back to the Amazon to reopen bad juju from his past.
I have to say, this love story is heart wrenching. Unwilling love. Sacrifice for a greater cause. These two are fighting against time and Ian is fighting his emotions, but it's inevitable that they need each other..
Don’t be delusional, girlfriend! Ian is a runner, and what do runners do? Run.
Daniela's shift is the most powerful in this book. She has to relive her past as she tries to help others escape from that same reality. Ian, too, transforms but Daniela’s story has the strongest undercurrent, drawing me in. Stuff like this actually happens to people. Her story is so…raw…unforgiving.
Ian shows Daniela what love is and saves her (although she does the saving in my opinion). But GAAWD it took him long enough to get there!
Once a runner, always a runner.
What happened to Ian’s friend? The seven month old? We all know Daniela and Ian are destined for failure, but somehow, someway Dana Marton whips out her brilliance and gives us that HEA we crave.
Girl in the Water is an unforgettable tale of adventure, mystery and romance. Unconventional comrades become friends, then lovers. They teach each other to forgive and relearn how to love–and trust.
Yes, yes, one thousand times yes.
*FTC Disclaimer: I received a copy of Girl in the Water from Dana Marton in exchange for an honest review. I have in no way been influenced by the author and/or publisher's generosity. You can't fake these stars, baby!
Girl in the Water is set in the Amazon. Umm, okay that's worth 5 stars in itself. You don't need to read the rest of this review, just scroll down and purchase it. But really.
This is romantic suspense done RIGHT, people!
We are first introduced to Ian Slaney. He is a drunken idiot–albeit a sexy one. He's belligerent, barbaric and aggressive. My kind of hubba hubba! *eyebrow waggle*
Ian has succumbed to his inner demons after losing his wife and kids while serving in Afghanistan. He harbors all the blame for their deaths; him not being there to protect them.
Oh, sweet man. This is where I started to cry inside. What page are we on? Page three? 😭
We are then introduced to Daniela our wounded heroine. She is a victim of sex trafficking and is fortunately saved by a man who treats her well, doesn't abuse her and she cooks and cleans from him. Well, until he's murdered.
This man happened to be Ian's best friend and before his death he called Ian for help. Snort. Except Ian only arrives too late–always too late–and his friend is dead. Talk about S.O.S. gone wrong.
Now Ian is stuck with this eighteen year old woman and a dead man. Daniela is freaking out because she doesn't want to go back to her old life. Ian is freaking out because he has no idea who killed his friend!
Fast forwarding four years, we re-meet Ian and Daniela after their first encounter. Ian is not an aggressive drunk anymore (so it appears) and Daniela has graduated college. They're living their own lives until a seven month old baby goes missing in the Amazon.
So–you guessed it–Daniela, with her experience in Brazil is naturally the best option to help! Ian, too, is brought back to the Amazon to reopen bad juju from his past.
I have to say, this love story is heart wrenching. Unwilling love. Sacrifice for a greater cause. These two are fighting against time and Ian is fighting his emotions, but it's inevitable that they need each other..
"He loved her. His love had been there in the way he looked at her, in the million things he did for her, in the tone of his voice when he talked to her. In that single, spectacular kiss they’d shared. He will come back."
Don’t be delusional, girlfriend! Ian is a runner, and what do runners do? Run.
Daniela's shift is the most powerful in this book. She has to relive her past as she tries to help others escape from that same reality. Ian, too, transforms but Daniela’s story has the strongest undercurrent, drawing me in. Stuff like this actually happens to people. Her story is so…raw…unforgiving.
Ian shows Daniela what love is and saves her (although she does the saving in my opinion). But GAAWD it took him long enough to get there!
"'I love you,'" she said again. He closed his eyes.
'Stop this.'
And then he was off his bed. And then he was shrugging into his jeans, grabbing his sneakers, and then he was out the door.
Running away once again."
Once a runner, always a runner.
What happened to Ian’s friend? The seven month old? We all know Daniela and Ian are destined for failure, but somehow, someway Dana Marton whips out her brilliance and gives us that HEA we crave.
Girl in the Water is an unforgettable tale of adventure, mystery and romance. Unconventional comrades become friends, then lovers. They teach each other to forgive and relearn how to love–and trust.
Yes, yes, one thousand times yes.
*FTC Disclaimer: I received a copy of Girl in the Water from Dana Marton in exchange for an honest review. I have in no way been influenced by the author and/or publisher's generosity. You can't fake these stars, baby!
August 2, 2020
A Nail-Biter Romantic Thriller - Review of “Girl in the Water” by Dana Marton
Dana Marton’s third book in the Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit series, “Girl in the Water” is yet another good read by this author. It’s set in Brazil and is primarily Daniela’s story of how she was raped at age 15 and forced into prostitution, later being sold to Finch who was murdered and tortured.
A friend and Army buddy of Finch, Ian Slaney, recently arrived in Brazil in response to a mysterious call from his friend. He soon discovers Daniela living in Finch’s cottage and she relates the events that led to his death. Ian now knows Daniela is in danger from the men who killed Finch. He takes her to the U.S. where she blossoms into a beautiful, intelligent woman who still hopes to be a teacher.
For the purpose of this review, I’ll dispense with a full synopsis, as it’s readily available elsewhere and instead, concentrate on what I liked and maybe didn’t like in this romantic thriller.
Ms Marton continues to impress me with original plots and authentic characters who have real depth. Those background characterizations are pictures into the soul and psyche of her characters. Ian is a complex character study. Fiercely loyal and true to his convictions, Ian believes himself too old, too jaded and generally unworthy of intimacy with Daniela, regardless of her strong feelings for him.
In four years we see Daniela transformed from a scrawny, malnourished village child into a true beauty with an exceptionally quick mind, a thirst for knowledge and a sincere desire to help and teach others. With all her positive qualities, Daniela also has her demons but with Ian’s help, she has learned to keep them at bay.
“Girl in the Water” is full of suspense as well as some nifty action scenes. The narrative pacing never lags and my heart was pounding during the more physical passages, e.g. gunfights and hand-to-hand combat with the baddies. Also Ms Marton makes the physical environment come alive. I could almost inhale the scents and oppressive humidity of the Amazonian rainforest.
Now for the flip side. My positive feelings for Daniela are offset by impatience with Ian’s stubborn, dig-in-your heels attitude in denying his feelings for her. He was all tied up in unreasonable and undeserved guilt for the deaths of his former wife and their two infant sons. His self-imposed penance drove him almost to the bottom of the bottle.
This story has all the elements of a cracking good read. The writing, while not meant to be literary fiction, is better than average. As already mentioned, the complex plot, in-depth characterizations and physical descriptions are hallmarks of Dana Marton’s talent. She also has a deft hand in relating the romantic element. Never in your face but elegantly intimate when called for. These are characters you can believe in. Four stars.
Dana Marton’s third book in the Civilian Personnel Recovery Unit series, “Girl in the Water” is yet another good read by this author. It’s set in Brazil and is primarily Daniela’s story of how she was raped at age 15 and forced into prostitution, later being sold to Finch who was murdered and tortured.
A friend and Army buddy of Finch, Ian Slaney, recently arrived in Brazil in response to a mysterious call from his friend. He soon discovers Daniela living in Finch’s cottage and she relates the events that led to his death. Ian now knows Daniela is in danger from the men who killed Finch. He takes her to the U.S. where she blossoms into a beautiful, intelligent woman who still hopes to be a teacher.
For the purpose of this review, I’ll dispense with a full synopsis, as it’s readily available elsewhere and instead, concentrate on what I liked and maybe didn’t like in this romantic thriller.
Ms Marton continues to impress me with original plots and authentic characters who have real depth. Those background characterizations are pictures into the soul and psyche of her characters. Ian is a complex character study. Fiercely loyal and true to his convictions, Ian believes himself too old, too jaded and generally unworthy of intimacy with Daniela, regardless of her strong feelings for him.
In four years we see Daniela transformed from a scrawny, malnourished village child into a true beauty with an exceptionally quick mind, a thirst for knowledge and a sincere desire to help and teach others. With all her positive qualities, Daniela also has her demons but with Ian’s help, she has learned to keep them at bay.
“Girl in the Water” is full of suspense as well as some nifty action scenes. The narrative pacing never lags and my heart was pounding during the more physical passages, e.g. gunfights and hand-to-hand combat with the baddies. Also Ms Marton makes the physical environment come alive. I could almost inhale the scents and oppressive humidity of the Amazonian rainforest.
Now for the flip side. My positive feelings for Daniela are offset by impatience with Ian’s stubborn, dig-in-your heels attitude in denying his feelings for her. He was all tied up in unreasonable and undeserved guilt for the deaths of his former wife and their two infant sons. His self-imposed penance drove him almost to the bottom of the bottle.
This story has all the elements of a cracking good read. The writing, while not meant to be literary fiction, is better than average. As already mentioned, the complex plot, in-depth characterizations and physical descriptions are hallmarks of Dana Marton’s talent. She also has a deft hand in relating the romantic element. Never in your face but elegantly intimate when called for. These are characters you can believe in. Four stars.
October 18, 2016
Dana Marton has brought to this intriguing novel all of the complexity and richness of character that is so evident in her Fantasy series Hardstorm Saga. This book reaches deep into the gritty underworld of sex trafficking and the sad truth and reality so many girls and women around the world face growing up in male dominated societies where females have little to no control over their lives and especially their bodies. It also reinforces the sad fact that this problem is not just in the backwaters of the world, but also hidden in the underworld of society all around each and every one of us.
Counterbalancing the dark side are some strong males who, although not perfect, know how to treat a woman with respect which in one case grows into love. A wonderful read from start to finish with lots of twists, turns and intrique to keep the reader always looking forward to what could possibly happen next.
As much as I adore Dana Marton's romantic suspense books, I've been waiting for her to stretch beyond that genre and with this book I believe that she has taken a huge step in another direction. To me this author is on a par with many of my other favorite authors - Clive Cussler, David Baldacci, & JD Robb for example, in her writing style. Creative, adventurous and sure there is a romance in every one of their books, but the romance is not the story - it's a nice added touch to personalize the characters - it's the story, the intrique, mystery and adventure that rules the day!
One of the traits I love most about Dana Marton's books is her sly wit, surprising touches of humor and fabulous turn of phrase. I missed that in this book, with it only sneaking in a few times. Perhaps she didn't feel those touches were appropriate to the darker content of the book, but I did miss it as humor can make the darkest moments memorable and more human. BUT wait till you get to the very last sentence in the book - There's Dana! READ this book, and you'll be grinning at the end too!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author. It is my pleasure to review this book after reading it! No expectations for a review were expressed by the author.
Counterbalancing the dark side are some strong males who, although not perfect, know how to treat a woman with respect which in one case grows into love. A wonderful read from start to finish with lots of twists, turns and intrique to keep the reader always looking forward to what could possibly happen next.
As much as I adore Dana Marton's romantic suspense books, I've been waiting for her to stretch beyond that genre and with this book I believe that she has taken a huge step in another direction. To me this author is on a par with many of my other favorite authors - Clive Cussler, David Baldacci, & JD Robb for example, in her writing style. Creative, adventurous and sure there is a romance in every one of their books, but the romance is not the story - it's a nice added touch to personalize the characters - it's the story, the intrique, mystery and adventure that rules the day!
One of the traits I love most about Dana Marton's books is her sly wit, surprising touches of humor and fabulous turn of phrase. I missed that in this book, with it only sneaking in a few times. Perhaps she didn't feel those touches were appropriate to the darker content of the book, but I did miss it as humor can make the darkest moments memorable and more human. BUT wait till you get to the very last sentence in the book - There's Dana! READ this book, and you'll be grinning at the end too!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author. It is my pleasure to review this book after reading it! No expectations for a review were expressed by the author.
March 18, 2018
Daniela wanted to be a school teacher when she grew up. Leave the rain forest that surrounded them and study abroad. Instead of sharing this dream with her mother, “she tucked her dreams of higher learning away with dreams of a full belly.”
The village consisted of all kinds of people. Her family being Baniwa, or river people. They would receive loggers each season, after the rains. She received her first as a young child, much the same as her mother before her. After her mother’s untimely death, she was taken to the Red House to live with the other girls. To service men traveling through.
Ian had no choice but to go to Brazil to find his friend. What he found was Daniela and the story of Fitch’s murder. Soon Ian realized that Daniela had been abused and tortured her whole life. He made it his mission to get her out of the Amazon and to the US where he could help her.
Meanwhile, Phill and Carmen, having fallen in love while on assignment as peace corps volunteers, were disturbed to see the girls coming out of the Red House and the men coming in. The images stayed with Carmen. Having left Brazil to work on a mission in Africa, Carmen became pregnant. Soon they found themselves back in the Amazon, baby Lila in tow.
Ian, Daniela, Phil and Carmen’s paths would joined. Ian was tasked to find a missing US citizen; 6-month old Lila. Would he make it before she was sold through child trafficking?
The village consisted of all kinds of people. Her family being Baniwa, or river people. They would receive loggers each season, after the rains. She received her first as a young child, much the same as her mother before her. After her mother’s untimely death, she was taken to the Red House to live with the other girls. To service men traveling through.
Ian had no choice but to go to Brazil to find his friend. What he found was Daniela and the story of Fitch’s murder. Soon Ian realized that Daniela had been abused and tortured her whole life. He made it his mission to get her out of the Amazon and to the US where he could help her.
Meanwhile, Phill and Carmen, having fallen in love while on assignment as peace corps volunteers, were disturbed to see the girls coming out of the Red House and the men coming in. The images stayed with Carmen. Having left Brazil to work on a mission in Africa, Carmen became pregnant. Soon they found themselves back in the Amazon, baby Lila in tow.
Ian, Daniela, Phil and Carmen’s paths would joined. Ian was tasked to find a missing US citizen; 6-month old Lila. Would he make it before she was sold through child trafficking?
July 27, 2017
I took a chance and purchased this book because of how much I liked Secret Soldier. I was disappointed. Marton tried to weave together three stories, and multiple points of view, and couldn't quite pull it off. The best character is a young woman, Daniela, who was sold into child prostitution in Brazil. She's a survivor and Marton does make you care about her fate. Unfortunately, she glosses over what happens to Daniela after she gets rescued by the stock Romance Story Hero and moves with him to the United States. The story jumps ahead four years to her college graduation, in order to get to the second part of the story, where she and her rescuer return to Brazil together to rescue a kidnapped baby. Marton makes a perfunctory attempt to introduce the baby's do-gooder parents early in the story but honestly, they never seem real. Frankly, they were plot devices and so was the baby. The third part of the story is the romance and, frankly, the older guy/young woman pairing isn't my thing. I applaud her attempt to write something more ambitious than the usual romance but this didn't work for me at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2023
When former military man, Ian Slaney, goes to Brazil looking for his friend, Finch, instead he finds Daniela, a young woman who had been forced into prostitution by her mother. Finch had purchased Daniela from the brothel where she was working not long before he was killed, leaving Ian with her as his only clue in finding who murdered his friend. Even though he has little luck in his investigation, he vows not to leave Daniela alone in Brazil to fend for herself and takes her home to the US.
Part 1 of Girl in the Water starts out with lots of violence and gritty, emotional scenes that immediately draw the reader in, but by the time part 2 rolls around, the story stalls and becomes riddled with pacing issues. Even though part 3 is where most of the plot happens, it is the shortest part of the book. The romance between Ian and Daniela is so unevenly paced that it is difficult to care about it by the time the novel comes to a close. The mystery of who killed Finch and the motive behind it are so convoluted that it isn't very believable or interesting. Overall, Girl in the Water sets up an engrossing premise that doesn't pay off in the execution.
Part 1 of Girl in the Water starts out with lots of violence and gritty, emotional scenes that immediately draw the reader in, but by the time part 2 rolls around, the story stalls and becomes riddled with pacing issues. Even though part 3 is where most of the plot happens, it is the shortest part of the book. The romance between Ian and Daniela is so unevenly paced that it is difficult to care about it by the time the novel comes to a close. The mystery of who killed Finch and the motive behind it are so convoluted that it isn't very believable or interesting. Overall, Girl in the Water sets up an engrossing premise that doesn't pay off in the execution.
July 15, 2018
I really wish GoodReads had half stars, this would be a 2.5. There were some really good moments, unfortunately they were far and few.
The set up was nice and strong, you got a deep sense of who Ian and Dani are and were. How their past shaped them into the people they became but, sadly that starter began to fizzle with too much exposition and back story with things that didn’t matter. Like when Marco’s father began telling about his past. Yeah? Really? Who gives a sh*t.
Or when the characters stared doing unbelievable things, such as... if you were trying to save your would-be lover, their body bloodied and beaten, their arms tied and where there is a ticking time bomb of the villain coming back any second, would you start kissing and grinding them right there? I don’t know about you, but I was raised proper where you do your grinding in the semi-private rooms of the local Motel 6.
If you love books with, “Wha??? 🤨” moments, this book is for you. However, if you demand slightly more believable moments where you don’t want to face palm the heroine and high-five the leading man with a chair, please move on.
The set up was nice and strong, you got a deep sense of who Ian and Dani are and were. How their past shaped them into the people they became but, sadly that starter began to fizzle with too much exposition and back story with things that didn’t matter. Like when Marco’s father began telling about his past. Yeah? Really? Who gives a sh*t.
Or when the characters stared doing unbelievable things, such as... if you were trying to save your would-be lover, their body bloodied and beaten, their arms tied and where there is a ticking time bomb of the villain coming back any second, would you start kissing and grinding them right there? I don’t know about you, but I was raised proper where you do your grinding in the semi-private rooms of the local Motel 6.
If you love books with, “Wha??? 🤨” moments, this book is for you. However, if you demand slightly more believable moments where you don’t want to face palm the heroine and high-five the leading man with a chair, please move on.
January 28, 2021
So darn good.
I loved this book. I was horrified by Daniela’s childhood. It seemed like Finch might save her, but something happens. Ian wants to find out what happened to his buddy Finch. This book was very emotional for me. I cried when years later, Daniela tries for a relationship with Ian. He sure fought his feelings. There’s a lot going on in this book, love how they did work together and he finds she’s a good investigator. My heart melted as he finally realizes they saved each other. They were so good together. Love how they heal each other. I highly recommend this book.
I loved this book. I was horrified by Daniela’s childhood. It seemed like Finch might save her, but something happens. Ian wants to find out what happened to his buddy Finch. This book was very emotional for me. I cried when years later, Daniela tries for a relationship with Ian. He sure fought his feelings. There’s a lot going on in this book, love how they did work together and he finds she’s a good investigator. My heart melted as he finally realizes they saved each other. They were so good together. Love how they heal each other. I highly recommend this book.
June 1, 2021
Journey towards freedom is not for the faint of heart
This story is not as entertaining as the other two in this series; however it is more significant. The author takes us into a world that is foreign for most of us US romance readers and makes us confront some ugliness: postpartum depression leading to suicide, self-destructiveness, survival in poverty, unprotected children, sex-slavery, baby stealing, and other human awfulness(e.g. the heroine’s father). I am glad that that author took the risks she did to help us find some compassionate understanding along with an interesting love story.
This story is not as entertaining as the other two in this series; however it is more significant. The author takes us into a world that is foreign for most of us US romance readers and makes us confront some ugliness: postpartum depression leading to suicide, self-destructiveness, survival in poverty, unprotected children, sex-slavery, baby stealing, and other human awfulness(e.g. the heroine’s father). I am glad that that author took the risks she did to help us find some compassionate understanding along with an interesting love story.
December 15, 2018
Well written book. Enjoyed reading it. Happy that the story progressed over the years instead of them suddenly falling in love and getting married within a week. When the heroine finally realised that Ian wont ever be with her due to his issues then she didn't keep on pining for him but moved on in her life.
1 star less because
1. Heroine got dumped by the guy she had moved on with and realised Ian was "it" for her.
2. After so many denials ,Ian just gave in to her which kind of took away from his years of protest of any kind of romantic relationship between them.
1 star less because
1. Heroine got dumped by the guy she had moved on with and realised Ian was "it" for her.
2. After so many denials ,Ian just gave in to her which kind of took away from his years of protest of any kind of romantic relationship between them.
March 1, 2019
A slow start but worth the read
I thought the 2nd book in the series was excellent and as I started reading this one, I worried the author peaked too soon. While I wasn't a fan of the main couple, the author's writing is strong enough to make their relationship plausible and may me want them to succeed as a couple. I think the serious themes in this book were why I didn't like the main couple but Ms. Marton does both the issues and her characters justice. I hope she continues to write this series. I want to learn about the other employees of CPRU.
I thought the 2nd book in the series was excellent and as I started reading this one, I worried the author peaked too soon. While I wasn't a fan of the main couple, the author's writing is strong enough to make their relationship plausible and may me want them to succeed as a couple. I think the serious themes in this book were why I didn't like the main couple but Ms. Marton does both the issues and her characters justice. I hope she continues to write this series. I want to learn about the other employees of CPRU.
April 8, 2018
Five Stars
I loved reading the Civilian Personnel Series,fantastic writing ,the books are filled with action,love and backstories that will break your heart especially book 3.It shows that love can conquer all and the female character are equal to the male character .They are partners in the good as well as the bad times.I give it 5 stars and if the rating was for 10 stars I would definitely recommended to reader who enjoy reading about a strong,kick ass female charcters.
I loved reading the Civilian Personnel Series,fantastic writing ,the books are filled with action,love and backstories that will break your heart especially book 3.It shows that love can conquer all and the female character are equal to the male character .They are partners in the good as well as the bad times.I give it 5 stars and if the rating was for 10 stars I would definitely recommended to reader who enjoy reading about a strong,kick ass female charcters.
May 9, 2018
Good but a heavy subject
I have read several of Dana Marton 's books and was excited to read this one. I was a bit surprised as it written a bit differently than the others I've read. It took a couple of chapters to figure out all the characters but once I did it flowed well. It was a bit difficult to read about child sex slavery but I had faith it would end well. I will definitely read more in this series.
I have read several of Dana Marton 's books and was excited to read this one. I was a bit surprised as it written a bit differently than the others I've read. It took a couple of chapters to figure out all the characters but once I did it flowed well. It was a bit difficult to read about child sex slavery but I had faith it would end well. I will definitely read more in this series.
December 12, 2016
A compelling and poignant story with vivid characters, strong and realistic action amid a constant simmer of tension. I loved the touches of Brazilian culture. Powerful human trafficking theme. There is romance, but not the wistful hearts and flowers style that might put off male readers. I read it in two sittings.
July 26, 2017
Liked story, loved characters. Daniela a strong girl, thank God she got out but whatever happened I felt she would prevail . Loved Ian, a salvation story for both he and Daniela .
Brazil sounds terrible,
Happy to know this is a series. Like concept of a company that searches and rescues people.
Brazil sounds terrible,
Happy to know this is a series. Like concept of a company that searches and rescues people.
August 19, 2017
Girl in the Water
Great book. This was a romance book with some adventure and a look at the real issue of human trafficking. I know this book didn't touch on how truly horrible human trafficking is, but every bit of awareness this book and others like it bring to the forefront helps. Aside from the heavy, great HEA.
Great book. This was a romance book with some adventure and a look at the real issue of human trafficking. I know this book didn't touch on how truly horrible human trafficking is, but every bit of awareness this book and others like it bring to the forefront helps. Aside from the heavy, great HEA.
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