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The Inland Seas #4

Anchor Point

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ELIJAH
Life outside the walls of my prison cell is far harder than the time I did inside.
There, I had my misery to keep me company.
Out here, I’m forced to face the reality of everything I’ve lost.
Nothing can repair the gaping hole in my chest.
Yet, a broken woman wrapped in chains threatens to unravel the tangle of excuses I use to keep everyone at arm’s length.
But letting Evangeline into my world means exposing her to the real threat.
Me.
And all the terrible things that come along with that.

EVANGELINE
Taken.
Enslaved.
To be sold to the highest bidder.
The monsters who stole me away from my life have no conscience.
I’m not so sure the man who rescues me is any different.
He’s an ex-con and a pirate— not to be trusted.
But the dark veil of anguish that shrouds him can’t hide the truth of who he is at his core.
Elijah isn’t the enemy.
He may be broken and tormented…
And exactly what I need.

Elijah and Evangeline.
Agony and regret.
Faith and acceptance.
This anchor may pull them both down...

The Inland Seas Series
Squall Line
Rogue Wave
Safe Harbor
Anchor Point
Dark Tide

268 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 13, 2020

14 people are currently reading
132 people want to read

About the author

Gwyn McNamee

151 books882 followers

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5 stars
65 (73%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Louise H's Book Thoughts.
2,040 reviews317 followers
April 4, 2020
I loved how Eva broke through Elijah's tough shell to find the wonderful guy underneath. Wracked by guilt and bad choices his was a long hard slog to redemption but Eva deserved a great man and she definitely got that in Anchor Point.


The story flows well, with lots of secrets and mystery, plenty of action, scorching hot chemistry and excellent pace. I adored both Eva and Elijah, neither was perfect, both had secrets and had been hurt by life but at the end of the day they have a good soul. I definitely felt the connection between this pair and totally believed in their love for one another.


Whilst the book could be read stand alone, there is a backstory that runs throughout the series. So for ultimate enjoyment and understanding I would suggest reading the books in order. As someone who reads very dark romance stories, I would place this on the lighter end of the spectrum. It is a gritty read and deals with dark subject matter, though very little is observed "first hand" or impacts the main characters personally and directly within the timeline of the book.


Highly recommended if you love a well written, pacey and HAWT romantic suspense. Especially if you love your heroes all alpha and moody.
Profile Image for Vanna King.
Author 7 books114 followers
March 13, 2020
This is my first book by this author and I loved it! I love to read about real-life events and this novel illustrated a dark side of humanity that not most romance writers tackle. This novel delves into deep human suffering and character complexities but manages to be both emotionally gripping and socially relevant. This is not a typical romance where there is so much contrived drama just to move the story forward. This story can really happen in real life. Two human beings tested by fate, both victims of circumstances. One thought he was irredeemable, the other, hopeless. But their destinies collided somehow, and through sharing each other's pains and demons, they found the light again, in each other. An emotional, suspenseful and inspirational read. There's vindication in the end, vengeance exacted, justice served, and a satisfying HEA. Not overly done. Just right. I highly recommend!
Profile Image for Ashley Estep The Art of Reading .
788 reviews36 followers
April 10, 2021
Who doesn’t love dark, broody, guarded men? The answer no one! Elijah is all of those things and that’s just one of the many reasons why I loved Anchor Point! I say this every time but these sexy, alpha, tattooed pirates are amazing!

Elijah has some secrets from his past that make them the hard exterior man he is today. Out of prison and he still carries all the same issues and pain inside. While prison was hell, he’s living in his own personal hell on the inside.
Eva was the perfect person for E. She broke through his hard exterior and showed him what love is. She has been hurt and no longer trusted anyone not even herself when she meets E.

Gwyn McNamee surprised me by making me cry and cry hard during this book. The emotional rollercoaster I was not expecting to have such a big punch.

Steam, suspense, heartbreak, modern date pirates, what else could you ask for in a book? Gwyn McNamee ticks off all the boxes and more with Anchor Point. Elijah and Eva’s story was perfect!

Anchor Point is a 5 star, must read!
Profile Image for Roxs Reads.
827 reviews1 follower
March 14, 2020
The Inland Seas Series has me hooked. Romance on the Great Lakes with modern-day pirates and the women who crack their exterior makes for some very suspenseful storylines. Anchor Point is Elijah’s story and it is an emotional heartbreaker full of suspense that will rip you apart at the seams, so be prepared.

Elijah’s past and the reasons for his current hardness broke my heart. No one should endure the loss and pain that he has. Even though his life has turned him into a “bad man,” he still has a soft spot and I felt that ultimately, he just wants justice for those who are wronged and is trying to save the world, one person at a time.

Evangeline has found herself in a precarious situation and close to death. Her soft pleading hits E in his soft spot and he risks it all to save her. Eva also does her best to bring Elijah out of the abyss he frequents to save him too.

E and Eva are a very special couple who slowly build a connection and become each other’s anchor point. I totally fell in love with this couple. Just like all the other books in this series, all the characters from the other books are included, which helps to tie each book together. The books follow each other sequentially so it is best to read them in order. Anchor Point is one of my favourites of the Inland Seas Series.
Profile Image for Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) .
2,856 reviews119 followers
March 20, 2023
One dark and torn soul, and another lost and afraid! when fate brings them together neither wants to let go! But will the sins of the first tarnish the beauty that the second one holds?

Elijah wasn’t looking for a woman like Evangeline. He wasn’t looking at all, but when the guys storm a ship the last thing they thought they’d discover is starting right back at them! Now with all their lives influx Elijah is having to face the demons of his past, the demons that built him to save the woman who helped them. Can this be a new beginning for both or is it just another memory that Elijah will try to let go!?

Eva and Elijah’s stories are both pained with events in their pasts! Though it was a tough one I loved learning E’s story and who he is! He’s a softy under all that stone and I absolutely loved how Eva stood next to him as it all crumbled around him! They leaned on one another and helped to calm the sadness within the other!

Getting to see everyone again has me on cloud 9 and I love how each story, the stories of each member has progressed! I’m sad Dark Tides is the last book but I also can’t wait to get the full picture of each man!
2,617 reviews25 followers
March 11, 2020
this was another great book in this series! she is taken to be sold to the highest bidder. he is out of prison and still living in hell. he finds her and doesnt know what to do with her. they both fighting demons. only his are far worse. read to find out what happens.
Profile Image for Ga Books LoverX.
2,411 reviews24 followers
July 8, 2020
Elijah has some MAJOR secrets and a hard past, this book was a bit more emotional than the others in the series, but man, you cannot help but get attached to these characters. I loved this book and thought it was a great installment for the overall series!
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
May 23, 2020
Elijah really doesn't know how to make up his mind, "E throws up his hands. “The eff if I know, Eva. That's the problem .” He shoves his fingers through his hair." I liked this book, I liked Elijah.
Profile Image for Maryann Gestwicki.
Author 16 books16 followers
June 27, 2024

"Anchor Point" by Gwyn McNamee delves deep into the tumultuous lives of Elijah and Evangeline, two souls scarred by their pasts yet bound together by a shared journey of healing and redemption.

Elijah, an ex-convict haunted by his demons, finds solace in his isolated existence until he encounters Evangeline, a woman ensnared in a nightmare of captivity and abuse. Their initial connection is fraught with mistrust and apprehension, each grappling with their own vulnerabilities and fears. McNamee masterfully portrays Elijah's inner turmoil, highlighting the complexities of his character as he navigates the treacherous waters of his past and the newfound emotions Evangeline stirs within him.

Evangeline, resilient yet fragile after enduring unimaginable horrors, sees in Elijah a glimmer of hope amidst her despair. Despite her initial reservations, she discovers in him a kindred spirit who understands her pain in ways no one else can. Their relationship unfolds against a backdrop of danger and uncertainty, as they confront external threats and internal struggles that threaten to engulf them both.

The author's prose is poignant and evocative, drawing readers into a narrative woven with themes of anguish and regret, faith and acceptance. As Elijah and Evangeline navigate their tumultuous emotions, McNamee deftly explores the healing power of love and the transformative journey toward forgiveness and self-discovery.

"Anchor Point" is more than a love story; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring hope that even in the darkest of times, light can find its way through. McNamee's storytelling prowess shines through in this gripping romantic suspense, ensuring readers are captivated until the very last page. For fans of heartfelt romance infused with suspense and emotional depth, "Anchor Point" is a compelling read that leaves a lasting impression.
Profile Image for Ree.
2,519 reviews53 followers
July 9, 2020
Elijah/E is forced to relive the horrors of his past when the crew's latest mission puts them in the cross-hairs of the Albanian mob. Having had love and lost it, Elijah's heart has been barricaded heavily for years. Isolation and reticence have been his weapons as well as his protection. Rescuing Eva was a momentary blip, a tiny chink in the armor that he allowed. She can't be his. Now, or ever.

After being rescued, Eva's gratefulness knows no bounds. Her curiosity has been piqued by the entire not-so-good pirate crew, but especially by her blond, blue-eyed rescuer. Her attempts to get to know him better are met with resistance, yet every now and again, Eva gets to see the man behind the mask and what she sees, draws her closer. She should run, but how can she run far when, after the storm she's faced, she's finally found her anchor point?

This book tugged a little harder on my emotions - I really felt sorry for E. One single decision affected so many innocent lives. E & Eva's romance is a slow burn - a connection is forged, and they slowly build on it as they each try to come to terms with the past and the person it has made them.

I am enjoying this series, and I am already a little sad that there's just one more character left. I look forward to his story with bated breath.

I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Renee.
135 reviews
May 15, 2020
“Every one of us has scars. Some are visible, and some are hidden. Every one of us has demons. Some people defeat their demons… Others feed them, giving them strength and power and it just leads to them constantly fighting a war they're destined to lose.”

Anchor Point is book 4 in Gwyn McNamee’s Inland Seas series. I could not put this book down! I absolutely loved the chemistry between Elijah & Evangeline. Full of twists, turns & tears, as always, Gwyn does not disappoint!

Gwyn gives us characters that you just can't get enough of. Ones you can't help but love, but also Sort of hate. Her secondary characters leave you wanting more...I cannot wait to see what these Modern Day Pirates do next!
Profile Image for Kari.
624 reviews2 followers
July 16, 2023
Anchor Point is the fourth novel of The Inland Seas series by Gwyn McNamee. It follows the mysterious "E" and his journey to finding his one.

Elijah is the mysterious one of the The Inland Seas group. He is the best cook, but is otherwise very quiet and has mostly kept to himself throughout the series. But that is all about to change.

Evangeline has been through so much. Trusted those she shouldn't have and ended up somewhere she never could have imagined. Now she's in an unfamiliar place, with unfamiliar people and not sure what comes next for her.

E and Eva's story is a bit of a slow burn, but I loved every word of it! Their stolen moments and their own denial just kept you on the hook! I cannot wait for Rion's story next!
3,932 reviews31 followers
June 20, 2021
Elijah and Evangeline have been through some tough times. He's become a hard man, keeping everyone at arms' length. Can Eva bring light back into his darkness? This series is fantastic. It's gritty, full of action and passion, and the characters are supportive and helped so much. My heart hurt for these two, and their feelings were so raw, yet so real. I only wanted to see them find their happiness together!
Profile Image for Shannon White.
507 reviews1 follower
March 26, 2020
Ermgerd!!!!

I friggin love this series! I always think oh this book is my favorite then boom the next one comes out. As much as I dont want the series to end in super excited for the next book!!
Profile Image for Sarah Norman.
51 reviews
March 26, 2023
This one broke me, in the best way

The emotion in this book...I was laughing, crying and yelling at E. Jeepers. I don't know whose gonna get stuck with Rion though...so should be funny
1,193 reviews2 followers
June 22, 2020
No no no no. Not good at all. Stopping now, will not return to this author or series.
Profile Image for Tammy L Needy.
755 reviews6 followers
September 22, 2022
Loved it

E and Eva are so combustible together. I'm not sure they knew what would happen once they were together, but the results were explosive.
379 reviews
March 9, 2023
Good. It’s the first book I’ve read in the series so other characters are established and I don’t know their story. I might go read their stories next.
Profile Image for Megan Hawkes.
572 reviews3 followers
April 13, 2023
Elijah was always hard to read throughout the series & I couldn’t wait for his book. Did not disappoint!
My heart broke for him. Love his & Evangeline’s story 🖤
Profile Image for Bourbon, Books and Brenda.
1,091 reviews102 followers
October 9, 2020
In book 4 of the Inland Sea series and we finally get E's story. Elijah has been elusive, enigmatic and edgy, now we get to know what made him that way. Let me tell you it will break your heart.
******
Overall Rating: 5 (I want a modern day pirate) Stars!
Kindle unlimited: No
Standalone: Could be, but I don't recommend it. Although this book is about a specific couple, there is an underlying story arc
******
Book 4 features Elijah and Evangeline, two broken people that have suffered so much you have to wonder if they can recover from their respective tragedies. Can two broken people, heal the cracks in their hearts?

Evangeline no longer trusts herself, or people. She's been hurt, but there is something about Elijah that gives her hope. Elijah has gone through a tragedy that will make you cry, his heart has been ripped out, stepped on, and it's a wonder he gets out of bed everyday. However, watching the two of them fight their demons, learn to trust, and heal their hearts is an amazing story.

Of course, there is suspense, there is steam, all my fave pirates (Preacher), and yet another foe that this team of good bad guys to overcome. Basically, this book has it all! So what are you waiting for? Read this book/series! This series has all my recommendations and I am now anxiously waiting for Rion's book!!! EEEKKKK!!!
Profile Image for Maria (Ri).
5,151 reviews16 followers
May 30, 2020
Holy hell.

I have devoured these books in the past two days. DEVOURED. The cast of characters, the interwoven backstory, the love, the connection, and the suspense had me enthralled. They had been on my TBR forever but with the newest release coming out soon I knew I had to move them up the list. I am very thankful that I did.

I loved E. There was something about him that touched my soul. His backstory was so sad. I was surprised at how I felt more empathy to him than I did Evangaline. That isn't to say that I didn't connect with her, considering what had brought her into the Gang's life, it would be hard not to feel empathetic to her. However, there was a pull to Elijah that I liked.

Great Chemistry and connections. I enjoyed the bantering between the characters. At this point, Cutter is still my favorite but all of these men are amazing. I am very excited about Rion's story and have a funny feeling that he might take over Cutter's top spot.

Off-topic, this series has some of the best covers that I have ever seen. Along with the premise of modern-day pirates makes this well worth the read.
Profile Image for Kristy Odom.
1,553 reviews40 followers
March 9, 2020
This book has all the feels. I was angry and sad at Eva’s situation. I was devastated when we found out the rest of Elijah’s past. I was in tears for much of this book. This author can write books with so much drama and angst. I have been impatient to get the next part of their stories.

Eva felt she couldn’t go back to her home, and thought she would never feel safe. What happened to her made her feel stupid. It took a lot for them both to trust, but she knew that she wanted him.

Elijah running his hands down the pictures of his wife... When E breaks down to Eva about it, I was full on ugly crying. They both had things they needed help to carry.

I love these bad men. I love getting to know their stories. I love what a close knit family they have become. This author has with each book added more to their stories. Each time I think I won’t be so invested, and each book proves me wrong. This series has been amazing. You don’t want to miss this!
Profile Image for Christina.
201 reviews3 followers
March 12, 2020
Anchor Point is exciting and full of angst.
Elijah “E” is the only man in the Inland Sea Series that has gone to prison and has not served the government in some way. In Anchor Point we get to see what happened and how E ended up in prison. He is different from the rest of the men, he carries a demon around with him.
Evangeline “Eva” finds herself in a very bad situation, almost ready to give up. E shows up with the guys on a mission and they are all baffled and surprised at what they find. Against what everyone else says E brings Eva back with him. This mission has dragged out E’s demon and he has a hard time dealing with it all.
I really enjoyed reading about Elijah and Eva’s story. How E deals with his problems, how he deals with the things he feels with Eva around. How Eva deals with the feelings of what happened and how she got into this situation.
I loved the additions that we were introduced to in the Inland Seas family!
Profile Image for Jodi Bird (Ruby Red Romance Review).
1,169 reviews98 followers
March 15, 2020
I love this series. I love falling in love with these characters. I love getting lost in a story that feels so real that you forget it’s actually a book.

I loved getting lost in the man E is. He’s not had an easy life. E’s life has not been an easy one. For that reason it’s shaped him to be a bad man. The truth is he just wanted justice for the wrong done to him. Eva has gotten herself in some trouble. Now she needs help and who else would be there to do that but E. He just has to figure out if helping Eva is worth what it.

The love that develops between these to was more than I could have asked for. I loved that Eva tried to help E though his pain. I loved that she tried to get him through his darkest times to see the light.

I loved everything about this story. Getting lost in the words, the characters, and the feelings. I loved getting to see some old friends too. This book was everything I was hoping for and so much more.
Profile Image for Fee96.
361 reviews3 followers
March 13, 2020
I have been waiting for this tortured hero's story and once again this brilliant author did not disappoint! Her writing is amazing. Her characters are intriguing and unique. This storyline is fantastically complex and woven to utter perfection.

E is every bit the perfectly damaged pirate badass I was hoping for. Up to this point in the series he's been a supporting character. I have been excited to learn about his past and meet the heroine capable of bringing this gentle giant to his knees. Evangeline is the catalyst for so much change in him. Can these two broken people find the comfort and love they both deserve? Can E redeem and forgive himself? Gah this story had me on the edge of my seat second guessing until the very end. So good!

I need more. Just when I think this series can't possibly get any better, BOOM is blows my mind!
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.2k reviews257 followers
July 8, 2020
This is the 4th book in this fascinating series and is Elijah and Evangeline’s story. Elijah’s past broke my heart, and now newly released from prison he is on a journey of vengeance. While on a mission for human trafficking they come across Eva chained up, and when she helps them E is determined not to leave her behind. The chemistry between these two is sizzling. Can Eva help E make piece with his past? I loved the witty banter from all the secondary characters. This is a well written tale which is unique and intense, as well as action packed, with complex characters, and an in-depth plot. This story is filled with angst, drama, suspense, mystery, emotion, heartbreak, and love. I was totally enthralled throughout this story, and I cannot wait to read more from this author, whose work I highly recommend for all.
Profile Image for LLS.
925 reviews22 followers
March 12, 2020
This was another solid offering from this series! The band of pirates, on orders from Valentina, board a freighter in order to take the ship's cargo. Little did they know that the cargo also included victims of human trafficking. There was one woman who was chained up who helped them out. Elijah couldn't leave her behind. Elijah didn't want to get close to her but he couldn't help himself. He has a past, and what a story it was! Evangeline's story was proof of just how cunning traffickers are in selecting their victims. Their story together was so worth reading! It was also good to see all the others interact in this book. I can't wait for the final book in this series.

Thank you for the privilege of reading this book! Well done ❤️
812 reviews2 followers
July 3, 2020
Gwyn McNamee continues her stunning journey in the writing world with Anchor Point. Anchor Point is just everything you want and need in a fantastic book. Once this story begins to unfold, it's fast and keeps your wanting to know more. This one is a real nail biter of a read...full of action, adventure, intrigue and secrets. Elijah and Evangeline are just both amazing. Their characters were written and developed beautifully throught the book. I literally want to live in this world with them.

Anchor Point is not your typical MC book but you will absolutely love it.

I applaud Gwyn McNamee on this book. It truly is fantatsic and I can't wait to tell people to read it!

I voluntarily submitted an ARC review for this book.
2,102 reviews32 followers
March 10, 2020
This series continues to rock my world. Elijah and Eva’s story is intense, jaw dropping, roller coaster ride of emotions that you don’t want to get off of. Their pasts keep coming back to haunt them and for Elijah it’s hitting home hard and he needs to let Eva in to help him past it. Eva is trying to deal with what happened to her and trusting someone is not easy, but they both need to trust in what they could have if they let it happen. I’m bummed this series is coming to an end soon, this author has a way with words and making you really feel when reading her stories. Loved this book, and I received a copy of this book.

Profile Image for TheeBlaQueScribe.
166 reviews1 follower
March 13, 2020
I don’t even know why I didn’t think she couldn’t top the last book, of course Gwyn did, and I finally think I found my official forever book boyfriend! Elijah leaves me speechless. And Eva is one hell of a girl. I didn’t expect a lot of the things that took place in this book. It’s like this series gets better and better the longer it goes on. It’s not at all predictable like I thought it could be but I would expect nothing less from the Queen of recking my soul Gwyn McNamee! I’m going to new emotional support cookies by the end of this series that I never want to end! But yet another knock out of the freaking universe with this one.
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