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Saltwater Cowboys #4

Seagrass Secrets

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He’s her best friend. She’s the woman of his dreams.

Firefighter Colby Morris needs answers. After discovering a dead body, he then learns his best friend’s address was in the man’s pocket. He’ll do anything to keep Emmy safe—yet he wants to keep his heart safe also. That’s why he’s never told Emmy he’s in love with her.

Emmy Sutherland is trying to make amends after she hits a man with her truck while driving in a torrential downpour. When the island’s clinic floods, she has no choice but to let the stranger stay at her inn. But recent events on Cape Corral have her feeling apprehensive.

Events continue to escalate, leaving Colby and Emmy scrambling to find answers. But as more secrets are uncovered, more danger arises. Can Colby and Emmy discover the truth? Or will their feelings get in the way—endangering not only their lives but their lifelong friendship?

372 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 7, 2020

621 people are currently reading
115 people want to read

About the author

Christy Barritt

343 books1,741 followers
Christy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
Profile Image for Rebekah Morris.
Author 121 books272 followers
January 26, 2021
2.5 stars
I don’t know. This story was so much like the other books in the series that it felt like I’d just read it. Yes, there were different bad guys wanting different things, but some of the same things happened, the ending was so much the same except with a different set of circumstances. I might have enjoyed it more if I hadn’t read the 3rd book just a week ago.
I liked Colby and Emmy, but I sure wished they weren’t so “secret" about their feelings. It was fun to read more about the other guys who work there on the island, but I sure wanted to tell them a thing or two or three. Don’t they know that–well, if I said I’d give something away. That part had me so confused as to why they didn’t realize something that was so plain. I mean, come one guys, wake up!
I really wanted to find out the end to the feud on the island, but I guess that won’t get resolved until the last book.
I thought this was supposed to be a Christian book, but maybe I was mistaken. There wasn’t much that made me think it was one. I don’t know if there were many if any prayers unless it was at the time of extreme crises, and that was about it.
There were some detailed kisses and mentions of how someone smells.
Profile Image for Laura.
Author 39 books654 followers
December 17, 2020
SEAGRASS SECRETS is the 4th book in this series, but it stands alone. I have to say that Ms. Barritt does come up with some unique plot ideas. Not to mention, some incredibly devious bad guys.

I had part of the who-dun-it figured out, but as usual there was a surprise twist. Ms. Barritt is a master at romantic suspense and will keep you guessing.

I was given a copy free. All opinions are by own.

Profile Image for Linda Rainey.
2,348 reviews22 followers
November 13, 2020
Another Exciting Christy Barritt Book

The suspense kept me on my toes as I raced through the book and dodged the twists and turns.
I enjoyed the storyline,the romance and all the characters.
This book is highly recommended.
4,072 reviews1,766 followers
September 6, 2023
Playing catch up with this series and am enjoying reading the books fairly close together…I can almost see how some readers wait until they have an entire series before diving in. Not that I’ll ever have the patience or fortitude to do that when I read new releases. I gobble them right up and happily/unhappily wait for the next book, even if it’s a year on the horizon. But it’s kinda fun to binge read a catch-up series. 🙂

So, Saltwater Cowboys — they aren’t full time cowboys. The heroes all hold different law enforcement / emergency worker type full-time jobs. But they all cowboy up to take care of the wild horses on their island. There’s an angst inducing background plot that is threatening the horses’ habitat which, hopefully, will reach a satisfactory conclusion by the sixth book. It’s driving my anxiety levels up in the meantime because I’m a softie when it comes to animals and the environment.

Having said all that, you could easily read these books out of order. This is #4 and it was fun getting a glimpse into previous heroes/heroines futures. And, of course, to swoon and angst over Colby and Emmy. Best friends since grade school — yay, I so enjoy a friends to more trope! Colby clued in years ago that he was in love with Emmy but he’s been afraid to destroy their wonderful friendship so has stayed quiet. So we have a tortured lovelorn hero and a clueless heroine (in the beginning.)

Love the way Barritt develops their romance — the insecurities and fears of letting go of something sure for the uncertainty that comes with a chance at love. And, be still my heart, Colby!!! My heart hurt for him, but then there came a point when I just wanted to shake some sense into him before he did something drastic and…let’s just say it’s a rocky road to this happily ever after.

And the mystery…I was so flummoxed. The whole read I was: What. Is. Happening?! And why is Emmy involved? She’s lived her whole life on the island? This doesn’t make sense! But there are clues…very cleverly laid out for an astute reader to notice. Ha, more so in hindsight for some of them. But, I did have my suspicions about…well…something…and I was proved right so I feel somewhat vindicated. Like maybe I don’t have to turn my armchair sleuthing badge in quite yet.

I listened to the audio edition of Seagrass Secrets (and my, are there a lot of secrets!) and enjoyed Stacey Glemboski’s interpretation of these characters very much. Excited to dive into the next one very soon.

https://kavsbestreads.ca/2023/09/06/s...
Profile Image for Marylin.
1,344 reviews45 followers
November 10, 2020
Finally, we get to find out what is going on with two of the characters in Christy Barritt’s new Saltwater Cowboys series.
This is book 4, in the past books we’ve slightly gotten to know Emmy and Colby, but we’ve never really heard what was going on between the two until now!
Emmy has such a giving heart and Colby is always there as her best friend. In this book, we see how they finally discovered their true feelings amongst the crazy mysterious things happening around the island. Will it pull them apart or bring them together?
Get ready, we are again taken on a ride with all the mystery and suspense that is so true to Christy Barritt’s writing. Her writings are always full of suspense, action, twist, and turns. This one is no different. It has so much packed into it, it was hard to breathe sometimes. My heart was pounding and my mind was going fast trying to figure out how it was all going to end. There were a couple of chapters I just had to read to my husband and he said, Wow! And then asked me what kind of book I was actually reading. (He thinks I only read Hallmark type books!) This one is definitely not a book I’d want to read late at night when the wind is blowing and it’s stormy out!
Christy Barritt is an author who knows how to keep you reading and reading and reading until you’ve realized you’re done and waiting for the next book to be released. She spins her tales with so many twists and turns it will keep you hooked until the very end!
I was captured from the very first line, and I know you will be too.
If you LOVE “who-done-it” stories with mystery, suspense, action, and a bit of relationship tension plus romance mixed in, you will love this book!
I was given this book by the author which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kelly Bridgewater.
1,225 reviews65 followers
November 16, 2020
The Seagrass Secrets by Christy Barritt is soaked through with mystery and romance. The story starts out with a hunt for a missing man, then moving on to discover who is hunting graves. The mystery was non-stop, twisting and turning with every chapter and scene. Barritt still keeps the emotions and romance sparking through the pages. I don't know how she keeps all these number of different mystery stories ideas flowing through her brain. It is non-stop, and she does a wonderful job at crafting stories that her fans and brand new readers want to return to or pick up for the first time.

I received a complimentary copy of Seagrass Secrets by Christy Barritt from Christy Barrritt, but the opinions stated are all my own.
198 reviews5 followers
January 1, 2021
Colby and Emmy have been best buddies for years and years, but never in a romantic sense, much to Colby's disappointment. When Emmy's life is in danger after she hits a person with her vehicle and invites him to stay at her inn, Colby is concerned not only for her safety but also for their relationship. As they work together to solve the mystery of a dead man with her address in his pocket, Emmy and Colby begin thinking about their own feelings for each other. Another winner from Author Christy Barritt, continuing the Saltwater Cowboy Series.

I received a complimentary coy of this book. The opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kim.
737 reviews14 followers
November 11, 2020
Seagrass Secrets contains all the elements of top-notch suspense including breathtaking danger and explosive drama. Christy Barritt boldly carves a niche into inspirational mystery writing and Saltwater Cowboys fulfills what readers expect. The main characters are troubled yet likeable and the classic good vs. evil culminates into a satisfying conclusion. Enjoy this escape into the fictional Cape Corral universe.

I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.

Profile Image for Debbie.
302 reviews14 followers
November 11, 2020
How do you tell your best friend that you love him (her)??? In the latest installment from the Saltwater Cowboys series, Colby and Emmy have been best friends almost all their lives. They both have deeper feelings for each other but are afraid to ruin their friendship. When Emmy's name is discovered on a paper in a dead man's pocket, they must discover what is going on before someone else pays the ultimate price. Storms, dug up graves, mysterious clues - and strangers, all lead to an amazing conclusion!! I received an advance copy from the author but all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Mary Hake.
Author 4 books412 followers
November 25, 2020
This series about modern cowboys on an East Coast island offers plenty of suspense and action. This novel features Firefighter Colby Morris and his good friend Emmy Sutherland, who runs the island’s inn. Danger threatens, and they and the rest of the team must figure out who, how, and why someone wants to attack Emmy. The author keeps readers guessing and throws in surprising twists in this intriguing mystery. A continuing plot element continues through each book in the series. You won’t want to miss any of these exciting tales. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Robyn Seitzler.
221 reviews6 followers
November 12, 2020
Wow! Just Wow!

It was a dark and stormy night . . . No, really, but Ms. Barritt is so descriptive that you can feel the rain soaking you and feel the sting of the sand against your skin. And it just keeps getting better! If you enjoy reading a mystery that keeps you guessing till the end, this is your book. If you enjoy a tumultuous romance, this is your book. I believe this might be Ms. Barritt’s best yet!
1,512 reviews14 followers
November 14, 2020
I had a BETA Copy of this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Christy Barritt continues to write books that draw you into the plot, and this one is no exception. Seagrass Secrets continues with the story of Emmy and Colby who have been best friends for years. Naturally there is the continuing intrigue and mystery as well as romance in the plot of this story on the island of Cape Corral.
Profile Image for Faith Posten.
314 reviews12 followers
November 17, 2020
Cape Corral's Worth

Colby has loved Emmy almost forever in his mind, but actually about twenty years. That's about when they met in 2nd grade. Since then they have been best friends who tell each other everything. But then bad things begin to happen that brings major changes. I won't spoil this suspense sprinkled with just enough romance for you. You just need to read it.
1,064 reviews12 followers
November 18, 2020
Cape Corral Book 4

Emmy & Colby have been best friends since second grade, but now, 20 years later, sparks are flying between them. But Emmy is in danger & Colby must save her before they can face the truth...they love each other & not in a brother-sister way. I'm not sure why Colby's dad was brought into the story just to set a few buildings on fire, get caught, confess & go to jail. The next book in the series will be out in a couple weeks.
525 reviews1 follower
November 27, 2020
Timing is Most Important

It’s amazing that the relationship between the two main characters existed for so long without their knowing exactly how they felt. Emmy, most likely, was in denial. It is the right combination of mystery and suspense (and romance). It took a life-death experience before Emmy was made to realize how she truly felt. The Jeremy character (impersonator) was malicious and deceitful. It was a calculated risk and well timed.
Profile Image for Melissa Stands.
112 reviews
November 10, 2020
The story for Colby and Emmy is just wonderful! I will admit to times of great frustration with them and just wanting them to communicate like adults...but that's part of what kept me clicking through the pages! The mystery was interesting and I enjoyed learning more of the history of Cape Corral. A great read as always by Christy Barritt!
1,697 reviews12 followers
November 12, 2020
Thrilling

I loved Emmy and Colby's story but I'm not sure my pulse will ever recover from the suspense and mortal danger they were in from the mysterious enemies! Wow, there was just so much to this story. Excellent. Oh, and I'm still rooting for those horses to have a happy ending.
222 reviews1 follower
December 1, 2020
Graves, Arson, Liars and Love

Cape Coral has too much going on: a dead man with Emmy's address in his pocket, three houses set on fire, Emmy hits a handsome man with her truck, torrential rain. Firefighter Colby is best friends with Emmy, but he really wants far more. Christy Barritt again has a perfect mix of suspense and romance. How does she do it time after time?
Profile Image for Kevin.
812 reviews21 followers
December 6, 2020
More intrigue on Cape Corral

To paraphrase Mr. Roark, "Danger! Danger, everyone! And welcome to Cape Corral."

Colby and Emmy have been best friends since second grade, about 20 years, but both are afraid to tell the other how they feel. But when Emmy's life is endangered, it's their friendship and love for each other that will pull them through.

Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Holly.
718 reviews21 followers
January 1, 2021
You knew this story would be written from book 1 of Saltwater Cowboys, but Christy Barritt does an outstanding job making it exciting and at times suspenseful. Colby and Emmy are a great duo.

Love the story!


Disclaimer: I did receive this book from the author, but was under no obligation to write a review.
54 reviews
March 24, 2021
Love doesn't play fair

C. Barrett writes stories so well that it is a joy to read them! This book pulls you in, and shows the awkwardness of self=doubt and old mistakes. So very human! Lots of intrigue and a lovely context. Wild horses! Ocean! Yummy firefighters! It doesn't get much better than this.
957 reviews11 followers
April 11, 2021
Loving this series. Loved Seagrass Secrets! It's a real page-turner that kept me up late at night reading. Emmy and Colby's sweet friendship was touching, and I couldn't wait until the sparks between them kindled more! Several twists and turns--a great clean romantic suspense by 1 of my favorite authors! I highly recommend this book and this author!
Profile Image for Kristalyn.
20 reviews1 follower
April 7, 2026
Another great book in the Saltwater Cowboys series. It is a great story about characters Colby and Emmy that have been best friends since they were kids. The story has enough hints of mystery and romance that sometimes you are not sure which direction the book will turn. So therefore you want to read more. Just read it!
Profile Image for Valerie Hartup.
116 reviews2 followers
November 11, 2020
Series gets better and better

Book 4 does not disappoint! I so enjoy this series because while it is a ‘series’ each book can be read as a stand alone. The author is awesome with her story line twist and turns.
Profile Image for Jan L.
1,003 reviews21 followers
November 12, 2020
Of storms and graveyards...

A lot of suspense with a nor'easter causing havoc for the island authorities and some really bad characters after Emmy. Great atmosphere, mystery and finally, the sweet romance between Colby and Emmy is explored. I love this series.
Profile Image for Hunter Q Lee.
502 reviews3 followers
November 15, 2020
A lifelong friendship that grew into something more.

Seagrass Secrets is about a lifelong friendship that grows into something more. Cape Corral is flooded with rain as well as adventure.
61 reviews1 follower
November 16, 2020
Great characters and story

You can always count on Christy Barritt to deliver a great character driven and smart story. These characters become dear to the reader and their fates are on the turn of each page.
11 reviews
November 29, 2020
Made me smile

I always enjoy Christy's stories. Loved the story of Colby & Emmy. Really wonderful that they found love in a treasured friendship that went all the way back to 2nd grade.
Profile Image for Barbara Carter.
475 reviews20 followers
December 1, 2020
Looking for? What exactly?

Someone’s searching....mysterious things are happening and the usual peace-filled atmosphere is charged with danger....enjoyed this novel. Just not quite sure of the title.
Profile Image for Jennifer Cagle.
778 reviews1 follower
December 6, 2020
Good cozy mystery

This was a nice cozy mystery and a great addition to the saltwater cowboy series. Colby and Emmy get are the stars of this romantic mystery. Colby is a firefighter in the island and he and Emmy have been best friends for 20 years.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews