Sea Storm

Andrew Mayne brings action, suspense, and intrigue to Sea Storm, the third novel in the Underwater Investigation Unit (UIU) series. Whether you like the action to be underwater, on the water, or on land, readers will find what they are seeking.

A coast guard request for assistance brings Sloan McPherson and her colleague Scott Hughes to a sinking cruise ship off the coast of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. There’s been multiple explosions, evidence may be lost due to an incoming tropical storm, and certain details are being overlooked by some of the authorities. Sloan and Hughes aren’t about to let that happen and undertake their own investigation.

Sloan has good reflexes and amazing instincts, but she takes risks and has trouble with people who ignore clues and go for the quick resolution. Hughes also has a somewhat reckless streak, but has incredible analysis capabilities as well as some skills from his military career. Both have a police background which helps since the UIU is a law enforcement agency. Together, they are a formidable pair of investigators for the little-known state agency they work for. Both characters are fully drawn and unforgettable.

The memorable first chapter sets the stage for what is to come. Readers get glimpses of the investigative and rescue methods used by Sloan and Hughes, but this is just the opening salvo. As I avidly read on, the suspense, action, and intrigue was high through-out most of the novel. Was it over-the-top at times? Yes. Did I care? No. I was wholly invested in the story line.

The plot is complex and has twists and turns to keep a reader guessing. The high stakes kept me engaged throughout the story. The well-written story and the incredible characters in a unique setting, combined with action that is astonishing, culminates in an amazing conclusion.

What an adventure! Will you guess what happens? While the main case comes to an end, there are plenty of threads that could be explored in future books. Themes include mysterious explosions, jurisdictional power struggles, political pressure, corruption, family, friendship, and much more.

Overall, this was an intense story with complex characters that kept me turning the pages. There was enough background in this novel that it worked well as a standalone, but I am looking forward to reading the prior books as I wait on the next one in the series. Those who enjoy crime thrillers, diving, and action thrillers may want to check out this series.

Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and Andrew Mayne for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for March 29, 2022.