"The Crushing Depths" by Dani Pettrey - Coastal Guardians, book 2

When an accident claims the life of an oil-rig worker, Coast Guard Investigators Rissi Dawson and Mason Rogers are flown to the scene thirty-eight miles from shore. Tensions aboard the rig are high, and the death has everyone on edge. Environmental activists are threatening to do whatever it takes to stop the "plague on the environment" from continuing its work. Meanwhile, rumors are circulating on board about an ancient curse lurking in the depths below. Mounting evidence shows the death might not have been an accident. Was the man killed by one of the activists or, more frighteningly, a member of his own crew? Rissi and Mason have to sort through not only numerous suspects, but also their own haunted pasts and their attraction to each other.

I didn't remember much from the first book, particularly the large cast, but even so I had no problem following this one; it reads as a stand-alone, though it sets up the next book in the series (assuming Pettrey follows her usual patterns). I liked both Rissi and Mason and their deep bond from childhood; it added a lot of depth to their relationship, counteracting what would have otherwise been an unbelievably quick romance. Now they're finally given the opportunity that they had once been denied.

While Rissi and Mason are the main couple and their investigation the focus, there's a second case being worked, with a broader look on the CGIS team as a whole--sometimes from their perspectives, like Caleb, Noah, and Coast Guard Medic Brooke, and sometimes just glimpses of the remaining members as seen through the others' eyes. It's a fun crew, with personalities across the spectrum, including a couple delightfully quirky ones. I enjoy learning more about the duties of the CGIS, but even more I'm looking forward to reading more about the fun crew!

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Coastal Guardians
1. The Killing Tide
2. The Crushing Depths

3. The Deadly Shallows