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Berry Springs #7
The Cave
After getting trapped in a remote cave, two strangers must work together to survive while being hunted by a ruthless killer...
Life is full of surprises, rescue swimmer Owen Grayson knows that better than anyone, especially when he’s forced to take an indefinite military leave and return home to pick up the pieces of his dad’s latest mistake. As Owen struggles to settle back into his roots, he is called to a remote cave where he discovers the mysterious death of his uncle wasn’t an accident at all. As the clues begin to unravel, it becomes apparent that the cave is hiding secrets worth killing for… and everyone on site has a target on their back.
Coming off a bad break up and an even worse few days, Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Sadie Hart is brought in to excavate human remains found deep in the treacherous mountains of Berry Springs, in a cave rumored to be haunted, nonetheless. When her team stumbles upon a dead body before they even reach the cave, Sadie quickly realizes this is going to be no ordinary job—especially when she meets a particularly bull-headed Adonis who claims to be related to the victim.
A storm hits, trapping Sadie and Owen inside the cave with nothing but a flashlight and a small backpack with provisions… and someone who wants them dead. As the odds stack up against them, Sadie begins to fear she and Owen will become the next pile of bones found deep in the catacombs of Crypts Cavern…
Life is full of surprises, rescue swimmer Owen Grayson knows that better than anyone, especially when he’s forced to take an indefinite military leave and return home to pick up the pieces of his dad’s latest mistake. As Owen struggles to settle back into his roots, he is called to a remote cave where he discovers the mysterious death of his uncle wasn’t an accident at all. As the clues begin to unravel, it becomes apparent that the cave is hiding secrets worth killing for… and everyone on site has a target on their back.
Coming off a bad break up and an even worse few days, Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Sadie Hart is brought in to excavate human remains found deep in the treacherous mountains of Berry Springs, in a cave rumored to be haunted, nonetheless. When her team stumbles upon a dead body before they even reach the cave, Sadie quickly realizes this is going to be no ordinary job—especially when she meets a particularly bull-headed Adonis who claims to be related to the victim.
A storm hits, trapping Sadie and Owen inside the cave with nothing but a flashlight and a small backpack with provisions… and someone who wants them dead. As the odds stack up against them, Sadie begins to fear she and Owen will become the next pile of bones found deep in the catacombs of Crypts Cavern…
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2019
About the author
Amanda McKinney
35 books763 followersAmanda McKinney is the bestselling and multi-award-winning author of more than fifteen romantic suspense and mystery novels. Her latest book, Rattlesnake Road, was named one of POPSUGAR's 12 Best Romance Books to Have a Spring Fling With, and was featured on the Today Show. The fifth book in her Steele Shadows series, Jagger (Steele Shadows Investigations), was recently nominated for the prestigious Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense.
Amanda wrote her debut novel, LETHAL LEGACY in 2017, after walking away from her career to become a writer and stay-at-home mom. Her books include the bestselling series, STEELE SHADOWS SECURITY, the multi-award-winning BERRY SPRINGS series, BLACK ROSE MYSTERIES, and many more to come.
Set in small, Southern towns, Amanda’s books are page-turning murder mysteries peppered with steamy romance She lives in Arkansas with her handsome husband, two beautiful boys, and three obnoxious dogs.
Text AMANDABOOKS to 66866 to receive Amanda's newsletter and get the latest on new releases, promos, and freebies!
Visit her website at www.amandamckinneyauthor.com
Follow Amanda on Instagram at www.instagram.com/amandamckinneyauthor
Follow Amanda on Facebook at www.facebook.com/amandamckineyauthor
Amanda wrote her debut novel, LETHAL LEGACY in 2017, after walking away from her career to become a writer and stay-at-home mom. Her books include the bestselling series, STEELE SHADOWS SECURITY, the multi-award-winning BERRY SPRINGS series, BLACK ROSE MYSTERIES, and many more to come.
Set in small, Southern towns, Amanda’s books are page-turning murder mysteries peppered with steamy romance She lives in Arkansas with her handsome husband, two beautiful boys, and three obnoxious dogs.
Text AMANDABOOKS to 66866 to receive Amanda's newsletter and get the latest on new releases, promos, and freebies!
Visit her website at www.amandamckinneyauthor.com
Follow Amanda on Instagram at www.instagram.com/amandamckinneyauthor
Follow Amanda on Facebook at www.facebook.com/amandamckineyauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
August 10, 2019
This one blew me away with just how much I enjoyed myself.
My first introduction to this talented author but it definitely won't be my last this really was the real deal.
So in-depth and well researched I was super impressed at the level of detail contained within these pages this author has most certainly done her homework here.
Everything here felt so authentic and fresh.
I experienced all the feels right alongside these diverse characters and was left feeling like I had traversed the same journey right by there sides.
It was like I had been transported right into the landscape itself.
I also learned so much and loved that this wasn't dumbed down for the masses.
I am a massive Bone's fine so loved that this was set in the world of forensic anthropology.
This was primarily plot-driven and the romance here was more for me a secondary thing which did work.
This wasn't a graphic book in terms of the heat factor but that really didn't matter and I could most definitely feel the chemistry here between out two main characters.
So the two in the spotlight her were forensic anthropologist Dr Sadie Hart and Search and rescue officer Owen Grayson who is on a temporary sabatical as he is needed back home.
Sadie is called in to excavate some bones at local legendary spot Crypts Cavern.
This also had a really great cast of secondary contributors all multi-faceted individuals.
Containing Spelunking or potholing if you're like me and from the UK (I had to look up the former I was like ya what, oh you mean potholing got it)
And I really liked that aspect of this story.
Lastly, this can be read as a stand-alone novel.
This was well written and intense with a gripping and vivid mystery and its centre.
I Really do rate this one highly it was fabulous from start to finish.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of The Cave (Berry Springs #7).
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
October 5, 2019
3.5 stars
July 20, 2019
This is a new author for me, and suspense isn’t usually one of my go to genres, but when the opportunity came up to read this book, I threw caution to the wind and went for it. Boy am I glad I did. I found this book to be well written, intense right from the start, full, of suspense and mystery, a couple of pretty hot and sexy characters who’s chemistry together is off the charts, and some scenes that made me really uncomfortable because just like Griffin, I’m really claustrophobic! Loved the KT Crime Lab that Sadie headed up, creepy, but very interesting. Owen’s job in the Coast Guard was really intense! Enjoyed Griffin and Kimi’s characters a lot. A great book to get your heart pumping, really enjoyed this book, look forward to reading more from this author.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
January 10, 2022
Suspense with a slow burn romance. Our H/h are trying to discover whose bones are arranged in a cave in the Ozark Mountains. There's drama, murder, blood and some action scenes - a good read.
Read
October 2, 2019I love Amanda McKinney's writing and the Berry Springs novels!
Her descriptive power really gives you a wonderful sense of place and her characters spring to life off the page. She is truly a gifted writer.
It's like she's planting a mystery garden, perfectly placing clue seeds into the soil of her tightly-woven plot. We get the joy of watching those seeds grow and the vines intertwining, forming a harvest of thrilling suspense.
Coast Guard rescue swimmer, Owen Grayson, is on indefinite leave. He has come home to Berry Springs to pick up the pieces of his family's business after his dad's third DUI and court-appointed rehab.
While there he takes on a part-time job with the Berry Springs PD.
Forensic anthropologist Dr. Sadie Hart works for KT Labs, a private company that studies the effect of weather and other conditions on human remains.
She's coming off a very public failed relationship with the lab owner's son.
Sadie and her team are called upon to excavate remains found in a cave in the mountains outside of Berry Springs. It's there she meets Owen, who is part of the law enforcement team escorting them to the site.
Sparks immediately fly.
Grayson has reasons of his own for joining the group. Something that happened seven months earlier.
When the expedition stumbles upon another body in the woods, the suspense and tension begins to notch-up.
The mystery deepens and it's game on!
PS - the cave is supposedly haunted. Oh, goody.
The last third of the book is virtually impossible to put down.
Thanks to the author for sending me this copy.
#readamanda
Her descriptive power really gives you a wonderful sense of place and her characters spring to life off the page. She is truly a gifted writer.
It's like she's planting a mystery garden, perfectly placing clue seeds into the soil of her tightly-woven plot. We get the joy of watching those seeds grow and the vines intertwining, forming a harvest of thrilling suspense.
Coast Guard rescue swimmer, Owen Grayson, is on indefinite leave. He has come home to Berry Springs to pick up the pieces of his family's business after his dad's third DUI and court-appointed rehab.
While there he takes on a part-time job with the Berry Springs PD.
Forensic anthropologist Dr. Sadie Hart works for KT Labs, a private company that studies the effect of weather and other conditions on human remains.
She's coming off a very public failed relationship with the lab owner's son.
Sadie and her team are called upon to excavate remains found in a cave in the mountains outside of Berry Springs. It's there she meets Owen, who is part of the law enforcement team escorting them to the site.
Sparks immediately fly.
Grayson has reasons of his own for joining the group. Something that happened seven months earlier.
When the expedition stumbles upon another body in the woods, the suspense and tension begins to notch-up.
The mystery deepens and it's game on!
PS - the cave is supposedly haunted. Oh, goody.
The last third of the book is virtually impossible to put down.
Thanks to the author for sending me this copy.
#readamanda
August 2, 2019
5 stars
*ARC kindly provided by the author and I’m leaving an honest review*
Passionate✔
Heartfelt✔
Intense✔
Gripping✔
Suspenseful✔
Off the charts chemistry✔
Hot damaged alpha✔
Sassy Heroine✔
This book and series should read every romantic suspense lover. I liked everything about this book and writing which just flowed and had me engrossed to the story from start to finish wanting to find out what happens next. I enjoyed every minute of it and never wanted it to end. The synopsis is just the surface of what it is about. It has so much depth, powerful, effortless and at times dark storytelling. I loved that it was written in third person, dual POV so I know what both characters – Sadie and Owen – were thinking at the specific time or moments. It was well developed, well written and well thought out. The author knew how to develop, create the storyline and make you fall in love with her words, plot and the characters demanding your attention. It was enjoyable read with so many twists and turns, while delivering an intense and passionate romance / love story between Owen and Sadie that I devoured in one sitting. It was steamy, dark and suspenseful romance. The characters are brilliant and so likeable.
The Cave by Amanda McKinney is my first book but it certainly will not be the last. This is a standalone and seventh book in her Berry Springs series. The characters are complex; the plot is strong and unpredictable with twists and turns that will keep you guessing the story and who is the villain. Because of author’s awe-inspiring details and visualization I had a feeling like I was right there with characters, living in their world and hearing every sound, murmur and seeing magical (lol haunted) scenery. I loved the legends about the cave which I think added to the story and characters’ development.
Owen Grayson is a rescue swimmer for the Coast Guard. He is an enigma but so alluring. I was drawn to him immediately wanting to know more about him, his background and why he is the way he is. He didn’t have an easy childhood and he fought to survive. He doesn’t like to be vulnerable because he considers that a weakness. When tragedy strikes Owen finds himself back in Berry Springs. He has a hard time settling back into his roots and figuring out what is next for him. He is loving, caring, loyal, charming, protective and down to earth.
Dr. Sadie Hart is a Forensic Anthropologist. I loved her immediately. She knows what she wants and what she stands for. She is strong - strong-willed, brave, a fighter, a survivor, moral, feisty, smart, stubborn, sassy, confident, proud, but also vulnerable and a bit jaded from her last relationship which leads her to be self-conscious and to not trust easily.
Owen and Sadie were amazing. They lit the pages with their chemistry since the first time they met. I loved their first meeting and their immediate physical, fiery attraction and off the charts chemistry. They are each other’s match. I loved their sassy, flirty banter and witty sexual innuendos. Owen is determined to keep her safe and protect her. He is really fiercely protective of her. They know they shouldn’t feel attracted to each other, but they do, it’s unavoidable. Maybe they don’t make sense but when they are together – they are just perfect and exactly what they need. I love their moments and dialogues. They have preconceived opinions about each other but when they finally let on the glimpses into who they really are, they notice that they are similar. Owen and Sadie are kind of a slow burn. They are sinfully sexy and intense.
One word: INCREDIBLE! It kept my attention at all times and I could not put it down. I only wish there were an epilogue so we could see what future Owen and Sadie have. Other than that it really was fantastic, heart pounding read and a page turner. With an effortless writing, awe-inspiring detail, suspenseful storyline, mystery, small town gossips, legends and romance, the author takes us on an emotional and beautiful journey of the characters and allows us into their minds and hearts; to see them who they were and what they have become while solving the cold cases, murders and being haunted by the ruthless killer. I highly recommend it.
*ARC kindly provided by the author and I’m leaving an honest review*
Passionate✔
Heartfelt✔
Intense✔
Gripping✔
Suspenseful✔
Off the charts chemistry✔
Hot damaged alpha✔
Sassy Heroine✔
This book and series should read every romantic suspense lover. I liked everything about this book and writing which just flowed and had me engrossed to the story from start to finish wanting to find out what happens next. I enjoyed every minute of it and never wanted it to end. The synopsis is just the surface of what it is about. It has so much depth, powerful, effortless and at times dark storytelling. I loved that it was written in third person, dual POV so I know what both characters – Sadie and Owen – were thinking at the specific time or moments. It was well developed, well written and well thought out. The author knew how to develop, create the storyline and make you fall in love with her words, plot and the characters demanding your attention. It was enjoyable read with so many twists and turns, while delivering an intense and passionate romance / love story between Owen and Sadie that I devoured in one sitting. It was steamy, dark and suspenseful romance. The characters are brilliant and so likeable.
The Cave by Amanda McKinney is my first book but it certainly will not be the last. This is a standalone and seventh book in her Berry Springs series. The characters are complex; the plot is strong and unpredictable with twists and turns that will keep you guessing the story and who is the villain. Because of author’s awe-inspiring details and visualization I had a feeling like I was right there with characters, living in their world and hearing every sound, murmur and seeing magical (lol haunted) scenery. I loved the legends about the cave which I think added to the story and characters’ development.
Owen Grayson is a rescue swimmer for the Coast Guard. He is an enigma but so alluring. I was drawn to him immediately wanting to know more about him, his background and why he is the way he is. He didn’t have an easy childhood and he fought to survive. He doesn’t like to be vulnerable because he considers that a weakness. When tragedy strikes Owen finds himself back in Berry Springs. He has a hard time settling back into his roots and figuring out what is next for him. He is loving, caring, loyal, charming, protective and down to earth.
Dr. Sadie Hart is a Forensic Anthropologist. I loved her immediately. She knows what she wants and what she stands for. She is strong - strong-willed, brave, a fighter, a survivor, moral, feisty, smart, stubborn, sassy, confident, proud, but also vulnerable and a bit jaded from her last relationship which leads her to be self-conscious and to not trust easily.
Owen and Sadie were amazing. They lit the pages with their chemistry since the first time they met. I loved their first meeting and their immediate physical, fiery attraction and off the charts chemistry. They are each other’s match. I loved their sassy, flirty banter and witty sexual innuendos. Owen is determined to keep her safe and protect her. He is really fiercely protective of her. They know they shouldn’t feel attracted to each other, but they do, it’s unavoidable. Maybe they don’t make sense but when they are together – they are just perfect and exactly what they need. I love their moments and dialogues. They have preconceived opinions about each other but when they finally let on the glimpses into who they really are, they notice that they are similar. Owen and Sadie are kind of a slow burn. They are sinfully sexy and intense.
One word: INCREDIBLE! It kept my attention at all times and I could not put it down. I only wish there were an epilogue so we could see what future Owen and Sadie have. Other than that it really was fantastic, heart pounding read and a page turner. With an effortless writing, awe-inspiring detail, suspenseful storyline, mystery, small town gossips, legends and romance, the author takes us on an emotional and beautiful journey of the characters and allows us into their minds and hearts; to see them who they were and what they have become while solving the cold cases, murders and being haunted by the ruthless killer. I highly recommend it.
May 13, 2020
I picked up The Cave on sale awhile ago because the “blurb” and reviews caught my attention. I love novels with unique settings and characters. The Cave has a military SAR diver, a forensic anthropologist, the Ozark Mts, spelunking, a cavern with an underground river, rumors of ghosts . . . okay, I was hooked!
I began reading The Cave late one evening & continued until 2:45am, totally captivated. . I woke up early the next morning and jumped back in until the last page. Excellent! This was my first Amanda McKinney novel but I have purchased 2 more in the series and plan to get them all. I see this author has another series as well (each with engaging occupations and settings) - yay!
The setting and characters were everything I had hoped. The FMC/Sadie, forensic anthropologist, was intelligent, resilient, focused, and tough without being a bit**. Huge points that the heroine didn’t act out in any TSTL actions that oftentimes moves the story along but makes me want to smack her good and hard - or sincerely hope she dies (since she’s so stupid/careless, she deserves it). ;) The MMC/Owen, Coast Guard SAR diver, yum! I have a huge respect for those guys/gals since I’m a diver of a much lower competency. They are amazing! Owen was an admirable, strong, approachable, trained and capable character - with his own troubling backstory. The opening scene portrayed him awesomely.
The Cave is book #6 in a six book series. I haven’t read the previous novels and was able to jump into this book with no problems, so The Cave works great as a standalone novel (but I think the reader would be missing out on what appears to be an excellent series). I highly recommend The Cave for readers of action-adventure mysteries, suspense romance novels, readers who appreciate strong FMCs working together with the MMC to accomplish a common goal, novels with unique settings/occupations, and resolution/HEAs (without tons of “Steam”).
Reader Cautions - not a Clean novel, but pretty close, IMO.
Violence- yes. This is a murder mystery. PG-13 level, perhaps - not dark, extremely graphic or grisly.
Sexual situations- yes. Secondary characters have brief on-scene intimacy about 1/2 way. MCs have attraction but intimacy doesn’t occur until 88% point. It is on-scene but rather brief. The Cave is about the solving of the mystery(ies), the relationships between the scientists/specialists, and about their work (think Bones, tv series). Any sexual situations are secondary and not the focus, IMO.
The Cave is suitable for all readers 18 and older except for those who would be offended by the aforementioned.
I began reading The Cave late one evening & continued until 2:45am, totally captivated. . I woke up early the next morning and jumped back in until the last page. Excellent! This was my first Amanda McKinney novel but I have purchased 2 more in the series and plan to get them all. I see this author has another series as well (each with engaging occupations and settings) - yay!
The setting and characters were everything I had hoped. The FMC/Sadie, forensic anthropologist, was intelligent, resilient, focused, and tough without being a bit**. Huge points that the heroine didn’t act out in any TSTL actions that oftentimes moves the story along but makes me want to smack her good and hard - or sincerely hope she dies (since she’s so stupid/careless, she deserves it). ;) The MMC/Owen, Coast Guard SAR diver, yum! I have a huge respect for those guys/gals since I’m a diver of a much lower competency. They are amazing! Owen was an admirable, strong, approachable, trained and capable character - with his own troubling backstory. The opening scene portrayed him awesomely.
The Cave is book #6 in a six book series. I haven’t read the previous novels and was able to jump into this book with no problems, so The Cave works great as a standalone novel (but I think the reader would be missing out on what appears to be an excellent series). I highly recommend The Cave for readers of action-adventure mysteries, suspense romance novels, readers who appreciate strong FMCs working together with the MMC to accomplish a common goal, novels with unique settings/occupations, and resolution/HEAs (without tons of “Steam”).
Reader Cautions - not a Clean novel, but pretty close, IMO.
Violence- yes. This is a murder mystery. PG-13 level, perhaps - not dark, extremely graphic or grisly.
Sexual situations- yes. Secondary characters have brief on-scene intimacy about 1/2 way. MCs have attraction but intimacy doesn’t occur until 88% point. It is on-scene but rather brief. The Cave is about the solving of the mystery(ies), the relationships between the scientists/specialists, and about their work (think Bones, tv series). Any sexual situations are secondary and not the focus, IMO.
The Cave is suitable for all readers 18 and older except for those who would be offended by the aforementioned.
August 1, 2019
After getting trapped in a remote cave, two strangers must work together to survive while being hunted by a ruthless killer...
Life is full of surprises, rescue swimmer Owen Grayson knows that better than anyone, especially when he’s forced to take an indefinite military leave and return home to pick up the pieces of his dad’s latest mistake. As Owen struggles to settle back into his roots, he is called to a remote cave where he's pulled into a mystery that hits a little too close to home. As the clues begin to unravel, it becomes apparent that the cave is hiding secrets worth killing for… and everyone on site has a target on their back.
Coming off a bad break up and an even worse few days, Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Sadie Hart is brought in to excavate human remains found deep in the treacherous mountains of Berry Springs, in a cave rumored to be haunted, nonetheless. When her team stumbles upon a dead body before they even reach the cave, Sadie quickly realizes this is going to be no ordinary job—especially when she meets a particularly charming Adonis who's hellbent on becoming her next mistake.
A storm hits, trapping Sadie and Owen inside the cave with nothing but a flashlight and a small backpack with provisions… and someone who wants them dead. As the odds stack up against them, Sadie begins to fear she and Owen will become the next pile of bones found deep in the catacombs of Crypts Cavern…
THE CAVE is a standalone romantic suspense novel.
The Cave is the seventh book in the Berry Springs series.
This is a fabulous read and they each seem to just get better each time.
Very suspenseful and fast paced that will keep you gripped to the end.
The plot and story line were well written and enjoyable.
Love the characters and they have been fleshed out well.
Can't wait to read another in theis series.
Recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Life is full of surprises, rescue swimmer Owen Grayson knows that better than anyone, especially when he’s forced to take an indefinite military leave and return home to pick up the pieces of his dad’s latest mistake. As Owen struggles to settle back into his roots, he is called to a remote cave where he's pulled into a mystery that hits a little too close to home. As the clues begin to unravel, it becomes apparent that the cave is hiding secrets worth killing for… and everyone on site has a target on their back.
Coming off a bad break up and an even worse few days, Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Sadie Hart is brought in to excavate human remains found deep in the treacherous mountains of Berry Springs, in a cave rumored to be haunted, nonetheless. When her team stumbles upon a dead body before they even reach the cave, Sadie quickly realizes this is going to be no ordinary job—especially when she meets a particularly charming Adonis who's hellbent on becoming her next mistake.
A storm hits, trapping Sadie and Owen inside the cave with nothing but a flashlight and a small backpack with provisions… and someone who wants them dead. As the odds stack up against them, Sadie begins to fear she and Owen will become the next pile of bones found deep in the catacombs of Crypts Cavern…
THE CAVE is a standalone romantic suspense novel.
The Cave is the seventh book in the Berry Springs series.
This is a fabulous read and they each seem to just get better each time.
Very suspenseful and fast paced that will keep you gripped to the end.
The plot and story line were well written and enjoyable.
Love the characters and they have been fleshed out well.
Can't wait to read another in theis series.
Recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
July 14, 2019
This book has an eclectic group of characters, plenty of suspense, action, mystery and romance, which came together in a story that drew me in and kept me reading till the unanticipated, but climactic ending that eventually led to a HEA for several people. The hero, Owen Grayson, is a member of the US Coast Guard's Search and Rescue unit, the heroine, Dr. Sadie Hart is a forensic anthropologist working for a renown crime lab, along with other crime lab associates, local police and SAR members, they are on a mission to gather the desecrated bones discovered in a dangerous, but well known cave with a history dated back to early american natives. A cave filled with lots of mud, bat guano, a bottomless lake with enormous blind fish and other creatures, unexplored caverns that go on forever, danger lurking around every crevice and ghost stories that would give someone chills, create the backdrop for this bizarre and baffling case. If you are the least bit curious, I highly recommend getting this book and if you're not curious, I still implore you to get the book. I am sure you will enjoy the fast paced story. I recieved this book as an ARC from the author in turn for my honest review. I look forward to reading the rest of this series and other books the author has written.
December 9, 2023
Noted Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Sadie Hart isn’t on everyone’s tongues these days for her breakthroughs on cold cases with new technology. She’s a social media sensation because of the breakup with her employer’s billionaire playboy son, Though stressed the broken relationship could cost her the job she loves, Sadie’s relieved when she’s told she’s needed to excavate skeletal bones found in a cave.
While on indefinite leave from the Coast Guard to resolve family issues, rescue swimmer Owen Grayson works part time with BSPD. Owen has escort and overwatch duty for Sadie and her team to a cave system rumored to be haunted; he and Sadie share a jolt of instant infatuation when they shake hands. Sadie and Owen struggle to remain in the business zone and Sadie insists to herself, Owen would be a bad decision, besides he’s returning to the Coasties.
Locals are quick and vocal with questions about the skeleton and Owen wonders if it’s his presumed dead uncle whose body wasn’t found; locals speculate truth in the cave legends but Sadie hasn’t ruled out a national chaos group. Checking things themselves, answers come rapidly including resolving local mysteries and murder suspects as other bodies are found.
Rating: 4.5stars
While on indefinite leave from the Coast Guard to resolve family issues, rescue swimmer Owen Grayson works part time with BSPD. Owen has escort and overwatch duty for Sadie and her team to a cave system rumored to be haunted; he and Sadie share a jolt of instant infatuation when they shake hands. Sadie and Owen struggle to remain in the business zone and Sadie insists to herself, Owen would be a bad decision, besides he’s returning to the Coasties.
Locals are quick and vocal with questions about the skeleton and Owen wonders if it’s his presumed dead uncle whose body wasn’t found; locals speculate truth in the cave legends but Sadie hasn’t ruled out a national chaos group. Checking things themselves, answers come rapidly including resolving local mysteries and murder suspects as other bodies are found.
Rating: 4.5stars
August 2, 2019
"Creepy legends, ghosts, vampire bats" and "see-through monster fish!"(An almost quote by a main character. The word and replaced or). Well, almost. Creepy legends of ghosts, some bats and blind fish for sure...oh and bodies!
Coast Guard Search and Rescue member Owen Grayson takes a leave to go back home to help his dad out. He ends up also sometimes working with the local police department. When bones are found in a cave, he is more than anxious for them to be identified because he believes he has a personal stake in the answer. Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Sadie Hart travels to Berry Springs to do her part to unearth the bones and to get them back to her lab to study. To get to the bones, they have to go through tight openings in the cave that may bring on a little feeling of claustrophobia, walk across 'bridges' little more than water slicked logs, over ' bottomless' lakes with blind fish...and dig in the dirt/ sand mixed with guano ( lucky them lol). One thing Sadie seems sure of before the bones leave the cave is that the person was murdered. Owen and Sadie try to find the killer(s) before they end up bodies too.
Coast Guard Search and Rescue member Owen Grayson takes a leave to go back home to help his dad out. He ends up also sometimes working with the local police department. When bones are found in a cave, he is more than anxious for them to be identified because he believes he has a personal stake in the answer. Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Sadie Hart travels to Berry Springs to do her part to unearth the bones and to get them back to her lab to study. To get to the bones, they have to go through tight openings in the cave that may bring on a little feeling of claustrophobia, walk across 'bridges' little more than water slicked logs, over ' bottomless' lakes with blind fish...and dig in the dirt/ sand mixed with guano ( lucky them lol). One thing Sadie seems sure of before the bones leave the cave is that the person was murdered. Owen and Sadie try to find the killer(s) before they end up bodies too.
February 29, 2020
Bones don't lie!
Another brilliant story set in Berry Springs. Forensic Anthropologist Dr Sadie Hart just wanted to drink away the nightmare her life had become after the end of her ill advised affair with her Billionaire Bosses son. But life and the endless search for truth goes on. Which is how along with her young colleagues she finds herself complete with camper van heading for Berry Springs and the miscellaneous bones that have been discovered in a supposedly haunted cave. On arrival she finds that not only will she have to face her greatest fear, a murderer who will stop at nothing to conceal the truth but also her off the scale attraction for hot as hell former Rescue Diver Owen Grayson. The man whose Uncle could well be the victim in the Cave. When everything goes to hell Sadie and Owen will have to trust each other if they are going to survive and maybe amidst the mayhem find a love that crosses all divides. Although all the books in the series can be read individually I recommend reading in sequence (unlike me) to really get to know the residents of Berry Springs. I am going back to the beginning to do just that!
Another brilliant story set in Berry Springs. Forensic Anthropologist Dr Sadie Hart just wanted to drink away the nightmare her life had become after the end of her ill advised affair with her Billionaire Bosses son. But life and the endless search for truth goes on. Which is how along with her young colleagues she finds herself complete with camper van heading for Berry Springs and the miscellaneous bones that have been discovered in a supposedly haunted cave. On arrival she finds that not only will she have to face her greatest fear, a murderer who will stop at nothing to conceal the truth but also her off the scale attraction for hot as hell former Rescue Diver Owen Grayson. The man whose Uncle could well be the victim in the Cave. When everything goes to hell Sadie and Owen will have to trust each other if they are going to survive and maybe amidst the mayhem find a love that crosses all divides. Although all the books in the series can be read individually I recommend reading in sequence (unlike me) to really get to know the residents of Berry Springs. I am going back to the beginning to do just that!
August 1, 2019
Fantastic - what a ride 👍😘
OMGOSH - what can I say - Amazing! Fantastic! - don’t miss out on this roller coaster ride! This troupe was my normal go to - then I read The Shadow and I was a goner. Amanda has such a gift when it comes to writing. She doesn’t just tell a story, she doesn’t pad her pages with lots of blah blah - Amanda describes each moment in such vivid detail - it’s a pleasure to read. I’ve not really comes across this yet where an author gives such a vivid picture you feel more like you’re watching the story - rather then reading. Once I read The Shadow I quickly moved on to more and I have never been disappointed. This story has parts that will even scare you a bit, it’s a crime thriller with heart thumping suspense and a sweet romance all in one. I wish I was a better writer to give this book the review it deserves - trust me, this is not a book to miss. Once you start, you simply can not put it down. I voluntarily received an arc copy of this book and purchased a copy as well
OMGOSH - what can I say - Amazing! Fantastic! - don’t miss out on this roller coaster ride! This troupe was my normal go to - then I read The Shadow and I was a goner. Amanda has such a gift when it comes to writing. She doesn’t just tell a story, she doesn’t pad her pages with lots of blah blah - Amanda describes each moment in such vivid detail - it’s a pleasure to read. I’ve not really comes across this yet where an author gives such a vivid picture you feel more like you’re watching the story - rather then reading. Once I read The Shadow I quickly moved on to more and I have never been disappointed. This story has parts that will even scare you a bit, it’s a crime thriller with heart thumping suspense and a sweet romance all in one. I wish I was a better writer to give this book the review it deserves - trust me, this is not a book to miss. Once you start, you simply can not put it down. I voluntarily received an arc copy of this book and purchased a copy as well
August 1, 2019
Tense, engaging murder mystery
A Chilling and Ghost story worthy book. I loved the tension build to this story it had plenty of danger and intense situations. The story starts out with an attention grabbing ocean rescue by Owen, which engages the reader right away and wraps you right into the storyline. The story is one that keeps you on your toes from beginning to end with a smooth and flowing style to the writing. I loved both Owen and Sadie, their personalities were both really likable and down to earth, and their chemistry was awesome too. A very interesting story with an excellent plot about Owen, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer, and Sadie, a Forensic Anthropologist, and I love that it had lots of details about that type of work, which helped to solve the crime. Much of the story was set in the caves, so a great title for the book too. Fun, witty dialogue with all of the characters also made it such an enjoyable read.
A Chilling and Ghost story worthy book. I loved the tension build to this story it had plenty of danger and intense situations. The story starts out with an attention grabbing ocean rescue by Owen, which engages the reader right away and wraps you right into the storyline. The story is one that keeps you on your toes from beginning to end with a smooth and flowing style to the writing. I loved both Owen and Sadie, their personalities were both really likable and down to earth, and their chemistry was awesome too. A very interesting story with an excellent plot about Owen, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer, and Sadie, a Forensic Anthropologist, and I love that it had lots of details about that type of work, which helped to solve the crime. Much of the story was set in the caves, so a great title for the book too. Fun, witty dialogue with all of the characters also made it such an enjoyable read.
September 6, 2020
YIKES! Another nail-biter! The Cave is an outstanding romantic suspense by Amanda McKinney. Ms. McKinney has produced a well-written book and furnished it with a magnificent cast of characters. When Owen's father is sent to rehab for DUI he takes a leave from the Coast Guard to take care of things while his father is away. He takes a temporary position with the Berry Springs police. Sadie is a forensic anthropologist and travels to Berry Springs with two co-workers to collect bones recently found in a cave. Owen and Sadie's story will keep your hands glued to your e-reader with the drama, humor, spice, action and suspense. I loved this book and now that I've read all of Amanda McKinney's books I'll be glued to her website for information on her next release. The Cave is part of the Berry Springs Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
August 3, 2019
Disappointed
## Odd man out again. I was definitely disappointed in this book. I pre-ordered it and was looking forward to it. Bummer. This book was too descriptive. Pages and pages of cave descriptions. Way too much unnecessary information. It was so over the top that I couldn't picture anything. It really took me out of the story. Also disappointed in this heroine. She was weak with her fear of hights, panic attacks, broken ankle and such...the hero constantly having to come to her rescue. Sure she is academically accomplished, but why can't she be capable as well? And I detest instant forgiveness. I wish the heroine would 've made the hero work for it a little in the end. Sorry, I can't recommend.
## Odd man out again. I was definitely disappointed in this book. I pre-ordered it and was looking forward to it. Bummer. This book was too descriptive. Pages and pages of cave descriptions. Way too much unnecessary information. It was so over the top that I couldn't picture anything. It really took me out of the story. Also disappointed in this heroine. She was weak with her fear of hights, panic attacks, broken ankle and such...the hero constantly having to come to her rescue. Sure she is academically accomplished, but why can't she be capable as well? And I detest instant forgiveness. I wish the heroine would 've made the hero work for it a little in the end. Sorry, I can't recommend.
August 3, 2019
Being in the mood for a good suspense so I dived into this one. This one was perfect for what I was craving with much more that was in it. The author knows how to deliver one that will get you into it while sneaking up and capturing your attention.
Owen is one of the characters that capture us with the intrigue he delivers in this. Sadie will also keep you watching her especially since she too has a interesting job. As the story unfolds it curls around you keeping your nose to the pages with questions also forming.
When their predicament occurs you do not turn away until those questions are answered. The suspense and danger high mixed with the romance fuels this one feeding the crave that sent me to this one in the first place.
Owen is one of the characters that capture us with the intrigue he delivers in this. Sadie will also keep you watching her especially since she too has a interesting job. As the story unfolds it curls around you keeping your nose to the pages with questions also forming.
When their predicament occurs you do not turn away until those questions are answered. The suspense and danger high mixed with the romance fuels this one feeding the crave that sent me to this one in the first place.
August 4, 2019
The Cave is mysterious and dangerous! How many bodies does it hide?
Amanda McKinney has quickly become one of my favorite authors, through the suspenseful Berry Springs series. She blends the woodsy background of the Ozark Mountains, the forces of Nature, and murders hidden in that landscape. Great characters solve the murders, sometimes in the face of continuing threats. And she manages to add some sexy romance. The legendary cave in the title is famous for murders from hundreds of years ago, and now the grisly discovery of a recent murder in its depths. Sexy romance, threats from a serial killer and a flood — it’s all in this book. This is one of my favorite Berry Springs mysteries; it seems they just keep getting better!
Amanda McKinney has quickly become one of my favorite authors, through the suspenseful Berry Springs series. She blends the woodsy background of the Ozark Mountains, the forces of Nature, and murders hidden in that landscape. Great characters solve the murders, sometimes in the face of continuing threats. And she manages to add some sexy romance. The legendary cave in the title is famous for murders from hundreds of years ago, and now the grisly discovery of a recent murder in its depths. Sexy romance, threats from a serial killer and a flood — it’s all in this book. This is one of my favorite Berry Springs mysteries; it seems they just keep getting better!
August 6, 2019
4.25 Rating As with all the books in this enthralling series, the author kept me guessing on the villain’s identity. The leading couple, Owen Grayson (U.S.Coast Guard) and Dr. Sarah Hart (Forensic Anthropologist) are both independent, likable, well-respected professionals that are instantly attracted to each other. Like the other couples throughout this series, these two find love under unusual circumstances. A merciless murder connected to a past unsolved crime and adverse weather conditions are trends seen in all the Berry Springs books. This time it’s mysterious bones found in a haunted cave and pouring rain that adds the extra drama. There are a couple past male characters that make a brief appearance in this book, but I would have enjoyed a quick update on all the former couples.
October 14, 2022
The Cave is a great book if you love romantic suspense (maybe a but more suspense than romance in this case), but it's not the best by this author.
There are a several editing issues that deserved better attention, and some parts of the plot are a bit unrealistic - no way would anyone talk normally, much less have sex while sporting an untreated broken ankle, and I'm not sure the Navy would hire a retired veteran who's been arrested countless times for alcohol abuse to train anyone. There are also a few plot details that could have been more developed or explained.
So, all in all, if you love the genre The Cave will still hold your attention from beginning to end, but there are too many little flaws for it to deserve more than a 4 stars rating.
There are a several editing issues that deserved better attention, and some parts of the plot are a bit unrealistic - no way would anyone talk normally, much less have sex while sporting an untreated broken ankle, and I'm not sure the Navy would hire a retired veteran who's been arrested countless times for alcohol abuse to train anyone. There are also a few plot details that could have been more developed or explained.
So, all in all, if you love the genre The Cave will still hold your attention from beginning to end, but there are too many little flaws for it to deserve more than a 4 stars rating.
August 1, 2019
Back to Berry Springs
The Cave is the seventh book in Amanda McKinney’s Berry Springs series and in my opinion, one of the best. I found it a very suspenseful and fast paced read full of mystery and of course, romance. Sadie and Owen were everything that you would want in romantic leads and the supporting characters were great, in particular Griffin and Kimi.
I will admit to closing my eyes and cringing a few times when they were in the cave, as I am someone that has a fear of enclosed spaces - this just proves how well written this book is. I do hope that we get more of this great series.
The Cave is the seventh book in Amanda McKinney’s Berry Springs series and in my opinion, one of the best. I found it a very suspenseful and fast paced read full of mystery and of course, romance. Sadie and Owen were everything that you would want in romantic leads and the supporting characters were great, in particular Griffin and Kimi.
I will admit to closing my eyes and cringing a few times when they were in the cave, as I am someone that has a fear of enclosed spaces - this just proves how well written this book is. I do hope that we get more of this great series.
August 1, 2019
Warning!!! Don't start reading unless you have done all your chores and put dinner in the slow cooker - you will not want to put it down. This is the third of Amanda McKinney's books I have read. In common with the others, once I started I had to keep going till the end. It has suspence, romance, mystery and great characters. There were moments in the cave when I shivered - I didn't mind the bats but deep dark water with blind fish and who knows what as well.... Just when you think you have solved the murder mystery part, you find you didn't lol. If you only read one book in the next month make it this one, you won't be disappointed.
August 4, 2019
If you are looking for a haunted murder mystery with surprising twists and turns, a story speckled with archaeological findings, interesting insights into death/pathology investigations, a smart and sassy heroine and passionate romance, then this book is for you. I definitely enjoyed it a lot. You (literally) get thrown into the water right at the beginning and the adrenaline rush stays with you until the end. With every book the author is getting bolder and (the crimes) scarier. And this one had me especially on the edge due to the claustrophobic conditions in the cave. A haunted dark place with numerous clefts for all kinds of creatures, both imaginative and real, to hide in and jump you. Creepiness aside, the funny and carefree dialogue between Owen and Sadie is refreshing. It flows perfectly back and forth and made them one of my favorite couples in the series.
September 4, 2019
So glad to be back in Berry Springs! It's my 7th trip down to this quaint little town and every visit just gets better and better! The Cave is another phenomenal book by Amanda McKinney. Talk about and author that continues to grow her writing talents like a weed..(a beautiful weed) with amazing book after amazing book. The Cave really showcases all of her honed skills. It is a great story with the perfect mix of mystery, suspense, and steam. You always fall in love with the characters in McKinney's books which is another feather in her writing cap. Enough talk though, pick up any of her books... you'll have a hard time putting them down!
September 1, 2019
Best One Yet
If I could have given it more than a five star rating I would have. From the very beginning the story was exciting and described the character Owen and his job well. It was so well-written, all of it that it became hard to remember this is a work of fiction! Obviously there had to have been a lot of research to even write this book but it was so spellbinding it was hard to remember that this was a made up story of one very talented writer. If you love Amanda's books you have to read this. It really was amazing!
If I could have given it more than a five star rating I would have. From the very beginning the story was exciting and described the character Owen and his job well. It was so well-written, all of it that it became hard to remember this is a work of fiction! Obviously there had to have been a lot of research to even write this book but it was so spellbinding it was hard to remember that this was a made up story of one very talented writer. If you love Amanda's books you have to read this. It really was amazing!
September 27, 2021
One of the better mysteries I've read in a long time
This has been in my Kindle library for a long time. This mystery grabbed me from the first page. I was not able to guess who the victim or the killer was. And I usually can. This was a heart pounding mystery and she had a great finish. My apologies to the author, but I was afraid it was going to be a dud. It was so good, I was telling my husband daily what the story was about and he was listening and asking questions. I can hardly wait to read another one.
This has been in my Kindle library for a long time. This mystery grabbed me from the first page. I was not able to guess who the victim or the killer was. And I usually can. This was a heart pounding mystery and she had a great finish. My apologies to the author, but I was afraid it was going to be a dud. It was so good, I was telling my husband daily what the story was about and he was listening and asking questions. I can hardly wait to read another one.
July 28, 2019
Another exciting Berry Springs mystery, this time set in the claustrophobic atmosphere of a haunted cave. This sexy crime series gets better with each book and I love that the heroines are feisty, independent women who don’t rely on the hunky male protagonists to get them out of trouble. Sadie and Owen battle through broken bones, knife attacks and gunshots while solving the mystery of the desecrated skeleton found in Crypts Cave.
August 1, 2019
Wonderful story. I was able to immerse myself into this mystery, into the lives of Owen and Sadie. Great H/h and the supporting characters add to the story. The story has great pacing. That and the suspense will keep you turning the pages. Of course, a little romance helps also. There is no epilogue, but the final chapter wraps up the story nicely and gives us the HEA(s). Highly Recommend. I was given an ARC and freely have given my honest review.
August 2, 2019
Amanda McKinney sure knows how to draw you in and hold you captive until the very end. I started to read and didn't want to put it down until the very last page. The Cave is a scary and dismal place except when Owen Grayson is there to light the way. Explore the mystery and suspense hidden in Berry Springs and remember to be on the lookout for the killer lurking in The Cave! I sure hope you take an afternoon to soak up all it has to offer.
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