Not much steam but lots of tension! Hope is stuck and her friend fires her from a job she knows she hates so that she can go back to doing what she loves, which is sharks. Always sharks. She has a job offer, but the catch is it is working for her ex boyfriend and the one that she never really got over. When she shows up on the first day and realizes that Adrian didn't know she was coming, she is beginning to rethink her choices.
Adrian has always loved Hope. He will always love her and when she shows up one day it is like he dreamed her into reality, but no. She is there for a job and expects they can just be friends when he knows she has his heart.
Adrian doesn't want to be the reason that Hope isn't doing what she loves so he lets her stay and work. As they do, they communicate more (thankfully) and try to be friends. But, you don't want to kiss your friends as bad as he wants to kiss Hope and you don't have feelings like this. Friends turns into something more and as bad as he wants it to be forever, both of them are scared. They used to be everything to each other, can they get there again?
I really enjoyed this light read! It is perfect for the beach or a fun read anytime.
Thanks to Harlequin, Netgalley and Chandra Blumberg for an early copy.

Need something light, fluffy, and a good pallet cleanser. This book is for you. always love a good second chance romance and this book didn’t disappoint.

One thing about Ms. Blumberg is she is going to write about educated black people falling in love! WE STAN!!!! I love romances that feature black love and black people in niche career paths. It was fun to read about sharks, marine biology, and two young professionals finding their way regarding love and their careers. The cover is absolutely darling and accurately portrays the vibe of the text inside. If you love a second chance romance trope, this book is definitely for you!!!
Thank you, NetGalley and Canary Street Press, for the arc!
Final Rating
3.50/5

Second Tide’s the Charm by Chandra Blumberg
Rating: 4
Vibe: Women in STEM
Format: ARC eBook

After an unplanned, extended break from the industry, Hope Evans’ options for studying sharks are limited. So limited, in fact, that she agrees to join a research team led by her ex-boyfriend, Adrian Hollis-Parker, just for a chance to get back out on the water. While once she thought she’d spend the rest of her life with Adrian, it’s been years now since their breakup. Surely, she is over him, and he must have moved on, too. They are perfectly capable of being professional for one short summer…right?

As someone who grew up fascinated by sharks and wanting to be a marine biologist, I was thrilled to come across this book. There was a good amount of easy-to-understand shark science sprinkled throughout the book, which I really enjoyed. I do think it is important to note that this book is more character- than plot-driven. In essence, lot of the story takes place in the characters’ heads. We have access to both Adrian and Hope’s point of views (via alternating chapters), and so much of the novel is focused on their individual development rather than plot points. Blumberg executed this extremely well. Each of the main characters had their own distinct voices, beliefs, and rationales. I felt like I understood their motivations intimately, and I never questions why they behaved the way they did because I spent so much time with their thoughts. An unfortunate side effect of a character development-focused story, however, is that the pacing can feel slow at times. While I thoroughly enjoyed this read, it didn’t give me that can’t-put-it-down feeling because I wasn’t desperate to know what happened next. Supporting characters Melissa and Gabe were just as delightful as the leads, and they all felt fully-fleshed out and unique. Though the book covered a large span of time, I rarely felt confused by the passing of time. Blumberg is a talented storyteller and I would definitely read another of her books.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for granting me access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was such a fun second-chance romance I enjoyed reading it. The fmc is a marine biologist who loves everything shark and ocean-related while the mmc is a popular photographer who shares videos showcasing his love for sharks, science, and other marine life. They come together after the fmc finds out that her summer job is working with the mmc to film shark/ocean content over the summer. The book navigates them being together after the previous breakup, the fmc career, and the attraction both characters still have for each other.

I loved how sweet the book was, I'm not always very into second-chance romance but I think this one was well written and was realistic with the chemistry and reasons why they broke up the first time. The romance was good and both characters were interesting and perfect for each other. I also liked the marine biologist and career issues that were woven into the story. This was a good read, loved the diversity and black romance. Thank you HTP for the arc.

I’ve always had a healthy fear of the ocean. This book really makes me appreciate the people that love it. Also the complexity of relationships that are long distance because of jobs. Communication really is key in like everything.

This book was such a refreshing breath of air and an absolute joy to read! With second chances, science, and sharks, it follows the story of Hope and Adrian, exes who unexpectedly end up working together over the summer to film and share science content. Adrian is completely taken aback when Hope walks back into his life, while Hope struggles to juggle her career dreams with the undeniable attraction she still feels for him.

The second chance romance is handled so sweetly, giving a heartfelt glimpse into how the characters grow and change over time. The marine biology backdrop added an exciting and unique twist, making the story both educational and engaging. Overall, it was a fun and captivating read that I thoroughly enjoyed!

this book was nothing short of adorable.

usually when I see second chance romance, I run the other way. there's a reason (usually a good one) the characters broke up, so why bother giving it a second go? but with Adrian and Hope, that was not the case. I was rooting for them from start to finish. their chemistry is perfect, and the two of them are so cute I want to wrap them up in a warm hug. such a fun beach read for the summer!

Thank you NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Chandra Blumberg for this ARC.

This book is a fluffy light, Second Chance Romance, and I found myself putting it down a lot. The book had a slow start, and I pushed through it because I felt like there was more to read. I appreciate that this wasn't a miscommunication book but more about bad communication, which is not the same thing. Both characters, especially Hope, believed that she couldn’t have everything she wanted without wrapping her life around Adrian. It's a decent book, but I didn't enjoy it as much. I found myself skimming sometimes. I feel like the parts where Hope and Adrian decided to stop playing around and give in, and the times they wanted to become friends were more enjoyable than everything else. A big portion of this book felt like a bunch of ramblings and unnecessary writing. The book could have involved more of Hope and Adrian becoming friends, reconnecting, and finding themselves again, rather than constantly rambling about the past. Overall, it was an okay read, but it didn't fully capture my attention.

ope es bióloga marina, tuvo una relación con Aiden de 6 años.
Aiden, biólogo marino, sigue suspirando por Hope, pero decide que es tiempo de seguir adelante.
Terminaron su relación por la distancia emocional y física y falta de comunicación, 3 años después tienen que trabajar juntos.

Hope se fue alejando porque no quería ser como sus padres y estar en una relación en donde uno o ambos dejaran atrás sus sueños por amor. Me desesperó, quería sacudirla.

Aiden por no presionarla le dio su espacio, pero le dio demasiado espacio a tal punto que ella pensó que se había cansado de estar con ella.

Me encantó la ambientación y la información de los tiburones.





Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Why did I wait so long to read this?! What is wrong with me?! THIS IS PRECIOUS. I fucking loved this with my whole soul.

Thank you netgalley for the Arc, for my honest opinion. This book was so cute and fun! For months i been saying i wish someone write a book with a different profession we are so much more. Chandra delivered. Hope is passionate about sharks everything about them so much so she becomes i want to say a marine biologist. She dated Adrian a fellow shark lover. They dated for years and loved each but before thing can get too serious Hope breaks it off. Here we are year later this story in a way made me want to shake Hope because she was hopeless. Adrian was fine, instagram famous read the book for the details, made money and stay to himself. Adrian is added to my list of Book Bae i call him Sharkey. But the book was amazing.

My goodness, this story is a captivating dive into love and uncharted waters! In the sun-kissed world of marine biology, where the ocean's secrets whisper to those who listen, “Second Tide's the Charm” by Chandra Blumberg invites readers to plunge into a tale of love, redemption, and the mysteries that lie beneath the surface.

This story is a breath of salty air, blending romance, marine science, and emotional depth. With a backdrop of shark research and a past that refuses to stay submerged, this novel promises an exhilarating ride through uncharted waters. Let’s get into why it deserves every star.

Meet Hope Evans. At first glance, she lands the perfect summer job: a position aboard a shark research boat. But as every marine biologist knows, it's what happens beneath the waves that truly matters. The catch? The boat belongs to her ex-boyfriend. For three years, Hope has avoided anything that reminds her of their past. Now, she's diving back into a career that could propel her forward and perhaps offer much-needed closure.

Meet , Adrian Hollis-Parker. He is now an internet-famous shark expert with a YouTube channel dedicated to dispelling myths, has risen to success. Yet, his achievements feel hollow without his ex-girlfriend Hope. When circumstances force them to work side by side, they must navigate not only the murky waters of their shared history but also the stormy seas of their unresolved feelings.

Blumberg crafts characters who feel real and relatable. Hope's vulnerability and determination resonate, while Adrian's passion for sharks and his lingering love for Hope tug at the heartstrings. Their chemistry leaps off the page, making their journey all the more compelling.

The shark research boat becomes a character in itself. It’s a cramped, salt-streaked vessel where emotions churn like the ocean waves. The vivid descriptions transport readers to the sun-drenched deck, the scent of saltwater clinging to their skin.

The novel dives deep into the complexities of love, forgiveness, and second chances. Hope and Adrian's shared history is layered with regrets, missed opportunities, and the ache of lost love. As they confront their past, the emotional currents pull readers along, leaving them breathless.

Blumberg's portrayal of marine biology is both informative and enchanting. The details about sharks are seamlessly woven into the narrative. Adrian's YouTube channel adds a contemporary twist, emphasizing the power of education and love for the natural world.

Hope's journey isn't just about finding love; it's about reclaiming her own strength. The sea becomes a metaphor for life's unpredictability, and as Hope faces her fears, readers cheer her on. Redemption arcs are tricky, but Blumberg navigates this one with finesse.

“Second Tide's the Charm” is a tidal wave of emotions, from passionate, to heartwarming, and utterly captivating. Blumberg's writing flows like the ocean currents, pulling readers into a love story that transcends time and tides. Dive in, and let the charm of uncharted waters sweep you away.

Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Canary Street Press for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Unfortunately I don’t think this one is for me. I don’t LOVE second chance romances but I figured I’d give this one a chance.


That being said the reason for them breaking up was a deal breaker for me. <spoiler> because how are you guys in your 30s as grown adults but just let your relationship end because you DIDNT TALK. After dating for 6 years and planning to move in together and being so integrated into each others lives?? I just can’t. This is the miscommunication/lack of communication trope on steroids and I just can’t. <spoiler/>

That being said if that doesn’t bother you then I would give it a shot because it seemed to have potential.

i think this was a light and cute book! i didn't find myself majorly invested in the characters but as a science girlie i loved every second of the marine biology ! i was rooting for them to get back together!!! overall was a cute read.

thank you netgalley for proving me with an arc!

This is a cute second chance romance with the added bonus of sharks! I really enjoyed the marine biology in this book along with our two MC's Hope and Adrian. I fully admit that second chance romance is not typically a trope I love but I think the author did a great job here and I enjoyed the story. The last place I would want to be with my ex is at work but Hope and Adrian work through it and the character development was great.

Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing | Canary Street Press and Chandra Blumberg for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book was cuuuttteeeee! Second chance romance with an interesting marine biologist backdrop.

I felt this second chance romance was done well witha good amount of character building and backstory. I liked both the female and male main character and rooted for them throughout the book.

As a science girly myself I also enjoyed the shark facts lol

Thanks to NetGallery for a digital copy of the book in exchange for my own opinion.

AHHHH!! This one had me kicking and screaming b I loved it so much! I want to reread it over and over again! I’ve found my new favorite author!!

3 Stars! Thank you, to the publisher, for this eARC via Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion!

This was a cute read, and I enjoyed reading about Hope and Adrian’s love story. I honestly did not know what to expect when I started the novel but the description and cover art drew me in. This was an entertaining second-chance romance about Hope Evans a marine biologist and her ex Adrian Hollis-Parker also a researcher who specifically has made a name for himself on the internet for his study of sharks. I also learned a bit of information about marine biology and shark research as I was reading, which I did not know before. Honestly a cute read!


Thank you, Harlequin Trade Publishing, for this eARC via Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion! If you are into second-chance romance tropes, I recommend this to you.

Loved having Black characters who were marine biology educators - and learned a lot more than expected about sharks.