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Fin Fleming Sea Adventure #1
In Deep
"...a stellar, pulse-pounding debut novel featuring a female underwater photographer. A heady mix of underwater adventure, mystery, and romance." - Hallie Ephron, New York Times bestselling author
"...In Deep delivers on twists and turns while introducing a phenomenal new protagonist in underwater photographer Fin Fleming, tough, perceptive and fearless." - Edwin Hill, author of The Secrets We Share
Fin Fleming is always in control when she's scuba diving in her home base of the Cayman Islands. But when she’s on land, not so much.
She has problems in every part of her life, from her scheming past lover to her new stepsiblings and her career as chief underwater photographer at an oceanographic institute. She's got very few friends and no love life to speak of. But her troubles really escalate the day of the first accident…
The crimes intensify, culminating in a dark and unexpected death while diving. It looks like an accident, but Fin quickly realizes it was a near perfect murder. She must bring the ruthless killer to justice before she’s the next one to end up dead.
Filled with mystery, romance, family, and lots of scuba diving, this unputdownable first entry in the series will leave you wanting more.
"...In Deep delivers on twists and turns while introducing a phenomenal new protagonist in underwater photographer Fin Fleming, tough, perceptive and fearless." - Edwin Hill, author of The Secrets We Share
Fin Fleming is always in control when she's scuba diving in her home base of the Cayman Islands. But when she’s on land, not so much.
She has problems in every part of her life, from her scheming past lover to her new stepsiblings and her career as chief underwater photographer at an oceanographic institute. She's got very few friends and no love life to speak of. But her troubles really escalate the day of the first accident…
The crimes intensify, culminating in a dark and unexpected death while diving. It looks like an accident, but Fin quickly realizes it was a near perfect murder. She must bring the ruthless killer to justice before she’s the next one to end up dead.
Filled with mystery, romance, family, and lots of scuba diving, this unputdownable first entry in the series will leave you wanting more.
292 pages, Paperback
First published August 21, 2021
230 people are currently reading
284 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
December 17, 2024
The main character was way too forgiving and generous, but I really enjoyed reading this book. I love that this mystery was set in a diver’s haven. I look forward to finishing the series.
April 20, 2025
I absolutely love scuba diving, so I was naturally drawn to this series. The accuracy and research put in is 5 stars for sure. Unfortunately I did not resonate with or understand the main characters decisions, feelings, and actions. She was just so blasé when her livelihood and family were being viciously attacked that I almost DNF’d. The end really picked up and I overall enjoyed it but I don’t think I’ll be continuing the series. Great job on the diving info though!
April 19, 2022
I found this generally disappointing. It was billed as a thriller, but I found it was more a drama about relationships, with some suspense thrown in.
The book starts with a misogynistic joke that does nothing to endear me to a character that is supposed to be someone the MC cares for deeply. In fact, Ray was not a very sympathetic character and so there wasn't a lot of emotional impact when he died.
It was appalling that the author had Fin go out to dinner with her violent, abusive ex.
There were serious plot holes and the book could have stood for another round of editing. The number of typos were somewhat distracting.
I did enjoy the diving scenes and the aquarium/oceanic research setting. The story was a quick read, but I am unlikely to continue the series.
The book starts with a misogynistic joke that does nothing to endear me to a character that is supposed to be someone the MC cares for deeply. In fact, Ray was not a very sympathetic character and so there wasn't a lot of emotional impact when he died.
It was appalling that the author had Fin go out to dinner with her violent, abusive ex.
There were serious plot holes and the book could have stood for another round of editing. The number of typos were somewhat distracting.
I did enjoy the diving scenes and the aquarium/oceanic research setting. The story was a quick read, but I am unlikely to continue the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2021
abuse ignored?
I'm disgusted by the author's premise that it's ok to go out to dinner with an ex who was abusive, for ANY reason. I couldn't read any past that excruciatingly poor behavior. Either don't make the previous relationship abusive, or have your main character have a spine, and self respect.
I'm disgusted by the author's premise that it's ok to go out to dinner with an ex who was abusive, for ANY reason. I couldn't read any past that excruciatingly poor behavior. Either don't make the previous relationship abusive, or have your main character have a spine, and self respect.
December 26, 2023
The drama and connections between characters was interesting BUT the story was so choppy and the writing is missing so much. Scenes kept changing quickly and the plot didn’t make sense or build up like it could have. I still don't understand why she killed him... and as a scuba diver the underwater scenes were not good.
March 1, 2022
Neither an adventure or a thriller
Poorly written. More of a soap opera than a thriller. Plot has more hopes than Swiss cheese. Ray is portrayed as a nice guy. In reality he is just gullible. Not going to belabor the point. This is an awful book
Poorly written. More of a soap opera than a thriller. Plot has more hopes than Swiss cheese. Ray is portrayed as a nice guy. In reality he is just gullible. Not going to belabor the point. This is an awful book
February 19, 2024
An author's note at the end states something along the lines of "the divers are intentionally stupid"
If your plot relies on your characters being unrealistically stupid, your plot doesn't work.
Aside from that, my liking this book or not relied on the ending surprising me. It did not.
If your plot relies on your characters being unrealistically stupid, your plot doesn't work.
Aside from that, my liking this book or not relied on the ending surprising me. It did not.
March 19, 2025
It’s like A Series of Unfortunate Events, underwater version. Characters are unbelievable. Lots of open ends and how-can-that-be?s. I just wanted Fin to toughen up and open her eyes. Continuing this series is a definite nope for me. Three stars is generous.
April 2, 2025
A series of highly improbable accidents that all of the aloof characters continually dismiss, an unlikable protagonist and a plot full of holes and inconsistencies. Initially very interesting (exploring the world of free diving), it sunk into an abyss of stupidity.
November 20, 2022
Not a good read but not awful. It’s just not a very engaging book. I’m doubtful I’ll continue the series.
February 7, 2023
Really enjoyed the scuba aspect of this book, but the characters were all over the place. I wanted to like it more
November 14, 2022
Freedive into mystery at every meter!…
Okay, that was the corniest title for a review ever! Lol ;)
But it absolutely reflects this story …. a mystery, which was surprising to me, that kept me guessing right up until the very end.
Especially as it’s not just the typical clues to some original event or crime the author is surprising us with as we read along. It’s additional major situations that occur which become our clues.
Extremely well executed!
The pace is fast & the characters in constant motion (I read this book on a snowy Sunday, almost impossible to stop swiping the pages!).
The majority of the story offers up a heavy dose of adrenaline. With moments of peace & reflection sprinkled throughout. Both occurring, in general, while the the characters are diving or are on the sea in some capacity.
Overall I’m happy to have discovered Sharon Ward & her Fin Fleming SCUBA Diving series.
The character development is solid. And the main players themselves are equally fabulous & despicable.
Ward’s world building is fantastic. Grand Cayman isn’t anywhere I’d ever considered visiting previously, & it’s now on my list without a doubt!
I was SCUBA certified about a million years ago. But I had the bare minimum of knowledge regarding free diving. I love books which contain factual information, so I really enjoyed learning about the sport.
The deep dive into all that is free diving reflected Ward’s extensive research, which is much appreciated; &/or her personal experience & knowledge.
Additionally, the subplots involving the relationship between Fin & certain sea animals — completely enjoyed!! One particular species interaction prompted me to conduct additional independent research as the storyline is so compelling.
My one - personal - critique pertains to the main character, Fin. She’s so worldly in many ways, & has been raised in an adult world by people who never, “talked down to her.” Meaning, her intelligence as a person, no matter her age, was respected & came first.
Her parents are both extraordinarily strong, brilliant, adventurous, bold risk takers, who raised Fin to mirror their ways whilst still being her own unique person.
Fin was also educated since her earliest years on overall water & diving safety procedures. So there’s some definite no-nonsense responsibility built into the family, & Fin’s, central philosophy & personality as well.
Thus, it gets a bit …. grating after awhile “experiencing” Fin’s kinda immature, Pollyanna-ish, naïveté.
Her trusting to a nauseating fault.
And 90% of the time, if people speak harshly to Fin, or she’s threatened in a way it’d be a spoiler if I told you … she has zero emotional reaction or response. Whereas the vast majority of people would.
It’s just weird.
Lastly, Fin’s need to blame EVERYTHING that happens on …. herself … gets really old, very quickly. (I do believe my eyes are still all jammed up in an odd configuration, from rolling them so much!)
Poor, poor, martyr of the fam (& Universe) Fin. Lordy. (There go my eyes again!!)
Fingers crossed that as this truly engaging & fun to read series progresses, so does Fin’s personal growth. As aside from my above mentioned annoyances - she’s an awesome character! I say now, after it appears as though I’ve throughly cut her to shreds… lol.
Fin is made up of FAR MORE than the negatives seen from my own perspective, & offers a wide range of interest to the story.
Other than that rather small detail in the grand scheme of things (my Fin opinions), In Deep is for sure a more than great start to this series.
With the bonus of gorgeous sea life, white sand beaches, & Caribbean sunsets to get you through snowy winter days….
What’s better than that?
Okay, that was the corniest title for a review ever! Lol ;)
But it absolutely reflects this story …. a mystery, which was surprising to me, that kept me guessing right up until the very end.
Especially as it’s not just the typical clues to some original event or crime the author is surprising us with as we read along. It’s additional major situations that occur which become our clues.
Extremely well executed!
The pace is fast & the characters in constant motion (I read this book on a snowy Sunday, almost impossible to stop swiping the pages!).
The majority of the story offers up a heavy dose of adrenaline. With moments of peace & reflection sprinkled throughout. Both occurring, in general, while the the characters are diving or are on the sea in some capacity.
Overall I’m happy to have discovered Sharon Ward & her Fin Fleming SCUBA Diving series.
The character development is solid. And the main players themselves are equally fabulous & despicable.
Ward’s world building is fantastic. Grand Cayman isn’t anywhere I’d ever considered visiting previously, & it’s now on my list without a doubt!
I was SCUBA certified about a million years ago. But I had the bare minimum of knowledge regarding free diving. I love books which contain factual information, so I really enjoyed learning about the sport.
The deep dive into all that is free diving reflected Ward’s extensive research, which is much appreciated; &/or her personal experience & knowledge.
Additionally, the subplots involving the relationship between Fin & certain sea animals — completely enjoyed!! One particular species interaction prompted me to conduct additional independent research as the storyline is so compelling.
My one - personal - critique pertains to the main character, Fin. She’s so worldly in many ways, & has been raised in an adult world by people who never, “talked down to her.” Meaning, her intelligence as a person, no matter her age, was respected & came first.
Her parents are both extraordinarily strong, brilliant, adventurous, bold risk takers, who raised Fin to mirror their ways whilst still being her own unique person.
Fin was also educated since her earliest years on overall water & diving safety procedures. So there’s some definite no-nonsense responsibility built into the family, & Fin’s, central philosophy & personality as well.
Thus, it gets a bit …. grating after awhile “experiencing” Fin’s kinda immature, Pollyanna-ish, naïveté.
Her trusting to a nauseating fault.
And 90% of the time, if people speak harshly to Fin, or she’s threatened in a way it’d be a spoiler if I told you … she has zero emotional reaction or response. Whereas the vast majority of people would.
It’s just weird.
Lastly, Fin’s need to blame EVERYTHING that happens on …. herself … gets really old, very quickly. (I do believe my eyes are still all jammed up in an odd configuration, from rolling them so much!)
Poor, poor, martyr of the fam (& Universe) Fin. Lordy. (There go my eyes again!!)
Fingers crossed that as this truly engaging & fun to read series progresses, so does Fin’s personal growth. As aside from my above mentioned annoyances - she’s an awesome character! I say now, after it appears as though I’ve throughly cut her to shreds… lol.
Fin is made up of FAR MORE than the negatives seen from my own perspective, & offers a wide range of interest to the story.
Other than that rather small detail in the grand scheme of things (my Fin opinions), In Deep is for sure a more than great start to this series.
With the bonus of gorgeous sea life, white sand beaches, & Caribbean sunsets to get you through snowy winter days….
What’s better than that?
February 4, 2022
Author Sharon Ward's IN DEEP is the first in her Fin Fleming thriller series and provides quite the aquatic themed thrill ride.
Fin Fleming, a certified SCUBA instructor and underwater photographer, has led a charmed life. The daughter of a famed oceanographer, she grew up going all over the world as her mother's job took her to numerous sites for documentary film making. Her stepfather Ray, a renowned diver himself, taught her everything she knows when it comes to the world of diving. She's just started a new job at the institute her parents run together and is helping Ray prepare for a dive that will be part of their new fundraising documentary.
But the preparation ends up going wrong and Ray's closest friend is seriously injured. And that kicks off an increasing set of "coincidences" that leave Fin and those closest to her in harm's way as the attacks keep coming. With the resulting damage increasing to the point of someone being murdered, Fin has no choice but to look at everyone in her life to see who is trying to end her life and even more importantly, why?
But the sea is a fickle mistress...can Fin find the answers she's looking for before the killer's sinister plans drag her to the ocean floor.
I liked the various informational tidbits that Sharon Ward (a certified divemaster herself) puts into the narrative about SCUBA diving and other oceanic knowledge as well. Fin Fleming is easy to like. She's smart, determined and eminently qualified for the work she's doing.
But I suppose the thing that grew a bit tiresome to me was how Fin missed all of the signs that something was going on, straining at least some credibility. This is a woman who is accustomed to paying attention to the smallest details but when it came to each successive attack, she wrote it off as another coincidence far too easily for my liking. As a devoted follower of NCIS, the Gibbs Rules are on my mind when she thinks the attacks are all coincidences. I mean RULE 39: There is no such thing as a coincidence!
And when Fin's personal life gets upended by the arrival of her beloved stepfather's two previously unknown children, Fin's mother even gives a rather big clue that something stinks like day old fish left out in the sun. And there's the matter of Fin's liar and violent ex-husband to contend with as well.
I wasn't quite sure who exactly the killer was but I had a good idea what the motive was behind everything and I definitely had that right. I guess I just wish that Fin displayed a little more of the confidence she shows in her professional life in her personal life and dealing with trying to track down a killer. I mean, she takes an awful lot of crap from practically every character in the book. If it was me, there's be at least a verbal smack down coming for all of the people acting as if I owed them something.
I loved the setting of the Grand Caymans and tying everything into the world of scuba diving gives the series a setting I'm not all that overly familiar with. I'm sure that I'll enjoy learning more about that stuff as the series continues. Heck, I even liked the way Ward made a couple of sea creatures memorable characters so that I found myself caring what happened to them!
With all that being said, IN DEEP was an enjoyable read overall. I wish Fin hadn't been quite so easy to gaslight but I'm guessing that's more down to my cynical outlook. The second book is due out soon and I know that I'm planning on jumping on board that book ASAP.
Fin Fleming, a certified SCUBA instructor and underwater photographer, has led a charmed life. The daughter of a famed oceanographer, she grew up going all over the world as her mother's job took her to numerous sites for documentary film making. Her stepfather Ray, a renowned diver himself, taught her everything she knows when it comes to the world of diving. She's just started a new job at the institute her parents run together and is helping Ray prepare for a dive that will be part of their new fundraising documentary.
But the preparation ends up going wrong and Ray's closest friend is seriously injured. And that kicks off an increasing set of "coincidences" that leave Fin and those closest to her in harm's way as the attacks keep coming. With the resulting damage increasing to the point of someone being murdered, Fin has no choice but to look at everyone in her life to see who is trying to end her life and even more importantly, why?
But the sea is a fickle mistress...can Fin find the answers she's looking for before the killer's sinister plans drag her to the ocean floor.
I liked the various informational tidbits that Sharon Ward (a certified divemaster herself) puts into the narrative about SCUBA diving and other oceanic knowledge as well. Fin Fleming is easy to like. She's smart, determined and eminently qualified for the work she's doing.
But I suppose the thing that grew a bit tiresome to me was how Fin missed all of the signs that something was going on, straining at least some credibility. This is a woman who is accustomed to paying attention to the smallest details but when it came to each successive attack, she wrote it off as another coincidence far too easily for my liking. As a devoted follower of NCIS, the Gibbs Rules are on my mind when she thinks the attacks are all coincidences. I mean RULE 39: There is no such thing as a coincidence!
And when Fin's personal life gets upended by the arrival of her beloved stepfather's two previously unknown children, Fin's mother even gives a rather big clue that something stinks like day old fish left out in the sun. And there's the matter of Fin's liar and violent ex-husband to contend with as well.
I wasn't quite sure who exactly the killer was but I had a good idea what the motive was behind everything and I definitely had that right. I guess I just wish that Fin displayed a little more of the confidence she shows in her professional life in her personal life and dealing with trying to track down a killer. I mean, she takes an awful lot of crap from practically every character in the book. If it was me, there's be at least a verbal smack down coming for all of the people acting as if I owed them something.
I loved the setting of the Grand Caymans and tying everything into the world of scuba diving gives the series a setting I'm not all that overly familiar with. I'm sure that I'll enjoy learning more about that stuff as the series continues. Heck, I even liked the way Ward made a couple of sea creatures memorable characters so that I found myself caring what happened to them!
With all that being said, IN DEEP was an enjoyable read overall. I wish Fin hadn't been quite so easy to gaslight but I'm guessing that's more down to my cynical outlook. The second book is due out soon and I know that I'm planning on jumping on board that book ASAP.
August 11, 2025
I will admit this book does keep you reading out of curiosity and wanting to know who did it; however, I gave it a low score based on the validity of some of the actions which did not make sense to me as a reader. This is the type of book that made me want to go downstairs and open up a document and start writing my own book because if no one is complaining about this one then there is definitely room for me to write a book. My biggest complaint is how she handled moments where the main character’s life was in jeopardy or where situations were happening that should have elicited a much different response than they gave. An example would be coming home and finding her ex-husband in her house in her office on her computer. Instead of calling the police or yelling for him to get out, she argued about him trying to find pictures and steal her work for credit and then they went down the rabbit hole of him stealing other from her. That was secondary to the fact that he had broken in in my opinion. Also her mother did not seem to show enough anguish or seem to be interested in the fact that there have been many attacks, including on herself, her daughter and her husband and Gus yet she poo-pooed the whole situation and and was busy working without worrying about what was going on at her very business. It made no sense. There are many more like that where the main character was in discussions with people who had assaulted her and the discussions were not about the assault itself, but about her feelings in the situations. If the author had handled those moments better, i would’ve given it a four.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
July 18, 2025As is my usual habit these days, this review is for my own memory of the book. If you are trying to decide if you want to read the book I suggest not letting my thoughts influence you, read the book, see if you like it, we are all different people.
On to my notes for me.
I am not sure how many stars to give this book. It feels like more than three, but I am not sure if it is four, so for now while I ponder I am not rating it.
The main character was interesting and I found her story enjoyable for the most part. Numerous times though I found her interactions with those around her strange and unrealistic; the same for some of the other characters. A couple of minor examples; while rushing around trying to save aquatic animals who’s aquariums have been smashed she never calls or texts anyone on her cellphone. Then, her mom calls her a bunch the next day but, when she can’t get a hold of the main character, doesn’t go to the main character’s home to check on her in person.
I know that in the foreword the author explains why they chose to include people doing unsafe SCUBA diving practices for purposes of the story; I think it would have been nice if the characters talked about being solo certified and the extra precautions they take when diving alone, especially where they do it almost all the time.
There were lots of suspects, which was nice. I would have enjoyed it more if the main character had seemed to do some sleuthing instead of just surviving the last attempt on her life and having the villain confess to the police about everything.
On to my notes for me.
I am not sure how many stars to give this book. It feels like more than three, but I am not sure if it is four, so for now while I ponder I am not rating it.
The main character was interesting and I found her story enjoyable for the most part. Numerous times though I found her interactions with those around her strange and unrealistic; the same for some of the other characters. A couple of minor examples; while rushing around trying to save aquatic animals who’s aquariums have been smashed she never calls or texts anyone on her cellphone. Then, her mom calls her a bunch the next day but, when she can’t get a hold of the main character, doesn’t go to the main character’s home to check on her in person.
I know that in the foreword the author explains why they chose to include people doing unsafe SCUBA diving practices for purposes of the story; I think it would have been nice if the characters talked about being solo certified and the extra precautions they take when diving alone, especially where they do it almost all the time.
There were lots of suspects, which was nice. I would have enjoyed it more if the main character had seemed to do some sleuthing instead of just surviving the last attempt on her life and having the villain confess to the police about everything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2025
Truly one of the worst books I've ever read. I'm actually angry at myself for wasting the time to finish it. I should have abandoned it halfway through.
Ugh, where do I start? As another reviewer noted, if your story depends on ridiculously stupid decisions by your main characters, you really don't have a story.
Just once I would like to read a dive adventure book that doesn't rely
on so-called professional divers making stupid and careless mistakes and poor safety protocol decisions. IMO they deserve every calamity that befalls them.
This book was way more stupid family drama/soap opera than dive adventure, except that soap operas have more of a plot and at least *some* character development (and that isn't saying much). There were zero plot points that did anything to move the story along. Just a bunch of random forced and artificial relationship dilemmas and ridiculous random scenes.
Ugh, where do I start? As another reviewer noted, if your story depends on ridiculously stupid decisions by your main characters, you really don't have a story.
Just once I would like to read a dive adventure book that doesn't rely
on so-called professional divers making stupid and careless mistakes and poor safety protocol decisions. IMO they deserve every calamity that befalls them.
This book was way more stupid family drama/soap opera than dive adventure, except that soap operas have more of a plot and at least *some* character development (and that isn't saying much). There were zero plot points that did anything to move the story along. Just a bunch of random forced and artificial relationship dilemmas and ridiculous random scenes.
January 4, 2025
As a scuba diver, I really enjoyed this novel. It was fun to read about a hobby I enjoy and a location that is on my list of places I would like to dive. I found all of the scuba diving to be accurate and it had me longing to be in the water again (it’s been years since my last dive).
The plot was intriguing and sets up a good series, but the characters could be infuriating. The MC acted so dumb sometimes, and the minor characters seemed a little all over the place, trying to keep us from identifying the antagonist. That was a little over the top. Also, some of their dialogue caused me to cringe and roll my eyes, as well.
The sneak peek at the next novel sounds good and one of the plot twists in the next book, while not unexpected (I’m sure it will recur in the entire series) was still maddening.
I’m planning to read the entire series, unless it delves too far into the ridiculous.
The plot was intriguing and sets up a good series, but the characters could be infuriating. The MC acted so dumb sometimes, and the minor characters seemed a little all over the place, trying to keep us from identifying the antagonist. That was a little over the top. Also, some of their dialogue caused me to cringe and roll my eyes, as well.
The sneak peek at the next novel sounds good and one of the plot twists in the next book, while not unexpected (I’m sure it will recur in the entire series) was still maddening.
I’m planning to read the entire series, unless it delves too far into the ridiculous.
August 20, 2025
I actually really enjoyed this book. It was a free audiobook so you never know but this thriller was great. It was placed in Grand Cayman and as someone who has been to the Cayman Islands I was able to easily place everything and everyone. The world building was great. The author was extremely detailed in every area talking about scuba diving as well. Made it super easy for readers to follow along.
The story line was pretty good. The family dynamic was pretty toxic but that was kind of the point. This was the type of book where you really didn’t know who the killer was until the end. I had a list of suspects but I was pretty surprised when all was revealed.
I really did enjoy this! If you enjoy thrillers and the sea you should read it
The story line was pretty good. The family dynamic was pretty toxic but that was kind of the point. This was the type of book where you really didn’t know who the killer was until the end. I had a list of suspects but I was pretty surprised when all was revealed.
I really did enjoy this! If you enjoy thrillers and the sea you should read it
August 31, 2021
In Deep is a great read and highly recommended
Early in the debut novel, In Deep, the author tells us that:
“Down that deep, it’s dark. It’s cold. And it’s lonely.”
Welcome to the world of underwater photographer and scuba instructor Fin (Finola) Fleming. Fin works at an underwater oceanographic institute in the Cayman Islands, founded by her mother, the world-famous Oceanographer, Maddy Fleming.
Fin is recently divorced from Alex, whose drinking, temper tantrums, and theft of Fin’s photographs drive her away. She’s embracing life again when a series of accidents stalk the staff at the institute, and they all involve Fin.
Suspects multiply when her ex-husband shows up, begging for another chance, her stepfather’s hitherto unknown illegitimate children appear, and finally, Fin’s estranged father gets back in touch. Who is responsible for the diving accidents that target not only staff but Fin and her family? And what do they want?
Take a deep dive into the world of scuba and apnea diving, or diving with no oxygen tank. The author immerses us into this colorful and exotic underwater world with enough information to be interesting but never boring. We even meet a smart octopus named Rosie.
There are ample twists to keep you guessing and there’s even the start of a romance with a hunky Aussie diver. An interesting foray into a different world.
Early in the debut novel, In Deep, the author tells us that:
“Down that deep, it’s dark. It’s cold. And it’s lonely.”
Welcome to the world of underwater photographer and scuba instructor Fin (Finola) Fleming. Fin works at an underwater oceanographic institute in the Cayman Islands, founded by her mother, the world-famous Oceanographer, Maddy Fleming.
Fin is recently divorced from Alex, whose drinking, temper tantrums, and theft of Fin’s photographs drive her away. She’s embracing life again when a series of accidents stalk the staff at the institute, and they all involve Fin.
Suspects multiply when her ex-husband shows up, begging for another chance, her stepfather’s hitherto unknown illegitimate children appear, and finally, Fin’s estranged father gets back in touch. Who is responsible for the diving accidents that target not only staff but Fin and her family? And what do they want?
Take a deep dive into the world of scuba and apnea diving, or diving with no oxygen tank. The author immerses us into this colorful and exotic underwater world with enough information to be interesting but never boring. We even meet a smart octopus named Rosie.
There are ample twists to keep you guessing and there’s even the start of a romance with a hunky Aussie diver. An interesting foray into a different world.
September 19, 2021
I loved In Deep! Fin Fleming is a strong, female main character: brave, smart and so much fun to root for. The reader is taken along an emotional thrill ride as Fin navigates the minefield of her family business, the cutthroat world of professional diving. The author's vivid descriptions matched with a masterfully suspenseful plot resulted in a book that's impossible to put down. Just when I thought I had figured out the killer... BOOM! The author landed another twist. I cracked it open on Friday afternoon, stayed up way too late reading it, then woke up early on Saturday morning to finish it! Can't wait for the next book in the series.
February 4, 2022
Fabulous murder mystery with a lot of diving action. Join Fin as she works her way through dive accidents, twin step-siblings, her estranged father visiting, death and destruction. And you’ll never guess who is the destructive force raining down on her and her loved ones. Please don’t miss the incredible sea life, dive sites, and the access to all things ocean-related that comes with scuba diving.
August 8, 2024
I read this while on vacation in the Caribbean. As a diver, I enjoyed the underwater scenes because they were not far-fetched but entertaining. I enjoyed the story - it had some unexpected plot twists - and the location descriptions were excellent. Even though it was not a "deep" character book, the author adequately developed the characters to make us care about them. Overall, well worth adding to your beach bag!
September 29, 2021
Steady but slow
Appreciated learning more about diving but I kept loosing interest in how little was added to find the true killer. Written more for a younger reader who doesn’t analyze as much. Why would such a sophisticated lab not have cameras in place which would have shown the culprit?
Appreciated learning more about diving but I kept loosing interest in how little was added to find the true killer. Written more for a younger reader who doesn’t analyze as much. Why would such a sophisticated lab not have cameras in place which would have shown the culprit?
March 2, 2022
For such a group of powerful, rich, successful and accomplished people, they sure are stupid. Crisis 1, sure it can be explained. Crisis 2 and 3, what, wait, something sinister is going on. Crisis 4 through the end, we really should do something to prevent the next one.
I did enjoy the scuba diving aspect of the story though and hope the next one is a bit better
I did enjoy the scuba diving aspect of the story though and hope the next one is a bit better
May 21, 2025
Yikes! What a show! Yes I had it figured out fairly early but it is still a good story. I enjoy the characters. I loved how the feelings came through especially with Ray. Not sure what Aleic is thinking (he drives me crazy). Fin is wonderful and I enjiyed all the underwater scenes and scenarios. Will be listening to the next book!
November 6, 2025
In Deep was free on audible and I enjoyed it but it has a lot of plot holes and moments where you can’t believe how dumb the main characters are being.
I loved the setting of Grand Cayman and books centered around diving I find interesting.
I might continue the series on audible, just for the scenery alone.
I loved the setting of Grand Cayman and books centered around diving I find interesting.
I might continue the series on audible, just for the scenery alone.
April 10, 2022
Underwater photographer, Fin Fleming, has had a unique upbringing and while great adapting underwater, has trouble on land. Preparing for her stepfather’s record free dive attempt, problems beset her and her family. Loved this book and can’t wait to read book #2 of this series!
March 27, 2024
Where to begin ---- I liked the diving parts. The characters were all over the place, very inconsitent. Could use some good editing. Pet Peeve: At no point should a woman be forced to spend time with her abuser - even to sort-of work inside the storyline. Just Meh
May 2, 2024
I loved this book. I am a diver and a mystery lover, so it was extremely cool to have a book that incorporated both. The mystery was not easy to solve. I couldn't guess it. The characters were well fleshed out and It is just a really fun read. Can't wait to read more by this talented author.
May 28, 2024
I enjoyed this read especially the descriptive dive scenes. Being a scuba diver and an u/w photographer (many moons ago-now 75!) it brought back a lot of memories of some of my experiences in NZ, PNG and Australian waters. Looking forward to the next instalment.
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