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Orchid City #3
The Tides Between Us
The tides were shifting, and he was lost in the ocean of her...
Giana Cirone's life had been far from easy. After losing her hearing as a child, she had to adjust to a world of silence. To a world of misunderstanding, where she found herself constantly having to accommodate others.
The ocean was the one place where she never felt misunderstood. It was where she felt at peace, and Giana was determined to save it, along with the marine life that called it home. She dedicated her existence to that cause, living a simple life—until one morning.
The morning that professional surfer Declan Parks shows up with an injured turtle. And she realizes that it isn't just the turtle that needs her help.
An unexpected injury sends Declan Parks to Orchid City for some much-needed R&R. His plan was simple: continue rehabilitating his shoulder and return to the West Coast so he can get back to his life and his career.
But that all changes one morning, and it leaves him questioning everything. He knows he can't get lost in her tides because he has a life waiting for him. But regardless of how hard he tries, he can't seem to stay away…
Giana Cirone's life had been far from easy. After losing her hearing as a child, she had to adjust to a world of silence. To a world of misunderstanding, where she found herself constantly having to accommodate others.
The ocean was the one place where she never felt misunderstood. It was where she felt at peace, and Giana was determined to save it, along with the marine life that called it home. She dedicated her existence to that cause, living a simple life—until one morning.
The morning that professional surfer Declan Parks shows up with an injured turtle. And she realizes that it isn't just the turtle that needs her help.
An unexpected injury sends Declan Parks to Orchid City for some much-needed R&R. His plan was simple: continue rehabilitating his shoulder and return to the West Coast so he can get back to his life and his career.
But that all changes one morning, and it leaves him questioning everything. He knows he can't get lost in her tides because he has a life waiting for him. But regardless of how hard he tries, he can't seem to stay away…
8 pages, Audible Audio
First published October 20, 2023
877 people are currently reading
6451 people want to read
About the author
Cali Melle
30 books1,294 followersCali Melle is a USA Today Bestselling Author who writes sports romance that will pull at your heartstrings. You can always expect her stories to come fully equipped with heartthrobs and a happy ending, along with some steamy scenes.
In her free time, Cali can usually be found living in a magical, fantasy world with the newest book or fanfic she's reading or freezing at the ice rink while she watches her kids play hockey.
In her free time, Cali can usually be found living in a magical, fantasy world with the newest book or fanfic she's reading or freezing at the ice rink while she watches her kids play hockey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 540 reviews
October 18, 2023
When professional surfer, Declan Parks, recovers from an accident in Orchid City, he happens upon an injured sea turtle. Rushing her to a nearby rehab center, he meets marine biologist, Giana Cirone.
Bonding over Poptart, their relationship quickly evolves into a beautiful romance.
I loved the banter and instant chemistry Declan and Gianna shared. She is such a beautiful soul with an inspiring story of strength.
Swoon. Declan is such a sweetheart. The first time he signed to her, I simultaneously wanted to cry and drop my panties.
I love this series so much. If you’re in the mood for a low-angst, high-romance read, look no further!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🤍
Heat: 🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😊🥰🥵🥹😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Contemporary Romance
✨ Tropes: Deaf h
💋 Kinks: n/a
⚠️ Warning: This sweet and steamy read will leave you wanton.
🚩 Safety Squad: n/a
📣 Type: The Tides Between Us is part of the Orchid City series, but can be read as a standalone.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
Bonding over Poptart, their relationship quickly evolves into a beautiful romance.
I loved the banter and instant chemistry Declan and Gianna shared. She is such a beautiful soul with an inspiring story of strength.
Swoon. Declan is such a sweetheart. The first time he signed to her, I simultaneously wanted to cry and drop my panties.
I love this series so much. If you’re in the mood for a low-angst, high-romance read, look no further!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🤍
Heat: 🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😊🥰🥵🥹😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Contemporary Romance
✨ Tropes: Deaf h
💋 Kinks: n/a
⚠️ Warning: This sweet and steamy read will leave you wanton.
🚩 Safety Squad: n/a
📣 Type: The Tides Between Us is part of the Orchid City series, but can be read as a standalone.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
October 23, 2023
This book is light, low angst, and declan was down bad.
When an injury forced declan to take a pause from his pro surfing career, he heads to the small town to stay with his brother and do some physical therapy. what he didn’t expect was to save a sea turtle and run into gianna.
I feel like it was super fast paced and insta-lovey so I wasn’t as invested as I thought I would be. I still enjoyed it but keep in mind it’s a whirlwind romance.
the tropes
✨ small town romance
✨ cinnamon roll mmcs
✨ disability rep
✨ he falls first & hard
✨ no third act breakup
When an injury forced declan to take a pause from his pro surfing career, he heads to the small town to stay with his brother and do some physical therapy. what he didn’t expect was to save a sea turtle and run into gianna.
I feel like it was super fast paced and insta-lovey so I wasn’t as invested as I thought I would be. I still enjoyed it but keep in mind it’s a whirlwind romance.
the tropes
✨ small town romance
✨ cinnamon roll mmcs
✨ disability rep
✨ he falls first & hard
✨ no third act breakup
November 22, 2023
a hallmark movie but add a little bit of *spice*
this was like, give you a toothache, sweet!!! so so cute and sweet. a little bit cheesy but really adorable and low drama/angst.
declan’s a professional surfer who meets giana when he brings an injured turtle to her rehabilitation facility *stop, i die*
giana suffered permanent hearing loss as a child so it’s the cutest story of him learning how she navigates the world and trying to wiggle his way inside her world and be the one to take care of her.
this was like, give you a toothache, sweet!!! so so cute and sweet. a little bit cheesy but really adorable and low drama/angst.
declan’s a professional surfer who meets giana when he brings an injured turtle to her rehabilitation facility *stop, i die*
giana suffered permanent hearing loss as a child so it’s the cutest story of him learning how she navigates the world and trying to wiggle his way inside her world and be the one to take care of her.
October 17, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
✨️ Cinnamon roll MMC
✨️ He learns ASL for her
✨️ Disability rep
✨️ Small beach town
I don't know what Cali Melle put in that book, but she totally nailed it. Last night, I had just finished reading a book and was only planning to read the first few chapters of 'The Tide between us,' but I couldn't stop. From the very beginning, the story had me hooked, and I finished the book in less than 5 hours. I'm not kidding. 😅
I love a cinnamon roll hero who falls in love first and harder. Declan can't stop thinking about Giana from their very first encounter, and I loved how much he cared about doing the right thing and making Giana's life easier. He even learned ASL for her to make it easier for her to communicate when they were just getting to know each other, and it warmed my heart. 🫠
Giana is a character I absolutely adored. Despite her disability, she wanted to have her own voice. She's such a strong woman, and I loved that she wasn't shy about communicating what she wanted.
Giana and Declan's relationship is a joy to follow. Declan isn't afraid to express his feelings, and their communication is spot on. That's right, no miscommunication here.
This is the first book I've read by Cali Melle, and I'll definitely be reading more.
Realese date: 10/20
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review, but all opinions are my own.
Thank you, Cali Melle, for sending me this ARC.
🌶🌶
✨️ Cinnamon roll MMC
✨️ He learns ASL for her
✨️ Disability rep
✨️ Small beach town
I don't know what Cali Melle put in that book, but she totally nailed it. Last night, I had just finished reading a book and was only planning to read the first few chapters of 'The Tide between us,' but I couldn't stop. From the very beginning, the story had me hooked, and I finished the book in less than 5 hours. I'm not kidding. 😅
I love a cinnamon roll hero who falls in love first and harder. Declan can't stop thinking about Giana from their very first encounter, and I loved how much he cared about doing the right thing and making Giana's life easier. He even learned ASL for her to make it easier for her to communicate when they were just getting to know each other, and it warmed my heart. 🫠
Giana is a character I absolutely adored. Despite her disability, she wanted to have her own voice. She's such a strong woman, and I loved that she wasn't shy about communicating what she wanted.
Giana and Declan's relationship is a joy to follow. Declan isn't afraid to express his feelings, and their communication is spot on. That's right, no miscommunication here.
This is the first book I've read by Cali Melle, and I'll definitely be reading more.
Realese date: 10/20
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review, but all opinions are my own.
Thank you, Cali Melle, for sending me this ARC.
February 21, 2024
Oh, thank goodness that’s over. I actually started counting down the pages right around 50%. The whole thing was one giant eye roll. It was almost a dnf for me.
It’s saving grace was that it was a short read. The writing wasn’t terrible but the characters were absolutely perfect and so completely cheesy. There was zero depth to them.
I finished it because KU authors get paid by the amount of pages read (or so I hear) and I respect that it must be incredibly hard to write something and then put it out in the world where people can be so terribly mean.
So there’s that. If you like corny, fluffy love stories with basically zero conflict, this is your story.
It’s saving grace was that it was a short read. The writing wasn’t terrible but the characters were absolutely perfect and so completely cheesy. There was zero depth to them.
I finished it because KU authors get paid by the amount of pages read (or so I hear) and I respect that it must be incredibly hard to write something and then put it out in the world where people can be so terribly mean.
So there’s that. If you like corny, fluffy love stories with basically zero conflict, this is your story.
July 14, 2025
3.5 🌟
Por una lesión Declan tiene que tomarse un descanso de su carrera como surf por lo que se va con su hermano a un pueblito ahí gracias a una tortuga que encuentra herida conoce a Giana, una chica que ayuda en la veterinaria y es sorda, por lo que les cuesta comunicarse pero eso no es impedimento para el amor ¿O sí?
Empecé este libro por qué casi no leo libros que nos muestren una discapacidad y quería ver cómo la autora lo manejaba.
Para empezar es una historia muy linda, sin mucho drama es cortita así que se lee rápido, Declan fue re lindo, hace todo lo posible por comunicarse con Giana, que ella se sienta cómoda y si algo falla él está dispuesto a aprender de sus errores, lucha por lo que quiere y más que nada lucha por la relación.
Giana también me gustó, siento que la representación de su discapacidad estuvo muy bien plasmada (obvio no soy experta en ese tema pero se me hizo que estuvo muy bien) el como estas personas batallan día con día y tienen siempre que encontrar la forma de comunicarse, lo difícil que puede llegar a hacer.
Lo recomiendo si quieren algo sin nada de drama, cortito y lindo.
Por una lesión Declan tiene que tomarse un descanso de su carrera como surf por lo que se va con su hermano a un pueblito ahí gracias a una tortuga que encuentra herida conoce a Giana, una chica que ayuda en la veterinaria y es sorda, por lo que les cuesta comunicarse pero eso no es impedimento para el amor ¿O sí?
Empecé este libro por qué casi no leo libros que nos muestren una discapacidad y quería ver cómo la autora lo manejaba.
Para empezar es una historia muy linda, sin mucho drama es cortita así que se lee rápido, Declan fue re lindo, hace todo lo posible por comunicarse con Giana, que ella se sienta cómoda y si algo falla él está dispuesto a aprender de sus errores, lucha por lo que quiere y más que nada lucha por la relación.
Giana también me gustó, siento que la representación de su discapacidad estuvo muy bien plasmada (obvio no soy experta en ese tema pero se me hizo que estuvo muy bien) el como estas personas batallan día con día y tienen siempre que encontrar la forma de comunicarse, lo difícil que puede llegar a hacer.
Lo recomiendo si quieren algo sin nada de drama, cortito y lindo.
October 8, 2023
(4.5★)
“𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
In her small-town beach romance, The Tides Between Us, Cali Melle follows marine biologist Diana Cirone and surfer Declan Parks.
Because it came up in such sincere interactions between Dec and Gia, Cali’s constant usage of the book’s title throughout the entire novel, had a wholesome feel to it. Filter.
Dec was such a sweetheart, and such an attractive men. He literally LEARNED ASL so that he could communicate with Gia more easily. And it was clear by the way he looked at Gia and acted towards her, that he was genuinely in love with her.
Also, I found it to be such a wholesome scene when Gia started signing Dec’s name in a special way. Or the fact that Gia started speaking, and just to Dec, and it was all because she felt at ease with him.
Since their personalities complemented one another so well, Dec and Gia were such a cute couple.
In all, including the bonus epilogue, this was such an enjoyable and cute read!!
*Thank you to the author, Cali Melle, for providing me with this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.*
“𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
In her small-town beach romance, The Tides Between Us, Cali Melle follows marine biologist Diana Cirone and surfer Declan Parks.
Because it came up in such sincere interactions between Dec and Gia, Cali’s constant usage of the book’s title throughout the entire novel, had a wholesome feel to it. Filter.
Dec was such a sweetheart, and such an attractive men. He literally LEARNED ASL so that he could communicate with Gia more easily. And it was clear by the way he looked at Gia and acted towards her, that he was genuinely in love with her.
Also, I found it to be such a wholesome scene when Gia started signing Dec’s name in a special way. Or the fact that Gia started speaking, and just to Dec, and it was all because she felt at ease with him.
Since their personalities complemented one another so well, Dec and Gia were such a cute couple.
In all, including the bonus epilogue, this was such an enjoyable and cute read!!
*Thank you to the author, Cali Melle, for providing me with this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.*
July 15, 2024
2.5 stars
It was perfectly okay. I think I liked the idea of the story more than I ended up liking the execution. I loved the small seaside setting - and a marine biologist heroine is living all of our 90's dreams fulfilled. There's a real earnestness between Giana and Declan that was nice, and I bought their chemistry but it was a little rushed and lacked some of the development I needed to fully buy in. I did really love having a Deaf FMC in Giana and seeing how the effort that Declan put in to try and not fully burden her with the communication, while still allowing her independance.
It was perfectly okay. I think I liked the idea of the story more than I ended up liking the execution. I loved the small seaside setting - and a marine biologist heroine is living all of our 90's dreams fulfilled. There's a real earnestness between Giana and Declan that was nice, and I bought their chemistry but it was a little rushed and lacked some of the development I needed to fully buy in. I did really love having a Deaf FMC in Giana and seeing how the effort that Declan put in to try and not fully burden her with the communication, while still allowing her independance.
January 11, 2024
This is the cutest book I’ve read in ages 😭💗
Tropes:
Surfer x marine biologist
small town on the beach
deaf FMC
No third-act breakup!!!
No miscommunication
the most pure & genuine love
(cries while proposing 😭)
Their meet-cute was bc of an injured turtle 🐢 😭
He also learned sign language just to talk to her 🥺😩
Tropes:
Surfer x marine biologist
small town on the beach
deaf FMC
No third-act breakup!!!
No miscommunication
the most pure & genuine love
(cries while proposing 😭)
Their meet-cute was bc of an injured turtle 🐢 😭
He also learned sign language just to talk to her 🥺😩
October 14, 2023
5 ⭐️s
This book literally sat me down, wrapped me in a warm blanket, and gave me loaded hot chocolate…. I mean seriously, this is one of my TOP comfort reads ever. I just felt warmth through my veins while reading this, i was obsessed.
I’ve been giddy for Giana’s story since she was introduced in MMITPB and Cali did not disappoint. I loved this story and relationship with my entire heart. It was so natural, yet deep I couldn’t help but feel giddy while reading it. I loved Declan and G’s relationship so much, they are my definition of soulmates. Their body’s spoke to each other on a completely different wave length… it was honestly just beautiful.
ALSO SHOUTOUT TO THE NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP!
I wish I could describe the feeling I had while reading this book but you’re just going to have to read it and find out.
-ASL Rep
-golden retriever MMC
-surfer
-small beach town
-no third act breakup
-friends to lovers
This book literally sat me down, wrapped me in a warm blanket, and gave me loaded hot chocolate…. I mean seriously, this is one of my TOP comfort reads ever. I just felt warmth through my veins while reading this, i was obsessed.
I’ve been giddy for Giana’s story since she was introduced in MMITPB and Cali did not disappoint. I loved this story and relationship with my entire heart. It was so natural, yet deep I couldn’t help but feel giddy while reading it. I loved Declan and G’s relationship so much, they are my definition of soulmates. Their body’s spoke to each other on a completely different wave length… it was honestly just beautiful.
ALSO SHOUTOUT TO THE NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP!
I wish I could describe the feeling I had while reading this book but you’re just going to have to read it and find out.
-ASL Rep
-golden retriever MMC
-surfer
-small beach town
-no third act breakup
-friends to lovers
November 12, 2023
3 / 5 🌊
ugh I was really looking forward to this book but sadly it has left me unsatisfied. I don't know, I just didn't gel with the characters, either of them. It was short and sweet and some parts were sweet but I find if you aren't invested in the characters more things just give you the ick and make you cringe and this book had a few of those. But I love cali's writing overall so this won't stop me from continuing this series.
ugh I was really looking forward to this book but sadly it has left me unsatisfied. I don't know, I just didn't gel with the characters, either of them. It was short and sweet and some parts were sweet but I find if you aren't invested in the characters more things just give you the ick and make you cringe and this book had a few of those. But I love cali's writing overall so this won't stop me from continuing this series.
October 20, 2023
4.5/5⭐️
2.5/5🌶️
Omgggg this book was so dang cute. I was so excited to finally get Giana’s story! She really intrigued me after reading Meet Me In The Penalty Box & finding out she was Nico’s sister. We learn a lot more about her in this book & I was truly blown away with how strong & independent she was despite everything she’s been through.
This book follows Giana & Declan. Declan is a pro surfer in town temporarily healing from an injury he got while surfing. He meets Giana when he brings in an injured turtle to her work. They immediately hit it off & the rest is history.
Let me just tell you… this man was down BAD for Giana. From the moment he first laid eyes on her, the man was obsessed. The fact that he learned ASL for her? After only knowing her for such a short period of time? SWOON. He was so sure of her & that she was 100% the one for him. 🥹
Thank you Cali for the ARC! I’m loving this series so far & can’t wait to see what comes next.
Tropes:
- Surfer
- Small Beach Town
- Golden Retriever MMC
- Friends to Lovers
- ASL Rep
- No 3rd Act Breakup
- He Falls First
2.5/5🌶️
Omgggg this book was so dang cute. I was so excited to finally get Giana’s story! She really intrigued me after reading Meet Me In The Penalty Box & finding out she was Nico’s sister. We learn a lot more about her in this book & I was truly blown away with how strong & independent she was despite everything she’s been through.
This book follows Giana & Declan. Declan is a pro surfer in town temporarily healing from an injury he got while surfing. He meets Giana when he brings in an injured turtle to her work. They immediately hit it off & the rest is history.
Let me just tell you… this man was down BAD for Giana. From the moment he first laid eyes on her, the man was obsessed. The fact that he learned ASL for her? After only knowing her for such a short period of time? SWOON. He was so sure of her & that she was 100% the one for him. 🥹
Thank you Cali for the ARC! I’m loving this series so far & can’t wait to see what comes next.
Tropes:
- Surfer
- Small Beach Town
- Golden Retriever MMC
- Friends to Lovers
- ASL Rep
- No 3rd Act Breakup
- He Falls First
October 28, 2023
"The Tides Between Us: A Small Town Surfer Romance" (Orchid City Book 2) is a captivating and heartwarming tale of love, determination, and the power of the ocean. Giana Cirone's journey, from a world of silence due to her hearing loss to her unwavering dedication to preserving marine life, is truly inspiring. The book beautifully portrays her passion for the ocean and the way it becomes a place of solace and understanding for her.
Declan Parks, the professional surfer, brings an unexpected twist to Giana's life when he arrives in Orchid City with an injured turtle. Their connection is instant and electric, and the chemistry between them is palpable. The author skillfully weaves their growing attraction and the depth of their emotions, making it impossible to put the book down.
This story is a delightful blend of romance and environmental conservation, highlighting the idea that love can lead us to unexpected places. "The Tides Between Us" is a must-read for those who enjoy heartwarming romances with well-developed characters and a strong message of hope and love.
Kindle unlimited read
4.5 stars
Declan Parks, the professional surfer, brings an unexpected twist to Giana's life when he arrives in Orchid City with an injured turtle. Their connection is instant and electric, and the chemistry between them is palpable. The author skillfully weaves their growing attraction and the depth of their emotions, making it impossible to put the book down.
This story is a delightful blend of romance and environmental conservation, highlighting the idea that love can lead us to unexpected places. "The Tides Between Us" is a must-read for those who enjoy heartwarming romances with well-developed characters and a strong message of hope and love.
Kindle unlimited read
4.5 stars
November 4, 2023
A super heartwarming romance! This gave me all the warm summer vibes with it being set in a beach city in Florida. Adored the MMC and the FMC! Appreciate the Deaf representation as well.
Tropes:
🏄♂️ he’s a surfer
👏🏼 no third act breakup
🏝️ beach town setting
🥰 he falls first
🤟🏼 he learns ASL for her
🐢 save the turtles
dual POV
4/5 stars ⭐️
2/5 spice level 🌶️
Tropes:
🏄♂️ he’s a surfer
👏🏼 no third act breakup
🏝️ beach town setting
🥰 he falls first
🤟🏼 he learns ASL for her
🐢 save the turtles
dual POV
4/5 stars ⭐️
2/5 spice level 🌶️
November 15, 2023
3.5 🌟
Insta-love just isn’t for me 👎🏻
and he called her princess TOO MUCH, occasionally is fine (hello, Rhys Larsen) but after EVERY sentence?
Insta-love just isn’t for me 👎🏻
and he called her princess TOO MUCH, occasionally is fine (hello, Rhys Larsen) but after EVERY sentence?
November 6, 2023
Es war zwar ganz süß, aber irgendwie echt boring. Insta-love, keinen richtigen Konflikt und das eine Probleme war dann auch innerhalb zwei Kapitel geklärt (wenn überhaupt).
Also Joa, war okay für Zwischendurch, aber würde es jetzt nicht unbedingt empfehlen 😬
Also Joa, war okay für Zwischendurch, aber würde es jetzt nicht unbedingt empfehlen 😬
July 6, 2024
Every girl deserves a charming surfer who learns sign language for them
📚 surfer romance
📚Love at first sight
📚 disability rep
📚 dual POV
🌶️🌶️🌶️
|Synopsis|
Injured pro surfer Declan rescuers an injured turtle and meets Gianna at the vet clinic. They instantly have chemistry and he will do whatever he can to get to spend more time with her.
“Who knew all it would take was an injured turtle and a professional surfer to turn my life upside down?”
|Thoughts|
This was just the cutest and wholesome romance. With a good serving of spice.
The effort he goes to in order to make her comfortable is very charming and had me consuming the book in one day.
“I know we have other ways we can communicate, but I want to learn the way you speak”
I’ve read that 90% of deaf children are born to hearing parents. And 70% don’t learn sign language. That fact has always baffled me but makes Declan’s actions all the more sweet.
My only sticking point is how Declan treats his career as a result of his romance with Gianna. Just seemed a bit odd.
He falls extremely fast and I appreciated all of the water anaologies.
“She was embedded in my ducking world. And I was already drowning in her”.
“Heaven knows I don’t deserve you, but I’ll never stop trying to prove my worth”
🟢 For more bookish content follow me instagram.com/read_watch_crochet
📚 surfer romance
📚Love at first sight
📚 disability rep
📚 dual POV
🌶️🌶️🌶️
|Synopsis|
Injured pro surfer Declan rescuers an injured turtle and meets Gianna at the vet clinic. They instantly have chemistry and he will do whatever he can to get to spend more time with her.
“Who knew all it would take was an injured turtle and a professional surfer to turn my life upside down?”
|Thoughts|
This was just the cutest and wholesome romance. With a good serving of spice.
The effort he goes to in order to make her comfortable is very charming and had me consuming the book in one day.
“I know we have other ways we can communicate, but I want to learn the way you speak”
I’ve read that 90% of deaf children are born to hearing parents. And 70% don’t learn sign language. That fact has always baffled me but makes Declan’s actions all the more sweet.
My only sticking point is how Declan treats his career as a result of his romance with Gianna. Just seemed a bit odd.
He falls extremely fast and I appreciated all of the water anaologies.
“She was embedded in my ducking world. And I was already drowning in her”.
“Heaven knows I don’t deserve you, but I’ll never stop trying to prove my worth”
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January 22, 2024
Took me so long to finish because it was so boring. Literally could’ve been 30 pages.
Read
January 27, 2025DNF 36%. I just couldn’t take it. Cute premise, love the deaf representation but the writing was choppy, immature and cringy. So disappointing.
😞
😞
June 23, 2025
♾️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The tides between us ceased to exist. Our mouths collided and we crashed into one another. Again and again… like the relentless waves crashing against the coast. Together, we were the tide.”
Have you ever read a book that just spoke to your soul and you knew that it was truly written just for you to read? 😭 Well that was this book for me. The small beach town in Florida, the deep rooted love of the ocean and sea life, sea turtles (which are my favorite animal in the world) all of it spoke so deeply to me, and I don’t think I’ll ever stop thinking about Declan, Giana, and Pop Tart!!
Their story was definitely love at first sight, with the most adorable meet cute in the entire world, an injured sea turtle 🥹 The way Pop Tart brought these two people together, who were always supposed to meet in every single universe, and fall in love was seriously the sweetest. The way I could feel their love and feelings for each other throughout every single conversation, melted my heart. These two were deeper than end game, they were total and complete soulmates in this life and the next! Their story was sweet, swoony, and so spicy, and Cali Melle did such a beautiful job bringing their beautiful love story to life. The way Declan cared for and loved Giana was so wholesome and perfect; this man literally learns sign language on his own after meeting her, so that he can communicate with her!
This will be a book I reread dozens of times because their love story is my favorite. Anyone looking for a swoonworthy summer romance needs to add this one to your TBR!
Read if you enjoy:
🩵Small beach Town
🩵Marine Life Researcher / Professional Surfer
🩵Disability Rep
🩵An adorable sea turtle named Pop Tart
🩵he learns ASL for her
“You steal the air from my lungs, but I don’t even want it back. It’s yours to have.”
“The tides between us ceased to exist. Our mouths collided and we crashed into one another. Again and again… like the relentless waves crashing against the coast. Together, we were the tide.”
Have you ever read a book that just spoke to your soul and you knew that it was truly written just for you to read? 😭 Well that was this book for me. The small beach town in Florida, the deep rooted love of the ocean and sea life, sea turtles (which are my favorite animal in the world) all of it spoke so deeply to me, and I don’t think I’ll ever stop thinking about Declan, Giana, and Pop Tart!!
Their story was definitely love at first sight, with the most adorable meet cute in the entire world, an injured sea turtle 🥹 The way Pop Tart brought these two people together, who were always supposed to meet in every single universe, and fall in love was seriously the sweetest. The way I could feel their love and feelings for each other throughout every single conversation, melted my heart. These two were deeper than end game, they were total and complete soulmates in this life and the next! Their story was sweet, swoony, and so spicy, and Cali Melle did such a beautiful job bringing their beautiful love story to life. The way Declan cared for and loved Giana was so wholesome and perfect; this man literally learns sign language on his own after meeting her, so that he can communicate with her!
This will be a book I reread dozens of times because their love story is my favorite. Anyone looking for a swoonworthy summer romance needs to add this one to your TBR!
Read if you enjoy:
🩵Small beach Town
🩵Marine Life Researcher / Professional Surfer
🩵Disability Rep
🩵An adorable sea turtle named Pop Tart
🩵he learns ASL for her
“You steal the air from my lungs, but I don’t even want it back. It’s yours to have.”
October 18, 2023
☆ 5/5 & 3/5 spice
“Giana Cirone could break me into a million pieces and I would still love her until my last dying breath. In this life and the next. She was the abyss where the ocean met the sun.”
I am literally so gone for Declan Parks. This man is literally perfection. He saved a sea turtle and named it pop-tart, took the time to learn ASL every single day to communicate with his crush, and was a support system for her from the moment he met her. Oh my goodness, someone please give this man the title of best book boyfriend ever please.
Declan is a surfer, but experienced an injury during a competition. One day, Declan rescued a sea turtle and brought it into a rehab center, where he meets Giana. From that moment, he knew that it was love at first sight and that he was all in the moment he met her.
Giana is a fierce FMC, who has a sweet and caring personality always putting others first. I love how she wasn’t afraid to speak her mind.
These two made me smile the entire time I was reading this book. Probably one of my fave read this month. So wholesome and heartwarming and it gave me all the feels. These two were such a cute couple, I adore and love them so freaking much.
Tropes:
❥ Surfer x marine biologist
❥ Cinnamon roll MMC x fierce FMC
❥ Small beach town
❥ He learns ASL for her
❥ Disability rep
❥ Friends to lovers
❥ Guy falls first
“Giana Cirone could break me into a million pieces and I would still love her until my last dying breath. In this life and the next. She was the abyss where the ocean met the sun.”
I am literally so gone for Declan Parks. This man is literally perfection. He saved a sea turtle and named it pop-tart, took the time to learn ASL every single day to communicate with his crush, and was a support system for her from the moment he met her. Oh my goodness, someone please give this man the title of best book boyfriend ever please.
Declan is a surfer, but experienced an injury during a competition. One day, Declan rescued a sea turtle and brought it into a rehab center, where he meets Giana. From that moment, he knew that it was love at first sight and that he was all in the moment he met her.
Giana is a fierce FMC, who has a sweet and caring personality always putting others first. I love how she wasn’t afraid to speak her mind.
These two made me smile the entire time I was reading this book. Probably one of my fave read this month. So wholesome and heartwarming and it gave me all the feels. These two were such a cute couple, I adore and love them so freaking much.
Tropes:
❥ Surfer x marine biologist
❥ Cinnamon roll MMC x fierce FMC
❥ Small beach town
❥ He learns ASL for her
❥ Disability rep
❥ Friends to lovers
❥ Guy falls first
October 21, 2023
I don’t even know that I’ll be able to express how much I loved this book. The characters were perfect. I knew from reading Meet Me in the Penalty Box that Gianna’s story was going to be good. Her character just drew me in completely. I have always found ASL fascinating and have wanted to learn. I loved that Gianna was a disability representative for the deaf community. It put in perspective how those who deal with loss of hearing feel and how they are sometimes treated. I absolutely loved her personality and that she was so adamant about not being treated differently. Declan was amazing as well. You would think that being the top surfer in the world would cause him to have a huge ego, be cocky and arrogant, or rude, but that wasn’t the case whatsoever. He was such a down to earth character with a literal heart of gold. The fact that he took it upon himself to learn ASL so that he could make communicating with Gianna easier pulled EVERY SINGLE HEART STRING. I absolutely loved the scene of releasing Pop Tart back into the wild oh my goodness. Declan and Gianna’s growing relationship had me swooning like crazy, The personal scenes were PHENOMENAL (if you catch my drift), and just the amount of care they showed each other towards their goals and life choices on how to make their relationship work. This was definitely my favorite book I’ve read of the author’s so far and I am very excited to see what else is in store!
February 5, 2024
Esta es una historia dulce, deslumbrante y picante que transmite todos los sentimientos cálidos y confusos.
Este libro fue absolutamente adorable. Era lindo, deslumbrante y todo me dio las mejores sensaciones. Declan era el mejor novio de los libros que echó un vistazo a Giana y supo que quería más. Este hombre incluso empezó a aprender lenguaje de señas después de su primera cita.
Giana era una heroína tan feroz que sabía de su discapacidad y no dejó que eso la detuviera en nada. Sabía que tenía voz, sin importar si la gente no la escuchaba.
Este es el libro de extraños a amigos y amantes más lindo que jamás hayas leído. Ver cómo navegan en su nueva amistad y las dificultades que conlleva la discapacidad de Giana fue conmovedor. Declan es el rey de los representantes de la discapacidad. Está muy decidido a encontrar maneras de encajar en el mundo de Giana sin que ella se adapte a él.
Amé la forma en que estos dos se apoyaron mutuamente sin cesar y el respeto mutuo que tenían por sus carreras. Era muy importante que Giana mantuviera su independencia y aprecié la forma en que valoraban no renunciar a sus sueños el uno por el otro.
Esta es una novela divertida sobre una ciudad costera que muestra personajes de libros anteriores. Que no es necesario que lo leas para disfrutarlo.
Este libro fue absolutamente adorable. Era lindo, deslumbrante y todo me dio las mejores sensaciones. Declan era el mejor novio de los libros que echó un vistazo a Giana y supo que quería más. Este hombre incluso empezó a aprender lenguaje de señas después de su primera cita.
Giana era una heroína tan feroz que sabía de su discapacidad y no dejó que eso la detuviera en nada. Sabía que tenía voz, sin importar si la gente no la escuchaba.
Este es el libro de extraños a amigos y amantes más lindo que jamás hayas leído. Ver cómo navegan en su nueva amistad y las dificultades que conlleva la discapacidad de Giana fue conmovedor. Declan es el rey de los representantes de la discapacidad. Está muy decidido a encontrar maneras de encajar en el mundo de Giana sin que ella se adapte a él.
Amé la forma en que estos dos se apoyaron mutuamente sin cesar y el respeto mutuo que tenían por sus carreras. Era muy importante que Giana mantuviera su independencia y aprecié la forma en que valoraban no renunciar a sus sueños el uno por el otro.
Esta es una novela divertida sobre una ciudad costera que muestra personajes de libros anteriores. Que no es necesario que lo leas para disfrutarlo.
October 21, 2023
Giana and Declan's book is a feel-good story that leaves you with all the feelings. Declan is a professional surfer that is in Orchid City staying with his brother to recover from an injury. He rescues a sea turtle (so cute) and drops her off at a rehab facility where he meets Giana. He names the sea turtle Pop Tart! OMG, how cute is that???
Their meet-cute is definitely amazing. Declan definitely felt a pull to Giana and same with her to him. I enjoyed how the author wrote Giana and represented the deaf culture. I don't see that often in romance books I read. Giana is so sweet and loves all things in the ocean. She's definitely got a beautiful soul. Declan is has such a golden retriever personality. I thought he was so caring and swoon-worthy. I enjoyed how strong-willed and independent Giana was and how she didn't want Declan to just "do" everything for her. How Declan responded to that and learned that she wasn't helpless was amazing. He understood even though he still wanted to help.
I really thought how Declan learned ASL to communicate with Giana was truly wonderful. Cue the oohs and ahhs. That was so amazing and thoughtful.
Their meet-cute is definitely amazing. Declan definitely felt a pull to Giana and same with her to him. I enjoyed how the author wrote Giana and represented the deaf culture. I don't see that often in romance books I read. Giana is so sweet and loves all things in the ocean. She's definitely got a beautiful soul. Declan is has such a golden retriever personality. I thought he was so caring and swoon-worthy. I enjoyed how strong-willed and independent Giana was and how she didn't want Declan to just "do" everything for her. How Declan responded to that and learned that she wasn't helpless was amazing. He understood even though he still wanted to help.
I really thought how Declan learned ASL to communicate with Giana was truly wonderful. Cue the oohs and ahhs. That was so amazing and thoughtful.
November 21, 2025
Omg this book is so beautiful and so cute and adorable 😭 dylan and gianna ugh i love them both so much, they felt like a breath of fresh air in the beach while watching a sunrise 😭 .
Dylan is a professional surfer who gets injured in his shoulder and moves to live with his brother while he rehabilitate his shoulder .
Gianna works in an animal hospital . So when dylan try to help an injured turtle he meets gianna and the rest is history 😭 Their story was super adorable with lit zero toxicity and he worships the grounds she walks on. he’s so down baddddd . The way he talked about her was so cute and heartwarming 😭 And did i mention that she’s deaf and he learned ASL for her ? 😭😭😭 m crashing out lol don’t mind me tho cus m just obsessed with them 😭
“ I loved her so much, it hurt, but it was the greatest, most magical pain I had ever experienced. I knew if things were to end between us, I would be a shell of a person after her. She was the one who had the power to destroy me. She held my heart within her two delicate hands and if she wanted to give it back, I wouldn’t accept it. Giana Cirone could break me into a million pieces and I would still love her until my last dying breath. In this life and the next.”
“She was a fucking goddess. So ethereal. So fucking pure. She was the goodness in the world. She was what everyone was looking for—chasing after. And she was all mine.”
Dylan is a professional surfer who gets injured in his shoulder and moves to live with his brother while he rehabilitate his shoulder .
Gianna works in an animal hospital . So when dylan try to help an injured turtle he meets gianna and the rest is history 😭 Their story was super adorable with lit zero toxicity and he worships the grounds she walks on. he’s so down baddddd . The way he talked about her was so cute and heartwarming 😭 And did i mention that she’s deaf and he learned ASL for her ? 😭😭😭 m crashing out lol don’t mind me tho cus m just obsessed with them 😭
“ I loved her so much, it hurt, but it was the greatest, most magical pain I had ever experienced. I knew if things were to end between us, I would be a shell of a person after her. She was the one who had the power to destroy me. She held my heart within her two delicate hands and if she wanted to give it back, I wouldn’t accept it. Giana Cirone could break me into a million pieces and I would still love her until my last dying breath. In this life and the next.”
“She was a fucking goddess. So ethereal. So fucking pure. She was the goodness in the world. She was what everyone was looking for—chasing after. And she was all mine.”
October 17, 2023
Oh my goodness. Every woman deserves a hype man who is obsessed with her like Giana got in Declan. That man was absolutely OBSESSED in the best way 🥹🤌🏻
Declan was a care free surfer who was visiting his brother while recovering from an injury. Surfing was literally his life. Until the day he rescued an injured sea turtle. The moment he laid eyes on Giana, things shifted.
Giana was incredible. For all the things she's been through, she is still so sweet, kind and caring. Always putting others before herself. For the first time, she is finding the courage to go after what she wants.
This story was seriously so cute. I cannot even get over Declan. 🥹 The lengths he went to, to prove to Giana that he was all in. My heart. If you are ever in the mood for a sweet, feel good story with some super delish spice, this book is definitely for you!!
Thank you to the author for my gifted eARC. All thoughts are my own! 🤍🐢
Declan was a care free surfer who was visiting his brother while recovering from an injury. Surfing was literally his life. Until the day he rescued an injured sea turtle. The moment he laid eyes on Giana, things shifted.
Giana was incredible. For all the things she's been through, she is still so sweet, kind and caring. Always putting others before herself. For the first time, she is finding the courage to go after what she wants.
This story was seriously so cute. I cannot even get over Declan. 🥹 The lengths he went to, to prove to Giana that he was all in. My heart. If you are ever in the mood for a sweet, feel good story with some super delish spice, this book is definitely for you!!
Thank you to the author for my gifted eARC. All thoughts are my own! 🤍🐢
October 20, 2023
The Tides Between Us follows surfer Declan Parks and marine biologist Giana Cirone, when Declan brings an injured turtle into a rehabilitation center Giana works he’s captivated by the dark hair beauty. And he wants more of her. Giana is still recovering from losing her mother and since she lost her hearing as a child she’s learned to accept her world as it is. Until the persistent surfer who is in town to do physical therapy on his shoulder keeps showing up and showing her what her possiblilities are. But Declan is leaving to Malibu when his shoulder is healed and Giana can’t stand to lose someone else in her life. But soon suffering may not be Declan’s only dream.
This book was absolutely adorable. It was cute, swoony and all over gave me the best feels. Declan was an ultimate book boyfriend who took one look at Giana and knew he wanted more. This man even started learning sign language after their first date. He had me giggling like a little school girl with all the moments he was gone for Giana.
Giana was such a fierce female heroine who knew of her disability and didn’t let it stop her from anything. She knew she had a voice no matter if people didn’t hear it. She wanted to be spoken to not spoken for. And I love how open and honest Declan was when he messed up. He apologized and did better for her. They had such an open and honest relationship. We get a bit of tension and build up as this was a more ista list romance but when the spice hits I knew it was gonna be a favorite.
This is a fun beach town novel that shows characters from previous books. That you do not need to be read in order to enjoy this one.
This was my first novel by this author and it definitely won’t be my last with how much I enjoyed the writing and storyline. This gave me real characters I wanted to become friends with and was rooting from until the very end.
4.25 ⭐️
This book was absolutely adorable. It was cute, swoony and all over gave me the best feels. Declan was an ultimate book boyfriend who took one look at Giana and knew he wanted more. This man even started learning sign language after their first date. He had me giggling like a little school girl with all the moments he was gone for Giana.
Giana was such a fierce female heroine who knew of her disability and didn’t let it stop her from anything. She knew she had a voice no matter if people didn’t hear it. She wanted to be spoken to not spoken for. And I love how open and honest Declan was when he messed up. He apologized and did better for her. They had such an open and honest relationship. We get a bit of tension and build up as this was a more ista list romance but when the spice hits I knew it was gonna be a favorite.
This is a fun beach town novel that shows characters from previous books. That you do not need to be read in order to enjoy this one.
This was my first novel by this author and it definitely won’t be my last with how much I enjoyed the writing and storyline. This gave me real characters I wanted to become friends with and was rooting from until the very end.
4.25 ⭐️
October 19, 2023
A surfer, a cute turtle named Pop-Tart, and deaf representation - check, check, check for me!
I was really enjoying the beginning but then… Declan started calling Giana “princess” non-stop and i really don’t like pet names in books so I instantly started losing interest.
Then they got together. Now I don’t mind smut but I need actual character development and legitimate get to know you conversations to enjoy the physical connection. In Giana’s POV we learned some about her history growing up but barely got anything on Declan and even when they went out to dinner and breakfast, they didn’t ask each other any questions. A lot of it was “observations”.
I desperately needed just more of everything. More about Declan, Giana, their respective careers as well as more about the deaf community and what we can do to save our oceans. Giana was the perfect character for these heavy topics and a lot of the smut could’ve been taken out to allow room for this additional information.
Thank you to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I was really enjoying the beginning but then… Declan started calling Giana “princess” non-stop and i really don’t like pet names in books so I instantly started losing interest.
Then they got together. Now I don’t mind smut but I need actual character development and legitimate get to know you conversations to enjoy the physical connection. In Giana’s POV we learned some about her history growing up but barely got anything on Declan and even when they went out to dinner and breakfast, they didn’t ask each other any questions. A lot of it was “observations”.
I desperately needed just more of everything. More about Declan, Giana, their respective careers as well as more about the deaf community and what we can do to save our oceans. Giana was the perfect character for these heavy topics and a lot of the smut could’ve been taken out to allow room for this additional information.
Thank you to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
October 30, 2023
A cute (and dirty 😏) book! So in love with it. By the tropes you can see THAT DECLAN IS THE MAAAANNNNN!! GIMME GIMME GIMME!! he's seriously a sweetheart 😍😭❤❤
Giana had my heart, strong and confident galll!!! Love her so so much! Their story is just so cute and I immediately fell in love with this book, and enjoyed every second 🥺❤
The cover is cute, the characters are cute, the story is cute....but dont let that fool you....its also 🥵🥵😏
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶.25
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Giana had my heart, strong and confident galll!!! Love her so so much! Their story is just so cute and I immediately fell in love with this book, and enjoyed every second 🥺❤
The cover is cute, the characters are cute, the story is cute....but dont let that fool you....its also 🥵🥵😏
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶.25
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
October 22, 2023
This is a sweet, swoony, and spicy story that gives all the warm fuzzy feelings.
Professional surfer, Declan Parks is recovering from a shoulder injury in Orchid City when he discovers an injured turtle on the beach.
He quickly takes the turtle to a local rehabilitation centre where he meets Giana Cirone, a marine biologist.
Declan is an absolute sweetheart. He falls hard and fast for Giana.
He learns how to use ASL so that he can communicate with her, and I nearly cried the first time he signed for her.
Despite her disability, Giana is a strong woman with her own voice. She's also very selfless.
I love these two together!
If you're looking for a low angst, high swoon factor story with no third act break-up, I definitely recommend picking this one up.
Professional surfer, Declan Parks is recovering from a shoulder injury in Orchid City when he discovers an injured turtle on the beach.
He quickly takes the turtle to a local rehabilitation centre where he meets Giana Cirone, a marine biologist.
Declan is an absolute sweetheart. He falls hard and fast for Giana.
He learns how to use ASL so that he can communicate with her, and I nearly cried the first time he signed for her.
Despite her disability, Giana is a strong woman with her own voice. She's also very selfless.
I love these two together!
If you're looking for a low angst, high swoon factor story with no third act break-up, I definitely recommend picking this one up.
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