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Saltwater Springs #1
Beyond The Break
He's a pro surfer who lives by one rule - No Distractions. She's his teams new Social Media Manager, set on breaking through his grumpy exterior and the very rule he holds dear.In the sunny small town of Saltwater Springs, Griffin "Fin" Jones is battling more than just the waves. Returning from a career-threatening injury, he's not only healing his body but also guarding a wounded heart. Focused on leading his surf team to victory in the regional finals, Fin is determined to keep one rule -- No Distractions.
Eliana Ward, a spirited Social Media Manager, finds herself navigating the wreckage of her professional life in the wake of malicious hometown gossip. Offered an unexpected lifeline managing the social media accounts of a small-town surf team, she relocates to Saltwater Springs, where she encounters the grumpiest man she's ever met – Fin, who's intent on making her new role anything but smooth sailing.
As Fin struggles to regain trust in himself on the board, Eliana faces her own challenges of winning over the closed-off surfer while battling the demons from her past. In this small-town surf romance, can they learn to heal together, or will Fin's determination to avoid distractions keep them from the love they never saw coming?
Eliana Ward, a spirited Social Media Manager, finds herself navigating the wreckage of her professional life in the wake of malicious hometown gossip. Offered an unexpected lifeline managing the social media accounts of a small-town surf team, she relocates to Saltwater Springs, where she encounters the grumpiest man she's ever met – Fin, who's intent on making her new role anything but smooth sailing.
As Fin struggles to regain trust in himself on the board, Eliana faces her own challenges of winning over the closed-off surfer while battling the demons from her past. In this small-town surf romance, can they learn to heal together, or will Fin's determination to avoid distractions keep them from the love they never saw coming?
308 pages, Paperback
Published June 4, 2024
19 people are currently reading
566 people want to read
About the author
Tanisha Headley
6 books59 followersTanisha Headley is a Canadian author, and a fresh voice in the world of romance fiction. Tanisha brings to life relatable and flawed characters, heartfelt angst, and laugh-out-loud banter while exploring the steamy corners of romance.
Residing in the beautiful landscapes of Alberta, Canada, Tanisha shares her life with her husband, son, and a four-legged adventure buddy. When she's not immersed in writing swoon-worthy stories, you can find her exploring the scenic mountains and charming small towns with her family, seeking inspiration in the beauty of her surroundings. An expert of the perfect chai tea latte, Tanisha is always on the lookout for new and delightful coffee shops.
Connect with Tanisha on social media @authortanishaheadley for updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and more. For a complete list of her books and more, visit tanishaheadley.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
November 13, 2024
4 Stars
"Sunshine, I’m pretty sure I fell in love with you from the minute you ran over my foot with your suitcase."
This is such a cute and sweet book! It is a perfect romance read for the summer. The vibes were on point and it was really easy to read. This is Tanisha Headley's debut book and it did not disappoint.
Griffin and Eliana’s early scenes in the book made me laugh so hard. They make a cute couple and they fit perfectly together. Eliana is such a sunshine, she's kind and has a backbone. But her past is still affecting her. I really wanted to give her a big hug 🥹. Griffin being romantic, sweet and protective of her had me giggling and kicking my feet. The grumpy Griffin is a softie for his girl and that makes me swoon every single time.
I loved the found family in this. All the characters are so lovable and they felt like one big family. They care for each other and have each other’s backs. The epilogue really had me emotional. It was sad and sweet at the same time.
I absolutely loved all the side characters and I can't wait to read the next books in this series.
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
"Sunshine, I’m pretty sure I fell in love with you from the minute you ran over my foot with your suitcase."
This is such a cute and sweet book! It is a perfect romance read for the summer. The vibes were on point and it was really easy to read. This is Tanisha Headley's debut book and it did not disappoint.
Griffin and Eliana’s early scenes in the book made me laugh so hard. They make a cute couple and they fit perfectly together. Eliana is such a sunshine, she's kind and has a backbone. But her past is still affecting her. I really wanted to give her a big hug 🥹. Griffin being romantic, sweet and protective of her had me giggling and kicking my feet. The grumpy Griffin is a softie for his girl and that makes me swoon every single time.
I loved the found family in this. All the characters are so lovable and they felt like one big family. They care for each other and have each other’s backs. The epilogue really had me emotional. It was sad and sweet at the same time.
I absolutely loved all the side characters and I can't wait to read the next books in this series.
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
May 15, 2024
2.5⭐️
i really wanted to love this one😭 it started off strong give major surviving summer vibes, but it was a little too focused on the spice for me🤷🏼♀️
it reminded me a lot of ice breaker with how the whole plot of the book was the sexual tension between the main characters. i know a lot of people do love ice breaker though, so maybe if you did you should give this one a try, but i just don’t think it was for me🥲
i will say though, if there is a book dedicated to maliah and koa after this…i will DEFINITELY read it!! i was way more intrigued with their story!
i really wanted to love this one😭 it started off strong give major surviving summer vibes, but it was a little too focused on the spice for me🤷🏼♀️
it reminded me a lot of ice breaker with how the whole plot of the book was the sexual tension between the main characters. i know a lot of people do love ice breaker though, so maybe if you did you should give this one a try, but i just don’t think it was for me🥲
i will say though, if there is a book dedicated to maliah and koa after this…i will DEFINITELY read it!! i was way more intrigued with their story!
June 26, 2024
The best word to describe this book? Yikes.
The editing of this - spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, etc.? Yikes. (Take a peek at the highlighted quotes I made public - there were even more than that but I didn’t start highlighting until ~45%)
The plot? What plot? Yikes.
The conflict/person causing it? Yikes.
The main characters? Not necessarily yikes, but predictable and boring.
Yeah, this book was not for me - but I might be interested in a Koa and Maliah book, provided Tanisha hires a new editor.
Spoiler incoming -
.
.
.
.
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Why was Meghan going to jail “for a long time”??? Harassment? Slander? Cheating on her boyfriend? Being a bitch? None of those things would actually get you any hard time… don’t get me wrong, I hated her, but you can’t just use your connections and get someone locked up because you don’t like them…
The editing of this - spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, etc.? Yikes. (Take a peek at the highlighted quotes I made public - there were even more than that but I didn’t start highlighting until ~45%)
The plot? What plot? Yikes.
The conflict/person causing it? Yikes.
The main characters? Not necessarily yikes, but predictable and boring.
Yeah, this book was not for me - but I might be interested in a Koa and Maliah book, provided Tanisha hires a new editor.
Spoiler incoming -
.
.
.
.
.
Why was Meghan going to jail “for a long time”??? Harassment? Slander? Cheating on her boyfriend? Being a bitch? None of those things would actually get you any hard time… don’t get me wrong, I hated her, but you can’t just use your connections and get someone locked up because you don’t like them…
November 7, 2024
2/5⭐️
Ok looking back on this I’ve lowered my rating, the writing and plot was very immature and at times cringy. The concept of surfers in a small coastal town with a little bit of mystery was super intriguing, but this was not executed or thought out well enough for my standards. The conflict was disappointing and anticlimactic, and overall the prose almost read similarly to a fanfiction with no edits. Wish all the best to the author as from what I know this is one of their first publications, but I will not be revisiting their work as it is simply not for me!
Ok looking back on this I’ve lowered my rating, the writing and plot was very immature and at times cringy. The concept of surfers in a small coastal town with a little bit of mystery was super intriguing, but this was not executed or thought out well enough for my standards. The conflict was disappointing and anticlimactic, and overall the prose almost read similarly to a fanfiction with no edits. Wish all the best to the author as from what I know this is one of their first publications, but I will not be revisiting their work as it is simply not for me!
May 12, 2024
“That’s it Sunshine, get comfortable.” ☀️🏄🏽
This was my first ever ARC read and I just can’t get over how amazing this was. I picked it up before bed last night and then I just couldn’t put it down today. 🥵🥵
Eliana is a pretty girl who just can’t seem to catch a break. Her past is always coming up to haunt her. She’s recruited to a surf team as their Social Media Manager and that’s where she meets a well known surfer who’s returning to the team.
Griffin is a surfer who was working his way to stardom when it ended up in an accident that could potentially ruin his career. Pushing to get back in the game, he returns to the Saltwater Shredders only to find out that his coach has hired a pretty little thing that’s about to occupy his mind .
Read about Eliana and Griffins story June 4th, 2024. I mean it! I couldn’t put this book down and I know others are going to love it just as much! I can’t wait for the next in the series comes out!!!
This was my first ever ARC read and I just can’t get over how amazing this was. I picked it up before bed last night and then I just couldn’t put it down today. 🥵🥵
Eliana is a pretty girl who just can’t seem to catch a break. Her past is always coming up to haunt her. She’s recruited to a surf team as their Social Media Manager and that’s where she meets a well known surfer who’s returning to the team.
Griffin is a surfer who was working his way to stardom when it ended up in an accident that could potentially ruin his career. Pushing to get back in the game, he returns to the Saltwater Shredders only to find out that his coach has hired a pretty little thing that’s about to occupy his mind .
Read about Eliana and Griffins story June 4th, 2024. I mean it! I couldn’t put this book down and I know others are going to love it just as much! I can’t wait for the next in the series comes out!!!
May 15, 2024
If you’re looking to get into the summer mood, definitely pick this book up!! It was such a good read, it was just fun and loving and hilarious. I love books with found family and this book just hit the nail on the head with that, the entire group just feels like home and I hate how I have to wait now for the second book, which I hope are the characters I’m thinking of…if not I’ll be sad lol This book also covers anxiety really well, for someone who had a life threatening accident it was super easy to connect with the characters and understand their fear and I think the author did a wonderful job at making the book a lighthearted fun romance while also covering heavy topics. Be prepared to become attached to these characters, Griffen especially…. & it’s a slow burn so what more could you ask for!!
Book comes out June 4th and it’s on Kindle so i recommend adding it to you TBR!!☺️☺️
Book comes out June 4th and it’s on Kindle so i recommend adding it to you TBR!!☺️☺️
May 13, 2024
This was my first ARC read and let me tell you it did not disappoint. I was hooked from the beginning and could not put it down, I had to read on more. From the moment I picked it up it did not get set down until it was finished.
🏄🏻♂️“Are you worried about being alone with me, sunshine?”
Eliana is from a small town & when rumors spread it ultimately forced her to leave everything behind, but when a new opportunity opened up as a Social Media Manager for The Saltwater Shredders, it was an almost easy decision to make.
Griffin is a pro sufer for The Saltwater Shredders, but when an injury leaves him out for months he wonders if he can put that distraction behind him and get back out on the water. That is, until a new distraction shows up for him, Eliana.
Beyond The Break is a beautifully written Romance book with grumpy x sunshine tropes, forced proximity, an overprotective male main character (& a few more of your favorite tropes). I simply cannot wait for the release as I will be first in line to buy one (and that goes for the second book as well).
🏄🏻♂️“Are you worried about being alone with me, sunshine?”
Eliana is from a small town & when rumors spread it ultimately forced her to leave everything behind, but when a new opportunity opened up as a Social Media Manager for The Saltwater Shredders, it was an almost easy decision to make.
Griffin is a pro sufer for The Saltwater Shredders, but when an injury leaves him out for months he wonders if he can put that distraction behind him and get back out on the water. That is, until a new distraction shows up for him, Eliana.
Beyond The Break is a beautifully written Romance book with grumpy x sunshine tropes, forced proximity, an overprotective male main character (& a few more of your favorite tropes). I simply cannot wait for the release as I will be first in line to buy one (and that goes for the second book as well).
June 23, 2024
I wanted to like this, I really did, but unfortunately, Beyond the Break
turned out to be a massive disappointment. If it were possible to give it a
zero, I would, but alas, it gets a 1.
It's as if the author brainstormed every improbable scenario imaginable
and decided to cram them all into one book. The result? A chaotic mess.
While I understand that this is her debut, it feels like she’s never had a real
conversation with people in real life. Who announces to someone they just
met that they’re a virgin?
Colton hits his head on a piece of dry wood hard enough to knock him
unconscious and nearly die, yet the wood doesn't break. Then, he absurdly
asks Fin why he saved him, as if there weren’t ten other people at the party
who would have done the same.
The book's central conflict is ludicrous. The protagonist leaves because of a
five-year-old article blaming her for her parents' deaths. This past is
painted as dark and haunting, but it’s more eye-roll-inducing than anything.
Additionally, the fight between her parents over her attending a party is
utterly unrealistic. She was 20, not 14, and her dad was angry because her
mom "let her" go? The scenario is nonsensical.
Fin, at 29, has never had a home-baked pancake? How did the author even
come up with that scenario and think it was a good idea to include it?
Eliana claims she isn’t easy in chapter one, only to sleep with Fin after
kissing him twice and knowing him for about a week. Oh, and she also falls
in love with him during this brief period. It’s simply not believable.
Griffin going undercover to bust Meghan? Need I say more?
I received an ARC, and this is my honest opinion: Beyond the Break is a
huge cluster of poorly conceived ideas. The only aspect I enjoyed was the
surfing, and that only took up about two pages.
turned out to be a massive disappointment. If it were possible to give it a
zero, I would, but alas, it gets a 1.
It's as if the author brainstormed every improbable scenario imaginable
and decided to cram them all into one book. The result? A chaotic mess.
While I understand that this is her debut, it feels like she’s never had a real
conversation with people in real life. Who announces to someone they just
met that they’re a virgin?
Colton hits his head on a piece of dry wood hard enough to knock him
unconscious and nearly die, yet the wood doesn't break. Then, he absurdly
asks Fin why he saved him, as if there weren’t ten other people at the party
who would have done the same.
The book's central conflict is ludicrous. The protagonist leaves because of a
five-year-old article blaming her for her parents' deaths. This past is
painted as dark and haunting, but it’s more eye-roll-inducing than anything.
Additionally, the fight between her parents over her attending a party is
utterly unrealistic. She was 20, not 14, and her dad was angry because her
mom "let her" go? The scenario is nonsensical.
Fin, at 29, has never had a home-baked pancake? How did the author even
come up with that scenario and think it was a good idea to include it?
Eliana claims she isn’t easy in chapter one, only to sleep with Fin after
kissing him twice and knowing him for about a week. Oh, and she also falls
in love with him during this brief period. It’s simply not believable.
Griffin going undercover to bust Meghan? Need I say more?
I received an ARC, and this is my honest opinion: Beyond the Break is a
huge cluster of poorly conceived ideas. The only aspect I enjoyed was the
surfing, and that only took up about two pages.
May 18, 2024
This was the first time I got approved for an ARC that I really wanted and I'm so happy about it! 🥹
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Spice : 🌶️🌶️ (2/5)
POV : Dual
Tropes : forced proximity • found family • small town • grumpy/sunshine
Let me start by saying that the map at the beginning of the book was SO CUTE and I want all rom-com books to have one. Seriously, why isn't this a thing?
I had never read a surf romance before and I had such a great time reading this story and getting to know Eliana, Griffin and the whole Saltwater Shredders family. The found family trope really hit me with this one and I can't wait until we get all of their stories, especially Gabriel's.
The main character's chemistry was unmatched and the spice was oh so fun to read. I loved that it was getting a little ✨freaky✨ at some points (erm... the booth scene!!? 👀🥵)
Reading about their journey through physical and mental recovery was so special and I was so happy they were able to understand each other through their hardships. And it's always nice to feel seen with the anxiety representation, which was expertly done!
Last thing I want to add: Grey sweatpants. Abs. Veiny arms. If that doesn't finish convincing you to pick up this book, I don't know what will 🤭
My favorite quote 👇🏼
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Spice : 🌶️🌶️ (2/5)
POV : Dual
Tropes : forced proximity • found family • small town • grumpy/sunshine
Let me start by saying that the map at the beginning of the book was SO CUTE and I want all rom-com books to have one. Seriously, why isn't this a thing?
I had never read a surf romance before and I had such a great time reading this story and getting to know Eliana, Griffin and the whole Saltwater Shredders family. The found family trope really hit me with this one and I can't wait until we get all of their stories, especially Gabriel's.
The main character's chemistry was unmatched and the spice was oh so fun to read. I loved that it was getting a little ✨freaky✨ at some points (erm... the booth scene!!? 👀🥵)
Reading about their journey through physical and mental recovery was so special and I was so happy they were able to understand each other through their hardships. And it's always nice to feel seen with the anxiety representation, which was expertly done!
Last thing I want to add: Grey sweatpants. Abs. Veiny arms. If that doesn't finish convincing you to pick up this book, I don't know what will 🤭
My favorite quote 👇🏼
May 31, 2024
I really wanted to love this book. The summer vibes, surfing, and romance. However the story felt very rushed. Eliana and Griffin feel too rushed. I wish there was more of a build up to their relationship and the reveals of their pasts.
I did love the side characters tho and how they played their roles in the story. I also feel like they had a lot of untold potential side stories left unsaid. This story had so much potential to grow and captivate readers attention to it.
Another unfortunate reason for 2 stars is there were so many errors in the story. Spelling, grammar, mixing up character names and some sentences just made zero sense.
I did love the side characters tho and how they played their roles in the story. I also feel like they had a lot of untold potential side stories left unsaid. This story had so much potential to grow and captivate readers attention to it.
Another unfortunate reason for 2 stars is there were so many errors in the story. Spelling, grammar, mixing up character names and some sentences just made zero sense.
May 19, 2024
3,5 ⭐️ a very fun summer read!
First I’d like to thank Tanisha for approving me for this ARC. I’ve read it in a few days and it was so fun. Here is my honest review:
Beyond the Break is a surf romance.
Its about Aliana. A girl who got hired to photograph someone in Hawaï. There she hears from her job, they decided to let her go. All because of stupid rumors in an article.
When the client asks her whats wrong, she tells him she just got fired and explaines what happend. He offers her a job at the surfteam as a social media manager. Which she takes.
The day she arrives in the teamhouse, she meets Griffin. Who is set to scare her away, because he can’t be distracted when he just got back from revalidation after an accident 6 months ago. But will he succeed..?
——————————————————————————
Stop reading now if you don’t want spoilers..!
I liked this book because it was something refreshing for me. Lately I read more Hockey romance and this is my second surf romance.
I felt the sexual tension between Aliana and Griffin from the first moment they met. Griffin is a little grumpy towards Eliana, but I felt like that was more because of his past with his (psycho) ex. They compliment each other and I like them together. Eventho I liked their banter too.
The story itself was well written, so was the spice. I really like it when the MMC is somewhat bossy and dirty. Unfortunately I was more curious about some of the side characters than I did for these main characters. So I’m really looking forward to the rest of the series!!
First I’d like to thank Tanisha for approving me for this ARC. I’ve read it in a few days and it was so fun. Here is my honest review:
Beyond the Break is a surf romance.
Its about Aliana. A girl who got hired to photograph someone in Hawaï. There she hears from her job, they decided to let her go. All because of stupid rumors in an article.
When the client asks her whats wrong, she tells him she just got fired and explaines what happend. He offers her a job at the surfteam as a social media manager. Which she takes.
The day she arrives in the teamhouse, she meets Griffin. Who is set to scare her away, because he can’t be distracted when he just got back from revalidation after an accident 6 months ago. But will he succeed..?
——————————————————————————
Stop reading now if you don’t want spoilers..!
I liked this book because it was something refreshing for me. Lately I read more Hockey romance and this is my second surf romance.
I felt the sexual tension between Aliana and Griffin from the first moment they met. Griffin is a little grumpy towards Eliana, but I felt like that was more because of his past with his (psycho) ex. They compliment each other and I like them together. Eventho I liked their banter too.
The story itself was well written, so was the spice. I really like it when the MMC is somewhat bossy and dirty. Unfortunately I was more curious about some of the side characters than I did for these main characters. So I’m really looking forward to the rest of the series!!
June 12, 2024
3.5 stars
I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review - thank you so much!
I was really excited for this book because it sounded like a cute summer romance and I was really interested to read about surfing and about the social media management of a surf team!
The book was very fast paced and I was able to get through it very quickly.
I thought the protagonists were very fun to follow and I enjoyed learning about them and their backstories. However, at the beginning, I found the male MC's behavior to get the female MC to leave quite childish, and I thought their romance developed too quickly for me. Also, there was a big focus on the female MC's virginity, which I guess is a trope that some readers may enjoy, but I personally didn't. After a while I got used to it though and I enjoyed their banter!
The side characters were all very nice as well, however there could have been a bit more development for them, I often had trouble telling them apart. I'm guessing you will learn more about them in future books, but I wish that they had a bit more depth in this book already.
I really enjoyed the setting on a beach with the focus on surfing, it gave me great summer vibes and I think this book would be a perfect vacation read for anyone looking for something fun, summery and quick!
I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review - thank you so much!
I was really excited for this book because it sounded like a cute summer romance and I was really interested to read about surfing and about the social media management of a surf team!
The book was very fast paced and I was able to get through it very quickly.
I thought the protagonists were very fun to follow and I enjoyed learning about them and their backstories. However, at the beginning, I found the male MC's behavior to get the female MC to leave quite childish, and I thought their romance developed too quickly for me. Also, there was a big focus on the female MC's virginity, which I guess is a trope that some readers may enjoy, but I personally didn't. After a while I got used to it though and I enjoyed their banter!
The side characters were all very nice as well, however there could have been a bit more development for them, I often had trouble telling them apart. I'm guessing you will learn more about them in future books, but I wish that they had a bit more depth in this book already.
I really enjoyed the setting on a beach with the focus on surfing, it gave me great summer vibes and I think this book would be a perfect vacation read for anyone looking for something fun, summery and quick!
May 22, 2024
♥ 𝐚𝐫𝐜 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 ♥
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 4/5 ⭐
𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞: 3/5 🌶️
Beyond the Break is a light, summery read that follows Eliana—a photographer and media manager— and Griffin—a pro surfer in recovery. When Eliana is hired by Griffin's coach to be the team's media manager, offering her a room in their shared house, their chemistry ignites. But Griffin has plans of his own 🤫
Eliana is so bright it's almost too much haha. But in all seriousness she's got a lot of serious trauma she's dealing with, but her outlook on life is beautiful! And she's so strong a character, I truly admire her!
Griffin is grumpy, moody and I absolutely love him. He's me, I am him. He's dealing with his own, more fresh trauma and sadly his way of coping needs some work. But that's where Eliana come in 🤭. He's more forgiving than I would be with some of the stuff happening in the book, and I really admire him for it.
The plot was really good! The backstory was laid beautifully, so smoothly that I felt like I was watching a movie. And the way everything was unfolded was so careful and I was just hooked the whole time! Took me less than a day to read it, I absolutely couldn't put it down! And the SPICE... Guys I was squealing in the dead of night, GRIFFIN GAVE ME BUTTERFLIES!
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 4/5 ⭐
𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞: 3/5 🌶️
Beyond the Break is a light, summery read that follows Eliana—a photographer and media manager— and Griffin—a pro surfer in recovery. When Eliana is hired by Griffin's coach to be the team's media manager, offering her a room in their shared house, their chemistry ignites. But Griffin has plans of his own 🤫
Eliana is so bright it's almost too much haha. But in all seriousness she's got a lot of serious trauma she's dealing with, but her outlook on life is beautiful! And she's so strong a character, I truly admire her!
Griffin is grumpy, moody and I absolutely love him. He's me, I am him. He's dealing with his own, more fresh trauma and sadly his way of coping needs some work. But that's where Eliana come in 🤭. He's more forgiving than I would be with some of the stuff happening in the book, and I really admire him for it.
The plot was really good! The backstory was laid beautifully, so smoothly that I felt like I was watching a movie. And the way everything was unfolded was so careful and I was just hooked the whole time! Took me less than a day to read it, I absolutely couldn't put it down! And the SPICE... Guys I was squealing in the dead of night, GRIFFIN GAVE ME BUTTERFLIES!
May 14, 2024
This is the perfect summer read! It’s an easy read while also dealing with some complex emotions and themes.
The characters are fun and loveable. You want to cheer them on and see them succeed. Eliana is sunshine but she has a bite and fire to her that keeps her strong throughout the book. Her being such a strong character while also being vulnerable at times created such a solid character. Griffin is such a wonderfully complex character. His grumpy exterior and pain helps drive his character forward but also explains why he acts the way he does. Griffin deserves so much especially after all the pain he has experienced.
Griffin and Eliana are the perfect balance to each other. They bring out the best in each other when they allow it and help each other where many others wouldn’t be able to.
The side characters; Gabriel, Zale, Zalea, Koa, Colton, Maliah, and Kairi are amazing. I cannot wait to see what future books hold for these characters. They were loveable and you know they all have so much history and chemistry that I cannot wait to see what happens with them.
The characters are fun and loveable. You want to cheer them on and see them succeed. Eliana is sunshine but she has a bite and fire to her that keeps her strong throughout the book. Her being such a strong character while also being vulnerable at times created such a solid character. Griffin is such a wonderfully complex character. His grumpy exterior and pain helps drive his character forward but also explains why he acts the way he does. Griffin deserves so much especially after all the pain he has experienced.
Griffin and Eliana are the perfect balance to each other. They bring out the best in each other when they allow it and help each other where many others wouldn’t be able to.
The side characters; Gabriel, Zale, Zalea, Koa, Colton, Maliah, and Kairi are amazing. I cannot wait to see what future books hold for these characters. They were loveable and you know they all have so much history and chemistry that I cannot wait to see what happens with them.
June 4, 2024
Thank you to author, Tanisha Headley, for an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
**Spoilers below**
This book was right up my alley. It was the perfect amount of romance, banter, back story. The works. I didn't know I needed to read a surfer romance until I read this one!
The MMC, Griffin, was grumpy and stand-offish and I love that he didn't give in too quickly to the attraction he felt for the FMC, Eliana. He really didn't want to let himself enjoy her, even though he had so many opportunities to. He was a royal jackass to her in the beginning and it killed me. The banter was so funny, there were times when I laughed out loud.
One trope that is not usually my favorite is the virgin FMC, however, I really like the way Tanisha explained this one. Typically, you get the virgin FMC who's either too innocent, protected, or used to somehow portray her “perfection.” Eliana was a virgin because she genuinely hadn't found anyone she was attracted to enough to have sex with, and honestly, you go girl. I'm all about women owning their sexuality - if you want to sleep with someone, then sleep with them, if you don't, then don't. Eliana wasn't a virgin because she felt she needed to wait until the right person or that her virginity needed to be protected - she just hadn't found anyone she liked enough to have sex with and I love that. Let's not forget how sassy and funny Eliana was. She knew she was sexy and I loved seeing her tease Griffin with it to get under his skin.
There were also some really tender moments in this book. Eliana helping Griffin through his panic attacks killed me and when he finally opened up to her… Ugh. Eliana's anxiety about being in cars and Griffin respecting her when he figured it out. Each character had their own stuff they had to work through.
The epilogue had no right to make me cry the way it did… Griffin's dad watching all of his old surf competitions because he has Alzheimer's… Oh man. That did a number on me.
This book really was everything I look for in a romance novel. The spice was great and well-written so it wasn't cringey, but still super sexy. I also really enjoyed the side characters. They were all different and had their own things going on. You could definitely see where the next novels are heading and it's nice that I'll already be invested in those characters’ stories when I get to them.
**Spoilers below**
This book was right up my alley. It was the perfect amount of romance, banter, back story. The works. I didn't know I needed to read a surfer romance until I read this one!
The MMC, Griffin, was grumpy and stand-offish and I love that he didn't give in too quickly to the attraction he felt for the FMC, Eliana. He really didn't want to let himself enjoy her, even though he had so many opportunities to. He was a royal jackass to her in the beginning and it killed me. The banter was so funny, there were times when I laughed out loud.
One trope that is not usually my favorite is the virgin FMC, however, I really like the way Tanisha explained this one. Typically, you get the virgin FMC who's either too innocent, protected, or used to somehow portray her “perfection.” Eliana was a virgin because she genuinely hadn't found anyone she was attracted to enough to have sex with, and honestly, you go girl. I'm all about women owning their sexuality - if you want to sleep with someone, then sleep with them, if you don't, then don't. Eliana wasn't a virgin because she felt she needed to wait until the right person or that her virginity needed to be protected - she just hadn't found anyone she liked enough to have sex with and I love that. Let's not forget how sassy and funny Eliana was. She knew she was sexy and I loved seeing her tease Griffin with it to get under his skin.
There were also some really tender moments in this book. Eliana helping Griffin through his panic attacks killed me and when he finally opened up to her… Ugh. Eliana's anxiety about being in cars and Griffin respecting her when he figured it out. Each character had their own stuff they had to work through.
The epilogue had no right to make me cry the way it did… Griffin's dad watching all of his old surf competitions because he has Alzheimer's… Oh man. That did a number on me.
This book really was everything I look for in a romance novel. The spice was great and well-written so it wasn't cringey, but still super sexy. I also really enjoyed the side characters. They were all different and had their own things going on. You could definitely see where the next novels are heading and it's nice that I'll already be invested in those characters’ stories when I get to them.
Want to read
June 30, 2024I want to firstly thank Tanisha Headley for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review!
I unfortunately had to DNF Beyond the Break. I just don’t think this book was for me, but I wish the author the best of luck with this book and her future releases!
For what I did read, here are a few reasons why I decided to dnf:
- While the writing is very descriptive and can help the reader feel more immersed in the story, it fell a bit flat. It was far more telling rather than showing.
- The characters were a bit predictable and I had no real connection to any of them. Griffin started out promising but once he met Eliana, I really didn’t like him, nor did I want to read more of his POV.
- The felt that the premise of the story was interesting but it just unfortunately didn’t hook me.
- A bit too heavy on the spice for me in the first 100 pages.
I’d like to try this book again in the future but for now, these were my initial thoughts.
I unfortunately had to DNF Beyond the Break. I just don’t think this book was for me, but I wish the author the best of luck with this book and her future releases!
For what I did read, here are a few reasons why I decided to dnf:
- While the writing is very descriptive and can help the reader feel more immersed in the story, it fell a bit flat. It was far more telling rather than showing.
- The characters were a bit predictable and I had no real connection to any of them. Griffin started out promising but once he met Eliana, I really didn’t like him, nor did I want to read more of his POV.
- The felt that the premise of the story was interesting but it just unfortunately didn’t hook me.
- A bit too heavy on the spice for me in the first 100 pages.
I’d like to try this book again in the future but for now, these were my initial thoughts.
May 13, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Thank you to the author for this ARC for review!
Eliana has had some terrible things happen to her over the last few years but when she’s offered a great job with a surf team, she takes it!
Griffin is recovering from a recent injury and wants Eliana to leave. After he gets to know her, the attraction is undeniable but he doesn’t want a distraction. They grow closer and begin to fall in love.
He calls Eliana “Sunshine” but what will happen when he learns the truth about her?
I loved the story and the surf aspect was fun! There was no unnecessary break up and an HEA 💚
Check this one out if you like:
Surfer MMC🏄
Grumpy x sunshine ☀️
Forced proximity
Slow burn spice
Thank you to the author for this ARC for review!
Eliana has had some terrible things happen to her over the last few years but when she’s offered a great job with a surf team, she takes it!
Griffin is recovering from a recent injury and wants Eliana to leave. After he gets to know her, the attraction is undeniable but he doesn’t want a distraction. They grow closer and begin to fall in love.
He calls Eliana “Sunshine” but what will happen when he learns the truth about her?
I loved the story and the surf aspect was fun! There was no unnecessary break up and an HEA 💚
Check this one out if you like:
Surfer MMC🏄
Grumpy x sunshine ☀️
Forced proximity
Slow burn spice
May 20, 2024
Grumpy x sunshine, slow burn, forced proximity, found family, and protective MMC???? SIGN ME UP! This is the perfect summer read!! This book made me giddy and actually laugh out loud. There was the perfect amount of spice and I could not put this down. “Are you worried about being alone with me, sunshine?” SCREAMING AND KICKING MY FEET. Griffin and Eliana are the perfect balance to each other. They bring out the best in each other, when they allow it, and help each other in aspects many others wouldn't be able to. I loved this, and I already cannot wait for the next book to be released!! Thank you Tanisha for the ARC 💕
July 31, 2024
This was such a good debut novel!
Eliana thinks she's bad luck. She's enters Griffin's life as his surfing team's social media manager. Griffin, just back from an injury, tries to get her to leave.
I loved the banter between these two and the tension as well. Griffin was a little immature at the beginning but it stopped at the right time in my opinion.
I thought it lacked a little development or depth at times but overall I had a great time and I love all the side characters so I am excited to read their stories!
Eliana thinks she's bad luck. She's enters Griffin's life as his surfing team's social media manager. Griffin, just back from an injury, tries to get her to leave.
I loved the banter between these two and the tension as well. Griffin was a little immature at the beginning but it stopped at the right time in my opinion.
I thought it lacked a little development or depth at times but overall I had a great time and I love all the side characters so I am excited to read their stories!
August 25, 2024
This was a PAGE TURNER!!!! This was such a feel good & fun summery book. I love the detail of everything, from the map to the first chapter page and everything in between. This book was overall perfect, the humor, romance, drama, spiciness was all spot on, even learned some fun facts about surfing, which made me feel even more immersed in the book. I also loved the marketing campaigns, they were so good especially as a girly in marketing it could relate. I truly loved this book & all the characters, I can’t wait for a part 2!!! <3
May 17, 2024
✨️ARC REVIEW✨️
*I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review*
This book makes me want to book a trip to Hawaii and find me a surfer man lol. Eliana and griffin are a cute couple. Griffin tried to fight how he felt about eliana wanting to stay focused on surfing after coming back to the team from an injury. But that was all null and void when Eliana starting to reciprocate those feelings. I love how supportive they were to one another literally a shoulder to lean on. Definitely found family vibes and I'm here for it. Love how they handled the crazy ex and that there was no 3rd act split. Cannot wait to read about everyone else because the animosity on this team is through the roof.
Thank you Tanisha Headley for the ARC!
*I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review*
This book makes me want to book a trip to Hawaii and find me a surfer man lol. Eliana and griffin are a cute couple. Griffin tried to fight how he felt about eliana wanting to stay focused on surfing after coming back to the team from an injury. But that was all null and void when Eliana starting to reciprocate those feelings. I love how supportive they were to one another literally a shoulder to lean on. Definitely found family vibes and I'm here for it. Love how they handled the crazy ex and that there was no 3rd act split. Cannot wait to read about everyone else because the animosity on this team is through the roof.
Thank you Tanisha Headley for the ARC!
May 20, 2024
I am so happy to be given the chance to read this as an ARC! It was a great read. Honestly every time that Griffin says “Sunshine” I get all swoony. This was a well written book and has made me fall in love with more tropes regarding surfing and beach lifestyle. There were so many moments reading this when I had my legs kicking in excitement. Hope there are more books in this series for the other characters and their backstories.
May 21, 2024
First of all, thank you so much Tanisha for sending me this ARC!
This is the perfect summer beach read, kickback with a nice cold drink, and you are going to absolutely fall in love with these characters ! It’s a super easy and relaxing read with the perfect amount of spice.
If you love, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, and found family. You’re absolutely going to love this one
This book left me wanting more and I absolutely can’t wait for the rest of the series!
This is the perfect summer beach read, kickback with a nice cold drink, and you are going to absolutely fall in love with these characters ! It’s a super easy and relaxing read with the perfect amount of spice.
If you love, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, and found family. You’re absolutely going to love this one
This book left me wanting more and I absolutely can’t wait for the rest of the series!
June 4, 2024
4⭐
2.5🌶
I received an e-Arc for this book, thank you Tanisha!
This book has all the good summer vibes! I loved the dual POV and the back stories of the characters. Griffin & Eliana are the definition of grumpy x sunshine!! So much so that he calls her sunshine…I mean come on, SWOON😍🥰 This is the perfect summer read, it is quick and cute and spicy!! Between the found family and all the lovable characters, I cannot wait for more love stories from Saltwater Springs!
2.5🌶
I received an e-Arc for this book, thank you Tanisha!
This book has all the good summer vibes! I loved the dual POV and the back stories of the characters. Griffin & Eliana are the definition of grumpy x sunshine!! So much so that he calls her sunshine…I mean come on, SWOON😍🥰 This is the perfect summer read, it is quick and cute and spicy!! Between the found family and all the lovable characters, I cannot wait for more love stories from Saltwater Springs!
May 17, 2024
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this lovely book!
This was my first surf romance and it did not disappoint. I absolutely fell in love with the characters and the town of Saltwater Springs. I could feel the emotions of the characters as I was reading. Griffin is an excellent book boyfriend, and I really liked Eliana as well. She had her demons but she wasn’t a quivering flower. She was still strong despite what had happened to her in the past.
I’m really excited for the rest of this series. Definitely recommend!
🌶️🌶️/5
This was my first surf romance and it did not disappoint. I absolutely fell in love with the characters and the town of Saltwater Springs. I could feel the emotions of the characters as I was reading. Griffin is an excellent book boyfriend, and I really liked Eliana as well. She had her demons but she wasn’t a quivering flower. She was still strong despite what had happened to her in the past.
I’m really excited for the rest of this series. Definitely recommend!
🌶️🌶️/5
May 30, 2024
4⭐️
Thank you to @authortanishaheadley for my first ever ARC! I absolutely adored the concept of this story and feel so privileged to have received this early🏄♂️
I had never read a romance novel based on surfers and I didn’t know I needed one until I read this book! For a debut novel, this book exceeded all of my expectations. I absolutely adored the side characters, maybe even more so than the main couple 🙊
The found family aspect of this novel is what really got me. I fell in love with the caring and funny relationships between everyone in the Shredder House. I am excited to see where this series continues as I am dying for other books on the other surfers.
There was nothing I extremely disliked about this book. Personally I am not a fan of nicknames used in books, so at times I got a little cringed out. I also felt that the relationship between Eliana and Griffin was a bit insta-lovey, whereas I usually look for a little bit more of a slow burn in the romance books I read.
Overall, for a debut book and my first ARC, Beyond the Break did not disappoint. I am so excited to see how this series will expand and thank you again to Tanisha Headley for giving me the privilege of receiving an ARC!!
Check out this book on June 4th 2023 🏄♀️💜
Thank you to @authortanishaheadley for my first ever ARC! I absolutely adored the concept of this story and feel so privileged to have received this early🏄♂️
I had never read a romance novel based on surfers and I didn’t know I needed one until I read this book! For a debut novel, this book exceeded all of my expectations. I absolutely adored the side characters, maybe even more so than the main couple 🙊
The found family aspect of this novel is what really got me. I fell in love with the caring and funny relationships between everyone in the Shredder House. I am excited to see where this series continues as I am dying for other books on the other surfers.
There was nothing I extremely disliked about this book. Personally I am not a fan of nicknames used in books, so at times I got a little cringed out. I also felt that the relationship between Eliana and Griffin was a bit insta-lovey, whereas I usually look for a little bit more of a slow burn in the romance books I read.
Overall, for a debut book and my first ARC, Beyond the Break did not disappoint. I am so excited to see how this series will expand and thank you again to Tanisha Headley for giving me the privilege of receiving an ARC!!
Check out this book on June 4th 2023 🏄♀️💜
June 4, 2024
3⭐️
3🌶️
This was pretty cute. I loved reading a surfer romance, that was new for me! I'm very excited to see what's in store for Koa and Maliah, as well as Gabriel and Zalea!
3🌶️
This was pretty cute. I loved reading a surfer romance, that was new for me! I'm very excited to see what's in store for Koa and Maliah, as well as Gabriel and Zalea!
June 29, 2025
Great summer romance read. It’s light, and I love surfing. I can’t wait to read more in this series.
May 16, 2024
Thank you to Tanisha for the ARC!
I loved this book so much. It was such an easy read with great characters and a great little storyline. This would be the perfect summer read, laying by a pool or on a beach with a yummy drink!! Highly recommend if you’re looking for a funny, witty and perfectly spicy book! The characters were very much grumpy x sunshine and I loved it. Forced proximity? Sign me uppppp. Do yourself a favour and read this!
I loved this book so much. It was such an easy read with great characters and a great little storyline. This would be the perfect summer read, laying by a pool or on a beach with a yummy drink!! Highly recommend if you’re looking for a funny, witty and perfectly spicy book! The characters were very much grumpy x sunshine and I loved it. Forced proximity? Sign me uppppp. Do yourself a favour and read this!
August 21, 2024
An amazing book, gripping from the first page and heartwarming by the last. Definitely check this book out!
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