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Bear of the Deep
I came to the Isle of Skara to study the sea.
I didn’t expect it to claim me.
When my selkie heritage awakens and a dark mage targets me, the only one who can keep me alive is Grayson Hale, a bear shifter sworn to guard the deep places.
He says the ocean is calling me home.
I’m starting to believe him…
and to fall for the man fate tied to my blood.
I didn’t expect it to claim me.
When my selkie heritage awakens and a dark mage targets me, the only one who can keep me alive is Grayson Hale, a bear shifter sworn to guard the deep places.
He says the ocean is calling me home.
I’m starting to believe him…
and to fall for the man fate tied to my blood.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2025
25 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Delta James
323 books2,304 followersAs a USA Today bestselling romance author, Delta James aims to captivate readers with stories about complex heroines and the dominant alpha males who adore them. For Delta, romance is more than just a love story; it’s a journey with challenges and thrills along the way.
After creating a second chapter for herself that was dramatically different than the first, Delta now resides in Florida where she relaxes on warm summer evenings with her loveable pack of basset hounds as they watch the birds, squirrels, and lizards. When not crafting fast-paced tales, she enjoys horseback riding, hiking, and white-water rafting.
Her readers mean the world to her, and Delta tries to interact personally with as many messages as she can. If you’d like to chat or discuss books, you can find Delta on Instagram, Facebook, and in her private reader group https://www.facebook.com/groups/34898....
After creating a second chapter for herself that was dramatically different than the first, Delta now resides in Florida where she relaxes on warm summer evenings with her loveable pack of basset hounds as they watch the birds, squirrels, and lizards. When not crafting fast-paced tales, she enjoys horseback riding, hiking, and white-water rafting.
Her readers mean the world to her, and Delta tries to interact personally with as many messages as she can. If you’d like to chat or discuss books, you can find Delta on Instagram, Facebook, and in her private reader group https://www.facebook.com/groups/34898....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
December 28, 2025
This book is a paranormal romantic suspense. It is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. The story grabbed my attention from the beginning and didn’t let go. Grayson and Isla belong together. I thought their story was well written, interesting and well developed with no gaps or confusion to disrupt the flow. It’s a good vs evil tale with a satisfying conclusion.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 28, 2025
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of Bear of the Deep in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to BookSirens for facilitating!
Content Warnings: On-page violence, explicit sexual content, characters held hostage and chained.
This third book in the interconnected standalone series Tides of Fate series takes a slower approach to the fated mates trope to the previous instalments. The relationship between marine biologist Dr Isla Calder and Guardian of the Deep Places, bear shifter Grayson Hale, starts icily, with Isla looking to study what Grayson is sworn to protect. But as they work together, Grayson’s inner bear starts to recognise something non-human in her – and a similarity in their values.
“I understand the drive to protect, to preserve, to stand guard over things the world doesn’t want to acknowledge,” he says early on in the novel. “Her motives are different from mine, but the intensity is the same.”
The revelation of Isla’s selkie heritage destabilises her scientific worldview and reframes the novel as an identity story, as much as a paranormal romance.
This also gives room for a lot of welcome new developments in the James’ storytelling. Though Grayson is her romantic North Star, Isla is helped just as much by her friendships with both Eliza and Moira. The two women serve as vital sounding boards. Eliza advises Isla on how to cope with the transition mentally – using her own experience to reassure her that “You’re not broken. You’re waking up.” Meanwhile, Moira teaches Isla how to control her shifts physically, and to see that her seal and human forms are “both you, and one isn’t more true than the other.” Friendships between these strong female characters are becoming more central as this series progresses, and it’s a lovely thing to see.
This self-acceptance is a key part of Isla’s character arc, which is also very well-done. Isla initially distances herself from Grayson, determined that the bigger threat posed by businessman Malcom Carrick “takes precedence over whatever this thing is building between us.” But as she comes to terms with her heritage, she also reassesses her relationship with the bear shifter. “I’m not choosing insanity,” she says when questioned by him. “I’m choosing truth. Finally understanding who I am and why I never fit anywhere else. You’re part of that truth, Grayson. Your duty. Your waters. Your tower overlooking the sea. It all makes sense in ways nothing else ever has.” Grayson, too, realises that, unlike his family before him, he doesn’t have to choose between a relationship and his duty. With Isla, he has found someone who can “understand the duty, embrace it, want[s] to fight beside me rather than asking me to choose between you and the waters. “
Bear of the Deep also featured another thing I’ve been hoping to see since the first book – women in shifted forms! Though Isla’s seal form is new to her, mastering it leads to her becoming more at ease with herself and her place on Skara, declaring “I am selkie. I am guardian. I am exactly what these waters need.” It puts her on an even footing with Grayson, as he realises she is vital to his mission to keep the waters protected.
Bear of the Deep continues with many of the themes that readers have come to expect from Tides of Fate: solid world building, authentic connections between characters and women who come to know their own strength. But more time is spent on each of these themes, and in my eyes the story is all the better for it.
Content Warnings: On-page violence, explicit sexual content, characters held hostage and chained.
This third book in the interconnected standalone series Tides of Fate series takes a slower approach to the fated mates trope to the previous instalments. The relationship between marine biologist Dr Isla Calder and Guardian of the Deep Places, bear shifter Grayson Hale, starts icily, with Isla looking to study what Grayson is sworn to protect. But as they work together, Grayson’s inner bear starts to recognise something non-human in her – and a similarity in their values.
“I understand the drive to protect, to preserve, to stand guard over things the world doesn’t want to acknowledge,” he says early on in the novel. “Her motives are different from mine, but the intensity is the same.”
The revelation of Isla’s selkie heritage destabilises her scientific worldview and reframes the novel as an identity story, as much as a paranormal romance.
This also gives room for a lot of welcome new developments in the James’ storytelling. Though Grayson is her romantic North Star, Isla is helped just as much by her friendships with both Eliza and Moira. The two women serve as vital sounding boards. Eliza advises Isla on how to cope with the transition mentally – using her own experience to reassure her that “You’re not broken. You’re waking up.” Meanwhile, Moira teaches Isla how to control her shifts physically, and to see that her seal and human forms are “both you, and one isn’t more true than the other.” Friendships between these strong female characters are becoming more central as this series progresses, and it’s a lovely thing to see.
This self-acceptance is a key part of Isla’s character arc, which is also very well-done. Isla initially distances herself from Grayson, determined that the bigger threat posed by businessman Malcom Carrick “takes precedence over whatever this thing is building between us.” But as she comes to terms with her heritage, she also reassesses her relationship with the bear shifter. “I’m not choosing insanity,” she says when questioned by him. “I’m choosing truth. Finally understanding who I am and why I never fit anywhere else. You’re part of that truth, Grayson. Your duty. Your waters. Your tower overlooking the sea. It all makes sense in ways nothing else ever has.” Grayson, too, realises that, unlike his family before him, he doesn’t have to choose between a relationship and his duty. With Isla, he has found someone who can “understand the duty, embrace it, want[s] to fight beside me rather than asking me to choose between you and the waters. “
Bear of the Deep also featured another thing I’ve been hoping to see since the first book – women in shifted forms! Though Isla’s seal form is new to her, mastering it leads to her becoming more at ease with herself and her place on Skara, declaring “I am selkie. I am guardian. I am exactly what these waters need.” It puts her on an even footing with Grayson, as he realises she is vital to his mission to keep the waters protected.
Bear of the Deep continues with many of the themes that readers have come to expect from Tides of Fate: solid world building, authentic connections between characters and women who come to know their own strength. But more time is spent on each of these themes, and in my eyes the story is all the better for it.
January 6, 2026
3.75 stars- BEAR OF THE DEEP is the third instalment in Delta James’ contemporary, adult TIDES OF FATE paranormal, romance series. This is grizzly bear shifter Grayson Hale, and Marine biologist Dr. Isla Calder’s story line. BEAR OF THE DEEP can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information forom the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Grayson and Isla) BEAR OF THE DEEP follows Dr. Isla Calder’s arrival on the Isle of Skara, as a prelude to researching the strange phenomenon of the ocean and its’ wildlife but Isla never expected to meet her future in the guise of Grayson Hale, a grizzly bear shifter and guardian of the waters. A group known as Marine Development Corporation, headed by developer Malcolm Carrick is intent on drilling the ocean floor but Carrick is looking for something more dangerous and powerful, he is a collector of all things supernatural.
The world building focuses on the desperate attempts to stop Marine Development Corporation, as they prepare to ravage the natural eco-systems around the Isle of Skara. Something dark and dangerous lies waiting at the bottom of the ocean, and our couple must work together in an effort to save everyone they love.
The relationship between Grayson and Isla is one of fated mates but Isla is unaware of her supernatural powers, long having remained dormant until the ocean calls to the selkie beneath. With the ability to control the ocean’s water, Isla discovers there is more than attraction with the man that calls to her heart. The $ex scenes are passionate and intimate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters are enchanted and desperate. We are introduced to developer Malcolm Carrick, a man who is more than he appears to be, as well as the return of Declan, Rafael and Moira, wolf shifter Jax, tiger shifter Kian O’Donnell, and dragon shifter Finn. Kian’s story line is next in Tiger of the Tides.
BEAR OF THE DEEP is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, magic and fate. The fast paced, character driven premise is dramatic; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are magical, determined and charismatic.
copy supplied for review
Told from dual first person perspectives (Grayson and Isla) BEAR OF THE DEEP follows Dr. Isla Calder’s arrival on the Isle of Skara, as a prelude to researching the strange phenomenon of the ocean and its’ wildlife but Isla never expected to meet her future in the guise of Grayson Hale, a grizzly bear shifter and guardian of the waters. A group known as Marine Development Corporation, headed by developer Malcolm Carrick is intent on drilling the ocean floor but Carrick is looking for something more dangerous and powerful, he is a collector of all things supernatural.
The world building focuses on the desperate attempts to stop Marine Development Corporation, as they prepare to ravage the natural eco-systems around the Isle of Skara. Something dark and dangerous lies waiting at the bottom of the ocean, and our couple must work together in an effort to save everyone they love.
The relationship between Grayson and Isla is one of fated mates but Isla is unaware of her supernatural powers, long having remained dormant until the ocean calls to the selkie beneath. With the ability to control the ocean’s water, Isla discovers there is more than attraction with the man that calls to her heart. The $ex scenes are passionate and intimate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters are enchanted and desperate. We are introduced to developer Malcolm Carrick, a man who is more than he appears to be, as well as the return of Declan, Rafael and Moira, wolf shifter Jax, tiger shifter Kian O’Donnell, and dragon shifter Finn. Kian’s story line is next in Tiger of the Tides.
BEAR OF THE DEEP is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, magic and fate. The fast paced, character driven premise is dramatic; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are magical, determined and charismatic.
copy supplied for review
January 9, 2026
Grayson is a bear shifter and the Guardian of the Deep. His job is to protect the deep places in the ocean where ancient things sleep. Things that should never be awakened. He works as a fisherman because it gives him cover to patrol the sacred areas of the ocean near the island of Skara. When he finds the woman waiting for him on his dock, he does his best to get rid of her. She wants a guide to the very parts of the ocean he can't take her to. But she shows him satellite images, whale tracking data, and temperature readings that contain patterns that come too close to the edges of places he protects. To top it off, she tells him a development company has been sniffing the same places, and they have a meeting coming up with the island council.
Dr.Isla Calder has always loved the sea. As a marine biologist, she has been studying the anomalies around whale migration patterns near Skara Island, but can't convince anyone that they are important. Coming to the island herself feels like coming home to where she belongs, though she has never been here before. Convincing the grumpy Grayson Hale to take her out to the areas she wants to study first-hand is a challenge she plans to win.
Isla will find out things about herself and her ancestors that make the dreams she has always had make sense. Discovering the secrets of the shifters on the island is definitely eye-opening, finding out she is one is mind-blowing. Now they are all in a desperate battle to stop the horrifying plans of a megalomaniac before it is too late.
I feel like this book is missing a chapter between 18 and 19. Things are one way, then suddenly they are another way, with only vague references to what happened in-between. I found it very jarring. I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
Dr.Isla Calder has always loved the sea. As a marine biologist, she has been studying the anomalies around whale migration patterns near Skara Island, but can't convince anyone that they are important. Coming to the island herself feels like coming home to where she belongs, though she has never been here before. Convincing the grumpy Grayson Hale to take her out to the areas she wants to study first-hand is a challenge she plans to win.
Isla will find out things about herself and her ancestors that make the dreams she has always had make sense. Discovering the secrets of the shifters on the island is definitely eye-opening, finding out she is one is mind-blowing. Now they are all in a desperate battle to stop the horrifying plans of a megalomaniac before it is too late.
I feel like this book is missing a chapter between 18 and 19. Things are one way, then suddenly they are another way, with only vague references to what happened in-between. I found it very jarring. I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
December 21, 2025
Wonderful read, plot that is spellbinding and characters that held me riveted between its pages
This was a simply wonderful book I had thoroughly enjoyed both the characters and the plot which had been written so beautifully. Isla had come to Skara to research the migration of whales a topic she had diligently been following and comparison to information she had previously collected.
She had found herself in a dangerous situation and in the sake of self-preservation had simply dived into the beautiful clear waters, as soon as hr body immersed itself she had found her form changed into that of her Selkie a beautiful, mysterious creature that is worshipped by those that still believe in their existence.
AS usual Carrick and his brotherhood of shifters have continued their fight against anyone tht would harm his shifters as well as the Maritime Corporation which are dark and evil, if not reigned in periodically by Carrick and his colleague’s they would believe that they could do anything they wished but this could never be allowed.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
This was a simply wonderful book I had thoroughly enjoyed both the characters and the plot which had been written so beautifully. Isla had come to Skara to research the migration of whales a topic she had diligently been following and comparison to information she had previously collected.
She had found herself in a dangerous situation and in the sake of self-preservation had simply dived into the beautiful clear waters, as soon as hr body immersed itself she had found her form changed into that of her Selkie a beautiful, mysterious creature that is worshipped by those that still believe in their existence.
AS usual Carrick and his brotherhood of shifters have continued their fight against anyone tht would harm his shifters as well as the Maritime Corporation which are dark and evil, if not reigned in periodically by Carrick and his colleague’s they would believe that they could do anything they wished but this could never be allowed.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
January 1, 2026
Wow! A powerful and moving book featuring Grayson, the Guardian, and Isla, the researcher who came to Skara to study the whales but discovered so much more. This book is full of action, threats, attacks, manipulation, discoveries, history, growth, found family and passion... everything! It's fast paced with continued world building from previous books in the series (if you haven't read them you're missing out). Grayson and Isla have an immediate connection, one he is determined to fight, initially. As part of the story has them preparing for a coming confrontation, the other has Isla discovering things about her she only thought of as fantasy, but yet make perfect sense. Grayson will make a decision regarding Isla and his Guardianship. (Wait for it...) You'll see the Brotherhood come together once again in an attempt to shield Skara and Stormhaven from the onslaught of their universal foe. Will they be successful?
This series keeps impressing me with each book released (though book #1 was still killer). I'm fortunate to have received a gift copy and voluntarily provided this review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚.
This series keeps impressing me with each book released (though book #1 was still killer). I'm fortunate to have received a gift copy and voluntarily provided this review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚.
January 15, 2026
Grayson Hale is the guardian of the Deep, a bear shifter who can swim to the deepest part of the trenches that he keeps safe from threats… he is the fisherman who can tell storms well before they are forecast, who tells other fishermen where the schools of fish are running while keeping watch over the sacred sites long forgotten by humans. Isla Calder is Marine Biologist who is studying whale migrations around the Scottish Isle of Skara, and has been there for a month and feels like she has come home. Her grandmother told her tales of selkies, sea folk who could shed their skins and walk as humans on land, but were fairy tales told by an old woman… but when she tells Grayson about whales in area they traditionally didn't go to and the plans for Maritime Development to develop Skara for cruise lines by dredging into the seas around the island that were habitat for countless species, he agreed to let her do her research where only he ever went… but were the old ladies ramblings fairy tales or did her grandmother bury something on Skara where she grew up??? You will need to read this tale to see what happens… I voluntarily read this book through an Advanced Reader Copy.
December 30, 2025
Book three does not disappoint. I love how the author is expanding the world of shifters and including supernatural components to her stories. This book was quite enjoyable as the author has brought a selkie into the story. Isla does not know she is a selkie when she arrives on Skara, but she knew that the ocean calls to her and as such had built a career as a marine biologist. Traveling to Skara to try and figure out what is causing whales to die and change their migration patterns, she comes up against Grayson a bear shifter who is also a guardian of the deep who does not want her there. Because having her poking around risks finding out more about what is going on in the oceans that Grayson protects. Suddenly a business transaction explodes into something more as Isla finally figures out who/what she is, Grayson is her mate and a corporation who wants to exploit Skara is really looking for something more supernatural. This is a fast paced story full of twists, turn and danger for all. Enjoyable for sure.
January 20, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rated ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars.
This is one of my first books by Delta James. Her writing technique is very good. This book is a part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
This book follows the guardian, Grayson, a bear shifter and a marine biologist, Isla ,a selkie. Unbeknownst to Isla she comes to the Isle of Skara to research the mysterious whale migration and stumbles on her history of being a shifter. Not only does she learn that she is a Selkie and her grandmother’s tales were not just fiction she also meets her mate, Grayson. Grayson has been born to be the guardian of Skara and follows the footsteps of the men before him. Between fighting to protect the Isle from a corrupt corporation and learning that someone, a human, knows more about shifter and magic then they should know. Grayson and Isla do get their much deserved happy ending.
I do wish she touched more upon the battle they faced. But an overall good read.
Rated ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars.
This is one of my first books by Delta James. Her writing technique is very good. This book is a part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
This book follows the guardian, Grayson, a bear shifter and a marine biologist, Isla ,a selkie. Unbeknownst to Isla she comes to the Isle of Skara to research the mysterious whale migration and stumbles on her history of being a shifter. Not only does she learn that she is a Selkie and her grandmother’s tales were not just fiction she also meets her mate, Grayson. Grayson has been born to be the guardian of Skara and follows the footsteps of the men before him. Between fighting to protect the Isle from a corrupt corporation and learning that someone, a human, knows more about shifter and magic then they should know. Grayson and Isla do get their much deserved happy ending.
I do wish she touched more upon the battle they faced. But an overall good read.
January 8, 2026
"A Marvelous Shifter Romance series"
The stories are fun to read,and super exciting. You will love the main characters protective personalities.
Grayson is a sexy and grumpy bear shifter. Who's home is on the Isle of Skara. The Isle and the waters around it hold many secrets. Ones that the shifters on the Isle protect with their lives. The shifters have been guardians for generations. Not only is Grayson a Guardian, but he is a fisherman.
Then Dr. Isla A marine biologist comes to the Isle. She wants Grayson to help her with her research. She also wants to stop an evil Maritime development corporation from ruining Skara! She doesn't know the corporation will destroy the Isle. But they might discover the shifters and other paranormals that call the Isle of Skara home!
Did fate send Isla to meet Grayson? Plus to help save ,and protect the Isle? Could Isla and Grayson be fated mates!
You will love this five star plus story!
The stories are fun to read,and super exciting. You will love the main characters protective personalities.
Grayson is a sexy and grumpy bear shifter. Who's home is on the Isle of Skara. The Isle and the waters around it hold many secrets. Ones that the shifters on the Isle protect with their lives. The shifters have been guardians for generations. Not only is Grayson a Guardian, but he is a fisherman.
Then Dr. Isla A marine biologist comes to the Isle. She wants Grayson to help her with her research. She also wants to stop an evil Maritime development corporation from ruining Skara! She doesn't know the corporation will destroy the Isle. But they might discover the shifters and other paranormals that call the Isle of Skara home!
Did fate send Isla to meet Grayson? Plus to help save ,and protect the Isle? Could Isla and Grayson be fated mates!
You will love this five star plus story!
January 8, 2026
SHES MORE THAN SHE KNOWS
Grayson and Isla. Shes come to the ocean to save it. Hes there to protect it. He senses what she is. The ocean knows what she is. She wants his help to do her research and stop a Maritime company from destroying Skara the ancient home to paranormals. Not only does Grayson feel what she is but she has stirred his bear. The brotherhood will have their work cut out for them. Even though there will still be danger at the end of the book to be addressed in the next book the charecters of this story will have a positive result. Their story itself has action, suspense, thrilling situations, packed with passion and is an entertainingly intense intriguing thriller of a romance with magic. Another story in this series by an author who seems to have endless heartfelt and thrilling stories to tell. I cant get enough and I need more please.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Grayson and Isla. Shes come to the ocean to save it. Hes there to protect it. He senses what she is. The ocean knows what she is. She wants his help to do her research and stop a Maritime company from destroying Skara the ancient home to paranormals. Not only does Grayson feel what she is but she has stirred his bear. The brotherhood will have their work cut out for them. Even though there will still be danger at the end of the book to be addressed in the next book the charecters of this story will have a positive result. Their story itself has action, suspense, thrilling situations, packed with passion and is an entertainingly intense intriguing thriller of a romance with magic. Another story in this series by an author who seems to have endless heartfelt and thrilling stories to tell. I cant get enough and I need more please.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 14, 2026
Dr. Isla Calder, Marine biologist, has arrived on the Isle of Skara to investigate anomalous reading being reported by various sensors around the area. Grayson Hale and his family of bear shifters have been the protectors of the deep waters surrounding the island for many centuries, and he isn't particularly interested in what Isla's sensors are telling her. His connection with the island and surrounding ocean tell him all he needs to know, and whether he likes it or not Isla's selkie heritage is awakening and it will take them both to fight off a dark mage determined to use ancient powers that are locked behind magical seals and wards in the deepest reaches of the ocean.
Well written and compelling characters in an action-packed and steamy shifter romance with magic, and plenty of twists in the plot that kept me engaged in this fantastic book from the first page.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by Book Sirens.
Well written and compelling characters in an action-packed and steamy shifter romance with magic, and plenty of twists in the plot that kept me engaged in this fantastic book from the first page.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by Book Sirens.
January 14, 2026
Grayson and Isla’s story is book 3 in the Tides of Fate series. They are both tied to the Isle of Skara as guardians. She just doesn’t know it. She’s all about the science and keeping pollution at bay,whale migration patterns that change and he needs to keep the real story hidden; magic is real and needs to be protected. This book kept me riveted from the first page. I loved the selkie history and the way the author tied in her grandmother being born on the island. We see all of the Brotherhood members as well as the 2 new mates, which is wonderful for continuity, it’s best to read the previous books in the series, as you get a sense of who everyone is and how they relate to each other, but you can follow and enjoy this book as a standalone. If you enjoy urban legends and fantasy creatures, you will enjoy this book and series. 5✨’s. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 17, 2026
After asking for a little more time to finish this story, l actually found myself enthralled in its content and unable to put it down, so finished it within a couple of hours! Loved Grayson, a gruff man who is going to protect his beloved island and see together with his brotherhood against all foe. Along comes Isla who literally throws a spanner in the works, she’s researching the tides in the area as something is strange, her grandmother was originally from the Island and that in itself is a mystery. However, as the story continues things start to become clearer, Isla has been called to the Island by paranormal activity and she becomes an important part in how things pan out, so much so that her life is in danger. A great story with fab interaction by all characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 12, 2026
This is Grayson and Isla's story. I'm not sure on this one. It started out good. We get to see a creature which I don't think the author's written about yet. Had to suspend belief a bit that a bear was guardian on the waters. The connection was good, not great, between the two main characters. Probably because Isla was just discovering a part of herself. The action was good until the end. Everyone was in the wrong place and even though they knew it they remained and allowed only Isla and Grayson to be where they needed to be. After the last book, you would think that wouldn't happen. The other issue was there were too many loose ends and not full explanations. Perhaps they will be answered later. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved this one. The story was intense and action packed but still seemed to have a kick of humor running in the background. The brotherhood are dropping like flies. Maybe since they are all guardians fate has decided to step in and give them something extra. Each mate is bringing something different to the table in the way of skills or magic whatever it is that they bring it comes in at of course the perfect time and gives them a boost in the island protection. I do wish they had found Carricks body and why did the underwater evil opt to lock itself back up? It isn’t done with them yet I’m afraid.
I received this ARC from the author for free and am leaving this review voluntarily
I received this ARC from the author for free and am leaving this review voluntarily
December 21, 2025
Guardians of the Deep.
A fast paced read with never ending action and drama. I connected straight away with the storyline, and it kept me entertained from the beginning to the end.
Wonderful characters with a hint of humor and a secret revealed as the brotherhood race to save and protect their heritage.
I loved the connection between Grayson and Isla, they were perfect together, their magical and sizzling relationship was a great addition to the series as each one of the Brotherhood finds his fated mate.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
A fast paced read with never ending action and drama. I connected straight away with the storyline, and it kept me entertained from the beginning to the end.
Wonderful characters with a hint of humor and a secret revealed as the brotherhood race to save and protect their heritage.
I loved the connection between Grayson and Isla, they were perfect together, their magical and sizzling relationship was a great addition to the series as each one of the Brotherhood finds his fated mate.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Review of advance copy
Never a dull moment on the Isle of Skara.
Once again, a stranger comes to the Isle and is embroiled in its problems. Isla goes to the island intending to protect the sea from a developer. Grayson is the guardian of the sea and wants nothing to do with her, but his bear has other ideas.
When things escalate, they find a common cause.
Another wonderful book in this series: each book is a different danger and a different couple who need to overcome the threat. There is magic, shifters, fights and of course romance, which all together makes this a must read.
I voluntarily received and reviewed an ARC copy of the book.
Once again, a stranger comes to the Isle and is embroiled in its problems. Isla goes to the island intending to protect the sea from a developer. Grayson is the guardian of the sea and wants nothing to do with her, but his bear has other ideas.
When things escalate, they find a common cause.
Another wonderful book in this series: each book is a different danger and a different couple who need to overcome the threat. There is magic, shifters, fights and of course romance, which all together makes this a must read.
I voluntarily received and reviewed an ARC copy of the book.
December 26, 2025
Bear of the Deep Book 3 of the Tides of Fate series has a great story behind it.
Power hungry business man wants what he wants at no cost. Willing to destroy any and everything in his way.
Grayson, a guardian is there to protect his island but trouble comes in the form of Isla. Isla, a marine biologist with ties to the island and the ocean. The ties to the ocean are still a mystery to her.
Grayson and Isla desire to protect draws them together quickly.
Fated Mates story but not the usual story line. I really liked this book. To me, the story flowed and made it great interesting read.
*I received this ARC Kindle Book from BookSirens. Thank You!
Power hungry business man wants what he wants at no cost. Willing to destroy any and everything in his way.
Grayson, a guardian is there to protect his island but trouble comes in the form of Isla. Isla, a marine biologist with ties to the island and the ocean. The ties to the ocean are still a mystery to her.
Grayson and Isla desire to protect draws them together quickly.
Fated Mates story but not the usual story line. I really liked this book. To me, the story flowed and made it great interesting read.
*I received this ARC Kindle Book from BookSirens. Thank You!
December 29, 2025
Loved Isla. She knew what she needed and didn’t back down, even when Grayson was being his grouchy and intimidating self. Underwater bear - took a stretch, though it was mostly explained. But Isla’s history/story was really emotional. I liked how Grayson, Mr. Surly and Silent, warmed up as he and Isla worked together. Duty vs. love - both Isla and Grayson knew the cost, but sometimes love makes you stronger together than you were alone and achieves more than anyone thought possible. A real homecoming. An intense read, lots of magic and danger.
I received a free Advance Review Copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
I received a free Advance Review Copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
January 11, 2026
I like this series. Each story is unique. Each as an HEA for the main couple. I also like that the couple have something in common. In this case. Grayson is the protector/guardians for the deep sea around the island. His forefathers were also guardians. Isla has come to the island to protect the sea environment from corporate pollution. I loved learning what she really was. and how she was able to use her gifts to benefit the sea creatures.
They get help from the community also.
Action packed. Loved the suspense. Steam to the eventual romance. Loved the twists. I was given a free copy of the book via Booksiren and am voluntarily leaving my review.
They get help from the community also.
Action packed. Loved the suspense. Steam to the eventual romance. Loved the twists. I was given a free copy of the book via Booksiren and am voluntarily leaving my review.
January 12, 2026
Action - lots of action.
Heritage found, it still amazes me just how accepting these women are to either find they are of shifter heritage; or after the mating bond will become a shifter.
The mates seem to stress more about their possible change and the fact they don’t know what it is like until it is done and irrevocably complete.
I was shocked by the outcome of the planning committee; truly. But was pleasantly surprised with the actual end results.
I know! You are reading this and saying just what are you talking about; L0L. But I am holding back the spoilers!!!!
I say read this book; definitely read this series.
Heritage found, it still amazes me just how accepting these women are to either find they are of shifter heritage; or after the mating bond will become a shifter.
The mates seem to stress more about their possible change and the fact they don’t know what it is like until it is done and irrevocably complete.
I was shocked by the outcome of the planning committee; truly. But was pleasantly surprised with the actual end results.
I know! You are reading this and saying just what are you talking about; L0L. But I am holding back the spoilers!!!!
I say read this book; definitely read this series.
January 13, 2026
This was such a fascinating read! Isla comes to the island to research an odd occurence with whale migration. What she finds is her purpose and identity. Grayson guards the water and is protective of it when she shows up. Isla always felt different from others and finding out she's a selkie changes everything. A threat looms and Isla will have to accept her true self to stop it.
It was interesting to see how Grayson and Isla's mating bond was different from other shifters, Selkie's hold great power, so Isla had to adapt very quickly. I really enjoyed this book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It was interesting to see how Grayson and Isla's mating bond was different from other shifters, Selkie's hold great power, so Isla had to adapt very quickly. I really enjoyed this book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I was totally engrossed. Isla came to Skara to research the unusual whale migration, instead she found the truth about her affinity with the ocean and her fated mate Grayson. When danger threatens, she dived into the calling waters and her selkie took over. The selkie angle was quite mesmerising. As alway plenty of action with the brotherhood fighting when Carrick and his Maritime Corporation want to unleash the dark evil in the trenches along with a good dollop of spice and a HEA. I adore this series.
I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you BookSirens
I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you BookSirens
December 22, 2025
Grayson never thought he would meet someone like Isla, tied to the ocean but unaware of just how special she is. Finding this place has meant finding her home. Can she accept her fate and her mate? Protecting what lies asleep from the corruption of a crazed mage puts them both in danger. The Brotherhood has accepted her and now she must make choices that will forever change her life. A great love story and a great read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This one was interesting especially after reading about the sea witch in an earlier book. I was happy to get so much detail on what a selkie is and does. I thought the fact that Grayson's bear and Isla's selkie were the guardians of the sea provided an added twist. After all, who expects a bear to guard deep waters?
This was a fast paced, suspenseful, action packed story. I can only hope that Carrick actually got the day he deserved. Concrete evidence would have been very pleasing. Rating: 4.5 Stars
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
This was a fast paced, suspenseful, action packed story. I can only hope that Carrick actually got the day he deserved. Concrete evidence would have been very pleasing. Rating: 4.5 Stars
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
December 31, 2025
Isla is a woman who knows what she needs and stands her ground. Which causes Grayson to be even more grumpy and his normal intimidation doesn’t work on Isla. He is a true protector with his shifter secret. Isla learns more than she could about herself and finds the sea is a strong part of her story. Both find that they need to work together as Carrick and his corporation want let evil free.
There is action, drama, secrets, fated mates, spice and great characters with humour.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There is action, drama, secrets, fated mates, spice and great characters with humour.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 6, 2026
“Bear of the Deep” by Delta James
-A gripping paranormal romantic suspense with strong worldbuilding and high emotional stakes. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Grayson and Isla’s bond feels destined, layered with action, danger, and quiet moments of strength. The good-versus-evil conflict is intense yet balanced with humor and rich character connections.
A spellbinding, satisfying read that deepens the series while standing strong on its own. Delta James remains one of my favorite authors and I recommend this story.
-A gripping paranormal romantic suspense with strong worldbuilding and high emotional stakes. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Grayson and Isla’s bond feels destined, layered with action, danger, and quiet moments of strength. The good-versus-evil conflict is intense yet balanced with humor and rich character connections.
A spellbinding, satisfying read that deepens the series while standing strong on its own. Delta James remains one of my favorite authors and I recommend this story.
January 10, 2026
I love an author who makes things like oceans, forests and mountains speak in their own ways. I loved the languages in this book from human to ocean to beings in the seas.... The relationship between Grayson and Isla pulled me in from the first chapter. How Grayson immediately notices her and his bear is very aware of her too! The book spoke to me from the first paragraph!
The battle was real, and the danger ancient and epic!
Great story!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The battle was real, and the danger ancient and epic!
Great story!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 15, 2026
Marine biologist, shifters, old magic, guardians, Isle of Skara, whales, Maritime Development Corporation and the brotherhood. Dr. Isla Calder has been on Isle of Skara for months documenting whale migration but her findings have found anomalies she can't explain. Grayson Hale has been the guardian of the sea for centuries just like his father and grandfather before him. He has protected the sacred places and has kept humans away. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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