Uncharted Waters

by Hope Everly

322 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 2, 2026

Reviews

[HeyGirl_Whatcha_Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get an advanced reader copy for this book and it was so so good! It broke my heart and healed my heart more than once (in the best way possible, of course).

Without any spoilers, I’ll say that this is a beautiful love story from top to bottom. Finding love again, finding yourself again, a best friend we all wish we had, a man with charisma and so much patience and understanding you can’t help but swoon, age gap romance (she’s older 😉), the spice was both steamy and swoony… all of it. Top Tier.

Hope wrote of the kind of excruciating heartbreak that we all hope to never face with so much emotion and depth that I was crying reading it. She created a best friend who would do anything for you, meets you where you are, and loves you for all of your pieces. And the MMC… party boy to lover boy with a heart of gold and a smile that could melt an iceberg.

I’d read anything Hope writes after this. Honestly. Great Book.

[TheSarahChapters · Rating 4 out of 5]

I normally go for FMC that are strong and fierce, full of confidence and resilience and even though Gabby was all these thing she was also valuable and broken, which gave the story more depth.

I’m someone who loves a good prologue, and Hope delivered!!!! I was a sook and if you read it you will understand why!

So the basic storyline!
Roxy, the bad arse best friend’s drags her sad broken best friend onto a singles cruise… where she meets a delicious bartender boy… need I say more!

This book will make you giggle, make you cry, make you through your kindle… but you will love everything about it!

I loved the reversed age gap and love after heart ache tropes! This book was so much fun, I read it in 24hr!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Mikayla Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

was so lucky to receive an ARC of Uncharted Waters by Hope Everly**, and I am still completely wrapped up in its tides.

This story swept me away in the most unexpected way. It’s soft and aching, tender and hopeful — the kind of romance that settles deep in your chest and lingers long after you turn the final page.
Through Ben, Gabby, Dean, and Roxy, we sail through love, loss, betrayal, and the fragile beauty of loving again after heartbreak. And oh, the way this book handles love after loss… it’s gentle, respectful, and so incredibly romantic. It reminds you that hearts can break and still find the courage to beat for someone new.

There’s a chance meeting that feels like fate stepping in at exactly the right moment — a spark that turns into something unforgettable. The connection, the longing, the quiet moments that build into something bigger… it’s all so beautifully done. The kind of slow, emotional swoon that makes you pause just to soak it in.
This was a five-star read for me. Heart-melting, emotional, and filled with that hopeful kind of love that feels both fragile and powerful at the same time.
I cannot wait for everyone to experience these uncharted waters. 💫

[gargim · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars
Firstly I want to thank the author for choosing me as one of the people who received the ARC copy of this book.This book was such an emotional rollercoaster in the best way possible. This book will make you laugh and even cry. I was genuinely hooked right after the first chapter and I could not stop reading it. It's more than just a book about a girl and her friend on a cruise ship it's about trust and learning how to love again and about how it's okay to move on from the past and from the loss of a loved one. There's a perfect balance between the humour and heavier scenes. The book overall explore themes of trust, healing and also second chances. I absolutely loved the characters in the story especially Roxy, who doesn't love a supportive bestfriend. It was a fun and easy read and I really enjoyed it.

"I love her. Not recklessly. Not impulsively.In the kind of way that stays. And sitting beside her, my hand over hers, I realised I wasn’t forgiving her anymore.
I was choosing her.
Even if she didn’t know it yet."

[Dani Tukker · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC) I'm still so happy i got an ARC from Hope for Uncharted Waters!! This book was so much more than just 'a cruise with a friend' and no one prepared me for the heartbreaking scene's in this book.
From the first sentence to the last page i was hooked, (maybe unhealthy...)
I loved them so much!
This book teached me even when you think nothing will get better, there will come something to help you back up, or someone.

[Karen Bowness · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into Uncharted Waters expecting a swoony romance… and WOW, this one delivered an emotional rollercoaster.

This story follows Gabby, who agrees to go on a singles cruise with her bestie Roxy. She has been mourning the loss of her husband for the past three years. Enter Dean, the cheeky bartender boy 13 years her junior!

Gabby is such a strong but vulnerable FMC. Watching her navigate heartbreak and slowly piece herself back together felt incredibly raw and real. And Dean… let’s just say he brings the banter AND the heart. Their chemistry builds in a way that feels authentic - messy, complicated, and full of those quiet, emotional moments that hit you hard.

The vibe? Think emotional romance meets healing journey with a side of tension, longing, and personal growth. It’s not just about falling in love - it’s about finding yourself again after everything falls apart.

Overall, this was such a heartfelt, character-driven romance that lingers long after the final page. If you love stories that make you cry a little, swoon a little, and reflect a lot, this one’s for you.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you tired of gloomy weather and dreaming of the perfect beach day? Or maybe your ideal escape is a romantic cruise across sparkling blue waters? Then Uncharted Waters might be exactly what you need.
But this story is definitely more than a simple cruise romance. It tells the story of a woman learning how to live and love again after deep loss. The book perfectly balances sad moments with humor, friendship and a slow-building romance. Dean and Gabby’s connection grows naturally through conversations, shared moments and honest vulnerability. It feels very real, never rushed.
The cruise setting makes the story light and fun, but underneath it all, the book explores healing, trust, and second chances.
If you enjoy love stories about healing, mature characters and finding hope after heartbreak, this is a perfect book to read 🩷

[BlazesBookNook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc Read CONTAINS SPOILERS
5🌟
🚢
⚓️
🛳

____________________________________________

I am a massive fan of hope everly @hope_epi The fact that this was set in a cruise ship as well as the Gold coast I couldn't resist.

My heart broke for Gabby when she lost Ben, I fully understood her grieving for the only love she had ever known.

I am so thankful for ruby though. She went out of her way to get Gabby out of her grief and attempted to show her that life was still worth enjoying even after Ben.

And Dean. Hot bartender guy..... love love love him. He was so tender and loving with her even though she was trying to push him away at every turn.

I do hate that Jasper intervened and tried to break them both, but in the end Love prevailed and they got their HEA.

I would love to see more of Ruby and Raven.

Jasper can bite me, but there also must be an underlying reason he is a dick and against love.

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into Uncharted Waters by Hope Everly not really knowing what to expect—especially since I don’t usually read romance… but wow, I could NOT put this down.

This book is a full emotional roller coaster, grief and healing after loss, set against the backdrop of a singles cruise, with a reverse age gap that just works. Gabby and Dean’s relationship completely pulled me in—I loved their dynamic, their growth, and the way their story unfolded so naturally.

I’m not a crier, but I felt so emotional in parts of this book—like a sucker punch to my stomach, which caught me off guard in the best way. Special mention to Roxy for unintentionally stealing some of the spotlight with her witty banter and hilarious comments.

Honestly, you would never believe Hope “doesn’t write contemporary romance” because this was executed flawlessly.

Easy 5⭐ read for me. Highly recommend—even if romance isn’t usually your thing.
Thank you so much for allowing me to ARC read for you

[Lillena Fults · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book truly put me through the emotional ringer. Watching Gabby grow from a grieving, closed-off widow into an outgoing, fun-loving woman ready to take on anything was incredibly powerful. Her journey felt raw, real, and so beautifully done.
The banter between the characters added the perfect balance of humor and heart. And Dean? He was exactly what Gabby needed : patient, steady, and gently showing her how to live and love again without ever trying to replace what she lost.
Hope Everly did an amazing job crafting a story full of emotion, healing, and hope. I can’t wait to read more from her.

[Sola Blaze · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this wonderfully written story. With characters so full of life and who feel so real you wish you could have a drink with them, better make it a Toblerone (IYKYN).
With the right mix of humour, heartache and a love story you can get on board with this book is a cruise worth taking.

[Rosalie S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received Uncharted Waters as an eARC.

This book will stay with me for a while. I lost count of how many times it broke my heart then rebuilt it. I loved the depth of the characters and how they grew throughout the story. It was easy to read, fun, flirty, sexy, and slightly heartbreaking at times. I cried so much while reading this both happy tears and sad tears. I need a physical copy and I will be re-reading this again at some point. I also really hope we get some side character stories because I am not done living in this world with these characters. 10/10 recommend.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC of the book.
I loved this book from the very start, up until the very last page!
What a beautiful read. To meet Gabby and Dean and be a part of the story that unfolds between them was just stunning. An easy read that pulls you straight in deep. I couldn’t put it down.

[MaKenzie Christman · Rating 4 out of 5]

OH MY GOSHHHHH THIS BOOK! I was able to score this book as an ARC and it did not disappoint! Not only did I read it completely in less than 24 hours, but I also stayed up wayyyy too late because I couldn’t put it down. That is a huge deal for me. I love sleep and this book made me lose it. SO WORTH IT! This book is raw and real and had me all in the feels. Ripped me apart and then put me back together again. Seriously, a wonderful read and so thankful I was able to read it before release! GABS AND DEANO 4EVERRRR!

[Pamela E · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where do I find me a Dean? The way he loved her while giving her plenty of space to grieve and heal *swoon* Gabby and Dean are a match made in heaven, even the spirits agree! Was kinda sad the book ended, these two put smiles on my face

Read this in a day but Goodreads wont let me say that 🙄

[Samantha Gartner · Rating 4 out of 5]

OHMYGOSH!
This was such a roller coaster of emotions! Losing a high school sweetheart and learning to move on was so touching and Everly truly makes you feel all the emotions! The banter, the crying, and most of all the rebuilding of the MFC confidence and love is something we can all relate to in one way or another! I absolutely loved this book!
Plot: 5/5 ⭐️ spice: 2/5 🌶️


Please note I’m a high dark romance high spice reader so please don’t take my spice rating as boring! Just not the level of spice I normally read so that’s the lower rating

[CeeJay Reads.27 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The highs and lows and highs of this book are like the ocean that Gabs and Dean meet on. The way this book follows all the feels and makes them so real had me experiencing tears, laughter and hope. Truely hope Roxy get her spotlight next.

[Arcs & Edges · Rating 4 out of 5]

A breathtakingly emotional journey that proves healing isn't a destination, but the courage to keep sailing.

After losing her one true love, Gabriella "Gabby" Cunningham is convinced her heart has reached its final port. To excap the suffocating pity of her daily life, she is dragged onto a four-week luxury cruise by her best friend Roxy, who refuses to let her hide away any longer. While Gabby's only goal is to survive the forced fun and cocktails without letting anyone too close, the oceans has other plans when she meets Dean - man who views love as a cynical game rather than a soul-deep connection. Amidst the isolation of the sea, Gabby is forced to confront the walls she's built.

What I Loved
- The Emotional Depth: Hope Everly doesn't shy away from the messy, non-linear reality of grief. Gabby's journey felt raw and authentic, making her eventual vulnerability feel earned rather than rushed.
- Dynamic Side Characters: The 'found family' aspect was a highlight. Specifically, Roxy stole every scene she was in; she has such a distinct energy that I'm already crossing my fingers she gets her own spin-off book in the future.
- The Slow-Burn Tension: The contrast between Gabby's guarded heart and Dean's cynical outlook created a delicious, high-stakes tension that simmered perfectly against the backdrop of the cruise.

Things for Consideration
- Heavy Themes: This is a deeply emotional read focusing on loss and mental health. While hopeful, it requires a specific headspace to fully appreciate the weight of the narrative.
- Pacing: As a slow-burn, the first half focuses heavily on internal monologue and atmospheric building. Readers looking for an instant-love plot might find the start a bit steady.

Final Verdict and Recommendations
Uncharted Waters is a poignant debut that successfully navigates the complex waters of recovery and new beginnings. It's a perfect match for readers who enjoy the emotional weight of Rebecca Yarros contemporary emotional dramas, or the forced-proximity tension of a destination romance. If you've ever wondered if there is life after a 'once-in-a-lifetime' loss, this book provides a beautiful, tear-jerking answer.

Disclosure
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Amy Jayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uncharted Waters by Hope Everly - ARC read 📖
✨️Spoilers ✨️

“She loved you, Ben. Still does… But I’ll take care of the rest.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – No question.
I am completely wrecked and obsessed. This book never let me get comfortable. Messy, tender, frustrating, hopeful, and utterly heartbreaking - the ups and downs of Gabby and Dean’s story had me on an emotional roller coaster from the very first page. Every time I thought they’d reached stability, something shifted, and I was right there with them, holding my breath, laughing, crying, and swooning all at once.
The miscommunications didn’t feel forced. They came from grief, fear, and insecurity — from not believing they deserved a second chance at love. That made every stolen moment, every small step toward each other, feel earned and real. Ben’s presence lingered in the story in the most beautiful, respectful way. He wasn’t a plot device - he was part of Gabby’s history, her life, and the way the story honored that while letting her open her heart again was incredible.
Dean Matthews was perfection. Confused, vulnerable, funny, swoon-worthy — I felt every emotion he carried, from his first infatuation to the heartbreak caused by miscommunication, to finally choosing Gabby fully and fiercely. Their chemistry wasn’t just instant attraction; it was playful, flirty, frustrating, and finally tender in the moments that really mattered. The proposal, the epilogue, the pregnancy reveal — everything hit me in ways I didn’t see coming.
What makes this book so special is how it balances heartache with hope. Gabby’s journey through grief, her tentative steps toward new love, and Dean’s growth as someone learning to love so deeply for the first time made the story feel alive. And the epilogue? Pure chaos, family, love, and warmth — a continuation that felt earned, joyful, and utterly perfect.
This isn’t just a romance. It’s about learning to love again without erasing the past, about courage, timing, and choosing each other when it would have been easier to retreat. I laughed, cried, swooned, and had my heart broken in the best possible way. I felt everything.

[Novellaworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some books entertain you.
Some books break you a little.
And some quietly, beautifully put you back together again.

Uncharted Waters by Hope Everley is one of those stories that doesn’t just tell you about grief — it makes you sit with it, breathe through it, and slowly believe in hope again.

Gabriella Cunningham had the kind of love people dream about. Twelve years with her soulmate, gone in an instant. Years later, she isn’t living so much as existing — carrying her loss like something permanent, something she’s learned to survive around.

What I loved most is how real that felt. The silence after goodbye. The way life keeps moving even when you feel frozen. Hope writes grief with such raw honesty and care that it never feels dramatic — it feels true.

And then there’s Roxy. The best friend who refuses to let Gabby disappear into herself. Their dynamic is everything — funny, fierce, unshakeable. The heart of this book isn’t just romance. It’s friendship. It’s having someone who drags you back to the light when you’ve forgotten how to find it.

The four-week singles cruise sets the stage perfectly — sunshine, cocktails, strangers looking for connection. Gabby expects awkward small talk. She does not expect Dean Matthews.

Dean — the charming bartender with golden retriever energy and a reverse age gap twist — completely stole my heart. What starts as playful chemistry slowly shifts into something deeper, something neither of them planned for. And watching Gabby wrestle with what it means to love again — without betraying the love she lost — was incredibly moving.

This story handles misunderstandings, emotional healing, and second chances with so much warmth. It’s tender but never heavy for the sake of it. Hope balances heartbreak with humour and longing with hope so beautifully.

The dedication alone is worth reading this book for.

[Tvisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ready to have your heart absolutely shredded and then glued back together? 😭

If you’re looking for that "love after loss" emotional damage, this is your sign to read this.

The Lore: 📖

Gabby is healing from the tragic loss of her husband whom she loves to death, when her BFF Roxy drags her onto a single's cruise.

Enter Dean: the dangerously hot bartender who managed to slide past her walls. Just when you think they’ve realised their love....a bomb drops!

Jasper (trash mf) inserts his d*ck in their way and tears them apart.
After 5 yrs of separation, fate said "not today." They reunite, there’s some top-tier groveling, and Dean? He waits for her. HE actually WAITS until she’s ready. The patience? The devotion? I’m melting. 🫠🫶🏻

🏃🏻‍♀️ My honest opinion about this book:

Roxy is the ultimate bsf ever. Even with her own chaos, she’s the friend we all need.

It’s a "love at first sight" situation. While I usually live for the slow burn and yearning (which we do get later!),
Dean knew immediately she was "The One." & traded his bad-boy reputation to settle down? Character development at its peak. ✋🏻👀
He never pressured her. Total respect for her boundaries, which is a massive plus.

I'm baffled!! A 13-year reverse age gap. She’s literally a mommy and he’s obsessed. 💀😉

The separation was painful to read, but the ending is pure serotonin. They built a beautiful life.

The writing is good! Makes the FMC feel so powerful and attractive. Also, the aesthetics of this book? Stunning.

Overall this definitely deserves a spot on your TBR. Go read it! 🩵🩷

Main Tropes:
❤️‍🩹 Love After Loss
🚢 Holiday Romance
⚡ He Falls First
🔄 Second Chance
🛹 Reformed Bad Boy
👩‍👦 Reverse Age Gap (13 Years!)
🤓 Office romance
🐈‍⬛ Reverse Grumpy × Sunshine

Thankyou for giving me this ARC 🩷🩵

[Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

💜🩵 UNCHARTERED WATERS🩵💜

Thank you Hope for trusting me to ARC read for you again!
having only read your darker writing I didn’t know what to expect with a sweeter read from you but I was NOT disappointed!
I think Dean has stolen the hearts of all of us who have ARC read for you!
What an amazing, sweet, kind, caring, supportive man!
Dean showed us all what it’s like to put in the effort, make someone feel wanted and loved even if you only have a few spare minutes or hours in your busy day!
He made sure that Gabby felt safe, secure and heard at all times and I think we all need a Dean!
Gabby was such a shy, reserved person who was scared of love after her tragic story.
As a shy person myself I felt everything she felt when it came to being around other people and having to open up (especially dating again I absolutely could not picture having to go through that again after years with the same person!)
Although she was trying to find herself again after three years of heart ache Gabby absolutely smashed it once she let those walls down! Our independent, amazingly fierce woman found herself again (maybe deans charm and looks helped a little haha)!
Although there was a misunderstanding, a long year & some trauma between them when Gabby & Dean finally found their way back boy they did it in the best most heart warming way!
This book had a beautiful HEA and proved that love does exist after heart break and there may be more than one person for you in this life time! Open your heart when you feel like you can’t again, it may just be very worth it!
Thank you hope for a beautiful love story and even more beautiful characters that will live rent free in my head for some time to come! 💜🩵
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

[Nicole Bazley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a ARC for this book by Hope. It was a change of pace to her usual dark romance but I knew I could expect the same raw depth she usually brings to her characters and plot.
The story follows Gabby as she navigates her life after losing her husband. In her mid thirties and desperately wanting children she has found it hard to move on from her past and is stuck in a time loop, almost like she is waiting for him to come home and for it to have all been a dream.
When her outgoing friend Roxy forces her to join her on a singles cruise she forms an unexpected relationship with Dean, a younger, charming bartender.
They seem completely different, on vastly different pages of their life journeys and a very unlikely pair. But they do say opposites attract.
Gabby brings out a deeper side to Dean, allowing him to really look past the playboy lifestyle he had been living and realise that he wants something more meaningful.
Dean allows Gabby the space and freedom to let loose a little bit. That life doesn't always have to be so serious and she doesn't always have to be in control.
Of course it wouldn't be a Hope Everly book if she didn't traumatize a little bit. She did a fantastic job of showing the characters emotions, as they go through life challenges. Their struggles feel real in todays dating world and I wanted to slap them both at times.
I did scream at both of them multiple times, especially Dean, because of their stubbornness, moments of childishness and just real raw feelings that we all go through.
Thank goodness they managed to work through it and we get the happy ending we all deserve.
Fantastic read.

[Narelle Richards · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a delight for a number of reasons - not just for the romance, but also because of the friendships. Hope Everly has created characters who bound of the pages and into your heart.
Gaby has lost her way after the love of her life was taken from her - everything has become almost frozen around her. Her best friend, Roxy, is determined to bring her back into the real world starting with a four week cruise, all expenses paid. She is sure that Gaby may be able to find someone aboard the ship to respark her interest in all things sexual, or at least have fun trying. Dean, delicious bartender boy, may be just the man for the job. But what happens when the fun stops and things become far more serious? Hearts will be broken and it might be an epic quest to put the pieces back together.
It seems like it is the season for a good cruise ship romance and this book has exactly what is required to draw you in and keep you reading. I gulped down this story in one sitting. You would stay just for the friendship between Gaby and Roxy - they are perfect together - Ying and Yang. It will have plenty of appeal for those who like misunderstandings that have to be resolved, age gaps that need to be navigated and of course that hopeful happy ending. Great to see an Australian author bringing in local settings when we aren't on the cruise ship.
I think this is definitely a book to add to your reading pile - you won't be disappointed. Thank you to the author for the chance to read the arc - I'm glad I got in early.

[Jennifer Wiertel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This amazing and heart wrenching romance story starts with Gabriella aka Gabby aka Gabz celebrating 15 years of marriage and 20 years of being together with her perfect husband Ben. They met for lunch, squeezing time in between their busy work schedule, ensuring they celebrated their love, even though they were saving for a baby. Gabby was first home and started to make Ben’s favorite meal- steak and mushrooms and there was a knock at the door. She opens the door to find the Police standing there: Ben had been in a car accident and died. Gabby’s world was flipped upside down.

3 years later, Gabby’s best friend Roxy showed up and softly forced Gabby to go through Ben’s stuff and get rid of a bunch. Roxy spring a singles cruise on Gabby to get her back into talking to men. Gabby agrees to go on the cruise but she believes she has experienced the once in a lifetime kind of love. Gabby has an extremely guarded heart, and goes on the cruise to shut Roxy up. She figures some small talk and some innocent flirting won’t do her any harm.

Once on the ship, Gabby meets Dean-one of the cruise ship’s bar staff and he notices her right away. Gabby is nothing like the woman Dean normally meets on the singles cruises, and he wants to get to know her. Gabby isn’t sure she’s ready for anything but small talk after losing Ben. Will Dean be able to show Gabby that there is love after loss? Hop aboard to find out. You will laugh, and cry while reading this!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

Tropes:
Player MMC
He Falls First
Age Gap - She's older
Love After Loss

#tnnarcteam

[Marissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uncharted Waters is a deeply emotional story that explores love, grief, and what it can feel like to open your heart again after loss.

What stood out to me most was how immersive the emotional experience was. The writing carries a kind of intensity that made everything feel very real, not just the love, but also the weight of grief, guilt, and healing. The emotions didn’t feel surface-level, they landed exactly where they needed to, and I found myself moving through the story alongside the characters rather than just observing them.

The dynamic between the characters felt engaging and layered. There’s warmth, humour, and connection woven throughout, and I especially loved the presence of a strong, supportive friendship between Gabby and Roxy that added both lightness and depth to the story.

There is romance, and yes, there is spice, but for me this book was just as much about the emotional journey as it was about the relationship itself. It felt like a full emotional arc, moving through laughter, tears, overwhelm, and moments of joy in a way that felt authentic and human.

I found myself fully immersed, laughing one moment, crying the next, and then sitting with that soft, reflective feeling once I’d finished. The epilogue is perfection! It’s one of those stories that stays with you for a little while after.

I really loved this book and I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to read it.

I received this book as an ARc, however, this review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings shared voluntarily.

[SherrecePQ Tanner · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25/5 stars. This was my first book by Hope, and it won't be my last. The trope 'reverse age gap' hit me, and had me signing up for an ARC straight away. And, it did not disappoint. Gabby (Gabriella) is strong, I mean she is a kick arse manager of a major hotel, but even the strong can be broken by grief. Gabby had the love of her life, and they were going to embark on the next stage, children, but on their anniversary, her husband is killed.

But, Roxy (who needs her own book), her best friend whom is loud and spontaneous and Gabby's ride or die forever friend, wants Gabby to find her spark, and relive her life, and maybe, just maybe, find love. So, Gabby finds herself on a cruise ( imagine The Love Boat but way less 1980's cringe, and no less a singles cruise) and Gabby finds herself trying to navigate the shark tank of singles. But whom is there is is Brett, bartender extraordinaire (think Cocktail but less Tom Cruise cringe) however he is young, but Gabby is not ready, or is she? What is obvious is that just the mere spending time with him she finds herself gravitating to him, like he had been sent by Ben, her husband.

There is so much to their story, misunderstanding, heartbreak and reconnecting as they should. There will several moments tissues were pulled, and my heart truly sobbed. Because, whatever your stories of grief, overwhelming love you have lost look like, this book will break your heart, have you ugly cry till snot runs down and then heal so your heart feels full and your smile wide.

[Aliza Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first pages, you can't help but root fiercely for Gabby as she battles her way through life's crushing hardships. With her best friend by her side—bold, sassy, and bursting with energy—you feel the unstoppable spirit of someone determined to find her way. Dean? Oh, he's utterly dreamy, yet grounding, a masterpiece of careful planning and undeniable charm, making your heart flutter with every page.

This story goes far beyond a simple cruise romance; it’s a powerful odyssey of rediscovery, of learning how to live and love again after profound loss. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions—heartache intertwined with laughter, tears mixed with friendship, slow-burning love blossoming naturally through genuine conversations and raw vulnerability. Every moment feels authentic, never rushed, immersing you completely.

The cruise backdrop adds a lighthearted, carefree feel, but beneath that surface runs a deep current of healing, trust, and hope. It’s an unforgettable journey that reminds us all that second chances are real and worth fighting for.

If your heart yearns for stories of healing, mature characters finding strength, and rediscovering hope after heartbreak, this book is an absolute must. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and ultimately, touched in the most profound way.

[Charlee Lock · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

The way I devoured this book was insane I started it this morning and finished just before midnight. I didn’t want to put it down - imagine your family wanting to eat every night not caring that you’re about to get to the spice!!

I absolutely adored this story of second chance love.

Gabby is such a sweetheart and watching her whole world be taken out from under her and watching her work through her grief and allow herself to open up to the opportunity to love again.

I know I didn’t talk about him in the video but Dean is the MMC and honestly he is the sweetest man, a charming flirt with genuine patience. I loved him from the moment he appeared.

Roxy is the best friend we all deserve and her love and humour really made so many parts of this story shine!

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Hope’s words have a way of drawing you in, her world building and character development is second to none in my opinion and I’m so glad to have stumbled across her and her amazing stories.

I really hope there is a book two and we get to see Roxy’s story!!

[Bry Flores · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hope, thank you for this cool opportunity and for letting me read an ARC of this book!

Uncharted Waters is a beautiful, light read about love after loss. Gabby, a hotel manager, gets cajoled into a singles cruise by her livewire best friend, Roxy, three years after her husband’s unexpected death. On the cruise she meets Dean, a younger but incredibly attentive bartender, and embarks on a heartfelt journey of healing and reopening herself to the possibility of love.

This book absolutely hit me in the feels. I found myself cheering for these characters and at one point wanting to shake them, throughout their emotional journey.

I LOVE a yearner, and once Dean realizes he’s completely gone for Gabby, I couldn’t stop giggling. Their connection feels effortless, and the banter between them (and the supporting cast) is so fun.

If you enjoy “he falls first and hard” romances, golden retriever MMCs, age-gap relationships, and vacation romances, this one is for you. It would make the perfect vacation read- just keep a box of tissues nearby, just in case.