The author is clearly very well educated on the land the story is set on as well as the nature of sharks. I felt like I was learning a lot as I was reading, without it feeling heavy handed or dry. I think that attention to research and detail really added a great layer to the story.
Minnow was an interesting main character, who felt realistic and easy to follow along with right away. I liked that there was a subtle mystery aspect to the story, as well as a look into science in general and what academia can be like for women.

4 / 5 Stars
Who has two thumbs and got emotional reading a book about sharks? THIS GAL! Set in 1998, “The Shark House” centers on Minnow, a biologist who specializes in shark research, who is called to Hawai’i to investigate three recent shark attacks. Incidents with humans and sharks are rare so Minnow is tasked with figuring out what prompted these attacks and if the same shark is behind them. As fear grows within the community, both of the sharks and of their impact on tourism and money, Minnow works against the clock before a shark hunt begins. As Minnow explores, she starts to relive and rethink her father’s death many years ago. Part mystery, part cool facts about sharks, and part exploration of family and grief, this had me hooked from the first chapter.

You will probably like this book if you like:
🦈 Women’s literature with a romance subplot
💙 Facts about sharks
🦈 Learning more about the history and culture of Hawai’i
💙 Complicated family dynamics
🦈 Explorations of grief

I really enjoyed Minnow. She is strong, kind, and smart and deals with a ton of sexism (it is DR. Minnow Gray to y’all. Put some respect on that PhD). Minnow has an innate connection to the ocean, nature, and sharks. She can hear and sense things that most people can’t (a shark’s heartbeat, the sound of fins) which make her feel different but are truly her superpower. Her relationship with Luke was slightly confusing at times because that man was evading her questions like she was the FBI. But she does say that the “dangerous unknown had always appealed to her” so she had a much higher risk tolerance than I do. I guess if you can swim with sharks, you can fall for Luke. In the end, I did end up liking their relationship even if I couldn’t exactly explain why.

Minnow’s relationship with her mother, father, and her father’s death were also very well done. Minnow’s father died from a shark attack when she was very young and she blames herself for the loss. While in Hawai’i, she is reprocessing and reliving the events while also learning new information about her father and mother (who has also passed). It really added to her character growth and the nuances of family dynamics in a powerful way.

The writing was really atmospheric and captivating. Even though it centers on two really grand topics (sharks and Hawai’i), it always felt grounded. Even with the mystery element of trying to figure out the shark attacks, the writing was always evenkeeled and powerful in its quietness. It felt like being floating in the ocean – it could feel overwhelming being in something so big but instead it felt like being lulled and comforting. Occasionally, some of the dialogue was a bit awkward, but that might get ironed out. And I LOOOOVED the information about sharks and Hawai’i. It all flowed really well and never felt like it was just being jammed in.

My biggest gripe was with the timeline of Minnow’s journal entries. Each chapter ends with an entry from Minnow’s journal from different parts of her life, mostly from 1993 and 1996 when she was conducting research and some from 1998 as she was actively in Hawai’i. The entries always related to the chapter but because they were out of order, it was sometimes hard to tell where Minnow was in her life journey and what was happening when. I would have to go back and only look at the journal entries to really map her emotional progression chronically to really digest and understand it and I don’t have the time or energy to do that.

I would highly recommend this book if you have even the smallest curiosity about sharks, the ecosystem of the ocean, nature, Hawai’i, or a badass lady scientist.

Thank you Harper Muse and NetGalley for providing the eARC! All opinions are my own.
Publication Date: January 13, 2026

I have enjoyed Ackerman's books so far, and this is only the third by her so far. The prior reads were more historical fiction than this one, which is set primarily in present day minus a few years. With that in mind, I was going into this one a bit more on the fence. First of all, not sure I wanted to read something about sharks and shark attacks in Hawaii, because I love Hawaii and am already a chicken when it comes to swimming in the ocean there (or anywhere). So, this book could have tipped the scale towards me never getting in the water there again.

Overall, the book is well written and structured. The story flows and I was excited to see how all the pieces would come together. The characters are solid, with Minnow of course being front and centre from start to finish. Everyone else is there to support her journey and her investigation into what is going on. There were no huge surprises but I was still looking forward to to the conclusion and how we got there.

Minnow is highly likeable as a character. She believes strongly but is not aggressive in her beliefs. A free spirit, but without being over the top and alienating.

I can't think of anything that would have made this book stronger. And I truly enjoyed every page. I even jumped from Taylor Jenkins Reid to this one and set Atmosphere to the side while I finished The Shark House. Given how much I enjoy TJR, that is no small amount of praise for the strength of this book and its story.

A great addition to the Ackerman cannon. A great story for anyone who likes marine biology, sharks, Hawaii, or just a great adventure.

There were so many things I loved about this novel, but my favorite by far was Ackerman’s writing and her deep connection to nature. Her prose was both visceral and immersive, rendering Hawaii’s landscapes and atmosphere with exceptional clarity. The ocean truly came to life on the page, and the elusive “man-eating” great white shark was revealed to be far from a monster, but rather a misunderstood, vital predator essential to maintaining the ocean’s delicate balance.

I learned so much about sharks through this story and loved every moment of it. Minnow’s character, in particular, felt beautifully parallel to the great white itself — quiet and independent, yet a force to be reckoned with when it truly mattered. I didn’t expect the romantic thread woven into the plot, but it was handled so delicately that it enhanced the narrative rather than overshadowing it.

As the only female scientist in the story, Minnow’s determination to have her voice heard in a room full of men was inspiring and empowering. Despite the terrifying concept of shark attacks, this was an unexpectedly easy and captivating read. I’d highly recommend it to anyone with a passion for nature, the ocean, and stories that explore the wild beauty of our world. Thanks NetGalley and Harper Muse for the gifted e-book copy!

“The Shark House,” not my usual read, but at the mention of sharks I was instantly intrigued. Sara Ackerman delivers a novel that is not only beautifully set in Hawai’i but also incredibly well researched. The detail on sharks and the natural world felt immersive and authentic without ever becoming dry or bogged down. I appreciated how the research elevated the story rather than weighed it down—informative and fascinating all the way through.

Minnow Grey is a solid and compelling protagonist. She had to learn to cope with tragedy early on, so her journey is both emotional and inspiring. Through her, Ackerman highlights women in science and the strength it takes to carve out space in that world. Secrets, the sea, and the natural world surround her story, pulling the reader in deeper with every page.

The Hawaiian setting is vivid and atmospheric, adding another layer of beauty to the narrative.
An engaging read that blends science, storytelling, and setting into something memorable. The Shark House proves that even when a book isn’t your usual go-to, sometimes the pull of the sea—and sharks—makes it impossible to resist.

Thank You NetGalley and the Publisher for this eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions, of course, are my own.

This books was cozy and atmospheric. One thing Ackerman accomplishes in all her books is instilling a deep desire to drop everything and visit Hawaii.

This book was a beautiful story written to sharks and the magic that they are. I truly enjoyed the bits of science woven into a mystery and romance.

I will continue to add Ackerman’s books to my TBR as long as she keeps writing.

I think I had so many emotions in this book that I cant even grasp how many! I loved every page. It was fantastic. Such a great book!

Thank you so much net galley for this arc. wow this was such a good read, i really like sharks. it,s not just about conservation but grief and growth.

I loved Minnow’s passion and advocacy for marine life, particularly sharks. I think my favorite part was her quick friendship with Woody- they saw things so deeply and similarly and it was beautiful. Sara always does such a good job immersing her readers in island life- whether it’s the sandy beaches, the reefs, or the lava rocks- she explains everything in such vivid detail it’s easy to imagine myself back there.

The Shark House is a mystery of the deep, woven in with Hawaiian belief and the beauty of sea life.

Along Hawai‘i Island’s Kohala coast, fear ripples through the community after a series of shark encounters leaves families grieving and fishermen wary of the sea. Minnow Gray, a marine biologist with a reputation for listening as much as measuring, is invited to investigate. Some call her a shark whisperer, though she prefers to think of herself as a student of the ocean. Her charge: determine whether the same great white prowls the waters, or if something more sinister is behind the injuries and deaths.

As Minnow dives into the currents, she is confronted not by the whispers of kupuna—Hawaiian elders—who remind her that sharks, mano, are not just predators but guardians, ancestors, and omens. Their voices stir memories she has long buried: the morning when her father, a fisherman, was lost to the sea in a violent encounter with a white shark. That tragedy fractured her life, and unlocking its truth may be the only way forward.

The longer Minnow stays on the island, the more the line between science and spirit begins to blur. She finds herself caught between competing truths: data and instinct, memory and myth, grief and healing. In the dark blue cathedral of the ocean, where sharks glide like shadows of gods, she discovers that her search is as much about honoring the sea’s mysteries as solving them.

Set against volcanic cliffs, coral reefs, and the haunting music of the Pacific, The Shark House is an atmospheric story of redemption, belonging, and the fragile covenant between humans and the natural world.

Dive into this tale where every wave carries memory, every shark is a story, and the ocean itself may hold the key to forgiveness. #thesharkehouse #minnowgrey #harpermuse #saraackerman

Thank you, NetGalley, and Harper Muse, for allowing me to read this book early. The opinion in this review is my own.

I really enjoyed this book. I love sharks and feel they are misunderstood and this book touches on the culture of shark conservation. Maybe it’s because I recently watched Shark Whisperer on Netflix, but this book felt like well done fanfiction for Ocean Ramsey. It’s not stated that’s the case, but there are similarities. I liked that it had similarities to Ocean because she’s an incredible person.

This book was beautifully written and I connected with the characters. The dialogue is fluent and the pacing is consistent. It is more than a book about sharks. It has lots of conversations about grief, and growth. It’s very atmospheric and dreamlike at times. I highly recommend this book even if you’re not a fan of sharks.

As a shark lover, I thoroughly enjoyed every second of this book. You can tell the author thoroughly researched both sharks and Hawaiian land and culture (I believe she was born and raised in Hawaii). I loved the intersection of mystery with science and personal grief (and therefore love). Hawaii was treated with such respect, honoring the locals and making sure to include their stories throughout the novel. I loved the way the human relationship with sharks is portrayed, rejecting the “man-eater” stereotype and reinforcing one of mutual respect and honor. The attention to detail and thorough research are what made this a five-star read for me.

The FMC Minnow is a well-rounded, strong, intelligent woman. She’s knowledgeable and just overall a bad*ss. The supporting characters are fantastic and memorable as well. The author did a great job describing the setting and immersing the reader in it.

This novel is the perfect summer read, especially if you love marine biology.

"There are so many things more dangerous that we humans have become habituated to. When you realize that, everything changes."

If you are interested in sharks, Hawaiian culture, and nostalgic historical fiction, then The Shark House by Sara Ackerman might be for you! This novel is set in Hawai'i in 1998 and follows marine biologist, Dr. Minnow Gray, as she investigates several shark-related incidents to uncover what is keeping a large, predatory shark active in these nearshore waters. Tangled in a web of her own traumatic past around a tragic shark encounter, Minnow discovers that there's more to these incidents than one deadly great white. With help from the locals housing her and an unexpected alliance with an alluring, but questionable fisherman, Minnow fights to defend the sharks from a mass killing ordered by the mayor, confront her own haunting memories, and discover what exactly connects her so strongly to these underwater predators and this Hawaiian paradise.

This was undeniably a 5 star read for me. Everything about this book moved me. The setting, the shark element, the character dynamics. All of it. I really enjoyed the truly immersive feeling this book gave into a Hawaiian setting and the culture. It highlighted Hawaiians connection to the land, the sky, the sea, and all the living creatures in between and it was beautiful. The atmosphere of this book was just ethereal. I loved the way that the characters were fleshed out and how they were portrayed through Ackerman's writing. The characters felt real and alive on the page and I was invested in everything they did and said. The dynamics and relationships between them were multilayered and nuanced. Personalities and emotions were shown not told. And of course, I can't forget the sharks. I adore sharks and I always have. That is why I was drawn to this book and, boy, did it deliver. Sharks are widely misunderstood creatures and are nine times out of ten, demonized by the media and society. But they are not demons or monsters. They are beautiful, living, powerful creatures who are not blood-thirsty killing machines. The sea is their home and shark attacks are largely just curiosity bites. An animal which does not understand its own strength and acts upon instinct. This book portrayed that remarkably well. The portrayal of sharks as guardians was also fascinating and, honestly, a breathtaking revelation. Lastly, I adored the aspect of Minnow's heightened sensitivity to sounds and soundscapes. This aspect added wonderfully to the atmosphere and in humanizing the sharks. Overall, The Shark House was an extremely delightful and moving read that I highly recommend.

Thank you Harper Collins/Harper Muse for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This review will be published publicly on my Goodreads account (linked) and Fable account today, August 14th, 2025. I will also post it on my Instagram account (@okumura.reads) and a video review on my Tiktok account (@okumura.reads) at a later date.

This was such a beautifully written book. Anyone that has an interest in science and/or marine biology should be sure to read this. It dives deep into the world of sharks and our oceans but also into life in Hawaii and the overall culture. The writing is so descriptive and the book was very well researched. It’s easy to feel like you are in the story and on the island while reading this. As a bonus, the author weaves a bit of mystery and romance into the storyline, making this impossible to put down. Although this is work of fiction I felt like I was learning something the entire time. It was such a great book and I really enjoyed it!

The Shark House was a truly enjoyable read. The storyline captures you right from the beginning. The novel is set in Hawai'i, where a series of people have been injured by an enormous white shark.

Minnow Gray is a marine biologist who has spent her whole life in the ocean. She is called to Hawaii to assist in identifying what kind of shark is responsible for the attacks on humans. I love reading a book where the main character is a strong and intelligent woman!

The story flashes back to Minnow losing her father at a young age, to her childhood spent by the ocean, and to the present where she is trying to let the world know that sharks are not evil, they're just misunderstood.

The setting of this novel was PERFECT for a summer read. Sara Ackerman does an incredible job of describing the setting. You can truly picture the magnificent beaches, the salty air, and the palm trees swaying.

Loved this one!

Thank you @netgalley and @harpermusebooks for this early copy of The Shark House by Sara Ackerman. A wonderfully enlightening read about these magnificent misunderstood creatures, woven through the story of a brilliant woman healing from grief and finding her people. As always with @saraackermanbooks, Hawai’i steals the show 🩵🦈

This book made me fall a little bit in love with sharks and the ocean, something I never thought possible, since I’ve always been afraid of both.

From the beginning, it’s clear how well researched this story is. The details about sharks and the environment are excellent, adding depth and authenticity.

The writing style is strong, and the setting feels fresh and unique. While the story begins a little slowly and it took me some time to connect with the characters, it ultimately came together beautifully. The ending was absolutely fantastic.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves emotional, well-researched stories with a unique and beautiful setting.

I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher for this digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

The author really brought the undersea world of Hawai'i to life. I've always been afraid of sharks, but after reading The Shark House, I have a deeper understanding of their place in the ocean and their importance in the ecological grand scheme of things. Now let's talk about the plot. Great, nail-biting story, with vivid descriptions of shark 'interactions'. A perfectly timed romance, complete with it's own, subtle mystery, is interwoven throughout the more intense, thriller storyline of 'who's instigating the sharks unusual behavior?' I loved that the sharks are not depicted as bad guys, rather sharks being sharks. And with an understanding of their normal behavior, it's possible to make informed decisions about when and where to swim in the ocean to avoid them. A big thumbs up, and 5 stars for me.

I received an advanced reader copy of The Shark House through NetGalley, and wow—this book had me hooked from the first chapter! Sharks have always been my favorite animal, and as someone who’s had the thrill of diving with them, I was instantly drawn to this story.
Set in Hawaii, it follows Minnow, a leading shark scientist, and I loved how real and relatable the characters felt. I connected deeply with Minnow and found the story unpredictable and engaging all the way through.
Even if sharks aren’t your thing, this book delivers meaningful life lessons and an emotional journey that will stay with you long after the final page. A five-star read I couldn’t put down!

intense shark thriller focusing on a scientist who focuses on sharks and a situation with shark attacks in Hawaii. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.

he Shark House was such a pleasant surprise and easily one of the best reads I’ve discovered through NetGalley. Sara Ackerman strikes a great balance between engaging plot and beautifully crafted prose. The story moves at a steady pace that kept me turning the pages, and the shark information woven throughout was absolutely fascinating. It enriched the story without ever slowing it down. I’m so glad I requested this one, and I’ll definitely be recommending it.

If you like Sharks, shark week, anything marine related, this is a MUST read, This story sucks you in from the very beginning! It is a story of growth, change, trauma, community, found family and standing up for ones beliefs, with a side of romance. The connection to the FMC is so strong that it changes the way you feel about sharks forever.

I read this and also listened to the Audiobook... If you are Audiobook person, I highly recommend it. The narrator was incredible.

This book is best described as a modern day Jaws. After a few shark incidents off the Big Island of Hawaii there is a shark hunt on for white sharks. Only this time the goal is not to kill them (at least the goal of the main character is not to kill them) but rather to understand why this shark has traveled to these shores.

This book is a nice exploration of the harmony that exists and doesn’t exist between sharks and humans as well as the importance of sharks to the wider ecosystem of the ocean. It does this in a relatable way that could easily be preachy but somehow manages to skirt around being so.

When Minnow is called to Hawaii after a number of shark attacks, her goal is to not only figure out why sharks are attacking so frequently or if it is the same shark but also to protect the sharks. With the biggest swim race of the season coming up, Minnow is racing the clock to solve the mystery before the mayor makes a decision to call a shark hunt to ensure safety during the race and for tourists.

The Shark House was an incredible read, as a lover of sharks and all things ocean this book kept me hooked. The atmosphere of Hawaii, the locals and the flash backs to Minnow's younger years and her passion for sharks was entrancing. Some mystery, some romance, some suspense and a lot of sharks made this a 5 star read in my opinion.

The Shark House by Sara Ackerman really surprised me with the details of Hawaii, the relationship and study that Minnow has with sharks and the fun facts I learned about sharks. The writing was good and the subject so entirely different that made the book feel fresh and engaging.
link coming soon.

(4.25 stars) It makes so much sense that the author of The Shark House lives in Hawai’i. This book is steeped in the sights and sounds of the Kohala Coast on Big Island…the lava beaches, the rough-hewn homes, and, of course, the waters, which teem with life of all shape and size. This area has long been known for its resident tiger shark population and great white visitors.

Curiously, this is a book for both shark lovers and shark fearers. Its pages contain cautionary tales as well as sober facts that illuminate the majesty of these awesome predators. This is a story about Minnow Gray, a biologist who specializes in sharks. Minnow is called to Hawai’i after a series of shark “incidents” (her preferred word over “attacks”) has left residents afraid of the waters. She must use her knowledge and observations of white sharks (she never calls them “great whites” as there are no other “white” sharks, something which sort of bothered me while I was reading, but which I now use whenever I want to sound knowledgeable 😊) to determine whether or not it is a lone white shark, or several, that is responsible for the incidents.

I enjoyed the story contained in these pages, especially as it weaved in new (to me) facts about sharks. I didn’t quite buy into the romance…it was too superficial for me. But as a whole, the book worked and I don’t hesitate to recommend it, especially to the ecology minded.

This book started out a little bit slow for me, but once the pace picked up I was hooked! Very interesting information is presented about sharks and there is a mystery that really kept me interested. Really good book!

Thank you NetGalley and Harper Muse for the advanced copies!

I adored this book. I loved the Hawaiian atmosphere and the historical fiction aspect of the book. There was a lot of information shared about sharks and the Hawaiian culture which I really enjoyed. The slight mystery also kept my attention as I was listening to this on audio.

I alternated between the digital copy and the audiobook. The narrator was wonderful as she was reading this authentically with the Hawaiian words. I think others might find her monotone but that didn’t bother me.

This reminded me a bit of Wild Dark Shore for the aspect of nature and the animals but not as dark and foreboding but more hopeful, if that makes sense.

I definitely recommend this! It’s a good one.

Thank you to @netgalley and @HarperMuse for this ARC. After a series of shark attacks happen off a small island in Hawaii, renowned Great White expert, Dr. Minnow Gray has been called in. One incident is unusual but more than that are rare. Dr Gray must find out the cause of the problem before the surrounding neighbors start a shark hunt and kill the population. Good read! #TheSharkHouse #SaraAckerman #HarperMuse #Jan2026

this was SO interesting. 🦈

loved th Hawaiian words/ definitions at each chapter. also just loved how you could tell the author spent so much time researching not only shakes but the Hawaiian culture around the animals as well!

I find myself drawn to the Hawaii setting of Sara Ackerman's books, because is is very evident to the reader that the author has first hand knowledge of the islands and the people of Hawaii. The settings are described as only someone with intimate knowledge of the area would have. Same with the mannerisms and culture of those living on the Hawaiian islands. In this case, there have been a series of shark attacks and Minnow has been asked to lend her expertise. While I enjoyed both reading and listening to this book, I highly recommend the audio, to get the nuance of the pronunciation of the Hawaiian words.

I received an Advanced Reader and Advanced Listening copy via NetGalley.

This was a STUNNING book. I expected to love it, as I am a total sucker for anything either "island" or "shark" related, and this so happens to encompass both! What I did not expect, was to fall so much further in love with these amazing creatures, and with the island. I could feel the Hawaiian sun on my skin and feel the spray on my face. I was lost in the moment with Minnow (who is one of the most creatively named characters I've met!) when she saw the sharks and felt her thinking as she struggled to piece things together.
I simply loved this, and can't wait to find more like this.

IG review coming-I will come back and add the link once I've put it up.

Thank you so very much!

This one was goooood. Kept me entertained and turning the pages which is just what I needed. I recommend for a book club!

The Shark House was an absolutely dreamy experience of a book, and I loved every minute of it. Sarah Ackerman has woven an incredibly story set in 1998 Hawaii, following Dr. Minnow Gray, a leading great white shark expert who is investigating a series of shark incidents. Minnow has a fascinating history with sharks, and a deep love and respect for the animals. While working with Hawaii natives, she’s determined to figure out what is drawing this apex predator to the shallow coastal waters where swimmers are, and to stop the local officials from killing innocent sharks in the process.

I love love loved this book. The scene, the setting, the characters, were all so vivid and real I simultaneously felt like I was there or that I dreamed it. The only thing I found somewhat tricky were the journal entries scattered throughout the book. While I loved them and they added to the story, they jumped around in time in a way that I often felt the need to reorient myself to what was happening in the present day timeline. That being said, this book was amazing. Minnow is an incredible and intriguing character, and through her Sara Ackerman taught me respect (instead of fear) the sharks that inhabit our oceans.

As an aside, my dad was involved in a shark incident as a surfer teenager off the coast of Florida, and after being bitten and released (by what type of shark, I sadly don’t know) and then sewn up, he always told us about how he went back out in the water and let his legs dangle off the sides of his board till he felt at peace with the ocean again. The Shark House really took away some of that lingering fear I grew up with, and replaced it with awe and respect for the beautiful and powerful creatures that share our ocean.

Thank you so much to Sara Ackerman, Net Galley, and Harper Muse for the digital ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. It was truly a delight!

I’ve read all of Sara Ackerman’s books and every single time she manages to blow it out of the water. She is by far one of my favorite authors. The Shark House was no different than her other books in that it pulls you in on the first page and makes it incredibly difficult to put down. What a journey to follow with Minnow through grief and the balance of humans and nature.

I loved this book. It was such a different read from what I normally read. It was a well written story with great characters. Definitely a good book for a book club. There is plenty to discuss! The author does a wonderful job describing Hawaii. I felt like I was there!

I enjoyed this book thoroughly. Outside the norm for me; I really enjoyed the writing about science as much as I did the culture and interpersonal storylines.

The story and wanting to know the outcome completely sucked me in and I found it hard to put down.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Minnow is a character that you immediately feel drawn to as you begin this book. She is smart and knows her ways with sharks. She is often underestimated in the field because most of the experts are male. Therefore, she has to work harder to get her points across most times.

She is called to Hawaii to investigate and look at some shark incidents that have taken place. Minnow takes the lead gracefully and puts her whole heart into protecting the sharks of Hawaii! She also meets an awesome family that her dad knew. She learns all about her parents’ lives and her own from the family. She meets a lot of people, one being Luke, that change her life.

I won’t get away what happens, but you’re in for quite a ride as you read this book. I loved getting to learn about the ocean and sharks, and being so invested in Minnow too! Read it! You won’t regret it!

I don’t usually review fiction, but The Shark House is set in Hawai‘i and features a marine biologist protagonist, so of course I was intrigued. And once I started, I flew through it. It’s an easy, engaging read with a great sense of place. The ocean descriptions in particular, fish, colors, corals are great and very resonant of the leeward side of the Big Island.
The story follows shark biologist, Minnow Gray, as she tries to find the reason behind a spate of white shark attacks before the mayor calls for a bounty hunt on the islands sharks.
This book isn’t “light” in the cozy sense — it’s more like The Meg’s gentler cousin: dramatic, a tiny bit over the top (in a fun way), and full of shark-related tension. Sometimes you want a book that grips you, entertains you, and doesn’t demand too much seriousness in return, and The Shark House is exactly that. It’s an engaging with action scenes, a little romance, and a healthy dose of ocean devotion.
I genuinely enjoyed it. The Hawaiian setting feels vivid and familiar, the pace never drags, and even when the plot had me raising an eyebrow, it’s in a way that’s fun rather than frustrating. It also has some interesting nods to Hawaiian culture, and I like the definition of different Hawaiian language words at the start of each chapter. If you’re in the mood for a dramatic, ocean-soaked escape with sharks, tension, and a bit of romance, The Shark House is a thoroughly enjoyable ride. Sometimes a page-turning, slightly outrageous story is exactly what you need.
Thank you Harper Muse for providing an advance reader copy of this book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I’m very impressed.

The Shark House captures you from the beginning and has you falling in love with the beauty of sharks. The author takes you back to 1998 and tells a story about random shark attacks in Hawaii where Minnow Grey (the shark whisperer) is called to investigate. The community is on edge and is demands a shark hunt unless Minnow can solve the mystery. Between meeting a mysterious man, getting threats and learning new information her own family’s history, Minnow’s emotions are pulling her in so many different directions.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Muse for allowing me access to this remarkably written story.

From its first pages, this novel immerses you in the salt, sunlight, and shadow of Hawai‘i’s Kohala coast. The setting isn’t just vivid, it feels alive, humming with danger and reverence. The string of shark attacks provides a razor-sharp hook, but what really elevates the story is Minnow Gray herself. She’s a compelling mix of scientific curiosity and emotional fracture, a “shark whisperer” carrying a trauma she can barely name, let alone face.

The narrative balances mystery, ocean exploration, and character-driven suspense in a way that feels almost hypnotic. I loved how the author handled the sharks: not as monsters, but as powerful, complex creatures woven into a larger ecological and emotional tapestry. The underwater scenes are electric. Equal parts wonder and dread as they mirror Minnow’s internal descent as she inches closer to the truth about the tragedy that shaped her life.

As the pieces of her past surface, the story becomes more than a thriller; it turns into a meditation on memory, guilt, and the fragile ways humans try to coexist with the natural world. The final reveals land with real emotional weight, tying together Minnow’s personal reckoning with the island’s broader sense of unease.

If anything, I wanted to linger even longer in some of the side characters and local perspectives, but the pacing is tight enough that I can’t complain for long.

This is the first book that I've read by this author set in recent times, versus historical fiction. Set during the Clinton administration, the focus is on protecting ocean life, particularly sharks, and fighting against societal injustices toward sharks in general.

Minnow, a oceanography doctor is asked to travel to Hawaii to consultant on a series of recent shark incidences, encounters with people that turned tragic. She's had an affinity for ocean creatures and particularly sharks, since she was very young, despite the fact that her father died after a shark encounter. Minnow gets caught up in political unrest around sharks and tourism.

I felt that this book was very well researched and well written. I enjoyed Minnow's passion for the creatures she loved, and her growing bond with Woody, Cliff, Nalu and finally Luke. Along the way Minnow learns details about her childhood that lead to a self-awakening. I learned a lot about sharks while reading this book. Highly recommend.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

Part mystery/adventure, part journey of healing, and most of all, a love letter to the ocean, sharks, and Hawaii, this novel is about Minnow Gray, a marine biologist who is asked to come to Hawaii to investigate shark bite incidents and determine if a single white shark is responsible. I've read many of Ackerman's books set in her native Hawaii, but this one might be my favorite. Some authors write well, some tell great stories. Ackerman does both, and readers will come away with a better understanding of sharks and a new respect for their vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of our oceans.

5 🌟s for this one.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

A beautiful story set in Hawaii that takes on the tale of the Great White Shark. A shark expert is brought in to help determine if Hawaii is under attack by a Great White. There have been a recent string of victims and there is a growing concern of a shark hunt that would devastate the ecosystem. On the island, our shark expert begins to discover more about her own history while trying to save the sharks. It’s truly a beautiful story told in an expert way. Thanks to NetGalley for the early read!

It's 1998 in Hawaii. Biologist and white shark expert Minnow Gray travels to the rugged Hawai'i coastline, where a series of shark attacks have left the island community on edge. She's hoping to uncover what's going on before the mayor calls for a mass killing of sharks in the area. Haunted by her own past marked by a tragic shark encounter, she forms an unexpected alliance with enigmatic fisherman Luke Greenwood whose presence ignites feelings she can't ignore, but also stirs questions about his part in it all. As Minnow works to shield the sharks from the island's fear-fueled backlash, drawing help from two Hawaiian brothers who are housing her, she unravels a scandal that shakes the community to its core.

I love sharks so I was pretty sure going in that I would love this book. But even if I didn't, I think The Shark House would change my mind. It's written beautifully. It feels like you're there in the perfeft setting of Hawaii and swimming in the warm waters along with Minnow and the sharks. Minnow is likeable and easy to root for. Her feelings and thoughts about sharks are easily communicated and understood. I've never been in the water with a shark, but I've felt some of these things about sharks myself. I'm happy to see a positive book about sharks.

There is a mystery element to it as Minnow tries to determine if the incidents are traced to the same shark. Not only that, it doesn't make sense for it to be even happening. The people that she meets are interesting and enjoyable to read about as well. There are some tense moments with a storm and a centipede so it's not all about days on the Hawaiian coast. Still there is a relaxing vibe that you'll get from reading this book.

"The Shark House" is a love letter to the ocean and the creatures who call it home. It is also a celebration of Hawai'iand its people. Although the story involves a series of shark attacks (or "incidents" as our protagonist would say), the author makes it clear from the outset that this is no "Jaws." There is a mystery surrounding the presence of a large white shark and Minnow Gray is called to help look into it. She is a white shark expert who grew up in California, but the moment she lands in Hawai'i, she feels a deep connection to the island. Her story is filled with pain but also beauty, and there is an undercurrent of familial love that runs through it. This story has it all: danger, adventure, mystery, a setting that truly becomes one of the main characters, and even a love story. I was drawn in from the start and found myself anxious to pick it back up whenever I could. As someone who has always been drawn to sharks, this book interested me. But the author's way with words and gift for characterization kept me captivated.

Book Report: The Shark House by Sara Ackerman

I’ve had the pleasure of reading two of Sara Ackerman’s advanced copies this year and The Shark House completely surprised me in the best way!

Set along Hawai‘i’s stunning Kohala Coast in 1998…the story follows Minnow Gray a marine biologist and “shark whisperer” who’s called in to investigate a string of mysterious shark attacks. What she finds beneath the surface isn’t just about sharks…it’s about facing her own past…healing old wounds and rediscovering her connection to the ocean and herself🌊

I absolutely loved the Hawaiian setting…the touch of mystery and the fascinating marine details woven throughout. You can feel the research and care Sara Ackerman put into portraying sharks not as monsters but as powerful, misunderstood creatures in their rightful home…the sea🦈

There’s also a deeply emotional thread tied to Minnow’s past and the way her personal journey unfolds alongside the investigation made this story so much more than I expected. It’s atmospheric…heartfelt and beautifully written. A true dive into the depths of both the ocean and the human spirit💫
If you love books with a strong sense of place…emotional depth and a touch of danger definitely keep The Shark House on your radar! 🐚✨

Thank you Uplit Reads & Harper Muse for the ARC

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Shark House is an excellent book about love and loss, redemption and reputation, understanding and acceptance, and passion and diligence. The character development is exceptional and the reader feels immersed in the beautiful Hawai’i setting immediately. This is a super way to learn about sharks and sea life too with a wonderful story woven around it.

Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Muse for the opportunity to read this ARC.

Atmospheric in the best way possible.
The Shark House takes hold of you from the beginning pages.
Ackerman’s description of the Big Island is perfection, and her visuals of the ocean leave you longing for it.
My love of Sharks didn’t hurt my love for this book, but even if marine life isn’t your thing, you will struggle not to fall for this story.
Minnow Gray is a shark expert. She is clearly the correct person to call when a great white shark is attacking the Big Island of Hawaii. She finds herself discovering far more than she ever expected.
Such a sweet story. Loved it. Thank you netgalley!

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of The Shark House by Sara Ackerman. I received this for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

What a lovely, lovely book. Sometimes you read a book and you don't want to finish it - you just want it to keep going. This was one of those books for me.

The characters, from Minnow, to Nalu, to Woody, to Hina and all the fish and whales and damselflies were well written. Their development was well thought out and the progression throughout the novel was just right.

The setting is delicious - Ackerman truly made me feel like I was there, especially the way she describes the weather and the stars and the sounds and smells.

Great plot, as well, Slowly building up and coming to a satisfying conclusion.

Highly recommend this!

I received an ARC of this title from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. A well-written, page turning story that kept me in Hawaii during some cold October evenings.

I was drawn into the storyline from the first page. This is a remarkable novel that is both entertaining and informative. Previously, my knowledge of sharks was limited to a few scary films and aquariums. (As the author points out, “Jaws” was a popular film that did a great disservice to white sharks.)

The story unfolds with flashbacks to the protagonist’s childhood as well as her previous professional activities, primarily through journal entries. I found it easy to follow the threads, but at times it was a bit frustrating to wait for clarity about incidents in both periods.

The pacing was even and kept me engaged. I enjoyed the information about the Hawaiian culture and shark behavior, which was seamlessly woven into the story without being preachy. Overall, this was a worthwhile read and one I highly recommend.

My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon upon publication.

This book is so much more than a mystery. It’s an atmospheric story about grief, resilience, and the delicate balance between humans and nature. The Hawaiian setting is beautifully written and feels alive on every page, from the ocean spray to the tension simmering within the island community. Ackerman’s love and respect for the sea (and for sharks!) shine through every scene.
Minnow is an incredible protagonist: strong, compassionate, and sharp-witted, yet still deeply vulnerable. I loved her passion for marine life and her fight to be respected in a male-dominated field (I'm a woman in STEM in a male-dominated field myself). The relationships, especially her complicated bond with Luke and her reflections on her parents, added depth and emotion that truly grounded the story.
I also adored the details about shark behavior and the ecosystem of Hawaii. The underwater scenes are pulse-pounding and awe-inspiring in equal measure. The journal entries that close each chapter were a great touch, even if the shifting timelines sometimes made me pause to reorient myself.

Thank you to Net Galley and Harper Muse for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The Shark House. Yes! What a fantastic read. I have forever been fascinated by marine life, and this book did not disappoint. I got to learn about sharks while also escape into a fascinating story with a full range of interesting characters. This was great. Excited to read more Sara Ackerman books.

I absolutely loved Shark House! This story hooked me right into the world of great white sharks, Hawaiian waters, and marine conservation. Minnow was such an amazing main character, a quiet loner and marine biologist trying to rebuild her life after heartbreak. I loved watching her uncovering memories she had buried while in the Hawaiian coast.

Sara Ackerman’s writing and descriptions of the Hawaiian Islands, Catalina, and the Farallons made me want to visit the all. I also appreciated the Hawaiian words sprinkled throughout because they made the story feel grounded in real culture and respect for the ocean.

This book made me want to swim, snorkel, scuba dive, and learn everything I can about protecting the ocean. It is a beautiful mix of science, self-discovery, and the magic of the sea. I Highly recommend! Also a few fun fact I learned was that sand sharks and herring are the only fishes that fart and the adult great white sharks brain is about 2 feet long!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you NetGalley, Harper Muse and Sara Ackerman for letting me preview an ARC of this incredible story!

The Shark House is a beautifully atmospheric blend of mystery, women’s fiction, and a little romance, all set against the stunning backdrop of 1990s Hawai‘i. While the plot centers around a string of shark attacks and a marine biologist called in to investigate, the heart of the story is Minnow’s journey through grief, rediscovery, and finding connection again. I loved the rich sense of place, the respect for Hawaiian culture and marine life, and the way sharks are portrayed with empathy instead of fear. It’s engaging, heartfelt, and even taught me a few things. Definitely a great pick for readers who love nature-driven stories with emotional depth.

This was close to 5 stars for me but some of the storytelling fell a little flat for me and some of the story felt confusing, like I missed connections. Minnow is so cool and capable, I loved her character and her demeanor in the wake of so many scary situations. The ending felt pretty realistic, not a huge, shocking reveal which was a little bit of a letdown but also, just…realistic and tied up the story nicely.

Another great read from Sara Ackerman!

The second I read the premise for this latest book by Sara, I knew I’d enjoy it. Her writing is always so vivid and transports me to Hawaii so easily. I feel like I’m there with the characters. I am a fan of Sara’s books because of how gentle they are. They’re not extremely depressing historical fiction reads. At least for me, they’re always a feel-good read.

I saw someone say that this book is good for fans of Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy and I have to agree. I loved that book, and I can see the similarities here with how atmospheric this felt and with the themes of human-animal relationships. The Shark House has a bit of mystery woven in, mixed with historical and women’s fiction and it felt nostalgic too being based in the 90s. While yes, it is about a series of Shark attacks and a marine biologist who is called in to help find out why, and a small mystery within this story line. But I felt it was more so a woman finding herself again and getting through her grief from past experiences and losses. And then it’s got just a touch of romance sprinkled in too.

I truly enjoy all of Sara Ackerman’s books. When I need an easy read that I know will make me feel good in the end, I go to her books. This was a great one. What kept it from being 5 stars were just a few things… 1. the way the journal entries were thrown in there. It slightly confused me at times being from all different years. There were moments I didn’t know what year the present time was. 2. The ending felt kind of rushed the way the book wrapped up. Especially the mystery storyline. I think I could have used a little more from the side Characters too. I really liked them. Nalu especially.

All in all, I really enjoyed this one and definitely recommend it.

I really enjoyed this book. Was a beautiful story and honestly I learned a lot. Made me think differently and respect something that does cause me a lot of fear. I know I’ll think about this book anytime I’m in the ocean. Really well written with dynamic characters and an intriguing storyline that makes it hard to put down.

I thoroughly enjoyed this lovely book. While reading you can actually feel the love the strong female protagonist has for her beloved and often misunderstood sharks. It’s also nice to read a book set in Hawaii away from the big tourism spots.

The book has a little romance, lots of information about sharks, a bit of mystery and family dynamics all rolled into one beautifully written book. If you love reading about nature this is an excellent read.

The set up of this book is a hard 10/10--a biologist that studies sharks travels to Hawaii in 1998 to investigate a series of shark attacks. And I really did enjoy reading this book--it is nostalgic, emotional, intriguing, and overall a pleasurable reading experience. However, there are a couple of nitpicking things about it that I just could not get myself to overlook. The most petty is the main character's name--it's Minnow. Yes, a marine biologist whose given name is Minnow. I cannot with that one. I have the same first name as the author of this book, so I understand the wish-fulfillment aspect of giving your main character a unique name, but it's important to know when to rein things in. The second thing, and definitely the more legitimate complaint, is that I did not buy that Minnow's actions and day-to-day activities represented what it would actually be like to be a shark scientist investigating a shark attack. I could be wrong here, since I am definitely not a marine biologist, but Minnow was mostly poking around like an amateur detective, and almost nothing of what she did seemed to require any specialized shark knowledge. Maybe I'm just a nerd, but if I am reading a book like this, I want to get a little bit of a feel of what it would be like to be a marine biologist, and I don't think this depiction was accurate.

The emotional positives of the story outweighed the minor flaws, and I do recommend this one.

4.0

The Shark House is set in Hawaii in 1998. Minnow is marine biologist who studies great white sharks. Minnow is struggling after losing her last job and abrupt end to a relationship. Minnow receives a phone call and opportunity to work in Hawaii due to recent possible great white shark attacks. Minnow's life story slowly unravels throughout the book as she tries to get to the bottom of the shark attacks and put her life back together,
When I started this book I thought a book focused on sharks would keep me from wanting to visit Hawaii. The total opposite happened and I wanted to book a flight immediately. I have a new appreciation for sharks. I learned so much about Hawaiian culture, sea life and conservation.
The Shark House includes science, romance, mystery, family tragedy, grief, local politics, finding family in unexpected places and finding your true self.
I loved Minnow's character because she was strong, smart, brave and fiercely loyal to her surroundings, sea creatures and friends. Thank you NetGalley and Harper Muse for the ARC of The Shark House.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I love an atmospheric novel and this book immediately transports you to the Hawaiian coast and the depths of the Pacific. Part mystery, part love story, and altogether entertaining, Shark House is an absolutely stunning ode to great white sharks and marine wildlife generally. With tender reverence and lyrical prose, Ackerman weaves science with fiction to create the perfect literary masterpiece. Thank you so much to NetGalley and Harper Muse for the advanced copy.

This is book exemplifies why I read. I was transported to a place I’ve never been and got to learn about something I’ve never been exposed to. A heartwarming story about sharks, love of profession, found family, and healing old wounds. Seeing white sharks in a new light, I will not enter the water again without immense gratitude and respect. The story itself was well told and kept me engaged.

I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from NetGalley and Harper Muse. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Shark House by Sara Ackerman is a haunting, beautifully written story set on the Hawaiian coast in 1998. Marine biologist Minnow Gray returns home to investigate a string of shark attacks and ends up confronting her own buried past.

Ackerman captures Hawai‘i with stunning detail and treats the sharks with rare respect and nuance. The blend of science, mystery, and emotion makes this more than a thriller.

A bit slower in pacing at times, but heartfelt, atmospheric, and deeply human. Perfect for readers who love ocean settings and character-driven mysteries.

The Shaek House by Sara Ackerman is a heartwarming novel. In 1998, the Kohala coast has seen a series of shark attacks in less than a week, setting the island community on edge. Biologist and shark whisperer Minnow Gray arrives on the scene to better understand what may have provoked the attacks, and if the same great white shark is still haunting the area. But as she descends into the Hawaiian depths, she soon learns there is far more going on than meets the eye. Witness to an unspeakable tragedy involving a white shark and her own father, Minnow has her own dark past to come to terms with. And the longer she's in Hawai'i, the more she comes to see that her journey here might be as much about finding herself as finding the shark.

Ackerman does a wonderful job creating a thrilling story. The Shark House had me turning the pages to the very end. This book is an easy 4 stars. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves historical fiction and mysteries.

I received a free advanced copy and all opinions are my own. I would like to offer my sincerest gratitude to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the advanced copy.

The Shark House takes you into the world of sharks and Hawaii in 1998. You can feel the ocean breezes, the coolness of the water, and the spine tingling sensations of sharks just out of reach. Minnow Gray is a shark scientist who is asked to come to Hawaii to help figure out why there have been several shark incidents. The local government is trying to keep tourism and a local ocean race open and safe. Minnow uses her connections to join locals to help find the potential cause of the bites, and in her investigations she comes across some nefarious people. She meets Luke Greenwood and feels a connection, but knows he is hiding something from his past. Their relationship develops and deepens through the story. Jimmy Kaupiko, a friend with complex family relations, lets Minnow use his little shack on the rugged coast as her base of operations. Jimmy and his brother are locals with a lot of personality and love of the islands. Minnow, Luke, and Jimmy work together to try to save the sharks and local tourism.
If you love Hawaii, sharks, or just a great story, I highly recommend this book. The characters, especially the locals, feel so real because the author has lives on Hawaii to give it the love and descriptions it deserves. Minnow is a young woman trying to figure out her next steps in life without her parents and finds the camaraderie with the Hawaiian people to fill her soul. I love her for her devotion to the sharks and the descriptions of shark encounters were immersive. I have visited, snorkeled, and dove in Hawaiian waters and felt I was back there reading this book. My rating is 4.75 stars.
#TheSharkHouse #NetGalley
Thank you Harper Muse and Net Galley. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I have never been more pro-shark in my life. Ackerman has officially made me a loyal fan and supporter of our finned friends🦈

I was hooked by with the description that it was for fans of Once There Were Wolves, and correct, bang on, agreed. Big fan of both. This was atmospheric, with Hawaii playing a starring role. It was tense at times, particularly in some water scenes. It made me righteously angry and passionately invested. I enjoyed the overall story arc of finding out what was behind these shark incidents, but I also really enjoyed the other storylines. Good blend of self-reflection, family discoveries, and a little intrigue with a mysterious man.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Muse for this ARC! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. 4.25 ⭐️

I thought this book about a young woman whose life is focused on sharks was excellent. Sharks are killing people, showing unusual behavior and Minnow wants to know why. She has studied sharks, swam with them and she even knows some of them. She knows something is wrong. Is it nature or humans causing this change. Well written and very engaging. Took me by surprise because it's an unusual story but it was great.

A romance and mystery centered around sharks? Yes, sharks.

Minnow Gray is a biologist and a shark whisperer. Many facets of her life has evolved around encounters with and the study of sharks. After multiple shark attacks in picturesque Hawaii, Minnow's expertise has been called upon. It's a balance of human safety and the protection of the deep sea animal she loves. Some people understand her deep-rooted passion and others do not.

Let's talk about Hawaii. The beautiful setting of Hawaii is every bit of a character in this story. Its beauty is well-captured, while also serving as a reminder that it is home to more than just people. I loved it for all of its romantic moments, as well as for the eerie, mysterious unknowns.

I really enjoyed my time immersed in Minnow's story. While I was slightly disappointed with the ending (felt a little unfinished), I thoroughly enjoyed reading this new work from Sara Ackerman.

Thank you to Harper Muse for this advanced digital copy via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own. This story gave me a healthy perspective of sharks, realizing just how misunderstood they are.

This book only heightened my fascination with sharks, the ocean, and Hawaii. I have never read a book that made me feels if I'd transported to a place I've never been to...until this one. This was my first book by this author and it won't be my last. The writing is entrancing, making the story come to life page by page. Although the book is about sharks and understanding them as more than oceanic creatures with sharp teeth, it's also about the depth of ones soul & personal journey. I loved Minnow's character and her love for sharks. Reading this book tugged on every heartstring I have. I found myself sobbing and for an author to make a reader feel something that deeply is truly a gift. Definitely look forward to reading more by Sara.

a light summer read set in Hawaii with likable characters and educational when it comes to sharks, I had a great time immersing myself in the story!

Why are there ao many sharks attacks iff the cost if Hawaii? Minnow a shark expert is called in to investigate. Howecer her exploration forces her to reckon with long suppressed emotions. Tautxlecerly written with a scenic setting to fall in love with.

This book was unlike anything I have read in a very long time. This IS THE BEST BEACH READ. This book held so much heart, and as a fellow shark lover myself, I loved this book!

Thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. Late 1990s Hawaii, a female shark scientist facing her past and sexism in a male dominated field must work to uncover a string of recent shark attacks off the coast of the big island. Five stars. I absolutely adored this. When I saw the cover and the description, I knew I had to request it immediately. Minnow (yes, the name is super on the nose for a book about fish) comes to Hawaii to investigate a string of shark attacks, likely great white, that have recently happened along the coast. Facing both her outsider status and being a woman in a male dominated industry, she uncovers both truths about the shark attacks and her own complicated past. This felt incredibly well done and well researched and the author has a clear love of both the ocean and Hawaii. Anyone who liked Devil’s Teeth (nonfiction) of the Lightkeepers (fiction) will likely really enjoy this. This was a new to me author, but I will definitely check out her backlist.

This book made me yearn to go to the beach. Hawaii specifically. This was a light read and refreshing. Very interesting about white sharks. It was good and I highly recommend!

5 ⭐️

TROPE
💅Women Fiction
💅 Environmental Fiction

MY POV

Woww. It's was my first time reading women fiction let alone environmental fiction and let's be clean it was tough for me to read.

At first I thought I would have to dnf it coz let's be true I am a SMUT GIRLIE, reading about sharks was not appealing to me. BUT BUT (surprise), the story had me soo captivated that I could not stop it in middle. I am soo glad that I completed it.

Not gonna lie, it was tough and took time as every new thing does but at the end I am soo proud of myself for finishing it.

4.25 - What a beautiful ode to the oceans and what lives there. Sara Ackerman's love for nature and the majestic sharks shines thru in The Shark House. I'm petrified of sharks (ever since Jaws, of course), but after reading this book it sure makes me think again about how amazing these creatures of the sea really are. It's a love story to what lies below the surface of the ocean and the setting is the Big Island of Hawai'i - what's not to love here. The female character is so strong - flawed but strong - and I love how she is created in this story and how she evolves throughout the novel. A female marine biologist flies to Hawaii to investigate the two (maybe three) incidents of shark bites on people in the water.

I also love this author's nod to Hawaii and how special this state is and how different each island is - she definitely incorporates the love of the islands and the Hawaiians. This is the first book I've read by her but won't be the last.

Thank you to NetGalley, Sara Ackerman and Harper Muse for opening my eyes to the sheer wonderment of the sea in exchange for my honest opinion.

Since I love all things Hawaii, Sara Ackerman is an auto-read author for me. This book was fantastic. It had all the Hawaii vibes, as Ackerman is local to the the Big Island. Minnow, the female main character was amazing--such a smart, kind, and relatable character. I loved the supporting characters too--especially Woody, Angela, and Luke. I loved learning more about sharks, and how the story highlighted the Hawaiian cultural values of respecting the land and the ocean creatures. If you love marine biology and/or Hawaii, this is a must read!

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Muse for the ARC of The Shark House! I enjoyed this book even more than I anticipated. From the beginning, I was drawn into the setting and characters, and I genuinely looked forward to every moment that I got to sit down and read. The story unfolded so vividly that I could easily imagine it playing out as a movie. Sara Ackerman’s writing was beautiful and unique, and she balanced heartfelt emotion with an engaging plot that kept me turning pages. The ending was touching in a way that sat with me after finishing. I’m already looking forward to reading more by Sara Ackerman!

Beautiful Anti-Jaws. In a sense, this book is the anti-Jaws intended to take everything ugly about Jaws (including its New England setting, sorry Yankees) and make it more vivid and beautiful, with a far stronger emotional component to boot.

Now, admittedly I haven't read the Peter Benchley original book (yet), but this year *is* the 50th anniversary of the movie that effectively created the Summer Blockbuster out of thin air, and yes, I've seen the movie more than a few times (and ridden the former ride at Universal Orlando, may it rest in peace). Stupid Harry Potter. (No, Rowling is awesome. I just hate that Universal decided to rip out Jaws to insert a new HP land. Almost as much as I hate that they took away Dueling Dragons in Islands of Adventure to put in Hagrid's rollercoaster.) Wait. Wait. Back to the Ackerman's book.

Seriously though, Ackerman flipped the script from New England (boo! hiss!) to the beautiful Hawaiian waters (yay!), gave us a compelling and complicated shark scientist lead character, truly makes us see the beauty of both Hawaii (as she always does in her books) and sharks, ...

Wait. She makes us see the beauty in *sharks*? Those apex predators who are nothing but man eating living torpedos that lurk silently and randomly attack humans? Yeah, well, Ackerman actually has solid in-story rebuttals to all of that, and she works it in without being preachy but instead having her characters truly be in awe of the majesty of the sharks and seeking to understand them.

Combining elements of real-world Hawaiian anti-"mainlander" racism and magical realism to great effect both comedically and in key moments in the story, Ackerman brings in elements of Hawaiian culture in this book I'd never seen her bring in before, and looking at her catalog, I've now read 75% of it - the last six of her nine published books. (And I'm fairly sure I have the other three on my Kindle as I type this review.)

Indeed, it is the magical realism elements here that perhaps shine the brightest in the biggest moments of the book and help elevate the book from "just a Jaws clone" to more of a "Moana-esque epic celebration of family and culture".

Or maybe I'm just completely seeing all of this wrong and being an absolute idiot here. Once this book releases less than two weeks into 2026, make sure to read it for yourself and write your own review. Feel free to call me out on anything you feel I got wrong here. As long as you're actually writing a review, I'll gladly take the hit. :)

Very much recommended.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this book!!

Beautiful atmosphere and character growth throughout. A very captivating read about connection. A book that will stick with you for the long haul.

I never knew there was such a correlation between human nature and that of sharks, and feel as though i truly have a newfound respect for the animals. The author clearly knew what she was talking about, and even if she didn't know everything there was a certain bit of passion found within the words written that is often difficult to find in books.

At its core, there is a journey not only taken by the main character herself, but within her realization the connection she has with the world around her, and where she'd come from. While the book itself was incredibly well written, it did feel more adult in the sense that the pacing could be taken as slower--but that is all part of the journey itself. I highly enjoyed it.

This book was outside of my comfort zone but oh man, did it tug on my heartstrings! The setting was described so beautifully that I felt immersed into the book and the story itself was a beautiful, emotional one. I highly recommend this!

I absolutely loved this book. Set in Hawaii but includes memories of California, this book explores the question of how well and if any all that animals and humans can co-exist. It’s a mystery as well as a self-growth story. This book makes me want to go to HAWAII asap. Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

While I went out of my comfort zone with this one I truly enjoyed Shark House. I’m not the best swimmer and the open ocean terrifies me, but I find sharks very fascinating and thought why not give this book a try. Very glad I did! Shark House is a beautiful tribute to the fascinating creatures that terrify so many. Dr Minnow Gray is called to Hawaii to assist in research of a multitude of shark incidents on the coast of a rich Hawaiian history- but also a booming luxury resort. These incidents worry city leaders, tourism could take a hit if people think Jaws 2.0 is happening. Minnow investigates the incidents and learns of something going on that is much darker and deeper than the ocean she loves. She must come up with a way to save her beloved sharks and work through the trauma of her own experiences with them.
Minnow is a complex character, she’s vulnerable but incredibly strong, fierce, intelligent, and extremely passionate. Her love for sharks is at times hard to understand but undying. I learned a lot about not only sharks, but the ocean and Hawaii reading this that I would never have known. I want to thank the author, Net Galley, and Harper Muse for the ARC. This one is definitely worth the read!

If you're a fan of Shark Week, you'll probably
be a fan of this! A love letter to sharks
especially (great) White Sharks.


The story follows Minnow, a marine biologist
who specialises in Great White Sharks. After
several attacks off the coast of Big Island,
Hawai she is called in to see if she can find
the reason.


Can she figure out why this Shark is acting
out of character and also unravel her
childhood memories of when her dad was
killed by a Shark whilst she's at it?


An easy read but with some nicely tense
moments too.


"I received a complimentary copy of this
book. Opinions expressed in this review are
completely my own."

The shark attacks are chilling, but what struck me more was how in the natural world, Minnow’s personal history, and the trauma she carries all tie into each other. Beautiful setting in Hawaii, interesting mystery, good pace. I liked seeing the internal journey as much as the external threat. I'd recommend this book!

This book was absolutely beautiful from start to finish. I was immediately drawn in because I had traveled to Hawaii this year for my honeymoon, and the setting brought me right back to the sights, sounds, and feelings of the islands. I have always thought of sharks as dangerous, but reading this story gave me a whole new appreciation for them. While they can still be powerful and at times frightening, this book showed me just how misunderstood they often are.

Minnow Gray’s journey was both heart-wrenching and inspiring. The way the story wove together mystery, romance, Hawaiian culture, and shark biology felt seamless and captivating. I loved learning more about the ocean and the creatures within it, but what really stayed with me was Minnow herself - her strength, her vulnerability, and her healing. The balance of suspense and emotion made it impossible to put down at times, and the story stayed with me long after finishing.

Thank you Harper Muse the opportunity to read the ARC of this amazing story!

**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Beautiful story, and I learned SO much about great white sharks. Loved the main character Minnow, you could feel her passion for the ocean through the pages. Hawaii was also a character of its own in this, loved the way the culture and the local characters really came to life. Only complaint was that it was slow for me at parts and it felt like it took awhile to get to the climax, but the wait was worth it! 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 because sharks <3

Thank you for the ARC!

Thank you to the author and publishers for this ARC. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Shark House swept me away from the beginning. Reminiscent of Charlotte McConaghy's writing-this is a story about conservation, the relationship between humans and the natural environment, trauma/grief, and doing whatever it takes to fight for what is right. Ackerman wove such a beautifully descriptive story of the life teaming within Hawaii's waters, and I was glued to the pages.

I have always been curious of sharks-I grew up on the west coast of Canada and always wondered about the sharks that might be in the water. As a child, I once found a shark tooth on the beach-something very rare for where we lived, and it has always been one of my favourite beach finds. As curious as I have always been, I have also always had a substantial fear, which I realize is likely due to language used in the media we consume. I appreciated this book's efforts to dispel myths about sharks, and hope that it can reach a wide audience.

This is my first novel by this author and I can’t wait to read more work by her. The storyline takes place in the 90s in Hawaii’i. The main character is a marine biologist which I love, who is investigating why the sharks are attacking at a high rate. Thank You NetGalley and Harper Muse for an advanced copy of the book.

Another winner from Sara Ackerman! I love how she uses her birthplace as a backdrop for her books; her understanding and love of the islands shines through each sentence.

Dr. Minnow Gray reminded me that sometimes we can find our tribe in the last place we expect.

I loved uncovering the family secrets and learning about the unresolved grief as much as I enjoyed learning about white sharks! Ackerman’s mysteries, both Minnow’s and the shark attacks, were well plotted and executed; I couldn’t set the book down.

It was also good to be reminded that appearances can be deceiving and it’s worthwhile getting the truth from the source rather than surmising and acting on wrong information.

Pour yourself a Cadillac margarita, sit back and enjoy this fantastic story about a shark whisperer who comes to terms with her past and confronts her present.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

historical fiction isn't one that i do very often, but this one was a homerun for me. maybe i'm biased from my love of marine bio and sharks especially, but this was such a moving, captivating story. bravo

I love Ackerman’s books which showcase many parts of Hawaii. Everything from scenery, customs, culture and more. This one focuses on Sharks, which is absolutely fascinating to me. Most of us know of the danger, but not much else.

I loved learning about Minnow Gray , who is a biologist and “shark whisperer”. She is on the coastline of Hawaii and people are taken back by a series of shark attacks. This is a haunting task for her and she has dealt with an attack of someone close to her.

What she will find is more than just attacks and involves some very powerful people. This atmospheric novel is filled with scandal and a little romance. Dig deep into this powerful novel which kept me engrossed from start to finish.

Thank you, Harper Muse for the advanced copy.

This was absolutely stunning. I am someone who loves marine life and seeing the passion for sharks really makes me happy! It’s what made me intrigued to read this book to begin with. I was so drawn in to the characters and the plot, it felt out of this world. The passion and trauma explored in this book gave me goosebumps. Please read this book if you appreciate gorgeous writing and story telling, this hit the mark. Most importantly, I finished this book wanting to adopt a shark and write my monthly letters. The author should feel really proud of this book. This is my fourth 5 star read of the year, and I do not give them out lightly! 10/10

Captivating read! The description of the Big Island made me think of my trip there and how beautiful it was. Enjoyed the character development of Minnow and the other characters. Never thought of sharks as bquatoufl creatures, but enjoyed learning about them and now have a different perspective on them, they are creatures of the sea like everyone else. Minnow is a passionate character with love for sharks, she find herself on the Big Island to try to find a reason for recent shark attacks. Along the way, she teams up with a few local men to help her solve the mystery.
Another great read by Sara Ackerman!

Another 5 star book! Perfect balance of heart pounding and feel good moments while telling a truly unique story. I never thought I would be so invested in a sharks story and their delicate balance in our oceans. And as always, the fine details that capture the every essence of the islands shines through the pages and transports the reader there.

I felt guilty because I was <b>feeling slumpy</b> during this read from the three mediocre books I read before, but <i>The Shark House</i> cured my slumpitis.

• I loved that this book didn’t paint the sharks as mindless monsters, but was actually educational. While reading, you’ll learn all kinds of shark facts. Most importantly, you’ll learn that if you hunt them, you are destroying our ocean’s balance. Whenever you got into the ocean, you are in <b>their home</b>. Respect it.

• In a lot of way, this book did remind me of <i>Jaws</i>. The corrupt mayor, some of the locals wanting to participate in a shark hunt, the scientist hero (Minnow — we love our shark girl).

• One of the standout things about <i>The Shark House</i> has to be the writing. The way the author described Hawaii/the Hawaiian culture made me feel like I was right there with Minnow & the gang. Also, speaking of the gang, the side characters were top tier. And the romance? Something I wasn’t expecting, but ended up enjoying.

• My only gripes/why this book didn’t get 5 stars were because of the timeline confusion & some minuscule plot holes. Between going back & forth between Minnow’s journal entries and present day, sometimes I had no idea what year we were in LOL. I didn’t know how old Minnow was, or anyone really in the book, & I know this isn’t a big deal, but these tiny details help me to paint a full picture, ya know? We never find out a big chunk of Minnow’s younger life either.

• Wanna know my favorite thing though? Reading this book along with my Shark Sisters Lina & Ari and hearing them say they loved sharks now. 🥹 My mermaid heart exploded. Finally here’s a book that shows people the way I see sharks; the way they truly are. I don’t know if anyone will be crazy enough like me to want to boop them on the snout, but I people read the <i>The Shark House</i> and walk away with a different perspective of these beautiful, magnificent creatures.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Shark House by Sara Ackerman

You know that feeling when you open a book thinking, “oh cool, sharks and science, maybe some mystery,” and then suddenly you’re wiping away tears and reevaluating your entire emotional stability? Yeah, that’s this book. I went in expecting teeth and blood, and instead, I got feelings, atmosphere, and a PhD-level shark lady who had me rooting for her like she was my best friend. Five stars. Easy. Probably my favorite book of the year so far, and I’m not even exaggerating.

So, the basics: it’s 1998 on the Kohala coast in Hawai’i, and a series of shark attacks has everyone panicking. Enter Minnow Gray—yes, Minnow, and yes, she’s a marine biologist who specializes in sharks. The name had me smirking at first, but about ten pages in I was like, “okay, Dr. Minnow Gray, I will follow you into the literal ocean trenches if you ask.” She’s there to figure out what’s going on before the town loses its mind and decides to start hunting sharks, but of course, that’s just the surface.

Because this isn’t just a mystery about sharks—it’s also about grief, family, trauma, and trying to find your way back to yourself when life has completely chewed you up. Minnow lost her father to a shark attack years ago, and she’s been dragging that guilt around like it’s strapped to her back with chains. The book is as much about her diving into her past as it is her diving into the water. And let me tell you, it hurts. The good kind of hurt, the kind that makes your chest ache and your brain go, “yeah, this is why I read Jennifer Hartmann novels” (except this time with sharks).

The writing? Absolutely stunning. I could feel the Hawaiian sun on my skin, smell the salt in the air, hear the crash of the waves. There were moments where I had to set the book down just to breathe because the imagery was that rich. It’s atmospheric in a way that doesn’t just paint a picture—it drops you straight into the scene and dares you to swim. Also, the author did her research!

And let’s talk about the sharks. They are not villains here. They’re not Jaws, they’re not movie monsters. They’re powerful, ancient, awe-inspiring creatures, and Ackerman writes them with so much respect that I found myself protective of them. Like, who even am I, sitting on my couch, muttering, “don’t you dare hurt my sharks” with tears in my eyes? I signed up for mystery and marine science, not to be emotionally compromised over apex predators. And yet here we are.

Minnow herself was such a standout character. She’s smart, stubborn, compassionate, and constantly underestimated because—shocker—people love to ignore a brilliant woman in science. Every time someone tried to brush her off or talk over her, I wanted to reach into the book and scream, “it’s Doctor Gray to you, thank you very much.” Watching her push forward despite the grief, the sexism, and the sheer weight of her past was inspiring as hell.

Now, if I had to nitpick, the journal entries scattered throughout the book tripped me up a bit. They jumped around in time, and there were moments where I had to stop and re-orient myself because I wasn’t totally sure if we were in 1993, 1996, or right back in 1998. It’s a minor gripe, but it’s the only thing that pulled me out of the flow. Otherwise? No notes.

By the end, I was an absolute mess. Emotional, wrung out, but also weirdly hopeful. This book gave me everything—mystery, grief, healing, a romance subplot I actually cared about, and a deep respect for sharks that I didn’t know I needed in my life. It’s raw, it’s beautiful, it’s haunting, and it’s the kind of story that stays with you long after you close the last page.

So yeah, I came for sharks and ended up crying into my pillow at midnight. Worth it.

Thank you Harper Muse and NetGalley for the ARC. Publication date: January 13, 2026.

This novel has so many layers and together they form a stunning read. The sharks, the characters and the relationships made me feel so much while reading. Highly recommend!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thank you to the publisher, and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

The Shark House was such a lovely read. This book provided a sensory experience - the writing really brought the sounds, sights, and smells of the ocean to life on the page.

I really enjoyed following Minnow discover pieces of herself in her pursuit to find the cause of the shark incidents.

I do feel like the ending was rushed compared to the attention paid on the rest of the story, but I really enjoyed this nonetheless. 🦈

There’s something about The Shark House that latches on from the very first chapter and refuses to let go. Sara Ackerman’s storytelling carries you straight to 1998 Hawai‘i, where the scent of saltwater hangs in the air, the horizon feels endless, and the ocean hides as much as it reveals. This isn’t just scenery—it’s a living, breathing presence in the book, one that shapes the people who live beside it, for better or worse.

At the heart of the story is Minnow Gray, a marine biologist whose quiet strength is tested the moment she steps onto the Kohala coast. A string of shark attacks has everyone on edge, and she’s there to find answers. But this isn’t a simple case of predator and prey—Ackerman makes it clear early on that there’s more at stake, and much more to uncover beneath the surface. What kept me hooked wasn’t just the mystery of the shark, but the way Minnow’s journey through the water echoed her journey inward. Her work forces her to confront a past she’s tried to outrun, and the bravery it takes to face that—while surrounded by doubt, danger, and a field still dominated by men—makes her story both empowering and deeply human.

One of the things I loved most is how Ackerman treats the sharks themselves. They’re not monsters here; they’re powerful, complex creatures, and the book treats them with the kind of respect and realism you rarely see in fiction. The underwater scenes pulse with tension, but they’re also full of awe, and you can feel the author’s knowledge and care in every detail.

This book isn’t just about the science or the danger—it’s about connection. Connection to the natural world, to the ghosts of our past, and to the pieces of ourselves we’ve hidden away. By the final chapters, I wasn’t just rooting for Minnow to find her shark—I was rooting for her to find her way back to herself.

If you’re looking for a story that blends atmospheric suspense with heartfelt character growth, The Shark House is a journey worth taking. It’s as much about survival and resilience as it is about the beauty and ferocity of the ocean. And it’s the kind of novel that leaves you thinking about what you’d be willing to risk to make peace with your past.

Many, many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Muse for sharing this engaging, inspirational women’s fiction novel’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.

I thoroughly enjoyed The Shark House by Sara
Ackerman. The Hawaiian setting is one relatively rare in my reading experience and it is evoked in sensuous luminous prose. I could hear the coconuts dropping from the trees and the ocean waves lapping the lava shores. It features a marine research biologist who is intimately connected to the sea and its creatures, in particular the great white shark. Through her, this courageous and troubled woman, I gained a greater appreciation for the richness and beauty of underwater life, as well as a sense of Hawaiian culture (each chapter begins with the definition of a Hawaiian word).
Mystery, romance and psychological exploration also add to the complexity of the novel.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an advance complimentary copy. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

*The Shark House* by Sara Ackerman swept me straight into the crystal-blue waters of 1998 Hawai‘i, where beauty and danger collide. Minnow Gray, a marine biologist with a knack for understanding sharks, arrives on the Kohala coast to help after a series of shark attacks—but the real waves she faces are the ones from her own past. Ackerman’s writing makes you feel the salt on your skin and the tension in the air, blending mystery, emotion, and the wild pull of the ocean. It’s part suspense, part self-discovery, and completely the kind of book you can sink into and not want to come up for air.

4.5 ⭐️

Sharks have always been fascinating to me, so I was more than happy to review this e-ARC (thank you NetGalley and Harper Muse!) - all thoughts are my own. If you like sharks, you’ll probably also like this book. The Shark House follows Dr. Minnow Gray as she works to remember her past, discover herself and reveal the mystery behind a sudden influx of shark bite incidents. Finding corruption and conspiracy up to the local political offices, Minnow creates a bond and connects with her late parents. Definitely worth the read if you’re into conservation, marine biology and sharks!

If you get mad at the shark representation in Jaws, this book is for you 🦈 I absolutely love the way this “shark attack” story is told with an ethical and meaningful twist. As a big shark-lover, I may be a little biased, but I was so wrapped up in this book, and I think it’s going to stick with me for a long time.

I loved the mystery and self discovery elements of this entertaining novel. The author obviously did a ton of research, and she incorporates it seamlessly into the narrative. Minnow is an intriguing protagonist -- I enjoyed her journey. The setting and time period are expertly conveyed.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-galley; all opinions in my review are 100% my own.

The Shark House by Sara Ackerman is such a beautifully layered read! If you like stories with strong women and a little bit of danger humming under the surface, add this one to your TBR! The story follows Minnow Gray who heads to the Big Island of Hawaii after a string of shark attacks sparks panic in the community. From the first few pages, I was pulled into that late 90’s island vibe with a creeping sense that something deeper is going on beneath all the shark talk. What I loved about this book is that it’s not just about marine science, it’s about healing from trauma and rediscovering yourself. Minnow is dealing with some heavy stuff from her past, and while she’s trying to piece together what’s happening in the water, she’s also slowly figuring out who she is. There’s a little bit of everything here…mystery, science, self discovery, and family drama. Highly recommend this one!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Continuing with my accidental sea creature theme, this was a fab read! Full of really interesting characters and great shark facts.

The beginning was so intriguing and the whole plot was great, but the last third seemed to lack the oomph of the rest, so lost 3/4 of a star.

Overall, a great read. Would recommend to shark lovers or those who are scared of them!!

Shark House is a heartfelt novel about nature, love, and grief, set against a beautiful Hawaiian landscape. This is my first book by Sarah Ackerman, but I believe she is known for setting her stories in Hawaii and bringing the islands to vivid life.

We follow Minnow, a shark expert/biologist who is called to Hawaii to investigate a string of shark attacks, one of which involved a very famous actress.

As soon as she arrives, she unravels the mystery of the attacks an gives her recommendations to the Mayor to re-instil the water’s safety for the population and tourist trade.

She also meets Luke, an enigmatic stranger, who she cannot help to feel a connection too. Not to mention his handsomeness!

However, the novel is so much more than a shark attack investigation. As we journey through Minnow’s psyche we find a beautiful story about healing. The at times, frustrating, meandering, painful path to accepting past traumas.

The islands of Hawaii, their landscapes, the weather, are all incorporated into the story to reflect the complex journey Minnow is on. The sharks, rather than being something to fear, become the very beings that mirror Minnow’s feelings of listlessness.

I really loved the writing, the characters were interesting and layered, we have beautiful scenery, and just the general sense of both tension and calmness made the novel feel unique to me.

A beautiful story about the wildness of grief and the resilience to start over again. Fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid I think would enjoy this book.

Thanks to Harper Muse and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Muse for the advanced reading copy.

Ever since my first visit to Hawaii, I can’t resist a story set in its breathtaking, otherworldly landscape, so the moment I saw The Shark House, I knew I needed it in my life.

Set in 1998, this book immediately immerses you in the beauty and mystery of the Hawaiian islands. We follow marine biologist Minnow Gray, who receives a late-night call that kicks off a thrilling and emotional journey:

“I’m sorry to call so late in the evening, so I’ll get right to the point here. I think we have a problem. And I’m hoping you can help.”

Minnow travels to the Big Island to investigate a troubling pattern of shark incidents, and what unfolds is a story full of wonder, urgency, and deep respect for the ocean and its inhabitants. I’ve never considered myself particularly drawn to sharks or marine life, yet somehow, Ackerman made me completely invested in both. Her passion for the sea shines through every page.

Minnow and the supporting characters are fleshed out with care, making their relationships as compelling as the central mystery. And the setting? Absolutely atmospheric-lush, vivid, and transporting. This book feels like a heartfelt love letter to Hawaii: its culture, its wildlife, and its powerful connection between people and place.

I enjoyed every single minute of this story.
It’s enchanting, a touch suspenseful, and beautifully written. If you crave books that sweep you away to a new world, this one is it.

A perfect binge-read for ocean lovers, armchair travelers, and anyone who loves a story with heart.

Traditional format (digital). Release date: January 13, 2026

The Shark House is an atmospheric exploration of the intricate dance between humans and sharks, set against a backdrop of stunning Hawaiian landscapes and deep-sea danger. It's a tale of resilience, redemption, and the raw power of the natural world. Dive in, if you dare.

What it's about: Marine Biologist travels to Hawaii to solve the mystery of a series of shark attacks while also addressing trauma of her past.

My thoughts on the book/what I liked: As a biologist myself (who at one point wanted to specialize in marine biology) I was super excited to dive into this book (no pun intended). I loved the Hawaiian setting and the use of the scientific terms for the marine life. I liked the main character Minnow and how they used her diary entries throughout the book. Overall I did enjoy this book but found it quite slow in parts and to be honest there's not a whole lot of plot. I will give this one a 3.5/5 rounded to 4 for GR ratings.

Although I don't think this book is for everyone, I would recommend this book if you like slow burn novels set in Hawaii with a heavy emphasis on sharks/marine life.

Thank you to Harper Muse and Net Galley for a digital ARC copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to Harper Muse for allowing me up read an advance copy of Shark House. This book was more than I anticipated it to be. I felt like I knew each character in the story and felt invested on what they were doing each day. I learned so much in this book about marine life and sharks. I live in a beach town but this book educated me on the habits of different sharks that are all misunderstood. I can’t recommend this story enough. It has a little bit of everything! Tragedy, relationships, friendships and romance mixed with Hawaii education! Please do yourself a favor and pick up a copy when it’s released!

⭐️ 4.5 Stars – Completely swept me away!
The setting, the sharks, the atmosphere—I was totally transported. I learned so much and felt so much. What an amazing read!

When an author truly loves their setting, it shows and The Shark House is a perfect example. Sara Ackerman brings Hawai‘i’s western coast to life with such vivid detail that it feels completely immersive. From the rustic charm of the Shark House (Hale Niuhi) to the sweeping views of ocean and mountains, the atmosphere is breathtaking. And the underwater scenes? They’re incredible - lush coral, vibrant sea life, and the feeling that you’re right there beneath the surface.

But what impressed me most is how Ackerman pairs that natural beauty with a heartfelt story about self-discovery, confronting the past, and a deep, reverent love for sharks. This book teaches you so much about shark behavior without ever feeling heavy or textbook-like. I walked away fascinated and definitely want to learn more.

The story follows Minnow Gray, a white shark expert called to Hawai‘i after a series of incidents leave two people dead and one seriously injured. Alongside an intern, Nalu, Minnow works to uncover whether a rogue white shark is targeting humans or if human interference has drawn it closer to shore. As community leaders push for a shark culling, Minnow races to find evidence that could stop an ecological disaster.

I really enjoyed the pacing, which moves steadily between present-day events, Minnow’s research journal entries, and flashbacks that gradually reveal the truth about her father’s death. The supporting characters are warm and memorable, and I loved the use of pidgin and Hawaiian language - it added so much authenticity that I’m convinced the audiobook would be fantastic. There’s even a touch of romance, though it stays comfortably in the background.

Overall, this was a beautifully immersive, thoughtfully written story with rich setting, strong characters, and a meaningful message. I learned a lot, I cared a lot, and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride.

Thank you to Harper Muse and Sara Ackerman for the gifted ARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis: A shark expert is called in to come investigate some odd shark attacks/incidents in Hawaii. But while she pieces together the mystery of this great white shark and the incidents associated with it, she begins to piece together her own past trauma. Losing her father to a shark bite at a young age, she has always blamed herself and been unable to recall just what happened that tragic day. But now, memories are slowly returning and she’s learning more about her mother as well, being in the place her mother was while pregnant with her and suffering from depression. She’s finding pieces of her past and herself while fighting to protect the sharks that so many people misunderstand.

My Thoughts 👇

This was an amazing story in the way in which it discussed and depicted sharks. Learning to view them from a totally different perspective, than movies like JAWS, tend to portray them. That was what I enjoyed most. Also, portraying the depth of emotion felt when you’re striving to understand and create awareness of the true nature of a creature that others are about to go on a manhunt against, because they view those creatures as bloodthirsty killers and refuse to listen to an expert in the field. - This FMC was in tune with nature and sea life in ways that go beyond the norm, which was a cool aspect of the story. I also enjoyed that even though this moved at a slow pace, it had several different types of mysteries woven into it. - Why was this great white suddenly biting people in this area? Was human interference at play? What really happened the day the FMC’s father died? What were her parents like before she was born? And what secrets was the man on the island keeping? So many things were exposed in this story and it made for an emotional and in-depth read, as well as the slow burn romance building between the mysterious man and our FMC. - I also enjoyed that the author included a glossary of Hawaiian words/pronunciations at the beginning of the book.

CW’s 👇

- Drug use
- Brief mention of narcissistic ex
- Mention of suicide
- Death/injuries related to sharks
- Loss of parents
- Depression

Quotes 👇

“Tragedy happens, but the world keeps on spinning, doesn’t it?”

“Much of the time, people died from a shark bite rather than an all-out attack. White Sharks are notoriously curious, and since they have no hands, they use their mouth to investigate things. And those mouths are home to seven rows of serrated teeth.”

“It was easier to push people away than let them in.”

Release Date: January 13th, 2026!
Genre: Women’s Fiction
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Muse for this ARC in return for my honest review!

I’m writing this in December, having just finished an advanced reader copy of The Shark House, and it has secured a place on my “best of the year” longlist, largely because its central concept speaks so directly to my weaknesses as a reader of eco-fiction. Give me a story that treats animals as integral parts of their ecosystems, and I’ll immediately drop everything to read it.

What struck me most was the tension and authenticity with which the environment is rendered. As someone with a deep interest in biology, I was especially moved by the author’s respectful, scientifically grounded portrayal of sharks. Fiction so rarely resists the easy caricature of sharks as villains, and seeing them treated instead as complex, essential members of their ecosystems felt genuinely refreshing. The narrative is heartfelt, attentive to connection, and paced with quiet confidence.

Ackerman’s prose is vivid enough that I often felt as though I were finning through the water beside Minnow. The story manages to be uplifting while still offering gentle provocation. It blends the historical setting of the 1990s into the atmosphere without ever feeling antiquated.

The female lead, an inspiring and deeply competent “PhD-level shark woman,” carries the weight of grief and trauma with nuance. Her internal journey adds emotional depth to the ecological themes rather than competing with them.

One of my all-time favorite books is the nonfiction classic on Farallon Island shark research, The Devil’s Teeth, and from the early chapters I sensed Ackerman had drawn from the same well of inspiration. At first I was thrilled; later, a few elements felt a little too directly lifted, echoing key moments rather than fully transforming them. Her author’s note ultimately confirmed the connection.

I’ll admit it hurts a little that the novel doesn’t fully deliver on its extraordinary potential, particularly in the final act. I loved the setting and the mission, to remind us that sharks are not monsters but an integral species, yet the resolution softened into something closer to a low-stakes mystery. A few scenes and details read like narrative red herrings in a story that didn’t need any flirtation with a classic mystery at all. What began as ambitious eco-fiction settled into a semi-wholesome puzzle whose stakes felt smaller than the ecological truths it hinted at.

Still, I was transported to a place I’ve never been, immersed in a world I care deeply about, and given the rare joy of reading fiction aligned with my own scientific interests. For that, a sincere mahalo to Sara Ackerman.

This book was a great read! . I read Jaws and saw it in 1975 and I am deathly afraid of sharks possibly being in any body of water and since I live in Michigan it's doubtful. This book was so different! Minnow is a biologist that has no fear of great whites and actually enjoys interacting with them. I did learn a lot reading this book while being totally entertained. The setting of Woody's rustic cabin Minnow stayed at was magical. I really liked all the characters. This book was one where I thought about it a lot and wondered what was going to happen even when I was doing other things. A book always on my mind when I'm not reading it is my sign of a great book. The details and descriptions were fantastic and the author must have done intense research. Luke and his info on Orca's was captivating as well. Great book!

One thing The Shark House nails is atmosphere — Hawaii is so vivid it becomes its own character.

Our main character, Dr. Minnow Gray, is sharp, ambitious, and easy to root for. The cast of characters around her add a layer of charm and camaraderie while her side romance brings the right touch of subtlety and sweetness. My favorite part, though, is how the author reimagines shark horror in a way that’s suspenseful, eerie and not over the top.

While I do think there were (small) missed opportunities for the conclusion, overall this was a solid and satisfying read.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC for my honest review!

The Shark House takes place in the lush, wild oceans of Big Island, Hawaii. Shark researcher, Dr. Minnow Gray, is called to the island after a series of shark incidents occur leaving one person dead, one missing a limb, and a third missing. Minnow has always had a special relationship with sharks and the ocean, despite the fact that her father was killed by a shark. Minnow believes that coming face-to-face with a shark can yield two reactions: (1) it will bring you closer to the ocean and the animals or (2) it will make it so that you'll never enter the water again. Minnow is clearly the former. Unfortunately for Minnow, many people on Big Island fall into the latter category. They're terrified the shark or sharks will bite again and are determined to hunt the shark(s) down. Minnow could not be more against this idea, knowing that shark hunting disrupts the order of the ocean. Some drama ensues, with Minnow up against the mayor, powerful islanders, and maybe even the guy she's falling for. Read the book to find out exactly what happens!

I knew nothing about sharks before reading The Shark House, so reading so much about sharks was fun; I always enjoy well-researched fiction on a totally new topic. I feel like I'm learning at the same time I'm enjoying the story.

The story has all the elements it needs to be engaging: a strong protagonist, a team that rallies behind her, a mysterious villain, and a little bit of romance. The ocean, Hawaii, and the community are all characters in the story. Overall, I really enjoyed The Shark House and recommend it. 4 stars!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.