I had a chance to listen to an early copy of this book on netgalley If you want to learn about the sharks them this book is for you, the narrator made this story come to life and I loved it!

PUB DATE: Jan 13 2026

I listened to the audiobook of The Shark House while visiting Hawaii which felt perfect for the immersive setting of this book set on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. The story of Minnow, a marine biologist specializing in sharks with a traumatic past, really grabbed me from page one. In 1998, Minnow travels to Hawaii to investigate deadly shark incidents including a near fatal attack of a famous actress. Minnow grapples with the challenges of trying to save the sharks from being hunted in a mass culling as retribution, her connection to these animals, and the tragedy of her parents’ death. She also meets a mysterious fisherman with a romance angle (which I could have done without).

Overall, I loved how the setting here felt like a character, rich with culture and how Ackerman presents sharks in a way that shows how clearly misunderstood they are. I wasn’t too clear on why it was set in the 90’s (aside from evoking some nostalgia) and I found some of the past snippets distracting, but overall I really enjoyed how emotionally invested I was in this story and look forward to reading more of Ackerman’s work.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Muse Audio for the advanced audio copy of The Shark House. The narration was excellent-great pacing, expression and emotion. This story was told beautifully, had just the right amount of suspense, romance and information to it and some multi-layered characters. I would recommend adding it to your TBR

A beautifully told reminder of how deeply we’re connected to the natural world — and what’s at risk when human life and wildlife collide. Listening to this on audio made the themes even more vivid: the power of habitat, the fragility of ecosystems, and the ripple effects when that balance breaks.

The Hawaiian setting absolutely shines. You can feel the spirit, the reverence, and the history woven into every chapter. And there’s something especially moving about the way the story revisits the past — how childhood memories shift and sharpen when revisited through adult eyes. That quiet reckoning, that peeling back of what we thought we understood, gives the story its emotional weight.

A thoughtful, atmospheric listen that blends culture, nature, and memory in a really meaningful way.

Read if you like:
• Hawaii-set fiction
• Nature-forward themes
• Family secrets + emotional reckoning

Thank you to the Author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to an advance copy of this story.

The Shark House by Sara Ackerman
Narrated by Jennifer Robideau

I requested The Shark House because the blurb suggested it was "Perfect for fans of Lessons In Chemistry," which I loved.

Set on the Kohala Coast of Hawai'i in 1998, biologist and shark whisperer Minnow Gray arrives to investigate a series of unusual shark attacks. As she probes deeper into the situation, she realises that the reasons behind the attacks are far more suspicious than she initially believed.

Minnow is a great white shark specialist who has been drawn to this powerful creature since a tragic event in her childhood. 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. Set against a backdrop of stunning Hawaiian landscapes and seascapes, this is one of those books whose backdrop is as much a character as the people.

Thank you to Harper Muse and NetGalley for an Audio ARC in exchange for my review. The audiobook is narrated by Jennifer Robideau, who was born and raised in Hawai'i. Her accent was perfect for this book, and she did a fantastic job.

If you enjoy a crime-adjacent book with a touch of slow-burn romance, you might enjoy The Shark House by Sara Ackerman, which will be available in January 2026. This'd be an excellent holiday read, although perhaps not if your holiday is at the beach!

Body count: 3.

@saraackermanbooks #saraackermanbooks #TheSharkHouse #NetGalley @NetGalley #Thumbsup #booksdeevaareads #2025bookshelf #deevaasbookshelf #booknerd #CreativeLife #goreadabook #allthebooks #Bookstagram #DesignInspiration #newrelease #Designer #GraphicDesign #DesignNerd #designdeevaa #Bookstagram #TBRList #Bookish

What it’s about
A string of shark attacks has the Kohala coast on edge in 1998, bringing biologist and shark whisperer Minnow Grey back to Hawai‘i to uncover what’s disturbing the waters. As she studies the great white believed to be responsible, she’s also forced to confront the long-buried trauma of witnessing a shark tragedy with her father years before. Her search for answers becomes both a deep-sea investigation and a personal reckoning, blending science, memory, and healing against the vivid beauty and danger of the islands.

My take
I’m always drawn to a striking cover and this one pulled me in right away. This contemporary fiction novel immerses you in every sense of Hawai‘i. I loved the way she wove in culture, food, local lore, and especially the ocean and its sharks. With well drawn characters and a slow burn pace, it unfolds in a way that feels atmospheric. The story works to give sharks a bit of redemption, reminding us that the ocean belongs to them and we’re simply visitors. If you’re drawn to Hawaiian stories layered with ecology, a little mystery, a little romance, and a found family thread, this will be a great fit.

The audio was good overall with a grounded performance that fit the tone.

4.5 stars rounded up.

This is a beautiful story set in 1998 Hawaii about nature, sharks, and Hawaiian culture, with animal behavior, human behavior, and animal rights thrown in to the mix. Our protagonist, marine biologist and great white shark "white shark" expert Minnow Gray, is recruited to help discover why there have been several shark attacks off the coast of the Big Island. What follows is a little bit of science, a mystery to solve, a little romance, some island history, some culture, and a lot of beauty.

I really enjoyed this story and loved the audio narration of the audio book. It is rare that I listen to an entire book on 1.0 speed, but I was so lulled by the languid cadence of the narrator, and relaxing island spirit of this book that I stuck with 1.0 the entire time. I found Minnow to be likable, and though the story perhaps lagged a little in the middle, it wrapped up well and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey.

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Muse Audiobooks for the advanced listener copy of this book.

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.

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!

The narrator does a fantastic job and really makes the story come alive!

Set in beautiful Hawaii, this book has a lot of love for ocean life, especially sharks. There’s low-key mystery, & low-low-key romance. Pacing was a slow burn and the storyline felt engaging. I enjoyed learning about sharks & the protection of ocean life & marine habitats.
Thank you #Netgalley for the ARC audiobook

There is no doubt that Sara Ackerman poured her heart into this book and she will leave you knowing exactly where her heart lies; sharks and marine conservation.

Biologist and shark whisperer Minnow Gray is called upon to help investigate the reason for a number of shark attacks just off the coast of Hawaii. In the midst of her investigation, she realizes she must confront some of her past trauma.

I really loved his similar to Charlotte McConaghy, the writing is vivid and atmospheric with mystery woven in, and the setting is an extremely important character in the story. I really enjoyed learning so much about great white sharks as well as the Hawaiian culture.

I think the narrator did a fine job bringing these characters and the Hawaiian culture to life.

A huge thanks to NetGalley and Harper Muse Audiobooks for a gifted ALC in exchange for my honest opinion.

A fascinating story about sharks, the ocean, Hawaii, the people of Hawaii as well as their culture. Minnow Grey, a young marine biologist is asked to go to the Big Island of Hawaii to investigate recent and multiple great white shark attacks on the shores of the island. Minnow is a great white shark specialist who has been drawn to this powerful and mysterious shark since a child. The story paints these beautiful creatures as non threatening as appose the idea they are monsters and human predators. I enjoyed how the author weaved in the native culture and words of the Hawaiian people as well as the beauty of the ocean and the animals that call it home. Minnow was a unique character who must face her past history that has haunted her as well as help educate those who want to kill her beloved great white sharks. The audiobook was well narrated and enjoyable.. I was draw to this story since I had visited the Big Island a few years ago and the author made me want to return again to this amazing Island. I never thought I would enjoy a book about sharks but this unique story was so interesting.

Thank you to Harper Muse and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion and review.

The Shark House was an incredible, mysterious novel that had me hooked from the very first page! I listened to the audiobook, and I couldn’t be happier with that choice. The narrator was absolutely fantastic! I loved how the author was able to weave together so much depth within this story - from Hawaiian culture and waters to marine conservation and giving empathy to the great white sharks while keeping the story engaging throughout. Honestly, I felt like the story and narrator had pulled me into the story with them! I highly recommend it.

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

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.
.

@saraackermanbooks is one my automatic buy authors. As a Hawaii local girl, Ackerman writes about Hawaii, the people and our culture in truly authentic ways.

Minnow is a marine biologist in Kohala on the Big Island of Hawaii to investigate two recent shark attacks. Minnow has to walk the IRL unclear line between local culture (we believe the shark is an aumakua – a family god/ guardian) and tourism.

Minnow interviews the celebrity and now shark attack victim, and goes up against the local government as they are wanting a shark hunt as the prepare for international ocean swim competition. There is a little bit of romance that only adds to the story.

I absolutely loved every moment of this and the narrator, Jennifer Robideau, nailed all the local words and dialect.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND read all the books. The Shark House is one my top books from this author. Red Sky Over Hawaii and The Lieutenant’s Nurse are also my top Sara Ackerman books. I’m definitely buying this book to add to my Sara Ackerman collection.

Thank you #NetGalley for the complimentary copy of #TheSharkHouse. Thank you also @HarperMuseBooks for approving my request.

I love sharks and I love books about sharks. They consume my brain and I really appreciated that information wise, this book gives a ton of it despite not being nonfiction. The end was satisfying and I feel as though the author gave credit where credit is due when talking about Hawaiian culture.

Sometimes I do things I don’t understand… like listening to an intensely atmospheric book about deep sea danger while working in my garden on a perfectly safe, land locked street. But from the very first chapter, I was completely submerged in this world.
First off, I have to admit, this book is top tier my kind of novel. I’ve always been fascinated by sharks! They’re one of my biggest fears and greatest wonders all at once. That push and pull is exactly what Sara Ackerman captures so beautifully. This isn’t a story that demonizes nature. It is one that seeks to understand it, and in doing so, helps the main character understand herself.
The audio narration was perfect, making the already immersive Hawaiian setting and tense water scenes even more powerful. A five star read that left me feeling empty and full all at once.

The Shark House is an engaging blend of drama, mystery, and marine conservation, and I appreciated how thoughtfully Sara Ackerman worked to demystify sharks and portray them with accuracy and empathy. The story itself held my attention in waves—there were stretches that pulled me in deeply and others where my focus drifted—but the overall narrative is heartfelt, atmospheric, and grounded in a genuine respect for the ocean.

The audiobook took a little time to settle into. The narrator’s style wasn’t an immediate fit for me, but as the story progressed, I adjusted to the rhythm and found that the performance ultimately complemented the tone of the novel. Once I acclimated, the narration supported the emotional undercurrents and helped carry me through the slower sections.

A thoughtful, ocean-immersed story with a meaningful message and memorable setting.

Thanks to Netgalley and Harper Muse Audiobooks for this ALC this is my honest review.

This is the easiest 5 star I have ever given any book. I'm obsessed.
I loved every second of this. The narrator did such an amazing job bringing the story to life. She perfectly captured the cadence of the Hawaiian English Pidgin to create an immersive experience like not even full cast audiobooks can.
Coupled with the powerful, yet beautiful writing, this book is a powerhouse.
Besides this I felt deeply connected to this story, even though I have no connection to anything that it talks about. It sucked me in and gave me a new perspective on not only life, but the beauty of sharks.
As a South African, who have read about and seen reports of shark incidents on our own shores, this book felt like a powerful message to protect all marine life.
I loved Minnow as a character and following her journey as she delves deeper into her own past while trying to uncover what is happening off the coast of Kohala was a truly emotional experience. The other characters also felt so authentic. I cannot wait to get to know them even better when I reread this.
I highly recommend this read! I will definitely return to it time and time again.

⭐️ ALC Review: The Shark House by Sara Ackerman ⭐️

Pub Date: January 13, 2026
Thank you @netgalley for the ALC! 🎧💙

I requested this one entirely because of the stunning cover… and I’m so glad I did. I really enjoyed this book — and I highly recommend the audio.

Even though this is technically women’s fiction with a historical fiction angle (…does the 1990s count as historical? 😂), it felt fresh, immersive, and unlike anything I’ve read lately.

What I loved most:
🌺 The Hawaiian language + culture.
Each chapter begins with a Hawaiian word, and hearing them pronounced by the narrator was such a beautiful touch. The accents, sayings, and cultural details woven throughout filled my heart. Hawaii is such a special, magical place to me — and this book honored that feeling.

🦈 The sharks + ocean education.
So fascinating! The way Ackerman writes about the ocean reminded me of the reverence and environmental awareness of Wild Dark Shore — painting lush scenes while quietly teaching respect for the natural world.

🌊 The story itself.
A mix of mystery, a sweet side romance, and meaningful self-discovery. It felt gentle, atmospheric, and surprisingly soulful.

Read if:
✨ you love Hawaii
✨ you love the ocean
✨ you’re intrigued by sharks
✨ you want something a little different from your usual TBR

⭐️ Rating: 4 stars

I never thought I would ever love — or even enjoy — a story about sharks, but this book proved me wrong. The story of Minnow Gray, a biologist and true “shark whisperer,” immediately captivated me. The book is set in 1990s Hawaii, where the young scientist is asked to investigate a series of deadly shark attacks.
The writing is vivid and immersive, blending mystery, science, and the beauty of ocean life in a way that kept me hooked from start to finish. I ended up learning so much about sharks and sea life along the way. Such a surprising and wonderful read!

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!

I really enjoyed The Shark House audiobook. Set mainly beneath water off the coast of Kohala the story blends marine science, mystery, and suspense.

The main character Minnow has a deep attachment to sharks. The author brings this love of sharks alive to bring awareness to sharks habitat. It’s a thoughtful thriller that brings respect to our oceans and the creatures that call it home.

The narrator does a fantastic job bringing the characters alive.

If you like the ocean, island life, and thrillers this book is for you!

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced audio copy. Opinions are all my own!

#TheSharkHouse #NetGalley

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.

Loved this historical fiction read set in 1998 Hawaii with its stunning view that I could only imagine. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the characters in this book especially the relationship between humans and sharks.

The narration brought the story and characters into a more interesting read.

With thanks to NetGalley and to the publisher Harper Muse Audiobooks for a great ARC.

I enjoy the books connection and straight forward story about humans connection to the world, and animals. A reminder that this isn't our planet, it's the animals. I enjoyed learning about the sharks, and the family connections.

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!

The Shark House pulled me in right from the start, and the audiobook only amplified that immersion. The Hawaiian setting feels vivid and alive, and the narrator does a great job capturing both the tension of the shark attacks and Minnow’s quieter, internal struggles.

I loved the blend of mystery, marine science, and emotional depth. Minnow is a compelling protagonist—someone shaped by trauma but determined to face it head-on. Following her into the deep felt both eerie and meditative. The shark behavior and ocean scenes are really well done, and I appreciated how the story never turned sharks into one-note villains. It’s more about connection, memory, and the parts of ourselves we try to bury.

The pacing leans atmospheric rather than nonstop action, but I never found it slow. The audiobook kept me hooked, especially as Minnow’s past and the present-day shark attacks start to mirror each other in unsettling ways.

If you liked the character depth of Lessons in Chemistry or the nature-meets-danger vibe of Once There Were Wolves, this scratches the same itch. A thoughtful, moody mystery with heart—and a great listen in audio.

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 book was amazing! I loved every second of it. It hooks you from the first chapter and keeps your interest piqued for the entire book! I loved the MC, the plot and the sub plots too. It’s so well written. I loved the time period too. It’s a beautiful book, i’ll be telling everyone to pick this up!

This was my first audio book and I really liked it . I liked the book too. It was based on 1998 Hawaii a female in a male dominated world ,and where sharks take over in human world .
A very thought provoking book I suggest you pick it up and read it
Thank you NetGalley for the audiobook and the publishers

I commend #thesharkhouse for staying true to title and upping my shark knowledge while building deep relationships between likable characters. The alternating diary entry timelines were a little confusing, and the ending didn’t have a huge wow factor for me, but it was satisfying and enjoyable to read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this one early.

I am an absolute lover of the White Shark and I ADORED this book.

Ethereal. Atmospheric. Moving.

I really enjoyed the narration, particularly hearing the pronunciation of the Hawaiian words. Having the infused element of Hawaiian culture made this book stand out. I usually listen to audiobooks at 1.5x or 1.75x, but chose 1x for this one, both to make it last longer and to fully immerse myself in the story.

The story kept me on my toes, touched my heart, and shares a poignant message about the importance of our ecosystems, marine life, and apex predators.

I also enjoyed the Author’s Note. The Devil’s Teeth has been a book near and dear to me for decades.

As someone who is notoriously stingy with giving 5 stars, this year I decided to become more lenient; this book, however, would have received 5 stars even under my old system.

I *will* be buying a copy of this book - the first time I’ve ever purchased a a book I’ve listened to on audio or an ARC.

Thank you to the publisher for allowing me a chance to read this book prior to publishing. And a *huge* thank you to Sara Ackerman for putting this beautiful story out into the world. 🩵🦈

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Muse Audiobooks for an ARC of this Audio book in exchange for my honest review.!

The Shark House is a gripping blend of mystery, history, and Hawaiian atmosphere that pulls you in with its eerie setting and keeps you hooked with its emotional depth. Sara Ackerman delivers a story where the ocean is both a beautiful backdrop and a looming, unpredictable force—and that tension is felt on every page.

The dual timelines are woven together seamlessly, each one adding layers of suspense and heartbreak. The characters feel grounded and real, shaped by loss, secrets, and the fierce pull of family. Ackerman is fantastic at crafting heroines who are strong in quiet, resilient ways, and this book is no exception.
👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

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.

Narration was lovely. At first, I was worried she would be a bit...monotone? But quickly forgot my worries! The reader did a seamless job transitioning between male and female voices as well, which is a monumental task!

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

Thank you so very muc

Hawaii, sharks, and a dash of thriller/mystery? YES!

I listened to this on audio and I’m ready to buy a plane ticket to Hawaii for sure!

One dead, one missing and the other lost an arm. Three tragedies and everyone wants answers. It’s easy to blame the sharks but the blood is really on human hands this time.

Thank you to the author, publisher, UpLit, and NetGalley for allowing me to read this as an ARC.

I am so thankful that I had a chance to listen to an advanced copy of The Shark House audiobook. The narrator did a phenomenal job with the pronunciation the native Hawaiian language. Since I was a child, I have been enamored by sharks, all sea life really, similarly to the FMC Minnow. Before I could really comprehend fear and all that studying marine life entails, I would have proudly told you that I wanted to be a marine biologist (or a dolphin trainer depending on the day). Now, I am often anchored to the beach with fear of swimming in the ocean and all of its unknown. This book was a beautiful reminder of the balance and respect that we must maintain for the ocean and its apex predators. I encourage anyone who wishes they could be less fearful of the ocean to lean into that desire and read this book.

In the author's note, Sara Ackerman mentions and much of her information/interest regarding the Farallon Islands came from the book Devil's Teeth by Susan Casey, a true story of a journalist's time spent on Southeast Farallon Island and her obsession with the sharks that live there - this book made me love sharks too, it still sits on my bookshelf.

Thank you to Harper Muse Audiobooks, Sara Ackerman and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to the ALC of The Shark House before it is released!

It's books like The Shark House that keep me reading. Books that have the ability to transport you to places in the world you've never been, to experience something you've never witnessed for yourself. All with the clever atmospheric words they choose. Sara Ackerman does a tremendous job world building, I feel like I've been on Hawai'i beaches for the last 8+ hours and seen the sharks myself, all while listening to Jennifer Robideau bring the story to life.

It won't be a book for everyone, but for those who like it escape reality for a little while. I recommend this! The Shark House is out 13th January 2026!

I am glad I stuck with this novel, it was a bit slow in the beginning but I advise you to stick to it. There is so much cultural and marine information in the book if you listen closely. 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. While this may lack the thrills that one may expect from a shark novel, it had a lot of heart. The highlight of this by far was anything surrounding the islands and the culture and the ocean. Many thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher.

Another 4 star eco thriller. I think this is my new favorite genre. I learned something and get to play armchair detective! beautiful setting, the narrator on the audio version took a bit to get used to thier cadence but still sucked me right in.
thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

The audiobook for Sara Ackerman's The Shark House is a triumph, immersing listeners in the rich, atmospheric world of 1998 Hawaii. The narrator's visceral performance makes the protagonist's journey of healing and discovery incredibly immediate and raw.

This is a story that expertly blends suspense and environmental advocacy with powerful character development. It's a captivating listen that perfectly brings to life a tale of resilience, redemption, and the awe-inspiring power of the natural world. A must-listen for fans of character-driven mysteries.

4

setting: Hawaii
rep: Hawaiian side characters

this is kind of like "once there were wolves" but make it sharks. I love a book about people with unique passions, in this case sharks, and the writing was very evocative of the atmosphere. the relationships could have done with a tad more development but overall this was a good read

thank you NetGalley and Harper Muse for providing an audiobook copy of The Shark House by Sarah Ackerman in exchange for my thoughts and honest review.

first, the cover!! it’s *beyond* gorgeous!! so, to judge this book by it would make it fabulous! and i can say after listening to it (read by Jennifer Robideau) i felt this novel captures many aspects of the human experience. from discovery to experience; to understanding life as one perceives it; to connecting with others, including wildlife (in this book, sharks), and allowing an incredible blend of nature, science, self-reflection, and love.

i love the writing and the emotion that the author was able to convey on each page, the story and its characters (including the sharks) were so multifaceted. i could feel the reverence and love that the main character, Minnow, had for sharks and couldn’t help but root for her and her journey. i highly recommend this book when you’re in the mood for an atmospheric novel that features beautiful character development, and a story that is engaging and emotional. this will leave you in awe and feeling more connection with the world than before.

A shark incident takes place in a small beach/town in Hawaii and shark expert and lover, Minnow, is enlisted to figure out why it took place.

A beautiful story about healing after the trauma of losing her dad due to a shark accident and standing up for what’s right. Even a little romance in there!

I especially loved how informative this was about sharks and really went into how Hollywood has given sharks a bad name. I feel like I’ve come out with a new respect for the animals, and feel like Minnow as a character definitely left her mark on me with her passion towards the ocean.

The author also does a great job with world-building. I truly felt like I was in a small town in Hawaii.. loved this one!

4.5 stars ⭐️

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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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!

A fascinating story of fiction that also had a lot of facts thrown in about sharks and other marine life. Minnow was an enjoyable a likable character with a tragic past who goes to help figure out the mystery of swimmers being attacked supposedly by a shark. Good narration and interesting story.
Easy to listen to and follow along.

I started The Shark House expecting a blood filled shark frenzy. Instead, I had my heart stolen by Minnow, a marine biologist who studies great white sharks. Minnow is called to Hawaii due to an influx of shark activity. Numerous people have been bitten recently and there have also been some lives lost. The town is in panic and people are planning to take matters into their own hands by rounding up boats and going out on a shark hunt. Minnow is doing everything in her power to prove that this is not normal shark behavior and that there must be a reason this is happening. She's begging for more time to get to the bottom of the issue. Minnow wants for nothing more than to save the sharks, all while dealing with her own grief that is brought to the surface from these events! The love Minnow has for not just the sharks but all ocean life is truly inspiring. This story had me hooked from beginning to end! I love sharks and loved this book with my whole heart. This book felt powerful, emotional, and soulful. This is a fictional story that had me so worried and concerned for the safety of the sharks off the Hawaiian coast. The audiobook narrator did a beautiful job embracing the strong character that is Minnow Gray. If you are a lover of sharks (or even just a lover of nature), I highly recommend this book!
Thank you Harper Muse and Netgalley for this ALC. This book has been added to my list of favorites ❤️🦈

I really enjoy Sarah Ackerman books, not only because she brings Hawaii alive but because her stories are not superficial, her characters have depth and because you learn so much about topic that may never have interested but now do - like sharks which share their name with the title. Minnow (what a fascinating name!) studies sharks; she's educated and has come to Hawaii to help identify a shark predator - though sharks are not by nature predators of humans. Minnie arrives just after a young movie star has been attacked by a shark. Natives are concerned not only about safety but about respect for the shark because it has links to their native religions and legends. The non native community wants to hunt for the shark though as Minnow and others point out this will not solve the problem, finding out why this shark has invaded the area is the real issue. Minnow and Luke (a small sweet romance is part of the story) and others keep finding clues and the ending is quite satisfying as are Minnow's roots to the island. I listened to this well narrated book. My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this ARC. Highly recommend.

I’ve always found sharks fascinating, powerful, majestic, and endlessly intriguing so I was really excited to pick up this book. It didn’t disappoint!!

The story instantly pulled me in and reminded me a bit of Jaws, but with a more rational, thought-provoking take. Instead of a fear driven manhunt, this book explores what happens when science and fear collide in the aftermath of shark attacks.

When two swimmers are bitten and another goes missing off the coast of Hawaii, panic spreads just as the annual ocean swim approaches. Officials, desperate to reassure the public, propose a large-scale shark cull to try and make the waters safe again and reassure the public.

That’s when Minnow Gray, a marine biologist who specializes in sharks is called in. She’s brought in to investigate the attacks and quickly realizes the situation isn’t as simple as it seems. As she races to uncover the truth, she also faces the challenge of convincing everyone that culling sharks is never the answer.

Engaging and smart, this book combines suspense with science and heart. It not only delivers an enjoyable and familiar story, but also sheds light on the real world consequences of shark culling and our complicated relationship with these incredible creatures.

I received a copy of this via ebook before receiving the audio. I loved the book, rated it a 5, submitted feedback reflecting that here and on Goodreads. Thank you so much!!

A unique and interesting story looking at some history and sharks off Hawaii. Sara Ackerman draws you into the landscape and characters with this novel.

1998. In the heart of paradise, danger lurks beneath the surface. Biologist and shark whisperer Minnow Gray travels to the rugged Hawai'i coastline, where a series of shark attacks have left the island community on edge. Tasked with uncovering what's going on, she dives into the blue depths, and discovers the problem runs deeper than just one dangerous great white. Haunted by her own past marked by a tragic shark encounter, Minnow finds herself drawn into a tangled web of intrigue and peril that extends far beyond the ocean's surface. A scandal that implicates some of the island's most powerful people.

Determined to uncover the reason for these attacks before the mayor calls a mass killing of sharks in the area, Minnow 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. But it's not just the secrets of the island that rise to the surface. Minnow must confront her own traumatic past, the haunting memories that have shaped her life and her connection to these misunderstood predators—and to this place.

I was a little kid when the movie Jaws came out in theaters in the 70s. Just the commercials had me terrified. Since then, I have loved reading about sharks and watching documentaries on them. So, when I saw this novel was coming out, I was so excited to read it. I didn’t know if this was going to be Jaws-worthy, but I wanted to give it a shot. Sara Ackerman did not disappoint.

There is so much good in this book. A lot of shark information, action, drama, story and character development. I love how Ms. Ackerman did not make the sharks out to be the bad guys, some evil monster. They are animals in their own environment.

Jennifer Robideau did a great job narrating the audiobook and added to the enjoyment.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.

I received an ARC of this title from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. A beautifully well-written story that made me feel like I was out on the water with the main characters searching for sharks. Having been to Hawaii I could picture the beautiful water and places the characters visited.

This was a poignant, moving story that left me thinking about it long after I put it down. As a shark-lover, I enjoyed the reverence the author used when talking about sharks. This is a story about family, grief, trauma, and hope.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

While this may be seen by some to be a romance, and there are certainly romantic elements that play here, the real story, the best story, is the relationship that the main character in this book has with nature. Sharks have always fascinated.Minnow, and she brings readers along on her journey as she explores the Office, mysterious lives of these much-maligned creatures off the coast of Hawaii. There’s so much to love in this story, a strong female protagonist, a deep appreciation and love of the natural world, and little known information about the many types of sharks that call the Pacific Ocean of Hawaii their home

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 narration is wonderful and really brings this story to life. It makes me want to book a trip to Hawaii asap.

Would have loved to listen during shark week! I learned a lot about great white sharks and tiger sharks while listening.

There was a good mystery throughout, and I enjoyed it! I just wish there was a little more romance in it! After reading The Maui Effect in January and LOOOVING the romance, I definitely was missing it between Minnow and Luke. We just got a little taste!