1. About the Author: Sharon Ward
Sharon Ward is a rising voice in the mystery and adventure genre, best known for her Fin Fleming Scuba Diving Mystery series inspired by the enigmatic underwater world. Before becoming a full-time author, she worked in corporate communications, which shaped her sharp, vivid writing style. Ward’s novels often blend action, suspense, and emotional depth with immersive settings like tropical oceans and marine institutes. She’s especially praised for crafting strong, relatable female protagonists and weaving fast-paced plots with rich environmental themes—elements that make her work stand out in the crowded mystery space.
2. About the Narrator: Sarah Beth Goer
Sarah Beth Goer is an experienced audiobook narrator known for her versatile vocal performance and emotional nuance. Her ability to shift tone, pace, and intensity based on the story’s needs makes her a favorite among audiobook fans. In Dark Tide, she brings Fin Fleming to life—portraying the character’s strength, fear, and determination with layered precision. Goer’s narration style is crisp, engaging, and perfectly aligned with the book’s suspenseful tone, making her one of the standout elements of this audiobook experience.
3. About the Book: Dark Tide
Dark Tide is the third installment in Sharon Ward’s Fin Fleming Scuba Diving Mystery series. The story follows Fin—a skilled underwater photographer and professional diver—who gets entangled in a mysterious disappearance in Grand Cayman. With her best friend missing, shark sightings on the rise, and dive tanks being stolen, Fin must dive deeper—literally and emotionally—to uncover the truth.
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Adventure
Setting: Marine Institute in Grand Cayman
Key Themes: Courage under pressure, confronting fear, uncovering hidden truths
Ratings:
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Goodreads: 4.36/5 (approx. 200 ratings)
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Audible: 4.5/5 (approx. 20 ratings), with consistent praise for narration and pacing
Sales/Recognition: While exact sales numbers aren’t public, Dark Tide is widely regarded as one of the most acclaimed entries in the Fin Fleming series.
4. Book Review: Dark Tide – A Suspenseful Journey
Dark Tide masterfully blends underwater action, mystery, and survival elements into a compelling narrative. Sharon Ward crafts a richly detailed world where every breath underwater might be the last. The pacing is tight, the stakes are high, and the emotional undertones add depth beyond the surface-level thrills.
Strengths:
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Unique concept: Combining scuba diving and detective work
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Strong female protagonist with emotional and intellectual depth
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Vivid descriptions of underwater settings
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Fast-paced plot with layered tension
Weaknesses:
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Some side plots feel unresolved or underdeveloped
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A few story beats might feel overly dramatized for some readers
Notable Quotes from Reviews:
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“I was surprised at the ending… like the very end. Worth listening!” – Audible Listener
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“I’m enjoying all the underwater stuff – exciting and unique.” – Goodreads Reviewer
Personal Thoughts:
I was hooked by Dark Tide from the very first chapter—not just because of its thrilling mystery, but because Sharon Ward immerses the reader in a vividly crafted underwater world. This book is more than just entertainment; it’s a story of courage, resilience, and loyalty. Fin’s character is inspiring and real, and the suspense never lets up. If you’re looking for a fast-paced mystery that also touches on emotional strength and environmental awareness, this book should be on your must-read (or must-listen) list.
5. Audiobook Review: Dark Tide – Narrated by Sarah Beth Goer
The audiobook version of Dark Tide narrated by Sarah Beth Goer delivers an immersive, cinematic experience. Her voice captures the tension, fear, and inner strength of Fin Fleming, perfectly complementing the story’s tone and rhythm.
Highlights:
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Emotionally nuanced performance
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Clear articulation and expressive delivery
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Maintains momentum throughout, making it easy to stay engaged
Drawbacks:
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A few listeners felt that intense scenes could’ve used slightly more vocal urgency—but most reviews are overwhelmingly positive.
Notable Quotes from Reviews:
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“The narrator was perfect for Fin. She brought her to life.” – Audible Listener
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“Sharon and Sarah make a great team. This audiobook is worth every minute.” – Miss Demeanors Blog
Personal Thoughts:
Listening to Dark Tide narrated by Sarah Beth Goer was a truly immersive experience. Her voice didn’t just tell the story—it lived it. From moments of quiet dread to fast-paced confrontation, Goer’s delivery guided my emotions like waves through the plot. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or relaxing at home, this audiobook offers a gripping story with top-tier narration that you won’t want to pause.
6. Who Should Listen to or Read This Book?
Dark Tide is a perfect fit for:
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Fans of modern mysteries with a twist
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Readers who love ocean, diving, or environmental themes
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Audiobook lovers seeking strong female leads and quality narration
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Anyone who enjoys series-based stories with character development and suspense
If you’ve enjoyed books like Into the Blue or The Deep Blue Good-by, you’ll find a thrilling new favorite in this title.
7. Conclusion
Dark Tide is not just another mystery novel—it’s an emotionally charged, fast-paced, and beautifully immersive journey into the depths of human strength and the ocean’s secrets. Sharon Ward’s storytelling, paired with Sarah Beth Goer’s expressive narration, makes this a must-have for your reading or listening list this year.
Let yourself be pulled into the riptide of Dark Tide—where danger lurks beneath the waves and the truth is deeper than it seems.
8. Where to Listen to the Audiobook
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