Before the Tide (Crystal Cove Harbor Book 1) A Second Chance, Small Town, Women's Fiction, Beach Romance

In the sandy and sunny town of Crystal Cove Harbor, a tale of young and enduring love begins to unfold with Elm Doherty at its center. The star player of the high school basketball team, Elm dreams of a future playing on the gleaming courts of the Boston Celtics, far away from the shadow of his father's failings. Bound to Lacey Hill, the head cheerleader, by the expectations of those around him, Elm's soul yearns for a future she can't offer.

Into Elm's life walks Deena Porter, a newcomer to town with a spirit as untamable as the ocean's tide and ambitions that reach far beyond the bright horizon. Aspiring to leave her mark on the world, Deena's passion for a life beyond the small-town mold captures Elm's heart, setting them on a path of love and discovery. Together, they dare to dream of a future unbound by the constraints of their surroundings, finding solace in each other's dreams and vulnerabilities.

But as fate would have it, a cruel twist awaits. An injury during the championship game threatens to shatter Elm's dreams, potentially anchoring him to the very life he sought to escape.

As summer wanes and the reality of their situation sets in, Elm and Deena are faced with choices that could alter the course of their futures forever. In a moment of despair, Elm's actions seal his fate, further binding him to a life he never wanted and a future far removed from his dreams.

In a world where dreams are fragile and the path to happiness is fraught with obstacles, the pair must decide if their love can withstand the test of time.

Before the Tide is a poignant tale of youthful aspirations, heartfelt love, and the harsh realities that test the bounds of our dreams and desires.