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Monster Mates #3
Captured by the Cthulhu
You’d think my biggest problem as a lighthouse keeper would be the drunk tourists.
Yeah
, no. It’s actually the infuriatingly hot cthulhu who’s decided I belong to him.
Cape Tempest has a history written in sea monster blood. So when I discover a wounded cthulhu in my boathouse, I know I should run.
Instead, I tend to his injuries.
I didn’t realize helping Roark would earn me his eternal devotion and protection. And I especially didn’t expect him to thank me with sensual worshipping…
Letting him stay risks my place in this town. But the thing about cthulhus?
Once they get their arms around something they want, they never let go…
Captured by the Cthulhu is a spicy standalone monster romance featuring a possessive cthulhu, a lighthouse keeper who's in way over her head, and enough heat to steam up your kindle. Perfect for fans of dangerously hot monsters. Guaranteed HEA!
Cape Tempest has a history written in sea monster blood. So when I discover a wounded cthulhu in my boathouse, I know I should run.
Instead, I tend to his injuries.
I didn’t realize helping Roark would earn me his eternal devotion and protection. And I especially didn’t expect him to thank me with sensual worshipping…
Letting him stay risks my place in this town. But the thing about cthulhus?
Once they get their arms around something they want, they never let go…
Captured by the Cthulhu is a spicy standalone monster romance featuring a possessive cthulhu, a lighthouse keeper who's in way over her head, and enough heat to steam up your kindle. Perfect for fans of dangerously hot monsters. Guaranteed HEA!
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 29, 2025
290 people are currently reading
244 people want to read
About the author
Ivy Sparks
24 books160 followersClick '+Follow' to get updates on new releases!
Ivy Sparks has a passion for romances that feature kick-ass heroines and the dark alpha males who love them. If not for her demanding cat, she'd probably have even more books out.
Sign up to Ivy Sparks's newsletter for updates and a FREE book! https://ivysparks.eo.page/freebook
Ivy Sparks has a passion for romances that feature kick-ass heroines and the dark alpha males who love them. If not for her demanding cat, she'd probably have even more books out.
Sign up to Ivy Sparks's newsletter for updates and a FREE book! https://ivysparks.eo.page/freebook
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
May 18, 2025
This story was so wholesome and cute, with a touch of tenacley fun.
Captured by the Cthulhu is a wonderful addition to this fabulous series from Ivy Sparks. After reading this I have decided I need to explore some of her other works, because this series at large has been chefs kiss. My favorite in the series is still Bound to the Naga by just a tad bit, you can find my review of that here.
Now into talking about this specific book. This is giving rom-com with a supernatural twist. Idk if can be considered a meet cute, but it was definitely cute and they definitely built their relationship from there. Roark the male lead and cthulhu, hadn’t yet joined the human world since the supernatural became known in this universe. He had been living an isolated existence, since he couldn’t blend into human society and feared being attacked. He was such a sweetie, and had the perfect personality to match the FMC.
Ashe is a lighthouse keeper, who works alone most of the time. She has a very isolating profession, but seems to have a deep devotion to the water and helping her community through vigilant observation. Her empathy leads her to assist a “monster”, where a different human might have left Roark to die. Well, she does more than just leave him to die as she straps on the metaphorical role of Florence Nightingale and nurses him back to health. She is prepared to face her town's prejudices so she won’t be alone again.
There are a bit of shenanigans from other supernaturals that I won’t spoil but that brought a needed tension to the narrative. I do wish Roark’s history with a certain someone had been explored more. I wanted more about Roark’s life before the supernaturals “came out” to the world.
This is a romance, with steamy situations. Lowkey besides the fact it includes tentacles the spice is pretty vanilla.
4.25 stars
Captured by the Cthulhu is a wonderful addition to this fabulous series from Ivy Sparks. After reading this I have decided I need to explore some of her other works, because this series at large has been chefs kiss. My favorite in the series is still Bound to the Naga by just a tad bit, you can find my review of that here.
Now into talking about this specific book. This is giving rom-com with a supernatural twist. Idk if can be considered a meet cute, but it was definitely cute and they definitely built their relationship from there. Roark the male lead and cthulhu, hadn’t yet joined the human world since the supernatural became known in this universe. He had been living an isolated existence, since he couldn’t blend into human society and feared being attacked. He was such a sweetie, and had the perfect personality to match the FMC.
Ashe is a lighthouse keeper, who works alone most of the time. She has a very isolating profession, but seems to have a deep devotion to the water and helping her community through vigilant observation. Her empathy leads her to assist a “monster”, where a different human might have left Roark to die. Well, she does more than just leave him to die as she straps on the metaphorical role of Florence Nightingale and nurses him back to health. She is prepared to face her town's prejudices so she won’t be alone again.
There are a bit of shenanigans from other supernaturals that I won’t spoil but that brought a needed tension to the narrative. I do wish Roark’s history with a certain someone had been explored more. I wanted more about Roark’s life before the supernaturals “came out” to the world.
This is a romance, with steamy situations. Lowkey besides the fact it includes tentacles the spice is pretty vanilla.
4.25 stars
October 3, 2025
This is a semi cozy, anxiety-ridden tentacle book. But I liked the couple very much, and I enjoyed that the fmc was more of a loner in a small town.
Not a super involved plot. This is character driven, and that’s ok. The mmc was rational and passionate which isn’t easy to write well.
No crazy kinky spice, just friendly tentacles that made her eyes cross. 🤭
Not a super involved plot. This is character driven, and that’s ok. The mmc was rational and passionate which isn’t easy to write well.
No crazy kinky spice, just friendly tentacles that made her eyes cross. 🤭
April 2, 2025
4/5 Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Tentacles were a given but no other crazy kinks, just some good old tentacle porn.
Issue is, now I wanna read every book in this series. Very well written and lots of World Building but it's a slow build, leaking in as needed and not dumped on you all at once. Both of the characters are very well rounded and everything feels organic and there's no feeling of the story or their relationship being forced.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Issue is, now I wanna read every book in this series. Very well written and lots of World Building but it's a slow build, leaking in as needed and not dumped on you all at once. Both of the characters are very well rounded and everything feels organic and there's no feeling of the story or their relationship being forced.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 25, 2025
Thank you BookSprout, and Ivy Sparks for sending me this advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was so sweet and wholesome. I loved the theme of coming out of the dark, and being able to be who you truly are. The ending was perfection, and made my heart so happy.
The spice was extra interesting because of the additional appendages, and there was always consent every step of the way.
This was so sweet and wholesome. I loved the theme of coming out of the dark, and being able to be who you truly are. The ending was perfection, and made my heart so happy.
The spice was extra interesting because of the additional appendages, and there was always consent every step of the way.
March 26, 2025
This tale has alot of plot and steam! The lighthouse keeper is a brave and strong woman and I found the Cthulu equally endearing. Believable as much as a monster fairy tale can be, and enjoyable read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 18, 2025
Such a beautifully told tale🌟🔥💖
I really as a Captain of A merchant vessel, since the great unveiling hides from the wold isolated and alone. Until one dark and stormy night a light guides him home. Ashe, is the local lighthouse keeper her life has always revolved around the sea. Both her parents were divers and experts on the ocean and those that call it home. Until fatal accident took her father. Her mother buried herself in work and Ashe struggled to find her place In the world. That is until she became the lighthouse keeper at Cape Tempest. She found her purpose but the loneliness is taking its toll. That is until she meets a male she should be afraid of but only feel wonder and safety around. A Cthulhu named Roark who seems to instinctively understand her. To halves of the same soul coming together and finding acceptance and love. Highly recommend beautiful story great well written characters it will leave a smile on your face. 💖🔥🔥💖🌟💖🔥🌟🔥💖🌟💖🔥🌟🔥💖🌟🔥💖🔥💖🌟🔥🔥
I really as a Captain of A merchant vessel, since the great unveiling hides from the wold isolated and alone. Until one dark and stormy night a light guides him home. Ashe, is the local lighthouse keeper her life has always revolved around the sea. Both her parents were divers and experts on the ocean and those that call it home. Until fatal accident took her father. Her mother buried herself in work and Ashe struggled to find her place In the world. That is until she became the lighthouse keeper at Cape Tempest. She found her purpose but the loneliness is taking its toll. That is until she meets a male she should be afraid of but only feel wonder and safety around. A Cthulhu named Roark who seems to instinctively understand her. To halves of the same soul coming together and finding acceptance and love. Highly recommend beautiful story great well written characters it will leave a smile on your face. 💖🔥🔥💖🌟💖🔥🌟🔥💖🌟💖🔥🌟🔥💖🌟🔥💖🔥💖🌟🔥🔥
April 7, 2025
So interestingly, the first book I hated, the second was cute, and I really liked the third. I read them in the wrong order of 2nd then first, then third, and I'm glad I did cause I wouldn't have read the others if I read the first one first.
June 11, 2025
This was almost really good. It just lacked some emotional depth and relationship development. A cool concept and a fun time with some good writing.
“They disapprove of your solitude?”
“Being alone is weird enough. Being alone and female? Apparently incomprehensible.”
Pg 66
“Loneliness is a curious thing. How it can hollow you out while convincing you it’s your natural state.”
Pg 102
“You’re not a monster,”
“You’re just… differently limbed.”
Pg 289
“They disapprove of your solitude?”
“Being alone is weird enough. Being alone and female? Apparently incomprehensible.”
Pg 66
“Loneliness is a curious thing. How it can hollow you out while convincing you it’s your natural state.”
Pg 102
“You’re not a monster,”
“You’re just… differently limbed.”
Pg 289
May 4, 2025
Gleeful Goblin Review: Imagine being a lighthouse keeper and finding the monster of your dreams all wrapped up in netting because he was chasing off poachers. Roark is a strong, kind, dedicated protector who makes Ashe's heart and.....other bits melt. "His eyes never leave mine, and now his voice is almost a purr. “Of course. I trust you.” Those simple words carry so much weight coming from him. From any cthulhu, really. I can barely breathe as I press the towel gently against his wounds. His skin is hot to the touch, and I feel his muscles tense beneath my hands. But he holds perfectly still, even as his breathing quickens. Working with his wounds is like trying to detail a living muscle car—there’s raw power under my hands, barely contained. Every time I press the towel to a new cut, his tentacles ripple and flex. The iodine must sting like hell, but he doesn’t make a sound. “So,” I say, desperate to distract both of us, “do you make it a habit of crashing into random boathouses, or am I special?” His laugh is deep. “I was… pursuing something.” “A white whale?” “Poachers,” he says, and the word carries enough venom to make me pause. “They were hunting in my waters.” “Your waters?” One tentacle gestures vaguely toward the window. “I protect this coast.” Well. That’s new. Here I’ve been giving tours, telling stories about the monsters that used to plague these waters, and all this time we’ve had our own personal guardian cthulhu."
Roark hasn't been one of the monsters who has been ready, willing, and able to assimilate into the human world. He's always been apart from it and unable to trust the humans around him. And for a very good reason! But Ashe is certainly one who can be an example of the better qualities of humanity. Kind, caring, hopeful, and filled with empathy. I found this to be such a sweet story with so much heart. I love the world this author is building out and I look forward to every new tale. 5/5 Stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Roark hasn't been one of the monsters who has been ready, willing, and able to assimilate into the human world. He's always been apart from it and unable to trust the humans around him. And for a very good reason! But Ashe is certainly one who can be an example of the better qualities of humanity. Kind, caring, hopeful, and filled with empathy. I found this to be such a sweet story with so much heart. I love the world this author is building out and I look forward to every new tale. 5/5 Stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 14, 2025
'They’re not the mindless gaze of a monstrous beast. There’s something in them— something that makes my chest ache with recognition.
I should run.
Every survival instinct I have is telling me to abandon him here and lock myself up in the safety of the lighthouse.
Instead, I step inside.'
I absolutely loved this book. It was such a sweet romance. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Ashe and Roark. Because of the history between their species, Roark expects a bad reaction when a human female discovers him injured. Ashe knew she should have been terrified and ran away, but she recognized both the intelligence and the power in his eyes and offered him help, kindness, consideration, and respect. Her actions surprised them both, and that whole scene was beautifully intimate and trusting on both their parts. I loved how she explained everything she was doing, asking his consent, and asking about his pain. Even talking to distract their minds while she worked- even inviting him into her home to better help him.
From that scene on, I was in love with their story and totally hooked. Because even then you could feel the current between them. I loved how their relationship developed and grew and turned into something neither would have ever expected.
'The knowledge that she’s affected by my touch, even unconsciously, makes my hearts race.
I wonder if she knows what she’s doing to me. If she understands that every gentle touch, every careful stitch, is dismantling years of isolation. That her simple acceptance of my true form is more intoxicating than any siren’s song.'
A beautiful romance and my favorite from this author. 5 stars
I should run.
Every survival instinct I have is telling me to abandon him here and lock myself up in the safety of the lighthouse.
Instead, I step inside.'
I absolutely loved this book. It was such a sweet romance. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Ashe and Roark. Because of the history between their species, Roark expects a bad reaction when a human female discovers him injured. Ashe knew she should have been terrified and ran away, but she recognized both the intelligence and the power in his eyes and offered him help, kindness, consideration, and respect. Her actions surprised them both, and that whole scene was beautifully intimate and trusting on both their parts. I loved how she explained everything she was doing, asking his consent, and asking about his pain. Even talking to distract their minds while she worked- even inviting him into her home to better help him.
From that scene on, I was in love with their story and totally hooked. Because even then you could feel the current between them. I loved how their relationship developed and grew and turned into something neither would have ever expected.
'The knowledge that she’s affected by my touch, even unconsciously, makes my hearts race.
I wonder if she knows what she’s doing to me. If she understands that every gentle touch, every careful stitch, is dismantling years of isolation. That her simple acceptance of my true form is more intoxicating than any siren’s song.'
A beautiful romance and my favorite from this author. 5 stars
March 30, 2025
📖 Bookish Moments
This book surprised me in the best way. I came for the spicy sea monster vibes (which absolutely delivered), but I stayed for the depth and emotion.
Roark and Ashe were such a good match — both thoughtful, logical, and quietly fierce. Roark’s loneliness and longing to belong broke me. 💔 Seeing the town through his eyes, especially the fear and violence toward sea creatures, was heartbreaking and horrifying. And despite all of that, he remained so gentle and kind.
Also… the spice? 🔥 Tentacle daddy did not come to play.
📝 Favorite Quotes
"Perhaps that's why she helped me. She knows what it is to be caught between land and sea, between solitude and belonging."
"And I love you, my treasure. You are more than just a lighthouse keeper. You're the keeper of my heart."
"Tentacle daddy can rescue me anytime."
—
You should read it if you like:
💙 Gentle but protective MMCs
🐙 Sweet monster romance
🔥 Tentacles
🏡 Small town + seaside setting
👫 Found family & belonging themes
📝 Dual POV
—
💭 Final Thoughts: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was everything I wanted — spicy, tender, and packed with feels. Roark and Ashe had such a beautiful connection, full of warmth and passion.
And the epilogue, set a few years out? 10/10. More authors should absolutely do this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book surprised me in the best way. I came for the spicy sea monster vibes (which absolutely delivered), but I stayed for the depth and emotion.
Roark and Ashe were such a good match — both thoughtful, logical, and quietly fierce. Roark’s loneliness and longing to belong broke me. 💔 Seeing the town through his eyes, especially the fear and violence toward sea creatures, was heartbreaking and horrifying. And despite all of that, he remained so gentle and kind.
Also… the spice? 🔥 Tentacle daddy did not come to play.
📝 Favorite Quotes
"Perhaps that's why she helped me. She knows what it is to be caught between land and sea, between solitude and belonging."
"And I love you, my treasure. You are more than just a lighthouse keeper. You're the keeper of my heart."
"Tentacle daddy can rescue me anytime."
—
You should read it if you like:
💙 Gentle but protective MMCs
🐙 Sweet monster romance
🔥 Tentacles
🏡 Small town + seaside setting
👫 Found family & belonging themes
📝 Dual POV
—
💭 Final Thoughts: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was everything I wanted — spicy, tender, and packed with feels. Roark and Ashe had such a beautiful connection, full of warmth and passion.
And the epilogue, set a few years out? 10/10. More authors should absolutely do this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2025
Captured by the Cthulhu is a sweet and entertaining Monster Mates Romance that was a pleasure of a read.
Lighthouse Keeper Ashe Morgan hears strange noises from her boathouse one stormy night and when she goes to investigate finds an injured Cthulhu caught up in netting.
She offers him help, doesn’t run away in fear and sets out cutting Roark, as she learns, out of the netting while cleaning up his wounds and earning his thanks and trust in the process.
When she invites him into the lighthouse so she can stitch up the worst of the wounds he asks if he can show his thanks in another way for her help… and the rest of course will be history.
Ashe sees Roark as a person and there is a definite attraction that has sparked between them, but she can’t let the townspeople learn of his presence while he is with her healing.
Despite the great unveiling the town of Cape Tempest still harbors some prejudices against monsters, and Ashe doesn’t want to jeopardize her position.
Great story with wonderful writing that plays out against a backdrop of a little drama, humor, passion, surprises, and imaginative world building. HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lighthouse Keeper Ashe Morgan hears strange noises from her boathouse one stormy night and when she goes to investigate finds an injured Cthulhu caught up in netting.
She offers him help, doesn’t run away in fear and sets out cutting Roark, as she learns, out of the netting while cleaning up his wounds and earning his thanks and trust in the process.
When she invites him into the lighthouse so she can stitch up the worst of the wounds he asks if he can show his thanks in another way for her help… and the rest of course will be history.
Ashe sees Roark as a person and there is a definite attraction that has sparked between them, but she can’t let the townspeople learn of his presence while he is with her healing.
Despite the great unveiling the town of Cape Tempest still harbors some prejudices against monsters, and Ashe doesn’t want to jeopardize her position.
Great story with wonderful writing that plays out against a backdrop of a little drama, humor, passion, surprises, and imaginative world building. HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2025
Ashe is the lighthouse keeper in a small coastal town, Cape Tempest and is considered to be an oddity, preferring to spend her time alone. One night during a storm she finds a trapped and injured Cthulhu named Roark. Without hesitation she assists in freeing him and provides first aid. Roark has spent time with humans in the past, but he has never fully trusted one until Ashe. Together these two lonely, and isolated, strangers find their match.
There are of course, challenges along the way. History between the humans of Cape Tempest and the sea creatures is messy and complicated. Roark finds himself desperate to protect Ashe and wonders if he is foolish to believe in a happy ending. Can two people from different worlds, find happiness with each other and acceptance from the town?
This was my first book by this author, and I found it such an entertaining read that I have already bought myself the other two Monster Mates books. The characters were well developed and likeable. The towns history and its people were varied and interesting. I especially liked that the history/behaviours of the town, which is no longer socially acceptable, was not skipped over or pretended that it never happened. If we try to pretend bad events never happened, how can we learn from them?
There are of course, challenges along the way. History between the humans of Cape Tempest and the sea creatures is messy and complicated. Roark finds himself desperate to protect Ashe and wonders if he is foolish to believe in a happy ending. Can two people from different worlds, find happiness with each other and acceptance from the town?
This was my first book by this author, and I found it such an entertaining read that I have already bought myself the other two Monster Mates books. The characters were well developed and likeable. The towns history and its people were varied and interesting. I especially liked that the history/behaviours of the town, which is no longer socially acceptable, was not skipped over or pretended that it never happened. If we try to pretend bad events never happened, how can we learn from them?
March 29, 2025
I must admit, I didn't expect to spend my Saturday afternoon curled up with a cozy creature romance and a mug of tea, but that's exactly what happened and I'm extremely happy about it.
This book was both totally adorable and steamy AF! Ashe is such a sweetheart, it was hard not to fall in love with her, and Roark? Well it was impossible not to fall for him too 😁
The plot was really enjoyable, and wasn't just there to tie the spice scenes together, which I definitely appreciate. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for excessive spice sometimes, but I do enjoy an underlying story too. I actually devoured this book in a single sitting because I was completely captured by this tale (did Roark's tentacles have something to do with that? Yeah, probably 😏)
In all, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was both totally adorable and steamy AF! Ashe is such a sweetheart, it was hard not to fall in love with her, and Roark? Well it was impossible not to fall for him too 😁
The plot was really enjoyable, and wasn't just there to tie the spice scenes together, which I definitely appreciate. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for excessive spice sometimes, but I do enjoy an underlying story too. I actually devoured this book in a single sitting because I was completely captured by this tale (did Roark's tentacles have something to do with that? Yeah, probably 😏)
In all, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 18, 2025
Beautiful
This was a sweet mostly cozy presumably star crossed lovers type tale. There is spice, of course, but I wanna say the first scene is the most descriptive, while the rest seemed to just "swim" through it. Regardless, I loved the story. Both characters were loveable as we're some of the townsfolk, especially the FMC's bestie/second Mom. I would have liked to see the FMC fishing, though cuz I couldn't wrap my head around how she managed to not only catch massive fish, but also haul them up several steps into the lighthouse. (Yes, I've been in a lighthouse, and they are freakishly tall.) She's not a weak gal, that I could tell, but still, all that fish by herself for days? I need to see that, lol. It's also sorta sad what happens to the Selkie and I hope one say, even in a side piece, he finds happiness.
This was a sweet mostly cozy presumably star crossed lovers type tale. There is spice, of course, but I wanna say the first scene is the most descriptive, while the rest seemed to just "swim" through it. Regardless, I loved the story. Both characters were loveable as we're some of the townsfolk, especially the FMC's bestie/second Mom. I would have liked to see the FMC fishing, though cuz I couldn't wrap my head around how she managed to not only catch massive fish, but also haul them up several steps into the lighthouse. (Yes, I've been in a lighthouse, and they are freakishly tall.) She's not a weak gal, that I could tell, but still, all that fish by herself for days? I need to see that, lol. It's also sorta sad what happens to the Selkie and I hope one say, even in a side piece, he finds happiness.
September 14, 2025
WOW!!! I LOVE THIS BOOK.
This book explores themes of loneliness and the search for love between two different species. I find this to be a more mature theme compared to other books I've read. The story is ongoing, but it’s neither depressing nor sad.
Ashe and Roark—what a great name for a character—are clearly meant to be together. It's a wonderful story overall, but I do have one complaint: everything was covered in the chapters except for the moment when Ashe (SPOILER) becomes pregnant. Since I enjoyed the couple so much, I wanted to share in that good news, too.
As someone who deals with loneliness myself, I truly appreciate how Ms. Sparks captures so many relatable emotions in her writing. Thank you for putting those feelings into words. I look forward to reading the other books in this series, hoping they will be just as good.
This book explores themes of loneliness and the search for love between two different species. I find this to be a more mature theme compared to other books I've read. The story is ongoing, but it’s neither depressing nor sad.
Ashe and Roark—what a great name for a character—are clearly meant to be together. It's a wonderful story overall, but I do have one complaint: everything was covered in the chapters except for the moment when Ashe (SPOILER) becomes pregnant. Since I enjoyed the couple so much, I wanted to share in that good news, too.
As someone who deals with loneliness myself, I truly appreciate how Ms. Sparks captures so many relatable emotions in her writing. Thank you for putting those feelings into words. I look forward to reading the other books in this series, hoping they will be just as good.
August 19, 2025
Low angst Spicy 🥵 and sweet monster romance.
If you enjoyed the first two books in this series, you are sure to enjoy this sweet and spicy Monster Romance as well.
Roark and Ashe come from different worlds and by the end they find a way to bridge the gap between to have their sweet and spicy HEA.
Tropes include:
-she rescues him
-Fast burn, not insta-love, but they get right to business time with an interesting quickness
-Hidden relationship
-Pro-consent MMC
-Tentacle play
-low angst relatively medium high spice depending on what you’re reading experience is.
Would recommend, nothing particularly mind blowing, but there are some lovely messages about societal growth away from old outdated stigmas.
If you enjoyed the first two books in this series, you are sure to enjoy this sweet and spicy Monster Romance as well.
Roark and Ashe come from different worlds and by the end they find a way to bridge the gap between to have their sweet and spicy HEA.
Tropes include:
-she rescues him
-Fast burn, not insta-love, but they get right to business time with an interesting quickness
-Hidden relationship
-Pro-consent MMC
-Tentacle play
-low angst relatively medium high spice depending on what you’re reading experience is.
Would recommend, nothing particularly mind blowing, but there are some lovely messages about societal growth away from old outdated stigmas.
March 25, 2025
It was a well-written short love story between a creature and a lighthouse keeper. It’s a HEA and has a nice little epilogue at the end to give closure on the characters. I would recommend this to those who want to read a nice spicy story about creature/monster love. It could have a little more dirty talk but I think this is a good intro to monster love. The characters were like-able and there was justice against the villain of the story. I would read this again. The scenery/setting and characters were well-described that it was easy to immerse into the story and imagine its’ world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2025
Roark is our very gentle Cthulhu. He has defeated the poachers and is seeking a place to try and rescue himself from their net. It just so happens to be where Ashe lives at the lighthouse.
He doesn’t know what to think of her when she does the opposite of what he thinks she would do. She helps him then invites her into her house. Invites him to stay until he is better. Invites him into her life. The trust they find with each other is almost instant.
I love this story. It has a charming town. It had those townspeople that you just want to meet in person. Plus it has the great aspect of being on the monster awakening side of history too.
He doesn’t know what to think of her when she does the opposite of what he thinks she would do. She helps him then invites her into her house. Invites him to stay until he is better. Invites him into her life. The trust they find with each other is almost instant.
I love this story. It has a charming town. It had those townspeople that you just want to meet in person. Plus it has the great aspect of being on the monster awakening side of history too.
April 9, 2025
Loved this story. I’ve read two books this week that take different viewpoints on a similar issue of a species being hunted just for existing, and the results of that. This was by far my favorite of the two. There’s action and tension from the beginning. Fear of discovery mixed with hope for a better future. At the center of- two people who just want to be with one another without the fear for their safety. Such a good presentation and balance, and very heartwarming. Nice amount of spice. I haven’t read the others in this series but I have added them to my TBR.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 26, 2025
I feel like this was written by AI.
I DNF’d at 60%. Some of the writing was so repetitive, I thought I lost my place and was reading an earlier chapter. One of my followers pointed out the cover looks AI. I have nothing to support those claims so idk but definitely read and see what you think.
As a reader I have to wonder if this was written with the help of AI. Please correct me if I’m wrong. I’m not hating on this author, simply asking questions. My reviews are for readers not authors anyway and I feel we should speculative about art in this modern world, where AI is taking jobs from real people.
I DNF’d at 60%. Some of the writing was so repetitive, I thought I lost my place and was reading an earlier chapter. One of my followers pointed out the cover looks AI. I have nothing to support those claims so idk but definitely read and see what you think.
As a reader I have to wonder if this was written with the help of AI. Please correct me if I’m wrong. I’m not hating on this author, simply asking questions. My reviews are for readers not authors anyway and I feel we should speculative about art in this modern world, where AI is taking jobs from real people.
March 31, 2025
This was a wonderful monster romance that really had all the feels. Roark is a sea creature that was just so sweet with Ashe. She was a strong woman and lighthouse keeper, which is a cool job for. The chemistry between them was hot, and his tentacles...wow! So hot what he can do with them ;P These two are on a journey of acceptance and love and they do get their fab HEA. The author gave us a great epilogue that really finished their story off beautifully. Expect to be glued to your reader when you crack this one open. It's a real page turner :D
April 2, 2025
Ashe is a lighthouse keeper treasuring her solitude in a world where "monsters" walk amongst us. When Roark a cthulhu winds up injured in her boathouse her world is rocked. Their connection is instant and strong! Only problem is, while "monsters" are accepted. Sea"monsters" are not!
Ashe and Roark find their way with lots of spice and love! A small dash of angst. Great short read! I think it took me about 3 hours!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ashe and Roark find their way with lots of spice and love! A small dash of angst. Great short read! I think it took me about 3 hours!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2025
This book had me hooked from the first page! I love monster romances; this one has tentacles and bioluminescent skin. Ashe is a lighthouse keeper who discovers Roark, a Cthulhu. Ashe is amazed by the attraction she feels for Roark. He experiences a connection he has never felt before. I love the plot of this book. Roark and Ashe are two lonely individuals finding their way to each other. An excellent book with a fantastic HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 3, 2025
This is my next read in the Monster Mates series. This time the male is a Cthulhu - Roark and he's found injured by Ashe. She looks after the local lighthouse and ends up nursing him back to health. I loved their relationship and despite some indifference from those around Ashe, these two came together.
I am fast becoming a firm fan of anything monster and with the variety of tales we are blessed with reading. Thank you, Ivy Sparks, for creating such enjoyable characters, and I look forward to enjoying more.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am fast becoming a firm fan of anything monster and with the variety of tales we are blessed with reading. Thank you, Ivy Sparks, for creating such enjoyable characters, and I look forward to enjoying more.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 5, 2025
Ashe and Roark
Ashe ( human) is the lighthouse keeper and museum guide. During a storm she meets a hurt Roark ( cthulhu) who broke into boathouse and is injured. She nurses him to health, but keeps their relationship hidden as the towns still hates his kind. When an reenactment goes badly, Roark will more than a scary sea monster.
Wonderful characters, lots of paranormal beings, a courses lighthouse keeper, sweet, romantic, and HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ashe ( human) is the lighthouse keeper and museum guide. During a storm she meets a hurt Roark ( cthulhu) who broke into boathouse and is injured. She nurses him to health, but keeps their relationship hidden as the towns still hates his kind. When an reenactment goes badly, Roark will more than a scary sea monster.
Wonderful characters, lots of paranormal beings, a courses lighthouse keeper, sweet, romantic, and HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2025
Spicy sea monster.
You know, if someone had told me 6 months ago I would enjoy sea monster romance I would have laughed in their face, but here I am now giving this 5 stars.
Roark is so, so sweet with Ashe - he is literally her perfect match.
And the tentacles - oh my lord what Roark can do with all his appendages.
Great spice and a HEA. Loved it :).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
You know, if someone had told me 6 months ago I would enjoy sea monster romance I would have laughed in their face, but here I am now giving this 5 stars.
Roark is so, so sweet with Ashe - he is literally her perfect match.
And the tentacles - oh my lord what Roark can do with all his appendages.
Great spice and a HEA. Loved it :).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 13, 2025
What a fantastic ending! What seemed like a disaster turned into a wonderful turning point: the town saw him as a hero rather than the sea monster the organizer had in mind.
The female main character was indeed captured by the male main character, but more importantly, he won her heart. Their love story felt impossible, yet somehow love always finds a way!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The female main character was indeed captured by the male main character, but more importantly, he won her heart. Their love story felt impossible, yet somehow love always finds a way!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 17, 2025
The Lighthouse Keeper and the Sea Monster
Ashe managed the lighthouse, maintaining the light and giving tours, content in her solitude. Then, one stormy night, her solitude is broken by an intruder, a cthulhu named Roarke who desperately needed help. The romance between these two was simply beautiful, poignant and sweet, with a touch bittersweetness for the loneliness these two shared. I loved how these two found connection, and their underwater moments were magnificent. A wonderful read.
June 17, 2025
Loved this read
Really loved this read of Ashe and Roark. Ashe is content in her lonely lighthouse world and doesn't want for company until the night she saves the cthulu in her shed. Everything changes. I appreciated the nuances of this story and the real adaptation that this world has to go thru to accept the monsters they perceive to be more dangerous. It was lovely and always a wonderful HEA.
Really loved this read of Ashe and Roark. Ashe is content in her lonely lighthouse world and doesn't want for company until the night she saves the cthulu in her shed. Everything changes. I appreciated the nuances of this story and the real adaptation that this world has to go thru to accept the monsters they perceive to be more dangerous. It was lovely and always a wonderful HEA.
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