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Celestia Cove #1
Tattered Tides
Not yet published
Expected 5 May 26Win a free print copy of this book!
22 days and 14:37:23
10 copies available
U.S. only
Set in the sun-soaked world of California surf culture, Tattered Tides is an emotional, slow-burn romance about second chances, self-forgiveness, and the healing power of love.
Weston Ashford was determined to have it all. After a tumultuous upbringing, he’d found a family of his own, a safe place to call home, and his surfing. As a World Junior Champion, his future was finally bright, until his past came for him, and one mistake had him sinking straight toward rock bottom.
Years later, he’s fresh-out-the-slammer and stripped of his medal, his future uncertain. When one last chance to follow his dream of becoming a professional surfer presents itself, he takes it with both hands—no distractions, no weakness. That is, until he crosses paths with his coach’s daughter. Weston quickly realizes that, while she’s the only person capable of shaking his focus, she may be the only one capable of healing his heart too.
Willow Graham isn’t supposed to be here. She had plans, and they didn’t include an abrupt move back to her hometown of Pacific Shores, or dropping out of the University she worked so hard to attend. Her entire life unraveled after a traumatic experience she’s still struggling to come to terms with, and her only priority is getting back on track.
Both hellbent on rebuilding their futures and rediscovering who they are, Willow and Weston initially find themselves at odds when their shared spaces cause a tension neither of them are prepared for, but as their forced proximity gives way to mutual understanding, they discover a connection deeper than they ever thought possible.
Will their unexpected bond prove strong enough to overcome the tides between them, or will they end in tatters?
Weston Ashford was determined to have it all. After a tumultuous upbringing, he’d found a family of his own, a safe place to call home, and his surfing. As a World Junior Champion, his future was finally bright, until his past came for him, and one mistake had him sinking straight toward rock bottom.
Years later, he’s fresh-out-the-slammer and stripped of his medal, his future uncertain. When one last chance to follow his dream of becoming a professional surfer presents itself, he takes it with both hands—no distractions, no weakness. That is, until he crosses paths with his coach’s daughter. Weston quickly realizes that, while she’s the only person capable of shaking his focus, she may be the only one capable of healing his heart too.
Willow Graham isn’t supposed to be here. She had plans, and they didn’t include an abrupt move back to her hometown of Pacific Shores, or dropping out of the University she worked so hard to attend. Her entire life unraveled after a traumatic experience she’s still struggling to come to terms with, and her only priority is getting back on track.
Both hellbent on rebuilding their futures and rediscovering who they are, Willow and Weston initially find themselves at odds when their shared spaces cause a tension neither of them are prepared for, but as their forced proximity gives way to mutual understanding, they discover a connection deeper than they ever thought possible.
Will their unexpected bond prove strong enough to overcome the tides between them, or will they end in tatters?
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication May 5, 2026
10871 people want to read
About the author
Sarah A. Bailey
12 books823 followersSarah fell in love with reading as a child, starting with the Magic Treehouse Series. She quickly learned that books can take her to all the places she always dreamed of going, and allow her to live endless lifetimes in the one that we are given.
Sarah believes that a good, fluffy romance novel can make even the darkest days a little bit brighter. She believes in love stories readers can root for, the kind that will make even the skeptics believe in all that cheesy stuff like soulmates. She longs to produce stories that readers can pick up, and regardless of what’s weighing them down in life, feel a little lighter when they finish.
Sarah was born in California and raised in Southern Oregon, and still considers herself a Pacific Northwest gal at heart; right down to being a coffee snob, collecting hydro flasks, adamantly believing in Sasquatch, and feeling like rain-drenched forests are a form of therapy. Sarah now resides in North Carolina with her husband, Mike, and their dog-baby, Rue. When she’s not writing, she’s likely reading, and if she’s not reading, odds are she’s out searching for a decent cup of coffee, or a rainy pine forest.
Sarah believes that a good, fluffy romance novel can make even the darkest days a little bit brighter. She believes in love stories readers can root for, the kind that will make even the skeptics believe in all that cheesy stuff like soulmates. She longs to produce stories that readers can pick up, and regardless of what’s weighing them down in life, feel a little lighter when they finish.
Sarah was born in California and raised in Southern Oregon, and still considers herself a Pacific Northwest gal at heart; right down to being a coffee snob, collecting hydro flasks, adamantly believing in Sasquatch, and feeling like rain-drenched forests are a form of therapy. Sarah now resides in North Carolina with her husband, Mike, and their dog-baby, Rue. When she’s not writing, she’s likely reading, and if she’s not reading, odds are she’s out searching for a decent cup of coffee, or a rainy pine forest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
February 14, 2026
4.5⭐️ honored that sarah allowed me the privilege to read this early ~ an absolute must read! 🩷✨📖 any book with leo graham is going to have me swooning, but somehow he even had me swooning when he’s a full ass father. a perfect slow burn beach read!!
February 25, 2026
I just love this world so much! Weston is just perfection!! Love the found family. Loved Willow as an FMC. I can't wait for more in this series!
Ugh my heart is full! Sarah has a way of pulling you back into this world and her writing is just so beautiful. I fell in love with Weston he was just perfection. Willow was such a strong FMC and I loved her relationship with her dad Leo! She is her fathers daughter for sure! Loved all the found family and seeing all the previous couples make an appearance and I'm also so excited for this second gen I'm already loving the characters and Sarah already drops hints for archer and allies book and I can not wait for that one! The things Weston does for her I can not! Sarah just knows how to right these swoony hot men you fall in love with!
Ugh my heart is full! Sarah has a way of pulling you back into this world and her writing is just so beautiful. I fell in love with Weston he was just perfection. Willow was such a strong FMC and I loved her relationship with her dad Leo! She is her fathers daughter for sure! Loved all the found family and seeing all the previous couples make an appearance and I'm also so excited for this second gen I'm already loving the characters and Sarah already drops hints for archer and allies book and I can not wait for that one! The things Weston does for her I can not! Sarah just knows how to right these swoony hot men you fall in love with!
March 12, 2026
Thank you Page and Vine for the arc
I loved Heathen and Honeysuckle so much so I was pleasantly surprised when I realized this was a second generation book. This follows Leo and Darbys daughter, Willow, who is back in town after having a traumatic experience. Needing the comfort of home and family she decides she is gonna take a semester off from school to help her get her mental health in check. Then we have Weston who is also trying to get his life back in control. He is fresh out of prison and not sure what to do in life. Before his sentence he was on track to become one of the best surfers in the world. So he now has an opportunity to train with Leo and get his dreams back. But this puts him in the path of Willow. This might just be the thing they both need.
I loved Heathen and Honeysuckle so much so I was pleasantly surprised when I realized this was a second generation book. This follows Leo and Darbys daughter, Willow, who is back in town after having a traumatic experience. Needing the comfort of home and family she decides she is gonna take a semester off from school to help her get her mental health in check. Then we have Weston who is also trying to get his life back in control. He is fresh out of prison and not sure what to do in life. Before his sentence he was on track to become one of the best surfers in the world. So he now has an opportunity to train with Leo and get his dreams back. But this puts him in the path of Willow. This might just be the thing they both need.
January 31, 2026
INFINITY STARS. How do I move on??? Dare I say this was my favorite Sarah A. Bailey book EVER!!! How is it possible every book she writes gets better and better. I never wanted it to end.
Wes is my new top book boyfriend and is the definition of perfection. This book will have you in ALL THE FEELS.
Full RTC closer to release🤍
Wes is my new top book boyfriend and is the definition of perfection. This book will have you in ALL THE FEELS.
Full RTC closer to release🤍
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC review
Pacific Shores, to me, is a perfect six star series. So naturally, I had high expectations going into Tattered Tides. They were not only met, but exceeded.
Coming back to this world was just what I needed and more. Sarah blends emotion and spice so perfectly.
This was my first time reading a second gen book and I am obsessed. Leo Graham as a dad are you kidding me?? And all the other familiar faces too. I squealed in excitement every single time.
I don't know genuinely how I'm supposed to go on waiting for book two.
I loved Willow and Weston from the get go. The way they found safety and solace in each other after their respective past traumas and trying to navigate every day life was everything to me. Watching them fall in love was pure beauty. And their chemistry was off the charts. I felt it in every part of my heart and soul. These two will stick with me forever, I guarantee it.
If you're a fan of Sarah's books already, then there is not one doubt in my mind you will love this one too.
Read content warnings as they are major themes throughout the entire book.
Thank you to Sarah A. Bailey, her team, and Netgalley for the early copy!
Pacific Shores, to me, is a perfect six star series. So naturally, I had high expectations going into Tattered Tides. They were not only met, but exceeded.
Coming back to this world was just what I needed and more. Sarah blends emotion and spice so perfectly.
This was my first time reading a second gen book and I am obsessed. Leo Graham as a dad are you kidding me?? And all the other familiar faces too. I squealed in excitement every single time.
I don't know genuinely how I'm supposed to go on waiting for book two.
I loved Willow and Weston from the get go. The way they found safety and solace in each other after their respective past traumas and trying to navigate every day life was everything to me. Watching them fall in love was pure beauty. And their chemistry was off the charts. I felt it in every part of my heart and soul. These two will stick with me forever, I guarantee it.
If you're a fan of Sarah's books already, then there is not one doubt in my mind you will love this one too.
Read content warnings as they are major themes throughout the entire book.
Thank you to Sarah A. Bailey, her team, and Netgalley for the early copy!
March 9, 2026
4.25 ⭐️
Thank you NetGalley for this advanced readers copy; I’m so happy to be back in Pacific Shores.
I absolutely LOVED this book. Weston & Willow gave me daddy Leo and Darby vibes, but on their own too. Loved seeing the gang again with some new faces. Weston was pure perfection. I experienced all the emotions- cried, laughed, giddy giggles, swooned, raged. I really enjoyed that Weston was a bad boy but with a good heart, and eyes for only Willow, without the attitude to hurt her. The hook at the beginning of this book was captivating, and had me turning the page. I felt like the overuse of the nickname, “love” & “sugar” wore me out a bit but even so, I was sad once the book ended. I appreciated seeing Leo as a side character in this book, a few interactions had me laughing because I can totally picture the conversation exactly as written. Thank you for the opportunity to read Tattered Tides- releases May 5th.. I’m so excited for book 2 in the Celestia Cove series.
Thank you NetGalley for this advanced readers copy; I’m so happy to be back in Pacific Shores.
I absolutely LOVED this book. Weston & Willow gave me daddy Leo and Darby vibes, but on their own too. Loved seeing the gang again with some new faces. Weston was pure perfection. I experienced all the emotions- cried, laughed, giddy giggles, swooned, raged. I really enjoyed that Weston was a bad boy but with a good heart, and eyes for only Willow, without the attitude to hurt her. The hook at the beginning of this book was captivating, and had me turning the page. I felt like the overuse of the nickname, “love” & “sugar” wore me out a bit but even so, I was sad once the book ended. I appreciated seeing Leo as a side character in this book, a few interactions had me laughing because I can totally picture the conversation exactly as written. Thank you for the opportunity to read Tattered Tides- releases May 5th.. I’m so excited for book 2 in the Celestia Cove series.
March 23, 2026
⚠️ Check TW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you’re looking for a summer read, you’ve found it! This book had all the perfect summer vibes. Heathens and honeysuckle was a 5 ⭐️ for me and this was no different. I was sucked in from the beginning.
I was honestly a little emo to visit the characters of Pacific Shores again for the start of this second gen series. It brought back all the love I have for that series, instantly craving a reread.
I would love to spend a day on the boardwalk.
Sarah knows how to write an addicting romance with lots of drama! 👏🏼
I’m so eager for the next book in September!
“No, Willow. My love language is you.” 😭
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you’re looking for a summer read, you’ve found it! This book had all the perfect summer vibes. Heathens and honeysuckle was a 5 ⭐️ for me and this was no different. I was sucked in from the beginning.
I was honestly a little emo to visit the characters of Pacific Shores again for the start of this second gen series. It brought back all the love I have for that series, instantly craving a reread.
I would love to spend a day on the boardwalk.
Sarah knows how to write an addicting romance with lots of drama! 👏🏼
I’m so eager for the next book in September!
“No, Willow. My love language is you.” 😭
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 21, 2026
3.75⭐️
Thank you to Victory Editing for this ARC copy!
The cover is what initially caught my eye, it’s stunning.
The setting of this book is exactly what I was looking for going in: surfing/small town/cozy vibes and it delivered. The large cast of friends and family truly shone in this book and I loved that aspect, no character felt out of place.
Willow & Weston’s relationship developed quickly but realistically for the situations they were in and I appreciated the care that was taken when talking about their traumas and how they handled such difficult circumstances. Weston was such a caring and compassionate man, but at times I found his dialog a bit fluffy and a bit unrealistic for who he was set up to be.
The end of the book focused heavily on their sexual chemistry and hookups which I know is a natural progression of their relationship but I felt like it was a tad over done. I preferred reading about their emotional connection because you truly got to see them grow.
I do wish Willows trauma was made clearer from the start as readers who may find it triggering might not know how heavily Willows story is impacted by it.
(Also the dedication was beautiful)
Overall, I was moved by Willow & Weston’s story and how they developed together, so if you are looking for a touching but heavy coastal small town romance, this is for you!
Thank you to Victory Editing for this ARC copy!
The cover is what initially caught my eye, it’s stunning.
The setting of this book is exactly what I was looking for going in: surfing/small town/cozy vibes and it delivered. The large cast of friends and family truly shone in this book and I loved that aspect, no character felt out of place.
Willow & Weston’s relationship developed quickly but realistically for the situations they were in and I appreciated the care that was taken when talking about their traumas and how they handled such difficult circumstances. Weston was such a caring and compassionate man, but at times I found his dialog a bit fluffy and a bit unrealistic for who he was set up to be.
The end of the book focused heavily on their sexual chemistry and hookups which I know is a natural progression of their relationship but I felt like it was a tad over done. I preferred reading about their emotional connection because you truly got to see them grow.
I do wish Willows trauma was made clearer from the start as readers who may find it triggering might not know how heavily Willows story is impacted by it.
(Also the dedication was beautiful)
Overall, I was moved by Willow & Weston’s story and how they developed together, so if you are looking for a touching but heavy coastal small town romance, this is for you!
March 13, 2026
Sarah has such a poetic way of writing that touches the soul without being overly flowery. Weston and Willow’s story was truly beautiful and full of healing and heartbreak. They truly saw each other when both were broken and needed an escape. They provided the light for one another and a support system. I love the flow of their relationship, and the spice felt real and perfect at the same time.
Seeing the OG friend group all grown up with kids (and gray streaks???) was sentimental.
Seeing the OG friend group all grown up with kids (and gray streaks???) was sentimental.
February 15, 2026
Content-wise, I really wish the trigger warning had been clearer. The FMC’s sexual assault, pregnancy, and abortion aren’t just mentioned—they’re essentially the entire plot. I’m not someone who’s easily triggered, but I can absolutely see how this could be distressing for readers who’ve experienced similar trauma without knowing how central it would be.
As for the romance, it was sweet… but not always believable. The MMC speaks in very flowery, poetic language constantly. While it sounds romantic on paper, it didn’t feel realistic to me. I did like them together, though.
Chapter 30 being almost entirely a montage of them having sex in multiple locations was… a lot 😂 I don’t mind spice, but that felt excessive and unnecessary.
The final confrontation was predictable and lacked impact. Overall, not a bad read, but not a standout either.
As for the romance, it was sweet… but not always believable. The MMC speaks in very flowery, poetic language constantly. While it sounds romantic on paper, it didn’t feel realistic to me. I did like them together, though.
Chapter 30 being almost entirely a montage of them having sex in multiple locations was… a lot 😂 I don’t mind spice, but that felt excessive and unnecessary.
The final confrontation was predictable and lacked impact. Overall, not a bad read, but not a standout either.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2026
thank you netgalley and sarah a bailey for allowing me to read my very first arc!
just in the beginning of 2026 i read the pacific shores series and i really enjoyed it. reading “tattered tides” brought me back to this wonderful world. it was so heartwarming to reconnect with all of the characters from the first series. it felt like a warm hug, to be honest. 🥹
willow is such a strong and loving character and i loved seeing her and her family being so loving towards each other. weston had me questioning my standards for men again, because he is truly the blueprint for how a man should be. willows and westons bond and friendship is so strong and real and their love for each other is everything.
i felt for them and laughed so many times, because the found family and banter between everyone was just everything.
a truly beautiful story and i’m so happy i got to read this early.
tropes:
- small town romance
- friends to lovers
- found family
- slow burn
- healing
- hurt/comfort
- coach’s daughter
just in the beginning of 2026 i read the pacific shores series and i really enjoyed it. reading “tattered tides” brought me back to this wonderful world. it was so heartwarming to reconnect with all of the characters from the first series. it felt like a warm hug, to be honest. 🥹
willow is such a strong and loving character and i loved seeing her and her family being so loving towards each other. weston had me questioning my standards for men again, because he is truly the blueprint for how a man should be. willows and westons bond and friendship is so strong and real and their love for each other is everything.
i felt for them and laughed so many times, because the found family and banter between everyone was just everything.
a truly beautiful story and i’m so happy i got to read this early.
tropes:
- small town romance
- friends to lovers
- found family
- slow burn
- healing
- hurt/comfort
- coach’s daughter
March 25, 2026
I fell in love with Sarah A. Bailey when I first read Heathen & Honeysuckle—a book I’ve reread multiple times—so getting the chance to dive into this next-generation story about Willow (their 21-year-old daughter) felt like such a gift.
This story follows Willow as she returns home for the summer after a rough breakup and leaving college, and Weston, a surfer staying in her family’s guesthouse while being trained by her dad, Leo.
This book truly had it all: heartbreak (check content warnings), a slow burn filled with tension and yearning, an emotional journey, strangers-to-friends-to-lovers, an inexperienced MMC, incredible side characters (I’m already excited for more in this series), and SPICE. Weston is absolutely a top-tier book boyfriend—thoughtful, caring, and exactly what Willow needed.
Leo’s three rules for Weston? Be on time, be kind to his wife (Darby), and stay away from his daughter!
I already know this is a book I’ll be coming back to again and again.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
This story follows Willow as she returns home for the summer after a rough breakup and leaving college, and Weston, a surfer staying in her family’s guesthouse while being trained by her dad, Leo.
This book truly had it all: heartbreak (check content warnings), a slow burn filled with tension and yearning, an emotional journey, strangers-to-friends-to-lovers, an inexperienced MMC, incredible side characters (I’m already excited for more in this series), and SPICE. Weston is absolutely a top-tier book boyfriend—thoughtful, caring, and exactly what Willow needed.
Leo’s three rules for Weston? Be on time, be kind to his wife (Darby), and stay away from his daughter!
I already know this is a book I’ll be coming back to again and again.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
For me, Sarah is the Queen of emotional stories. I don't think I've made it through a single one of her books without tearing up.
I absolutely loved the Pacific Shores series and was so sad it was over. Imagine my surprise to find this was the start of a second gen series and I got to see all my favourites again!
Willow and Weston are now my second favourite couple (August and Elena can't be topped) but Weston is definitely a contender for top book boyfriend of all time. Despite his difficult past he was there for Willow through everything and I loved watching them both help the other heal.
I absolutely loved the Pacific Shores series and was so sad it was over. Imagine my surprise to find this was the start of a second gen series and I got to see all my favourites again!
Willow and Weston are now my second favourite couple (August and Elena can't be topped) but Weston is definitely a contender for top book boyfriend of all time. Despite his difficult past he was there for Willow through everything and I loved watching them both help the other heal.
February 18, 2026
3.75⭐️
Thank you for this ARC NetGalley & Sarah!
Pro surfer - bad childhood & jail time, the MMC - is an inexperienced bad boy, with a lot of trauma, & healing to do, while getting back to real life & the sport he loves .
Meeting willow (his coaches daughter) who also has her own trauma.
Forced proximity, trauma bonding, & being able to earn trust with each other was beautiful.
I loved the beach town & all the characters it involved .
This was a great, easy, & a heart warming read.
Thank you for this ARC NetGalley & Sarah!
Pro surfer - bad childhood & jail time, the MMC - is an inexperienced bad boy, with a lot of trauma, & healing to do, while getting back to real life & the sport he loves .
Meeting willow (his coaches daughter) who also has her own trauma.
Forced proximity, trauma bonding, & being able to earn trust with each other was beautiful.
I loved the beach town & all the characters it involved .
This was a great, easy, & a heart warming read.
January 24, 2026
My only critique is that in no world would UCI to Huntington beach only be a 20 min drive …
Did not finish
March 24, 2026Just not for me! The writing has some cliches that pulled me out of the story, and the pacing felt a bit choppy. I also couldn’t get on board with the main character and her decision.
March 4, 2026
I dont think I'll ever be able to be a normal human about Sarahs writing. Every single book is my new personality. Each one is better than the last. (besides my bby Leo he's #1 4evr)
West0n is the sweetest little angel baby and Willow is HER DADDYS CHILD. A million stars.
Also watching Leo and Darby be parents absolutely gutted me and I sobbed for most of this book 🥰
-Coaches Daughter
-"Bad Body"
-SO MUCH BANTER
-Virgin MMC
-Second Gen
infinte stars, 3 chili peppers
West0n is the sweetest little angel baby and Willow is HER DADDYS CHILD. A million stars.
Also watching Leo and Darby be parents absolutely gutted me and I sobbed for most of this book 🥰
-Coaches Daughter
-"Bad Body"
-SO MUCH BANTER
-Virgin MMC
-Second Gen
infinte stars, 3 chili peppers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
Read this book for:
🌊 Good Girl x Bad Boy
🐚 Friends to Lovers
🌊 Coach’s Daughter
🐚 Surfer Sports Romance
🌊 Found Family
🐚 Hurt Comfort
Synopsis
Weston Ashford once had everything he’d ever fought for. After a difficult childhood, surfing gave him purpose, a family, and a future. As a World Junior Champion, his life was finally heading somewhere bright until one mistake dragged him straight to rock bottom.
Now fresh out of prison and stripped of the title that once defined him, Weston is determined to rebuild the only dream he has left. When a final chance to compete professionally appears, he takes it with one rule in mind: no distractions.
That rule becomes impossible the moment he meets Willow Graham.
Willow never planned to return to Pacific Shores. After a traumatic experience shattered the life she had carefully built at university, she’s back in her hometown trying to piece herself together while keeping her future from slipping further away.
Living under the same roof as Weston, her father’s newest surf trainee, was never part of the plan. Neither was the tension between them that slowly begins to shift into something neither of them expected.
As they navigate their broken pasts and uncertain futures, Weston and Willow discover that healing doesn’t happen alone, and sometimes the person who disrupts your path might be the one who helps you find it again.
My Thoughts
Before this book, I had never read any work by Sarah A. Bailey and now I genuinely wish I had discovered her writing sooner. This story is the first book in the Celestia Cove series, which follows the second generation of characters. Willow, the FMC, belongs to that next generation, and it quickly becomes clear that there is a rich family history behind her story. If you want to experience the love story of her parents, you will need to go back to the very beginning and read Wicked & Wildflower, the first book in the Pacific Shore series. That is definitely on my reading list for this year. The rest of the Pacific Shore books focus on Willow’s uncles and aunts, and since many of them, and even their children, make appearances in this book, I imagine reading those earlier stories will add even more depth and insight into the family dynamics.
Both Willow and Weston carry emotional scars from their pasts. Willow’s trauma is more recent, while Weston has been shaped by the pain he endured throughout most of his childhood. Despite everything they have been through, they find something incredibly special in each other, a sense of safety, comfort, and understanding that feels rare and deeply genuine.
One of the moments I absolutely loved was their first meet at Disney. It was such a sweet meet cute, and it perfectly set the tone for their relationship. Even from that very first encounter, you could see how naturally Willow was there for Weston. What made their story even more touching is that years later that same support and care between them never faded. They continue to show up for each other in the most authentic way.
What really stood out to me was how they accepted each other exactly as they were. There was no pressure and no expectations, just two people slowly building trust by sharing their truths piece by piece. Watching them open up and reveal their vulnerabilities felt incredibly meaningful. Their connection was not rushed or forced. It unfolded naturally, and that made their relationship feel even more real and powerful. Seeing them show their true selves to one another gave the story so many layers that I often found it hard to put the book down.
I also really enjoyed the side characters. Leo, Liv, Allie, Archer, and Zander all added so much life and warmth to the story. Their presence made the world feel fuller and more connected, and I loved seeing glimpses of their personalities and relationships. In particular, I am very excited to continue the series and eventually read the book that tells Allie and Archer’s love story. I already know I am going to be rooting for them.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Page & Vine, and Sarah A. Bailey for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Read this book for:
🌊 Good Girl x Bad Boy
🐚 Friends to Lovers
🌊 Coach’s Daughter
🐚 Surfer Sports Romance
🌊 Found Family
🐚 Hurt Comfort
Synopsis
Weston Ashford once had everything he’d ever fought for. After a difficult childhood, surfing gave him purpose, a family, and a future. As a World Junior Champion, his life was finally heading somewhere bright until one mistake dragged him straight to rock bottom.
Now fresh out of prison and stripped of the title that once defined him, Weston is determined to rebuild the only dream he has left. When a final chance to compete professionally appears, he takes it with one rule in mind: no distractions.
That rule becomes impossible the moment he meets Willow Graham.
Willow never planned to return to Pacific Shores. After a traumatic experience shattered the life she had carefully built at university, she’s back in her hometown trying to piece herself together while keeping her future from slipping further away.
Living under the same roof as Weston, her father’s newest surf trainee, was never part of the plan. Neither was the tension between them that slowly begins to shift into something neither of them expected.
As they navigate their broken pasts and uncertain futures, Weston and Willow discover that healing doesn’t happen alone, and sometimes the person who disrupts your path might be the one who helps you find it again.
My Thoughts
Before this book, I had never read any work by Sarah A. Bailey and now I genuinely wish I had discovered her writing sooner. This story is the first book in the Celestia Cove series, which follows the second generation of characters. Willow, the FMC, belongs to that next generation, and it quickly becomes clear that there is a rich family history behind her story. If you want to experience the love story of her parents, you will need to go back to the very beginning and read Wicked & Wildflower, the first book in the Pacific Shore series. That is definitely on my reading list for this year. The rest of the Pacific Shore books focus on Willow’s uncles and aunts, and since many of them, and even their children, make appearances in this book, I imagine reading those earlier stories will add even more depth and insight into the family dynamics.
Both Willow and Weston carry emotional scars from their pasts. Willow’s trauma is more recent, while Weston has been shaped by the pain he endured throughout most of his childhood. Despite everything they have been through, they find something incredibly special in each other, a sense of safety, comfort, and understanding that feels rare and deeply genuine.
One of the moments I absolutely loved was their first meet at Disney. It was such a sweet meet cute, and it perfectly set the tone for their relationship. Even from that very first encounter, you could see how naturally Willow was there for Weston. What made their story even more touching is that years later that same support and care between them never faded. They continue to show up for each other in the most authentic way.
What really stood out to me was how they accepted each other exactly as they were. There was no pressure and no expectations, just two people slowly building trust by sharing their truths piece by piece. Watching them open up and reveal their vulnerabilities felt incredibly meaningful. Their connection was not rushed or forced. It unfolded naturally, and that made their relationship feel even more real and powerful. Seeing them show their true selves to one another gave the story so many layers that I often found it hard to put the book down.
I also really enjoyed the side characters. Leo, Liv, Allie, Archer, and Zander all added so much life and warmth to the story. Their presence made the world feel fuller and more connected, and I loved seeing glimpses of their personalities and relationships. In particular, I am very excited to continue the series and eventually read the book that tells Allie and Archer’s love story. I already know I am going to be rooting for them.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Page & Vine, and Sarah A. Bailey for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2026
Weston, recently released from county prison, is having a difficult time finding motivation in life. He’s endured a traumatic childhood and continues to struggle with his past. When he’s given the opportunity to better himself, he takes a chance on the one thing that brings him comfort: surfing. With the help of his foster parents and close family friends, he has one last shot at seeing whether his dream of becoming a professional surfer is truly attainable.
Willow is leaving Berkeley—her summer courses and her job—after a shattering experience with her boyfriend. Unsure of what happened or how to move forward, she returns home to her family.
Pacific Shores, California, is where Willow’s parents, Leo and Darby, live as prominent members of the community. Leo, an Olympic medalist in surfing, owns the local surf shop and now spends his days coaching and mentoring aspiring surfers. Darby owns the town’s florist shop. This is also where Weston relocates for a mentoring and surfing opportunity with Leo. What they don’t yet realize is that Weston and Willow’s paths are about to cross again.
Can these two rebuild and rediscover who they are and what they truly want in life under the same roof? Can they grieve their past experiences, and grow with each other’s support?
This book marks Sarah A. Bailey’s traditional publishing debut. Tattered Tides is an emotional read, tackling several heavy topics: medical abortion, domestic violence and abuse. However, Bailey does a beautiful job supporting Wes and Willow through their most difficult moments. I highly recommend reading the introduction before diving in, as it provides important context and helps prepare you for the journey these characters face. Sarah writes in a way that allows you to truly feel the emotions of not only the main characters, but also their family and friends. Despite the heavier themes, there are many moments of love, resilience, and strength woven throughout the story.
Leo and Darby play a significant role, offering unwavering emotional and mental support to both their daughter and Weston. Leo is incredibly swoon-worthy as a father figure—I can only imagine what he was like in his younger years. Darby is a loving, accepting mother and an all-around fun and supportive presence. I’m eager to read more about their story in Heathen & Honeysuckle.
I love that this book is the first in a new series, Celestial Cove, a spin-off of the Pacific Shores series. I especially enjoy when authors explore the second generation of characters. I’ll definitely be going back to read the Pacific Shores series to see where it all began. If you haven’t read it yet, I’d recommend starting there before jumping into Celestial Cove, as it will give you a deeper understanding of the characters and their dynamics in Tattered Tides.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sarah A. Bailey, and Page & Vine Publishing for providing me with an e-ARC of Tattered Tides in exchange for my honest review.
Willow is leaving Berkeley—her summer courses and her job—after a shattering experience with her boyfriend. Unsure of what happened or how to move forward, she returns home to her family.
Pacific Shores, California, is where Willow’s parents, Leo and Darby, live as prominent members of the community. Leo, an Olympic medalist in surfing, owns the local surf shop and now spends his days coaching and mentoring aspiring surfers. Darby owns the town’s florist shop. This is also where Weston relocates for a mentoring and surfing opportunity with Leo. What they don’t yet realize is that Weston and Willow’s paths are about to cross again.
Can these two rebuild and rediscover who they are and what they truly want in life under the same roof? Can they grieve their past experiences, and grow with each other’s support?
This book marks Sarah A. Bailey’s traditional publishing debut. Tattered Tides is an emotional read, tackling several heavy topics: medical abortion, domestic violence and abuse. However, Bailey does a beautiful job supporting Wes and Willow through their most difficult moments. I highly recommend reading the introduction before diving in, as it provides important context and helps prepare you for the journey these characters face. Sarah writes in a way that allows you to truly feel the emotions of not only the main characters, but also their family and friends. Despite the heavier themes, there are many moments of love, resilience, and strength woven throughout the story.
Leo and Darby play a significant role, offering unwavering emotional and mental support to both their daughter and Weston. Leo is incredibly swoon-worthy as a father figure—I can only imagine what he was like in his younger years. Darby is a loving, accepting mother and an all-around fun and supportive presence. I’m eager to read more about their story in Heathen & Honeysuckle.
I love that this book is the first in a new series, Celestial Cove, a spin-off of the Pacific Shores series. I especially enjoy when authors explore the second generation of characters. I’ll definitely be going back to read the Pacific Shores series to see where it all began. If you haven’t read it yet, I’d recommend starting there before jumping into Celestial Cove, as it will give you a deeper understanding of the characters and their dynamics in Tattered Tides.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sarah A. Bailey, and Page & Vine Publishing for providing me with an e-ARC of Tattered Tides in exchange for my honest review.
February 6, 2026
i missed pacific shores sm <3 being back in this world with these characters felt instantly familiar and comforting, while still allowing this story (and the new characters) to stand fully on their own.
just like with all of bailey’s books, this one shines because of the characters. willow and weston felt real, layered, and emotionally grounded. their connection developed naturally, with genuine chemistry. they had a very hurt/comfort dynamic—soft, tender, and emotional. their love was really sweet, nurturing, and safe, but never boring.
the mental health rep—trauma, anxiety, grief—was clearly handled with care and respect, and added significant weight to both the plot and the character growth. similar to the pacific shores series, there was strong emotional depth, but everything felt age-appropriate—their struggles, reactions, and relationships—for characters in their early 20s as opposed to their late 20s.
unsurprisingly, one of my favorite aspects was the support system surrounding the MCs bc i adore the graham/ramos/hayes family. willow’s parents were of course incredible, and i especially loved her dynamic with her dad and how thoughtfully he handled her relationship with weston. despite the use of the coach's daughter trope, he was never controlling and his protectiveness felt appropriate and understandable. all of the family and friends felt solid, present, and truly supportive.
i also really loved the surfing in this one. there was more of it here than in heathen & honeysuckle. because even with leo being a professional surfer, we didn’t get much of the competitive aspect in that book, so it was really nice to dive deeper into that side of things with wes. as always, the ocean and surfing added atmosphere and grounded the story so well in the pacific shores setting.
as per usual, bailey’s writing is really beautiful here—immersive, well-paced, and emotionally resonant. also, the four squeezes ?! are you kidding me? i’m unwell.
and even though you absolutely can read this without having read the pacific shores series, i strongly recommend reading those books first. having that background added an extra layer of depth and enjoyment. i haven’t read the soulmate series yet (also not required), but i’ll definitely be doing that before continuing with the celestia cove series—especially before allie’s book (which i am very excited about!!).
overall, this was everything i wanted and was hoping for from a return to the world of pacific shores: familiar, comforting, heartfelt, and still completely its own.
thank you so much to netgalley, page & vine, and sarah a. bailey for providing me with this arc!
just like with all of bailey’s books, this one shines because of the characters. willow and weston felt real, layered, and emotionally grounded. their connection developed naturally, with genuine chemistry. they had a very hurt/comfort dynamic—soft, tender, and emotional. their love was really sweet, nurturing, and safe, but never boring.
the mental health rep—trauma, anxiety, grief—was clearly handled with care and respect, and added significant weight to both the plot and the character growth. similar to the pacific shores series, there was strong emotional depth, but everything felt age-appropriate—their struggles, reactions, and relationships—for characters in their early 20s as opposed to their late 20s.
unsurprisingly, one of my favorite aspects was the support system surrounding the MCs bc i adore the graham/ramos/hayes family. willow’s parents were of course incredible, and i especially loved her dynamic with her dad and how thoughtfully he handled her relationship with weston. despite the use of the coach's daughter trope, he was never controlling and his protectiveness felt appropriate and understandable. all of the family and friends felt solid, present, and truly supportive.
i also really loved the surfing in this one. there was more of it here than in heathen & honeysuckle. because even with leo being a professional surfer, we didn’t get much of the competitive aspect in that book, so it was really nice to dive deeper into that side of things with wes. as always, the ocean and surfing added atmosphere and grounded the story so well in the pacific shores setting.
as per usual, bailey’s writing is really beautiful here—immersive, well-paced, and emotionally resonant. also, the four squeezes ?! are you kidding me? i’m unwell.
and even though you absolutely can read this without having read the pacific shores series, i strongly recommend reading those books first. having that background added an extra layer of depth and enjoyment. i haven’t read the soulmate series yet (also not required), but i’ll definitely be doing that before continuing with the celestia cove series—especially before allie’s book (which i am very excited about!!).
overall, this was everything i wanted and was hoping for from a return to the world of pacific shores: familiar, comforting, heartfelt, and still completely its own.
thank you so much to netgalley, page & vine, and sarah a. bailey for providing me with this arc!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.25 stars.
Sarah A. Bailey's "Tattered Tides" is an emotional, raw romance with intriguing new characters, complex/sensitive situations, and a look at where some of our beloved favorite characters ended up. If you've had the chance to read any of her other books, you'll know that this is her wheelhouse. Having read her entire Pacific Shores series (which I loved!), I was super excited to start a new series, only to discover this is actually going to be about some of the kids of the characters from Pacific Shores! Yay! Bailey weaves these already established personalities with her new ones' stories with expert precision. The main characters here are Weston (a former almost-pro-surfer with a possibly shady past that includes jail time) and Willow (Leo and Darby's college-aged daughter). They are thrown into each other's orbit (forced proximity!!!) when Wes comes to Pacific Shores for the summer to work with Leo to regain his surfing prowess, to reestablish and redeem himself in the surfing world, and to work in the surf shop on the boardwalk in exchange for room and board as he trains. Willow has recently experienced something horrible at the hands of someone she thought loved her, leaving her to pick up the pieces of the mess. She doesn't intend to go back to Berkeley because she doesn't want to face the man who harmed her. Willow and Wes meet, and their chemistry is instant, palpable, and strong. They bond over their individual traumas, and even though Wes asked Leo to stay away from Willow, they cannot stay away from one another. Their relationship slowly grows as they begin to open up to one another and heal from what broke them. As they mend individually, they come together and heal together. I love how Wes was the inexperienced one and how Willow was not a player on top of it. There is a mutual trust there between the two of them, a solid foundation that takes their friendship to something more. The story does get quite focused on the spicy aspects of the story about halfway through until the end, but I didn't mind too much. Sarah A. Bailey gripped me with this story from the beginning. I will say, I think this book is a littttttttttttle bit long at times, but it didn't detract from how dramatic and enjoyable and engaging this book is. Another winner from Sarah A. Bailey!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Sarah A. Bailey, Victory Editing, and Page & Vine for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Sarah A. Bailey's "Tattered Tides" is an emotional, raw romance with intriguing new characters, complex/sensitive situations, and a look at where some of our beloved favorite characters ended up. If you've had the chance to read any of her other books, you'll know that this is her wheelhouse. Having read her entire Pacific Shores series (which I loved!), I was super excited to start a new series, only to discover this is actually going to be about some of the kids of the characters from Pacific Shores! Yay! Bailey weaves these already established personalities with her new ones' stories with expert precision. The main characters here are Weston (a former almost-pro-surfer with a possibly shady past that includes jail time) and Willow (Leo and Darby's college-aged daughter). They are thrown into each other's orbit (forced proximity!!!) when Wes comes to Pacific Shores for the summer to work with Leo to regain his surfing prowess, to reestablish and redeem himself in the surfing world, and to work in the surf shop on the boardwalk in exchange for room and board as he trains. Willow has recently experienced something horrible at the hands of someone she thought loved her, leaving her to pick up the pieces of the mess. She doesn't intend to go back to Berkeley because she doesn't want to face the man who harmed her. Willow and Wes meet, and their chemistry is instant, palpable, and strong. They bond over their individual traumas, and even though Wes asked Leo to stay away from Willow, they cannot stay away from one another. Their relationship slowly grows as they begin to open up to one another and heal from what broke them. As they mend individually, they come together and heal together. I love how Wes was the inexperienced one and how Willow was not a player on top of it. There is a mutual trust there between the two of them, a solid foundation that takes their friendship to something more. The story does get quite focused on the spicy aspects of the story about halfway through until the end, but I didn't mind too much. Sarah A. Bailey gripped me with this story from the beginning. I will say, I think this book is a littttttttttttle bit long at times, but it didn't detract from how dramatic and enjoyable and engaging this book is. Another winner from Sarah A. Bailey!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Sarah A. Bailey, Victory Editing, and Page & Vine for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC copy of this book!
I read the entire thing in one sitting- this is going to be a long one so get ready but I just have so much to say!
Even though you can totally read this book on its own, I highly highly recommend reading Pacific Shores series first! One of my favorite parts of this book was going back to Pacific Shores and revisiting all the OG characters. This author has an extremely emotional way of writing and she truly draws you into her world with her words and makes you want to know what happens with the characters even after the book is over. It was awesome to come back and see what all the Pacific Shores characters are up to later in life. (the surprise about Lou is definitely one I did not see coming but I won't say anymore for risk of a bigger spoiler;)
Now for the book itself- absolutely loved every aspect of it. Firstly, the way Willow and Weston's relationship developed. Over the course of the book you get to see them slowly begin to trust and open up and to find safety in each other after going through their own respective past traumas. I also especially loved Willow's relationship with her father and how close to each other they are. I love seeing how the devoted, caring, and protective nature we were first introduced to in H&H as a boyfriend and husband carries into his relationship with his daughter. Also, I honestly really liked that the MMC was the less experienced one in this book- in all the books I've read its either the FMC is less experienced or they are both equally inexperienced. I like and appreciate that the author did it this way.
Lastly, I love getting to see her relationship with her cousins and cannot wait to read whichever one of their books comes next! (The fact that the other three second gen characters are all Everett & Dahlia's children makes me excited bc that means they will be featured heavily in the upcoming books. Wicked & Wildflower was absolutely my favorite book out of the whole Pacific Shores series and Everett specifically is my favorite character of all. I love the glimpses we got of him as a father in this book and cannot wait to see more detail in his children's books).
Trigger warnings- this book is emotional and heavy, and while portrayed sensitively, please be careful if you are triggered by things like sexual assault/abuse and abortion (pretty big theme in this book).
I read the entire thing in one sitting- this is going to be a long one so get ready but I just have so much to say!
Even though you can totally read this book on its own, I highly highly recommend reading Pacific Shores series first! One of my favorite parts of this book was going back to Pacific Shores and revisiting all the OG characters. This author has an extremely emotional way of writing and she truly draws you into her world with her words and makes you want to know what happens with the characters even after the book is over. It was awesome to come back and see what all the Pacific Shores characters are up to later in life. (the surprise about Lou is definitely one I did not see coming but I won't say anymore for risk of a bigger spoiler;)
Now for the book itself- absolutely loved every aspect of it. Firstly, the way Willow and Weston's relationship developed. Over the course of the book you get to see them slowly begin to trust and open up and to find safety in each other after going through their own respective past traumas. I also especially loved Willow's relationship with her father and how close to each other they are. I love seeing how the devoted, caring, and protective nature we were first introduced to in H&H as a boyfriend and husband carries into his relationship with his daughter. Also, I honestly really liked that the MMC was the less experienced one in this book- in all the books I've read its either the FMC is less experienced or they are both equally inexperienced. I like and appreciate that the author did it this way.
Lastly, I love getting to see her relationship with her cousins and cannot wait to read whichever one of their books comes next! (The fact that the other three second gen characters are all Everett & Dahlia's children makes me excited bc that means they will be featured heavily in the upcoming books. Wicked & Wildflower was absolutely my favorite book out of the whole Pacific Shores series and Everett specifically is my favorite character of all. I love the glimpses we got of him as a father in this book and cannot wait to see more detail in his children's books).
Trigger warnings- this book is emotional and heavy, and while portrayed sensitively, please be careful if you are triggered by things like sexual assault/abuse and abortion (pretty big theme in this book).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC review - no spoilers
Tattered Tides is the first book of the series Celestia Cove, which tells the stories of the next gen of both of the previous series Pacific Shores and Soulmate.
It tells the beautiful love story of the MMC, Weston (Carter and Penelope's foster son) and Willow (Leo and Darby's daughter). Weston is a broken young man, with a difficult and violent past, and who is taken under the wing of Leo to train him to be a champion surfer. The FMC, Willow is back at her parent's home, trying to heal after ending an abusive relationship.
Throughout their healing journey, Weston and Willow fall into a beautiful relationship, founded on friendship, trust and understanding, and eventually love. Their connection and attraction is instant, they support each other and heal each other on so many levels.
I know that I am bias as I love all Sarah's books, but this one is truly an amazing story. I loved both MCs, I have a weakness for a broken boy, and ugh ...Weston is everything I wish for a man, he's protective, in so much need of love (and hugs!!) and supportive. Willow is this perfect combination of her parents, some sweet and intuitive side of her mum and the boldness and straightforwardness of her dad.
I loved to read about Leo and Darby as older adults, as I loved them in their book. It was so funny to read Leo as a protective dad, but I loved even more the way he was respectful of his daughter's private life and choices. If you read his book and loved him, then you'll be happy to know that he is quite present in this book.
Sarah hooked me into the story from the start, I felt the MCs connection instantly and felt for them the whole book. She made me laugh, cry, swoon, gasp, and yes also blush... a LOT (the spice was perfect!).
I admire Sarah for telling this story with some very some sensitive topics for both MCs. I actually love her writing even more because of that.
If you are a sensitive reader, consider reading your TW which can be found on both the first pages of the book and on the author's website.
This is a standalone, however I highly recommend reading her previous series to get the full picture of the family dynamics.
I now cannot wait to read the next book about Allie and Archer's story!
Tattered Tides is the first book of the series Celestia Cove, which tells the stories of the next gen of both of the previous series Pacific Shores and Soulmate.
It tells the beautiful love story of the MMC, Weston (Carter and Penelope's foster son) and Willow (Leo and Darby's daughter). Weston is a broken young man, with a difficult and violent past, and who is taken under the wing of Leo to train him to be a champion surfer. The FMC, Willow is back at her parent's home, trying to heal after ending an abusive relationship.
Throughout their healing journey, Weston and Willow fall into a beautiful relationship, founded on friendship, trust and understanding, and eventually love. Their connection and attraction is instant, they support each other and heal each other on so many levels.
I know that I am bias as I love all Sarah's books, but this one is truly an amazing story. I loved both MCs, I have a weakness for a broken boy, and ugh ...Weston is everything I wish for a man, he's protective, in so much need of love (and hugs!!) and supportive. Willow is this perfect combination of her parents, some sweet and intuitive side of her mum and the boldness and straightforwardness of her dad.
I loved to read about Leo and Darby as older adults, as I loved them in their book. It was so funny to read Leo as a protective dad, but I loved even more the way he was respectful of his daughter's private life and choices. If you read his book and loved him, then you'll be happy to know that he is quite present in this book.
Sarah hooked me into the story from the start, I felt the MCs connection instantly and felt for them the whole book. She made me laugh, cry, swoon, gasp, and yes also blush... a LOT (the spice was perfect!).
I admire Sarah for telling this story with some very some sensitive topics for both MCs. I actually love her writing even more because of that.
If you are a sensitive reader, consider reading your TW which can be found on both the first pages of the book and on the author's website.
This is a standalone, however I highly recommend reading her previous series to get the full picture of the family dynamics.
I now cannot wait to read the next book about Allie and Archer's story!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book emotionally wrecked me in the best possible way — and I am still recovering.
**Tattered Tides by Sarah A. Bailey** is not just a romance. It’s a healing journey wrapped in heartbreak, resilience, and the kind of love that feels safe enough to rebuild inside.
I went in expecting something emotional. I did not expect to feel this seen.
Sarah handles heavy, sensitive topics with so much care and intention. Willow’s past relationship with Parker isn’t glossed over or dramatized for shock value — it’s explored with painful honesty. The mental and emotional battle she fights from beginning to end feels raw, real, and deeply validating for anyone who has experienced something similar. My heart broke for her more than once.
And then there’s Weston.
At first, he’s all quiet intensity and unanswered questions. Mysterious. Guarded. A little hard to read. And then his story unfolds — and suddenly that guarded exterior makes heartbreaking sense. Sarah A. Bailey writes male leads who feel deeply and love fully, and Weston is no exception. He’s strong but emotionally open. Protective but never overpowering. When he loves, he commits with his whole heart.
What makes this story shine is that it isn’t just about romance — it’s about support. Both Willow and Weston are surrounded by friends and family who show up for them. The love in this book doesn’t exist in isolation. It’s layered. Communal. Safe.
Seeing Darby and Leo as parents? Absolute gold standard energy. Protective but supportive. And Leo navigating his daughter’s love life is genuinely hilarious. The balance between “that’s my little girl” and “I respect your independence” adds such needed lightness to the story.
Willow and Weston feel rare. Deeply layered. Written with care. Their connection grows in a way that feels earned, not rushed. Tender without being unrealistic. Strong without being perfect.
And that ending? Completely satisfying. The kind that makes you close the book slowly and just sit with it for a minute.
If this is the beginning of another series from Sarah A. Bailey, consider me fully invested.
Five stars. No notes. Still thinking about them.
🌊❤️🌊❤️🌊❤️🌊❤️🌊
**Tattered Tides by Sarah A. Bailey** is not just a romance. It’s a healing journey wrapped in heartbreak, resilience, and the kind of love that feels safe enough to rebuild inside.
I went in expecting something emotional. I did not expect to feel this seen.
Sarah handles heavy, sensitive topics with so much care and intention. Willow’s past relationship with Parker isn’t glossed over or dramatized for shock value — it’s explored with painful honesty. The mental and emotional battle she fights from beginning to end feels raw, real, and deeply validating for anyone who has experienced something similar. My heart broke for her more than once.
And then there’s Weston.
At first, he’s all quiet intensity and unanswered questions. Mysterious. Guarded. A little hard to read. And then his story unfolds — and suddenly that guarded exterior makes heartbreaking sense. Sarah A. Bailey writes male leads who feel deeply and love fully, and Weston is no exception. He’s strong but emotionally open. Protective but never overpowering. When he loves, he commits with his whole heart.
What makes this story shine is that it isn’t just about romance — it’s about support. Both Willow and Weston are surrounded by friends and family who show up for them. The love in this book doesn’t exist in isolation. It’s layered. Communal. Safe.
Seeing Darby and Leo as parents? Absolute gold standard energy. Protective but supportive. And Leo navigating his daughter’s love life is genuinely hilarious. The balance between “that’s my little girl” and “I respect your independence” adds such needed lightness to the story.
Willow and Weston feel rare. Deeply layered. Written with care. Their connection grows in a way that feels earned, not rushed. Tender without being unrealistic. Strong without being perfect.
And that ending? Completely satisfying. The kind that makes you close the book slowly and just sit with it for a minute.
If this is the beginning of another series from Sarah A. Bailey, consider me fully invested.
Five stars. No notes. Still thinking about them.
🌊❤️🌊❤️🌊❤️🌊❤️🌊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Let me start off by saying, second generation books are sometimes not my jam. I love the way that the Pacific Shores series ended and, to me, it felt like there wasn’t a need to see any more. But Sarah A. Bailey, if anyone could deliver yet another set of stunningly tender and swoony romances set in the same small town, it’s you.
Tattered Tides is first and foremost a journey of healing. Both main characters find themselves in Pacific Shores after separate and individual traumatic incidents. They’re both a little bit broken and feeling out of sorts, so they find solace in each other. Willow Graham is the sweetheart of Pacific Shores and the apple of her parents’ eye. When she comes running home and breaks down on her parents’ couch, she decides to stay for the summer to recover and find herself again. Weston Ashford is trying to find his footing again. After a stint in jail following a traumatic childhood, he is undoubtedly misunderstood. He’s given a chance to train with Willow’s dad, legendary surfer Leo Graham. His talent still lives in his body and his soul, he wants nothing more than to prove himself again.
What I loved about Willow and Weston’s journey is how real it is. Life is hard, it’s messy, and not without its traumas. You’ll find that rebuilding and rediscovering yourself at different stages of your life is part of growing up. I love that the difference in this series is felt in the very first book. It’s still loaded with spice and Sarah A. Bailey’s signature banter. But you immediately feel the difference in these characters - in their adolescence, in their inexperience, in their hesitation. I love that we were brought to the familiar setting of the town - the homes, the boardwalk, and especially Celestia Cove. Even through the words on the page you feel the energy difference that exists on that very beach.
Thank you to Page & Vine and NetGalley for this ARC! I’m eternally grateful for it. And to Sarah, I am so excited to spend the extra time in Pacific Shores.
Tattered Tides is first and foremost a journey of healing. Both main characters find themselves in Pacific Shores after separate and individual traumatic incidents. They’re both a little bit broken and feeling out of sorts, so they find solace in each other. Willow Graham is the sweetheart of Pacific Shores and the apple of her parents’ eye. When she comes running home and breaks down on her parents’ couch, she decides to stay for the summer to recover and find herself again. Weston Ashford is trying to find his footing again. After a stint in jail following a traumatic childhood, he is undoubtedly misunderstood. He’s given a chance to train with Willow’s dad, legendary surfer Leo Graham. His talent still lives in his body and his soul, he wants nothing more than to prove himself again.
What I loved about Willow and Weston’s journey is how real it is. Life is hard, it’s messy, and not without its traumas. You’ll find that rebuilding and rediscovering yourself at different stages of your life is part of growing up. I love that the difference in this series is felt in the very first book. It’s still loaded with spice and Sarah A. Bailey’s signature banter. But you immediately feel the difference in these characters - in their adolescence, in their inexperience, in their hesitation. I love that we were brought to the familiar setting of the town - the homes, the boardwalk, and especially Celestia Cove. Even through the words on the page you feel the energy difference that exists on that very beach.
Thank you to Page & Vine and NetGalley for this ARC! I’m eternally grateful for it. And to Sarah, I am so excited to spend the extra time in Pacific Shores.
February 21, 2026
🌊 𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 🌊
𝕋𝕒𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕖𝕕 𝕋𝕚𝕕𝕖𝕤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🗓️May 5th
ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴇxᴘᴇᴄᴛ:
🌊Surfing Romance
💜Comfort/Hurt
🌊Coach’s Daughter
💕She Teaches Him
🌊Friends to Lovers
💜“Trading Truths”
🌊Second Generation Series
💕Mental Health Rep
Weston Ashford was destined for Olympic Gold before bottled rage and a split-second decision cost him everything. Three years later he gets a second chance training with Leo Graham. The rules are simple:
1. Show up and don’t f*ck up
2. Be nice to his wife
3. Stay away from his daughter
Tattered Tides felt like coming home. Sarah A. Bailey is back with the second generation of Pacific Shores and once again delivers a deeply emotional and addictive love story with Tattered Tides. There is nothing like getting lost in Sarah’s writing, she pulls me in every single time.
Willow Graham is the daughter of Leo and Darby from Heathen and Honeysuckle
Weston Ashford is the adopted son of Carter and Penelope from The Soulmate Theory.
After years of abuse and grieving the loss of his mother, Weston’s scars run deep. Surfing has been his only escape; the water is the only place his broken soul has truly found peace. The mystery surrounding Weston’s past had me in a chokehold from the beginning.
Williow finds herself back home in Pacific Shores after ending things with her abusive ex. She is dealing with ALOT. Her strength and resilience were undeniable from the start. She had a spunk to her that was impossible not to love.
The building tension between the coach’s daughter and the inexperienced “bad boy” was EVERYTHING. This was the perfect balance of hurt and comfort. There are so many emotions packed between these covers; my heart ached, I laughed, I swooned, and I was left with the biggest smile. I absolutely adored these two together.
Four squeezes… You’re. Safe. With. Me.
Tattered Tides is a beautifully written story of love, healing, and redemption. Weston and Willow saw beyond each other's broken pieces and breathed life back into one another. Their love was built on trust and understanding and was so well earned.
I read this book in one sitting; I went into Tattered Tides yearning for a hard-fought love story and this was everything I could have wanted and more. I literally could not put this book down and have not been able to stop thinking of Weston and Willow. I will definitely be reading this again before release day.
Huge thanks to Sarah A. Bailey, Page & Vine, and NetGalley for the ARC of Tattered Tides.
𝕋𝕒𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕖𝕕 𝕋𝕚𝕕𝕖𝕤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🗓️May 5th
ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴇxᴘᴇᴄᴛ:
🌊Surfing Romance
💜Comfort/Hurt
🌊Coach’s Daughter
💕She Teaches Him
🌊Friends to Lovers
💜“Trading Truths”
🌊Second Generation Series
💕Mental Health Rep
Weston Ashford was destined for Olympic Gold before bottled rage and a split-second decision cost him everything. Three years later he gets a second chance training with Leo Graham. The rules are simple:
1. Show up and don’t f*ck up
2. Be nice to his wife
3. Stay away from his daughter
Tattered Tides felt like coming home. Sarah A. Bailey is back with the second generation of Pacific Shores and once again delivers a deeply emotional and addictive love story with Tattered Tides. There is nothing like getting lost in Sarah’s writing, she pulls me in every single time.
Willow Graham is the daughter of Leo and Darby from Heathen and Honeysuckle
Weston Ashford is the adopted son of Carter and Penelope from The Soulmate Theory.
After years of abuse and grieving the loss of his mother, Weston’s scars run deep. Surfing has been his only escape; the water is the only place his broken soul has truly found peace. The mystery surrounding Weston’s past had me in a chokehold from the beginning.
Williow finds herself back home in Pacific Shores after ending things with her abusive ex. She is dealing with ALOT. Her strength and resilience were undeniable from the start. She had a spunk to her that was impossible not to love.
The building tension between the coach’s daughter and the inexperienced “bad boy” was EVERYTHING. This was the perfect balance of hurt and comfort. There are so many emotions packed between these covers; my heart ached, I laughed, I swooned, and I was left with the biggest smile. I absolutely adored these two together.
Four squeezes… You’re. Safe. With. Me.
Tattered Tides is a beautifully written story of love, healing, and redemption. Weston and Willow saw beyond each other's broken pieces and breathed life back into one another. Their love was built on trust and understanding and was so well earned.
I read this book in one sitting; I went into Tattered Tides yearning for a hard-fought love story and this was everything I could have wanted and more. I literally could not put this book down and have not been able to stop thinking of Weston and Willow. I will definitely be reading this again before release day.
Huge thanks to Sarah A. Bailey, Page & Vine, and NetGalley for the ARC of Tattered Tides.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 3🌶️
Tarred Tides is a beautifully written story about two people in their early twenties who are navigating trauma and trying to rebuild their lives.
Weston and Willow appear to be complete opposites at first. Weston is a juvenile delinquent trying to turn his life around while pursuing his dream of becoming the next surf champion. Willow, once a promising art student, seemed to have everything until one night changes everything, forcing her to return home to her small beach town for the summer.
Despite their differences, something draws them together. What begins as a hesitant connection slowly develops into something deeper, as they start to recognize pieces of themselves in each other. Their relationship becomes a quiet space where both can begin to process what they’ve been through and slowly start healing. 🌊
The writing is one of the story’s strongest elements. The author captures the coastal setting and the characters’ emotions with depth and care. The small beach-town atmosphere feels vivid and immersive, making it easy to picture the ocean, the surf culture, and the slower rhythm of life.
I also loved the slow, natural development of Weston and Willow’s relationship. They take time to understand each other’s boundaries and emotional limits, and their dynamic feels respectful, supportive, and genuine. Sensitive topics are handled thoughtfully, emphasizing emotional growth, communication, and vulnerability rather than using trauma as a dramatic plot device. 🤍
The only reason this isn’t a full five-star read is that some moments felt a little predictable. Even so, the emotional journey and character development kept me fully engaged. Overall, Tarred Tides is a heartfelt, atmospheric story about healing, and trust, perfect for a quiet afternoon by the ocean. 🌊✨
I want to thank NetGalley, Victory Editing and Sarah A Bailey for this ARC! All opinions are my own.
Spice: 3🌶️
Tarred Tides is a beautifully written story about two people in their early twenties who are navigating trauma and trying to rebuild their lives.
Weston and Willow appear to be complete opposites at first. Weston is a juvenile delinquent trying to turn his life around while pursuing his dream of becoming the next surf champion. Willow, once a promising art student, seemed to have everything until one night changes everything, forcing her to return home to her small beach town for the summer.
Despite their differences, something draws them together. What begins as a hesitant connection slowly develops into something deeper, as they start to recognize pieces of themselves in each other. Their relationship becomes a quiet space where both can begin to process what they’ve been through and slowly start healing. 🌊
The writing is one of the story’s strongest elements. The author captures the coastal setting and the characters’ emotions with depth and care. The small beach-town atmosphere feels vivid and immersive, making it easy to picture the ocean, the surf culture, and the slower rhythm of life.
I also loved the slow, natural development of Weston and Willow’s relationship. They take time to understand each other’s boundaries and emotional limits, and their dynamic feels respectful, supportive, and genuine. Sensitive topics are handled thoughtfully, emphasizing emotional growth, communication, and vulnerability rather than using trauma as a dramatic plot device. 🤍
The only reason this isn’t a full five-star read is that some moments felt a little predictable. Even so, the emotional journey and character development kept me fully engaged. Overall, Tarred Tides is a heartfelt, atmospheric story about healing, and trust, perfect for a quiet afternoon by the ocean. 🌊✨
I want to thank NetGalley, Victory Editing and Sarah A Bailey for this ARC! All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was my first surfer romance, and I enjoyed it immensely.
OVERVIEW 🗒️
Weston Ashford had finally built a stable life for himself, rising to success as a World Junior Champion surfer until one mistake brought everything crashing down. Years later, fresh out of prison and desperate for a second chance, he’s determined to rebuild his future with no distractions… until he meets his coach’s daughter, Willow. As both struggle to heal from their pasts, their unexpected connection might be exactly what they need or the thing that tears them apart.
CHARACTERS 👥
The characters were all so well done. The SA survivor representation was handled with a lot of care and sensitivity, and Weston’s complicated backstory felt realistic and compelling. I loved discovering each character’s personality, and even the side characters added so much to the story. The friendships and non-romantic relationships were just as enjoyable as the main plot.
ROMANCE 💗
Weston and Willow are soulmates. Their connection felt emotional, intense, and genuine, and I loved how they slowly came to understand each other. Their relationship had a great mix of vulnerability and chemistry, and their moments together were both sweet and powerful. I’ll be honest, I don’t usually talk about spice in reviews, but wow. Those scenes had me blushing while still feeling meaningful and full of care. My only critique is that I wish there had been a bit more buildup before things escalated.
WRITING ✍️
The writing was sometimes a bit over-descriptive, which occasionally pulled me out of the story. For example, small details—like exact turns during a driving scene—felt unnecessary. The prose also leaned quite poetic at times, which didn’t always match the characters or their voices. The shift between modern dialogue and more lyrical inner monologue could feel a little jarring. That said, once I got used to the style, it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment.
FINAL THOUGHTS 🌊
Overall, this book was such a fun read. If you’re looking for a summer romance with both fluffy and heartfelt moments, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try.
You should read this book if you love:
- Friends to Lovers
- Sports Romance
- Relatable Characters
- An OBSESSED Man
- Forced Proximity
OVERVIEW 🗒️
Weston Ashford had finally built a stable life for himself, rising to success as a World Junior Champion surfer until one mistake brought everything crashing down. Years later, fresh out of prison and desperate for a second chance, he’s determined to rebuild his future with no distractions… until he meets his coach’s daughter, Willow. As both struggle to heal from their pasts, their unexpected connection might be exactly what they need or the thing that tears them apart.
CHARACTERS 👥
The characters were all so well done. The SA survivor representation was handled with a lot of care and sensitivity, and Weston’s complicated backstory felt realistic and compelling. I loved discovering each character’s personality, and even the side characters added so much to the story. The friendships and non-romantic relationships were just as enjoyable as the main plot.
ROMANCE 💗
Weston and Willow are soulmates. Their connection felt emotional, intense, and genuine, and I loved how they slowly came to understand each other. Their relationship had a great mix of vulnerability and chemistry, and their moments together were both sweet and powerful. I’ll be honest, I don’t usually talk about spice in reviews, but wow. Those scenes had me blushing while still feeling meaningful and full of care. My only critique is that I wish there had been a bit more buildup before things escalated.
WRITING ✍️
The writing was sometimes a bit over-descriptive, which occasionally pulled me out of the story. For example, small details—like exact turns during a driving scene—felt unnecessary. The prose also leaned quite poetic at times, which didn’t always match the characters or their voices. The shift between modern dialogue and more lyrical inner monologue could feel a little jarring. That said, once I got used to the style, it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment.
FINAL THOUGHTS 🌊
Overall, this book was such a fun read. If you’re looking for a summer romance with both fluffy and heartfelt moments, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try.
You should read this book if you love:
- Friends to Lovers
- Sports Romance
- Relatable Characters
- An OBSESSED Man
- Forced Proximity
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It was so great to be back in Pacific Shores and picking up with the next generation. While this can be read as a standalone, I really recommend reading The Pacific Shores series first as the main characters show up in Tattered Tides.
Sarah wove an emotionally heavy yet beautiful love story between Willow and Wes. She tackled topics that are not easy and did it beautifully though their story. She showed how having the support from the right person can help heal you and help build you into a stronger person. She created chemistry that was so hot I am pretty sure my book was smoking even while also developing the characters and showcasing their growth. Is it spicy? Yes. But it is so much more. It’s thoughtful, it’s deep, it’s traumatic and it’s healing.
The way Wes falls so hard and so completely for Willow? Swoon! He and Willow came to the relationship with their own traumatic pasts. They were hurt by people they should have been able to rely upon and trust. They don’t let it destroy themselves though. They work together to help the other heal. They find the light in each other. They took the messy and hard parts of life and created something beautiful.
I loved Willow and Wes, but I also loved Leo as a dad. I am a huge fan of Heathen & Honeysuckle, so it was great to see Leo in this role. Protective and doting, caring and loving. The relationship Leo has with Willow is so pure. The way he doesn’t judge and is there for her. He gives her advice but, in the end, understands it is her life and he supports her. I also really loved the whole family dynamic. The way they would say the most inappropriate things in front of each other had me laughing so hard and reminding me of my family. It shows a level of comfort when you can truly be yourself with your parents as an adult.
I can’t recommend this story (and Pacific Shores) enough! I am already looking forward to the next edition of the series.
Sarah wove an emotionally heavy yet beautiful love story between Willow and Wes. She tackled topics that are not easy and did it beautifully though their story. She showed how having the support from the right person can help heal you and help build you into a stronger person. She created chemistry that was so hot I am pretty sure my book was smoking even while also developing the characters and showcasing their growth. Is it spicy? Yes. But it is so much more. It’s thoughtful, it’s deep, it’s traumatic and it’s healing.
The way Wes falls so hard and so completely for Willow? Swoon! He and Willow came to the relationship with their own traumatic pasts. They were hurt by people they should have been able to rely upon and trust. They don’t let it destroy themselves though. They work together to help the other heal. They find the light in each other. They took the messy and hard parts of life and created something beautiful.
I loved Willow and Wes, but I also loved Leo as a dad. I am a huge fan of Heathen & Honeysuckle, so it was great to see Leo in this role. Protective and doting, caring and loving. The relationship Leo has with Willow is so pure. The way he doesn’t judge and is there for her. He gives her advice but, in the end, understands it is her life and he supports her. I also really loved the whole family dynamic. The way they would say the most inappropriate things in front of each other had me laughing so hard and reminding me of my family. It shows a level of comfort when you can truly be yourself with your parents as an adult.
I can’t recommend this story (and Pacific Shores) enough! I am already looking forward to the next edition of the series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best way. I honestly wasn’t expecting this story to hit the way it did, but it exceeded every expectation. Sarah handles heavy and sensitive topics with so much care, which I, and I’m sure many others, deeply appreciate.
My heart breaks for Willow and what she has faced. I love how Sarah wrote the mental and emotional battle that Willow experienced in her previous relationship with Parker from beginning to end. It is incredibly raw and real for those who have been through similar experiences.
Weston completely surprised me. There’s such a mystery to him at first, and then learning his story was heartbreaking. Sarah A. Bailey writes MMCs so beautifully, men who allow themselves to feel deeply and fully give into love, and Weston is no exception. I loved that both he and Willow have strong support systems from their friends and family. There was no shortage of love and support shown towards either of them including between each other. They truly embodied pure unconditional love.
Seeing Darby and Leo as parents is everything, truly the gold standard. The love and support surrounding Willow (and eventually Weston) is so powerful and comforting to read. Leo dealing with his daughter’s love life is absolutely hilarious. The balance between protective dad and wanting her independence added such great light moments to the story.
There is so much I want to say about Willow and Weston, but discovering their story firsthand is such an experience that I don’t want to spoil anything. Just know these characters have incredible depth and are written in a way that feels rare to find.
Fantastic ending. These two were truly made for each other. I have a feeling this is the start to another incredible series from Sarah A. Bailey.
My heart breaks for Willow and what she has faced. I love how Sarah wrote the mental and emotional battle that Willow experienced in her previous relationship with Parker from beginning to end. It is incredibly raw and real for those who have been through similar experiences.
Weston completely surprised me. There’s such a mystery to him at first, and then learning his story was heartbreaking. Sarah A. Bailey writes MMCs so beautifully, men who allow themselves to feel deeply and fully give into love, and Weston is no exception. I loved that both he and Willow have strong support systems from their friends and family. There was no shortage of love and support shown towards either of them including between each other. They truly embodied pure unconditional love.
Seeing Darby and Leo as parents is everything, truly the gold standard. The love and support surrounding Willow (and eventually Weston) is so powerful and comforting to read. Leo dealing with his daughter’s love life is absolutely hilarious. The balance between protective dad and wanting her independence added such great light moments to the story.
There is so much I want to say about Willow and Weston, but discovering their story firsthand is such an experience that I don’t want to spoil anything. Just know these characters have incredible depth and are written in a way that feels rare to find.
Fantastic ending. These two were truly made for each other. I have a feeling this is the start to another incredible series from Sarah A. Bailey.
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