What do you think?
Rate this book
Tentacles and Tides: A Crescent Cove Novella
Not yet published
Expected 7 Jul 26256 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 7, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 18, 2026
Such the perfect feel good cozy monster romance.
If only I could have my own boyfriend with tentacles!! Octavius had that grumpy protective energy I love in an MMC. Kara was all sass, spunk and adorableness. Together they just made such a great feel good combo. She was running away and while she is perfectly capable of doing things herself , damn don’t we all wish there was an octopus shifter with multiple tentacles to take care of us !!!
Loved the setting of the small town shifter coastal town and the vibes. Loved the cute little cottage Kara settles in !! Just an all around great fun summer read !!!
June 6, 2026
If you're searching for the ultimate cozy summer romance with a magical twist, Tentacles and Tides is it!
This novella swept me back to Crescent Cove, a charming seaside town full of magic, found family, and unforgettable characters. Kara arrives carrying the weight of her past and searching for a fresh start. Only to find herself crossing paths with Octavius, a grumpy but caring masseuse whose tentacles are just as comforting as they are intriguing.
The relationship between Kara and Octavius was one of my favorite parts of the story. Their chemistry is instant, their banter is adorable, and watching their connection grow felt so natural. Octavius is protective without taking away from Kara’s independence and encourages her to find her own strength while always being there when she needs him.
What surprised me most was the emotional depth packed into such a quick read. Beneath the sweet romance, there's a beautiful story about healing, self worth, and finding a place where you truly belong.
Thank you so much to Lauren Sanatra for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
This novella swept me back to Crescent Cove, a charming seaside town full of magic, found family, and unforgettable characters. Kara arrives carrying the weight of her past and searching for a fresh start. Only to find herself crossing paths with Octavius, a grumpy but caring masseuse whose tentacles are just as comforting as they are intriguing.
The relationship between Kara and Octavius was one of my favorite parts of the story. Their chemistry is instant, their banter is adorable, and watching their connection grow felt so natural. Octavius is protective without taking away from Kara’s independence and encourages her to find her own strength while always being there when she needs him.
What surprised me most was the emotional depth packed into such a quick read. Beneath the sweet romance, there's a beautiful story about healing, self worth, and finding a place where you truly belong.
Thank you so much to Lauren Sanatra for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
May 24, 2026
I was lucky enough to secure this ARC read and believe me when I tell you this was SO cute! My first octopus shifter romance and I have been sucked in for sure (pun intended 🐙)
Setting is a magical seaside town where only magical beings live. Kara the FMC is running from her past where she was nothing but a bartering chip in a poker game by her pathetic ex. Quite literally selling her to a man who took and abused her. Fast forward she is living on the run in Crescent Cove in a run down seaside cottage that could fall apart at any minute.
MMC Octavious a octopus shifter is the broody massage parlor owner who can take away all the stress with his 8 tentacles and then expel into the ocean at the end of the day. Mentally this takes a toll on him I mean how could it not?!
He meets Kara and he immediately senses there is more to her that meets the eye—his 8 limbs seem taken with her as well. Just like the tide coming in, their love runs fast. Will it be enough to escape her past?!
Setting is a magical seaside town where only magical beings live. Kara the FMC is running from her past where she was nothing but a bartering chip in a poker game by her pathetic ex. Quite literally selling her to a man who took and abused her. Fast forward she is living on the run in Crescent Cove in a run down seaside cottage that could fall apart at any minute.
MMC Octavious a octopus shifter is the broody massage parlor owner who can take away all the stress with his 8 tentacles and then expel into the ocean at the end of the day. Mentally this takes a toll on him I mean how could it not?!
He meets Kara and he immediately senses there is more to her that meets the eye—his 8 limbs seem taken with her as well. Just like the tide coming in, their love runs fast. Will it be enough to escape her past?!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A cute and spicy summer romance between a human desperate to escape her past and the octopus shifter that she hopes will consume every part of her future.
Kara is desperate to leave her past life behind her. After stealing a pearl necklace that allows her to enter the magical town of Crescent Cove, Kara hopes that she can evade the man that used to control every aspect of her life. She may be inhabiting a cottage that is literally falling apart around her, but it's the safest she's felt in years. Desperate to let go of some of her stress, she goes to Suction and Serenity Spa, where an octopus shifter is known to take away people's negative emotions. Octavious has always been known for being a grumpy masseuse, but can one really blame him when he spends all day absorbing people's negative emotions into himself? Those complicated feelings, don't just disappear, after all. When Kara walks through his door, Octavious knows that she is harboring deadly secrets, and he is curious to find out what they are. The more time he spends with Kara, his curiosity develops into something deeper, more real. Could the grumpy octopus really be falling for this mysterious stranger that shouldn't even be in Crescent Cove?
It was so fun getting to return to Crescent Cove! This is the second novella in this series I've read, and it's no surprise that I ate up Kara and Octavious' story. I'm so grateful that Sanatra was willing to present me with an ARC of this one!
Kara and Octavious are both pretty complex characters. Kara is escaping a deadly past that is filled with some pretty sucky circumstances. I won't go into details due to spoilers, but let's just say the men she was tied up with are actually the worst kind of people. I hate them so much. Octavious literally takes people's negative emotions from them and temporarily harbors them inside himself, so he isn't exactly the jolliest of fellows. The two have definitely seen and experienced some things over the years, so they definitely can bond over these emotions.
Kara and Octavious' relationship starts in such a goofy way. Kara goes to Octavious's shop in the hopes of relieving her stress. He discovers that Kara is holding in more than any person he's ever worked on before and he is seriously worried about her. This has him pulling an Edward Cullen and hovering outside her house and watching her to make sure she's okay. Octavious soon learns that the cottage Kara is staying in is dangerously unstable, and he decides that he must be the one to help her repair it, due to her serious trust issues. The two then proceed to have the best banter as they play drunken poker together and Octavious cooks for Kara. The beginning phases of their relationship are so sweet, and it was great to see Kara learn to trust again after all that she has gone through.
Kara and Octavious spend a bit of time with one another before they get in bed together, but their chemistry is pretty strong from the start. Octavious can sense emotions as part of his octopus abilities, so he learns quickly that Kara is attracted to him. He is quite the gentlemen about it and offers to keep giving Kara massages that have nothing to do with sex. These two do eventually give into their mutual pining, and when they do, things get fiery pretty fast. Keep in mind that Octavious is an octopus shifter, so her has eight tentacles at his disposal, which makes the spicy scenes quite a show. I can't say that I'm the best at keeping up when there are so many appendages at play, but tentacles kinks are definitely prevalent in the monster romance community. These two like to get a little rough and risky in the bedroom, so the sex scenes weren't my favorite, but they were still penned well.
Kara's past really holds a ton of dark stuff, but I'm glad that Octavious is there to help her work through her traumas. Eventually people from her past are going to find her, so this adds a layer of suspense to this mostly lighthearted book. I really wasn't expecting such a dark subplot to this cute summer romance, but I'm not complaining.
Overall, "Tentacles and Tides" is another cute and spicy installment in the "Crescent Cove" series that features two characters who never thought they'd get a true chance at love. It was really sweet seeing Octavious and Kara learn to trust all while they bantered flirtatiously and fell for one another. The depth to Kara's backstory really surprised me, and I'm glad to see that this series is willing to tackle heavy topics while still delivering a cozy romance filled with summer vibes. I look forward to my return to Crescent Cove in the near future!
Kara is desperate to leave her past life behind her. After stealing a pearl necklace that allows her to enter the magical town of Crescent Cove, Kara hopes that she can evade the man that used to control every aspect of her life. She may be inhabiting a cottage that is literally falling apart around her, but it's the safest she's felt in years. Desperate to let go of some of her stress, she goes to Suction and Serenity Spa, where an octopus shifter is known to take away people's negative emotions. Octavious has always been known for being a grumpy masseuse, but can one really blame him when he spends all day absorbing people's negative emotions into himself? Those complicated feelings, don't just disappear, after all. When Kara walks through his door, Octavious knows that she is harboring deadly secrets, and he is curious to find out what they are. The more time he spends with Kara, his curiosity develops into something deeper, more real. Could the grumpy octopus really be falling for this mysterious stranger that shouldn't even be in Crescent Cove?
It was so fun getting to return to Crescent Cove! This is the second novella in this series I've read, and it's no surprise that I ate up Kara and Octavious' story. I'm so grateful that Sanatra was willing to present me with an ARC of this one!
Kara and Octavious are both pretty complex characters. Kara is escaping a deadly past that is filled with some pretty sucky circumstances. I won't go into details due to spoilers, but let's just say the men she was tied up with are actually the worst kind of people. I hate them so much. Octavious literally takes people's negative emotions from them and temporarily harbors them inside himself, so he isn't exactly the jolliest of fellows. The two have definitely seen and experienced some things over the years, so they definitely can bond over these emotions.
Kara and Octavious' relationship starts in such a goofy way. Kara goes to Octavious's shop in the hopes of relieving her stress. He discovers that Kara is holding in more than any person he's ever worked on before and he is seriously worried about her. This has him pulling an Edward Cullen and hovering outside her house and watching her to make sure she's okay. Octavious soon learns that the cottage Kara is staying in is dangerously unstable, and he decides that he must be the one to help her repair it, due to her serious trust issues. The two then proceed to have the best banter as they play drunken poker together and Octavious cooks for Kara. The beginning phases of their relationship are so sweet, and it was great to see Kara learn to trust again after all that she has gone through.
Kara and Octavious spend a bit of time with one another before they get in bed together, but their chemistry is pretty strong from the start. Octavious can sense emotions as part of his octopus abilities, so he learns quickly that Kara is attracted to him. He is quite the gentlemen about it and offers to keep giving Kara massages that have nothing to do with sex. These two do eventually give into their mutual pining, and when they do, things get fiery pretty fast. Keep in mind that Octavious is an octopus shifter, so her has eight tentacles at his disposal, which makes the spicy scenes quite a show. I can't say that I'm the best at keeping up when there are so many appendages at play, but tentacles kinks are definitely prevalent in the monster romance community. These two like to get a little rough and risky in the bedroom, so the sex scenes weren't my favorite, but they were still penned well.
Kara's past really holds a ton of dark stuff, but I'm glad that Octavious is there to help her work through her traumas. Eventually people from her past are going to find her, so this adds a layer of suspense to this mostly lighthearted book. I really wasn't expecting such a dark subplot to this cute summer romance, but I'm not complaining.
Overall, "Tentacles and Tides" is another cute and spicy installment in the "Crescent Cove" series that features two characters who never thought they'd get a true chance at love. It was really sweet seeing Octavious and Kara learn to trust all while they bantered flirtatiously and fell for one another. The depth to Kara's backstory really surprised me, and I'm glad to see that this series is willing to tackle heavy topics while still delivering a cozy romance filled with summer vibes. I look forward to my return to Crescent Cove in the near future!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had a really strong five star start, an excellent middle, and a sloppy finish. It could be a 5 star read with perhaps another few chapters where the bad guys are a bit nasty again per the setup in the beginning. Seriously, it just needs 2 or 3 more short chapters and some outside intervention I think.
Another note, I wanted crescent cove for comfy cozy reading and this is not comfy cozy reading. I believe this book deserves just a tiny bit more attention, a change of the town name, and to be a standalone outside the series for several reasons, not least because it really is a strong standalone book but also because *spoilers* you really can't make a truly cozy novel out of a human trafficking and domestic violence story even with sensitively implied rape. I also hate that Octavious gets rough with her and chokes her or rather encircles her neck and she likes it. Like.... no. She is bound to have triggers about that and if touching the necklace sets her off a bit then roughness and choking definitely would. I think that the situation was dealt with really really well in the beginning and then sloppily at the end. I think there's room for there to be a whole lot more gentleness and tenderness coming from Octavius and if you MUST have choking in it because that's the fashion for romantasy now, get her riding him and on maybe the second time they hook up she chokes HIM because he wants HER to take her power back. I'm seriously only wtiting so much because truly, this was an excellent book in the beginning but please:
Make it a standalone because it deserves it, and write another cutesy kraken story for Crescent Cove if you can.... and if you can't, then PLEASE add a trigger warning at the start, and switch up the power dynamics with the smut because power exchange would be healthy, and add a bit where Zavier doesnt give up and comes with a small army to come and get Kara and a couple of the witches and maybe some others like a gorgon band together against him and... maybe turn him into a stone and sink him into the ocean? The real bad guy needs to be properly dealt with.
Again, please and I'm sorry, I really loved this but it's only "decent" in it's current form and it deserves the passion and determination that it gets in the beginning because it could be truly exceptional if the writing style and effort and willpower continued.
Another note, I wanted crescent cove for comfy cozy reading and this is not comfy cozy reading. I believe this book deserves just a tiny bit more attention, a change of the town name, and to be a standalone outside the series for several reasons, not least because it really is a strong standalone book but also because *spoilers* you really can't make a truly cozy novel out of a human trafficking and domestic violence story even with sensitively implied rape. I also hate that Octavious gets rough with her and chokes her or rather encircles her neck and she likes it. Like.... no. She is bound to have triggers about that and if touching the necklace sets her off a bit then roughness and choking definitely would. I think that the situation was dealt with really really well in the beginning and then sloppily at the end. I think there's room for there to be a whole lot more gentleness and tenderness coming from Octavius and if you MUST have choking in it because that's the fashion for romantasy now, get her riding him and on maybe the second time they hook up she chokes HIM because he wants HER to take her power back. I'm seriously only wtiting so much because truly, this was an excellent book in the beginning but please:
Make it a standalone because it deserves it, and write another cutesy kraken story for Crescent Cove if you can.... and if you can't, then PLEASE add a trigger warning at the start, and switch up the power dynamics with the smut because power exchange would be healthy, and add a bit where Zavier doesnt give up and comes with a small army to come and get Kara and a couple of the witches and maybe some others like a gorgon band together against him and... maybe turn him into a stone and sink him into the ocean? The real bad guy needs to be properly dealt with.
Again, please and I'm sorry, I really loved this but it's only "decent" in it's current form and it deserves the passion and determination that it gets in the beginning because it could be truly exceptional if the writing style and effort and willpower continued.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Was I kicking myself for not requesting this back in May? Yes. Did I reach out asking if it was possible to still receive an ARC? You bet I did!! Thank you so much, Lauren Sanatra for the ARC!
I am here to report it was a VERY excellent decision because I’ve started out my Saturday the right way. With shifters, spicy times, and a wonderful HEA! If you’ve read my reviews, you should not be surprised what happens when the mood strikes…I work fast. Onto our story!
This was a nice novella with a little bit of everything in the right quantities. We’ve got a little storyline, banter, a FMC who thinks she is a carpenter, some TASTY spicy times, a little tension with some drama and a HEA! Octavius, our MMC, is an octopus shifter who has a special talent as a masseuse. He doesn’t just get rid of the physical tension, he can absorb the emotional strife weighing people down. I really loved this twist on shifters. It’s because of these special talents that he’s able to sense there’s quite a bit going on with our FMC, Kara, who has come to Crescent Cove for safety since magical beings are the only ones who can gain permanent access. The only problem is that she’s human… and the only way she gained access is due to a necklace she stole when she escaped a very nasty situation.
Octavius discovers she’s trying to live in and fix up a seaside cottage that’s one wind gust away from collapsing. He simply can’t ignore the danger and starts helping Kara. Feelings are flying, Kara teaches him how to play poker, Octavius realizes Kara can’t cook, and little by little, they fix up the cottage all while their attraction for each other grows deeper and deeper. Then we get the spicy times 😃! Like, I said, this was a fantastic choice to start my Saturday off the right way.
Tentacles and Tides releases on July 7th!!
I am here to report it was a VERY excellent decision because I’ve started out my Saturday the right way. With shifters, spicy times, and a wonderful HEA! If you’ve read my reviews, you should not be surprised what happens when the mood strikes…I work fast. Onto our story!
This was a nice novella with a little bit of everything in the right quantities. We’ve got a little storyline, banter, a FMC who thinks she is a carpenter, some TASTY spicy times, a little tension with some drama and a HEA! Octavius, our MMC, is an octopus shifter who has a special talent as a masseuse. He doesn’t just get rid of the physical tension, he can absorb the emotional strife weighing people down. I really loved this twist on shifters. It’s because of these special talents that he’s able to sense there’s quite a bit going on with our FMC, Kara, who has come to Crescent Cove for safety since magical beings are the only ones who can gain permanent access. The only problem is that she’s human… and the only way she gained access is due to a necklace she stole when she escaped a very nasty situation.
Octavius discovers she’s trying to live in and fix up a seaside cottage that’s one wind gust away from collapsing. He simply can’t ignore the danger and starts helping Kara. Feelings are flying, Kara teaches him how to play poker, Octavius realizes Kara can’t cook, and little by little, they fix up the cottage all while their attraction for each other grows deeper and deeper. Then we get the spicy times 😃! Like, I said, this was a fantastic choice to start my Saturday off the right way.
Tentacles and Tides releases on July 7th!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tentacles and Tides (A Crescent Cove Novella)
By Lauren Sanatra
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to Lauren Sanatra for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’ll admit it, I was a little wary going into this one. I’ve read shifter romances before, but usually the spicy scenes stay very human. This book? Not exactly. One of the participants in the steamy scenes here is a partially shifted octopus… and somehow, against all odds, it worked. Like, really worked. 🔥
This novella was exactly the right length for the story it wanted to tell. Sometimes romances can drag if they over-explain the worldbuilding, but this one kept things moving while still giving enough detail to make the magical setting feel immersive. I ended up finishing it in two sittings because I genuinely wanted to know what happened next.
Octavius was such a fun character concept. He’s an octopus shifter masseuse whose services go far beyond stress relief. The descriptions of him “offloading” the emotions and tension from his workday were honestly beautiful and added a surprisingly emotional layer beneath all the steam. Kara was also easy to root for. She felt grounded, relatable, and emotionally believable, which helped balance the story’s more fantastical elements.
If you’re curious about dipping your toes into monster romance but don’t want to commit to a massive book, this is a fun place to start.
✔️ grumpy x sunshine
✔️ steamy romance
✔️ magical world
✔️ emotional healing / past trauma
✔️ tentacles (obviously)
By Lauren Sanatra
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to Lauren Sanatra for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’ll admit it, I was a little wary going into this one. I’ve read shifter romances before, but usually the spicy scenes stay very human. This book? Not exactly. One of the participants in the steamy scenes here is a partially shifted octopus… and somehow, against all odds, it worked. Like, really worked. 🔥
This novella was exactly the right length for the story it wanted to tell. Sometimes romances can drag if they over-explain the worldbuilding, but this one kept things moving while still giving enough detail to make the magical setting feel immersive. I ended up finishing it in two sittings because I genuinely wanted to know what happened next.
Octavius was such a fun character concept. He’s an octopus shifter masseuse whose services go far beyond stress relief. The descriptions of him “offloading” the emotions and tension from his workday were honestly beautiful and added a surprisingly emotional layer beneath all the steam. Kara was also easy to root for. She felt grounded, relatable, and emotionally believable, which helped balance the story’s more fantastical elements.
If you’re curious about dipping your toes into monster romance but don’t want to commit to a massive book, this is a fun place to start.
✔️ grumpy x sunshine
✔️ steamy romance
✔️ magical world
✔️ emotional healing / past trauma
✔️ tentacles (obviously)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to the lovely Lauren Sanatra for providing me with an ARC! I’m honored and so happy to have been able to read and review this before the release.
This book was my second read in the Crescent Cove series and it was so good! There’s so much mystery and intrigue surrounding the FMC, and it was so fun, and sometimes sad, to learn more about her past and her story as the book progressed. I also loved the MMC and how he tried so hard to come across as gruff and grumpy, but is actually a kind and understanding person who just needed someone to see him again. Also, oh how I wish octopus shifters who could pull all your negative emotions and stress from your body were real! The nuances of his abilities were explored so well in this novella, and I loved seeing his character growth throughout the book. The battles of wills between him and the FMC were very fun throughout, and I love how their relationship developed, almost without either of them realizing it for a while.
The spice level in this book is HIGH, but so fun. I very much am not anyone who has ever dreamed of having a tentacle kink, and I still don’t, but some of the scenes did sound intriguing.
And I love how Octavius and Kara both really connect with each other on many different levels before getting physical, as it makes it all feel so much more real and meaningful. Their banter especially is a delight and made me giggle more than once. I highly recommend this book for your summer reading!
This book was my second read in the Crescent Cove series and it was so good! There’s so much mystery and intrigue surrounding the FMC, and it was so fun, and sometimes sad, to learn more about her past and her story as the book progressed. I also loved the MMC and how he tried so hard to come across as gruff and grumpy, but is actually a kind and understanding person who just needed someone to see him again. Also, oh how I wish octopus shifters who could pull all your negative emotions and stress from your body were real! The nuances of his abilities were explored so well in this novella, and I loved seeing his character growth throughout the book. The battles of wills between him and the FMC were very fun throughout, and I love how their relationship developed, almost without either of them realizing it for a while.
The spice level in this book is HIGH, but so fun. I very much am not anyone who has ever dreamed of having a tentacle kink, and I still don’t, but some of the scenes did sound intriguing.
And I love how Octavius and Kara both really connect with each other on many different levels before getting physical, as it makes it all feel so much more real and meaningful. Their banter especially is a delight and made me giggle more than once. I highly recommend this book for your summer reading!
May 23, 2026
Tentacles and Tides is the perfect fun, beachy read for summer! This cozy romance novella is sweet and spicy with lovable characters. I loved Kara and Octavius’s love story! He would burn the world down to save her, but he will also stand by and protect her so that she can save herself. (Insert giggling and feet kicking!!!)
Kara is running from her past and ends up in the magical seaside town of Crescent Cove. Humans aren’t technically allowed to live there…. She meets Octavius, a hot, grumpy masseuse with stress relieving tentacles. He can feel that she is hiding something and wants to uncover her secrets. The chemistry between them is undeniable. He is bossy and she is stubborn. The banter is adorable! But it’s emotional and so much deeper than that. Can they heal each other? Can he help free her so that she can put down roots in Crescent Cove?
I recommend this book if you are looking for quick yet emotional ,heartfelt romantic read. It gives warm fuzzy vibes, but with a little tentacle play. Tentacles and Tides is part of a series and I can’t wait to read the rest!! It definitely made me want to move to Crescent Cove and make some magical friends!
Thank you to the author for the e-arc!
Kara is running from her past and ends up in the magical seaside town of Crescent Cove. Humans aren’t technically allowed to live there…. She meets Octavius, a hot, grumpy masseuse with stress relieving tentacles. He can feel that she is hiding something and wants to uncover her secrets. The chemistry between them is undeniable. He is bossy and she is stubborn. The banter is adorable! But it’s emotional and so much deeper than that. Can they heal each other? Can he help free her so that she can put down roots in Crescent Cove?
I recommend this book if you are looking for quick yet emotional ,heartfelt romantic read. It gives warm fuzzy vibes, but with a little tentacle play. Tentacles and Tides is part of a series and I can’t wait to read the rest!! It definitely made me want to move to Crescent Cove and make some magical friends!
Thank you to the author for the e-arc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tentacles and Tides is such a short and sweet book that has a little suspense thrown in! It’s perfect for summer and beach vibes while giving you everything you need in a book, but in novella form! A lot of the time novellas will feel rushed and like pieces are missing, but Lauren really hit the mark with this one! I didn’t find that it was rushed at all and everything seemed to flow organically.
Kara is a human… is this relevant? Yes, because she finds herself in a magical town where humans aren’t allowed…. Which is exactly why she runs there in hopes of finding safety.
Octavius is an octopus shifter who works as a masseuse where he not only relaxes your body, but your mind! He’s immediately drawn to Kara when she comes in for a massage and to unload her emotions. He senses she’s different and so begins his fascination with her.
Kara and Octavius find themselves drawn together over and over… but Kara has dark secrets. Is she willing to put her heart on the line and trust another man? Will Octavius find out about her past and run away, deeming it too much?
Kara is a human… is this relevant? Yes, because she finds herself in a magical town where humans aren’t allowed…. Which is exactly why she runs there in hopes of finding safety.
Octavius is an octopus shifter who works as a masseuse where he not only relaxes your body, but your mind! He’s immediately drawn to Kara when she comes in for a massage and to unload her emotions. He senses she’s different and so begins his fascination with her.
Kara and Octavius find themselves drawn together over and over… but Kara has dark secrets. Is she willing to put her heart on the line and trust another man? Will Octavius find out about her past and run away, deeming it too much?
Review of advance copy received from Author
Immediately obsessed.
That's the best way I can describe how much I adored this book.
I was instantly rooting for these two characters to find their HEA!
This FMC, she has been through so much and all she wants is to find peace. She's tried every possible thing to outrun the past that has and continues to haunt her.
The MMC he's this broody octopus-shifter, that also owns the town's spa...his tentacles not only help remove sore muscles but he also removes all overwhelming emotions and feelings with them.
He's always kept it professional...until this FMC walks into his spa.
These two were so much fun to read...the push and pull. The tension.
And LAWD HAVE MERCY when these two finally give into their desires it will have you needing those tentacles to hold extra fans to fan yourself cause they are HAWT together!
But also the sweet little moments. And of course there's nothing better than a protective MMC and a FMC that is a total baddie and can hold her own!
Seriously this little series has been amazing!
That's the best way I can describe how much I adored this book.
I was instantly rooting for these two characters to find their HEA!
This FMC, she has been through so much and all she wants is to find peace. She's tried every possible thing to outrun the past that has and continues to haunt her.
The MMC he's this broody octopus-shifter, that also owns the town's spa...his tentacles not only help remove sore muscles but he also removes all overwhelming emotions and feelings with them.
He's always kept it professional...until this FMC walks into his spa.
These two were so much fun to read...the push and pull. The tension.
And LAWD HAVE MERCY when these two finally give into their desires it will have you needing those tentacles to hold extra fans to fan yourself cause they are HAWT together!
But also the sweet little moments. And of course there's nothing better than a protective MMC and a FMC that is a total baddie and can hold her own!
Seriously this little series has been amazing!
June 15, 2026
Kara was on the run from the man who was in control of her life, she was able to steal a magical pearl and discovered Crescent Cove - a small beach town filled with magic, the townspeople who are witches, selkies, shapeshifters and more, which is a requirement to live there- she now lives in the cliffside cottage (which is barely holding together). She stays low, and hidden, with a practiced lie in case anyone questions her. When she discovers Suction and Serenity Spa, she goes in wanting a fresh start, and from the whispers, she heard the octopus shifter can take away stress; exactly what she needs. But she never knew it would lead to so much more.
Octavius takes away stress, but he feels and holds on to every emotion, leaving him tired and drained daily. But because of that, most of the time he’s just rude and grumpy. But when Kara comes in, he knew she was hiding something and he would discover what that was. But while he was, he discovers more about her, and slowly begins to fall and hard. Even when the truth is discovered, all that is left is such a strong spark between them, nothing could tear them apart.
Both these characters are so different but have so much in common at the same time. Kara even though she’s had to endure so much trauma, heartbreak, betrayal, and abuse, she still pushes on. Her spark is still here, and she does everything herself never relying on anyone to help her, when she finally does accept the help, is when her walls really started coming down and accepting love. I love their dynamic, their relationship starting with a friendship and discovering their spark. I loved this story and the ending was everything, and the spice was so good. The tentacle play?? Um yes I need more.
This was a perfect small town beachy summertime read with the perfect amount of spice, I loved every minute!
Octavius takes away stress, but he feels and holds on to every emotion, leaving him tired and drained daily. But because of that, most of the time he’s just rude and grumpy. But when Kara comes in, he knew she was hiding something and he would discover what that was. But while he was, he discovers more about her, and slowly begins to fall and hard. Even when the truth is discovered, all that is left is such a strong spark between them, nothing could tear them apart.
Both these characters are so different but have so much in common at the same time. Kara even though she’s had to endure so much trauma, heartbreak, betrayal, and abuse, she still pushes on. Her spark is still here, and she does everything herself never relying on anyone to help her, when she finally does accept the help, is when her walls really started coming down and accepting love. I love their dynamic, their relationship starting with a friendship and discovering their spark. I loved this story and the ending was everything, and the spice was so good. The tentacle play?? Um yes I need more.
This was a perfect small town beachy summertime read with the perfect amount of spice, I loved every minute!
June 19, 2026
I was honored to have had a chance to read an Advanced Readers Copy of this perfectly summery monster romance read! For being such a short read I was surprised on how much emotion and depth these characters had! And I loved the way their relationship grew!
Kara is a human hiding in a magical town from her dark and dangerous past. She is a fiercely independent, ray of sunshine despite her anxiety toward being found out. Octavius is the grumpy to Kara’s sunshine being the broody Octopus shifter masseuse ( with magic tentacles might I add 😉🌶️🐙) that Kara encounters after moving into town, and the banter and growing reluctant friends to lovers dynamic between the two was so fun!
If you’re looking for the perfect warm and fuzzy summer read involving magical creatures, beach town settings and the ✨perfect👌amount of spice, then I think you’ll love this one!
Thank you so much to Lauren Sanatra for having me on the ARC team! Kara and Octavius’ bond had me internally squealing with how adorable and heartfelt it was!
Kara is a human hiding in a magical town from her dark and dangerous past. She is a fiercely independent, ray of sunshine despite her anxiety toward being found out. Octavius is the grumpy to Kara’s sunshine being the broody Octopus shifter masseuse ( with magic tentacles might I add 😉🌶️🐙) that Kara encounters after moving into town, and the banter and growing reluctant friends to lovers dynamic between the two was so fun!
If you’re looking for the perfect warm and fuzzy summer read involving magical creatures, beach town settings and the ✨perfect👌amount of spice, then I think you’ll love this one!
Thank you so much to Lauren Sanatra for having me on the ARC team! Kara and Octavius’ bond had me internally squealing with how adorable and heartfelt it was!
June 18, 2026
I thought this was a cute shifter romance. The premise behind the town Kara goes to was really cool. I don't know about anyone else, but I love books with a secret or magical town.
The banter and chemistry between Octavius and Kara, our main characters, I absolutely love. Kara is very shy and unsure at first, but the more she opens up, the more stubborn she gets, and pairing that up with Octavius ' protectiveness and grumpiness, it's a funny mix. Definitely kept me reading.
The only thing that bothered me a bit was Kara’s constant reminders of danger in the first chapter. I understand she is recently….free, but it was almost in every sentence she was saying something about “him” or trying to shake herself from thoughts of the past. Like, yes, I got it, you're on the run or in danger.
Other than that, I thought this was a nice, emotional, and cute paranormal shifter romance. Would recommend!
The banter and chemistry between Octavius and Kara, our main characters, I absolutely love. Kara is very shy and unsure at first, but the more she opens up, the more stubborn she gets, and pairing that up with Octavius ' protectiveness and grumpiness, it's a funny mix. Definitely kept me reading.
The only thing that bothered me a bit was Kara’s constant reminders of danger in the first chapter. I understand she is recently….free, but it was almost in every sentence she was saying something about “him” or trying to shake herself from thoughts of the past. Like, yes, I got it, you're on the run or in danger.
Other than that, I thought this was a nice, emotional, and cute paranormal shifter romance. Would recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this as an ARC, and overall it was a really enjoyable read. The seaside setting was charming, the magical community felt cozy without being overly complicated, and I found myself settling into Crescent Cove quite easily. It has that nice balance of whimsy and mystery, with enough tension surrounding Kara's past to keep me interested in where things were going.
I especially liked the idea behind Octavius and his ability to sense what people try to hide. The dynamic between him and Kara develops naturally, and I appreciated that the story focused as much on healing and trust as it did on romance. The atmosphere was probably my favourite part—magical, comforting, and just a little quirky.
While it wasn't a 5★ read for me, it was a solid 4★ and a lovely escape into a world filled with magic, second chances, and a touch of ocean charm.
I especially liked the idea behind Octavius and his ability to sense what people try to hide. The dynamic between him and Kara develops naturally, and I appreciated that the story focused as much on healing and trust as it did on romance. The atmosphere was probably my favourite part—magical, comforting, and just a little quirky.
While it wasn't a 5★ read for me, it was a solid 4★ and a lovely escape into a world filled with magic, second chances, and a touch of ocean charm.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tentacles and Tides is the perfect summer read! Thank you so much Lauren Sanatra for letting me in on this ARC! I fell in love with Kara and Octavious. The slow buildup to their relationship was so enticing with their quick
banter and mutual stubbornness in their own ways.
The romance and plot had me right away but the spice got me good!!!
I absolutely loved the depth of the characters and the emotional connection and chemistry these two have. Octavious is such a caring and looks like he could kill you but is definitely a cinnamon roll deep down. Kara is such a bundle of joy and sass with a complex past. This was my first octopus shifter and I’m definitely a sucker for them now! I wish there was more to read or that i could forget and reread this novella for the first time again!
If you want a cute spicy summer read this is it!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
banter and mutual stubbornness in their own ways.
The romance and plot had me right away but the spice got me good!!!
I absolutely loved the depth of the characters and the emotional connection and chemistry these two have. Octavious is such a caring and looks like he could kill you but is definitely a cinnamon roll deep down. Kara is such a bundle of joy and sass with a complex past. This was my first octopus shifter and I’m definitely a sucker for them now! I wish there was more to read or that i could forget and reread this novella for the first time again!
If you want a cute spicy summer read this is it!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
🦑🌊Tentacles and Tides by Lauren Sanatra completely swept me away.
This paranormal shifter romance was everything I wanted and more. It was whimsical, emotional, romantic and wonderfully unique. From the moment I started reading, I found myself completely immersed in the world, the characters and the magic woven throughout the story.
The chemistry was fantastic, the romance had me smiling constantly, and the paranormal elements brought such a refreshing twist that made this book stand out from so many others in the genre. Every page felt like an adventure filled with heart, humor and just the right amount of swoon. 🥵
If you’re a fan like me of shifter romances, captivating characters and stories that make you wish you could stay in their world just a little bit longer…this one is absolutely worth picking up.
A truly marvelous read that left me with a full heart and a book hangover.
This paranormal shifter romance was everything I wanted and more. It was whimsical, emotional, romantic and wonderfully unique. From the moment I started reading, I found myself completely immersed in the world, the characters and the magic woven throughout the story.
The chemistry was fantastic, the romance had me smiling constantly, and the paranormal elements brought such a refreshing twist that made this book stand out from so many others in the genre. Every page felt like an adventure filled with heart, humor and just the right amount of swoon. 🥵
If you’re a fan like me of shifter romances, captivating characters and stories that make you wish you could stay in their world just a little bit longer…this one is absolutely worth picking up.
A truly marvelous read that left me with a full heart and a book hangover.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
4.5 ⭐️
Kara is running away from a past mistake when she finds herself living in a shack in the magical Crescent Cove. Octavius is a broody octopus shifter massage therapist that’s suspicious of the new-comer.
First off I love that Kara is totally into pin-up style! Her sense of humor and wittiness made me love her instantly! Octavius is a brooding loner but he’s an absolute cinnamon roll for her! I don’t want to spoil too much with all the things he does, but he has green flags written all over him! I also really loved Mina who is his receptionist. She was sassy!
The spice was excellent, with that being said, the story wasn’t lacking. The balance was perfect especially for the length of the Novella. Overall I loved seeing the growth between the characters as their relationship grew and especially how it grew! Definitely a cute summer read!
4.5 ⭐️
Kara is running away from a past mistake when she finds herself living in a shack in the magical Crescent Cove. Octavius is a broody octopus shifter massage therapist that’s suspicious of the new-comer.
First off I love that Kara is totally into pin-up style! Her sense of humor and wittiness made me love her instantly! Octavius is a brooding loner but he’s an absolute cinnamon roll for her! I don’t want to spoil too much with all the things he does, but he has green flags written all over him! I also really loved Mina who is his receptionist. She was sassy!
The spice was excellent, with that being said, the story wasn’t lacking. The balance was perfect especially for the length of the Novella. Overall I loved seeing the growth between the characters as their relationship grew and especially how it grew! Definitely a cute summer read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ok so I was pleasantly surprised by this cute read! A little outside of my normal wheel house but it was SUCH a cute stinking story! 🥰
The love story that developed was a little predictable but also adorable. Love that he basically fell and admitted feelings first. Bc come on that rarely happens! Their banter and bond was so cute! Super relatable minus the magic. But you could feel how they felt, it was beautifully written!
I’d give this a solid 🌶️🌶️🌶️ for spice 😏
The tentacle play was interesting. 🐙
Was a first time reading anything like that. But you could feel the raw love and feelings and emotions through the scenes. Easy to envision in the oddest way 🤣
The love story that developed was a little predictable but also adorable. Love that he basically fell and admitted feelings first. Bc come on that rarely happens! Their banter and bond was so cute! Super relatable minus the magic. But you could feel how they felt, it was beautifully written!
I’d give this a solid 🌶️🌶️🌶️ for spice 😏
The tentacle play was interesting. 🐙
Was a first time reading anything like that. But you could feel the raw love and feelings and emotions through the scenes. Easy to envision in the oddest way 🤣
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Octavius wasn’t looking for love or a new client when the new mysterious resident of Crescent Cove walks through his door. Kara Thompson has some secrets that she is running from that lead her to the cute cozy ocean town and the handsome octopus shifter that is trying everything he can to not let his tentacles take the lead and find himself hurt..again..read along while Octavius and Kara both try to keep their cards close their chest..but isn’t poker about luck? And maybe for both luck is in the draw.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Do I dare say I want an octopus shifter 🐙👀
This book was such a fun read! As a romantasy reader I need breaks for my 400+ page world building books. And this book was perfect for that.
I absolutely loved Kara and Octavius! Kara was such a cute character but so strong with what she went through. She made me laugh. Octavius 😏 broody and grumpy but turned into a cinnamon roll!
And the spice 🥵🥵 one scene had me sweating! Clutching my pearls, gasping and blushing.
Love love love the little Cove Lauren built. I am definitely going to pick up the others she wrote 💕💕
This book was such a fun read! As a romantasy reader I need breaks for my 400+ page world building books. And this book was perfect for that.
I absolutely loved Kara and Octavius! Kara was such a cute character but so strong with what she went through. She made me laugh. Octavius 😏 broody and grumpy but turned into a cinnamon roll!
And the spice 🥵🥵 one scene had me sweating! Clutching my pearls, gasping and blushing.
Love love love the little Cove Lauren built. I am definitely going to pick up the others she wrote 💕💕
May 25, 2026
Tentacles and Tides is a perfect beach or poolside read, it reads quick and can be easily devoured in one sitting. The plot moves quickly, and the FMC and MMC are both delightful, their romance feels earnest and earned, and the spice is top notch, I love some tentacle play! The final act is very satisfying, definitely add this to your summer TBR. Thank you to the author for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kara has been dealt a bad hand in life and when she finally escapes thinking she's safe, a shark of man comes after her.
Octavius uses his tentacles to take away the tensions in his client's lives. Releasing is into the ocean, when overwhelmed. Meeting Kara when she comes in to relieve some of her own stress.
The character building is nice, the spice is just enough for this novella.
P.S. Octavius uses his tentacles for other things too. 😉
Octavius uses his tentacles to take away the tensions in his client's lives. Releasing is into the ocean, when overwhelmed. Meeting Kara when she comes in to relieve some of her own stress.
The character building is nice, the spice is just enough for this novella.
P.S. Octavius uses his tentacles for other things too. 😉
May 31, 2026
Advanced reader copy review!
8/8 tentacles for this one 🐙
What a fun and flirty beach read. The second of the Crescent Cove series I have read and the best yet.
Dark and broody Octavius meets dark secret keeping Kara and sparks fly. Their sexual tension and his tension releasing powers (and did I mention the tentacles 😏) make for a story that keeps on giving.
For additional spice look into author Lauren Senatra’s art for the series which will have you begging for more.
8/8 tentacles for this one 🐙
What a fun and flirty beach read. The second of the Crescent Cove series I have read and the best yet.
Dark and broody Octavius meets dark secret keeping Kara and sparks fly. Their sexual tension and his tension releasing powers (and did I mention the tentacles 😏) make for a story that keeps on giving.
For additional spice look into author Lauren Senatra’s art for the series which will have you begging for more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I would like to thank the author for sending me to read.
I’m kinda obsessed with this! Not only did I absolutely love the characters but I loved the little ‘cozy cove’ that she wrote about. It had cute a cute and caring small town vibe.
I loved how much the characters grew into themselves as the story progressed.
This was the exact book I needed to switch things up! I will absolutely be checking out the bother books in the series!
I’m kinda obsessed with this! Not only did I absolutely love the characters but I loved the little ‘cozy cove’ that she wrote about. It had cute a cute and caring small town vibe.
I loved how much the characters grew into themselves as the story progressed.
This was the exact book I needed to switch things up! I will absolutely be checking out the bother books in the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Lauren Sanatra for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Tentacles and Tides was such a fun, cozy paranormal romance! I loved returning to Crescent Cove and spending more time in this magical seaside town. Octavius was sweet, protective, and impossible not to love, and I really enjoyed watching Kara find safety, healing, and a fresh start. The cottage restoration, found-family vibes, and charming town atmosphere made this a delightful read.
Tentacles and Tides was such a fun, cozy paranormal romance! I loved returning to Crescent Cove and spending more time in this magical seaside town. Octavius was sweet, protective, and impossible not to love, and I really enjoyed watching Kara find safety, healing, and a fresh start. The cottage restoration, found-family vibes, and charming town atmosphere made this a delightful read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a Great sorry that I was able to read in one sitting. Kara is a hyper independent woman that is seeking a new life, and Octavius is a broody octopus shifter that needs to lighten up. Towards the beginning of the story I thought that Octavius was saving Kara, by the end I realize that they had saved each other. Mina is hilarious and should get her own book… 8 condoms….😂😂😂😂.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received an advance copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Tentacles and Tides was such a sweet and charming book! It had just enough of a stake to feel dangerous but not overwhelming stressful. I appreciate that the dark topics were handled in a gentle but still serious manner. Overall I'm glad I read this. Thank you Lauren, for the opportunity to be on the ARC team!
Tentacles and Tides was such a sweet and charming book! It had just enough of a stake to feel dangerous but not overwhelming stressful. I appreciate that the dark topics were handled in a gentle but still serious manner. Overall I'm glad I read this. Thank you Lauren, for the opportunity to be on the ARC team!
Review of advance copy received from Author
So definitely spicy and I loved it! I sincerely love and appreciate the author not using the miscommunication trope. Truthfully, when I met my husband, I felt the same that Kara about being open and honest before moving forward, and as someone who has gone through my own trauma, I do sincerely appreciate the care the author put into that situation.
Review of advance copy received from Author
We get monsters, romance, breaking down walls while exploring emotions, tentacles & dual POV. Set in a cozy monster seaside town, Kara has a ton of healing to do from her past, and Octavius is just the octopus shifter with empathic powers for the job. I really loved this story >>> and if you’re a fan of steamy scenes with tentacles 🐙 get ready 😏
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews