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Celebrations with Mythical Mates #1
The Baker and the Kraken
Can a happily ever after start with a faceful of cake?
Adam
At 32, it’s safe to say that Adam isn’t growing out of his awkward and accident-prone phase. Unbreakable charms and mending spells only help so much, and past experience has taught him that no one wants to put up with him for long. He loves his job at the bakery and the friends he’s made there, but he’s given up on the thought of anything more. Besides, he’s a witch who doesn’t want a familiar, and he certainly doesn’t need a shifter familiar bond. That’s not ever going to change.
Calder
Calder has been waiting for centuries to find his mate. But he’s a shifter with patience, so he’s sure he can get past the defenses of the adorable witch who’s the clumsiest and most charming person Calder has ever met. But if Adam doesn’t believe in bonding or connecting to shifters, how’s Calder going to break the news to him that he’s Calder’s fated mate? Is it possible that just this once, the Magic got it wrong?
The Baker and the Kraken is an MM urban fantasy novella that starts off the Mythical Mates for the Holidays series. It features a clumsy witch who’s commitment-averse, a patient shifter who’s been waiting for his fated mate for centuries, and a sassy barista who won’t rest until these two are together. It’s low-angst and low-spice.
The Baker and the Kraken was first published in the Candy Hearts Anthology, volume 3. This version is expanded to include approximately 12K of additional content that continues where the original left off. The rest of the content is materially unchanged.
Adam
At 32, it’s safe to say that Adam isn’t growing out of his awkward and accident-prone phase. Unbreakable charms and mending spells only help so much, and past experience has taught him that no one wants to put up with him for long. He loves his job at the bakery and the friends he’s made there, but he’s given up on the thought of anything more. Besides, he’s a witch who doesn’t want a familiar, and he certainly doesn’t need a shifter familiar bond. That’s not ever going to change.
Calder
Calder has been waiting for centuries to find his mate. But he’s a shifter with patience, so he’s sure he can get past the defenses of the adorable witch who’s the clumsiest and most charming person Calder has ever met. But if Adam doesn’t believe in bonding or connecting to shifters, how’s Calder going to break the news to him that he’s Calder’s fated mate? Is it possible that just this once, the Magic got it wrong?
The Baker and the Kraken is an MM urban fantasy novella that starts off the Mythical Mates for the Holidays series. It features a clumsy witch who’s commitment-averse, a patient shifter who’s been waiting for his fated mate for centuries, and a sassy barista who won’t rest until these two are together. It’s low-angst and low-spice.
The Baker and the Kraken was first published in the Candy Hearts Anthology, volume 3. This version is expanded to include approximately 12K of additional content that continues where the original left off. The rest of the content is materially unchanged.
177 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 11, 2026
About the author
Ellie Ash
12 books59 followersEllie has had a life-long love affair with books. She graduated from university with an English Literature Bachelors and Masters—as well as an avid appreciation for MM romance thanks to all the slash fanfiction she read and wrote. Around 2021, she realized that the kind of MM romance she enjoys was now being traditionally and indie published, and she has not looked back.
From devouring ARCs to betaing and editing while writing in her spare time, Ellie was inspired by a reader and writer conference in 2024 to take the plunge and put some of her own stories out in the world. In her spare time, she reads, writes, plays D&D, and pursues other geeky interests.
From devouring ARCs to betaing and editing while writing in her spare time, Ellie was inspired by a reader and writer conference in 2024 to take the plunge and put some of her own stories out in the world. In her spare time, she reads, writes, plays D&D, and pursues other geeky interests.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
September 11, 2026
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
🍰🦑⛵
Adorable, fluffy, low-angst, fated mates cuteness. The spice was low (like the absolute l o w e s t I'd ever read in a romance where a tentacle endowed mate got down and dirty with their bae), and the sweetness was high (Adam's a baker who made me dream in Diabetes the way I craved everything delicious he'd baked.) Adam's insane level of clumsiness sent me into space, and I loooooved bff Simon (who I hope gets his own book), and just how all Adam's found family at the bakery adored and steadied him before Calder came on the scene to lift him up even higher!
💞The lessons were in self-love and acceptance, and standing up for what's right, even at the cost of family who'd meant everything, until eye-opening clarity shone a light on what Adam was morally and ethically against and could not ever abide in good conscience.
❤️🩹But there was only like 3 sentences of that "oh nooo" energy, and Adam and Calder did the "supportive mate-boyfriend" thing so right that their tidy yet meaningful HEA included healing that toxic family paradigm and gaining even more love at the end!
🧁This first installment in the Celebrations with Mythical Mates series was a lighthearted, marshmallow soft, snack-sized darling compared to all the Ellie Ash love stories that I'd read before, and I appreciated the chill.
BUT
The Spellreader and the Phoenix is up next and the blurb's winning my life rn because it'll be about BOOKS & SPELLS and I can't wait to make this magical, mate-cute charmer one of my Halloween "bookish" sweet treats!
🍰🦑⛵
Adorable, fluffy, low-angst, fated mates cuteness. The spice was low (like the absolute l o w e s t I'd ever read in a romance where a tentacle endowed mate got down and dirty with their bae), and the sweetness was high (Adam's a baker who made me dream in Diabetes the way I craved everything delicious he'd baked.) Adam's insane level of clumsiness sent me into space, and I loooooved bff Simon (who I hope gets his own book), and just how all Adam's found family at the bakery adored and steadied him before Calder came on the scene to lift him up even higher!
💞The lessons were in self-love and acceptance, and standing up for what's right, even at the cost of family who'd meant everything, until eye-opening clarity shone a light on what Adam was morally and ethically against and could not ever abide in good conscience.
❤️🩹But there was only like 3 sentences of that "oh nooo" energy, and Adam and Calder did the "supportive mate-boyfriend" thing so right that their tidy yet meaningful HEA included healing that toxic family paradigm and gaining even more love at the end!
🧁This first installment in the Celebrations with Mythical Mates series was a lighthearted, marshmallow soft, snack-sized darling compared to all the Ellie Ash love stories that I'd read before, and I appreciated the chill.
BUT
The Spellreader and the Phoenix is up next and the blurb's winning my life rn because it'll be about BOOKS & SPELLS and I can't wait to make this magical, mate-cute charmer one of my Halloween "bookish" sweet treats!
Did Not Finish
September 14, 2026DNF
I loved the characters but i'm not vibing with the writing style.. it's a relatively short story but i've found myself setting down my kindle multiple times to scroll on my phone so that's reason enough to move on.
I loved the characters but i'm not vibing with the writing style.. it's a relatively short story but i've found myself setting down my kindle multiple times to scroll on my phone so that's reason enough to move on.
Read
September 14, 2026A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
The Baker and the Kraken is the first book in Ellie Ash’s Celebrations of Mythical Mates series and this one is cute and quite charming. The story was originally part of the multi-author Candy Hearts anthology, but has been expanded into a short novel, picking up where the original story ended. I enjoyed this one a lot and it is an endearing cozy fantasy. There is also a fun tone here, as Adam is kind of self deprecating and his narrative voice adds some light humor to the story. As the book opens, we get a full sense of Adam’s clumsiness and awkwardness and he ends up in the middle of a total mess. It is clear that this isn’t just a problem in the physical sense, but also emotional, as it has really taken a toll on Adam’s sense of self. He has accepted that no one will ever want him and he expects people to lose patience with him. So Calder is the perfect match, as he is endlessly kind, gentle, and patient.
I found this story sweet and engaging and a nice little treat to read. We get a hint of what is to come for the next book and I am looking forward to it. If you are looking for cozy fantasy with a light tone and some appealing characters, this one is worth checking out.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
The Baker and the Kraken is the first book in Ellie Ash’s Celebrations of Mythical Mates series and this one is cute and quite charming. The story was originally part of the multi-author Candy Hearts anthology, but has been expanded into a short novel, picking up where the original story ended. I enjoyed this one a lot and it is an endearing cozy fantasy. There is also a fun tone here, as Adam is kind of self deprecating and his narrative voice adds some light humor to the story. As the book opens, we get a full sense of Adam’s clumsiness and awkwardness and he ends up in the middle of a total mess. It is clear that this isn’t just a problem in the physical sense, but also emotional, as it has really taken a toll on Adam’s sense of self. He has accepted that no one will ever want him and he expects people to lose patience with him. So Calder is the perfect match, as he is endlessly kind, gentle, and patient.
I found this story sweet and engaging and a nice little treat to read. We get a hint of what is to come for the next book and I am looking forward to it. If you are looking for cozy fantasy with a light tone and some appealing characters, this one is worth checking out.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
Review of advance copy
This was such a sweet read! It's cute and low angst. Calder and Adam work so well together. Calder is able to take all of Adam's clumsiness and quirks in stride. It was nice seeing Adam open up and work through his prejudice and accept all of Calder as well. I loved that even though they were fated mates they still moved slowly with their relationship. The tension and chemistry was there from the start. Of course the tentacles were fun to see!
Thank you to GRR for my early copy!
Thank you to GRR for my early copy!
Review of advance copy
Charming and simple fated-mates story, featuring a mage (Adam) and a mythic shifter kraken (Calder). Dual POV. A lot of backstory feels underdeveloped and unresolved, but, the focus stays on the main couple and they are lovely together. I enjoyed being in this world.
Witch and baker Adam is clumsy. That is his defining trait. But his cakes are sublime and the bakery he works for has a reputation in part due to his skills. His boss adores him and doesn’t mind the occasional disaster. In fact this found-family type crew of colleagues are lovely and fun to be around. They include shifters and humans too.
Naturally Adam is called out to soothe a bridezilla who thinks something’s wrong with her cake (nothing is, she’s just a narcissistic beeyotch), and while he’s working on it, he sees a man across the crowd…and is stunned and rendered momentarily useless. Disaster occurs!
Hoping never to see the bride or the man again after that humiliating event, Adam is shocked when the man seeks him out at work.
And is charming. Kind. Focused on Adam, who’s never held anyone’s interest for more than a couple dates and has little experience with sex and romance.
Calder is beside himself with joy. After millennia, he has finally found his…mate!
But Adam has reason to never trust a shifter, and Calder doesn’t know how to tell him what they are. So begins a wonderful romance of friendship and getting to know each other, slow-burning into wonderful attraction, chemistry…and love… very enjoyable to experience! I loved Calder for Adam, and how he just worshipped Adam and loved everything about him.
The tension is tensioning, Calder not knowing how to tell Adam what he is and who they are. It all comes out in a dramatic way, and the story kept me hooked hard. Adam’s prejudice is worked through when a mirror is held up to his face and he doesn’t like how that looks, and while it was too easy to resolve, I loved the idea of the way he worked through what he realized was not a reasonable way to think or be.
Did I mention…tentacle sex! Ooooooh. Steamy and so fun! 🦑
I didn’t love the lack of development and resolution for Adam’s family situation. I believe that was played down to keep the story more light and cheerful, but, it felt like a disservice to a thorny situation. His mother’s absence from his life, her lack of fighting at ALL to continue a relationship, the fact that he has half-siblings he’s never met, and the way his father shaped his worldview felt terrible, and the half-assed handling of him getting back in touch with his mother at the end was unsatisfying. Let the woman make an effort for once in her life! JFC. And his brothers…I could not relate to either parent not making sure they all knew each other. Just No. Crap parenting on both parts, and his father using his own trauma to influence Adam stunk.
Calder’s life and situation also was not explored enough. I wanted to see more of Adam learning about his life and world, and that felt rushed. But, this is an expansion of a former short story in a collection, so, probably just wasn’t the space to really work through it? This author is good with worldbuilding, but at the same time, tends to gloss over a LOT of details that would make things authentic. Work in progress!
But I enjoyed the romance so much that I put all that aside and celebrated Adam and the wonderful Calder. Ellie Ash is a terrific storyteller on many fronts and I was smiling in the end.
HEA, fated mates, witch-kraken. Adam is prejudiced against shifters and bonding; Calder…is pretty much perfect. No OM action or drama at all, safe for me, just minor refs to levels of experience. A few minor typos that I hope will be proofread/fixed before release. Recommended.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
Witch and baker Adam is clumsy. That is his defining trait. But his cakes are sublime and the bakery he works for has a reputation in part due to his skills. His boss adores him and doesn’t mind the occasional disaster. In fact this found-family type crew of colleagues are lovely and fun to be around. They include shifters and humans too.
Naturally Adam is called out to soothe a bridezilla who thinks something’s wrong with her cake (nothing is, she’s just a narcissistic beeyotch), and while he’s working on it, he sees a man across the crowd…and is stunned and rendered momentarily useless. Disaster occurs!
Hoping never to see the bride or the man again after that humiliating event, Adam is shocked when the man seeks him out at work.
And is charming. Kind. Focused on Adam, who’s never held anyone’s interest for more than a couple dates and has little experience with sex and romance.
Calder is beside himself with joy. After millennia, he has finally found his…mate!
But Adam has reason to never trust a shifter, and Calder doesn’t know how to tell him what they are. So begins a wonderful romance of friendship and getting to know each other, slow-burning into wonderful attraction, chemistry…and love… very enjoyable to experience! I loved Calder for Adam, and how he just worshipped Adam and loved everything about him.
The tension is tensioning, Calder not knowing how to tell Adam what he is and who they are. It all comes out in a dramatic way, and the story kept me hooked hard. Adam’s prejudice is worked through when a mirror is held up to his face and he doesn’t like how that looks, and while it was too easy to resolve, I loved the idea of the way he worked through what he realized was not a reasonable way to think or be.
Did I mention…tentacle sex! Ooooooh. Steamy and so fun! 🦑
I didn’t love the lack of development and resolution for Adam’s family situation. I believe that was played down to keep the story more light and cheerful, but, it felt like a disservice to a thorny situation. His mother’s absence from his life, her lack of fighting at ALL to continue a relationship, the fact that he has half-siblings he’s never met, and the way his father shaped his worldview felt terrible, and the half-assed handling of him getting back in touch with his mother at the end was unsatisfying. Let the woman make an effort for once in her life! JFC. And his brothers…I could not relate to either parent not making sure they all knew each other. Just No. Crap parenting on both parts, and his father using his own trauma to influence Adam stunk.
Calder’s life and situation also was not explored enough. I wanted to see more of Adam learning about his life and world, and that felt rushed. But, this is an expansion of a former short story in a collection, so, probably just wasn’t the space to really work through it? This author is good with worldbuilding, but at the same time, tends to gloss over a LOT of details that would make things authentic. Work in progress!
But I enjoyed the romance so much that I put all that aside and celebrated Adam and the wonderful Calder. Ellie Ash is a terrific storyteller on many fronts and I was smiling in the end.
HEA, fated mates, witch-kraken. Adam is prejudiced against shifters and bonding; Calder…is pretty much perfect. No OM action or drama at all, safe for me, just minor refs to levels of experience. A few minor typos that I hope will be proofread/fixed before release. Recommended.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
Review of advance copy
Such a sweet little read from Ellie Ash!
Adam is a clumsy, accident prone witch who know better than to want a bond with a shifter or familiar. Considering most people are quickly fed up with his misfortune, he has a plan to be happily alone making tasty baked goods for a living. He knows how to set realistic expectations and is sticking to them.
Calder has spent the last millennia alone searching for his mate. Letting fate decide when he hibernates, when he wakes, and where he travels knowing he'll find his fated one day. Imagine his surprise when standing outside a strangers garden party he finds the person he's been looking for. Imagine his surprise when said person goes face first into the parties cake.
Adam is happy to accept Caldera friendship while Calder secretly tries to prove being his bonded wouldn't be the worst thing to ever happen to Adam. When Secrets come out when they're least expected Adam must decide if he's willing to give Calder and chance or will his prejudice be the reason he losses Calder.
There are numerous things I appreciate about this book. First, its well written. Things flow nicely, there were minimal distracting typos, and I wasn't left missing anything at the end. Second, it wasn't spicy for the sake of being spicy which I think would have taken away from Adam as a character. Third, it is really easy to out down and pick back up. Often times I find myself needing to reread a bit to pick up where I left off, but this flows so nicely its like pausing a show and the pressing play.
Calder was such a good character. He knew what he wanted from the start and was willing to be patient with Adam. Maybe he want perfect but he always just wanted them to be together without fear getting in the way.
If this story was longer there could have been the potential for some great writing ad Adam overcame his prejudice. I still appreciated his ability to realizes how wrong he had been so quickly, because occasionally it is as simple as one person pointing out the flaws in your thinking.
I cant wait to see what comes next in this series.
Happy Reading
Adam is a clumsy, accident prone witch who know better than to want a bond with a shifter or familiar. Considering most people are quickly fed up with his misfortune, he has a plan to be happily alone making tasty baked goods for a living. He knows how to set realistic expectations and is sticking to them.
Calder has spent the last millennia alone searching for his mate. Letting fate decide when he hibernates, when he wakes, and where he travels knowing he'll find his fated one day. Imagine his surprise when standing outside a strangers garden party he finds the person he's been looking for. Imagine his surprise when said person goes face first into the parties cake.
Adam is happy to accept Caldera friendship while Calder secretly tries to prove being his bonded wouldn't be the worst thing to ever happen to Adam. When Secrets come out when they're least expected Adam must decide if he's willing to give Calder and chance or will his prejudice be the reason he losses Calder.
There are numerous things I appreciate about this book. First, its well written. Things flow nicely, there were minimal distracting typos, and I wasn't left missing anything at the end. Second, it wasn't spicy for the sake of being spicy which I think would have taken away from Adam as a character. Third, it is really easy to out down and pick back up. Often times I find myself needing to reread a bit to pick up where I left off, but this flows so nicely its like pausing a show and the pressing play.
Calder was such a good character. He knew what he wanted from the start and was willing to be patient with Adam. Maybe he want perfect but he always just wanted them to be together without fear getting in the way.
If this story was longer there could have been the potential for some great writing ad Adam overcame his prejudice. I still appreciated his ability to realizes how wrong he had been so quickly, because occasionally it is as simple as one person pointing out the flaws in your thinking.
I cant wait to see what comes next in this series.
Happy Reading
September 17, 2026
My heart felt so full and warm while reading this one. I am a true fan of fated mates and hurt/comfort and this story really checked every box for me!
I love seeing anxiety representation and Adam is such a sweet and adorable character. He feels bad about his clumsiness and hides from the world mostly, too scared of bringing attention to himself and creating an accident prone environment. As a baker, he mostly hides in the kitchen and is surrounded by a lovely and supporting team. That is until he has to get out of his comfort zone and help out at an event… and what he feared could happen, happens. All that in front of that gorgeous, tall man who was starring at him from afar.
Calder and Adam ahhhh what a wonderful pair they make!!! I immediately felt warmth surround me with their interactions. Calder is such a soft, confident and reassuring man, doing his best to make Adam relax and feel at ease. 😭 It honestly felt so healing to see his patience and tenderness. He has that strong, no judgment aura that just makes you melt! It was simply beautiful.
And can I just mention the side characters too?!?! It felt so good to see that found family, people who care for one another and actively try to make the other feel good and safe.
I can honestly recommend this story wholeheartedly and want to thank Ellie Ash and GRR for this review opportunity. 🥹💕
I love seeing anxiety representation and Adam is such a sweet and adorable character. He feels bad about his clumsiness and hides from the world mostly, too scared of bringing attention to himself and creating an accident prone environment. As a baker, he mostly hides in the kitchen and is surrounded by a lovely and supporting team. That is until he has to get out of his comfort zone and help out at an event… and what he feared could happen, happens. All that in front of that gorgeous, tall man who was starring at him from afar.
Calder and Adam ahhhh what a wonderful pair they make!!! I immediately felt warmth surround me with their interactions. Calder is such a soft, confident and reassuring man, doing his best to make Adam relax and feel at ease. 😭 It honestly felt so healing to see his patience and tenderness. He has that strong, no judgment aura that just makes you melt! It was simply beautiful.
And can I just mention the side characters too?!?! It felt so good to see that found family, people who care for one another and actively try to make the other feel good and safe.
I can honestly recommend this story wholeheartedly and want to thank Ellie Ash and GRR for this review opportunity. 🥹💕
September 12, 2026
4.25 stars
“The Baker and the Kraken” by Ellie Ash is the first story in the ‘Celebrations with Mythical Mates’ series and features Adam, a witch and baker, whose clumsiness makes him self-conscious, and Calder, a being from mythical history, whose patience will be tested while he overcomes Adam’s conditioning against mates and shifters.
This adult gay fantasy romance is a delightful introduction to a new series and combines a fantastical creature with a very relatable talented klutz who has been fairly sheltered in his experiences. The mind-boggling difference in size and the multiple appendages involved makes this a more complicated romance than many of the shifter combinations I read, but the story reminds me of the allure of tentacle sex, lol. I love the way the story reminds us of how conditioning alters our perceptions until we learn differently through experience, and I identified with Adam’s clumsiness no matter how much he tried to concentrate. I appreciate Calder’s patience and the way he carefully wooed his mate even as he persisted in his stewardship of the ocean. I can’t wait to meet more denizens in this world.
A copy of this title was provided for review
“The Baker and the Kraken” by Ellie Ash is the first story in the ‘Celebrations with Mythical Mates’ series and features Adam, a witch and baker, whose clumsiness makes him self-conscious, and Calder, a being from mythical history, whose patience will be tested while he overcomes Adam’s conditioning against mates and shifters.
This adult gay fantasy romance is a delightful introduction to a new series and combines a fantastical creature with a very relatable talented klutz who has been fairly sheltered in his experiences. The mind-boggling difference in size and the multiple appendages involved makes this a more complicated romance than many of the shifter combinations I read, but the story reminds me of the allure of tentacle sex, lol. I love the way the story reminds us of how conditioning alters our perceptions until we learn differently through experience, and I identified with Adam’s clumsiness no matter how much he tried to concentrate. I appreciate Calder’s patience and the way he carefully wooed his mate even as he persisted in his stewardship of the ocean. I can’t wait to meet more denizens in this world.
A copy of this title was provided for review
September 13, 2026
Adam falls into love with Calder
Adam is a sweet guy, but funny to read about because he’s so accident prone. I found myself laughing at what he does and Ellie Ash has done a good job of explaining that Adam accepts that part of himself and realizes that it’s because he gets occupied and inattentive. Thus I felt perfectly fine laughing with him about his clumsiness. People made not realize that writing a character like this can be more challenging and making it so that people feel comfortable laughing about it is even harder. Calder is magical and magnificent, but for me Adam stole the book and my heart (as well as Calder’s lol)
It’s a sweet story with just a little angst which mostly comes from Adam’s past and growing up with a prejudiced father.
Since I am a person who, like Adam, drops things, bumps into furniture and walls, etc I really enjoy stories that emphasize how we can be loved for who we are instead of despite it. I can’t say that I am surprised that Ellie Ash has expanded this story into a full sized version and then turned that into a series. She does struggle with writing short stories. Also can’t say that I’m complaining about this trait either because I love reading anything she writes.
Adam is a sweet guy, but funny to read about because he’s so accident prone. I found myself laughing at what he does and Ellie Ash has done a good job of explaining that Adam accepts that part of himself and realizes that it’s because he gets occupied and inattentive. Thus I felt perfectly fine laughing with him about his clumsiness. People made not realize that writing a character like this can be more challenging and making it so that people feel comfortable laughing about it is even harder. Calder is magical and magnificent, but for me Adam stole the book and my heart (as well as Calder’s lol)
It’s a sweet story with just a little angst which mostly comes from Adam’s past and growing up with a prejudiced father.
Since I am a person who, like Adam, drops things, bumps into furniture and walls, etc I really enjoy stories that emphasize how we can be loved for who we are instead of despite it. I can’t say that I am surprised that Ellie Ash has expanded this story into a full sized version and then turned that into a series. She does struggle with writing short stories. Also can’t say that I’m complaining about this trait either because I love reading anything she writes.
September 15, 2026
This is the first book in the Celebrations with Mythical Mates series. This is the story of Adam and Calder. Adam is a witch who does not want a familiar. He is also incredibly awkward and accident prone. Calder is a kraken shifter who has waited centuries to find his mate. Patience is a given with him, good thing too. He will need it to woo Adam until he finally accepts that he is wanted and Calder's mate. Throughout his life, Adam has had people walk away from him because they couldn't tolerate his innate clumsiness any longer. So Calder has his work cut out for him. Luckily, he is the right Kraken for the job. This is their story. The book is well written and easy to read. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I really enjoyed the found family in the bakery crew. This is a cute and fun read. It was sweet to see how Adam and Calder's relationship developed. Through her books, I have become a big fan of this author. I look forward to the next book in this series. I really enjoyed this book!
September 11, 2026
This is an amazing book about a witch, Adam, and a kraken, Calder. Adam is a baker and is out fixing a cake for a client when he sees Calder, he doesn’t know he is his mate, but thinks he is the most attractive man he has ever seen. Adam is also a klutz; he falls or trips every day; he doesn’t think anyone will love him. Calder is patient and he and Adam start dating. Calder has not told Adam he is a shifter because he overheard Adam say that he wasn’t interested in bonding with a shifter. Adam’s life is in danger and Calder must partially shift to save him, once Adam realizes he is a shifter, he doesn’t want anything to do with Calder. It takes Adam’s friend Simon to convince Adam that his prejudice is ridiculous and to give Calder another chance. I am not going to give anything else away, but there is a HEA to this story and it is worth reading if you love paranormal romance. I really enjoyed the world the author built and look forward to reading more stories.
Story 4.5, Spice 3
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Story 4.5, Spice 3
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 13, 2026
Calder and Adam were very sweet!
This was an expanded previously published story which I had really enjoyed the first time round. We got more of Adam and Calder which I was very happy about. It's also officially the start of a new series which I am ecstatic about! Adam and Calder's story is very much low angst and happy fluffiness. It's sweet and gentle, pretty low steam (especially given Calder has tentacles) and very much an easy read in terms of emotions. I particularly love this type of book when I've got a book hangover or when I'm just feeling overwhelmed - it's not going to leave you upset or hungover. It's a gentle read and it keeps you cozy. I will say, if you're a fan of Ellie's other books, it is lighter on the world building. That's the primary reason I've given it a 4 star over 5. It may be that I've been conditioned to expect really detailed world building from Ellie so I think if I hadn't had that expectation I probably wouldn't have noticed it. I still really enjoyed it and can't wait for book 2 (which looks fantastic!).
This was an expanded previously published story which I had really enjoyed the first time round. We got more of Adam and Calder which I was very happy about. It's also officially the start of a new series which I am ecstatic about! Adam and Calder's story is very much low angst and happy fluffiness. It's sweet and gentle, pretty low steam (especially given Calder has tentacles) and very much an easy read in terms of emotions. I particularly love this type of book when I've got a book hangover or when I'm just feeling overwhelmed - it's not going to leave you upset or hungover. It's a gentle read and it keeps you cozy. I will say, if you're a fan of Ellie's other books, it is lighter on the world building. That's the primary reason I've given it a 4 star over 5. It may be that I've been conditioned to expect really detailed world building from Ellie so I think if I hadn't had that expectation I probably wouldn't have noticed it. I still really enjoyed it and can't wait for book 2 (which looks fantastic!).
September 20, 2026
Such a sweet story
This is a very sweet, low angst fated mates story. Adam , a witch who is a baker and has some very strong anti-shifter and bond feelings based on family baggage, meets Calder, a mythical kraken shifter who has recognized him immediately as his fated mate. Calder, who is clearly a prince among men, knows he has to take things very slowly with Adam after overhearing his thoughts on bonding and love in general. He is patient, kind, doting, and the perfect friend…until Adam finally is brave enough to take the next step to him being the perfect boyfriend.
The reveal of the secrets that Calder has been keeping are handled perfectly by the author as is the reconciliation. It isn’t unreasonable yet it is and a friend has to open Adam’s eyes to what he’s doing. Calder is devastated and yet they manage to understand each other and there’s fortunately no continuation of the lack of communication thing I despise as a trope.
The ending is sweet and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
This is a very sweet, low angst fated mates story. Adam , a witch who is a baker and has some very strong anti-shifter and bond feelings based on family baggage, meets Calder, a mythical kraken shifter who has recognized him immediately as his fated mate. Calder, who is clearly a prince among men, knows he has to take things very slowly with Adam after overhearing his thoughts on bonding and love in general. He is patient, kind, doting, and the perfect friend…until Adam finally is brave enough to take the next step to him being the perfect boyfriend.
The reveal of the secrets that Calder has been keeping are handled perfectly by the author as is the reconciliation. It isn’t unreasonable yet it is and a friend has to open Adam’s eyes to what he’s doing. Calder is devastated and yet they manage to understand each other and there’s fortunately no continuation of the lack of communication thing I despise as a trope.
The ending is sweet and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy
Rating: 4.5 stars
I was really surprised to see this was originally published in the Candy Hearts anthology, because a lot of times it seems like novellas that started out as a story in an anthology fall a little flat or don't feel fully developed, but this reads like a fully realized story. At just 170 pages it is one the shorter side, but I didn't ever feel like it suffered from that - instead the book is exactly as long as it needs to be to tell this story. :)
Aaaaanyway! I obviously ADORE clumsy witch Adam, and the entire found fam at the bakery. Calder is exactly who he needs, and their growing relationship and romance is so sweet and genuine.
This is the first book in the Celebrations with Mythical Mates series, and can be read as a standalone. I can't wait for book two, The Spellreader and the Phoenix, which is about Evie's brother Max (the spellreader), who is mentioned in this book but doesn't make an actual appearance. ALSO, I need a book for Simon pretty, pretty please. <3
I was really surprised to see this was originally published in the Candy Hearts anthology, because a lot of times it seems like novellas that started out as a story in an anthology fall a little flat or don't feel fully developed, but this reads like a fully realized story. At just 170 pages it is one the shorter side, but I didn't ever feel like it suffered from that - instead the book is exactly as long as it needs to be to tell this story. :)
Aaaaanyway! I obviously ADORE clumsy witch Adam, and the entire found fam at the bakery. Calder is exactly who he needs, and their growing relationship and romance is so sweet and genuine.
This is the first book in the Celebrations with Mythical Mates series, and can be read as a standalone. I can't wait for book two, The Spellreader and the Phoenix, which is about Evie's brother Max (the spellreader), who is mentioned in this book but doesn't make an actual appearance. ALSO, I need a book for Simon pretty, pretty please. <3
September 13, 2026
The Baker and The Kraken first appeared in the Candy Hearts Anthology Volume 3 but Ellie Ash decided the world needed more Adam and Calder. I am so grateful she decided to release this expanded version of her original novella. This is such an adorable story of a witch who has no intention of ever bonding with a shifter but ends up falling in love and mated to a rare, powerful kraken.
This is a sweet, cozy love story about Adam, lonely witch who is so clumsy he cannot get out of his own way most of the time and Calder, a Kraken shifter, who has searched for his mate for hundreds of years. Calder never expected to find him falling face first into a cake.
I love the additions Ellie Ash added to the story, because they give us more of the development of Adam and Calder’s relationship. They also answer a lot of questions regarding how Adam is going to handle being mated to an ancient kraken.
I am thrilled this is the start of a new series and I cannot wait for more.
This is a sweet, cozy love story about Adam, lonely witch who is so clumsy he cannot get out of his own way most of the time and Calder, a Kraken shifter, who has searched for his mate for hundreds of years. Calder never expected to find him falling face first into a cake.
I love the additions Ellie Ash added to the story, because they give us more of the development of Adam and Calder’s relationship. They also answer a lot of questions regarding how Adam is going to handle being mated to an ancient kraken.
I am thrilled this is the start of a new series and I cannot wait for more.
September 15, 2026
THE BAKER AND THE KRAKEN is the first novella in the Celebrations with Mythical Mates series, and as soon as I saw the author, I knew I had to read it.
While this is a step away from her fantasy novels, it was still a great read. Adam is a perpetually clumsy witch who wants nothing to do with familiars, shifters, or bonds. Calder is the Kraken of the title who ticks two out of three boxes.
Their story is mainly low-angst, low-steam, but full of tenderness. I loved how Calder was with Adam, and how Adam relaxed with Calder. Adam's found family is wonderful, and I hope to see more of them in the future. As for Adam's 'real' family, well, I reserve judgement on that!
Sweet in all the right places, I absolutely recommend it.
*I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
**The same worded review will appear elsewhere.**
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian
Sep 11, 2026
While this is a step away from her fantasy novels, it was still a great read. Adam is a perpetually clumsy witch who wants nothing to do with familiars, shifters, or bonds. Calder is the Kraken of the title who ticks two out of three boxes.
Their story is mainly low-angst, low-steam, but full of tenderness. I loved how Calder was with Adam, and how Adam relaxed with Calder. Adam's found family is wonderful, and I hope to see more of them in the future. As for Adam's 'real' family, well, I reserve judgement on that!
Sweet in all the right places, I absolutely recommend it.
*I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
**The same worded review will appear elsewhere.**
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian
Sep 11, 2026
September 13, 2026
I enjoyed the previous shorter version but so pleased the storyline was expanded for this new series as Adam and Calder were such a lovely couple. Adam’s clumsiness and complete lack of faith in his own romantic prospects made him incredibly endearing, while Calder’s patience was exactly what he needed. I really enjoyed watching Adam slowly let his guard down and reconsider everything he thought he knew about mates and shifters.
I also loved that the fated-mate bond didn’t mean they instantly had everything figured out. Their relationship had time to develop, with plenty of chemistry and some wonderfully sweet moments along the way. And yes, the Kraken tentacles definitely added an extra bit of fun!
A cute, cosy and low-angst paranormal romance that left me smiling and looking forward to more in this new series.
I received a free ARC and this is my honest review.
I also loved that the fated-mate bond didn’t mean they instantly had everything figured out. Their relationship had time to develop, with plenty of chemistry and some wonderfully sweet moments along the way. And yes, the Kraken tentacles definitely added an extra bit of fun!
A cute, cosy and low-angst paranormal romance that left me smiling and looking forward to more in this new series.
I received a free ARC and this is my honest review.
September 14, 2026
CW: speciesism, parent who left when kid was a teen, some misogynistic language
3.5 Stars
*I got an arc*
This was a fun read! As someone who also is rather clumsy, I enjoyed how calm Calder is whenever Adam inevitably falls/spills something etc. The world-building I found a bit (perhaps intentionally?) nebulous but still interesting and I definitely want to see more from Adam's coworkers!
Overall, it was a fun read but I just wanted something a bit *more.* Mostly though I'm just getting a bit concerned that the last 3/4 of Ellie Ash's books have had some pretty intense casual misogyny (an MMC calling a bride -even in their head- a harridan because she's upset that her wedding was ruined is incredibly off-putting and totally unnecessary).
That being said, I am invested in this world and will avidly await the next!
3.5 Stars
*I got an arc*
This was a fun read! As someone who also is rather clumsy, I enjoyed how calm Calder is whenever Adam inevitably falls/spills something etc. The world-building I found a bit (perhaps intentionally?) nebulous but still interesting and I definitely want to see more from Adam's coworkers!
Overall, it was a fun read but I just wanted something a bit *more.* Mostly though I'm just getting a bit concerned that the last 3/4 of Ellie Ash's books have had some pretty intense casual misogyny (an MMC calling a bride -even in their head- a harridan because she's upset that her wedding was ruined is incredibly off-putting and totally unnecessary).
That being said, I am invested in this world and will avidly await the next!
September 17, 2026
I originally read the short story this was expanded from, so I came in fairly familiar with the beats (and beginning especially) of this book. Happily, Adam and Calder are still adorable with more pages!
Our adorable clumsy witch baker and his shifter kraken are very cute together. I liked getting more fluffy scenes with them in this story after they worked through their first conflict (which is still the one knock I have about this story; I feel like Adam's reactions were kinda out of nowhere and also the resolution was pretty abrupt. He just...basically changed his mind about a thing he had believed since childhood, and while he was wrong about that thing, it could have used more fleshing out).
If you read the original, they still end up together, we just get more of them together and establishing themselves as a couple (and we get to see their happily ever after!). It is a short, fluffy paranormal romance that sets up a new series very nicely.
Our adorable clumsy witch baker and his shifter kraken are very cute together. I liked getting more fluffy scenes with them in this story after they worked through their first conflict (which is still the one knock I have about this story; I feel like Adam's reactions were kinda out of nowhere and also the resolution was pretty abrupt. He just...basically changed his mind about a thing he had believed since childhood, and while he was wrong about that thing, it could have used more fleshing out).
If you read the original, they still end up together, we just get more of them together and establishing themselves as a couple (and we get to see their happily ever after!). It is a short, fluffy paranormal romance that sets up a new series very nicely.
Review of advance copy
Ellie Ash's first foray into Urban Fantasy is a light, cozy fun romp. Adam a witch, a baker, but also the clumsiest of humans is so much fun. Having resigned himself to being alone because his clumsiness is too much for most people, he is very surprised when Calder seems to want to spend time with him regardless. Calder has been waiting for his mate for millennia and won't be put off by the odd accident. I loved how calm and caring he was and how he took all of Adam's quirks in his stride. I also loved how Adam, when called out, overcame all his prejudices and accepted Calder exactly how he was too. These two were so sweet together and well .... tentacles!
Review of advance copy
Another great book by Ellie Ash. This was originally a very short story in an anthology that was released earlier in the year. I was excited to find out that she added many more words and an even better HEA. Just like the title says it’s about a clumsy but cute Baker, Adam (witch), that doesn’t believe in mates or bonding and a mythical Kraken, Calder (so handsome), that has been waiting many, many years (centuries) for his true mate. Calder patiently waits as their relationship grows and Adam understands what is truly in his heart. It has a great HEA. I highly recommend this book. Enjoy!
September 11, 2026
I really enjoyed this book - world building is enough to understand that the supernatural are amongst us "normals" but not out. Both MC's are of the supernatural so it's no "clueless human" story.... Just a very sweet (hehehe) tale of a very very very clumsy MC (Adam) who makes a totally spectacular first impression ....but that doesn't stop Calder recognising his mate. What I love most is the patience Calder takes with wooing Adam...and his acceptance of him as well. He's perfect just as he is. Adam does have some things to sort through but this is a low angst story that romantic and had me going "awwww" quite a bit. Great start to series and look forward to next book !!
September 14, 2026
Ellie Ash gives us a new series, Celebrations with Mythical Mates, which is a trilogy as of now. But maybe more books will be added in the future. "The Baker and the Kraken" is the story of Adam, a baker and a somewhat incompetent witch and Calder, an age old Kraken shifter.
This was a slow burn, low spice novella. There's a meet cute involving cake. Calder has his hands full with Adam. He's reluctant to put pressure on the other man, who isn't ready to accept that they're mates.
A sweet story that was quick to read. Can't wait for more.
I received an advanced copy of this ebook and this is my review.
This was a slow burn, low spice novella. There's a meet cute involving cake. Calder has his hands full with Adam. He's reluctant to put pressure on the other man, who isn't ready to accept that they're mates.
A sweet story that was quick to read. Can't wait for more.
I received an advanced copy of this ebook and this is my review.
September 15, 2026
This is a cute and fun read. I loved meeting Adam and Calder. The two are good together an it was nice to see the way their relationship grows and takes shape. Calder is a good man and it was sweet to see how much he adores Adam and is the perfect match. I enjoyed seeing Adam finally get a good man who loves all of him. Their story pulled me right in and kept my attention all the way to the end. Not only did the main characters shine but the supporting characters had a lot to say as well. The author has created a wonderful world full of strong and unique character that I am eager to return to.
September 17, 2026
This was a fun story about Adam and Calder a witch and a Kraken. This wasn't a meet and immediately jump into sex. This was getting to know each other and learning about mythical people that we thought were not real. Adam is a wonderful baker but when not concentrating is clumsy which keeps him high-per aware of his surroundings. Calder has been looking for his mate for a very long time and finds him when Adam is at a party trying to fix the cake. Of course when Adam sees Calder all does not go well for the cake. They have a bit of a bump in the road while getting to know each other but, of course, all goes well in the end. Real enjoyed this and hope there will be more.
September 2, 2026
3.5 STARS 🌟
This is a very sweet wholesome story. It’s low drama, very low heat but both are likeable characters.
Adam is super clumsy so very wary of strangers, he’s been hurt before so keeps his heart guarded. Calder is smitten from first sight. He’s a caretaker so perfect for Adam. It’s a nice read and the last book I read that involved tentacles was a little icky, this is not at all.
The reason it didn’t get 4 stars was the style of writing. It feels like the story is being told at you rather than to you. It’s very detail heavy all the time and it’s a little too much at times.
This is a very sweet wholesome story. It’s low drama, very low heat but both are likeable characters.
Adam is super clumsy so very wary of strangers, he’s been hurt before so keeps his heart guarded. Calder is smitten from first sight. He’s a caretaker so perfect for Adam. It’s a nice read and the last book I read that involved tentacles was a little icky, this is not at all.
The reason it didn’t get 4 stars was the style of writing. It feels like the story is being told at you rather than to you. It’s very detail heavy all the time and it’s a little too much at times.
Review of advance copy
The Baker and the Kraken is the first book in the Celebrations with Mythical Mates series. This is the story of Adam a witch and Calder a kraken shifter. This was a quick low angst read. I loved the characters and world building that went into this book. I loved these two and how sweet they were together. Adam is so sweet but oh so clumsy and chaos happens because of it. I loved the found family aspect of the bakery crew. I also loved the tentacles but then who wouldn't. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book.
received a free review copy
received a free review copy
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I enjoyed this story as an antho short in Candy Hearts 3, and was interested to see it expanded.
Calder and Adam are very sweet fated mates. With Adam being an accident prone witch and Calder being a mythical kraken shifter. Hello Tentacles! With a chaotic cake/rainstorm not quite meet -cute and some emotional baggage setting the stage for their relationship. The expansion of this does provide wedding/bonding closure, and gives us more time with some of the side characters. But I was hoping for a bit more worldbuilding/lore from the expansion. This is a very low angst, insta-love, low plot kind of read. Very quick and easy, nice palette cleanser read.
*advanced reader. thoughts and opinions my own*
Calder and Adam are very sweet fated mates. With Adam being an accident prone witch and Calder being a mythical kraken shifter. Hello Tentacles! With a chaotic cake/rainstorm not quite meet -cute and some emotional baggage setting the stage for their relationship. The expansion of this does provide wedding/bonding closure, and gives us more time with some of the side characters. But I was hoping for a bit more worldbuilding/lore from the expansion. This is a very low angst, insta-love, low plot kind of read. Very quick and easy, nice palette cleanser read.
*advanced reader. thoughts and opinions my own*
September 11, 2026
The word "devotion" comes to mind when reading this book. Calder is highly devoted to Adam from the get-go, which means the story is low angst. I liked that Adam was open to changing his mind and trying new experiences. They also finally figure out that they need to have good communication skills to avoid surprises.
Overall, while I enjoyed the story, I would like to have seen a little more between them once they actually bonded and Adam tries out his new skills.
I noted only a couple of proofreading issues in the ARC.
Overall, while I enjoyed the story, I would like to have seen a little more between them once they actually bonded and Adam tries out his new skills.
I noted only a couple of proofreading issues in the ARC.
September 12, 2026
A reminder that hate and fear are taught and a good friend can snap you out of such ridiculousness.
Adam is a witch and a baker who is talented but also extremely clumsy! Which is definitely not helped by the hot guy watching him across the room.
Calder immediately knows who Adam is to him, but I love that he courts him, that it isn’t an insta-love relationship. They took their time to fall in love, time for Adam to believe someone could love every clumsy inch of him.
It’s a really cute story and a lot of fun.
Adam is a witch and a baker who is talented but also extremely clumsy! Which is definitely not helped by the hot guy watching him across the room.
Calder immediately knows who Adam is to him, but I love that he courts him, that it isn’t an insta-love relationship. They took their time to fall in love, time for Adam to believe someone could love every clumsy inch of him.
It’s a really cute story and a lot of fun.
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