Set in the sun-soaked world of California surf culture, Tattered Tides is an emotional, slow-burn romance about second chances, self-forgiveness, and the healing power of love. Weston Ashford was determined to have it all. After a tumultuous upbringing, he’d found a family of his own, a safe place to call home, and his surfing. As a World Junior Champion, his future was finally bright, until his past came for him, and one mistake had him sinking straight toward rock bottom. Years later, he’s fresh-out-the-slammer and stripped of his medal, his future uncertain. When one last chance to follow his dream of becoming a professional surfer presents itself, he takes it with both hands—no distractions, no weakness. That is, until he crosses paths with his coach’s daughter. Weston quickly realizes that, while she’s the only person capable of shaking his focus, she may be the only one capable of healing his heart too. Willow Graham isn’t supposed to be here. She had plans, and they didn’t include an abrupt move back to her hometown of Pacific Shores, or dropping out of the University she worked so hard to attend. Her entire life unraveled after a traumatic experience she’s still struggling to come to terms with, and her only priority is getting back on track. Both hellbent on rebuilding their futures and rediscovering who they are, Willow and Weston initially find themselves at odds when their shared spaces cause a tension neither of them are prepared for, but as their forced proximity gives way to mutual understanding, they discover a connection deeper than they ever thought possible. Will their unexpected bond prove strong enough to overcome the tides between them, or will they end in tatters?
Sarah fell in love with reading as a child, starting with the Magic Treehouse Series. She quickly learned that books can take her to all the places she always dreamed of going, and allow her to live endless lifetimes in the one that we are given. Sarah believes that a good, fluffy romance novel can make even the darkest days a little bit brighter. She believes in love stories readers can root for, the kind that will make even the skeptics believe in all that cheesy stuff like soulmates. She longs to produce stories that readers can pick up, and regardless of what’s weighing them down in life, feel a little lighter when they finish. Sarah was born in California and raised in Southern Oregon, and still considers herself a Pacific Northwest gal at heart; right down to being a coffee snob, collecting hydro flasks, adamantly believing in Sasquatch, and feeling like rain-drenched forests are a form of therapy. Sarah now resides in North Carolina with her husband, Mike, and their dog-baby, Rue. When she’s not writing, she’s likely reading, and if she’s not reading, odds are she’s out searching for a decent cup of coffee, or a rainy pine forest.
4.5⭐️ honored that sarah allowed me the privilege to read this early ~ an absolute must read! 🩷✨📖 any book with leo graham is going to have me swooning, but somehow he even had me swooning when he’s a full ass father. a perfect slow burn beach read!!
I just love this world so much! Weston is just perfection!! Love the found family. Loved Willow as an FMC. I can't wait for more in this series!
Ugh my heart is full! Sarah has a way of pulling you back into this world and her writing is just so beautiful. I fell in love with Weston he was just perfection. Willow was such a strong FMC and I loved her relationship with her dad Leo! She is her fathers daughter for sure! Loved all the found family and seeing all the previous couples make an appearance and I'm also so excited for this second gen I'm already loving the characters and Sarah already drops hints for archer and allies book and I can not wait for that one! The things Weston does for her I can not! Sarah just knows how to right these swoony hot men you fall in love with!
INFINITY STARS. How do I move on??? Dare I say this was my favorite Sarah A. Bailey book EVER!!! How is it possible every book she writes gets better and better. I never wanted it to end.
Wes is my new top book boyfriend and is the definition of perfection. This book will have you in ALL THE FEELS.
Pacific Shores, to me, is a perfect six star series. So naturally, I had high expectations going into Tattered Tides. They were not only met, but exceeded.
Coming back to this world was just what I needed and more. Sarah blends emotion and spice so perfectly.
This was my first time reading a second gen book and I am obsessed. Leo Graham as a dad are you kidding me?? And all the other familiar faces too. I squealed in excitement every single time.
I don't know genuinely how I'm supposed to go on waiting for book two.
I loved Willow and Weston from the get go. The way they found safety and solace in each other after their respective past traumas and trying to navigate every day life was everything to me. Watching them fall in love was pure beauty. And their chemistry was off the charts. I felt it in every part of my heart and soul. These two will stick with me forever, I guarantee it.
If you're a fan of Sarah's books already, then there is not one doubt in my mind you will love this one too.
Read content warnings as they are major themes throughout the entire book.
Thank you to Sarah A. Bailey, her team, and Netgalley for the early copy!
Thank you NetGalley for this advanced readers copy; I’m so happy to be back in Pacific Shores. I absolutely LOVED this book. Weston & Willow gave me daddy Leo and Darby vibes, but on their own too. Loved seeing the gang again with some new faces. Weston was pure perfection. I experienced all the emotions- cried, laughed, giddy giggles, swooned, raged. I really enjoyed that Weston was a bad boy but with a good heart, and eyes for only Willow, without the attitude to hurt her. The hook at the beginning of this book was captivating, and had me turning the page. I felt like the overuse of the nickname, “love” & “sugar” wore me out a bit but even so, I was sad once the book ended. I appreciated seeing Leo as a side character in this book, a few interactions had me laughing because I can totally picture the conversation exactly as written. Thank you for the opportunity to read Tattered Tides- releases May 5th.. I’m so excited for book 2 in the Celestia Cove series.
The cover is what initially caught my eye, it’s stunning.
The setting of this book is exactly what I was looking for going in: surfing/small town/cozy vibes and it delivered. The large cast of friends and family truly shone in this book and I loved that aspect, no character felt out of place.
Willow & Weston’s relationship developed quickly but realistically for the situations they were in and I appreciated the care that was taken when talking about their traumas and how they handled such difficult circumstances. Weston was such a caring and compassionate man, but at times I found his dialog a bit fluffy and a bit unrealistic for who he was set up to be.
The end of the book focused heavily on their sexual chemistry and hookups which I know is a natural progression of their relationship but I felt like it was a tad over done. I preferred reading about their emotional connection because you truly got to see them grow.
I do wish Willows trauma was made clearer from the start as readers who may find it triggering might not know how heavily Willows story is impacted by it.
(Also the dedication was beautiful)
Overall, I was moved by Willow & Weston’s story and how they developed together, so if you are looking for a touching but heavy coastal small town romance, this is for you!
For me, Sarah is the Queen of emotional stories. I don't think I've made it through a single one of her books without tearing up.
I absolutely loved the Pacific Shores series and was so sad it was over. Imagine my surprise to find this was the start of a second gen series and I got to see all my favourites again! Willow and Weston are now my second favourite couple (August and Elena can't be topped) but Weston is definitely a contender for top book boyfriend of all time. Despite his difficult past he was there for Willow through everything and I loved watching them both help the other heal.
Content-wise, I really wish the trigger warning had been clearer. The FMC’s sexual assault, pregnancy, and abortion aren’t just mentioned—they’re essentially the entire plot. I’m not someone who’s easily triggered, but I can absolutely see how this could be distressing for readers who’ve experienced similar trauma without knowing how central it would be.
As for the romance, it was sweet… but not always believable. The MMC speaks in very flowery, poetic language constantly. While it sounds romantic on paper, it didn’t feel realistic to me. I did like them together, though.
Chapter 30 being almost entirely a montage of them having sex in multiple locations was… a lot 😂 I don’t mind spice, but that felt excessive and unnecessary.
The final confrontation was predictable and lacked impact. Overall, not a bad read, but not a standout either.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Pro surfer - bad childhood & jail time, the MMC - is an inexperienced bad boy, with a lot of trauma, & healing to do, while getting back to real life & the sport he loves . Meeting willow (his coaches daughter) who also has her own trauma. Forced proximity, trauma bonding, & being able to earn trust with each other was beautiful.
I loved the beach town & all the characters it involved . This was a great, easy, & a heart warming read.
i missed pacific shores sm <3 being back in this world with these characters felt instantly familiar and comforting, while still allowing this story (and the new characters) to stand fully on their own.
just like with all of bailey’s books, this one shines because of the characters. willow and weston felt real, layered, and emotionally grounded. their connection developed naturally, with genuine chemistry. they had a very hurt/comfort dynamic—soft, tender, and emotional. their love was really sweet, nurturing, and safe, but never boring.
the mental health rep—trauma, anxiety, grief—was clearly handled with care and respect, and added significant weight to both the plot and the character growth. similar to the pacific shores series, there was strong emotional depth, but everything felt age-appropriate—their struggles, reactions, and relationships—for characters in their early 20s as opposed to their late 20s.
unsurprisingly, one of my favorite aspects was the support system surrounding the MCs bc i adore the graham/ramos/hayes family. willow’s parents were of course incredible, and i especially loved her dynamic with her dad and how thoughtfully he handled her relationship with weston. despite the use of the coach's daughter trope, he was never controlling and his protectiveness felt appropriate and understandable. all of the family and friends felt solid, present, and truly supportive.
i also really loved the surfing in this one. there was more of it here than in heathen & honeysuckle. because even with leo being a professional surfer, we didn’t get much of the competitive aspect in that book, so it was really nice to dive deeper into that side of things with wes. as always, the ocean and surfing added atmosphere and grounded the story so well in the pacific shores setting.
as per usual, bailey’s writing is really beautiful here—immersive, well-paced, and emotionally resonant. also, the four squeezes ?! are you kidding me? i’m unwell.
and even though you absolutely can read this without having read the pacific shores series, i strongly recommend reading those books first. having that background added an extra layer of depth and enjoyment. i haven’t read the soulmate series yet (also not required), but i’ll definitely be doing that before continuing with the celestia cove series—especially before allie’s book (which i am very excited about!!).
overall, this was everything i wanted and was hoping for from a return to the world of pacific shores: familiar, comforting, heartfelt, and still completely its own.
thank you so much to netgalley, page & vine, and sarah a. bailey for providing me with this arc!
Sarah A. Bailey's "Tattered Tides" is an emotional, raw romance with intriguing new characters, complex/sensitive situations, and a look at where some of our beloved favorite characters ended up. If you've had the chance to read any of her other books, you'll know that this is her wheelhouse. Having read her entire Pacific Shores series (which I loved!), I was super excited to start a new series, only to discover this is actually going to be about some of the kids of the characters from Pacific Shores! Yay! Bailey weaves these already established personalities with her new ones' stories with expert precision. The main characters here are Weston (a former almost-pro-surfer with a possibly shady past that includes jail time) and Willow (Leo and Darby's college-aged daughter). They are thrown into each other's orbit (forced proximity!!!) when Wes comes to Pacific Shores for the summer to work with Leo to regain his surfing prowess, to reestablish and redeem himself in the surfing world, and to work in the surf shop on the boardwalk in exchange for room and board as he trains. Willow has recently experienced something horrible at the hands of someone she thought loved her, leaving her to pick up the pieces of the mess. She doesn't intend to go back to Berkeley because she doesn't want to face the man who harmed her. Willow and Wes meet, and their chemistry is instant, palpable, and strong. They bond over their individual traumas, and even though Wes asked Leo to stay away from Willow, they cannot stay away from one another. Their relationship slowly grows as they begin to open up to one another and heal from what broke them. As they mend individually, they come together and heal together. I love how Wes was the inexperienced one and how Willow was not a player on top of it. There is a mutual trust there between the two of them, a solid foundation that takes their friendship to something more. The story does get quite focused on the spicy aspects of the story about halfway through until the end, but I didn't mind too much. Sarah A. Bailey gripped me with this story from the beginning. I will say, I think this book is a littttttttttttle bit long at times, but it didn't detract from how dramatic and enjoyable and engaging this book is. Another winner from Sarah A. Bailey!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Sarah A. Bailey, Victory Editing, and Page & Vine for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC copy of this book!
I read the entire thing in one sitting- this is going to be a long one so get ready but I just have so much to say!
Even though you can totally read this book on its own, I highly highly recommend reading Pacific Shores series first! One of my favorite parts of this book was going back to Pacific Shores and revisiting all the OG characters. This author has an extremely emotional way of writing and she truly draws you into her world with her words and makes you want to know what happens with the characters even after the book is over. It was awesome to come back and see what all the Pacific Shores characters are up to later in life. (the surprise about Lou is definitely one I did not see coming but I won't say anymore for risk of a bigger spoiler;)
Now for the book itself- absolutely loved every aspect of it. Firstly, the way Willow and Weston's relationship developed. Over the course of the book you get to see them slowly begin to trust and open up and to find safety in each other after going through their own respective past traumas. I also especially loved Willow's relationship with her father and how close to each other they are. I love seeing how the devoted, caring, and protective nature we were first introduced to in H&H as a boyfriend and husband carries into his relationship with his daughter. Also, I honestly really liked that the MMC was the less experienced one in this book- in all the books I've read its either the FMC is less experienced or they are both equally inexperienced. I like and appreciate that the author did it this way.
Lastly, I love getting to see her relationship with her cousins and cannot wait to read whichever one of their books comes next! (The fact that the other three second gen characters are all Everett & Dahlia's children makes me excited bc that means they will be featured heavily in the upcoming books. Wicked & Wildflower was absolutely my favorite book out of the whole Pacific Shores series and Everett specifically is my favorite character of all. I love the glimpses we got of him as a father in this book and cannot wait to see more detail in his children's books).
Trigger warnings- this book is emotional and heavy, and while portrayed sensitively, please be careful if you are triggered by things like sexual assault/abuse and abortion (pretty big theme in this book).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Tattered Tides is the first book of the series Celestia Cove, which tells the stories of the next gen of both of the previous series Pacific Shores and Soulmate.
It tells the beautiful love story of the MMC, Weston (Carter and Penelope's foster son) and Willow (Leo and Darby's daughter). Weston is a broken young man, with a difficult and violent past, and who is taken under the wing of Leo to train him to be a champion surfer. The FMC, Willow is back at her parent's home, trying to heal after ending an abusive relationship. Throughout their healing journey, Weston and Willow fall into a beautiful relationship, founded on friendship, trust and understanding, and eventually love. Their connection and attraction is instant, they support each other and heal each other on so many levels.
I know that I am bias as I love all Sarah's books, but this one is truly an amazing story. I loved both MCs, I have a weakness for a broken boy, and ugh ...Weston is everything I wish for a man, he's protective, in so much need of love (and hugs!!) and supportive. Willow is this perfect combination of her parents, some sweet and intuitive side of her mum and the boldness and straightforwardness of her dad.
I loved to read about Leo and Darby as older adults, as I loved them in their book. It was so funny to read Leo as a protective dad, but I loved even more the way he was respectful of his daughter's private life and choices. If you read his book and loved him, then you'll be happy to know that he is quite present in this book.
Sarah hooked me into the story from the start, I felt the MCs connection instantly and felt for them the whole book. She made me laugh, cry, swoon, gasp, and yes also blush... a LOT (the spice was perfect!).
I admire Sarah for telling this story with some very some sensitive topics for both MCs. I actually love her writing even more because of that. If you are a sensitive reader, consider reading your TW which can be found on both the first pages of the book and on the author's website.
This is a standalone, however I highly recommend reading her previous series to get the full picture of the family dynamics.
I now cannot wait to read the next book about Allie and Archer's story!
This book emotionally wrecked me in the best possible way — and I am still recovering.
**Tattered Tides by Sarah A. Bailey** is not just a romance. It’s a healing journey wrapped in heartbreak, resilience, and the kind of love that feels safe enough to rebuild inside.
I went in expecting something emotional. I did not expect to feel this seen.
Sarah handles heavy, sensitive topics with so much care and intention. Willow’s past relationship with Parker isn’t glossed over or dramatized for shock value — it’s explored with painful honesty. The mental and emotional battle she fights from beginning to end feels raw, real, and deeply validating for anyone who has experienced something similar. My heart broke for her more than once.
And then there’s Weston.
At first, he’s all quiet intensity and unanswered questions. Mysterious. Guarded. A little hard to read. And then his story unfolds — and suddenly that guarded exterior makes heartbreaking sense. Sarah A. Bailey writes male leads who feel deeply and love fully, and Weston is no exception. He’s strong but emotionally open. Protective but never overpowering. When he loves, he commits with his whole heart.
What makes this story shine is that it isn’t just about romance — it’s about support. Both Willow and Weston are surrounded by friends and family who show up for them. The love in this book doesn’t exist in isolation. It’s layered. Communal. Safe.
Seeing Darby and Leo as parents? Absolute gold standard energy. Protective but supportive. And Leo navigating his daughter’s love life is genuinely hilarious. The balance between “that’s my little girl” and “I respect your independence” adds such needed lightness to the story.
Willow and Weston feel rare. Deeply layered. Written with care. Their connection grows in a way that feels earned, not rushed. Tender without being unrealistic. Strong without being perfect.
And that ending? Completely satisfying. The kind that makes you close the book slowly and just sit with it for a minute.
If this is the beginning of another series from Sarah A. Bailey, consider me fully invested.
Five stars. No notes. Still thinking about them. 🌊❤️🌊❤️🌊❤️🌊❤️🌊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴇxᴘᴇᴄᴛ: 🌊Surfing Romance 💜Comfort/Hurt 🌊Coach’s Daughter 💕She Teaches Him 🌊Friends to Lovers 💜“Trading Truths” 🌊Second Generation Series 💕Mental Health Rep
Weston Ashford was destined for Olympic Gold before bottled rage and a split-second decision cost him everything. Three years later he gets a second chance training with Leo Graham. The rules are simple: 1. Show up and don’t f*ck up 2. Be nice to his wife 3. Stay away from his daughter
Tattered Tides felt like coming home. Sarah A. Bailey is back with the second generation of Pacific Shores and once again delivers a deeply emotional and addictive love story with Tattered Tides. There is nothing like getting lost in Sarah’s writing, she pulls me in every single time.
Willow Graham is the daughter of Leo and Darby from Heathen and Honeysuckle Weston Ashford is the adopted son of Carter and Penelope from The Soulmate Theory.
After years of abuse and grieving the loss of his mother, Weston’s scars run deep. Surfing has been his only escape; the water is the only place his broken soul has truly found peace. The mystery surrounding Weston’s past had me in a chokehold from the beginning.
Williow finds herself back home in Pacific Shores after ending things with her abusive ex. She is dealing with ALOT. Her strength and resilience were undeniable from the start. She had a spunk to her that was impossible not to love.
The building tension between the coach’s daughter and the inexperienced “bad boy” was EVERYTHING. This was the perfect balance of hurt and comfort. There are so many emotions packed between these covers; my heart ached, I laughed, I swooned, and I was left with the biggest smile. I absolutely adored these two together.
Four squeezes… You’re. Safe. With. Me.
Tattered Tides is a beautifully written story of love, healing, and redemption. Weston and Willow saw beyond each other's broken pieces and breathed life back into one another. Their love was built on trust and understanding and was so well earned.
I read this book in one sitting; I went into Tattered Tides yearning for a hard-fought love story and this was everything I could have wanted and more. I literally could not put this book down and have not been able to stop thinking of Weston and Willow. I will definitely be reading this again before release day.
Huge thanks to Sarah A. Bailey, Page & Vine, and NetGalley for the ARC of Tattered Tides.
Tarred Tides is a beautifully written story about two people in their early twenties who are navigating trauma and trying to rebuild their lives.
Weston and Willow appear to be complete opposites at first. Weston is a juvenile delinquent trying to turn his life around while pursuing his dream of becoming the next surf champion. Willow, once a promising art student, seemed to have everything until one night changes everything, forcing her to return home to her small beach town for the summer.
Despite their differences, something draws them together. What begins as a hesitant connection slowly develops into something deeper, as they start to recognize pieces of themselves in each other. Their relationship becomes a quiet space where both can begin to process what they’ve been through and slowly start healing. 🌊
The writing is one of the story’s strongest elements. The author captures the coastal setting and the characters’ emotions with depth and care. The small beach-town atmosphere feels vivid and immersive, making it easy to picture the ocean, the surf culture, and the slower rhythm of life.
I also loved the slow, natural development of Weston and Willow’s relationship. They take time to understand each other’s boundaries and emotional limits, and their dynamic feels respectful, supportive, and genuine. Sensitive topics are handled thoughtfully, emphasizing emotional growth, communication, and vulnerability rather than using trauma as a dramatic plot device. 🤍
The only reason this isn’t a full five-star read is that some moments felt a little predictable. Even so, the emotional journey and character development kept me fully engaged. Overall, Tarred Tides is a heartfelt, atmospheric story about healing, and trust, perfect for a quiet afternoon by the ocean. 🌊✨
I want to thank NetGalley, Victory Editing and Sarah A Bailey for this ARC! All opinions are my own.
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best way. I honestly wasn’t expecting this story to hit the way it did, but it exceeded every expectation. Sarah handles heavy and sensitive topics with so much care, which I, and I’m sure many others, deeply appreciate.
My heart breaks for Willow and what she has faced. I love how Sarah wrote the mental and emotional battle that Willow experienced in her previous relationship with Parker from beginning to end. It is incredibly raw and real for those who have been through similar experiences.
Weston completely surprised me. There’s such a mystery to him at first, and then learning his story was heartbreaking. Sarah A. Bailey writes MMCs so beautifully, men who allow themselves to feel deeply and fully give into love, and Weston is no exception. I loved that both he and Willow have strong support systems from their friends and family. There was no shortage of love and support shown towards either of them including between each other. They truly embodied pure unconditional love.
Seeing Darby and Leo as parents is everything, truly the gold standard. The love and support surrounding Willow (and eventually Weston) is so powerful and comforting to read. Leo dealing with his daughter’s love life is absolutely hilarious. The balance between protective dad and wanting her independence added such great light moments to the story.
There is so much I want to say about Willow and Weston, but discovering their story firsthand is such an experience that I don’t want to spoil anything. Just know these characters have incredible depth and are written in a way that feels rare to find.
Fantastic ending. These two were truly made for each other. I have a feeling this is the start to another incredible series from Sarah A. Bailey.
Found family Small town Pro surfer x coaches daughter Inexperienced (labeled) “bad boy” He’s a v!rg!n Trauma bonding She teaches him how to love and he teaches her how to heal Friends to lovers Forced proximity Second Generation Please check TW page as there are some heavy topics
"you pulled me from a darkness i've only experienced once before. you changed me, willow. you gave me something to run toward. you're that light,"
“You can always come back home, Sugar.”
"I'm aware of you at all times, and it's completely eclipsed my focus. I can't lose sight of the reason I came here."
THAT FAMILIAR SENSATION. BREAKING THE SURFACE, INHALING SALT AIR. LICHT AND BRIGHT AND BURSTS OF COLOR THE SUN PEEKING THROUGH CLOUDS. I'M KISSING WILLOW. WILLOW IS KISSING ME.
"WHATEVER YOU WANT TO SHARE, AND WHATEVER YOU DON'T. IT'S ALL SAFE WITH ME BECAUSE... BECAUSE YOU MAKE ME FEEL SAFE TOO."
"All we are is lost time."
"I IMAGINE BEING AT THAT DINNER PARTY WOULD FEEL A LOT LIKE LOOKING AT A COMPLETED PUZZLE AND REALIZING YOU'RE A PIECE OF SOMETHING ELSE THAT GOT STUCK INSIDE THE BOX."
Weston Ashford is the bad boy next door! He had some swooning! He is a pro surfer fresh out of prison and he gets one last shot at his dream. Until he meets willow he was focused. But falling for the coaches daughter was definitely out of the question. But forced proximity he can’t help but fall for her both trauma bonding. Willows struggle is so raw I could feel her pain! Every fear and shame she felt as my own! This was written so beautifully this book highlights the internal struggles we go through trying to move forward. The messy heartwarming all the feels. I’d definitely recommend this book!
Here I am again, speechless from another one of Sarah’s books.
I was so happy to be back in pacific shore, my heart didn’t know I needed this book but I really really did.
Seeing Leo being a dad was one of my favorite things in this book, seeing all my favorites again just did something to me. I missed all of these characters so much.
Willow is truly her daddy’s daughter and I loved to see it. She definitely kept him on his toes and I was living for it.
Wes, oh my heart. What a pure soul, truly. Everything that came out of this man’s mouth made my heart stutter. I don’t think he did one wrong thing the entire book. Instead he was always there carrying whatever weight willow needed him too.
This made me feel like I was living through Leo and darbys story all over again BUT completely different if that makes sense. Nothing was the same, but everything felt the same. Safe. Comfortable.
The four squeezes got passed down and MY GOD the tears were flowing. YOURE. SAFE. WITH. ME🥺
I loved watching both of these characters grow throughout the book, the character development and the growing through their trauma was so spot on. It was so realistic and most people will be able to relate somehow.
Sarah’s writing is so beautiful and wraps you up with the biggest hug and makes you feel apart of this family.
I’m dying for archer and allies story, will sell my man for it actually 🤭😮💨🫣✨🤣
6 stars - for sure going to be in my top reads of the year.
I was so happy to be back in Pacific Shores! I truly missed this world. I absolutely love when authors write second generation/next generation stories, and Tattered Tides does it so well. Seeing familiar faces from the previous series alongside brand new stories within the family felt comforting and exciting all at once.
Sarah’s writing is beautiful and emotionally rich, as always. Her books tend to carry some heavy themes, but the way she handles them is thoughtful and impactful. The mental health representation in this story is especially strong and really feels like the heart of the book. It’s raw, honest, and handled with so much care.
This features the coach’s daughter trope, but it’s done right. I loved the found family vibes and the incredible support system surrounding these characters because it truly felt like one big, loving family. The summer, coastal atmosphere was perfect, and the surfing element added such a great layer to the story.
Willow and Weston have a gorgeous dynamic. They’ve both been through so much, and watching the way they support and care for each other was incredibly moving. This was an emotional, slow burn romance that packed a real punch, and I loved every minute of it.
This was a stunning read, and I’m already so excited to see where this series goes next!
Thank you to NetGalley, Sarah A. Bailey, and Page & Vine for the eARC of this book.
♾️ ⭐️ for this one 🥹 I didn’t know if I would love this couple as much as the OGs but Sarah did it again.
Weston and Willow each had heartbreaking stories that Sarah wrote with such beautiful and healing words. This story was heavy at times but Sarah handled each hard subject with such care.
This next generation couple had me balling my eyes out, laughing hysterically, and I was so happy to be getting glimpses of our OG couples. I wasn’t ready for daddy Leo but I was so here for it 😂
Weston 😮💨 the bad boy surfer trying to redeem his story, and Willow, the good girl artist, picking up the pieces after dealing with her own trauma. I just loved them so much, their chemistry, the banter, their undeniable pull towards each other… perfection 🤌🏻
Sarah’s writing is just so poetic and beautiful the way she weaves two souls together with so much emotion, you truly feel like you’re living along side these characters. I just cannot get enough of her writing. This is romance. Loved every second of this book.
Huge thanks to Sarah A. Bailey & NetGalley for this early read🫶🏻
⚠️ This book handles some heavy topics so check your TW
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
📖Tattered Tides releases 5/5
what to expect: 🌊 surfer sports romance 🎨 good girl x bad boy 🌊 coachs daughter 🎨 hurt comfort 🌊 slow burn 🎨 friends to lovers 🌊 found family 🎨 inexper!enced MMC 🌊 small town 🎨 they’re both touch averse 🌊 small town
For a new adult romance, this felt raw, real, deep, powerful. Both MCs, roughly 21 years old, have been through their own personal hells. The chance of them both on her parents property for the summer is the perfect set up for them to become each other's stable ground. The calm in a storm.
This book is the first in a second generation series that follows the future kids of the characters from the Pacific Shores series. While I don't think it's necessary to have read the Pacific Shores series first, it definitely does give you some insight into how the side characters of this book may be feeling throughout Taddered Tides. Being said, as with the Pacific Shores series, found family is everything. Fighting your demons and knowing when to let your family support you in that fight is a major factor that seems to run right through both series. I love the interconnection of it all.
While the book does have major trigger warnings for mental, physical, and sexual abuse (described as past events in the book, but extremely relevant to the plot), this is a beautiful romance of finding your steady ground - and that steady ground, in this instance is a person.
He's a Pro-Surfer, with a dark past She's a Berkley student, running from an abusive ex Her dad is his coach Found family Forbidden romance He's inexperienced She calls him baby Dual POV & HEA
I received and read an advance reader copy. This is my honest review.
Willow Graham might be the most alluring person I’ve ever met. Her ability to take up every crevice inside my mind is maddening, and I’m terrified of it.
“I’m aware of you at all times, and it’s completely eclipsed my focus. I can’t lose sight of the reason I came here.”
I am so excited to be back in Pacific Shore’s and Willow and Wes’s book is a perfect entry into this next gen series. I am obsessed with these two!! Their book is heavy on trauma that they have both experienced and the suffering they have endured, especially for Weston. But as the story continues to develop these two find peace and safety with each other, and a beautiful relationship grows from the ashes for these two. Seeing all the OG characters was so heart warming! Seeing them all take in Wes and giving him the family and love he always deserved is so beautiful. I loved seeing Leo and Darcy Graham as parents in this story too. Leo Graham is the freaking rule not exception for a leading male character! My last note is to please make sure to check the trigger warnings before reading. This book definitely touches on heavy topics.
Tropes: Boy Down Bad Coaches Daughter He’s a V!rgin Both Recovering From Trauma She Teaches Him How To Love He Shows Her How to Heal
I was lucky enough to read this as an ARC, and am I happy I did, because I don't know if I would have made it to its release in May🤣
I am a ride or die Sarah fan. This is the 8th book I have read by her, and I know it won't be my last.
The Pacific Shores series is hands down, one of my favorite series. So to get to go back to that world, 20 years later, and see them as full grown adults with families was such a damn joy.
Willow is the daughter of Leo and Darby, and the perfect combination of her parents. She's a sweetheart to her core and playful as hell. She is home from college after breaking up with her boyfriend (who is an absolute piece of trash). She is dealing with the fall out of that and trying to navigate her feelings around it all. Weston is the foster child of Penelope and Carter from The Soulmate Series. He has been out of jail for a few months and has been trying to find his footing and move his life forward.
I have yet to read a book by Sarah that doesn't have me crying at least once, and this book is no exception. Sarah is one of those authors that not only can create fantastic characters, but writes so poetically that honestly, i'm awestruck.
I can't wait for the rest of this series, to meet the new characters and revisit the old ones.
ARC Review ♾️ Infinity stars ♾️ Sarah writes so beautifully and pulls every emotion out of me without even trying. I was choked up in tears one minute and full-on giggling the next. I love all of her books, but Tattered Tides is going to hold a really special place in my heart. This slow-burn romance centres on Weston, a former surfing prodigy whose life took a hard turn after one devastating mistake. Stripped of his medal and just out of prison, he’s determined to claw back his dreams. Fate drops him back into the path of Willow Graham, his coach’s daughter and his carefully guarded heart starts to crack open in the best way. Willow is wrestling her own pain too, freshly back in her hometown and trying to rebuild herself after something that shook her world. Watching Weston and Willow grow, both separately and together, and seeing how they face and overcome their demons was everything. Their journey felt raw, real, and so deeply earned. This story reminded me why I love reading so much. It’s emotional, hopeful, and full of heart. And can we all take a moment to appreciate Daddy Leo, I loved Leo back in Heathen & Honeysuckle but seeing him in Dad mode was a game changer! I loved heading back to Pacific Shores and catching up with my fave characters and their growing families, it’s left me so excited for what’s to come. HUGE HUGE Thank you to Sarah & Net Galley for this ARC opportunity, it was everything!
Okay wow, I was not paying attention because I SCREAMED when I realized this was second gen. As expected, this one was emotional. We have Willow going through it with her ex and Weston with his own criminal history. I want to applaud Sarah for writing the one trope I never expected to read. It’s 2026 and Willow used HER choice to do what was best for her at this time in her life.
Early 20’s characters are not something I usually seek out but I did feel like the struggles for these two were age appropriate. It felt a little immature and I’m sure that was the intent. I loved seeing their friendship evolve into more. I loved learning about the other second gen’s we will see in future books.
I think the only thing that was hard for me to move past was how easily it was for Weston to show Willow love and care when he never received it himself growing up. That’s not something that comes naturally, you have to work at it and I didn’t see that struggle communicated. It was like he knew exactly what to do to love Willow… but hey, this is fiction! While this can be read as a standalone, I would never support suggesting you skip any of the Pacific Shores books! Wicked and Wildflower was one of my fav books of 2025!
This was such a beautiful story of brokenness and healing. I very much love being able to see Leo and Darby as parents. All the cameos from our beloved Pacific Shore couples. This second gen really came out swinging with the heartbreak and damage. It felt like a punch to the gut with everything that happened all within the first 10% of the book. Sarah’s writing is always poetic and full of lyrical words. I did really love having more of a surfing aspect in this book. I think that helped set it apart. I’m such a sucker for side characters. So while I adore these two main characters. My bigger focus is already on two other messy situationship type second gen heathens….
PLEASE read the authors note as there are no official trigger warnings in the text. Abortion and healing from it is a BIG plot point. Abusive father is another. Domestic violence. These two characters are scarred and traumatized and as the reader, you’re taken along that journey but your mental health matters most. I do think Sarah did a phenomenal job with taking such care while writing the journey Willow went through and the trauma she healed through. This book was just MUCH heavier than I expected it to be.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sarah A. Bailey snd Page and Vine for this eARC in exchange for my honest opinions!
The cover of this book is absolutely stunning and the words inside are even more beautiful! I’m a big fan of Sarah’s writing and I was so sad when her previous series ended. I was so thrilled when I found out that this was a second generation series! I was not prepared for daddy Leo and he did not disappoint! While this is based on characters from a previous series of books, the story absolutely stands on its own and there’s no need to read the Pacific Shores books (but you should because they are fantastic!)
This is all about Willow; daughter to Leo and Darby and Weston; a damaged surfer with an arrest record. This book does not shy away from more serious topics and Willow and Wes meet while both are going thru their own personal traumas. It’s so nice and encouraging to see how soft these two are with each other, how considerate and kind they are as well.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and the introduction to the “next generation”. I’m excited for what’s to come in terms of Willow’s cousins and the rest of Celestia Cove!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sarah A. Bailey has a gift for writing stories that don’t just pull at your heartstrings—they wrap entirely around them. Tattered Tides is a stunning journey of metamorphosis told with incredible intention and emotional honesty. The Characters: • Weston Ashford: A masterclass in "quiet intensity." He is the kind of MMC who feels steady and safe—guarded by his past mistakes, yet entirely emotionally available when it matters most. Watching him open up felt like a privilege. • Willow Graham: A beautifully realized FMC. Her strength isn't loud or performative; it’s thoughtful and deeply human. I appreciated that the author respected Willow’s trauma enough to let her heal at a realistic pace. The Vibe: The sense of community and "found family" makes this world feel lived-in and lush. The romance isn't an island; it’s supported by a cast of characters that add layers of meaning to every scene. The slow-burn build between Willow and Weston is immaculate—natural, intentional, and lasting. Tattered Tides left me feeling "wrecked" but restored. It’s an unforgettable, tender, and emotionally rich story that has solidified Sarah A. Bailey as a must-buy author for me.