Ami Wright's Starting Over With the Sea Monster is a delightful dive into a world where the fantastical meets the everyday, blending romance with a touch of whimsy and a dash of culinary flair. This novel is a refreshing take on the paranormal romance genre, offering readers a unique blend of humor, heart, and a hint of the extraordinary.

At the heart of the story is our protagonist, a sea monster who has traded the depths of the ocean for the heat of the kitchen. As a chef, he is adept at managing the chaos of a bustling restaurant, utilizing all eight of his tentacles to create culinary masterpieces. However, when it comes to matters of the heart, he is far less confident. Having been burned in the past, he is wary of love and the potential heartache it brings. This internal conflict is a central theme of the novel, exploring the idea of vulnerability and the courage it takes to open oneself up to love again.

Enter Olivia Zeston, a renowned human food critic whose arrival in the small town sets the stage for a captivating romance. Olivia is portrayed as a woman of complexity, her cheerful exterior masking a deeper need for love and acceptance. Wright skillfully develops Olivia's character, peeling back layers to reveal her insecurities and desires. The chemistry between Olivia and the sea monster is palpable from their first interaction, and Wright does an excellent job of building tension and anticipation as their relationship evolves.

The concept of a "fated mate" is a familiar trope in paranormal romance, but Wright approaches it with a fresh perspective. The sea monster's reluctance to embrace his destined connection with Olivia adds depth to his character and raises questions about free will versus destiny. This internal struggle is relatable, as many readers will recognize the fear of commitment and the hesitation to trust in something as unpredictable as love.

Wright's writing style is engaging and accessible, with a lighthearted tone that makes the novel a joy to read. Her descriptions of the culinary world are vivid and mouth-watering, adding an extra layer of richness to the story. The restaurant setting serves as a perfect backdrop for the unfolding romance, symbolizing both the chaos and creativity of love.

One of the standout elements of the book is its humor. Wright infuses the narrative with witty dialogue and amusing situations, often stemming from the sea monster's attempts to navigate human customs and emotions. This humor not only provides levity but also endears the characters to the reader, making their journey all the more enjoyable.

In comparison to other works in the genre, such as G.A. Aiken's Dragon Kin series or Molly Harper's Half-Moon Hollow books, Starting Over With the Sea Monster holds its own with its unique premise and charming execution. While Aiken and Harper often focus on more traditional supernatural creatures like dragons and vampires, Wright's choice of a sea monster as a romantic lead is both innovative and refreshing.

The novel also touches on themes of self-discovery and acceptance. Both the sea monster and Olivia are on personal journeys, learning to embrace their true selves and the love they deserve. This theme resonates throughout the book, offering readers a message of hope and the possibility of new beginnings.

Overall, Starting Over With the Sea Monster is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of paranormal romance and those looking for a story that combines humor, heart, and a touch of the fantastical. Ami Wright has crafted a tale that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, leaving readers with a sense of warmth and satisfaction. Whether you're a seasoned fan of the genre or a newcomer, this novel is sure to leave you falling head over tentacles for its charming characters and enchanting story.