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The Fatkini Chronicles #1
Fatkini
FATKINI is heartfelt, humorous, and sexy. It’s about getting out of your own damn way, and learning that the right love doesn't just fit — it transforms. Because love isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Big boobs, tiny waist, wide hips, and long legs. That's me, Zelda Gordon.
The world calls me plus-sized.
My parents call me voluptuous.
My ex-boyfriend Tristan? He called me an embarrassment. So I kicked him outta my house and outta my life. But the damage was done and my confidence crawled into the gutter with him.
Until two of the sexiest, sweetest guys I've ever met lifted me up.
Drew and Aithan call me a Valkyrie, they call me beautiful, and they love me just the way I am. And you know what? I think I can learn to love myself, too. Unless jealousy rears its ugly head and murders our happiness just as it's taking shape.
Because an ex's spite is more dangerous than my curves.
NOTE: If you find cussing offensive, if you skip past the sex scenes, or if the idea of multiple love interests makes you clutch your pearls (not in a good way), The Fatkini Chronicles ain’t the books for you. But, if you love curvy girl, chronic illness romance with a why choose relationship and two cinnamon roll heroes who are all about her happiness, then this series is calling your name.
Big boobs, tiny waist, wide hips, and long legs. That's me, Zelda Gordon.
The world calls me plus-sized.
My parents call me voluptuous.
My ex-boyfriend Tristan? He called me an embarrassment. So I kicked him outta my house and outta my life. But the damage was done and my confidence crawled into the gutter with him.
Until two of the sexiest, sweetest guys I've ever met lifted me up.
Drew and Aithan call me a Valkyrie, they call me beautiful, and they love me just the way I am. And you know what? I think I can learn to love myself, too. Unless jealousy rears its ugly head and murders our happiness just as it's taking shape.
Because an ex's spite is more dangerous than my curves.
NOTE: If you find cussing offensive, if you skip past the sex scenes, or if the idea of multiple love interests makes you clutch your pearls (not in a good way), The Fatkini Chronicles ain’t the books for you. But, if you love curvy girl, chronic illness romance with a why choose relationship and two cinnamon roll heroes who are all about her happiness, then this series is calling your name.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2023
988 people are currently reading
1104 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
January 27, 2024
DNF.
While the writing in this was solid, I started to dislike the main character Zel, who came across like a Mary Sue in the classic "she's attractive but apparently doesn't know it" way.
Zel is gorgeous. She's a plus-sized woman with a successful career and has a very fit, very good-looking man for a boyfriend. She's so attractive she's been approached by model scouts in the past. Despite this, Zel is deeply insecure about her body.
After the break up, her new friends and lovers repeatedly tell her how sexy she is and how good she looks and compare her to plus size models, and she's all "who me? really?" And doesn't believe it.
Listen, I love reading romance novels centering curvy, overweight and fat women, but when the FMC is an insecure curvy girl - one who goes out of her way to stress that she's curvy and athletic not overweight or fat - I start losing sympathy fast. Unsurprisingly, the majority of the story's action revolves around her perception of herself instead of an actual plot.
Stories about fat heroines are often filled with self-hate and triggering body negativity, often validating the harmful idea that only "acceptably" curvy women are worthy of being loved.
For me, it just got to be too much, especially when Zel has the most acceptable plus size body type already, her lack of self awareness just reads like conceit.
The book is meant to be light-hearted so I suppose I shouldn't delve too deep or expect too much, but the quality of the writing had my expectations high.
PS: don't call your book "Fatkini" and then put a woman with a slim-thick hourglass body on the front cover. We know what fat looks like, and that's not it.
While the writing in this was solid, I started to dislike the main character Zel, who came across like a Mary Sue in the classic "she's attractive but apparently doesn't know it" way.
Zel is gorgeous. She's a plus-sized woman with a successful career and has a very fit, very good-looking man for a boyfriend. She's so attractive she's been approached by model scouts in the past. Despite this, Zel is deeply insecure about her body.
After the break up, her new friends and lovers repeatedly tell her how sexy she is and how good she looks and compare her to plus size models, and she's all "who me? really?" And doesn't believe it.
Listen, I love reading romance novels centering curvy, overweight and fat women, but when the FMC is an insecure curvy girl - one who goes out of her way to stress that she's curvy and athletic not overweight or fat - I start losing sympathy fast. Unsurprisingly, the majority of the story's action revolves around her perception of herself instead of an actual plot.
Stories about fat heroines are often filled with self-hate and triggering body negativity, often validating the harmful idea that only "acceptably" curvy women are worthy of being loved.
For me, it just got to be too much, especially when Zel has the most acceptable plus size body type already, her lack of self awareness just reads like conceit.
The book is meant to be light-hearted so I suppose I shouldn't delve too deep or expect too much, but the quality of the writing had my expectations high.
PS: don't call your book "Fatkini" and then put a woman with a slim-thick hourglass body on the front cover. We know what fat looks like, and that's not it.
January 6, 2024
This was so problematic in so many ways. Many pointed out in other reviews...
While the book clearly posits itself as fat-positive, the number of times the author goes out of her way to ensure the reader knows the MC isn't "obese" and mentions that our MC is going for a run (5 miles in case you were wondering, daily it seems) shows that fatphobia is still rampant.
The book fairly carelessly tackles emotional abuse and violence. I'm not sure what the author's intent was in adding that in -- perhaps to create a "she's overcome" storyline -- but it was disappointing how dismissively it was handled.
And, lastly, the relationships drove me slightly crazy...the MC is depicted as a woman traumatized by her past with low self esteem, and the first half of the book is scene after scene of her getting coached on self love by wealthy men. If that's your thing, have at it, but it seemed so counter to everything I thought the book would be that I just couldn't finish it. My breaking point was when the character coaching our MC on how to have open relationships ended a six year relationship without warning by packing up his gf's stuff.
Wanted to love, but DNF at 53% in.
While the book clearly posits itself as fat-positive, the number of times the author goes out of her way to ensure the reader knows the MC isn't "obese" and mentions that our MC is going for a run (5 miles in case you were wondering, daily it seems) shows that fatphobia is still rampant.
The book fairly carelessly tackles emotional abuse and violence. I'm not sure what the author's intent was in adding that in -- perhaps to create a "she's overcome" storyline -- but it was disappointing how dismissively it was handled.
And, lastly, the relationships drove me slightly crazy...the MC is depicted as a woman traumatized by her past with low self esteem, and the first half of the book is scene after scene of her getting coached on self love by wealthy men. If that's your thing, have at it, but it seemed so counter to everything I thought the book would be that I just couldn't finish it. My breaking point was when the character coaching our MC on how to have open relationships ended a six year relationship without warning by packing up his gf's stuff.
Wanted to love, but DNF at 53% in.
October 27, 2025
I'll be honest. I wanted to love this because the premise appealed to me and I'm a bigger girl so I was excited to read from a bigger girls pov. My only real problem with Fatkini is that her size is repeatedly justified as big but "not obese". This is said a couple times and it really took me out of the story cause it felt like a judgement on obese girls. Big is beautiful period. You don't have to be amazonian shaped to be attractive and appealing to someone. Other than that I enjoyed this read.
March 1, 2025
kay the instagram reels hooked me with this one. i haven't started reading yet, but my initial thoughts are that??? having "big boobs, wide hips, and a tiny waist" is actually the unrealistic beauty standard these days so...why is this called fatkini? also, that name makes me wildly uncomfortable. anyway, i will report back.
July 16, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Heads up…you don’t have to read the prequel Thick as a Brick but I’d highly suggest it…you get a ton of info & some thing’s just translate better with it…Drew is an author…Zelda is a book narrator who has gotten a bad reputation only because of her sultry voice….at a conference they both attended (& where they met) Drew stuck up for Zelda from the very beginning & you miss that if you skip the prequel
This was definitely the start to a reverse harem but it takes you a little bit to get there…
I wasn’t a fan of Tristan but his character did show that childhood trauma can stick with a person….
I think everyone needs a Drew & an Aithan in their lives…Drew is the playboy while Aithan is always (ok not always) the gentleman….& both men made me giggle several times
I loved that so many topics were discussed…body dysmorphia, plus size/curvy females/models, Graves’ disease, cutting (touched on but not really discussed) & child abuse…all are subjects that affects someone’s life everyday but not often talked about
I can’t wait to read the next book…I need to know how they’re able to juggle their relationship in the future…& do they add anyone else to their harem **cough cough Tobias
Heads up…you don’t have to read the prequel Thick as a Brick but I’d highly suggest it…you get a ton of info & some thing’s just translate better with it…Drew is an author…Zelda is a book narrator who has gotten a bad reputation only because of her sultry voice….at a conference they both attended (& where they met) Drew stuck up for Zelda from the very beginning & you miss that if you skip the prequel
This was definitely the start to a reverse harem but it takes you a little bit to get there…
I wasn’t a fan of Tristan but his character did show that childhood trauma can stick with a person….
I think everyone needs a Drew & an Aithan in their lives…Drew is the playboy while Aithan is always (ok not always) the gentleman….& both men made me giggle several times
I loved that so many topics were discussed…body dysmorphia, plus size/curvy females/models, Graves’ disease, cutting (touched on but not really discussed) & child abuse…all are subjects that affects someone’s life everyday but not often talked about
I can’t wait to read the next book…I need to know how they’re able to juggle their relationship in the future…& do they add anyone else to their harem **cough cough Tobias
February 3, 2025
The writing in this book felt really juvenile to me and it was so repetitive. The characters have the same conversation over and over and over again. It tells you that it's a fat-positive book but it really makes sure you know that Zelda isn't like the really fat people out there. She runs and she's got a tiny waist and she's not (gasp) obese. It harps on that a little too much and it ends up feeling more fat-shaming than fat-positive. The dialogue is clunky and doesn't sound like real people half the time. I wish it had been better.
July 16, 2023
This book was done beautifully I am happy that the FMC is relatable I love how she breaks up with that pos and finds herself with 2 amazing hotties I cannot wait to read more work from this author 10/10
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April 24, 2025DNFd on chapter 5 (17%)
This book is horrible. It's supposed to be "fat positive," but there is no positivity to this. As a fat person, this book is not it. they keep going on about how she's "skinny waisted" and other BS, but somehow, she's also wicked fat 🙄. And her extremely low self esteem but she was fucking the "hot guy" from high school...yeah sure 🙄
I get being unrealistic. But fuck this was taking the cake. Even the writing wasn't that great; it felt very juvenile. Constantly talking about their boat loads of cash and her sultry voice just kept getting annoying. And the way Drew was being written was so gross and creepy. He has a gf and is in an open relationship but has this weird obsession with Zelda. Not to mention, his gf basically tells him to seduce Zelda and tell her it's not "sex." What kind of effed up manipulation is that?!
I'm definitely not checking out anything else by this author. I was super disappointed in this; I had been looking forward to it. but it is nothing but a hot mess, and it's not even hot 😒
This book is horrible. It's supposed to be "fat positive," but there is no positivity to this. As a fat person, this book is not it. they keep going on about how she's "skinny waisted" and other BS, but somehow, she's also wicked fat 🙄. And her extremely low self esteem but she was fucking the "hot guy" from high school...yeah sure 🙄
I get being unrealistic. But fuck this was taking the cake. Even the writing wasn't that great; it felt very juvenile. Constantly talking about their boat loads of cash and her sultry voice just kept getting annoying. And the way Drew was being written was so gross and creepy. He has a gf and is in an open relationship but has this weird obsession with Zelda. Not to mention, his gf basically tells him to seduce Zelda and tell her it's not "sex." What kind of effed up manipulation is that?!
I'm definitely not checking out anything else by this author. I was super disappointed in this; I had been looking forward to it. but it is nothing but a hot mess, and it's not even hot 😒
June 4, 2024
Hard to rate…. 🤔
This one is complicated.
I adore every single message within!
The guys are drool worthy, and the FMC is mostly appealing.
But……. Parts are just too perfect, too PC, it feels a little trite, a little false.
The FMC goes from messy and insecure, to Amazon goddess, and back too easily, too often.
For all I know, that’s a realistic response, but it didn’t read that way for me. It read a bit more like a plot device.
It all came together so fast, and so easily. I think it needed to be spread out more, with some, less than perfect and easy conversations, between the mains.
A little more real life.
I loved so much within this, but I just couldn’t buy into it.
Plus the sex read a little, maybe porno? For me, it lacked seduction, it moved too quickly, especially since she was supposed to be racked with body dysmorphia, and insecurity.
Slow it down, fill it out, and treat the dialogue the same, and this would be PERFECT❣️❤️🔥
I plan to check out the authors fantasy works, not sure about part2 of this…
This one is complicated.
I adore every single message within!
The guys are drool worthy, and the FMC is mostly appealing.
But……. Parts are just too perfect, too PC, it feels a little trite, a little false.
The FMC goes from messy and insecure, to Amazon goddess, and back too easily, too often.
For all I know, that’s a realistic response, but it didn’t read that way for me. It read a bit more like a plot device.
It all came together so fast, and so easily. I think it needed to be spread out more, with some, less than perfect and easy conversations, between the mains.
A little more real life.
I loved so much within this, but I just couldn’t buy into it.
Plus the sex read a little, maybe porno? For me, it lacked seduction, it moved too quickly, especially since she was supposed to be racked with body dysmorphia, and insecurity.
Slow it down, fill it out, and treat the dialogue the same, and this would be PERFECT❣️❤️🔥
I plan to check out the authors fantasy works, not sure about part2 of this…
November 11, 2024
So. Freaking. Hot.
Omg.
Omg.
June 12, 2025
FMC body dysphoria too close for me. not sure i will read more in series. prefer to read to escape.
July 10, 2023
Fatkini was my 1st ever book by Monica Ross, and I was completely blown away! The whole thing was just incredible! The characters, the plot, even the minor details were perfection.
Zelda is an incredible, driven, plus size narrator boss babe. Her boyfriend is just horrible, the worst kind of shallow person. In the wake of getting him out of her life, she finds not 1, but 2 incredible guys that just adore her, for her. Drew (a writer), and Aithan (the owner of the gym where her ex works) are the best, role model, grown up type of men. Then there is Tobias, the sweet single dad.
I LOVE that the fmc in the book is a healthy size 20. She's also dealing with Graves Disease, and needing to eat a special diet. The author really documents the struggles Zelda goes through. For someone like me, it was SO relatable, and beautifully done!
This is Book 1 in the Fatkini Chronicles, and I absolutely can NOT wait to follow along with what happens next!!
Zelda is an incredible, driven, plus size narrator boss babe. Her boyfriend is just horrible, the worst kind of shallow person. In the wake of getting him out of her life, she finds not 1, but 2 incredible guys that just adore her, for her. Drew (a writer), and Aithan (the owner of the gym where her ex works) are the best, role model, grown up type of men. Then there is Tobias, the sweet single dad.
I LOVE that the fmc in the book is a healthy size 20. She's also dealing with Graves Disease, and needing to eat a special diet. The author really documents the struggles Zelda goes through. For someone like me, it was SO relatable, and beautifully done!
This is Book 1 in the Fatkini Chronicles, and I absolutely can NOT wait to follow along with what happens next!!
May 2, 2024
I really wanted to like this. Like really wanted to. But going from a relationship to a reverse harem in days and the first time you have sex with one guy the other guy watches? Idk. Seems like more than fast burn. Too unrealistic. And from what I gather from the other reviews it goes from exhibitionism after a lunch date to some kind of relationship? Also seems unrealistic. Like I can suspend some reality for a good trope with steam but this just seems like it went from a fiery fast burn to nuclear with no countdown.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2023
Chapters 26-28 and a preview
It's Threes Company how ,but instead of two girls
and a guys,it's two guys and a girl.
Awww and Drew is house hunting for all of them.
The last few chapters are well you have to read for
yourselves lol.I voice again
Monica what did you do to me girl lol.
Even Tristan is being nice,wow that came out of nowhere.
Does Zelda want to add Tobias to her group hmmm???
The preview to the next book
I have two words Wow and Aww.
The text exchange between Zel and her mom,
had me snort laughing
I CAN'T WAIT to read the next book to the series
Chapters 21-25
Wow these chapters are a roller coaster,
you will say out loud Oooooooh NO.
Don't worry Aithan is okay,
he is in the hospital but will be out in a few days.
Tristan(who I see as Chad Michael Murray),
I still don't trust him,i hope he wasn't the
one who hurt Aiden.
There was a sweet moment between Aithan
and Zel in the hospital room.
He wants Zek to meet his family,
well Zel's mom wants to meet
the two gentlemen as well.
Tobias doesn't like or trust Tristan.
The phone conversation that Zel has with Drew
will have you saying awww and
snort laughing.
I don't want this story to end
Chapters 16-20
Aithan learns why Drew class Zelda "Brick" lol
You want to know why,read the book.
There is a discussion about Drew,
then Zelda invites
Tobias and Candice(Tobias' sister)over for lunch.
Will there be THREE guys that like/lust after Zel?
We find out there is nothing going on between
Tristan and Candace,he is just her roommate.
The girls have a discussion in the kitchen after lunch.
The boys join the girls in the kitchen and continue the discussion,can you guess who they are talking about?
Zelda is asked by Aithan,Candace
(who I see as Candace Cameron Bure),and Tobias
to try on the fatkini,she is hesitant at first,
but she finally goes upstairs to put it on.
Zelda has second thoughts as she is sitting on her bed,
when Aithan comes in to look for her.
He says he loves how she looks in the fatkini.
They have a discussion and then he
brings her downstairs,and everyone
tells her how great she looks.
She even sends a selfie to Drew.
The conversation between Zelda,Aithan,Candace and Tobias is funny/awkward.
Zelda gets a message from her sister during the convo.
Zelda tells her she has company
and she can't pick her up.
and she can't stay at her house.
They(including Zelda) love the selfie and she can't
wait for Drew to see it also
Oh no there is trouble at the gym,guesss who?
Aithan explains to Tobias
(who came to get Candace's phone that she forgot),
that Juan had to write up Tristan,and why.
Do you want to know why,read the book.
Before Tobias goes,Aithan and Zelda kiss infront
of him and is asked to join,oooooh boy!!!
Greer does show up at the house(unannounced)
,but Zel promptly kicks her out.
They do exchange words though,
sham on Greer
Zelda gets an email from Drew,
explaining what happened on his side.
The next morning she is still worried about
the selfie she sent.
She keeps busy and not think about it
Her mom calls her and is upset about what went
down with Greer.
Zelda tells her mom what her sister said.
Aithan shows up just as the phone call comes to
an end.
He brings a sweet gift for Zelda
and they eat dinner together.
Empanadas YUM!!!
The last sentences of chapter 18
is cute.
Poor Frank the cat gets blamed twice by Drew
then by Aithan,he can't help it if he is hungry lol.
She makes breakfast and they eat together.
Aithan goes to work,Zel goes grocery shopping and she preps her meals.She also gets some work done and sends it to Drew.
Drew calls her and explains again what happens,and
he also says he loves the selfie.
They have a funny/awkward conversation
and he ends up calling her his girlfriend awww.
She takes another selfie for him after they hang up.
Drew loves it of course and tells her she is going
great with the narrating.
The last chapter oh no as Aithan is leaving,someone
knocks him out.
Chapters 11-15
First off I see Tobias as Todd Bridges.
So sweet that Aithan is so sweet to remember
Zelda's health condition.
The text between them OMG!!!
Monica Ross what are you doing to me girl lol
Tobias' little girl is so cute and his story is so sad.
Tristan is texting and harassing Zelda
Back at Zelda's house um there is no lady like
response but again I say Monica what are you
doing to me girl lol.
After taking a shower she over hears the guys talking
(nothing bad).Drew leaves to go back home and go on another book tour.
There is a package left outside,it's for Tristan.
Aithan and Zelda drive to his house,and she texts her dad.
There is a tense scene between Zelda and Tristan,
he is so gross,Aithan steps in to stop the altercation.
Why is Tobias' sister at Tristan's apartment anyway hmm?
On the way home Zelda's dad call her and she told him everything,he then told her to get a protection of order against Tristan.Oooh boy dad found out about
Drew and it turned into a funny or awkward moment lol.
They drove to the courthouse and the funny/awkward conversation continued between Aithan and Zelda.
I say funny/awkward because it depends on the reader.
I was snort laughing through it all lol
Drew is FURIOUS when he gets home.
He finally had the last straw and is finally done with Liv.
She is out of the country(as usual)and he packs up all her things,and other things,to make sure she has no connection to her.
The poor apartment is all I can say yikes and poor Drew.
I CAN'T WAIT to read more
Chapters 6-10
Well,let's see heart rate rising moments in
most of the chapters.
Two men are swooning
after Zelda,
who are the two men,read the book.
What is up with Zelda's sister yikes,
mind your own business woman,
if Zelda says she is fine,she is fine.
The picture that was texted to her
(man I hope we get to hear about
when she gets that text lol).
Chapter 9 had me snort laughing lol.
I CAN'T WAIT to read more
This is my second review for Monica Ross
I loved the first book Thick as a Brick.
If this is your first time reading my reviews,
I don't give spoilers,but I give my opinions.
Chapters 1-5
Good old Tristan acting a fool as always.
I know he is a character and not real,but
no one(man or woman) should speak to
anyone as he spoke to Zelda.
I see Zelda as a Hallmark actress in the movie
Under Cover Holiday Noemí González
and I see Drew as another Hallmark actor
from the movie 12th date of Christmas
Tyler Hynes.
Every since reading the first book
not only do I want to go to a book conference,
but also listen to an audiobook.
Zelda texts her mom and let's her know
about her and Tristan.
Zelda's dad texts her also and tells her to
tell Tristan to get his stuff out of the house.
The way her father was talking
it sounded like a scene from The Sopranos lol.
We meet a new character Aithan
(I see Jason Momoa when I picture him).
There was a flirting scene with Aithan
and Zelda when he came over
to pick up Tristan's things.
Drew texts her after Aithan leaves to meet up.
They have lunch together and have a discussion.
The tension is building(if you know what I mean ).
Even before they met up for lunch,
he went shopping to get nice dress clothes.
Drew asks Zelda about the latest chapters he
heard her do,tells her it wasn't up to pare.
She says it had to do with Tristan.
She tells him about the fight and the
nasty things Tristan said to her.
Drew full on flirts with her and tells her
they should go back to her house,and
go over the chapters,he wants to help her.
There is more flirting coming from Drew
in the car.
At the house they have a discussion about Drew's
past.He continue to flirt with her and we'll things
get(as I like to say heart rate rising).
They go from the kitchen to the couch.
I CAN'T WAIT to read more
It's Threes Company how ,but instead of two girls
and a guys,it's two guys and a girl.
Awww and Drew is house hunting for all of them.
The last few chapters are well you have to read for
yourselves lol.I voice again
Monica what did you do to me girl lol.
Even Tristan is being nice,wow that came out of nowhere.
Does Zelda want to add Tobias to her group hmmm???
The preview to the next book
I have two words Wow and Aww.
The text exchange between Zel and her mom,
had me snort laughing
I CAN'T WAIT to read the next book to the series
Chapters 21-25
Wow these chapters are a roller coaster,
you will say out loud Oooooooh NO.
Don't worry Aithan is okay,
he is in the hospital but will be out in a few days.
Tristan(who I see as Chad Michael Murray),
I still don't trust him,i hope he wasn't the
one who hurt Aiden.
There was a sweet moment between Aithan
and Zel in the hospital room.
He wants Zek to meet his family,
well Zel's mom wants to meet
the two gentlemen as well.
Tobias doesn't like or trust Tristan.
The phone conversation that Zel has with Drew
will have you saying awww and
snort laughing.
I don't want this story to end
Chapters 16-20
Aithan learns why Drew class Zelda "Brick" lol
You want to know why,read the book.
There is a discussion about Drew,
then Zelda invites
Tobias and Candice(Tobias' sister)over for lunch.
Will there be THREE guys that like/lust after Zel?
We find out there is nothing going on between
Tristan and Candace,he is just her roommate.
The girls have a discussion in the kitchen after lunch.
The boys join the girls in the kitchen and continue the discussion,can you guess who they are talking about?
Zelda is asked by Aithan,Candace
(who I see as Candace Cameron Bure),and Tobias
to try on the fatkini,she is hesitant at first,
but she finally goes upstairs to put it on.
Zelda has second thoughts as she is sitting on her bed,
when Aithan comes in to look for her.
He says he loves how she looks in the fatkini.
They have a discussion and then he
brings her downstairs,and everyone
tells her how great she looks.
She even sends a selfie to Drew.
The conversation between Zelda,Aithan,Candace and Tobias is funny/awkward.
Zelda gets a message from her sister during the convo.
Zelda tells her she has company
and she can't pick her up.
and she can't stay at her house.
They(including Zelda) love the selfie and she can't
wait for Drew to see it also
Oh no there is trouble at the gym,guesss who?
Aithan explains to Tobias
(who came to get Candace's phone that she forgot),
that Juan had to write up Tristan,and why.
Do you want to know why,read the book.
Before Tobias goes,Aithan and Zelda kiss infront
of him and is asked to join,oooooh boy!!!
Greer does show up at the house(unannounced)
,but Zel promptly kicks her out.
They do exchange words though,
sham on Greer
Zelda gets an email from Drew,
explaining what happened on his side.
The next morning she is still worried about
the selfie she sent.
She keeps busy and not think about it
Her mom calls her and is upset about what went
down with Greer.
Zelda tells her mom what her sister said.
Aithan shows up just as the phone call comes to
an end.
He brings a sweet gift for Zelda
and they eat dinner together.
Empanadas YUM!!!
The last sentences of chapter 18
is cute.
Poor Frank the cat gets blamed twice by Drew
then by Aithan,he can't help it if he is hungry lol.
She makes breakfast and they eat together.
Aithan goes to work,Zel goes grocery shopping and she preps her meals.She also gets some work done and sends it to Drew.
Drew calls her and explains again what happens,and
he also says he loves the selfie.
They have a funny/awkward conversation
and he ends up calling her his girlfriend awww.
She takes another selfie for him after they hang up.
Drew loves it of course and tells her she is going
great with the narrating.
The last chapter oh no as Aithan is leaving,someone
knocks him out.
Chapters 11-15
First off I see Tobias as Todd Bridges.
So sweet that Aithan is so sweet to remember
Zelda's health condition.
The text between them OMG!!!
Monica Ross what are you doing to me girl lol
Tobias' little girl is so cute and his story is so sad.
Tristan is texting and harassing Zelda
Back at Zelda's house um there is no lady like
response but again I say Monica what are you
doing to me girl lol.
After taking a shower she over hears the guys talking
(nothing bad).Drew leaves to go back home and go on another book tour.
There is a package left outside,it's for Tristan.
Aithan and Zelda drive to his house,and she texts her dad.
There is a tense scene between Zelda and Tristan,
he is so gross,Aithan steps in to stop the altercation.
Why is Tobias' sister at Tristan's apartment anyway hmm?
On the way home Zelda's dad call her and she told him everything,he then told her to get a protection of order against Tristan.Oooh boy dad found out about
Drew and it turned into a funny or awkward moment lol.
They drove to the courthouse and the funny/awkward conversation continued between Aithan and Zelda.
I say funny/awkward because it depends on the reader.
I was snort laughing through it all lol
Drew is FURIOUS when he gets home.
He finally had the last straw and is finally done with Liv.
She is out of the country(as usual)and he packs up all her things,and other things,to make sure she has no connection to her.
The poor apartment is all I can say yikes and poor Drew.
I CAN'T WAIT to read more
Chapters 6-10
Well,let's see heart rate rising moments in
most of the chapters.
Two men are swooning
after Zelda,
who are the two men,read the book.
What is up with Zelda's sister yikes,
mind your own business woman,
if Zelda says she is fine,she is fine.
The picture that was texted to her
(man I hope we get to hear about
when she gets that text lol).
Chapter 9 had me snort laughing lol.
I CAN'T WAIT to read more
This is my second review for Monica Ross
I loved the first book Thick as a Brick.
If this is your first time reading my reviews,
I don't give spoilers,but I give my opinions.
Chapters 1-5
Good old Tristan acting a fool as always.
I know he is a character and not real,but
no one(man or woman) should speak to
anyone as he spoke to Zelda.
I see Zelda as a Hallmark actress in the movie
Under Cover Holiday Noemí González
and I see Drew as another Hallmark actor
from the movie 12th date of Christmas
Tyler Hynes.
Every since reading the first book
not only do I want to go to a book conference,
but also listen to an audiobook.
Zelda texts her mom and let's her know
about her and Tristan.
Zelda's dad texts her also and tells her to
tell Tristan to get his stuff out of the house.
The way her father was talking
it sounded like a scene from The Sopranos lol.
We meet a new character Aithan
(I see Jason Momoa when I picture him).
There was a flirting scene with Aithan
and Zelda when he came over
to pick up Tristan's things.
Drew texts her after Aithan leaves to meet up.
They have lunch together and have a discussion.
The tension is building(if you know what I mean ).
Even before they met up for lunch,
he went shopping to get nice dress clothes.
Drew asks Zelda about the latest chapters he
heard her do,tells her it wasn't up to pare.
She says it had to do with Tristan.
She tells him about the fight and the
nasty things Tristan said to her.
Drew full on flirts with her and tells her
they should go back to her house,and
go over the chapters,he wants to help her.
There is more flirting coming from Drew
in the car.
At the house they have a discussion about Drew's
past.He continue to flirt with her and we'll things
get(as I like to say heart rate rising).
They go from the kitchen to the couch.
I CAN'T WAIT to read more
September 21, 2023
fantastic
This book was so well written and so organic. I enjoyed very aspect the spice the mentions of a chronic illness. The main characters body dysmorphia. It resonated so much with me. And the men just being so wonderful and supportive. Excellent! Chef’s kiss.
This book was so well written and so organic. I enjoyed very aspect the spice the mentions of a chronic illness. The main characters body dysmorphia. It resonated so much with me. And the men just being so wonderful and supportive. Excellent! Chef’s kiss.
Read
December 17, 2024Ditched at about 25% when the book felt the need to assure us for the SECOND time that the MC is “not obese.”
Also the amount of money these characters are making for their jobs are ludicrous. And authors don’t have a salary.
Also the amount of money these characters are making for their jobs are ludicrous. And authors don’t have a salary.
September 6, 2024
I did not read the prequal. 4.5⭐️
I went into this not knowing anything about this author (love the name) or the book. I don't remember why it was suggested to me as it's not my usual read. I was pretty surprised on how much I liked it. I will admit wholeheartedly, I am a size 16/18 depending on the day. Huge? Not at all just not skinny either. I saw a lot of people complaining about the main character going back and forth between embarrassed about her body and the teasing she used to get ALL throughout e/m/h school (a part of California, the land of size O's) to sexy and confident. She also has an auto immune disorder, Graves which she struggles with.
But honestly? That's how I feel almost every day. Some days I feel shamed, fat, embarrassed about my rolls and other days I feel proud of my man catching boobs and butt, pretty eyes and long hair. I also have a condition that makes me struggle with certain foods.
So, I guess I saw a bit of myself in the character and maybe that's why I enjoyed it more? I also liked the clarification even if it was slightly annoying that Zelda wasn't obese. Because honestly, society STILL tends to deem anyone above a size 8 as obese and those standards are grossly outdated. On the other hand, I don't like the gradual acceptance that being unhealthy is okay too. This girl runs, exercises and eats a strict autoimmune diet. I LOVED the descriptions of her food/meals.
I think Brick (aka Brick House) aka Zelda aka Z is a successful, audio/book narrator who struggles just like anyone else. She had a "hot in shape" boyfriend who worked at the gym who also had his own struggles based on his own childhood. Which was fine, at first, until he started taking out his bad moods and insecurities on Zelda. Slowly but surely, he was fat shaming her, not introducing her to friends, not running with her anymore and finally, called her trying on a bikini and told her it was a "Fatkini" and she should be ashamed and cover up. "Whales don't belong on the beach"
Thank goodness, she wises up and kicks him to the curb. She also acknowledges she may have let it go on too long because after all, we all want to be loved right?
The story then takes a fun, surprising and sexy turn when a longtime author friend of hers, Drew expresses his LONGtime interest in her and helps her recognize that her sexiness, time, energy and worth isn't tied up in her size. They move to a sexual relationship fast. After all he's the one that nicknamed her Brick after the song.
Even funnier, her ex's boss Aithen comes by to pick up his junk and ALSO expresses interest in her.
Soon Z, A and D are all in a fun three-way relationship with the focus being on Zelda. (No M/M at least not yet?)
Most of this book was lighthearted, funny and easy to read. I devoured it pretty quickly. There are some darker elements like shaming, body dysmorphia, bullying and in a weird turn Aithen is viciously attacked, and we don't know why yet. For a modern day, reverse harem type situation (Poly) it was really sweet and sexy.
I do think the pace is a bit fast... Zelda and her guys basically went from zero to sixty in like three weeks. I also can't WAIT to read the next one but I'm not sure if I want to read 4-5 books about the same characters. We'll have to see how it goes.
There is a third guy, Aithen's best friend Tobias. There's hints he's next in the harem but honestly not sure I like the almost too fast pace of her just assuming all these men are hers and they're all moving into a house together especially when Tobias has a daughter. Seemed a bit too much for me anyway.
I went into this not knowing anything about this author (love the name) or the book. I don't remember why it was suggested to me as it's not my usual read. I was pretty surprised on how much I liked it. I will admit wholeheartedly, I am a size 16/18 depending on the day. Huge? Not at all just not skinny either. I saw a lot of people complaining about the main character going back and forth between embarrassed about her body and the teasing she used to get ALL throughout e/m/h school (a part of California, the land of size O's) to sexy and confident. She also has an auto immune disorder, Graves which she struggles with.
But honestly? That's how I feel almost every day. Some days I feel shamed, fat, embarrassed about my rolls and other days I feel proud of my man catching boobs and butt, pretty eyes and long hair. I also have a condition that makes me struggle with certain foods.
So, I guess I saw a bit of myself in the character and maybe that's why I enjoyed it more? I also liked the clarification even if it was slightly annoying that Zelda wasn't obese. Because honestly, society STILL tends to deem anyone above a size 8 as obese and those standards are grossly outdated. On the other hand, I don't like the gradual acceptance that being unhealthy is okay too. This girl runs, exercises and eats a strict autoimmune diet. I LOVED the descriptions of her food/meals.
I think Brick (aka Brick House) aka Zelda aka Z is a successful, audio/book narrator who struggles just like anyone else. She had a "hot in shape" boyfriend who worked at the gym who also had his own struggles based on his own childhood. Which was fine, at first, until he started taking out his bad moods and insecurities on Zelda. Slowly but surely, he was fat shaming her, not introducing her to friends, not running with her anymore and finally, called her trying on a bikini and told her it was a "Fatkini" and she should be ashamed and cover up. "Whales don't belong on the beach"
Thank goodness, she wises up and kicks him to the curb. She also acknowledges she may have let it go on too long because after all, we all want to be loved right?
The story then takes a fun, surprising and sexy turn when a longtime author friend of hers, Drew expresses his LONGtime interest in her and helps her recognize that her sexiness, time, energy and worth isn't tied up in her size. They move to a sexual relationship fast. After all he's the one that nicknamed her Brick after the song.
Even funnier, her ex's boss Aithen comes by to pick up his junk and ALSO expresses interest in her.
Soon Z, A and D are all in a fun three-way relationship with the focus being on Zelda. (No M/M at least not yet?)
Most of this book was lighthearted, funny and easy to read. I devoured it pretty quickly. There are some darker elements like shaming, body dysmorphia, bullying and in a weird turn Aithen is viciously attacked, and we don't know why yet. For a modern day, reverse harem type situation (Poly) it was really sweet and sexy.
I do think the pace is a bit fast... Zelda and her guys basically went from zero to sixty in like three weeks. I also can't WAIT to read the next one but I'm not sure if I want to read 4-5 books about the same characters. We'll have to see how it goes.
There is a third guy, Aithen's best friend Tobias. There's hints he's next in the harem but honestly not sure I like the almost too fast pace of her just assuming all these men are hers and they're all moving into a house together especially when Tobias has a daughter. Seemed a bit too much for me anyway.
July 1, 2023
This book was an ARC copy, given in exchange for an honest, spoiler free review.
Fatkini follows Zelda after a recent break-up and the events that follow with Drew and Aithan. Triggers/content warnings do include fat shaming, explicit sexual content, mentions of violence (but not graphic depictions).
When it comes to spice, I rate it a 3.5 out of 5, it was fun and had some things I look for in spicy romances, but I craved a bit more. Now, this is a series, so there may be more in the future books and if so it's a wonderful buildup to what's to come. There was a few different types of experiences happening when it comes to spice, but nothing "dark", so safe for people who don't like anything over the top.
The storyline itself was fun and quick. It obviously ends on some form of a cliffhanger, as it is a series. But the primary plot for the first one was wrapped up with no major questions being left unanswered. I also enjoyed that every so many chapters, we got a quick look into Aithan and Drew's POV. It wasn't too much to the point that I was getting lost if I stopped part way through a chapter. When it comes to the relationship dynamics, without spoiling too much, I felt it was a nice look at polyamory. And not that "we all screw each other" dynamic that typically happens. This one had a lot of communication between Zelda, Drew and Aithan that made it feel natural and more like what one would expect from a true open relationship.
Now, for the reason I didn't rate it 5 stars. There were points, mostly in the first few chapters, where it read as a YA novel. Seeing as this book follows Zelda's POV for the majority of the story, we also get the internal banter. The internal banter sometimes felt it was from a woman in her late teens versus someone who was in their mid-twenties. This wasn't a mood killer, because, like I said it was only a few times where it did this. The only other "negative", if you can even call it that, was what felt like the repetitive use of 'statuesque' and 'curvaceous'. They're not bad description words, but I felt I saw them at least once each chapter. It gave that feeling where you type a word so much it starts to look wrong.
Overall, this was a fun read. I plan to check out the rest of the series once they are out. I really want to see where things go with Zelda and her lovers.
Fatkini follows Zelda after a recent break-up and the events that follow with Drew and Aithan. Triggers/content warnings do include fat shaming, explicit sexual content, mentions of violence (but not graphic depictions).
When it comes to spice, I rate it a 3.5 out of 5, it was fun and had some things I look for in spicy romances, but I craved a bit more. Now, this is a series, so there may be more in the future books and if so it's a wonderful buildup to what's to come. There was a few different types of experiences happening when it comes to spice, but nothing "dark", so safe for people who don't like anything over the top.
The storyline itself was fun and quick. It obviously ends on some form of a cliffhanger, as it is a series. But the primary plot for the first one was wrapped up with no major questions being left unanswered. I also enjoyed that every so many chapters, we got a quick look into Aithan and Drew's POV. It wasn't too much to the point that I was getting lost if I stopped part way through a chapter. When it comes to the relationship dynamics, without spoiling too much, I felt it was a nice look at polyamory. And not that "we all screw each other" dynamic that typically happens. This one had a lot of communication between Zelda, Drew and Aithan that made it feel natural and more like what one would expect from a true open relationship.
Now, for the reason I didn't rate it 5 stars. There were points, mostly in the first few chapters, where it read as a YA novel. Seeing as this book follows Zelda's POV for the majority of the story, we also get the internal banter. The internal banter sometimes felt it was from a woman in her late teens versus someone who was in their mid-twenties. This wasn't a mood killer, because, like I said it was only a few times where it did this. The only other "negative", if you can even call it that, was what felt like the repetitive use of 'statuesque' and 'curvaceous'. They're not bad description words, but I felt I saw them at least once each chapter. It gave that feeling where you type a word so much it starts to look wrong.
Overall, this was a fun read. I plan to check out the rest of the series once they are out. I really want to see where things go with Zelda and her lovers.
June 18, 2025
This was an excellent read that I didn't have to think a lot during. It was a book that I was able to enjoy and get lost in, and enjoy loads of smut. For a shorter story, the author manages to pack in a lot of spice. I would say it's 3.5-4/5 peppers on the spice scale. And I have a feeling that the series in general is going to get a lot spicier from here on out. I downloaded the next book in the series right after finishing this one. I feel like the writing was a bit off, but I can't explain what exactly about it was "off" to me. Maybe it was stilted and kind of obvious in parts? I feel as though a lot of the conversations in this book would never happen in a legit scenario and even though this is a work of fiction, it felt too fake and over the top? If I figure out what I'm trying to say I'll edit this later.
Love the body positivity and that multiple men find this (seemingly) gorgeous and curvaceous woman attractive and help to build her up. It makes for even hotter sex scenes. They're also so emotionally mature and open. They speak their minds and encourage Zelda (FMC) to do the same. It's kickass honestly and they're helping Zelda to gain some of her confidence back that she's been sorely lacking.
There was enough plot to balance out the gratuitous sex - though you will not see me complaining about too much sex. I haven't found a book that had too much spice yet. This wasn't it. There's a lot of drama surrounding this budding harem style couple, but I love that all members are all in and ready to move on to the next step.
I love that the author makes it so that you could stop here in the series and be satisfied if you didn't want to read any more of the Fatkini chronicles. But you absolutely can read more and find out the resolution to a couple of things and see if Zelda is going to add another member to her harem of men. I'm excited to read more of this series and I would recommend this to anyone who loves strong female characters, reverse harem romances, and loads of sex.
Side note: the characters refer to each other as "lovers" and it made me want to barf. That's just a personal preference ... but gross.
Love the body positivity and that multiple men find this (seemingly) gorgeous and curvaceous woman attractive and help to build her up. It makes for even hotter sex scenes. They're also so emotionally mature and open. They speak their minds and encourage Zelda (FMC) to do the same. It's kickass honestly and they're helping Zelda to gain some of her confidence back that she's been sorely lacking.
There was enough plot to balance out the gratuitous sex - though you will not see me complaining about too much sex. I haven't found a book that had too much spice yet. This wasn't it. There's a lot of drama surrounding this budding harem style couple, but I love that all members are all in and ready to move on to the next step.
I love that the author makes it so that you could stop here in the series and be satisfied if you didn't want to read any more of the Fatkini chronicles. But you absolutely can read more and find out the resolution to a couple of things and see if Zelda is going to add another member to her harem of men. I'm excited to read more of this series and I would recommend this to anyone who loves strong female characters, reverse harem romances, and loads of sex.
Side note: the characters refer to each other as "lovers" and it made me want to barf. That's just a personal preference ... but gross.
March 18, 2025
DNF. I give in, didn’t like it at all. The author tried to do a modern take on relationships and it doesn’t work.
Firstly the title. I hate that title and as soon as the book started I knew the author was going to fat shame Zelda. Yes she writes about how beautiful she is and how her sultry voice is really sexy, but then writes her staying for TWO YEARS with her boyfriend who calls her Zaftig Zel. Her same boyfriend that bullied her all the way through high school, he calls her a whale in her bikini and is just vile! 😡😡😡 Zelda doesn’t have any friends and lives a lonely life because in her words she’s too fat. All the way through the book she puts herself down and it’s too much.
Then there’s her ‘relationship’ with Drew. Zelda is a narrator for Drew’s reverse harem books, (🥱) and he’s been after her for years, but Zelda wouldn’t cheat on her d*ck boyfriend. Meanwhile Drew is in an open relationship with his girlfriend, that he LIVES WITH. I’m sorry but I hated that! When they first get together it’s supposed to be just s*x then he goes home to his girlfriend. 🤮🤮🤮 In the middle of all this is Aithan who is her ex boyfriend’s boss. Aithan is gorgeous and really caring. The first time they have a threesome it felt really icky and not sexy at all. I love reverse harems, but it only works if the two men are already friends and they want to be with the same woman. Or there’s a pre agreement before it starts. Otherwise it feels clunky and weird like this does.
I think the author was trying too hard to be different than everyone else. There’s one scene with Drew when Zelda is going for a run and Drew goes with her with BARE FEET. As that’s how he likes to run. Erm…..????? 😂😂😂😂
Not for me. Sorry I tried but it all felt too forced and weird. S*x scenes aren’t hot or s*xy.
Firstly the title. I hate that title and as soon as the book started I knew the author was going to fat shame Zelda. Yes she writes about how beautiful she is and how her sultry voice is really sexy, but then writes her staying for TWO YEARS with her boyfriend who calls her Zaftig Zel. Her same boyfriend that bullied her all the way through high school, he calls her a whale in her bikini and is just vile! 😡😡😡 Zelda doesn’t have any friends and lives a lonely life because in her words she’s too fat. All the way through the book she puts herself down and it’s too much.
Then there’s her ‘relationship’ with Drew. Zelda is a narrator for Drew’s reverse harem books, (🥱) and he’s been after her for years, but Zelda wouldn’t cheat on her d*ck boyfriend. Meanwhile Drew is in an open relationship with his girlfriend, that he LIVES WITH. I’m sorry but I hated that! When they first get together it’s supposed to be just s*x then he goes home to his girlfriend. 🤮🤮🤮 In the middle of all this is Aithan who is her ex boyfriend’s boss. Aithan is gorgeous and really caring. The first time they have a threesome it felt really icky and not sexy at all. I love reverse harems, but it only works if the two men are already friends and they want to be with the same woman. Or there’s a pre agreement before it starts. Otherwise it feels clunky and weird like this does.
I think the author was trying too hard to be different than everyone else. There’s one scene with Drew when Zelda is going for a run and Drew goes with her with BARE FEET. As that’s how he likes to run. Erm…..????? 😂😂😂😂
Not for me. Sorry I tried but it all felt too forced and weird. S*x scenes aren’t hot or s*xy.
August 24, 2023
4.5 ⭐s A great start to a new series.
Zelda Gordon earns her living recording audiobooks for various authors. Her favorite author and the one she records for most often is Drew Kattermann. They've become good friends. Drew writes a very popular science fiction reverse harem series starring Juno Galore.
Zelda was nicknamed Zaftig Zel in school, a name which she hated. She's tall and curvy and very self conscious about her size. When Tristan Blaylock, her boyfriend and a personal trainer, calls the bikini she bought for their vacation a fatkini and calls her a whale, she kicks him to the curb.
When Aithan Mazur comes to pick up Tristan's things, he's immediately struck by her beauty. He owns the fitness center where Tristan works. She can't believe a man like him could ever be drawn to someone like her.
Drew also shows up interested with a relationship with her. She knows he has a girlfriend but they have an open relationship. He has somewhat of a playboy reputation. However, he's beginning to tire of her antics and the way she treats him.
Then there's her half-sister, Gwen, who has always, at least in her mind, what is "best" for Zelda. She's arrived to straighten out Zelda's life.
Can Drew and Aithan convince Zelda to enter into a reverse harem relationship? After all one of them grew up in that type of a relationship. Can she learn to see herself as they see her? Who and why is someone out to hurt Aithan?
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Zelda Gordon earns her living recording audiobooks for various authors. Her favorite author and the one she records for most often is Drew Kattermann. They've become good friends. Drew writes a very popular science fiction reverse harem series starring Juno Galore.
Zelda was nicknamed Zaftig Zel in school, a name which she hated. She's tall and curvy and very self conscious about her size. When Tristan Blaylock, her boyfriend and a personal trainer, calls the bikini she bought for their vacation a fatkini and calls her a whale, she kicks him to the curb.
When Aithan Mazur comes to pick up Tristan's things, he's immediately struck by her beauty. He owns the fitness center where Tristan works. She can't believe a man like him could ever be drawn to someone like her.
Drew also shows up interested with a relationship with her. She knows he has a girlfriend but they have an open relationship. He has somewhat of a playboy reputation. However, he's beginning to tire of her antics and the way she treats him.
Then there's her half-sister, Gwen, who has always, at least in her mind, what is "best" for Zelda. She's arrived to straighten out Zelda's life.
Can Drew and Aithan convince Zelda to enter into a reverse harem relationship? After all one of them grew up in that type of a relationship. Can she learn to see herself as they see her? Who and why is someone out to hurt Aithan?
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
October 22, 2025
Wattpad on steroids
I gave up on page 81. I couldn't take it anymore.
This is fanfiction plain and simple. Its repeated so many times that our main character is 'not obese' but shes a US size 20 and 5'11 there is no world where that isnt obese.
It reads like a fat woman writing about herself in her fantasy life. (I have no idea what the author looks like, this is purely an assumption from the juvenile, shallow writing).
You have her boyfriend be mean to her and really horrifically too, and she kicks him out. Great. Then he inexplicably sends his boss over to collect his stuff. Why is his boss coming over without him? His boss isnt his friend so there's no world in which this happens.
You also have her 'friend' come over who is obsessed with her, despite having a girlfriend (even though they're clearly in an open relationship) and boy does he talk badly about his girlfriend and how annoying she is. And we're supposed to like this guy?
Then he comes to her house, says he's not going to rush her, but actually yes he is and they have incredibly boring sex. Our female main character calls it earth shattering and 'love making when in reality there's no foreplay and they have sex doggy style. Wow. Romance.
There's 'insta love' no world building, an insufferable fmc with low self-esteem and zero personality outside of being fat. (But good fat. She has SUCH a teeny tiny waist and loooooong legs after all.
It's diabolical that its been dragged out over 8 books frankly.
I gave up on page 81. I couldn't take it anymore.
This is fanfiction plain and simple. Its repeated so many times that our main character is 'not obese' but shes a US size 20 and 5'11 there is no world where that isnt obese.
It reads like a fat woman writing about herself in her fantasy life. (I have no idea what the author looks like, this is purely an assumption from the juvenile, shallow writing).
You have her boyfriend be mean to her and really horrifically too, and she kicks him out. Great. Then he inexplicably sends his boss over to collect his stuff. Why is his boss coming over without him? His boss isnt his friend so there's no world in which this happens.
You also have her 'friend' come over who is obsessed with her, despite having a girlfriend (even though they're clearly in an open relationship) and boy does he talk badly about his girlfriend and how annoying she is. And we're supposed to like this guy?
Then he comes to her house, says he's not going to rush her, but actually yes he is and they have incredibly boring sex. Our female main character calls it earth shattering and 'love making when in reality there's no foreplay and they have sex doggy style. Wow. Romance.
There's 'insta love' no world building, an insufferable fmc with low self-esteem and zero personality outside of being fat. (But good fat. She has SUCH a teeny tiny waist and loooooong legs after all.
It's diabolical that its been dragged out over 8 books frankly.
December 4, 2023
I'm pleasantly surprised by this book. The FMC Zelda had Graves' disease resulting in her being self conscious about her body weight. It also didn't help that her bf of almost 2 years was fat shaming her and stabbing at her insecurities, so when she kicked him to the curb I was leading the cheer squad. Then seeing as she's newly single and unattached, two men swooped in for a chance to be with Zelda. Men who weren't projecting nor insecure enough to look past Zelda's weight and body shape. Drew and Aithan were two completely different men and their contrasting personalities meshed well for them to care and love Zelda. I do find it odd that things were moving so quickly for all three of them but there's still chemistry between them. The book was fast-paced but not rushed. Things just moved so easily because all three of them connected well together. It wasn't just sex as feelings were involved although I'm not opposed to more relationship-building before they all decided to move in together. However what had me lowkey surprised was the fact that this isn't a standalone and that the book ended hanging with a few loose threads. There's also the fact that Zelda liked another guy but neither made any moves. Now I just have to wait to get my hands on book 2 because no way am I missing out on Zelda expanding her harem.
February 5, 2025
Zelda Gordon has body issues from years of being picked on. Her boyfriend Tristan starts the morning by telling her he doesn’t want to run with her and calls her by the nickname she was given in grade school. She is aggravated and hurt but moves on with her day. She decides to try on the swim suit she had bought for their trip. When she models it for Tristan he tells her that she looks awful and someone her size should not wear a bikini and calls her a whale. She loses it and kicks him out. Then the man she narrates books for comes to town at the same time that Tristan’s boss asked her out for coffee. Zelda starts a sexual relationship with Drew the author but he’s from out of town and wants her to be happy and encourages her to go for coffee. She begins dating him as well as seeing Drew. Tristan becomes enraged and starts texting threats and rude comments. As their relationship heats up she comes clean and tells him she’s having sex with Drew, just like Drew he doesn’t mind sharing her if that’s what makes her happy. This book takes on the topic of body shaming and bullying long term effects. Zelda has mental debates reminding herself that maybe they don’t mean the compliments and her constant internal dialogue that only sees herself in a negative light. This is an incredible story with loads of steamy scenes.
February 11, 2025
Update: I went back and finished it. Curiosity got the better of me, and now I want to keep going? Updating to 3 stars. This story has me so conflicted, but... it is what it is, I guess? Even the FMC is growing on me a little. What is happening?
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DNF at 73%
I almost DNFed this book around the 40% mark, but I got curious and decided to keep going.
Nope, I'm done now. This book isn't for me. I suspected it wouldn't from the title, and the expectations from that were what almost caused my first DNF. Pushing past that point, it got a little better, but now I'm just not vibing with this story. Aside from the FMC's body image issues, she's also just kind of dumb.
It's disappointing because as far as the actual writing of this story, the prose, it's pretty good. And most of the other characters are all done really well. Monica Ross has props from me on that.
There's just something here that I can't put my finger on that I'm not gelling with, beyond not really liking Zel. I feel like I'm on the verge of rage reading the rest of this book, and not only do I not know why I feel like that, but it's not something I really like to do anyway. So I'm going to cut it here.
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I almost DNFed this book around the 40% mark, but I got curious and decided to keep going.
Nope, I'm done now. This book isn't for me. I suspected it wouldn't from the title, and the expectations from that were what almost caused my first DNF. Pushing past that point, it got a little better, but now I'm just not vibing with this story. Aside from the FMC's body image issues, she's also just kind of dumb.
It's disappointing because as far as the actual writing of this story, the prose, it's pretty good. And most of the other characters are all done really well. Monica Ross has props from me on that.
There's just something here that I can't put my finger on that I'm not gelling with, beyond not really liking Zel. I feel like I'm on the verge of rage reading the rest of this book, and not only do I not know why I feel like that, but it's not something I really like to do anyway. So I'm going to cut it here.
November 5, 2025
Look I like the overall spice & sorta plot(?) however the reason it didn't get a 5 star rating from me( & I hand that ish out like its candy on Halloween if I've bothered to read & finish the book) is my problem with Zelda. She's supposedly a size 20 with like a small waist and wide hips......bish where? @ a size 20. be so for real. I wanted to read this so I could see myself in a character for once. Representation matters. I also have an 'invisible illness' and am definitely plus size. The way I could not relate to her body description when I read it like you may as well have said she was a size 10/12 'plus size' super model type. & then put that with the cover art..... I mean COME ON......again don't get me wrong here again the spice was spicing, I want to find who/why you know what happened to Aithan so I'm going to continue to keep reading but dont market her as plus size when she's clearly not. Got my hopes up for representation only for me to be really let down & on the hunt for some other book to get it done right 📖 👀 let me know if you know of one please 🙏🏼
December 8, 2024
I really liked the premise and the blurb I read on facebook really hooked me on the idea of this book.
Zelda is a plus sized gal, 5 11 and a size 20. Shes been teased her whole like by being the fat kid. She started dating the hot guy in her school after they ran into each other as adults. But after 2 years the love ran cold and the insults started. She put up with some mental abuse from him and finally cut him off ( all in Chapter 1)
She then meets his boss and one of the authors she narrates for ( oh did it mention shes a spicey book narrator) And things get spicy.
I enjoyed it. I felt like the trauma of being the fat kid and body dysphoria is real. They mention her autoimmune disease and the AIP proticol which is a diet for people with autoimmune diseases.
While its pretty good and the spice is nice. Im not sure if ill read the rest of them yet. Maybe ill give the next one a shot.
Dont read this book if you get offended by lots of cussing!
Zelda is a plus sized gal, 5 11 and a size 20. Shes been teased her whole like by being the fat kid. She started dating the hot guy in her school after they ran into each other as adults. But after 2 years the love ran cold and the insults started. She put up with some mental abuse from him and finally cut him off ( all in Chapter 1)
She then meets his boss and one of the authors she narrates for ( oh did it mention shes a spicey book narrator) And things get spicy.
I enjoyed it. I felt like the trauma of being the fat kid and body dysphoria is real. They mention her autoimmune disease and the AIP proticol which is a diet for people with autoimmune diseases.
While its pretty good and the spice is nice. Im not sure if ill read the rest of them yet. Maybe ill give the next one a shot.
Dont read this book if you get offended by lots of cussing!
July 13, 2025
Normally I just rate a book with the stars and go on to my next book, but I’m surprised enough reading the reviews that I had to put my two cents in! I have never read anything by this author but ran across this book while browsing in boredom. I now follow her because of this book. Like a lot of women, I don’t like what I see in the mirror so I can relate to the MFC. The boyfriend she starts out with is also typical and all too familiar so I was happy to see her kick him to the curb without a ton of drama. Can I just say I wish everyone could meet a Drew and Aithan? Imagine life with TWO guys who not only find you attractive but are supportive as well! This book builds up with well written and developed characters, a plot that keeps you interested, enough spice without it becoming a porn story and I’ve actually learned something lol. I’ve never heard of Graves’ disease so that was interesting to me. Thankfully this is a completed series and I’m more than excited to jump right to the next book. I’d give this 10 🌟. Highly recommend.
May 27, 2024
There are a lot of things I enjoyed about this book, bit there were a lot I didn't enjoy. I'm not sure how I feel overall.
First, the writing in places just came across as juvenile, especially in the conversations with her building up her confidence. I get that these conversations are needed, but it felt almost junior high level. I nearly DNF @ about 50%.
Next, the way that Drew already had a girlfriend and was pushing Zelda toward a date with Aithan, right after they slept together felt off. It didn't sit right with me at all.
Things moved wayyy too fast with everyone. She broke up with Tristan, and the very next day is sleeping with Drew? I get that the relationship was dead already, but that's super fast to move on.
I don't think I would recommend this to others, and I'm not sure I want to continue this series.
First, the writing in places just came across as juvenile, especially in the conversations with her building up her confidence. I get that these conversations are needed, but it felt almost junior high level. I nearly DNF @ about 50%.
Next, the way that Drew already had a girlfriend and was pushing Zelda toward a date with Aithan, right after they slept together felt off. It didn't sit right with me at all.
Things moved wayyy too fast with everyone. She broke up with Tristan, and the very next day is sleeping with Drew? I get that the relationship was dead already, but that's super fast to move on.
I don't think I would recommend this to others, and I'm not sure I want to continue this series.
December 30, 2023
I enjoyed this book, it was my first from Monica Ross. Then characters were likeable enough, but the timeline felt a bit rushed and I didn't necessarily buy the "I love you's" after a month. I did feel that the reason and way Zelda was treated by Greer and her mother was skimmed over when it should have been addressed given that Zelda was trying to become a stronger advocate for herself.
I did know it was the first of 4 books, but I didn't realize it continued with the same characters throughout the series and ended without tying up the loose ends in the story. I purchased it for free through Stuff Your E-Reader day and I likely wouldn't have if I had known it wasn't a full and complete story.
I did know it was the first of 4 books, but I didn't realize it continued with the same characters throughout the series and ended without tying up the loose ends in the story. I purchased it for free through Stuff Your E-Reader day and I likely wouldn't have if I had known it wasn't a full and complete story.
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