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The Match Before Christmas #3
A Lie I Can Live With
A dating site profile faked up to make geeky gamer Otis Tucker more alluring hasn’t done much for his social life, so what does he have to lose by putting his real picture and honest interests online? His pal Barry swears there’s someone out there who will love Otis for himself, extra pounds and all.
Handsome Garret Mims sends “I’d love to meet you!” but takes things so slow Otis is quite sure they’re stopped. Is it really a date if there’s not so much as a kiss between them? Maybe he shouldn’t worry about Garret’s intentions and just enjoy every platonic moment. Instead, Otis could work on finding the missing ingredient for his pumpkin pies before Thanksgiving.
Garret’s upfront in every way but one, and Otis may have found a lie he can live with.
Handsome Garret Mims sends “I’d love to meet you!” but takes things so slow Otis is quite sure they’re stopped. Is it really a date if there’s not so much as a kiss between them? Maybe he shouldn’t worry about Garret’s intentions and just enjoy every platonic moment. Instead, Otis could work on finding the missing ingredient for his pumpkin pies before Thanksgiving.
Garret’s upfront in every way but one, and Otis may have found a lie he can live with.
62 pages, ebook
First published November 1, 2011
3 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Eden Winters
86 books671 followersYou will know Eden Winters by her distinctive white plumage and exuberant cry of “Hey, y’all!” in a Southern US drawl so thick it renders even the simplest of words unrecognizable. Watch out, she hugs!
Driven by insatiable curiosity, she possibly holds the world’s record for curriculum changes to the point that she’s never quite earned a degree but is a force to be reckoned with at Trivial Pursuit.
She’s trudged down hallways with police detectives, learned to disarm knife-wielding bad guys, and witnessed the correct way to blow doors off buildings. Her e-mail contains various snippets of forensic wisdom, such as “What would a dead body left in a Mexican drug tunnel look like after six months?” In the process of her adventures, she has written over thirty gay romance novels, lost count of novellas and short stories, has won Rainbow Awards, was a Lambda Awards Finalist, and lives in terror of authorities showing up at her door to question her Internet searches.
When not putting characters in dangerous situations she’s cosplaying for children's charities or hanging out at the farm being a mother, grandmother, and vegetarian.
Her natural habitats are hardware stores and on the backs of motorcycles.
Driven by insatiable curiosity, she possibly holds the world’s record for curriculum changes to the point that she’s never quite earned a degree but is a force to be reckoned with at Trivial Pursuit.
She’s trudged down hallways with police detectives, learned to disarm knife-wielding bad guys, and witnessed the correct way to blow doors off buildings. Her e-mail contains various snippets of forensic wisdom, such as “What would a dead body left in a Mexican drug tunnel look like after six months?” In the process of her adventures, she has written over thirty gay romance novels, lost count of novellas and short stories, has won Rainbow Awards, was a Lambda Awards Finalist, and lives in terror of authorities showing up at her door to question her Internet searches.
When not putting characters in dangerous situations she’s cosplaying for children's charities or hanging out at the farm being a mother, grandmother, and vegetarian.
Her natural habitats are hardware stores and on the backs of motorcycles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
November 25, 2011
I do not typically give short stories 4 stars. But Eden's latest installment of the Match Makers hit all the right chords for me. It is the sweet embodiment of what you want in a love story because the are so obviously each others half. Eden does a slow build, even if it only takes place over 3-4 weeks, you do not get that 'oh lord not another insta-love' story. You will be sad that there are only 67 pages as you cannot help but fall deeply in love with Otis and likewise, Garrett. It is not overly sugary and certainly not angsty....just a really heartwarming love story that will make you happy you took the time to read.
December 9, 2011
Review at Brief Encounters Reviews.
Though the third installment of a series, this story can be read as a standalone.
I’ve been a big fan of Eden Winters’ work now for a while, with The Match Before Christmas and Fanning the Flames at the top of that list. I fell in love with Barry in those stories and remember loving the little bit that showcased the nerdy bear Otis, who just couldn’t seem to find a guy to like him because he hadn’t yet accepted that anyone ever would. So, finally getting a story all about that lovable, awkward and slightly chunky bear made my day and ended up being on par with the other two stories I loved, while in many ways it surpassed them.
Otis is tragically romantic. He’s got a furry belly that just won’t seem to go away, though he can’t bear to try enough when he loves cooking and video games and hates working out. He’s only confident in the things he can do alone, like playing his favorite game Invasion of Akutan and imaging finding a man just like his hero in the game Captain Nathan, or cooking Italian home gourmet from the recipes his Nonna taught him, though that reminds him how wonderful cooking with someone he loved would be. He lies to his co-workers about actually having a life over the weekends, when he’s actually sitting on his couch imagining steamy scenarios with Captain Nathan. Worst of all, he’s clung to his fake internet persona Vincent for so long that he’s begun to feel like a friend. Vincent is everything Otis wishes he was, sexy and fit, interesting and exciting. So when Barry (the friend he made when Barry made an internet date with “Vincent” and Otis showed up instead, from The Match Before Christmas) finally convinces him to make a real profile on GetaDate.com, furry belly and obsession with gaming and all, he does it to satisfy his friend, even though he doubts anyone will show an interest in him. Still, one man does, and it blows Otis away. Garret is beautiful enough to be a model and has all the same interests as Otis. If Otis can only get over the fact that Garret could do so much better than him, then maybe they’ll have a chance together.
There is so much to love about this story. Otis is one of those characters that tug at your heart right away and make you laugh in the next sentence. No matter how much he despairs of his life and his longing for someone to love, he’s never pitying. He’s spent so much time alone that he often talks to himself, carrying on conversations and imaging scenarios with different people. My favorite is when he see’s Garret’s profile for the first time on the dating site:
“He kept reading. ‘Enjoys fishing, long walks, and working out.’ Otis looked down at his belly, mood dropping. ‘There’s something we don’t have in common.’
When he reached the “Interests” folder, his spirits lifted, seeing that Garret loved international cuisine. ‘I could hook you up with some authentic Italian food,’ he told the smiling image onscreen.
‘I suck at cooking,’ Garret’s About me, blurb stated.
“Got ya covered,” Otis remarked.”
and before their date, as Otis is nervous but still completely unashamed of himself in private:
“Several times he caught himself humming, “Time of My Life,” smirking at himself in the mirror. ‘What a sentimental goofball you are,’ he told his reflection.”
There’s something so special about Otis, in the same self-deprecating and awkwardly humorous way that Barry had in the previous books, where Eden shows us a person that in front of every one else seems to be constantly in a mess of their own making, shrouded in all their faults, yet is open and free in private. We see Otis as he is at his core, a really loving, sweet, funny, nerdy man whose one dream is just to be a part of something special.
The fulfillment of Otis’ dream is the subject of this story, and while in most stories a character getting all they dreamed as everything seems to fall in line might have made me choke on saccharine clichés, Eden has a knack for creating characters that really deserve their happy ending and shine in a way that I don’t often see in a short format. I was happy that we really got to know Garret well, even though the POV is Otis’ in the story. In the end, I had no doubt that this was a perfectly paired couple. They made me smile, and laugh. In the end, I just wanted to read the story over again it made me so happy.
There’s so much to say about this story, and I’m sure that I’ll find other things when I read this again and again, as I know I will. Otis has now made my list of my all time favorite characters, right next to Barry. For the happiness this story gave me alone, I have to give it an A, and recommend it highly to everyone I know!
For a free scene written from Garret's POV, click here to be taken to Eden's blog post!
Though the third installment of a series, this story can be read as a standalone.
I’ve been a big fan of Eden Winters’ work now for a while, with The Match Before Christmas and Fanning the Flames at the top of that list. I fell in love with Barry in those stories and remember loving the little bit that showcased the nerdy bear Otis, who just couldn’t seem to find a guy to like him because he hadn’t yet accepted that anyone ever would. So, finally getting a story all about that lovable, awkward and slightly chunky bear made my day and ended up being on par with the other two stories I loved, while in many ways it surpassed them.
Otis is tragically romantic. He’s got a furry belly that just won’t seem to go away, though he can’t bear to try enough when he loves cooking and video games and hates working out. He’s only confident in the things he can do alone, like playing his favorite game Invasion of Akutan and imaging finding a man just like his hero in the game Captain Nathan, or cooking Italian home gourmet from the recipes his Nonna taught him, though that reminds him how wonderful cooking with someone he loved would be. He lies to his co-workers about actually having a life over the weekends, when he’s actually sitting on his couch imagining steamy scenarios with Captain Nathan. Worst of all, he’s clung to his fake internet persona Vincent for so long that he’s begun to feel like a friend. Vincent is everything Otis wishes he was, sexy and fit, interesting and exciting. So when Barry (the friend he made when Barry made an internet date with “Vincent” and Otis showed up instead, from The Match Before Christmas) finally convinces him to make a real profile on GetaDate.com, furry belly and obsession with gaming and all, he does it to satisfy his friend, even though he doubts anyone will show an interest in him. Still, one man does, and it blows Otis away. Garret is beautiful enough to be a model and has all the same interests as Otis. If Otis can only get over the fact that Garret could do so much better than him, then maybe they’ll have a chance together.
There is so much to love about this story. Otis is one of those characters that tug at your heart right away and make you laugh in the next sentence. No matter how much he despairs of his life and his longing for someone to love, he’s never pitying. He’s spent so much time alone that he often talks to himself, carrying on conversations and imaging scenarios with different people. My favorite is when he see’s Garret’s profile for the first time on the dating site:
“He kept reading. ‘Enjoys fishing, long walks, and working out.’ Otis looked down at his belly, mood dropping. ‘There’s something we don’t have in common.’
When he reached the “Interests” folder, his spirits lifted, seeing that Garret loved international cuisine. ‘I could hook you up with some authentic Italian food,’ he told the smiling image onscreen.
‘I suck at cooking,’ Garret’s About me, blurb stated.
“Got ya covered,” Otis remarked.”
and before their date, as Otis is nervous but still completely unashamed of himself in private:
“Several times he caught himself humming, “Time of My Life,” smirking at himself in the mirror. ‘What a sentimental goofball you are,’ he told his reflection.”
There’s something so special about Otis, in the same self-deprecating and awkwardly humorous way that Barry had in the previous books, where Eden shows us a person that in front of every one else seems to be constantly in a mess of their own making, shrouded in all their faults, yet is open and free in private. We see Otis as he is at his core, a really loving, sweet, funny, nerdy man whose one dream is just to be a part of something special.
The fulfillment of Otis’ dream is the subject of this story, and while in most stories a character getting all they dreamed as everything seems to fall in line might have made me choke on saccharine clichés, Eden has a knack for creating characters that really deserve their happy ending and shine in a way that I don’t often see in a short format. I was happy that we really got to know Garret well, even though the POV is Otis’ in the story. In the end, I had no doubt that this was a perfectly paired couple. They made me smile, and laugh. In the end, I just wanted to read the story over again it made me so happy.
There’s so much to say about this story, and I’m sure that I’ll find other things when I read this again and again, as I know I will. Otis has now made my list of my all time favorite characters, right next to Barry. For the happiness this story gave me alone, I have to give it an A, and recommend it highly to everyone I know!
For a free scene written from Garret's POV, click here to be taken to Eden's blog post!
October 4, 2014
Otis is only confident in the things he knows he’s good at, like playing video games or solving other people’s computer problems which to him, seem so minor that he actually wonders why someone would pay him for something so trivial. Otherwise, he’s somewhat socially awkward and shy because he’s so very insecure about his looks. However, looks set aside, Otis is actually a catch; he’s a romantic at heart and a family man, he’s intelligent, funny and loyal, he can laugh about himself and – he can cook. When Otis meets Garret, he can’t believe his luck. Apprehensive that Garret’s obvious interest in him must be a figment of his imagination, Otis holds back, taking only what Garret gives of his own accord.
Garret’s problems with his looks are the polar opposite of Otis’s – Garret is so good-looking that everybody wants him. But only as a trophy, as in “see that hottie over there? I had him.” None of his pursuers ever bothered an attempt at looking past the shiny appearance, nobody ever cared for the kind of person Garret is. But Otis is different – undemanding, considerate, and easy to be with. On top of this, what Otis perceives as his own physical imperfections actually makes him all the more enticing for Garret – there’s even a very good, plausible reason why Garret would feel attracted to men like Otis. (and even though in my personal book tastes don’t have to be justified – people are just different that way – I found the solution in Garret’s case totally fitting).
I loved watching those two men slowly getting to know each other. Although the story is told from Otis’s POV, I felt like I got to know Garrett very well, too. He’s not at all a shallow beauty queen, but has depths and personality and his own set of hang-ups (and the most adorable parents, by the way!) Garret literally turns Otis’s head with a good, old-fashioned courtship, which in turn brings out the very best in Otis. Those two made so much sense together and were two so likeable guys, I simply had to take them to my heart.
The story moves along without much drama and, except for Otis’s initial misgivings, almost angst-free. It’s a really sweet and easy read that, at times, even bordered on too sweet for me. The sweetness was balanced by the humor in this story – it was laugh-out loud funny in places, and Otis (the narrator) has this wonderful self-ironic voice that totally keeps him from sounding pathetic. And the tons and tons of good food – this story shouldn’t be read while on a diet!
Most of this story takes place around Thanksgiving, but I thinks it’s still a Christmassy story. What could be a better Christmas present than knowing you’ve found your perfect match? After all, everybody wants to believe that there’s someone out there for them, no matter how unloveable they think they are.
Warmly recommended.
review written for reviewsbyjessewave.com
Garret’s problems with his looks are the polar opposite of Otis’s – Garret is so good-looking that everybody wants him. But only as a trophy, as in “see that hottie over there? I had him.” None of his pursuers ever bothered an attempt at looking past the shiny appearance, nobody ever cared for the kind of person Garret is. But Otis is different – undemanding, considerate, and easy to be with. On top of this, what Otis perceives as his own physical imperfections actually makes him all the more enticing for Garret – there’s even a very good, plausible reason why Garret would feel attracted to men like Otis. (and even though in my personal book tastes don’t have to be justified – people are just different that way – I found the solution in Garret’s case totally fitting).
I loved watching those two men slowly getting to know each other. Although the story is told from Otis’s POV, I felt like I got to know Garrett very well, too. He’s not at all a shallow beauty queen, but has depths and personality and his own set of hang-ups (and the most adorable parents, by the way!) Garret literally turns Otis’s head with a good, old-fashioned courtship, which in turn brings out the very best in Otis. Those two made so much sense together and were two so likeable guys, I simply had to take them to my heart.
The story moves along without much drama and, except for Otis’s initial misgivings, almost angst-free. It’s a really sweet and easy read that, at times, even bordered on too sweet for me. The sweetness was balanced by the humor in this story – it was laugh-out loud funny in places, and Otis (the narrator) has this wonderful self-ironic voice that totally keeps him from sounding pathetic. And the tons and tons of good food – this story shouldn’t be read while on a diet!
Most of this story takes place around Thanksgiving, but I thinks it’s still a Christmassy story. What could be a better Christmas present than knowing you’ve found your perfect match? After all, everybody wants to believe that there’s someone out there for them, no matter how unloveable they think they are.
Warmly recommended.
review written for reviewsbyjessewave.com
May 2, 2012
I LOVE chubby geeks, so unless Eden tells me not to I can’t wait to read this
Review after reading:
I love Otis.
This story was cute and sweet but kind of dragged in a few places, and for a short story, well that's never good.
Like in the beginning we went through all this stuff with Otis and how lonely he is. It was quite clear but it kept going through more and more stuff to show this. I got pretty bored with this. By the time he is grocery shopping I was just rolling my eye, even Hellen Keller could clearly see that he is lonely by this point.
Thankfully second grocery shopping trip was mostly skimmed over.
Unfortunately third was very detailed to show he doesn't mind shopping alone now. Blah blah yes but this is ridiculously boring.
Then the cooking scenes bored me too. I kept wondering why we kept reading about Otis doing the same things?
I would have really liked this if some of the fat had been cut out of it and the story was tighter. Less scenes that mean nothing and just show Otis having the same thoughts over and again.
So yeah it was cute and sweet but mostly it was just "meh, I started might as well Finish" for me
Review after reading:
I love Otis.
This story was cute and sweet but kind of dragged in a few places, and for a short story, well that's never good.
Like in the beginning we went through all this stuff with Otis and how lonely he is. It was quite clear but it kept going through more and more stuff to show this. I got pretty bored with this. By the time he is grocery shopping I was just rolling my eye, even Hellen Keller could clearly see that he is lonely by this point.
Thankfully second grocery shopping trip was mostly skimmed over.
Unfortunately third was very detailed to show he doesn't mind shopping alone now. Blah blah yes but this is ridiculously boring.
Then the cooking scenes bored me too. I kept wondering why we kept reading about Otis doing the same things?
I would have really liked this if some of the fat had been cut out of it and the story was tighter. Less scenes that mean nothing and just show Otis having the same thoughts over and again.
So yeah it was cute and sweet but mostly it was just "meh, I started might as well Finish" for me
November 24, 2011
I loved the first 2 books in this series and was so happy to finally read Otis's book! ( but, it can be read as a standalone IMO).
Poor Otis, he's an IT Geek and not in great shape, so he has a hard time in the dating scene.
When Garret shows interest in him he can't believe his luck, Garret being great looking, smart and kind, what could he possibly see in Otis?
Well, a whole lot as it turns out!
This is such a sweet feel good book and I highly recommend it.
And like Sims, I missed the Toms! :)
Poor Otis, he's an IT Geek and not in great shape, so he has a hard time in the dating scene.
When Garret shows interest in him he can't believe his luck, Garret being great looking, smart and kind, what could he possibly see in Otis?
Well, a whole lot as it turns out!
This is such a sweet feel good book and I highly recommend it.
And like Sims, I missed the Toms! :)
December 12, 2011
As in the first two books of the series, the writing is beautiful. I don't believe I've ever felt a character's loneliness as deeply as I felt it with Otis. It was a perfect setup for the reader to be insanely happy for him when he found in Garret a perfect match. Loved it!
December 6, 2011
I loved this story. It has lots of humor, a guy so desperate for love he made my heart hurt, and a solution to his problem that made me very happy. The fact that his ‘solution’ came to him via a dating service was the funny part, as were all the self-deprecating comments.
Otis is the kind of lovable nerd who makes me wonder why nobody looks beyond his exterior to discover the great guy beneath. He can cook, wants a family and is very loyal, what more can you ask for? The poor guy, however, is hung up on the fat he isn’t exactly thin and his shyness is his worst enemy. Once he opens up and lets himself go a little, he becomes a different person –in the best possible way.
Luckily, Garret isn’t blinded by the exterior, nor the fact that Otis loves video games. He actively courts Otis in a very old-fashioned way, and we only find out what his motivation is at the very end of the story. Let me tell you, it fits the facts well, and points at a deeper truth that made me nod my head. Yep, been there, done that.
If you like stories with a strong humorous streak (this had me in stitches as often as it almost made me cry with the depth of the emotions Otis experienced), if you want to read about two men taking it slow so they can build a proper relationship, and if you like hot sex (even though they will make you wait), you will probably like this story as much as I did.
NOTE: This book was provided by Torquere Press for the purpose of a review on Queer Magazine Online.
Otis is the kind of lovable nerd who makes me wonder why nobody looks beyond his exterior to discover the great guy beneath. He can cook, wants a family and is very loyal, what more can you ask for? The poor guy, however, is hung up on the fat he isn’t exactly thin and his shyness is his worst enemy. Once he opens up and lets himself go a little, he becomes a different person –in the best possible way.
Luckily, Garret isn’t blinded by the exterior, nor the fact that Otis loves video games. He actively courts Otis in a very old-fashioned way, and we only find out what his motivation is at the very end of the story. Let me tell you, it fits the facts well, and points at a deeper truth that made me nod my head. Yep, been there, done that.
If you like stories with a strong humorous streak (this had me in stitches as often as it almost made me cry with the depth of the emotions Otis experienced), if you want to read about two men taking it slow so they can build a proper relationship, and if you like hot sex (even though they will make you wait), you will probably like this story as much as I did.
NOTE: This book was provided by Torquere Press for the purpose of a review on Queer Magazine Online.
September 21, 2012
Geek love.
I am a huge fan of the geek trope so when I saw that this was about Otis, an IT geek/gamer looking for love, it had me at IT.
Cute, fluffy romance between Otis and Garrett. Slow build up and they make a few cameos in the earlier books in the series. A wonderful, little, fast read.
I am a huge fan of the geek trope so when I saw that this was about Otis, an IT geek/gamer looking for love, it had me at IT.
Cute, fluffy romance between Otis and Garrett. Slow build up and they make a few cameos in the earlier books in the series. A wonderful, little, fast read.
November 26, 2011
I absolutely love this series! Garret and Otis are adorable they talk, they eat and make love what more can you ask for. A sweet feel good romance that had me smiling and content. Yep and I missed the two Toms as well!
December 14, 2011
I often wondered how Ottis and Garrets first date went, and now I know and I couldn't be happier lol. Ottis is so adorable but then you see how insecure Garret is and you just know they are made for each other, the perfect couple. I would love a story with both Ottis and Garret plus Barry and Adam getting together. Maybe some aniversary thing? lol. Either way I hope I get to read more of these characters. A wonderful feel good fic, worth reading. Going straight onto my would read again shelf.
November 24, 2011
I cheered for Otis and Garret,adored Garret`s parents,drooled over delicious descriptions of food and cooking (this book shouldn`t be read when hungry!) - and missed the Toms....
September 6, 2016
I loved this story. It has lots of humor, a guy so desperate for love he made my heart hurt, and a solution to his problem that made me very happy. The fact that his ‘solution’ came to him via a dating service was the funny part, as were all the self-deprecating comments. And as a special aside, if you've read the fist book, you'll remember that all of this only happened because Barry (a man Otis occasionally works with) thinks he knows a great match for Otis and takes matters into his own hands.
Otis is the kind of lovable nerd who makes me wonder why nobody looks beyond his exterior to discover the great guy beneath. He can cook, wants a family and is very loyal, what more can you ask for? The poor guy, however, is hung up on the fat he isn’t exactly thin and his shyness is his worst enemy. He actually falsifies his profile, thinking he'll gee more dates that way. And well, yes, he does, except guess what happens when they find out he lied? Once he opens up (or rather Barry makes him be honest) and lets himself go a little, he becomes a different person –in the best possible way.
Luckily, Garret isn’t blinded by the exterior, nor the fact that Otis loves video games. He actively courts Otis in a very old-fashioned way, and we only find out what his motivation is at the very end of the story. Let me tell you, it fits the facts well, and points at a deeper truth that made me nod my head. As good-looking as Garret is, he too has his issues , and they are no easier to deal with than the ones Otis struggles with.
If you like stories with a strong humorous streak (this had me in stitches as often as it almost made me cry with the depth of the emotions Otis experienced), if you want to read about two men taking it slow so they can build a proper relationship, and if you like hot sex (even though they will make you wait), you will probably like this story as much as I did.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Otis is the kind of lovable nerd who makes me wonder why nobody looks beyond his exterior to discover the great guy beneath. He can cook, wants a family and is very loyal, what more can you ask for? The poor guy, however, is hung up on the fat he isn’t exactly thin and his shyness is his worst enemy. He actually falsifies his profile, thinking he'll gee more dates that way. And well, yes, he does, except guess what happens when they find out he lied? Once he opens up (or rather Barry makes him be honest) and lets himself go a little, he becomes a different person –in the best possible way.
Luckily, Garret isn’t blinded by the exterior, nor the fact that Otis loves video games. He actively courts Otis in a very old-fashioned way, and we only find out what his motivation is at the very end of the story. Let me tell you, it fits the facts well, and points at a deeper truth that made me nod my head. As good-looking as Garret is, he too has his issues , and they are no easier to deal with than the ones Otis struggles with.
If you like stories with a strong humorous streak (this had me in stitches as often as it almost made me cry with the depth of the emotions Otis experienced), if you want to read about two men taking it slow so they can build a proper relationship, and if you like hot sex (even though they will make you wait), you will probably like this story as much as I did.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
March 15, 2012
Originally posted at: http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/201...
Otis never thought he could catch a man by being himself but hunk Garrett proves him wrong. Otis is a computer specialist by day and a gamer geek by night. He’s trying to find love on an online dating site but Otis thinks he can only catch a man with a fake profile. When a friend eliminates Otis’ made up profile and replaces it with a real one, sexy Garrett is quick to notice. Although Garrett seems too good to be true, Otis soon realizes they just may be made for each other.
A Lie I Can Live With is the third in a series of short stories focused around an online dating site. However you don’t have to read the previous books in the series as each couple is unique to their story. So new readers can pick this up with no problems. It’s a worthwhile read too as cutie Garrett is nearly perfect and even more perfect for Otis. The couple is nice together with some good chemistry. The writing is clean and although the pace is a little tepid, the story moves along very nicely. There are numerous touches that make this story fun: from the video game Otis is crazy about to Garrett’s very welcoming family.
If I had to point out any problems it would be that Garrett is almost too good to be true. Since the story is told from Otis’ perspective, Garrett remains a very two-dimensional character. He seems perfect in almost every way from accepting Otis’ overweight and bearish appearance to his love of all things geeky. It would have been nice if Garrett had been more developed and came across as more realistic but I’m not sure any readers will have a problem with a geeky guy finding the love of his life with a hot, sexy guy.
A Lie I Can Live With is a cute short story that gives a nice fantasy. It’s a little light on actual depth but is an enjoyable read anyway.
Otis never thought he could catch a man by being himself but hunk Garrett proves him wrong. Otis is a computer specialist by day and a gamer geek by night. He’s trying to find love on an online dating site but Otis thinks he can only catch a man with a fake profile. When a friend eliminates Otis’ made up profile and replaces it with a real one, sexy Garrett is quick to notice. Although Garrett seems too good to be true, Otis soon realizes they just may be made for each other.
A Lie I Can Live With is the third in a series of short stories focused around an online dating site. However you don’t have to read the previous books in the series as each couple is unique to their story. So new readers can pick this up with no problems. It’s a worthwhile read too as cutie Garrett is nearly perfect and even more perfect for Otis. The couple is nice together with some good chemistry. The writing is clean and although the pace is a little tepid, the story moves along very nicely. There are numerous touches that make this story fun: from the video game Otis is crazy about to Garrett’s very welcoming family.
If I had to point out any problems it would be that Garrett is almost too good to be true. Since the story is told from Otis’ perspective, Garrett remains a very two-dimensional character. He seems perfect in almost every way from accepting Otis’ overweight and bearish appearance to his love of all things geeky. It would have been nice if Garrett had been more developed and came across as more realistic but I’m not sure any readers will have a problem with a geeky guy finding the love of his life with a hot, sexy guy.
A Lie I Can Live With is a cute short story that gives a nice fantasy. It’s a little light on actual depth but is an enjoyable read anyway.
December 14, 2011
This is my favorite of the lot, not only because it's the sweetest but because I'm the female version of Otis.
This story made me go "Awwww...I wish that would happen to me".
Otis is a chubby, geeky, glasses wearing guy who's not much to look at, doesn't really date and who doesn't have much of a social life. When Barry, from the first two books in the series, forces his friend Otis to tell the truth on a dating site Otis is pretty sure no one will be interested.
Otis couldn't be more wrong.
Garrett is an amazing guy, gorgeous inside and out. Otis is pretty sure Garrett can't seriously be interested in him but Garrett adores Otis. Garrett and Otis are all but made for each other and they both love each other for what's inside.
I loved that even though Otis is intially attracted to Garrett's looks what really clinches it for Otis is how kind, funny and sweet Garrett is.
Another thing I thought was great was that Garrett had his own insecurities about his body, himself and the way people viewed him. Garrett, just like Otis, wanted to be seen for who he was and not what he looks like.
What did I like the most about this story? That Otis does not go through some huge physical transformation or makeover. Garrett loves Otis just as Otis is; geeky ways, glasses, chubby body and average looks.
Like I said, at the end of this story I was left hoping that I could find someone that fit me the way Otis and Garrett fit each other.
Loved, loved, LOVED this story!
This story made me go "Awwww...I wish that would happen to me".
Otis is a chubby, geeky, glasses wearing guy who's not much to look at, doesn't really date and who doesn't have much of a social life. When Barry, from the first two books in the series, forces his friend Otis to tell the truth on a dating site Otis is pretty sure no one will be interested.
Otis couldn't be more wrong.
Garrett is an amazing guy, gorgeous inside and out. Otis is pretty sure Garrett can't seriously be interested in him but Garrett adores Otis. Garrett and Otis are all but made for each other and they both love each other for what's inside.
I loved that even though Otis is intially attracted to Garrett's looks what really clinches it for Otis is how kind, funny and sweet Garrett is.
Another thing I thought was great was that Garrett had his own insecurities about his body, himself and the way people viewed him. Garrett, just like Otis, wanted to be seen for who he was and not what he looks like.
What did I like the most about this story? That Otis does not go through some huge physical transformation or makeover. Garrett loves Otis just as Otis is; geeky ways, glasses, chubby body and average looks.
Like I said, at the end of this story I was left hoping that I could find someone that fit me the way Otis and Garrett fit each other.
Loved, loved, LOVED this story!
May 6, 2012
In The Match Before Christmas we met Otis and learned about Garrett. In Fanning the Flames, we learned a little more about them. A Lie I Can Live With is Otis and Garrett's story. I like this couple because Otis is not the stereotypical MC with gorgeous looks and a strapping body. Otis is overweight, hairy and a computer geek. Convinced he can never find someone on his own merits, Otis has a "fake" profile with an internet photo on his GetaDate.com profile. Barry, our MC from The Match Before Christmas, convinces Otis the the only way to be happy is to find someone who will like you for who you are. So Barry redevelops Otis' profile picture and after a few weeks, Otis meets Garrett. Garrett is perfect - gorgeous, sweet, and caring. But why would someone like Garrett be interested in a geek like Otis? This was a very sweet short story and I did like reading more about Garrett and Otis. I would have liked this whole series as real full length novels.
December 10, 2011
What Cole said. Everybody always says all the best stuff before I get to.
I remember when I read the other two books in this series, one of the things I said was that I would love to see more of Otis. And then the author went and gave it to me! Well, okay, not to me, but still.
One of the best things I can say about a story is that it affected me in some way. And this story was affecting in its sweetness, its sincerity, its humor and its heart. It says things without shoving the reader's face into them. You can take away a message or several from it, or you can just let it make you smile.
I already adored the characters and now I officially love them. A wonderful addition to the 'verse, and I'm so glad Otis and Garret got their screen time. As far as I'm concerned, this series can go on and on.
I remember when I read the other two books in this series, one of the things I said was that I would love to see more of Otis. And then the author went and gave it to me! Well, okay, not to me, but still.
One of the best things I can say about a story is that it affected me in some way. And this story was affecting in its sweetness, its sincerity, its humor and its heart. It says things without shoving the reader's face into them. You can take away a message or several from it, or you can just let it make you smile.
I already adored the characters and now I officially love them. A wonderful addition to the 'verse, and I'm so glad Otis and Garret got their screen time. As far as I'm concerned, this series can go on and on.
March 1, 2014
Well. All I can say is that this story left me with a smile in my heart. Loved it!
Love that Garret saw so much more than skin deep in Otis, and that Otis got someone that appreciated him for all that he has to offer. Oh, to find the same in our lives. This felt like a story with real people, and I appreciated, with the way so many m/m stories lead with gym perfect, 'hot' guys, that this short story had a ring of authenticty to it. It was a breath of fresh air, and gives me hope that there are matches for all of us... I also liked that Otis tended to gear himself up for big events with a walk and fresh air. That's the kind of exercise and appreciation of the moment I can relate to, personally. Thank you, again, Ms. Winters, for an enjoyable read ;)
Love that Garret saw so much more than skin deep in Otis, and that Otis got someone that appreciated him for all that he has to offer. Oh, to find the same in our lives. This felt like a story with real people, and I appreciated, with the way so many m/m stories lead with gym perfect, 'hot' guys, that this short story had a ring of authenticty to it. It was a breath of fresh air, and gives me hope that there are matches for all of us... I also liked that Otis tended to gear himself up for big events with a walk and fresh air. That's the kind of exercise and appreciation of the moment I can relate to, personally. Thank you, again, Ms. Winters, for an enjoyable read ;)
November 24, 2011
You did it again Eden! Somehow I didn't know this story was coming out and that it was a companion to The Match before Christmas and Fanning the Flames. So I already love this whole group of characters and once again this story does not disappoint. Otis is such a lovable guy and I'm so glad he found a man who appreciates him for who he is. Plus I absolutely was blown away by Garret's parents - so sweet with that little twisty.
Absolutely PERFECT story for Thanksgiving weekend. What am I thankful for? Eden Winters and her lovely story-telling that makes the world a more beautiful place!
Absolutely PERFECT story for Thanksgiving weekend. What am I thankful for? Eden Winters and her lovely story-telling that makes the world a more beautiful place!
November 25, 2011
It was really cute, but almost crossed the line of sickly sweet for me. Its just my personal taste for cuteness. However, it was so adorable I didn't care. I loved, loved, loved that a little bit of tummy just meant more to snuggle with. Let's be honest, how often are you ever going to meet someone model perfect, even to glance at? I loved the message that somewhere out there someone will love you for just you because you are smart, caring, and intelligent. There was no real angst, and I was happy that Otis got his HEA in such a sweet way.
November 21, 2024
Ahh Otis. What a lovely, adorable character. He makes you just want to scoop him up and find him someone to love him. Luckily, Garrett is worthy, with the perfect family background. So cute.
REREAD - liked it just as much, if not more, than the first time. Just makes me smile.
REREAD - liked it just as much, if not more, than the first time. Just makes me smile.
December 1, 2017
This book was kinda cute. It stressed being yourself on dating sites, which I liked a lot. I think that was my favorite thing about the book.
The book itself was okay. It isn't something I'll remember down the road. It isn't something that I'll probably read again. It is something that entertained me for a while. I liked Garret because he just seemed like a nice guy. Otis was a little too worried about being himself for me to really connect with.
As it stands, I think the rest of the series has potential. This book may not be something that will stick with me, but it was entertaining. I would love to give another book a try.
The book itself was okay. It isn't something I'll remember down the road. It isn't something that I'll probably read again. It is something that entertained me for a while. I liked Garret because he just seemed like a nice guy. Otis was a little too worried about being himself for me to really connect with.
As it stands, I think the rest of the series has potential. This book may not be something that will stick with me, but it was entertaining. I would love to give another book a try.
January 23, 2012
Now and then you meet a secondary character in a story you love, and yearn to find out more of what happens to him, especially if he's in dire need of an HEA of his own. Otis Tucker, who was one of Barry's "this isn't Mr. Right!" dates in The Match Before Christmas, really deserves some happiness. Eden Winters has brought him to the forefront in A Lie I Can Live With.
Otis could be called an uber-nerd, but it's a good question whether he's withdrawn into a fantasy world of video games out of loneliness, or if he's lonely because he spends so much time with a controller in his hands. Fortunately, the baby steps he's taken to finding a social life led him to Barry, who spends two stories of his own (Match and Fanning the Flames) making things happen for other people. Otis and Barry have a business relationship that disqualifies them from a romance, but Barry's fix-it-ivity is just what Otis needs. A bigger dollop of self-confidence wouldn't hurt either, but it's that insecurity which makes Otis someone I can identify with.
Those who have read the first two stories might suspect that Barry steered Garret in the right direction just a little, and a good thing, because these two guys hit it off well from the start. Not in any diving into bed way, but slowly, as friends, something that neither one has as much experience with as you might think. Nothing is exactly what it looks like here, whether it's the reasons Garret seems standoffish or why Otis' pies don't taste quite right, but what it looks like and what it really is are both just what these two need to get together.
The readers get to share all of Otis' inner thoughts and can really relate; when is he going to decide I'm too much of a loser? Or I'm not as physically perfect as he is... Or OMG he wants me to WHAT? And again, nothing is quite what it seems, including that this is a holiday story, because it holds up well out of season.
The video game references are all over, close to once too often, and a TV show reference dragged a bit, but all in all, if that's how Garret's inner nerd-lovin' comes out, okay, as long as they're happy. And I’m happy, because Garret doesn't want Otis to change in order to find him loveable. A Lie I Can Live With will bring out the inner nerd-love in the rest of us too. 4.5 Marbles
Otis could be called an uber-nerd, but it's a good question whether he's withdrawn into a fantasy world of video games out of loneliness, or if he's lonely because he spends so much time with a controller in his hands. Fortunately, the baby steps he's taken to finding a social life led him to Barry, who spends two stories of his own (Match and Fanning the Flames) making things happen for other people. Otis and Barry have a business relationship that disqualifies them from a romance, but Barry's fix-it-ivity is just what Otis needs. A bigger dollop of self-confidence wouldn't hurt either, but it's that insecurity which makes Otis someone I can identify with.
Those who have read the first two stories might suspect that Barry steered Garret in the right direction just a little, and a good thing, because these two guys hit it off well from the start. Not in any diving into bed way, but slowly, as friends, something that neither one has as much experience with as you might think. Nothing is exactly what it looks like here, whether it's the reasons Garret seems standoffish or why Otis' pies don't taste quite right, but what it looks like and what it really is are both just what these two need to get together.
The readers get to share all of Otis' inner thoughts and can really relate; when is he going to decide I'm too much of a loser? Or I'm not as physically perfect as he is... Or OMG he wants me to WHAT? And again, nothing is quite what it seems, including that this is a holiday story, because it holds up well out of season.
The video game references are all over, close to once too often, and a TV show reference dragged a bit, but all in all, if that's how Garret's inner nerd-lovin' comes out, okay, as long as they're happy. And I’m happy, because Garret doesn't want Otis to change in order to find him loveable. A Lie I Can Live With will bring out the inner nerd-love in the rest of us too. 4.5 Marbles
December 25, 2011
A continuation of the other stories in this series, it kind of goes back in time, to when Barry changes Otis' profile on the dating site to be himself. Otis is the anti-m/m hero. He's large, he's hairy and he's not your typical hunk. However he's stunned when he catches the eye of model-gorgeous Garret. However Garret doesn't seem interested in taking it to the next level and Otis doesn't push, however when it finally happens things are great and Otis is invited to spend the holiday's with Garret's very non-traditional family. Otis is wonderful, he's an everyman that people can relate to. He's embarrassed by his weight and his body and can't believe that someone gorgeous would be into that. But despite his insecurities he still has a good attitude and is convinced he can find love if he keeps trying. He's just adorable and together they were perfect. Definitely a fun addition to the whole series.
January 12, 2012
I could barely stomach the sweetness content in this story. And prayed I would finish faster.
If you are looking for romantic ideas, cute and thoughtful gestures and heart-warming declarations all shoved into into one story... then I'd recommend this one. I think the straw that broke the camel's back was "Pies baked with love are always better". Of course, because in real life you get to be a geek with no wish to change anything about yourself and still get prince charming in your lap because hey.. he likes everything you like, watches the same shows... practically finishes your sentences. Cinderella, Snow White and all the rest had to suffer a bit before their HEA. Gabriel got off easy.
Too much sugar in this!
If you are looking for romantic ideas, cute and thoughtful gestures and heart-warming declarations all shoved into into one story... then I'd recommend this one. I think the straw that broke the camel's back was "Pies baked with love are always better". Of course, because in real life you get to be a geek with no wish to change anything about yourself and still get prince charming in your lap because hey.. he likes everything you like, watches the same shows... practically finishes your sentences. Cinderella, Snow White and all the rest had to suffer a bit before their HEA. Gabriel got off easy.
Too much sugar in this!
December 11, 2011
Otis and Garret have to take time to get to know each other, but with their worries whether or not the other man is truly attracted to him, they take an extra-long time to reach the point of friends becoming lovers. There is a small surprise in the story as we meet Garret’s parents and find out the story behind their relationships.
I love all of the characters in this series and their stories. This is a super fun set of books and I recommend them to anyone who loves a satisfactory HEA as well as some hot man on man action. Will there be more stories in this series? I for one hope so!
Please see my complete review at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index.... (Dec 23) as well as an interview with Eden Winters and a give-away of all three books in the series (Dec 23)!
I love all of the characters in this series and their stories. This is a super fun set of books and I recommend them to anyone who loves a satisfactory HEA as well as some hot man on man action. Will there be more stories in this series? I for one hope so!
Please see my complete review at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index.... (Dec 23) as well as an interview with Eden Winters and a give-away of all three books in the series (Dec 23)!
October 1, 2012
3.5 stars, rounded up.
This is Otis and Garrett's story - in The Match Before Christmas, Barry helps 2 other couples get together before he gets his own match. Otis is one of them. He's "comfortably plump" and hairy (complete with unibrow) and an IT geek to boot. Garrett is drop dead gorgeous but he has a thing for big, cuddly hairy nerds. It was refreshing to see the non-gorgeous geek get his own HEA and the story was cute and fun and sexy. It's around 50 pages, so an easy evening's read.
http://kaetrinsmusings.blogspot.com.a...
This is Otis and Garrett's story - in The Match Before Christmas, Barry helps 2 other couples get together before he gets his own match. Otis is one of them. He's "comfortably plump" and hairy (complete with unibrow) and an IT geek to boot. Garrett is drop dead gorgeous but he has a thing for big, cuddly hairy nerds. It was refreshing to see the non-gorgeous geek get his own HEA and the story was cute and fun and sexy. It's around 50 pages, so an easy evening's read.
http://kaetrinsmusings.blogspot.com.a...
January 4, 2014
As I type this review up I still have a smile on my face. This story captivated me, partly because I can identify with Otis. Who doesn't feel totally unworthy when someone starts giving complements. They can't be talking about me, can they? Yep, been there done that! The other reason I enjoyed this story so much, after reading the first 2 books in this trilogy: The Match Before Christmas and Fanning the Flames. I was happy that this was about one of the couples that Barry had gotten together in his search for love. Read these for a quick read and joyful feeling.
January 1, 2012
A very cute story. I loved Otis. I could totally understand what Garret saw in him. If anything, it was harder the other way around. There was so much about how handsome Garret was, I wondered what else Otis saw in him. But I would recommend this to anybody looking for a sweet contemporary short read, no hesitation.
August 13, 2016
I absolutely enjoyed this story. It dealt with real issues that a lot of people have. One's self worth and image being a major one. Well written and completely endearing, Garrett and Otis falling in love made me smile and chuckle at moments. Almost cry at others. It just goes to show that outward appearence isn't everything. It's what's on the inside that matters most. Fabulous!
June 11, 2012
I really liked the story, at parts I didn't knew where I was going to be taken but I really liked it, I SO didn't see the family mechanics coming, i felt a little unsure at first but then it was all good.
Very nice story.
Very nice story.
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