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Jacked Up
Little thief. Big problem.
JACK When some billionaire tries to mess with my family, I decide to take personal revenge and break into his London penthouse when he’s abroad to steal some compensation. The issue? He’s not only very much home, but he’s huge. Even worse, he’s gorgeous and too bloody cheerful. Rather than call the police, he suggests that I stay until I’ve fixed what I’ve damaged. It’s only for a few days, but I start to realise this guy isn’t the villain I thought he was. In fact, he might be everything I’ve ever dreamed I could never have.
FELIX It’s only a little light kidnapping, so I don’t feel too bad. Besides, this small, grumpy thief I’ve caught is too adorable. I’m drawn to his broken soul. I want to protect him from his troubles and dominate him in the bedroom. We’re perfect for each other but he’s determined to believe that he doesn’t belong in my world. Can I convince him to stay? Or is this fairy tale doomed before it’s even begun?Jacked Up is a super steamy, standalone MM gay romance novel featuring one hell of a size difference, a romantic date in the clouds, a singing and matchmaking parrot, past wounds long overdue for healing, and a guaranteed HEA with absolutely no cliffhanger.
JACK When some billionaire tries to mess with my family, I decide to take personal revenge and break into his London penthouse when he’s abroad to steal some compensation. The issue? He’s not only very much home, but he’s huge. Even worse, he’s gorgeous and too bloody cheerful. Rather than call the police, he suggests that I stay until I’ve fixed what I’ve damaged. It’s only for a few days, but I start to realise this guy isn’t the villain I thought he was. In fact, he might be everything I’ve ever dreamed I could never have.
FELIX It’s only a little light kidnapping, so I don’t feel too bad. Besides, this small, grumpy thief I’ve caught is too adorable. I’m drawn to his broken soul. I want to protect him from his troubles and dominate him in the bedroom. We’re perfect for each other but he’s determined to believe that he doesn’t belong in my world. Can I convince him to stay? Or is this fairy tale doomed before it’s even begun?Jacked Up is a super steamy, standalone MM gay romance novel featuring one hell of a size difference, a romantic date in the clouds, a singing and matchmaking parrot, past wounds long overdue for healing, and a guaranteed HEA with absolutely no cliffhanger.
215 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 16, 2023
47 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
Helen Juliet
51 books201 followersHelen Juliet is a British author of contemporary MM fairy tale adaptations, including the international bestselling Beauty and the Beast retelling, Thorn in His Side. She lives just outside of London with her husband and three balls of fluff that occasionally pretend to be cats.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary American small town MM series as HJ Welch, including Pine Cove, Homecoming Hearts, and Paddle Creek College.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary American small town MM series as HJ Welch, including Pine Cove, Homecoming Hearts, and Paddle Creek College.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
December 21, 2023
This story was promising initially.
Jack may be small, but he's fierce. Working random jobs and pulling the odd con to support his mum, Jack is furious when she (his mum) is let go right before Christmas and decides to go after the billionaire who owns the company where his mom worked.
Said billionaire, Felix, catches Jack in the act (attempting to steal Felix's priced treasures), but instead of calling the cops, he asks Jack to rectify his mistake.
Felix is a natural Dom and wants to take care of Jack, and Jack submits beautifully.
I liked the tropes here (size difference, rags to riches), but once Jack and Felix connected, it was all sex, including mild BDSM scenes that bored me to no end (I'm not a fan of staged sex, but that's just me).
Felix turned into a grunting Neanderthal, and Jack lost all his fire.
Jack's
The manufactured drama toward the end also felt like filler. Why throw in all this anguish only to have it resolved in a few hours?
The HEA is very much a fairytale, but at that point, I'd lost interest in the MCs. The book went from fun and quirky to predictable.
Closer to 2.5, but rounding up because the first half was so enjoyable.
Jack may be small, but he's fierce. Working random jobs and pulling the odd con to support his mum, Jack is furious when she (his mum) is let go right before Christmas and decides to go after the billionaire who owns the company where his mom worked.
Said billionaire, Felix, catches Jack in the act (attempting to steal Felix's priced treasures), but instead of calling the cops, he asks Jack to rectify his mistake.
Felix is a natural Dom and wants to take care of Jack, and Jack submits beautifully.
I liked the tropes here (size difference, rags to riches), but once Jack and Felix connected, it was all sex, including mild BDSM scenes that bored me to no end (I'm not a fan of staged sex, but that's just me).
Felix turned into a grunting Neanderthal, and Jack lost all his fire.
Jack's
The manufactured drama toward the end also felt like filler. Why throw in all this anguish only to have it resolved in a few hours?
The HEA is very much a fairytale, but at that point, I'd lost interest in the MCs. The book went from fun and quirky to predictable.
Closer to 2.5, but rounding up because the first half was so enjoyable.
November 27, 2023
3.5 stars because i love a good fairytale retelling. this one explores Jack and the Beanstalk and i quite liked it especially because that's not a popular retelling, even for the MM genre. the insta-lust irked me slightly only because the context for the two meeting is literally Jack trying to rob Felix. it immediately requires suspended disbelief and i always struggle with that. at least lay it on me a little later on lol. Felix instead takes a liking to Jack without even seeing his entire face, which is fine i guess but the extent he allows Jack to get away with breaking into his home deffo boggles the mind. a little screaming and threatened torture would've sealed it but that might be because i'm a little too entrenched in the dark corner of romance reads.
I broke into his home, and he seems to just think it’s kind of funny.
i think that quote pretty much sums it up perfectly. Felix is not even slightly pressed by teeny tiny Jack, but his big ass most definitely has Jack VEXED–at least to start. what starts as getting revenge on his mother's behalf turns into a sexy love heart episode and i'm kind of okay with that. Felix fee fi fo fummed into my heart and that's the main reason i won't settle at just 3 stars for this. (and the SPICE. 🔥🥰😩 lawd have mercy) even if it did all happen rather quickly, there's just something about a big brute being the absolute softest mf alive to his short scrappy king.
much thanks to GRR for providing me with this ARC. as always, the review is entirely my own. x
I broke into his home, and he seems to just think it’s kind of funny.
i think that quote pretty much sums it up perfectly. Felix is not even slightly pressed by teeny tiny Jack, but his big ass most definitely has Jack VEXED–at least to start. what starts as getting revenge on his mother's behalf turns into a sexy love heart episode and i'm kind of okay with that. Felix fee fi fo fummed into my heart and that's the main reason i won't settle at just 3 stars for this. (and the SPICE. 🔥🥰😩 lawd have mercy) even if it did all happen rather quickly, there's just something about a big brute being the absolute softest mf alive to his short scrappy king.
much thanks to GRR for providing me with this ARC. as always, the review is entirely my own. x
December 8, 2023
4.5 stars, rounded up.
I love a good fairy tale retelling. This is my third by this author.
This has opposites attract, a substantial age gap (18 years), lots of well-written sex scenes, and a very sweet romance between two very different people.
Felix is lonely. Jack is just trying to survive.
They meet under very unusual circumstances, but they come together as a couple beautifully.
A very good story.
Full review can be found at -
I love a good fairy tale retelling. This is my third by this author.
This has opposites attract, a substantial age gap (18 years), lots of well-written sex scenes, and a very sweet romance between two very different people.
Felix is lonely. Jack is just trying to survive.
They meet under very unusual circumstances, but they come together as a couple beautifully.
A very good story.
Full review can be found at -
November 21, 2023
- retelling
- billionaire
- size difference
Jacked Up is such a fun twist on Jack and the Beanstalk. I wasn't aware this was a fairytale retelling when I nabbed it, but I was pleasantly surprised and really enjoyed it!
The story follows Jack, who is looking to steal from Felix's penthouse to get revenge for his mother, who was laid off by the company Felix owns. Only he doesn't expect anyone to be home, or for the tables to be turned on him. Instead of handing him in, Felix tells Jack he can't leave until he cleans up the mess he's made.
The more Jack gets to know Felix, he realizes he may have been a bit too hasty and that Felix is actually a pretty great guy, which makes the growing attraction between the two of them harder to resist.
This was seriously so cute! Felix was an adorable goofball and oh so sweet, and I loved how despite how he and Jack met all he wanted to do was take care of him. The spice in this was also fantastic, and I loved that Jack and Felix got their happy ending.
- billionaire
- size difference
Jacked Up is such a fun twist on Jack and the Beanstalk. I wasn't aware this was a fairytale retelling when I nabbed it, but I was pleasantly surprised and really enjoyed it!
The story follows Jack, who is looking to steal from Felix's penthouse to get revenge for his mother, who was laid off by the company Felix owns. Only he doesn't expect anyone to be home, or for the tables to be turned on him. Instead of handing him in, Felix tells Jack he can't leave until he cleans up the mess he's made.
The more Jack gets to know Felix, he realizes he may have been a bit too hasty and that Felix is actually a pretty great guy, which makes the growing attraction between the two of them harder to resist.
This was seriously so cute! Felix was an adorable goofball and oh so sweet, and I loved how despite how he and Jack met all he wanted to do was take care of him. The spice in this was also fantastic, and I loved that Jack and Felix got their happy ending.
November 15, 2023
I do love a Helen Juliet retelling and Jacked Up was no different. Based on Jack and the Beanstalk, it had elements of the tale, Jack the thief, magic beans, a huge size difference and a parrot called Goose, but it also had the typical Helen Juliet magic: the spice and sweetness.
Jack, though a thief, is adorably grumpy. It was easy to understand why he wanted to rob Felix and watching him open up was lovely.
Felix was just so nice! His possessive side was pretty awesome too.
Fab kink elements and a great read
Jack, though a thief, is adorably grumpy. It was easy to understand why he wanted to rob Felix and watching him open up was lovely.
Felix was just so nice! His possessive side was pretty awesome too.
Fab kink elements and a great read
November 23, 2023
I'm always reluctant to read retellings but this one was wonderful and I enjoyed it very much.
I loved how Jack and Felix met. Jack wanted revenge and thought of robbing Felix in his penthouse, but things turned out very differently. Felix had been hiding in his apartment, high up in the clouds for way too long, so Jack showing up was a nice unexpected change.
Felix was this happy, sunshine guy despite his past and I loved the contrast between him and Jack's grumpiness that came from a life of hard work and bad choices. They connected immediately, despite the circumstances of their meeting and it was beautiful to see how they developed feelings for each other quickly. I guess it can be considered an insta-love story, but it didn't bother me in the least.
The wealth gap between the two was something that hooked me from the beginning as I think it was pictured perfectly by the author. Also, the connection between the MCs and how they became enthralled with each other was very romantic. They were very compatible at all levels and just what the other needed.
I really liked this book, it's the first one I read by this author and it won't be the last. It was easy to read, it had some very hot scenes and so much love, with just the right amount of drama. A perfect read.
I loved how Jack and Felix met. Jack wanted revenge and thought of robbing Felix in his penthouse, but things turned out very differently. Felix had been hiding in his apartment, high up in the clouds for way too long, so Jack showing up was a nice unexpected change.
Felix was this happy, sunshine guy despite his past and I loved the contrast between him and Jack's grumpiness that came from a life of hard work and bad choices. They connected immediately, despite the circumstances of their meeting and it was beautiful to see how they developed feelings for each other quickly. I guess it can be considered an insta-love story, but it didn't bother me in the least.
The wealth gap between the two was something that hooked me from the beginning as I think it was pictured perfectly by the author. Also, the connection between the MCs and how they became enthralled with each other was very romantic. They were very compatible at all levels and just what the other needed.
I really liked this book, it's the first one I read by this author and it won't be the last. It was easy to read, it had some very hot scenes and so much love, with just the right amount of drama. A perfect read.
December 4, 2023
Jack and Felix
This was a mostly nice read. I loved that Felix was basically an overgrown golden retriever full of positive energy, always ready to play. He really made the story enjoyable for me.
I also liked Jack and his grumpiness. He was a delightful contrast to Felix. Even though Jack was totally in the wrong, Felix saw an opportunity to have some human connection and took it. Turned out beautifully. Lots of heat but not until nearly the 50% mark.
My only beef is that the first time they are actually together, Felix is giving out safe words and demanding to be called Sir. I wish there had been a more conventional first time followed by a conversation about the other things Felix liked. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
This was a mostly nice read. I loved that Felix was basically an overgrown golden retriever full of positive energy, always ready to play. He really made the story enjoyable for me.
I also liked Jack and his grumpiness. He was a delightful contrast to Felix. Even though Jack was totally in the wrong, Felix saw an opportunity to have some human connection and took it. Turned out beautifully. Lots of heat but not until nearly the 50% mark.
My only beef is that the first time they are actually together, Felix is giving out safe words and demanding to be called Sir. I wish there had been a more conventional first time followed by a conversation about the other things Felix liked. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
November 19, 2023
Jack decides to rob Felix's house to make him suffer what his mother suffers when she is out of work at Felix's company. However, she doesn't count on Felix being at home and deciding to keep him locked up at home until what Jack messed up is fixed.
Between arrangements, Jack and Felix discover a common ground... Is this common ground enough to unite them and overcome what separates them?
Highly recommended
Between arrangements, Jack and Felix discover a common ground... Is this common ground enough to unite them and overcome what separates them?
Highly recommended
November 16, 2023
Jacked Up by Helen Juliet is a modern day fairytale retelling. It's about Felix and Jack. I loved their story. It was sweet, sexy, full of feels and very well written.
November 22, 2023
I was gifted my copy of this book.
I refer to what I wrote in my review for Golden:
This is the latest fairy tale retelling from Ms Juliet, and by Jove I think she got it with this one! I mean, the other FOUR ain't too shabby either, given as they all got 5 stars from me but this one?? Damn girl! I think this might be the sweetest of them all!
I mean, Jack and the Beanstalk retelling, and Juliet gets all the major points from the tradional tale, and revaps them into a modern sitting, and she nails, absolutely NAILS IT!!
Jack breaks into the penthouse of the guy who's company made his mum jobless and possibly homless, 6 weeks before Christmas. Felix catches him. Jack finds himself cleaning up the mess he made, and then finds himself falling for the big man, Stockholm Syndrome and all. Once Jack gets the full story from Felix, and Jack opens Felix' eyes to his current situation and what he's been doing all this time, they fall hard and fast. And then Jack's time is up. Will he walk away? Will Felix let him?
I think this might be the sweetest book of all the fairytale adaptations Ms Juliet has written, and I freaking loved it!
It wasn't until I was writing this up, and filing this book on my shleves, I realised something. This book is written in my trifecta of hell: first person, present tense AND multi point of view, and I didn't even notice! It takes a super skill for that to happen, and it doesn't happen very often, so nice one, Ms Juliet!
Both Jack and Felix have a say. Their voices are very, VERY different, and it comes across beautifully. Jack is a hard nut to crack. He's done some bad things, he makes no bones about it, and is trying to keep his head above water, but seeing his mum devastated at the loss of her job, he knows he has to help her, even if it means losing the only connection to his dad, and his freedom. Felix, on the other hand, is so laid back! He finds Jack in his safe, for Gods sake and says, well you'll have to stay and clean this up! All throught the book, Felix' caring nature is front and centre, even if he hasn't been able to do much actual caring for some time.
It's steamy and smexy, emotional and loving. No real drama, save for Jack leaving but I think it was necessary for them both for that teeny tiny bit of separartion, for them to see what they might lose. And for Jack to get a slap upside the head from his mum to make him see sense about Felix! I loved Jack's mum!
OH! And the coins! I loved what they did with the coins!
I could go on and on about this but I'll wrap up with another snippet from my review for Golden:
If Kieron Flitton narrates this, damn straight I'm-a getting me a copy!
5 full and so very shiny stars!
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
I refer to what I wrote in my review for Golden:
This is the latest fairy tale retelling from Ms Juliet, and by Jove I think she got it with this one! I mean, the other FOUR ain't too shabby either, given as they all got 5 stars from me but this one?? Damn girl! I think this might be the sweetest of them all!
I mean, Jack and the Beanstalk retelling, and Juliet gets all the major points from the tradional tale, and revaps them into a modern sitting, and she nails, absolutely NAILS IT!!
Jack breaks into the penthouse of the guy who's company made his mum jobless and possibly homless, 6 weeks before Christmas. Felix catches him. Jack finds himself cleaning up the mess he made, and then finds himself falling for the big man, Stockholm Syndrome and all. Once Jack gets the full story from Felix, and Jack opens Felix' eyes to his current situation and what he's been doing all this time, they fall hard and fast. And then Jack's time is up. Will he walk away? Will Felix let him?
I think this might be the sweetest book of all the fairytale adaptations Ms Juliet has written, and I freaking loved it!
It wasn't until I was writing this up, and filing this book on my shleves, I realised something. This book is written in my trifecta of hell: first person, present tense AND multi point of view, and I didn't even notice! It takes a super skill for that to happen, and it doesn't happen very often, so nice one, Ms Juliet!
Both Jack and Felix have a say. Their voices are very, VERY different, and it comes across beautifully. Jack is a hard nut to crack. He's done some bad things, he makes no bones about it, and is trying to keep his head above water, but seeing his mum devastated at the loss of her job, he knows he has to help her, even if it means losing the only connection to his dad, and his freedom. Felix, on the other hand, is so laid back! He finds Jack in his safe, for Gods sake and says, well you'll have to stay and clean this up! All throught the book, Felix' caring nature is front and centre, even if he hasn't been able to do much actual caring for some time.
It's steamy and smexy, emotional and loving. No real drama, save for Jack leaving but I think it was necessary for them both for that teeny tiny bit of separartion, for them to see what they might lose. And for Jack to get a slap upside the head from his mum to make him see sense about Felix! I loved Jack's mum!
OH! And the coins! I loved what they did with the coins!
I could go on and on about this but I'll wrap up with another snippet from my review for Golden:
If Kieron Flitton narrates this, damn straight I'm-a getting me a copy!
5 full and so very shiny stars!
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
November 27, 2023
Well this was a fun read - I'd never thought of reading a contemporary re-telling of Jack and the Beanstalk, but here we are! Not to mention, I loved the little fairy tale nuances throughout - including the golden harp in the safe, the Beanstalk building, magic bean key fobs, and Goose the parrot.
Jack Spriggs is a thief. He's done time in prison and knows he's not a good person. But even bad people have enemies, and for Jack, Felix Fagiolo, eccentric billionaire, is the worst. In fact, he's the reason Jacks' mum is now redundant before Christmas and at risk of being evicted - or so he thinks. However, when Jack is caught by the giant himself after breaking into his penthouse, he's given a second chance - a chance to prove that maybe he isn't a bad person after all, causing him to think that Felix might not be too bad either.
I really enjoyed the dynamics between Jack and Felix - there's some major size difference here if you're into that, given that Felix is at least seven foot tall according to Jack, who is a scrappy little terrier that's only five and a half feet. It was also nice to see the bigger guy being the sunshine for once, and Felix really is a positive ray of light compared to Jack's grumpy demeanour. There's also a big age gap between them, since Felix is just shy of fifty and Jack is thirty.
Both have been through trauma and loss - Jack lost his dad due to an accident, while Felix lost his first love due to the HIV/AIDS crisis. At first, both used their losses to run away from the good things in life, but Felix ultimately turns his grief into strength and wants to form a flourishing relationship with Jack. Unfortunately, Jack isn't quite on the same page, and is always waiting for the other shoe to drop. But watching him drop his defences around Felix and allow himself to be looked after for the first time since childhood was lovely - he allowed the giant to carry some of the weight for a while.
This is certainly a whirlwind romance given that things take place over the course of a week or so, but I suppose that's what forced proximity does to people. I'm not usually a big fan of things happening unbelievably quickly, but I think it worked for these two. There's also a mild BDSM D/s relationship between them, and the saucy scenes were very hot... I think it was another way for Jack to give further control to Felix and let him carry some of the weight on his shoulders, so he didn't have to be the scrappy little street urchin all the time.
Overall, I did enjoy this read, especially as Helen Juliet is a new author for me. It's certainly made me want to read more of her contemporary fairy tales, so they'll be going onto my TBR immediately.
Jack Spriggs is a thief. He's done time in prison and knows he's not a good person. But even bad people have enemies, and for Jack, Felix Fagiolo, eccentric billionaire, is the worst. In fact, he's the reason Jacks' mum is now redundant before Christmas and at risk of being evicted - or so he thinks. However, when Jack is caught by the giant himself after breaking into his penthouse, he's given a second chance - a chance to prove that maybe he isn't a bad person after all, causing him to think that Felix might not be too bad either.
I really enjoyed the dynamics between Jack and Felix - there's some major size difference here if you're into that, given that Felix is at least seven foot tall according to Jack, who is a scrappy little terrier that's only five and a half feet. It was also nice to see the bigger guy being the sunshine for once, and Felix really is a positive ray of light compared to Jack's grumpy demeanour. There's also a big age gap between them, since Felix is just shy of fifty and Jack is thirty.
Both have been through trauma and loss - Jack lost his dad due to an accident, while Felix lost his first love due to the HIV/AIDS crisis. At first, both used their losses to run away from the good things in life, but Felix ultimately turns his grief into strength and wants to form a flourishing relationship with Jack. Unfortunately, Jack isn't quite on the same page, and is always waiting for the other shoe to drop. But watching him drop his defences around Felix and allow himself to be looked after for the first time since childhood was lovely - he allowed the giant to carry some of the weight for a while.
This is certainly a whirlwind romance given that things take place over the course of a week or so, but I suppose that's what forced proximity does to people. I'm not usually a big fan of things happening unbelievably quickly, but I think it worked for these two. There's also a mild BDSM D/s relationship between them, and the saucy scenes were very hot... I think it was another way for Jack to give further control to Felix and let him carry some of the weight on his shoulders, so he didn't have to be the scrappy little street urchin all the time.
Overall, I did enjoy this read, especially as Helen Juliet is a new author for me. It's certainly made me want to read more of her contemporary fairy tales, so they'll be going onto my TBR immediately.
November 19, 2023
Helen Juliet has become an expert at writing fairytale retellings! I love her books because she balances the steam and sweetness wonderfully and this book is no exception. Jack is looking to steal from Felix because he believes Felix has slighted his mom. Jack makes it to Felix's penthouse and is in the safe when Felix catches him. Felix tells him if he stays and repairs damage that was done he won't call the police. So he stays and begins to see Felix in a new light and his feelings begin to change. After a devastating lose Felix has locked himself away because he doesn't want his heart to get broken again. Jack hasn't gotten over his father's death and believes he's less than. The two men begin to help one another heal. There may be some very steamy times along the journey! 🥵😉 I really loved the epilogue it was so sweet and it wrapped everything up beautifully.
"But the most important thing to have is hope. What is life without hope, anyway?" ❤️
"Some things aren’t meant to stay long with us in this life. Sometimes people only come to us for a short amount of time, and that’s just the way it’s meant to be. It doesn’t diminish our love for them because they were taken from us too soon." 🥹🥰❤️🩹
I am leaving my honest review for a complimentary copy of this book via the author.
"But the most important thing to have is hope. What is life without hope, anyway?" ❤️
"Some things aren’t meant to stay long with us in this life. Sometimes people only come to us for a short amount of time, and that’s just the way it’s meant to be. It doesn’t diminish our love for them because they were taken from us too soon." 🥹🥰❤️🩹
I am leaving my honest review for a complimentary copy of this book via the author.
November 17, 2023
This is an interesting retelling for Jack and the Beanstalk with an age and size gap and insta-love.
When Jack decides to take revenge on his mum's ex-employer he ends up with more than he expected. Felix is not sure what to make of the burglar trying to rob him, he only knows there is more to Jack than he first sees.
The book is 80% just the two of them in Felix's penthouse. Normally I would say no other characters don't make a good story but this one really flows and more and more layers are being removed (yes, also real ones) and both Felix and Jack discover quite some truth about themselves and how there is so much more to each other's originally thoughts.
I love how Felix learns to re-live, yes, Jack may have started as a project because he was bored but it doesn't take long for him to realise that Jack is what he needs to re-discover the joy of living.
Jack learns that he is worth more than his past and that he needs to let go of hurt and fear.
When their forced living arrangement comes to an end, Felix is the one who graps a new future buy both hands and does everything to show Jack that he means what he says.
The epilogue is just so sweet.
There is some BDSM element but it's acutally quite low key.
When Jack decides to take revenge on his mum's ex-employer he ends up with more than he expected. Felix is not sure what to make of the burglar trying to rob him, he only knows there is more to Jack than he first sees.
The book is 80% just the two of them in Felix's penthouse. Normally I would say no other characters don't make a good story but this one really flows and more and more layers are being removed (yes, also real ones) and both Felix and Jack discover quite some truth about themselves and how there is so much more to each other's originally thoughts.
I love how Felix learns to re-live, yes, Jack may have started as a project because he was bored but it doesn't take long for him to realise that Jack is what he needs to re-discover the joy of living.
Jack learns that he is worth more than his past and that he needs to let go of hurt and fear.
When their forced living arrangement comes to an end, Felix is the one who graps a new future buy both hands and does everything to show Jack that he means what he says.
The epilogue is just so sweet.
There is some BDSM element but it's acutally quite low key.
November 22, 2023
Helen Juliet's fairytale adaptations are always a ton of fun, and Jack and Felix's story was one of the more unique twists on a traditional tale. I was intrigued by the billionaire/thief pairing, but I have to admit that it was a stretch for me to believe that Felix would respond the way he did when he caught Jack in his space. Once I got past my skepticism, I enjoyed watching the two of them fall head over heels for each other, and it really was sweet to see how close they grew. Their hot as heck chemistry certainly helped things along, but it was all the little conversations and caretaking that showed me how great the two of them could be if they gave each other a chance. Jack had a very low opinion of himself and his worth, and he really struggled to believe he was an equal partner in his and Felix's relationship. Because I was in Felix's head, I could see how serious he was, but the imbalance in their social status ended up being the biggest source of conflict for the two of them. In true fairytale fashion, everything worked out okay in the end, but Jack and Felix had to take a leap of faith to make it happen.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 28, 2023
Jack & Felix
Rating: 4.0 ⭐
- Billionaire/Thief
- Size Difference
- Fairytale Retelling
- Age Gap
This was retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk and I thought it was a fun take on it with some twist. Jack thought Felix had wronged his mother and her coworkers and wanted to cause him a measure of pain as well. How Jack and Felix met was so adorable even though it seemed like a stretch on how Felix responded to Jack trying to steal from him. Felix really needed something or someone to come into his life and bring him out of his self-imposed hiding spot up in the clouds. Jack was sassy even it could have endangered him but he was still a gem throughout. Despite Felix's past, he was the ray of sunshine and positivity while Jack was grumpy and grouchy but they worked so well together. The author did a great job describing their surroundings, jumbled emotions and the financial gap between the MC's. They do have an instant attraction to one another and the chemistry is high.
This was an easy read with some drama, steamy scenes. lots of love and cinnamon roll goodness.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
Rating: 4.0 ⭐
- Billionaire/Thief
- Size Difference
- Fairytale Retelling
- Age Gap
This was retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk and I thought it was a fun take on it with some twist. Jack thought Felix had wronged his mother and her coworkers and wanted to cause him a measure of pain as well. How Jack and Felix met was so adorable even though it seemed like a stretch on how Felix responded to Jack trying to steal from him. Felix really needed something or someone to come into his life and bring him out of his self-imposed hiding spot up in the clouds. Jack was sassy even it could have endangered him but he was still a gem throughout. Despite Felix's past, he was the ray of sunshine and positivity while Jack was grumpy and grouchy but they worked so well together. The author did a great job describing their surroundings, jumbled emotions and the financial gap between the MC's. They do have an instant attraction to one another and the chemistry is high.
This was an easy read with some drama, steamy scenes. lots of love and cinnamon roll goodness.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
November 27, 2023
Jack and Felix's meeting was so adorable. Things did not go out the way Jack had planned when he wanted vengeance and considered robbing Felix in his penthouse. It was a pleasant surprise when Jack showed arrived; Felix had been hiding out in his apartment in the clouds for far too long.
Despite his troubled past, Felix was this positive, upbeat guy, and I enjoyed how he contrasted with Jack, whose grouchiness stemmed from a lifetime of poor decisions and hard labor. Despite the awkwardness of their encounter, they hit it off right away, and their blossoming romance was touching. Even though it has all the makings of an instant love tale, it didn't annoy me one bit.
From the start, I was captivated by the financial gap between the two characters. The author did a fantastic job of describing it. There was a lot of romance in the MCs' bond and the way they fell head over heels for one another. They were perfect for one other and had great chemistry on all levels.
This had the perfect amount of drama, was easy to read, and featured steamy scenes and lots of love. Entirely enjoyable.I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Despite his troubled past, Felix was this positive, upbeat guy, and I enjoyed how he contrasted with Jack, whose grouchiness stemmed from a lifetime of poor decisions and hard labor. Despite the awkwardness of their encounter, they hit it off right away, and their blossoming romance was touching. Even though it has all the makings of an instant love tale, it didn't annoy me one bit.
From the start, I was captivated by the financial gap between the two characters. The author did a fantastic job of describing it. There was a lot of romance in the MCs' bond and the way they fell head over heels for one another. They were perfect for one other and had great chemistry on all levels.
This had the perfect amount of drama, was easy to read, and featured steamy scenes and lots of love. Entirely enjoyable.I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
December 4, 2023
I love this author’s fairy tale retellings. This story is a clever modern take on Jack and the Beanstalk. I thought the parallels to the original were cleverly done. Both MCs are endearing, and complement each other. Goose, the parrot, is a total scene stealer.
I liked how Jack starts the story with preconceptions of what Felix has done, and how it all unravels very quicky. They both have huge hearts and care about people, despite Jack’s determination to keep himself at arm’s length. I love how Felix gets through Jack’s barriers, and how Jack being there reminds Felix what it’s like to live in the world.
Both men have suffered tragic loss. I love how being together helps them both move forward.
I loved Jack’s relationship with his mum. Their love for each other shines through. I loved the scene where his mum tells him a few home truths including what an idiot he’s been.
Their HEA and glimpse into their future is the perfect ending for them, especially with the pennies which is a nice touch.
I liked how Jack starts the story with preconceptions of what Felix has done, and how it all unravels very quicky. They both have huge hearts and care about people, despite Jack’s determination to keep himself at arm’s length. I love how Felix gets through Jack’s barriers, and how Jack being there reminds Felix what it’s like to live in the world.
Both men have suffered tragic loss. I love how being together helps them both move forward.
I loved Jack’s relationship with his mum. Their love for each other shines through. I loved the scene where his mum tells him a few home truths including what an idiot he’s been.
Their HEA and glimpse into their future is the perfect ending for them, especially with the pennies which is a nice touch.
November 21, 2023
I’m not sure how I missed going into this that this was a retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk but so many things make more sense now.
Jack and Felix start off on the wrong foot - Jack by breaking into Felix’s penthouse to rob him in some misguided attempt for revenge, and Felix by then blackmailing Jack into staying with him to fix what he broke.
Felix was absolutely adorable, and it’s clear he just enjoys taking care of others, including his newest unwilling guest. He goes out of his way to feed, cloth and tend to Jack’s needs, and we learn quickly that he’s not the monster that Jack had thought.
Jack recognizes that his plan for revenge is stupid, but goes ahead with it anyway and faces the consequences. It’s so nice to see Jack let go and allow Felix to care about him, even if there is an expiration date on their relationship.
All in all, a very cute, quick, read filled with adorable main characters, age gap, size gap, and instalove.
Jack and Felix start off on the wrong foot - Jack by breaking into Felix’s penthouse to rob him in some misguided attempt for revenge, and Felix by then blackmailing Jack into staying with him to fix what he broke.
Felix was absolutely adorable, and it’s clear he just enjoys taking care of others, including his newest unwilling guest. He goes out of his way to feed, cloth and tend to Jack’s needs, and we learn quickly that he’s not the monster that Jack had thought.
Jack recognizes that his plan for revenge is stupid, but goes ahead with it anyway and faces the consequences. It’s so nice to see Jack let go and allow Felix to care about him, even if there is an expiration date on their relationship.
All in all, a very cute, quick, read filled with adorable main characters, age gap, size gap, and instalove.
November 27, 2023
Jack and the Beanstalk meets Beauty and the Beast
I loved, loved, loved this book. Jack was a grumpy little thief and Felix was a sunshiney giant recluse. Meeting in less than favourable circumstances in Felix's home in the sky, the size difference and age difference and their extremes in wealth, health and social standing don't mean anything to Felix who falls in love with the sensitive and adorable man who is small enough to fit in his pocket. Jack is completely confused by Felix's attitude to his intrusion but can't help being intrigued by the man who towers over him but is gentle and caring and has the best smile (and the most wonderful pet).
Jack and Felix are so lovely together, with Felix coming back to life with Jack in his heart and in his bed, and Jack learning that he does deserve to be loved and to be happy while exploring a new bedroom dynamic that's just what he needed but didn't know he wanted.
Ten out of ten to Helen for this entertaining and endearing read.
I loved, loved, loved this book. Jack was a grumpy little thief and Felix was a sunshiney giant recluse. Meeting in less than favourable circumstances in Felix's home in the sky, the size difference and age difference and their extremes in wealth, health and social standing don't mean anything to Felix who falls in love with the sensitive and adorable man who is small enough to fit in his pocket. Jack is completely confused by Felix's attitude to his intrusion but can't help being intrigued by the man who towers over him but is gentle and caring and has the best smile (and the most wonderful pet).
Jack and Felix are so lovely together, with Felix coming back to life with Jack in his heart and in his bed, and Jack learning that he does deserve to be loved and to be happy while exploring a new bedroom dynamic that's just what he needed but didn't know he wanted.
Ten out of ten to Helen for this entertaining and endearing read.
December 18, 2023
Following the fairy tales theme, this story of Jack avenging his family by robbing billionaire Felix is of Jack and the Beanstalk. Jack goes up the great penthouse in the sky (beanstalk) to get the money to save his mother (golden goose) from the cruel billionaire Felix (the giant). It does take a bit to match it up there and things, in fairy tale fashion, progress pretty easily. They do at least connect things pretty well about some of that. Felix thinks about how it's sort of crazy for him to hold a thief hostage and help him out at the same time, but his interest overrides common sense. Jack considers that willingly being a prisoner is insane, but at the same time it beats being in an actual prison. From there they get the chance to talk, figure out where things have gone wrong, and build a relationship. It goes fairly fairy tale easy, though there are small pitfalls and figurings that do have to happen. An easy read with some kink in the fairy tale genre.
November 16, 2023
Fairy tale retelling
Jack quite literally crashes into Felix's life.
He's snuck into his London penthouse out of a sense of vengeance and justification.
Felix, however, has a plan brewing for Jack.
Felix has been lonely and cutoff from life for quite some time.
He sees Jack as a new project.
As they get to know one another Jack realizes that Felix has nothing to do with the reason he's there for.
Both have been hurt and lost someone close to them.
It helps them bond.
The intimate moments between them were scorching hot and they soon discover each is the perfect partner for each other.
They have fears about the real world intruding upon their tower but are too afraid to discuss it.
Until Jack decides to run.
It's easier to do that than run the risk of getting hurt.
Felix isn't having it, though.
He fights for his man.
The epilogue was a beautiful scene of their HEA.
Jack quite literally crashes into Felix's life.
He's snuck into his London penthouse out of a sense of vengeance and justification.
Felix, however, has a plan brewing for Jack.
Felix has been lonely and cutoff from life for quite some time.
He sees Jack as a new project.
As they get to know one another Jack realizes that Felix has nothing to do with the reason he's there for.
Both have been hurt and lost someone close to them.
It helps them bond.
The intimate moments between them were scorching hot and they soon discover each is the perfect partner for each other.
They have fears about the real world intruding upon their tower but are too afraid to discuss it.
Until Jack decides to run.
It's easier to do that than run the risk of getting hurt.
Felix isn't having it, though.
He fights for his man.
The epilogue was a beautiful scene of their HEA.
November 20, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
This was such a fun retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk! I haven’t read any of Helen Juliet’s other fairytale retellings but I feel like this was a great one to start with.
Jack is a lil guy, a not-so-great thief, and a plan to get back at the monster who just laid off his mum. He’s about to have his whole world turned upside down by a big ball of kinky sunshine.
Felix is a big guy, a lonely recluse, and has more money than anybody could ever need. He’s about to find the one thing money can’t buy in the man who just tried to rob him.
What follows is two lonely men finding comfort (and kink!) in one another over the course of a strange week. It’s a sweet story that I enjoyed almost the whole way through. I always hate bad communication in books, so the angsty story point wasn’t my fave, but I’m glad it didn’t drag on for too long 😌
This was such a fun retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk! I haven’t read any of Helen Juliet’s other fairytale retellings but I feel like this was a great one to start with.
Jack is a lil guy, a not-so-great thief, and a plan to get back at the monster who just laid off his mum. He’s about to have his whole world turned upside down by a big ball of kinky sunshine.
Felix is a big guy, a lonely recluse, and has more money than anybody could ever need. He’s about to find the one thing money can’t buy in the man who just tried to rob him.
What follows is two lonely men finding comfort (and kink!) in one another over the course of a strange week. It’s a sweet story that I enjoyed almost the whole way through. I always hate bad communication in books, so the angsty story point wasn’t my fave, but I’m glad it didn’t drag on for too long 😌
November 29, 2023
I have to admit, I really love a good fairytale retelling and this one was really good. Jack had an axe to grind so he decided to take things into his own hands to get his revenge and go into the giant's lair and take what he felt was owed. Unfortunately, Felix is not only home, he takes the intrusion as an opportunity. He decides to see past the intrusion and take it as an opportunity to take Jack in hand, literally, and see if he can help him. In the course of the time they spend together Jack comes to realize that Felix is not only not the enemy but a good guy who, like him, has been hurt and deserves better. Together they have an opportunity to help each other heal from the things they have experienced and move forward together. If they will both embrace it! This was so sweet and emotional.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 7, 2023
If you're a fan of reimagined fairy tales, and you enjoyed Jack and the Beanstalk, you'll probably enjoy this cute retelling of unexpected love between billionaire-- Felix -- and common thief Jack. The premise is just this side of unbelievable, but then, aren't all fairy tales like that? However, I don't find the characters themselves especially engaging. Neither feels like a credible adult in our contemporary world to me -- for example, Jack doesn't seem like any 30-year-old man I know -- so it was hard to connect with them. That's likely just a me issue, though. I would probably have enjoyed it more if the story hadn't been so long, since I felt like that only happened so the writer could introduce more elements of kink into their relationship. For such a long story, I felt cheated out of the kind of character development that would have made them seem like men I'd want to know.
November 18, 2023
I love fairy tales, retelling/reimagining the stories for MM is usually quite sweet and (in Helen Juliet's tales) quite steamy. Cinderella, Rapunzel and Beauty and the Beast are easy to make MM and smexy. But just like with Puss in Boots, I couldn't imagine Jack and the Bean Stalk as romantic and sexy. But once again, Juliet pulls it off.
Lovely story using age/size differences, grumpy/sunshine tropes. And there's plenty of tongue in cheek. A harp in Felix's vault, a golden parrot named goose, even the building most of the action takes place in, is the beanstalk.
Ten out of five stars. This isn't all lite and fluff. There's definitely heft in this story. Quick to read. Assuredly quite enjoyable.
I received an advance copy, this is my honest review.
Lovely story using age/size differences, grumpy/sunshine tropes. And there's plenty of tongue in cheek. A harp in Felix's vault, a golden parrot named goose, even the building most of the action takes place in, is the beanstalk.
Ten out of five stars. This isn't all lite and fluff. There's definitely heft in this story. Quick to read. Assuredly quite enjoyable.
I received an advance copy, this is my honest review.
November 23, 2023
The Little Thief & the Giant Billionaire
Jack, the thief, wants to exact revenge on Felix, the billionaire for closing down Jack's mother's place of employment, causing her to lose her job. He plans on stealing valuables that Felix holds as precious. Of course he gets caught by Felix who is supposed to be away on business, but isn't. Except Jack steals Felix's heart and Jack feels the electricity between them and is similarly intrigued.
This story executed all its elements perfectly to tell this well-crafted tale. That I was transported to Jack's and Felix's world is sublime. The story flows smoothly and well; it held my interest throughout the entire book, and not only for the steamy scenes. I greatly enjoyed reading this and I think you will too.
Jack, the thief, wants to exact revenge on Felix, the billionaire for closing down Jack's mother's place of employment, causing her to lose her job. He plans on stealing valuables that Felix holds as precious. Of course he gets caught by Felix who is supposed to be away on business, but isn't. Except Jack steals Felix's heart and Jack feels the electricity between them and is similarly intrigued.
This story executed all its elements perfectly to tell this well-crafted tale. That I was transported to Jack's and Felix's world is sublime. The story flows smoothly and well; it held my interest throughout the entire book, and not only for the steamy scenes. I greatly enjoyed reading this and I think you will too.
October 1, 2025
But Did You Disassociate: Yes
Spice: some kinky, some lovey, all yummy
MMC and MMC
Jack and the Beanstalk but modern day and Jack and the Giant get it on
Dual POV
HEA
Stand Alone
Anything pull me out of the book:
Nope
Extra smiles:
Size difference
Goose is not a goose
Some hurt/comfort
Some kink
grumpy/sunshine
Jack “climbs the beanstalk” (kinda literal but also the corny euphemism) to steal from the evil giant. Then gets caught and finds out the giant isn’t evil and they fall in love while having sexy fun times. They both help each other heal. The giant is a cutie pie caretaker. It is cute, and yummy, and all the call outs to the fairy tale were great. It is a great read to forget reality for a while.
Spice: some kinky, some lovey, all yummy
MMC and MMC
Jack and the Beanstalk but modern day and Jack and the Giant get it on
Dual POV
HEA
Stand Alone
Anything pull me out of the book:
Nope
Extra smiles:
Size difference
Goose is not a goose
Some hurt/comfort
Some kink
grumpy/sunshine
Jack “climbs the beanstalk” (kinda literal but also the corny euphemism) to steal from the evil giant. Then gets caught and finds out the giant isn’t evil and they fall in love while having sexy fun times. They both help each other heal. The giant is a cutie pie caretaker. It is cute, and yummy, and all the call outs to the fairy tale were great. It is a great read to forget reality for a while.
November 16, 2023
Ooh... size difference, age gap, wealth gap, misunderstood MC... it's all there - along with a little light B & E and a little forcible confinement and a parrot named Goose (because everyone needs a parrot named Goose) - no golden eggs in this retelling... but a plethora of golden coins.. have you figured out which fairy tale is being retold yet?
Yep, Jack and the Beanstalk... and it's done really well - there's an elevator in Beanstalk Towers and Jack never tries to cut the building down, instead, there's a steamy BDSM relationship, a little anxiety about too good to be true and a fairy tale worthy romance!
Yep, Jack and the Beanstalk... and it's done really well - there's an elevator in Beanstalk Towers and Jack never tries to cut the building down, instead, there's a steamy BDSM relationship, a little anxiety about too good to be true and a fairy tale worthy romance!
November 18, 2023
𝙹𝚊𝚌𝚔𝚎𝚍 𝚄𝚙
ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘- 4/5 ⭐️
𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖- 1.5/5 🌶️
↓↓
This was the first book I’ve read by this author but it won’t be the last,
This was a great Jack and the Beanstalk adaptation and I think it flowed really well.
Both of the guys each offered something unique and different in their relationship but it worked best for them.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🌱 Jack and the Beanstalk adaptation
☀️ Grumpy x sunshine
🍆 BIG size difference
💰 Billionaire/thief
👀 Just a little light kidnapping
🥵 D/s, rope and wax play, dirty talk, improper use of a feather duster!
🐦 A singing, matchmaking parrot
💔 Two broken hearts in need of mending
ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘- 4/5 ⭐️
𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖- 1.5/5 🌶️
↓↓
This was the first book I’ve read by this author but it won’t be the last,
This was a great Jack and the Beanstalk adaptation and I think it flowed really well.
Both of the guys each offered something unique and different in their relationship but it worked best for them.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🌱 Jack and the Beanstalk adaptation
☀️ Grumpy x sunshine
🍆 BIG size difference
💰 Billionaire/thief
👀 Just a little light kidnapping
🥵 D/s, rope and wax play, dirty talk, improper use of a feather duster!
🐦 A singing, matchmaking parrot
💔 Two broken hearts in need of mending
November 20, 2023
A wonderful fairytale adaptation. Jack is absolutely adorable. No matter how shady his character is and how grumpy he seems, he just exudes sweetness and love - a wonderful characteristic that is displayed beautifully by a crafty author, who does the same with her portrayal of Felix’s beautiful spirit. These two characters show that opposites not only attract, but are exquisitely explosive when they collide. While I don’t like to think of a character as broken, these two men repair the brokenness in each other, reviving and restoring each other to potentials of which they were not even aware.
Jacked Up is a beautifully written and spicy hot love story.
Jacked Up is a beautifully written and spicy hot love story.
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