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Bartender Beefcake
A virgin walks into a bar… Right into the bartender’s arms.Every time I sneak a peek at him, he’s already looking back. Or is he?
Nathan is the burly, tattooed bartender to my plain Jane. He couldn’t possibly have noticed me… right? Except he remembers my regular order. And when I lose my mind and start quoting steamy romance novels at him, he doesn’t just play along—he fires back.
Did I really just flirt my way into the arms of the bartender of my dreams? Or am I about to crash and burn like the awkward disaster I am?
I have no idea what happens next… because I’ve literally never done this before.
In this first-time curvy girl / dad bod romance two pining hearts must overcome their insecurities and take a chance. Emotions will surge. Sparks will fly. It’s about to hot & husky at Teddington’s most beloved pub!
Nathan is the burly, tattooed bartender to my plain Jane. He couldn’t possibly have noticed me… right? Except he remembers my regular order. And when I lose my mind and start quoting steamy romance novels at him, he doesn’t just play along—he fires back.
Did I really just flirt my way into the arms of the bartender of my dreams? Or am I about to crash and burn like the awkward disaster I am?
I have no idea what happens next… because I’ve literally never done this before.
In this first-time curvy girl / dad bod romance two pining hearts must overcome their insecurities and take a chance. Emotions will surge. Sparks will fly. It’s about to hot & husky at Teddington’s most beloved pub!
186 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 26, 2025
12 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
About the author
L. Moone
58 books106 followersL. Moone writes steamy romance about big, brooding and devoted men who fall fast and love hard.
Her heroes might think they’re unworthy—but that won’t stop them from losing their hearts. Whether husky, grumpy, or cinnamon roll sweet, they’ll do anything for the women they love. And the heroines? They might act fierce and independent, but they've already melted just for him.
💖 Steamy, messy instalove
💖 Damaged, self-sacrificing heroes who put her first
💖 Dad bods, curvy girls and everything in between
💖 All the drama, all the feels, and a heartfelt and healing HEA—every time.
If you love obsessed book boyfriends, sassy heroines, and romance that makes your heart ache before putting it back together again, you’re in the right place.
📩 Grab your FREE book & start reading today at lmoone dot com
If you're an avid reader & reviewer/book blogger and are interested in any of my books, please do reach out about joining my review team. :)
(P.S. If you love a little magic with your romance, check out her Paranormal & Fantasy books as Lorelei Moone!)
NOTE: She used to publish under her old pen name Hedonist Six.
Her heroes might think they’re unworthy—but that won’t stop them from losing their hearts. Whether husky, grumpy, or cinnamon roll sweet, they’ll do anything for the women they love. And the heroines? They might act fierce and independent, but they've already melted just for him.
💖 Steamy, messy instalove
💖 Damaged, self-sacrificing heroes who put her first
💖 Dad bods, curvy girls and everything in between
💖 All the drama, all the feels, and a heartfelt and healing HEA—every time.
If you love obsessed book boyfriends, sassy heroines, and romance that makes your heart ache before putting it back together again, you’re in the right place.
📩 Grab your FREE book & start reading today at lmoone dot com
If you're an avid reader & reviewer/book blogger and are interested in any of my books, please do reach out about joining my review team. :)
(P.S. If you love a little magic with your romance, check out her Paranormal & Fantasy books as Lorelei Moone!)
NOTE: She used to publish under her old pen name Hedonist Six.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 3, 2025
We’ve all lived through those painfully awkward moments of trying to approach someone who makes our heart race—the kind where every insecurity suddenly decides to take center stage, your mouth goes desert-dry, and a nervous little sweat trickles down your spine. One of my favorite things about Lorelei’s books is that her MMCs feel that too. There are no chiseled, hyper-confident alpha males strutting around these pages. Instead, we get Nathan: a husky, soft-around-the-edges, warm and deeply gentle man, who you can practically imagine giving the world’s best hugs.
But what truly makes this story shine is watching both Jane and Nathan keep tripping over their own fears, then slowly, bravely, choosing to step toward each other anyway. Their self-sabotage is maddening in the most delicious, slow-burn way. Jane’s journey especially hit me hard. Raised to shrink into herself and keep her distance from men, she’s spent years trying to be invisible. So, her returning to Nathan’s pub, even without speaking to him, felt like an act of quiet courage. Honestly, that alone made me root for her. And yes, it does take a little liquid courage for her to finally make a move, but that only made her more endearing. Being inside both of their heads adds a beautifully tender layer to the book. Their inner thoughts are raw, relatable, sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes funny and hearing the contrast between what they feel and what they think they should do makes their connection even sweeter. As for Nathan… he had me from the very first chapter. And if I wasn’t already half in love with him, his insistence on taking things slow and genuinely getting to know Jane before anything else, sealed the deal. The one character who grated on me was Jane’s friend, Vicky. Her meddling, especially when it came to Jane and Nathan, made me bristle. She does claw back a bit of redemption at the end, but I couldn’t help wondering how differently things might’ve unfolded if Jane hadn’t finally stood her ground. If you’ve ever questioned whether taking a chance on someone special is worth the risk, this feel-good romance answers with a resounding yes. It’s tender, hopeful, and full of heart, the kind of book that leaves you believing in second chances and brave first steps.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But what truly makes this story shine is watching both Jane and Nathan keep tripping over their own fears, then slowly, bravely, choosing to step toward each other anyway. Their self-sabotage is maddening in the most delicious, slow-burn way. Jane’s journey especially hit me hard. Raised to shrink into herself and keep her distance from men, she’s spent years trying to be invisible. So, her returning to Nathan’s pub, even without speaking to him, felt like an act of quiet courage. Honestly, that alone made me root for her. And yes, it does take a little liquid courage for her to finally make a move, but that only made her more endearing. Being inside both of their heads adds a beautifully tender layer to the book. Their inner thoughts are raw, relatable, sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes funny and hearing the contrast between what they feel and what they think they should do makes their connection even sweeter. As for Nathan… he had me from the very first chapter. And if I wasn’t already half in love with him, his insistence on taking things slow and genuinely getting to know Jane before anything else, sealed the deal. The one character who grated on me was Jane’s friend, Vicky. Her meddling, especially when it came to Jane and Nathan, made me bristle. She does claw back a bit of redemption at the end, but I couldn’t help wondering how differently things might’ve unfolded if Jane hadn’t finally stood her ground. If you’ve ever questioned whether taking a chance on someone special is worth the risk, this feel-good romance answers with a resounding yes. It’s tender, hopeful, and full of heart, the kind of book that leaves you believing in second chances and brave first steps.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 29, 2025
If you’ve ever had a crush that made your heart skip and your palms sweat, Bartender Beefcake is a laugh-out-loud, swoon-worthy dive straight into that delicious tension. L. Moone delivers a story that’s as relatable as it is flirty, mixing awkward first-time romance with heartfelt growth.
Jane is our wonderfully awkward heroine, quietly nursing a crush on Nathan, the burly, tattooed bartender who’s been quietly noticing her all along. Their story begins with stolen glances, small interactions, and a flirty game of cat-and-mouse that’s impossible to resist. But it’s not just about the sparks—both Jane and Nathan carry baggage: miscommunications, self-worth issues, and the scars of judgment from the past. Watching them stumble, fumble, and slowly open up to each other makes the journey incredibly personal and relatable.
The chemistry between Jane and Nathan is electric. What starts as playful banter and flirtatious teasing gradually blooms into genuine connection. Nathan’s insistence on taking things slow, getting to know Jane, and building trust over instant gratification makes him utterly swoon-worthy, while Jane’s growth as she learns to believe in her own worth is deeply satisfying.
Bartender Beefcake isn’t just a romance—it’s a story about overcoming personal insecurities, navigating toxic outside influences, and learning that real connection is worth the wait. With humor, heart, and a bar full of flirtatious tension, this book is a cozy, engaging, and feel-good read that will make you root for Jane and Nathan every step of the way.
It’s perfect for anyone who loves slow-burn romance, quirky banter, and the kind of love story that reminds you first dates—and first glances—can be magical.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jane is our wonderfully awkward heroine, quietly nursing a crush on Nathan, the burly, tattooed bartender who’s been quietly noticing her all along. Their story begins with stolen glances, small interactions, and a flirty game of cat-and-mouse that’s impossible to resist. But it’s not just about the sparks—both Jane and Nathan carry baggage: miscommunications, self-worth issues, and the scars of judgment from the past. Watching them stumble, fumble, and slowly open up to each other makes the journey incredibly personal and relatable.
The chemistry between Jane and Nathan is electric. What starts as playful banter and flirtatious teasing gradually blooms into genuine connection. Nathan’s insistence on taking things slow, getting to know Jane, and building trust over instant gratification makes him utterly swoon-worthy, while Jane’s growth as she learns to believe in her own worth is deeply satisfying.
Bartender Beefcake isn’t just a romance—it’s a story about overcoming personal insecurities, navigating toxic outside influences, and learning that real connection is worth the wait. With humor, heart, and a bar full of flirtatious tension, this book is a cozy, engaging, and feel-good read that will make you root for Jane and Nathan every step of the way.
It’s perfect for anyone who loves slow-burn romance, quirky banter, and the kind of love story that reminds you first dates—and first glances—can be magical.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 4, 2025
Bartender Beefcake is the kind of romance that feels like a warm hug wrapped in a burst of sparks. Jane’s voice pulled me in instantly—her humor, her relatable awkwardness, and the way she second-guesses every glance from Nathan made her such an endearing heroine. And Nathan? The gentle, tattooed bartender with the dad bod and the cinnamon-roll heart? Absolutely irresistible.
What I loved most is how naturally their connection builds. Jane’s habit of quoting romance novels at the worst possible moment had me grinning, and Nathan—not only remembering her drink order but matching her flirt for flirt—gives the story this wonderfully tender, uplifting energy. Watching two people who both doubt their own appeal slowly realize how much they mean to each other is incredibly satisfying.
Even though this is a novella, it never feels rushed. The instalove is warm and believable, fueled by mutual pining, genuine chemistry, and an undercurrent of emotional vulnerability. The story celebrates body positivity, first-time nerves, and taking a leap even when your heart is pounding.
The small-town pub setting adds a cozy backdrop to all the steamy sweetness, and the way Jane and Nathan bring out confidence in each other is what truly makes this romance shine.
If you enjoy curvy-girl/dad-bod pairings, cinnamon-roll heroes, and first-time love stories that balance heat with heartfelt emotion, Bartender Beefcake is an absolute delight. I finished it smiling from ear to ear.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What I loved most is how naturally their connection builds. Jane’s habit of quoting romance novels at the worst possible moment had me grinning, and Nathan—not only remembering her drink order but matching her flirt for flirt—gives the story this wonderfully tender, uplifting energy. Watching two people who both doubt their own appeal slowly realize how much they mean to each other is incredibly satisfying.
Even though this is a novella, it never feels rushed. The instalove is warm and believable, fueled by mutual pining, genuine chemistry, and an undercurrent of emotional vulnerability. The story celebrates body positivity, first-time nerves, and taking a leap even when your heart is pounding.
The small-town pub setting adds a cozy backdrop to all the steamy sweetness, and the way Jane and Nathan bring out confidence in each other is what truly makes this romance shine.
If you enjoy curvy-girl/dad-bod pairings, cinnamon-roll heroes, and first-time love stories that balance heat with heartfelt emotion, Bartender Beefcake is an absolute delight. I finished it smiling from ear to ear.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 9, 2025
She has been crushing on him for awhile, but thinks the handsome bartender is out of her league. After a little liquid courage she gets flirty and finds out he is more interested than she thought, and she panics. She doesn't have any experience, but she would sure like to get some with him. He has liked her since she first started coming in, but she never spoke to him so he thought she wasn't into dad bod bartenders, until the night she flirts with him and they end up kissing. Then she runs away and he is left trying to figure out what comes next. This was a sweet little story of two people carrying baggage and insecurities who find what they are looking for in the other. There is mutual pining and mutual vulnerability. If you like to root for two underdogs this is a nice change up.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 28, 2025
A few weeks ago, Jane went out with some coworkers to a pub and thought the bartender, Nathan, was cute. She keeps going back to that pub but doesn't actually talk to him. One night they finally start flirting. She gets up the courage to ask for a ONS. He says no, he'd rather take her on an actual date and get to know her. She doesn't like that, so she leaves the bar.
So there's some kind of miscommunication, I guess? IDK, it was weird. She got slut shamed for something that happened in high school, and now she can't even be asked out on a date without it becoming a huge drama.
This is just frustrating, tbh.
So there's some kind of miscommunication, I guess? IDK, it was weird. She got slut shamed for something that happened in high school, and now she can't even be asked out on a date without it becoming a huge drama.
This is just frustrating, tbh.
November 24, 2025
“I can’t stop smiling. It’s ridiculous. Utterly, hopelessly ridiculous.”
Jane and Nathan’s story is packed with miscommunication. Both characters have issues with self-worth, and while it was frustrating to see that drive the communication issues, it was wonderful to see them both grow.
I had a hard time with their friends. It felt toxic with both of them being attacked, and ‘encouraged’ to stay away for various reasons. But the MMC and FMC were very sweet, and I loved seeing them overcome their issues.
A quick read, a little steamy, and very enjoyable.
Jane and Nathan’s story is packed with miscommunication. Both characters have issues with self-worth, and while it was frustrating to see that drive the communication issues, it was wonderful to see them both grow.
I had a hard time with their friends. It felt toxic with both of them being attacked, and ‘encouraged’ to stay away for various reasons. But the MMC and FMC were very sweet, and I loved seeing them overcome their issues.
A quick read, a little steamy, and very enjoyable.
January 8, 2026
This book follows Jane and Nathan as they meet and fall in love. Okay maybe that isn't accurate as when the book starts Jane and Nathan have seen each other many times. But neither have made a move for different reasons.
This is a sweet and fun book that is well paced and will leave you feeling warm. It's a small town setting and has meddling friends, self doubt, and all the excitement of falling hard and fast no matter how unexpected it is.
Give it a read. You won't be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a sweet and fun book that is well paced and will leave you feeling warm. It's a small town setting and has meddling friends, self doubt, and all the excitement of falling hard and fast no matter how unexpected it is.
Give it a read. You won't be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 2, 2025
I loved Jane and Nathan. They have been secretly checking each other out but afraid to make a move until he is left in charge and a connection is made between them. I loved how they finally found each other and the outcome. It is a heartfelt story that had me cheering on this couple because they are so cute together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 3, 2025
Bartender Beefcake is a story about this cute couple they are attracted to each other’s but insecurity keep them from connecting.Personal insecurities,toxic influences play the main role.
Eventually they find that real connection is worth the wait.
This is a feel-good read and you will root for Jane and Nathan following their journey.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eventually they find that real connection is worth the wait.
This is a feel-good read and you will root for Jane and Nathan following their journey.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2025
I love this book! I am a huge fan of Ms. Moone, and I was not disappointed by this new release. Nathan and Jane are wonderful characters who are perfect for each other. I adore the cuddly guys who love so deeply, and Nathan fits that description. I was upset with Jane's friend, and I was so glad when Jane stood up to her. This is an excellent story with a fantastic, happy ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 22, 2025
Jane has been coming to Nathan's bar for a month to watch him in silence. Nathan has been watching her too... a little flirtation goes a long way!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 29, 2025
I didn't connect with this story as much as the others in this series. While Jane and Nathan are certainly awkwardly charming, the inclusion of their 'nay-saying' friends, as well as the overly stressed unworthy comments was off putting.
December 3, 2025
Sweet, spicy and fun.
This book is full of chemistry, laughter, flirting, tension, chemistry, connection and love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is full of chemistry, laughter, flirting, tension, chemistry, connection and love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 30, 2025
Jane has been crushing on Nathan for a while but doesn't think he's noticed her. Nathan has definitely noticed Jane but never made his move. It all starts as playful flirting as he tries to win her over. When will Nathan finally make it clear to Jane that he has more than noticed her?
December 6, 2025
Moone continues to make a haunting impression. From slow burn to big heart, Nathan and Jane are a mass of contradictions. Their dance with ever after bursts the heart wide open.
December 11, 2025
I was hooked right from the start. The characters are great. I couldn't put it down. So good. Totally worth the read.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews