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Soft Launch
A high-heat, emotionally grounded queer romance about burnout, vulnerability, and falling hard—on camera and off.
Remy:
I wasn’t trying to go viral. I was just doing my job. Glitter, spandex, party chaos. Then suddenly I was internet famous, and everything got louder. Too many eyes. Too much pressure. I couldn’t keep up.
Enter Karim El-Amin. Ex-wellness star. Content whisperer. Calm-in-a-storm kind of guy. He says he can help me build something sustainable. I’m trying to be cool about it. I’m failing.
Karim:
After I burned out, I swore I was done. No more cameras. No more public anything. Just yoga, hot tea, and quiet mornings above a queer café.
Then Remy showed up. Loud. Glittery. Overwhelmed. He asked for help and I said yes. I thought I could stay detached. I thought I could keep it professional.
I was wrong.
Now we’re building something together. A platform. A relationship. A life. If we can stop spiraling long enough to hold onto it.
Soft Launch is a high-heat, emotionally grounded queer romance about burnout, creator chaos, mutual support, and falling hard—online and off. It features slow burn to explosive heat, soft dom energy, neck kisses as a love language, and a tender third act separation with a guaranteed happily ever after. It’s book one in the Zeta Love Story series and can be read as a standalone.
Remy:
I wasn’t trying to go viral. I was just doing my job. Glitter, spandex, party chaos. Then suddenly I was internet famous, and everything got louder. Too many eyes. Too much pressure. I couldn’t keep up.
Enter Karim El-Amin. Ex-wellness star. Content whisperer. Calm-in-a-storm kind of guy. He says he can help me build something sustainable. I’m trying to be cool about it. I’m failing.
Karim:
After I burned out, I swore I was done. No more cameras. No more public anything. Just yoga, hot tea, and quiet mornings above a queer café.
Then Remy showed up. Loud. Glittery. Overwhelmed. He asked for help and I said yes. I thought I could stay detached. I thought I could keep it professional.
I was wrong.
Now we’re building something together. A platform. A relationship. A life. If we can stop spiraling long enough to hold onto it.
Soft Launch is a high-heat, emotionally grounded queer romance about burnout, creator chaos, mutual support, and falling hard—online and off. It features slow burn to explosive heat, soft dom energy, neck kisses as a love language, and a tender third act separation with a guaranteed happily ever after. It’s book one in the Zeta Love Story series and can be read as a standalone.
- GenresRomanceM M Romance
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2025
About the author
Olivia Carter
1 book11 followersOlivia Carter writes MM contemporary romance full of heart, heat, and characters who love hard (and ruin each other beautifully).
Her stories are emotionally rich with diverse casts, disability rep, and just enough steam to keep you up way too late. Expect soft grumps, chaotic flirts, and hard-won happily ever afters.
She believes romance should be healing, horny, and never boring.
Her stories are emotionally rich with diverse casts, disability rep, and just enough steam to keep you up way too late. Expect soft grumps, chaotic flirts, and hard-won happily ever afters.
She believes romance should be healing, horny, and never boring.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 26, 2025
Oh my gosh, this book! I resonated with this book so much, and I felt so seen while reading it. I felt all the emotions and I was also emotional while reading it, but it was also a really fun book to read and I was so happy for Remy and Karim. I saw parts of myself in both Karim and Remy.
I really enjoyed their journey. I loved how they communicated and how real their story felt. I loved all of the acceptance, all of the patience. Basically I loved everything about this book! I loved Remy's energy so much! But I also loved how Karim managed to ground him and make him safe. I loved how they made each other feel seen, that is such an important thing. I loved Remy's chaos and how he managed to bring Karim out of hiding.
I really enjoyed the found family vibes, all of the other characters were great and I'm really excited to see more of this group.
This book is such a standout for me, definitely a forever favorite and a future comfort read.
Come for Remy's chaos and all the glitter and stay for the emotions and the beautiful writing.
I really enjoyed their journey. I loved how they communicated and how real their story felt. I loved all of the acceptance, all of the patience. Basically I loved everything about this book! I loved Remy's energy so much! But I also loved how Karim managed to ground him and make him safe. I loved how they made each other feel seen, that is such an important thing. I loved Remy's chaos and how he managed to bring Karim out of hiding.
I really enjoyed the found family vibes, all of the other characters were great and I'm really excited to see more of this group.
This book is such a standout for me, definitely a forever favorite and a future comfort read.
Come for Remy's chaos and all the glitter and stay for the emotions and the beautiful writing.
July 25, 2025
A premise I've never read before, uniquely-presented from the perspectives of two very different influencers! I loved both of these characters, so much themselves and both of them so unapologetic (even when they really needed to be apologizing, lol).
Remy was so, so sweet, if a little saccharine, and Karim has such a presence even on-page, their dynamic messy and a little wild but very sweet and heartwarming.
Relatively low angst and in some places the drama felt a little drawn out, but on a whole this is a fantastic start to a series, introducing the world, the setting, and a cast of interesting and charming characters.
Can't wait to find out what Noam was up to!!
Remy was so, so sweet, if a little saccharine, and Karim has such a presence even on-page, their dynamic messy and a little wild but very sweet and heartwarming.
Relatively low angst and in some places the drama felt a little drawn out, but on a whole this is a fantastic start to a series, introducing the world, the setting, and a cast of interesting and charming characters.
Can't wait to find out what Noam was up to!!
August 15, 2025
this was cute & i loved the aspect of the found family, especially with the cafe being the headquarters.
but one of my issues with this was the characterizations of remy & karim. karim is clearly black ‘shoulder length locs, warm brown skin & eyes like dark roast espresso’ while remy is… ‘all limbs and energy… with curls’ and it’s totally a me thing, but i was a little confused while reading especially in the context of some other things that happen in the book.
not sure how i feel about continuing the series yet but overall would recommend this one.
but one of my issues with this was the characterizations of remy & karim. karim is clearly black ‘shoulder length locs, warm brown skin & eyes like dark roast espresso’ while remy is… ‘all limbs and energy… with curls’ and it’s totally a me thing, but i was a little confused while reading especially in the context of some other things that happen in the book.
not sure how i feel about continuing the series yet but overall would recommend this one.
August 24, 2025
Soft launch was a beautiful story about being yourself, accepting yourself & letting in love.Remy is complete chaos & Karim is calmer, but they are exactly what each other needed.They compliment each other completely.The side characters were amazing & brought that little bit extra to the story.The story was beautifully written & although they go through alot, reading their love story was worth it & they get their much deserved HEA.
June 26, 2025
This book is a glitter bomb of feelings—and I mean that in the best possible way.
Remy is pure chaos in human form. He’s loud, passionate, sparkly (literally), and always on the move—whether he’s bartending, entertaining kids at parties, or accidentally going viral in a Spider-Man suit. His spiraling felt so real and relatable, and I could feel every anxious thought as if I were right there with him.
Enter Karim: calm, steady, gentle. The soft-dom energy king. He’s burned out, done with the influencer world, and just trying to breathe again. But then along comes Remy—like a whirlwind in glitter—and suddenly, breathing looks a lot like falling in love.
These two are the definition of opposites attract, but in the best way. Karim grounds Remy when he's spiraling, and Remy brings joy, colour, and chaos back into Karim’s world. The way they support each other emotionally and professionally was beautiful—whether it’s navigating fame, processing burnout, or simply learning how to rest in someone else’s presence.
The chemistry? Off the charts.
The spice? Karim is a soft dom. That’s all I’ll say.
The communication? Actual perfection. No unnecessary drama—just two adults figuring life out together.
The side characters added so much heart and humor, and the found family vibes were strong. It’s a story about acceptance, showing up as your full self, and letting someone love all of you—even the parts you’re still figuring out.
What to expect:
- Opposites attract
- Glitter, chaos & heart
- Viral fame + social media pressure
- Found family
- Calm x chaos pairing
- Soft dom energy
- Healthy communication
- Joy in the mess
If you love stories about balance, healing, sparkly disasters, and green flag love interests—you need to read this. Remy and Karim completely stole my heart.
Remy is pure chaos in human form. He’s loud, passionate, sparkly (literally), and always on the move—whether he’s bartending, entertaining kids at parties, or accidentally going viral in a Spider-Man suit. His spiraling felt so real and relatable, and I could feel every anxious thought as if I were right there with him.
Enter Karim: calm, steady, gentle. The soft-dom energy king. He’s burned out, done with the influencer world, and just trying to breathe again. But then along comes Remy—like a whirlwind in glitter—and suddenly, breathing looks a lot like falling in love.
These two are the definition of opposites attract, but in the best way. Karim grounds Remy when he's spiraling, and Remy brings joy, colour, and chaos back into Karim’s world. The way they support each other emotionally and professionally was beautiful—whether it’s navigating fame, processing burnout, or simply learning how to rest in someone else’s presence.
The chemistry? Off the charts.
The spice? Karim is a soft dom. That’s all I’ll say.
The communication? Actual perfection. No unnecessary drama—just two adults figuring life out together.
The side characters added so much heart and humor, and the found family vibes were strong. It’s a story about acceptance, showing up as your full self, and letting someone love all of you—even the parts you’re still figuring out.
What to expect:
- Opposites attract
- Glitter, chaos & heart
- Viral fame + social media pressure
- Found family
- Calm x chaos pairing
- Soft dom energy
- Healthy communication
- Joy in the mess
If you love stories about balance, healing, sparkly disasters, and green flag love interests—you need to read this. Remy and Karim completely stole my heart.
June 23, 2025
Soft Launch by Olivia Carter follows the story of Remy and Karim. Remy is chaos in a bottle. I love this character's energy throughout the book. I could not only picture the character BUT feel him. He is very in your face with his energy for life and the passion he has for entertaining kids on the weekends. During the night he is a bartender. So, this man is BUSY. & with the help of a certain lawn mower friend he goes viral and isn't sure how to handle it. He spirals. With the help of one of his friends who knows Karim these two embark on a beautiful journey of how to navigate 'being famous' and holding space for one another.
Karim stepped out of the spotlight as he was burnt the heck out. Karim helps Remy figure out how to negotiate life with tv appearances, being noticed in town and managing his business of being an entertainer full time. Sometimes we just need a nudge in the right direction and Karim does this for Remy.
Not only does Karim help him with his business but he also fits into Remy's world of chaos by grounding him. Have you ever met someone that speaks a mile a minute when they are nervous or excited? This is Remy. & Karim is the ground cable that anchors Remy down.
These two characters go through a lot. & I am happy to report there is a HEA after much communication and opening up on both characters parts. This story was so beautifully written. I look forward to the next in the series :D
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Karim stepped out of the spotlight as he was burnt the heck out. Karim helps Remy figure out how to negotiate life with tv appearances, being noticed in town and managing his business of being an entertainer full time. Sometimes we just need a nudge in the right direction and Karim does this for Remy.
Not only does Karim help him with his business but he also fits into Remy's world of chaos by grounding him. Have you ever met someone that speaks a mile a minute when they are nervous or excited? This is Remy. & Karim is the ground cable that anchors Remy down.
These two characters go through a lot. & I am happy to report there is a HEA after much communication and opening up on both characters parts. This story was so beautifully written. I look forward to the next in the series :D
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ARC REVIEW
Soft Launch is like a glitter bomb of feelings in the best way. It’s a spicy and sweet story about burnout, unexpected fame, and finding love when you’re too busy spiraling to look for it.
Remy is pure chaotic energy: a children’s party entertainer, lives in glitter and accidentally goes viral while twerking in a Spider-Man suit. Cue panic. His friend brings in social media pro Karim to help manage the fallout.
Karim is the complete opposite calm, quiet, and recovering from burnout himself. He’s happy hiding from the spotlight… until Remy crashes into his life like a very sparkly hurricane. Slowly, their opposites-attract vibe turns into something deeper.
These two balance each other so well. Karim helps Remy slow down and breathe (instead of full-on spiraling), while Remy reminds Karim that joy and a little chaos is something worth leaning into.
Their chemistry is soo good. Karim gives total soft-dom energy, and the spicy scenes? Whew. Hydrate first. I genuinely have no words for this man he’s green flag personified.
And the communication? Impeccable. Miscommunication? Never heard of her. These two actually talk to each other, and it’s such a relief. Like watching two people use their words and mean them. Wild, I know.
Sometimes love shows up in the middle of your mess, wearing a costume and making you laugh when you feel like falling apart. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
ARC REVIEW
Soft Launch is like a glitter bomb of feelings in the best way. It’s a spicy and sweet story about burnout, unexpected fame, and finding love when you’re too busy spiraling to look for it.
Remy is pure chaotic energy: a children’s party entertainer, lives in glitter and accidentally goes viral while twerking in a Spider-Man suit. Cue panic. His friend brings in social media pro Karim to help manage the fallout.
Karim is the complete opposite calm, quiet, and recovering from burnout himself. He’s happy hiding from the spotlight… until Remy crashes into his life like a very sparkly hurricane. Slowly, their opposites-attract vibe turns into something deeper.
These two balance each other so well. Karim helps Remy slow down and breathe (instead of full-on spiraling), while Remy reminds Karim that joy and a little chaos is something worth leaning into.
Their chemistry is soo good. Karim gives total soft-dom energy, and the spicy scenes? Whew. Hydrate first. I genuinely have no words for this man he’s green flag personified.
And the communication? Impeccable. Miscommunication? Never heard of her. These two actually talk to each other, and it’s such a relief. Like watching two people use their words and mean them. Wild, I know.
Sometimes love shows up in the middle of your mess, wearing a costume and making you laugh when you feel like falling apart. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
June 26, 2025
This book had me from the beginning - chaotic glitter-wielding Spider-Guy? yes, please. Sweet, soft, yoga guy? Yes, yes, yes.
This story is tender, sweet, and spicy - just loved it.
Love communication and support? Here you go:
I throughly enjoyed this book!
This story is tender, sweet, and spicy - just loved it.
Love communication and support? Here you go:
I throughly enjoyed this book!
June 24, 2025
I’ll admit, this book was a little different for me—something I might’ve scrolled past on instinct, thinking it wasn’t quite my usual thing. But I was genuinely excited to get the chance to read it, and I’m so glad I did. What unfolded wasn’t just a high-heat romance or a viral fame story—it was a quiet, tender exploration of burnout, healing, and learning to accept love, even when you’re convinced you don’t deserve it.
Unlike Karim, I often struggle to slow down, to breathe, to be present in the moment. This story asked me to do just that. It’s full of softness, intentional connection, and those rare, glitter covered moments that sneak up on you and make you feel deeply seen. 🥰
Sometimes love shows up when you’re not looking for it—in the middle of chaos, wrapped in spandex and sparkle—and it challenges everything you thought you knew about yourself.
I expected drama and heat (and don’t worry, it delivers), but what stayed with me were the quieter truths, the messy vulnerability, and the feeling that maybe, just maybe, it’s okay to want more. That maybe you find love at the right time even when you didn’t know you needed it.
Thank you to the author for giving me the chance to read this as an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Unlike Karim, I often struggle to slow down, to breathe, to be present in the moment. This story asked me to do just that. It’s full of softness, intentional connection, and those rare, glitter covered moments that sneak up on you and make you feel deeply seen. 🥰
Sometimes love shows up when you’re not looking for it—in the middle of chaos, wrapped in spandex and sparkle—and it challenges everything you thought you knew about yourself.
I expected drama and heat (and don’t worry, it delivers), but what stayed with me were the quieter truths, the messy vulnerability, and the feeling that maybe, just maybe, it’s okay to want more. That maybe you find love at the right time even when you didn’t know you needed it.
Thank you to the author for giving me the chance to read this as an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2025
It’s like the universe knows I’m starving for all the melanated queer romances and put Olivia Carter in my author circle as a physical manifestation of that desire! Soft Launch is beautiful, queer, messy, stressy, a little depressy (like me!), and has so much underlying love and heart.
I related to the MMCs all too well! I too am a chaotic ADHDer but also a demi, quietly recovering from (autistic) burnout, slow and intentional mover with an affinity for hot tea. Similar to both of them inside one body, so I have a lot of love to go around. Remy is also basically the gay male version of my real life bestie with ever so slightly more glitter, so you know I wanna adopt him as my own.
Honestly, this book had me at twerking, backflipping, glitter ball throwing Spider Guy with a 5 year old tiny hype woman…and it never let me go. It assuages my need for open door romance while making me appreciate the slow burn vibes. It has the queer found family everyone would benefit from, and it has genuinely big emotions. It’s sexy! It’s a little raw. And it barely registered in my mind as an interracial romance until about halfway through because everything just…IS. Two flawed, incredible men falling for each other and learning how to sit with that within their respective life paths. Beautifully, race was never an issue.
I received a copy of this book directly from the author and this is my honest review. Threads has been the GOAT when it comes to dope book after dope book, baby. The best part of 2025 for me. Cheers to romances that make escaping this world even more enjoyable. 4.5 stars in my eyes and sequins from four years ago that I still find today. I say all that to say: good luck getting rid of all that glitter, Remy! Revised because I read the bonus content and fell deeper in love. 5 stars!
I related to the MMCs all too well! I too am a chaotic ADHDer but also a demi, quietly recovering from (autistic) burnout, slow and intentional mover with an affinity for hot tea. Similar to both of them inside one body, so I have a lot of love to go around. Remy is also basically the gay male version of my real life bestie with ever so slightly more glitter, so you know I wanna adopt him as my own.
Honestly, this book had me at twerking, backflipping, glitter ball throwing Spider Guy with a 5 year old tiny hype woman…and it never let me go. It assuages my need for open door romance while making me appreciate the slow burn vibes. It has the queer found family everyone would benefit from, and it has genuinely big emotions. It’s sexy! It’s a little raw. And it barely registered in my mind as an interracial romance until about halfway through because everything just…IS. Two flawed, incredible men falling for each other and learning how to sit with that within their respective life paths. Beautifully, race was never an issue.
I received a copy of this book directly from the author and this is my honest review. Threads has been the GOAT when it comes to dope book after dope book, baby. The best part of 2025 for me. Cheers to romances that make escaping this world even more enjoyable. 4.5 stars in my eyes and sequins from four years ago that I still find today. I say all that to say: good luck getting rid of all that glitter, Remy! Revised because I read the bonus content and fell deeper in love. 5 stars!
July 29, 2025
This book feels like someone took the wild, messy heart of queer love and wrapped it in glitter, tenderness, and raw truth. It’s beautiful, chaotic, deeply human—a romance that’s not afraid to be sexy, a little “stressy and depressy,” but overflowing with love and care.
Reading this book felt like being seen in all the ways I didn’t expect. Remy, with his ADHD sparkle and loud, glitter-bomb energy, reminds me of the wild, big-hearted bestie we all want to protect and celebrate. Karim, quiet and grounded, with his hot tea mornings and soft steadiness, feels like the kind of person who could slow down your storm just by being near. I see myself in both of them—the restless fire of Remy and the gentle, deliberate healing of Karim.
This story isn’t just about romance; it’s about what happens when two flawed, beautiful men find each other at exactly the right (and wrong) time. It’s about burnout and starting over, about learning that love can be both fireworks and quiet mornings, about found family and the kind of heat that feels as earned as it is explosive.
And oh, the moments! The glitter, the chaos, the open-door intimacy that somehow balances perfectly with the slow-burn ache. The queer found family and the deep, aching vulnerability between them is everything. I love how the loneliness and longing in both of them is present, but not overdrawn. It simply is, woven seamlessly into who they are as people, as lovers, as a couple building something that feels real.
Honestly, the book had me at the “glitter ball-throwing Spider Guy” moment and never let go. It’s sexy and heartfelt, raw and healing, a book that makes you laugh, ache, and—yes—believe in love that feels like home. And maybe makes you believe in magic a little.
If you’re craving a high-heat queer romance with heart, sequins, and soul, this is it. 5 glowing stars. ✨
Reading this book felt like being seen in all the ways I didn’t expect. Remy, with his ADHD sparkle and loud, glitter-bomb energy, reminds me of the wild, big-hearted bestie we all want to protect and celebrate. Karim, quiet and grounded, with his hot tea mornings and soft steadiness, feels like the kind of person who could slow down your storm just by being near. I see myself in both of them—the restless fire of Remy and the gentle, deliberate healing of Karim.
This story isn’t just about romance; it’s about what happens when two flawed, beautiful men find each other at exactly the right (and wrong) time. It’s about burnout and starting over, about learning that love can be both fireworks and quiet mornings, about found family and the kind of heat that feels as earned as it is explosive.
And oh, the moments! The glitter, the chaos, the open-door intimacy that somehow balances perfectly with the slow-burn ache. The queer found family and the deep, aching vulnerability between them is everything. I love how the loneliness and longing in both of them is present, but not overdrawn. It simply is, woven seamlessly into who they are as people, as lovers, as a couple building something that feels real.
Honestly, the book had me at the “glitter ball-throwing Spider Guy” moment and never let go. It’s sexy and heartfelt, raw and healing, a book that makes you laugh, ache, and—yes—believe in love that feels like home. And maybe makes you believe in magic a little.
If you’re craving a high-heat queer romance with heart, sequins, and soul, this is it. 5 glowing stars. ✨
May 21, 2025
ARC review
Soft Launch by
Soft launch is a beautiful story of found family, being yourself, acceptance and self care.
Remy is a total chaotic vibe! His life is full of children's parties, glitter bombs and trying to run his business.
After a video of him in a spiderman costume, twerking at a children's party goes viral he spirals. Not sure how to handle his new social media fame his friend calls in an expert, Karim.
Karim is in recovery mode after burning out. He is a popular social media influencer who is happy in hiding. But when chaos in the form of Remy lands on his doorstep he realises it might be time to put himself back out there.
I absolutely adore Remy and Karim. I love how they compliment each other. Karim helps to ground and calm Remy when he is in spiral mode. But Remy helps Karim see the excitement and possibilities.
Karim gives soft-dom vibes and their spicy scenes are hot in a very Karim way (you'll have to read to see what I mean).
Special shoutout to Karim's mum who is a total goddess. Loved her!!!
Soft Launch by
Soft launch is a beautiful story of found family, being yourself, acceptance and self care.
Remy is a total chaotic vibe! His life is full of children's parties, glitter bombs and trying to run his business.
After a video of him in a spiderman costume, twerking at a children's party goes viral he spirals. Not sure how to handle his new social media fame his friend calls in an expert, Karim.
Karim is in recovery mode after burning out. He is a popular social media influencer who is happy in hiding. But when chaos in the form of Remy lands on his doorstep he realises it might be time to put himself back out there.
I absolutely adore Remy and Karim. I love how they compliment each other. Karim helps to ground and calm Remy when he is in spiral mode. But Remy helps Karim see the excitement and possibilities.
Karim gives soft-dom vibes and their spicy scenes are hot in a very Karim way (you'll have to read to see what I mean).
Special shoutout to Karim's mum who is a total goddess. Loved her!!!
June 24, 2025
I was hooked from the very first chapter. Diving deep into fear, anxiety, burn out, depression, friendship, and love. This was a fantastic debut that has me beyond excited for whatever comes next.
Remy had my side hurting so much. I loved his chaos, his glitter bombs, his off brand Spider-Man suit, and his inner monologues about Karim’s adam’s apple. His energy was infectious and I found myself smiling so many times.
Karim was the calm to Remy’s chaos. He ground him in a way no one could. I loved how he didn’t see Remy as too much. My heart broke for him as he dealt with his burn out. But despite what he was going through, he was there for his friends. He had a beautiful soul. These two were honestly perfect for each other.
I completely adored the side characters too. Especially Karim’s mom, who’s been added to my favorite book moms list. And Elle and Noam had me in a chokehold.
I’m super excited for book two.
I received an advanced copy and this is my voluntary review.
Remy had my side hurting so much. I loved his chaos, his glitter bombs, his off brand Spider-Man suit, and his inner monologues about Karim’s adam’s apple. His energy was infectious and I found myself smiling so many times.
Karim was the calm to Remy’s chaos. He ground him in a way no one could. I loved how he didn’t see Remy as too much. My heart broke for him as he dealt with his burn out. But despite what he was going through, he was there for his friends. He had a beautiful soul. These two were honestly perfect for each other.
I completely adored the side characters too. Especially Karim’s mom, who’s been added to my favorite book moms list. And Elle and Noam had me in a chokehold.
I’m super excited for book two.
I received an advanced copy and this is my voluntary review.
June 22, 2025
Opposites Attract in the best way in this book. You have Remy, a twerking in spider-guy costumes children’s entertainer, and Karim, a (on sabbatical) social media wellness guru known for meditations and breath work.
I loved Remy’s chaotic, glitter covered self and Karim’s soft dom energy. I found Karim harder to relate to personally because he’s very social media & zen coded and that’s just not me. Some of the storyline was lost on me just because it’s not what I’m really familiar with or into BUT the love story and the found family aspect was great!
Olivia truly created such a supportive cast of characters for Karim and Remy. You could really feel the love when reading.
I thought this was overall a cute and sweet book and I would recommend it to others!
I loved Remy’s chaotic, glitter covered self and Karim’s soft dom energy. I found Karim harder to relate to personally because he’s very social media & zen coded and that’s just not me. Some of the storyline was lost on me just because it’s not what I’m really familiar with or into BUT the love story and the found family aspect was great!
Olivia truly created such a supportive cast of characters for Karim and Remy. You could really feel the love when reading.
I thought this was overall a cute and sweet book and I would recommend it to others!
May 19, 2025
The Shining Chaos
"The way he lit up the room without even meaning to, how he carried his chaos like it was a gift instead of something to be apologized for."
Remy and Karim were a delightful combination of glitter and grief. They evolve and grow side by side. Supporting each other, loving each other and always with incredible tenderness. We follow them being sometimes "too much. And yet... I didn't want less".
Their journey was sweet, full of questioning, doubts but a certain love that resonates in us. Reading them falling in love was like watching a puzzle being complete pieces by pieces.
This book was like one of Karim hug for my heart.
"The way he lit up the room without even meaning to, how he carried his chaos like it was a gift instead of something to be apologized for."
Remy and Karim were a delightful combination of glitter and grief. They evolve and grow side by side. Supporting each other, loving each other and always with incredible tenderness. We follow them being sometimes "too much. And yet... I didn't want less".
Their journey was sweet, full of questioning, doubts but a certain love that resonates in us. Reading them falling in love was like watching a puzzle being complete pieces by pieces.
This book was like one of Karim hug for my heart.
June 27, 2025
ARC Review:
I really enjoyed this one. Since the first chapter I completely adored Remy. He’s adorable, quirky and funny. The poor guy thinks he can be too much because of his ADHD. And you just can’t help in wanting to hold him and give him the biggest hug. Karim is just so patient with him and he has a way of calming Remy down.
Karim is a former influencer who was asked to help Remy’s unexpected social media and business fame. Karim has his own struggles with social media since he had to stepped down when it became too much. Both go through some things to become better versions of themselves to be able to completely be together without hurting each other.
I really enjoyed this one. Since the first chapter I completely adored Remy. He’s adorable, quirky and funny. The poor guy thinks he can be too much because of his ADHD. And you just can’t help in wanting to hold him and give him the biggest hug. Karim is just so patient with him and he has a way of calming Remy down.
Karim is a former influencer who was asked to help Remy’s unexpected social media and business fame. Karim has his own struggles with social media since he had to stepped down when it became too much. Both go through some things to become better versions of themselves to be able to completely be together without hurting each other.
Did Not Finish
June 27, 2025In the beginning I was super charmed by these characters and their personalities. Remy has a lot of chaotic energy and I like how Karim is a more steady, stoic person to balance out. I thought it was interesting to get a look behind the curtain on what it’s like to go viral. But the story moves too slowly for me and there isn’t any strong tension or conflict. There is a lot more narrative compared to dialogue and I prefer more dialogue. Pages would go by before anyone said anything. I like more spoken interactions vs long descriptions. Your mileage may vary of course.
June 28, 2025
This book was good! It was different from anything I've read before, so it was a nice little break from what I usually read. The book is about a glitter covered unicorn of a man and a quiet, Zen and slightly lost former influencer. I liked the storyline and the non-binary representation, however I will admit that I struggled a little to connect with Karim and feel that because of that, my reading experience was hindered a little. Still a great read though and I LOVE Remy, little glitter chaos gremlin lol
June 19, 2025
I absolutely loved Remy and Karim!!!
Their chemistry is amazing and their opposite energy just makes their relationship so amazing and they complete each other in the best way.
I absolutely loved the secondary characters they all contributed to the story.
If you are looking for strong found family vibes and opposites attract I suggest you read this book!!
Thank you for the eARC in exchange for an honest review 🫶🏻
Their chemistry is amazing and their opposite energy just makes their relationship so amazing and they complete each other in the best way.
I absolutely loved the secondary characters they all contributed to the story.
If you are looking for strong found family vibes and opposites attract I suggest you read this book!!
Thank you for the eARC in exchange for an honest review 🫶🏻
May 18, 2026
Remy is in need of some calm and guidance, and Karim is in need of a new purpose.
So joining forces seems like a good proposition. Not always an easy one, but one that could bring a beautiful future.
Karim has learned the hard way about the fickleness of the online world. Those who seem to care only really do so if you are relevant. It’s time to build a true community and get back his sense of self.
Together, they help each other curate their lives into something meaningful.
So joining forces seems like a good proposition. Not always an easy one, but one that could bring a beautiful future.
Karim has learned the hard way about the fickleness of the online world. Those who seem to care only really do so if you are relevant. It’s time to build a true community and get back his sense of self.
Together, they help each other curate their lives into something meaningful.
June 18, 2025
An ARC review
This book hurt me in my heart in all of the best ways.
Great characters, beautiful interior and emotional narratives, and some hot men doing hot things :)
It's got everything I love from MM romance plus a character recovering from burnout and trying to find softness in the day-to-day that gave me tingles in my chesty bits.
Can't wait to see what's next!
This book hurt me in my heart in all of the best ways.
Great characters, beautiful interior and emotional narratives, and some hot men doing hot things :)
It's got everything I love from MM romance plus a character recovering from burnout and trying to find softness in the day-to-day that gave me tingles in my chesty bits.
Can't wait to see what's next!
July 13, 2025
3.5 stars rounded to 4
This was a quick and easy, opposites attract, MM romance read. The characters Remy and Karim were enjoyable to get to know. Remy is chaotic and loud and unapologetically the human form of a glitter bomb (who also loves glitter bombs), while Karim is quiet and introspective. There is MH rep in this story and soft dom themes.
I would be interested in reading about the other characters in the Zeta universe to round out the supporting characters.
Thank you to the author for gifting me this book. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a quick and easy, opposites attract, MM romance read. The characters Remy and Karim were enjoyable to get to know. Remy is chaotic and loud and unapologetically the human form of a glitter bomb (who also loves glitter bombs), while Karim is quiet and introspective. There is MH rep in this story and soft dom themes.
I would be interested in reading about the other characters in the Zeta universe to round out the supporting characters.
Thank you to the author for gifting me this book. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 13, 2025
The prose and these characters drew me in immediately. And that lasted most of the way through, just the last few chapters cry out for a better edit. Ah well, still worth the skim through the wordy stuff with some repeated actions. Loved the characters, loved the dynamics, loved the resolutions. Enjoyed some of the spice, skimmed the rest, as per my usual. :)
June 26, 2025
Sweet and spicy
Amazing debut novel. Remy and Karim are such a sweet couple and I love how they balance each other out.
I am looking forward to the next book and I highly recommend you read this one.
Amazing debut novel. Remy and Karim are such a sweet couple and I love how they balance each other out.
I am looking forward to the next book and I highly recommend you read this one.
June 10, 2025
ARC REVIEW
4.5/5
This is by far the funniest book I've read this year so far. I started this on the plane and only got through 1 chapter before I had to stop because I was laughing so much and strangers were looking at me and I started to feel self-conscious 🙃
I honestly don't even know where to start because my thoughts are all over the place and it's hard to just focus on one thing at a time 😂
Remy is such a ray of sunshine who lives in absolute chaos. After a video goes viral of him twerking in a spider-guy suit, he needs help in managing his social media life. Enter Karim.
Karim has been unplugged from social media after experiencing burnout. But when chaotic Remy comes seeking help, Karim is drawn to him and agrees to help, no matter how much he wants to stay out of the spotlight.
Remy and Karim are literally like ying and yang. Remy's energy helps bring Karim back to life and Karim's calming presence helps Remy feel grounded.
But this story is so much more than 2 people falling for each other. It's about the world of being online, creator burnout, found family, creating safe spaces and learning to just be present. It's about finding that balance in life that works for you.
I adored everything about this book and can't wait for the next in the series.
🌶🌶.75
What to expect:
MM romance
LGBTQIA+
grumpy x sunshine
ADHD rep
soft dom
twerking spiderman
mental health rep
slow burn with high heat
glitter chaos
found family
4.5/5
This is by far the funniest book I've read this year so far. I started this on the plane and only got through 1 chapter before I had to stop because I was laughing so much and strangers were looking at me and I started to feel self-conscious 🙃
I honestly don't even know where to start because my thoughts are all over the place and it's hard to just focus on one thing at a time 😂
Remy is such a ray of sunshine who lives in absolute chaos. After a video goes viral of him twerking in a spider-guy suit, he needs help in managing his social media life. Enter Karim.
Karim has been unplugged from social media after experiencing burnout. But when chaotic Remy comes seeking help, Karim is drawn to him and agrees to help, no matter how much he wants to stay out of the spotlight.
Remy and Karim are literally like ying and yang. Remy's energy helps bring Karim back to life and Karim's calming presence helps Remy feel grounded.
But this story is so much more than 2 people falling for each other. It's about the world of being online, creator burnout, found family, creating safe spaces and learning to just be present. It's about finding that balance in life that works for you.
I adored everything about this book and can't wait for the next in the series.
🌶🌶.75
What to expect:
MM romance
LGBTQIA+
grumpy x sunshine
ADHD rep
soft dom
twerking spiderman
mental health rep
slow burn with high heat
glitter chaos
found family
June 13, 2025
Soft Launch is a delightful opposites-attract romance featuring the wonderfully chaotic Remy—a children’s party entertainer with a heart full of glitter—and Karim, a former wellness coach who stepped away from his online platform after burnout took its toll.
When Remy unexpectedly goes viral, a mutual friend introduces him to Karim, hoping he can help Remy navigate the whirlwind of sudden fame. Though hesitant at first, Karim is quickly drawn in by Remy’s radiant, sunshine-filled energy.
Their relationship unfolds with sweetness and sincerity, peppered with a few bumps along the way as their contrasting personalities clash and complement each other in equal measure.
The spice? Chef’s kiss. Karim’s calm, dominant presence is the perfect match for Remy’s vibrant, eager energy, and their chemistry is both tender and electric.
As someone who experiences anxiety, I especially appreciated how Karim helped Remy ground himself through breathing techniques. I even found myself breathing more slowly while reading—an unexpected and lovely side effect.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a heartfelt, spicy, and emotionally resonant read.
Rating: 4⭐️
Spice: 3🌶
When Remy unexpectedly goes viral, a mutual friend introduces him to Karim, hoping he can help Remy navigate the whirlwind of sudden fame. Though hesitant at first, Karim is quickly drawn in by Remy’s radiant, sunshine-filled energy.
Their relationship unfolds with sweetness and sincerity, peppered with a few bumps along the way as their contrasting personalities clash and complement each other in equal measure.
The spice? Chef’s kiss. Karim’s calm, dominant presence is the perfect match for Remy’s vibrant, eager energy, and their chemistry is both tender and electric.
As someone who experiences anxiety, I especially appreciated how Karim helped Remy ground himself through breathing techniques. I even found myself breathing more slowly while reading—an unexpected and lovely side effect.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a heartfelt, spicy, and emotionally resonant read.
Rating: 4⭐️
Spice: 3🌶
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