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Big & Beautiful #5
Fat & Fine
After her ex insults her and breaks up with her, Sam is determined to show him exactly what he missed out on. Sam's hurt, but Sam's no push over. She's equally mad, too. And determined to make him eat his words.
Questioning if any man will ever look at her like she's beautiful, Sam joins a local gym. She's led around by Brady, the gym's owner, and is more than a little intimidated by him. His intensity scares her, but something about him intrigues her more than she cares to admit.
When Brady defends Sam and tells her she's beautiful, she struggles to accept his words.
As Sam works to figure out who she is, and what she really wants to do with her career and life, Brady's strong and silent presence builds her confidence. Until Brady dismisses her, making her think he's just as bad as her ex. And that she'll never find someone who truly cares for her.
Questioning if any man will ever look at her like she's beautiful, Sam joins a local gym. She's led around by Brady, the gym's owner, and is more than a little intimidated by him. His intensity scares her, but something about him intrigues her more than she cares to admit.
When Brady defends Sam and tells her she's beautiful, she struggles to accept his words.
As Sam works to figure out who she is, and what she really wants to do with her career and life, Brady's strong and silent presence builds her confidence. Until Brady dismisses her, making her think he's just as bad as her ex. And that she'll never find someone who truly cares for her.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2016
300 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
About the author
Mary E. Thompson
96 books364 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling Author Mary E Thompson spent most of her childhood wishing she had a few less curves. She hid in the pages of books because her favorite characters never cared what size her clothes were. Now, neither does Mary, and she writes stories that celebrate women like her. Real women who have curves, chase dreams, and find love, because we should all be happy, no matter our dress size.
Mary spends her non-writing time with her husband and two kids, watching too much TV, cheering for her hometown football team (Go Bills!), and hiding chocolate from her family.
Mary spends her non-writing time with her husband and two kids, watching too much TV, cheering for her hometown football team (Go Bills!), and hiding chocolate from her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 6, 2022
What a waste of time and money! I am sick to death of plus sized main characters who hate themselves and have zero confidence. I thought this book would be different because there is nothing wrong with saying the word fat. It’s fact. Let’s undemonize it! Saying you’re fat isn’t equating it to being ugly or dumb or less than in anyway. You can be fat/overweight and still want to be healthy and in fact be healthy. And Brady… wtf. These characters (the whole cast) are supposed to be 30? The dialogue was so sad and pathetic!!
January 24, 2018
I’d received a newsletter from this author inviting me to request any of her books as a mobi.file and since it had been my birthday how could I refuse. The following is my honest opinion for the book I’d selected.
With the variety of books and series of books Ms. Mary E. Thompson has produced I felt a little like a child of the 1950’s again with a dollar to spend on candy. And after perusing all of the titles I finally deciding on Book 5 of her Big & Beautiful Series – “Fat & Fine.”
The reason for this I hate to admit is that I’m about 5’ 8” and currently weigh about 225 lbs. The only difference between me and the protagonist in this book, Sam, is that after 24 years of marriage my dear OH still loves me for who I am.
This is contrary to what Sam has just endure with her now ex who has first insulted her then had decided to end their relationship. Fortunately, her ex failed to comprehend what he’s missing not having a BBW has his soulmate, besides having a lot more to love. Like other women like her, she’s strong-willed and resolute in teaching the cad what he’s missing not having her around and doing whatever it takes to make this happen.
The only way Sam can think of changing the image men have of her is by going to a gym, and it’s at a gym where she’s somewhat captivated by its owner, Brady, whose passion is intimidating her, yet at the same time it fascinates her more than she’s even willing to confess to herself.
Carrying around the baggage of her previous relationships with men and her looking the way she does, Sam can’t seem to accept Brady’s words when he tells her she’s basically gorgeous. If you were like Sam, would you readily accept a compliment like that, then you’ll know why she would be in a state of disbelief.
Naturally, hearing stuff like this can help inflate one’s ego and self-assurance, as well as what you want to do with one’s life going forwards. But be warned, all of sudden you can wind up having the rug pulled from under you, like Sam, when Brady decides to reject her, leaving her to once again wonder if she’ll ever find the HEA she desires to have in her life. Is there a possibility these two will get by the secrets which are separately them? I’m not saying.
For having given me a somewhat emotional ride, making me glad I’ve got the relationship I have, I’ve given Ms. Thompson 5 STARS.
With the variety of books and series of books Ms. Mary E. Thompson has produced I felt a little like a child of the 1950’s again with a dollar to spend on candy. And after perusing all of the titles I finally deciding on Book 5 of her Big & Beautiful Series – “Fat & Fine.”
The reason for this I hate to admit is that I’m about 5’ 8” and currently weigh about 225 lbs. The only difference between me and the protagonist in this book, Sam, is that after 24 years of marriage my dear OH still loves me for who I am.
This is contrary to what Sam has just endure with her now ex who has first insulted her then had decided to end their relationship. Fortunately, her ex failed to comprehend what he’s missing not having a BBW has his soulmate, besides having a lot more to love. Like other women like her, she’s strong-willed and resolute in teaching the cad what he’s missing not having her around and doing whatever it takes to make this happen.
The only way Sam can think of changing the image men have of her is by going to a gym, and it’s at a gym where she’s somewhat captivated by its owner, Brady, whose passion is intimidating her, yet at the same time it fascinates her more than she’s even willing to confess to herself.
Carrying around the baggage of her previous relationships with men and her looking the way she does, Sam can’t seem to accept Brady’s words when he tells her she’s basically gorgeous. If you were like Sam, would you readily accept a compliment like that, then you’ll know why she would be in a state of disbelief.
Naturally, hearing stuff like this can help inflate one’s ego and self-assurance, as well as what you want to do with one’s life going forwards. But be warned, all of sudden you can wind up having the rug pulled from under you, like Sam, when Brady decides to reject her, leaving her to once again wonder if she’ll ever find the HEA she desires to have in her life. Is there a possibility these two will get by the secrets which are separately them? I’m not saying.
For having given me a somewhat emotional ride, making me glad I’ve got the relationship I have, I’ve given Ms. Thompson 5 STARS.
January 22, 2025
Needs an editor
This story had potential but it was lost in a sea of bad spelling, terrible punctuation and grammar and a FMC who was unlikeable. It desperately needs an editor to reign in some of the clichés and repetitive statements.
Sam is an overweight photographer whose self image issues are not helped by her boyfriend dumping her over her weight, her mother's constant disparaging and a society that judges based on looks.
Which is a shame because Sam doesn't have much of a personality to fall back on, she's obsessed with appearances and is jealous of everyone around her. She resents her friends' happiness and success and uses her self-esteem issues to push people away as well as insult them.
Her instant attraction to Brady is entirely based on looks and she continually tries to push him to lose control, despite his obvious and EXPLICIT request that she not.
It is patently clear that Brady has some trauma and Sam doesn't have the patience to work through it.
She doesn't think Brady will stay with her (tbh, I wouldn't stay with her although not because of her weight) and so she constantly tries to hold herself back from him whilst simultaneously criticizing him for doing the same.
There were so many instances where Sam said or did something only to do a complete 180 a few moments later. One example is when she was talking to a worker at the gym and made it clear she didn't want to hang out with them outside of the gym. Only a few chapters later she bemoans that the third act breakup might interfere with her gym friendship and she asks this worker to hang out.
I wanted to see how things ended up with Brady but in all honesty I won't be reading any more of the series. It reads like an unedited wattpad novel.
This story had potential but it was lost in a sea of bad spelling, terrible punctuation and grammar and a FMC who was unlikeable. It desperately needs an editor to reign in some of the clichés and repetitive statements.
Sam is an overweight photographer whose self image issues are not helped by her boyfriend dumping her over her weight, her mother's constant disparaging and a society that judges based on looks.
Which is a shame because Sam doesn't have much of a personality to fall back on, she's obsessed with appearances and is jealous of everyone around her. She resents her friends' happiness and success and uses her self-esteem issues to push people away as well as insult them.
Her instant attraction to Brady is entirely based on looks and she continually tries to push him to lose control, despite his obvious and EXPLICIT request that she not.
It is patently clear that Brady has some trauma and Sam doesn't have the patience to work through it.
She doesn't think Brady will stay with her (tbh, I wouldn't stay with her although not because of her weight) and so she constantly tries to hold herself back from him whilst simultaneously criticizing him for doing the same.
There were so many instances where Sam said or did something only to do a complete 180 a few moments later. One example is when she was talking to a worker at the gym and made it clear she didn't want to hang out with them outside of the gym. Only a few chapters later she bemoans that the third act breakup might interfere with her gym friendship and she asks this worker to hang out.
I wanted to see how things ended up with Brady but in all honesty I won't be reading any more of the series. It reads like an unedited wattpad novel.
January 18, 2025
3.75 stars.
The book starts off with the h getting dumped after dating a guy
for two months. She's a full figured size 20 and is 29 years old.
She owns her own photography studio and mainly takes pics for
brides, which depressed her because she didn't think she'd ever
be one because of her weight. She also did shoots for families,
kids and their parents. She loved those the most because of the
imperfection of the families.
She asked her friend about the gym her friend goes to. She wants
to lose weight in case she decides to give the guy that just broke
up with her a second chance.
The H is the gym owner and is very intense. He's quiet and likes
order. According to his employees, he's a really good boss.
Overall, the story was good. I liked it enough to read once. Of course there was the predictable break up scene near the end but it didn't bother me as much this time, for some reason. It's one of my biggest pet peeves.
The book starts off with the h getting dumped after dating a guy
for two months. She's a full figured size 20 and is 29 years old.
She owns her own photography studio and mainly takes pics for
brides, which depressed her because she didn't think she'd ever
be one because of her weight. She also did shoots for families,
kids and their parents. She loved those the most because of the
imperfection of the families.
She asked her friend about the gym her friend goes to. She wants
to lose weight in case she decides to give the guy that just broke
up with her a second chance.
The H is the gym owner and is very intense. He's quiet and likes
order. According to his employees, he's a really good boss.
Overall, the story was good. I liked it enough to read once. Of course there was the predictable break up scene near the end but it didn't bother me as much this time, for some reason. It's one of my biggest pet peeves.
March 5, 2022
A true man can see beyond the outer skin and appreciate the whole person!
I enjoyed reading this book and could relate in so many ways! The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because some bits are a bit repetitive and drawn out but that didn’t detract from my enjoyment of reading it.
Like it or not, many women chastise themselves and I for one am surprised my husband is still with me after all the negativity about myself that I came with but he’s proof, just like Brady, that some men - the good ones - can see passed what we feel about ourselves and love us for the person they truly see. It also highlights that we all have our insecurities, even super fit people….. we all have a story and I enjoyed reading Sam and Brady’s. I would recommend - raw, emotional and raunchy at times!
I enjoyed reading this book and could relate in so many ways! The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because some bits are a bit repetitive and drawn out but that didn’t detract from my enjoyment of reading it.
Like it or not, many women chastise themselves and I for one am surprised my husband is still with me after all the negativity about myself that I came with but he’s proof, just like Brady, that some men - the good ones - can see passed what we feel about ourselves and love us for the person they truly see. It also highlights that we all have our insecurities, even super fit people….. we all have a story and I enjoyed reading Sam and Brady’s. I would recommend - raw, emotional and raunchy at times!
November 10, 2019
Decent enough
In most bbw books, our heroin self bashes, self loathes, and self blames for what happened to her last relationship, her body and unsupportive family but usually not for almost the entire book! Then our hero has a secret that he doesn't want to share making our heroin continue to question herself. It became annoying and tiresome. The story was okay, but it could've been better with less self doubt and less control obsessed boyfriend. Also, maybe some of the scenes could've been left out of shortened. Why didn't I just stop reading? Well, I can't. I'm one of those people who just has to finish the book. As long as you're not bothered by drawn out self pity, then you'll enjoy this book.
In most bbw books, our heroin self bashes, self loathes, and self blames for what happened to her last relationship, her body and unsupportive family but usually not for almost the entire book! Then our hero has a secret that he doesn't want to share making our heroin continue to question herself. It became annoying and tiresome. The story was okay, but it could've been better with less self doubt and less control obsessed boyfriend. Also, maybe some of the scenes could've been left out of shortened. Why didn't I just stop reading? Well, I can't. I'm one of those people who just has to finish the book. As long as you're not bothered by drawn out self pity, then you'll enjoy this book.
February 17, 2022
Rough read
I have never given a 1 star review before. But I almost didn't finish this book, because of Sam's constant whining and whoa is me preamble. Oh for God's sake could she be more of a victim. I get she was hurt by what her jerk of an ex said, but to constantly berate herself that she's not good enough for Brady was just too much. It wasn't 2 or 3 times either, but throughout the book. And not standing up to her mother was another sore spot to me. What mother does that????
It will be a while (if I even do try) another book by this author again and this was my first book of hers too.
Not to me.
I have never given a 1 star review before. But I almost didn't finish this book, because of Sam's constant whining and whoa is me preamble. Oh for God's sake could she be more of a victim. I get she was hurt by what her jerk of an ex said, but to constantly berate herself that she's not good enough for Brady was just too much. It wasn't 2 or 3 times either, but throughout the book. And not standing up to her mother was another sore spot to me. What mother does that????
It will be a while (if I even do try) another book by this author again and this was my first book of hers too.
Not to me.
January 28, 2025
It's Okay
The title and the description for this book were better than the story, to me. It's a good idea for a story, with two traumatized opposites coming together. However, it was just too drawn out for such a short story. It might have read better with more of the other characters' points of view in the mix, seeing as the female main character is just too depressing throughout the story. Also, it needs editing. Overall it's a okay read, but not a book that I'd recommend buying.
The title and the description for this book were better than the story, to me. It's a good idea for a story, with two traumatized opposites coming together. However, it was just too drawn out for such a short story. It might have read better with more of the other characters' points of view in the mix, seeing as the female main character is just too depressing throughout the story. Also, it needs editing. Overall it's a okay read, but not a book that I'd recommend buying.
July 14, 2020
This book was hard to get through. The parts between the 2 main characters were pretty decent, but there was alot of the girl just going through her life and being very negative and depressing.. i like realism in my storybook characters very much, but its hard to hang out w people that have nothing good to say about themselves. Its daunting, when you feel like you're constantly trying to talk someone up to themselves.. lol... i didn't really enjoy her so much. I may try another in this series.
July 12, 2020
I loved this couple. They were dealing with their relationship and their really terrible pasts yet they came across as normal. They did not play games and Sam was not putting Brady through the wringer because of her hang ups. We all want someone who will stand with us and for us and this couple made me believe in their love. Nice!
July 31, 2020
Fat&Fine
I found this storyline not as appeal as the previous novels. Don't get me wrong, I read a lot and find storyline become same old boring . . . find the girl or guy, drama, than happiness, maybe forever after. This always makes up the storyline. But now we make the woman big and beautiful. I want more .
I found this storyline not as appeal as the previous novels. Don't get me wrong, I read a lot and find storyline become same old boring . . . find the girl or guy, drama, than happiness, maybe forever after. This always makes up the storyline. But now we make the woman big and beautiful. I want more .
December 7, 2024
This has been my favorite book of this series so far. How the two main characters were there for each other was wonderful. I felt so bad for Addi at the beginning of the book bc of the reason her ex dumped her. Also liked this book bc it showed even gorgeous tough men can be insecure too. Absolutely loved Brady!
January 2, 2025
I love seeing curvy girls have true romance stories written about them that show both their insecurities and that they are amazing human beings. This story accomplishes that. There were a few places that felt awkward in the story and the typos in the book really bothered me. Still, I loved getting to know Sam and Brady. It was a fun, quick read.
January 6, 2025
cute
This was a cute book. I disliked the FMC and her lack of confidence. I wanted to read a book about someone who was plus sized, like myself, and loved the skin their in. But I see how all the self talk could be healing for others. Especially since Brady was so keen on praising Sam and every single curve her body had to offer. Overall a steamy love story with a HEA.
This was a cute book. I disliked the FMC and her lack of confidence. I wanted to read a book about someone who was plus sized, like myself, and loved the skin their in. But I see how all the self talk could be healing for others. Especially since Brady was so keen on praising Sam and every single curve her body had to offer. Overall a steamy love story with a HEA.
March 17, 2025
This was horribly written and annoying to read with too many grammatical errors - surprised I finished it. The only reason I rated it more than one ⭐️ star is because the cringe-worthy, self deprecating self talk was so over the top it made me pause and reflect on my own thoughts about myself and others… and the fact that I need to change that.
May 7, 2020
A great BBW love story that real life BBW can relate to in a lot of ways. I'm loving the whole series! All the women in the series are different sizes. Not a lot of s*x but a lot of love, friendship, emotions and passion.
July 9, 2020
Just wow
This is the first book of the series I have read and boy I wasn’t disappointed I couldn’t put the book down and being a bigger lady it was lovely to read about real sized women and not the skinny ones so thank you
This is the first book of the series I have read and boy I wasn’t disappointed I couldn’t put the book down and being a bigger lady it was lovely to read about real sized women and not the skinny ones so thank you
July 13, 2020
Absolutely loved it
Oh my oh my I just couldnt I uy this book down. Sam is a woman after my own heart. And Brady well where can I get one like him? This book was fabulous and it should be savored like a glass of fine whiskey. So go ahead and enjoy yourself.
Oh my oh my I just couldnt I uy this book down. Sam is a woman after my own heart. And Brady well where can I get one like him? This book was fabulous and it should be savored like a glass of fine whiskey. So go ahead and enjoy yourself.
April 13, 2021
This series was so good I could not put it down and I rushed to get the entire series...all 13 books of them. You will absolutely love every single character in the book, you will laugh out loud through and just shake your head at the antics of these fearless women. No spoilers, sorry. Go on, hurry don’t hesitate, these are just to damn good to pass up. My review will be the same for all 12 books cuz they are all amazing!
July 25, 2021
Sam is a photographer but when her boyfriend dumps her with the parting lines of he's ashamed and grossed out about how fat she is, Sam joins the local gym, where boy oh boy does it change her life. Brady.....
February 10, 2022
Loved it!
Loved the story. Loved that it was about a larger woman who finds a man who loves every inch of her. Could use a proofreader, but I didn't let that pull me out of the story for too long.
Loved the story. Loved that it was about a larger woman who finds a man who loves every inch of her. Could use a proofreader, but I didn't let that pull me out of the story for too long.
May 18, 2022
Had a hard time finishing this book as I was tired of the lack of confidence in the MC. and the bitterness and jealousy towards her best friend?? Not a best friend then as far as I’m concerned. You should be happy for them no matter what your circumstances are. Found the story to shallow.
January 14, 2023
It was a good book. I am impressed with the "bigger lead romance", as you don't really see those very often. Was impressed by the issues that were shown in the book and how the characters developed. Not something I would normally read! Well done!
January 31, 2023
True to life from a fellow chubby woman
This book really is for anyone who does not love themselves. How can we expect someone else to love us if we can't love ourselves. Letting others define your self worth is emotionally destructive.
This book really is for anyone who does not love themselves. How can we expect someone else to love us if we can't love ourselves. Letting others define your self worth is emotionally destructive.
December 29, 2024
What a great book
I loved this book. It even brought me to tears (so if you're like me, make sure to have plenty of tissues on hand). As a fluffy girl myself, who has her own Brady for over 25 years, I can totally relate to the main character. I highly recommend this book.
I loved this book. It even brought me to tears (so if you're like me, make sure to have plenty of tissues on hand). As a fluffy girl myself, who has her own Brady for over 25 years, I can totally relate to the main character. I highly recommend this book.
January 8, 2025
Fat & Fine by Mary E. Thompson
Love the strong chemistry between Sam & her man. The story was about being true to yourself in shape and size. To be full of love and acceptance of who or whatever is around you. Thank you for a book worthwhile to read.
Love the strong chemistry between Sam & her man. The story was about being true to yourself in shape and size. To be full of love and acceptance of who or whatever is around you. Thank you for a book worthwhile to read.
January 11, 2025
Ann H
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The characters were relatable, and the topic covered well. We all have issues, and being able to work through them with someone who loves you is the best.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The characters were relatable, and the topic covered well. We all have issues, and being able to work through them with someone who loves you is the best.
February 19, 2025
Pretty good
This was a nice read. I liked that had their girls nights sounds fun. It was great that the guys all got along. It was nice that Sam finally found someone that truly cared for her and about her feelings.
This was a nice read. I liked that had their girls nights sounds fun. It was great that the guys all got along. It was nice that Sam finally found someone that truly cared for her and about her feelings.
October 25, 2018
Fat and fine
This series is great I'm going to buy everyone of them i have a few . Mary's a great 2485534 you won't want to put this down.Thank you
This series is great I'm going to buy everyone of them i have a few . Mary's a great 2485534 you won't want to put this down.Thank you
January 12, 2020
Couldn't put it down!
Loved it. Read it in one sitting. Lots of feels. I admit I teared up a couple of times. Loved every minute. Can't wait to dive into Riley's book next
Loved it. Read it in one sitting. Lots of feels. I admit I teared up a couple of times. Loved every minute. Can't wait to dive into Riley's book next
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews