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Sassy Boyz #1
Fierce & Fabulous
The first in a scorching new male/male series by Elizabeth Varlet. Behind the Sassy Boyz's seductive smiles and sinful dance moves are desires that will leave readers breathless.
Fitch Donovan never thought a lap dance could change his life, but from the moment the gorgeous dancer's lips touch his, his world comes screeching to a halt. No matter how hard he tries, he can't shake the desire that rocks him to his core. He's longed for this passion all his life—he just never dreamed he'd find it with another man.
Sharing a soul-shaking kiss with a straight boy is the kind of drama Ansel Becke just doesn't need. Spotlights aren't made for two and Ansel prefers to keep things on a one-night-only basis. So when Fitch shows up asking for an encore, Ansel knows he should send his gorgeous ass packing.
Though Ansel tries to pretend that what's between him and Fitch is far from fabulous, there's something about the big, burly contractor that makes Ansel's world sparkle in a way no amount of glitter ever could. And Fitch will do whatever it takes to convince Ansel that when the thing you need most in the world falls right into your lap, you'd be a fool to let it go.
Fitch Donovan never thought a lap dance could change his life, but from the moment the gorgeous dancer's lips touch his, his world comes screeching to a halt. No matter how hard he tries, he can't shake the desire that rocks him to his core. He's longed for this passion all his life—he just never dreamed he'd find it with another man.
Sharing a soul-shaking kiss with a straight boy is the kind of drama Ansel Becke just doesn't need. Spotlights aren't made for two and Ansel prefers to keep things on a one-night-only basis. So when Fitch shows up asking for an encore, Ansel knows he should send his gorgeous ass packing.
Though Ansel tries to pretend that what's between him and Fitch is far from fabulous, there's something about the big, burly contractor that makes Ansel's world sparkle in a way no amount of glitter ever could. And Fitch will do whatever it takes to convince Ansel that when the thing you need most in the world falls right into your lap, you'd be a fool to let it go.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2016
54 people are currently reading
1646 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Varlet
8 books226 followersElizabeth Varlet is a nerd at heart and spends way too many hours binging on episodes of her favorite television shows. If you love Doctor Who, Supernatural, Stargate, Star Trek, Sherlock, or Firefly you are already her best friend.
She started writing stories in high school and hasn’t stopped. Now, her characters like to get frisky under the covers – or the stars, they’re not picky. She’s a thirty-something, newly married, world traveler who devours books like they were candy.
To contact Elizabeth, send her an email to elizabethvarlet@gmail.com. Or follow her on any of her social media sites.
She started writing stories in high school and hasn’t stopped. Now, her characters like to get frisky under the covers – or the stars, they’re not picky. She’s a thirty-something, newly married, world traveler who devours books like they were candy.
To contact Elizabeth, send her an email to elizabethvarlet@gmail.com. Or follow her on any of her social media sites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 351 reviews
May 22, 2016
~4.5~
I heart the Sassy Boyz! This book was so much better than I expected.
Let's start with: FITCH.
Everybody needs a Fitch in their life. Fitch, who has just taken over his family's construction business, has only ever been attracted to women, but the moment he lays eyes on Ansel, he's a goner.
Fitch struggles a bit with his attraction to a man, but his sister is gay, which makes it that much easier to admit that no one pushes his buttons like Ansel.
And then there's ANSEL.
Ansel is sultry and femme. He loves lipstick and high heels. And he moves like spun silk.
But being beautiful and androgynous isn't easy. Ansel's mom slapped him the first time she caught him wearing her clothes, and the abuse never stopped. Insecure and damaged, Ansel hides behind snark and alcohol.
This isn't a slow burn story, but it feels like one. The first time Ansel & Fitch meet, Ansel gives Fitch a slow-grind lap dance; the second time is all fast & hard. Ansel is terrified of falling in love, but Fitch can't let Ansel go.
Fitch doesn't push; he's steady and kind. He keeps his promises. Even when Ansel, in a moment of self-sabotage and despair, does the unthinkable, Fitch doesn't give up on his dancer, his Angel.
Elizabeth Varlet knows how to write well-rounded character and HAWT (!!!) sex. Oh, my, but the steamy scenes here are smoldering. There's so much delectable dirty, I can't even. Fitch is all about the research. The rimming scene ... yeah, I'm not gonna recover anytime soon.
The cast of secondary characters is awesome. I loved, loved, loved all the Sassy Boys and want their stories. Fitch's sister and parents are pretty great too. Friendship & family—what more do you need?
I liked the dual third-person POV, age gap (Fitch is almost 30 to Ansel's 23), comfort-healing (the way Fitch accepts Ansel, flaws and all, is just beautiful), and SWEET (but not too sappy) ending.
If you like plenty of SMOKIN' SEXY action (delicious dirty talk included), heart-melting ROMANCE, light angst, boys who dress like girls but love being boys (the best kind of gender-bending!), and stellar writing, look no further.
This book is a win. I can't wait for more!
I heart the Sassy Boyz! This book was so much better than I expected.
Let's start with: FITCH.
Everybody needs a Fitch in their life. Fitch, who has just taken over his family's construction business, has only ever been attracted to women, but the moment he lays eyes on Ansel, he's a goner.
Fitch struggles a bit with his attraction to a man, but his sister is gay, which makes it that much easier to admit that no one pushes his buttons like Ansel.
And then there's ANSEL.
Ansel is sultry and femme. He loves lipstick and high heels. And he moves like spun silk.
But being beautiful and androgynous isn't easy. Ansel's mom slapped him the first time she caught him wearing her clothes, and the abuse never stopped. Insecure and damaged, Ansel hides behind snark and alcohol.
This isn't a slow burn story, but it feels like one. The first time Ansel & Fitch meet, Ansel gives Fitch a slow-grind lap dance; the second time is all fast & hard. Ansel is terrified of falling in love, but Fitch can't let Ansel go.
Fitch doesn't push; he's steady and kind. He keeps his promises. Even when Ansel, in a moment of self-sabotage and despair, does the unthinkable, Fitch doesn't give up on his dancer, his Angel.
"When you shut the door it was like you shut out the sun. All the light, the warmth, the joy, it all vanished and there was an Ansel-shaped hole in my world. I won't let you hide anymore, Angel."
Elizabeth Varlet knows how to write well-rounded character and HAWT (!!!) sex. Oh, my, but the steamy scenes here are smoldering. There's so much delectable dirty, I can't even. Fitch is all about the research. The rimming scene ... yeah, I'm not gonna recover anytime soon.
The cast of secondary characters is awesome. I loved, loved, loved all the Sassy Boys and want their stories. Fitch's sister and parents are pretty great too. Friendship & family—what more do you need?
I liked the dual third-person POV, age gap (Fitch is almost 30 to Ansel's 23), comfort-healing (the way Fitch accepts Ansel, flaws and all, is just beautiful), and SWEET (but not too sappy) ending.
If you like plenty of SMOKIN' SEXY action (delicious dirty talk included), heart-melting ROMANCE, light angst, boys who dress like girls but love being boys (the best kind of gender-bending!), and stellar writing, look no further.
This book is a win. I can't wait for more!
May 7, 2016
5 Stars
This was just delicious..
Ansel
Is not like any character I've read about in M/M books before.
Long blonde hair,likes to wear makeup,dresses flamboyantly and just LOVES his heels.He's know from a young age he was different.Ignored and belittled by his own parents on his 17th birthday he leaves home.
In the subsequent years his life has been a struggle but at the age of 23 he's trying to get his life back on track but he still can't let go from his past.
He's a male stripper along with 3 close friends who are the Sassy Boyz
Fitch
Is nearly 30.He's always there for other people...his parents,sister.He's never really put himself first.He's straight and has never been attracted to a man before...all that changes when Ansel rocks his world.
He's out celebrating his Lesbian sisters birthday in a gay club feeling very uncomfortable when he first sees Ansel.
He's fascinated and turned on by the gorgeous blonde woman(he thinks) on stage.And to his confusion he's still turned on when he finds out it's a man.What follows is a highly erotic lap dance.....
He becomes completely captivated by Ansel and can't stop thinking about him.
Ansel is very attracted to Fitch but because of his past thinks he's too damaged for anyone to love him.
So this is a Gfy story with insta lust but what sets it apart from a lot of similar books is that you can really feel the strong connection and pull these two men have for each other,from their very first encounter.
The sex is both sweet and deliciously dirty...perfect.....
Some brilliant secondary characters and I can't wait for the rest of the boys stories.
Highly Recommended....
***Arc from Author***
This was just delicious..
Ansel
Is not like any character I've read about in M/M books before.
Long blonde hair,likes to wear makeup,dresses flamboyantly and just LOVES his heels.He's know from a young age he was different.Ignored and belittled by his own parents on his 17th birthday he leaves home.
In the subsequent years his life has been a struggle but at the age of 23 he's trying to get his life back on track but he still can't let go from his past.
He's a male stripper along with 3 close friends who are the Sassy Boyz
Fitch
Is nearly 30.He's always there for other people...his parents,sister.He's never really put himself first.He's straight and has never been attracted to a man before...all that changes when Ansel rocks his world.
He's out celebrating his Lesbian sisters birthday in a gay club feeling very uncomfortable when he first sees Ansel.
He's fascinated and turned on by the gorgeous blonde woman(he thinks) on stage.And to his confusion he's still turned on when he finds out it's a man.What follows is a highly erotic lap dance.....
He becomes completely captivated by Ansel and can't stop thinking about him.
Ansel is very attracted to Fitch but because of his past thinks he's too damaged for anyone to love him.
"The real me is an alcoholic stripper who wears too much makeup and prances around in heels,not exactly the kind of person parents want dating their formally straight son."
So this is a Gfy story with insta lust but what sets it apart from a lot of similar books is that you can really feel the strong connection and pull these two men have for each other,from their very first encounter.
The sex is both sweet and deliciously dirty...perfect.....
Some brilliant secondary characters and I can't wait for the rest of the boys stories.
Highly Recommended....
***Arc from Author***
June 7, 2020
Dissenting opinion, alert!
I must be missing something crucial here, guys, because EVERYONE loves this but me! I had to push myself through it, and I still couldn't muster up enough motivation to finish this one. Feel free to ignore me, guys, because something HAS to be off with me. Right??
Where do I even start? I'm really shocked at how much everyone else seems to love this one, whereas I was nearly banging my head in frustration. I'll try to break down my issues for all interested parties. I WISH I could have loved this one too.
To start, yes, this book is a GFY. Now, it's no secret that I love what most people classify as GFY. Now, my definition of GFY may or may not be the same as yours. I absolutely don't believe that a magic penis can turn a straight guy gay, or that you can be "gay" just for one person. What I like is really a sexual discovery story, more like a later-in-life bisexuality discovery, or the realization that your sexuality is more fluid than you once thought. I like stories where an intense friendship turns into something deeper, or feelings develop over a period of time and an attraction builds. Either these men have always been interested in men and just repressed it, or these guys just didn't see the possibility before, but I like stories where something new emerges.
This story was NOT the type of GFY/BFY story that I like. First of all, I found it nearly impossible to believe that Fitch was 100% straight without any hint of attraction to a man, but at just a glance at Ansel made Fitch want him more than any woman, ever. I just didn't buy it. I WISH, and I mean wish so hard, that the author had made Fitch just a closeted gay man so I could have bought that initial attraction story. I just couldn't fit my brain around the GFY set up. And Fitch not having an inkling of attraction to other men while watching porn but couldn't get enough of Ansel's business when they were naked... nah.
I also really hated the insta-love (or intense insta-lust, I guess you could call it).
His arms shook as he looked down at this stranger who was fast becoming as familiar as his own heart.
<--- that line of the book was ON THE FIRST DATE. As familiar as your own heart?? Wha?? Please, you don't even know each other!
I didn't get the level of emotional intensity that these two men had for each other. Other than Ansel's looks, I really didn't see why Fitch was so enamored with him. I really struggled to find the dialogue to explain their connection, but I didn't see it other than with sex.
These two guys were all over each other with sex, sex, sex and constant hard cocks, and I was just rolling my eyes the whole time. Everyone else found these sex scenes very hot, so my hotness meter must just be busted! First of all, I still found it hard to believe that someone who considered himself straight, up until the moment he saw Ansel (and still refers to himself as straight, I might add), would attack gay sex with such gusto. No hesitations, really? I honestly found it hard to fathom.
The story-line with Ansel's family and addiction issues is one that I've read time and time again, and while I'm a sucker for this type of plot, it wasn't enough to hold my interest here. It doesn't help that I've recently read a few stories with similar plot lines, either.
Finally, and this is a very minor issue, but I could tell that the author wasn't from the NYC area, or if she is, she doesn't know it well. There were a few minor missteps with location details that bugged me, but I think very few readers would pick up on them.
I was so tired of this story that I DNFed at 72%. I was not motivated at all to see what happened between Ansel and Fitch, and I finally gave in and put the book down. I'm giving this book the benefit of the doubt and giving it 2 stars, but I honestly didn't enjoy it.
Sorry, friends. I'll go hide out on my island of haters now.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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I must be missing something crucial here, guys, because EVERYONE loves this but me! I had to push myself through it, and I still couldn't muster up enough motivation to finish this one. Feel free to ignore me, guys, because something HAS to be off with me. Right??
Where do I even start? I'm really shocked at how much everyone else seems to love this one, whereas I was nearly banging my head in frustration. I'll try to break down my issues for all interested parties. I WISH I could have loved this one too.
To start, yes, this book is a GFY. Now, it's no secret that I love what most people classify as GFY. Now, my definition of GFY may or may not be the same as yours. I absolutely don't believe that a magic penis can turn a straight guy gay, or that you can be "gay" just for one person. What I like is really a sexual discovery story, more like a later-in-life bisexuality discovery, or the realization that your sexuality is more fluid than you once thought. I like stories where an intense friendship turns into something deeper, or feelings develop over a period of time and an attraction builds. Either these men have always been interested in men and just repressed it, or these guys just didn't see the possibility before, but I like stories where something new emerges.
This story was NOT the type of GFY/BFY story that I like. First of all, I found it nearly impossible to believe that Fitch was 100% straight without any hint of attraction to a man, but at just a glance at Ansel made Fitch want him more than any woman, ever. I just didn't buy it. I WISH, and I mean wish so hard, that the author had made Fitch just a closeted gay man so I could have bought that initial attraction story. I just couldn't fit my brain around the GFY set up. And Fitch not having an inkling of attraction to other men while watching porn but couldn't get enough of Ansel's business when they were naked... nah.
I also really hated the insta-love (or intense insta-lust, I guess you could call it).
His arms shook as he looked down at this stranger who was fast becoming as familiar as his own heart.
<--- that line of the book was ON THE FIRST DATE. As familiar as your own heart?? Wha?? Please, you don't even know each other!
I didn't get the level of emotional intensity that these two men had for each other. Other than Ansel's looks, I really didn't see why Fitch was so enamored with him. I really struggled to find the dialogue to explain their connection, but I didn't see it other than with sex.
These two guys were all over each other with sex, sex, sex and constant hard cocks, and I was just rolling my eyes the whole time. Everyone else found these sex scenes very hot, so my hotness meter must just be busted! First of all, I still found it hard to believe that someone who considered himself straight, up until the moment he saw Ansel (and still refers to himself as straight, I might add), would attack gay sex with such gusto. No hesitations, really? I honestly found it hard to fathom.
The story-line with Ansel's family and addiction issues is one that I've read time and time again, and while I'm a sucker for this type of plot, it wasn't enough to hold my interest here. It doesn't help that I've recently read a few stories with similar plot lines, either.
Finally, and this is a very minor issue, but I could tell that the author wasn't from the NYC area, or if she is, she doesn't know it well. There were a few minor missteps with location details that bugged me, but I think very few readers would pick up on them.
I was so tired of this story that I DNFed at 72%. I was not motivated at all to see what happened between Ansel and Fitch, and I finally gave in and put the book down. I'm giving this book the benefit of the doubt and giving it 2 stars, but I honestly didn't enjoy it.
Sorry, friends. I'll go hide out on my island of haters now.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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June 3, 2016
Release Date: June 27th 2016 by Carina Press
Story Rating ~ 5 HUGE STARS!
Hero Rating ~ Fitch, 5 Grumpy Bear STARS!
Hero Rating ~ Ansel, 5 Sparkle Pants STARS!
Romance Rating ~ 5 Heart Stealing Stars!
Heat Level ~ 5 BLAZING STARS!
Ending ~ 5 My Face is Sore From Smiling so Big Stars!
Overall Rating ~ 5 Cannonballs. Kaboom, Kaboom, Kaboom, Kaboom, Kaboom, STARS!
What an AMAZING read! This was for me the most PERFECT M/M romance. I LOVED EVERY MOMENT even the bad and sad stuff that made me cry. This is one of those books that will stay in my mind for some time to come.
Fitch joined his sister and friends to celebrate her birthday at a gay bar. He was a bit uncomfortable with all the lude stares from the other men at the bar. Then his sister does the unthinkable, she pays for a stripped to give Fitch a lap dance. At first Fitch thought the dancer was a woman but when he realized it was a man and this man was totally turning him on he was completely taking off guard. And then it happened, the dancer kissed him and he liked it. He liked it A LOT!
Ansel could not believe how he felt kissing Fitch. After the night was over, he could not stop thinking about him. Ansel does NOT do relationships. He’s a whore taking his pleasure wherever and whenever he can get it. He feels he is broken and that love does not exists for the likes of him.
Ansel’s back story was very dark and ugly. He tries to escape his feelings from running, drinking alcohol and doing drugs. He’s never felt what real love is so when he and Fitch hook up, he hides his fears and tells himself that he will never see Fitch again.
Fitch fell hard and fast for Ansel. He keeps telling himself that he’s not gay, after all he likes women. But there is just something about Ansel that has a hard pull on him, something he can’t deny.
The love/sex scenes were BLISTERING HOT and SENSUAL! I LOVED how Fitch treated Ansel with kindness and care, something he never had, it was just so BEAUTIFUL!!
These two had a long and hard ride that at one point had me crying inside and out for them. My emotions were totally out of control.
I loved the secondary characters, each and every one was so unique. They added love, support and humor all along the way. And then there was Ansel’s parents, I wanted to RIP THERE HEARTS OUT AND SHOVE THEM DOWN THEIR THROATS!!! OK, I'm glad I got that out, it needed to be said.
Fierce & Fabulous ended in the bests possible of ways leaving me SO DAMN HAPPY! This book holds one of the top spot in my favorite M/M reads. I can hardly wait for Book 2 Dark & Dazzling which is Z’s story to be released.
Elizabeth Varlet, if your reading this, you have just made yourself another HUGE FAN! Well done!
In closing I’d just like to say to my friends, if you’re a lover of reading M/M romances DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS ONE!!
*I was generously gifted an ARC from Carina Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Story Rating ~ 5 HUGE STARS!
Hero Rating ~ Fitch, 5 Grumpy Bear STARS!
Hero Rating ~ Ansel, 5 Sparkle Pants STARS!
Romance Rating ~ 5 Heart Stealing Stars!
Heat Level ~ 5 BLAZING STARS!
Ending ~ 5 My Face is Sore From Smiling so Big Stars!
Overall Rating ~ 5 Cannonballs. Kaboom, Kaboom, Kaboom, Kaboom, Kaboom, STARS!
What an AMAZING read! This was for me the most PERFECT M/M romance. I LOVED EVERY MOMENT even the bad and sad stuff that made me cry. This is one of those books that will stay in my mind for some time to come.
Fitch joined his sister and friends to celebrate her birthday at a gay bar. He was a bit uncomfortable with all the lude stares from the other men at the bar. Then his sister does the unthinkable, she pays for a stripped to give Fitch a lap dance. At first Fitch thought the dancer was a woman but when he realized it was a man and this man was totally turning him on he was completely taking off guard. And then it happened, the dancer kissed him and he liked it. He liked it A LOT!
Ansel could not believe how he felt kissing Fitch. After the night was over, he could not stop thinking about him. Ansel does NOT do relationships. He’s a whore taking his pleasure wherever and whenever he can get it. He feels he is broken and that love does not exists for the likes of him.
Ansel’s back story was very dark and ugly. He tries to escape his feelings from running, drinking alcohol and doing drugs. He’s never felt what real love is so when he and Fitch hook up, he hides his fears and tells himself that he will never see Fitch again.
Fitch fell hard and fast for Ansel. He keeps telling himself that he’s not gay, after all he likes women. But there is just something about Ansel that has a hard pull on him, something he can’t deny.
The love/sex scenes were BLISTERING HOT and SENSUAL! I LOVED how Fitch treated Ansel with kindness and care, something he never had, it was just so BEAUTIFUL!!
These two had a long and hard ride that at one point had me crying inside and out for them. My emotions were totally out of control.
I loved the secondary characters, each and every one was so unique. They added love, support and humor all along the way. And then there was Ansel’s parents, I wanted to RIP THERE HEARTS OUT AND SHOVE THEM DOWN THEIR THROATS!!! OK, I'm glad I got that out, it needed to be said.
Fierce & Fabulous ended in the bests possible of ways leaving me SO DAMN HAPPY! This book holds one of the top spot in my favorite M/M reads. I can hardly wait for Book 2 Dark & Dazzling which is Z’s story to be released.
Elizabeth Varlet, if your reading this, you have just made yourself another HUGE FAN! Well done!
In closing I’d just like to say to my friends, if you’re a lover of reading M/M romances DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS ONE!!
*I was generously gifted an ARC from Carina Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
May 12, 2016
This review will contain an obnoxious amount of gifs! Why I want to show you all the emotions I experienced while reading this book.
It all started like this:
New to me author.
Then all of a sudden...
I knew there were no more doubts to be had.
Then my expressions and feelings were all over the place.
Don't worry though- at the end I looked like this:
It comes down to- do you want a story with:
-Great characters
-Palpable chemistry between the two protagonists
-Excellent character and relationship development
-Flawless pace
-Wrapped up with a great ending
Then look no further!
BUT- and I HATE to bring this up. The GFY storyline. I struggled with how I felt about it. I understand why it is problematic- TRUST ME. I HAVE BEEN THERE. That being said I did think the author did an outstanding job depicting a love that is based on more than physical attraction. Fitch has never been attracted to men before, but he's instantly drawn to Ansel, and their emotional connection is well written and believable. Fine. What irked me though is that he didn't identify as bi after their relationship took off. I knocked off a star for that because he should've.
In the end, though I felt Fierce and Fabulous was a fantastic book about perseverance, self-discovery, self-love, family, friendships, and love. 4 Stars!
June 28, 2016
RELEASE DAY! I hope everyone is loving it. :)
I couldn't wait! Even though the book doesn't come out until June, I had to get my review done because I just love, love loved this book so much.
My review contains videos and large images that can't be hosted on GR, so you can read my review at Gay Book Reviews.
Highly recommended!
I couldn't wait! Even though the book doesn't come out until June, I had to get my review done because I just love, love loved this book so much.
My review contains videos and large images that can't be hosted on GR, so you can read my review at Gay Book Reviews.
Highly recommended!
June 30, 2016
5 HUGE stars for Grumpy Bear and Angel!
I absolutely loved this book!!! I devoured this story from the first page to the last!
It was a new writer for me and I had my doubts, but I fell in love with Ansel and Fitch!
Fitch was so sweet and protective. Ansel was broken but he became strong.
Loved the story, the plot, the attraction! The dialogues between them made me smile a lot and the sex was so HOT!!!
I absolutely loved this book!!! I devoured this story from the first page to the last!
It was a new writer for me and I had my doubts, but I fell in love with Ansel and Fitch!
Fitch was so sweet and protective. Ansel was broken but he became strong.
Loved the story, the plot, the attraction! The dialogues between them made me smile a lot and the sex was so HOT!!!
June 27, 2016
5 stars - This is a story about falling in love and being true to yourself!
Meet Ansel Becke - he will rock your world and walk away on his stilettos with his red lipstick un-smudged. Take him as he is...or not, he isn't going to change. He lives to bend all the rules - stereotypes and roles be dammed! It’s not like he was going to wear a sign on his head that said Warning. Cock Attached. So leave your assumptions at the door because Ansel F*cking Becke follows nobody.
"Yes, pushing the boundaries was what he lived for. He wanted to twist the fuck out of normal and leave the world baffled in his wake.
Meet Fitch Donovan- he never thought a lap dance could change his life, but from the moment the gorgeous dancer’s lips touch his, his world comes screeching to a halt. No matter how hard he tries, he can’t shake the desire that rocks him to his core. He’s longed for this passion all his life—he just never dreamed he’d find it with another man.
Fitch has long subscribed to the belief that "Attraction was a chemical reaction in his brain, gender wasn’t binary, and sexuality could be fluid." however it takes him a bit to own up to his own changing sexuality. He can't deny though, there is something magnetic about Ansel and he wants him all to himself! His lizard brain is wide awake!
When Ansel lays it all out for Fitch, I loved it:
The choice was made during that first lap dance - No going back!
The romance and chemistry between these two was H.O.T. and I loved every single second!
I loved that manly Fitch fell in love with androgynous Ansel, with Ansel who loves high heels and glitter! Loved that he didn't try and change him! This was better than any Fairytale, better than Pretty Woman or any other over the top romance! Each character was real and loved each other for just being themselves! Of course, Fitch was met with some fallout when he came out - but it wasn't over the top and it didn't take over the story.
Ms. Varlet has written an amazing start to a new series and I love the originality of the characters, their realness, their flaws, the rawness each of them exhibits and their ability to fall in love! I read this book all in one sitting and missed out on sleep to finish it, I am eagerly awaiting the next book in The Sassy Boyz series - this author has become a new auto-buy for me!
One of the most profound quotes in this book that continues to stick with me - spoken by none other than Ansel Becke ~
I Couldn't have said it better!!
So put on your heels and lipstick and enjoy the Sassy Boyz Series - you will love them!!
In the spirt of all those who dance and run in high heels I leave you with this wisdom from Ansel about running in heels-
If he was going to run in his goddamn heels, he wanted to run toward something, something amazing. Ansel loves his heels!
So remember, Always run toward something amazing while running in heels or not!
Highly recommended!!
Full Review Can be found at Alpha Book Club
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
Meet Ansel Becke - he will rock your world and walk away on his stilettos with his red lipstick un-smudged. Take him as he is...or not, he isn't going to change. He lives to bend all the rules - stereotypes and roles be dammed! It’s not like he was going to wear a sign on his head that said Warning. Cock Attached. So leave your assumptions at the door because Ansel F*cking Becke follows nobody.
"Yes, pushing the boundaries was what he lived for. He wanted to twist the fuck out of normal and leave the world baffled in his wake.
Meet Fitch Donovan- he never thought a lap dance could change his life, but from the moment the gorgeous dancer’s lips touch his, his world comes screeching to a halt. No matter how hard he tries, he can’t shake the desire that rocks him to his core. He’s longed for this passion all his life—he just never dreamed he’d find it with another man.
Fitch has long subscribed to the belief that "Attraction was a chemical reaction in his brain, gender wasn’t binary, and sexuality could be fluid." however it takes him a bit to own up to his own changing sexuality. He can't deny though, there is something magnetic about Ansel and he wants him all to himself! His lizard brain is wide awake!
When Ansel lays it all out for Fitch, I loved it:
“This is all you need to know about me. I like pretty things, but I also love my cock. I don’t want to be a woman, but I happen to look like one. I enjoy wearing heels, experimenting with makeup, and sparkly things. I also enjoy sticking my hand down my pants and scratching my balls, ’cause, yes, I do have them. So, if you asked me out tonight because you thought I was almost a woman or might eventually be one, you’re going to be disappointed.”
The choice was made during that first lap dance - No going back!
He’d made his choice. He chose Ansel fucking Becke. Glitter and all.
The romance and chemistry between these two was H.O.T. and I loved every single second!
I loved that manly Fitch fell in love with androgynous Ansel, with Ansel who loves high heels and glitter! Loved that he didn't try and change him! This was better than any Fairytale, better than Pretty Woman or any other over the top romance! Each character was real and loved each other for just being themselves! Of course, Fitch was met with some fallout when he came out - but it wasn't over the top and it didn't take over the story.
Never, ever dull your shine, Angel, not for me, not for anyone. You make the world a brighter place.” “Fitch—” “I want to see glitter and heels and confidence like the night we met. That cocky smirk and that killer strut. Ansel Becke doesn’t give a fuck what people think of him.”
Ms. Varlet has written an amazing start to a new series and I love the originality of the characters, their realness, their flaws, the rawness each of them exhibits and their ability to fall in love! I read this book all in one sitting and missed out on sleep to finish it, I am eagerly awaiting the next book in The Sassy Boyz series - this author has become a new auto-buy for me!
One of the most profound quotes in this book that continues to stick with me - spoken by none other than Ansel Becke ~
"Oh look, there goes that white, Catholic, German, female, lesbian, mother, nurse. Why can’t it just be, there goes that human fucking being?”
I Couldn't have said it better!!
So put on your heels and lipstick and enjoy the Sassy Boyz Series - you will love them!!
In the spirt of all those who dance and run in high heels I leave you with this wisdom from Ansel about running in heels-
If he was going to run in his goddamn heels, he wanted to run toward something, something amazing. Ansel loves his heels!
So remember, Always run toward something amazing while running in heels or not!
Highly recommended!!
Full Review Can be found at Alpha Book Club
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
July 1, 2016
4.5 Stars!
Rounding down because.....Ansel. And his self destructive behavior. Though I will say the angst in this one could have been waaaaaaay worse. So there is that.
But ultimately I loved this one.
Yes, it was insta lust. Don't ask me why I can handle insta lust/love sometimes and not others. I honestly think it comes down to the authors writing and whether I "feel" a connection between the two MCs. This one had all the feelz!
Yes, I was angry with Ansel for the "incident". But I also don't think he was near secure enough in his "relationship" with Fitch to handle his demons in any way other than what he was used to. Sex and booze. Doesn't mean I liked it, or that it was okay. But I did feel like it was a turning point per se for Ansel.
Fitch was perfection.
I loved the dancing. And I did really like things about Ansel. And let's not forget the dirty talk and the sex. HAWT! Most of all, I loved the Sassy Boyz and I can't wait for the rest of their books.
Rounding down because.....Ansel. And his self destructive behavior. Though I will say the angst in this one could have been waaaaaaay worse. So there is that.
But ultimately I loved this one.
Yes, it was insta lust. Don't ask me why I can handle insta lust/love sometimes and not others. I honestly think it comes down to the authors writing and whether I "feel" a connection between the two MCs. This one had all the feelz!
Yes, I was angry with Ansel for the "incident". But I also don't think he was near secure enough in his "relationship" with Fitch to handle his demons in any way other than what he was used to. Sex and booze. Doesn't mean I liked it, or that it was okay. But I did feel like it was a turning point per se for Ansel.
Fitch was perfection.
I loved the dancing. And I did really like things about Ansel. And let's not forget the dirty talk and the sex. HAWT! Most of all, I loved the Sassy Boyz and I can't wait for the rest of their books.
October 11, 2016
***4.5 Stars***
You know what a I love more than reading a good book? Reading a good book that surprises you. And that's exactly what I got here....a wonderful surprise of so much more than what I was expecting.
The guy looked at him with those warm brown eyes and made him feel like he had wings. Like, if he wanted, he could fly to the moon and bring back stars.
When I picked up this book, I thought I was going to get a sexy and sassy story filled with hot dance moves, engaging characters and fun. But what I got was so much more. I got a story about Ansel, a man who has struggled all of his life with acceptance. A man who grew up having others, especially those closest to him, bully, shame and dull his shine and sparkle. A man who had to break free from his cage and fight and claw for every piece of glitter he now owned. A man who still bore the scars of that abused little boy and felt undeserving of true happiness.
When Ansel and Fitch meet, to say sparks fly is an understatement.....fireworks explode and hormones detonate. The two are drawn to each other with one look and are completely unnerved by the explosion of emotion.
The two couldn't be more opposite. Fitch is a good ol' boy, burly construction worker, while Ansel is a sassy, tall and lean dancer who loves makeup, sparkle and 5-inch Louboutins.
Ansel spends his life living the "fuck 'em and leave 'em" philosophy, while Fitch has never been attracted to a man before. And with one lap dance, both men are thrown head first into a mixture of curiosity, desire, trepidation, anxiety, lust and fear.
Fitch decides to go with the flow and pursue Ansel, and while Ansel knows the likelihood for heartbreak is high, he decides to give in to his desires and share one night with Fitch. But that one night doesn't satisfy their curiosity and yearning, it only intensifies what they feel.
This is where this book really surprised me. Fitch and Ansel's first date was filled with so much emotion, passion and intensity that I had to stop in between reading to take a deep breath. I wasn't expecting Fitch to crack Ansel so deeply...and I definitely wasn't prepared for what came pouring out.
"I will fuck you all night long. I will fuck you until you're ready to explode, until you can't stand it. But I swear to God I will not let you come until you look me in the eye."
My heart hurt for Ansel and what he suffered through as a child and teenager. Rejection hurts at any level, but the abuse that Ansel's mother put him through was just horrible. I'm glad he was eventually able to find and build a support system after he ran away from home (his relationship with the other sassy boys is so endearing in its honesty and caring), but the emotional scars were still deep.
Ansel did everything he could to numb the turmoil within him. He hid his fears and pain behind booze and men. And while the angst level could have been high here (especially after Ansel falls back to his self-destructing ways), I'm glad the author focused on the "why" of Ansel's actions.
Is he a flawed character? Hell yes. He's selfish, unreliable, self-destructive and undependable. Ansel should have frustrated and angered me, but somehow I found myself rooting for him...rooting for him to feel reassured, safe and loved. I wanted him to realize that he didn't have to turn things to shit and keep everyone at arm's length in order to protect himself.
Fitch understood that Ansel wasn't accustomed to tenderness and care. He pursued Ansel knowing that at any moment he could be spooked and leave. He tried his best to give Ansel a sense of security and comfort, to make sure he always felt the spotlight...to let him know that he'd never dull his sparkle.
Was Fitch too perfect? Hell yes...but I don't care. He was the perfect counter balance for all the emotional turmoil that Ansel was going through. Was he too accepting of the evolution of his relationship with Ansel? Absolutely...but, again, I don't care. Yes, it was way too easy...he decided to accept that you feel what you feel, you want who you want, you love who you love...and fuck the rest of it and anyone who doesn't understand or accept it.
Like I said earlier, this book really surprised me. Elizabeth Varlet was able to wrap up so much emotion, passion, healing, hope and love in Fitch and Ansel. She developed two characters who were polar opposites, yet an absolute perfect fit.
She created an evocative story that makes me believe in fairy tales and happy endings....and rooting for the fucked up asshole to get his prince charming.
"I want you so bad."
"You have me. Anything you want, it's yours."
June 5, 2016
WARNING! Dissenting Opinion Ahead!
This book started fairly strong but wound up a big mess of contrived bullshit. The premise of the story was great. Ansel is one of the four Sassy Boyz, a dancing group who strips at a gay club, emphasis on the dancing. They all have long hair, wear sparkly clothes, and heels.
Fitch goes to this club with his sister, Meg, for her 21st birthday. He's always identified as straight and can't understand why he's having such a strong attraction to Ansel when he's never been attracted to a man before. There's a lot of talk about this aspect of the book. Is it possible for someone to really be "gay for" only one person? I'm not sure I buy it, but I'm definitely not the expert, so I just shrugged and rolled with it.
Fitch has grown up with his sister coming out as a lesbian, so there's not as much drama as there could've been around his new discovery. He has some internal struggles that seem fairly normal to me. And once he decides he has to pursue this incredible pull that Ansel has on him, he's ALL in. I loved this about him. He's steadfast, he's loyal, he's literally swoon-worthy.
Now, Ansel........Sigh. Ansel is the definition of hot mess. Shitty childhood - check. But Ansel lets that shitty childhood define everything about him NOW. And this is not ok with me. He makes horrible decisions. He constantly lets his friends down. He constantly treats himself like crap. All because he learned throughout his childhood that he's worthless.
I am completely sympathetic to Ansel for the way he grew up. I'd gladly be in a room alone with his parents. But he's an adult now. And adults know better. Ansel doesn't get to blame his childhood for his actions anymore. He makes his own decisions. Screwing his friends over, drinking to oblivion regularly, doing drugs......all because of a shitty childhood......nope, nuh uh, not gonna fly with me. So I had a hard time understanding Fitch's continued attraction to him past the initial lust, to be quite honest. All he did, from the beginning, was let Fitch down. Who would want to deal with that shit???
Then we got to the part of the book that was an absolute deal breaker for me. It's kinda spoilery, so read at your own risk. I have to include it in my review, though, because it weighed heavily on my final rating.
Ansel's mother calls him and spouts the same shit she spouted to him as a child. So what does Ansel do? He buys a bottle of tequila, picks up a stranger, and brings him home - all while skipping a performance with the Sassy Boyz (knowingly putting one of the other boy's parole at risk). And he'd agreed to be exclusive with Fitch at this point. Actual sex doesn't wind up happening, not that Ansel stopped anything.
Then Fitch (calm thoughts, Renée, calm thoughts) blames himself!
He chases after Ansel. Not the other way around! My GR friends know how I feel about Doormat Behavior in my stories.
I was done after that. Cheating has to be written really well in m/m to be ok with me. There has to be a larger purpose in the grand scheme of things. And there most definitely has to be groveling with extreme remorse. None of that was exhibited by Ansel toward Fitch. Add in Fitch's doormat behavior, and I was D-O-N-E.
After that, I felt like the storyline started taking a dive too, in order to keep up the momentum toward the climax. Contrived drama started. A redhead approaches Fitch in the middle of a crowded deli and says all kinds of lewd things to him that I can't imagine anyone actually saying in that kind of setting. And then people "happen" to find Ansel at his friend's house where he's crashing on the couch. How would they even know to look for him there? So the author could have some more drama at the end of her book.
There was a beautiful HFN to their story, not that I believe for a second that these two are solid. Not after all that. I wanted to see Ansel fight for Fitch in the middle of all that - just fucking once! Fitch deserved that.
I'm settling on 2.5 stars. I have to say that I truly enjoyed the writing style of this new-to-me author. I would read something by her in the future to see if her stories get a little more in line with my personal tastes. It's the writing and the writing alone that saved this book for me.
This book started fairly strong but wound up a big mess of contrived bullshit. The premise of the story was great. Ansel is one of the four Sassy Boyz, a dancing group who strips at a gay club, emphasis on the dancing. They all have long hair, wear sparkly clothes, and heels.
Fitch goes to this club with his sister, Meg, for her 21st birthday. He's always identified as straight and can't understand why he's having such a strong attraction to Ansel when he's never been attracted to a man before. There's a lot of talk about this aspect of the book. Is it possible for someone to really be "gay for" only one person? I'm not sure I buy it, but I'm definitely not the expert, so I just shrugged and rolled with it.
Fitch has grown up with his sister coming out as a lesbian, so there's not as much drama as there could've been around his new discovery. He has some internal struggles that seem fairly normal to me. And once he decides he has to pursue this incredible pull that Ansel has on him, he's ALL in. I loved this about him. He's steadfast, he's loyal, he's literally swoon-worthy.
Now, Ansel........Sigh. Ansel is the definition of hot mess. Shitty childhood - check. But Ansel lets that shitty childhood define everything about him NOW. And this is not ok with me. He makes horrible decisions. He constantly lets his friends down. He constantly treats himself like crap. All because he learned throughout his childhood that he's worthless.
I am completely sympathetic to Ansel for the way he grew up. I'd gladly be in a room alone with his parents. But he's an adult now. And adults know better. Ansel doesn't get to blame his childhood for his actions anymore. He makes his own decisions. Screwing his friends over, drinking to oblivion regularly, doing drugs......all because of a shitty childhood......nope, nuh uh, not gonna fly with me. So I had a hard time understanding Fitch's continued attraction to him past the initial lust, to be quite honest. All he did, from the beginning, was let Fitch down. Who would want to deal with that shit???
Then we got to the part of the book that was an absolute deal breaker for me. It's kinda spoilery, so read at your own risk. I have to include it in my review, though, because it weighed heavily on my final rating.
Ansel's mother calls him and spouts the same shit she spouted to him as a child. So what does Ansel do? He buys a bottle of tequila, picks up a stranger, and brings him home - all while skipping a performance with the Sassy Boyz (knowingly putting one of the other boy's parole at risk). And he'd agreed to be exclusive with Fitch at this point. Actual sex doesn't wind up happening, not that Ansel stopped anything.
Then Fitch (calm thoughts, Renée, calm thoughts) blames himself!
And he'd walked away from all that wonderful energy without looking back.
Without fighting.
He'd been a coward. A stupid, blind, jealous coward.
No, he didn't deserve better. But Ansel did.
He chases after Ansel. Not the other way around! My GR friends know how I feel about Doormat Behavior in my stories.
I was done after that. Cheating has to be written really well in m/m to be ok with me. There has to be a larger purpose in the grand scheme of things. And there most definitely has to be groveling with extreme remorse. None of that was exhibited by Ansel toward Fitch. Add in Fitch's doormat behavior, and I was D-O-N-E.
After that, I felt like the storyline started taking a dive too, in order to keep up the momentum toward the climax. Contrived drama started. A redhead approaches Fitch in the middle of a crowded deli and says all kinds of lewd things to him that I can't imagine anyone actually saying in that kind of setting. And then people "happen" to find Ansel at his friend's house where he's crashing on the couch. How would they even know to look for him there? So the author could have some more drama at the end of her book.
There was a beautiful HFN to their story, not that I believe for a second that these two are solid. Not after all that. I wanted to see Ansel fight for Fitch in the middle of all that - just fucking once! Fitch deserved that.
I'm settling on 2.5 stars. I have to say that I truly enjoyed the writing style of this new-to-me author. I would read something by her in the future to see if her stories get a little more in line with my personal tastes. It's the writing and the writing alone that saved this book for me.
July 9, 2017
4.25 stars
This was awesome!!
I want to start by saying I’m never a big fan of the girlish boys in my books. Not that I don’t like them, but I don’t like the theatrics that often go with it.
This was different. Ansel was different. Ansel was just Ansel and I loved him. I never once felt like he was girlish (you know, the chick with dick syndrome), despite his high heels and makeup.
Fitch is 29, and as far as he knows pretty straight.
He has been dragged to a gay bar by his lesbian sister. It is there that he sees Ansel, who is a dancer in the club. When his sister arranges a lap dance for him as a joke, Fitch is absolutely captivated by the beautiful man with the long hair and high heels.
But despite Ansel’s appearance, he is all man. He just likes pretty things.
Ansel somehow feels that Fitch is not just a customer in the club. He even breaks his own rules and kisses him. It is clear the two have amazing chemistry.
Fitch knows he cannot stay away from the pretty dancer, so he decides to be a man and ask him out…
I loved how Fitch accepted his own fluid sexuality. He was very close with his sister, who came out when she was in her teens. So he is not homophobic at all. He is surprised by his attraction, but he decides to just go with it. He likes Ansel, period.
This book was beautifully written. I loved how sexy and emotional the sex scenes were. Especially since Ansel had a lot of trouble opening up.
There is a bit of angst in the middle, but it really fit the story. It wasn’t dragged out and it served the purpose of letting Ansel see what he was doing with his life.
Happy sigh… I really loved this.
This was awesome!!
I want to start by saying I’m never a big fan of the girlish boys in my books. Not that I don’t like them, but I don’t like the theatrics that often go with it.
This was different. Ansel was different. Ansel was just Ansel and I loved him. I never once felt like he was girlish (you know, the chick with dick syndrome), despite his high heels and makeup.
Fitch is 29, and as far as he knows pretty straight.
He has been dragged to a gay bar by his lesbian sister. It is there that he sees Ansel, who is a dancer in the club. When his sister arranges a lap dance for him as a joke, Fitch is absolutely captivated by the beautiful man with the long hair and high heels.
But despite Ansel’s appearance, he is all man. He just likes pretty things.
Ansel somehow feels that Fitch is not just a customer in the club. He even breaks his own rules and kisses him. It is clear the two have amazing chemistry.
Fitch knows he cannot stay away from the pretty dancer, so he decides to be a man and ask him out…
I loved how Fitch accepted his own fluid sexuality. He was very close with his sister, who came out when she was in her teens. So he is not homophobic at all. He is surprised by his attraction, but he decides to just go with it. He likes Ansel, period.
This book was beautifully written. I loved how sexy and emotional the sex scenes were. Especially since Ansel had a lot of trouble opening up.
There is a bit of angst in the middle, but it really fit the story. It wasn’t dragged out and it served the purpose of letting Ansel see what he was doing with his life.
Happy sigh… I really loved this.
February 24, 2018
4 Angel, Stars!
When this book first came up in my feeds I got really excited. Some femme men who are fierce and who are in a dancing group called, Sassy Boyz... Um, yes please!
Ansel Becke had a pretty horrible childhood. He was raised by a cold hearted father and an abusive mother. I don't see how no one reported his mother when he spent so much time in the hospital from the abuse she inflicted on him. On his 17th birthday his parents didn't acknowledge him or that it was his birthday. He felt completely alone. He couldn't do it anymore so he packed some stuff and left. Unfortunately he also had to leave his younger brother behind, severing that relationship. Surviving the streets toughened his skin and he met some people along the way that became family. Three of them being the members of his Sassy Boyz dance group.
Ansel has a lot of insecurities and uses his bitch-a-tude to keep people out. When things get too hard or too real he finds his answer in a bottle. He drinks to numb the pain and to chase the thoughts away. But the alcohol becomes a problem and starts affecting his friendships, his professional life, and his emotional stability. His life is falling apart around him once again and he doesn't know how to handle it and sure doesn't want to ask for help. Especially not from the man who he stole a kiss from when temptation became too strong to deny himself just a taste. But the man is relentless in his pursue and is doing all he can to knock down all of Ansel's defenses. All Ansel has to do is give in and fall.
Fitch tags along with his sister on her 21st birthday as the designated driver. What he didn't expect to be tagging along to was a gay club. Of course he has no real issues with the gay part since his sister is gay and has a great girlfriend. But it doesn't mean he doesn't feel uncomfortable with the stares and the few wandering hands that falls upon him. But he wants his baby sister to have a great time so he sticks it out. He accepts he has condemned himself to this torture. But then a new kind of torture begins when the dancing group called Sassy Boyz take stage. A certain blonde beauty has stolen all his attention. He can't help but think that he's never seen such a beautiful woman. He's turned on. Then the dancers undress and are left in only their very sexy underlings. And that is when Fitch realizes that the dancer who just turned him on faster than anybody ever has is not a woman at all. That the dancers are all men. You can understand how shocked this straight boy is that not only are these dancers men, but that he still has quite the boner for the blonde he can't stop watching. Then to make things even more confusing and entertaining for us and his sister, this lovely blonde man is paid to give are very stiff (in every way) Fitch a lap dance he will never forget. Especially when that man takes it a bit father by giving Fitch a scorching hot kiss.
That kiss opens all kinds of floodgates for Fitch. All he can think about is Ansel and how he can get this man to give him a chance. It's not all roses for Fitch. He struggles with his new found attraction. But what I loved about him is that he doesn't shy away from it. No, this man does research. Boy did I enjoy his research. LOL
Things aren't smooth and both men fight through some tough family issues. There were plenty of ups that matched the downs. But through it all we got a very compelling story starring two men who had such great chemistry and a sweetness that I couldn't help but be glued to the pages. Loved them together and can't wait to see how they're doing in the future books.
Happy reading dolls! xx
When this book first came up in my feeds I got really excited. Some femme men who are fierce and who are in a dancing group called, Sassy Boyz... Um, yes please!
Ansel Becke had a pretty horrible childhood. He was raised by a cold hearted father and an abusive mother. I don't see how no one reported his mother when he spent so much time in the hospital from the abuse she inflicted on him. On his 17th birthday his parents didn't acknowledge him or that it was his birthday. He felt completely alone. He couldn't do it anymore so he packed some stuff and left. Unfortunately he also had to leave his younger brother behind, severing that relationship. Surviving the streets toughened his skin and he met some people along the way that became family. Three of them being the members of his Sassy Boyz dance group.
Ansel has a lot of insecurities and uses his bitch-a-tude to keep people out. When things get too hard or too real he finds his answer in a bottle. He drinks to numb the pain and to chase the thoughts away. But the alcohol becomes a problem and starts affecting his friendships, his professional life, and his emotional stability. His life is falling apart around him once again and he doesn't know how to handle it and sure doesn't want to ask for help. Especially not from the man who he stole a kiss from when temptation became too strong to deny himself just a taste. But the man is relentless in his pursue and is doing all he can to knock down all of Ansel's defenses. All Ansel has to do is give in and fall.
Fitch tags along with his sister on her 21st birthday as the designated driver. What he didn't expect to be tagging along to was a gay club. Of course he has no real issues with the gay part since his sister is gay and has a great girlfriend. But it doesn't mean he doesn't feel uncomfortable with the stares and the few wandering hands that falls upon him. But he wants his baby sister to have a great time so he sticks it out. He accepts he has condemned himself to this torture. But then a new kind of torture begins when the dancing group called Sassy Boyz take stage. A certain blonde beauty has stolen all his attention. He can't help but think that he's never seen such a beautiful woman. He's turned on. Then the dancers undress and are left in only their very sexy underlings. And that is when Fitch realizes that the dancer who just turned him on faster than anybody ever has is not a woman at all. That the dancers are all men. You can understand how shocked this straight boy is that not only are these dancers men, but that he still has quite the boner for the blonde he can't stop watching. Then to make things even more confusing and entertaining for us and his sister, this lovely blonde man is paid to give are very stiff (in every way) Fitch a lap dance he will never forget. Especially when that man takes it a bit father by giving Fitch a scorching hot kiss.
That kiss opens all kinds of floodgates for Fitch. All he can think about is Ansel and how he can get this man to give him a chance. It's not all roses for Fitch. He struggles with his new found attraction. But what I loved about him is that he doesn't shy away from it. No, this man does research. Boy did I enjoy his research. LOL
Things aren't smooth and both men fight through some tough family issues. There were plenty of ups that matched the downs. But through it all we got a very compelling story starring two men who had such great chemistry and a sweetness that I couldn't help but be glued to the pages. Loved them together and can't wait to see how they're doing in the future books.
Happy reading dolls! xx
October 13, 2022
*** Well, my, my, my, I fell in love with these characters !! *** So hot, raw, sexy, and with deep emotions, it's totally absorbing, and entertaining. More than 5 stars entertaining !
Big man Fitch, runs a family construction business.
His sis is having her 21st birthday at a gay club, she's a lesbian, and he agrees to be her and her friends designated driver. So, here he is, watching a group of dancers work the stage and then the room. He's instantly taken with the leggy blonde man, Ansel,
who struts in heels, wears ultra glittery clothes, and is perfectly beautiful, with green eyes and a glow around him. He is so full of life, and when Ansel gives Fitch a lap dance, Fitch takes it well, and lets the kiss happen, and KABOOM ! Fitch's life is changed forever.
He's never been attracted to a man, and now, it isn't just any man, it's one man, the gorgeous Ansel. (GFY) All of the feelings, and thoughts he's having are confusing, scary, and yet amazing. I loved this wonderful story. So well written, a well crafted M/M romance with a flawed Ansel, abused, rejected by family, and in need of acceptance, who finds peace with Fitch, as his new awareness helps them both.
"broken isn't the same as unfixable" Marissa Meyer
I loved that I laughed, cried, and fell deeply into these characters lives. I won't tell you everything, but just know that this is a satisfying, absorbing, super duper book !
* Ansel's statement to Fitch's folks is awesome. I am trying to convey how much this story affected me,
it is fierce and fabulous.
I highly recommend this story, and hope you ENJOY it like I did.
===============================================
check this link for the amazing video, guys dancing in heels, of Breathe On Me:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyMgP...
===================================
Big man Fitch, runs a family construction business.
His sis is having her 21st birthday at a gay club, she's a lesbian, and he agrees to be her and her friends designated driver. So, here he is, watching a group of dancers work the stage and then the room. He's instantly taken with the leggy blonde man, Ansel,
who struts in heels, wears ultra glittery clothes, and is perfectly beautiful, with green eyes and a glow around him. He is so full of life, and when Ansel gives Fitch a lap dance, Fitch takes it well, and lets the kiss happen, and KABOOM ! Fitch's life is changed forever.
He's never been attracted to a man, and now, it isn't just any man, it's one man, the gorgeous Ansel. (GFY) All of the feelings, and thoughts he's having are confusing, scary, and yet amazing. I loved this wonderful story. So well written, a well crafted M/M romance with a flawed Ansel, abused, rejected by family, and in need of acceptance, who finds peace with Fitch, as his new awareness helps them both.
"broken isn't the same as unfixable" Marissa Meyer
I loved that I laughed, cried, and fell deeply into these characters lives. I won't tell you everything, but just know that this is a satisfying, absorbing, super duper book !
* Ansel's statement to Fitch's folks is awesome. I am trying to convey how much this story affected me,
it is fierce and fabulous.
I highly recommend this story, and hope you ENJOY it like I did.
===============================================
check this link for the amazing video, guys dancing in heels, of Breathe On Me:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyMgP...
===================================
May 12, 2018
4 fcking fab stars
this book had me hooked from the start. a queer main character who lives for red bottom heels, red lipstick, and dances for a living? sign me the fuck up
but there was so much to love here, beyond just an amazing main character. ansel had real problems i really love the journey that he went through. i think oftentimes in books we get a damaged main character and love instantly fixes all of their problems. not so, here. ansel takes ownership and responsibility for his poor choices and tries to change things so he CAN be with the man he loves.
and the man he loves was such a sweet teddy bear. i loved fitch. he ends up meeting ansel when his sister takes him to a gay bar for a show. and fitch finds his straight self inexplicably attracted to ansel. i had my reservations at first because i really can't stand an "only gay for you" story but i think it was handled well. fitch never shied away from his feelings. his inner dialogue was compelling and totally understandable. how were his parents going to feel when they wanted grandkids but already had one gay kid. how was his construction crew going to react, since that's a pretty hetero thinking crowd. he didn't doubt his feelings for a second but he did wonder how people were going to feel.
and he was supportive even through ansel's issues. i loved it. and we got to see a previously hetero man BOTTOM for his new boo. i lived, i died. i was reincarnated. fuck traditional sex roles, ma!
if you don't mind a hint of insta love and really love a non traditional romance this just might be for you.
because i, too am one sassy mufuckin boi. a buddy read with satan in a sundress 🌼
this book had me hooked from the start. a queer main character who lives for red bottom heels, red lipstick, and dances for a living? sign me the fuck up
but there was so much to love here, beyond just an amazing main character. ansel had real problems i really love the journey that he went through. i think oftentimes in books we get a damaged main character and love instantly fixes all of their problems. not so, here. ansel takes ownership and responsibility for his poor choices and tries to change things so he CAN be with the man he loves.
and the man he loves was such a sweet teddy bear. i loved fitch. he ends up meeting ansel when his sister takes him to a gay bar for a show. and fitch finds his straight self inexplicably attracted to ansel. i had my reservations at first because i really can't stand an "only gay for you" story but i think it was handled well. fitch never shied away from his feelings. his inner dialogue was compelling and totally understandable. how were his parents going to feel when they wanted grandkids but already had one gay kid. how was his construction crew going to react, since that's a pretty hetero thinking crowd. he didn't doubt his feelings for a second but he did wonder how people were going to feel.
and he was supportive even through ansel's issues. i loved it. and we got to see a previously hetero man BOTTOM for his new boo. i lived, i died. i was reincarnated. fuck traditional sex roles, ma!
if you don't mind a hint of insta love and really love a non traditional romance this just might be for you.
because i, too am one sassy mufuckin boi. a buddy read with satan in a sundress 🌼
April 19, 2017
DNF at 77%. I'd been skimming since 57%, so it was clearly time to cut my losses.
I liked the setup for Fierce & Fabulous, especially the Sassy Boyz. They're a group of androgynous men that dance in high heels. I could get behind that 100%.
Fitch is immediately likeable. He's a hardworking hunk who looks out for his little sister, is good to his parents, and is considerate of others. Plus, Fitch is great in the sack. He's perfect husband material. Yes, he accepts his new-found attraction to a man too quickly to be entirely believable, but I liked him.
Ansel, on the other hand, takes some getting used to. He's prickly, and keeps most people at arms-length. But beyond that, he's just not that nice of a person. He treats others, including his friends, like crap, and isn't reliable at all. At the point I DNF'd, Ansel was working on being better, but for the majority of the book he's a hot mess.
The romance in this book is totally insta-love. Ansel and Fitch begin thinking about forever-and-ever after their first date, and it doesn't take them long after that for them to get serious. I'm not a fan of insta-love, but if the author can convince me that the MCs truly belong together, then I can buy it. In this case, I just didn't see why Ansel and Fitch were immediately head-over-heels for each other.
Their emotional connection was minimal, and it seemed like their romance was just playing off of their obvious sexual chemistry. And yes, the sexual chemistry was there and it was hot, but it wasn't enough to make me believe in the insta-love.
The main reason why I just couldn't get into this book was that it was just so generic. The story-line of a hot straight jock falling for the more effeminate troubled gay man is a staple in the MM GFY trope. I could predict what would happen next without trying too hard. I think if I had read this book a couple of years ago, I would have liked it. But I've read too many similar MM books for 'Fierce & Fabulous' to capture my attention.
The vast majority of the ARC reviewers loved 'Fierce & Fabulous', so take my review with a grain of salt. Sometimes a certain trope or story-line just doesn't pan out.
I liked the setup for Fierce & Fabulous, especially the Sassy Boyz. They're a group of androgynous men that dance in high heels. I could get behind that 100%.
Fitch is immediately likeable. He's a hardworking hunk who looks out for his little sister, is good to his parents, and is considerate of others. Plus, Fitch is great in the sack. He's perfect husband material. Yes, he accepts his new-found attraction to a man too quickly to be entirely believable, but I liked him.
Ansel, on the other hand, takes some getting used to. He's prickly, and keeps most people at arms-length. But beyond that, he's just not that nice of a person. He treats others, including his friends, like crap, and isn't reliable at all. At the point I DNF'd, Ansel was working on being better, but for the majority of the book he's a hot mess.
The romance in this book is totally insta-love. Ansel and Fitch begin thinking about forever-and-ever after their first date, and it doesn't take them long after that for them to get serious. I'm not a fan of insta-love, but if the author can convince me that the MCs truly belong together, then I can buy it. In this case, I just didn't see why Ansel and Fitch were immediately head-over-heels for each other.
Their emotional connection was minimal, and it seemed like their romance was just playing off of their obvious sexual chemistry. And yes, the sexual chemistry was there and it was hot, but it wasn't enough to make me believe in the insta-love.
The main reason why I just couldn't get into this book was that it was just so generic. The story-line of a hot straight jock falling for the more effeminate troubled gay man is a staple in the MM GFY trope. I could predict what would happen next without trying too hard. I think if I had read this book a couple of years ago, I would have liked it. But I've read too many similar MM books for 'Fierce & Fabulous' to capture my attention.
The vast majority of the ARC reviewers loved 'Fierce & Fabulous', so take my review with a grain of salt. Sometimes a certain trope or story-line just doesn't pan out.
June 29, 2016
Dissenting opinion ahead.
The only thing I liked in this book was...
(Yanis Marshall, you are a god among people.)
This and the crossdressing theme were the reasons I didn't dnf this train wreck of a book (no offense to those who liked it). There were things I just didn't care for, or rubbed me the wrong way. Like:
~This is insta-love central.
~ Meg, Fitch's lesbian sister, forces him to accept a lap dance from a guy. Now what if Fitch was really straight and had no interest in Ansel? Would it be ok if it was a gay guy in his place and he was forced to accept a lap dance from a woman? I don't say it would traumatize him for life, but this is a kind of "straight bashing" in my book. And before you say that Fitch was a grown up and all he had to do was say no, here comes the emotional blackmail:
“What, are you suddenly homophobic? Is my only brother a bigot and I somehow missed it for the last seven years?”
Um...nooooo...You 're NOT a bigot when you don't want to get a lap dance from another guy.
~ Fitch's dad was a piece of work. He never truly apologized for all the offensive crap he hurled at his son and his change of heart felt contrived, as contrived were a lot of incidents throughout the story.
~Ansel's alcoholism was glossed over. It was like a plot device, that only served one purpose: to make excuses for Ansel's shitty behaviour. And boy, was it shitty.
~Fitch was ok. Until he decided to be the doormat in this story, and blame himself for Ansel's screw-ups.
~What's up with the weird names? I can't get over it. Ansel and Fitch? Lirim? Castor?
Bottom line, the writting was good and I love stories with femme guys. But this one didn't work at all. I don't think I'll continue with the series.
July 2, 2016
I was very impressed with this story!! I loved every part of it.
Fitch and Ansel were great characters.
Fitch
All Fitch has done all his life is taken care of others. One night when he’s out celebrating his gay sister’s birthday, he meets this extraordinary dancer. At first he thinks he’s a woman but then “she” turned around….
“I thought you were hot, but then you turned around and I knew I was wrong. You weren’t just hot, you were explosive. I was ten times more attracted to you once I knew the truth.”
Ansel
Ansel has been on his own since he was seventeen years old, lived on the streets but is now a dancer at a gay club. He loves his make-up and high heels on which he dances on as well.
He has a lot of baggage. Too much as he says himself. Too much to carry for anyone else so that this person would love him the way he is.
Fitch seems to be this perfect person for Ansel.
“The real you is a magnetic, funny man who is interesting and beautiful, full of confidence and strength. Never, ever dull your shine, Angel, not for me, not for anyone. You make the world a brighter place.”
I’m looking forward to the rest of the Sassy Boyz series!!
*recommended*
September 12, 2016
*spoiler alert*
A huge dreamy sigh.
Wow. This book was just amazing. I fell for Fitch and Ansel hook, line and sinker right from the start. The secondary characters have been developed in such detail, it feels like I've met all of them.
The story is really sweet. I loved the softness of Fitch and the sass of our first sassy boy. The mistreatment of Ansel by his own parents made me so furious! I wanted to slap his mother myself!!! :@ I cried when she made him fall so deep into that black hole of misery.
And I was ecstatic to see that Fitch's parents came around so quickly. It would've broken my heart if they had caused them both so much trouble too. I laughed out loud at some of the scenes, they were so hilariously written.
A great read, a perfect start to the series. I can't wait to read the stories of all my favorite boys.
Hope they can get away from Castor soon enough. >_<
A huge dreamy sigh.
Wow. This book was just amazing. I fell for Fitch and Ansel hook, line and sinker right from the start. The secondary characters have been developed in such detail, it feels like I've met all of them.
The story is really sweet. I loved the softness of Fitch and the sass of our first sassy boy. The mistreatment of Ansel by his own parents made me so furious! I wanted to slap his mother myself!!! :@ I cried when she made him fall so deep into that black hole of misery.
And I was ecstatic to see that Fitch's parents came around so quickly. It would've broken my heart if they had caused them both so much trouble too. I laughed out loud at some of the scenes, they were so hilariously written.
A great read, a perfect start to the series. I can't wait to read the stories of all my favorite boys.
Hope they can get away from Castor soon enough. >_<
October 30, 2016
I enjoyed Fierce & Fabulous a lot.
Geeez, what is not to like in two hot guys with phenomenal chemistry?
Gourgeous Ansel:
Fierce Fitch:
I am holding a Star for two reasons:
Ansel's drama was a little too heavy. Not sure what I am really complaining here because I love me some drama. It's just ... dunno... I got bored and I want to skim.
And the cheesy grand finale, I felt it was a bit rushed.
June 3, 2018
I'm sick af & about to go back to bed so this'll be short.
3.5
I liked this well enough to continue on with the series. There were parts a RULLY liked and parts that had me side-eyeing.
Fitch is almost too perfect. Devoted, loyal, steadfast, responsible and caring. He's such a supportive big bro that he finds himself at a gay bar for his sister's 21st then getting a lap dance from the androgynous and hot like burning Ansel. A lap dance that culminates in a scorching kiss.
And pretty much from that point on he's DTF another dude even though up until then he'd only been with the female of the species. For the purposes of storytelling I get why the author chose to go this route. It is a very romantic ideal, if unrealistic.
Ansel has had a rough road which makes it hard for him to trust others or let them get too close to him. But he too seems to overcome his demons and fears with relative ease which I also found unrealistic.
However, the sex is pretty hot, these two are really REALLY into each other and the story overall was sweet. I really loved how Fitch kept calling Ansel 'his Angel'. Sappy, I know but... *shrugs*
So if you're looking for some escapist fluff with a side of hurt-comfort lite then I'd recommend this story.
3.5
I liked this well enough to continue on with the series. There were parts a RULLY liked and parts that had me side-eyeing.
Fitch is almost too perfect. Devoted, loyal, steadfast, responsible and caring. He's such a supportive big bro that he finds himself at a gay bar for his sister's 21st then getting a lap dance from the androgynous and hot like burning Ansel. A lap dance that culminates in a scorching kiss.
And pretty much from that point on he's DTF another dude even though up until then he'd only been with the female of the species. For the purposes of storytelling I get why the author chose to go this route. It is a very romantic ideal, if unrealistic.
Ansel has had a rough road which makes it hard for him to trust others or let them get too close to him. But he too seems to overcome his demons and fears with relative ease which I also found unrealistic.
However, the sex is pretty hot, these two are really REALLY into each other and the story overall was sweet. I really loved how Fitch kept calling Ansel 'his Angel'. Sappy, I know but... *shrugs*
So if you're looking for some escapist fluff with a side of hurt-comfort lite then I'd recommend this story.
June 10, 2017
Whoo-ee!
You know what? This may be a tad bit unrealistic, and I can see how some didn't exactly fall for the premise or how it was executed. However, you know what else? If you know that going in, then just sit back and enjoy the ride!
So this starts really with a kiss. Funny how just one little kiss can turn the table on so many things. Oh so many things!
Fitch is ready to live life for himself, and when he realizes he wants Ansel, he goes at it with a singleminded determination, despite being surprised with this newest development in his sexuality. Don't you just admire a man who knows what he wants? Loved his honesty and sincerity.
Ansel is understandably doubtful. He's been on his own for a long time and doesn't exist much beyond work, dance, and playing even harder. How dare Fitch make his life more complicated, making him want more. Ansel can't however, resist falling equally just as hard.
Filled with great UST and smex, this was peppered with just enough angst to cause a little conflict. But have no fear. These guys can't stay apart too long, and everything of course works out. This was fierce and fabulous, with some great feels and fun as well! Easy reading overall, and I'm totally ready for the next installment!!
You know what? This may be a tad bit unrealistic, and I can see how some didn't exactly fall for the premise or how it was executed. However, you know what else? If you know that going in, then just sit back and enjoy the ride!
So this starts really with a kiss. Funny how just one little kiss can turn the table on so many things. Oh so many things!
Fitch is ready to live life for himself, and when he realizes he wants Ansel, he goes at it with a singleminded determination, despite being surprised with this newest development in his sexuality. Don't you just admire a man who knows what he wants? Loved his honesty and sincerity.
Ansel is understandably doubtful. He's been on his own for a long time and doesn't exist much beyond work, dance, and playing even harder. How dare Fitch make his life more complicated, making him want more. Ansel can't however, resist falling equally just as hard.
Filled with great UST and smex, this was peppered with just enough angst to cause a little conflict. But have no fear. These guys can't stay apart too long, and everything of course works out. This was fierce and fabulous, with some great feels and fun as well! Easy reading overall, and I'm totally ready for the next installment!!
July 4, 2016
5 Stars
I'm on a post-reading high right now. I absolutely LOVED this story.
The fantastic characters, the writing quality, the empowering themes, the chemistry between Fitch and Ansel, the delicious sex scenes, the awesome music, the dancing, the heels, the cheese kink....did I mention THE SEX!?! Seriously, I loved it all.
I'm on a post-reading high right now. I absolutely LOVED this story.
The fantastic characters, the writing quality, the empowering themes, the chemistry between Fitch and Ansel, the delicious sex scenes, the awesome music, the dancing, the heels, the cheese kink....did I mention THE SEX!?! Seriously, I loved it all.
September 11, 2018
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
3.5 Stars
This is my first book by Elizabeth Varlet and I thought it was a great introduction to her writing. I liked her sassy characters and how open she made Ansel. He had a lot of hidden, and not so hidden, issues but he never lost that vibrant love of life which I really liked seeing. And then there was Fitch who was having all of these feeling for the first time and I liked how he dealt with those head on instead of hiding away from them. Though, I would have liked to see more of his inner fight to get a real feel for his character.
I do think the ending was just a little jumbled and rushed but it didn't stop me from loving these boys. Overall, this was a really fun book to read and I'm already looking forward to getting more of the Sassy Boyz.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
3.5 Stars
This is my first book by Elizabeth Varlet and I thought it was a great introduction to her writing. I liked her sassy characters and how open she made Ansel. He had a lot of hidden, and not so hidden, issues but he never lost that vibrant love of life which I really liked seeing. And then there was Fitch who was having all of these feeling for the first time and I liked how he dealt with those head on instead of hiding away from them. Though, I would have liked to see more of his inner fight to get a real feel for his character.
I do think the ending was just a little jumbled and rushed but it didn't stop me from loving these boys. Overall, this was a really fun book to read and I'm already looking forward to getting more of the Sassy Boyz.
May 16, 2018
4 FIERCE & FAB STARS
Okay you guys I’m not going to lie, I 100% judged this book by the cover. Yes, I thought it was fabulous and a little hilarious and I simply started it because it was called freaking Fierce & Fabulous and it had dancing men and glitter on the cover! Plus, he is a fucking dancer inspired by Yanis Marhsall. Like I said, it would be a S I N if I didn’t at least check it out. Also yes, I thought it was going to be another M/M that was destroyed because the author had no idea how to develop characters or even a relationship, let alone a plot. I was pleasantly surprised. This book was so fun and thought provoking.
I have never read a character like Ansel. He was amazing. I’ve read quite a few M/M, I do love them so, and I have definitely noticed a trend when it comes to the boys. I’ve been going back and forth on the most PC way to say this and I really hope it’s not offensive and know that it’s never my intention to offend anyone so I’m just going to say (type) it. We all know that a lot of M/M are written by women (including this one) and as a result it doesn’t seem like there is a lot of diversity or representation in the male characters. Honestly, in my eyes they are the stereotypical hetero male love interest (muscular, freakishly handsome, overprotective, hockey player, etc.) but they’re gay. Now don’t get me wrong, that’s totally fine but I’m not joking when I say that every character I’ve read has been like this – except for Ansel. Who is fucking fabulous in his five-inch stilettos, fierce AF attitude, flawless makeup, and flowing mane.
“This is all you need to know about me. I like pretty things, but I also love my cock. I don’t want to be a woman, but I happen to look like one. I enjoy wearing heels, experimenting with makeup, and sparkly things. I also enjoying sticking my hand down my pants and scratching my balls, ‘cause, yes, I do have them.”
Another truth, I was confused by Ansel’s appearance. I have never met anyone like Ansel, and it took me some googling and video watching to wrap my mind around the fluidity of his appearance. Thanks to my bb, Chan for suggesting people to google <3
Fabulous appearance aside, I loved Ansel. He’s fucking fierce, but also a sweet little Care Bear once you get passed the spikes. On top of how amazingly refreshing Ansel was I loved the journey he went on. His life was not easy, he had issues and reading about his life was a rollercoaster. I loved seeing his character develop and I loved even more that he didn’t change his life for anyone but himself. He didn’t do it for his friends, or for his lover, he did it for him, because he wanted to make his life better.
Then there was Fitch, who’s journey began when he met Ansel. Fitch was really well-written and so sweet. I thought Elizabeth Verlat did a great job portraying his exploration of his sexuality, it felt really real to me.
I will say that the romance was a little too all-in-instalovey which I usually hate so, so much but it honestly didn’t really bother me in this instance. I was too in love with everything else to really care. Besides feeling that things were a little too rushed in the emotion department I do feel a little disappointed that Fitch’s insecurities about Ansel dancing weren’t addressed. If you’re going to write that the dude stays up all night thinking about his man dancing for other guys it’s pretty important that they talk about it. I 100% would not have wanted Ansel to quit since he, and I, loves it so much but a discussion and some reassurance would have been nice. I also wish we got to see a little more of Ansel being there for Fitch. I know Ansel’s life was kind of a shit show but I don’t know, I was left a little with the feeling that they weren’t on equal ground dependability wise..
I enjoyed all the secondary characters! We got to see them sparkle without outshining Ansel, which I honestly doubt is possible, and there was just enough information about each to show the different personalities, a tiny bit of their backstory and make me R E A D Y to read their books.
And OBVI I loved the dancing and the stripping!! Seriously, strippers are my new favorite thing to read about. Honestly, sign me the fuck up for anything in the sex industry. Especially if it’s M/M. *throws glitter*
This book was freaking fun, full of glitter, KILLER dance moves, and sassy comments but it also made me think which I always love. I loved the characters, the romance, the secondary characters (can't wait for their books!) - I loved it all. What I loved most was the representation and how none of her characters fit into a box.
Some people fit into boxes and some people don’t. I definitely don't and that's okay. Do what makes you happy, boos! AKA reading this book.
———————————————————————
It would be a sin if I didn't read a M/M that's cover features a glittered man on it and is titled "Fierce & Fabulous". Buddy ready with evil incarnate
Okay you guys I’m not going to lie, I 100% judged this book by the cover. Yes, I thought it was fabulous and a little hilarious and I simply started it because it was called freaking Fierce & Fabulous and it had dancing men and glitter on the cover! Plus, he is a fucking dancer inspired by Yanis Marhsall. Like I said, it would be a S I N if I didn’t at least check it out. Also yes, I thought it was going to be another M/M that was destroyed because the author had no idea how to develop characters or even a relationship, let alone a plot. I was pleasantly surprised. This book was so fun and thought provoking.
I have never read a character like Ansel. He was amazing. I’ve read quite a few M/M, I do love them so, and I have definitely noticed a trend when it comes to the boys. I’ve been going back and forth on the most PC way to say this and I really hope it’s not offensive and know that it’s never my intention to offend anyone so I’m just going to say (type) it. We all know that a lot of M/M are written by women (including this one) and as a result it doesn’t seem like there is a lot of diversity or representation in the male characters. Honestly, in my eyes they are the stereotypical hetero male love interest (muscular, freakishly handsome, overprotective, hockey player, etc.) but they’re gay. Now don’t get me wrong, that’s totally fine but I’m not joking when I say that every character I’ve read has been like this – except for Ansel. Who is fucking fabulous in his five-inch stilettos, fierce AF attitude, flawless makeup, and flowing mane.
“This is all you need to know about me. I like pretty things, but I also love my cock. I don’t want to be a woman, but I happen to look like one. I enjoy wearing heels, experimenting with makeup, and sparkly things. I also enjoying sticking my hand down my pants and scratching my balls, ‘cause, yes, I do have them.”
Another truth, I was confused by Ansel’s appearance. I have never met anyone like Ansel, and it took me some googling and video watching to wrap my mind around the fluidity of his appearance. Thanks to my bb, Chan for suggesting people to google <3
Fabulous appearance aside, I loved Ansel. He’s fucking fierce, but also a sweet little Care Bear once you get passed the spikes. On top of how amazingly refreshing Ansel was I loved the journey he went on. His life was not easy, he had issues and reading about his life was a rollercoaster. I loved seeing his character develop and I loved even more that he didn’t change his life for anyone but himself. He didn’t do it for his friends, or for his lover, he did it for him, because he wanted to make his life better.
Then there was Fitch, who’s journey began when he met Ansel. Fitch was really well-written and so sweet. I thought Elizabeth Verlat did a great job portraying his exploration of his sexuality, it felt really real to me.
I will say that the romance was a little too all-in-instalovey which I usually hate so, so much but it honestly didn’t really bother me in this instance. I was too in love with everything else to really care. Besides feeling that things were a little too rushed in the emotion department I do feel a little disappointed that Fitch’s insecurities about Ansel dancing weren’t addressed. If you’re going to write that the dude stays up all night thinking about his man dancing for other guys it’s pretty important that they talk about it. I 100% would not have wanted Ansel to quit since he, and I, loves it so much but a discussion and some reassurance would have been nice. I also wish we got to see a little more of Ansel being there for Fitch. I know Ansel’s life was kind of a shit show but I don’t know, I was left a little with the feeling that they weren’t on equal ground dependability wise..
I enjoyed all the secondary characters! We got to see them sparkle without outshining Ansel, which I honestly doubt is possible, and there was just enough information about each to show the different personalities, a tiny bit of their backstory and make me R E A D Y to read their books.
And OBVI I loved the dancing and the stripping!! Seriously, strippers are my new favorite thing to read about. Honestly, sign me the fuck up for anything in the sex industry. Especially if it’s M/M. *throws glitter*
This book was freaking fun, full of glitter, KILLER dance moves, and sassy comments but it also made me think which I always love. I loved the characters, the romance, the secondary characters (can't wait for their books!) - I loved it all. What I loved most was the representation and how none of her characters fit into a box.
Some people fit into boxes and some people don’t. I definitely don't and that's okay. Do what makes you happy, boos! AKA reading this book.
———————————————————————
It would be a sin if I didn't read a M/M that's cover features a glittered man on it and is titled "Fierce & Fabulous". Buddy ready with evil incarnate
June 29, 2016
5 Stars
Loved it!!
Loved it!!
August 8, 2016
3 estrellas, bien para una escritora novel.
No tenía muchas expectativas cuando empecé el libro, no buscaba mucho más allá de una diversión fácil que no me hiciera rechinar demasiado los dientes, y el glitter y los tacones que prometía el blurb es lo que me decidió. Pues acerté, porque es lo que me ha dado, una diversión fácil y una sonrisilla al terminar el libro.
Un grupo de chicos con pasado difícil se ponen los tacones, el maquillaje y el glitter cada noche para bailar en un club de Nueva York, entre ellos destaca el andrógino Ansel, rubio, pelo largo y con todo el pack de maquillaje, manicura, ropa llamativa y tacones. Y es allí donde conoce a Fitch, serio, seguro, leal, y básicamente una buena persona, pero heterosexual. A partir de aquí y un instalust bastante bien desarrollado comienza una relación difícil llena de brillantina, conflicto, y unas buenas escenas de sexo.
La historia es entretenida, los personajes queribles, prácticamente se lee solo, pero presenta varios puntos conflictivos. El primero, pero ese ya personal, es la cuestión del GFY, sigue siendo un tema poco creíble para mi, supongo que será real, pero me cuesta entenderlo, para mi es bisexual, o quizás no, pero desde luego no heterosexual. El hecho de que Fitch se embarque en una primera relación sexual con un hombre sin que eso le suponga mucho conflicto también es una cuestión difícil para mi, aunque supongo que la manera de encararlo dependerá del background y educación de cada uno. En la trama hay otros puntos flojos que podría haber solventado un beta, no son importantes pero le restan consistencia a la historia. Los diálogos necesitan ser pulidos, fundamentalmente aquellos que son un speech grande, no tienen pausas, eso les quita fuerza, y además tienen un lenguaje que no corresponde a una conversación espontánea, si no a un discurso pensado. Algunas escenas rozan peligrosamente el cliché. Además de todo esto, el principal problema que le veo al libro es que se tratan muchos temas importantes: adicciones, suicidio, rechazo, abuso, salir del armario, autodestrucción, etc.., tantas cosas que al final la autora no puede tratar ninguno de esos puntos con la seriedad debida, con la profundidad que yo creo que se merecen esos temas, pasa muy de puntilla por ellos.
Lo mejor de todo es sin duda alguna el personaje de Ansel y sus tacones. Seguro que leeré el siguiente de la serie.
No tenía muchas expectativas cuando empecé el libro, no buscaba mucho más allá de una diversión fácil que no me hiciera rechinar demasiado los dientes, y el glitter y los tacones que prometía el blurb es lo que me decidió. Pues acerté, porque es lo que me ha dado, una diversión fácil y una sonrisilla al terminar el libro.
Un grupo de chicos con pasado difícil se ponen los tacones, el maquillaje y el glitter cada noche para bailar en un club de Nueva York, entre ellos destaca el andrógino Ansel, rubio, pelo largo y con todo el pack de maquillaje, manicura, ropa llamativa y tacones. Y es allí donde conoce a Fitch, serio, seguro, leal, y básicamente una buena persona, pero heterosexual. A partir de aquí y un instalust bastante bien desarrollado comienza una relación difícil llena de brillantina, conflicto, y unas buenas escenas de sexo.
La historia es entretenida, los personajes queribles, prácticamente se lee solo, pero presenta varios puntos conflictivos. El primero, pero ese ya personal, es la cuestión del GFY, sigue siendo un tema poco creíble para mi, supongo que será real, pero me cuesta entenderlo, para mi es bisexual, o quizás no, pero desde luego no heterosexual. El hecho de que Fitch se embarque en una primera relación sexual con un hombre sin que eso le suponga mucho conflicto también es una cuestión difícil para mi, aunque supongo que la manera de encararlo dependerá del background y educación de cada uno. En la trama hay otros puntos flojos que podría haber solventado un beta, no son importantes pero le restan consistencia a la historia. Los diálogos necesitan ser pulidos, fundamentalmente aquellos que son un speech grande, no tienen pausas, eso les quita fuerza, y además tienen un lenguaje que no corresponde a una conversación espontánea, si no a un discurso pensado. Algunas escenas rozan peligrosamente el cliché. Además de todo esto, el principal problema que le veo al libro es que se tratan muchos temas importantes: adicciones, suicidio, rechazo, abuso, salir del armario, autodestrucción, etc.., tantas cosas que al final la autora no puede tratar ninguno de esos puntos con la seriedad debida, con la profundidad que yo creo que se merecen esos temas, pasa muy de puntilla por ellos.
Lo mejor de todo es sin duda alguna el personaje de Ansel y sus tacones. Seguro que leeré el siguiente de la serie.
February 14, 2018
This isn't bad but I felt it could have been a bit longer to give a bit more depth to the relationship.
I liked the conflict and the resolution, which felt earned and realistic, the secondary characters filled out the world quite nicely and the setting is enough of a change to make the GFY trope work in a slightly different fashion.
I liked that Fitch properly took the time to deal with his feelings rather than it be insta love but there was still a bit too quick a jump into a relationship for me given Ansel's serious emotional issues which were well developed.
Having said the above, this book is smoking hot, the sex is superbly written and never feels like it's there just to titillate, it all fits perfectly into the narrative.
Fitch is a sweetheart, Ansel is damaged but trying to deal and the ending does feel like it would result in a true HEA for these two men.
I liked the conflict and the resolution, which felt earned and realistic, the secondary characters filled out the world quite nicely and the setting is enough of a change to make the GFY trope work in a slightly different fashion.
I liked that Fitch properly took the time to deal with his feelings rather than it be insta love but there was still a bit too quick a jump into a relationship for me given Ansel's serious emotional issues which were well developed.
Having said the above, this book is smoking hot, the sex is superbly written and never feels like it's there just to titillate, it all fits perfectly into the narrative.
Fitch is a sweetheart, Ansel is damaged but trying to deal and the ending does feel like it would result in a true HEA for these two men.
October 11, 2016
Fierce and Fabulous ticks quite a few boxes for me:
.) great MCs: I loved Ansel, but I adored Fitch. How could you not? He is the epitome of understanding strength, solid steadfastness and genuine warmth, and he has an amazing capacity to accept his rather unexpected feelings.
.) lots of firsts: Don't you just love google? What would we do without it? Fitch is a master of research and a really quick learner. But his will to give turned me into mush.
.) GFY, done in an interesting way: I've never been into guys with long hair, but that is something completely different from what Ansel portrays. I could actually associate with him and find him attractive in many ways (not to mention my undying admiration for him walking and dancing!!! in heels)
.) amazing sex scenes: Yes, Fitch and Ansel are hot together, really hot, and their first time was a masterpiece of erotic writing. So intense, so full of emotions, so many feels - sigh. Just brilliant. This wasn't just sex, that was blatantly clear, and it wasn't just hot, but very much for the heart.
So why only four stars?
I really was on a roll to a five star rating until about 80 percent. When suddenly all problems resolved as if sprinkled by pink fairy dust. Suddenly everything went too sweet and nice and happy. It didn't sit right with me and it didn't feel realistic, as much as I liked Ansel and Fitch getting their HEA.
Still - this is a super read totally worthy of your time! I really enjoyed it!
Recommended!
August 15, 2021
Wow .... just wow. Fitch, almost 30 and straight identifying, watches Ansel and the rest of the Sassy Boyz dancers in a gay bar that his sister dragged him to on her 21st birthday. Imagine his surprise when the tall, gorgeous blonde dancer with the long legs turns out to be a guy. Imagine Fitch's shock when his cock doesn't have too much of a problem with that, and the rest of him waves the white flag of surrender during oh-my-god the friggin' hottest lap dance ever.
Fitch is self-aware enough to realize that what he feels for Ansel is real, and worth every bit of drama, while Ansel has to work through a horrifyingly sad/bad childhood and their journey together is all kinds of sweet, steamy and sexy.
I hadn't heard of Elizabeth Varlet before discovering this book, and now she is on my list of "Gotta Read Authors". I love her writing style and the world she's created with Sassy Boyz and I'm looking forward to reading more about Z, Lirim and Tam! A solid 4.25 stars.
I received an ARC of Fierce & Fabulous from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
Fitch is self-aware enough to realize that what he feels for Ansel is real, and worth every bit of drama, while Ansel has to work through a horrifyingly sad/bad childhood and their journey together is all kinds of sweet, steamy and sexy.
I hadn't heard of Elizabeth Varlet before discovering this book, and now she is on my list of "Gotta Read Authors". I love her writing style and the world she's created with Sassy Boyz and I'm looking forward to reading more about Z, Lirim and Tam! A solid 4.25 stars.
I received an ARC of Fierce & Fabulous from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
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