What do you think?
Rate this book
The Shape of You
Too big. Too fat. All his life Eric Sontag has judged himself on his size, believing love and friendship aren't in the cards for someone like him. Tired of being alone and scared of his doctor’s warnings, he enrolls in a nutrition support group, determined to change his life. When a beautiful thin man sits next to him, he can’t believe they have anything in common, but conversation between the two soon proves first impressions aren’t always what they seem. Drifter. Loner. Corey DeSantis has always been the scrawny waif; he’s tired of struggling with his art and with life. Scarred by the disappearance and death of his drug-addicted mother, he doesn’t wish for love, believing it will bring him nothing but pain in the end. Now his only hunger in life is his desire to paint…until a health scare and his mentor force him to attend a nutrition class where he meets a man who piques his interest. One drunken kiss later, Eric is all Corey can think about. The same, yet different. An unlikely friendship is born with both men wanting more but afraid to listen to their well-guarded hearts. When Corey receives shocking news leaving him angry and helpless, it’s Eric he leans on, to help see him through, while a surprising career opportunity finds Eric leaning on Corey for advice. One night of explosive passion leads to a second and soon neither man can imagine a life without the other. Life is shaped by the challenges accepted and roads not taken but as Corey and Eric walk the path together, they’ll discover the most beautiful destination of all. Love.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2017
165 people are currently reading
945 people want to read
About the author
Felice Stevens
91 books1,730 followersFelice Stevens writes romance because what is better than people falling in love? Her favorite part of a romance novel is that first kiss…sigh. She loves creating stories of hopes and dreams and happily ever afters. Her stories are character-driven, rich with the sights, sounds and flavors of New York City and filled with men who are sometimes deeply flawed but always real.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 251 reviews
December 31, 2022
~2.5~
Not all overweight people are miserable bastards! Eric was just so insecure, always assuming he'd get picked on because of his weight. It wasn't attractive.
As for Corey . . . I didn't really understand why he didn't eat when he hated being skinny. It was something to do with his childhood, but I didn't buy it.
However, as a thin person myself, I can vouch for the fact that people say things to skinny people they'd never say to fat people. A couple years ago at a professional conference, I was having dinner with my peers when a colleague pointed to my plate and said, "Oh, wow, I thought you lived on rabbit food, Dani. That's gotta be your calorie quota for the month."
Hahaha. Hilarious.
Yeah, NO, and fuck you very much.
I felt bad for both MCs and thought they were sweet together. The sex was hot. I didn't even mind Corey's family reunion.
But the dialogue sounded like someone trying hard to write dialogue vs. like real people talking. It just didn't flow right. And don't get me started on the numerous typos and editing issues.
I got a little bored with the story, but the ending was lovely.
Not all overweight people are miserable bastards! Eric was just so insecure, always assuming he'd get picked on because of his weight. It wasn't attractive.
As for Corey . . . I didn't really understand why he didn't eat when he hated being skinny. It was something to do with his childhood, but I didn't buy it.
However, as a thin person myself, I can vouch for the fact that people say things to skinny people they'd never say to fat people. A couple years ago at a professional conference, I was having dinner with my peers when a colleague pointed to my plate and said, "Oh, wow, I thought you lived on rabbit food, Dani. That's gotta be your calorie quota for the month."
Hahaha. Hilarious.
Yeah, NO, and fuck you very much.
I felt bad for both MCs and thought they were sweet together. The sex was hot. I didn't even mind Corey's family reunion.
But the dialogue sounded like someone trying hard to write dialogue vs. like real people talking. It just didn't flow right. And don't get me started on the numerous typos and editing issues.
I got a little bored with the story, but the ending was lovely.
June 19, 2023
*4.5* Despite this slightly awkward cover, the story inside was quite sweet. Focusing primarily on body insecurity and personal growth, this low drama, high vulnerability couple was the perfect antidote to my recent over the top reads.
Eric (6'3", 285 lbs) a sensitive and overweight librarian and Corey (5'10", 140) lbs an insecure and underweight artist meet one evening in a class focused on healthy eating habits.
No GFY, no drama for drama’s sake, just real men struggling to overcome unhealthy eating habits. Beautiful and graphic intimate moments, and a very satisfying HEA.
Narration by Nick J. Russo was done very well!
Eric (6'3", 285 lbs) a sensitive and overweight librarian and Corey (5'10", 140) lbs an insecure and underweight artist meet one evening in a class focused on healthy eating habits.
No GFY, no drama for drama’s sake, just real men struggling to overcome unhealthy eating habits. Beautiful and graphic intimate moments, and a very satisfying HEA.
Narration by Nick J. Russo was done very well!
June 13, 2017
This story is about an overweight librarian with an underweight artist who met each other during a nutrition support group. They become fast friend through their mutual food issue and decided to help each other to get healthy by being dinner buddy and confidant.
There is a lot of weight shaming going on in this book, which I guess is the point of this story with Eric as the main character who have low self esteem and love to eat for comfort. I'm guilty as charge for being the person who didn't want to sit next to a big size traveler in a flight. Reading about the daily struggle that Eric went through is hard and make me realize what a shitty person I am. I understand the nasty looks, the prejudice, but I find that the verbal abuse seems over the top, do people really that horrible with no sense of preservation? Eric is a big guy who is over six feet tall and practically a teddy bear, but I always think people wouldn't try to mess with a guy his size.
Corey is an aspiring artist who is working as a PA for an artist. Corey is a loner, and his issue stem from his less than favorable upbringing. He had no desire for food because he grew up without much. Despite Corey's devil may care attitude, meeting Eric turned on all his protective instinct. Whenever Eric get upset and demotivated about his weight, Corey is there to lift him up and support him. Their friendship is the best part of the story before things turned into more. They are simply there for each other, motivating, supporting, providing advise and even a shoulder to cry on.
The relationship between Eric and Corey is emotional and beautiful. I'm glad the author took a path less traveled and wrote about characters with body issue and isn't all confident and busy hitting up the Grindr. There is something endearing about being old fashion and called me old fashion too, because Eric seems just like someone I knew. And the next big guy who sit next to me on flight, I will remember to give him a smile and ask how is his day.
There is a lot of weight shaming going on in this book, which I guess is the point of this story with Eric as the main character who have low self esteem and love to eat for comfort. I'm guilty as charge for being the person who didn't want to sit next to a big size traveler in a flight. Reading about the daily struggle that Eric went through is hard and make me realize what a shitty person I am. I understand the nasty looks, the prejudice, but I find that the verbal abuse seems over the top, do people really that horrible with no sense of preservation? Eric is a big guy who is over six feet tall and practically a teddy bear, but I always think people wouldn't try to mess with a guy his size.
Corey is an aspiring artist who is working as a PA for an artist. Corey is a loner, and his issue stem from his less than favorable upbringing. He had no desire for food because he grew up without much. Despite Corey's devil may care attitude, meeting Eric turned on all his protective instinct. Whenever Eric get upset and demotivated about his weight, Corey is there to lift him up and support him. Their friendship is the best part of the story before things turned into more. They are simply there for each other, motivating, supporting, providing advise and even a shoulder to cry on.
The relationship between Eric and Corey is emotional and beautiful. I'm glad the author took a path less traveled and wrote about characters with body issue and isn't all confident and busy hitting up the Grindr. There is something endearing about being old fashion and called me old fashion too, because Eric seems just like someone I knew. And the next big guy who sit next to me on flight, I will remember to give him a smile and ask how is his day.
November 21, 2017
*** A beautiful, stand alone, love story ! ***
Eric is a big man, at 6'3", 285 lbs., a Librarian,
but he's always had a weight problem. He and his Dad ate to fill the hole left when his Mom passed away young.
Eric's doc told him he'd better shape up, so he joins a Nutrition Group to learn to eat better and get healthy.
In class he meets Corey, who is skinny but unhealthy.
Corey, 5'10", 140 lbs., an artist assistant,
needs to learn nutrition and to not skip meals.
He was recently hospitalized for dehydration. It's a learning curve for the class to understand each person is there for a different reason.
*** The characters seemed so real, flawed, so burdened by their struggles. As partners in the class project, the men learn about each other, bit by bit. Each sees what the other must go through, and learn to trust and be honest.
A marvelous story by Felice Stevens, well written, and pertinent. We all let our past dictate our future. Here we see them analyze themselves deeply, to get a grip on why they became who they are.
We get to see Eric and Corey interact with co-workers, and then Corey's Mom, who he thought died years ago, calls him. Everyone has an effect on these misunderstood guys. Their friendship turns to sexiness and back to friends for awhile. Will they salvage the love !
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
=====================
Eric is a big man, at 6'3", 285 lbs., a Librarian,
but he's always had a weight problem. He and his Dad ate to fill the hole left when his Mom passed away young.
Eric's doc told him he'd better shape up, so he joins a Nutrition Group to learn to eat better and get healthy.
In class he meets Corey, who is skinny but unhealthy.
Corey, 5'10", 140 lbs., an artist assistant,
needs to learn nutrition and to not skip meals.
He was recently hospitalized for dehydration. It's a learning curve for the class to understand each person is there for a different reason.
*** The characters seemed so real, flawed, so burdened by their struggles. As partners in the class project, the men learn about each other, bit by bit. Each sees what the other must go through, and learn to trust and be honest.
A marvelous story by Felice Stevens, well written, and pertinent. We all let our past dictate our future. Here we see them analyze themselves deeply, to get a grip on why they became who they are.
We get to see Eric and Corey interact with co-workers, and then Corey's Mom, who he thought died years ago, calls him. Everyone has an effect on these misunderstood guys. Their friendship turns to sexiness and back to friends for awhile. Will they salvage the love !
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
=====================
August 20, 2017
This book was recommended to me. I'd be curious to learn how someone without weight issues would rate this book, but for me, it was 2.5 stars.
Full confession: I used to be over 300lbs. I've lost over 150lbs thanks to bariatric surgery, support from friends and family, and working with nutritionists to change my lifestyle. But I was overweight from third grade until my early 30s. So trust me when I say that I know what it's like to live life as an overweight person.
But the story told here is not the story of an overweight person--it's the story that a thin person who makes assumptions what life as an overweight person is like. Contrary to popular belief, for example, overweight people are not constantly picked on by nearly every thin person they encounter on the street as Eric is in this story (if that was the case, I would have been a basket case!). And while it's realistic for an overweight person like Eric to have body issues, it struck me as unrealistic that he doubted Corey's feelings/intentions for as long as he did and for him to assume that nearly everyone disliked him because of his weight. The author made Eric's life seem utterly depressing and awful due to his weight--and while I know it wasn't her intentions--it made me feel like she assumed that all overweight people's lives were depressing--including her overweight readers. Which makes me think that she's unconsciously judgmental about overweight individuals, or at the very least, doesn't really take the time to understand what life as an overweight person is really like.
I'd be curious to learn if others who've had weight issues have similar reactions to this book or not. For those who like this sort of storyline, I would recommend that you first check out NR Walker's "The Weight of it All." It has a similar story line, but I feel like that author has a much more realistic handle on what being overweight is like and I appreciated how she handled both the storyline and the relationship between the two MC's with heart, humor, and compassion. So my recommendation would be to check out NR Walker's book for before this one. Sorry.
Full confession: I used to be over 300lbs. I've lost over 150lbs thanks to bariatric surgery, support from friends and family, and working with nutritionists to change my lifestyle. But I was overweight from third grade until my early 30s. So trust me when I say that I know what it's like to live life as an overweight person.
But the story told here is not the story of an overweight person--it's the story that a thin person who makes assumptions what life as an overweight person is like. Contrary to popular belief, for example, overweight people are not constantly picked on by nearly every thin person they encounter on the street as Eric is in this story (if that was the case, I would have been a basket case!). And while it's realistic for an overweight person like Eric to have body issues, it struck me as unrealistic that he doubted Corey's feelings/intentions for as long as he did and for him to assume that nearly everyone disliked him because of his weight. The author made Eric's life seem utterly depressing and awful due to his weight--and while I know it wasn't her intentions--it made me feel like she assumed that all overweight people's lives were depressing--including her overweight readers. Which makes me think that she's unconsciously judgmental about overweight individuals, or at the very least, doesn't really take the time to understand what life as an overweight person is really like.
I'd be curious to learn if others who've had weight issues have similar reactions to this book or not. For those who like this sort of storyline, I would recommend that you first check out NR Walker's "The Weight of it All." It has a similar story line, but I feel like that author has a much more realistic handle on what being overweight is like and I appreciated how she handled both the storyline and the relationship between the two MC's with heart, humor, and compassion. So my recommendation would be to check out NR Walker's book for before this one. Sorry.
October 19, 2017
“Eric might look at him and see beauty, but Corey knew the ugliness he carried onside”
Gorgeous cover.
Gorgeous story.
Now I know why Hope Vincent bragging about loving Corey the most.
But Eric is 'me'. I can relate to his issues. It’s not easy struggling all your life with that kind of issue. Sometimes, it cost people a depression. And depression is never pretty.
“I was with you. Because I wanted to be.”
“But why? I’m plain and fat, and you’re so_”
“Cold, I’m always cold. And being with you makes me feel safe and happy. And warm.”
Corey on the other side, I think he needed Eric more that he can explain.
Both were lonely, I can feel the loneliness of Eric and Corey. Eric with his lacking of self confident and his eating habit, and Corey with the same issue but in an opposite way.
Eric and Corey were made for each other, to complete each other, to help each other with their issues, it’s always easier when you ‘re not going to do it alone.
I loved the dynamic between Corey and Eric, how they’re become their own psychiatrist to each other.
Well, like Corey said, who need a psychiatrist when you have Eric?
Felice wrote a fast pace but with deep meaning about our daily struggle. This is our every day life put in a romance book.
Another favorite and rereading material.
Recommended!
* I voluntarily read the ARC for Lelyana's Book Blog.
![Profile Image for annob [on hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1674812294i%2F68231680._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
December 15, 2018
Dnf @ 35 %
I liked the sound of the blurb and the look of the cover art; so happy to see characters with looks not adhering to the romance novel default body type. The theme and topics promising, but unfortunately this story was too sad and blue for me.
It could perhaps have worked if the chemistry between the characters had been more tangible, but as it stands the story didn't really offer any reasons for me to keep reading.
I liked the sound of the blurb and the look of the cover art; so happy to see characters with looks not adhering to the romance novel default body type. The theme and topics promising, but unfortunately this story was too sad and blue for me.
It could perhaps have worked if the chemistry between the characters had been more tangible, but as it stands the story didn't really offer any reasons for me to keep reading.
July 18, 2017
Felice Stevens once again delivers a story full of heart and love and personal growth of the characters. This book was a delight to read! The premise of the story is definitely not your run-of-the-mill fake boyfriend, sports jocks, etc fare. "The Shape of You" is about two guy's both with eating issues but on opposite sides of the spectrum. Eric and Corey quickly became very real to me and it was a tearful (happy and sad) following their path finding each other. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone that loves sweet m/m romance.
July 6, 2017
3.5 stars
Expect lots of sugar with this one. My teeth hurt a little now. But I still liked it and it gave me all the warm fuzzies, so if you want something to make you feel good, read this one.
Eric has always been overweight, but now it’s time to really start eating healthy and change his life around. And that’s why he joins a nutrition support group where on his first night there he meets Corey. Although Eric has no idea why Corey is even there since he looks perfectly skinny to him.
But Corey is there because he has a lot of problems with food. That’s also the reason he is so skinny. He doesn’t really like to eat or forgets it. So a nutrition class is exactly what he needs.
It is there that Eric and Corey bond, despite their opposite problems. And it’s not long before they are friends..
I thought this started off pretty fast with their first kiss at 5%, and I was scared this was going to be an unrealistically fast relationship, but I was happy to see that was not the case. Corey does make sure Eric understands he is very attracted to him, but Eric has a very hard time believing that since he has absolutely no self-esteem.
We got some nice steamy scenes, but I have to admit they felt a bit repetitive to me. They only ever do one position and I felt as if Corey was concentrating on Eric and his body a lot, but never the other way around.
The HEA is one of the rainbow and glittery kind, so watch out for a sugar coma.
Still, this a nice low angst feel good story about two guys trying to turn their lives around and falling in love in the process.
--------
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Expect lots of sugar with this one. My teeth hurt a little now. But I still liked it and it gave me all the warm fuzzies, so if you want something to make you feel good, read this one.
Eric has always been overweight, but now it’s time to really start eating healthy and change his life around. And that’s why he joins a nutrition support group where on his first night there he meets Corey. Although Eric has no idea why Corey is even there since he looks perfectly skinny to him.
But Corey is there because he has a lot of problems with food. That’s also the reason he is so skinny. He doesn’t really like to eat or forgets it. So a nutrition class is exactly what he needs.
It is there that Eric and Corey bond, despite their opposite problems. And it’s not long before they are friends..
I thought this started off pretty fast with their first kiss at 5%, and I was scared this was going to be an unrealistically fast relationship, but I was happy to see that was not the case. Corey does make sure Eric understands he is very attracted to him, but Eric has a very hard time believing that since he has absolutely no self-esteem.
We got some nice steamy scenes, but I have to admit they felt a bit repetitive to me. They only ever do one position and I felt as if Corey was concentrating on Eric and his body a lot, but never the other way around.
The HEA is one of the rainbow and glittery kind, so watch out for a sugar coma.
Still, this a nice low angst feel good story about two guys trying to turn their lives around and falling in love in the process.
--------
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
June 28, 2017
Review originally posted at Sinfully.
In The Shape of You, Felice Stevens gives us two men whose problems outwardly seem on the opposite ends of the spectrum, but who really are dealing with some of the same things. Eric and Corey have battled weight issues all their lives and both have gotten to the point where their health is at risk. They meet at a nutrition class and become partners in the class. The attraction is immediate but neither of them thinks the other would want to be with them. Both men are lonely, without family and friends (they each tend to hold people at arm’s length so they won’t get hurt), and their friendship grows based on mutual support. They each may lack self-confidence but they can see so much goodness, strength and potential in the other that they become a great support system, encouraging not just healthy habits when it comes to eating, but helping each other through work and personal issues.
Eric has had one failed relationship that left him feeling used and hurt, while Corey is used to hooking up with nothing more, using sex as a means to an end. When they finally get together, Eric has second thoughts, casual sex just isn’t his thing, and pulls back. Corey respects it, but soon the pull between them is too strong. The men complement each other so well and are so sweet together. It took work for them to trust in their feelings, Eric used to being the guy men avoid and Corey feeling he has nothing to offer other than sex. Even their approach to being together is different, but they find that together they are stronger than when they are on their own and seeing themselves through the other’s eyes helps them on their way to self-acceptance.
I thought their food issues were handled well. I’m used to seeing thin characters with eating issues being portrayed as anorexic or bulimic, but Corey’s issues are more a lack of interest in food and his appetite and the resulting failure to eat regularly and inability to gain weight. Eric’s eating issues are also steeped in his childhood and the memories of his father, but for him food is more of a comfort. I related to Corey’s weight struggles and I think a lot of people will identify with the issues Eric and Corey have, and get a better feel for what people go through on both ends of the problem.
Both men were wonderful, but Corey really grabbed me from the start. Working as an assistant to an artist who paints male nudes, he sees a certain standard of outward perfection all the time, but what he sees in Eric is perfect for him. The body Eric is ashamed of screams safety and warmth to Corey and the heart inside that is all goodness is something that Corey knows is rare. Eric isn’t easily convinced though, even as he can see how much Corey wants him.
Along with reevaluating their eating habits they both find themselves reevaluating all other aspects of their lives, from careers to family and past hurts that may or may not be able to be overcome. The story feels real, the men have issues that are easy to relate to with no magic fixes. Not everything is worked out in the end. They have ups and downs, but they also have unwavering love and support for each other. I loved the ending and Corey’s gift to Eric had me wiping at my eyes.
This was another well done romance by Felice Stevens. The pacing was good, the MCs both very likable and relatable, and the romance was sweet with a very happy ending.
In The Shape of You, Felice Stevens gives us two men whose problems outwardly seem on the opposite ends of the spectrum, but who really are dealing with some of the same things. Eric and Corey have battled weight issues all their lives and both have gotten to the point where their health is at risk. They meet at a nutrition class and become partners in the class. The attraction is immediate but neither of them thinks the other would want to be with them. Both men are lonely, without family and friends (they each tend to hold people at arm’s length so they won’t get hurt), and their friendship grows based on mutual support. They each may lack self-confidence but they can see so much goodness, strength and potential in the other that they become a great support system, encouraging not just healthy habits when it comes to eating, but helping each other through work and personal issues.
Eric has had one failed relationship that left him feeling used and hurt, while Corey is used to hooking up with nothing more, using sex as a means to an end. When they finally get together, Eric has second thoughts, casual sex just isn’t his thing, and pulls back. Corey respects it, but soon the pull between them is too strong. The men complement each other so well and are so sweet together. It took work for them to trust in their feelings, Eric used to being the guy men avoid and Corey feeling he has nothing to offer other than sex. Even their approach to being together is different, but they find that together they are stronger than when they are on their own and seeing themselves through the other’s eyes helps them on their way to self-acceptance.
I thought their food issues were handled well. I’m used to seeing thin characters with eating issues being portrayed as anorexic or bulimic, but Corey’s issues are more a lack of interest in food and his appetite and the resulting failure to eat regularly and inability to gain weight. Eric’s eating issues are also steeped in his childhood and the memories of his father, but for him food is more of a comfort. I related to Corey’s weight struggles and I think a lot of people will identify with the issues Eric and Corey have, and get a better feel for what people go through on both ends of the problem.
Both men were wonderful, but Corey really grabbed me from the start. Working as an assistant to an artist who paints male nudes, he sees a certain standard of outward perfection all the time, but what he sees in Eric is perfect for him. The body Eric is ashamed of screams safety and warmth to Corey and the heart inside that is all goodness is something that Corey knows is rare. Eric isn’t easily convinced though, even as he can see how much Corey wants him.
Along with reevaluating their eating habits they both find themselves reevaluating all other aspects of their lives, from careers to family and past hurts that may or may not be able to be overcome. The story feels real, the men have issues that are easy to relate to with no magic fixes. Not everything is worked out in the end. They have ups and downs, but they also have unwavering love and support for each other. I loved the ending and Corey’s gift to Eric had me wiping at my eyes.
This was another well done romance by Felice Stevens. The pacing was good, the MCs both very likable and relatable, and the romance was sweet with a very happy ending.
September 22, 2022
This book really felt like home to me.....Eric needs to lose weight and Corey needs to put weight on....Same as my hubby and me......They really learned each other slowly....Eric didn't have much confidence in himself after losing his mother as a child and his father as an adult.....He really didn't think much of himself and when he meets Corey at a class for nutrition it took a while to get to trust him...Corey was left alone most of his childhood by a mother who just disappeared....I really felt for these two MC's and I think this is by far one of my favourite books....I loved the ending especially and will look forward to re-reading this one x
January 19, 2024
What a beautiful story! Felice Stevens deals with body image and all the things that go with folks who have weight issues. Plus it's a beautiful romance too.
The audio is nicely performed by Nick J. Russo.
The audio is nicely performed by Nick J. Russo.
June 28, 2017
3/5 Stars for The Shape of You. Unfortunately, I don't think this was Stevens' best work. It's clear that I'm in the minority pool on this one, but I just wasn't feeling it.
I know that this book is very much centered on weight. It's clear from the blurb that one of the MC's is a bigger guy and that a lot of this book was going to be about his struggles with his weight and accepting himself... but it just went a little too far. I kept rolling my eyes more and more the further I got through the book because Eric just would not let it go. I know that this was the main conflict in the book, but it was so much a part of the story that it distracted from everything else. It got to the point where all I saw in Eric was a whiny baby who was upset over his weight.
And Corey was kind of the same. He was the opposite of Eric in so many ways, but he was equally as whiny about his weight. They kind of projected their crappy blah "pity me" feelings on each other too, and it just made it so much worse. I had a really hard time connecting to these characters because all I could see were the problems that they complained about.
On the flip side, this novel was very sweet. It took me a long time to get past the annoying MC's, but the premise was good and I liked the little romance they had growing between each other, so I kept reading. Eric and Corey were sickeningly sweet and so in love with each other. I loved the relationship that they had and that they could effortlessly pick each other back up and dust off all of the bad and insecure feelings. They were champs at making each other feel like Kings and that's exactly the kind of relationship that everyone should have.
While I did like the relationship between these two, I felt like the buildup was similar to the whininess of the characters. Eric kept pushing Corey away because he felt like he didn't deserve him. He thought that he was too fat for someone like Corey and Corey felt like he wasn't enough for Eric. I went back and forth with loving and hating these two MC's. They were both pretty whiny and it felt like they were pulling out all the stops for the pity party but then I also understood where they were coming from because weight can really impact your self-esteem.
My crybaby opinions aside, these characters were actually a really good fit. Eric was the shy, withdrawn teddy bear with a poor self image and Corey was the laid back, "no worries" wildchild that couldn't seem to get a grip on adulthood. Stevens surely didn't shy away from showing these two boys with all of their flaws hanging out for everyone to see. They were real and (whininess aside) likeable characters.
In some ways, this book really resonated with me, and in others, it really got on my nerves. I think that Eric and Corey could have conveyed their feelings about their weight without coming across as whiny all the time, but clearly the story was good enough for me to stick with it through the whole 278 pages.
I'd say, take my review with a grain of salt. The story was fantastic and after reading some reviews by other readers, it doesn't seem like anyone else had nearly as hard of a time with the MC's as I did. This one wasn't my favorite of Felice Stevens' books, but it was still a pretty good read and one that I'm not likely to forget.
Reviewed by Jordan at Alpha Book Club.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the author or the publisher in any way.
I know that this book is very much centered on weight. It's clear from the blurb that one of the MC's is a bigger guy and that a lot of this book was going to be about his struggles with his weight and accepting himself... but it just went a little too far. I kept rolling my eyes more and more the further I got through the book because Eric just would not let it go. I know that this was the main conflict in the book, but it was so much a part of the story that it distracted from everything else. It got to the point where all I saw in Eric was a whiny baby who was upset over his weight.
And Corey was kind of the same. He was the opposite of Eric in so many ways, but he was equally as whiny about his weight. They kind of projected their crappy blah "pity me" feelings on each other too, and it just made it so much worse. I had a really hard time connecting to these characters because all I could see were the problems that they complained about.
On the flip side, this novel was very sweet. It took me a long time to get past the annoying MC's, but the premise was good and I liked the little romance they had growing between each other, so I kept reading. Eric and Corey were sickeningly sweet and so in love with each other. I loved the relationship that they had and that they could effortlessly pick each other back up and dust off all of the bad and insecure feelings. They were champs at making each other feel like Kings and that's exactly the kind of relationship that everyone should have.
While I did like the relationship between these two, I felt like the buildup was similar to the whininess of the characters. Eric kept pushing Corey away because he felt like he didn't deserve him. He thought that he was too fat for someone like Corey and Corey felt like he wasn't enough for Eric. I went back and forth with loving and hating these two MC's. They were both pretty whiny and it felt like they were pulling out all the stops for the pity party but then I also understood where they were coming from because weight can really impact your self-esteem.
My crybaby opinions aside, these characters were actually a really good fit. Eric was the shy, withdrawn teddy bear with a poor self image and Corey was the laid back, "no worries" wildchild that couldn't seem to get a grip on adulthood. Stevens surely didn't shy away from showing these two boys with all of their flaws hanging out for everyone to see. They were real and (whininess aside) likeable characters.
In some ways, this book really resonated with me, and in others, it really got on my nerves. I think that Eric and Corey could have conveyed their feelings about their weight without coming across as whiny all the time, but clearly the story was good enough for me to stick with it through the whole 278 pages.
I'd say, take my review with a grain of salt. The story was fantastic and after reading some reviews by other readers, it doesn't seem like anyone else had nearly as hard of a time with the MC's as I did. This one wasn't my favorite of Felice Stevens' books, but it was still a pretty good read and one that I'm not likely to forget.
Reviewed by Jordan at Alpha Book Club.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the author or the publisher in any way.
June 30, 2017
Okay, So.... first we have Corey; told by his doctor that if he didn't lose weight, he was facing health problems that could be life threatning if he didn't get his weight under control.
It scared him enough to join a nutrition class to make some changes in his diet and help himself.
That's where he meets Corey.
Corey has the opposite problem, the life he's lived hasn't been easy and it's effected him in a different way. He "forgets" to eat and when he does manage to force himself to eat something, it's nothing substantial and he's recently been to the hospital with a legitate scare about his health a well. Modeling for his artist boss, he tells him he's going to have to start taking better care of himself, or he can't let him model anymore. So, these two guys agree to help each other out.
I liked the opposites attract, vibe. They both had major things going on in their lives and it was great that they had each other there as a support system. I thought both of them could've benifited in talking to a professional, but they seemed to be okay when they weren't trying to out-hurt each other. Neither of them had a good opinion of themselves and both of them had terrible self-esteem and self worth. It was hard to listen to them go back and forth over who'd been hurt worse and who had the more terrible life. I was glad they had each other though, I really felt like Eric helped Corey find himself a little bit, as well as pushed him to do something things that he'd been dreading for a while. He helped him heal.
Another thing I didn't like, was ... okay, I'm a big girl.. always have been, always will be. Never in my life have I been treated so terribly by literally everyone I come in contact with like these two did. 6'3 and 240lbs, is not morbidly obese, yet seems like Eric can't leave his house without someone calling him fat. That's ridiculous. I know people are jerks, beleive me I get that.... this was waaaay too much. Like, we already feel sorry for him, you don't have to make every single person he makes eye contact with go out of their way to tell him he's fat. It was overkill and eventually had I thought of it sooner, I wanted to keep a counter of how many ridiculous times someone called him fat or treated him badly because he was minding his own business on a subway, being fat, or taking a class while fat. I wish I had, now.
Other than that though, I did enjoy these two finding someone to stand by you, loving you, even when you thought it was impossible for someone else to... when it was impossible for you to love yourself. I was glad these two found each other.
3 stars for me
*I received this book from the publisher with a promise of an honest and unbiased review*
It scared him enough to join a nutrition class to make some changes in his diet and help himself.
That's where he meets Corey.
Corey has the opposite problem, the life he's lived hasn't been easy and it's effected him in a different way. He "forgets" to eat and when he does manage to force himself to eat something, it's nothing substantial and he's recently been to the hospital with a legitate scare about his health a well. Modeling for his artist boss, he tells him he's going to have to start taking better care of himself, or he can't let him model anymore. So, these two guys agree to help each other out.
I liked the opposites attract, vibe. They both had major things going on in their lives and it was great that they had each other there as a support system. I thought both of them could've benifited in talking to a professional, but they seemed to be okay when they weren't trying to out-hurt each other. Neither of them had a good opinion of themselves and both of them had terrible self-esteem and self worth. It was hard to listen to them go back and forth over who'd been hurt worse and who had the more terrible life. I was glad they had each other though, I really felt like Eric helped Corey find himself a little bit, as well as pushed him to do something things that he'd been dreading for a while. He helped him heal.
Another thing I didn't like, was ... okay, I'm a big girl.. always have been, always will be. Never in my life have I been treated so terribly by literally everyone I come in contact with like these two did. 6'3 and 240lbs, is not morbidly obese, yet seems like Eric can't leave his house without someone calling him fat. That's ridiculous. I know people are jerks, beleive me I get that.... this was waaaay too much. Like, we already feel sorry for him, you don't have to make every single person he makes eye contact with go out of their way to tell him he's fat. It was overkill and eventually had I thought of it sooner, I wanted to keep a counter of how many ridiculous times someone called him fat or treated him badly because he was minding his own business on a subway, being fat, or taking a class while fat. I wish I had, now.
Other than that though, I did enjoy these two finding someone to stand by you, loving you, even when you thought it was impossible for someone else to... when it was impossible for you to love yourself. I was glad these two found each other.
3 stars for me
*I received this book from the publisher with a promise of an honest and unbiased review*
Read
August 26, 2017Не понравилось. Не поверила я героям, да и ситуации безбожно притянуты за уши. Перебор с признаниями и разговорами о чувствах. Повторы. Второстепенные персонажи ведут себя как дипломированные психотерапевты, а отрицательные - описаны плоско и как диснеевские злодеи (МУ-ха-ха!)
И вообще! 115 кг для высокого мужика это не такой уж запредельный вес. Первые встречные его скорее боялись бы, чем оскорбляли и называли жирдяем. Тем более в штатах. Пфф
И вообще! 115 кг для высокого мужика это не такой уж запредельный вес. Первые встречные его скорее боялись бы, чем оскорбляли и называли жирдяем. Тем более в штатах. Пфф
June 16, 2017
4.5 Hope filled stars!
Felice Stevens writes such beautiful inspirational love stories and she always has me falling for her guys! The Shape of You is just another prime example of her talent. It is a unique story that was forlorn at times but filled with so much hope, love and ultimately light..... It shows us how by taking one step in the right direction can change our lives forever. Never give up, there is always hope! Eric & Corey prove that love can truly conquer all....
I LOVED THESE BOYS.
Eric is my gentle, loving and shy teddy bear, while Corey is my wild, mysterious and broken boy. Throughout the book, I volleyed with who I loved more.... Both are perfectly imperfect!
They met at an Eating Disorder class. Eric decided to go because he is overweight, he is afraid to suffer the same consequences as his father, dying too young. While Corey has the opposite problem, he is underweight, which ultimately caused him to be hospitalized. Both guys needed to get their eating habits in check before it was too late. Their self-loathing body image of themselves had hindered their lives immensely. I totally felt all their pain. They were so lonely, despondent and detached.... All making my heart hurt for them. No one should ever feel unlovable or grotesque!
In class, they decide to buddy up. Both being loners that often push people away, this proved to be a challenge. This unlikely pair started to form a friendship, but they also felt a magnetic pull towards each other. Some kissing and groping later, confusion set in. Eric who has never had a real relationship didn't know what to with his feelings and lust.... Corey on the other hand was used to frivolous relationships. Both became wary and scared with what was happening between them. I loved watching them dance around their new budding relationship. It wasn't easy, especially with the walls and insecurities they both had... Plus their many issues, but together they learned and transformed. Giving each other what the both desperately needed. I loved how with time and patience they conquered their issues and fears TOGETHER.
As always with Felice’s books, I am walking away with so much more than a great read.... I need to thank her for giving us two different perspectives on weight issues. I have a new appreciation for their struggles.
Felice Stevens writes such beautiful inspirational love stories and she always has me falling for her guys! The Shape of You is just another prime example of her talent. It is a unique story that was forlorn at times but filled with so much hope, love and ultimately light..... It shows us how by taking one step in the right direction can change our lives forever. Never give up, there is always hope! Eric & Corey prove that love can truly conquer all....
I LOVED THESE BOYS.
Eric is my gentle, loving and shy teddy bear, while Corey is my wild, mysterious and broken boy. Throughout the book, I volleyed with who I loved more.... Both are perfectly imperfect!
They met at an Eating Disorder class. Eric decided to go because he is overweight, he is afraid to suffer the same consequences as his father, dying too young. While Corey has the opposite problem, he is underweight, which ultimately caused him to be hospitalized. Both guys needed to get their eating habits in check before it was too late. Their self-loathing body image of themselves had hindered their lives immensely. I totally felt all their pain. They were so lonely, despondent and detached.... All making my heart hurt for them. No one should ever feel unlovable or grotesque!
In class, they decide to buddy up. Both being loners that often push people away, this proved to be a challenge. This unlikely pair started to form a friendship, but they also felt a magnetic pull towards each other. Some kissing and groping later, confusion set in. Eric who has never had a real relationship didn't know what to with his feelings and lust.... Corey on the other hand was used to frivolous relationships. Both became wary and scared with what was happening between them. I loved watching them dance around their new budding relationship. It wasn't easy, especially with the walls and insecurities they both had... Plus their many issues, but together they learned and transformed. Giving each other what the both desperately needed. I loved how with time and patience they conquered their issues and fears TOGETHER.
As always with Felice’s books, I am walking away with so much more than a great read.... I need to thank her for giving us two different perspectives on weight issues. I have a new appreciation for their struggles.
January 4, 2018
2.5* Reminder to myself: DONT READ BOOKS where any of the MC is a PAINTER!!
Really... the painting process in this boook and the artist´s method is so stereotyped!!!
I liked the main characters and the way the author speaks about the eating disorders... of course, these characters have NOT very severe issues, because if they would have I really hoped to see that they had some type of medical help, specially Corey.
Then , we have some very irrelevant subplots that really bored me :(
Really... the painting process in this boook and the artist´s method is so stereotyped!!!
I liked the main characters and the way the author speaks about the eating disorders... of course, these characters have NOT very severe issues, because if they would have I really hoped to see that they had some type of medical help, specially Corey.
Then , we have some very irrelevant subplots that really bored me :(
July 7, 2017
From the first moment I was introduced to Felice Stevens’ work by author Catherine Gayle, I was hooked and with each book I read by her, I thank my lucky starts that Catherine thought I’d enjoy her work and put me in touch. Ms. Stevens’ latest release, The Shape of You, is her most profound work to date and that’s saying a lot because she has written some very memorable stories, but there was something in the men in this book that I think make it easy for readers to connect with them. Abandonment, hurtful words, depression, poor body image, and self worth affect more people than I think any of us care to think about, but Ms. Stevens took those issues and crafted characters that put a face to those issues, will make readers think about all kinds of prejudice; and give hope to anyone who has suffered with eating issues. Yes, this is a romance and it is a fantastic one, but it is also a book that celebrates life.
Eric Sontag and Corey DeSantis are two very different people brought together by two very different issues, but they build a friendship, they learn to trust, they learn to accept, and most of all they learn to love. Both of these men have suffered in their lives in various ways; Eric lost is mother at a young age and was raised by his father and as an adult Eric realizes that his dad never really recovered from his mom’s death and used food to comfort himself something he passed on to Eric. At a very young age Corey was given to his grandmother by his mother and he was often left alone with little to eat, he learned to ignore the hunger and to only rely on himself and its left him with unhealthy eating habits and a too thin frame. Both men have landed in a healthy eating/nutrition class for different reasons, and although their issues are very different, they form a bond that is mutually beneficial.
I loved these two men and their individual stories as well as the story of them finding love. Given their issues and backgrounds this book could have been overly heavy and angst filled, but Ms. Stevens found a great balance giving it a feel of change, growth, and rebirth. Both men found ways of dealing with their issues and helping one another along the way and while it wasn’t always easy and at times they fell down and had to get back up, they did it one step at a time, one day at a time always knowing the other one was there for support. I applauded each milestone, I cried when their self doubt crept in, and I rejoiced when they both were set free from their pasts and the chains that bound them and grew into the strong, confident men they had inside.
For anyone who has felt alone, who has battled weight issues, had self doubt, experienced career setbacks, or who simply needed a friend for support this is the book for you and for anyone who believes that understanding, respect, and love can change ones whole outlook on life you do not want to miss The Shape of You by Felice Stevens.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
July 10, 2017
4.5 Sweet and beautiful!
June 29, 2017
"You took the time to find me when I was lost and ready to run..."
***
This book had won my heart since the first time I saw the gorgeous-beautiful breathtaking-cover that day...
Well, I can say I'm falling deeply in love with the cover, and for a cover slut like me, it's like getting an instant covergasm just from seeing the cover!
The blurb was the other things that drawn my curiosity for more.
Eric is a librarian with overweight problem. A loner. A hard warning from his doctor to change his eating habit if he didn't want to end like his father, had bring him to a diet group support.
Corey is also a loner with an eating disorder that almost cost his life. Joining a group support to make his life healthier was the only solution if he didn't want to lose his job.
They meet at night support class for people with eating problems, then ended as a partner to support each other on their diet program.
Eric and Corey have almost similar problems. Both have trust issues because of their past. Both are lonely and craved for someone who accept them for who they are. While Eric have more problem with his lack of self-confident, Corey a bit hard and always keep people at his arms length. But its Eric natural calmness that always comfort him. And being cuddled in Eric arms is what Corey craved since the day they met.
The slow changing from a stranger to friends and then a lovers written in very beautiful and interesting way. They both need to 'adjust' a lot before they could overcome all the frictions.
And like a piece of puzzle, they complete each other in very unique way...
***
I can related to Eric and his 'problems' from the start because I know what it feels like to be in Eric's shoes.
I just wish I have someone like Corey in my life... *sigh*
Seeing how the two struggling to find the 'right place' in each other embrace really touch my heart. I have this constant urge to cuddle with someone because who doesn't want being cuddled by someone like Eric, right?
Like what Olaf said "Some people are worth melting for...", and this lovely 'teddy bear' totally melt my heart...
The Shape Of You - no doubt , is a HIGHLY recommended read. A believable-down to earth-story about our daily life that will warm your heart...
RECOMMENDED!!
June 5, 2023
4.5 STARS | A BEAUTIFUL M/M romance that teaches you on how to accept who you are! If you love friends-to-lovers trope, then read this! All his life Eric Sontag has judged himself on his size and believing in love and friendship. Tired of being alone, he enrolls in a nutrition support group, determined to change his life. Corey DeSantis has always been thin. He tired of struggling with his art and with life. When his mentor forces him to attend a nutrition class, he meets Eric and one drunken kiss later, their relationship is born. One night of explosive passion leads to a second and soon neither man can imagine a life without the other. As they walk paths together, they’ll discover the most beautiful destination, love. A fast-paced gay romance you need to add on your TBR!
November 7, 2017
Where to start? There is so much more to this book than your typical love story between two men. This story is about REAL acceptance -- not only of others but of yourself. We learn that all the assumptions and presumptions we make about others cause us to stay in our own little bubbles and close ourselves off to even the smallest of beautiful experiences. Even those who seemingly have no problems, have some that are just under the surface. Corey and Eric meet at a nutrition class. Eric is a big and tall gay man. Corey is thin and Eric just doesn't understand why on earth this hot guy would ever need a class like this. Both men have their own demons and childhood issues to wade through in order to get to the other side of healthy body image and self-esteem. Although coming from different ends of the spectrum, they are so much more alike than they could ever know.
"How little Eric knew about human nature. And how easily one’s opinions could be changed in an instant, with a simple discussion casting the person in a different light."
Through their unlikely friendship, they learn to love who they are and know that they are worthy of love and of so much more. This book is a great read for everyone but also for someone who struggles with weight issues, feelings of unworthiness, and self-esteem issues because despite being fiction, there are lessons that we can all take away from these two men and those that surround them.
"How little Eric knew about human nature. And how easily one’s opinions could be changed in an instant, with a simple discussion casting the person in a different light."
Through their unlikely friendship, they learn to love who they are and know that they are worthy of love and of so much more. This book is a great read for everyone but also for someone who struggles with weight issues, feelings of unworthiness, and self-esteem issues because despite being fiction, there are lessons that we can all take away from these two men and those that surround them.
August 15, 2018
I read the whole thing but I was annoyed most of the time lol. I wanted this to be good. The idea of looking a food from these two angles is very good but...
I liked the characters. However the writing.... not good. It repeats and the character development spins it the same location without depth. There needed to be much more nuance and psycoligicla explorations.
oh and therapy.
So, not good.
I liked the characters. However the writing.... not good. It repeats and the character development spins it the same location without depth. There needed to be much more nuance and psycoligicla explorations.
oh and therapy.
So, not good.
July 1, 2017
4.5 stars
Wow! I am thoroughly impressed! I honestly didn't think Felice Stevens could pull off the depth of this story. In fact after i finished the book I had to double check she was the author.
Although I have not read ALL of her books I have read enough to say that this book pulls from a depth of feelings not found in any of her other books. And it's not just the topic but how it is approached and delved into.
Surely a story to leave me thinking about my own perceptions and assumptions.
Wow! I am thoroughly impressed! I honestly didn't think Felice Stevens could pull off the depth of this story. In fact after i finished the book I had to double check she was the author.
Although I have not read ALL of her books I have read enough to say that this book pulls from a depth of feelings not found in any of her other books. And it's not just the topic but how it is approached and delved into.
Surely a story to leave me thinking about my own perceptions and assumptions.
June 19, 2017
I received a copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I love Felice Stevens books, they give me the feels. This book didn't disappoint. Corey and Eric each have their own issues with food. When they team up to work on a class project together they become friends and then more. These guys both have emotional baggage and I liked seeing both sides to these guys. Most people know about the harassment/bullying people get when people are overweight but people tend to forget the other end of the spectrum. I actually said something to a "skinny" person and I wasn't even being negative but they said "I hate being this skinny and I wish I COULD gain weight". Ever since that comment I try to think of both sides of things and this book was great showing the struggles of each. Very emotional at times and I just fell in love with Corey and Eric and felt the connection from the start and it never stopped. Beautiful story.
I love Felice Stevens books, they give me the feels. This book didn't disappoint. Corey and Eric each have their own issues with food. When they team up to work on a class project together they become friends and then more. These guys both have emotional baggage and I liked seeing both sides to these guys. Most people know about the harassment/bullying people get when people are overweight but people tend to forget the other end of the spectrum. I actually said something to a "skinny" person and I wasn't even being negative but they said "I hate being this skinny and I wish I COULD gain weight". Ever since that comment I try to think of both sides of things and this book was great showing the struggles of each. Very emotional at times and I just fell in love with Corey and Eric and felt the connection from the start and it never stopped. Beautiful story.
January 9, 2024
First DNF of the year(65%). This had too many sad bits and too few fun ones. And the sad bits weren't even entertaining. Just depressing.
June 29, 2017
4.5 Stars
When Eric has an eye-opening visit with his doctor, who stresses the health problems, like high blood pressure and high cholesterol, he is currently facing are a precursor leading him to the same early death his father suffered. Eric takes the doctor's advice seriously and joins a group focused on healthy eating. There he meets Corey, but he's not sure why the slender man is there. He can't have any problems associated with food, can he?
I applaud Ms. Stevens for taking on multiple eating disorders. Corey and Eric live on opposite ends of the spectrums of eating disorders, but one can be just as dangerous as the other. As a person who's also lived on both spectrums and understands the struggles with food, the author handled the subject matter with realism and it seemed well researched. I see a lot of myself in these characters. I understand the insecurities and the low self-esteem issues they faced.
Because of those insecurities, this was a slow burn. Both men had to learn to believe that the other truly wanted them. There is a lot of push and pull throughout the story that, and while it can get annoying at times, it made the story that much more realistic.
I loved both Eric and Corey. They both just want love but feel they don't deserve it. They were both extremely likable characters and I just wanted to hug them. The chemistry between them was amazing, something that's never missing in one of Felice's stories, and the sex was smoking hot.
The story is well-written and paced well. I loved that even in the end, as perfect as that ending was, Ms. Stevens keeps it realistic and shows that the battle with weight and self-esteem never ends. It's always there. I've read a few other stories surrounding this subject matter and this is by far the best yet. She definitely got the emotions these characters face is dead on. Very enjoyable and absolutely recommendable story!
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
When Eric has an eye-opening visit with his doctor, who stresses the health problems, like high blood pressure and high cholesterol, he is currently facing are a precursor leading him to the same early death his father suffered. Eric takes the doctor's advice seriously and joins a group focused on healthy eating. There he meets Corey, but he's not sure why the slender man is there. He can't have any problems associated with food, can he?
I applaud Ms. Stevens for taking on multiple eating disorders. Corey and Eric live on opposite ends of the spectrums of eating disorders, but one can be just as dangerous as the other. As a person who's also lived on both spectrums and understands the struggles with food, the author handled the subject matter with realism and it seemed well researched. I see a lot of myself in these characters. I understand the insecurities and the low self-esteem issues they faced.
Because of those insecurities, this was a slow burn. Both men had to learn to believe that the other truly wanted them. There is a lot of push and pull throughout the story that, and while it can get annoying at times, it made the story that much more realistic.
I loved both Eric and Corey. They both just want love but feel they don't deserve it. They were both extremely likable characters and I just wanted to hug them. The chemistry between them was amazing, something that's never missing in one of Felice's stories, and the sex was smoking hot.
The story is well-written and paced well. I loved that even in the end, as perfect as that ending was, Ms. Stevens keeps it realistic and shows that the battle with weight and self-esteem never ends. It's always there. I've read a few other stories surrounding this subject matter and this is by far the best yet. She definitely got the emotions these characters face is dead on. Very enjoyable and absolutely recommendable story!
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
July 10, 2017
This book is a cake donut filled with jelly covered in caramel glaze covered in sprinkles. So it's like totally sweet. To be honest I really didn't think I was going to enjoy it, but I did. I've read a couple of books now with overweight MC's and though this is not the best one it was good. Eric and Corey hit it off from the very first night they meet at a nutrition class and a friendship develops that turns into romance. This book is quiet. There's not a lot of action, just two guys that have food issues, one eats too much one not enough and you would not think that would work but it does. Very sugary and Eric kind of got on my nerves in certain points because of his self deprecation but besides that it was an enjoyable read.
August 10, 2017
Food sustains the body, is tied to cultures and traditions, and also brings joy (chocolate). Something needed for basic survival can also become an enemy. Eric and Corey are prime examples of this.
Eric was raised by a single father who used food as a comfort/coping mechanism after his wife died. Eric learned early to equate food with love, to use it as a band-aid for life's problems, and to hate the results that comes with overeating. His father died young from a heart attack. Eric's doctor is worried his weight is leading him down the same path, and he commits to making changes. He enrolls in an eating/nutritional class.
Corey's life has not been easy. His mother was only fifteen when she gave birth to him, and she spent most of his early childhood in a drugged out haze. Corey's grandmother stepped up to plate to raise him. Unfortunately, she died when Corey was only fifteen.
Corey too has had his battles with food. There was never enough of it or enough nurturing. He was often left alone while his grandmother worked. The pains from hunger and the lonely emptiness of his life became one and the same. He often went days without eating. Being hospitalized and the threat of losing his job, forces him to act. He signs up for a nutritional class.
Corey and Eric are great together. I liked the fact there wasn't a quick fix to their problems. Eric had to learn to deal with how others treated him and how he saw himself. Corey had to learn to stop running. In order for others to care about him, he had to let them into his life. Both men were in desperate need of friendship. As trust in themselves and each other builds, it becomes so much more.
Be warned toward the end, it does take on a Disney like quality. Eric's career changes, and Corey's gallery showing is truly just too coincidental. At this point, the reader has been on an emotional roller coaster with this two, fallen in love with them and pulling hard for their HEA. You don't really mind the Disney Too Good To Be True things that come their way. They deserve it.
Eric was raised by a single father who used food as a comfort/coping mechanism after his wife died. Eric learned early to equate food with love, to use it as a band-aid for life's problems, and to hate the results that comes with overeating. His father died young from a heart attack. Eric's doctor is worried his weight is leading him down the same path, and he commits to making changes. He enrolls in an eating/nutritional class.
Corey's life has not been easy. His mother was only fifteen when she gave birth to him, and she spent most of his early childhood in a drugged out haze. Corey's grandmother stepped up to plate to raise him. Unfortunately, she died when Corey was only fifteen.
Corey too has had his battles with food. There was never enough of it or enough nurturing. He was often left alone while his grandmother worked. The pains from hunger and the lonely emptiness of his life became one and the same. He often went days without eating. Being hospitalized and the threat of losing his job, forces him to act. He signs up for a nutritional class.
Corey and Eric are great together. I liked the fact there wasn't a quick fix to their problems. Eric had to learn to deal with how others treated him and how he saw himself. Corey had to learn to stop running. In order for others to care about him, he had to let them into his life. Both men were in desperate need of friendship. As trust in themselves and each other builds, it becomes so much more.
Be warned toward the end, it does take on a Disney like quality. Eric's career changes, and Corey's gallery showing is truly just too coincidental. At this point, the reader has been on an emotional roller coaster with this two, fallen in love with them and pulling hard for their HEA. You don't really mind the Disney Too Good To Be True things that come their way. They deserve it.
July 25, 2017
How could I not identify with this story? Weight issues? check. Self-image issues? Check. Low-self-esteem? Check. At times I felt like I was Eric. But at others I felt like I was Corey. In other words, we all have our issues, every one of us, and just because someone might 'look normal' on the outside doesn't mean they aren't struggling too. Something to keep in mind as we rush through our busy days - and something that this beautiful story conveys perfectly.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 251 reviews