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Pride
The world is full of perfectly imperfect people.
After being dumped by his longtime boyfriend, Milan finds himself back in the dating scene, and it isn't anything like he thought it would be. Shamed and ridiculed for how he looks, Milan decides that it's time to get back into shape, but stepping foot in a gym is harder than he imagined.
Everything in Kelson's life is about fitness. He's a well-known trainer as well as a fitness model. His focus in life is working out and helping others to improve their lives. As content as he is on a professional level, personally life leaves a lot to be desired. He longs for someone to share his future with.
There's something about Milan that catches Kelson's attention right away. Finding excuses to spend time together is easy, and as the friendship flourishes, they find attraction growing with it.
The world isn't as accepting as it seems, and when some see Kelson with Milan, they attack, convinced that a man like Kelson wouldn't be with someone like Milan without using him for something.
Reacting to the hate and attacks, Kelson calls out those he works with, reminding them of their pledge to help people and not to shame them.
With the world watching, Milan and Kelson must work through the publicity and hate while trying to hold on to what matters most — each other.
After being dumped by his longtime boyfriend, Milan finds himself back in the dating scene, and it isn't anything like he thought it would be. Shamed and ridiculed for how he looks, Milan decides that it's time to get back into shape, but stepping foot in a gym is harder than he imagined.
Everything in Kelson's life is about fitness. He's a well-known trainer as well as a fitness model. His focus in life is working out and helping others to improve their lives. As content as he is on a professional level, personally life leaves a lot to be desired. He longs for someone to share his future with.
There's something about Milan that catches Kelson's attention right away. Finding excuses to spend time together is easy, and as the friendship flourishes, they find attraction growing with it.
The world isn't as accepting as it seems, and when some see Kelson with Milan, they attack, convinced that a man like Kelson wouldn't be with someone like Milan without using him for something.
Reacting to the hate and attacks, Kelson calls out those he works with, reminding them of their pledge to help people and not to shame them.
With the world watching, Milan and Kelson must work through the publicity and hate while trying to hold on to what matters most — each other.
206 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2017
74 people are currently reading
188 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Leya
100 books313 followersE.M. Leya lives surrounded by the beautiful mountains in Salt Lake City, Utah with her amazing daughter and loving pets. She is passionate about the world we live in and current events, deeming herself a "news junkie". She believes that we are all here to create something beautiful, whether it's through our talents or our actions. She enjoys writing stories that take us deep into real world problems while showing that love can happen for anyone, regardless of how dark their past might be.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 16, 2017
Lovely message about being kind anchors this romance
Although it strayed perilously close to feeling like a public service broadcast on the odd occasion, this is a really sweet romance which has an important message.
Body shaming, no matter what it's for, is dangerous and can have unforseen repercussions for those being made to feel they're different. This book perfectly typifies that with its story of an unlikely pair who society seems to feel shouldn't be together because one's buff and the other isn't.
Kelson was perhaps a bit too good to be true but his character was perfectly formed and his feelings about his own body issues were cleverly expressed.
Even those who from the outside appear to have a perfect body and lifestyle can be hiding scars.
Milan, on the other hand, took a little bit more time to warm to. This was mostly because he kept going over the same insecurities in his head and I wanted to give him a bit of a kick (I'm not really condoning physical violence!)
I totally understood his fears but should have trusted Kelly when he demonstrated clearly through his actions that he wanted to be with him.
There were a couple of odd plot elements which seemed to get dropped and then appeared again as if the author suddenly remembered they'd left it hanging. So hi and bye Will, off page as a random throwaway line, after being introduced to the happy pair as Kel's best friend's boyfriend.
There was a bit of telling not showing and a little bit of exposition in the epilogue, which also had a super cheesy proposal I'm sure I've seen in a variety of videos on YouTube!
Overall though, I liked this one and I think it's one of the author's best romances.
Although it strayed perilously close to feeling like a public service broadcast on the odd occasion, this is a really sweet romance which has an important message.
Body shaming, no matter what it's for, is dangerous and can have unforseen repercussions for those being made to feel they're different. This book perfectly typifies that with its story of an unlikely pair who society seems to feel shouldn't be together because one's buff and the other isn't.
Kelson was perhaps a bit too good to be true but his character was perfectly formed and his feelings about his own body issues were cleverly expressed.
Even those who from the outside appear to have a perfect body and lifestyle can be hiding scars.
Milan, on the other hand, took a little bit more time to warm to. This was mostly because he kept going over the same insecurities in his head and I wanted to give him a bit of a kick (I'm not really condoning physical violence!)
I totally understood his fears but should have trusted Kelly when he demonstrated clearly through his actions that he wanted to be with him.
There were a couple of odd plot elements which seemed to get dropped and then appeared again as if the author suddenly remembered they'd left it hanging. So hi and bye Will, off page as a random throwaway line, after being introduced to the happy pair as Kel's best friend's boyfriend.
There was a bit of telling not showing and a little bit of exposition in the epilogue, which also had a super cheesy proposal I'm sure I've seen in a variety of videos on YouTube!
Overall though, I liked this one and I think it's one of the author's best romances.
March 25, 2020
3and1/2 stars. Sweet read. Any book that makes me cry happy tears is a least a 3 star read. I loved Milan and Kelvin. What wonderful characters. I was on their side from page one. First book by this author and I really enjoyed it.
September 4, 2017
Before I start with my review I have to say this; There's a VERY important message in this story that we ALL should listen to. Far too many of us judge people for their looks, size, etc but this story tells us to look past all of that and see the person on the inside for who they really are.
In this we get the story of Kelson and Milan. Milan, due to his ex boyfriend, and a rather rude date, isn't happy with his weight so nervously decides to join a gym to change this. When he first sees Kelson he decides that THAT is how he wants to look. To him, Kelson is perfect. What he doesn't realise is that just like him, Kelson has issues too.
Kelson is sick and tired of guys wanting to date him JUST because of his looks. He hates how judgemental people can be and how they think he should be with someone who looks like him.
When he first sees Milan he's instantly intrigued by him. This leads to quite an amazing story with a few twists you won't expect!!
WOW! This story really was so fantastically written that I just couldn't put it down. It was so refreshing to read a story like this telling us how if you want to change you have to do it gradually, not to expect changes over night.I thought the way Kelson handled certain situations was amazing and really heartfelt.
I seriously can not praise this story enough and definitely think this is the authors best book to date!!
In this we get the story of Kelson and Milan. Milan, due to his ex boyfriend, and a rather rude date, isn't happy with his weight so nervously decides to join a gym to change this. When he first sees Kelson he decides that THAT is how he wants to look. To him, Kelson is perfect. What he doesn't realise is that just like him, Kelson has issues too.
Kelson is sick and tired of guys wanting to date him JUST because of his looks. He hates how judgemental people can be and how they think he should be with someone who looks like him.
When he first sees Milan he's instantly intrigued by him. This leads to quite an amazing story with a few twists you won't expect!!
WOW! This story really was so fantastically written that I just couldn't put it down. It was so refreshing to read a story like this telling us how if you want to change you have to do it gradually, not to expect changes over night.I thought the way Kelson handled certain situations was amazing and really heartfelt.
I seriously can not praise this story enough and definitely think this is the authors best book to date!!
March 7, 2022
2.5 stars
Was this a romance or a book about acceptance. Sure, there can be both at once but I think this book failed at that. I can understand what was trying to be done, I just don't think it was done well.
In truth, I thought this book would be more about a man, who was struggling with his weight, finding that no matter what he looked like he could be loved. To be fair it was sort of that at the beginning but then took a detour into something else.
Milan has just been dumped by his bf of 2 yrs. After some parting words Milan's confidence is knocked. Despite that Milan tries dating only to go on a date to be called fat. Milan didn't think he was that out of shape. Wanting to make some changes he signs up for the gym.
Kelson is a trainer at a gym. He is in great shape. He is tired of people only looking at his physical appearance. He wants something more meaningful in his life. When he first see's Milan in the gym there is something that attracts him.
The two become friends and a relationship builds from there. Milan struggles with understanding how someone like Kelson could be with him and Kelson continuously reminds him there is more than meets the eye.
It seems cute, right? Well, for a while it had me, and it was ok. Although, Milan's insecurities started to get annoying. No matter how many times Kelson tried reassuring him, he just could not get over them. However, I let that go but then the book started to get preachy.
It went from romance into some sort of book about acceptance. It started to focus on Kelson and Milan being poster child's of accepting all people no matter what they look like. Again, cool but not really what I went into this book for. Like I said, it got really preachy towards the end.
Was this a romance or a book about acceptance. Sure, there can be both at once but I think this book failed at that. I can understand what was trying to be done, I just don't think it was done well.
In truth, I thought this book would be more about a man, who was struggling with his weight, finding that no matter what he looked like he could be loved. To be fair it was sort of that at the beginning but then took a detour into something else.
Milan has just been dumped by his bf of 2 yrs. After some parting words Milan's confidence is knocked. Despite that Milan tries dating only to go on a date to be called fat. Milan didn't think he was that out of shape. Wanting to make some changes he signs up for the gym.
Kelson is a trainer at a gym. He is in great shape. He is tired of people only looking at his physical appearance. He wants something more meaningful in his life. When he first see's Milan in the gym there is something that attracts him.
The two become friends and a relationship builds from there. Milan struggles with understanding how someone like Kelson could be with him and Kelson continuously reminds him there is more than meets the eye.
It seems cute, right? Well, for a while it had me, and it was ok. Although, Milan's insecurities started to get annoying. No matter how many times Kelson tried reassuring him, he just could not get over them. However, I let that go but then the book started to get preachy.
It went from romance into some sort of book about acceptance. It started to focus on Kelson and Milan being poster child's of accepting all people no matter what they look like. Again, cool but not really what I went into this book for. Like I said, it got really preachy towards the end.
September 27, 2017
The theme of this story is highly similar to N.R. Walker’s The Weight of It All, which I loved. Unlike that book however, this one didn't connect as well with me emotionally.
Pride has a positive message about being okay the way you are, including your weight. This body-positive message is crucially important, and it’s one that I appreciate especially, since I’m plus sized myself. The book gets major points for that, including putting someone on the cover who does not have a perfect six pack.
The problem for me is that even though that message came across lout and clear, I had trouble connecting with Milan and Kelson on an emotional level. The story felt distant to me, like I was reading a narration, rather being sucked into a story.
Milan, with his ‘plus size body’, is Kelson’s type from the beginning, so as readers we don’t have to worry about that. All that’s left is Milan’s own insecurity, but that felt somewhat superficial to me. It only started after his boyfriend walked out on him and mentioned his body, and after being fat-shamed once on a date. To me, those two instances were not enough to make it believable he truly developed a deep insecurity
The writer tried to make Kelson vulnerable as well, especially sexually, and his journey into becoming a body-positive advocate should make us as readers cheer for him, but it felt too perfect to me, more like preaching and getting the message of the book across, than as a real person.
I loved the message of this book, but I'd hoped for an emotional connection.
Pride has a positive message about being okay the way you are, including your weight. This body-positive message is crucially important, and it’s one that I appreciate especially, since I’m plus sized myself. The book gets major points for that, including putting someone on the cover who does not have a perfect six pack.
The problem for me is that even though that message came across lout and clear, I had trouble connecting with Milan and Kelson on an emotional level. The story felt distant to me, like I was reading a narration, rather being sucked into a story.
Milan, with his ‘plus size body’, is Kelson’s type from the beginning, so as readers we don’t have to worry about that. All that’s left is Milan’s own insecurity, but that felt somewhat superficial to me. It only started after his boyfriend walked out on him and mentioned his body, and after being fat-shamed once on a date. To me, those two instances were not enough to make it believable he truly developed a deep insecurity
The writer tried to make Kelson vulnerable as well, especially sexually, and his journey into becoming a body-positive advocate should make us as readers cheer for him, but it felt too perfect to me, more like preaching and getting the message of the book across, than as a real person.
I loved the message of this book, but I'd hoped for an emotional connection.
December 18, 2018
I liked it, but I so agree with a couple of the other reviews there is, this one was a little too much a self help book, which was a shame, bc it could easily have been a 5 stars for me, if we had more focus on the romance and not just being overweight.
January 21, 2018
4.5 stars
Loved this story, they are so cute and sweet together ❤️
Loved this story, they are so cute and sweet together ❤️
September 23, 2017
This book was wierd to me. It felt more like a self help book than it did a romance. The relationship between Milan and Kel didnt feel real to me it felt awkward and their conversations too perfect and unrealistic. There was way too much focus on the self help aspect and not enough relationship goodies. Also Milan got on my nerves sometimes with insecurities about Kel's feelings about him after being reassured repeatedly. Just ok for me.
October 29, 2017
This book was great. loved it.
Kel and Milan were a great couple together,
they were perfect for each other.
Kel and Milan were a great couple together,
they were perfect for each other.
April 7, 2021
I started off the book really enjoying this until about 30% in. It just felt like there was a lot of dialogue. I mean, we got full on conversations between these 2 that aren’t really relevant to the story so much. I mean kinda, it’s them getting to know each other, but it felt like some of the conversations just dragged along.
I also got a bit tired of Milan’s constant insecurities over and over and over. I know that he’s self-conscious about his body and he’s had some pretty shitty experiences with his ex and a random guy he met off an app. I can understand these insecurities because I have gone through them too. But it was just SO much and it felt constant. Every other conversation he had with Kelson was about how he looked compared to extremely fit Kelson, why did he even want someone like him when he could have anyone he wanted, he didn’t deserve someone like him, and then his diet and how much he needed to exercise, etc. etc. Kelson had to reassure him so many freaking times that Milan was what he wanted, he liked him for him, and he actually likes a softer kinda pudgier dude. It just got old real quick.
The last part of the book caught my interest again. I liked what Kelson did at the convention and that he stood up for not only Milan but others who have been bullied because of their weight. It’s just... I was a little confused because Milan went from telling him not to intervene when they saw some overweight girls getting bullied on the beach because it would make it worse to Milan praising Kelson for standing up to people and suggested he should do that consistently to make a difference if he wanted to. I thought Milan was going to freak out and be embarrassed or mad over the situation but he was the opposite and grateful for Kelson standing up for him. Ooookay.
The whole bullying movement thing was cool. I can appreciate that as a big girl and having a hot as fuck muscle dude stick up for us bigger girls/guys is pretty damn nice. So I really enjoyed that part of the story.
I was glad we got a look into a bit of the things Kelson felt insecure about too. Just because he’s a hot muscled up dude doesn’t mean he doesn’t feel insecure about things either. It isn’t about weight but his scars, his sexual performance, etc. I was glad that was thrown in there and I could see it from the other side for a bit.
The sex was also pretty damn hot. Milan and Kelson switched a few times and I always love reading that.
The connection between them as romantic partners was so-so. I kinda wanted to feel more between them but it just didn’t get there for me. I read the words but didn’t feel that emotion so much.
Overall I did enjoy the story but not as much as I would’ve hoped. Still worth reading though.
3⭐️
POV: Dual 3rd person
I also got a bit tired of Milan’s constant insecurities over and over and over. I know that he’s self-conscious about his body and he’s had some pretty shitty experiences with his ex and a random guy he met off an app. I can understand these insecurities because I have gone through them too. But it was just SO much and it felt constant. Every other conversation he had with Kelson was about how he looked compared to extremely fit Kelson, why did he even want someone like him when he could have anyone he wanted, he didn’t deserve someone like him, and then his diet and how much he needed to exercise, etc. etc. Kelson had to reassure him so many freaking times that Milan was what he wanted, he liked him for him, and he actually likes a softer kinda pudgier dude. It just got old real quick.
The last part of the book caught my interest again. I liked what Kelson did at the convention and that he stood up for not only Milan but others who have been bullied because of their weight. It’s just... I was a little confused because Milan went from telling him not to intervene when they saw some overweight girls getting bullied on the beach because it would make it worse to Milan praising Kelson for standing up to people and suggested he should do that consistently to make a difference if he wanted to. I thought Milan was going to freak out and be embarrassed or mad over the situation but he was the opposite and grateful for Kelson standing up for him. Ooookay.
The whole bullying movement thing was cool. I can appreciate that as a big girl and having a hot as fuck muscle dude stick up for us bigger girls/guys is pretty damn nice. So I really enjoyed that part of the story.
I was glad we got a look into a bit of the things Kelson felt insecure about too. Just because he’s a hot muscled up dude doesn’t mean he doesn’t feel insecure about things either. It isn’t about weight but his scars, his sexual performance, etc. I was glad that was thrown in there and I could see it from the other side for a bit.
The sex was also pretty damn hot. Milan and Kelson switched a few times and I always love reading that.
The connection between them as romantic partners was so-so. I kinda wanted to feel more between them but it just didn’t get there for me. I read the words but didn’t feel that emotion so much.
Overall I did enjoy the story but not as much as I would’ve hoped. Still worth reading though.
3⭐️
POV: Dual 3rd person
January 25, 2018
This was a very sweet and romantic story and I enjoyed reading about Kelson the gym trainer and Milan, who was dumped by his boyfriend for being overweight.
The self consciousness and insecurities of Milan were a little difficult and although I could definitely see, why he would ask himself if Kelson really found him as attractive as he said, it didn't feel quite right. Especially it made it difficult to understand what Kelson saw in him and why he was so drawn to the guy, especially when all Kelson did for the first weeks of their relationship was to assure him, he really accepted Milan the way he was (and looked).
I would have loved to see any strong point of Milan or what did make him attractive for Kelson.
The other small complaint I have is that there was very little drama apart from Milan's insecurity. I really don't need any miscommunication or stupid misunderstandings, but a little more spice for the story would have been nice.
Apart from that, it was perfectly fine, reminded me a lot of "The weight of it all" from N R Walker without just being a cheap copy.
So a nice and enjoyable read for a relaxing afternoon or evening. Also some nice and true insights to the fitness industry and its problems and prejudices.
3.5 stars from me.
The self consciousness and insecurities of Milan were a little difficult and although I could definitely see, why he would ask himself if Kelson really found him as attractive as he said, it didn't feel quite right. Especially it made it difficult to understand what Kelson saw in him and why he was so drawn to the guy, especially when all Kelson did for the first weeks of their relationship was to assure him, he really accepted Milan the way he was (and looked).
I would have loved to see any strong point of Milan or what did make him attractive for Kelson.
The other small complaint I have is that there was very little drama apart from Milan's insecurity. I really don't need any miscommunication or stupid misunderstandings, but a little more spice for the story would have been nice.
Apart from that, it was perfectly fine, reminded me a lot of "The weight of it all" from N R Walker without just being a cheap copy.
So a nice and enjoyable read for a relaxing afternoon or evening. Also some nice and true insights to the fitness industry and its problems and prejudices.
3.5 stars from me.
September 9, 2017
3☆
Sweet&Cute story.
Sweet&Cute story.
January 14, 2018
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4.5 stars
For an explanation of my ratings, see my ratings legend. For brief reviews on hundreds of books, check out my site.
My written and video reviews contain spoilers!
4.5 stars
For an explanation of my ratings, see my ratings legend. For brief reviews on hundreds of books, check out my site.
September 12, 2017
In an ideal world , there would be no bullying or shaming
in an ideal world , it would be the personality and not the body that was important.
This story tries to show us the hurt and damage that not having a perfect body could cause,
luckily it gave us warm, and kind characters that spoke out against the bullying too.
Milan is a kind, hardworking man that is happy and comfortable with his life,
that is, until his partner dumps him for a younger and slimmer guy.
Milan's confidence has completely shattered,
his ex's words remind him of all the shaming he's had to endure growing up.
Words that have broken him and his self worth completely.
Kelson is hot, he is a personal trainer , and a model for the fitness industry.
He works hard to keep his body in "perfect" condition.
Kelson may be beautiful, but he has a beautiful heart too.
Milan joins Kelson's gym, hoping to achieve a body like his one day.
Kelson realises that Milan is hurting himself and tries to help him,
he enjoys spending time with Milan, and soon finds he is attracted to the kind man.
Milan refuses to believe that a man as "perfect" as Kelson can find him attractive.
After a lot of talking and sharing Kelson convinces Milan of his worth,
a personal attack on his boyfriend causes Kelson to react
and to shout out about all the shaming that goes on at the gyms.
Places where people should feel comfortable while trying to get fit,
and not laughed at behind their backs.
After the outburst Kelson finds himself a reluctant spoke person for all the people
that have come forward with stories of bullying and shaming,
this brings alot of attention to Kelson , and alot of demands on his time.
Will Milan and Kelson make it as a couple, or will all Milan's insecurities pull them apart?
A very well written story, that highlights a very real problem in todays society.
An enjoyable read.
in an ideal world , it would be the personality and not the body that was important.
This story tries to show us the hurt and damage that not having a perfect body could cause,
luckily it gave us warm, and kind characters that spoke out against the bullying too.
Milan is a kind, hardworking man that is happy and comfortable with his life,
that is, until his partner dumps him for a younger and slimmer guy.
Milan's confidence has completely shattered,
his ex's words remind him of all the shaming he's had to endure growing up.
Words that have broken him and his self worth completely.
Kelson is hot, he is a personal trainer , and a model for the fitness industry.
He works hard to keep his body in "perfect" condition.
Kelson may be beautiful, but he has a beautiful heart too.
Milan joins Kelson's gym, hoping to achieve a body like his one day.
Kelson realises that Milan is hurting himself and tries to help him,
he enjoys spending time with Milan, and soon finds he is attracted to the kind man.
Milan refuses to believe that a man as "perfect" as Kelson can find him attractive.
After a lot of talking and sharing Kelson convinces Milan of his worth,
a personal attack on his boyfriend causes Kelson to react
and to shout out about all the shaming that goes on at the gyms.
Places where people should feel comfortable while trying to get fit,
and not laughed at behind their backs.
After the outburst Kelson finds himself a reluctant spoke person for all the people
that have come forward with stories of bullying and shaming,
this brings alot of attention to Kelson , and alot of demands on his time.
Will Milan and Kelson make it as a couple, or will all Milan's insecurities pull them apart?
A very well written story, that highlights a very real problem in todays society.
An enjoyable read.
April 2, 2021
This is my first book by this author, and it was an enjoyable experience. Pride is a body positive story of how society's expectations can affect a person's self worth.
It was a very sweet novel, a few funny moments throughout, and a cast of great characters. I was enjoying it thoroughly until about 70% ish when it sort of lost my interest. It needed some drama or something to bring it to life, instead it sort of turned into a long body positive declaration, and while the romance and some funny moments were still there, it just became a bit bland. The blurb sort of led you to believe that there would be some drama over Milan and Kelson's relationship due to their different body types, and there was, but it happened and was over so quickly that it was a non-event really.
However, it was a lovely story and it was very much a feel-good tale. I've seen other comments linking it to NR Walker's The Weight of It All, but apart from Milan being dumped by his boyfriend for being overweight, joining a gym, and catching the eye of the well built, but sensitive and truly lovely personal trainer, there are no other commonalities. They are completely different stories and told in very different ways.
Pride is available on KU, and if you are looking for a light read it would certainly be worth checking it out.
All my reviews can be found on my blog: The Word Nerd Reviews
Follow Me: Facebook & Twitter
It was a very sweet novel, a few funny moments throughout, and a cast of great characters. I was enjoying it thoroughly until about 70% ish when it sort of lost my interest. It needed some drama or something to bring it to life, instead it sort of turned into a long body positive declaration, and while the romance and some funny moments were still there, it just became a bit bland. The blurb sort of led you to believe that there would be some drama over Milan and Kelson's relationship due to their different body types, and there was, but it happened and was over so quickly that it was a non-event really.
However, it was a lovely story and it was very much a feel-good tale. I've seen other comments linking it to NR Walker's The Weight of It All, but apart from Milan being dumped by his boyfriend for being overweight, joining a gym, and catching the eye of the well built, but sensitive and truly lovely personal trainer, there are no other commonalities. They are completely different stories and told in very different ways.
Pride is available on KU, and if you are looking for a light read it would certainly be worth checking it out.
All my reviews can be found on my blog: The Word Nerd Reviews
Follow Me: Facebook & Twitter
May 6, 2023
1 stars… DNF 80%
Okay I already know what you’re going to say “80% DNF why didn’t you just finish” because my dear friends and followers…. I actually really enjoyed the first 50-60 percent of this book. I fully was ready to give this a 4 star because although it was kinda weird with how it talked about women at times I was willing to over look it…. I’ve changed my mind.
I couldn’t do it anymore. I was struggling for a few days to actually finishing this thing and finally decided to stop forcing it and focus on a book I like. So here is some things that I hated and why I gave up….
- why did we talk about women so weirdly? Instead of being like “this one woman is really weird towards Kelvin” it was like “all women are weird towards him and want the same things and are big bimbo objects” now it wasn’t this exactly but it was really weird vibes
- I’m all for Kelson being a positive thing towards the body positivity movement but like… I don’t care enough about it for it to be the focus of what seemed to be the last 30% of the book.
- I enjoyed them being different sizes and specifically went looking for books similar to “Hefty” by Jessa Kane bc I love that book and would love a long form MM version but this isn’t it.
- I feel like Kelson being only into big men is just as bad/harmful/fetishized as some people only being into body builders… am I wrong…?
1/5 on spice. 1/5 on kink. 1/5 on tears. Total bummer.
Okay I already know what you’re going to say “80% DNF why didn’t you just finish” because my dear friends and followers…. I actually really enjoyed the first 50-60 percent of this book. I fully was ready to give this a 4 star because although it was kinda weird with how it talked about women at times I was willing to over look it…. I’ve changed my mind.
I couldn’t do it anymore. I was struggling for a few days to actually finishing this thing and finally decided to stop forcing it and focus on a book I like. So here is some things that I hated and why I gave up….
- why did we talk about women so weirdly? Instead of being like “this one woman is really weird towards Kelvin” it was like “all women are weird towards him and want the same things and are big bimbo objects” now it wasn’t this exactly but it was really weird vibes
- I’m all for Kelson being a positive thing towards the body positivity movement but like… I don’t care enough about it for it to be the focus of what seemed to be the last 30% of the book.
- I enjoyed them being different sizes and specifically went looking for books similar to “Hefty” by Jessa Kane bc I love that book and would love a long form MM version but this isn’t it.
- I feel like Kelson being only into big men is just as bad/harmful/fetishized as some people only being into body builders… am I wrong…?
1/5 on spice. 1/5 on kink. 1/5 on tears. Total bummer.
June 13, 2020
I was all over the blurb of this book, and when I started reading it it was good, it reminded me of The Weight Of It All, lacking the humour.
And while it was sweet, that was all it was. I kept waiting for the dramatic moment to happen, the one that turns our characters lives upside down for a while, only to not get it.
At times I though we would be dealing with Milan's unhealthy dieting but that just fizzed out to nothing.
I felt like Kel's issues was made just to make him seem less perfect, like an afterthought, much like Tom's weird appearance later on.
Kel's outburst wasn't such a moment, it was just a turning point from a romance to preaching about acceptance and bullying. And while I read books like that, nothing in the blurb told me it was suppose to be about it. Things are just too perfect between them, Milan's struggles aren't that big, his insistent insecurities becomes tedious at times and they have nothing really going against them.
A good book is about the high and lows of life, make the readers heart pumping and blood rushing a bit, even in pure romance novels.
I ended up skimming through things in the end because the speeches didn't hold my attention, and their connection didn't either. I really wish it had been different because I wanted to like it.
And while it was sweet, that was all it was. I kept waiting for the dramatic moment to happen, the one that turns our characters lives upside down for a while, only to not get it.
At times I though we would be dealing with Milan's unhealthy dieting but that just fizzed out to nothing.
I felt like Kel's issues was made just to make him seem less perfect, like an afterthought, much like Tom's weird appearance later on.
Kel's outburst wasn't such a moment, it was just a turning point from a romance to preaching about acceptance and bullying. And while I read books like that, nothing in the blurb told me it was suppose to be about it. Things are just too perfect between them, Milan's struggles aren't that big, his insistent insecurities becomes tedious at times and they have nothing really going against them.
A good book is about the high and lows of life, make the readers heart pumping and blood rushing a bit, even in pure romance novels.
I ended up skimming through things in the end because the speeches didn't hold my attention, and their connection didn't either. I really wish it had been different because I wanted to like it.
June 14, 2018
It’s funny you don’t get a chance to read stories like this very often, we have the character of Milan who is an overweight man in a same sex relationship, who’s the partner leaves him for a variety of reasons. This starts Milan on a journey of growth and self discovery, also this puts him in the precarious situation of now going to a gym to because a physical transformation. Now while this is going on he unknowingly has attracted the attention of a very handsome trainer named kensley now what’s fun is the fact that this model/trainer has only eyes for the regular guy. Now we have the ins and outs of them trying to come together and grow together. The story is sweet and has a great anti bullying aspect that when u get into the story u see the importance. As it stands right now Fat shaming is one of the last things people think is ok to do. The gym can be a jumping point and if u use it as a tool it will help. I do love that this has a fairy tale wrap up makes a difference. Can’t wait to see what comes next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2019
Super sweet with a little bit of sexy
When Milan is dumped by his boyfriend and fat shamed by a guy he meets from a dating app he decides to turn things around and join a gym. Sticking with it is hard though, especially with his self esteem taking such a hard hit. Luckily he meets Kelson. Kelson has the body of a god and the heart of an angel. He does everything he can to make Milan see just how beautiful he is inside and out.
If you are looking for gritty characters alpha-holes look somewhere else. This author has a habit of writing about characters that I would normally find too sweet. Luckily the writing is wonderful and the characters are interesting enough that it doesn't bother me too much. Milan struggles with body image like many of us do. He faces the same fears and deals with the same judgments. That is what makes him relatable. Kelson is the hero we all want for ourselves. It is not just about looks for him. He sees beyond that and yet at the same time finds beauty in the things many people hate about themselves.
When Milan is dumped by his boyfriend and fat shamed by a guy he meets from a dating app he decides to turn things around and join a gym. Sticking with it is hard though, especially with his self esteem taking such a hard hit. Luckily he meets Kelson. Kelson has the body of a god and the heart of an angel. He does everything he can to make Milan see just how beautiful he is inside and out.
If you are looking for gritty characters alpha-holes look somewhere else. This author has a habit of writing about characters that I would normally find too sweet. Luckily the writing is wonderful and the characters are interesting enough that it doesn't bother me too much. Milan struggles with body image like many of us do. He faces the same fears and deals with the same judgments. That is what makes him relatable. Kelson is the hero we all want for ourselves. It is not just about looks for him. He sees beyond that and yet at the same time finds beauty in the things many people hate about themselves.
February 21, 2026
Enjoyable and a Topic That is Relatable to Many
This was such an enjoyable book with loveable characters and a strong message about love in all shapes and sizes and standing up to bullying and fat shaming.
When Milan is dumped by his long term boyfriend for being overweight and boring and then fat shamed by someone he meets on a dating site he decides he needs to try and change his life and so he joins a gym.
Like a lot of overweight and unfit people joining a gym can be terrifying, being surrounded by slim and fit people who make you feel uncomfortable and even fitness trainers who don’t really want to waste their time on you, but Milan’s life does change when he meets Kelson, a personal trainer, part time model and super fit with muscles to die for, who falls for Milan and becomes his biggest cheerleader taking on anyone who bad mouths his boyfriend and he takes the fight to his peers calling out their prejudices and promoting self worth.
This was such an enjoyable book with loveable characters and a strong message about love in all shapes and sizes and standing up to bullying and fat shaming.
When Milan is dumped by his long term boyfriend for being overweight and boring and then fat shamed by someone he meets on a dating site he decides he needs to try and change his life and so he joins a gym.
Like a lot of overweight and unfit people joining a gym can be terrifying, being surrounded by slim and fit people who make you feel uncomfortable and even fitness trainers who don’t really want to waste their time on you, but Milan’s life does change when he meets Kelson, a personal trainer, part time model and super fit with muscles to die for, who falls for Milan and becomes his biggest cheerleader taking on anyone who bad mouths his boyfriend and he takes the fight to his peers calling out their prejudices and promoting self worth.
June 6, 2022
I was honestly pretty skeptical of this book before I started it, after reading reviews of various opinions on the book. Some opinion are accurate in which they pointed out that the book was more of a self-help, confidence raising plot, more than it was a romance novel. Sure, in some ways I agree that Kelson and Milan’s relationship acted more as a side note, but I think EM Leya portrayed obscurities really well. She was really able to show how insecurities can consume your life and can’t just be magically pushed away with love. Both of the MCs’ I securities played a major role in the development in the story, sometimes a little too much, but it’s realistic. Sure, we love a cheesy, totally unrealistic romance, but this one was a nice wake up call from all the others and it’s appreciated. Although I was close to DNFing a few times, 3.5 stars!
September 7, 2017
Fantastic
When Milan is dumped by his boyfriend for being overweight, then humiliated for the same reason on a date, he decides to take some drastic action and join a gym. Kelson is a fitness trainer and part time model who is sick of the way his industry treats those who do not conform to its ideal of the perfect body. When Kelson first sees Milan at the gym he sees a man he wants to get to know. Milan can't believe that Kelson is interested in him but as the two men spend time together, friendship turns to something more but can they survive the prejudices of their piers. Fantastic story as always from E M Leya.
When Milan is dumped by his boyfriend for being overweight, then humiliated for the same reason on a date, he decides to take some drastic action and join a gym. Kelson is a fitness trainer and part time model who is sick of the way his industry treats those who do not conform to its ideal of the perfect body. When Kelson first sees Milan at the gym he sees a man he wants to get to know. Milan can't believe that Kelson is interested in him but as the two men spend time together, friendship turns to something more but can they survive the prejudices of their piers. Fantastic story as always from E M Leya.
September 5, 2020
Embrace the glorious mess that you are. ~Elizabeth Gilbert~
I really enjoyed the message this book sent. It was about love coming in all shapes and sizes, stepping away from bullying and judging others. I loved it!! A beautiful message with sweet characters. Milan and Kel had me hooked and rooting for them throughout the whole book. Especially Kel, I loved the way he stood up for Milan and just thoroughly loved him for who he was as a person. Its so true that lots of us love people based off of who they are and not because of their body. I would recommend this book, especially for those of us fighting with our self worth on a daily basis. 💗
I really enjoyed the message this book sent. It was about love coming in all shapes and sizes, stepping away from bullying and judging others. I loved it!! A beautiful message with sweet characters. Milan and Kel had me hooked and rooting for them throughout the whole book. Especially Kel, I loved the way he stood up for Milan and just thoroughly loved him for who he was as a person. Its so true that lots of us love people based off of who they are and not because of their body. I would recommend this book, especially for those of us fighting with our self worth on a daily basis. 💗
October 1, 2017
Not an angst nightmare!!
You can read other reviews about plot and characters, what I need to convey is my appreciation for very little angst and unnecessary drama!! Thank you, EM Leya!!! What could have been a drama-filled emotional rollercoaster was just a cute story about finding Love and not falling into stereotypes with a happy thought about changing the world’s views and a happy fluffy ending.
You can read other reviews about plot and characters, what I need to convey is my appreciation for very little angst and unnecessary drama!! Thank you, EM Leya!!! What could have been a drama-filled emotional rollercoaster was just a cute story about finding Love and not falling into stereotypes with a happy thought about changing the world’s views and a happy fluffy ending.
February 18, 2018
Inspiring and sweet!
Totally loved this book about two guys who are so different in appearance but the same in their hearts! This book touches on a subject that is near and dear to me....being embarrassed at the gym because of your size...I completely identified with the main character, Milan...I have often felt the same exact way he did when going to the gym. The chemistry between the two MCs was awesome...another 5 star read for me!
Totally loved this book about two guys who are so different in appearance but the same in their hearts! This book touches on a subject that is near and dear to me....being embarrassed at the gym because of your size...I completely identified with the main character, Milan...I have often felt the same exact way he did when going to the gym. The chemistry between the two MCs was awesome...another 5 star read for me!
November 4, 2017
Liked the overall message that was convey about body image and how one should view their body and someone else's aren't made up all the same. I enjoyed seeing Milan build up some confidence after it was trampled on by people. The Tracey and Kelson were wonderful characters and I was happy with how everything turned out and Milan finding his own support system
February 2, 2018
Do onto others...
Body shaming, bullying, picking on anyone for any reason is unacceptable. No one ever knows what demons another us battling. And no one has the right to judge.
It’s heartwarming when someone comes along and sees beauty on the inside, no matter what the outside looks like.
Body shaming, bullying, picking on anyone for any reason is unacceptable. No one ever knows what demons another us battling. And no one has the right to judge.
It’s heartwarming when someone comes along and sees beauty on the inside, no matter what the outside looks like.
October 25, 2018
Premise with actual follow through!
These characters spoke to my heart regarding body image, shaming, and bullying while encouraging me to think that my thoughts and views may in some small way someday help change societal views. If we could all support programs such as the one described in this story, the world would indeed be a better, happier place.
These characters spoke to my heart regarding body image, shaming, and bullying while encouraging me to think that my thoughts and views may in some small way someday help change societal views. If we could all support programs such as the one described in this story, the world would indeed be a better, happier place.
April 12, 2019
Great book!
I loved this story so much! It talks about some very real issues in a very positive way. I enjoyed it so much that I tried to post the buy link in a Fb group and was immediately put in Fb jail for the cover. I'm still stewing about that. It makes me an even bigger advocate for this author.
I loved this story so much! It talks about some very real issues in a very positive way. I enjoyed it so much that I tried to post the buy link in a Fb group and was immediately put in Fb jail for the cover. I'm still stewing about that. It makes me an even bigger advocate for this author.
May 30, 2018
Insecurites, bullies, heartbreaking, hope, love and acceptance... This book touch all that and More... It's not an instalove book, more like a friends to lover. A really sweet book that I hope have a second and third part...
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