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Bold Brew #6
Silky Smooth
Falling in love isn’t always smooth sailing.
College drop-out Nicolas Cannon has a secret he’s been hiding for all his adult life. A secret that has left him isolated and mostly friendless—until the day a very friendly parrot flies into his life. In his search to discover the parrot’s owner, Nicolas meets the handsome, enigmatic and much-older Alex Durant. But Nicolas has become fond of Alex’s pet Calamity, and the pair develop an unexpected friendship over their love of the bird.
Alex Durant is a man with money and power, but he’s also haunted by his past with an abusive ex. Calamity saved Alex’s sanity, and he’s surprised at how easily he shares her attention with Nicolas, a young artist who arrests Alex’s attention. As their friendship takes a brand-new, sexy turn, Nicolas discovers Alex also possesses something else he never expected: a shared love of silky underthings. But Nicolas isn’t out to his family, and that decision may test his fledgling relationship with Alex to the breaking point.
Silky Smooth is a stand-alone story in the multi-author Bold Brew shared universe, centered around an inclusive coffee shop set in a fictional college town. Each steaming hot coffee shop romance can be enjoyed alone, but collect all ten for the most fun! My 40k word story features a reclusive artist, a lonely restauranteur, an emotional support parrot, age gap, and satin underwear.
College drop-out Nicolas Cannon has a secret he’s been hiding for all his adult life. A secret that has left him isolated and mostly friendless—until the day a very friendly parrot flies into his life. In his search to discover the parrot’s owner, Nicolas meets the handsome, enigmatic and much-older Alex Durant. But Nicolas has become fond of Alex’s pet Calamity, and the pair develop an unexpected friendship over their love of the bird.
Alex Durant is a man with money and power, but he’s also haunted by his past with an abusive ex. Calamity saved Alex’s sanity, and he’s surprised at how easily he shares her attention with Nicolas, a young artist who arrests Alex’s attention. As their friendship takes a brand-new, sexy turn, Nicolas discovers Alex also possesses something else he never expected: a shared love of silky underthings. But Nicolas isn’t out to his family, and that decision may test his fledgling relationship with Alex to the breaking point.
Silky Smooth is a stand-alone story in the multi-author Bold Brew shared universe, centered around an inclusive coffee shop set in a fictional college town. Each steaming hot coffee shop romance can be enjoyed alone, but collect all ten for the most fun! My 40k word story features a reclusive artist, a lonely restauranteur, an emotional support parrot, age gap, and satin underwear.
141 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2021
65 people are currently reading
285 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Arthur
91 books1,238 followersNo stranger to the writing world, A.M. Arthur has been creating stories in her head since she was a child and scribbling them down nearly as long. She credits an early fascination with male friendships (bromance wasn't a thing yet) with her later discovery of and subsequent affair with m/m romance stories. When not writing, she can be found in her kitchen, pretending she's an amateur chef and trying to not poison herself or others with her cuisine experiments. You can contact her at AM_Arthur(at)yahoo(dot)com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
March 31, 2021
I don't know if it's the single POV or the fact that for a "kink" book it's was very low steam or my lack of a connection with the characters or the chemistry I didn't feel between them or the fact I found this boring as F.... Haha that was a lot of "or" and there's more but I'll spare you by b*tching. This has won the title of my least enjoyed book in this mediocre series. Why do I keep reading lol
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March 31, 2021Appalling, both in its own right, and as an A.M. Arthur book (she's normally much more reliable than this). "Silky Smooth" lacked plot, pace, motivation and characterisation. The parrot got all the best lines.
In a book of 40k words, there is just no room for a page on the best way to clean stains off a silk shirt or lines like:
"Some people loved brown bananas, but I preferred mine mostly green."
"Alex sipped at what I thought was tea, because it didn’t have a strong scent of coffee. It also didn’t have a tea bag in it or on the saucer."
"He surprised me by unfolding a wooden, stand-up drying rack and draping my shirt over it."
Padding. Annoying.
In a book of 40k words, there is just no room for a page on the best way to clean stains off a silk shirt or lines like:
"Some people loved brown bananas, but I preferred mine mostly green."
"Alex sipped at what I thought was tea, because it didn’t have a strong scent of coffee. It also didn’t have a tea bag in it or on the saucer."
"He surprised me by unfolding a wooden, stand-up drying rack and draping my shirt over it."
Padding. Annoying.
April 11, 2021
Although I have this book a solid try and read the first 40%, you lost me at "emotional support parrot".
March 30, 2021
Such an Emotional and Steamy Read!
If you have read the previous book in the Bold Brew Series, Order Up, then you've met Nicolas Cannon, he has lunch everyday at Bold Brew like clockwork....no worries if you haven't read it yet because each of the stories in this series can be read as a standalone.
We start off with Nicolas having his usual lunch when something surprising happens, he notices a parrot outside Bold Brew's window staring at him. The parrot is still there when he leaves and he starts talking to him, saying uplifting things, since no one is around he decides to bring him home and make a flyer because someone must be looking for a talking parrot, especially one that makes you feel good about yourself.
Next we have Alex Durant, he's quite a bit older than Nicolas, he's a restaurateur, and he's missing his emotional support parrot. There are parts of Alex's past that we get glimpses of but never get the complete story which I'm okay with this because of the length of the book, we definitely get enough to grasp what he's gone through.
Last week Annabeth Albert had asked in her Facebook group as well as on her Instagram account what pet would we like to see written about in one of her stories. For me it was a no brainier, I am a dog lover but I have a true love for talking parrots so that is what I responded with, not realizing that I would be reading such a story just a week later. I preordered this entire series, never even reading the book blurbs so color me surprised when Calamity shows up within the first couple of pages. I loved how perfect she was for both Alex and Nicolas.
Nicolas and Alex work so well together, the age gap plays such a small part in their relationship you almost forget that there is fifteen years between them. What I loved is that they had the same kinky side, but on the opposites ends of it....one likes to wear the silky smooth items and the other like to see them.
If you are looking for a mm romance that can be read in just a couple of hours but will make you hot under the collar this is the book for you.
Happy Reading!!!
Read an Excerpt here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewSS6
If you have read the previous book in the Bold Brew Series, Order Up, then you've met Nicolas Cannon, he has lunch everyday at Bold Brew like clockwork....no worries if you haven't read it yet because each of the stories in this series can be read as a standalone.
We start off with Nicolas having his usual lunch when something surprising happens, he notices a parrot outside Bold Brew's window staring at him. The parrot is still there when he leaves and he starts talking to him, saying uplifting things, since no one is around he decides to bring him home and make a flyer because someone must be looking for a talking parrot, especially one that makes you feel good about yourself.
Next we have Alex Durant, he's quite a bit older than Nicolas, he's a restaurateur, and he's missing his emotional support parrot. There are parts of Alex's past that we get glimpses of but never get the complete story which I'm okay with this because of the length of the book, we definitely get enough to grasp what he's gone through.
Last week Annabeth Albert had asked in her Facebook group as well as on her Instagram account what pet would we like to see written about in one of her stories. For me it was a no brainier, I am a dog lover but I have a true love for talking parrots so that is what I responded with, not realizing that I would be reading such a story just a week later. I preordered this entire series, never even reading the book blurbs so color me surprised when Calamity shows up within the first couple of pages. I loved how perfect she was for both Alex and Nicolas.
Nicolas and Alex work so well together, the age gap plays such a small part in their relationship you almost forget that there is fifteen years between them. What I loved is that they had the same kinky side, but on the opposites ends of it....one likes to wear the silky smooth items and the other like to see them.
If you are looking for a mm romance that can be read in just a couple of hours but will make you hot under the collar this is the book for you.
Happy Reading!!!
Read an Excerpt here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewSS6
April 4, 2021
Not the best
Not my favorite. It’s sweet, but also deals with some hard topics. And there’s a unique meet cute. I just strongly disliked Nicolas’s mom and stepdad and how Nicolas downplays their awfulness.
Not my favorite. It’s sweet, but also deals with some hard topics. And there’s a unique meet cute. I just strongly disliked Nicolas’s mom and stepdad and how Nicolas downplays their awfulness.
April 4, 2021
Wow, I think this book has to be my favorite in this series so far. I felt like it focused more on the building of Nicolas and Alex’s relationship after both were hurt in the past. It was great to read...
Nicolas, 20 almost 21 years old, is very quiet and set in his routine. He goes to Bold Brew for coffee and lunch and gets the same thing every day at the exact same time - 12pm. One day he finds a parrot outside of the coffee shop and ends up taking it home. The parrot is super cute and says things like “You Success” and “You Matter” and Nicolas obviously connects with the bird. He reluctantly puts up a flyer for the lost parrot and about a week later, Alex shows up at the coffee shop as the owner of the bird.
Alex is 35 and has the parrot, Calamity, as an emotional support animal. He went through a terrible divorce that more than likely was abusive based on some of Alex’s reactions and mannerisms throughout the book. We never really find out what exactly went on but it’s hinted at by some of the things Alex says and with his flinching and shying away from quick movements and loud noises/shouting, etc.
So both Alex and Nicolas have become loners due to what happened to them in the past. Nicolas was bullied at school and had some negative things happen with his stepdad. Both of them slowly get more comfortable with each other and I really enjoyed it.
This wasn’t super steamy which is one aspect that I was really disappointed about. Yes, they did a good amount of sexual things but they only discussed actual fucking... the book never brings us there. Sure, there was some blowjobs and frotting and stuff. While that was pretty hot, I needed mooooore. At least one anal sex scene or something.
Overall though, I feel like I connected with these characters emotionally more than the characters from any of the other books so that’s definitely a win for me.
4⭐️
POV: 1st person (MC1 - Nicolas only)
Nicolas, 20 almost 21 years old, is very quiet and set in his routine. He goes to Bold Brew for coffee and lunch and gets the same thing every day at the exact same time - 12pm. One day he finds a parrot outside of the coffee shop and ends up taking it home. The parrot is super cute and says things like “You Success” and “You Matter” and Nicolas obviously connects with the bird. He reluctantly puts up a flyer for the lost parrot and about a week later, Alex shows up at the coffee shop as the owner of the bird.
Alex is 35 and has the parrot, Calamity, as an emotional support animal. He went through a terrible divorce that more than likely was abusive based on some of Alex’s reactions and mannerisms throughout the book. We never really find out what exactly went on but it’s hinted at by some of the things Alex says and with his flinching and shying away from quick movements and loud noises/shouting, etc.
So both Alex and Nicolas have become loners due to what happened to them in the past. Nicolas was bullied at school and had some negative things happen with his stepdad. Both of them slowly get more comfortable with each other and I really enjoyed it.
This wasn’t super steamy which is one aspect that I was really disappointed about. Yes, they did a good amount of sexual things but they only discussed actual fucking... the book never brings us there. Sure, there was some blowjobs and frotting and stuff. While that was pretty hot, I needed mooooore. At least one anal sex scene or something.
Overall though, I feel like I connected with these characters emotionally more than the characters from any of the other books so that’s definitely a win for me.
4⭐️
POV: 1st person (MC1 - Nicolas only)
November 18, 2024
SILKY SMOOTH was a very sweet and gentle romance with two men who are each struggling to get themselves back on track; Nicolas after dropping out of college when he was horribly bullied and Alex after divorcing his abusive ex-husband. They find each other through the sassy parrot, Cal, who is Alex’s emotional support animal that Nicolas finds one day. I enjoyed watching these two open up and begin to trust again as well as find support in someone else.
Alex and Nicolas were a great fit together and while the intimacy and chemistry in SILKY SMOOTH had a quieter feel, it was really comforting to read. The relationship itself is pretty low angst but there are some external factors, in particular Nicolas’s stepfather, that create some tension and heaviness to parts of the story. Overall, a good read and I’ll definitely be trying more of A.M. Arthur’s books.
Content Warning: on page panic attack; past abusive partner; past abusive and homophobic parent; past bullying and harassment
Alex and Nicolas were a great fit together and while the intimacy and chemistry in SILKY SMOOTH had a quieter feel, it was really comforting to read. The relationship itself is pretty low angst but there are some external factors, in particular Nicolas’s stepfather, that create some tension and heaviness to parts of the story. Overall, a good read and I’ll definitely be trying more of A.M. Arthur’s books.
Content Warning: on page panic attack; past abusive partner; past abusive and homophobic parent; past bullying and harassment
April 1, 2021
Loved it
I will admit to being a bit dubious with the parrot plot but actually she ended up being a great additional character.
Both mc's are a little damaged, Nicholas from pretty severe bullying and Alex from his divorce. I loved that about them. Each were respectful and they communicated well.
I enjoyed how Bold Brew featured too
I will admit to being a bit dubious with the parrot plot but actually she ended up being a great additional character.
Both mc's are a little damaged, Nicholas from pretty severe bullying and Alex from his divorce. I loved that about them. Each were respectful and they communicated well.
I enjoyed how Bold Brew featured too
April 2, 2021
I was really enjoying this right up until just... ended?! The story was just getting going, I was invested in the characters and there were still many unanswered questions about Alex’s past and the couple’s future. It felt as if the author just lost interest and stopped writing. Odd.
May 5, 2021
This was boring at its best, and fast-paced cringe at its worst. And I don't understand, but it somehow combined a slow burn with instalove. I mostly blame the whole thing being from the POV of just Nicholas, but it was just such a waste of the potential humor and angst of the premise.
April 2, 2021
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the sixth book in the Bold Brew series - each written by a different author and with links to the Bold Brew coffee shop. In this case Nicolas visits every day at noon for his lunch.
One day he sees a parrot sitting outside and after looking around for an owner, he takes him home for safety. It turns out the bird can talk and thanks to google, Nicolas works out what he needs to do to keep it safe. I loved how quickly he fell for this unexpected visitor - and that it gave him a companionship he was missing. So he is very sad when the real owner finds him at BB, but from this encounter many good things happen for both Nicolas, and Cal's owner Alex.
Both men really need the support animal side of Cal's role, and she did even better than kind supportive words, as her escape brings these two damaged souls to each other. I loved the dance that they engaged in together, as they release their fears and indulge their desires.
A very sweet and sensual story, with a fun connection to BB, and a promising happy ending.
This is the sixth book in the Bold Brew series - each written by a different author and with links to the Bold Brew coffee shop. In this case Nicolas visits every day at noon for his lunch.
One day he sees a parrot sitting outside and after looking around for an owner, he takes him home for safety. It turns out the bird can talk and thanks to google, Nicolas works out what he needs to do to keep it safe. I loved how quickly he fell for this unexpected visitor - and that it gave him a companionship he was missing. So he is very sad when the real owner finds him at BB, but from this encounter many good things happen for both Nicolas, and Cal's owner Alex.
Both men really need the support animal side of Cal's role, and she did even better than kind supportive words, as her escape brings these two damaged souls to each other. I loved the dance that they engaged in together, as they release their fears and indulge their desires.
A very sweet and sensual story, with a fun connection to BB, and a promising happy ending.
May 10, 2021
3.5
This was fine. It lacked a little more depth and detail into one of the characters lives and would've benefitted greatly from a second POV. All we get are very brief flashes into Alex's life and it's left really up in the air about what happened to him. Nicolas was fine, he was a good MC and I read him as autistic to be honest. It would've been great to have on page rep and I'd love to know what ownvoices autistic readers think about this.
I did appreciate that the sex scenes in this were minor. They weren't super in depth and were more like a paragraph of "and then it happened" and they move on. Normally I hate tell vs show writing, but this series is so heavy on the explicit sex scenes that it was nice to have it be a smaller portion of the book and leave space for actual dialogue and plot instead of 50% sex.
rep: two gay MCS, age gap, emotional support animal, non-canon autistic rep
CW: mentions of abusive past potentially physical and sexual abuse, homophobia, harassment, bullying, physical abuse from parent figure, anxiety
This was fine. It lacked a little more depth and detail into one of the characters lives and would've benefitted greatly from a second POV. All we get are very brief flashes into Alex's life and it's left really up in the air about what happened to him. Nicolas was fine, he was a good MC and I read him as autistic to be honest. It would've been great to have on page rep and I'd love to know what ownvoices autistic readers think about this.
I did appreciate that the sex scenes in this were minor. They weren't super in depth and were more like a paragraph of "and then it happened" and they move on. Normally I hate tell vs show writing, but this series is so heavy on the explicit sex scenes that it was nice to have it be a smaller portion of the book and leave space for actual dialogue and plot instead of 50% sex.
rep: two gay MCS, age gap, emotional support animal, non-canon autistic rep
CW: mentions of abusive past potentially physical and sexual abuse, homophobia, harassment, bullying, physical abuse from parent figure, anxiety
May 19, 2021
Another sweet entry in this multi-author series. Longer than an anthology story, but shorter than a full novel, most of these are sweet and easy, as is this one. But this one felt really short-- in length and in time with the MCs.
There was a nice premise (and oh, how I love manties!) but the age gap and the quick development of a relationship between two ostensibly introverted men felt contrived. Alex's parrot was a nice touch and not only unexpected but, at times, she took the spotlight. And some days it's just fun to explore a lingerie drawer with a sweet character and when that happens, this story fits the bill.
Definitely going to read the rest of the Bold Brew series.
There was a nice premise (and oh, how I love manties!) but the age gap and the quick development of a relationship between two ostensibly introverted men felt contrived. Alex's parrot was a nice touch and not only unexpected but, at times, she took the spotlight. And some days it's just fun to explore a lingerie drawer with a sweet character and when that happens, this story fits the bill.
Definitely going to read the rest of the Bold Brew series.
April 4, 2021
The best of the 6 so far! I’m actually ahead so I’ve got to wait! lol
April 19, 2021
3.5 stars
April 8, 2021
I wish it had been a bit longer, but overall it was really good. I'd have liked to see more of the backstories of Alex and Nicholas, and a bit more of Calamity. Still. It was a delightful read.
April 5, 2021
Check out our full post for SILKY SMOOTH on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Shannan – ☆☆☆☆
SILKY SMOOTH is the sixth installment in the Bold Brew series. The series is done by multiple authors and does not need to be read in order. They are all standalones.
Nicolas Cannon dropped out of college after being bullied. He was made to feel ashamed of something that brought him so much comfort. Now he keeps a very strict schedule and works as an artist from his apartment. His interactions are very limited to his best friend, Sasha, and the staff at Bold Brew, where he gets the same thing for lunch every day. While at lunch he finds a parrot without its owner. In his search for the owner, he meets Alex Durant. He’s sexy and older but he's been hurt in the past. As it turns out, the parrot that Nicolas found is Alex's support animal.
Nicolas and Alex develop a friendship and a need for each other that they didn't realize. Nicolas shows Alex he can love again after his abusive ex and Alex shows Nicolas that his love of silky underthings isn't strange but a turn on.
I loved watching Alex and Nicolas getting to know each other and letting their guards down. A.M. Arthur's characters are so complex and interesting to read. I can't wait to get more stories from this little coffee shop!
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the sixth book in the Bold Brew series – each written by a different author and with links to the Bold Brew coffee shop. In this case, Nicolas visits every day at noon for his lunch.
One day he sees a parrot sitting outside and after looking around for an owner, he takes him home for safety. It turns out the bird can talk and thanks to Google, Nicolas works out what he needs to do to keep it safe. I loved how quickly he fell for this unexpected visitor – and that it gave him a companionship he was missing. So he is very sad when the real owner finds him at Bold Brew, but from this encounter many good things happen for both Nicolas and Cal's owner, Alex.
Both men really need the support animal side of Cal's role, and she did even better than kind supportive words, as her escape brings these two damaged souls to each other. I loved the dance that they engaged in together, as they release their fears and indulge their desires.
A very sweet and sensual story, with a fun connection to Bold Brew, and a promising happy ending.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
May 31, 2024
old post reposted
I haven't yet read a series quite like this one. All centered in the same fictional-universe, all interconnected manuscripts, all editions by different authors. The Bold Brew series is a ten book installment by ten different fabulous people. The sixth book is titled: "Silky Smooth" (by #amarthur)
["Falling in love isn’t always smooth sailing.
College drop-out Nicolas Cannon has a secret he’s been hiding for all his adult life. A secret that has left him isolated and mostly friendless—until the day a very friendly parrot flies into his life. In his search to discover the parrot’s owner, Nicolas meets the handsome, enigmatic and much-older Alex Durant. But Nicolas has become fond of Alex’s pet Calamity, and the pair develop an unexpected friendship over their love of the bird.
Alex Durant is a man with money and power, but he’s also haunted by his past with an abusive ex. Calamity saved Alex’s sanity, and he’s surprised at how easily he shares her attention with Nicolas, a young artist who arrests Alex’s attention. As their friendship takes a brand-new, sexy turn, Nicolas discovers Alex also possesses something else he never expected: a shared love of silky underthings. But Nicolas isn’t out to his family, and that decision may test his fledgling relationship with Alex to the breaking point."]
I don't think either Nicolas nor Alex were mentioned in any previous books (at least by name--maybe my fleeting description that I didn't know to catch at the time), which makes the new characters and new relationship and new plots all the more exciting.
Also, had no clue that the "parrot" wasn't a euphemism until the second or third read through of the blurb (I was tired, what can I say?).
This book was sooooo cute and soooo fluffy and so felt like warm cocoa or a warm sweater during winter (which was a scene in the book actually).
The book did brush a bunch of hard topics (bullying, abuse, etc) but in a delicate and tasteful way (and totally realistic in the time of healing even in a new and healthy and beautiful relationship)
Also, a heads up (if you didn't catch it in the blurb), this series is very kink-friendly/forward (in a very, very healthy and communicative way). The Bold Brew coffee shop (the centering aspect of the series) is a LGBT and kink-friendly hub of the community. Just FYI, if you're not into that kind of thing.
#cupofjoe #puppuccino #perfectmatcha #vanillasteamer #orderup #silkysmooth #fairtrade #extrawhip #cinnamonroll #doubleshot #boldbrew #boldbrewseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
I haven't yet read a series quite like this one. All centered in the same fictional-universe, all interconnected manuscripts, all editions by different authors. The Bold Brew series is a ten book installment by ten different fabulous people. The sixth book is titled: "Silky Smooth" (by #amarthur)
["Falling in love isn’t always smooth sailing.
College drop-out Nicolas Cannon has a secret he’s been hiding for all his adult life. A secret that has left him isolated and mostly friendless—until the day a very friendly parrot flies into his life. In his search to discover the parrot’s owner, Nicolas meets the handsome, enigmatic and much-older Alex Durant. But Nicolas has become fond of Alex’s pet Calamity, and the pair develop an unexpected friendship over their love of the bird.
Alex Durant is a man with money and power, but he’s also haunted by his past with an abusive ex. Calamity saved Alex’s sanity, and he’s surprised at how easily he shares her attention with Nicolas, a young artist who arrests Alex’s attention. As their friendship takes a brand-new, sexy turn, Nicolas discovers Alex also possesses something else he never expected: a shared love of silky underthings. But Nicolas isn’t out to his family, and that decision may test his fledgling relationship with Alex to the breaking point."]
I don't think either Nicolas nor Alex were mentioned in any previous books (at least by name--maybe my fleeting description that I didn't know to catch at the time), which makes the new characters and new relationship and new plots all the more exciting.
Also, had no clue that the "parrot" wasn't a euphemism until the second or third read through of the blurb (I was tired, what can I say?).
This book was sooooo cute and soooo fluffy and so felt like warm cocoa or a warm sweater during winter (which was a scene in the book actually).
The book did brush a bunch of hard topics (bullying, abuse, etc) but in a delicate and tasteful way (and totally realistic in the time of healing even in a new and healthy and beautiful relationship)
Also, a heads up (if you didn't catch it in the blurb), this series is very kink-friendly/forward (in a very, very healthy and communicative way). The Bold Brew coffee shop (the centering aspect of the series) is a LGBT and kink-friendly hub of the community. Just FYI, if you're not into that kind of thing.
#cupofjoe #puppuccino #perfectmatcha #vanillasteamer #orderup #silkysmooth #fairtrade #extrawhip #cinnamonroll #doubleshot #boldbrew #boldbrewseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
February 20, 2026
I wanted to give this a higher rating but couldn't for various reasons. There were story inconsistencies, no POV from Alex (which made the story feel half-told), and lack of resolution in a couple of areas (or they were rushed/partially resolved if covered).
Nicolas wore a shirt that previously was mentioned as having been left AT Alex's house.
Nicolas bought beer - he is 20 years old and there was no mention of a birthday or fake ID
The lack of POV for Alex made it difficult to get a full read on the man. Yes, his marriage/divorce sounded abusive in multiple ways (physical, verbal and emotional) from the hints that were dropped throughout the entire book and there was brief mention of therapy but I couldn't tell if he was making strides or was too withdrawn to fully open up. He barely talked to Nicolas about any of it and I could only hope that he would do so at some point. Don't have to give details but writing about them (him and Nicolas) going to therapy and working through things so the readers could tell they were working together as a couple would have made me feel happier with them being together.
Alex is wealthy. He is the head of a number of restaurants. I felt he should have helped Nicolas come to terms with the college dropout situation in the sense of talking it out so N could have told the UNI about why he did what he did since one of the bullying tormentors is still at the school. Or at least, got N to take courses online so he made strides in the degree he wanted in the 1st place.
As it is, this is more of a HFN instead of a HEA of two broken men who the readers hope find the support and confidence to heal individually as well as together instead of hiding from the world and themselves.
Nicolas wore a shirt that previously was mentioned as having been left AT Alex's house.
Nicolas bought beer - he is 20 years old and there was no mention of a birthday or fake ID
The lack of POV for Alex made it difficult to get a full read on the man. Yes, his marriage/divorce sounded abusive in multiple ways (physical, verbal and emotional) from the hints that were dropped throughout the entire book and there was brief mention of therapy but I couldn't tell if he was making strides or was too withdrawn to fully open up. He barely talked to Nicolas about any of it and I could only hope that he would do so at some point. Don't have to give details but writing about them (him and Nicolas) going to therapy and working through things so the readers could tell they were working together as a couple would have made me feel happier with them being together.
Alex is wealthy. He is the head of a number of restaurants. I felt he should have helped Nicolas come to terms with the college dropout situation in the sense of talking it out so N could have told the UNI about why he did what he did since one of the bullying tormentors is still at the school. Or at least, got N to take courses online so he made strides in the degree he wanted in the 1st place.
As it is, this is more of a HFN instead of a HEA of two broken men who the readers hope find the support and confidence to heal individually as well as together instead of hiding from the world and themselves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2021
Not my favorite in the series.
Written in single first person POV (all from Nick’s POV). Not enough M/M sexy times - only one true scene and it was pretty short; others were mentioned but not described and the “big act” was briefly mentioned once but you never get to find out if it’s incorporated into their relationship. Nick is a fairly developed character but Alex is not. We know that Alex has some issues from his previous relationship but we never find out what they are or how the relationship truly ended. I understand that he wouldn’t want to share everything with Nick early in their relationship (and this book only details a couple months from beginning to end) and maybe I would feel different if we got to see Alex’s POV, but I just felt that the story was lacking. There were a couple of editing issues but nothing too bad. Ends with a HFN, which is actually fitting given the brevity of the book. I haven’t read anything else by this author and I do not see that changing.
Can be read as a standalone (characters from other books in the series are mentioned but nothing gets spoiled and there isn’t any information that you get from reading the other books that you need in order to enjoy this one). The “kink” in this book relates to women’s lingerie or a satin/silk fetish. Honestly, I don’t care if it’s a background thing but I haven’t really enjoyed a book where that is the focus and mentioned excessively. Given that this kink is the catalyst for Nick’s entire storyline, I understand why it is the focus of this book and I based my review on the book as a whole and not just this one topic.
Written in single first person POV (all from Nick’s POV). Not enough M/M sexy times - only one true scene and it was pretty short; others were mentioned but not described and the “big act” was briefly mentioned once but you never get to find out if it’s incorporated into their relationship. Nick is a fairly developed character but Alex is not. We know that Alex has some issues from his previous relationship but we never find out what they are or how the relationship truly ended. I understand that he wouldn’t want to share everything with Nick early in their relationship (and this book only details a couple months from beginning to end) and maybe I would feel different if we got to see Alex’s POV, but I just felt that the story was lacking. There were a couple of editing issues but nothing too bad. Ends with a HFN, which is actually fitting given the brevity of the book. I haven’t read anything else by this author and I do not see that changing.
Can be read as a standalone (characters from other books in the series are mentioned but nothing gets spoiled and there isn’t any information that you get from reading the other books that you need in order to enjoy this one). The “kink” in this book relates to women’s lingerie or a satin/silk fetish. Honestly, I don’t care if it’s a background thing but I haven’t really enjoyed a book where that is the focus and mentioned excessively. Given that this kink is the catalyst for Nick’s entire storyline, I understand why it is the focus of this book and I based my review on the book as a whole and not just this one topic.
March 29, 2021
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
Silky Smooth is the sixth installment in the Bold Brew series. The series is done by multiple authors and does not need to be read in order. They are all standalones.
Nicolas Cannon dropped out of college after being bullied. He was made to feel ashamed of something that brought him so much comfort. Now he keeps a very strict schedule and works as an artist from his apartment. His interactions are very limited to his best friend, Sasha and the staff at Bold Brew where he gets the same thing for lunch every day. While at lunch he finds a parrot without it's owner. In his search for the owner he meets, Alex Durant. His sexy and older but he's been hurt in the past. As it turns out the parrot that Nicolas found is Alex's support animal.
Nicolas and Alex develop a friendship and a need for each other that they didn't realize. Nicolas shows Alex he can love again after his abusive ex and Alex shows Nicolas that his love of silky underthings isn't strange but a turn on.
I loved watching Alex and Nicolas getting to know each other and letting their guards down. A.M. Arthur's characters are so complex and interesting to read. I can't wait to get more stories from this little coffee shop!
Silky Smooth is the sixth installment in the Bold Brew series. The series is done by multiple authors and does not need to be read in order. They are all standalones.
Nicolas Cannon dropped out of college after being bullied. He was made to feel ashamed of something that brought him so much comfort. Now he keeps a very strict schedule and works as an artist from his apartment. His interactions are very limited to his best friend, Sasha and the staff at Bold Brew where he gets the same thing for lunch every day. While at lunch he finds a parrot without it's owner. In his search for the owner he meets, Alex Durant. His sexy and older but he's been hurt in the past. As it turns out the parrot that Nicolas found is Alex's support animal.
Nicolas and Alex develop a friendship and a need for each other that they didn't realize. Nicolas shows Alex he can love again after his abusive ex and Alex shows Nicolas that his love of silky underthings isn't strange but a turn on.
I loved watching Alex and Nicolas getting to know each other and letting their guards down. A.M. Arthur's characters are so complex and interesting to read. I can't wait to get more stories from this little coffee shop!
April 1, 2021
My only complaint about Silky Smooth is that there wasn't enough of it! I wanted to know so much more about both Alex and Nicolas. Both of these guys made me want to just grab them and hug them. They both just seemed like they needed it so badly.
Cal, the emotional support parrot, (yes, really) brings them together when she escapes and Nicolas finds her at the coffee shop and takes her home. By the time Alex, her owner, is found, Nicolas has become completely attached to the unusual pet who greets him with affirming messages - which is strangely great for his self-confidence. He's still recovering after a horrible bullying incident, and he trusts no one. Having the parrot around for a week was company for him, and he loved it. But he can see right away that she's a lot more than just a pet to Alex; she's his whole life. And as much as he's terrified of being hurt and humiliated again, Nicolas can't ignore his curiosity about why such a gorgeous, successful man as Alex appears to be so alone, and so damaged.
Alex and Nicolas have both come through extremely traumatic experiences. While Nicolas was horribly bullied, we don't get as much detail about the abusive relationship Alex escaped, but both of them are deeply scarred by their experiences.
With Cal's help, and her unwavering positive words, the two men are able to stumble into a relationship, even though they're both terrified. I loved the book, and I was happy they got their happy ending, but I really wanted to know more about both of them, particularly Alex.
Cal, the emotional support parrot, (yes, really) brings them together when she escapes and Nicolas finds her at the coffee shop and takes her home. By the time Alex, her owner, is found, Nicolas has become completely attached to the unusual pet who greets him with affirming messages - which is strangely great for his self-confidence. He's still recovering after a horrible bullying incident, and he trusts no one. Having the parrot around for a week was company for him, and he loved it. But he can see right away that she's a lot more than just a pet to Alex; she's his whole life. And as much as he's terrified of being hurt and humiliated again, Nicolas can't ignore his curiosity about why such a gorgeous, successful man as Alex appears to be so alone, and so damaged.
Alex and Nicolas have both come through extremely traumatic experiences. While Nicolas was horribly bullied, we don't get as much detail about the abusive relationship Alex escaped, but both of them are deeply scarred by their experiences.
With Cal's help, and her unwavering positive words, the two men are able to stumble into a relationship, even though they're both terrified. I loved the book, and I was happy they got their happy ending, but I really wanted to know more about both of them, particularly Alex.
May 3, 2021
Series: Bold Brew #6
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
College drop-out Nicholas Cannon lives his life by a strict routine and a lost parrot is not part of that routine, but he can’t leave to fend for himself. When its owner finally shows up, Nicolas finds himself attracted to him but worries he will not be able to be himself around him.
This was a very sweet romance. Both Alex and Nicolas are struggling to put themselves back together after traumatic experiences. These two were just two broken people who learn to live again with the help of each other. Also I adored Alex’s emotional support parrot, Cal. She was an adorable addition to the story and I loved that she spoke and gave kisses.
My only regret is that we don’t get Alex’s POV in this story. Its all told from Nicolas POV and while it worked beautifully, I would have liked to have seen some of these scenes from Alex’s POV. Overall, this was a great slow building relationship with low angst but a lot of emotion.
Trigger Warnings:
- Alex’s husband was abusive (not described). Alex has a panic attack during a triggering event.
- Nicolas stepfather is abusive and homophobic. He has hit Nicolas in the past and one time during this story.
- Nicolas was bullied and harassed causing him to drop out of college.
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
“I guess we’re just two damaged souls looking for a friend, huh?
College drop-out Nicholas Cannon lives his life by a strict routine and a lost parrot is not part of that routine, but he can’t leave to fend for himself. When its owner finally shows up, Nicolas finds himself attracted to him but worries he will not be able to be himself around him.
This was a very sweet romance. Both Alex and Nicolas are struggling to put themselves back together after traumatic experiences. These two were just two broken people who learn to live again with the help of each other. Also I adored Alex’s emotional support parrot, Cal. She was an adorable addition to the story and I loved that she spoke and gave kisses.
My only regret is that we don’t get Alex’s POV in this story. Its all told from Nicolas POV and while it worked beautifully, I would have liked to have seen some of these scenes from Alex’s POV. Overall, this was a great slow building relationship with low angst but a lot of emotion.
Trigger Warnings:
- Alex’s husband was abusive (not described). Alex has a panic attack during a triggering event.
- Nicolas stepfather is abusive and homophobic. He has hit Nicolas in the past and one time during this story.
- Nicolas was bullied and harassed causing him to drop out of college.
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
October 28, 2024
Rather flat and slow moving story about Nicolas, an artist who recently dropped out of college due to bullying from his roommate and other students, and Alex, an older rather successful restauranteur. They meet when Alex' emotional support parrot, Cal, escapes and is rescued by Nick. Both men have significant issues - Nick has a hidden kink that was ridiculed by the students leaving him traumatized. He also has a contentious relationship with his stepfather who belittles Nick's choice of career. Now I am not totally sure what happened with Alex - we get rather strong clues but nothing overt about what he's gone through. I found it odd that the author decided not to completely reveal what happened in Alex' relationship with his ex-husband. Anyway, given the plot and characters, this should have been better than it was. There is lots of hand-wringing over Nick's kink and what will happen when Alex finds out what it is. I suppose I have read too many kinky romance reads and thought to myself- what's the big deal? - lol. Frankly, for me, the best part of the book is Cal, the parrot. His affirming messages are funny yet carry an interesting message for the characters in the book. The romance fell flat for me because I didn't feel a connection between the MCs. There was also a fair bit of telling vs showing, which, for me, dooms the book.
March 31, 2021
3.5 Stars
Silky Smooth is AM Arthur's contribution to the multi-author Bold Brew series. The sixth book in the series, this is a standalone just like the rest of the books.
Nicolas and Alex's romance is a May to September one, with them coming together over a lost parrot, as Nicolas rescues Alex's missing parrot. The relationship that evolves between the two is kinky, as well as sweet.
The men are great together. I enjoy the way they each have some pain in their pasts, but together they help one another heal. The fifteen year age gap is there but isn't a huge issue for them.
And of course, their chemistry is hot, with some much aligned kink. Oh how I love romances with silk!
But, dear lord, the parrot is my favorite part of this story. I adore that Calamity's a support animal. Seriously, how cool is that? A parrot who serves as an emotional support animal. Love it. And with all the wonderful things the parrot says, you will easily fall in love with it too.
Silky Smooth is a quick, kinky read. This AM Arthur book is a great choice when you're in the mood for a short read.
Silky Smooth is AM Arthur's contribution to the multi-author Bold Brew series. The sixth book in the series, this is a standalone just like the rest of the books.
Nicolas and Alex's romance is a May to September one, with them coming together over a lost parrot, as Nicolas rescues Alex's missing parrot. The relationship that evolves between the two is kinky, as well as sweet.
The men are great together. I enjoy the way they each have some pain in their pasts, but together they help one another heal. The fifteen year age gap is there but isn't a huge issue for them.
And of course, their chemistry is hot, with some much aligned kink. Oh how I love romances with silk!
But, dear lord, the parrot is my favorite part of this story. I adore that Calamity's a support animal. Seriously, how cool is that? A parrot who serves as an emotional support animal. Love it. And with all the wonderful things the parrot says, you will easily fall in love with it too.
Silky Smooth is a quick, kinky read. This AM Arthur book is a great choice when you're in the mood for a short read.
April 3, 2021
Delightfully engaging, steamy and romantic journey of finding love and yourself. Two very different men brought together by an accident caused by a pet sitter, really showed the character of both men. I was immediately a fan of Nicolas who went out of his way for a lost parrot and i just fell in love with his caring and his heart. Alex is also just a delight and their journey together brings some fun and steamy times.
I loved the idea of an emotional support parrot and how much Calamity added to their lives. This story really lets the men grow together at their own pace and makes special moments shine. Alex and Nicolas have a shared kink of silky things and I am glad they found a way to share that with the reader. I found this a really enjoyable and fun read!
This is book six of the Bold Brew series and can be read as a stand-alone story. Each book is connected with a different kink and the coffee shop but they are totally stand alone and so enjoyable! I am so looking forward to the next story!!!
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my honest opinion and review
I loved the idea of an emotional support parrot and how much Calamity added to their lives. This story really lets the men grow together at their own pace and makes special moments shine. Alex and Nicolas have a shared kink of silky things and I am glad they found a way to share that with the reader. I found this a really enjoyable and fun read!
This is book six of the Bold Brew series and can be read as a stand-alone story. Each book is connected with a different kink and the coffee shop but they are totally stand alone and so enjoyable! I am so looking forward to the next story!!!
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my honest opinion and review
March 30, 2021
Silky Smooth is a standalone story in the Bold Brew series of books connected by theme. I liked both Alex and Nicolas; they were sensitive and caring men who had both been hurt by others. Nicolas was finally able to be himself with Alex and reveal his love of silky clothes.
Novella length books are favorites for me but this one would have been even better if there had been a couple of more scenes and a short epilogue. Alex never really told Nicolas what had happened in his marriage that caused him to need an emotional support animal. Nicolas is twenty when he meets Alex and says his birthday is next month. The birthday is never mentioned again but Nicolas buys beer for their Thanksgiving meal they have at Alex’s house. Those two things didn’t ruin the story for me – it’s still 4 stars – but it would have been better with those things fleshed out a bit.
I loved everything else about the book and really felt the connection between Nicolas and Alex. Fifteen years isn’t a huge age-gap and I was happy that aspect of the story wasn’t beat to death.
Novella length books are favorites for me but this one would have been even better if there had been a couple of more scenes and a short epilogue. Alex never really told Nicolas what had happened in his marriage that caused him to need an emotional support animal. Nicolas is twenty when he meets Alex and says his birthday is next month. The birthday is never mentioned again but Nicolas buys beer for their Thanksgiving meal they have at Alex’s house. Those two things didn’t ruin the story for me – it’s still 4 stars – but it would have been better with those things fleshed out a bit.
I loved everything else about the book and really felt the connection between Nicolas and Alex. Fifteen years isn’t a huge age-gap and I was happy that aspect of the story wasn’t beat to death.
March 30, 2021
This novella was a sweet read featuring a wounded character who takes a chance on love and then on living as his authentic self. As someone who also experiences anxiety (and survived her share of bullying in high school, though not in college), I appreciated Nicolas’ self-preservation instincts while also applauding how he has managed to successfully support himself through his art. A chance encounter with the most random lost pet ever brings him together with Alex, and the rest is a lovely romance between two men who might get their happily ever after together.
So, I shouldn’t have many complaints—except I felt like I was missing half the book. We only get events from Nicolas’ perspective, but I was also interested in Alex and his complete story. The story we do get is appropriate to the length, but I enjoyed Arthur’s smooth and description writing enough to genuinely want more.
I’m not sure we’ll get a peek at Alex and Nicolas further in this series, but I wouldn’t complain if Arthur ever expanded this book at some point in the future.
So, I shouldn’t have many complaints—except I felt like I was missing half the book. We only get events from Nicolas’ perspective, but I was also interested in Alex and his complete story. The story we do get is appropriate to the length, but I enjoyed Arthur’s smooth and description writing enough to genuinely want more.
I’m not sure we’ll get a peek at Alex and Nicolas further in this series, but I wouldn’t complain if Arthur ever expanded this book at some point in the future.
April 13, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Silky Smooth is part of the Bold Brew collection, a shared, multi-author universe that centers around the coffee house. I haven’t read any of the other books and had no problem starting here. While we meet some characters who I assume have (or will get) their own stories, this one stands alone just fine.
I really liked the way the story opens with Nicolas meeting Cal, the parrot. It is a bit wacky, but also super sweet as we see Nicolas bond with the bird. Cal’s affirmations give Nicolas a feeling of support and confidence that he is missing. It’s a great meet cute that sets up Nicolas connecting with Alex. As it turns out, the bird is Alex’s emotional support animal and there is a cute playfulness that Calamity adds to the dynamic between the men, as well as offering the means to get the pair together.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Silky Smooth is part of the Bold Brew collection, a shared, multi-author universe that centers around the coffee house. I haven’t read any of the other books and had no problem starting here. While we meet some characters who I assume have (or will get) their own stories, this one stands alone just fine.
I really liked the way the story opens with Nicolas meeting Cal, the parrot. It is a bit wacky, but also super sweet as we see Nicolas bond with the bird. Cal’s affirmations give Nicolas a feeling of support and confidence that he is missing. It’s a great meet cute that sets up Nicolas connecting with Alex. As it turns out, the bird is Alex’s emotional support animal and there is a cute playfulness that Calamity adds to the dynamic between the men, as well as offering the means to get the pair together.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
April 5, 2021
Thus far, I have enjoyed the Bold Brew series. Each writer has brought interesting characters to the series while incorporating Bold Brew and its philosophies of acceptance and support.
Silky Smooth has two characters who have been hurt and are reluctant to trust until they are brought together by a special parrot. Nicholas gains strength and self confidence from the relationship. He just needed someone to see him, accept him, and have his back.
The book is written from Nicholas’ POV, and the events from Alex’s past are never discussed. The reader understands without the details. Nicholas gives Alex a sense of safety and family.
The book ends on a HFN but feels unfinished. Alex knows Nicholas’ secret and enjoys his love of silky things, but Nicholas isn’t given the details of Alex past. He treads carefully to not frighten Alex. An epilogue smoothing out the unfinished edges would have helpful.
Silky Smooth has two characters who have been hurt and are reluctant to trust until they are brought together by a special parrot. Nicholas gains strength and self confidence from the relationship. He just needed someone to see him, accept him, and have his back.
The book is written from Nicholas’ POV, and the events from Alex’s past are never discussed. The reader understands without the details. Nicholas gives Alex a sense of safety and family.
The book ends on a HFN but feels unfinished. Alex knows Nicholas’ secret and enjoys his love of silky things, but Nicholas isn’t given the details of Alex past. He treads carefully to not frighten Alex. An epilogue smoothing out the unfinished edges would have helpful.
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