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Black Light #24
Worthy
Handling bossy, demanding millionaires is just a regular Tuesday for Katherine Callahan, one of the most in-demand financial planners on the east coast. Austin Barrick may be baseball’s biggest star, but she figures there’s not much difference between him and the rest of her clients.
That is, until he walks into her office, flashes his million-dollar smile, and asks her to dinner. Before they even leave her office, Kit discovers a thrilling dominance beneath Austin’s easygoing charm, and finds herself thrust into a dark, fascinating world of pleasure and pain.
But in a society that values beauty above all else, she’s learned one simple, brutal truth: Fat girls don’t deserve happily ever after. Can Austin’s sweet, steady dominance help her embrace a life she’s only dreamed of? Or will she let a culture of shame keep her in the shadows?
That is, until he walks into her office, flashes his million-dollar smile, and asks her to dinner. Before they even leave her office, Kit discovers a thrilling dominance beneath Austin’s easygoing charm, and finds herself thrust into a dark, fascinating world of pleasure and pain.
But in a society that values beauty above all else, she’s learned one simple, brutal truth: Fat girls don’t deserve happily ever after. Can Austin’s sweet, steady dominance help her embrace a life she’s only dreamed of? Or will she let a culture of shame keep her in the shadows?
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 28, 2021
111 people are currently reading
360 people want to read
About the author
Stella Moore
62 books448 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author
Strict Daddies
Sassy Brats
Steamy Happily Ever Afters
https://www.stellamooreromance.com/links
Strict Daddies
Sassy Brats
Steamy Happily Ever Afters
https://www.stellamooreromance.com/links
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
July 3, 2021
What is up with this string of sad, depressing books I've been reading lately?!
I was stoked to read this new book, about a heavy set lady getting swept off her feet and into the BDSM lifestyle by a sexy athlete Dom. But this just turned into a sad, depressing story of 'well that would never fucking happen'.
Katherine, or Kitten to Austin, is a self made cream of the crop financial planner. She has built her financial planning firm from the ground up, overcoming pretty hellish bullying due to her size most of her life. Austin is the sexy baseball player towards the end of his career whose agent got him this meeting with Kit to make sure his finances are gonna be good for when he retires. He's also a Dom, that frequents the Black Light clubs. And we go off the rails from there.
Katherine had ZERO self esteem. Her insecurities were overwhelming, causing her to be suspicious of everything, clouding every interaction. She about has a panic attack getting naked in front of Austin the first couple of times. Then Kit does have a panic attack and emotional break down when Ausin first wants to take her to Black Light because he wants her to wear very revealing clothing and so instead she accepts as punishment getting fully nude, in a club around strangers. And all this after they've only been together a week and a half.....Yeah, I don't fucking think so.
And what is Austin's plan for defeating those old wounds and scars of shame and insecurities? Why he's gonna beat it out her. I actually liked Austin, and he tried real hard to show Kitten he thought she was beautiful and smart, but you can't just tell someone to stop feeling something they've felt and dealt with for decades. Then give her a good enough strapping that she won't forget to think differently from now on. Puh-lease.
Then icing on the cake, you want me to believe after being mocked terribly in tabloids and by vicious online trolls and bitches, that the way you're gonna make Kit heal is by making her strip completely butt ass naked on the main stage of the club, string her ass up by the arms, hanging in front of everyone with her legs splayed wide open, while you cane her and tell her what you like about her. NO FUCKIN' WAY!
Healing from that level of insecurities and past bullying trauma takes time, love and consistency to build the trust that allows those old wounds to heal. I know this was supposed to be some poignant message about loving yourself and being worthy but it was just over shadowed by all the other crap. I was just sad reading this. My heart hurt for poor Katherine, and when Austin was forcing her to do stuff because pleasing him was all that should matter to her, I just wanted to slap him and say 'you have no fucking clue'. Because really unless you've lived through the pain, humiliation, and deep scars prolonged bullying can leave you don't know. And Doms are not cure all therapists.
I was stoked to read this new book, about a heavy set lady getting swept off her feet and into the BDSM lifestyle by a sexy athlete Dom. But this just turned into a sad, depressing story of 'well that would never fucking happen'.
Katherine, or Kitten to Austin, is a self made cream of the crop financial planner. She has built her financial planning firm from the ground up, overcoming pretty hellish bullying due to her size most of her life. Austin is the sexy baseball player towards the end of his career whose agent got him this meeting with Kit to make sure his finances are gonna be good for when he retires. He's also a Dom, that frequents the Black Light clubs. And we go off the rails from there.
Katherine had ZERO self esteem. Her insecurities were overwhelming, causing her to be suspicious of everything, clouding every interaction. She about has a panic attack getting naked in front of Austin the first couple of times. Then Kit does have a panic attack and emotional break down when Ausin first wants to take her to Black Light because he wants her to wear very revealing clothing and so instead she accepts as punishment getting fully nude, in a club around strangers. And all this after they've only been together a week and a half.....Yeah, I don't fucking think so.
And what is Austin's plan for defeating those old wounds and scars of shame and insecurities? Why he's gonna beat it out her. I actually liked Austin, and he tried real hard to show Kitten he thought she was beautiful and smart, but you can't just tell someone to stop feeling something they've felt and dealt with for decades. Then give her a good enough strapping that she won't forget to think differently from now on. Puh-lease.
Then icing on the cake, you want me to believe after being mocked terribly in tabloids and by vicious online trolls and bitches, that the way you're gonna make Kit heal is by making her strip completely butt ass naked on the main stage of the club, string her ass up by the arms, hanging in front of everyone with her legs splayed wide open, while you cane her and tell her what you like about her. NO FUCKIN' WAY!
Healing from that level of insecurities and past bullying trauma takes time, love and consistency to build the trust that allows those old wounds to heal. I know this was supposed to be some poignant message about loving yourself and being worthy but it was just over shadowed by all the other crap. I was just sad reading this. My heart hurt for poor Katherine, and when Austin was forcing her to do stuff because pleasing him was all that should matter to her, I just wanted to slap him and say 'you have no fucking clue'. Because really unless you've lived through the pain, humiliation, and deep scars prolonged bullying can leave you don't know. And Doms are not cure all therapists.
June 24, 2021
Kit and Austin's story was dream worthy and totally gripping for me. This couples relationship, unlikely in the eyes of others, came together quickly and with such a sweet and total encompassing attraction, that it felt so real and down to earth.
Stella Moore has written a beautiful story about love, with a strong female character, and an even stronger, Alpha man. This story moved me and made me not want to stop reading until the very last page.
I loved how this story took a very real look into big bodied women and the struggle they go through in life with thoughtless comments and their impact on the person they are directed at.
A well written and moving story!
Stella Moore has written a beautiful story about love, with a strong female character, and an even stronger, Alpha man. This story moved me and made me not want to stop reading until the very last page.
I loved how this story took a very real look into big bodied women and the struggle they go through in life with thoughtless comments and their impact on the person they are directed at.
A well written and moving story!
August 6, 2021
It's no secret that I absolutely adore the Black Light series and (Punsters gotta pun) this is such a WORTHY addition to the series!
Katherine will reach into your heart and twist. She's so real, so vibrant, and her story is one that's told over and over again in real life, a thousand times, thanks to the cruelty of society and people who believe that bodies have to look a certain way to be beautiful. Anyone who has ever been the victim of those people will immediately resonate with Katherine.
Not only is she a character that SO many women will be able to relate to, but she and Austin together... *fan self* the two of them heat up the sheets in a spectacular way! He's tall, hot, and totally in charge, and yet he has his vulnerable moments as well, which make him even more human and appealing.
I absolutely loved every second of this book. In a series of some seriously amazing books, this one still manages to be a standout.
Katherine will reach into your heart and twist. She's so real, so vibrant, and her story is one that's told over and over again in real life, a thousand times, thanks to the cruelty of society and people who believe that bodies have to look a certain way to be beautiful. Anyone who has ever been the victim of those people will immediately resonate with Katherine.
Not only is she a character that SO many women will be able to relate to, but she and Austin together... *fan self* the two of them heat up the sheets in a spectacular way! He's tall, hot, and totally in charge, and yet he has his vulnerable moments as well, which make him even more human and appealing.
I absolutely loved every second of this book. In a series of some seriously amazing books, this one still manages to be a standout.
June 29, 2021
Okay, to begin, I have to say BBW romances make me uncomfortable. Not because the ladies are big and beautiful, but because for a long time I was one. I remember what it was like to be under the kind of scrutiny Katherine comes under in Worthy, to go through the taunts and the jibes and the cruelty that comes with being a big lady.
Illness sent me completely the other way and turned me almost anorexic, but despite being a quarter of my previous size, I spent a long time believing I was still that large girl who took so much teasing. Now that I'm gaining weight, it scares me.
I think books like Worthy are a godsend to those of us of that bigger stature. I slipped into Kit's skin effortlessly from the first page, and I lived the book through her. So many of her fears are mine, and even though it's fiction, there is a sense of relief knowing that we landed the hot baseball player/Dom. It kind of gives me hope for the future.
Ms. Moore has done an exceptional job of telling Kit and Austin's tale, and this book is more than worthy of joining the ranks of the fabulous Black Light series. Although she is a new to me author, I will definitely be hunting up more of Moore's work. Highly recommended!
Illness sent me completely the other way and turned me almost anorexic, but despite being a quarter of my previous size, I spent a long time believing I was still that large girl who took so much teasing. Now that I'm gaining weight, it scares me.
I think books like Worthy are a godsend to those of us of that bigger stature. I slipped into Kit's skin effortlessly from the first page, and I lived the book through her. So many of her fears are mine, and even though it's fiction, there is a sense of relief knowing that we landed the hot baseball player/Dom. It kind of gives me hope for the future.
Ms. Moore has done an exceptional job of telling Kit and Austin's tale, and this book is more than worthy of joining the ranks of the fabulous Black Light series. Although she is a new to me author, I will definitely be hunting up more of Moore's work. Highly recommended!
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October 20, 2023Stella has penned an amazing story that gave me all the feels! Katherine and Austin are an amazing couple, and their chemistry was scorching! This is another wonderful addition to the Black Light world.
July 27, 2021
I've read some of the Black Light books, and this seems to be a bit of a departure from the ones I've read. In terms of BDSM/kink, it's relatively light. Instead, it focuses on the romantic relationship between professional baseball player Austin Barrick and his financial planner Katherine Callahan. Plus-sized Katherine is used to being the butt of the fat jokes, and pranks, and insults about her weight, so she can't believe that one of baseball's biggest stars is interested in her. Austin starts out kind of clueless about her problems, which is good, in a way, since he could care less what she weighs... until she hits the spotlight as his girlfriend, and he realizes how cruel the rest of the world can be. I love their relationship, and I love that this book is just as much about self-worth and self-acceptance as it is about a kinky romance.
June 28, 2021
I’m a huge fan and lover of the Black Light series and this book is a major reason why. I devoured this book in one seating, as I just couldn’t put it down! This story deserves so much more than five stars. It’s not just about BDSM, it’s about real life situations with a woman named Katherine dealing with being told her whole life she’s not good enough. Just because she has more curves than most doesn’t mean she isn’t incredible and loving and strong and just perfect. She never felt like she deserved someone in her life who is handsome and wonderful, until she meets Austin. He’s a baseball player who comes to her for financial advice and falls head over heels in love with her. But Katherine just can’t fathom why he wants to be with her. Austin will do anything to show her he wants her in his life and will prove to her that she is most definitely worthy.
Being someone who is curvy herself, I could understand and feel every emotion Katherine was feeling. And I loved that this author made her a real woman and someone I could relate with. My heart hurt for Katherine, and it also rejoiced for her. I cried a few tears and laughed out loud as well. As for Austin, oh my, he is one fine specimen of the perfect man. He is kind and loving, and so fiercely dominant, and I fell in love with him just as much as I love Katherine. There is just so much to love about these characters and this story. Plus their chemistry is so sizzling, I swear your fingers will burn a little as you turn the pages. I seriously can’t recommend highly enough to read this story. Bravo to this author for showing that everyone deserves someone in their lives to make them happy no matter their size. We all deserve love.
Being someone who is curvy herself, I could understand and feel every emotion Katherine was feeling. And I loved that this author made her a real woman and someone I could relate with. My heart hurt for Katherine, and it also rejoiced for her. I cried a few tears and laughed out loud as well. As for Austin, oh my, he is one fine specimen of the perfect man. He is kind and loving, and so fiercely dominant, and I fell in love with him just as much as I love Katherine. There is just so much to love about these characters and this story. Plus their chemistry is so sizzling, I swear your fingers will burn a little as you turn the pages. I seriously can’t recommend highly enough to read this story. Bravo to this author for showing that everyone deserves someone in their lives to make them happy no matter their size. We all deserve love.
June 23, 2021
Where do I start? I have loved every single "Black Light" book that has come out. They've all be outstanding but I do have a few favorites...................and Ms. Moore's book is going to go up there with my favorites. This story touched me as I'm a bigger woman who married my own wonderful man. Very seldom though do we get a chance to see stories with a curvy woman and watch her make her way through all the self doubts, the embarrassment and the trials of going through every day life in such detail and depth this author brought to the forefront! Austin knew what he wanted the minute he set eyes on Katherine in her office, and he went about winning her. I loved how he introduced her to the lifestyle and his dominance but was still gentle and kept her feelings and emotions in mind. Little by little, Kit's confidence strengthens but will it come tumbling down? And will Austin be there to catch her if she falls? The tears, the hopes, the dreams, the fact that he wouldn't give up kept me turning the pages. This was a total joy to read and Ms. Moore has proven without a doubt that she belongs in the Black Light World!
June 24, 2021
Worthy indeed!
But for Kit Callahan, accomplished financial planner to the rich and famous, to believe that about herself takes a rather steep learning curve and baseball star Austin Barrick.
Being used to the rude remarks about her voluptuous curves, she can not believe her latest customer finds her absolutely fascinating; inside and out!
Austin, Black Light member and experienced Dom, patiently convinces her - with a firm hand - of her beauty. And he almost succeeds until life yanks the carpet from right under their feet.
It takes a small miracle, the help of all three Cartwright-Davidsons and a night at Black Light to get them back on track.
I thoroughly enjoyed the metamorphosis of the "fat" girl into the proud, curvy woman. Not to forget the hands-on "help" and dedication of her Dom and partner.
But for Kit Callahan, accomplished financial planner to the rich and famous, to believe that about herself takes a rather steep learning curve and baseball star Austin Barrick.
Being used to the rude remarks about her voluptuous curves, she can not believe her latest customer finds her absolutely fascinating; inside and out!
Austin, Black Light member and experienced Dom, patiently convinces her - with a firm hand - of her beauty. And he almost succeeds until life yanks the carpet from right under their feet.
It takes a small miracle, the help of all three Cartwright-Davidsons and a night at Black Light to get them back on track.
I thoroughly enjoyed the metamorphosis of the "fat" girl into the proud, curvy woman. Not to forget the hands-on "help" and dedication of her Dom and partner.
July 5, 2021
Stella Moore has taken up the pen this time and she has crafted a story that continues the Black Light tradition of excellence. Katherine has found her place in the professional world. (And she is a force to be reckoned with!) In her personal life, however, she is not quite so confident. Having had some rough experiences, being the center of anyone's attention is not a good thing for her. She would rather hide away than go out because people, as a whole, are mean. Having the self-confidence it takes to accept love can be a daunting task. In the end Kit needs to know that she is indeed "Worthy".
June 26, 2021
Stunning well written steamy erotic romance with all the feels. Addressing a major issue of body image and acceptance in ourselves and others in a heart wrenching and beautifully written way. I loved that my favorite trio supported the main characters from their own experiences and with hard nosed lawyers as well. A story of bravery and overcoming past and present pain. Another BL winner. Definitely recommend.
June 28, 2021
This book was remarkable! I absolutely was enthralled for the first chapter to the last. Thank you, so much, Stella for writing about two wonderful characters. I could relate with every one of Kid's thoughts and fears, as I have gone through very similar issues, and I wish I had someone like Austin at my back. This was such a thoughtfully written book, that truly shows we can all beloved for who we are, not what we look like.
July 1, 2021
Too many shallow stereotypes
Just once I'd like to read a book with a "curvy girl" heroine that isn't full of constant fat shaming and fat behavior stereotypes . It would also be refreshing to read about a "dominant" hero who isn't patronizing, and a strong, successful woman who isn't rendered into a quivering pile of goo when some guy calls her "babygirl" and "kitten" at what amounts to their first meeting. What ever happened to true communication and negotiation in BDSM? Treating a neophyte that he supposedly cares for like "one of his subs" just doesn't cut it.
Just once I'd like to read a book with a "curvy girl" heroine that isn't full of constant fat shaming and fat behavior stereotypes . It would also be refreshing to read about a "dominant" hero who isn't patronizing, and a strong, successful woman who isn't rendered into a quivering pile of goo when some guy calls her "babygirl" and "kitten" at what amounts to their first meeting. What ever happened to true communication and negotiation in BDSM? Treating a neophyte that he supposedly cares for like "one of his subs" just doesn't cut it.
March 6, 2022
Loved this book. Loved the characters and their backstories. I can't find anything bad to say. It felt cute reading this. I couldn't hold back my smile. They're an adorable couple.
Did Not Finish
December 15, 2021For the love of god 🙄
First of, I made it to page 60 (25%) - then I DNF'ED it 😬 I have so many books on my TBR, I won't continue with something that has me annoyed, irritated and to me, is a complete waste of time.
I had such high hope for this! I SALUTE any author who not only writes about a plus sized heroine, but also use one for her cover!
I was so excited to read this, plus size heroine, dominant male, BDSM kink, romance and HEA! YAY... No 🙄
We start off with them meeting. She has dark hair - she is plus size.. Other than that, I have no idea what she looks like. Him ? I couldn't for the life of me describe his looks (I'm sure we wasnt told), and therefore couldn't get a picture of him in my head.
They meet in her office and he starts out by being totally into her bc she's luscious.
She is interested in him and keeps on repeating in her head that she can't believe this baseball star is into her.
Why were they instantly attracted to each other if it wasnt for those two reasons ? I have no idea.
She agrees to dinner with him literally 10 minutes into their meeting 😳 And they go on a date that same night (2 hours +/÷ after meeting) ... Why the rush ? This is not a short story, there's no need for instant love or attraction - the book is 257 pages long. So why rush it that much ? I didn't even understand why they were attracted to each other, I hardly knew what they looked like or what their emotions was 🤯
Then we get to the restuarant, and before they've even ordered he tells her to go to the bathroom and take off her pantyhose and her panties 😳 ........ AND SHE DOES IT!
This big shot business woman who everyone wants to handle their finances, are suddenly reduced to this "little girl Kitten" ... that's what he calls her, and almost soak through the panties she's now not wearing, for him... I HAVE NO IDEA WHY!? Because he calls her little girl and tells her little girls gets spanked when naughty?? Really ? Come on now!🤦♀️
Later at around 25% be knocks on her door, she's crying about her insecurities (as a big girl myself I understand all that jazz) and after threatening to spank her for belittling herself, she stops crying, gets defensive, and he ends up spanking her and putting a finger in her ass! 😂😂😂 Now I just have to laugh, because the ridiculousness of this book is just beyond anything at this point - THEN after fingering her ass he tells her he's gonna go.... WASH HIS HANDS... Comes back and eats her p*ssy 😂🤯🤦♀️ THAT was the final straw for me.. I can't even.. So I DNF'ed it.
Absolutely ridiculous!
I wanna feel and hear and see the hero being a confident male dominant, knowing exactly what his sub, his partner, his woman is feeling bc he is that good and he KNOWS her. But I was told he was dominant, he went ahead and threatened her from the get go, with a spanking everytime she said something he didn't like.... That's not being a powerful DOM that's just plain right being a dumbass!
Golden Angel does these kind of storys so well. She paints her characters out to feel like real ppl, before she goes ahead and introduce all the banging and hot kink. You know what your characters look like, what they feel, what the want, need, crave - and she SELLS it. You are convinced that they are meant to be together.
I'm probably spoiled bc I read kink and lovestory's from great authors, who knows their craft. So I'm not gonna read something that's just tame, juvenile in a way, rushed.. and telling me how their character is, instead of showing me with their actions, their inner dialogue, their conversations and their interactions 😬
First of, I made it to page 60 (25%) - then I DNF'ED it 😬 I have so many books on my TBR, I won't continue with something that has me annoyed, irritated and to me, is a complete waste of time.
I had such high hope for this! I SALUTE any author who not only writes about a plus sized heroine, but also use one for her cover!
I was so excited to read this, plus size heroine, dominant male, BDSM kink, romance and HEA! YAY... No 🙄
We start off with them meeting. She has dark hair - she is plus size.. Other than that, I have no idea what she looks like. Him ? I couldn't for the life of me describe his looks (I'm sure we wasnt told), and therefore couldn't get a picture of him in my head.
They meet in her office and he starts out by being totally into her bc she's luscious.
She is interested in him and keeps on repeating in her head that she can't believe this baseball star is into her.
Why were they instantly attracted to each other if it wasnt for those two reasons ? I have no idea.
She agrees to dinner with him literally 10 minutes into their meeting 😳 And they go on a date that same night (2 hours +/÷ after meeting) ... Why the rush ? This is not a short story, there's no need for instant love or attraction - the book is 257 pages long. So why rush it that much ? I didn't even understand why they were attracted to each other, I hardly knew what they looked like or what their emotions was 🤯
Then we get to the restuarant, and before they've even ordered he tells her to go to the bathroom and take off her pantyhose and her panties 😳 ........ AND SHE DOES IT!
This big shot business woman who everyone wants to handle their finances, are suddenly reduced to this "little girl Kitten" ... that's what he calls her, and almost soak through the panties she's now not wearing, for him... I HAVE NO IDEA WHY!? Because he calls her little girl and tells her little girls gets spanked when naughty?? Really ? Come on now!🤦♀️
Later at around 25% be knocks on her door, she's crying about her insecurities (as a big girl myself I understand all that jazz) and after threatening to spank her for belittling herself, she stops crying, gets defensive, and he ends up spanking her and putting a finger in her ass! 😂😂😂 Now I just have to laugh, because the ridiculousness of this book is just beyond anything at this point - THEN after fingering her ass he tells her he's gonna go.... WASH HIS HANDS... Comes back and eats her p*ssy 😂🤯🤦♀️ THAT was the final straw for me.. I can't even.. So I DNF'ed it.
Absolutely ridiculous!
I wanna feel and hear and see the hero being a confident male dominant, knowing exactly what his sub, his partner, his woman is feeling bc he is that good and he KNOWS her. But I was told he was dominant, he went ahead and threatened her from the get go, with a spanking everytime she said something he didn't like.... That's not being a powerful DOM that's just plain right being a dumbass!
Golden Angel does these kind of storys so well. She paints her characters out to feel like real ppl, before she goes ahead and introduce all the banging and hot kink. You know what your characters look like, what they feel, what the want, need, crave - and she SELLS it. You are convinced that they are meant to be together.
I'm probably spoiled bc I read kink and lovestory's from great authors, who knows their craft. So I'm not gonna read something that's just tame, juvenile in a way, rushed.. and telling me how their character is, instead of showing me with their actions, their inner dialogue, their conversations and their interactions 😬
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2025
I liked the fact that this book was about a plus sized woman. I even appreciated the fact that Austin stood by her and admired not only her body, but her intelligence and strength.
What I couldn't wrap my head around was why she had to be so TOTALLY insecure. There are too many BBW who don't feel insecure. Who proudly display there curves, and are confident in who they are, not really caring about others opinions of them. We all know there are all shapes and sizes of women who are as insecure as Kit, but I actually thought we would be getting something other than the stereotypical attitudes about plus sized women.
I also found it bothersome that with Kit being as insecure as she was about her body, that she was at Black Light completely undressed. I didn't read anything about exhibitionism being her kink. She was able to put aside years of doubt, insecurity, and trauma? I also didn't read anything about Kit having played before.
Then, I had no idea about what either Austin or Kit looked like, other than Kit had black or dark hair and she was plus sized. How tall were they? What color hair and eyes did Austin have?
I had no issue with them being attracted to one another. No issue with them going to dinner after they just met. The whole situation in the restaurant after knowing each other for a few hours, yes, I had an issue with that.
I would have been interested in reading a scene between Chloe and the attorney's regarding the NDA. I just felt like this book could have been more powerful and uplifting while holding on to the Black Light vibe. It was fine as long as Austin and Kit stayed in a cocoon in his home, but the real world struggle just seemed sad and disheartening.
I would give this 2.5 stars. It is not a bad read, I guess I just got my hopes up and expected more. But then, that's on me. I recommend you read this book and judge for yourself.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
What I couldn't wrap my head around was why she had to be so TOTALLY insecure. There are too many BBW who don't feel insecure. Who proudly display there curves, and are confident in who they are, not really caring about others opinions of them. We all know there are all shapes and sizes of women who are as insecure as Kit, but I actually thought we would be getting something other than the stereotypical attitudes about plus sized women.
I also found it bothersome that with Kit being as insecure as she was about her body, that she was at Black Light completely undressed. I didn't read anything about exhibitionism being her kink. She was able to put aside years of doubt, insecurity, and trauma? I also didn't read anything about Kit having played before.
Then, I had no idea about what either Austin or Kit looked like, other than Kit had black or dark hair and she was plus sized. How tall were they? What color hair and eyes did Austin have?
I had no issue with them being attracted to one another. No issue with them going to dinner after they just met. The whole situation in the restaurant after knowing each other for a few hours, yes, I had an issue with that.
I would have been interested in reading a scene between Chloe and the attorney's regarding the NDA. I just felt like this book could have been more powerful and uplifting while holding on to the Black Light vibe. It was fine as long as Austin and Kit stayed in a cocoon in his home, but the real world struggle just seemed sad and disheartening.
I would give this 2.5 stars. It is not a bad read, I guess I just got my hopes up and expected more. But then, that's on me. I recommend you read this book and judge for yourself.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
June 27, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. The storyline was fun and emotional. Katherine and Austin's story has your temperature on the rise as you catch a major case of the feels. I thought both these characters were wonderful. Austin was a swoon worthy blend of dominance with a big heart that I found irresistible. As for Katherine, I could sympathize and relate to her on a very personal level and I know that there are a whole lot of readers that will feel that same connection that I did. This is yet another incredible entry in this series that is so often, so much more than you'd expect. Sure you get the steam and kink and emotions and romance, but you also sometimes dive deep into wells of seriousness and touch on important subjects like in this case, body image and how people with different body types are treated. I am posting an unbiased, unsolicited review.
July 3, 2021
Beyond Worthy
How can I even put the words together to describe this book to you?!?!
Kit is my absolute favorite BL individual, ever!!! (At least tied with Emma). A hardworking intelligent woman who is unfortunately judged and mocked because of her weight (story of my life). And then enter the hottie athlete...
Austin, the scared of becoming obsolete athlete who happens to be a delicious sadist. Poor guy really struggled at times with his situation.
Kit and Austin are both a tad hardheaded, they want to handle things on their own but truly want the support from each other. My heart broke when Kit finally opened up completely about her insecurities. And I cheered when she finally overcame them.
A truly beautiful (and deliciously hot) book that needs to be read multiple times.
How can I even put the words together to describe this book to you?!?!
Kit is my absolute favorite BL individual, ever!!! (At least tied with Emma). A hardworking intelligent woman who is unfortunately judged and mocked because of her weight (story of my life). And then enter the hottie athlete...
Austin, the scared of becoming obsolete athlete who happens to be a delicious sadist. Poor guy really struggled at times with his situation.
Kit and Austin are both a tad hardheaded, they want to handle things on their own but truly want the support from each other. My heart broke when Kit finally opened up completely about her insecurities. And I cheered when she finally overcame them.
A truly beautiful (and deliciously hot) book that needs to be read multiple times.
October 14, 2021
This may be one of my favorites in the Black Light World. Not because of the sexy scenes, but they were freaking amazing. It was the emotional connection, the depth of communication between Katherine and Austin. They were such a great combination.
Emotionally this hit me in the feels, I'll be the first to admit I'm not a small woman by any means, and it's been a lifetime of the little digs you just take, because how do you respond to the demeaning, pseudo helpful comments? I get her, and she was so strong. My favorite scene wasn't inside Black Light, it was at a news conference, if you read it you'll see it.
Definitely be rereading this story, it was perfect.
Emotionally this hit me in the feels, I'll be the first to admit I'm not a small woman by any means, and it's been a lifetime of the little digs you just take, because how do you respond to the demeaning, pseudo helpful comments? I get her, and she was so strong. My favorite scene wasn't inside Black Light, it was at a news conference, if you read it you'll see it.
Definitely be rereading this story, it was perfect.
October 28, 2021
Not Worthy
While I love this series, this was one of my least favorite stories. I loved Austin, even at his worst he was lovable. But Kit. Is. Exhausting. She is the epitome of everything I hate about women in romance novels. Her poor poor pitiful me routine grated before I ever made it to 25% of the book. No matter what he says or does to prove that he doesn't see her the way she sees herself she constantly says he's not worth embarrassing herself. Whenever they make any progress she pushes back as hard as she can. He tells her he loves her but she can't say it back because he can't possibly love her as much as she loves him. And she can't let him have that power over her. Seriously?! This awesome , gorgeous man made himself vulnerable to her and she doesn't believe it. She supposedly has such a low opinion of herself that we have to listen to her bemoan her appearance through the book but apparently her love is worth more than Austin's. She sure has a lofty opinion of herself there. But as soon as it gets real, she runs. It's not worth it. HE'S not worth it. Yet he still fights for them. Honestly this is the part that got me most. Why can the women never put forth an ounce of effort? Why is it the men who carry them all the way through? For the most part this series has avoided that trope but this book took it to the extreme. I had to put it down several times so I didn't throw it. I was absolutely rooting for Austin to find someone actually worthy by the end.
While I love this series, this was one of my least favorite stories. I loved Austin, even at his worst he was lovable. But Kit. Is. Exhausting. She is the epitome of everything I hate about women in romance novels. Her poor poor pitiful me routine grated before I ever made it to 25% of the book. No matter what he says or does to prove that he doesn't see her the way she sees herself she constantly says he's not worth embarrassing herself. Whenever they make any progress she pushes back as hard as she can. He tells her he loves her but she can't say it back because he can't possibly love her as much as she loves him. And she can't let him have that power over her. Seriously?! This awesome , gorgeous man made himself vulnerable to her and she doesn't believe it. She supposedly has such a low opinion of herself that we have to listen to her bemoan her appearance through the book but apparently her love is worth more than Austin's. She sure has a lofty opinion of herself there. But as soon as it gets real, she runs. It's not worth it. HE'S not worth it. Yet he still fights for them. Honestly this is the part that got me most. Why can the women never put forth an ounce of effort? Why is it the men who carry them all the way through? For the most part this series has avoided that trope but this book took it to the extreme. I had to put it down several times so I didn't throw it. I was absolutely rooting for Austin to find someone actually worthy by the end.
June 1, 2022
This was a heck of an emotional ride, and I enjoyed it a lot. It’s smoking hot, has believable chemistry between our leads, and deals with the very real insecurities that come with being a fat woman in a world that hates that. The only things keeping it from being 5 stars for me was how quickly Kit and Austin fell into a kinky relationship, without Austin doing enough work to get to know Kit and understand exactly how to be a good Dom for her, especially since she is new to kink. I think if they had had a few more conversations and built a little more trust outside of kink, it would have been even more impactful.
That being said, I don’t read many BDSM books where subs actually use their safe words, and Kit had to slow down a few times, and it was so refreshing. I felt for her deeply, and didn’t mind how insecure she was. It’s a journey to accept your body, and while Austin was a little extreme in his punishments around Kits negative self talk, she was into it, and it was very clear that he would have stopped if she used her safe word.
This book wasn’t warm or fuzzy particularly, but it was moving and emotional, and so hot. I want more fat kinky characters please.
That being said, I don’t read many BDSM books where subs actually use their safe words, and Kit had to slow down a few times, and it was so refreshing. I felt for her deeply, and didn’t mind how insecure she was. It’s a journey to accept your body, and while Austin was a little extreme in his punishments around Kits negative self talk, she was into it, and it was very clear that he would have stopped if she used her safe word.
This book wasn’t warm or fuzzy particularly, but it was moving and emotional, and so hot. I want more fat kinky characters please.
July 2, 2022
Beautifully Hopeful
For every woman who has been plus size most of their lives, this book is for us. It hits home for people who have been overlooked, looked too hard at, ridiculed, and made to feel we are not worthy. Kits plight throughout this book shows what it is like for probably a good portion of us; on how we feel and think about ourself or how we are treated.
Some people who have not been in our shoes and walked that hard life will not understand the mental struggles we have gone through. Kit’s world view and how she sees herself is on point, but gives us hope. Not only gives us hope that we are worthy for the love, strength, passion, and fierce determination Austin gives Kit, but hope that we ourselves can find strength needed to love ourselves how we are.
If you take anything from this review, please read this book if you ever felt unworthy because society said over a certain size isn’t beautiful. This will make you have hope and love in yourself because we are worthy and beautiful.
For every woman who has been plus size most of their lives, this book is for us. It hits home for people who have been overlooked, looked too hard at, ridiculed, and made to feel we are not worthy. Kits plight throughout this book shows what it is like for probably a good portion of us; on how we feel and think about ourself or how we are treated.
Some people who have not been in our shoes and walked that hard life will not understand the mental struggles we have gone through. Kit’s world view and how she sees herself is on point, but gives us hope. Not only gives us hope that we are worthy for the love, strength, passion, and fierce determination Austin gives Kit, but hope that we ourselves can find strength needed to love ourselves how we are.
If you take anything from this review, please read this book if you ever felt unworthy because society said over a certain size isn’t beautiful. This will make you have hope and love in yourself because we are worthy and beautiful.
August 28, 2023
Interesting
So this book dives head first into a BDSM style relationship and doesn’t really focus too much on THEM outside of that.
I personally know NOTHING about that lifestyle other than romance novels so I don’t know how much of this is true to form or not. It just seems odd that they have almost zero connection outside of that lifestyle. I guess it could have just been that was due to the author wanting for focus on that more than anything HOWEVER I would have liked to see more of just THEM being a “normal” couple outside the BDSM kink.
I can’t say I hated this book but I can’t say I loved it either. Kit’s self loathing was a big focus in the book also and something Austin was trying to help her break and that was hard to read about. Very realistic though. Being overweight your whole life is not an easy thing for a woman to handle.
So this book dives head first into a BDSM style relationship and doesn’t really focus too much on THEM outside of that.
I personally know NOTHING about that lifestyle other than romance novels so I don’t know how much of this is true to form or not. It just seems odd that they have almost zero connection outside of that lifestyle. I guess it could have just been that was due to the author wanting for focus on that more than anything HOWEVER I would have liked to see more of just THEM being a “normal” couple outside the BDSM kink.
I can’t say I hated this book but I can’t say I loved it either. Kit’s self loathing was a big focus in the book also and something Austin was trying to help her break and that was hard to read about. Very realistic though. Being overweight your whole life is not an easy thing for a woman to handle.
June 28, 2021
Definitely worth the read
It always breaks my heart to read about the struggles of body image shame and worthiness issues that we all deal with. This one has double that with an athlete past prime pro-athlete age and an injury and the heroine not able to love her own body. It was a touching reminder that we are all worthy of love, not despite what we don't like about ourselves, but because of those things as well.
I could really feel the emotions and that moment of beginning change when she began to see what he saw and not what the insecure in society told her to see. I also appreciated that it wasn't just a "ignore them and move on" message, but one that really hit home for her and showed her what there was to love.
It always breaks my heart to read about the struggles of body image shame and worthiness issues that we all deal with. This one has double that with an athlete past prime pro-athlete age and an injury and the heroine not able to love her own body. It was a touching reminder that we are all worthy of love, not despite what we don't like about ourselves, but because of those things as well.
I could really feel the emotions and that moment of beginning change when she began to see what he saw and not what the insecure in society told her to see. I also appreciated that it wasn't just a "ignore them and move on" message, but one that really hit home for her and showed her what there was to love.
June 29, 2021
Another Wonderful Black Light BDSM book
Oh my I loved the way this book started and I loved the way this book ended. I loved all parts in the middle as well. It has some really good and steamy scenes from the start right to the finish. I could not put this book down until I finished and I loved every bit of it. Wonderful characters that you just fall in love with, I would have been perfectly ok with the book being longer even though I know you have to have an ending. lol I so love this book, just like I have all of the other Black Light books. Some of them I have read more than once because I love them so much and I expect that I will want to read this book again. I am sure. That you will love Worthy just as much as me, so give it a go.
Oh my I loved the way this book started and I loved the way this book ended. I loved all parts in the middle as well. It has some really good and steamy scenes from the start right to the finish. I could not put this book down until I finished and I loved every bit of it. Wonderful characters that you just fall in love with, I would have been perfectly ok with the book being longer even though I know you have to have an ending. lol I so love this book, just like I have all of the other Black Light books. Some of them I have read more than once because I love them so much and I expect that I will want to read this book again. I am sure. That you will love Worthy just as much as me, so give it a go.
June 29, 2021
Wanted and Worthy.
Oh wow break out the tissues with this book for every woman who has ever felt less than who she is with body image and acceptance.
Katherine and Austin’s story has all the feels from tears to laughter as Austin’s dogged determination to help Katherine overcome her self doubts after years of bullying from the past, I even loved that we got to see other much loved Black Light characters help overcome difficulties in Austin and Katherine’s relationship.
From the moment I started to read this book to the very last page I found this book to be up with my ultimate favourites BL books..
Oh wow break out the tissues with this book for every woman who has ever felt less than who she is with body image and acceptance.
Katherine and Austin’s story has all the feels from tears to laughter as Austin’s dogged determination to help Katherine overcome her self doubts after years of bullying from the past, I even loved that we got to see other much loved Black Light characters help overcome difficulties in Austin and Katherine’s relationship.
From the moment I started to read this book to the very last page I found this book to be up with my ultimate favourites BL books..
July 8, 2021
4.5 stars.
So good.
As a big girl myself, Kit’s story really resonated with me.
And I appreciated that she wasn’t written cringey and whiny about her insecurities like some other authors might’ve.
She was strong and independent in every aspect of her life. Except for her appearance.
The romance was rocky but so freaking sweet.
The sex and kink was hot and loving.
I loved it.
I’m so glad I checked back at this Black Light series. I’ve read other books by this author but had forgotten I liked her writing. Now that I’ve been reminded I’ll definitely be checking out whatever else I can find from her.
So good.
As a big girl myself, Kit’s story really resonated with me.
And I appreciated that she wasn’t written cringey and whiny about her insecurities like some other authors might’ve.
She was strong and independent in every aspect of her life. Except for her appearance.
The romance was rocky but so freaking sweet.
The sex and kink was hot and loving.
I loved it.
I’m so glad I checked back at this Black Light series. I’ve read other books by this author but had forgotten I liked her writing. Now that I’ve been reminded I’ll definitely be checking out whatever else I can find from her.
July 1, 2023
This book was a kinda cross between the salacious series and 50 shades. But no where near as good. I did call it the Aldi version of 50 shades when a friend asked what it was like 😣😣😣 I really wanted to love it. But there was just too much sub/dom in “normal” life for me. It felt like Austin used it to his advantage to get what he wanted when they weren’t “playing”. And my biggest ick was he called her little girl. A lot.
However I now feel the need to read about baseball players!!! Lol. I also loved how she was a larger woman who was successful in her own right and bagged the famous sports person!!!
However I now feel the need to read about baseball players!!! Lol. I also loved how she was a larger woman who was successful in her own right and bagged the famous sports person!!!
June 30, 2021
More than worthy
This book was outstanding. It hits home for ever insecurity that a bigger woman faces in her life. Kit's characters showed her strengths and weaknesses with a brutal truth and honesty. Everytime kit pulled but, you could justify why she felt she had to but Austin was brilliant in the way his lifestyle wasn't going to stop him from getting the woman he wanted and knew it was something not only they could share together, but help kit overcome the prejudices projected by herself and others. Loved it.
This book was outstanding. It hits home for ever insecurity that a bigger woman faces in her life. Kit's characters showed her strengths and weaknesses with a brutal truth and honesty. Everytime kit pulled but, you could justify why she felt she had to but Austin was brilliant in the way his lifestyle wasn't going to stop him from getting the woman he wanted and knew it was something not only they could share together, but help kit overcome the prejudices projected by herself and others. Loved it.
July 15, 2021
Have you been to Black Light? I'm so vested in this series and each author brings a special something with each story which makes the anticipation that much more exhilarating. Stella Moore brings us 'Worthy'. This book was fast-paced, hard-hitting, and oh-so-relatable. Fears, insecurities, and self-worth are all brought out in the open. Even how society plays a part whether good or bad. This was such a powerful, sexy couple with down-to-earth personalities and combined chemistry that just explodes off the page. I absolutely loved it.
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