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Atlanta Daddies #4
Big Boy
Carter's having the worst time of his life. He's lost his job, his mother won't stop asking him about his love life, and he's the butt of every overweight joke in the book. Knowing he can't control everything he decides to change what he can and lose the weight. Maybe then he can find the Daddy he's always dreamed of.
Samuel loves his job as a personal trainer. Finding ways to help people reach their goals fulfills him. Until he meets Carter. It's one thing to want to change yourself, but when he sees the man is only doing it to appease everyone around him, Samuel refuses to let that happen. Because Carter is already beautiful exactly the way he is.
A man with image issues. Another who wants to give him the world. Together they're a Daddy and boy that need each other. But can Carter learn to love himself before he loves Samuel?
Big Boy contains triggers of disordered eating and fat shaming. Please do not read if you are sensitive to the subject. Check the inside before you read please!
Samuel loves his job as a personal trainer. Finding ways to help people reach their goals fulfills him. Until he meets Carter. It's one thing to want to change yourself, but when he sees the man is only doing it to appease everyone around him, Samuel refuses to let that happen. Because Carter is already beautiful exactly the way he is.
A man with image issues. Another who wants to give him the world. Together they're a Daddy and boy that need each other. But can Carter learn to love himself before he loves Samuel?
Big Boy contains triggers of disordered eating and fat shaming. Please do not read if you are sensitive to the subject. Check the inside before you read please!
323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2021
124 people are currently reading
445 people want to read
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October 23, 2021
I am so done with this author. I read the series for the sole purpose of reaching this book and it started off okay. The fat rep this is really really great for about 90% of the book. I have one big huge major issue that I'm going to talk about below and a couple minor issues, and it's unfortunate because without this small thing that turned into a major issue this book would be the best of the series. Honestly it's still probably the best of the series and that's saying that it's still mediocre.
This book is about Carter who is fat and struggles with an eating disorder. He has been hounded from his family and especially his mother about losing weight and getting in shape so he can find a husband etc. She is extremely toxic and there are big content warnings for a fat phobic comments from her. Technically these are all challenged at some point, but they can be really triggering. Anyway, Carter ends up going to this gym and his personal trainer, Sam, is really great. Sam is a great character and once he figures out that Carter is not going to the gym for himself but to please others, he really does his best to help Carter and support him
Here's where my issue comes in. On page, Sam says that he is demisexual. Normally, as an asexual person, I jump for joy at aspec rep, but I only enjoy asexual spectrum representation when it is done correctly. My major issue with this book is the wording on the definition of demisexual. The way that it is written in the book is where it makes it seem as though someone who's simply just waits for an emotional bond before they have sex. In reality, being demisexual means that a person doesn't feel sexual attraction until they form an emotional bond.
This may seem like nitpicking to you but the amount of harassment and horrendous aphobia that is directed towards demisexuals because they are told that they are "straight with a twist" or 'just like everyone else who waits to have sex until they're close to someone " and all this book does is perpetuate those stereotypes. Being demisexual isn't about waiting to be close to someone before you choose to have sex. You legitimately do not actually feel any sexual attraction until there's an emotional bond. This means that all of the time that Sam says how attractive he finds Carter and how beautiful he is how cute he is etc and then goes on to explain that he's demisexual is misinformation. If Sam was actually demisexual, there has to be a distinction and it could have been there.
There could have and should have been a conversation about aesthetic attraction or romantic attraction or even just different types of attraction. I don't even know that the words "sexual attraction" are even mentioned around his definition of demisexual. It felt like the author wanted diversity points on having a demisexual character and instead of doing research and getting sensitivity readers and actively providing quality demisexual representation, all she did was perpetuate harmful stereotypes about demisexuality that is actually going to harm the asexual community in the long run.
Moving on, let's chat about the fat rep. Carter's fat. He has a belly and thick thighs and jiggles and it is glorious. I loved the way that his body was described and Sam's unapologetic attraction to him. There are some really decent conversations about exercising for you as an individual instead of exercising for the sole purpose of losing weight. There's some good conversations about finding the type of exercise that you enjoy versus forcing yourself to do something to change your body shape. There's some great conversations about counting calories and diet culture and how it is more important to eat balanced meals than it is to eat no meals and how comments about someone's body or their diet can lead towards eating disorders. I really appreciate the fact that there's representation of a fat character having an eating disorder because way too often fat people are told that they can't/don't have eating disorders and that eating disorders are for thin people which is just ridiculous. There are some graphic scenes about bulimia in here, so there's a fairly decent content warning for that, but all of the steps that Carter and Sam go to combat Carter's bulimia and his unhealthy habits are very positive and well done.
My issue comes within the last 10% of this book. I was getting so excited that there was no conversation about Carter's body changing. He was just feeling happier and healthier and he was more content in his existence as a person with a fat body, and I really felt like that was how the book was going to end. But unfortunately, all of a sudden his clothes are too big and they just had to make comments about how he lost weight. It was so disappointing. There's nothing wrong with exercising and eating healthy and losing weight and having a smaller body if that's what you want, there is also nothing wrong with having a fat body and fat people are no less worthy of respect and love and accommodations and happiness just because they're fat. Someone does not have to be healthy to be worthy of respect. It was really frustrating to see this book fall into the stereotype of the fat character loses weight and is happy ever after, because it was on track to be a good fat representation book. Unfortunately it didn't quite get there.
I think I'm done with this author and I am just worn out from this series. I can't believe that I forced myself to read these four books and I didn't enjoy any of them. So cool.
This book is about Carter who is fat and struggles with an eating disorder. He has been hounded from his family and especially his mother about losing weight and getting in shape so he can find a husband etc. She is extremely toxic and there are big content warnings for a fat phobic comments from her. Technically these are all challenged at some point, but they can be really triggering. Anyway, Carter ends up going to this gym and his personal trainer, Sam, is really great. Sam is a great character and once he figures out that Carter is not going to the gym for himself but to please others, he really does his best to help Carter and support him
Here's where my issue comes in. On page, Sam says that he is demisexual. Normally, as an asexual person, I jump for joy at aspec rep, but I only enjoy asexual spectrum representation when it is done correctly. My major issue with this book is the wording on the definition of demisexual. The way that it is written in the book is where it makes it seem as though someone who's simply just waits for an emotional bond before they have sex. In reality, being demisexual means that a person doesn't feel sexual attraction until they form an emotional bond.
This may seem like nitpicking to you but the amount of harassment and horrendous aphobia that is directed towards demisexuals because they are told that they are "straight with a twist" or 'just like everyone else who waits to have sex until they're close to someone " and all this book does is perpetuate those stereotypes. Being demisexual isn't about waiting to be close to someone before you choose to have sex. You legitimately do not actually feel any sexual attraction until there's an emotional bond. This means that all of the time that Sam says how attractive he finds Carter and how beautiful he is how cute he is etc and then goes on to explain that he's demisexual is misinformation. If Sam was actually demisexual, there has to be a distinction and it could have been there.
There could have and should have been a conversation about aesthetic attraction or romantic attraction or even just different types of attraction. I don't even know that the words "sexual attraction" are even mentioned around his definition of demisexual. It felt like the author wanted diversity points on having a demisexual character and instead of doing research and getting sensitivity readers and actively providing quality demisexual representation, all she did was perpetuate harmful stereotypes about demisexuality that is actually going to harm the asexual community in the long run.
Moving on, let's chat about the fat rep. Carter's fat. He has a belly and thick thighs and jiggles and it is glorious. I loved the way that his body was described and Sam's unapologetic attraction to him. There are some really decent conversations about exercising for you as an individual instead of exercising for the sole purpose of losing weight. There's some good conversations about finding the type of exercise that you enjoy versus forcing yourself to do something to change your body shape. There's some great conversations about counting calories and diet culture and how it is more important to eat balanced meals than it is to eat no meals and how comments about someone's body or their diet can lead towards eating disorders. I really appreciate the fact that there's representation of a fat character having an eating disorder because way too often fat people are told that they can't/don't have eating disorders and that eating disorders are for thin people which is just ridiculous. There are some graphic scenes about bulimia in here, so there's a fairly decent content warning for that, but all of the steps that Carter and Sam go to combat Carter's bulimia and his unhealthy habits are very positive and well done.
My issue comes within the last 10% of this book. I was getting so excited that there was no conversation about Carter's body changing. He was just feeling happier and healthier and he was more content in his existence as a person with a fat body, and I really felt like that was how the book was going to end. But unfortunately, all of a sudden his clothes are too big and they just had to make comments about how he lost weight. It was so disappointing. There's nothing wrong with exercising and eating healthy and losing weight and having a smaller body if that's what you want, there is also nothing wrong with having a fat body and fat people are no less worthy of respect and love and accommodations and happiness just because they're fat. Someone does not have to be healthy to be worthy of respect. It was really frustrating to see this book fall into the stereotype of the fat character loses weight and is happy ever after, because it was on track to be a good fat representation book. Unfortunately it didn't quite get there.
I think I'm done with this author and I am just worn out from this series. I can't believe that I forced myself to read these four books and I didn't enjoy any of them. So cool.
February 11, 2022
So this is the fourth book in this series and I have to day, that every book has felt rushed, so has this. The pattern is always the same: huge personal problem - meet the daddy - problem solved. I don't think that's how it works actually.
September 28, 2021
I love that this book covers a real issue in men that is so often overlooked and seen as a “woman’s problem” - disordered eating and eating disorders.
I have lived Carter’s life. My mum is Carter’s Mum. When every single conversation is about food and weight loss and the cutting comments all under the guise that it’s “because we care” chip away at you day after day. It’s so easy to see why Carter is now at the place he’s at. Carter tries so hard in secret but seeing him get unwavering, nonjudgmental support is a thing of beauty. The stress of losing his job just helps compound his struggle.
Samuel is smiley sunshine, a gorgeous muscly guy who has his own insecurities with his body; hates that people think because he looks a certain way he has to act a certain way and wants to be seen for who he is inside just as much as Carter does.
Reading how Samuel fights for Carter, with Carter and never belittles his struggle, never gives false platitudes that people think are supportive but are really just condescending AF. He is the rock Carter needs as he works to get healthy. Reading about these two cinnamon rolls falling in love was a dream. Be mindful of the triggers but this book was amazing and I highly recommend.
I have lived Carter’s life. My mum is Carter’s Mum. When every single conversation is about food and weight loss and the cutting comments all under the guise that it’s “because we care” chip away at you day after day. It’s so easy to see why Carter is now at the place he’s at. Carter tries so hard in secret but seeing him get unwavering, nonjudgmental support is a thing of beauty. The stress of losing his job just helps compound his struggle.
Samuel is smiley sunshine, a gorgeous muscly guy who has his own insecurities with his body; hates that people think because he looks a certain way he has to act a certain way and wants to be seen for who he is inside just as much as Carter does.
Reading how Samuel fights for Carter, with Carter and never belittles his struggle, never gives false platitudes that people think are supportive but are really just condescending AF. He is the rock Carter needs as he works to get healthy. Reading about these two cinnamon rolls falling in love was a dream. Be mindful of the triggers but this book was amazing and I highly recommend.
May 2, 2024
Dnf 50% I can say for sure the author and I don't match. The blurb did sound so interesting and then the whole thing felt dull and fake and no transported emotions. And maybe she should make sure to know what demisexual really means... I am disappointed. The idea was great and I was so intrigued, but yeah no. Just bad.
March 14, 2022
***Spoilers here and there***
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2022...
This book was good, the only thing I didn’t like was the constantly used of the word “DADDY” that plucked my last nerved. I felt like when Carter kept saying it and the way he used it was annoying and got seen as a child. It could be just me but it was Annoying. Makes me wants to take a break from going into any of the other books because I know “Daddy” going to be OVERUSED. Even if it’s the title of the series but sheesh!
With that being said I didn’t like Carter mom especially because she was more hurtful to him even though his brother and dad was too. Like I was glad when he FINALLY spoke his mind and told her off because she constantly brought up his weight and kept be little’n him about his size and how he needs to eat less. I never wanted to punch someone in their throat so much!
You realize no matter your size people going to tell you, you either have to stop eating so much or you need to eat more not knowing it hurts your feelings a lot.
I was glad when he met Samuel because he was so right for him.
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2022...
This book was good, the only thing I didn’t like was the constantly used of the word “DADDY” that plucked my last nerved. I felt like when Carter kept saying it and the way he used it was annoying and got seen as a child. It could be just me but it was Annoying. Makes me wants to take a break from going into any of the other books because I know “Daddy” going to be OVERUSED. Even if it’s the title of the series but sheesh!
With that being said I didn’t like Carter mom especially because she was more hurtful to him even though his brother and dad was too. Like I was glad when he FINALLY spoke his mind and told her off because she constantly brought up his weight and kept be little’n him about his size and how he needs to eat less. I never wanted to punch someone in their throat so much!
You realize no matter your size people going to tell you, you either have to stop eating so much or you need to eat more not knowing it hurts your feelings a lot.
I was glad when he met Samuel because he was so right for him.
November 21, 2024
Dnf’d at 78%. I just couldn’t anymore.
November 14, 2025
2 ⭐️
If you’re going to write a book with a demisexual character, DO YOU RESEARCH!!! The way this author defines “demisexual” is wrong. The worst part is it wasn’t even necessary to the plot. At all. They could’ve cut it and avoided improperly portraying someone’s identity.
If you’re going to write a book with a demisexual character, DO YOU RESEARCH!!! The way this author defines “demisexual” is wrong. The worst part is it wasn’t even necessary to the plot. At all. They could’ve cut it and avoided improperly portraying someone’s identity.
November 8, 2021
I was really excited to read this. The plot sounded interesting and not because of the Daddy/boy theme. It’s really rare to across a book where a male character has an eating disorder and body image issues. I was really excited to read this but as I navigated through the first handful of chapters, I started to lose interest fast. The chemistry between the two felt so fake and it ended becoming a struggle to read. I skipped to the end.
I think this book could have done so much better if the author had taken its time building the characters up and the chemistry rather than rushing it.
I think this book could have done so much better if the author had taken its time building the characters up and the chemistry rather than rushing it.
October 3, 2021
Your weight doesn't define you
There are so many things I love about this book. I've read other books that had an MC that was overweight, but none of them really focused on the underlying reasons behind it. Our society puts a lot of emphasis on outward beauty and being a certain body size. It's really easy to get sucked into that mindset and lose yourself in the process. This spoke to me on a very personal level and I really connected with the characters.
Carter is a big boy who struggles with an eating disorder and mental health issues. Samuel is a personal trainer, and although he looks the part of being perfect and buff, suffers from both dysphoria and self esteem issues. Together, though, they just might be what the other needs: unconditional support and love.
There is a nice cast of background characters but they don't overwhelm the story. I seriously wanted to snack all if Carter's family's upside the head for how awful they were and how utterly clueless to the damage their "fatphobic" attitudes caused. Ignorance is never an excuse for cruelty and I'm just glad that Carter was finally able to address this - in an epically explosive manner (good for him) - and draw the line at what he deserved. Sam is such a nurturing and caring Daddy and I really loved how he carefully navigated their relationship without pushing Carter too far. The also loved that it was mentioned several times about Sam being demisexual and what that meant to him. If was nice to see this state of sexual identity being shown in a positive light.
All-in-all, the highly recommend this book and was very pleased with it. Definitely 5* stars!
There are so many things I love about this book. I've read other books that had an MC that was overweight, but none of them really focused on the underlying reasons behind it. Our society puts a lot of emphasis on outward beauty and being a certain body size. It's really easy to get sucked into that mindset and lose yourself in the process. This spoke to me on a very personal level and I really connected with the characters.
Carter is a big boy who struggles with an eating disorder and mental health issues. Samuel is a personal trainer, and although he looks the part of being perfect and buff, suffers from both dysphoria and self esteem issues. Together, though, they just might be what the other needs: unconditional support and love.
There is a nice cast of background characters but they don't overwhelm the story. I seriously wanted to snack all if Carter's family's upside the head for how awful they were and how utterly clueless to the damage their "fatphobic" attitudes caused. Ignorance is never an excuse for cruelty and I'm just glad that Carter was finally able to address this - in an epically explosive manner (good for him) - and draw the line at what he deserved. Sam is such a nurturing and caring Daddy and I really loved how he carefully navigated their relationship without pushing Carter too far. The also loved that it was mentioned several times about Sam being demisexual and what that meant to him. If was nice to see this state of sexual identity being shown in a positive light.
All-in-all, the highly recommend this book and was very pleased with it. Definitely 5* stars!
September 27, 2021
Oh Carter, you sweet beautiful man.
What didn’t I like about this book? Nothing. I adored everything about it. I knew going in that Carter was going to kill my heart. I was not wrong. Carter was a man that was hurting so much. He had been told so many times throughout his life that he wasn’t good enough because he was a big boy. His supported system sucked, with the exception of a few friends, and he really did not know how to help himself.
Sam came along at precisely the right time. Although he appeared to be the epitome of perfection, Sam teaches Carter, and us, that looks truly are deceiving. He has his own set of struggles that he faces every day. Sam was a wonderful support person for Carter, even when Carter refused to take the support.
As the story goes along, these two become more and more perfect for one another. Sam is demi-sexual, so the connection he forged with Carter is steadfast and true. He becomes Carter’s Daddy and guides and loves him. It was a beautiful relationship. I loved this book from start to finish.
“Failing doesn’t matter, it’s how many times you get back up.”-Sam
TW for depression issues, toxic family environment, active eating disorder and thoughts and verbalization of a self deprecating nature.
What didn’t I like about this book? Nothing. I adored everything about it. I knew going in that Carter was going to kill my heart. I was not wrong. Carter was a man that was hurting so much. He had been told so many times throughout his life that he wasn’t good enough because he was a big boy. His supported system sucked, with the exception of a few friends, and he really did not know how to help himself.
Sam came along at precisely the right time. Although he appeared to be the epitome of perfection, Sam teaches Carter, and us, that looks truly are deceiving. He has his own set of struggles that he faces every day. Sam was a wonderful support person for Carter, even when Carter refused to take the support.
As the story goes along, these two become more and more perfect for one another. Sam is demi-sexual, so the connection he forged with Carter is steadfast and true. He becomes Carter’s Daddy and guides and loves him. It was a beautiful relationship. I loved this book from start to finish.
“Failing doesn’t matter, it’s how many times you get back up.”-Sam
TW for depression issues, toxic family environment, active eating disorder and thoughts and verbalization of a self deprecating nature.
September 27, 2021
TW: Fatphobia, eating disorder, depression.
This was a lovely, bittersweet read by Skyler Snow. It’s one of my favorites of the series so far and we also get a glimpse of past couples in this series on a few “friendly” excursions, which I really enjoyed. As someone who has consistently struggled with their weight and skirted around an eating disorder, this hit home in a way few stories do these days.
Carter is a man dealing with critical family members under the pretense of “helping” him, wallowing in depression, dealing with the awful mental effects of body dysmorphia and an eating disorder, is for the most part at his all time worst, when he stumbles across the love of his life.
Samuel is the physical polar opposite of Carter, but internally they’re very much alike. The two of them together are so sweet, it makes my teeth ache, and I loved it. Sam’s stubborn sunshine balanced out Carter’s despair and made the relationship believable. I also liked that, with Sam’s help, Carter was able to explain to his family how much their words hurt him.
Highly recommend as long as you can handle the TW.
This was a lovely, bittersweet read by Skyler Snow. It’s one of my favorites of the series so far and we also get a glimpse of past couples in this series on a few “friendly” excursions, which I really enjoyed. As someone who has consistently struggled with their weight and skirted around an eating disorder, this hit home in a way few stories do these days.
Carter is a man dealing with critical family members under the pretense of “helping” him, wallowing in depression, dealing with the awful mental effects of body dysmorphia and an eating disorder, is for the most part at his all time worst, when he stumbles across the love of his life.
Samuel is the physical polar opposite of Carter, but internally they’re very much alike. The two of them together are so sweet, it makes my teeth ache, and I loved it. Sam’s stubborn sunshine balanced out Carter’s despair and made the relationship believable. I also liked that, with Sam’s help, Carter was able to explain to his family how much their words hurt him.
Highly recommend as long as you can handle the TW.
October 2, 2021
Oh, from the first chapters the the last chapter.. I adored both Carter and Samuel. Yes Carter is a grumpy kind of guy because he is trying work on losing weight for his family more so then for himself. He really needed someone to care about him to help him find his way. Samuel who becomes his personal trainer is just the man for the job! Samuel on the outside is Sunshiny and gorgeously fit!.. But this book really does make you realize you cannot judge someone by their appearance or what they may or may not seem to have. Samuel has struggles of his own and he is Demi.. so he needs trust and care just as much as Carter! I received an ARC of this book and I recommend for anyone who enjoys a sweet, steamy hurt comfort read with two wonderful guys falling in love!
October 7, 2021
Carter and Samuel were a personal trainer and an overweight man figuring out that they could each provide what the other needed, regardless of looks.
I think there’s a huge need for books like this that address the social and emotional aspects of body dysmorphia in men as well as women, but also that there’s more than one way to support someone who is dealing with this issue.
The bulimia and the family guilt was dealt with very well, but the actual relationship between the MCs just didn’t do it for me. I found Carter to be a spoiled baby most of the time, shutting Sam out, getting drunk, avoiding him, etc. It just got to be too much for me.
I think there’s a huge need for books like this that address the social and emotional aspects of body dysmorphia in men as well as women, but also that there’s more than one way to support someone who is dealing with this issue.
The bulimia and the family guilt was dealt with very well, but the actual relationship between the MCs just didn’t do it for me. I found Carter to be a spoiled baby most of the time, shutting Sam out, getting drunk, avoiding him, etc. It just got to be too much for me.
May 17, 2022
Characters who struggle with weight issues are in short supply in M/M, and I really enjoyed this one. After losing his job, Carter is suddenly unemployed and stuck in his apartment with no clear future, which adds to his feelings of worthlessness and depression. His whole family has harped on his weight since childhood, for his "own good" of course. His mother, in particular, has made it her mission to try to get him to lose weight, and her nagging has deeply undermined his self-worth. But he has a hard time discounting it or fighting back, since it's all done in the name of love.
Carter lets his mother urge him into going to the gym, where she has engaged a personal trainer for him. And in Samuel, he finally finds an ally who wants him happier and healthier, but not necessarily thinner. Samuel is also smokin' hot, though, and Carter's torn between admitting his attraction, and the realization that he doesn't belong with a guy like that.
Until Samuel reveals that he's a Daddy, a caretaker whose nurturing side meshes well with what Carter needs, including his desire to sometimes let go and be little. Still, it's an uphill battle for Carter to not only admit what he wants, but to convince himself he deserves to have it.
Samuel is a bit too perfect, in his steadfast ability to know what Carter needs. I liked that he was demisexual, although it felt like a bit of a shortcut nod to "there are people who will like you for your personality not how you look." And in support of being demi, I wanted them to have more interactions and getting to know each other before Samuel began noticing attraction. But he was the perfect foil for Carter, bringing out the naturalness and sweetness of Carter's personality.
There were some family confrontations that I really liked having on stage. The ending was warm and HEA without Carter suddenly losing a bunch of weight. And the Daddy-kink was light in this one, making it perhaps a good choice for someone trying out that aspect. My favorite so far of this series.
Carter lets his mother urge him into going to the gym, where she has engaged a personal trainer for him. And in Samuel, he finally finds an ally who wants him happier and healthier, but not necessarily thinner. Samuel is also smokin' hot, though, and Carter's torn between admitting his attraction, and the realization that he doesn't belong with a guy like that.
Until Samuel reveals that he's a Daddy, a caretaker whose nurturing side meshes well with what Carter needs, including his desire to sometimes let go and be little. Still, it's an uphill battle for Carter to not only admit what he wants, but to convince himself he deserves to have it.
Samuel is a bit too perfect, in his steadfast ability to know what Carter needs. I liked that he was demisexual, although it felt like a bit of a shortcut nod to "there are people who will like you for your personality not how you look." And in support of being demi, I wanted them to have more interactions and getting to know each other before Samuel began noticing attraction. But he was the perfect foil for Carter, bringing out the naturalness and sweetness of Carter's personality.
There were some family confrontations that I really liked having on stage. The ending was warm and HEA without Carter suddenly losing a bunch of weight. And the Daddy-kink was light in this one, making it perhaps a good choice for someone trying out that aspect. My favorite so far of this series.
October 15, 2021
“That thought process basically means people with depression don't deserve love. People with body dysmorphia don't deserve love. People who are hurting don’t deserve love.” I shook my head in disgust. “I don't want to hear that shit. Everyone deserves love even if they’re still learning to love themselves. Especially”
This quote means so much to me. I loved this book but this is what touched me the most. To know that I am still lovable even if I don’t love myself is so important to hear. I have heard the original quote that you must live yourself before you can love anyone else and it is so damaging. Thank you so much for writing this book.
This quote means so much to me. I loved this book but this is what touched me the most. To know that I am still lovable even if I don’t love myself is so important to hear. I have heard the original quote that you must live yourself before you can love anyone else and it is so damaging. Thank you so much for writing this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2021
Carter was over weight and closed off. Dealing with his weight issues takes complete control of his days, a continuing circle of misery. Till Sam entered his life. Bringing a steadying influence into his daily life, becoming his daddy.
This story was heartbreaking and angsty. The rocky path of weight loss and eating issues was well done.
The writing was well done however the story dragged a bit for me. I think this book was a case of it just didn’t work for me at this time.
I received an arc of this book from Booksprout.
This story was heartbreaking and angsty. The rocky path of weight loss and eating issues was well done.
The writing was well done however the story dragged a bit for me. I think this book was a case of it just didn’t work for me at this time.
I received an arc of this book from Booksprout.
September 30, 2021
Big Boy is the fourth book in the Atlanta Daddies serie by Skyler Snow. This book is about Carter and Samuel. Carter has just lost his job and his mom keeps nagging him about losing weight, not in a nice way, and his love life. Carter is a personal trainer at the gym Carter starts to go to. I loved their story. It was sweet, sexy, full of feels and very well written. I really recommend this book but read the trigger warnings before starting.
December 27, 2021
Wonderful HEA
I felt so sorry for Carter and the way he was treated by his family. They were so harmful and hurtful. Samuel was awesome.
I felt so sorry for Carter and the way he was treated by his family. They were so harmful and hurtful. Samuel was awesome.
September 30, 2021
5 za to o czym jest ta książka i za to, że po przeczytaniu jej można uwierzyć w siebie.
October 3, 2021
Such a well written book. Very intense. A beautiful story of self acceptance, accepting love and the consequences of body shaming. Sam was the absolute perfect partner for Carter. Well done!
October 5, 2021
Let me preface my review by saying that if this book wasn't written as a Daddy/ boy story, I likely would have given it five stars. I honestly felt like the Daddy/ boy portion of the story felt secondary, and seemed almost forced to fit in this particular "box". I'm also not a fan of middles, and likely would have skipped this story had I realized Carter was a middle.
With that being said, I think the emotional storyline is amazing. I felt for Carter, and his weight-related issues. His family issues, his personal demons, and how he handled them hit me right in the heart, as I can relate to him easily. If Carter and Samuel had just gotten together without the Daddy/ boy dynamic, I would have been so much happier.
With that being said, I think the emotional storyline is amazing. I felt for Carter, and his weight-related issues. His family issues, his personal demons, and how he handled them hit me right in the heart, as I can relate to him easily. If Carter and Samuel had just gotten together without the Daddy/ boy dynamic, I would have been so much happier.
July 20, 2022
When his mom signs him up for a gym membership, Carter sees no way around going. He's miserable, but losing weight is something he needs to do for his mother's approval... except it's not.
This is a story of a man struggling with body dysmorphia and an eating disorder, bulimia to be exact. Carter tries to love himself in the body he's in, but he grew up in a very fatphobic household so he learned to internalize those things.
The love interest, Samuel, also has a history of body dysmorphia, so when he discovers why Carter is pushing himself so hard and punishing himself for his slip ups, Samuel wants to help. What starts as a friendship between a personal trainer and his client turns into a relationship with a Daddy Dom, Little Boy (ddlb) dynamic.
I'm not usually a fan of the 'skinny LI teaches the fat MC to love themselves' trope because its usually based in the idea that the only way a fat person is worthy of loving themselves is if someone else says so, but this was not it. This story was unique and done very differently from others in this trope catagory. This wasn't just about Carter thinking poorly of himself, this was mental illness and the toll it takes on your self image. Samuel, coming from a similar situation, was able to help Carter with his illnesses and be his Daddy when Carter's depression got to be too bad sometimes.
This is a story of Carter learning body neutrality and to not letting others' opinions influence his happiness.
***not a spoiler***
In the epilogue, Carter starts to lose weight, but on his own terms and without him even really realizing. He's still a fat man, but he's able to be more comfortable in his skin and in his own living environment. I think this was a nice touch done by the author. Losing weight for yourself to better your own health is very different than losing weight because others think you should for your own health. I liked that this was mentioned.
*If eating disorders or fatphobia are triggers for you I'd recommend avoiding this book. I didnt think id have a problem because I've become so desensitized to fatphobia now, but the first family dinner with his family at around the 50ish% mark made me break down a bit. I think it just hit too close to home for me personally.*
This is a story of a man struggling with body dysmorphia and an eating disorder, bulimia to be exact. Carter tries to love himself in the body he's in, but he grew up in a very fatphobic household so he learned to internalize those things.
The love interest, Samuel, also has a history of body dysmorphia, so when he discovers why Carter is pushing himself so hard and punishing himself for his slip ups, Samuel wants to help. What starts as a friendship between a personal trainer and his client turns into a relationship with a Daddy Dom, Little Boy (ddlb) dynamic.
I'm not usually a fan of the 'skinny LI teaches the fat MC to love themselves' trope because its usually based in the idea that the only way a fat person is worthy of loving themselves is if someone else says so, but this was not it. This story was unique and done very differently from others in this trope catagory. This wasn't just about Carter thinking poorly of himself, this was mental illness and the toll it takes on your self image. Samuel, coming from a similar situation, was able to help Carter with his illnesses and be his Daddy when Carter's depression got to be too bad sometimes.
This is a story of Carter learning body neutrality and to not letting others' opinions influence his happiness.
***not a spoiler***
In the epilogue, Carter starts to lose weight, but on his own terms and without him even really realizing. He's still a fat man, but he's able to be more comfortable in his skin and in his own living environment. I think this was a nice touch done by the author. Losing weight for yourself to better your own health is very different than losing weight because others think you should for your own health. I liked that this was mentioned.
*If eating disorders or fatphobia are triggers for you I'd recommend avoiding this book. I didnt think id have a problem because I've become so desensitized to fatphobia now, but the first family dinner with his family at around the 50ish% mark made me break down a bit. I think it just hit too close to home for me personally.*
September 29, 2021
If you like Daddy books with lots of hurt/comfort then Big Boy by Skyler Snow is for you. It is the 4th book in their Atlanta Daddies series. It is the story of Carter and Samuel. Carter is in his early 30’s and has always been on the chubby side. His family, especially his mother, mean well but they are almost abusive in the criticism they give him over his weight. He has also just lost his job which adds to his depression. Samuel is a personal trainer at a gym. He is generally a happy guy but also has some problems in his background. They meet when Carter’s mother buys him a gym membership at Samuel’s gym and Samuel becomes his trainer. He is extremely perceptive and can see that Carter hates it so he tries his best to show him that he cares about what they are doing and goes at Carter’s pace. They are both immediately attracted to each other but Carter feels that he isn’t in Samuel’s league and that he could never like him. As the story continues Samuel shows him he is wrong. They have many ups and downs in their relationship but in the end Samuel’s patience and kindness show Carter he is worthy of love and to stand up the verbal abuse he has been given. Carter is a Boy who yearns for a Daddy and is delighted when Samuel reveals that he is one and wants to take care of him. This also adds to the story as do each of the men’s friends as they help them get together and find love. I really enjoyed this book and recommend it, especially if you like Daddy/Boy stories. It does not disappoint.
January 19, 2023
Carter is going through what feels like the worst time of his life - he lost his job, his mother won't stop asking him about his love life, and he is the recipient of every overweight joke in the book. Knowing he can't change everything he decides to lose the weight then maybe he can find the Daddy he has always dreamed of. Personal trainer Samuel loves his job and finding ways for people to reach their goals always fulfils him. When he meets Carter and sees that he is trying to change to appease everyone around him he refuses to let that happen as he thinks Carter is beautiful exactly as he is. A man with image issues. Another who wants to give him the world. Together they're a Daddy and boy that need each other. But can Carter learn to love himself before he loves Samuel?
Trigger warning of disordered eating and fat shaming.
I really enjoyed this story with Carter who was trying to cope with so much and Samuel who could see just how miserable and upset Carter was. There were definitely times when I felt so very sorry for Carter and angry at his family who did not deserve his love. You just have to love Samuel who was the right level of supportive and firm so that Carter got the love and support that he needed. Easy to read, feel and understand. Contains mature MM content of a BDSM-like DDLB.
Trigger warning of disordered eating and fat shaming.
I really enjoyed this story with Carter who was trying to cope with so much and Samuel who could see just how miserable and upset Carter was. There were definitely times when I felt so very sorry for Carter and angry at his family who did not deserve his love. You just have to love Samuel who was the right level of supportive and firm so that Carter got the love and support that he needed. Easy to read, feel and understand. Contains mature MM content of a BDSM-like DDLB.
October 3, 2021
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
There were so many powerful moments in this book; both Carter and Samuel were strong characters in their own right and I thought they had great chemistry from the outset. There were times in the book where I could really feel Carter's struggle - when he had tough moments I completely felt like I was on that ride with him. Samuel was such a supportive character and I loved it when he became so protective of Carter, particularly when dealing with his family.
For me, both characters were very well matched and it was great to see their relationship develop. One thing I will say is that there was a lot going on in this book, not in terms of action but rather with the characters themselves. Carter's issues with food were clearly a focal point. However, so many other things were thrown into the mix too, from depression to the daddy-boy dynamic to the mention of Samuel's issues with body image (that didn't get nearly as much time). In some cases, less is more and perhaps in this case sticking with the primary focus of Carter's struggles would have been enough. Despite this, I did enjoy this book and I would recommend it to others who like MM romance. Make sure to read the trigger warnings first though.
There were so many powerful moments in this book; both Carter and Samuel were strong characters in their own right and I thought they had great chemistry from the outset. There were times in the book where I could really feel Carter's struggle - when he had tough moments I completely felt like I was on that ride with him. Samuel was such a supportive character and I loved it when he became so protective of Carter, particularly when dealing with his family.
For me, both characters were very well matched and it was great to see their relationship develop. One thing I will say is that there was a lot going on in this book, not in terms of action but rather with the characters themselves. Carter's issues with food were clearly a focal point. However, so many other things were thrown into the mix too, from depression to the daddy-boy dynamic to the mention of Samuel's issues with body image (that didn't get nearly as much time). In some cases, less is more and perhaps in this case sticking with the primary focus of Carter's struggles would have been enough. Despite this, I did enjoy this book and I would recommend it to others who like MM romance. Make sure to read the trigger warnings first though.
October 4, 2021
This was a sweet- but also [emotionally] sad- story. Carter is single, overweight, and just lost his job. His mother is constantly contacting him about his weight and dieting and even went so far as to buy him a gym membership with a personal trainer. She and his family constantly remark on his weight, and although he still loves them, their words badly hurt him and he avoids them as much as he can. Carter suffers from depression, an eating disorder, and believes himself to be gross and unattractive. He's lonely and wants love and comfort and wishes he had a daddy to care for him. Getting nowhere with job interviews, he finally pushes himself to go to the gym.
Sam is a personal trainer and knows all about nutrition, getting healthy, and taking care of one's body safely. He is attracted to Carter and is very patient and caring with him. He doesn't judge him for his weight the way others have and is encouraging and positive.
I loved watching these two form their relationship. Carter needed Sam, and it turns out, Sam needed Carter as well. After they finally opened up to each other, their relationship was really sweet. Though be warned this book does talk about and feature eating disorders and body dysmorphia. 5 stars
Sam is a personal trainer and knows all about nutrition, getting healthy, and taking care of one's body safely. He is attracted to Carter and is very patient and caring with him. He doesn't judge him for his weight the way others have and is encouraging and positive.
I loved watching these two form their relationship. Carter needed Sam, and it turns out, Sam needed Carter as well. After they finally opened up to each other, their relationship was really sweet. Though be warned this book does talk about and feature eating disorders and body dysmorphia. 5 stars
October 4, 2021
This one really got me in the feels!
Carter is such a sweet and kind man. He’s been through and still going through so much. He deserves love and cuddles. Being the butt of fat jokes most of his life has him feeling undeserving of love or even a productive and happy life.
Samuel has his own issues with body Dysmorphia. He’s handled them and found peace with his body; to the point he’s a personal trainer and trying to help others. But as a demisexual he’s looking for a connection beyond the flesh; he’s a lonely Daddy without a boy to care for.
As always this author gives amazing character development and builds a world we can believe really exist. This may be part of a series but can be read without reading the previous books. I recommend reading them as they are all great reads.
I really identified with Carter, as I have been down the road he is on with my weight and how well meaning people tried to help me. (Although I’ve never had the same type of eating disorder, I do understand why he saw it as a solution.) I cried and cheered with him. Being on my own wellness journey currently I saw him as an inspiration by the end of the book.
This is definitely my favorite book by this author and I highly recommend it!
Carter is such a sweet and kind man. He’s been through and still going through so much. He deserves love and cuddles. Being the butt of fat jokes most of his life has him feeling undeserving of love or even a productive and happy life.
Samuel has his own issues with body Dysmorphia. He’s handled them and found peace with his body; to the point he’s a personal trainer and trying to help others. But as a demisexual he’s looking for a connection beyond the flesh; he’s a lonely Daddy without a boy to care for.
As always this author gives amazing character development and builds a world we can believe really exist. This may be part of a series but can be read without reading the previous books. I recommend reading them as they are all great reads.
I really identified with Carter, as I have been down the road he is on with my weight and how well meaning people tried to help me. (Although I’ve never had the same type of eating disorder, I do understand why he saw it as a solution.) I cried and cheered with him. Being on my own wellness journey currently I saw him as an inspiration by the end of the book.
This is definitely my favorite book by this author and I highly recommend it!
October 7, 2021
Sweet and heartbreaking at the same time
I have to be honest, I've been trying to avoid angsty books because I'm in a very fluffy frame of mind. However, I really wanted to read Carter and Samuel's story and I'm so glad I did. This isn't an easy book to read but despite it dealing with some pretty heavy issues (body dysmorphia, eating disorders, depression) it's still very much a sweet story. Carter was struggling so much and my heart broke for him. He was trying so much to please everyone else and pushing down his own needs and feelings in the process. Samuel was a bright ray of sunshine but he too suffered from the same kind of fears about his body and the judgment of others. I adored how dedicated he was to Carter and that his support didn't come with strings or with the kind of support that pushes for a certain outcome. What I really loved about this book was that it talked about something that gets ignored a lot. Men face just as much discrimination based on weight and body shape as women but in different ways. I just loved that this book recognised that judgment and body shaming happens irrespective of gender. Add that it was also a ridiculously sweet story of two people finding their person and finding the support and love they needed and it just becomes amazing.
I have to be honest, I've been trying to avoid angsty books because I'm in a very fluffy frame of mind. However, I really wanted to read Carter and Samuel's story and I'm so glad I did. This isn't an easy book to read but despite it dealing with some pretty heavy issues (body dysmorphia, eating disorders, depression) it's still very much a sweet story. Carter was struggling so much and my heart broke for him. He was trying so much to please everyone else and pushing down his own needs and feelings in the process. Samuel was a bright ray of sunshine but he too suffered from the same kind of fears about his body and the judgment of others. I adored how dedicated he was to Carter and that his support didn't come with strings or with the kind of support that pushes for a certain outcome. What I really loved about this book was that it talked about something that gets ignored a lot. Men face just as much discrimination based on weight and body shape as women but in different ways. I just loved that this book recognised that judgment and body shaming happens irrespective of gender. Add that it was also a ridiculously sweet story of two people finding their person and finding the support and love they needed and it just becomes amazing.
October 1, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up
I was given a free arc copy from the author for review.
This is the 4th book in this series but it can be read as a standalone. This book had alot of really sweet moments and alot of steamy moments too. I absolutely loved both of the main characters. They had amazing chemistry and complimented each other perfectly. There is a lot of hurt/comfort which I love. I absolutely loved how understanding and supportive they were of each other. This was very well written and the characters and the relationship were well developed. The relationship was very organic without any insta love though there is definitely some insta lust despite the fact that Samuel said he was Demi.
While I was interested in the story enough to read it all in one read and I did love the romance, the story didn't grab me overall. It dealt with so many aspects of eating disorders, body dysphoria, bullying, toxic and abusive family, addiction and depression, real struggle and personal growth, and I love that each topic was written so respectable and accurate but it was just a bit much for me. Also, the family ruined it for me. Regardless this was probably my fav in the series so far.
I was given a free arc copy from the author for review.
This is the 4th book in this series but it can be read as a standalone. This book had alot of really sweet moments and alot of steamy moments too. I absolutely loved both of the main characters. They had amazing chemistry and complimented each other perfectly. There is a lot of hurt/comfort which I love. I absolutely loved how understanding and supportive they were of each other. This was very well written and the characters and the relationship were well developed. The relationship was very organic without any insta love though there is definitely some insta lust despite the fact that Samuel said he was Demi.
While I was interested in the story enough to read it all in one read and I did love the romance, the story didn't grab me overall. It dealt with so many aspects of eating disorders, body dysphoria, bullying, toxic and abusive family, addiction and depression, real struggle and personal growth, and I love that each topic was written so respectable and accurate but it was just a bit much for me. Also, the family ruined it for me. Regardless this was probably my fav in the series so far.
October 9, 2021
Carter is a big boy who is constantly being pushed into losing weight by his mother and family. She even bought him a gym membership that has personal trainers. Carter is really struggling with body images and is relasping back into his bulemia. What Carter really wants is Daddy to love him the way he is but will help him make healthier decisions. He does try to go to the gym after repeated nagging from his mom. The gym assigns him the trainer Samuel who seems to have the magic touch in reaching Carter. The more time they spend together at the gym, the more Carter imagines Sam as his new Daddy.
Samuel is a great physical trainer and a Daddy dom. He is also a demisexual in that he isn't attracted to a man unless he already knows him and cares for him. Carter fascinates him in that he doesn't ever see his own beauty. Sam may not be Carter's Daddy but he will give Carter the success he needs to be When he finds out about Carter's bulemia, he is very concerned. If Carter will let him, Sam will become his temporary dad to give him the needed support to step away from bulemia again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Samuel is a great physical trainer and a Daddy dom. He is also a demisexual in that he isn't attracted to a man unless he already knows him and cares for him. Carter fascinates him in that he doesn't ever see his own beauty. Sam may not be Carter's Daddy but he will give Carter the success he needs to be When he finds out about Carter's bulemia, he is very concerned. If Carter will let him, Sam will become his temporary dad to give him the needed support to step away from bulemia again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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