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The Playground #1
Coffee and Ink
Cary Lederman reads a lot more these days, ever since he discovered the Playground, a great LGBTQ bookstore with an intriguing young owner. He only ducked in to get out of the rain the first time, but now along with his new reading habit he has someone to watch. Or watch over.
Benjamin Harrison is starting over after tragedy changes his life in Texas and becomes too much to bear. In Boston, he pours his heart and soul into his bookstore and the sparkly, comfortable apartment above it. When his deal to rent part of his store as a coffee shop falls through, though, Benjamin isn’t sure how much longer his dream will last.
Cary impulsively offers to fund and run the coffee shop because he knows he’s found exactly what he desires, mainly in Benjamin. The boy is all jangled nerves and confusion, and Cary loves to be the kind of Daddy who gives his boy guidance as well as showering him with love. Will Cary be just the kind of man Benjamin needs and never knew how to ask for?
Benjamin Harrison is starting over after tragedy changes his life in Texas and becomes too much to bear. In Boston, he pours his heart and soul into his bookstore and the sparkly, comfortable apartment above it. When his deal to rent part of his store as a coffee shop falls through, though, Benjamin isn’t sure how much longer his dream will last.
Cary impulsively offers to fund and run the coffee shop because he knows he’s found exactly what he desires, mainly in Benjamin. The boy is all jangled nerves and confusion, and Cary loves to be the kind of Daddy who gives his boy guidance as well as showering him with love. Will Cary be just the kind of man Benjamin needs and never knew how to ask for?
126 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 24, 2021
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44 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
September 23, 2021
I thought the story was cute, but the relationship didn't really pack a punch. It was super quick and I didn't feel like Benji knew enough about what it meant to be a boy to understand what he was getting in to. There just wasn't enough between them or enough of a story to get me invested in their romance.
September 22, 2021
3 Stars
While I enjoyed this one, I wanted to like it more than I did.
Once the relationship got going it got better for me, but I found I had issues with how they got together in the first place. Nothing major, it just didn't sit well with me. Cary admitted that he had been watching Benji for a couple of weeks, and even joked that it was bordering on stalking (yes it was) and yet when he finally introduced himself to Benji things progressed so quickly that it concerned me. Benji went from knowing absolutely nothing about Cary, to going into business with him and starting a daddy/boy relationship all within 24 hours. Benji had never even had a daddy before and only had his knowledge from books, so it didn't sit well with me that he gave up that much control and was willing to have someone he had met 24 hours before take over his life.
Benji was such a nice person, it felt a little naïve maybe at times, i would have liked to see him put his foot down and maybe push back a little. Cary was also a good guy. I did want to know more about his previous relationship as it was referred to a couple of times. This is the start of a new series, but I feel like I missed a previous book or series as there are secondary characters that are introduced and I felt like I should know them and how they got together.
Not a bad read. I'll be interested to see who the next book is about
*** ARC Provided by GRR.This is my voluntary and honest review***
While I enjoyed this one, I wanted to like it more than I did.
Once the relationship got going it got better for me, but I found I had issues with how they got together in the first place. Nothing major, it just didn't sit well with me. Cary admitted that he had been watching Benji for a couple of weeks, and even joked that it was bordering on stalking (yes it was) and yet when he finally introduced himself to Benji things progressed so quickly that it concerned me. Benji went from knowing absolutely nothing about Cary, to going into business with him and starting a daddy/boy relationship all within 24 hours. Benji had never even had a daddy before and only had his knowledge from books, so it didn't sit well with me that he gave up that much control and was willing to have someone he had met 24 hours before take over his life.
Benji was such a nice person, it felt a little naïve maybe at times, i would have liked to see him put his foot down and maybe push back a little. Cary was also a good guy. I did want to know more about his previous relationship as it was referred to a couple of times. This is the start of a new series, but I feel like I missed a previous book or series as there are secondary characters that are introduced and I felt like I should know them and how they got together.
Not a bad read. I'll be interested to see who the next book is about
*** ARC Provided by GRR.This is my voluntary and honest review***
September 30, 2021
Well... I am calling it quits on this author. Not because the story would be bad per se, but it is not my cup of tea. This is the third book by this author and I just do not enjoy them as much as I wanted to. The story is perfectly average. A bit weird at times and there are some logical errors (for example, character's arms wrap around the other from behind, but then it follows that they are pressed together from the front. Did he melt through or something?). I find the writing confusing and too abrupt. I can't get into the flow of it, and it is probably a me thing. In either case, the story was fine. Not the best, not the worst, more like average.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
September 24, 2021
This book was fun. Cary was watching Benjamin on the sly until the perfect opportunity arose to approach him. When it did everything moved at a hectic pace. Although this entirety of the book appears to be to happen over only a few weeks the characters are developed adequately and quite complex. Good standalone book
October 11, 2022
A happy place.
Cary stumbled into a bookstore out of the rain and right into a relationship with Benjamin. They find the mix they need to make it work.
Cary stumbled into a bookstore out of the rain and right into a relationship with Benjamin. They find the mix they need to make it work.
March 7, 2022
This was okay, moves very quickly and you don't find out much about Cary. They meet (after Cary hanging out in the bookstore for weeks) and Cary decides to run the cafe without nary a second thought. Decision made it in minute but how this guy has the time and money to do this is never really explained. You assume he sold a business or something but ... Also Benji has never been in a Daddy/boy relationship and let's Cary take over within hours of meeting him and he never really pushes back. I know these books are insta-lovey but it just kind of struck me wrong.
Anyway, not really my thing I guess.
Anyway, not really my thing I guess.
September 24, 2021
Passionate M/M romance with older Daddy and his new younger Boy
This book was a pleasant surprise for me. It was not into the BDSM parts of most Daddy/Boy books. My only problem was that Cary was heavy-handed with his Daddy attitude with Benji so quickly. I mean Cary barely got over his introduction to Benji before he started into his super forceful attitude. I think my opinion comes from Cary “stalking” Benjamin at his bookstore until he found an opportunity to introduce himself. So of course, Cary had been aware of Benji, his potential next Boy, long before Benjamin even knew Cary existed. Cary just starts in on the Daddy stuff way before Benji gets it. Makes for a different dynamic. I like that Cary grew as a Daddy because his new Boy needed him in a different way. I’m probably not explaining this very well. Read the story and see what you think.
This is not a long book but it gave enough character development to satisfy. I did want to find out what happened between Cary and Paul, his last Boy, which didn’t happen. There are some explicit M/M scenes which are s-t-e-a-m-y! There are some funny moments in their internal dialogue especially with Benjamin who thinks one thing but finds himself saying something entirely different. He shocks himself! I’d really like to see Matthew find a new Boy. Maybe Joey or Mickey??? And, what happened to Terry, Matthew’s previous Boy?
Anyway, lots of themes I hope get pursued in future books. I volunteered to review an ARC through Gay Romance Reviews. If you like explicit M/M older man/younger man stories with a forceful Daddy getting to know his new Boy, try this book.
This book was a pleasant surprise for me. It was not into the BDSM parts of most Daddy/Boy books. My only problem was that Cary was heavy-handed with his Daddy attitude with Benji so quickly. I mean Cary barely got over his introduction to Benji before he started into his super forceful attitude. I think my opinion comes from Cary “stalking” Benjamin at his bookstore until he found an opportunity to introduce himself. So of course, Cary had been aware of Benji, his potential next Boy, long before Benjamin even knew Cary existed. Cary just starts in on the Daddy stuff way before Benji gets it. Makes for a different dynamic. I like that Cary grew as a Daddy because his new Boy needed him in a different way. I’m probably not explaining this very well. Read the story and see what you think.
This is not a long book but it gave enough character development to satisfy. I did want to find out what happened between Cary and Paul, his last Boy, which didn’t happen. There are some explicit M/M scenes which are s-t-e-a-m-y! There are some funny moments in their internal dialogue especially with Benjamin who thinks one thing but finds himself saying something entirely different. He shocks himself! I’d really like to see Matthew find a new Boy. Maybe Joey or Mickey??? And, what happened to Terry, Matthew’s previous Boy?
Anyway, lots of themes I hope get pursued in future books. I volunteered to review an ARC through Gay Romance Reviews. If you like explicit M/M older man/younger man stories with a forceful Daddy getting to know his new Boy, try this book.
September 24, 2021
The writing flows really well in this novella: the characters have distinctive voices and personalities and those absolutely come through on every page. Their physical chemistry is super hot, and they spend plenty of time (but not so much it seems excessive) exploring it. When they settle into the flow of their relationship, they have some truly lovely moments together. Benjamin is a great character, and I love his creativity and his intellect. I honestly really enjoyed the book, with one caveat: Cary. Cary is a love or hate kind of character and I...did not love him.
His whole approach: giving Benjamin orders, then telling him after the fact what they mean about who Benjamin is and the kind of relationship they can have, really felt backwards and even, at times, manipulative. I didn’t love the month of stalking he did before asking Benjamin out, and some of the “rules” he made felt more self-serving than for Benjamin’s benefit. To be 100% fair, however, Benjamin has no complaints about the way Cary approaches their relationship or his role within it, and they do really work together. When they actually do start the day-to-day of being in a relationship, Cary works hard to make Benjamin feel cared for and cared about, and it’s really rewarding to see. I believe with my whole heart that Cary has good intentions and that he truly cares for Benjamin: even if I don’t like the way he does things all the time, I can be super happy that they work so well together, and I am.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
His whole approach: giving Benjamin orders, then telling him after the fact what they mean about who Benjamin is and the kind of relationship they can have, really felt backwards and even, at times, manipulative. I didn’t love the month of stalking he did before asking Benjamin out, and some of the “rules” he made felt more self-serving than for Benjamin’s benefit. To be 100% fair, however, Benjamin has no complaints about the way Cary approaches their relationship or his role within it, and they do really work together. When they actually do start the day-to-day of being in a relationship, Cary works hard to make Benjamin feel cared for and cared about, and it’s really rewarding to see. I believe with my whole heart that Cary has good intentions and that he truly cares for Benjamin: even if I don’t like the way he does things all the time, I can be super happy that they work so well together, and I am.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2021
*3.5*
Coffee & Ink is the first in a new series from Olivia Joy based around an LGBTQIA+ book store called The Playground. The owner, Benjamin, moved to town a few years ago after a family tragedy and is now in a bit of trouble because of someone pulling out of a business deal. Step in Cary, a non stalker who has been admiring Benji from afar for the last month and takes the perfect opportunity to save the day and connect with the young man. Cary's daddy nature naturally takes over and notices Benji's boy side, something he's not sure on and has definitely never spoken to anyone about. Cary's able to help with both business and personal, bringing the two very close and exploring a new relationship.
It is something that moves very quickly and so doesn't always feel like it moves at a good pace. I wasn't too sure on how Benji's lack of real life knowledge fared with Cary's Daddy ways, not forceful but determined in what he wanted. It didn't always feel like things were explained well to the younger man. However, there's no doubting how much Cary cares about him and his Benji comes to blossom under that care and attention.
It's a sweet, low angst Daddy/Boy romance with a little hurt/comfort in there that boosts the story a little. We're introduced to some entertaining and interesting characters that I'm looking forward to getting to know better across the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Coffee & Ink is the first in a new series from Olivia Joy based around an LGBTQIA+ book store called The Playground. The owner, Benjamin, moved to town a few years ago after a family tragedy and is now in a bit of trouble because of someone pulling out of a business deal. Step in Cary, a non stalker who has been admiring Benji from afar for the last month and takes the perfect opportunity to save the day and connect with the young man. Cary's daddy nature naturally takes over and notices Benji's boy side, something he's not sure on and has definitely never spoken to anyone about. Cary's able to help with both business and personal, bringing the two very close and exploring a new relationship.
It is something that moves very quickly and so doesn't always feel like it moves at a good pace. I wasn't too sure on how Benji's lack of real life knowledge fared with Cary's Daddy ways, not forceful but determined in what he wanted. It didn't always feel like things were explained well to the younger man. However, there's no doubting how much Cary cares about him and his Benji comes to blossom under that care and attention.
It's a sweet, low angst Daddy/Boy romance with a little hurt/comfort in there that boosts the story a little. We're introduced to some entertaining and interesting characters that I'm looking forward to getting to know better across the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
September 25, 2021
Coffee and Ink is a short and sweet “Insta-Love” story between Benjamin and Cary. Benjamin is a young man who has come to Boston to start a fresh new life running his bookstore after suffering a tragic loss. Cary has recently ended a long-term relationship as well as sold his business and is looking for the next chapter in his life. He spies Benjamin when hiding from the rain and tries to work up the courage to actually meet Benjamin. It all comes to a head one day when Benjamin loses his partner in the coffee side of his bookstore, Cary steps in to save the day. When you know you’ve met the right person for you, you know. Time is irrelevant. Cary seems to be a jump right in kind of guy who gets things done. Benjamin makes the best of whatever situation he is given. As these two bask in the comfort they find in each other, Benjamin is discovering a new and important aspect of who he is with Cary’s help. He doesn’t really understand the “Daddy/Boy” dynamic that he is introduced to when he first meets Cary but quickly comes to understand what it can mean to how he lives his life and his true happiness with Cary. I really enjoyed this story, the first I have read by Olivia Joy and I look forward to more books in The Playground series.
September 24, 2021
Oh an entirely new series by Olivia Joy. So that means at least two things: it will be a fluffy light read and it will be oh so good. I am a fan of this author anyway so I would automatically have to get it. It’s lighter on the kinky side but we have our Daddy/boy dynamic. Benjamin runs The Playground, an LGBTQ+ friendly bookstore, and everything he knows has come from reading. The person who was supposed to start the coffee shop on the other side of the store backs out and leaves him in a bind. Enter Cary, the man who has kinda low key been stalking him at the bookstore ever since he ran in one day to get out of the rain. Cary has been dying to get to know the cute bookstore owner and jumps on the opportunity to help the other man out. He definitely knows a boy when he sees one and this boy is in desperate need of a Daddy to relieve his stress and take care of him. If you are looking for a heavier kinky side, this book probably isn’t for you because Benji is a loving sweet boy who needs praise. I thoroughly enjoyed this sugar sweet book. We all need something that is no angst and fluffy to read every now and then.
September 25, 2021
I've given this book 3 stars for a number of reasons, mainly because I struggled to connect with Cary and Benjamin. This was largely due to things moving at about 100mph from the very beginning. Cary is a bored business man who has (before the book starts) discovered Benjamin's bookshop. Because Cary is interested in pursuing him romantically, when he visits and discovers Benjamin in need of someone to step in to fund the coffee shop section of the building, he jumps on the opportunity.
In theory, I can see how the two characters fit together; Cary is caring and supportive, Benjamin is sweet and the pair together have good chemistry. However, for me it all just moved a bit too fast. I think I'd have preferred it if we'd have started from the point where Cary first meets Benjamin, rather than jumping in at the point where it's a bit like he's been 'stalking' him for a few weeks. Overall, this is still a well written story with some sweet moments between the pair. If you read the blurb and like it, still give it a try and see what you think.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
In theory, I can see how the two characters fit together; Cary is caring and supportive, Benjamin is sweet and the pair together have good chemistry. However, for me it all just moved a bit too fast. I think I'd have preferred it if we'd have started from the point where Cary first meets Benjamin, rather than jumping in at the point where it's a bit like he's been 'stalking' him for a few weeks. Overall, this is still a well written story with some sweet moments between the pair. If you read the blurb and like it, still give it a try and see what you think.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2021
Olivia Joy is able to write these short novellas featuring kink so well. I loved the AirB&D series so much and I was eagerly awaiting The Playground series to come out. I just adored this book. Benji & Cary are perfect together. Benji is still discovering what it means to him to be a boy, but he knows Cary is the man to help him learn everything. Benji is hard working and dedicated to his bookstore The Playground. He wants a coffee shop to open soon inside and is excited when Cary says he is interested. Cary had no intention to open up a coffee shop but he needs to help Benji. Cary knows he can be the one to be there for Benji both in work and in private. He has been drawn to Benji since he first saw him and knows he wants to be with him.
Their relationship is sweet and steamy. They make each other happy and I really enjoyed their novella. I will be reading the next book in the series as soon as it comes out.
I did receive a free ARC of this book but that did not influence my review.
Their relationship is sweet and steamy. They make each other happy and I really enjoyed their novella. I will be reading the next book in the series as soon as it comes out.
I did receive a free ARC of this book but that did not influence my review.
September 24, 2021
This is the first book in what looks to be a great new series from this author.
This first book focuses on Cary, a retired businessman, who’s a little bored with his life. He hasn’t read a book in ages, but fate found him in a quaint little bookstore, owned by Benjamin one day. After watching Benjamin for a few weeks, he finally has the perfect opportunity to strike up a conversation with the younger man.
The Daddy in Cary instantly recognizes the boy in Ben. Ben is all sparkling fairy lights, and jangled nerves, and Cary makes it his goal to soothe and guide him. When a deal to open a coffee shop in Ben’s bookstore falls through, Cary steps in to help him out.
I really adored Cary and Ben together. While complete opposite, I loved how Cary never tried to dim Ben’s light. The attraction with these two was almost insta-love, and super steamy. This author’s books are always quick reads, so the action moves along at a fast pace. The side characters were interesting, and I’m hoping we will see their stories in future books.
This first book focuses on Cary, a retired businessman, who’s a little bored with his life. He hasn’t read a book in ages, but fate found him in a quaint little bookstore, owned by Benjamin one day. After watching Benjamin for a few weeks, he finally has the perfect opportunity to strike up a conversation with the younger man.
The Daddy in Cary instantly recognizes the boy in Ben. Ben is all sparkling fairy lights, and jangled nerves, and Cary makes it his goal to soothe and guide him. When a deal to open a coffee shop in Ben’s bookstore falls through, Cary steps in to help him out.
I really adored Cary and Ben together. While complete opposite, I loved how Cary never tried to dim Ben’s light. The attraction with these two was almost insta-love, and super steamy. This author’s books are always quick reads, so the action moves along at a fast pace. The side characters were interesting, and I’m hoping we will see their stories in future books.
October 6, 2021
Story: 3.5 Stars
This sweet combination of coffee, books, and insta-love romance makes for a steamy, low/no-angst mood booster.
Adorably quirky bookstore owner Benjamin and confident entrepreneur Cary are well-matched as partners - in business and the bedroom. Their charming meet-cute and smexy Daddy/boy relationship - a first for Benji - that follows is as hits-the-spot smooth as enjoying a hot latte on a chilly day.
Their relationship moves quickly and it's all fairly fluffy and delightfully exploratory. There is a very light touch of depth, largely stemming from Benji's backstory, and while I didn't feel much connection to the characters myself, it sets up more of an emotional connection between them than I'd expected.
Overall, I enjoyed this story between stern but caring Daddy Cary and his good but slightly naughty "Dragon Boy" (and no, that's not a reference to dragon shifters, lol) for the easy, breezy read it is, and I plan to continue with the series. I received an advance reading e-copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily. (Also read in KU.)
This sweet combination of coffee, books, and insta-love romance makes for a steamy, low/no-angst mood booster.
Adorably quirky bookstore owner Benjamin and confident entrepreneur Cary are well-matched as partners - in business and the bedroom. Their charming meet-cute and smexy Daddy/boy relationship - a first for Benji - that follows is as hits-the-spot smooth as enjoying a hot latte on a chilly day.
Their relationship moves quickly and it's all fairly fluffy and delightfully exploratory. There is a very light touch of depth, largely stemming from Benji's backstory, and while I didn't feel much connection to the characters myself, it sets up more of an emotional connection between them than I'd expected.
Overall, I enjoyed this story between stern but caring Daddy Cary and his good but slightly naughty "Dragon Boy" (and no, that's not a reference to dragon shifters, lol) for the easy, breezy read it is, and I plan to continue with the series. I received an advance reading e-copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily. (Also read in KU.)
October 19, 2021
What a sweet and delicious read! I adored Benjamin and Cary. Benjamin owns a book store that caters to the LGBTQ and everything in between. He loves his little shop that he bought after needing to leave Texas and start over on his own. His shop is very popular. Cary has made it his business to stop by several times a week to browse the books and especially the book store clerk who is too cute and sweet to ignore. After hearing Benjamin fuss about someone letting him down about renting out the extra shop attached to Benjamin's book store, Cary decides to open a coffee shop of his own there. He had been attracted to Benjamin from the first glance and he soon realizes that Benji is a boy and is everything he needs since he himself is a Daddy.
I enjoyed this quick, sweet read about Daddies and their boys and how they get to know each other better. I always look forward to any books from Olivia Joy and recommend each one highly! Enjoy!
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed this quick, sweet read about Daddies and their boys and how they get to know each other better. I always look forward to any books from Olivia Joy and recommend each one highly! Enjoy!
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2021
3-3.5 stars
This is a new author to me, and while I didn't not like the book, it didn't grab me fully I'm afraid. I really would have liked to know more about Benjamin and Cary individually, the whole thing happens over the span of about a week I think, and it's all so rushed.
I've read other Daddy/Boy dynamic books and this just didn't feel the same. I felt Cary was too overbearing and never really gave Benjamin a choice, there was no discussion of rules and I still don't understand why Benjamin can't drink all the coffee he wants.
So, the positives. I liked the bookshop/coffee shop setting, and meeting Cary's friends was fun. I'd like that little group developed a little more.
I liked this, I didn't love it and I don't know if I'm intrigued enough to pick up another in the series. If the blurb interests me then I might.
I received an ARC from GRR and this was my honest review.
This is a new author to me, and while I didn't not like the book, it didn't grab me fully I'm afraid. I really would have liked to know more about Benjamin and Cary individually, the whole thing happens over the span of about a week I think, and it's all so rushed.
I've read other Daddy/Boy dynamic books and this just didn't feel the same. I felt Cary was too overbearing and never really gave Benjamin a choice, there was no discussion of rules and I still don't understand why Benjamin can't drink all the coffee he wants.
So, the positives. I liked the bookshop/coffee shop setting, and meeting Cary's friends was fun. I'd like that little group developed a little more.
I liked this, I didn't love it and I don't know if I'm intrigued enough to pick up another in the series. If the blurb interests me then I might.
I received an ARC from GRR and this was my honest review.
September 26, 2021
Let me preface this by saying that I did— for the most part—enjoy this book. It was short, but it actually did have a lot of content. Benji is a young and naive business owner. Cary is the established older man who has been watching Benji from afar for weeks. Was that a little weird? Yes. When Cary finally introduces himself to Benji it sets things into motion quite quickly. Benji’s “little” tendencies are obvious to Cary as he is a “daddy”. After a first date between the pair of them, things progress almost immediately from there. Cary and Benji enter into daddy/boy relationship. Cary becomes involved in Benji’s business, and declarations of love are made. Because this was a short read, the timeline for all that happening felt like it occurred in a manner of days. That was hard to believe.
However, for the most part it was a good read.
*ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews, and I have given my honest and voluntary review.*
However, for the most part it was a good read.
*ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews, and I have given my honest and voluntary review.*
September 22, 2021
This is book 1 of a new series by Olivia Joy. I really liked the story premise and the characters in this story. They were fun and loveable, and I'm excited to see what develops in book 2. I had a little trouble with the flow of the writing, though. It seemed choppy at times, and some scenes it was hard to know who was talking or what was going on. There also seemed to be some information missing on some characters we didn't meet but who were mentioned; I wasn't sure who they were or what happened. I've read the entire Air B&D series by Olivia Joy and loved everyone of those books. I never came across any of the writing issues in those books, so I'm hoping this was just a fluke. It definitely wasn't enough to turn me off from this author though.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
September 24, 2021
A good story but I struggled to connect with the characters.
I'm really torn about this because I really like this author and was so looking forward to the Playground series but this book just fell a bit flat for me. I've rounded it up, but it was more a 3.5 than a 4 star. Don't get me wrong I still enjoyed it in the sense that the characters fitted well together and it was nice to see their relationship grow. However, for some reason I just felt zero connection to the characters and their relationship. I liked the premise but things moved really, really quickly initially and then seemed to stall out a bit. Maybe it was me and I was just in a mood (it's been known to happen lol). I would still recommend reading it (I'm probably just being a grump): Cary and Benji were cute and their relationship was sweet.
I'm really torn about this because I really like this author and was so looking forward to the Playground series but this book just fell a bit flat for me. I've rounded it up, but it was more a 3.5 than a 4 star. Don't get me wrong I still enjoyed it in the sense that the characters fitted well together and it was nice to see their relationship grow. However, for some reason I just felt zero connection to the characters and their relationship. I liked the premise but things moved really, really quickly initially and then seemed to stall out a bit. Maybe it was me and I was just in a mood (it's been known to happen lol). I would still recommend reading it (I'm probably just being a grump): Cary and Benji were cute and their relationship was sweet.
September 25, 2021
From Books to Reality!!
Benji owns The Playground, an LGBTQ+ focused bookstore, moving through life reading non-fiction books about Daddies and Boys. The day he's approached by Cary, everything he thought he knew, changed! This is a great introductory story to the Playground series. It was too short for my taste, of course. That has been one of my main complaints about the books of Olivia Joy. I was somewhat confused because in Chapter 2, Cary asks Benji if he's a little one. I wasn't sure if that was to mean he was interested in being a Boy with age play regression but it wasn't addressed again in the story. I love the brunch friends that Cary has and now Benji has them too. I hope we'll definitely be seeing more of them in the future.books! Found family seems like exactly what Benji needs!!!
Benji owns The Playground, an LGBTQ+ focused bookstore, moving through life reading non-fiction books about Daddies and Boys. The day he's approached by Cary, everything he thought he knew, changed! This is a great introductory story to the Playground series. It was too short for my taste, of course. That has been one of my main complaints about the books of Olivia Joy. I was somewhat confused because in Chapter 2, Cary asks Benji if he's a little one. I wasn't sure if that was to mean he was interested in being a Boy with age play regression but it wasn't addressed again in the story. I love the brunch friends that Cary has and now Benji has them too. I hope we'll definitely be seeing more of them in the future.books! Found family seems like exactly what Benji needs!!!
September 29, 2021
**ARC Review**
What a sweet romance. The daddy/boy kink was nice and easygoing. I loved how Cary pursued Benjamin...not in a creepy way but in a sweet and forthcoming way that Benji didn't know what hit him. Benji felt completely understood and safe with Cary. Things did move quickly but I didn't feel their feelings for each other was rushed or fake...definitely one of those instalove romances. No cheesy dialogue to make you cringe...their banter was cute, loving, sexy and sometimes HOT. The chemistry was on point and hardly no angst. Benji had some traumatic instances in his past and he is coping...good thing he has his Daddy Cary there to help him through. Again...a sweet romance and they guys had a lovely ending...no epilogue which is OK because I think we will see more romances develop from some of the side characters and I really am excited to read them.
What a sweet romance. The daddy/boy kink was nice and easygoing. I loved how Cary pursued Benjamin...not in a creepy way but in a sweet and forthcoming way that Benji didn't know what hit him. Benji felt completely understood and safe with Cary. Things did move quickly but I didn't feel their feelings for each other was rushed or fake...definitely one of those instalove romances. No cheesy dialogue to make you cringe...their banter was cute, loving, sexy and sometimes HOT. The chemistry was on point and hardly no angst. Benji had some traumatic instances in his past and he is coping...good thing he has his Daddy Cary there to help him through. Again...a sweet romance and they guys had a lovely ending...no epilogue which is OK because I think we will see more romances develop from some of the side characters and I really am excited to read them.
September 29, 2021
Sometimes, luck walks in the door. Cary and Benjamin meet at a time of great need for both. Benjamin, found solace in his bookstore the Playground, after suffering a tragedy. He is facing operating challenges when a potential deal falls through. Cary, is attracted to Benjamin. His inner Daddy protective mode is awakened when he sees something in Ben, that cries out for protection and comfort. Cary, watches Ben to determine what he needs and how he can help him. Cary, steps up and offers support for Ben's business dreams. Is Ben what Cary needs? Does Cary know what he needs? Does the Playground find success? Nice story. Ben is a bit presumptive, but he makes it work. Cary is a likeable man to whom, you just want good things to happen. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 24, 2021
Another fantastic story by Olivia!
This book is absolutely amazing! The story of Cary and Benjamin draws you in from the very beginning and doesn’t let go. Benjamin owns a bookstore that Cary finds himself in quite often. He also finds himself drawn to Benjamin. When Benjamin’s plans to add a coffee shop to the bookstore fall through, Cary jumps right in to save the day. Dinner together will lead to so much more and give Benjamin everything he never knew he needed. The more time they spend together, the more they realize just how much they need and complete each other. In the end, it makes for a heartwarming and steamy story that is well worth reading!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
This book is absolutely amazing! The story of Cary and Benjamin draws you in from the very beginning and doesn’t let go. Benjamin owns a bookstore that Cary finds himself in quite often. He also finds himself drawn to Benjamin. When Benjamin’s plans to add a coffee shop to the bookstore fall through, Cary jumps right in to save the day. Dinner together will lead to so much more and give Benjamin everything he never knew he needed. The more time they spend together, the more they realize just how much they need and complete each other. In the end, it makes for a heartwarming and steamy story that is well worth reading!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
September 26, 2021
M/M
Daddy/Boy
Workplace romance
Short story
I was given a free arc copy from the author and the GRR arc team for review.
I enjoyed the premise and the general plot idea but it just kind of fell flat IMO. I didn't feel connected to either character and didn't feel like they were very developed. I read it in one read but not because I was overly interested, just because it only took me a little over 2 hours to read it. To me the story was too short, the relationship too rushed and not developed enough and I didn't really feel any chemisty between them. I didn't hate it but I wouldn't recommend it. I love Daddy books and was looking forward to this one so that was disappointing. I found the other series kind of short and rushed as well so I'm thinking this author might not be for me.
Daddy/Boy
Workplace romance
Short story
I was given a free arc copy from the author and the GRR arc team for review.
I enjoyed the premise and the general plot idea but it just kind of fell flat IMO. I didn't feel connected to either character and didn't feel like they were very developed. I read it in one read but not because I was overly interested, just because it only took me a little over 2 hours to read it. To me the story was too short, the relationship too rushed and not developed enough and I didn't really feel any chemisty between them. I didn't hate it but I wouldn't recommend it. I love Daddy books and was looking forward to this one so that was disappointing. I found the other series kind of short and rushed as well so I'm thinking this author might not be for me.
September 24, 2021
First off the bat, these characters were just too nice, however I thought Cary seemed a bit stalkerish in the beginning. When Cary uttered the unthinkable words "No more reading ......", my throat constricted, my breathing became rapid and it felt like somebody was tightening a strap across my chest and my eyes shut. It took some time to calm down and see the rest of the sentence. Besides that, I suppose we read to find our perfect person for us and Cary and Benji found that in each other.
Will this make me stop reading books from Olivia Joy - absolutely not.
I received a copy from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
Will this make me stop reading books from Olivia Joy - absolutely not.
I received a copy from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
September 26, 2021
This is my first book by this author and I would give it a solid 3.5 stars. I enjoyed the characters and the premise of the story, even the insta-lust/love aspect. But it’s a novella and everything seemed to happen at lightening speed, from Cary and Ben meeting in the bookstore he owns to suddenly becoming partners in the bookstore/coffee shop and Ben diving heading into a Daddy/boy relationship when all he knows is what he’s read. They both seem to fit the missing piece for the other, I guess I just wished it were a bit longer. Would definitely be interested in checking out the next book in the series though.
September 26, 2021
Coffee & Ink is the first book in the series and a short story to be read in once.
Coffee & Ink means Coffee and books, my most loved combination, so I was really looking forward to this book. The combination of Benji and Cary is a sweet one. Yes at the end it went fast, but this is also how life can be. If two persons crush about each other, a relation ship can be settled fast.
Coffee & ink is a great, no-angst romance and I’m looking forward to the other books in this series, meeting Cary and Benji again, seeing how everything goes on with the other characters and meeting new people in the book store and the coffee shop.
Coffee & Ink means Coffee and books, my most loved combination, so I was really looking forward to this book. The combination of Benji and Cary is a sweet one. Yes at the end it went fast, but this is also how life can be. If two persons crush about each other, a relation ship can be settled fast.
Coffee & ink is a great, no-angst romance and I’m looking forward to the other books in this series, meeting Cary and Benji again, seeing how everything goes on with the other characters and meeting new people in the book store and the coffee shop.
September 26, 2021
This was fluff, fluff, and more fluff, with a dose of super sweet Daddy kink. I read every page of this novella, and finished it today, but looking back I don't think much happened, really. It was a short read for sure, and most of it felt like everyday life without enough to spice it up. The way in which this author writes dialogue definitely doesn't work for me and meant that the characters' interactions sometimes fell flat. However, I think that this read will appeal to people who like fluffy Daddy MM romance. I just need a bit more.
**I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review**
**I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review**
September 28, 2021
This was a cute daddy boy fast paced instalove. It was short and sweet and really delivered. I loved Cary and Benji's dynamic though it developed fast. Carry is a winner stepping in to help his boy right away. This book also left you wanting so much more from the playground and characters you could really feel and relate to. If you're looking for a short and sweet romance with unique dynamic this read is worth your while. I'm dying to read more of this series and Olivia Joy is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. This book comes highly recommended as something short but worth your while. I received an arc in exchange for my honest review.
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