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Cuddle Bear
The Shy Assistant
Maurice Baranov III has more feelings than he should for his boss, Mr. Guidry. He watches over Mr. Guidry as part of his job, and Maurice has given up on trying to keep his feelings in check, even though he hides them. Maurice doesn’t think of himself as the type of guy who gets a happy relationship. The last man he dated got angry when he started trying to lose weight. With all that past baggage, he can’t imagine pursuing Mr. Guidry, so he is left with one option—forever wishing he could be with the man he loves.
The Clueless Boss
Fenwick “Wick” Guidry comes from a long line of businessmen who are good at keeping their work and homelife separate. He is failing miserably at upholding the tradition because he has been unable to think about anyone except his assistant.
One Vicious Prank
After accidentally upsetting Maurice at the office, Wick invites him out for drinks to apologize. They meet up with Maurice’s cousin Lacey, who is having troubles of her own. Wick and Maurice promise to help her pull a prank on Edgar—a guy from their office who is annoying her—by agreeing to go on a double date. Who wouldn’t be shocked to arrive on a date and find their boss waiting? Will Wick be able to transform his role of fake boyfriend into a real relationship? Or will he be too scared to take the next step with Maurice?
Maurice Baranov III has more feelings than he should for his boss, Mr. Guidry. He watches over Mr. Guidry as part of his job, and Maurice has given up on trying to keep his feelings in check, even though he hides them. Maurice doesn’t think of himself as the type of guy who gets a happy relationship. The last man he dated got angry when he started trying to lose weight. With all that past baggage, he can’t imagine pursuing Mr. Guidry, so he is left with one option—forever wishing he could be with the man he loves.
The Clueless Boss
Fenwick “Wick” Guidry comes from a long line of businessmen who are good at keeping their work and homelife separate. He is failing miserably at upholding the tradition because he has been unable to think about anyone except his assistant.
One Vicious Prank
After accidentally upsetting Maurice at the office, Wick invites him out for drinks to apologize. They meet up with Maurice’s cousin Lacey, who is having troubles of her own. Wick and Maurice promise to help her pull a prank on Edgar—a guy from their office who is annoying her—by agreeing to go on a double date. Who wouldn’t be shocked to arrive on a date and find their boss waiting? Will Wick be able to transform his role of fake boyfriend into a real relationship? Or will he be too scared to take the next step with Maurice?
- GenresM M Romance
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2022
46 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Ki Brightly
91 books717 followersI spend most of my days writing, editing, and perfecting the craft of storytelling.
A note to readers: I don't hang out on Goodreads or social media, so if you have any questions about my books, please check out my website, which I host with M.D. Gregory.
A note to readers: I don't hang out on Goodreads or social media, so if you have any questions about my books, please check out my website, which I host with M.D. Gregory.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
November 2, 2022
Ki Brightly has such a unique and clever way of laying down a story, I'll honestly never get tired of their books. Each time I have the experience of reading one, I never know where they're going to take me, and it's so much fun!
Cuddle Bear is a contemporary romance, with opposites attract and office romance tropes. These characters are true individuals. Flawed, and quirky, and likable, and thoroughly human. Trust me you've never met guys like these in any other author’s novel, and it’s such a treat.
There's humor in the story, but it is also a heartfelt look at just what draws these two remarkable guys together... and what keeps them together as they weather the strains of daily life. Ki Brightly's insight into the crux of relationships always blows me away, and they've definitely nailed it in Cuddle Bear.
Cuddle Bear is a contemporary romance, with opposites attract and office romance tropes. These characters are true individuals. Flawed, and quirky, and likable, and thoroughly human. Trust me you've never met guys like these in any other author’s novel, and it’s such a treat.
There's humor in the story, but it is also a heartfelt look at just what draws these two remarkable guys together... and what keeps them together as they weather the strains of daily life. Ki Brightly's insight into the crux of relationships always blows me away, and they've definitely nailed it in Cuddle Bear.
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October 26, 2022Hello everyone!
I'm very excited to present Cuddle Bear to you! I was doing the finalizations on this book while I was sick with Covid, which was a struggle, but I really wanted to get this book out this month, and I was so ecstatic to make that happen!
Cuddle Bear is a sweet romance about two men who are struggling alone and would really do better together. Maurice has been crushing on Wick for years, and Wick has been doing his best to keep Maurice at arm's length, but they can't dance around each other anymore. I had a lot of fun writing Cuddle Bear and it was a nice change of pace for me, so I truly hope you enjoy it!
Cuddle Bear takes place in St. Loren, Louisiana, which is part of the New Gothenburg universe.
Happy reading!
~Ki Brightly
I'm very excited to present Cuddle Bear to you! I was doing the finalizations on this book while I was sick with Covid, which was a struggle, but I really wanted to get this book out this month, and I was so ecstatic to make that happen!
Cuddle Bear is a sweet romance about two men who are struggling alone and would really do better together. Maurice has been crushing on Wick for years, and Wick has been doing his best to keep Maurice at arm's length, but they can't dance around each other anymore. I had a lot of fun writing Cuddle Bear and it was a nice change of pace for me, so I truly hope you enjoy it!
Cuddle Bear takes place in St. Loren, Louisiana, which is part of the New Gothenburg universe.
Happy reading!
~Ki Brightly
November 11, 2022
This one was different...
If you have read my reviews before, I love Ki's stories. Which makes this review hard for me.
This one was written well, but I just did not feel like either character was fleshed out and I really didn't like either of them. They seemed like side characters in their own story. Its hard to explain, but I didn't feel that emotional oomph that I'm used to.
Maurice was the chubby one, who of course had the bad relationships and Wick was his boss who apparently knew nothing about interacting with people even though he owned his own company. I honestly did not understand why they liked each other, but they did. I get that Maurice was the perfect admin, but you need more than that for a relationship.
Not to be that person, but did this company not have an HR?
There were other things happening, like the bully at work that was allowed to do whatever he wanted. And an ex Wick was so jealous of, not to mention Maurices tantrums.
I did like the fact that Maurice did for some odd reason become the Dom. Its nice to have that role reversal. Oh and the leather shirt thingys. Those sounded hot.
If you have read my reviews before, I love Ki's stories. Which makes this review hard for me.
This one was written well, but I just did not feel like either character was fleshed out and I really didn't like either of them. They seemed like side characters in their own story. Its hard to explain, but I didn't feel that emotional oomph that I'm used to.
Maurice was the chubby one, who of course had the bad relationships and Wick was his boss who apparently knew nothing about interacting with people even though he owned his own company. I honestly did not understand why they liked each other, but they did. I get that Maurice was the perfect admin, but you need more than that for a relationship.
Not to be that person, but did this company not have an HR?
There were other things happening, like the bully at work that was allowed to do whatever he wanted. And an ex Wick was so jealous of, not to mention Maurices tantrums.
I did like the fact that Maurice did for some odd reason become the Dom. Its nice to have that role reversal. Oh and the leather shirt thingys. Those sounded hot.
November 20, 2022
I seriously adored this story, it felt a little softer and fluffier that what I usually expect form this author. They did a fantastic job with it!! Wick and Maurice both have feelings for the other but hide it. I liked how they were able to work through their past issues to be together. Their chemistry was off the charts! Overall, a fantastic read!! Well written with addicting pacing that kept me flipping the pages!
October 27, 2023
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed this one for the most part, it's a sweet boss/employee romance with a whole lot of steam. The thing that bothered me the most was the way Maurice treated Wick at times, I know he was self-conscious with his weight but I felt like he didn't take Wicks feelings into consideration many times. For example Maurice whose ex kept him a secret and knowing how much that hurts asks Wick to keep their relationship a secret. Then with the situation with his ex, I understood his pov of the situation but at the same time he seemed uncaring of how the whole thing would make Wick feel.
I really enjoyed this one for the most part, it's a sweet boss/employee romance with a whole lot of steam. The thing that bothered me the most was the way Maurice treated Wick at times, I know he was self-conscious with his weight but I felt like he didn't take Wicks feelings into consideration many times. For example Maurice whose ex kept him a secret and knowing how much that hurts asks Wick to keep their relationship a secret. Then with the situation with his ex, I understood his pov of the situation but at the same time he seemed uncaring of how the whole thing would make Wick feel.
October 28, 2022
What a sweet yet very realistic romance between a boss and his assistant. Wick our boss man really does not have a lot of common sense or street smarts when it comes to building real relationships. I found this to be interestingly true to some of my own life experience. I know some very smart, successful, hardworking people who struggle with the other parts of their lives. Maurice is smart and dedicated as well, but he has insecurities about his weight. He struggles to believe Wick is interested in him and he tends to run away from him. His reactions to the relationship they are developing feel very real and understandable. I could also feel Wick's genuine respect and admiration for Maurice. And yes, they do get hot together! Just takes these two a little while to fit all perfectly together. I was routing for them both all the way.
November 5, 2022
Je ne connaissais pas cet auteur... et pour une fois j'ai été attirée par un résumé... soit un patron et son assistant qui vont avoir une liaison. J'avoue que j'ai été totalement séduite par ce récit qui réserve de très bonnes surprises. Déjà, on est loin du "méchant" patron intimidant et grande gueule. Si Wick est un homme superbe et sophistiqué, venant d'une "ancienne" fortune du sud des Etats-Unis, il est surtout gentil et attentionné. Quant à Maurice, complexé par sa corpulence, il est nettement plus autoritaire, sec et même intransigeant que son patron.
L'excellente idée... mais vraiment (!!!) c'est d'avoir plongé nos deux hommes dans le boulot, cela apporte une normalité rafraichissante, on les voit bosser, subir une tempête aussi bien météorologique que relationnelle avec les employés et l'on s'aperçoit que les clichés du départ (le gros qui ne peut croire à ce qu'on l'aime, et le super patron riche et tombeur) se nuancent et même se renversent. Wick, ancien complexé et seul au monde, a du mal à s'affirmer de peur de perdre le peu de personnes qui l'entourent, et Maurice est un résilient qui a affronte jour après jour ses problèmes et les surmontent, sans avoir besoin de béquille pour survivre !
Le contexte est très présent. Nous sommes dans un état pas très progressiste du sud et on le sait. Les personnages apportent une touche intéressante et même émouvante. La relation amoureuse est attendrissante à souhait avec les deux points de vue qui mettent en valeur les fêlures et malentendus. Il n'y a rien d'autre à dire, c'est du très bon !
L'excellente idée... mais vraiment (!!!) c'est d'avoir plongé nos deux hommes dans le boulot, cela apporte une normalité rafraichissante, on les voit bosser, subir une tempête aussi bien météorologique que relationnelle avec les employés et l'on s'aperçoit que les clichés du départ (le gros qui ne peut croire à ce qu'on l'aime, et le super patron riche et tombeur) se nuancent et même se renversent. Wick, ancien complexé et seul au monde, a du mal à s'affirmer de peur de perdre le peu de personnes qui l'entourent, et Maurice est un résilient qui a affronte jour après jour ses problèmes et les surmontent, sans avoir besoin de béquille pour survivre !
Le contexte est très présent. Nous sommes dans un état pas très progressiste du sud et on le sait. Les personnages apportent une touche intéressante et même émouvante. La relation amoureuse est attendrissante à souhait avec les deux points de vue qui mettent en valeur les fêlures et malentendus. Il n'y a rien d'autre à dire, c'est du très bon !
October 25, 2022
3.5 rounded up to a 4.
Maurice is having a hard time, he ex verbally abused him and he hasn't forgotten how his ex treated him ever after 5 years apart. His ex wasn't the only one who body shamed him, his parents, other guys he's been on dates with, strangers he doesn't even know. He also has a crush on his boss.
Wick owns and runs his own company with the help of his assistant Maurice, the same Maurice he has a crush on. But he won't ever feel the same way, will he?
This story started out pretty slow but then picked up throughout the course of the story. It very much felt like start-stop. Their relationship would start to go somewhere and then Maurice would run. Or there was miscommunication and things would go awry. I loved the concept and description more than I loved the story and I'll explain why.
I had high hopes on really liking these characters, however, I felt that they lacked personality. These two never really full hot to know each other outside of work, unless you want to count when they sleep together. Or when they met Maurice's parents, (who are awful by the way.) I just felt like they didn't have much of a backstory. But! I still enjoyed this story, it was really well written and I enjoyed the fact that Wick took his company seriously. The background detail was really great, and despite everything I was still cheering them on.
Overall I recommend this to you.
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
Maurice is having a hard time, he ex verbally abused him and he hasn't forgotten how his ex treated him ever after 5 years apart. His ex wasn't the only one who body shamed him, his parents, other guys he's been on dates with, strangers he doesn't even know. He also has a crush on his boss.
Wick owns and runs his own company with the help of his assistant Maurice, the same Maurice he has a crush on. But he won't ever feel the same way, will he?
This story started out pretty slow but then picked up throughout the course of the story. It very much felt like start-stop. Their relationship would start to go somewhere and then Maurice would run. Or there was miscommunication and things would go awry. I loved the concept and description more than I loved the story and I'll explain why.
I had high hopes on really liking these characters, however, I felt that they lacked personality. These two never really full hot to know each other outside of work, unless you want to count when they sleep together. Or when they met Maurice's parents, (who are awful by the way.) I just felt like they didn't have much of a backstory. But! I still enjoyed this story, it was really well written and I enjoyed the fact that Wick took his company seriously. The background detail was really great, and despite everything I was still cheering them on.
Overall I recommend this to you.
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
October 31, 2022
This was a great read! It was funny and sweet, but also very emotional.
We get the story through the eyes of the two main characters, Maurice and Wick. The beginning of the story felt a bit abrupt to me, as we are thrown into an already existing story and dynamic between the two main characters. However, we quickly get to know them both better as their relationship grows and develops.
Because the work together, a lot of their interactions and most of the story evolves around work. However, we get treated to a lot of interaction outside of work, including a very funny adventure in an escape room.
Maurice is a bigger man and he gets to deal with certain issues because of this, like people making assumptions and feeling insecure. I think Ki really describes these issues with respect and doesn't sweep them under the carpet. This makes for some sensitive, but necessary points in the story and they made me fall in love with these characters even more.
There was very little action/suspense, just a nice, easy and sweet read. We get a couple of nice side characters, including a reference to someone you might know if you have read the book 'I'm not your butler' (also by Ki Brightly).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
We get the story through the eyes of the two main characters, Maurice and Wick. The beginning of the story felt a bit abrupt to me, as we are thrown into an already existing story and dynamic between the two main characters. However, we quickly get to know them both better as their relationship grows and develops.
Because the work together, a lot of their interactions and most of the story evolves around work. However, we get treated to a lot of interaction outside of work, including a very funny adventure in an escape room.
Maurice is a bigger man and he gets to deal with certain issues because of this, like people making assumptions and feeling insecure. I think Ki really describes these issues with respect and doesn't sweep them under the carpet. This makes for some sensitive, but necessary points in the story and they made me fall in love with these characters even more.
There was very little action/suspense, just a nice, easy and sweet read. We get a couple of nice side characters, including a reference to someone you might know if you have read the book 'I'm not your butler' (also by Ki Brightly).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 9, 2022
Wick is attracted to his assistant Maurice who returns the feelings but won't let Wick know because he feels Wick could do better than an overweight beau. Maurice's cousin, Lacey, gets involved and they fight because of it. A storm hits and they have to work together to save projects their company works on. Because of the storm, they cannot go home so spend a night together in a hotel. It changes their relationship and Maurice puts rules into place for them to follow. Wick does not like the rules but abides until he can loosen Maurice up. Then trouble happens at work. Can they survive the problem?
I liked this story. I liked Wick and Maurice. They are opposites but their attraction and feelings come through no matter what. I liked the alternate points-of-view of the story. I understand Maurice's hesitancy. His self-esteem has taken hits through the years. It seems Wick's has also. I enjoyed watching them break then change Maurice's rules. I was glad they had their happy ending. I wish Wick would have listened to Maurice and trusted him. I also wish Maurice would have been more open about his past with Wick. It would have caused less tumult in their relationship,
but I guess they needed it to learn to trust and listen and communicate.
I look forward to reading more of this author.
I liked this story. I liked Wick and Maurice. They are opposites but their attraction and feelings come through no matter what. I liked the alternate points-of-view of the story. I understand Maurice's hesitancy. His self-esteem has taken hits through the years. It seems Wick's has also. I enjoyed watching them break then change Maurice's rules. I was glad they had their happy ending. I wish Wick would have listened to Maurice and trusted him. I also wish Maurice would have been more open about his past with Wick. It would have caused less tumult in their relationship,
but I guess they needed it to learn to trust and listen and communicate.
I look forward to reading more of this author.
November 1, 2022
Cuddle Bear was a quick and sweet read. Boss/Employee, Fake Dating, Crush, misunderstandings, hurt/comfort and body positivity combine in this book to show us a well deserved HEA for two sweet characters.
Maurice is shy, but more than that, he's insecure about his body and his feelings and Wick is clueless and somewhat adrift on his own... so this book starts as a muddle and the men grow in both their feelings and in themselves throughout the book, making for a sweet HEA. I would have liked to see a little more relationship balanced with their work lives and more communication about themselves and their feelings, but overall it was a wonderful read and if you love a good cinnamon roll cuddle bear who needs to believe in himself and the man who helps make that happen, you'll want to add Cuddle Bear to your TBR.
This book can easily be read standalone (I did) but it does take place in a shared world environment that if you've read, you'll probably recognize some of the side characters.
Maurice is shy, but more than that, he's insecure about his body and his feelings and Wick is clueless and somewhat adrift on his own... so this book starts as a muddle and the men grow in both their feelings and in themselves throughout the book, making for a sweet HEA. I would have liked to see a little more relationship balanced with their work lives and more communication about themselves and their feelings, but overall it was a wonderful read and if you love a good cinnamon roll cuddle bear who needs to believe in himself and the man who helps make that happen, you'll want to add Cuddle Bear to your TBR.
This book can easily be read standalone (I did) but it does take place in a shared world environment that if you've read, you'll probably recognize some of the side characters.
November 2, 2022
Cuddly bear and Cuddly story
A lot of the stories from the New Gothenburg world that Ki Brightly writes in have more heavy plots than this lovely new addition to this world. I enjoyed this book right from the cover picture right to the end. I love the way that Maurice is portrayed on the cover and I mention that because too often I have read books that feature main characters on the bigger size of the spectrum and the cover features someone who is model thin. The way that Ms. Brightly wrote about his going to the gym and lifting weights was also great in pointing out that you can be healthy without being tiny and that Maurice has more trouble with what other people think of him.
The relationship between Maurice and Wick is as unusual and interesting as in all of Ms. Brightly’s books and was a marvelous read. I love the way this author and her regular partner in mischief M.D. Gregory both have of taking a well covered trope and switching things up. The boss and secretary falling for each other? Check! But not like you have ever read before.
A lot of the stories from the New Gothenburg world that Ki Brightly writes in have more heavy plots than this lovely new addition to this world. I enjoyed this book right from the cover picture right to the end. I love the way that Maurice is portrayed on the cover and I mention that because too often I have read books that feature main characters on the bigger size of the spectrum and the cover features someone who is model thin. The way that Ms. Brightly wrote about his going to the gym and lifting weights was also great in pointing out that you can be healthy without being tiny and that Maurice has more trouble with what other people think of him.
The relationship between Maurice and Wick is as unusual and interesting as in all of Ms. Brightly’s books and was a marvelous read. I love the way this author and her regular partner in mischief M.D. Gregory both have of taking a well covered trope and switching things up. The boss and secretary falling for each other? Check! But not like you have ever read before.
December 13, 2022
This novel is an office romance that takes place in the city of St. Loren, that is set in the larger New Gothenburg universe. There is a loose relation to the other stories set in St. Loren by means of returning characters, but it is not required to read those novels to enjoy this story.
Maurice is the perfect assistant that treats his duty to his boss as one of the most important tasks he has in life. Wick is the socially inept boss who runs his own business, and comes from old money.
Maurice, and Wick try to play a prank on the office bully who they think is harassing Maurice's cousin, Lacey. Their prank goes awry when they have way more fun, and way more in common than either of them thought possible.
This leads them on a fast paced love story that is low angst due to jealousy on Wick's part, and internalized fatphobia on Maurice's. This novel is fluffier than most of the New Gothenburg universe, but is well told throughout.
Maurice is the perfect assistant that treats his duty to his boss as one of the most important tasks he has in life. Wick is the socially inept boss who runs his own business, and comes from old money.
Maurice, and Wick try to play a prank on the office bully who they think is harassing Maurice's cousin, Lacey. Their prank goes awry when they have way more fun, and way more in common than either of them thought possible.
This leads them on a fast paced love story that is low angst due to jealousy on Wick's part, and internalized fatphobia on Maurice's. This novel is fluffier than most of the New Gothenburg universe, but is well told throughout.
December 19, 2022
Cuddle Bear
I absolutely loved this book! I read along while listening to the audio book. Ki Brightly wrote a fantastic book and picked a fantastic narrator. Keval Shah voice was absolutely amazing, I was not expecting that sexy Southern drawl.
I didn't realize until this book I LOVE a boss/assistant trope. There is just something about the way an assistant easily takes control of their bosses life, making everything run smoothly. I love that not only do they take care of them at work but also in their personal lives.
The thing I love the most about this book is the representation of bigger men. Not all men have a "body of a god" with a six pack.
I truly felt all of the emotion in this book. All of the insecurities of Maurice and Wick. There were parts where my chest ached and I wanted to cry. Ki's words were so powerful just as they were but Level Shah voice pushed me over that edge every single time.
I absolutely loved this book! I read along while listening to the audio book. Ki Brightly wrote a fantastic book and picked a fantastic narrator. Keval Shah voice was absolutely amazing, I was not expecting that sexy Southern drawl.
I didn't realize until this book I LOVE a boss/assistant trope. There is just something about the way an assistant easily takes control of their bosses life, making everything run smoothly. I love that not only do they take care of them at work but also in their personal lives.
The thing I love the most about this book is the representation of bigger men. Not all men have a "body of a god" with a six pack.
I truly felt all of the emotion in this book. All of the insecurities of Maurice and Wick. There were parts where my chest ached and I wanted to cry. Ki's words were so powerful just as they were but Level Shah voice pushed me over that edge every single time.
October 26, 2022
Maurice and Fenwick are a cute and adorable couple. Both wanting the other but afraid to make a move.
Maurice comes across as a quiet introverted character from the start of the story, (understandable based on his ex, parents and random strangers making judging remarks) during the relationship with Wick he seems to almost have a complete personality change, but in a good way. He seems stronger, more collected and capable of any and all challenges.
Wick adores Maurice and would pull the stars from the sky if it would make Maurice happy. He cant abide Maurice being upset or worried and becomes overprotective, making Maurice doubt his faith in him. I also loved that Wick was willing to be insecure and allow Maurice to see it. While I could see why Wick did what he did, I think Maurice had a failing in not expressing himself at the same time.
Another brill story...
Maurice comes across as a quiet introverted character from the start of the story, (understandable based on his ex, parents and random strangers making judging remarks) during the relationship with Wick he seems to almost have a complete personality change, but in a good way. He seems stronger, more collected and capable of any and all challenges.
Wick adores Maurice and would pull the stars from the sky if it would make Maurice happy. He cant abide Maurice being upset or worried and becomes overprotective, making Maurice doubt his faith in him. I also loved that Wick was willing to be insecure and allow Maurice to see it. While I could see why Wick did what he did, I think Maurice had a failing in not expressing himself at the same time.
Another brill story...
October 29, 2022
This was a very sweet story and I really liked Maurice and Wick. I do wish we had seen a little more of them actually falling in love with each other. They both had feelings for each other at the beginning of the story and fell in love quickly (even with Maurice refusing to believe that Wick could ever love him).
I did feel that Wick was a little too nice to be the boss of a huge company. He didn’t even want to fire Xadrian when he was spreading lies to clients and costing jobs. That made me scratch my head. Why on earth would he not fire him for threatening the integrity of his business? Then at the end, he was completely cruel to an employee (Wade) who got caught up with Xadrian and seemed to punish him instead. It did not fit into the characterization of Wick as a boss. I mean, I’m really looking forward to reading Wade’s story, but it just felt like a plot device to set up Wade’s story. And honestly a little unfair. Maybe I’ll feel differently once I read Wade’s story.
But in the end I really enjoyed these two and the stories it sets up.
I received an ARC for my honest review
I did feel that Wick was a little too nice to be the boss of a huge company. He didn’t even want to fire Xadrian when he was spreading lies to clients and costing jobs. That made me scratch my head. Why on earth would he not fire him for threatening the integrity of his business? Then at the end, he was completely cruel to an employee (Wade) who got caught up with Xadrian and seemed to punish him instead. It did not fit into the characterization of Wick as a boss. I mean, I’m really looking forward to reading Wade’s story, but it just felt like a plot device to set up Wade’s story. And honestly a little unfair. Maybe I’ll feel differently once I read Wade’s story.
But in the end I really enjoyed these two and the stories it sets up.
I received an ARC for my honest review
November 13, 2022
Normally I would associate Ki Brightly with intense and often dark books, so this one comes as a bit of a surprise. It's a really sweet story about a man that has been shamed his whole life because he's a "bigger" guy and his boss that sees past that and wants all of him.
I really wanted to like Maurice and Wick. I tried - but I kind of felt that they weren't as developed as they could have been. We get tiny glimpses of their pasts but not enough to truly lend any insight into why they were both so insecure and struggling. Their relationship flips back and forth and I'm never really sure who is supposed to be the dominant party. It's like reading about two subs and no one is really in charge, so they fumble along. I felt like if just one of them would pull up his big boy pants and be decisive then it would have flowed better. As it is, I never really believed in their connection and it left me feeling flat. There were moments that I thought it was going to pull itself up and take off, but invariably one of the characters would chicken out and we'd be back to the start again.
I absolutely love Ki Brightly and her books are usually riviting and thrilling - this one just didn't do it for me. It's well written but flat and I just couldn't get behind either character. I'd give this 3.5*.
I really wanted to like Maurice and Wick. I tried - but I kind of felt that they weren't as developed as they could have been. We get tiny glimpses of their pasts but not enough to truly lend any insight into why they were both so insecure and struggling. Their relationship flips back and forth and I'm never really sure who is supposed to be the dominant party. It's like reading about two subs and no one is really in charge, so they fumble along. I felt like if just one of them would pull up his big boy pants and be decisive then it would have flowed better. As it is, I never really believed in their connection and it left me feeling flat. There were moments that I thought it was going to pull itself up and take off, but invariably one of the characters would chicken out and we'd be back to the start again.
I absolutely love Ki Brightly and her books are usually riviting and thrilling - this one just didn't do it for me. It's well written but flat and I just couldn't get behind either character. I'd give this 3.5*.
December 12, 2022
Audiobook review:
This was an adorable story about a boss and his cuddly assistant. Wick couldn't function without his assistant Maurice. For the last few years he has taken more of an interest in him and when the opportunity to go on a date with Maurice popped up, he couldn't resist the chance. Maurice has been crushing on his boss for years but a bad breakup five years prior has left him scarred. When they finally give their relationship a real chance, they are hot and sweet together. Maurice really surprised me, I loved it! This was a great story with an engaging plot that kept me listening. It showed the concerns with interoffice dating really well. There was just the right amount of angst and trouble from fellow employees. Keval Shah did an incredible job voicing these characters. I liked the gravelly lilt of Wick and the subtle southern twang of Maurice.
This was an adorable story about a boss and his cuddly assistant. Wick couldn't function without his assistant Maurice. For the last few years he has taken more of an interest in him and when the opportunity to go on a date with Maurice popped up, he couldn't resist the chance. Maurice has been crushing on his boss for years but a bad breakup five years prior has left him scarred. When they finally give their relationship a real chance, they are hot and sweet together. Maurice really surprised me, I loved it! This was a great story with an engaging plot that kept me listening. It showed the concerns with interoffice dating really well. There was just the right amount of angst and trouble from fellow employees. Keval Shah did an incredible job voicing these characters. I liked the gravelly lilt of Wick and the subtle southern twang of Maurice.
November 7, 2022
Maurice has never had the body type that people call sexy, being on the bigger side has him dealing with many a rude remark and more from those around him. Sometimes this even led to bullying and because of this Maurice cannot believe that someone like Wick could ever be interested in him.
Their story is a sweet one and full of emotions. It was nice to see men who are not perfect in every way. I was quickly pulled into their story and engaged all the way to the end. Both men have issues that they need to deal with, and it was nice to see them turn to each other and find the trust and support that they needed. The two work well together and I enjoyed seeing them find their way. Wick and Maurice’s story is a nice romance that shows us the power of love.
Their story is a sweet one and full of emotions. It was nice to see men who are not perfect in every way. I was quickly pulled into their story and engaged all the way to the end. Both men have issues that they need to deal with, and it was nice to see them turn to each other and find the trust and support that they needed. The two work well together and I enjoyed seeing them find their way. Wick and Maurice’s story is a nice romance that shows us the power of love.
December 7, 2022
Let me start off with the fact that I'm personally on the "Cuddley" side myself which makes me a little bias in these stories.
But they are some of my favourite tropes. I feel like most of them have a air of fantasy about them. The big, hunky, possessive alpha, who everybody drools over only has eyes for shy, meek chubby person. Cuddle Bear did start out like all the rest, however it didn't stay that way.
I don't want to spoil too much but all the clichès were wiggled around. I thought it felt more real. Like it was actually a possible romance, less fantasy. Which I must admit I found refreshing.
Which ever way you like your chubby romances to go, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Cuddle Bear 🐻
But they are some of my favourite tropes. I feel like most of them have a air of fantasy about them. The big, hunky, possessive alpha, who everybody drools over only has eyes for shy, meek chubby person. Cuddle Bear did start out like all the rest, however it didn't stay that way.
I don't want to spoil too much but all the clichès were wiggled around. I thought it felt more real. Like it was actually a possible romance, less fantasy. Which I must admit I found refreshing.
Which ever way you like your chubby romances to go, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Cuddle Bear 🐻
October 29, 2022
An MM contemporary romance between a boss and PA. This was low angst and easy to read. Both the MCs have insecurities that they overcome and actually communicate with each other which is refreshing to read.
To get 5 stars I might have wanted to see more of a build up. They’d been working together for 2 years and we just get positioned at the start of their personal relationship. I like the build up of yearning. But equally we got straight into them without all the messing around…
The two MCs were equals and there was no dominant one as such although surprisingly cuddle bear was more in control.
I enjoyed this book and this author duo are a one click for me- no blurbs required.
To get 5 stars I might have wanted to see more of a build up. They’d been working together for 2 years and we just get positioned at the start of their personal relationship. I like the build up of yearning. But equally we got straight into them without all the messing around…
The two MCs were equals and there was no dominant one as such although surprisingly cuddle bear was more in control.
I enjoyed this book and this author duo are a one click for me- no blurbs required.
November 9, 2022
Definitely a lighter, cuddle-worthy read from a well known dark romance writer!
Maurice still suffers from emotional scars; long after an abusive relationship. Shamed for his appearance.
Fenwick "Wick" is the store owner and Maurice's boss. Just when it appeared Maurice was warming up to Wick, he pulls away.
Their relationship is a bit unusual and begins to develop as the book progresses. Once Maurice begins opening up to Wick, his personality shines in a way it hadn't before.
Completely love these two!
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
Maurice still suffers from emotional scars; long after an abusive relationship. Shamed for his appearance.
Fenwick "Wick" is the store owner and Maurice's boss. Just when it appeared Maurice was warming up to Wick, he pulls away.
Their relationship is a bit unusual and begins to develop as the book progresses. Once Maurice begins opening up to Wick, his personality shines in a way it hadn't before.
Completely love these two!
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
November 12, 2022
First thing, I absolutely love this cover and love the author because the model actually resembles the character! I absolutely loved this book! I thought it was very sweet and emotional. Maurice and Wick both work together, Wick is Maurice's boss. I loved how Wick wouldn't let his cuddle bear talk bad about himself. He kept telling him he was perfect the way he was, which is totally true! I Thought they made a perfect couple and had amazing chemistry. When Wick messed up, he owned it like an adult. Maurice did surprise me when it came to the steamy scenes, I loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 18, 2022
I loved this book. Maurice Baranov III is a assistant for Mr. Guidry. He makes sure Mr. Guidry has everything he needs to make sure things run smoothly at work. He has feelings for his boss but doesn't believe a man like himself will ever have a chance at happiness with a man like Mr. Guidry.
Fenwick Guidry is from a long line of businessmen. He prides himself on keeping his work and life at home separate. Wicks resolve is vanishing because he has feelings for Maurice. They go on a fake double date to help Maurice's cousin Lacey. Both Wick and Maurice wish it was real. Will Maurice be able to overcome the past and his insecurities to find love with Wick?
Fenwick Guidry is from a long line of businessmen. He prides himself on keeping his work and life at home separate. Wicks resolve is vanishing because he has feelings for Maurice. They go on a fake double date to help Maurice's cousin Lacey. Both Wick and Maurice wish it was real. Will Maurice be able to overcome the past and his insecurities to find love with Wick?
December 7, 2022
I listened to the audio version of this. I'm just a puddle of good feels, hope, warmth, and an emotional high after listening to this. Wick and Maurice's journey wasn't an easy one but, it was all the sweeter for everything that they had weathered separately and together and came out stronger and better in the end. I loved those two men and the opposites attract theme. I liked that Wick knew from his own past experiences a lot about how Maurice felt. Both men were relatable and likeable. I voluntarily listened to a free copy of this and am giving an honest review. The narrator did a great job bringing the characters and story to life. I enjoyed his different voices for the characters.
January 10, 2023
Contains: rich boss/assistant relationship, chubby, low self-esteem.
I like this story. As mentioned in the blurb, it's about a boss and his assistant who decide to help his cousin with a prank on one of their employees. He is supposed to surprise him by coming on their double date with his boss. This happens really early in the story. I was wondering what the author was going to fill the book with. If I was going to lose interest with an avalanche of unnecessary details, but NO! I was pleasantly surprised. The author keeps us in suspense as much on their professional side as personal. I liked it. Fluffy, low angst, with a race towards acceptance and trust.
I like this story. As mentioned in the blurb, it's about a boss and his assistant who decide to help his cousin with a prank on one of their employees. He is supposed to surprise him by coming on their double date with his boss. This happens really early in the story. I was wondering what the author was going to fill the book with. If I was going to lose interest with an avalanche of unnecessary details, but NO! I was pleasantly surprised. The author keeps us in suspense as much on their professional side as personal. I liked it. Fluffy, low angst, with a race towards acceptance and trust.
October 29, 2022
I read that Ki Brightly was worried about this book as it was sweeter than their other work but no need to worry, it’s fantastic! Maurice and Wick are so completely perfect for each other and the journey that we get to go on with them is wonderful. They are real people with real issues - this book is important. The battles that Maurice face and his insecurities with his weight are incredibly well written and made me understand more of what people go through every day. This story is sweet, lovely and just what I needed. 5 freakin stars!
November 8, 2022
An absolute snack of a delight!!!
I simply adored Maurice and Wick.
Both have some deep seated issues from their pasts which rear their ugly heads and almost cause them to end the relationship before it's even begun.
Thankfully they work through things and realize that neither one wants to change the other and they accept one another, flaws and all.
The passion between these two was off the charts.
I really enjoyed Lacey, she was a manic little pixie sprite and her love of dogs just further cemented her as one of my favorite characters.
I simply adored Maurice and Wick.
Both have some deep seated issues from their pasts which rear their ugly heads and almost cause them to end the relationship before it's even begun.
Thankfully they work through things and realize that neither one wants to change the other and they accept one another, flaws and all.
The passion between these two was off the charts.
I really enjoyed Lacey, she was a manic little pixie sprite and her love of dogs just further cemented her as one of my favorite characters.
October 28, 2022
This author does not normally do low angst stories but it was a nice change of pace. It was also great that one of the characters was not the tall ripped type and had body image issues. The other character had childhood body issues but now was handsome and had shed the weight. The book follows all the types of issues that someone without the six pack would have so very relatable. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more books set in the same town and characters mentioned in the book.
October 29, 2022
A well done book about love. Like the tag line says "love is for everyone". Maurice is a sweet character that deserves love, Wick is a sweet character that has a lot of love to give. They find each other, and both of them have certain issues about a lot of things in life, but together, they're working on it all.
Mentions of certain behaviours as a result of criticism about body image, but everything is so respectfully done.
Mentions of certain behaviours as a result of criticism about body image, but everything is so respectfully done.
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