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Bears-4-U
Keep Me
Snowed in for a second chance at love...
BECKETT
It’s been over two years since I lost my darling husband, and my best friend is taking matters into her own hands. She’s signed me up to a dating app for bears and those that love them, even encouraging me to attend a weekend mixer. I go to humor her, not expecting to rescue the most adorable boy…twice. But I’m not ready to open up my heart again, am I?
LAURIE
My last Daddy was bad news. It’s taken a lot of courage for me to reach out on Bears-4-U and go to this mixer, only to find that the new Daddy I’ve been talking to is just as awful. That’s when Beckett swoops into my life like a hero in a story book. I know he’s not looking for love, but I want to mend his broken heart so badly. When a scary snowstorm blows in and strands us, I trust he’ll keep me safe and warm. I want to be in his life, in his bed, in his heart…forever.
Bears-4-U is a MM Daddy romance multi-author series, featuring a host of delicious Daddy pairings. The Bears-4-U dating app is all about putting Bears and Teddy Bears together for their honey-sweet HEAs. Psst, no real bears involved. Each book can be read as a standalone, but why not snuggle up with all the bears?
BECKETT
It’s been over two years since I lost my darling husband, and my best friend is taking matters into her own hands. She’s signed me up to a dating app for bears and those that love them, even encouraging me to attend a weekend mixer. I go to humor her, not expecting to rescue the most adorable boy…twice. But I’m not ready to open up my heart again, am I?
LAURIE
My last Daddy was bad news. It’s taken a lot of courage for me to reach out on Bears-4-U and go to this mixer, only to find that the new Daddy I’ve been talking to is just as awful. That’s when Beckett swoops into my life like a hero in a story book. I know he’s not looking for love, but I want to mend his broken heart so badly. When a scary snowstorm blows in and strands us, I trust he’ll keep me safe and warm. I want to be in his life, in his bed, in his heart…forever.
Bears-4-U is a MM Daddy romance multi-author series, featuring a host of delicious Daddy pairings. The Bears-4-U dating app is all about putting Bears and Teddy Bears together for their honey-sweet HEAs. Psst, no real bears involved. Each book can be read as a standalone, but why not snuggle up with all the bears?
162 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 7, 2023
About the author
H.J. Welch
41 books301 followersHJ Welch is a British author of contemporary American MM small town series and books in multi authored shared universes, including the international number one bestselling Homecoming Hearts. She lives just outside of London with her husband and three balls of fluff that occasionally pretend to be cats.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary British MM fairy tale adaptation as Helen Juliet, including bestsellers Thorn in His Side, A Right Royal Affair, and Three.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary British MM fairy tale adaptation as Helen Juliet, including bestsellers Thorn in His Side, A Right Royal Affair, and Three.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
March 18, 2023
I like the idea of the Bears-4-U app so I wanted to read another book in this series. This was a Daddy-Boy book but does NOT involve age play for those of you who don't like that trope.
This was a sweet story about someone who has lost a spouse and someone who hasn't found the right partner. Beckett and Laurie both go to a retreat sp0nsored by the Bears-4-U app. Beckett lost his husband and his friend pushed him into going to the retreat to start mingling again. Laurie had been in a bad relationship and went to the retreat to meet in person the guy he'd been messaging with from the app. That guy turned out to be a creep and very aggressive. Beckett saved Laurie from him and Instalove was the result! I don't mind Instalove and thought this was a good meet up for the MC's.
This is my first book by this author and I really enjoyed the writing style. I'll be looking for more by this author.
ARC provided by GRR
This was a sweet story about someone who has lost a spouse and someone who hasn't found the right partner. Beckett and Laurie both go to a retreat sp0nsored by the Bears-4-U app. Beckett lost his husband and his friend pushed him into going to the retreat to start mingling again. Laurie had been in a bad relationship and went to the retreat to meet in person the guy he'd been messaging with from the app. That guy turned out to be a creep and very aggressive. Beckett saved Laurie from him and Instalove was the result! I don't mind Instalove and thought this was a good meet up for the MC's.
This is my first book by this author and I really enjoyed the writing style. I'll be looking for more by this author.
ARC provided by GRR
March 7, 2023
4.5 Stars. This was a super cute, sweet Daddy/boy romance. I loved Beckett and Laurie from the very beginning and was intrigued with their story. I was able to relate to Laurie and loved seeing him finally find a Daddy to make him happy!
I also learned a whole new language in this book full of bears, teddy bears, bear cubs and Daddy bears! 🧸🐻
I loved the give and take between Beckett and Laurie. It was absolutely not a one-sided relationship with Daddy Beckett doing all the taking care of. Laurie always wanted to make sure that Beckett was ok as well.
Beckett’s husband Shawn had passed away two years ago and I was so happy with how much Shawn was still a huge part of the story. Even though Beckett was moving on Shawn was always there with him and Laurie never felt jealous or upset with that, always wanting Shawn to be a part of their relationship. There was one line in this book about puzzle pieces that will stick with me forever. It was such a beautiful sentiment about love after loss.
This is a short, low-angst (between MCs, some angst outside of relationship) romance. There was good closure and a great HEA. This was a major insta-love story which wasn’t always quite believable but it was such a sweet story that it still worked. This is the second book I have read in the Bears-4-U multi-author universe. They are all stand-alones and do not have to be read in any order but I absolutely recommend both of the ones I have read!
I also learned a whole new language in this book full of bears, teddy bears, bear cubs and Daddy bears! 🧸🐻
I loved the give and take between Beckett and Laurie. It was absolutely not a one-sided relationship with Daddy Beckett doing all the taking care of. Laurie always wanted to make sure that Beckett was ok as well.
Beckett’s husband Shawn had passed away two years ago and I was so happy with how much Shawn was still a huge part of the story. Even though Beckett was moving on Shawn was always there with him and Laurie never felt jealous or upset with that, always wanting Shawn to be a part of their relationship. There was one line in this book about puzzle pieces that will stick with me forever. It was such a beautiful sentiment about love after loss.
This is a short, low-angst (between MCs, some angst outside of relationship) romance. There was good closure and a great HEA. This was a major insta-love story which wasn’t always quite believable but it was such a sweet story that it still worked. This is the second book I have read in the Bears-4-U multi-author universe. They are all stand-alones and do not have to be read in any order but I absolutely recommend both of the ones I have read!
March 15, 2023
This was a sweet meet cute with Beckett (Daddy) meeting Laurie at a Daddies meet up. He saves Laurie from a difficult situation and the two fall for each other rather quickly. Beckett is still grieving a little the loss of his husband but he is such a beautiful man and Laurie is quite the adorable little teddy bear boy.
Overall this was a quick but sweet read.
ARC provided for my honest review
Overall this was a quick but sweet read.
ARC provided for my honest review
March 16, 2023
Very sweet and somewhat fluffy part of a multi author series based on a well thought out app. This isn't my personal favourite but still well written and enjoyable. I thought that Beckett's choices in outward appearance sounded very charming, and it matched his personality.
March 14, 2023
TW: grief, parental emotional abuse and food policing and body comments (it happens in the past, but some readers might the language upsetting), on-page attempted SA that does not happen
I loved this sweet, low-angst, insta-love novella—plus it has tropes I seriously adore: only one bed, forced proximity, a widower finding love again.
Beckett was such a sweet, caring character, and I loved how he always ensured that Laurie felt safe with him and respected him unconditionally. I was also happy that Beckett’s late husband featured throughout the story; it was really clear that Beckett and Shawn had a very loving and happy marriage, and I found it very realistic that Beckett would still have part of Shawn in his life.
I loved that Laurie understood this love and grief from the very beginning and never felt excluded, jealous, or upset; it showed how emotionally mature Laurie really is. I also enjoyed the fact that, while Beckett was definitely the Daddy in this story, Laurie also took care of Beckett and seemed to know what he needed when he was upset. It added a lovely dimension to their relationship.
I loved how Laurie used affirmations about loving himself—it’s definitely a thing I do as well—and how willing he was to try for love again, especially after having been treated so awfully in his past relationship. Seeing how Laurie learns to stand up for himself by the end of the story was great, and I loved that he didn’t back down when it mattered.
I’ve read a few of the Bears-4-U series, and I love this installment just as much as the others. It really is a great series (all standalones and can be read in any order) and gives such a wonderful representation of different types of relationships.
I loved this sweet, low-angst, insta-love novella—plus it has tropes I seriously adore: only one bed, forced proximity, a widower finding love again.
Beckett was such a sweet, caring character, and I loved how he always ensured that Laurie felt safe with him and respected him unconditionally. I was also happy that Beckett’s late husband featured throughout the story; it was really clear that Beckett and Shawn had a very loving and happy marriage, and I found it very realistic that Beckett would still have part of Shawn in his life.
I loved that Laurie understood this love and grief from the very beginning and never felt excluded, jealous, or upset; it showed how emotionally mature Laurie really is. I also enjoyed the fact that, while Beckett was definitely the Daddy in this story, Laurie also took care of Beckett and seemed to know what he needed when he was upset. It added a lovely dimension to their relationship.
I loved how Laurie used affirmations about loving himself—it’s definitely a thing I do as well—and how willing he was to try for love again, especially after having been treated so awfully in his past relationship. Seeing how Laurie learns to stand up for himself by the end of the story was great, and I loved that he didn’t back down when it mattered.
I’ve read a few of the Bears-4-U series, and I love this installment just as much as the others. It really is a great series (all standalones and can be read in any order) and gives such a wonderful representation of different types of relationships.
March 19, 2023
Very sweet daddy/ boy story without age play. I really liked the characters and the storyline. Beckett and Laurie make a great couple that compliment and fill something missing in the other. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review.
March 8, 2023
Intellectually, this book is like 3.75 stars, but emotionally it was 5 stars for me. I read romance for the emotions, primarily, so I told my brain to hush up and me and my heart compromised on a 4.5 star rating.
This has so many of my fave tropes: age gap, snowed in, vacation romance, caretaking . . . and I always have a soft spot for widowers finding love again. I cried multiple times reading this, and had a grand time all around.
Instalove does not always work for me, but for some reason, I could buy it here and just rolled with it. The villain is pretty irredeemable, which is reminiscent of the author's fairytale retellings series, and sometimes you just want a character you can hate without feeling bad about it.
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews, but then borrowed it from KU the next day, so I could keep my many highlights.
This has so many of my fave tropes: age gap, snowed in, vacation romance, caretaking . . . and I always have a soft spot for widowers finding love again. I cried multiple times reading this, and had a grand time all around.
Instalove does not always work for me, but for some reason, I could buy it here and just rolled with it. The villain is pretty irredeemable, which is reminiscent of the author's fairytale retellings series, and sometimes you just want a character you can hate without feeling bad about it.
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews, but then borrowed it from KU the next day, so I could keep my many highlights.
April 4, 2025
4.5 stars.
I read this last year. I stepped away from pretty much everything for a while, so I'm only now publishing my review.
There are a few things in this book that may trigger some readers - death of spouse two years before, attempted sexual assault, past childhood verbal abuse. I suggest reading the trigger warnings in the beginning of the book for more information.
Beckett lost his husband Shawn two years ago. He's finally at a point in his mourning where he may be able to love again. Even so, he's not rushing to find him a new man. He loved Shawn deeply, and knows Shawn would want him to be happy, but he's still unsure.
Laurie had bad luck with his last Daddy. Without giving away spoilers, I'll just say the guy was a snake. Laurie doesn't have much self-confidence, so it takes a lot for him to make a dating profile on Bears-4-U, a dating app that mostly caters to bringing bears and cubs together. There's a mixer coming up at a lodge not far from where he lives. With encouragement from his mother, Laurie signs up for it. He even talks to a guy via the app, who goes by Pancake Papa, and plans to meet him there.
Beckett's best friend Heather secretly creates a profile for him on Bears-4-U. He's not overly thrilled when he finds out about it, but she pushes until he checks it out. She pushes him even more to sign up for the upconing weekend Daddy/Bear mixer. He eventually gives in, thinking maybe he'll have a nice weekend in a beautiful place, and maybe he'll make a few new friends.
Laurie and Beckett's meeting isn't exactly Laurie's finest moment. Laurie has just been saved from falling on his butt in the parking lot of the lodge where the mixer is being held. They talk some, then check into the lodge and go their different ways.
Only neither man can stop thinking about the other one.
They come back together later when Beckett basically rescues Laurie from Pancake Papa who turns out to be a major loser. One thing leads to another, and Beckett and Laurie have dinner together, with plans to meet up the next day.
A lot happens over the next two days. There's an accident, a snowstorm, a power outage, a violent incident with Mick (aka Pancake Papa), some naughtiness with edible chocolate body paint, a little matchmaking from one of the sweet co-owners, along with a Daddy Bear (Beckett) and Baby Bear (Laurie) discovering that sometimes it's good to take a chance.
As I said, things happen pretty fast. Even so, everything seemed to happen exactly as it should have. There's a lot of talk about Shawn, Beckett's late husband, but I didn't find it to be overkill. I actually loved how Laurie handled it. He didn't feel like he was competing with Beckett's late husband. He understood that Beckett had enough love for both Shawn and him. It was actually kind of sweet.
I had an issue with Heather, Beckett's best friend, early on. I'm so over busybody friends in books. Everything worked out in the end, so it's all good.
This is a super sweet romance with some really nice characters. Watching both men come into their own as they discovered each other was perfect.
I read this last year. I stepped away from pretty much everything for a while, so I'm only now publishing my review.
There are a few things in this book that may trigger some readers - death of spouse two years before, attempted sexual assault, past childhood verbal abuse. I suggest reading the trigger warnings in the beginning of the book for more information.
Beckett lost his husband Shawn two years ago. He's finally at a point in his mourning where he may be able to love again. Even so, he's not rushing to find him a new man. He loved Shawn deeply, and knows Shawn would want him to be happy, but he's still unsure.
Laurie had bad luck with his last Daddy. Without giving away spoilers, I'll just say the guy was a snake. Laurie doesn't have much self-confidence, so it takes a lot for him to make a dating profile on Bears-4-U, a dating app that mostly caters to bringing bears and cubs together. There's a mixer coming up at a lodge not far from where he lives. With encouragement from his mother, Laurie signs up for it. He even talks to a guy via the app, who goes by Pancake Papa, and plans to meet him there.
Beckett's best friend Heather secretly creates a profile for him on Bears-4-U. He's not overly thrilled when he finds out about it, but she pushes until he checks it out. She pushes him even more to sign up for the upconing weekend Daddy/Bear mixer. He eventually gives in, thinking maybe he'll have a nice weekend in a beautiful place, and maybe he'll make a few new friends.
Laurie and Beckett's meeting isn't exactly Laurie's finest moment. Laurie has just been saved from falling on his butt in the parking lot of the lodge where the mixer is being held. They talk some, then check into the lodge and go their different ways.
Only neither man can stop thinking about the other one.
They come back together later when Beckett basically rescues Laurie from Pancake Papa who turns out to be a major loser. One thing leads to another, and Beckett and Laurie have dinner together, with plans to meet up the next day.
A lot happens over the next two days. There's an accident, a snowstorm, a power outage, a violent incident with Mick (aka Pancake Papa), some naughtiness with edible chocolate body paint, a little matchmaking from one of the sweet co-owners, along with a Daddy Bear (Beckett) and Baby Bear (Laurie) discovering that sometimes it's good to take a chance.
As I said, things happen pretty fast. Even so, everything seemed to happen exactly as it should have. There's a lot of talk about Shawn, Beckett's late husband, but I didn't find it to be overkill. I actually loved how Laurie handled it. He didn't feel like he was competing with Beckett's late husband. He understood that Beckett had enough love for both Shawn and him. It was actually kind of sweet.
I had an issue with Heather, Beckett's best friend, early on. I'm so over busybody friends in books. Everything worked out in the end, so it's all good.
This is a super sweet romance with some really nice characters. Watching both men come into their own as they discovered each other was perfect.
March 9, 2023
**********Contains Spoilers**********
This was the first book I’ve read in this new multi-author series. This was a super cute and chocked full of sweetness read. It’s very insta-love but I think Shawn, Beckett’s deceased husband was pushing them together (from beyond the grave) as Beckett seemed to be in the right place at the right time when Beckett needed help but that could just be me. I thought Beckett and Laurie were great together. Beckett’s friend signed him up to the Bears-4-U dating app so he can meet someone after losing his husband Shawn. Even if nothing romantic comes from attending the get together of like minded people, he can just make some friends.
Laurie hasn’t had the best of luck with his past relationships, and he’s been talking to a guy through the app that seems promising and he’s going to meet him face to face for the first time at the get together for app users. Before he can even make it inside he’s rescues by a caring and dashing man that he hopes is the man he’s been talking to but he’s not. Beckett checks in with Laurie to see if he’s okay from his tumble on the stairs, helps him check in and then walks him to his room. Laurie hasn’t felt that safe if someone’s presence in ages.
I liked that when Laurie found out about Shawn, his initial reaction after seeing Beckett’s wedding ring was outrage but that’s because his last boyfriend was married to a women and constantly lied to Laurie, but as soon as Beckett told him that his husband Shawn has passed away Laurie was happy to learn all about Shawn, and that when things become serious between them he never minded that Beckett still wore his wedding ring and enjoyed talking about how much Shawn meant to Beckett. I’m going to check out more books in this series after reading this one. I’d definitely recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
This was the first book I’ve read in this new multi-author series. This was a super cute and chocked full of sweetness read. It’s very insta-love but I think Shawn, Beckett’s deceased husband was pushing them together (from beyond the grave) as Beckett seemed to be in the right place at the right time when Beckett needed help but that could just be me. I thought Beckett and Laurie were great together. Beckett’s friend signed him up to the Bears-4-U dating app so he can meet someone after losing his husband Shawn. Even if nothing romantic comes from attending the get together of like minded people, he can just make some friends.
Laurie hasn’t had the best of luck with his past relationships, and he’s been talking to a guy through the app that seems promising and he’s going to meet him face to face for the first time at the get together for app users. Before he can even make it inside he’s rescues by a caring and dashing man that he hopes is the man he’s been talking to but he’s not. Beckett checks in with Laurie to see if he’s okay from his tumble on the stairs, helps him check in and then walks him to his room. Laurie hasn’t felt that safe if someone’s presence in ages.
I liked that when Laurie found out about Shawn, his initial reaction after seeing Beckett’s wedding ring was outrage but that’s because his last boyfriend was married to a women and constantly lied to Laurie, but as soon as Beckett told him that his husband Shawn has passed away Laurie was happy to learn all about Shawn, and that when things become serious between them he never minded that Beckett still wore his wedding ring and enjoyed talking about how much Shawn meant to Beckett. I’m going to check out more books in this series after reading this one. I’d definitely recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
March 19, 2023
Beckett came from England and married the boy he thought he would be with forever. Beckett is a Daddy who loves teddy bear type boys and wants to take care of them. A couple of years ago his husband and boy died of cancer. Beckett is having problems letting go of his grief. His best friend is worried about him and tries to get him to go out again by signing him up on a Bears-4-u dating app. She wants him to go to a local bear picnic and meet some boys. Beckett decides to go just for a change of scenery and to try to see if he is ready to be a Daddy again. Upon arrival at the resort, a cute boy falls right into his arms when he slips on the steps. Laurie is so sweet and shy, Beckett just wants to protect him. However Laurie is planning on meeting a possible Daddy. Beckett decides to go to the meet and greet just to keep an eye on Laurie. He is there to protect Laurie when his potential Daddy tries to go too far.
Laurie is a shy and insecure boy who recently got out of a bad relationship. His last Daddy lied to him and was very controlling. Laurie wants to find a good daddy but play it safe. That is why he used the Bears-4-U app. He met a Daddy called Pancake Daddy who seem he might be a good Daddy so they planned to meet at the teddy bear picnic. Laurie is very nervous and almost falls upon arrival, Luckily Beckett is there to save him and treats Laurie the way he always wanted to be treated. He wishes that Beckett was the Daddy that he arranged to meet. When Laurie meets Pancake Daddy, he learns that he is too controlling and mean and Laurie just wants to escape. Beckett comes to his rescue again. Laurie and Beckett plan to spend time together over the weekend to learn if they are ready to go farther.
Laurie is a shy and insecure boy who recently got out of a bad relationship. His last Daddy lied to him and was very controlling. Laurie wants to find a good daddy but play it safe. That is why he used the Bears-4-U app. He met a Daddy called Pancake Daddy who seem he might be a good Daddy so they planned to meet at the teddy bear picnic. Laurie is very nervous and almost falls upon arrival, Luckily Beckett is there to save him and treats Laurie the way he always wanted to be treated. He wishes that Beckett was the Daddy that he arranged to meet. When Laurie meets Pancake Daddy, he learns that he is too controlling and mean and Laurie just wants to escape. Beckett comes to his rescue again. Laurie and Beckett plan to spend time together over the weekend to learn if they are ready to go farther.
March 6, 2023
Keep Me is such a wonderful, emotional and dramatic story. It keeps the readers, Beckett and Laurie on their toes. This is actually my first read from the Bears-4-U series and definitely need to go back and read the others.
The whole story is well balanced between the emotional aspects of Beckett moving on after the death of his husband two years ago and Laurie recently out of a bad relationship, and then the hope and happiness when the two meet, spend time together and realise how much they come to mean to each other in such a short space of time. When it comes to things between the two men, it's sweet, fluffy and instalove. The drama comes from outside forces including a bad snow storm and a papa that Laurie originally planned to meet. Things definitely did not go to plan there but it brought the MC's together. I love Beckett's style, suited and booted with a vest/waistcoat but also covered in tattoos. The addition of a pocket watch just makes that vision even hotter. It's easy throughout the story to sense the feelings of conflict, acceptance and hope that he feels from moving on from his late husband and Laurie's words and actions are perfect in their caring and thoughtful nature.
A fantastic daddy/baby bear romance that brings a little bit of everything to the story. The end even brought a tear to my eye as Beckett shows his love for both Shawn and Laurie.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
The whole story is well balanced between the emotional aspects of Beckett moving on after the death of his husband two years ago and Laurie recently out of a bad relationship, and then the hope and happiness when the two meet, spend time together and realise how much they come to mean to each other in such a short space of time. When it comes to things between the two men, it's sweet, fluffy and instalove. The drama comes from outside forces including a bad snow storm and a papa that Laurie originally planned to meet. Things definitely did not go to plan there but it brought the MC's together. I love Beckett's style, suited and booted with a vest/waistcoat but also covered in tattoos. The addition of a pocket watch just makes that vision even hotter. It's easy throughout the story to sense the feelings of conflict, acceptance and hope that he feels from moving on from his late husband and Laurie's words and actions are perfect in their caring and thoughtful nature.
A fantastic daddy/baby bear romance that brings a little bit of everything to the story. The end even brought a tear to my eye as Beckett shows his love for both Shawn and Laurie.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
March 17, 2023
I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is part of the multi-author series, Bears-4-U. I have not read any of the others YET, but it's not necessary. They all share the DaddyBear theme, is all. I want to, though! Especially if they are all as good as this!
I think I've read ALL HJ Welch/Helen Juliet books, and I really loved them all and this is no exception.
Laurie and Beckett are at the singles Bears weekend and they get snowed in. Beckett is a widower and Laurie has been hurt badly by his previous boyfriend who turned out not to be as available as he made out.
I loved this. It all takes place over a few days but there is a lot to unpack and repack in that short space of time and I loved how fast things moved.
Beckett and Laurie have an immediate attraction, Beckett coming to laurie's rescue not withstanding. I loved that Beckett did not question it, at all, he just ran with it. You understand Laurie's reaction to seeing Beckett's ring, once his full story comes out and I loved that Laurie was very much aware that Beckett was NOT his ex.
And the tree of love and life, in the epilogue?? Oh that made me cry!!
It's short and smexy, sweet and cute, with a little drama and danger thrown in and I want more of these books, puuulllleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeze!
Thank you for my copy, I'm sorry work got in the way of me writing up my review!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is part of the multi-author series, Bears-4-U. I have not read any of the others YET, but it's not necessary. They all share the DaddyBear theme, is all. I want to, though! Especially if they are all as good as this!
I think I've read ALL HJ Welch/Helen Juliet books, and I really loved them all and this is no exception.
Laurie and Beckett are at the singles Bears weekend and they get snowed in. Beckett is a widower and Laurie has been hurt badly by his previous boyfriend who turned out not to be as available as he made out.
I loved this. It all takes place over a few days but there is a lot to unpack and repack in that short space of time and I loved how fast things moved.
Beckett and Laurie have an immediate attraction, Beckett coming to laurie's rescue not withstanding. I loved that Beckett did not question it, at all, he just ran with it. You understand Laurie's reaction to seeing Beckett's ring, once his full story comes out and I loved that Laurie was very much aware that Beckett was NOT his ex.
And the tree of love and life, in the epilogue?? Oh that made me cry!!
It's short and smexy, sweet and cute, with a little drama and danger thrown in and I want more of these books, puuulllleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeze!
Thank you for my copy, I'm sorry work got in the way of me writing up my review!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
March 19, 2023
Bears, Snow, and Fluff
Keep Me is a sweet addition to the Bears-4-U collection, a multi-author series featuring the Bears-4-U application and the Bears and Teddy Bears who use it to find love. Since this series is a collection of books, it can be read in any order. All the books are standalones with just the Bears-4-U app the connecting thread.
Keep Me is a sugary sweet addition to the series. Beckett and Laurie are both drifting through life trying to figure out how to move forward. They are both stuck with their own individual internal pain: Beckett from the lost of his husband and Laurie from the insecurities and emotional abuse he’s experienced from his father and former boyfriend. Of course Beckett and Laurie have a darling meet-cute moment that is perfect for a fluffy romance. The connection is instant and although both men are afraid to trust it, it’s pretty much an instant-love moment. There’s some exciting scenes where Beckett gets to prove what a fearsome Bear Daddy he can be when he’s sweet Laurie is in danger or threatened. The plot is easy and flows nicely. It’s exactly what I would expect for a happy and fluffy comfort read which makes it perfect for the series.
Keep Me is a sweet addition to the Bears-4-U collection, a multi-author series featuring the Bears-4-U application and the Bears and Teddy Bears who use it to find love. Since this series is a collection of books, it can be read in any order. All the books are standalones with just the Bears-4-U app the connecting thread.
Keep Me is a sugary sweet addition to the series. Beckett and Laurie are both drifting through life trying to figure out how to move forward. They are both stuck with their own individual internal pain: Beckett from the lost of his husband and Laurie from the insecurities and emotional abuse he’s experienced from his father and former boyfriend. Of course Beckett and Laurie have a darling meet-cute moment that is perfect for a fluffy romance. The connection is instant and although both men are afraid to trust it, it’s pretty much an instant-love moment. There’s some exciting scenes where Beckett gets to prove what a fearsome Bear Daddy he can be when he’s sweet Laurie is in danger or threatened. The plot is easy and flows nicely. It’s exactly what I would expect for a happy and fluffy comfort read which makes it perfect for the series.
March 21, 2023
On a Bears-4-U weekend getaway, Beckett is testing the waters of a Daddy/boy event at a lodge in the mountains, going out for the first time since the death of his husband 2 years ago. Laurie is at the same event, planning to meet and get to know a Daddy he met online after a devastating breakup. The two meet going into the lodge, and Beckett feels very protective of the boy, deciding to hang around in case Laurie needs help—which he does. From that point, the two spend as much time together as possible. Laurie is pretty insecure after his last breakup and Beckett sees what he needs and takes care of him. When Laurie finds out about Beckett’s loss, he is so supportive, making Beckett think maybe Shawn led him to Laurie. A snowstorm at the lodge allows Beckett and Laurie to spend more time together, leading both into hopes that this relationship will become a true, long-lasting Daddy/boy one.
Sweet story with two people broken from past relationships, daring to try to move on, hoping to find love. Beckett and Laurie are two memorable characters, each attuned and attentive to the needs of the other, learning to trust someone new. I enjoyed the read and want to check out some of the other Bears-4-U books in the series.
Sweet story with two people broken from past relationships, daring to try to move on, hoping to find love. Beckett and Laurie are two memorable characters, each attuned and attentive to the needs of the other, learning to trust someone new. I enjoyed the read and want to check out some of the other Bears-4-U books in the series.
March 27, 2023
Beckett's husband died two years ago and his best friend has decided that it is time for him to find a new boy. So she signs him up for Bears-4-U and encourages him to attend a weekend mixer. Giving in but having no intention of finding someone he rescues the most adorable boy twice he wonders if he is ready to open his heart up again. Laurie's last Daddy was bad news but taking courage he reached out to Bears-4-U and went to the mixer only to discover that the guy he had been talking to online was just as awful. Beckett swoops into his life like a hero and although he is not looking for love Laurie wants to mend his broken heart. When a scary storm blows in and strands them h trusts Beckett to keep him safe and warm as he wants to be in his bed and his heart forever.
I really enjoyed this story with the awful Daddy that Beckett rescues Laurie from, their relationship starts off with Beckett just caring for Laurie and end when it was definitely love and a future together. I loved the way that their relationship was built slowly and the way that Laurie made sure that Beckett's late husband was always included and considered as part of their relationship and love. Easy to read, feel and understand. This is a MM story containing mature content with a BSDM-like DDLB relationship.
I really enjoyed this story with the awful Daddy that Beckett rescues Laurie from, their relationship starts off with Beckett just caring for Laurie and end when it was definitely love and a future together. I loved the way that their relationship was built slowly and the way that Laurie made sure that Beckett's late husband was always included and considered as part of their relationship and love. Easy to read, feel and understand. This is a MM story containing mature content with a BSDM-like DDLB relationship.
March 14, 2023
I need a Beckett Daddy!!
Oh! What a sweet, caring Daddy bear. Beckett had a teddy bear he loved with all his heart who was sadly taken from him too early. He has taken two years to mourn the love of his life. But, his friend convinces him to try an app, Bears4U, and a teddy bear picnic they are hosting. He is reluctant to attend but decides maybe now is the time to start dipping his toes.
Laurie is an innocently sweet bear cub looking for a real daddy. Sadly, he had a fake one and a close call with a scary one. This weekend he hopes to find the one for him.
Beckett and Laurie are made for each other. Puzzle pieces that connect perfectly. In Laurie, Beckett discovers his need to nurture again and his ability to connect on an intimate level. Laurie discovers Beckett is a true daddy with only Laurie’s best interest at heart. Their hea is something you don’t want to miss.
🧩 widowed, tattooed, sexy daddy bear
🧩 sweet, chubby baby bear
🧩 teddy bear picnic
🧩 snowed in
🧩 slow but spicy love
Oh! What a sweet, caring Daddy bear. Beckett had a teddy bear he loved with all his heart who was sadly taken from him too early. He has taken two years to mourn the love of his life. But, his friend convinces him to try an app, Bears4U, and a teddy bear picnic they are hosting. He is reluctant to attend but decides maybe now is the time to start dipping his toes.
Laurie is an innocently sweet bear cub looking for a real daddy. Sadly, he had a fake one and a close call with a scary one. This weekend he hopes to find the one for him.
Beckett and Laurie are made for each other. Puzzle pieces that connect perfectly. In Laurie, Beckett discovers his need to nurture again and his ability to connect on an intimate level. Laurie discovers Beckett is a true daddy with only Laurie’s best interest at heart. Their hea is something you don’t want to miss.
🧩 widowed, tattooed, sexy daddy bear
🧩 sweet, chubby baby bear
🧩 teddy bear picnic
🧩 snowed in
🧩 slow but spicy love
March 19, 2023
Sweet, cute, likeable
I've already read two books in this series. One was outstanding, the other definitely not, and this fell somewhere in the middle. It had a really sweet couple in Beckett and Laurie, a widower still grieving his late husband and a young man who had only known bad relationships. Fate seemed to be pushing them together, along with a little help from a snowstorm.
It was very easy to read and I was cheering Beckett and Laurie on all the way. HJ made the right call regarding her treatment of Beckett's husband and I loved how Shawn was woven seamlessly into the story. Beckett made no secret of how much he loved Shawn and that a part of him would always belong to Shawn, and Laurie accepted that completely. Beckett also made it clear that he had more than enough room in his heart for Laurie too. That all made the story better for me.
By the way, HJ, if you ever want to tell little cub Billy and his Daddy Bear's story, I'm right there at the front of the queue to read it.
I dithered about the rating and eventually settled on rounding it up to four stars.
I've already read two books in this series. One was outstanding, the other definitely not, and this fell somewhere in the middle. It had a really sweet couple in Beckett and Laurie, a widower still grieving his late husband and a young man who had only known bad relationships. Fate seemed to be pushing them together, along with a little help from a snowstorm.
It was very easy to read and I was cheering Beckett and Laurie on all the way. HJ made the right call regarding her treatment of Beckett's husband and I loved how Shawn was woven seamlessly into the story. Beckett made no secret of how much he loved Shawn and that a part of him would always belong to Shawn, and Laurie accepted that completely. Beckett also made it clear that he had more than enough room in his heart for Laurie too. That all made the story better for me.
By the way, HJ, if you ever want to tell little cub Billy and his Daddy Bear's story, I'm right there at the front of the queue to read it.
I dithered about the rating and eventually settled on rounding it up to four stars.
March 31, 2023
This was really sweet and had some really good chemistry and wonderful characters. Beckett was a phenomenal Daddy and Laurie was such a sweet Bear. I loved the setting, a special getaway for Bears to meet their potential long-term Daddy or someone to just share their time with to feel loved and cared for. The owner and his Bear were so stinky cute, and any scene Billy was in I was laughing and smiling. DO they have their own book??? I would so read that! I loved the snowed in together vibes and the instant connection between Beckett and Laurie. I liked how different they were and how they helped each other heal. Beckett needed his heart mended after losing his husband two years ago and Laurie needed to feel worthy again after being hurt by another Daddy. they really understood each other. I do think their beginning was a bit rushed and at times a tad bit over the top. I think this author just loves dramatics which is totally fine, but it took me out of the story a bit when certain disasters took place. I would have preferred more alone time for our MC's rather than the constant drama going on around them. But the ending was really very special, and I think I will definitely read more in this series at some point!
My fair rating 3.25 stars.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided Gay Romance reviews.
My fair rating 3.25 stars.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided Gay Romance reviews.
March 14, 2023
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This is such a cute Daddy/Boy story.
If you like your Daddies sweet, and your boys even sweeter then you are in the right place.
Beckett is strong-armed into attending a ‘picnic’ by his best friend. He lost his husband 2 years ago and it’s possibly time to consider finding someone again.
Laurie is searching for a Daddy that isn’t a jerk. He’s attending the ‘picnic’ to meet an online daddy for the first time. When it goes horribly, Beckett swoops in.
Beckett shows Laurie that his wants and needs aren’t ridiculous or too much, and Laurie shows Beckett that it’s possible to have enough room in your heart for two people.
These are both great guys, and you can’t help but cheer for their happy ending.
This is such a cute Daddy/Boy story.
If you like your Daddies sweet, and your boys even sweeter then you are in the right place.
Beckett is strong-armed into attending a ‘picnic’ by his best friend. He lost his husband 2 years ago and it’s possibly time to consider finding someone again.
Laurie is searching for a Daddy that isn’t a jerk. He’s attending the ‘picnic’ to meet an online daddy for the first time. When it goes horribly, Beckett swoops in.
Beckett shows Laurie that his wants and needs aren’t ridiculous or too much, and Laurie shows Beckett that it’s possible to have enough room in your heart for two people.
These are both great guys, and you can’t help but cheer for their happy ending.
August 17, 2023
It's a pretty standard daddy/boy with a widower who is more or less forced to go to this event by his best (female of course) friend and he rescues a boy from an obnoxious Dom and they hit it off. When they are snowed in for a couple of days they connect but the obnoxious Dom continues to wreak havoc on the boy's confidence.
Now my complaint. I nearly marked it down because of the friend. I become infuriated with these women who are SO enmeshed in their gay BF's life. He's been widowed for 2 years but she signed him up for a dating app and was squealing and squeeing in the office when he agreed to go because she's his friend and how could he tell her to fuck off and stay out of his life. She makes me cringe as a woman but these guys just go "oh, that's so cute, she means well". She fucking overstepped by a million miles. But I am over these character types who do shit "for your own good" and he fell in love right, so it's all okay in the end. Ugh. /rant
Now my complaint. I nearly marked it down because of the friend. I become infuriated with these women who are SO enmeshed in their gay BF's life. He's been widowed for 2 years but she signed him up for a dating app and was squealing and squeeing in the office when he agreed to go because she's his friend and how could he tell her to fuck off and stay out of his life. She makes me cringe as a woman but these guys just go "oh, that's so cute, she means well". She fucking overstepped by a million miles. But I am over these character types who do shit "for your own good" and he fell in love right, so it's all okay in the end. Ugh. /rant
March 6, 2023
I haven't been so emotional with a book in a long time. Beckett and Laurie are the main characters in this story, but also Shawn is.
I'm not going to repeat what's in the blurb, but damn, what a rollercoaster!!!!
There are so many scenes I'd like to point out.
That special kiss Laurie gave to Beckett's finger, omg I was crying, it hurt so beautifully. The way he immediately noticed that the ring was missing on Beckett's finger, how he himself missed it. The three jewels on a tree... So much love there!
An amazing instalove with a little bit of grief, and so many emotions.
Now, if someone would like to write a PNR bonus scene with Shawn's ghost having a threesome with Beckett and Laurie, I'd be down for it. Daddy, teddy bear and baby bear 🤩🤩
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I'm not going to repeat what's in the blurb, but damn, what a rollercoaster!!!!
There are so many scenes I'd like to point out.
That special kiss Laurie gave to Beckett's finger, omg I was crying, it hurt so beautifully. The way he immediately noticed that the ring was missing on Beckett's finger, how he himself missed it. The three jewels on a tree... So much love there!
An amazing instalove with a little bit of grief, and so many emotions.
Now, if someone would like to write a PNR bonus scene with Shawn's ghost having a threesome with Beckett and Laurie, I'd be down for it. Daddy, teddy bear and baby bear 🤩🤩
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
March 11, 2023
Absolutely fantastic!
I loved this book! The story of Beckett and Laurie is filled with love, loss, second chances and lots of snow and is an absolute pleasure to read! The two will meet at an event that both were persuaded to attend by important people in their lives. When they first meet, Laurie is there to meet someone else but it isn’t long before the two find themselves spending quite a bit of time together. Their relationship grows as the story unfolds and I love the way it happens. A snow storm will leave them stranded even though Laurie tries to head home early and it is during this time that they truly come together. Going home won’t be the sad ending they originally expected and it will start them on the path to their happily ever after!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
I loved this book! The story of Beckett and Laurie is filled with love, loss, second chances and lots of snow and is an absolute pleasure to read! The two will meet at an event that both were persuaded to attend by important people in their lives. When they first meet, Laurie is there to meet someone else but it isn’t long before the two find themselves spending quite a bit of time together. Their relationship grows as the story unfolds and I love the way it happens. A snow storm will leave them stranded even though Laurie tries to head home early and it is during this time that they truly come together. Going home won’t be the sad ending they originally expected and it will start them on the path to their happily ever after!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
March 5, 2023
Laurie is just the most adorable baby bear. He has been having the worst luck with finding just the perfect daddy. He agrees to meet up with one at a Bears-4-U weekend retreat. Unfortunately he also turns out to be despicable!!
Beckett lost his teddy bear and has been struggling to move on. His best friend set him up for the same Bears-4-U weekend. There he meets the adorable baby bear, Laurie. He feels the connection immediately.
Thus begins the rest of their story, the beginning of their romance. I have to say this is one of the sweetest stories I have read. I absolutely love it. There is just a pinch 🤏🏻 of drama and please make note of her TW in the blurb.
HJ Welch never disappoints me with her books. ❤️
Beckett lost his teddy bear and has been struggling to move on. His best friend set him up for the same Bears-4-U weekend. There he meets the adorable baby bear, Laurie. He feels the connection immediately.
Thus begins the rest of their story, the beginning of their romance. I have to say this is one of the sweetest stories I have read. I absolutely love it. There is just a pinch 🤏🏻 of drama and please make note of her TW in the blurb.
HJ Welch never disappoints me with her books. ❤️
March 8, 2023
I loved this super cute Daddy romance!
I know I rarely go wrong with any HJ Welch book, as her writing style is always fresh and enticing, keeping you rooted to the book. This is no exception, both Laurie and Beckett are great characters and I love how they both bring out the best in each other. Laurie is instantly more confident with Beckett’s support, and Beckett finally accept he’s meant to start living again after becoming a widower with the help of his sexy Baby Bear.
As she often does, the author throws a character in the mix, that is just so awful and mean and everything so despicable, you just can’t avoid him (yes, Mick, I’m talking about you!).
Loved the setting, the pace, and the snowed-in trope.
I know I rarely go wrong with any HJ Welch book, as her writing style is always fresh and enticing, keeping you rooted to the book. This is no exception, both Laurie and Beckett are great characters and I love how they both bring out the best in each other. Laurie is instantly more confident with Beckett’s support, and Beckett finally accept he’s meant to start living again after becoming a widower with the help of his sexy Baby Bear.
As she often does, the author throws a character in the mix, that is just so awful and mean and everything so despicable, you just can’t avoid him (yes, Mick, I’m talking about you!).
Loved the setting, the pace, and the snowed-in trope.
March 9, 2023
Insta-love, forced proximity, and fate help create the perfect conditions for Laurie and Beckett to form a loving relationship. Both men want to go slowly but fate seems to be intervening and keeping them closer so they develop a stronger bond and deeper feelings during their weekend together.
Laurie is so sweet, kind, gentle, and generous that he is the perfect baby bear for Daddy Beckett, who is kind, caring, protective, and nurting. They understand each other and more than meet each others' needs. There is some angst, a couple twists, a troublemaker, steamy encounters, and two loving souls who take a chance on each other and find their HEA.
The ARC I read still needs some polishing, this will hopefully be done for the final copy.
Laurie is so sweet, kind, gentle, and generous that he is the perfect baby bear for Daddy Beckett, who is kind, caring, protective, and nurting. They understand each other and more than meet each others' needs. There is some angst, a couple twists, a troublemaker, steamy encounters, and two loving souls who take a chance on each other and find their HEA.
The ARC I read still needs some polishing, this will hopefully be done for the final copy.
March 9, 2023
This is a super cute and sugary sweet read. Beckett and Laurie are adorable and both need to be protected at all costs. Laurie is perfect for Beckett; he’s exactly the person Beckett needs to let himself open up to love again after losing his husband. And I loved how cutely growly Beckett got over protecting Laurie - gah, my heart! The only thing I didn’t particularly enjoy was how Shawn felt a bit like a third MC in their new beginning. I thought how his memory was cherished by both Beckett and Laurie was beautiful, but I do wish Beckett had maybe let go of the presence of Shawn a bit more in the epilogue. But that’s just my personal preference, of course. Still perfect for if you want something lighthearted and filled with gooey marshmallow sweetness.
March 4, 2023
This is a heartwarming story of instalove and moving on through grief. Beckett is hesitant to go to a Bears-4-U retreat because he is just now willing to admit that he needs to move on after the death of his husband. Laurie is looking forward to meeting the man he has been talking to online in person at the same retreat. Turns out that was a bust. As the weekend progresses, both men find themselves thrown together even though they were really looking for it…but isn’t that what fate is all about? Beckett and his baby bear are an absolute joy and this book was so sweet and fluffy that I think I have new cavities. Marshmallow perfection!
March 6, 2023
Beckett and Laurie story was a sweet journey of two wounded souls that found happiness together after fighting their demons and getting over their insecurities and doubts.
The complete each other beautifully, and are each other balm for their wounds. Beckett is protective and such a sweetheart that saves Laurie when he needs it, and Laurie is the light that shines on after being in the dark caused by grief.
I liked the way they connect and they courtship as well as they become their better self being together and gaining more secure in their worth.
I liked the story and I'm looking forward to see what happens next.
The complete each other beautifully, and are each other balm for their wounds. Beckett is protective and such a sweetheart that saves Laurie when he needs it, and Laurie is the light that shines on after being in the dark caused by grief.
I liked the way they connect and they courtship as well as they become their better self being together and gaining more secure in their worth.
I liked the story and I'm looking forward to see what happens next.
March 17, 2023
It has been more than 2 years since widow Beckett lost his husband. Encouraged by his friend, he attends a weekend away organised by the Bears 4 U app. It's here he meets Laurie, a sweet baby cub who I really liked straight away.
I enjoyed the way they got to know each other a bit first and realised that they weren't ready to jump right in to a serious relationship. It lead an authenticity to their story. As did the way they kept the memory of Shawn alive and honoured his place in their lives.
The open communication and honesty between these men was refreshing to read.
I quite enjoyed this sweet, romantic Daddy/Boy story.
I enjoyed the way they got to know each other a bit first and realised that they weren't ready to jump right in to a serious relationship. It lead an authenticity to their story. As did the way they kept the memory of Shawn alive and honoured his place in their lives.
The open communication and honesty between these men was refreshing to read.
I quite enjoyed this sweet, romantic Daddy/Boy story.
March 19, 2023
This was a really lovely read. Beckett and Laurie’s story is filled with so much kindness and sweetness, I really enjoyed it. I’d say that between Laurie and Beckett there is pretty much zero angst, but there is plenty of other elements to keep you interested and turning the pages. The setting is well done, and the author does a really good job handling Beckett’s grief, which is still very much a part of him. I loved how compassionate Laurie is in how he embraces Beckett’s love of his deceased husband. Great addition to the Bears-4-You series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
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