Goldilocks and His Three Bears by A.M. Riley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I’m one of the many that bought this book when it was published previously but for whatever reason never got around to reading it. So when I got it from Loose Id, I realized it was re-released but definitely worth getting. It’s a very cute story about a polyamorous relationship and it’s one that really works. I’m not always a fan of multiple partner books but this one is so cute, adorable, warm, and very entertaining. It’s just simply works as a great story and one that’s likely to leave you with a satisfied smile.
The plot is obviously a take on the children’s tale but updated and pretty kinky. It involves the main narrator, Brian, as Goldilocks. He’s lost in the big city of LA and makes a connection with a big leather daddy, Paul. Together things are going great until Paul mentions he’ll be out of town for a few months. Unsure where that leaves them Brian is hurt and wandering until he meets nurturing momma bear or Jim. Jim is Paul’s roommate but manages to help ease Brian’s hurt rather well until Jim takes off too. Brian then gets to know the third roommate, Scott.
The story is very sweet and highly amusing as Brian bounces his way through the three roommates. There’s no question though that his deepest connection is with Paul. Later on in the story Scott and Jim also make a deep connection and at the very end there’s a nice scene between the four of them. Multiple partner romances are a tough sell and Riley does a great job of showing individual personalities and how coming together as two couples and eventually a foursome really enhance each person’s needs. Each individual brings something unique and different to the mix while genuinely caring about each other. This is why this particular book succeeds where many others have stumbled.
Another reason is the great characterization. This area is a little light given the short space afforded but each man feels unique and different, moving beyond typical stereotypes. They feel fleshed out and important on their own and in the various relationships. The fact that Brian/Paul and Scott/Jim each have a deep connection helps solidify the romantic connections while as a larger group; they’re just enjoying each other and having fun. It feels like a family – albeit a kinky one.
The writing is pretty tight with a lot of lighthearted energy. This isn’t a laugh out loud humorous story but it’s one that amuses from the start and keep you smiling. The characters are entertaining but more so engaging as they figure out what they want and how to get it. The various sex scenes and especially the BDSM elements feel organic and necessary, never overwhelming or superfluous. In fact this is a tight, well-written novella that is fun and easy to read. It’s very different from Riley’s other novels but one I think fans and new readers alike will really appreciate. I easily recommend this and it’s one I’ll be reading again.
three am 
I really enjoyed this as well. I liked how it wasn’t super easy for them. Sometimes with groups it’s all sweetness and light and easy peasy, but this sometimes got a little messy and confusing and made you connect more with real people than “perfect” characters. I understand the sequel is going to be rereleased as well which will be good.
*gasp* There’s a sequel?! Have you read it? Is it good… what’s it about?
LOL Yes, there’s a sequel called A Man, a Jersey and a Tight End. It’s just sort of a continuation of their story where they have to deal with the realities of Paul being away so much and the effect on Brian, along with Scott’s insecurities re. Jim. It also brings in a stray Scott picked up and a friend of Paul’s, but not as part of the relationship, just as a side-story. I enjoyed it and I think it did well to dig deeper into reality rather than “happy happy lets all have orgasms”.
Technically you can’t buy it anywhere right now which is why it’s good it’s being re-released. At least that’s my understanding. You may have to be patient.
Man.. *grumbles* lets hope the sequel is released soon!
I was confused – your review was so positive but the rating was 0 out of 5 stars on my email feed. I can see that it is 4/5 here which makes much more sense! 🙂
Sorry! I x-post from Goodreads and there was an issue initially. But it was a great book!