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Teddy Bears
Other than working the front desk of a gay bathhouse in Denver, Brian McKay is a bit of a recluse. At the best of times, his social life consists of work, role-playing games at a local toy shop, and making YouTube videos with his Teddy Bear hamsters. The arrival of the holidays—with the annoying music, Christmas shopping, and all the reminders of how he disappointed his father—just reinforces his reclusive nature.
When James Olsen, a gorgeous daddy bear who frequents the bathhouse, notices him, Brian is at a loss. He’s not proud of his own bear status or his struggle with weight. The idea that James has interest in him beyond an easy hookup is more than Brian can fathom. But with a little bit of holiday magic, James might help Brian learn to accept Christmas again—and himself.
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2016 Advent Calendar "Bah Humbug."
When James Olsen, a gorgeous daddy bear who frequents the bathhouse, notices him, Brian is at a loss. He’s not proud of his own bear status or his struggle with weight. The idea that James has interest in him beyond an easy hookup is more than Brian can fathom. But with a little bit of holiday magic, James might help Brian learn to accept Christmas again—and himself.
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2016 Advent Calendar "Bah Humbug."
47 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2016
6 people are currently reading
110 people want to read
About the author
Brandon Witt
34 books442 followersBrandon Witt's outlook on life is greatly impacted by his first eighteen years of growing up gay in a small town in the Ozarks, as well as fifteen years as a counselor and special education teacher for students with severe emotional disabilities. Add to that his obsession with corgis and mermaids, then factor in an unhealthy love affair with cheeseburgers, and you realize that with all those issues, he's got plenty to write about....
Visit Brandon's webpage: http://www.brandonwitt.com/
Visit him on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandon.witt...
Enjoy episodes of The Witty Hour: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO5c...
Visit Brandon's webpage: http://www.brandonwitt.com/
Visit him on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandon.witt...
Enjoy episodes of The Witty Hour: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO5c...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
December 5, 2016
Gah! Don't you just love a cute and funny Brandon Witt?!
I think this is my first bathhouse Christmas book, but I was immediately into the concept! What rich fodder for a story, you know? And I could TOTALLY picture that bathhouse Santa-bear, with his hat all askew, sweaty and ready to go...
I loved the idea of a reluctant bear, like Brian. Not everyone embraces their, um, zaftig (as my people say) figures, and I liked that Brian struggled with that idea. Brian's issues were really relatable, and though there were some heavy emotions (and tears! I'm finding this a staple in Brandon's books), it didn't overwhelm the story.
My favorite parts were the funny, light ones. I loved Brian's interactions with his bathhouse coworker (loved him! I want his story next!), and I liked Brian's borderline spastic, insecure bumbling, which was really endearing. I also loved the fact that both MCs were older (40+). I mean, give me a silver fox ANY day of the week, and I'm a happy girl! James was smoking hot and wasn't 23, God bless him
This story was light, touching, funny, and dealt with things that we all go through. I think Brandon hit the nail on the head with this one.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
I think this is my first bathhouse Christmas book, but I was immediately into the concept! What rich fodder for a story, you know? And I could TOTALLY picture that bathhouse Santa-bear, with his hat all askew, sweaty and ready to go...
I loved the idea of a reluctant bear, like Brian. Not everyone embraces their, um, zaftig (as my people say) figures, and I liked that Brian struggled with that idea. Brian's issues were really relatable, and though there were some heavy emotions (and tears! I'm finding this a staple in Brandon's books), it didn't overwhelm the story.
My favorite parts were the funny, light ones. I loved Brian's interactions with his bathhouse coworker (loved him! I want his story next!), and I liked Brian's borderline spastic, insecure bumbling, which was really endearing. I also loved the fact that both MCs were older (40+). I mean, give me a silver fox ANY day of the week, and I'm a happy girl! James was smoking hot and wasn't 23, God bless him
This story was light, touching, funny, and dealt with things that we all go through. I think Brandon hit the nail on the head with this one.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
July 3, 2022
I loved this , really loved it .
Of course the one thing wrong with excellent short stories , is SHORT .
I especially liked Brian , who hasn't got their own insecurities ? And the fact he filmed his pet hamsters in Buffy homage films ........ perfect .
The bathhouse workplace was a bit of an eye opener , and definitely threw up some interesting characters , looking at you Bath House Santa .
I would really like to see more of these characters , please make that happen .
Of course the one thing wrong with excellent short stories , is SHORT .
I especially liked Brian , who hasn't got their own insecurities ? And the fact he filmed his pet hamsters in Buffy homage films ........ perfect .
The bathhouse workplace was a bit of an eye opener , and definitely threw up some interesting characters , looking at you Bath House Santa .
I would really like to see more of these characters , please make that happen .
December 1, 2018
This was pretty cute. It’s refreshing to have MCs that are physically so far from the norm: Bears. And not muscled bears, but big hairy, chubby bears. That being said, I do love my beautiful MC and missed them.
This was a quick read. One MC exuding hot bear confidence, the other down on himself and hating Xmas. One an investment banker, the other a bathhouse attendant. They’re into each other. I had a hard time concentrating on this cause of the earthquake here. I powered through. So maybe the rating was me and not the short.
I would have loved for the last scene to actually detail the Hamsters rampaging the nativity scene for the YouTube vid. I was looking forward to it, but it just ENDED ABRUPTLY. Like this review.
This was a quick read. One MC exuding hot bear confidence, the other down on himself and hating Xmas. One an investment banker, the other a bathhouse attendant. They’re into each other. I had a hard time concentrating on this cause of the earthquake here. I powered through. So maybe the rating was me and not the short.
I would have loved for the last scene to actually detail the Hamsters rampaging the nativity scene for the YouTube vid. I was looking forward to it, but it just ENDED ABRUPTLY. Like this review.
December 2, 2016
Real, honest, unfiltered. Brandon Witt gives us another story and characters that don't hold anything back in terms of letting us into their hearts and deepest thoughts and emotions.
Connected to this is a realization: it hit me, Witt is one of the best, and favorite of mine, storytellers using first person pov. The fearlessness in his writing comes through crystal clear by way of the high level of emotional honesty he bestows upon his characters and therefore us. It makes me feel lucky to read these stories and know these people he shares with us. It can sometimes make things extra intense, especially if the character is especially so, but that goes with the territory.
This is about as laid bare as one can get, no pun intended. Who hasn't experienced this same surreal feeling, wavering second by second between joyful amazement and numbing disbelief?
Showering was a little surreal. Which I didn’t even realize could be said about a shower. What I was getting clean for, who I was getting clean for…. Was this really my life?
The scenes immediately preceding and following this thought of Brian's, my goodness, relatable and full of truth.
Angel and Spike ftw! I want to watch them snack on wee bitty baby Xmas trees. :D
This is sexy. And sweet. And sad. It's also hopeful. And hot. (unf level hot)
A mere teeny taste:
Or the way his kiss made me feel like I wasn’t able to stand, yet might burst into flight.
True caring between two people, and the openness in accepting it, reveals itself when they help each other see themselves in ways they otherwise might not have done so. Good ways. Important ways.
James does this for and with Brian. And he's open and ready, wanting to let Brian in as the change is happening.
Talk about cart before horses. Or a sleigh before reindeer.
Oh my God. I must have gotten a virus. I was sick. I was altering colloquialisms to have Christmas themes. It was enough to tempt me to go see exactly what Bathhouse Santa was doing.
Ha! :D
Also, Witt always finds an undeniable way of ramming right to the center of my heart and squeezing until I choke up. There's no escape. And I don't want to, at that.
“I want you to know that how you are is how I want you."
Yeah, I'm sighing and melty and teary, too.
What a beautiful story about two regular guys, each with hang ups, dreams, and the self-surprising bravery that comes with age. Being 40+ is sometimes a boon. ;)
Connected to this is a realization: it hit me, Witt is one of the best, and favorite of mine, storytellers using first person pov. The fearlessness in his writing comes through crystal clear by way of the high level of emotional honesty he bestows upon his characters and therefore us. It makes me feel lucky to read these stories and know these people he shares with us. It can sometimes make things extra intense, especially if the character is especially so, but that goes with the territory.
This is about as laid bare as one can get, no pun intended. Who hasn't experienced this same surreal feeling, wavering second by second between joyful amazement and numbing disbelief?
Showering was a little surreal. Which I didn’t even realize could be said about a shower. What I was getting clean for, who I was getting clean for…. Was this really my life?
The scenes immediately preceding and following this thought of Brian's, my goodness, relatable and full of truth.
Angel and Spike ftw! I want to watch them snack on wee bitty baby Xmas trees. :D
This is sexy. And sweet. And sad. It's also hopeful. And hot. (unf level hot)
A mere teeny taste:
Or the way his kiss made me feel like I wasn’t able to stand, yet might burst into flight.
True caring between two people, and the openness in accepting it, reveals itself when they help each other see themselves in ways they otherwise might not have done so. Good ways. Important ways.
James does this for and with Brian. And he's open and ready, wanting to let Brian in as the change is happening.
Talk about cart before horses. Or a sleigh before reindeer.
Oh my God. I must have gotten a virus. I was sick. I was altering colloquialisms to have Christmas themes. It was enough to tempt me to go see exactly what Bathhouse Santa was doing.
Ha! :D
Also, Witt always finds an undeniable way of ramming right to the center of my heart and squeezing until I choke up. There's no escape. And I don't want to, at that.
“I want you to know that how you are is how I want you."
Yeah, I'm sighing and melty and teary, too.
What a beautiful story about two regular guys, each with hang ups, dreams, and the self-surprising bravery that comes with age. Being 40+ is sometimes a boon. ;)
December 3, 2019
This was a really cute Christmas story!
Brian McKay, shy and quiet, works at a gay bathhouse in Denver and spends his free time playing board games and recording "Buffy and her Teddy Bear Vampire Lovers" YouTube videos starring his Teddy Bear hamsters Spike and Angel.
Because of his past he hates Christmas, he doesn't have any self-esteem and hates his chubby and hairy self, but this year things are going to change when muscle bear daddy James Olsen notices him at the bathhouse. :)
4.5 stars
Brian McKay, shy and quiet, works at a gay bathhouse in Denver and spends his free time playing board games and recording "Buffy and her Teddy Bear Vampire Lovers" YouTube videos starring his Teddy Bear hamsters Spike and Angel.
Because of his past he hates Christmas, he doesn't have any self-esteem and hates his chubby and hairy self, but this year things are going to change when muscle bear daddy James Olsen notices him at the bathhouse. :)
4.5 stars
December 24, 2016
This is my first Brandon Witt's -- I know! I got his books buried in my never-ending to-read pile *face-palm* -- but definitely one of my favorites from this year Bah! Humbug collection.
Although this one was short, I didn't immediately got into it. I never really read anything related to bath house setting before, so I didn't know what I was going to get. Would I get a raunchy erotic story regarding bath house customs? Plenty of sex scenes? Especially with Brian's co-worker, Phillip, making that comments about getting f*cked at the place... Hmmm...
But soon I got swept away by Brian's ADORABLE-NESS!! I loved his cute bumbling over James. And when he admitted that he had those teddy bear hamsters (named ANGEL AND SPIKE) and made those videos ... I literally screamed in delight. OMG SO CUTE!!! Then my heart went out for him when he told James why he didn't like Christmas *awww, Brian*
While the 'connection' was quick but somehow I accepted it easily this time. James made a right point. They were both not young anymore (and can I say hallelujah for another 40+ years age plus characters?? Brian was 45 and James was 51!) so they could just go straight to the point. Besides, James then bought all those Christmas presents (TOYS!) for both Brian's hamsters and Brian himself. And I just melt.
So yes, this is my first Brandon Witt, but let me assure you that I will dig that big pile of mine and try to read his previous titles.
Although this one was short, I didn't immediately got into it. I never really read anything related to bath house setting before, so I didn't know what I was going to get. Would I get a raunchy erotic story regarding bath house customs? Plenty of sex scenes? Especially with Brian's co-worker, Phillip, making that comments about getting f*cked at the place... Hmmm...
But soon I got swept away by Brian's ADORABLE-NESS!! I loved his cute bumbling over James. And when he admitted that he had those teddy bear hamsters (named ANGEL AND SPIKE) and made those videos ... I literally screamed in delight. OMG SO CUTE!!! Then my heart went out for him when he told James why he didn't like Christmas *awww, Brian*
While the 'connection' was quick but somehow I accepted it easily this time. James made a right point. They were both not young anymore (and can I say hallelujah for another 40+ years age plus characters?? Brian was 45 and James was 51!) so they could just go straight to the point. Besides, James then bought all those Christmas presents (TOYS!) for both Brian's hamsters and Brian himself. And I just melt.
So yes, this is my first Brandon Witt, but let me assure you that I will dig that big pile of mine and try to read his previous titles.
December 1, 2016
I knew I'd love this--and I did. Brandon Witt is an awesome wordsmith and this was so, so sweet and funny. I loved the big, shy geeky Brian, and his hamsters, and was happy to see him win the hot grandpa. Perfect Christmas story.
August 7, 2021
Raindrops on roses … whiskers on kittens. Meh. After reading Brandon Witt’s “Teddy Bears” from the Dreamspinner 2016 Advent Calendar, I now have a new list of Favorite Things including Bathhouse Santa, Christmas tree-shaped rodent snacks, bloody vampire attacks on the nativity, and smokin’ hot daddy bears.
Brian McKay hates Christmas, as in ” … if I make it through Christmas without smothering a school bus filled with children, it will be a miracle.” Brian’s a good guy who loves RPGs and his Teddy Bear hamsters Angel and Spike, but he’s got an inferiority complex that just will not quit. When Brian meets hawt daddy bear James, will Brian realize he may have found the person who can accept him exactly the way he is?
Teddy Bears delivers a short sweet plot, two MCs who are anything but stereotypical (and I love they are both older, Brian is 45, James is 51), happy holiday hotness and lust, and an ending with some tears and laughter. (And you’ll have to read the story to figure out that bloody vampire attack nativity scene!) I give Teddy Bears a solid 4.25 stars.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
Brian McKay hates Christmas, as in ” … if I make it through Christmas without smothering a school bus filled with children, it will be a miracle.” Brian’s a good guy who loves RPGs and his Teddy Bear hamsters Angel and Spike, but he’s got an inferiority complex that just will not quit. When Brian meets hawt daddy bear James, will Brian realize he may have found the person who can accept him exactly the way he is?
Teddy Bears delivers a short sweet plot, two MCs who are anything but stereotypical (and I love they are both older, Brian is 45, James is 51), happy holiday hotness and lust, and an ending with some tears and laughter. (And you’ll have to read the story to figure out that bloody vampire attack nativity scene!) I give Teddy Bears a solid 4.25 stars.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
February 21, 2017
5 hearts!!
That was sooooo adorably sweet! I think I may have melted a little inside after reading that!
Brian is a bear, but what he describes as ‘not the good kind’. He feels he’s too hairy, too fat, too old and on top of that, too geeky. His low self-esteem definitely tugged on the old heart strings.
I adored him though, but I do have a major soft spot for geeks and at 45 Brian is about as geeky as they come. When he meets James, the ‘good kind’ of bear, he can’t believe his luck that James is actually interested in him.
God it was just all so cute and funny! These two had some amazing kisses and were very sexy together. Honestly I don’t think I’ve read much with two daddy bears, I think I should remedy that immediately! Their general maturity and self-awareness was very refreshing.
Oh and super extra slutty points for Phillip, what a hilarious side-character!
Definitely recommended!
Click in the Jizzmas picture to see the unicorns reviews of this week's releases from the Bah Humbug 2016 Advent Calendar stories!
That was sooooo adorably sweet! I think I may have melted a little inside after reading that!
Brian is a bear, but what he describes as ‘not the good kind’. He feels he’s too hairy, too fat, too old and on top of that, too geeky. His low self-esteem definitely tugged on the old heart strings.
He smiled. Flirting. He was flirting. High. I had to be high.
I adored him though, but I do have a major soft spot for geeks and at 45 Brian is about as geeky as they come. When he meets James, the ‘good kind’ of bear, he can’t believe his luck that James is actually interested in him.
I could feel the truth of it. James wanted me. I didn’t understand why, but I knew he did. And I knew it was different from how Philip and many others wanted me. It didn’t make me feel dirty or fetishized. I felt wanted.
God it was just all so cute and funny! These two had some amazing kisses and were very sexy together. Honestly I don’t think I’ve read much with two daddy bears, I think I should remedy that immediately! Their general maturity and self-awareness was very refreshing.
Oh and super extra slutty points for Phillip, what a hilarious side-character!
Definitely recommended!
Click in the Jizzmas picture to see the unicorns reviews of this week's releases from the Bah Humbug 2016 Advent Calendar stories!
December 15, 2016
This was so un-BEAR-ably cute Christmas story!
Brian is having an issue with his appearance, you know, big (not a muscle kinda big) and hairy. A daddy bear!
And he doesn't like twink of chubby chaser. The came that big daddy bear, James, who.. apparently so hot (in Brian's eyes)), and the feeling's mutual! YAY!And James, were really working on it, to make Brian feels special. And he made it!
Loved this one!
Recommended!
* I was given the ARC by a publisher for an honest and unbiased review.*
December 26, 2024
Love this incredibly sweet Christmas story!! Brian is just a regular guy who likes what he likes. He is a bear and is self conscience of pretty much his whole being. Enter, James who is a sexy beat who Brian is immediately drawn to. And it happens that James is also drawn to. Gah, this book was so sweet. Both MCs being in their 40s and 50s was wonderful too!!
December 17, 2016
what can I say? I LOVE this author and everything he writes, and this short was so good.
December 2, 2016
I think this sums up what James means to Brian.
I really adored this story. I love the feeling you get when reading this story. Teddy Bears is such an adorable, feel good story. Acceptance plays a major theme in this story. I love how quirky Brian is. I love how unapologetic James wants him to be. It was really good. I also love that they are both over 40!!! I wouldn't mind re-visiting these two in the future. I definitely need to see what shenanigans is Phillip up to. The whole bathhouse madness, bathhouse Santa, Angel & Spike plus whatever else is going on in town needs to be shared with the masses.
Brian McKay isn't a grouch per say, but he doesn't like Christmas. It stems from parents who didn't listen to a thing their children wanted or was like for Christmas. Sure it's not about the presents, but Brian just wanted something that would show his personality. Fast forward all these years later and he's doing things he wants to do. He and his hamster star in their own web series! I freaking love this. He works at a Bathhouse where he meets a sexy Daddy Bear named James Alan Olsen. I really liked James. I think his confidence was able to slither onto Brian. Brian isn't so secure with his body and things, and James likes him for who he is helps him a lot. I thought the pacing of the story was good, and the writing was spot on. It was a little teary eyed from me a time or two. I would definitely recommend this Holiday story to people. It's very sweet, comforting, and relatable as well. Brandon does an amazing job!
November 23, 2019
Brian is just so incredibly self-deprecating that it was impossible to enjoy this. He is invisible, a bear, a daddy, a fat slob, stupid, dirty, a geek, etc.
On top of that, he is a miserly scrooge.
On top of that, he is a miserly scrooge.
December 10, 2016
Aren’t we all looking for acceptance? The freedom to be who we are and have someone love us, warts and all? This feeling, the happiness and completeness when you meet someone who loves you, right where you are, is what this Christmas novella is all about. Teddy Bears is a quintessential Brandon Witt novel, filled with heartwarming emotions, quirky characterizations, and resolves in a satisfying HEA.
In keeping with the Bah Humbug theme of this year’s anthology, Brian McKay hates Christmas. All of Christmas, December 1st all the way till January. But, it’s not just Christmas Brian doesn’t like; he doesn’t particularly like people in general. Now that he is in his forties, Brian just wants to be left alone to live his life the way he wants to, away from a judgmental human race. He loves RPGs, collecting figurines (which he uses to create YouTube videos), Barbies, and his hamsters. Brian’s work at a bathhouse isn’t perfect, but hey, it pays the bills and allows him to live as he would like to.
James is a bisexual daddy bear who has been alone for a while. He keeps frequenting the bathhouse where a certain bear works, but he can’t seem to make the man pay attention to him. When he serendipitously runs into Brian while at a toy store buying Christmas gifts for his grandchildren, he leaps at the chance to finally have the man he has been fantasizing about.
Cue the Christmas miracles and all the feels. Brian begins to unwind under the calming and supportive, loving nature of James. Miracles keep happening, one after another, as James discovers all the things Brian perceives as being “bad” about himself and turns them into positives. It is a journey of self-awareness and acceptance which ends with both men finding a way forward together.
“I want you to know that how you are is how I want you. You’re the first man I’ve found interesting in years. I got you the doll because I want you to be who you are. That’s the man I want to keep seeing.”
I have to say, I appreciate how Witt creates layers in his stories; having both MCs be bears juxtaposed against the teddy bear hamsters (who stars in those Buffy and Her Teddy Bear Vampire Lovers videos); creating “bath house Santa”; all of these ideas create layers which draw you into his stories and make them interesting, relatable and a joy to read.
This story is all about the feels and I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Carrie for The Novel Approach Reviews
In keeping with the Bah Humbug theme of this year’s anthology, Brian McKay hates Christmas. All of Christmas, December 1st all the way till January. But, it’s not just Christmas Brian doesn’t like; he doesn’t particularly like people in general. Now that he is in his forties, Brian just wants to be left alone to live his life the way he wants to, away from a judgmental human race. He loves RPGs, collecting figurines (which he uses to create YouTube videos), Barbies, and his hamsters. Brian’s work at a bathhouse isn’t perfect, but hey, it pays the bills and allows him to live as he would like to.
James is a bisexual daddy bear who has been alone for a while. He keeps frequenting the bathhouse where a certain bear works, but he can’t seem to make the man pay attention to him. When he serendipitously runs into Brian while at a toy store buying Christmas gifts for his grandchildren, he leaps at the chance to finally have the man he has been fantasizing about.
Cue the Christmas miracles and all the feels. Brian begins to unwind under the calming and supportive, loving nature of James. Miracles keep happening, one after another, as James discovers all the things Brian perceives as being “bad” about himself and turns them into positives. It is a journey of self-awareness and acceptance which ends with both men finding a way forward together.
“I want you to know that how you are is how I want you. You’re the first man I’ve found interesting in years. I got you the doll because I want you to be who you are. That’s the man I want to keep seeing.”
I have to say, I appreciate how Witt creates layers in his stories; having both MCs be bears juxtaposed against the teddy bear hamsters (who stars in those Buffy and Her Teddy Bear Vampire Lovers videos); creating “bath house Santa”; all of these ideas create layers which draw you into his stories and make them interesting, relatable and a joy to read.
This story is all about the feels and I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Carrie for The Novel Approach Reviews
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January 20, 20175 Hearts
How could I give this any less than 5 hearts? This story stole my heart, wrapped it up in bright Christmas paper and presented it back as a beautiful gift of acceptance.
Brian is a bear of a man who works at a bathhouse. While he enjoys his life of collecting figurines and role playing games with his friends, there has been something missing. That something comes in the form of someone, the handsome bear aka James who comes into the bathhouse and turns Brians head… both of them.
A holiday romance with a man over 40 and one just over 50...can I get an amen for that alone??? *sigh*
I adored this so damn much. I get Brian's reluctance to be truthful about what he does , likes and his body but the fact that he is exactly what James wants and that James lets it be known was all sorts of romantic.
Romance for me has always been about that one person who sees you how no other ever had and realizes that you are perfect, just the way you are. Perfect for them. James and Brian are perfect for each other and that end was so beautiful and sweet it made me cry.
Yup, this is a favorite from this year's calendar and now I want a Spike and Angel of my own or at least to marathon watch their show on YouTube. Oh and how can I forget to mention bathhouse Santa!? I'll never hear jingle bells the same way again.
*******************************************************
We Unicorn's are reviewing the Dreamspinner 2016 Advent Calendar every Sunday, Jizzmas gang bang style on the blog with the unis who are Santa Jizzians and the Grumpicorns. Check out the rest of the reviews for this story here...
How could I give this any less than 5 hearts? This story stole my heart, wrapped it up in bright Christmas paper and presented it back as a beautiful gift of acceptance.
Brian is a bear of a man who works at a bathhouse. While he enjoys his life of collecting figurines and role playing games with his friends, there has been something missing. That something comes in the form of someone, the handsome bear aka James who comes into the bathhouse and turns Brians head… both of them.
A holiday romance with a man over 40 and one just over 50...can I get an amen for that alone??? *sigh*
I adored this so damn much. I get Brian's reluctance to be truthful about what he does , likes and his body but the fact that he is exactly what James wants and that James lets it be known was all sorts of romantic.
Romance for me has always been about that one person who sees you how no other ever had and realizes that you are perfect, just the way you are. Perfect for them. James and Brian are perfect for each other and that end was so beautiful and sweet it made me cry.
Yup, this is a favorite from this year's calendar and now I want a Spike and Angel of my own or at least to marathon watch their show on YouTube. Oh and how can I forget to mention bathhouse Santa!? I'll never hear jingle bells the same way again.
*******************************************************
We Unicorn's are reviewing the Dreamspinner 2016 Advent Calendar every Sunday, Jizzmas gang bang style on the blog with the unis who are Santa Jizzians and the Grumpicorns. Check out the rest of the reviews for this story here...
December 28, 2016
(Originally reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews.)
Well, this one was a surprise. It was kind of the dirtiest of my Advent Calendar reads, but I say that in a good way! A Christmas story…set in a gay bathhouse!
Brian McKay works at a gay bathhouse in Denver. He is that guy at the front door, who takes the men’s money, checks their ID and membership, hands them a towel and send them on their way. He has seen things that can’t be unseen, like “Bathhouse Santa” plowing Brian’s coworker.
Brian is quiet, shy and unassuming, preferring the company of this two teddy bear hamsters, and his twice a week roll playing game buddies, to the real world. He has zero self-worth and thinks he is chubby, hairy and not worthy of a boyfriend. He gets by on hookups at the bathhouse.
But Brian has noticed this hot Muscle Bear Daddy who has been coming to the bathhouse, and when he sees the man in the middle of an orgy, he runs the other way so the guy won’t see how much it turns him on. The man is so far beyond him that it doesn’t even bear thought.
But the man, James Olsen, seems to have noticed Brian. Am I the only geek who thought instantly…oh Jimmy Olsen grew up to be a muscle bear? (Superman reference for those of you who didn’t get it.)
Things might just get steamy. Not might, they will.
I liked this one a lot and I highly recommend it. It wasn’t all about sweetness and light like some of the others I’ve read. Of course, anyone who knows me, knows that I have a thing for Bears, so I might have been a little prejudiced.
Well, this one was a surprise. It was kind of the dirtiest of my Advent Calendar reads, but I say that in a good way! A Christmas story…set in a gay bathhouse!
Brian McKay works at a gay bathhouse in Denver. He is that guy at the front door, who takes the men’s money, checks their ID and membership, hands them a towel and send them on their way. He has seen things that can’t be unseen, like “Bathhouse Santa” plowing Brian’s coworker.
Brian is quiet, shy and unassuming, preferring the company of this two teddy bear hamsters, and his twice a week roll playing game buddies, to the real world. He has zero self-worth and thinks he is chubby, hairy and not worthy of a boyfriend. He gets by on hookups at the bathhouse.
But Brian has noticed this hot Muscle Bear Daddy who has been coming to the bathhouse, and when he sees the man in the middle of an orgy, he runs the other way so the guy won’t see how much it turns him on. The man is so far beyond him that it doesn’t even bear thought.
But the man, James Olsen, seems to have noticed Brian. Am I the only geek who thought instantly…oh Jimmy Olsen grew up to be a muscle bear? (Superman reference for those of you who didn’t get it.)
Things might just get steamy. Not might, they will.
I liked this one a lot and I highly recommend it. It wasn’t all about sweetness and light like some of the others I’ve read. Of course, anyone who knows me, knows that I have a thing for Bears, so I might have been a little prejudiced.
December 2, 2016
I absolutely adored this little story. I loved Brian and the way he lived his life. He knew what he wanted out of his life and did it. He's quite happy with Angel and Spike and his YouTube channel. Brian also hates Christmas, which I wish we heard more about. I'm kind of a Scrooge, too, so it feels good knowing someone feels the same way as I do.
Enter James and his hotness. Personally I thought James came on a little too strong for my taste, but I guess since it's a short story it had to be that way. But, once we got to see these men together they fit. I loved how James was with Brian. He didn't belittle his feelings or tell him he needs to do more. He was quite happy that Brian was happy.
I loved that these two were old enough not to play head games. When James wanted to ask something he asked. I loved how shy Brian was around James at first. It was so adorable to see him stumble.
Now, are we going to get Philip's story? Please!
Note: There were some format issues, but I'm hoping this was just the ARC. I received an ARC for this story for an honest review.
Enter James and his hotness. Personally I thought James came on a little too strong for my taste, but I guess since it's a short story it had to be that way. But, once we got to see these men together they fit. I loved how James was with Brian. He didn't belittle his feelings or tell him he needs to do more. He was quite happy that Brian was happy.
I loved that these two were old enough not to play head games. When James wanted to ask something he asked. I loved how shy Brian was around James at first. It was so adorable to see him stumble.
Now, are we going to get Philip's story? Please!
Note: There were some format issues, but I'm hoping this was just the ARC. I received an ARC for this story for an honest review.
December 1, 2016
http://bianchianita1971.blogspot.it/2...
Questa storia mi ha fatto entrare, con discreto anticipo, nel giusto clima natalizio! Brian è un personaggio che ti entra subito nel cuore: è piuttosto in carne, timido, insicuro, con una passione per i criceti e i giochi di ruolo. Non ha avuto storie importanti fin'ora ma, anche se sente la mancanza di qualcuno vicino, vive la sua vita come l'ha sempre voluta: senza grandi ambizioni e senza grandi emozioni, tranquilla e ordinaria.
Brian odia in Natale (per tutta una serie di situazioni infelici infantili) ma è proprio durante il periodo natalizio che nella sua vita entra James. James è tutto ciò che Brian ha sempre desiderato e che non ha mai creduto di poter avere; contro ogni sua previsione James si dimostra attratto dal timido Brian. Da qui in poi la storia prende una svolta molto dolce e ricca di speranza, assolutamente adatta per il clima natalizio. È un racconto breve che si legge velocemente ma che vi lascierà una bella sensazione dientro; non guasta poi che sia anche hot al punto giusto!
Questa storia mi ha fatto entrare, con discreto anticipo, nel giusto clima natalizio! Brian è un personaggio che ti entra subito nel cuore: è piuttosto in carne, timido, insicuro, con una passione per i criceti e i giochi di ruolo. Non ha avuto storie importanti fin'ora ma, anche se sente la mancanza di qualcuno vicino, vive la sua vita come l'ha sempre voluta: senza grandi ambizioni e senza grandi emozioni, tranquilla e ordinaria.
Brian odia in Natale (per tutta una serie di situazioni infelici infantili) ma è proprio durante il periodo natalizio che nella sua vita entra James. James è tutto ciò che Brian ha sempre desiderato e che non ha mai creduto di poter avere; contro ogni sua previsione James si dimostra attratto dal timido Brian. Da qui in poi la storia prende una svolta molto dolce e ricca di speranza, assolutamente adatta per il clima natalizio. È un racconto breve che si legge velocemente ma che vi lascierà una bella sensazione dientro; non guasta poi che sia anche hot al punto giusto!
February 5, 2017
So Teddy Bears was a great little novella that explored a queer holiday from a bunch of fresh angles that I can’t recall seeing before:
One: both of the guys involved aren’t in their twenties/early thirties. (I love reading about guys my age or guys older than I am, frankly.)
Two: bears who aren’t just muscle bears! (And one who’s struggling to be cool with his body, which—hey—we’ve all been there, no?)
Three: nerd/geek who isn’t “secretly gorgeous super-lean model type once he gets new clothes and reveals his abs.” (Because no.)
Four: Buffy/Spike/Angel dwarf hamster YouTube stars. (No, like, really.)
Five: a bathhouse setting for a romance? (Yep.)
So, with that in mind, if you’re in the mood for a holiday story that lives up to its description, you’re well advised to nab this one for the next time you want something jolly, sweet, a little bit smexy, and funny to boot. This was a wonderful bit of warmth for a frigid winter day.
So, thanks, Brandon Witt.
One: both of the guys involved aren’t in their twenties/early thirties. (I love reading about guys my age or guys older than I am, frankly.)
Two: bears who aren’t just muscle bears! (And one who’s struggling to be cool with his body, which—hey—we’ve all been there, no?)
Three: nerd/geek who isn’t “secretly gorgeous super-lean model type once he gets new clothes and reveals his abs.” (Because no.)
Four: Buffy/Spike/Angel dwarf hamster YouTube stars. (No, like, really.)
Five: a bathhouse setting for a romance? (Yep.)
So, with that in mind, if you’re in the mood for a holiday story that lives up to its description, you’re well advised to nab this one for the next time you want something jolly, sweet, a little bit smexy, and funny to boot. This was a wonderful bit of warmth for a frigid winter day.
So, thanks, Brandon Witt.
December 24, 2016
Angel and Spike stole the show.
I love reading about older and imperfect characters. I actually much prefer imperfection to model-tastic perfection. Reading about too hot and sexy bodies get boring and repetitive fast. At least it does to me. Bring me a story of two averidge guys and I'm all in. I wish more authors would see the demand for some realism in romance, not all of us want the sam old, same old fantasy.
I love reading about older and imperfect characters. I actually much prefer imperfection to model-tastic perfection. Reading about too hot and sexy bodies get boring and repetitive fast. At least it does to me. Bring me a story of two averidge guys and I'm all in. I wish more authors would see the demand for some realism in romance, not all of us want the sam old, same old fantasy.
August 27, 2017
Some of this made me laugh out loud, mostly stuff that was connected to the Teddy Bears and their videos. On the other hand, there seemed to be lots of tears in this one, and I wasn't sure why always. I also find bath houses a bit ick (could be the straight girl in me - but germs), but on the whole, it was okay and amused me enough to overall rate it positively.
March 10, 2017
So cute and heartwarming!
Read
December 20, 20201.5 Stars
December 1, 2016
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars.
‘Teddy Bears’ is the most adorable bah-humbug to the-joys-of-Christmas holiday story. It is quite impossible not to feel for Brian McKay. He’s such a nerdy dork he both made me smile and broke my heart. To say this man has body issues would be a gross understatement. He doesn’t like the way he looks and can’t believe anybody could possibly find him attractive. In fact, he is so certain he’s destined to be along he’s even given up on dreaming about a happy ending. His dislike of Christmas runs very deep and is rooted in bad childhood memories, and as the day comes closer, Brian gets ever more grumpy.
Enter James Olsen who is everything Brian desires and admires in a man and therefore completely out of Brian’s reach—right? Wrong! When James looks at Brian he doesn’t see an overweight and unattractive nobody, he sees a man he wants to spend time with. All he needs to do is convince Brian that he is really interested and not just feeling sorry for him.
The story of Brian’s slow realisation that not only is James really attracted to him but he also deserves that interest, is wonderful and very well written. Rather than through a blinding moment of insight it is James’s wooing of Brian through an interest in his hobbies, an obvious attraction, and a genuine date, that Brian comes to accept his own worth.
I loved how this book was both very sexy and almost innocent at the same time. The contrast between the free-for-all nature of the bathhouse and Brian’s almost prudish self-consciousness was both poignant and very clever.
Brian being willing to settle for the memory of one good night with James all but broke my heart. His subsequent journey put it back together again in the best possible way. Brian’s belief in Christmas miracles came through James, for me it came through Brian’s courage and Brandon Witt’s wonderful writing.
Between Brian finding his happy ending and Spike and Angel (read the book if you want to know who they are) this story was nothing short of adorable. As Christmas stories go, this one is a keeper!
‘Teddy Bears’ is the most adorable bah-humbug to the-joys-of-Christmas holiday story. It is quite impossible not to feel for Brian McKay. He’s such a nerdy dork he both made me smile and broke my heart. To say this man has body issues would be a gross understatement. He doesn’t like the way he looks and can’t believe anybody could possibly find him attractive. In fact, he is so certain he’s destined to be along he’s even given up on dreaming about a happy ending. His dislike of Christmas runs very deep and is rooted in bad childhood memories, and as the day comes closer, Brian gets ever more grumpy.
Enter James Olsen who is everything Brian desires and admires in a man and therefore completely out of Brian’s reach—right? Wrong! When James looks at Brian he doesn’t see an overweight and unattractive nobody, he sees a man he wants to spend time with. All he needs to do is convince Brian that he is really interested and not just feeling sorry for him.
The story of Brian’s slow realisation that not only is James really attracted to him but he also deserves that interest, is wonderful and very well written. Rather than through a blinding moment of insight it is James’s wooing of Brian through an interest in his hobbies, an obvious attraction, and a genuine date, that Brian comes to accept his own worth.
I loved how this book was both very sexy and almost innocent at the same time. The contrast between the free-for-all nature of the bathhouse and Brian’s almost prudish self-consciousness was both poignant and very clever.
Brian being willing to settle for the memory of one good night with James all but broke my heart. His subsequent journey put it back together again in the best possible way. Brian’s belief in Christmas miracles came through James, for me it came through Brian’s courage and Brandon Witt’s wonderful writing.
Between Brian finding his happy ending and Spike and Angel (read the book if you want to know who they are) this story was nothing short of adorable. As Christmas stories go, this one is a keeper!
December 28, 2016
I think this ties for my favorite story from this collection and is absolutely one of my favorite holiday stories of the year!
Brian is a “daddy bear” who doesn’t want to be seen that way, his self-esteem isn’t very high in the romance department and he’s floored when the hot “real bear” hits on him.
In addition to feeling like his body isn’t great, he’s a closet geek – times a thousand! – and he’s not very sociable. There’s just no way this hot, together, older guy really wants something to do with him, right?
Well, he does and MAN it’s so frickin’ sweet! I just loved every word of this and wished it was a full-fledged novel because watching these two come together was really beautiful.
I don’t want to just re-iterate the story but there were so many things I loved! I loved the reaction James has to the “Teddy Bear” movies. I wanted to cry with the guys when James gives Brian the present. I loved Brian’s vision of future Christmases. I even found Phillip and his shenanigans charming.
There was just enough raunch and just enough silliness to keep this from being maudlin but SO MANY FEELS! I loved it!
6 of 5 stars
Brian is a “daddy bear” who doesn’t want to be seen that way, his self-esteem isn’t very high in the romance department and he’s floored when the hot “real bear” hits on him.
In addition to feeling like his body isn’t great, he’s a closet geek – times a thousand! – and he’s not very sociable. There’s just no way this hot, together, older guy really wants something to do with him, right?
Well, he does and MAN it’s so frickin’ sweet! I just loved every word of this and wished it was a full-fledged novel because watching these two come together was really beautiful.
I don’t want to just re-iterate the story but there were so many things I loved! I loved the reaction James has to the “Teddy Bear” movies. I wanted to cry with the guys when James gives Brian the present. I loved Brian’s vision of future Christmases. I even found Phillip and his shenanigans charming.
There was just enough raunch and just enough silliness to keep this from being maudlin but SO MANY FEELS! I loved it!
6 of 5 stars
December 5, 2020
What a wonderfully warm, sweet story! And it isn’t just the teddy bear hamsters who stole my heart, although they did grab me from the moment I spied them on the cover. They’re active participants in Brian’s life and star in several of his YouTube videos. How cute is that? Unfortunately, for Brian, it means most men consider him an eccentric geek, if not worse, and he ends up being very lonely. And when he runs into James and the gorgeous stranger shows an interest – Brian is too shocked to believe it’s real.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
December 1, 2016
Bear Love
Brian isn't a huge fan of Christmas , of the hustle and bustle, or even of the music. He's a geek and a big guy to boot, not what most guys would look at for love, at least non he would like. Not until James comes into his job at the bath house and something inside Brian changes.
Brandon always writes great characters and has wonderful stories to go along with them, this one is no different. Great characters that are older in age, and aren't the norm as far as fit and gym bodies, but rather thick and juicy bears. And why not, bigger guys want love too.
Brian isn't a huge fan of Christmas , of the hustle and bustle, or even of the music. He's a geek and a big guy to boot, not what most guys would look at for love, at least non he would like. Not until James comes into his job at the bath house and something inside Brian changes.
Brandon always writes great characters and has wonderful stories to go along with them, this one is no different. Great characters that are older in age, and aren't the norm as far as fit and gym bodies, but rather thick and juicy bears. And why not, bigger guys want love too.
Read
December 14, 2016I don't love the whole genre of Christmas stories about people who hate the holidays, but Brandon Witt made it work. Rather than focusing on making the Bah Humbug character (Brian, a bath house employee with an affinity for Buffy the Vampire Slayer, collectible toys, and hamsters) fall in love with the season, he simply builds a new relationship that just so happens to occur around the holidays, solving Brian's problems of loneliness and grinchiness in one fell swoop.
Also, hallelujah for a non-traditional romantic pairing with an overweight nerd and a grandpa.
Also, hallelujah for a non-traditional romantic pairing with an overweight nerd and a grandpa.
November 17, 2024
This was great, and I almost gave it five stars -- for Buffy, and Catan jokes, and Spike and Angel, and those last few pages that are ooey gooey perfection -- but it is still just a little Christmas shortie that spans maybe 10 days or so and a few dates. But the characters are great, even the ones that show up for just one scene, and it's definitely not your cookie cutter Christmas romance. I loved it, it put me in a good mood and I need to find a full-length novel to try from this author.
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