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Sweet Tooth
Getting lost in the woods was never this fun When Hans Jager and his sister Greta have to return home for the holidays, the last thing he expects is to run into his childhood best friend, Chester Wild. Even more surprising is when Chester pretends to be Hans’s boyfriend to protect Hans from his wicked step-mother’s wrath. Seeing Chester again makes Hans realise that he might feel more than just friendship, but can he risk spoiling what they already have? Chester has always loved his best friend. But Hans is straight, right? When they find themselves stranded in the woods, everything changes, but for how long? A dark family secret could undo their magical reunion, and Hans is feeling more lost than ever. Could Chester be enough to guide him back to true love? Sweet Tooth is a steamy, standalone MM romance novel featuring a scrumptious sweet shop, slow dancing to Elton John, an explosive family dinner, a loyal puppy, a very naughty use for candy canes, and a guaranteed HEA with absolutely no cliffhanger.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 13, 2020
43 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
Helen Juliet
52 books204 followersHelen Juliet is a British author of contemporary MM fairy tale adaptations, including the international bestselling Beauty and the Beast retelling, Thorn in His Side. 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 American small town MM series as HJ Welch, including Pine Cove, Homecoming Hearts, and Paddle Creek College.
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 American small town MM series as HJ Welch, including Pine Cove, Homecoming Hearts, and Paddle Creek College.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
February 3, 2021
Sweet Tooth is my last read of 2020.
While I can acknowledge the fluffy friends-to-lovers theme and the jolly HEA, overall this book, like Hans and Chester, lost its way. Part romance, part fairy tale, part murder mystery, the story was slow to get going, meandered in the middle, and wrapped up at neck-breaking speed.
Hans and his twin sister Greta return as prodigal children of Gingerbread's mayor. Their names are clearly a play on Hansel and Gretel, and there is a mean old hag by the name of Ethel who owns the candy shop where Chester works; an evil stepmother who ran the twins out of town; deep, dark woods; and lots of candy to lure and entice.
I predicted the trajectory of the story down to the last detail almost immediately. Chester and his teddy bear Hans are very cute together, and if naughty fun with candy canes (and chocolate mice) is your thing, you'll giggle with glee.
If you insist on the backstory making sense, you might be disappointed. Ten years and the twins' father never once talked to them to get their side of the story? He just floated along, missing his children but never reaching out to them. Nah, I don't buy it, especially since he was portrayed as a loving and doting dad.
The story isn't sour candy by any means; it's a bit of sugary fun: sweet in the moment but easily forgotten.
While I can acknowledge the fluffy friends-to-lovers theme and the jolly HEA, overall this book, like Hans and Chester, lost its way. Part romance, part fairy tale, part murder mystery, the story was slow to get going, meandered in the middle, and wrapped up at neck-breaking speed.
Hans and his twin sister Greta return as prodigal children of Gingerbread's mayor. Their names are clearly a play on Hansel and Gretel, and there is a mean old hag by the name of Ethel who owns the candy shop where Chester works; an evil stepmother who ran the twins out of town; deep, dark woods; and lots of candy to lure and entice.
I predicted the trajectory of the story down to the last detail almost immediately. Chester and his teddy bear Hans are very cute together, and if naughty fun with candy canes (and chocolate mice) is your thing, you'll giggle with glee.
If you insist on the backstory making sense, you might be disappointed. Ten years and the twins' father never once talked to them to get their side of the story? He just floated along, missing his children but never reaching out to them. Nah, I don't buy it, especially since he was portrayed as a loving and doting dad.
The story isn't sour candy by any means; it's a bit of sugary fun: sweet in the moment but easily forgotten.
November 21, 2021
This book is a bit of a mess. I was really looking forward to it after the last Juliet book I read and the fun blurb. And initially the sweet bond between Chester and Hans made me look forward to the rest. Unfortunately this book is about 70% internal dialogue. And the whole thing just felt… like a rough draft. Editors should have picked up some weird pacing and inconsistencies in the story. And the BIZARRE banter during sex…
This isn’t enough to turn me off from this author, but this one was a big bummer.
This isn’t enough to turn me off from this author, but this one was a big bummer.
December 15, 2020
Helen Juliet's Sweet Tooth is a sweet friends to lovers holiday romance. This is a standalone read that is a modern retelling of Hansel and Gretel.
There is a whole lot of "cute" happening in this story. The town is named Gingerbread. The brother and sister are named Hans and Greta. And there's a candy shop, of course.
As for the candy cane scene, wow, just wow. That is definitely a different way to use a candy cane!
I love the emotions in this tale. The siblings left town, guilty of causing their mother's death. And, of course, their stepmother never misses an opportunity to remind them of that. They're back home now to say goodbye to their dying father. I can't praise enough the way this aspect of the story develops. I love it all.
As usual, the writing style is entertaining and wonderfully paced. The characters fully come to life and and their storyline is pure delight.
Sweet Tooth is a feel good holiday read. Helen Juliet will definitely leave you happy with this tale that perfectly combines friends to lovers and fake boyfriend themes.
There is a whole lot of "cute" happening in this story. The town is named Gingerbread. The brother and sister are named Hans and Greta. And there's a candy shop, of course.
As for the candy cane scene, wow, just wow. That is definitely a different way to use a candy cane!
I love the emotions in this tale. The siblings left town, guilty of causing their mother's death. And, of course, their stepmother never misses an opportunity to remind them of that. They're back home now to say goodbye to their dying father. I can't praise enough the way this aspect of the story develops. I love it all.
As usual, the writing style is entertaining and wonderfully paced. The characters fully come to life and and their storyline is pure delight.
Sweet Tooth is a feel good holiday read. Helen Juliet will definitely leave you happy with this tale that perfectly combines friends to lovers and fake boyfriend themes.
March 17, 2021
*Audio review*
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted the audio file of this book.
Kieran Flitton narrates this book.
I have listened to a couple of Flitton's work, reading Ms Juliet's work, but while I loved reading this book, I did struggle a bit with the audio version.
The voices for both Chester and Hans are VERY similar, too similar for my rubbish hearing to make out the differences. It meant I wasn't always fully aware of who was talking at any given time.
Also, when the characters are *thinking* or they drop their voices to a whisper? I lost that, totally. It did mean that at more than one point, I was going to stop listening.
BUT!
When we get to the candy cane scene?? OMG Flitton NAILS it, he really does! Reading it was super hawt, but listening?? Phew!! I had to stop painting!
Flitton does get all the emotions over (bar the thoughts and whispers) though, and you really do feel for both Hans and Chester, all their pain at being apart for so long, and the reason for that pain. It's not that long ago I read this book, but I couldn't quite remember how it all went down at the end, so again, I had to stop painting to listen properly.
SO, only because of the similar voices and the dips...
4 stars for the narration.
**original READ review**
I was gifted my copy of this book, direct from the author, and I thank Ms Juliet for that!
Hans returns home, with his twin sister, Greta, cos he dad is ill. Running into his childhood best friend wasn't on the cards, but meeting Chester again made Hans want so many things he thought he could never have. Does Chester feel the same?
I've said this before, and I have no doubt I will say it again.
Ms Juliet does warm and fuzzies AND too stinking cute so beautifully!
Hans let his freindship with Chester fall by the wayside and he wasn't sure that they could still be friends. Seeing Chester again bought all those feelings he had before right back to the front, and then some. Things were simply MORE when Chester was around. Chester too, was so pleased they fell back into their friendship, and he TOO wanted more. Getting lost in the woods made them see sense :-)
I loved that both Hans and Chester had felt the way they did all those years ago, but Hans wasn't quite sure what his feelings meant. Now, of course, he does and Chester is everything he ever wanted in a man. Chester makes Hans feel safe, wanted, especially after what happened ten years ago, and both Hans and Chester want that safe and wanted feeling and so much MORE.
Its quite emotional dealing with a parental death, when they were mere teens, but I could mostly see what happened then coming at me. Not quite ALL of it, but I picked the general gist of it. You felt for the children that Hans and Greta were, you really did.
And its S-T-E-A-M-Y! Oh my, so very steamy! I will never look at candy canes in the same way, ever again! *fan yourself, it's a hot one!*
The "I love you" came early, and I don't always like that but since these two had loved each other for ever, it's right that they did.
My sleep pattern is messed up (dec 2020) and I started to read this at 4am. I had to be at work at 11, and had errands to run before then. I got to work on time. . .JUST! I couldn't put it down!
I
Bloody
Loved
This!
5 full and candy stripey (fans self!) stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted the audio file of this book.
Kieran Flitton narrates this book.
I have listened to a couple of Flitton's work, reading Ms Juliet's work, but while I loved reading this book, I did struggle a bit with the audio version.
The voices for both Chester and Hans are VERY similar, too similar for my rubbish hearing to make out the differences. It meant I wasn't always fully aware of who was talking at any given time.
Also, when the characters are *thinking* or they drop their voices to a whisper? I lost that, totally. It did mean that at more than one point, I was going to stop listening.
BUT!
When we get to the candy cane scene?? OMG Flitton NAILS it, he really does! Reading it was super hawt, but listening?? Phew!! I had to stop painting!
Flitton does get all the emotions over (bar the thoughts and whispers) though, and you really do feel for both Hans and Chester, all their pain at being apart for so long, and the reason for that pain. It's not that long ago I read this book, but I couldn't quite remember how it all went down at the end, so again, I had to stop painting to listen properly.
SO, only because of the similar voices and the dips...
4 stars for the narration.
**original READ review**
I was gifted my copy of this book, direct from the author, and I thank Ms Juliet for that!
Hans returns home, with his twin sister, Greta, cos he dad is ill. Running into his childhood best friend wasn't on the cards, but meeting Chester again made Hans want so many things he thought he could never have. Does Chester feel the same?
I've said this before, and I have no doubt I will say it again.
Ms Juliet does warm and fuzzies AND too stinking cute so beautifully!
Hans let his freindship with Chester fall by the wayside and he wasn't sure that they could still be friends. Seeing Chester again bought all those feelings he had before right back to the front, and then some. Things were simply MORE when Chester was around. Chester too, was so pleased they fell back into their friendship, and he TOO wanted more. Getting lost in the woods made them see sense :-)
I loved that both Hans and Chester had felt the way they did all those years ago, but Hans wasn't quite sure what his feelings meant. Now, of course, he does and Chester is everything he ever wanted in a man. Chester makes Hans feel safe, wanted, especially after what happened ten years ago, and both Hans and Chester want that safe and wanted feeling and so much MORE.
Its quite emotional dealing with a parental death, when they were mere teens, but I could mostly see what happened then coming at me. Not quite ALL of it, but I picked the general gist of it. You felt for the children that Hans and Greta were, you really did.
And its S-T-E-A-M-Y! Oh my, so very steamy! I will never look at candy canes in the same way, ever again! *fan yourself, it's a hot one!*
The "I love you" came early, and I don't always like that but since these two had loved each other for ever, it's right that they did.
My sleep pattern is messed up (dec 2020) and I started to read this at 4am. I had to be at work at 11, and had errands to run before then. I got to work on time. . .JUST! I couldn't put it down!
I
Bloody
Loved
This!
5 full and candy stripey (fans self!) stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
January 11, 2021
I loved the romance in this sweet riff on Hansel and Gretel. Fairy tales are a go to for me, and I liked how the author took the overall theme and made it a modern story set in reality.
She crafted the characters in a way that made me totally believe in the friends to lovers trope for Chester and Hans. They were definitely meant-to-be and a compliment to each other in every way. Sometimes friends to lovers can have awkward 'is this really a good idea?' vibes, but Sweet Tooth doesn't have that at all and giving dual perspective made it even better.
The resolution was a little quick considering the pace of the build up, but I enjoyed the build up so much I didn't really care, I was down for the HEA at that point.
The chemistry between the two of them was wonderfully steamy and they jived really well. Other than that, sure, bring on a little lite Christmas kink.
I'd love to spend Christmas in Gingerbread. It read as pretty delicious all the way around and the sweet romance and friendship between Hans and Chester made it even better. I'll be ready to read this one again next Christmas.
She crafted the characters in a way that made me totally believe in the friends to lovers trope for Chester and Hans. They were definitely meant-to-be and a compliment to each other in every way. Sometimes friends to lovers can have awkward 'is this really a good idea?' vibes, but Sweet Tooth doesn't have that at all and giving dual perspective made it even better.
The resolution was a little quick considering the pace of the build up, but I enjoyed the build up so much I didn't really care, I was down for the HEA at that point.
The chemistry between the two of them was wonderfully steamy and they jived really well. Other than that, sure, bring on a little lite Christmas kink.
I'd love to spend Christmas in Gingerbread. It read as pretty delicious all the way around and the sweet romance and friendship between Hans and Chester made it even better. I'll be ready to read this one again next Christmas.
December 15, 2020
This is a wonderful retelling of Hansel and Gretel that I couldn’t put down. The story is engaging and sweet with characters I enjoyed getting to know. This was a journey I delighted following as Hans and Chester found their way together.
March 17, 2021
Well, heck! Helen Juliet is truly making a largely favorable impression with the M/M fairy tale remakes and she did justice to Hansel and Gretel. Being updated to modern times, we discover Hans and his sister Greta returning to the town of Gingerbread after being away for ten long years. Hans had a childhood friend he lost contact with that lives in town. And the mayor of the town? Hans and Greta's father Johannes that suffered from despondency when his wife (Hans and Greta's mother) died in a horseback accident. Then there's the evil stepmother! The author did a fantastic job making me want to firebomb that woman and a beautiful job making me fall in love with Hans's childhood friend Dorchester, who had been harboring 'those kinds of feelings' for his friend Hans. There is some angst that could make this read frustrating for some who just want the guys to love each other already! I'm hoping this writer will continue putting her own special M/M romance spin on ALL the wonderful fairy tales out there. Thanks for the delightful listen from Kiernan Flitton, who narrated beautifully!
March 12, 2021
I adore retold fairytales. The storyline is fantastic. Hans and his twin, Greta have lost so much that it was heartbreaking. Coming back to see their dad showed me that despite their pain, they love their father. Running into Chester brought Hans face to face with all that he left behind. Chester and his Nanna were bright spots in the story. His love for Hans has never gone away and I liked that when doubts crept in he went to Nanna for her wisdom. Unlike the original story, there is more than one witch, there is a bit of intrigue, and the truth is brought to light in a delightfully satisfying way. The final chapter is just the cherry on top.
Audiobook: Fantastic narrator
Audiobook: Fantastic narrator
December 18, 2020
Sweet Tooth by Helen Juliet is a modern MM romance spin on Hansel & Gretel. The story starts when Hans Jager and his sister Greta have to return home for the holidays. There he sees his childhood best friend Chester. I loved the story of Chester and Hans. It was sweet, sexy, hot and very well written.
December 23, 2022
In the beginning I was really loving this one, but it's about 100 pages of internal dialogue too long.
November 24, 2021
I enjoyed the audio version as much as the written and I found a new-to-me narrator. Christmas win!
December 15, 2020
Another great modern fairy tale retelling by Helen, with a modern twist on Hansel and Gretel.
Wicked stepmother, so many sweet related terms, boys lost in the woods, happy ever after!
Chester and Hans story is so cute!
Wicked stepmother, so many sweet related terms, boys lost in the woods, happy ever after!
Chester and Hans story is so cute!
December 30, 2020
A Candy Cane twist for Christmas in Gingerbread. A delightful fairy-tale inspired friends to lovers story with unique and original twists and turns that will keep you reading and enjoying.
i loved the reuniting of Hans and Chester who were childhood best friends and have loved each other for years. Greta was wonderful! Just snarky and the perfect sister.
It was really fun to see the 'bad guys' get a comeuppance!
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my honest opinion and review.
i loved the reuniting of Hans and Chester who were childhood best friends and have loved each other for years. Greta was wonderful! Just snarky and the perfect sister.
It was really fun to see the 'bad guys' get a comeuppance!
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my honest opinion and review.
December 15, 2020
I love reading Helen Juliet's retelling of classic fairytales and this one did not disappoint. This time it is the story of Hansel and Gretel but turned into a beautifully sweet MM romance, complete with former best friends to lovers, fake boyfriends, so many sweets, and a very imaginative use of candy canes! All the characters are extremely loveable and the romance and emotions between Hans and Chester are so pure and well paced. Perfect if you're looking for a sweet story to treat yourself with!
December 21, 2020
This Christmas-y best-friends-to-lovers romance was absolutely adorable!
While this story is loosely based on the traditional Hansel and Gretel tale, Hans and Chester's romance felt very original and captivating. There were just enough references to the original story for me to notice them, but the overall plot took on a life of its own as the story progressed. I've always been a sucker for second-chances at love, and Hans and Chester's reconnection was particularly sweet since the two of them were still hopelessly in love. As these former best friends banded together like old times, it was such a joy to see them confess their feelings to each other and pursue something real. Unlike some romances where the characters have to build up trust and an emotional connection, Hans and Chester were already all-in and just needed a push to be honest with each other. The rest of the story was a sweet exploration of their affections and a chance for Hans and Greta to finally get some closure about what happened with the town of Gingerbread. I can honestly say that I did not see some of those twists and turns coming, and in true fairytale fashion the good guys walked away with a huge victory.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
While this story is loosely based on the traditional Hansel and Gretel tale, Hans and Chester's romance felt very original and captivating. There were just enough references to the original story for me to notice them, but the overall plot took on a life of its own as the story progressed. I've always been a sucker for second-chances at love, and Hans and Chester's reconnection was particularly sweet since the two of them were still hopelessly in love. As these former best friends banded together like old times, it was such a joy to see them confess their feelings to each other and pursue something real. Unlike some romances where the characters have to build up trust and an emotional connection, Hans and Chester were already all-in and just needed a push to be honest with each other. The rest of the story was a sweet exploration of their affections and a chance for Hans and Greta to finally get some closure about what happened with the town of Gingerbread. I can honestly say that I did not see some of those twists and turns coming, and in true fairytale fashion the good guys walked away with a huge victory.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
December 29, 2020
"Sweet Tooth" by Helen Juliet is a novel you just have to read! It is a perfect combination of a fairy tale and the real world that surrounds us. And all this is due to the fact that the author adds elements of the fairy tales about Hansel and Gretel to our everyday life. However, the thing that impresses us when reading "Sweet Tooth" is not the fact that the author rewrites the well-known, popular fairy tale, but the wonderful way in which she uses "Hansel and Gretel" to give these characters and several others a new life in her own story. Believe me, "Sweet Tooth" conquers the reader's heart from the very first sentence and makes us fall in love with it more and more with each page of this novel. The things that Helen Juliet has prepared for us in this book is a real masterpiece. Story, characters, construction of the world, discussed problems. This is undoubtedly one of the best novels I have read recently.
I've mentioned the story and this is what I would like to focus on now. Helen Juliet tells us a truly magical, touching and sometimes interestingly kinky story of two siblings who are, in a way, abandoned not because of the family's poverty, but because of someone else's greed. In "Sweet Tooth" there is also a drama from the past, which strongly influenced the siblings and their lives. Thanks to this, we get, at least to some extent, an insight into Hans' and Greta's psyche, thus the siblings whose experiences fuel this novel. Let's add that love is also an important element of this story, so the reader can count on some deep sighs, love problems and hot sex. In a word, in "Sweet Tooth" we can find everything.
And what about the characters? Well, if we are talking about "Hansel and Gretel", we cannot forget about the witch. Well, let me mention that in "Sweet Tooth" there is more than one witch, which is important because we can, to some extent, see a real value of this character, of a witch. What's more, the reader asks themselves which witch in this novel is the "real" one. Of course there are many more advantages of this character. Hans and Greta's father, their stepmother and Chester's grandmother are also of great importance. Their role in this novel is far more complex than their mere presence. As for Greta, Hans and Chester, they are really well constructed, interesting, mentally developed. You'll love them in the blink of an eye.
To sum it up, "Sweet Tooth" is a great novel that you have to read as soon as possible. If you don't, you will regret it very much. In my opinion, there are so many advantages to this novel that you can write an entire thesis about them. So see for yourself how Helen Juliet used the fairy tale about Hansel and Gretel to create her own fantastic story.
______________________
„Sweet Tooth” autorstwa Helen Juliet to powieść, którą po prostu musicie przeczytać! Jest ona doskonałym połączeniem baśni i świata realnego, który nas otacza. A wszystko to dzięki temu, że autorka doprawia naszą codzienność elementami baśni o Jasiu i Małgosi. Tym, co nas w „Sweet Tooth” zachwyca jest jednak nie napisanie na nowo znanej, popularnej baśni, ale wspaniały sposób, w jaki autorka sięgnęła po „Jasia i Małgosię”, aby nadać tym postaciom oraz kilku innym nowe życie w swojej własnej historii. Wierzcie mi, „Sweet Tooth” podbija serce czytelnika już od pierwszego zdania i rozkochuje nas w sobie coraz bardziej z każdą kolejną stroną powieści. To, co przygotowała dla nas w tej książce Helen Juliet to prawdziwy majstersztyk. Historia, bohaterowie, budowa świata, poruszane problemy. To bezsprzecznie jedna z najlepszych powieści, jakie ostatnio czytałam.
Wspomniałam o historii i teraz właśnie tym tematem chciałabym się zająć. Helen Juliet opowiada nam naprawdę magiczną, wzruszającą i czasami interesująco zbereźną historię dwójki rodzeństwa, które zostaje niejako porzucone nie z winy panującej w rodzinie biedy, ale czyjejś chciwości. W „Sweet Tooth” nie brakuje również tematu dramatu z przeszłości, który bardzo silnie wpłynął na rodzeństwo oraz ich życie. Dzięki temu wchodzimy w pewnym stopniu w psychikę Hansa i Grety, a więc rodzeństwa, którego przeżycia nakręcają tę powieść. Ważnym elementem tej historii jest również miłość, tak więc czytelnik może liczyć na romantyczne westchnienia, miłosne przeżycia, gorący seks. W „Sweet Tooth” znajdziemy więc wszystko.
A co z bohaterami? Otóż, jeżeli mówimy o „Jasiu i Małgosi”, nie możemy pominąć postaci wiedźmy. Wspomnę tylko, że w „Sweet Tooth” pojawia się nie jedna wiedźma, co jest to o tyle istotne, że w pewnym stopniu wartościuje nam postać wiedźmy. Czytelnik zadaje sobie bowiem pytanie, która wiedźma w tej powieści jest tą „prawdziwą”. Zalet tej postaci jest naturalnie o wiele więcej. Ogromne znaczenie ma również ojciec Hansa i Grety, ich macocha oraz babcia Chestera. Ich rola w tej powieści jest zdecydowanie bardziej złożona, niż tylko zwykła ich obecność. Co się zaś tyczy Grety, Hansa i Chestera, są oni naprawdę dobrze skonstruowani, interesujący, rozbudowani psychicznie. Pokochacie ich w mgnieniu oka.
Podsumowując, „Sweet Tooth” to wspaniała powieść, którą musicie przeczytać jak najszybciej. Jeśli tego nie zrobicie, będziecie tego bardzo żałować. Uważam, że zalet tej powieści jak tak wiele, że można napisać na ich temat całą pracę dyplomową. Przekonajcie się więc sami, w jaki sposób Helen Juliet wykorzystała baśń o Jasiu i Małgosi, aby stworzyć swoją fantastyczną historię.
I've mentioned the story and this is what I would like to focus on now. Helen Juliet tells us a truly magical, touching and sometimes interestingly kinky story of two siblings who are, in a way, abandoned not because of the family's poverty, but because of someone else's greed. In "Sweet Tooth" there is also a drama from the past, which strongly influenced the siblings and their lives. Thanks to this, we get, at least to some extent, an insight into Hans' and Greta's psyche, thus the siblings whose experiences fuel this novel. Let's add that love is also an important element of this story, so the reader can count on some deep sighs, love problems and hot sex. In a word, in "Sweet Tooth" we can find everything.
And what about the characters? Well, if we are talking about "Hansel and Gretel", we cannot forget about the witch. Well, let me mention that in "Sweet Tooth" there is more than one witch, which is important because we can, to some extent, see a real value of this character, of a witch. What's more, the reader asks themselves which witch in this novel is the "real" one. Of course there are many more advantages of this character. Hans and Greta's father, their stepmother and Chester's grandmother are also of great importance. Their role in this novel is far more complex than their mere presence. As for Greta, Hans and Chester, they are really well constructed, interesting, mentally developed. You'll love them in the blink of an eye.
To sum it up, "Sweet Tooth" is a great novel that you have to read as soon as possible. If you don't, you will regret it very much. In my opinion, there are so many advantages to this novel that you can write an entire thesis about them. So see for yourself how Helen Juliet used the fairy tale about Hansel and Gretel to create her own fantastic story.
______________________
„Sweet Tooth” autorstwa Helen Juliet to powieść, którą po prostu musicie przeczytać! Jest ona doskonałym połączeniem baśni i świata realnego, który nas otacza. A wszystko to dzięki temu, że autorka doprawia naszą codzienność elementami baśni o Jasiu i Małgosi. Tym, co nas w „Sweet Tooth” zachwyca jest jednak nie napisanie na nowo znanej, popularnej baśni, ale wspaniały sposób, w jaki autorka sięgnęła po „Jasia i Małgosię”, aby nadać tym postaciom oraz kilku innym nowe życie w swojej własnej historii. Wierzcie mi, „Sweet Tooth” podbija serce czytelnika już od pierwszego zdania i rozkochuje nas w sobie coraz bardziej z każdą kolejną stroną powieści. To, co przygotowała dla nas w tej książce Helen Juliet to prawdziwy majstersztyk. Historia, bohaterowie, budowa świata, poruszane problemy. To bezsprzecznie jedna z najlepszych powieści, jakie ostatnio czytałam.
Wspomniałam o historii i teraz właśnie tym tematem chciałabym się zająć. Helen Juliet opowiada nam naprawdę magiczną, wzruszającą i czasami interesująco zbereźną historię dwójki rodzeństwa, które zostaje niejako porzucone nie z winy panującej w rodzinie biedy, ale czyjejś chciwości. W „Sweet Tooth” nie brakuje również tematu dramatu z przeszłości, który bardzo silnie wpłynął na rodzeństwo oraz ich życie. Dzięki temu wchodzimy w pewnym stopniu w psychikę Hansa i Grety, a więc rodzeństwa, którego przeżycia nakręcają tę powieść. Ważnym elementem tej historii jest również miłość, tak więc czytelnik może liczyć na romantyczne westchnienia, miłosne przeżycia, gorący seks. W „Sweet Tooth” znajdziemy więc wszystko.
A co z bohaterami? Otóż, jeżeli mówimy o „Jasiu i Małgosi”, nie możemy pominąć postaci wiedźmy. Wspomnę tylko, że w „Sweet Tooth” pojawia się nie jedna wiedźma, co jest to o tyle istotne, że w pewnym stopniu wartościuje nam postać wiedźmy. Czytelnik zadaje sobie bowiem pytanie, która wiedźma w tej powieści jest tą „prawdziwą”. Zalet tej postaci jest naturalnie o wiele więcej. Ogromne znaczenie ma również ojciec Hansa i Grety, ich macocha oraz babcia Chestera. Ich rola w tej powieści jest zdecydowanie bardziej złożona, niż tylko zwykła ich obecność. Co się zaś tyczy Grety, Hansa i Chestera, są oni naprawdę dobrze skonstruowani, interesujący, rozbudowani psychicznie. Pokochacie ich w mgnieniu oka.
Podsumowując, „Sweet Tooth” to wspaniała powieść, którą musicie przeczytać jak najszybciej. Jeśli tego nie zrobicie, będziecie tego bardzo żałować. Uważam, że zalet tej powieści jak tak wiele, że można napisać na ich temat całą pracę dyplomową. Przekonajcie się więc sami, w jaki sposób Helen Juliet wykorzystała baśń o Jasiu i Małgosi, aby stworzyć swoją fantastyczną historię.
April 12, 2023
An enjoyable and well done adaptation of Hansel and Gretel into a gay romance. The relationship is sweet, if a little fast moving.
The kink isn't for me but others may like it (involves food, predominantly sweets).
The kink isn't for me but others may like it (involves food, predominantly sweets).
March 3, 2021
Sweet tooth review ( Spoiler Alert)
Another brilliant book from Helen Juliet. All of her fairytale adaptations have been heart achingly beautiful and completely feel good. This one as expected was tooth rottingly fluffy and sweet. It was fun, it was hilarious and so so sexy. I love the best friends turn lovers trope and I especially enjoyed the mutual pining. This story is packed with fluff, humour, romance, candy kink, sizzling sex and an amazing adventure. Also I love that there is not one but two evil witches.
This was such a fast read and when it came to an end I felt sad that there was no more.. I just did not want to say goodbye to Hans, Greta and Chester. But to be honest this book has one of the best most satisfying endings ever. I was all teary eyed by the end.
I love the main characters. Chester and Hans were child hood best friends.. they were extremely close until Hans and his twin Greta’s set mum shipped them off to boarding school and then when they were 18, packed them off to London.
Chester always knew he was gay and he has been in love with Hans from the very beginning. Hans on the other hand was very oblivious about both his sexuality as well as His feelings for Chester.
The story starts when Hans and Greta come back to Their home town Ginger bread after many years. Both Chester and Hans meet for the first time in many years at their childhood sweet shop where Chester now works for the Evil old witch Ethel.
Instantly sparks fly between both of them. And they are very aware of their strong feelings for each other.
I love how completely oblivious they are to the the other’s feelings. It was extremely exciting when they decided to be pretend boy friends to spite their evil step mum Miriam.
Chester is slim with dark hair and he’s been waiting for Hans for years. Hans is chubby and extremely sexy. I loved that the author has written a Chubby character. A chubby character who is confident but also shy.. but who is also found to be very attractive in the eyes of his lover.. it was such a pleasure to read such a character.
I loved the handholding that was first done just for show but which became so real.. I loved the adventure in the forest. And I love the little bunker.
It was heart achingly beautiful to read the scenes where Hans finds all the keep sakes in the bunker and how he realises that his father really cares about them and loves them.
The sexy times that ensued after was siizzling hot... and well I’ll never look at candy cane the same way again.
Chester’s badass but completely supportive Nana stole my heart.. just like Theo glass’ Nana from ‘a right royal affair’ did. They are both bad ass but sweet and supportive and soo adorable. I love that it was his Nana that gave him the courage to tell Hans how he feels and how she lets him know that he has nothing to lose.
I also absolutely loved that Chester was brave enough to go right out and tell Hans. That scene where they confess their love you each other was so perfect.
Omg it was so exciting to see that Miriam got what she deserved. I also love that Hans and Gretas small family was reunited. And that they both moved back to Ginger bread.
Omg I can’t tell you how much I loved that proposal... it was the absolute best. Omg! It was perfection.
It’s particularly satisfying to learn that justice was served for Evil old Ethel.
Such a cute and sinfully delicious book. I absolutely adored it. I give this book huge five stars.
Another brilliant book from Helen Juliet. All of her fairytale adaptations have been heart achingly beautiful and completely feel good. This one as expected was tooth rottingly fluffy and sweet. It was fun, it was hilarious and so so sexy. I love the best friends turn lovers trope and I especially enjoyed the mutual pining. This story is packed with fluff, humour, romance, candy kink, sizzling sex and an amazing adventure. Also I love that there is not one but two evil witches.
This was such a fast read and when it came to an end I felt sad that there was no more.. I just did not want to say goodbye to Hans, Greta and Chester. But to be honest this book has one of the best most satisfying endings ever. I was all teary eyed by the end.
I love the main characters. Chester and Hans were child hood best friends.. they were extremely close until Hans and his twin Greta’s set mum shipped them off to boarding school and then when they were 18, packed them off to London.
Chester always knew he was gay and he has been in love with Hans from the very beginning. Hans on the other hand was very oblivious about both his sexuality as well as His feelings for Chester.
The story starts when Hans and Greta come back to Their home town Ginger bread after many years. Both Chester and Hans meet for the first time in many years at their childhood sweet shop where Chester now works for the Evil old witch Ethel.
Instantly sparks fly between both of them. And they are very aware of their strong feelings for each other.
I love how completely oblivious they are to the the other’s feelings. It was extremely exciting when they decided to be pretend boy friends to spite their evil step mum Miriam.
Chester is slim with dark hair and he’s been waiting for Hans for years. Hans is chubby and extremely sexy. I loved that the author has written a Chubby character. A chubby character who is confident but also shy.. but who is also found to be very attractive in the eyes of his lover.. it was such a pleasure to read such a character.
I loved the handholding that was first done just for show but which became so real.. I loved the adventure in the forest. And I love the little bunker.
It was heart achingly beautiful to read the scenes where Hans finds all the keep sakes in the bunker and how he realises that his father really cares about them and loves them.
The sexy times that ensued after was siizzling hot... and well I’ll never look at candy cane the same way again.
Chester’s badass but completely supportive Nana stole my heart.. just like Theo glass’ Nana from ‘a right royal affair’ did. They are both bad ass but sweet and supportive and soo adorable. I love that it was his Nana that gave him the courage to tell Hans how he feels and how she lets him know that he has nothing to lose.
I also absolutely loved that Chester was brave enough to go right out and tell Hans. That scene where they confess their love you each other was so perfect.
Omg it was so exciting to see that Miriam got what she deserved. I also love that Hans and Gretas small family was reunited. And that they both moved back to Ginger bread.
Omg I can’t tell you how much I loved that proposal... it was the absolute best. Omg! It was perfection.
It’s particularly satisfying to learn that justice was served for Evil old Ethel.
Such a cute and sinfully delicious book. I absolutely adored it. I give this book huge five stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2021
Lost to find
This was such an awesome take on Hansel and Gretel! Though it focuses more on Hans and his once best friend and crush Chester, it keeps the spirit of the original story as well as truly making it something that works in the world today and really emphasises the love and trust of family.
In this story the evil step mother has already won and the kids have moved away. Shunned by their town and their father, Hans and Greta have spent a decade away from their hometown with only each other to rely on. Their father distanced himself from them after their mother died, and their too soon after step-mother had no problem telling them how it was all their fault. They have made lives for themselves as adults and are surprised when their father calls them back home, wanting to see them as it seems his time is drawing near. When they come back home they are struck with that fact that everything is still the same in their hometown, yet the reception they receive is very different and brings to question all that they know.
Chester was sad when he lost his best friend to the big city. Though he has a crush on Hans he never acted on it but instead just tried to keep their friendship. He was confused and hurt that they pulled away from the town that loved them, but understood the pain they must have felt in their loss. Having the twins come back home is bittersweet, as he wonders for how long it will be.
Hans and Chester have a bit of a dance with each other. Chester does not want to make a move on his straight best friend and ruin a chance to rebuild a friendship, but he does still love the man. Hans is ashamed that he never came out as a child and afraid to tell Chester and ruin their friendship. It is a tricky dance and the two work to bash it out the more time they spend together. But looming over it all is the way Hans left the first time, and the why. It becomes clear with time that the why is more convoluted than either man realizes, and talking about it could be a saving grace in more ways than one.
This was a fun and compulsively readable book, so difficult to stop once you pick it up! The characters were great, dealing with old feelings of both love and loss and trying to figure out how to work that out as adults. The shroud of the past keeps up some tension throughout the story and keeps you wondering as to what exactly happened then and how it will affect the characters now. The story was funny and sexy but full of such love, both of familial and intimate, and the ways it affects life. An absolutely amazing read!
This was such an awesome take on Hansel and Gretel! Though it focuses more on Hans and his once best friend and crush Chester, it keeps the spirit of the original story as well as truly making it something that works in the world today and really emphasises the love and trust of family.
In this story the evil step mother has already won and the kids have moved away. Shunned by their town and their father, Hans and Greta have spent a decade away from their hometown with only each other to rely on. Their father distanced himself from them after their mother died, and their too soon after step-mother had no problem telling them how it was all their fault. They have made lives for themselves as adults and are surprised when their father calls them back home, wanting to see them as it seems his time is drawing near. When they come back home they are struck with that fact that everything is still the same in their hometown, yet the reception they receive is very different and brings to question all that they know.
Chester was sad when he lost his best friend to the big city. Though he has a crush on Hans he never acted on it but instead just tried to keep their friendship. He was confused and hurt that they pulled away from the town that loved them, but understood the pain they must have felt in their loss. Having the twins come back home is bittersweet, as he wonders for how long it will be.
Hans and Chester have a bit of a dance with each other. Chester does not want to make a move on his straight best friend and ruin a chance to rebuild a friendship, but he does still love the man. Hans is ashamed that he never came out as a child and afraid to tell Chester and ruin their friendship. It is a tricky dance and the two work to bash it out the more time they spend together. But looming over it all is the way Hans left the first time, and the why. It becomes clear with time that the why is more convoluted than either man realizes, and talking about it could be a saving grace in more ways than one.
This was a fun and compulsively readable book, so difficult to stop once you pick it up! The characters were great, dealing with old feelings of both love and loss and trying to figure out how to work that out as adults. The shroud of the past keeps up some tension throughout the story and keeps you wondering as to what exactly happened then and how it will affect the characters now. The story was funny and sexy but full of such love, both of familial and intimate, and the ways it affects life. An absolutely amazing read!
March 15, 2021
Wonderful Story & Listen🎧 Sweet & Spicy🔥Delight!
Sweet Tooth
By: Helen Juliet
Narrated by: Kieran Flitton
Helen Juliet pens another wonderfully entertaining romance novel. This story is based loosely on a classic fairy tale and I loved her imaginative spin on it and the characters. Hans and Greta Yager have not been home in years but they are summoned home by their father for the holidays and there is something he wants to discuss with them. They had reasons for staying away for so long, one of those reasons was their step-mother who was a real piece of work. They stopped in town where Hans ran into his old friend Chester Wild, they were best friends who fell out of touch. Both harbored ‘more than friends’ feelings for each other but each had their own reason why the did not act on those feelings. The chemistry between these two is stronger than ever and I loved how it all plays out for them, it is definitely a sweet and spicy friends to lovers romance. In addition to their romance there is the storyline with the owner of Candy Cauldron, the shop where Chester works and the family drama with Hans and Greta’s father and step-mother. There are some great scenes in this book including the ‘into the woods” scene and the dinner scene, oh yeah some great candy scenes too. Helen Juliet, thank you for another awesome story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful narration, Kieran Flitton is a talented narrator and voice artist. He brings the characters to life, giving each their own distinct voice making it easy to follow along and tell who is who. His portrayal of each character is spot on, he grasps each character’s persona, makes them believable and sounding just as I picture them to sound. He sets the perfect tone for the story, captures all the character’s emotions and projects them into his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another fabulous listen🎧
Thank you #GRR
Sweet Tooth
By: Helen Juliet
Narrated by: Kieran Flitton
Helen Juliet pens another wonderfully entertaining romance novel. This story is based loosely on a classic fairy tale and I loved her imaginative spin on it and the characters. Hans and Greta Yager have not been home in years but they are summoned home by their father for the holidays and there is something he wants to discuss with them. They had reasons for staying away for so long, one of those reasons was their step-mother who was a real piece of work. They stopped in town where Hans ran into his old friend Chester Wild, they were best friends who fell out of touch. Both harbored ‘more than friends’ feelings for each other but each had their own reason why the did not act on those feelings. The chemistry between these two is stronger than ever and I loved how it all plays out for them, it is definitely a sweet and spicy friends to lovers romance. In addition to their romance there is the storyline with the owner of Candy Cauldron, the shop where Chester works and the family drama with Hans and Greta’s father and step-mother. There are some great scenes in this book including the ‘into the woods” scene and the dinner scene, oh yeah some great candy scenes too. Helen Juliet, thank you for another awesome story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful narration, Kieran Flitton is a talented narrator and voice artist. He brings the characters to life, giving each their own distinct voice making it easy to follow along and tell who is who. His portrayal of each character is spot on, he grasps each character’s persona, makes them believable and sounding just as I picture them to sound. He sets the perfect tone for the story, captures all the character’s emotions and projects them into his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another fabulous listen🎧
Thank you #GRR
March 20, 2021
Friends to fake boyfriends to lovers (an audio review)
I like Helen Juliet stories and her new ones based loosely on fairy tales are quite enjoyable. This book was cute.
Hans hasn’t been home in ten years. He and his twin sister Greta left their sleepy small town to the big city to make their way and despite their father’s vast wealth, they had no support from him. They believe everyone blames them for their mother’s death and so they’ve stayed away. Only news of their father’s illness has brought them home.
Chester, for one, is happy the twins have returned. He works in the sweets shop and seeing his former best friend brings back both happy memories and bittersweet ones. He never found the courage to tell Hans he had a crush on him and now, when the opportunity presents itself to play Hans’ boyfriend, Chester leaps at the chance.
Hans isn’t sure why Chester is helping him out, but he’s grateful. He’s missed their friendship and Chester’s ready agreement to show up as his date at the family dinner is appreciated. But first Chester’s car breaks down with the two men in it and they must travel through the forest to find safety. A discovery leads them to safety, and as they warm up physically, things between them heat up as well. There might be a candy cane involved, but I’m trying to put that image aside. There was also later a chocolate incident I don’t care to remember. Sometimes Ms. Juliet is a little too clever and that was one of those times.
But I digress. The men are finally in a position to express their true feelings, but the physical distance feels like a chasm that can’t be overcome. Then all is revealed at a family dinner, and suddenly things look much rosier.
I enjoyed the book and can’t wait to see which fairy tale the next book addresses. And I have to mention Kieran Flitton who narrates all the books in the series. He’s a delight to listen to and I enjoy his work. So I’m eagerly anticipating the next book.
I like Helen Juliet stories and her new ones based loosely on fairy tales are quite enjoyable. This book was cute.
Hans hasn’t been home in ten years. He and his twin sister Greta left their sleepy small town to the big city to make their way and despite their father’s vast wealth, they had no support from him. They believe everyone blames them for their mother’s death and so they’ve stayed away. Only news of their father’s illness has brought them home.
Chester, for one, is happy the twins have returned. He works in the sweets shop and seeing his former best friend brings back both happy memories and bittersweet ones. He never found the courage to tell Hans he had a crush on him and now, when the opportunity presents itself to play Hans’ boyfriend, Chester leaps at the chance.
Hans isn’t sure why Chester is helping him out, but he’s grateful. He’s missed their friendship and Chester’s ready agreement to show up as his date at the family dinner is appreciated. But first Chester’s car breaks down with the two men in it and they must travel through the forest to find safety. A discovery leads them to safety, and as they warm up physically, things between them heat up as well. There might be a candy cane involved, but I’m trying to put that image aside. There was also later a chocolate incident I don’t care to remember. Sometimes Ms. Juliet is a little too clever and that was one of those times.
But I digress. The men are finally in a position to express their true feelings, but the physical distance feels like a chasm that can’t be overcome. Then all is revealed at a family dinner, and suddenly things look much rosier.
I enjoyed the book and can’t wait to see which fairy tale the next book addresses. And I have to mention Kieran Flitton who narrates all the books in the series. He’s a delight to listen to and I enjoy his work. So I’m eagerly anticipating the next book.
December 29, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for a fair review ...
In this retelling of Hansel & Gretel, twins Hans and Greta return to their childhood home of Gingerbread, England, to reunite with their estranged father, and in the case of Hans, his childhood best friend, whom he's been out of touch with for several years after moving to London and leaving his small hometown behind.
I'm not a big holiday romance, as I think they tend to be cheesy for no good reason. Make no mistake, there are some cringey candy-related puns in this book, not to mention some very inappropriate uses of candy canes and the like, but "Sweet Tooth" is wholly inoffensive. The writing is fine, if a bit repetitive and cyclical at times, but you get a feel for the characters' insecurities and motivations without too much fuss.
Hans and his childhood friend, Chester Wild, are clearly gone for each other, and while they spend perhaps too much time second-guessing their interaction with each other and what they mean, it all works out in the end. Truth be told, I was more compelled by what Hans and Greta's father had to say, as it is his mysterious illness that finally called them back to Gingerbread. His evil wife, the twins' stepmother, is entertaining in her clear, comical villainy. The owner of the sweet shop that Chester works at is also quite a caricature, but in a retelling of the classic fairytale, it makes sense for the witch to be quite obvious, in both of her iterations.
Steam level is medium, I would say, although I was uninterested in reading more naughty uses of Christmas candies, so I confess I skipped over the second scene altogether to get to the very sweet ending.
Uncomplicated holiday goodness. Not exactly my tastes, and there's more about me than the book.
In this retelling of Hansel & Gretel, twins Hans and Greta return to their childhood home of Gingerbread, England, to reunite with their estranged father, and in the case of Hans, his childhood best friend, whom he's been out of touch with for several years after moving to London and leaving his small hometown behind.
I'm not a big holiday romance, as I think they tend to be cheesy for no good reason. Make no mistake, there are some cringey candy-related puns in this book, not to mention some very inappropriate uses of candy canes and the like, but "Sweet Tooth" is wholly inoffensive. The writing is fine, if a bit repetitive and cyclical at times, but you get a feel for the characters' insecurities and motivations without too much fuss.
Hans and his childhood friend, Chester Wild, are clearly gone for each other, and while they spend perhaps too much time second-guessing their interaction with each other and what they mean, it all works out in the end. Truth be told, I was more compelled by what Hans and Greta's father had to say, as it is his mysterious illness that finally called them back to Gingerbread. His evil wife, the twins' stepmother, is entertaining in her clear, comical villainy. The owner of the sweet shop that Chester works at is also quite a caricature, but in a retelling of the classic fairytale, it makes sense for the witch to be quite obvious, in both of her iterations.
Steam level is medium, I would say, although I was uninterested in reading more naughty uses of Christmas candies, so I confess I skipped over the second scene altogether to get to the very sweet ending.
Uncomplicated holiday goodness. Not exactly my tastes, and there's more about me than the book.
December 21, 2020
When Hans and Greta return to the village they left ten years before to visit their father and seriously evil stepmother for Christmas, they have no idea what they’re getting into. The stepmother is still as evil as ever, but Hans is reunited with his childhood best friend Chester,all grown up and working for the evil witch who owns a candy shop, and somehow, his fake boyfriend for the weekend. I loved the combination of the fake-boyfriend and revised fairytale tropes, and I respect the author’s deep commitment to the Hansel and Gretel myth. It’s not just the names-- the village is called Gingerbread. Hans and Chester get lost in a dark, foggy forest. There are breadcrumbs (of a sort). Hans and Chester make an adorable couple, and while their dynamic was a little too sweets-obsessed for me (cringey-cute nicknames, ok. Christmas candy foreplay... not my thing) I was definitely rooting for them. I was also deeply invested in the evil stepmother and candy-shop witch getting their comeuppance, and the novel definitely delivered there as well. Also, I have to say I adored Greta. She’s the perfect sibling-- snarky, supportive, great at gift-giving. Does she have a novel? Could she have a novel? I would definitely read it… All in all, a super-fun holiday read.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
December 18, 2020
Chester and Hans were best friends that lost contact with each other after Hans moved away. If you had an evil stepmother like Miriam, you would have ran for the hills too. A concern for Hans father's health brings him, and his twin sister, Greta home. As fate would have it, these lost best friends find themselves reunited very quickly. Chester had loved Hans for as long as he could remember, and they were the perfect match for each other. Getting stranded in the woods together was the best thing for them. And, Chester's Nana was sweet, funny, and gave him the push he really needed. When both men confessed their feelings, I was so happy that things were finally going to develop into more than just friendship. Greta was great through all this as well, she was definitely pushing for their coupling. A rather miserable "family" dinner erupts into a cruel, and devastating revelation. I enjoyed the evil witch getting knocked off her pedestal, hopefully she'll end up keeping the other evil witch of Gingerbread company soon. The ending was happy and sweet. I loved that they got their HEA. Oh, and I don't think I'll ever look at a candy cane without thinking of this book ever again....or anything that's white chocolate. Enjoy!
March 17, 2021
*Audio review*
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted the audio file of this book.
Kieran Flitton narrates this book.
I have listened to a couple of Flitton's work, reading Ms Juliet's work, but while I loved reading this book, I did struggle a bit with the audio version.
The voices for both Chester and Hans are VERY similar, too similar for my rubbish hearing to make out the differences. It meant I wasn't always fully aware of who was talking at any given time.
Also, when the characters are *thinking* or they drop their voices to a whisper? I lost that, totally. It did mean that at more than one point, I was going to stop listening.
BUT!
When we get to the candy cane scene?? OMG Flitton NAILS it, he really does! Reading it was super hawt, but listening?? Phew!! I had to stop painting!
Flitton does get all the emotions over (bar the thoughts and whispers) though, and you really do feel for both Hans and Chester, all their pain at being apart for so long, and the reason for that pain. It's not that long ago I read this book, but I couldn't quite remember how it all went down at the end, so again, I had to stop painting to listen properly.
SO, only because of the similar voices and the dips...
4 stars for the narration.
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted the audio file of this book.
Kieran Flitton narrates this book.
I have listened to a couple of Flitton's work, reading Ms Juliet's work, but while I loved reading this book, I did struggle a bit with the audio version.
The voices for both Chester and Hans are VERY similar, too similar for my rubbish hearing to make out the differences. It meant I wasn't always fully aware of who was talking at any given time.
Also, when the characters are *thinking* or they drop their voices to a whisper? I lost that, totally. It did mean that at more than one point, I was going to stop listening.
BUT!
When we get to the candy cane scene?? OMG Flitton NAILS it, he really does! Reading it was super hawt, but listening?? Phew!! I had to stop painting!
Flitton does get all the emotions over (bar the thoughts and whispers) though, and you really do feel for both Hans and Chester, all their pain at being apart for so long, and the reason for that pain. It's not that long ago I read this book, but I couldn't quite remember how it all went down at the end, so again, I had to stop painting to listen properly.
SO, only because of the similar voices and the dips...
4 stars for the narration.
December 23, 2020
This is a sweet, steamy and entertaining story. Hans and his twin sister Greta left home when they were 18 after basically being abandoned by their father after their mother's death, and their father's marriage to a manipulative and controlling woman. Hans and his best friend Chester were close until Hans left without any explanation. They still talked for years, but eventually they grew apart. When Hans is summoned by his step-mother he and Greta head home, and the first thing he does when they arrive is go to his favorite hang out, the candy store. Inside he finds Chester working, and Greta invites him to dinner. Chester knew that he was gay at a young age, and he was in love with Hans, but Hans was straight. Hans was straight until he finally realized that he wasn't, at the age of 25. Seeing Chester again, Hans wondered if maybe he had always been in love with him. A nasty scene with the step-mother has the boys pretending to be a couple, and a mishap with Chester's car strands them in the woods all night, and wondering if the other has the same feelings, and if it's worth it to find out. The story drags at times, but it's interesting and intense enough to keep your attention.
December 17, 2020
First of all, I love fairy tale retellings. Secondly, I have yet to find one written by Helen Juliet that I don't love!! Here we have the story of Hansel and Gretel; the witch and the candy just aren’t where you would expect! Hans and Greta are returning to their hometown of Gingerbread, not sure of what kind of reception they will receive. They left several years before to escape their controlling stepmother and their indifferent father. Chester is the best friend that Hans left behind. Now that they come face to face again, can they possibly rekindle their friendship. And maybe they would both like to have a little more? There is also the mystery of what happened to their late mother and why their dad has asked them to come home. There is a lot of magic in this story, not to mention sugar! I really enjoyed this tale and would definitely recommend it. This author did not disappoint! I love how she takes these stories that we already know and puts an interesting spin on them.
January 29, 2021
Revamping fairy tales can get tricky because they're originally quite gruesome, then watered down to make them palatable for "today's" children, and then changed again to suit changing social trends, target age groups, and a whole slew of other alterations made to fit whomever the author is trying to reach. In this tale we got a relatively well done job of making it sweeter and yet suitable to a grown-up audience. It didn't fully sell the idea and was both drawn out and rushed, however, to make a good showing overall.
The MC's were good, the upselling was good, but it was in the evolution that it suffered. Adding in a monologue/info-dump/overly simplistic and not compelling enough villain and we've got the makings of an ending that didn't suit the beginning. Overall it was a sweet story with sweet MC's, but it wasn't overly deep or complicated. So if you're looking for a simple tale that takes a little too long to get to the point, but delivers on the basic points of the included tropes, you've come to the right place.
The MC's were good, the upselling was good, but it was in the evolution that it suffered. Adding in a monologue/info-dump/overly simplistic and not compelling enough villain and we've got the makings of an ending that didn't suit the beginning. Overall it was a sweet story with sweet MC's, but it wasn't overly deep or complicated. So if you're looking for a simple tale that takes a little too long to get to the point, but delivers on the basic points of the included tropes, you've come to the right place.
December 10, 2021
Hans and Greta in Gingerbread town
Wow! When I say that this is the sweetest holiday story it doesn't even come close. Based loosely on the tale of Hansel and Gretel, this charming story takes us to a quaint little town in England by the name of Gingerbread. Hans and his twin sister, Greta, are back at the behest of their father, who is seriously ill. Having been run out years before by their conniving stepmother, they are far from thrilled to be back in their hometown. That is until Hans comes face to face with his best friend - the one he abandoned years before - but never forgot. It's a story about second chances and not dwelling on the past - sprinkled liberally with references to the original fairytale - nasty old witch, a giant oven, and sweets galore. There's so much emotion between Hans and Chester and it really was heartwarming. I will admit I was a little choked up by the epilogue but in the best way. This is definitely a book I'd recommend to anyone and is sure to be a holiday favorite.
Wow! When I say that this is the sweetest holiday story it doesn't even come close. Based loosely on the tale of Hansel and Gretel, this charming story takes us to a quaint little town in England by the name of Gingerbread. Hans and his twin sister, Greta, are back at the behest of their father, who is seriously ill. Having been run out years before by their conniving stepmother, they are far from thrilled to be back in their hometown. That is until Hans comes face to face with his best friend - the one he abandoned years before - but never forgot. It's a story about second chances and not dwelling on the past - sprinkled liberally with references to the original fairytale - nasty old witch, a giant oven, and sweets galore. There's so much emotion between Hans and Chester and it really was heartwarming. I will admit I was a little choked up by the epilogue but in the best way. This is definitely a book I'd recommend to anyone and is sure to be a holiday favorite.
December 28, 2020
Hans & Chester used to be best friends before Hans left town. After Hans left their friendship slowly died. Now with Hans back in town they get to explore what they mean to each other.
Hans left town due to family drama, and is now back in town to visit his father and his awful stepmother. He wasn’t expecting to run into Chester but once he did he could deny how he felt about him.
Chester has lived in Gingerbread his whole life. He never thought he’d see Hans again but now that he’s back, Chester can’t help but remember how much he loved him.
Chester & Hans are so adorable together and they really make each other happy. They struggle with how to tell each other how they feel but their love is too strong to be denied. Their is some family drama and angst mixed in as well. This was a really sweet love story that I’ll be reading again next year.
I did receive a free ARC of this book but that did not influence my review.
Hans left town due to family drama, and is now back in town to visit his father and his awful stepmother. He wasn’t expecting to run into Chester but once he did he could deny how he felt about him.
Chester has lived in Gingerbread his whole life. He never thought he’d see Hans again but now that he’s back, Chester can’t help but remember how much he loved him.
Chester & Hans are so adorable together and they really make each other happy. They struggle with how to tell each other how they feel but their love is too strong to be denied. Their is some family drama and angst mixed in as well. This was a really sweet love story that I’ll be reading again next year.
I did receive a free ARC of this book but that did not influence my review.
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