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Not Used to Cute
A bar owner who’s not looking for a relationship. A lost soul who’s afraid to trust. When Elijah and Seb meet, sparks fly. But will either of them find the courage to take what they want?
Pouring his all into his business, Elijah is perfectly content running his bar. With its prime location and its infamous drag shows, Bar QK is the place to be. Elijah is used to meeting new and sometimes interesting people, but it’s rare anyone catches his interest for anything longer than a five-minute conversation.
It takes a wandering, unfiltered surfer, who’s tired of the chase and dog-tired of people taking advantage of him, to spark long-buried interest in Elijah.
While kindness runs through his veins, Seb doesn’t believe in fairy tales. He has a past he’d rather forget and has no real expectations for his future. He believes it’s safer to not make assumptions about anything or anyone; that way, he’ll remain safe.
It takes his elusive, aloof boss, whose mixed messages are more confusing than Ikea furniture instructions, to show Seb that opening his heart can be worth the risk.
When Elijah and Seb find themselves working on a common goal, the high stakes may be just the nudge they need.
Not Used To Cute is a low-angst, beach-town gay romance set in the Sunshine Coast, Australia.
author note: No Take Backs, book 1 in my Zone Defense series, is a crossover novel where the characters visit Bar QK!
Pouring his all into his business, Elijah is perfectly content running his bar. With its prime location and its infamous drag shows, Bar QK is the place to be. Elijah is used to meeting new and sometimes interesting people, but it’s rare anyone catches his interest for anything longer than a five-minute conversation.
It takes a wandering, unfiltered surfer, who’s tired of the chase and dog-tired of people taking advantage of him, to spark long-buried interest in Elijah.
While kindness runs through his veins, Seb doesn’t believe in fairy tales. He has a past he’d rather forget and has no real expectations for his future. He believes it’s safer to not make assumptions about anything or anyone; that way, he’ll remain safe.
It takes his elusive, aloof boss, whose mixed messages are more confusing than Ikea furniture instructions, to show Seb that opening his heart can be worth the risk.
When Elijah and Seb find themselves working on a common goal, the high stakes may be just the nudge they need.
Not Used To Cute is a low-angst, beach-town gay romance set in the Sunshine Coast, Australia.
author note: No Take Backs, book 1 in my Zone Defense series, is a crossover novel where the characters visit Bar QK!
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 22, 2020
128 people are currently reading
431 people want to read
About the author
Becca Seymour
43 books591 followersBecca Seymour is a British/Aussie author and the #1 gay romance best seller of the True-Blue series. Known for "steamy and endearing" and "emotionally profound love stories" (InD'tale Magazine) her books have been nominated for multiple RONE Awards.
Becca has a sweet tooth for marshmallow-hearted monsters, swoon-worthy supernatural studs, and everyday guys and basketball players with hearts of gold. If you like your MM romance sweet, spicy, and occasionally action-packed, slip into stalker mode and fall hard for her True-Blue and Minnesota Eagles men—and maybe a shifter or monster two.
Monsters & Mates
Solan | Kael | Varek
Zone Defense
No Take Backs | No More Secrets | No Wrong Moves | No Backing Down
Fast Break
Rules, Schmules! | Facts, Smacts! | Regular Smegular! | Easy, Schmeasy!
True-Blue Let Me Show You | I’ve Got You | Becoming Us | Thinking It Over | Always For You | It’s Not You | Our First & Last | Next For Us
Outback Boys
Stumble | Bounce | Wobble
Fangs & Felons
Thicker Than Water | Weaker Than Instinct | Brighter Than Fear | Stronger Than Fate | Softer Than Stone
Stand-Alone Contemporary
Not Used To Cute | High Alert | Realigned | Amalgamated | Under the Blazing Stars | Best Kind of Awkward | Tastes Like Sugar | Caden & Theo | Full Tilt
REVIEWS:
"WOW! Simply, Wow! A funny, steamy and endearing story that should be put into your family of books. Something that you can read over and over again when you need a pick me up." The Book Fairy Reviews
"An intense connection that smolders" - JayReads
"This book was a slow burn and I loved it." - Steamy Book Momma
"Characters to pull for, a romance to give you feels, and enough steam to keep you turning pages..." - Romantic Reads and Such
"Emotionally profound love story with many laugh aloud moments." - InD'tale Magazine
"Becca had me cracking up laughing and smiling ear to ear." - HeidiLynns BookReviews
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Becca has a sweet tooth for marshmallow-hearted monsters, swoon-worthy supernatural studs, and everyday guys and basketball players with hearts of gold. If you like your MM romance sweet, spicy, and occasionally action-packed, slip into stalker mode and fall hard for her True-Blue and Minnesota Eagles men—and maybe a shifter or monster two.
Monsters & Mates
Solan | Kael | Varek
Zone Defense
No Take Backs | No More Secrets | No Wrong Moves | No Backing Down
Fast Break
Rules, Schmules! | Facts, Smacts! | Regular Smegular! | Easy, Schmeasy!
True-Blue Let Me Show You | I’ve Got You | Becoming Us | Thinking It Over | Always For You | It’s Not You | Our First & Last | Next For Us
Outback Boys
Stumble | Bounce | Wobble
Fangs & Felons
Thicker Than Water | Weaker Than Instinct | Brighter Than Fear | Stronger Than Fate | Softer Than Stone
Stand-Alone Contemporary
Not Used To Cute | High Alert | Realigned | Amalgamated | Under the Blazing Stars | Best Kind of Awkward | Tastes Like Sugar | Caden & Theo | Full Tilt
REVIEWS:
"WOW! Simply, Wow! A funny, steamy and endearing story that should be put into your family of books. Something that you can read over and over again when you need a pick me up." The Book Fairy Reviews
"An intense connection that smolders" - JayReads
"This book was a slow burn and I loved it." - Steamy Book Momma
"Characters to pull for, a romance to give you feels, and enough steam to keep you turning pages..." - Romantic Reads and Such
"Emotionally profound love story with many laugh aloud moments." - InD'tale Magazine
"Becca had me cracking up laughing and smiling ear to ear." - HeidiLynns BookReviews
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
August 14, 2024
This is a really sweet romance between the owner of a gay bar and his adorable new employee, both of whom have had some bad relationship experiences in the past and are therefore guarding their hearts.
Elijah, the bar owner, is content in running the small but successful place and keeping it welcoming and accepting to all. The bar is locally famous for its fabulous drag shows and well frequented.
Seb has not been treated well by people in the past, having been taking advantage of many times. He hides the inner scars with a flirty attitude, but shies away from letting anyone come close.
The romance is by design a slow burn, complicated by homophobic attacks on the bar and its employees, but both Elijah and Seb are intrigued by each other pretty much from the start. Elijah doesn't want any advance he makes to further the relationship to be a one-time thing, so for quite some time he's sending mixed messages to Seb. He's trying to not fall back into his player ways, so to speak, and while the attraction is formidable, he worries that he won't be able to commit. So they get close, and then Elijah retreats, leaving Seb bewildered.
The mystery of who is behind the homophobic attacks also hinders the relationship development, as Elijah has to devote a good amount of his time to ensuring his bar and staff are safe.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Seb's word vomit is adorkable, and he's despite his bad experiences a kind and compassionate man, wholly deserving of all the good things that are in his future. Elijah comes across as strong in some aspects and vulnerable in others, especially around making himself vulnerable by opening himself up to a long-term commitment.
The writing is vivid but not purple, and the author managed to bring a lot of genuine emotions across. The characters felt organic and believable, with multi-faceted personalities, and even the villain wasn't one-dimensional as they so often are in romances. The supporting cast was well done as well and rounded out the plot nicely.
This was my first book by this author. I'm definitely going to check out what else is available in this author's catalog.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. **
Elijah, the bar owner, is content in running the small but successful place and keeping it welcoming and accepting to all. The bar is locally famous for its fabulous drag shows and well frequented.
Seb has not been treated well by people in the past, having been taking advantage of many times. He hides the inner scars with a flirty attitude, but shies away from letting anyone come close.
The romance is by design a slow burn, complicated by homophobic attacks on the bar and its employees, but both Elijah and Seb are intrigued by each other pretty much from the start. Elijah doesn't want any advance he makes to further the relationship to be a one-time thing, so for quite some time he's sending mixed messages to Seb. He's trying to not fall back into his player ways, so to speak, and while the attraction is formidable, he worries that he won't be able to commit. So they get close, and then Elijah retreats, leaving Seb bewildered.
The mystery of who is behind the homophobic attacks also hinders the relationship development, as Elijah has to devote a good amount of his time to ensuring his bar and staff are safe.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Seb's word vomit is adorkable, and he's despite his bad experiences a kind and compassionate man, wholly deserving of all the good things that are in his future. Elijah comes across as strong in some aspects and vulnerable in others, especially around making himself vulnerable by opening himself up to a long-term commitment.
The writing is vivid but not purple, and the author managed to bring a lot of genuine emotions across. The characters felt organic and believable, with multi-faceted personalities, and even the villain wasn't one-dimensional as they so often are in romances. The supporting cast was well done as well and rounded out the plot nicely.
This was my first book by this author. I'm definitely going to check out what else is available in this author's catalog.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. **
April 18, 2025
Lindo, dulce, rosa
Seb está buscando un trabajo que le de una entrada fija, y cuando el dueño de un bar se lo ofrece durante una fiesta, no pude creer su suerte. Y cuando se da cuenta que la atracción que siente por el hombre es correspondida, se siente todavía con más suerte. Pero serán capaces de tener una relación duradera o solo pasajera?
Es una lectura dulce y romántica, sin mucho drama y con pocos problemas. Me gustó mucho el personaje de Sebastián, y algunos de los secundarios, les dieron a la lectura momentos divertidos y entretenidos. Es seguro que leeré otros libros de este autor.
Seb está buscando un trabajo que le de una entrada fija, y cuando el dueño de un bar se lo ofrece durante una fiesta, no pude creer su suerte. Y cuando se da cuenta que la atracción que siente por el hombre es correspondida, se siente todavía con más suerte. Pero serán capaces de tener una relación duradera o solo pasajera?
Es una lectura dulce y romántica, sin mucho drama y con pocos problemas. Me gustó mucho el personaje de Sebastián, y algunos de los secundarios, les dieron a la lectura momentos divertidos y entretenidos. Es seguro que leeré otros libros de este autor.
April 11, 2022
Loved this. Full review to come.
August 21, 2020
Quite a sweet story, where the community is of great importance. There are threats toward the LGBTQ club and nasty attacks. Club owner Elijah does everything to keep it a safe place.
Seb and Elijah have both bad experiences with relationships. Seb has a soft beautiful mind, Elijah is warm and friendly but reluctant to start a relationship.
This story was very enjoyable, uplifting with beautiful personages, a friendly atmosphere, with supportive friends and family. Some hurt comfort made it al even more attractive.
The emotions and body language were all meticulously described, so it was all palpable.
I enjoyed this story very!
Seb and Elijah have both bad experiences with relationships. Seb has a soft beautiful mind, Elijah is warm and friendly but reluctant to start a relationship.
This story was very enjoyable, uplifting with beautiful personages, a friendly atmosphere, with supportive friends and family. Some hurt comfort made it al even more attractive.
The emotions and body language were all meticulously described, so it was all palpable.
I enjoyed this story very!
July 18, 2020
This was a sweet book and a much needed breath of fresh air. Sebastian (Seb) is awkward, kind, and adorable. Elijah was drawn to him from the moment he met him. They just...connected. Old habits kept him from pursuing it, although he was constantly battling his desires, and had him giving Seb mixed signals. Elijah played the field, and kept it simple. He knew he couldn’t do that with Seb; the connection was too strong. Seb has his own issues to deal with. He’s used to temporary...in relationships and in jobs. He’s bot used to people actually wanting him for him. His self esteem is pretty low some of the time. Drama at the bar kept bringing them to the edge of giving in. They just needed to find the courage to go for what they really wanted. I enjoyed this book, and the side characters made a great impression as well. Seb and Elijah were adorable and I loved spending time with them. I know this is a stand-alone, but I wouldn’t be heartbroken if it was turned into s series. I can feel that there are a few stories out of several characters. Fingers crossed Becca Seymour agrees!
***I received this arc from the author, but my thoughts and opinions are my own.***
***I received this arc from the author, but my thoughts and opinions are my own.***
July 19, 2020
4* Taking Chances Stars
This was my first-time reading a Becca Seymour book and I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Elijah and Seb.
Elijah first lays eyes on Seb when he come into his bar for drinks. There is an instant attraction between the two of them, but they don’t act upon it immediately as they have both been hurt and used in the past and don’t want to end up in this situation again. When Elijah offers Seb a job at the bar, they keep it strictly professional in the beginning but the pull and chemistry between the two of them is undeniable and they decide to take a chance at exploring more. I loved Elijah and how caring and nurturing he was towards Seb and the rest of his staff.
The secondary characters were very likeable and pivotal to the love story of Seb and Elijah. This was a happy, feel good read with low angst and some pretty sexy times when they got together.
Many thanks to the Author for my copy to read and review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was my first-time reading a Becca Seymour book and I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Elijah and Seb.
Elijah first lays eyes on Seb when he come into his bar for drinks. There is an instant attraction between the two of them, but they don’t act upon it immediately as they have both been hurt and used in the past and don’t want to end up in this situation again. When Elijah offers Seb a job at the bar, they keep it strictly professional in the beginning but the pull and chemistry between the two of them is undeniable and they decide to take a chance at exploring more. I loved Elijah and how caring and nurturing he was towards Seb and the rest of his staff.
The secondary characters were very likeable and pivotal to the love story of Seb and Elijah. This was a happy, feel good read with low angst and some pretty sexy times when they got together.
Many thanks to the Author for my copy to read and review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 5, 2020
DNF @ 12%.
This reads like a synopsis, not a story. I mean, it pretty much starts off with Elijah noting that Seb is cute and offering him a job. Then weeks go by and we are told about what happened in the those weeks during the chapter, but not actually shown it.
Also, who hires someone because they are cute, without so much as a resume or interview? And why does having drag shows at your bar in a small town require so much office admin? I wouldn't think drag shows would make you have any more office work than plenty of bars, since drag isn't the only kind of live performers bars have.
I'm not feeling anything about this, not at all.
This reads like a synopsis, not a story. I mean, it pretty much starts off with Elijah noting that Seb is cute and offering him a job. Then weeks go by and we are told about what happened in the those weeks during the chapter, but not actually shown it.
Also, who hires someone because they are cute, without so much as a resume or interview? And why does having drag shows at your bar in a small town require so much office admin? I wouldn't think drag shows would make you have any more office work than plenty of bars, since drag isn't the only kind of live performers bars have.
I'm not feeling anything about this, not at all.
September 16, 2020
Dziwnie napisana książka, ale nie mogłam się od niej oderwać
August 28, 2020
Sizing Up Love!
Sweet, a bit ADHD-ish Sebastian “Seb” and reticent bar owner Elijah meet, work together and maybe fall in love. Add a bit of real-life drama and you have an interesting enough romantic tale. It also has the tried & true trope, the miscommunication ploy that became a bit annoying. A good tale, just the same.
Sweet, a bit ADHD-ish Sebastian “Seb” and reticent bar owner Elijah meet, work together and maybe fall in love. Add a bit of real-life drama and you have an interesting enough romantic tale. It also has the tried & true trope, the miscommunication ploy that became a bit annoying. A good tale, just the same.
July 26, 2020
Elijah owns and operates Bar QK. It's an LGBTQIA+ club that has drag shows. Elijah is waiting on a visit from his little sister one evening when she comes in with Sebastian in tow. Sebastian is almost the complete opposite of Elijah and for the first time in his life, he finds himself attracted to someone who is "cute", adorable, clumsy, and intense.
Sebastian is a surfer, carefree. Sometimes he knows he can be "too much". It's only because he can't really keep control over his mouth once his brain starts going. When he meets Elijah he is attracted to him immediately, and they spend an evening chatting. It goes so well that Elijah even offers him a part-time job in the bar. It's a perfect fit - and Seb would be lying if he said it wasn't a plus to be closer to Elijah a few days a week.
There's no big angst in this story, which makes it a short, pleasant summer read. The two men have issues - don't we all - but they both have things to overcome so they can have what they both want. Elijah put his little sister before everyone else...and it ruined a past relationship. Seb has issues with being a bit smaller statute and the way that it makes people think he's somehow less masculine. But, I swear it's low angst.
There is someone in the book who is targetting the club. But the homophobia and hate crimes just seem to pull everyone together and make them stand their ground. I liked the "found family" aspect of this book a lot.
Sebastian is a surfer, carefree. Sometimes he knows he can be "too much". It's only because he can't really keep control over his mouth once his brain starts going. When he meets Elijah he is attracted to him immediately, and they spend an evening chatting. It goes so well that Elijah even offers him a part-time job in the bar. It's a perfect fit - and Seb would be lying if he said it wasn't a plus to be closer to Elijah a few days a week.
There's no big angst in this story, which makes it a short, pleasant summer read. The two men have issues - don't we all - but they both have things to overcome so they can have what they both want. Elijah put his little sister before everyone else...and it ruined a past relationship. Seb has issues with being a bit smaller statute and the way that it makes people think he's somehow less masculine. But, I swear it's low angst.
There is someone in the book who is targetting the club. But the homophobia and hate crimes just seem to pull everyone together and make them stand their ground. I liked the "found family" aspect of this book a lot.
July 20, 2020
Elijah is more than happy to put all his time and energy into running his gay bar, situated in a small coastal town on the Sunshine coast.
Bar QK is a very social place and is known for its infamous drag shows and is a major hotspot. Elijah being the owner gets to meet a lot of people on a daily basis but no one has ever caught his eye, that is until the cute surfer who steps into his bar and animatedly talks his ear of. He has never been more charmed!
Sebastian is like a breath of fresh air to Elijah's monotonous life. He is sweet, confident and flirty on the outside, but his past weighs him down emotionally. He is used to people using and taking advantage of him. All he wants is a place to be safe and feel accepted, and bar QK might just be that place for him to fit in.
Can an elusive bar owner and a quirky surfer find common ground and a place to finally belong?
Elijah and Seb are as different as light and day but they make for a perfect match! I loved that despite them having an instant connection, it was a slow burn romance. The mixed signals that Elijah kept on giving Seb was funny as well as endearing.
Harriet and Cole were great secondary character and added a familial warmth to the storyline.
I would absolutely recommend this one if you like an opposites attract, low angst, slow burn romance with an HEA. This one gave me all the right feels!
Bar QK is a very social place and is known for its infamous drag shows and is a major hotspot. Elijah being the owner gets to meet a lot of people on a daily basis but no one has ever caught his eye, that is until the cute surfer who steps into his bar and animatedly talks his ear of. He has never been more charmed!
Sebastian is like a breath of fresh air to Elijah's monotonous life. He is sweet, confident and flirty on the outside, but his past weighs him down emotionally. He is used to people using and taking advantage of him. All he wants is a place to be safe and feel accepted, and bar QK might just be that place for him to fit in.
Can an elusive bar owner and a quirky surfer find common ground and a place to finally belong?
Elijah and Seb are as different as light and day but they make for a perfect match! I loved that despite them having an instant connection, it was a slow burn romance. The mixed signals that Elijah kept on giving Seb was funny as well as endearing.
Harriet and Cole were great secondary character and added a familial warmth to the storyline.
I would absolutely recommend this one if you like an opposites attract, low angst, slow burn romance with an HEA. This one gave me all the right feels!
July 22, 2020
Not Used To Cute by Becca Seymour is a contemporary m/m romance that shows just how much opposites attract and can lead to a perfect combination. Hurt/comfort, learning to trust and embrace love, this beautiful lovestory may have an instant and strong connection between the two characters but their romance builds instead of instantly going to a steam scene... it burns dlower, but it burns bright. Oh and the heat they create once they realize what can be! There is low level of angst, a good amount of sweetness, and a solid story. The characters, both main and secondary, are wonderful and really make the story shine.
August 21, 2020
Another new to me author in 2020 and I'm a fan.
This book was sweet, cute, hot and heartfelt. Both Elijah and Seb have a few hurdles to overcome in order to achieve their HEA. I could relate to Elijah in the way he was holding himself back and protecting his heart. And I adored Seb for being so sure about his feelings and professing them earlier in their relationship.
I'm not sure what had me hooked all I know is that I kept flipping the pages to see what happens next right up until the very end.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
This book was sweet, cute, hot and heartfelt. Both Elijah and Seb have a few hurdles to overcome in order to achieve their HEA. I could relate to Elijah in the way he was holding himself back and protecting his heart. And I adored Seb for being so sure about his feelings and professing them earlier in their relationship.
I'm not sure what had me hooked all I know is that I kept flipping the pages to see what happens next right up until the very end.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
July 17, 2020
Left me feeling all warm and fuzzy 🥰.
This is such a sweet, feel good, happy sigh read.
I loved every moment of Elijah and Seb’s story. From Seb’s quirky wandering, rambling thoughts to Elijah’s fierce love and loyalty to his bar and employees. Theirs was an instant attraction but those sparks didn’t heat up until a few problems were overcome, mainly Elijah’s mixed signals and Seb’s insecurities.
Add in a bit of drama with some wonderful side characters and you’re left with a truly enjoyable feel good romance and a HEA that left me smiling. A great way to spend an afternoon.
This is such a sweet, feel good, happy sigh read.
I loved every moment of Elijah and Seb’s story. From Seb’s quirky wandering, rambling thoughts to Elijah’s fierce love and loyalty to his bar and employees. Theirs was an instant attraction but those sparks didn’t heat up until a few problems were overcome, mainly Elijah’s mixed signals and Seb’s insecurities.
Add in a bit of drama with some wonderful side characters and you’re left with a truly enjoyable feel good romance and a HEA that left me smiling. A great way to spend an afternoon.
July 21, 2020
Being an Australian I always love reading books by Becca Seymour , I feel at home.
Elijah runs his own bar quite content to be himself , his bar is his main concern.
Until ----- one certain day a certain guy showed up and Elijah noticed him..
Seb is a surfer , easy going with a kindness that shows..
They connect but getting there is wonderful to read..
Great story line , cute and very sweet ...
Beautifully written ,it's such a lovely book to read ...
Since I have finished I have re read and it makes a mark on my heart..
Elijah runs his own bar quite content to be himself , his bar is his main concern.
Until ----- one certain day a certain guy showed up and Elijah noticed him..
Seb is a surfer , easy going with a kindness that shows..
They connect but getting there is wonderful to read..
Great story line , cute and very sweet ...
Beautifully written ,it's such a lovely book to read ...
Since I have finished I have re read and it makes a mark on my heart..
August 23, 2020
I enjoyed Not Use to Cute. It's 1st POV, so that's never my favourite to read. I loved Seb and Elijah. Great characters. Loved their found family. That's my fave trope. I wouldn't say the story is low-angst necessarily. There's definitely a lot going on.
I was rooting for both of them. Greatly enjoyed this short novella.
Side note: a part of the plot involves hate crimes against the LGBTQA+ community. It's resolved and handled well, just thought it deserved a trigger warning for anyone who needs it.
I was rooting for both of them. Greatly enjoyed this short novella.
Side note: a part of the plot involves hate crimes against the LGBTQA+ community. It's resolved and handled well, just thought it deserved a trigger warning for anyone who needs it.
July 22, 2020
3/4 stars ⭐️ Seb and Elijah’s story was full of cute moments and the book was a good way to spend the weekend with an happy ending.
Elijah is so caring towards Seb and I enjoyed Seb’s ramblings a lot.
In the story there are also other nice characters and the foundations are laid for future plots (I hope! We need more cute stories!).
Even I found the story sometimes unconnected in its parts, I enjoyed the story of Elijah and Seb
*ARC provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review*
Elijah is so caring towards Seb and I enjoyed Seb’s ramblings a lot.
In the story there are also other nice characters and the foundations are laid for future plots (I hope! We need more cute stories!).
Even I found the story sometimes unconnected in its parts, I enjoyed the story of Elijah and Seb
*ARC provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review*
March 2, 2024
Grumpy Elijah & Sunshine Seb
Elijah owns the Gay QK bar on the coast of Queensland, Australia. He runs a tight ship with several staff, full and part timers. Also every Friday they have a Drag Queen show which brings in the crowds. Business is doing well, shame about his own love life, which is non existent, well he has occasional hookups.
He had put his guard up a few years ago, since his longtime boyfriend, not only wanted Elijah to place his struggling sick sister into a facility and devote more time to him, but he was also cheating on Elijah.
Now he is hosting a birthday party for his sister and her husband, plus a few of her friends came along too.
One such guest takes a stool in the corner of the bar and starts chatting in a friendly manner to Elijah. Elijah, well used to dealing with patrons with the bare minimum of conversation, is mesmerised by the non stop chat coming from the 5’6”, gorgeous guy who introduces himself as Sebastian.
Seb is new in town, normally he doesn’t stay in the same place for long, so he is telling all this to Elijah, plus he’s looking for a job. Elijah surprises himself by offering Seb a job. Not knowing what job, at that moment. He just knew he wanted to help keep this guy in town and close.
Seb settles in with his work mates and is enjoying his job until one day, while leaving on a work errand, he is attacked by two guys who threw red paint all over him. Previously slurs had been painted on the walls outside and a surveillance camera had been installed.
This was the start of a spate of homophobic hate attacks on the bar, staff and patrons. With loyal staff , and a brother in law, Drake, a detective, investigations start.
All of these bring Elijah and Seb closer together, but with Elijah being distrustful and wary, and Seb full of anxieties and insecurities from his past, progress is slow. Seb is often left feeling let down.
That all changes when a handsome Fire Inspector visits for the annual inspection and invites Seb to come surfing with him. 🤬👿💥⚡️
<^><^><^><^>
This is a standalone and not part of the True Blue series which I just finished. It still had that friendly, safe feeling in the work community in which it is set.
The QK bar does feature in another series by Becca Seymour ‘ Zone Defence’ which I look forward to reading soon.
There was a Free Bonus read offered at the end of ‘ Not Used to Cute’ which catches up with our two lovebirds enjoying the local Pride Parade.
Very enjoyable read, but there are homophobic incidents and attacks so be warned.
Elijah owns the Gay QK bar on the coast of Queensland, Australia. He runs a tight ship with several staff, full and part timers. Also every Friday they have a Drag Queen show which brings in the crowds. Business is doing well, shame about his own love life, which is non existent, well he has occasional hookups.
He had put his guard up a few years ago, since his longtime boyfriend, not only wanted Elijah to place his struggling sick sister into a facility and devote more time to him, but he was also cheating on Elijah.
Now he is hosting a birthday party for his sister and her husband, plus a few of her friends came along too.
One such guest takes a stool in the corner of the bar and starts chatting in a friendly manner to Elijah. Elijah, well used to dealing with patrons with the bare minimum of conversation, is mesmerised by the non stop chat coming from the 5’6”, gorgeous guy who introduces himself as Sebastian.
Seb is new in town, normally he doesn’t stay in the same place for long, so he is telling all this to Elijah, plus he’s looking for a job. Elijah surprises himself by offering Seb a job. Not knowing what job, at that moment. He just knew he wanted to help keep this guy in town and close.
Seb settles in with his work mates and is enjoying his job until one day, while leaving on a work errand, he is attacked by two guys who threw red paint all over him. Previously slurs had been painted on the walls outside and a surveillance camera had been installed.
This was the start of a spate of homophobic hate attacks on the bar, staff and patrons. With loyal staff , and a brother in law, Drake, a detective, investigations start.
All of these bring Elijah and Seb closer together, but with Elijah being distrustful and wary, and Seb full of anxieties and insecurities from his past, progress is slow. Seb is often left feeling let down.
That all changes when a handsome Fire Inspector visits for the annual inspection and invites Seb to come surfing with him. 🤬👿💥⚡️
<^><^><^><^>
This is a standalone and not part of the True Blue series which I just finished. It still had that friendly, safe feeling in the work community in which it is set.
The QK bar does feature in another series by Becca Seymour ‘ Zone Defence’ which I look forward to reading soon.
There was a Free Bonus read offered at the end of ‘ Not Used to Cute’ which catches up with our two lovebirds enjoying the local Pride Parade.
Very enjoyable read, but there are homophobic incidents and attacks so be warned.
August 22, 2020
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This story is cute and sweet and Seb is completely adorable. I connected to Seb. Seb’s awkwardness, the way his mouth kind of runs away from him combined with his confidence in the face of self doubt made him easy to relate to and totally loveable.
Elija, Seb’s boss and love interest is a good guy but is known for his casual flings and while he is unsure about taking the plunge with Seb. For me, Ejilja is kind of your standard hot guy, nice and and all, but this story was all about Seb and what he wanted and if that was Elija, then I was on board with that.
Not Used to Cute was easy to read and even though it deals with some issues of homophobia it never gets too heavy. I confess I was so into Seb any time anything upset him I got upset and teary eyed although I’m pretty sure making me cry was the author’s intention.
I had a good time reading Not Used to Cut and I read it in less than a day. If you’re an m/m fan who likes a lovely sweet romance that isn’t heavy on the bedroom antics I’d recommend giving this story a read.
This story is cute and sweet and Seb is completely adorable. I connected to Seb. Seb’s awkwardness, the way his mouth kind of runs away from him combined with his confidence in the face of self doubt made him easy to relate to and totally loveable.
Elija, Seb’s boss and love interest is a good guy but is known for his casual flings and while he is unsure about taking the plunge with Seb. For me, Ejilja is kind of your standard hot guy, nice and and all, but this story was all about Seb and what he wanted and if that was Elija, then I was on board with that.
Not Used to Cute was easy to read and even though it deals with some issues of homophobia it never gets too heavy. I confess I was so into Seb any time anything upset him I got upset and teary eyed although I’m pretty sure making me cry was the author’s intention.
I had a good time reading Not Used to Cut and I read it in less than a day. If you’re an m/m fan who likes a lovely sweet romance that isn’t heavy on the bedroom antics I’d recommend giving this story a read.
August 17, 2024
Adored Sebastian and Elijah as characters! Seb’s insecurities of being “too much” just being himself were very relatable, and I loved how much Elijah cares about the LGBTQ community and keeping his bar a safe place for both patrons and his employees. I loved the dual POV and seeing both men struggle with their own past and their developing feelings for each other. I liked the two of them together, and I downloaded and read the bonus epilogue which was adorable!
I do feel like this story needs a few trigger warnings though, specifically for hate crimes (towards an MC and other minor characters), mentions of violence, mentions of family not accepting characters’ sexuality, and violence/vandalism towards a work place based on it being LGBTQ friendly.
I do feel like this story needs a few trigger warnings though, specifically for hate crimes (towards an MC and other minor characters), mentions of violence, mentions of family not accepting characters’ sexuality, and violence/vandalism towards a work place based on it being LGBTQ friendly.
August 20, 2020
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
As the title suggests, this is a cute story. When a wandering surfer meets a bar owner, he’s equally interested in a job - and the owner. Fortunately, his feelings are reciprocated.
This story centres around a gay bar on Australia’s Sunshine Coast. Between surfing and drag queens, this feels like a beach read - though a criminal investigation involving both Seb and Elijah does add some suspense to an otherwise feel good story.
This is a short book, but there is some attempt to develop both Elijah and Seb as characters. More time is spent on Seb’s back story than Elijah’s and the result is a story that feels like it belongs to Seb - even though the perspective switches back and forth. This is an easy, entertaining read with opportunities to develop other characters in future books.
As the title suggests, this is a cute story. When a wandering surfer meets a bar owner, he’s equally interested in a job - and the owner. Fortunately, his feelings are reciprocated.
This story centres around a gay bar on Australia’s Sunshine Coast. Between surfing and drag queens, this feels like a beach read - though a criminal investigation involving both Seb and Elijah does add some suspense to an otherwise feel good story.
This is a short book, but there is some attempt to develop both Elijah and Seb as characters. More time is spent on Seb’s back story than Elijah’s and the result is a story that feels like it belongs to Seb - even though the perspective switches back and forth. This is an easy, entertaining read with opportunities to develop other characters in future books.
August 22, 2020
I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
Oh my goodness! Elijah and Seb are soooo wonderful. This was a story that gave you the feels. While the attraction was instant this wasn't an insta live story. This took a little bit of time. I loved these two and the side characters. This really needs to be a series! Great afternoon read by the pool.
Oh my goodness! Elijah and Seb are soooo wonderful. This was a story that gave you the feels. While the attraction was instant this wasn't an insta live story. This took a little bit of time. I loved these two and the side characters. This really needs to be a series! Great afternoon read by the pool.
August 24, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Becca Seymour’s new story, Not Used to Cute, is a sweet, slow-burning romance with a dash of danger thrown in on the side. With homophobic attacks beginning to happen at Elijah’s bar, it is going to take all his focus to figure out just who is targeting his place and why. Throw in an unwanted attraction to a cute waif of a man into the mix and Elijah has his hands more than full. Seb is determined to be happy in life, even though his past hasn’t always been a good one. Used to others leaving him high and dry, he is hoping his crush on Elijah doesn’t ruin the new job he is offered or bruise his heart too much. Poor Elijah, however, has also been burned by a long term ex who has left him wary of investing in anything more than casual sex. It’s going to take some hefty communication between the two of them to figure out just where they stand and if they can make a go of it together.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Becca Seymour’s new story, Not Used to Cute, is a sweet, slow-burning romance with a dash of danger thrown in on the side. With homophobic attacks beginning to happen at Elijah’s bar, it is going to take all his focus to figure out just who is targeting his place and why. Throw in an unwanted attraction to a cute waif of a man into the mix and Elijah has his hands more than full. Seb is determined to be happy in life, even though his past hasn’t always been a good one. Used to others leaving him high and dry, he is hoping his crush on Elijah doesn’t ruin the new job he is offered or bruise his heart too much. Poor Elijah, however, has also been burned by a long term ex who has left him wary of investing in anything more than casual sex. It’s going to take some hefty communication between the two of them to figure out just where they stand and if they can make a go of it together.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
August 24, 2020
2.5*
Arrfff j'ai l'impression d'être vraiment vache mais cette lecture est pour moi sans grand intérêt. Je ne vais absolument pas revenir sur l'intrigue, d'une simplicité un peu déconcertante...
Alors oui l'histoire est cute, comme le titre nous le promet et la romance entre Elijah et Seb est toute douce, l'attraction est immédiate mais ils prendront le temps de faire évoluer leur relation. Les personnages sont sympathiques mais manquent de substance et du coup le lecteur reste sur sa faim. Pourtant, le cadre était prometteur - un bar australien dans une petite ville côtière avec ses nombreux employés - mais il n'est pas suffisamment exploité.
Cette lecture est vraiment rapide, les pages défilent très vite donc si on cherche une lecture sans prise de tête pour faire passer quelques heures, ce roman rempli son office.
Arrfff j'ai l'impression d'être vraiment vache mais cette lecture est pour moi sans grand intérêt. Je ne vais absolument pas revenir sur l'intrigue, d'une simplicité un peu déconcertante...
Alors oui l'histoire est cute, comme le titre nous le promet et la romance entre Elijah et Seb est toute douce, l'attraction est immédiate mais ils prendront le temps de faire évoluer leur relation. Les personnages sont sympathiques mais manquent de substance et du coup le lecteur reste sur sa faim. Pourtant, le cadre était prometteur - un bar australien dans une petite ville côtière avec ses nombreux employés - mais il n'est pas suffisamment exploité.
Cette lecture est vraiment rapide, les pages défilent très vite donc si on cherche une lecture sans prise de tête pour faire passer quelques heures, ce roman rempli son office.
August 11, 2020
Love at First Sight.
There's an instant interest and attraction when Elijah and Seb meet. For Elijah, Seb isn't his usual type. He's used to ONS's which are fleeting nights with men who're hot. In comes Seb and Elijah's not used to cute, but he's intrigued anyway. As Seb works for Elijah and Elijah's not accustomed to dating, there are bumps on the road for these two. But, Elijah can't deny his attraction to Seb and his cute, quirky ways. And Seb can't help but feel the chemistry between himself and the hot, kind bar owner.
I thoroughly enjoyed Becca Seymour's book and am on the look-out for my next read!
**ARC provided by author**
There's an instant interest and attraction when Elijah and Seb meet. For Elijah, Seb isn't his usual type. He's used to ONS's which are fleeting nights with men who're hot. In comes Seb and Elijah's not used to cute, but he's intrigued anyway. As Seb works for Elijah and Elijah's not accustomed to dating, there are bumps on the road for these two. But, Elijah can't deny his attraction to Seb and his cute, quirky ways. And Seb can't help but feel the chemistry between himself and the hot, kind bar owner.
I thoroughly enjoyed Becca Seymour's book and am on the look-out for my next read!
**ARC provided by author**
August 20, 2020
As I've come to expect from this author, Elijah and Seb were wonderfully well-written characters. I really enjoyed the storyline, neither was in anyway looking for a relationship but there was a connection between them that pulled them together. All in all a very enjoyable (and yes, cute 😉) read.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
October 16, 2021
I’ve read this author before. This is a mm contemporary story set in the Sunshine Coast Queensland Australia. Elijah owns a bar called Bar QK and Seb is a shy guy with a sad history. Slow burn story told from duel POV. Sweet gentle story.I’ll read more from this author.
August 24, 2020
Elijah and Sebastian meet for the first time in Elijah's bar and the same day the man offers Seb a job. They can't hide their mutual attraction, so what is the point of resisting it? The problem is that the men haven't planned to get involved in any relationship. In such a situation, will they be ready to give this feeling that blooms between them a chance?
"Not Used To Cute" by Becca Seymour is a fairly short novel that mostly focuses on a "give love a chance" type of story. What I like about Elijah and Seb's love story is that, despite the serious themes and problems that the novel raises, a lot of emphasis has also been put on the humorous side of this novel. On the one hand, it's all thanks to Seb, as this boy really is unique, especially when he starts talking, and on the other hand, we owe the fun to Elijah who at first tries to ignore his clear and visible attraction to Seb. Everyone around him can see that he is very interested in the young man, his behavior betrays him and when he tries to get away from his feelings by taking a step back, he fails. The reactions of this stubborn man often amuse his friends, and thus also the readers. After all, the more Elijah tries to escape from his feelings, the more powerless he is against this attraction.
The problem of homophobia is also extremely important in the novel, and more precisely the fact that it deprives people against whom it is directed of a sense of security, it takes away the joy of being in a place where they previously felt good and safe, makes them fear for themselves and their loved ones every day. There are many ways to approach the problem of homophobia, and I am glad that the author chose this one. For some time now, homophobia has been affecting bars and other places where non-heterosexual people can be themselves and have fun among people who fully accept them. Losing one's sense of security in such places through homophobic attacks is therefore a big problem that needs to be discussed. So I'm glad that in “Not Used To Cute” it was touched in a rather gentle, but also very emotional way.
I think that an important feature of "Not Used To Cute" is that reading this novel we get to know not only Seb's and Elijah's stories, but also those of other characters. The thing that most of them have in common is the fact that they give us a chance to get to know better people who don't play a big role in this novel, but are really strong because at some point they were able to overcome their problems, get rid of toxic people in their life and start anew. All the things we learn, make us want to know even more about these characters, we want to see their lives flourish as their strength brings positive results. I really like the fact that "Not Used To Cute" is a novel that not only provides the reader with great entertainment and amusement, but also lets us see a group of strong people who, in the face of all kinds of difficulties, show us that we can change something, face our past, life, people, the world.
As for the main characters, they undoubtedly have a lot to offer. Seb is my favorite. Why? There are many reasons, but one of the most important is the fact that he is a rather small man who doesn't like being seen through the prism of his physical characteristics. So what if his body isn't particularly impressive, since he is mentally incredibly strong, stubborn and thanks to his inner strength he can cope with any situation. Seb is actually another example of a strong person, after the side characters we get to know in "Not Used To Cute". I admit that Elijah is also a very interesting one, because he is an overprotective person, but what's important, it is not due to the weakness of the person he cares about. Elijah is clearly overprotective by nature. Thanks to this fact, he is able to make Seb feel safe, but not powerless. It is very important and I am glad that the author emphasized it in her novel.
Taking all that into consideration, "Not Used To Cute" is a very interesting novel that you definitely want to read in one sitting. Although it is short, the author managed to cover many important and serious topics and also makes the reader smile. Thanks to this, the novel is neither heavy nor excessively light. It is just right. And the characters? You will fall in love with them! That's why you should read "Not Used To Cute". It's worth it.
____________________________
Elijah i Seb spotykają się po raz pierwszy w prowadzonym przez tego pierwszego barze i jeszcze tego samego dnia Elijah proponuje Sebastianowi pracę. Ich wzajemnego przyciągania nie sposób ukryć, więc po co mu się opierać? Problem w tym, że mężczyźni nie planowali angażować się w żaden związek. Czy w takiej sytuacji będą gotowi dać szansę uczuciu, które może między nimi rozkwitnąć?
„Not Used To Cute” autorstwa Becci Seymour to dosyć krótka powieść, która skupia się w dużej mierze na historii typu „daj szansę miłości”. W historii miłosnej Elijaha i Seba podoba mi się to, że mimo poważnych tematów i problemów, które zostają poruszone w powieści, duży nacisk został również położony na humor. Z jednej strony zawdzięczamy go Sebie, jako że ten chłopak naprawdę jest rozbrajający, kiedy zaczyna mówić, z drugiej zaś temu, że Elijah z początku stara się zignorować swoje wyraźne i zauważalne zainteresowanie Sebą. Wszyscy wokół widzą, że jest bardzo zainteresowany młodym mężczyzną, jego zachowanie go zdradza, a on nieudolnie próbuje od tego uciec robiąc krok w tył. Reakcje tego upartego mężczyzny często bawią jego znajomych, a co za tym idzie, także czytelnika. W końcu im bardziej Elijah próbuje umknąć przed uczuciami, tym mocniej odczuwa przyciąganie Seby.
W powieści niezwykle istotny jest również problem homofobii, a dokładniej mówiąc fakt, iż pozbawia ona ludzi przeciwko którym jest skierowana poczucia bezpieczeństwa, odbiera im radość przebywania w miejscu, w którym wcześniej czuli się dobrze, bezpiecznie, sprawia, że boją się o siebie i bliskich na co dzień. Do problemu homofobii bezsprzecznie można podejść na wiele sposobów i cieszę się, że autorka wybrała właśnie ten. Już od pewnego czasu homofobia dotyka barów i innych miejsc, w których osoby nieheteroseksualne mogą być sobą, bawić się wśród ludzi, którzy w pełni ich akceptują. Pozbawienie ludzi poczucia bezpieczeństwa w takich miejscach poprzez homofobiczne ataki jest więc dużym problemem, o którym należy mówić. Cieszę się więc, że w “Not Used To Cute” został on poruszony w raczej delikatny, ale jednocześnie bardzo emocjonalny sposób.
Myślę, że istotną cechą „Not Used To Cute” jest fakt, iż czytając tę powieść poznajemy nie tylko historie Seby i Elijaha, ale także historie innych bohaterów. Tym, co łączy większość z nich jest fakt, iż pozwalają nam poznać lepiej osoby, które nie odgrywają w tej powieści jakiejś wielkiej roli, ale są silne, gdyż potrafiły w pewnym momencie pokonać swoje problemy, odepchnąć od siebie toksycznych ludzi i zacząć życie na nowo. To, czego się dowiadujemy sprawia, że chcemy wiedzieć o tych bohaterach jeszcze więcej, chcemy patrzeć, jak ich życie rozkwita, jak ich siła przynosi pozytywne rezultaty. Naprawdę podoba mi się to, że „Not Used To Cute” jest powieścią, która nie tylko zapewnia czytelnikowi doskonałą rozrywkę i bawi, ale także pokazuje nam grono osób silnych, które w obliczu najróżniejszego rodzaju trudności pokazały, że można coś zmienić, można stawić czoła przeszłości, życiu, konkretnym ludziom, światu.
Co się zaś tyczy głównych bohaterów, niewątpliwie mają oni wiele do zaoferowania. Moim ulubieńcem jest Seba. Dlaczego? Powodów jest wiele, jednak jednym z najistotniejszych jest fakt, iż jest on drobnym mężczyzną, który nie lubi gdy postrzega się go przez pryzmat jego cech fizycznych. Co z tego, że jest wątły ciałem, skoro jest niesamowicie silny duchem, uparty i dzięki swojej wewnętrznej sile potrafi poradzić sobie w każdej sytuacji. Seba jest tak naprawdę kolejnym po bohaterach pobocznych przykładem osoby silnej, która pojawia się w „Not Used To Cute”. Tymczasem Elijah jest bardzo ciekawym przypadkiem, gdyż jest osobą nadopiekuńczą, ale co bardzo istotne, nie wynika to z racji słabości otaczanej przez niego opieką osoby. Elijah wyraźnie jest człowiekiem nadopiekuńczym z natury. Dzięki temu jest w stanie sprawić, że u jego boku Seba poczuje się bezpieczny, ale nie bezsilny. To bardzo istotne i cieszę się, że autorka zwróciła na to uwagę w swojej powieści.
Podsumowując, „Not Used To Cute” to bardzo interesująca powieść, którą chce się przeczytać za jednym posiedzeniem. Chociaż jest krótka, autorce udało się poruszyć w niej wiele istotnych, poważnych tematów, jak również wielokrotnie bawi czytelnika. Dzięki temu powieść nie jest ciężka ani też nadmiernie lekka. Jest po prostu w sam raz. A bohaterowie? Zakochacie się w nich! Dlatego sięgnijcie po „Not Used To Cute”. Warto.
"Not Used To Cute" by Becca Seymour is a fairly short novel that mostly focuses on a "give love a chance" type of story. What I like about Elijah and Seb's love story is that, despite the serious themes and problems that the novel raises, a lot of emphasis has also been put on the humorous side of this novel. On the one hand, it's all thanks to Seb, as this boy really is unique, especially when he starts talking, and on the other hand, we owe the fun to Elijah who at first tries to ignore his clear and visible attraction to Seb. Everyone around him can see that he is very interested in the young man, his behavior betrays him and when he tries to get away from his feelings by taking a step back, he fails. The reactions of this stubborn man often amuse his friends, and thus also the readers. After all, the more Elijah tries to escape from his feelings, the more powerless he is against this attraction.
The problem of homophobia is also extremely important in the novel, and more precisely the fact that it deprives people against whom it is directed of a sense of security, it takes away the joy of being in a place where they previously felt good and safe, makes them fear for themselves and their loved ones every day. There are many ways to approach the problem of homophobia, and I am glad that the author chose this one. For some time now, homophobia has been affecting bars and other places where non-heterosexual people can be themselves and have fun among people who fully accept them. Losing one's sense of security in such places through homophobic attacks is therefore a big problem that needs to be discussed. So I'm glad that in “Not Used To Cute” it was touched in a rather gentle, but also very emotional way.
I think that an important feature of "Not Used To Cute" is that reading this novel we get to know not only Seb's and Elijah's stories, but also those of other characters. The thing that most of them have in common is the fact that they give us a chance to get to know better people who don't play a big role in this novel, but are really strong because at some point they were able to overcome their problems, get rid of toxic people in their life and start anew. All the things we learn, make us want to know even more about these characters, we want to see their lives flourish as their strength brings positive results. I really like the fact that "Not Used To Cute" is a novel that not only provides the reader with great entertainment and amusement, but also lets us see a group of strong people who, in the face of all kinds of difficulties, show us that we can change something, face our past, life, people, the world.
As for the main characters, they undoubtedly have a lot to offer. Seb is my favorite. Why? There are many reasons, but one of the most important is the fact that he is a rather small man who doesn't like being seen through the prism of his physical characteristics. So what if his body isn't particularly impressive, since he is mentally incredibly strong, stubborn and thanks to his inner strength he can cope with any situation. Seb is actually another example of a strong person, after the side characters we get to know in "Not Used To Cute". I admit that Elijah is also a very interesting one, because he is an overprotective person, but what's important, it is not due to the weakness of the person he cares about. Elijah is clearly overprotective by nature. Thanks to this fact, he is able to make Seb feel safe, but not powerless. It is very important and I am glad that the author emphasized it in her novel.
Taking all that into consideration, "Not Used To Cute" is a very interesting novel that you definitely want to read in one sitting. Although it is short, the author managed to cover many important and serious topics and also makes the reader smile. Thanks to this, the novel is neither heavy nor excessively light. It is just right. And the characters? You will fall in love with them! That's why you should read "Not Used To Cute". It's worth it.
____________________________
Elijah i Seb spotykają się po raz pierwszy w prowadzonym przez tego pierwszego barze i jeszcze tego samego dnia Elijah proponuje Sebastianowi pracę. Ich wzajemnego przyciągania nie sposób ukryć, więc po co mu się opierać? Problem w tym, że mężczyźni nie planowali angażować się w żaden związek. Czy w takiej sytuacji będą gotowi dać szansę uczuciu, które może między nimi rozkwitnąć?
„Not Used To Cute” autorstwa Becci Seymour to dosyć krótka powieść, która skupia się w dużej mierze na historii typu „daj szansę miłości”. W historii miłosnej Elijaha i Seba podoba mi się to, że mimo poważnych tematów i problemów, które zostają poruszone w powieści, duży nacisk został również położony na humor. Z jednej strony zawdzięczamy go Sebie, jako że ten chłopak naprawdę jest rozbrajający, kiedy zaczyna mówić, z drugiej zaś temu, że Elijah z początku stara się zignorować swoje wyraźne i zauważalne zainteresowanie Sebą. Wszyscy wokół widzą, że jest bardzo zainteresowany młodym mężczyzną, jego zachowanie go zdradza, a on nieudolnie próbuje od tego uciec robiąc krok w tył. Reakcje tego upartego mężczyzny często bawią jego znajomych, a co za tym idzie, także czytelnika. W końcu im bardziej Elijah próbuje umknąć przed uczuciami, tym mocniej odczuwa przyciąganie Seby.
W powieści niezwykle istotny jest również problem homofobii, a dokładniej mówiąc fakt, iż pozbawia ona ludzi przeciwko którym jest skierowana poczucia bezpieczeństwa, odbiera im radość przebywania w miejscu, w którym wcześniej czuli się dobrze, bezpiecznie, sprawia, że boją się o siebie i bliskich na co dzień. Do problemu homofobii bezsprzecznie można podejść na wiele sposobów i cieszę się, że autorka wybrała właśnie ten. Już od pewnego czasu homofobia dotyka barów i innych miejsc, w których osoby nieheteroseksualne mogą być sobą, bawić się wśród ludzi, którzy w pełni ich akceptują. Pozbawienie ludzi poczucia bezpieczeństwa w takich miejscach poprzez homofobiczne ataki jest więc dużym problemem, o którym należy mówić. Cieszę się więc, że w “Not Used To Cute” został on poruszony w raczej delikatny, ale jednocześnie bardzo emocjonalny sposób.
Myślę, że istotną cechą „Not Used To Cute” jest fakt, iż czytając tę powieść poznajemy nie tylko historie Seby i Elijaha, ale także historie innych bohaterów. Tym, co łączy większość z nich jest fakt, iż pozwalają nam poznać lepiej osoby, które nie odgrywają w tej powieści jakiejś wielkiej roli, ale są silne, gdyż potrafiły w pewnym momencie pokonać swoje problemy, odepchnąć od siebie toksycznych ludzi i zacząć życie na nowo. To, czego się dowiadujemy sprawia, że chcemy wiedzieć o tych bohaterach jeszcze więcej, chcemy patrzeć, jak ich życie rozkwita, jak ich siła przynosi pozytywne rezultaty. Naprawdę podoba mi się to, że „Not Used To Cute” jest powieścią, która nie tylko zapewnia czytelnikowi doskonałą rozrywkę i bawi, ale także pokazuje nam grono osób silnych, które w obliczu najróżniejszego rodzaju trudności pokazały, że można coś zmienić, można stawić czoła przeszłości, życiu, konkretnym ludziom, światu.
Co się zaś tyczy głównych bohaterów, niewątpliwie mają oni wiele do zaoferowania. Moim ulubieńcem jest Seba. Dlaczego? Powodów jest wiele, jednak jednym z najistotniejszych jest fakt, iż jest on drobnym mężczyzną, który nie lubi gdy postrzega się go przez pryzmat jego cech fizycznych. Co z tego, że jest wątły ciałem, skoro jest niesamowicie silny duchem, uparty i dzięki swojej wewnętrznej sile potrafi poradzić sobie w każdej sytuacji. Seba jest tak naprawdę kolejnym po bohaterach pobocznych przykładem osoby silnej, która pojawia się w „Not Used To Cute”. Tymczasem Elijah jest bardzo ciekawym przypadkiem, gdyż jest osobą nadopiekuńczą, ale co bardzo istotne, nie wynika to z racji słabości otaczanej przez niego opieką osoby. Elijah wyraźnie jest człowiekiem nadopiekuńczym z natury. Dzięki temu jest w stanie sprawić, że u jego boku Seba poczuje się bezpieczny, ale nie bezsilny. To bardzo istotne i cieszę się, że autorka zwróciła na to uwagę w swojej powieści.
Podsumowując, „Not Used To Cute” to bardzo interesująca powieść, którą chce się przeczytać za jednym posiedzeniem. Chociaż jest krótka, autorce udało się poruszyć w niej wiele istotnych, poważnych tematów, jak również wielokrotnie bawi czytelnika. Dzięki temu powieść nie jest ciężka ani też nadmiernie lekka. Jest po prostu w sam raz. A bohaterowie? Zakochacie się w nich! Dlatego sięgnijcie po „Not Used To Cute”. Warto.
August 26, 2020
Check out our full post for NOT USED TO CUTE on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Sarah – ☆☆☆☆
As the title suggests, this is a cute story. When a wandering surfer meets a bar owner, he’s equally interested in a job – and the owner. Fortunately, his feelings are reciprocated.
This story centres around a gay bar on Australia’s Sunshine Coast. Between surfing and drag queens, this feels like a beach read – though a criminal investigation involving both Seb and Elijah does add some suspense to an otherwise feel-good story.
This is a short book, but there is some attempt to develop both Elijah and Seb as characters. More time is spent on Seb’s back story than Elijah’s and the result is a story that feels like it belongs to Seb – even though the perspective switches back and forth. This is an easy, entertaining read with opportunities to develop other characters in future books.
Veronica – ☆☆☆☆
This story is cute and sweet, and Seb is completely adorable. I connected to Seb. Seb’s awkwardness, the way his mouth kind of runs away from him combined with his confidence in the face of self-doubt made him easy to relate to and totally loveable.
Elijah, Seb’s boss and love interest, is a good guy but is known for his casual flings and while he is unsure about taking the plunge with Seb. For me, Elijah is kind of your standard hot guy, nice and all, but this story was all about Seb and what he wanted and if that was Elijah, then I was on board with that.
Not Used to Cute was easy to read and even though it deals with some issues of homophobia, it never gets too heavy. I confess I was so into Seb, any time anything upset him I got upset and teary eyed; although I’m pretty sure making me cry was the author’s intention.
I had a good time reading Not Used to Cute and I read it in less than a day. If you’re an m/m fan who likes a lovely, sweet romance that isn’t heavy on the bedroom antics, I’d recommend giving this story a read.
Angie – ☆☆☆☆
Oh, my goodness! Elijah and Seb are soooo wonderful. This was a story that gave you the feels. While the attraction was instant, this wasn't an insta-love story. This took a little bit of time. I loved these two and the side characters. This really needs to be a series! Great afternoon read by the pool.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
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