Weekly Book Recs 21-2025: Plus-Sized FMCs
- Apollo Imperium
- May 23
- 4 min read
WEEKLY BOOK RECS: 6 book reviews and suggestions every week
Romance doesn’t come in one shape, and the idea that only one kind of body gets a happy ending is something we’re leaving far behind. This week’s book recs feature plus-sized heroines who get to be sexy, complicated, hilarious, vulnerable, and completely loved — not in spite of their bodies, but with them fully in the picture.
Each story brings its own energy. Some are flirty and light, others dig deeper into identity, confidence, and self-worth. But they all have one thing in common: a main character who gets the romance she deserves. If you’re craving representation that feels real, joyful, and a little steamy, this week is for you.
1. “Get a Life, Chloe Brown” by Talia Hibbert
⭐ 4.6/5
Tropes/Genre: Grumpy x sunshine, slow burn, opposites attract
Description: Chloe Brown is a chronically ill, sarcastic computer geek who decides to get a life after a near-death experience. That includes doing things like ride a motorcycle and enjoy a drunken night out. Helping her check off her list? Her hot, brooding superintendent, Red.
Review: Talia Hibbert’s writing is warm, witty, and full of emotional depth. Chloe is complex and lovable, and her chemistry with Red is off the charts. The romance builds with tension and care. Bonus: the disability rep is great, and the cover is bold and joyful. This one’s a comfort read with heart and spice.
2. “One to Watch” by Kate Stayman-London
⭐ 4.3/5
Tropes/Genre: Reality TV romance, forced proximity, second chance
Description: Bea, a plus-sized fashion blogger, agrees to be the lead on a Bachelorette-style dating show. She’s not here for love, just to prove a point. But as the cameras roll and the suitors arrive, her walls start to crack.
Review: This is the book equivalent of bingeing a dating show, but with way more emotional payoff. It’s about confidence, vulnerability, and how hard it is to let yourself be seen. Bea is a great lead, and her internal journey is just as compelling as the romance. Some of the suitors are ridiculous, but that’s half the fun.
3. “That Kind of Guy” by Talia Hibbert
⭐ 4.4/5
Tropes/Genre: Friends to lovers, fake dating, neurodivergent hero
Description: Rae is newly divorced, plus-sized, and not in the mood for anyone’s nonsense. But when she needs a date for a big event, her friend Zach, who's sweet, hot, and maybe hiding a few feelings, steps in.
Review: This one is flirty, funny, and surprisingly deep. Zach is demisexual, which adds great rep, and Rae’s self-worth arc feels real and earned. Hibbert knows how to write characters you want to root for. The dialogue is sharp, the chemistry is great, and the whole thing reads like a hug with benefits.
4. “Spoiler Alert” by Olivia Dade
⭐ 4.5/5
Tropes/Genre: Celebrity romance, secret identity, fanfiction twist
Description: Marcus is a famous actor secretly writing fanfiction about his own show. April is a brilliant geologist who posts fanart and isn’t shy about her size. When a tweet exchange turns into a date, things get complicated fast, especially when Marcus realizes he already knows her online.
Review: This book is geeky, sexy, and emotionally satisfying. April is confident, funny, and fully herself, and the story doesn’t shy away from the way the world treats fat women. The romance is sweet and layered with real tension. Also, the fanfic angle? Genuinely fun. A great pick for fandom nerds who love smart love stories.
5. “Make a Scene” by Mimi Grace
⭐ 4.2/5
Tropes/Genre: Fake dating, bakery romance, ex drama
Description: Retta needs a fake boyfriend to make a scene at her ex’s wedding. Duncan is a gym-owning, gruff-but-good guy who’s willing to play the part. They agree it’s just pretend, but it doesn’t stay that way for long.
Review: Retta is a plus-sized heroine with confidence and fire. The chemistry between her and Duncan is magnetic, and the fake dating setup is executed with charm. It’s a light, romantic escape with characters that feel like people you want to grab a drink with. If you want good vibes and slow-burn tension, this hits the spot.
6. “Curves for Days” by Laura Moher
⭐ 4.0/5
Tropes/Genre: Small town romance, grumpy x sunshine, body positivity
Description: Alice has curves, confidence, and zero time for rude behavior. Enter Angus, a grumpy lumberjack of a man who has no idea what to do with someone so bold. Their small town is nosy, the banter is real, and the tension is undeniable.
Review: This book is warm and wholesome with a side of spice. Alice is fun and fearless, and Angus is the type who grunts his feelings until they explode. It’s got all the cozy small-town charm with real emotional beats. A solid pick for readers who want fluff with some depth and a leading lady who owns her space.
Explore captivating literary worlds within the pages of our thoughtfully curated books. Apollo Libraries, a proud subsidiary of Apollo Imperium, is committed to delivering literary excellence that ignites imagination and nurtures knowledge. Our extensive collection spans diverse genres, encompassing both timeless classics and contemporary masterpieces, all meticulously crafted with a dedication to the art of storytelling. We also proudly present "Neuroasis", a meditation, science and neurology based mental health branch; many artists; home decor and art & design; music & more.
Work with us
Review our books
If you're interested in becoming a reviewer, contact us at info@apolloimperium.com with the subject REVIEW. If we think you're a good fit for us, you will receive the books you wish to review for free, either as an EBook or a physical copy for you to keep, depending on the book. In case of a physical copy, we will cover shipping costs, too.
Mention where you're active (bookstagram, goodreads etc) and your account, where you're from (country suffices), why you enjoy reading and which books or genres you like most.
Contact Us
For inquiries, collaboration opportunities, or any assistance, please don't hesitate to get in touch:
Email: info@apolloimperium.com
Comments