Paladin’s Strength by T. Kingfisher

T. Kingfisher manages to write stories that are so un-problematic and yet manages to still give you moments where both your hands are clamped over your mouth and you’re doing that shocked surprised delighted scream thing.

What you’re in for, without spoilers:

MMC: “oh I’m literally nothing; just a big, physically intimidating yet emotionally plush guy with super soft hobbies. And saint’s teeth, I really like this big tall curvy funny sexy woman in her late 30’s and I want to let her know how I feel, but there’s no way that she feels the same because I’m just a big dummy who can’t control himself. Plus, both times I kissed her she was way into it, which probably means she’s just being nice and I don’t want her to feel obligated because I am an AGGRESSIVELY DECENT MAN. ”

FMC: “oh I know I’m not conventionally attractive, what with my height and these hips and these over-large boobies, and I really like this big burly softy Paladin, but I’m too old and also I have this thing that’s magically wrong with me that I am not responsible for in any way but that scared off the last guy I was in love with and that broke my heart. Saint’s tits, he smells so good but there’s no way he’s into me. Sure he kissed me a couple times up against a wall and is always looking at me in that way that sends shivers all through my body, but there’s no way that means anything he’s just being nice.”

And there is also plot. And some expertly done, well earned smut.

I love it so much.