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Second Star to the Right
Be it unrequited fascination with his straight best friend or impossible fantasies of rekindled interest with his heartbreaking ex, Mason has no clue why the perfect connection seems to keep slipping through his fingers. When another lonely holiday seems like too much weight to shoulder, Mason gives up on romance and seeks out the next best thing—rented company. Jack is everything a person could want in an willing, hot, and built like an angel.
Mason can't resist. After all, who wouldn't be interested in a guy who loves kid's movies, is a self-professed Peter Pan, and has no problem throwing caution to the wind at a moment's notice. But then interest quickly blooms into a whole new emotion—an emotion that Mason knows far too well, especially when Jack has no interest in returning it, preferring to keep his heart safely tucked away in Neverland.
Mason can't resist. After all, who wouldn't be interested in a guy who loves kid's movies, is a self-professed Peter Pan, and has no problem throwing caution to the wind at a moment's notice. But then interest quickly blooms into a whole new emotion—an emotion that Mason knows far too well, especially when Jack has no interest in returning it, preferring to keep his heart safely tucked away in Neverland.
147 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 18, 2014
About the author
A.F. Henley
38 books215 followersHenley was born with a full-blown passion for run-on sentences, a zealous indulgence in all words descriptive, and the endearing tendency to overuse punctuation. Since the early years Henley has been an enthusiastic writer, from the first few I-love-my-dog stories to the current leap into erotica.
A self-professed Google genius, Henley lives for the hours spent digging through the Internet for ‘research purposes’ which, more often than not, lead seven thousand miles away from first intentions but bring Henley to new discoveries and ideas that, once seeded, grow like weeds.
A self-professed Google genius, Henley lives for the hours spent digging through the Internet for ‘research purposes’ which, more often than not, lead seven thousand miles away from first intentions but bring Henley to new discoveries and ideas that, once seeded, grow like weeds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
January 6, 2019
This book is totally "WTF???" (and really funny) from the first moment that dependable, indecisive, insecure Mason meets the attitudy hotness that is the irrepressible rent boy Jack.
And. I. Loved. It!
I was mostly hooked when Jack got to # 2 of his 7 list of Do's & Don’ts for the week that Mason would be paying for Jack's company:
"Two: You will not wake me before ten. And seriously, that's more for your own safety than anything else. I cannot stress enough that I can be a real bitch in the morning."Then as Mason continued to interrupt before Jack reached his # 7 final rule, Jack gives Mason the following little 'Come to Jesus' talking to:
"Have you ever been on a plane, Mason? You know how when the nice lady stands up and starts speaking and she's telling you all these things that are going to supposedly save your life and nobody talks because everybody's listening? That's what we should be doing right now, okay? You get to be the boss soon enough. For now we listen to the pretty boy, okay?"Yep, I was all in. Hook, line and sinker. : )
The majority of the book covers their week together at the cabin by the lake and how they get to know one another. I thoroughly enjoyed that process more than I actually thought that I would.
One other thing that I really liked about the book was that even though it was a 'boring guy rents a hooker' story, the sex didn't feel gratuitous and demeaning to me. It wasn't just used as a page filler (which I hate.)
The only part of the book that I would have actually changed was how the end went from 'let's give *us* a shot at being a couple' right to '8 months later' when they'd gotten past any conflict and had truly integrated their previously-solitary lives.
That would have been a fun process to have been privy to, but the fast forward took that away. It was only (reportedly) 147 pages long and I would have very much enjoyed reading a bit more about these two.
4 ½ ★'s, but I feel like rounding up because it really was a fun read.
March 6, 2026
✰ 3 stars ✰
Mason in a nutshell, folks. 😅 So, this was fine. Nothing ground-breaking or entirely memorable, but a fine enough time seeing two people fall in love, despite how hard they deny it. 😟 Mason hires Jack, a rent boy for company and pleasure for his cabin retreat. What should have stayed only a business of pleasure slowly becomes a pleasure of each other's company. If you catch my drift. 😉
But how can you convince the king of feel good, who only believes he's good enough as a whore with the power to make him feel good, in all kinds of ways, and an idealistic princess, who takes pride in wearing his heart on his sleeve and longs for meaningful intimacy, that they could actually be perfect for each other? 🥺
“What's the point of hoping for love if the end result is inevitable heartbreak?”
It does have a lot of insta vibes, with how easily Mason falls under Jack's willy and charm. It's also easy to see how Jack does yearn for that fairy tale HEA that Mason has chased after for so long, but is afraid to be hurt by what it might mean for him. But through comfort and care, an unfortunate case of fight and flight, added with mutual understanding and heated attraction does their business an arrangement cordially end in a love story. 💞
The writing, though... I would not say it had fanfiction vibes, but it also did not allow any room to delve deeper into Mason and Jack as characters. 🫤 Nothing of real concrete substance to Mason's profession, background, nothing simply he's an older rich business mogul, who admires, if not envies, the youthful vigor and tenacity and prospects that 24 yo Jack still has at his disposal. 🤔
“I want someone to pick my ass up and fly me to Neverland.”
While they are able to finally confront and confess their fears and want to see that they are the perfect pair for each other, there still was a disconnect that prevented me from really feeling much of anything for their confession - honest and tender as it was. 💟 Not to say they weren't going through the emotions of fighting the feelings of desire and yearning. But, I was unfazed by their happiness, which even once they agreed to take a chance as a couple was rushed off with a hasty conclusion. 🤷🏻♀️
“I want him. I don't know why he affects me as badly as he does, but he does and I like it and I want it.”
Mason in a nutshell, folks. 😅 So, this was fine. Nothing ground-breaking or entirely memorable, but a fine enough time seeing two people fall in love, despite how hard they deny it. 😟 Mason hires Jack, a rent boy for company and pleasure for his cabin retreat. What should have stayed only a business of pleasure slowly becomes a pleasure of each other's company. If you catch my drift. 😉
But how can you convince the king of feel good, who only believes he's good enough as a whore with the power to make him feel good, in all kinds of ways, and an idealistic princess, who takes pride in wearing his heart on his sleeve and longs for meaningful intimacy, that they could actually be perfect for each other? 🥺
“What's the point of hoping for love if the end result is inevitable heartbreak?”
It does have a lot of insta vibes, with how easily Mason falls under Jack's willy and charm. It's also easy to see how Jack does yearn for that fairy tale HEA that Mason has chased after for so long, but is afraid to be hurt by what it might mean for him. But through comfort and care, an unfortunate case of fight and flight, added with mutual understanding and heated attraction does their business an arrangement cordially end in a love story. 💞
The writing, though... I would not say it had fanfiction vibes, but it also did not allow any room to delve deeper into Mason and Jack as characters. 🫤 Nothing of real concrete substance to Mason's profession, background, nothing simply he's an older rich business mogul, who admires, if not envies, the youthful vigor and tenacity and prospects that 24 yo Jack still has at his disposal. 🤔
“I want someone to pick my ass up and fly me to Neverland.”
While they are able to finally confront and confess their fears and want to see that they are the perfect pair for each other, there still was a disconnect that prevented me from really feeling much of anything for their confession - honest and tender as it was. 💟 Not to say they weren't going through the emotions of fighting the feelings of desire and yearning. But, I was unfazed by their happiness, which even once they agreed to take a chance as a couple was rushed off with a hasty conclusion. 🤷🏻♀️
August 6, 2014
Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance
There was another book by this author that I requested on NG and was denied so when this came up for the blog, I jumped. I'm glad I did for I surely did enjoy this.
This author's writing style and focus on the characters is in keeping with my tastes. I love angst and this book has it in spades. Plus, I have to respect any author that references Peter Pan.
"Heavens, no," Mason drawled. "After all I'm sure you have some elusive winged pixie out there that swoops down to retrieve you from all moments of danger. Who am I to play Captain against your need to go charging into danger?"
Jack has a Peter Pan complex. He's an "aging" rent boy. I saying aging a bit tongue in cheek since he's all of 29, but I see his point that rent boys are a bit like athletes. After a certain age, they're "old" in terms of their particular profession not in the real world. Jack is blunt to a fault, kinda cranky oftentimes, but beneath all the bravado he's struggling with self-esteem issues same as the rest of us. Oh he's pretty alright and he knows it, but what happens when the pretty fades? More than that, what happens when the pretty fades and you having nothing to fall back on? He is exceptional at reading other people and he pegs Mason from the get go.
"There's nothing wrong with wearing your heart on your sleeve, Mason. As long as you've got it there because you want it to be seen, because you're proud of its beauty and its power. It only gets ugly when you've placed it there because you're offering it up as an easy sacrifice."
Mason is flawed but oh so adorable. He's built himself an empire in the housing industry but having a conversation outside of board room or, God forbid, flirting and he's a bumbling mess. He's drowning in a sea of fear. Fear of standing up for himself. Fear of being alone. Fear of being judged. His fear has kept him alone so long that he's starving for even an inkling of human contact and, thus, finds himself utilizing the services of a rent boy to avoid going on vacation alone.
The relationship between Mason and Jack is full of fits and starts.They're both confounded by one another and miscommunicate often. Yet, somehow within the span of just a few days the connection they form is undeniable and plain to see. I wouldn't go so far as to call them polar opposites, but it's not a wholly inappropriate characterization. Though I do think they compliment each other's shortcomings well. They fill in each other's blanks. I shouldn't have to tell you the sexy times were off the charts. I mean, one of them is a professional so…
Overall an excellent read. I believe this might be just the beginning of a beautiful relationship betwixt this author and myself. Surprising depth and character development for a short especially considering it was told entirely through Mason. I thoroughly enjoyed the story arc and was quickly invested in the outcome of these two imperfect characters. There were some minor editing issues, not enough to detract from my overall enjoyment though. Actually, I wouldn't mind a follow up with these two.
I'd recommend this to those who enjoy angst or rent boys.
I would like to thank LT3P for providing me with a review copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 30, 2014
3.75*
I love rentboy stories, and the blurb sounded just like my kind of book.
Now, it did take me a little while to get in to this book, there were a few reasons for that, the author has a unique style ( one she describes herself as.." a full-blown passion for run-on sentences, a zealous indulgence in all words descriptive, and the endearing tendency to overuse punctuation") and Jack isn't all that likeable and then there is Mason. His low self esteem was hard for me to understand, he also has the habit of talking to himself and putting himself down, but after a chapter or two I started enjoying this story.
Mason is a rich and successful business man, despite that, or possibly because of it, he doesn't have a boyfriend and really only has one true friend, Greg.
When Greg hears Mason is going up to the little cottage he vacations at alone, he suggests Mason hire someone to keep him company.
Mason trying to have a conversation with the lady at the agency was funny, I was picturing poor Mason, it's hard to believe he runs a company, because that man was helplessly and hopelessly embarrassed.
Jack is harder for me to understand, he's brash and rude in the beginning, not necessarily helpful in his profession. His personality also seems a bit volatile, not dangerous, just ever changing.I know he has his own issues, but since I never got his POV, he and his past and his problems remain a mystery for the most part.
He does try to show Mason how wonderful he actually is and that he deserves better and should be treated like the special man he is.
“I have this sneaking suspicion that you let people get away with whatever they want and you run around desperately trying to please them instead of thinking about yourself.”
Mason being Mason sees past Jack's posturing and falls for him, despite Jack doing his damnedest to prevent it.
Mason enjoys his time with Jack far more than he should. This is how he wants his vacation to be, how he'd like his life to be. Spending time with the sexy rentboy and pretending, if only for a little while that this is a real relationship.
“So bad; so very, very bad. Everything he was doing and everything he was feeling was just so bad. And he loved it. Every minute of it.”
Of course, jaded Jack has to make things hard for himself and the big-hearted Mason.
But near the end I saw Mason finally start to see things a bit clearer and change his outlook “Fuck everyone that sits on the opposing side of the teeter-totter that insists I have to keep myself stable.”
Since Jack is the one that helped him make that change, I was willing to forgive him and I thought the ending was fitting and perfect for them.
I love rentboy stories, and the blurb sounded just like my kind of book.
Now, it did take me a little while to get in to this book, there were a few reasons for that, the author has a unique style ( one she describes herself as.." a full-blown passion for run-on sentences, a zealous indulgence in all words descriptive, and the endearing tendency to overuse punctuation") and Jack isn't all that likeable and then there is Mason. His low self esteem was hard for me to understand, he also has the habit of talking to himself and putting himself down, but after a chapter or two I started enjoying this story.
Mason is a rich and successful business man, despite that, or possibly because of it, he doesn't have a boyfriend and really only has one true friend, Greg.
When Greg hears Mason is going up to the little cottage he vacations at alone, he suggests Mason hire someone to keep him company.
Mason trying to have a conversation with the lady at the agency was funny, I was picturing poor Mason, it's hard to believe he runs a company, because that man was helplessly and hopelessly embarrassed.
Jack is harder for me to understand, he's brash and rude in the beginning, not necessarily helpful in his profession. His personality also seems a bit volatile, not dangerous, just ever changing.I know he has his own issues, but since I never got his POV, he and his past and his problems remain a mystery for the most part.
He does try to show Mason how wonderful he actually is and that he deserves better and should be treated like the special man he is.
“I have this sneaking suspicion that you let people get away with whatever they want and you run around desperately trying to please them instead of thinking about yourself.”
Mason being Mason sees past Jack's posturing and falls for him, despite Jack doing his damnedest to prevent it.
Mason enjoys his time with Jack far more than he should. This is how he wants his vacation to be, how he'd like his life to be. Spending time with the sexy rentboy and pretending, if only for a little while that this is a real relationship.
“So bad; so very, very bad. Everything he was doing and everything he was feeling was just so bad. And he loved it. Every minute of it.”
Of course, jaded Jack has to make things hard for himself and the big-hearted Mason.
But near the end I saw Mason finally start to see things a bit clearer and change his outlook “Fuck everyone that sits on the opposing side of the teeter-totter that insists I have to keep myself stable.”
Since Jack is the one that helped him make that change, I was willing to forgive him and I thought the ending was fitting and perfect for them.
January 22, 2014
I received this story as an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really did find myself enjoying this story. I really liked that Jack wasn't the sweet innocent I thought he might be from the synopsis. He was more bitter, jaded, and resentful of growing up than a pretty little man child, which was I appreciated. I liked his sharp tongue, and sense of humor. I liked that it was Mason who was the sweeter of the two. I found him to be a truly good, and caring person. I liked that even though things moved quickly it didn't feel like instant love, and I found the sex to be truly sexy. A nice short love story. Perfect for a cold winter day.
I really did find myself enjoying this story. I really liked that Jack wasn't the sweet innocent I thought he might be from the synopsis. He was more bitter, jaded, and resentful of growing up than a pretty little man child, which was I appreciated. I liked his sharp tongue, and sense of humor. I liked that it was Mason who was the sweeter of the two. I found him to be a truly good, and caring person. I liked that even though things moved quickly it didn't feel like instant love, and I found the sex to be truly sexy. A nice short love story. Perfect for a cold winter day.
March 14, 2014
Love me some rentboy/escort stories, and I really enjoyed this one. After I warmed up to Jack (which took a bit of time since he was fairly abrasive at the beginning) I really liked this. I liked that there was some real conflict and it wasn't all roses and love two days into things. Very sweet ending, too! This is the first thing I have read from this author, but I look forward to reading more.
March 11, 2014
Second Star to the Right was a single sitting book for me and I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Mason and Jack.
Mason wants someone to see him for the man he is, not what he can provide. He has been burned in the past which has contributed to his low self esteem. He also has complex feelings for his best friend which complicate things.
Jack is the man whom Mason has rented for a week. I loved Jack, although why on earth Mason took him away for a week was initially beyond me - his initial approach and rule setting didn't make him very engaging!
They played off each other beautifully, each with their own insecurities and fears and obviously perfect for each other, if only they could see it!
An additional star for the emotional coming together of these two men when they got their acts together and a big plus for the happy ending!
I will definitely be checking out more books from this author.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in return for my honest review.
Visit my blog if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place! Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
Mason wants someone to see him for the man he is, not what he can provide. He has been burned in the past which has contributed to his low self esteem. He also has complex feelings for his best friend which complicate things.
Jack is the man whom Mason has rented for a week. I loved Jack, although why on earth Mason took him away for a week was initially beyond me - his initial approach and rule setting didn't make him very engaging!
They played off each other beautifully, each with their own insecurities and fears and obviously perfect for each other, if only they could see it!
"You are an idealistic princess."
"And you are a miserable troll," Mason smiled. "Good thing they made you pretty, hmm?"
"I guess we're both kinda fucked up, aren't we?"
"Yeah," mason chuckled. "Yeah, we are."
An additional star for the emotional coming together of these two men when they got their acts together and a big plus for the happy ending!
I will definitely be checking out more books from this author.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in return for my honest review.
Visit my blog if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place! Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
March 20, 2014
I have this thing about Peter Pan. I can’t even say it started respectably, with J.M. Barrie. Nope, I started with the Disney movie. I wouldn’t give up the freedoms of adulthood for anything. (Believe me, I just moved into my own place after years of having to live with my parents because of economy.) But I love the story of a boy, eternally young, who can fly and has friends and a nemesis with a hook for a hand. I may be Wendy, going home at the end, but that doesn’t mean revisiting the story isn’t fun. (I’ve even got another Peter Pan-inspired book, Second Star, in my TBR.) It’s enough of a fascination that I ignored the fact I’ve never been a big fan of falling-for-the-hooker stories. (Aside from the terrific Your Scandalous Ways by Loretta Chase.)
I think Second Star to the Right is a charming novelette. (I think that’s right. It’s longer than a novella, in my opinion, but not quite full-novel length.) Mason is a hard worker and a good businessman, but hopelessly awkward outside of the boardroom. (In fact, the book makes it a bit hard to believe that he’d be better in a boardroom.) He has zero confidence in his appeal, aside from his giant wallet. And since he has some sense, he’s not interested in someone who is only after that wallet. When his best friend tells him he should have some companionship for his upcoming getaway, Mason is appalled. But then he starts to come around . . .
I do like that Second Star to the Right takes pains to address that prostitution is legal in the setting, boundaries are set up and respected, and condom use is important. A. F. Henley is aware that the premise could go horribly awry and takes care to minimize potential problems. Jack, the other hero, is also the bossier, more confident one in the relationship. Unlike Mason, he knows how to get what he wants out of a relationship. Fortunately for Mason, Jack wants him to realize that he is attractive and desirable. However, Jack has his own problem with looks. Namely, that he’s getting older, they’re going to start fading, and he doesn’t have a fallback profession. He’s confident about what he does, but not confident about what he’s going to do after.
It is a believable relationship, one that showcases what both parties gain from it. Jack and Mason make each other feel good about themselves, and not just in bed. I do wish that Second Star to the Right isn’t only in Mason’s point of view. I’ve gotten used to most romances revealing what both parties are thinking. The relationship works for me, but I still would’ve liked to see Jack’s growth and change internally as well as externally. He decides to change his lifestyle just as much as Mason does.
Second Star on the Right is predictable and low on conflict, which suits the short length. Instead, it’s filled with sweetness and hope for the future. Even if Mason and Jake’s relationship doesn’t last, it feels like they’ll both be happier people from their time with each other. That makes it a successful romance to me.
I think Second Star to the Right is a charming novelette. (I think that’s right. It’s longer than a novella, in my opinion, but not quite full-novel length.) Mason is a hard worker and a good businessman, but hopelessly awkward outside of the boardroom. (In fact, the book makes it a bit hard to believe that he’d be better in a boardroom.) He has zero confidence in his appeal, aside from his giant wallet. And since he has some sense, he’s not interested in someone who is only after that wallet. When his best friend tells him he should have some companionship for his upcoming getaway, Mason is appalled. But then he starts to come around . . .
I do like that Second Star to the Right takes pains to address that prostitution is legal in the setting, boundaries are set up and respected, and condom use is important. A. F. Henley is aware that the premise could go horribly awry and takes care to minimize potential problems. Jack, the other hero, is also the bossier, more confident one in the relationship. Unlike Mason, he knows how to get what he wants out of a relationship. Fortunately for Mason, Jack wants him to realize that he is attractive and desirable. However, Jack has his own problem with looks. Namely, that he’s getting older, they’re going to start fading, and he doesn’t have a fallback profession. He’s confident about what he does, but not confident about what he’s going to do after.
It is a believable relationship, one that showcases what both parties gain from it. Jack and Mason make each other feel good about themselves, and not just in bed. I do wish that Second Star to the Right isn’t only in Mason’s point of view. I’ve gotten used to most romances revealing what both parties are thinking. The relationship works for me, but I still would’ve liked to see Jack’s growth and change internally as well as externally. He decides to change his lifestyle just as much as Mason does.
Second Star on the Right is predictable and low on conflict, which suits the short length. Instead, it’s filled with sweetness and hope for the future. Even if Mason and Jake’s relationship doesn’t last, it feels like they’ll both be happier people from their time with each other. That makes it a successful romance to me.
March 21, 2014
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
I love this book! This tale of a self-proclaimed Peter Pan and the man afraid to face his own feelings is actually quite the Cinderfella story. Complete with jaded characters, princely fellows, supportive best friends, and rags to riches. It’s a story of finding and accepting one’s self. And a story of a fairytale type of love. I loved it.
I adore Mason. He’s quirky, awkward, and shy. He has a hard time expressing his own feelings. He’s afraid of losing his best friend by telling of his unrequited attraction to him. He’s a great character. Regardless of his shy, awkward behavior, he’s still strong. He is able to stand up for himself and tell Jack what he wants and what he doesn’t want. So despite his sweet vulnerability, he’s not a doormat.
Read Crissy's review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
I love this book! This tale of a self-proclaimed Peter Pan and the man afraid to face his own feelings is actually quite the Cinderfella story. Complete with jaded characters, princely fellows, supportive best friends, and rags to riches. It’s a story of finding and accepting one’s self. And a story of a fairytale type of love. I loved it.
I adore Mason. He’s quirky, awkward, and shy. He has a hard time expressing his own feelings. He’s afraid of losing his best friend by telling of his unrequited attraction to him. He’s a great character. Regardless of his shy, awkward behavior, he’s still strong. He is able to stand up for himself and tell Jack what he wants and what he doesn’t want. So despite his sweet vulnerability, he’s not a doormat.
Read Crissy's review in its entirety here.
July 29, 2016
3.5 stars
The first book in quite a while that's had me really emotionally invested in what has become mylittle dry patch Kalahari of a reading phase. So while there were many questions left unanswered here- especially about Jack, I really did enjoy this story quite a bit. All the boxes were ticked for what has to be one of my favourite tropes-- lonely and insecure but financially successful guy falling for snarky, asshole rent boy. Good writing, great characters, lovely dialogue - it could have been a 5 star read if the ending hadn't been so rushed. I'd have liked more time getting to know Jack, seeing those defenses peel back to reveal the vulnerabilities only hinted at. Yeahh...that would have been seriously good.
Still, an entertaining read and recommended to fans of rent boy fic.
The first book in quite a while that's had me really emotionally invested in what has become my
Still, an entertaining read and recommended to fans of rent boy fic.
March 2, 2014
My only wish is that the Second Star to the Right had given me the chance to see Mason and Jack’s relationship grow in the eight months that they were busy falling in love and planning their future together off the page, but I have complete faith and trust that they belong exactly where they ended up.
See the entire review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
See the entire review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
February 24, 2014
Be it unrequited fascination with his straight best friend or impossible fantasies of rekindled interest with his heartbreaking ex, Mason has no clue why the perfect connection seems to keep slipping through his fingers. When another lonely holiday seems like too much weight to shoulder, Mason gives up on romance and seeks out the next best thing—rented company. Jack is everything a person could want in an escort: willing, hot, and built like an angel.
Mason can't resist. After all, who wouldn't be interested in a guy who loves kid's movies, is a self-professed Peter Pan, and has no problem throwing caution to the wind at a moment's notice. But then interest quickly blooms into a whole new emotion—an emotion that Mason knows far too well, especially when Jack has no interest in returning it, preferring to keep his heart safely tucked away in Neverland.
No, this is not Peter Pan going gay but the novel seemed to be inspired by the story and in a remarkable way.
Mason is a rich, good looking guy who achieved in live but lacks self-confidence. He is a man who could live his dreams and but denies himself those opportunities. Especially when it comes to having a love life which is close to non-existing. He believes that outside his business ventures he is a social nightmare when it comes to being together with other people. Always trying to be the good guy and no risk taker leaves him feeling alone and yet craving for a good, earnest relationship.
All this changes, however, when his friend Greg suggest that Mason hires a guy from an escort service for company during a planned week-long vacation.
Jack is the fantastic looking guy Mason always dreamed of. A self-proclaimed Peter Pan, he is doing what he wants. And so he had chosen the life of an escort guy.
Those two man, both very likeable characters, are so very different and at the same time, they are not. Mason, knowing something in his boring life has to change, makes his first step into unknown territory, willing to take a risk. And Jack? He is close to turn thirty and his days as the young, dashing and desired escort are winding down. At least that is, in my mind, his greatest fear. He build walls around him to protect him from ever having to grow up and lead a „solid“ life. He is so terrified about this that every time, Mason reaches out to him on a personal level that steps outside the confines of their agreement, he acts like an ass toward Mason.
An awesome idea by the author is to make the main stage for the play a cottage in the woods. Here is where most oft he story plays. The remoteness of that place much intensifies their time together because none of them can escape into distractions when they get more and more personal and the conflicts between them start to build up.
But Jack‘s way of life is a trap. Because he refuses to change anything in his life, he is already there where Mason was before he decided to take a risk fort he first time. But don’t get me wrong. Jack is an awesome man who immediately sees through Mason’s personality and wants so much to help him to change his life, to learn to voice what he wants and what his desires are and not caring what others might think.
Again in his newest novel, AF Henley shows how brilliant he is with building strong and convincing and likeable characters. And this story benefits highly from his talent. To interweave the classic story of rich guy meets „whore“ (please forgive my choice of words but it helps to form my thoughts) with the idea of never growing up is most brilliant and executed in an amazing way.
What you get is not „Pretty Woman“ and „Peter Pan“. It is not even close to a (cheap) combination of it. Instead you get a story that deeply impresses with deep character moments, mindblowing hot erotic moments and a book that deals with our hopes and fears. Oh, and the first meeting between Mason and Jack? It was plain hilarious (form e as reader, not for poor Mason though). I laughed so hard. But then I realized, how this fun moment is so cleverly used to define the different characters of both men and how the groundwork fort he later drama is already laid there. And that shows just how good AF Henley is at what he is doing!
Mason can't resist. After all, who wouldn't be interested in a guy who loves kid's movies, is a self-professed Peter Pan, and has no problem throwing caution to the wind at a moment's notice. But then interest quickly blooms into a whole new emotion—an emotion that Mason knows far too well, especially when Jack has no interest in returning it, preferring to keep his heart safely tucked away in Neverland.
No, this is not Peter Pan going gay but the novel seemed to be inspired by the story and in a remarkable way.
Mason is a rich, good looking guy who achieved in live but lacks self-confidence. He is a man who could live his dreams and but denies himself those opportunities. Especially when it comes to having a love life which is close to non-existing. He believes that outside his business ventures he is a social nightmare when it comes to being together with other people. Always trying to be the good guy and no risk taker leaves him feeling alone and yet craving for a good, earnest relationship.
All this changes, however, when his friend Greg suggest that Mason hires a guy from an escort service for company during a planned week-long vacation.
Jack is the fantastic looking guy Mason always dreamed of. A self-proclaimed Peter Pan, he is doing what he wants. And so he had chosen the life of an escort guy.
Those two man, both very likeable characters, are so very different and at the same time, they are not. Mason, knowing something in his boring life has to change, makes his first step into unknown territory, willing to take a risk. And Jack? He is close to turn thirty and his days as the young, dashing and desired escort are winding down. At least that is, in my mind, his greatest fear. He build walls around him to protect him from ever having to grow up and lead a „solid“ life. He is so terrified about this that every time, Mason reaches out to him on a personal level that steps outside the confines of their agreement, he acts like an ass toward Mason.
An awesome idea by the author is to make the main stage for the play a cottage in the woods. Here is where most oft he story plays. The remoteness of that place much intensifies their time together because none of them can escape into distractions when they get more and more personal and the conflicts between them start to build up.
But Jack‘s way of life is a trap. Because he refuses to change anything in his life, he is already there where Mason was before he decided to take a risk fort he first time. But don’t get me wrong. Jack is an awesome man who immediately sees through Mason’s personality and wants so much to help him to change his life, to learn to voice what he wants and what his desires are and not caring what others might think.
Again in his newest novel, AF Henley shows how brilliant he is with building strong and convincing and likeable characters. And this story benefits highly from his talent. To interweave the classic story of rich guy meets „whore“ (please forgive my choice of words but it helps to form my thoughts) with the idea of never growing up is most brilliant and executed in an amazing way.
What you get is not „Pretty Woman“ and „Peter Pan“. It is not even close to a (cheap) combination of it. Instead you get a story that deeply impresses with deep character moments, mindblowing hot erotic moments and a book that deals with our hopes and fears. Oh, and the first meeting between Mason and Jack? It was plain hilarious (form e as reader, not for poor Mason though). I laughed so hard. But then I realized, how this fun moment is so cleverly used to define the different characters of both men and how the groundwork fort he later drama is already laid there. And that shows just how good AF Henley is at what he is doing!
February 22, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author, AF Henley, in exchange for an honest review.
The Review
This is the second story I have read by AF Henley. The first one was a M/M short story, ”Thicker Than Water” and I enjoyed it, but I’d made the comment to the author I would’ve liked to see more of the sexual side of the relationship. So with this M/M story, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect.
Mason is a gay man, who has had a crush on his straight friend Greg, for quite some time. He’s spent time with Greg playing tennis, going to baseball games, etc. Mason knows there is no chance of a romantic relationship, but sometimes you can’t help who you fall for.
Mason decides to take a week long vacation, which is rare for him since he’s a workaholic. Greg suggests Mason finds some male companionship via an escort service that he knows about. Straight laced Mason is at first somewhat mortified, but the thought of someone spending time with him and making love to him, paid or not, appeals to him. He’s been lonely for too long. After a hilarious and embarrassing transaction with the “Madam”, arrangements are made.
When Mason pulls up to the building, he is, to put it quite simply, scared shitless. When a sexy, muscular man walks towards his car, Mason can’t believe his luck. He also becomes even more insecure about his own looks and he begins to doubt the whole thing. When the man gets into the car, he immediately halts any form of civil conversation and starts telling Mason the dos and don’ts of how things will work, which intimidates and shocks Mason. Finally when the man is finished with his speech, Mason grows some balls and asks his own question, which results in a “Pretty Woman” moment.
So begins their adventure.
Throughout the entire book, you see so many things from both men. I identified with many of their attitudes, insecurities, strengths, embarrassing moments, etc. It was an adventure of the heart for the characters AND for me, the reader. Even if you aren’t a M/M reader, I think you will still enjoy the story. It’s not just sex, it’s about finding yourself. Coming to terms with who you are and who you want to be.
My final thoughts: I absolutely loved it and I can’t wait to get my hands on more stories like this from AF Henley! “Second Star To The Right” not only met my hopes and expectations, it obliterated them and set a whole new standard of M/M stories for me!!
~Robin Malone
~Robin Malone (Book Reads and Reviews)
The Review
This is the second story I have read by AF Henley. The first one was a M/M short story, ”Thicker Than Water” and I enjoyed it, but I’d made the comment to the author I would’ve liked to see more of the sexual side of the relationship. So with this M/M story, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect.
Mason is a gay man, who has had a crush on his straight friend Greg, for quite some time. He’s spent time with Greg playing tennis, going to baseball games, etc. Mason knows there is no chance of a romantic relationship, but sometimes you can’t help who you fall for.
Mason decides to take a week long vacation, which is rare for him since he’s a workaholic. Greg suggests Mason finds some male companionship via an escort service that he knows about. Straight laced Mason is at first somewhat mortified, but the thought of someone spending time with him and making love to him, paid or not, appeals to him. He’s been lonely for too long. After a hilarious and embarrassing transaction with the “Madam”, arrangements are made.
When Mason pulls up to the building, he is, to put it quite simply, scared shitless. When a sexy, muscular man walks towards his car, Mason can’t believe his luck. He also becomes even more insecure about his own looks and he begins to doubt the whole thing. When the man gets into the car, he immediately halts any form of civil conversation and starts telling Mason the dos and don’ts of how things will work, which intimidates and shocks Mason. Finally when the man is finished with his speech, Mason grows some balls and asks his own question, which results in a “Pretty Woman” moment.
“Good. So, do you have any questions?”
“Yes.” Mason tried to settle his annoyance with a smile. “Actually I do. An important one. The most important question-slash-statement that has been asked-slash-said since you sat your ass in my car.”
The man turned and glared and Mason softened his expression. “What’s your name?”
Perturbed faded to confused and then confused shot quickly to defensive. “My name is whatever the hell you want it to—”
Mason held up a hand, policeman style. “Don’t say it. Do not even bother to say it. You have boundaries and so do I, and one of mine is that I freaking hate cheese. And that, sir, is the cheesiest line in the history of lines. You want to be Mr. Blunt then I sincerely hope that you can deal with getting it back. Now, just answer the damn question.”
The man paused, looked Mason up and down, and finally tsk’d. “How’s Fabio work for you?”
“Well, that depends on whether or not it’s your name.” Mason reached out and punched the button on the radio to force the appliance into silence. “I believe it’s your move, sailor.”
The man sighed as if Mason had asked him to give up a first-born son. He rolled his eyes when Mason looked back over. He pursed his lips. His fingertips started drumming on his own denim-bound knees. And then he huffed another breath and dropped his head against the seat. “Fine, have it your way. My name is Jack.”
An unknowable, un-understandable feeling of relief washed through Mason. His shoulders relaxed. The frown eased off his forehead. He reached across the seat to extend his hand. “Nice to meet you, Jack. I’m Mason.”
So begins their adventure.
Throughout the entire book, you see so many things from both men. I identified with many of their attitudes, insecurities, strengths, embarrassing moments, etc. It was an adventure of the heart for the characters AND for me, the reader. Even if you aren’t a M/M reader, I think you will still enjoy the story. It’s not just sex, it’s about finding yourself. Coming to terms with who you are and who you want to be.
My final thoughts: I absolutely loved it and I can’t wait to get my hands on more stories like this from AF Henley! “Second Star To The Right” not only met my hopes and expectations, it obliterated them and set a whole new standard of M/M stories for me!!
~Robin Malone
~Robin Malone (Book Reads and Reviews)
February 21, 2014
To read my full review, please visit http://onsilverwingz.blogspot.com/201...
Mason is a hard working guy that owns a large company and a boring businessman. He fits in so well with the stereotypical, rich businessman that he has a hard time connecting with anybody emotionally. On his vacation, he buys a companion for a week after some serious urging by his friend. His companion just might make him live life and be free.
Mason is successful businessman, but also a boring one. In fact, he's bored of the life he's living but don't know how to quit. He's always being the nice guy, rarely misses a get together with friends, plays tennis even though he dislikes it, and watches baseball with his straight friend even though he hates the sport. If his straight friend haven't talked him into buying a companion for his one week vacation in the countryside, he would have been lonely and living like a hermit.
His first meeting with Jack is like a clash of stubborn, old man stuck in their ways. But Jack makes Mason feel beautiful, attractive, and sexy even though he doesn't fit the ideal of beauty for gay men. Through living with Jack, Mason relearns how to express his likes and dislikes for sex, work, and people. I like how Jack makes Mason more selfish, but that is a good thing.
Jack, on the other hand, is an unusual companion. He's approaching 30 with no other skills except in the sex industry. He sets strict rules for his clients, shies away from intensity beyond his job hours, and strongly opposes the idea of love. At the first breach of his rules/barriers, he runs away. In many ways, he is also need of someone to open him up. I love how he's not the stereotypical companion. He is so much more confident and positive attitude on life than Mason, but still needs the other man in his life. Their reconciliation is rushed and the significance is lost, but they get a HEA!
Overall, this is a sweet romance that builds on from a common trope and leaves a sweet impression after reading the story.
*review copy received in exchange for an honest review*
Mason is a hard working guy that owns a large company and a boring businessman. He fits in so well with the stereotypical, rich businessman that he has a hard time connecting with anybody emotionally. On his vacation, he buys a companion for a week after some serious urging by his friend. His companion just might make him live life and be free.
Mason is successful businessman, but also a boring one. In fact, he's bored of the life he's living but don't know how to quit. He's always being the nice guy, rarely misses a get together with friends, plays tennis even though he dislikes it, and watches baseball with his straight friend even though he hates the sport. If his straight friend haven't talked him into buying a companion for his one week vacation in the countryside, he would have been lonely and living like a hermit.
His first meeting with Jack is like a clash of stubborn, old man stuck in their ways. But Jack makes Mason feel beautiful, attractive, and sexy even though he doesn't fit the ideal of beauty for gay men. Through living with Jack, Mason relearns how to express his likes and dislikes for sex, work, and people. I like how Jack makes Mason more selfish, but that is a good thing.
Jack, on the other hand, is an unusual companion. He's approaching 30 with no other skills except in the sex industry. He sets strict rules for his clients, shies away from intensity beyond his job hours, and strongly opposes the idea of love. At the first breach of his rules/barriers, he runs away. In many ways, he is also need of someone to open him up. I love how he's not the stereotypical companion. He is so much more confident and positive attitude on life than Mason, but still needs the other man in his life. Their reconciliation is rushed and the significance is lost, but they get a HEA!
Overall, this is a sweet romance that builds on from a common trope and leaves a sweet impression after reading the story.
*review copy received in exchange for an honest review*
March 9, 2014
I've read everything Henley's written, and just about the time I think I have an outstanding favorite...
He comes along and does a book like Second Star to the Right.
Have we read this trope before? Sure. Do we still love when we read the first chapter of a book, have an inkling of where it's going, realize the shenanigans are going to be toe-tingling good, and quickly get up to refresh our tea before settling into the couch cushions for a fantastic ride?
Oh YES. YES we do.
The characters are lovable and provocatively real for how short a time we're allowed into their lives. The emotion is tangible, at moments breathtaking and heartbreaking. The writing is crystalline clear: I was in the cabin, feeling the rough fabric of the checkered curtains. I was in the shower with steam beading on my skin, watching the men at play. I was waking up in the morning to country sunlight, summer breezes, and the gently lapping lake kissing the shoreline.
It was so tangible it made me homesick for a mountain cabin I've never seen.
But even more than that, as is always the case with Henley's books, there's more at stake. The bigger picture of this novel is taking chances that will change your life for the good. Woven into these (entirely too-short) pages is a man who wakes up. Realizes that what he wants and needs matters. Comes to terms with what he's got and how it isn't making him happy. And then he goes about creating a new life WITHOUT destroying every thread that was worth something in his former one. So often we see people breaking away and having to give up too much to find happiness. In Henley's novel, though, the men give up exactly enough to seek and find what will make them whole.
They make wishes... on the second star to the right...
...and their dreams comes true.
Straight on 'til morning.
And every day thereafter.
Thank you, Henley, for reminding me to make a wish and to remember that I have the strength within me to see it through.
I am so, so ready for that adventure.
Light & love.
Kelly
He comes along and does a book like Second Star to the Right.
Have we read this trope before? Sure. Do we still love when we read the first chapter of a book, have an inkling of where it's going, realize the shenanigans are going to be toe-tingling good, and quickly get up to refresh our tea before settling into the couch cushions for a fantastic ride?
Oh YES. YES we do.
The characters are lovable and provocatively real for how short a time we're allowed into their lives. The emotion is tangible, at moments breathtaking and heartbreaking. The writing is crystalline clear: I was in the cabin, feeling the rough fabric of the checkered curtains. I was in the shower with steam beading on my skin, watching the men at play. I was waking up in the morning to country sunlight, summer breezes, and the gently lapping lake kissing the shoreline.
It was so tangible it made me homesick for a mountain cabin I've never seen.
But even more than that, as is always the case with Henley's books, there's more at stake. The bigger picture of this novel is taking chances that will change your life for the good. Woven into these (entirely too-short) pages is a man who wakes up. Realizes that what he wants and needs matters. Comes to terms with what he's got and how it isn't making him happy. And then he goes about creating a new life WITHOUT destroying every thread that was worth something in his former one. So often we see people breaking away and having to give up too much to find happiness. In Henley's novel, though, the men give up exactly enough to seek and find what will make them whole.
They make wishes... on the second star to the right...
...and their dreams comes true.
Straight on 'til morning.
And every day thereafter.
Thank you, Henley, for reminding me to make a wish and to remember that I have the strength within me to see it through.
I am so, so ready for that adventure.
Light & love.
Kelly
January 31, 2017
The old saying "Nice guys finish last" seems to be Mason Lawrence's fate in life until he decides to take his fate his own hands and be bold in this delightful gay romance fairy tale.
Mason is at the top of his game, a workaholic who owns his own company and has friends with whom he enjoys meeting. What he doesn't have, and dearly wishes for, is a partner with whom to share his life. He's not so much pushed around by those he knows as much as wants everyone around him to be happy, and he works to make them so.
Before going on a vacation, he succumbs to the thought of a paid companion to revive his sex life and possibly his forgotten enjoyment of life. What he gets is Jack, jaded at almost thirty and without any skills other than sexual prowess.
Jack immediately lays down his rules, including sex only twice a day and his right to be given time out whenever he needs it. Mason is fine with the rules, but inadvertently starts breaking them as he and Jack become more than worker and client.
Although it seems as if Mason and Jack are eons apart - Jack wanting to become Peter Pan (hence the book title) and Mason aching for a permanent partner - Henley gradually brings them together as the caregiver becomes the care-receiver.
The success of this plot depends on the strength of its characters. Unless the reader buys into the fact that the people in this relationship (which on the surface looks like a train wreck about to happen) can come together successfully, the book is doomed.
Here's where Henley shines. On the surface Mason's too-good-to-be-true personality should be repulsive since he seemingly lets people push him around. But Mason has a spine of steel. It's not that he's a push-over but rather that's he's burnt out after a lifetime of building his company and working 60-hour weeks. His entire life has settled in a rut. And how many men do we know just like Mason?
Read the rest of my review at All About Romance: http://www.likesbooks.com/cgi-bin/boo...
Mason is at the top of his game, a workaholic who owns his own company and has friends with whom he enjoys meeting. What he doesn't have, and dearly wishes for, is a partner with whom to share his life. He's not so much pushed around by those he knows as much as wants everyone around him to be happy, and he works to make them so.
Before going on a vacation, he succumbs to the thought of a paid companion to revive his sex life and possibly his forgotten enjoyment of life. What he gets is Jack, jaded at almost thirty and without any skills other than sexual prowess.
Jack immediately lays down his rules, including sex only twice a day and his right to be given time out whenever he needs it. Mason is fine with the rules, but inadvertently starts breaking them as he and Jack become more than worker and client.
Although it seems as if Mason and Jack are eons apart - Jack wanting to become Peter Pan (hence the book title) and Mason aching for a permanent partner - Henley gradually brings them together as the caregiver becomes the care-receiver.
The success of this plot depends on the strength of its characters. Unless the reader buys into the fact that the people in this relationship (which on the surface looks like a train wreck about to happen) can come together successfully, the book is doomed.
Here's where Henley shines. On the surface Mason's too-good-to-be-true personality should be repulsive since he seemingly lets people push him around. But Mason has a spine of steel. It's not that he's a push-over but rather that's he's burnt out after a lifetime of building his company and working 60-hour weeks. His entire life has settled in a rut. And how many men do we know just like Mason?
Read the rest of my review at All About Romance: http://www.likesbooks.com/cgi-bin/boo...
February 24, 2014
This is such a feel-good read. This is my first A.F. Henley book and it certainly won't be my last. I'm so happy I picked this one up. I had a raging fever and flu while I was reading this and my throat was sore, it still is. I'm so glad that I decided to read this because Second star to the Right made me laugh and chuckle and smile even if I was feeling downright crappy. Yes, even though my throat was sore, I couldn't help but laugh out loud sometimes. Poor Mason. LOL. At the start of the book, I wanted to put a sack over my head on his behalf. ^____^
I love the characters; they are loveable, likeable and well, relatable. Not because of their respective professions, no... but a part of me felt like Jack—jaded—because days after I was born, people seemed to start leaving: our mom died, our dad up and left us, our grandparents died… you get the drift? I get that deaths are not by choice most of the time, but it still has a way of fucking up those who got left behind. And then, somehow I feel like a part of me was once like Mason.
Mason, hmm... I love Mason for being that shy, pushover, and a good person that he is even if he seemed to already have 'everything' in life. I also love Jack because even if he was so jaded, a part of him was still a kid at heart, not to mention that deep down he also had a good heart. I'm a sucker for people like that. Hm, I also love Greg, because even though it seemed like Mason was on the losing end on their friendship, it wasn't like that at all. True friends are rare and Greg was one of those.
So happy they had their happy ending. Second Star to the Right is mainly telling us that life is short. We need to live it just exactly how we want it to be. We need to uncomplicate our lives. And that lastly, we need to live it for ourselves because no one's going to live it for us.
When I was a child, I used to stare at the stars at night. I wondered when I ever stopped doing so.
I love the characters; they are loveable, likeable and well, relatable. Not because of their respective professions, no... but a part of me felt like Jack—jaded—because days after I was born, people seemed to start leaving: our mom died, our dad up and left us, our grandparents died… you get the drift? I get that deaths are not by choice most of the time, but it still has a way of fucking up those who got left behind. And then, somehow I feel like a part of me was once like Mason.
Mason, hmm... I love Mason for being that shy, pushover, and a good person that he is even if he seemed to already have 'everything' in life. I also love Jack because even if he was so jaded, a part of him was still a kid at heart, not to mention that deep down he also had a good heart. I'm a sucker for people like that. Hm, I also love Greg, because even though it seemed like Mason was on the losing end on their friendship, it wasn't like that at all. True friends are rare and Greg was one of those.
So happy they had their happy ending. Second Star to the Right is mainly telling us that life is short. We need to live it just exactly how we want it to be. We need to uncomplicate our lives. And that lastly, we need to live it for ourselves because no one's going to live it for us.
When I was a child, I used to stare at the stars at night. I wondered when I ever stopped doing so.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2016
I received a copy of this book from the author, AF Henley, in exchange for an honest review. *NOTE* This book is M/M and is for those over 18!
I have to be honest and say, I DO NOT normally read books like this! Yet I was unable to stop reading it and even had to read it twice!
The story just flows so smoothly! It is engaging and heart felt worthy! It is a short read of maybe 2 hours and But it’s packed with a story line that you can just feel and at time even relate to.
Yes, in case you haven’t figured it out, I REALLY enjoyed reading this book and would read it again! Well to be honest, I DID read it twice, so that there alone says a lot about this book! I do not read many books more than once.
Lord have mercy A.F Henley has gone and done it again! A.F Henley has written a story that just pulls you in, a real page turner for sure. Had me laughing at Jack and rooting for Mason.
Mason has always done the right thing, he owns his own company and plays tennis on the weekends. Yet, he’s also secretly lusting after his best friend Greg who is “straight as a pin”.
Mason decides he is going on a week long holiday alone. Greg tells Mason he should “buy” himself some company, and even goes so far as to set it up for Mason to do so. Mason is shy and unsure yet still makes the appointment. He talks to a lady named Amelia, who says she has just the man for Mason.
Jack has the never grow up attitude and a heart that he hides. He has a way of knowing what people want and need to make them happy. When he makes others happy, it will in a small way, make him happy.
Both Jack and Mason are broken, yet each in a different way. Can they overcome the past and reach a promising future?
I have to be honest and say, I DO NOT normally read books like this! Yet I was unable to stop reading it and even had to read it twice!
The story just flows so smoothly! It is engaging and heart felt worthy! It is a short read of maybe 2 hours and But it’s packed with a story line that you can just feel and at time even relate to.
Yes, in case you haven’t figured it out, I REALLY enjoyed reading this book and would read it again! Well to be honest, I DID read it twice, so that there alone says a lot about this book! I do not read many books more than once.
Lord have mercy A.F Henley has gone and done it again! A.F Henley has written a story that just pulls you in, a real page turner for sure. Had me laughing at Jack and rooting for Mason.
Mason has always done the right thing, he owns his own company and plays tennis on the weekends. Yet, he’s also secretly lusting after his best friend Greg who is “straight as a pin”.
Mason decides he is going on a week long holiday alone. Greg tells Mason he should “buy” himself some company, and even goes so far as to set it up for Mason to do so. Mason is shy and unsure yet still makes the appointment. He talks to a lady named Amelia, who says she has just the man for Mason.
Jack has the never grow up attitude and a heart that he hides. He has a way of knowing what people want and need to make them happy. When he makes others happy, it will in a small way, make him happy.
Both Jack and Mason are broken, yet each in a different way. Can they overcome the past and reach a promising future?
August 27, 2016
I have only read 1 other book by this author in the past, and I did completely enjoy it. So when the chance came along to read this one, of course I took it.
Right off the bat, I enjoyed how it was something that is completely different than what I have been reading recently. I liked the way that Mason and Jack met, and how their relationship continued throughout the story. One thing that I enjoy from this author is that even though the couple does have sexual relations in the book, that’s not what the story is about.
There was enough happening throughout it all, that it was interesting to watch how they react to each other. Mason’s character, I felt so bad to him because I could tell how lonely he was, and how he was wishing for something that he knew he couldn’t have. With Jack though, even though I did like him to a degree, other times I just wanted to smack him upside the head; especially when he was being such a jerk to Mason.
My only real complaint with the story would be the ending. I don’t really see how Mason could jump from one thing to another so drastic. But besides that, I did enjoy the book and I will be sure to read more from the author in the future!
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal's Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for honest review!*
Right off the bat, I enjoyed how it was something that is completely different than what I have been reading recently. I liked the way that Mason and Jack met, and how their relationship continued throughout the story. One thing that I enjoy from this author is that even though the couple does have sexual relations in the book, that’s not what the story is about.
There was enough happening throughout it all, that it was interesting to watch how they react to each other. Mason’s character, I felt so bad to him because I could tell how lonely he was, and how he was wishing for something that he knew he couldn’t have. With Jack though, even though I did like him to a degree, other times I just wanted to smack him upside the head; especially when he was being such a jerk to Mason.
My only real complaint with the story would be the ending. I don’t really see how Mason could jump from one thing to another so drastic. But besides that, I did enjoy the book and I will be sure to read more from the author in the future!
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal's Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for honest review!*
January 28, 2014
A very touching gay romance between a romantic and a cynic with a big heart ...
From the start, I liked Jack. I enjoy his attitude, his bossy behaviour. He is a strong character even if he not values himself very much. He made me smile especially when he was a undrinkable bitch in the morning before having is beauty rest.
Of course, as an escort, he has a hard and biased look on the world. To protect his heart, he has built walls for not suffering. At the same time, he is the strand of madness and realism necessary to Mason. This guy is too nice for his own good!
As for the secondary character, I fell for Greg . I really enjoy is protectiveness toward his friend and his jackass sense of humour. The scene where Mason confesses his feelings contains a fun ending despite the emotional tension . Very well done!
Mason and Jack is a duet with which I had a great time, even if there is a Pretty Woman side to the story that makes it a little too fairy tale for my taste. But it is well written, fun and spirited. The sex scenes are varied and superbly told.
Beautiful story !
Lucie
http://newbooksonmyselves.blogspot.fr...
From the start, I liked Jack. I enjoy his attitude, his bossy behaviour. He is a strong character even if he not values himself very much. He made me smile especially when he was a undrinkable bitch in the morning before having is beauty rest.
Of course, as an escort, he has a hard and biased look on the world. To protect his heart, he has built walls for not suffering. At the same time, he is the strand of madness and realism necessary to Mason. This guy is too nice for his own good!
As for the secondary character, I fell for Greg . I really enjoy is protectiveness toward his friend and his jackass sense of humour. The scene where Mason confesses his feelings contains a fun ending despite the emotional tension . Very well done!
Mason and Jack is a duet with which I had a great time, even if there is a Pretty Woman side to the story that makes it a little too fairy tale for my taste. But it is well written, fun and spirited. The sex scenes are varied and superbly told.
Beautiful story !
Lucie
http://newbooksonmyselves.blogspot.fr...
February 3, 2014
Rating: 4.25 stars out of 5
When successful business Mason takes rent boy Jack on his only vacation of the year, neither man could predict how life changing that week would be. Henley's characters shine with her own take of the rent boy trope, bringing it up to a level that makes this story one to read. I loved the Peter Pan connection with the title and the character, Jack, a golden boy who chose to be a prostitute for the very reasons it now threatens to age him out of the profession. Mason too is a small wonder of a man, always older than his years, it takes Peter Pan in the form of Jack to get him to let go and enjoy his life. For my full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-207
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January 28, 2015
I wasn't sure I was going to like this one at the beginning. I found Jack to be really abrasive and aggressive and he didn't inspire much sympathy. Mason, on the other hand, seemed completely unable to express his wants or desires and seemed to just want to please other people. As I learned more about the two men through the course of the book I did warm up to them and start to understand them a little better. By the end, I really loved Jack but I still wanted Mason to be just a little more assertive.
February 26, 2014
Full summary and review can be found here.
Warning: Summary and Review do contain spoiler(s).
Rating: 9.5 out of 10
Review by: Lavender Wynter.
Highly recommended.
Warning: Summary and Review do contain spoiler(s).
Rating: 9.5 out of 10
Review by: Lavender Wynter.
Highly recommended.
October 13, 2014
Review to follow.
November 6, 2014
I loved Jack so much! ^^
November 8, 2019
The second star to the right, shines in the night for you. To tell you that the dreams you plan really can come true...The second star to the right, shines with a light that's rare;...Lead me to the land I dream of and when our journey is through, each time we say "Goodnight", we'll thank the little star that shines, the second from the right.” ~ 'Peter Pan' - Music and Lyrics by Sammy Fain and Sammy Cahn
To the casual observer, it would seem that Mason has it all; he's handsome, accommodating, owns his own company, and is wealthy—but as John Lennon sang: “Money can't buy me love.” Mason is tired of casual hookups and yearns for someone he can settle down with, but no matter how hard he tries, he can't find someone like that. It may be because he's looking at the wrong men, ones who are unavailable in one way or the other, like his straight friend, Greg, who talks him into hiring an escort. It's not perfect, but at least he won't be taking another vacation alone.
My heart went out to Mason immediately. Mason is kind, sincere, generous, and has a heart of gold. He's a bit old-fashioned in the very best of ways, i.e., courteous, nurturing, and considerate. I love that he didn't rush into bed with Jack even though that is obviously what Jack expected him to do. Even though Jack is a rent boy, he treats him with respect and gratitude, to the point where Jack feels he has to remind Mason that he's the one paying for Jack's services not the other way around. Mason wants to get to know Jack first which goes against Jack's rules. Mason watches Jack and sees what he is doing by trying to keep his distance and refuses to let it interfere with his desire for closeness. It's not just the sex with Mason, it's companionship and closeness he wants. On the other hand, Mason's self-esteem is surprisingly low, particularly for a man of his status. He has a bad habit of putting other people's feelings before his own, letting other people decide for him whether he agrees or not. He's also forgiving to a fault, even when the circumstances don't warrant it. Being considerate is nice to a point, but when it undermines what you want and need, it's self-destructive.
From the moment Jack spoke to Mason, he's obnoxious and rude. When he starts spitting out his rules, I wanted smack him. Hot or not, I seriously wondered why Mason didn't thrown Jack out on his ear and tell him to just forget it. I didn't understand why Mason took the abuse without complaining. Jack is trying way too hard to be obnoxious, putting distance between himself and Mason, particularly when it came to anything remotely emotional. He shoots down every attempt Mason makes to treat him with respect by calling himself a whore. He likes his life, his freedom, and his job, but shows by his actions that he's conflicted and scared of what's going to happen when he can no longer continue as he is now. That's when I decided that someone must have hurt him badly for him to react to kindness in such an atypical manner.
One of my favorite elements in this story is the fact that neither Mason nor Jack is stereo-typed. Mason isn't portrayed as the ruthless, cold-hearted businessman and Jack is not shown as bowing down to whatever Mason's wishes are. I loved Mason right away. He's is a wonderfully damaged character, as is Jack, although it took me a little longer to warm up to him. The sex scenes were tastefully written, showing the vulnerability of two very sensual men in a way that words could not have done. I recommend this book to those who like to read stories with great character development and love hard-won. Thanks, A.F., for the emotionally satisfying story.
To the casual observer, it would seem that Mason has it all; he's handsome, accommodating, owns his own company, and is wealthy—but as John Lennon sang: “Money can't buy me love.” Mason is tired of casual hookups and yearns for someone he can settle down with, but no matter how hard he tries, he can't find someone like that. It may be because he's looking at the wrong men, ones who are unavailable in one way or the other, like his straight friend, Greg, who talks him into hiring an escort. It's not perfect, but at least he won't be taking another vacation alone.
My heart went out to Mason immediately. Mason is kind, sincere, generous, and has a heart of gold. He's a bit old-fashioned in the very best of ways, i.e., courteous, nurturing, and considerate. I love that he didn't rush into bed with Jack even though that is obviously what Jack expected him to do. Even though Jack is a rent boy, he treats him with respect and gratitude, to the point where Jack feels he has to remind Mason that he's the one paying for Jack's services not the other way around. Mason wants to get to know Jack first which goes against Jack's rules. Mason watches Jack and sees what he is doing by trying to keep his distance and refuses to let it interfere with his desire for closeness. It's not just the sex with Mason, it's companionship and closeness he wants. On the other hand, Mason's self-esteem is surprisingly low, particularly for a man of his status. He has a bad habit of putting other people's feelings before his own, letting other people decide for him whether he agrees or not. He's also forgiving to a fault, even when the circumstances don't warrant it. Being considerate is nice to a point, but when it undermines what you want and need, it's self-destructive.
From the moment Jack spoke to Mason, he's obnoxious and rude. When he starts spitting out his rules, I wanted smack him. Hot or not, I seriously wondered why Mason didn't thrown Jack out on his ear and tell him to just forget it. I didn't understand why Mason took the abuse without complaining. Jack is trying way too hard to be obnoxious, putting distance between himself and Mason, particularly when it came to anything remotely emotional. He shoots down every attempt Mason makes to treat him with respect by calling himself a whore. He likes his life, his freedom, and his job, but shows by his actions that he's conflicted and scared of what's going to happen when he can no longer continue as he is now. That's when I decided that someone must have hurt him badly for him to react to kindness in such an atypical manner.
One of my favorite elements in this story is the fact that neither Mason nor Jack is stereo-typed. Mason isn't portrayed as the ruthless, cold-hearted businessman and Jack is not shown as bowing down to whatever Mason's wishes are. I loved Mason right away. He's is a wonderfully damaged character, as is Jack, although it took me a little longer to warm up to him. The sex scenes were tastefully written, showing the vulnerability of two very sensual men in a way that words could not have done. I recommend this book to those who like to read stories with great character development and love hard-won. Thanks, A.F., for the emotionally satisfying story.
September 22, 2021
First off I would like to thank A.F. Henley for this book I won during the Goodreads Anniversary.
This was a first time author for me, and when I read the description of the book I knew it was something I would like to read. This is my opinion of how I looked at each of the main characters in the story.
Mason is the business owner who works to much, see’s his friends on weekends for a couple of hours and then goes home alone. In between all this he is looking for that one person to put a spark back into his life. Jack is the escort/rent boy living his life the way he wants, selling his services to make money and not caring what other people think. I see Jack as a lost boy scared to take a chance on finding his own happiness.
When Mason hires a rent boy to take on a weeks holiday so he is not alone Jack is that man. The characters are so well developed that you see the changes happening between these two men before they realize it themselves. Sometime’s you can’t find love, but it will find you when you least expect it.
This was a first time author for me, and when I read the description of the book I knew it was something I would like to read. This is my opinion of how I looked at each of the main characters in the story.
Mason is the business owner who works to much, see’s his friends on weekends for a couple of hours and then goes home alone. In between all this he is looking for that one person to put a spark back into his life. Jack is the escort/rent boy living his life the way he wants, selling his services to make money and not caring what other people think. I see Jack as a lost boy scared to take a chance on finding his own happiness.
When Mason hires a rent boy to take on a weeks holiday so he is not alone Jack is that man. The characters are so well developed that you see the changes happening between these two men before they realize it themselves. Sometime’s you can’t find love, but it will find you when you least expect it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2014
I am a fan of rentboy stories, I’ve read a bunch over the years and I like them. I like it when the jaded rentboy meets a nice John, there is the struggle to give up his current life and accept another. That is what we get here to a certain extent. Or we get the beginning anyway. We don’t learn much about Jack’s story, so it was hard for me to really get a feeling for him, but he seems happy with his life. Although he does mention at one point that he is turning 30 and wondering what is next for him. So he is a rentboy, and he is hired by Mason, a wealthy, lonely man, looking for a companion for a week at a cabin. They spent time together, some good, some not as good, stuff happens (no spoilers!) and there is a good ending. I liked the basic story, jaded rentboy, wealthy John, they meet, have sex, make a connection, and live happily ever after. It was simple, but I got the story and liked it.
Then there are the characters: Mason was wimpy, shy, and whiny, which I had a hard time with. I kept hoping I’d get to a point that I liked him, but I never really did. He is a successful business owner, but he has such low self confidence, he can hardly stand himself. He’s shy, lonely, and has very few friends. He lets people use him, and walk all over him. He constantly wonders to himself why he’s so shy with Jack considering the amount of sex he has had, and the men he has been with. He seems kind of slutty, but virginal, it confused me.
On the other hand Jack was overconfident, beautiful, athletic, strong, and obnoxious! There wasn’t enough to him to get my liking. He started off nasty with Mason in his car, giving him rules and not respecting the fact that Mason hired him. Then he’s fussy and bossy the whole time they are together, until he blows up and says horrible, unforgivable things to Mason. I honestly didn’t like him.
The connection between them was good at times, mostly physical, I didn’t get much emotion other than anger and frustration. There were no words of love, no emotional or romantic connection. The sex is hot, once Mason shuts up and enjoys it, I liked that Jack had to coax him a bit, and get him to relax. There are some nice moments around meals, and lounging in the sun. But Jack is not nice to him at times, and Mason is just too whiny.
The writing was good though, considering I had issues with the characters. The dialog was well written, the story flowed nicely, and I got a good visual idea of the characters and setting. There was a big gap at the end that I wish had been filled in, I think I may have gotten more out of this if I knew what had happened during that time. I would like to read another book written by Henley to see if I get more in to it. I didn’t dislike this book, I liked the basic story, I liked the writing, the physical connection was there, but I didn’t particularly like either Mason or Jack!
A copy of the book was provided for reviewing. The original review posted at www.sidlove.com!
Then there are the characters: Mason was wimpy, shy, and whiny, which I had a hard time with. I kept hoping I’d get to a point that I liked him, but I never really did. He is a successful business owner, but he has such low self confidence, he can hardly stand himself. He’s shy, lonely, and has very few friends. He lets people use him, and walk all over him. He constantly wonders to himself why he’s so shy with Jack considering the amount of sex he has had, and the men he has been with. He seems kind of slutty, but virginal, it confused me.
On the other hand Jack was overconfident, beautiful, athletic, strong, and obnoxious! There wasn’t enough to him to get my liking. He started off nasty with Mason in his car, giving him rules and not respecting the fact that Mason hired him. Then he’s fussy and bossy the whole time they are together, until he blows up and says horrible, unforgivable things to Mason. I honestly didn’t like him.
The connection between them was good at times, mostly physical, I didn’t get much emotion other than anger and frustration. There were no words of love, no emotional or romantic connection. The sex is hot, once Mason shuts up and enjoys it, I liked that Jack had to coax him a bit, and get him to relax. There are some nice moments around meals, and lounging in the sun. But Jack is not nice to him at times, and Mason is just too whiny.
The writing was good though, considering I had issues with the characters. The dialog was well written, the story flowed nicely, and I got a good visual idea of the characters and setting. There was a big gap at the end that I wish had been filled in, I think I may have gotten more out of this if I knew what had happened during that time. I would like to read another book written by Henley to see if I get more in to it. I didn’t dislike this book, I liked the basic story, I liked the writing, the physical connection was there, but I didn’t particularly like either Mason or Jack!
A copy of the book was provided for reviewing. The original review posted at www.sidlove.com!
May 13, 2015
Check out my full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Second Star to the Right is a contemporary romance by one of my favorite authors, A.F. Henley, and it centers around Mason, a man who has a more than comfortable life thanks to his success in business but isn't the type to flaunt his wealth around. Whatever success he enjoys professionally, he seems to be lacking when it comes to his personal life. The idea of him hiring an escort to spend a week with him in a cabin he's renting may not be the sort of thing other people would approve of but it's only for a limited time period so he decides to take his chances.
I liked how in your face Jack was. He makes no apologies for the kind of person he is or for what his occupation is. He bluntly states that he's a whore because that's what he is and while Mason is not sure how to act on Jack's pronouncements, he is attracted to the man. There's a snarkiness in Jack that may border on meanness every now and again, but there's so more to him than meets the eye, and Mason has the innate ability to see through all the bullshit. Mason is niceness personified and I seriously wanted him to have his long-awaited chance at a happiness.
I couldn't help but think of this story as an M/M version of the Garry Marshall-helmed movie blockbuster Pretty Woman. Let me just stress, however, that this is, by no means, like the film, just that the having a rich businessman and a paid escort falling for one another usually makes me think of Vivian Ward and Edward Lewis, Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, respectively, except Jack had more sexy sarcasm and Mason didn't have an ounce of ruthlessness in him. Plus, I'm not sure Jack would go for the vinyl-like thigh-high boots Vivian owns. Hahaha.
On a more personal note, I'd like to publicly thank A.F. Henley for the generosity in offering this warm and light-hearted love story for me to read and review. I'm always humbled by the kindness authors show their readers and I want to express my gratitude to this particular author for going above and beyond. This, however, has no bearing on my rating or review. I'm just happy that A.F. Henley's track record has remained consistent and that, once again, I can't help but gush over this well-written tale of love. Second Star to the Right deserves to receive five stars. ♥
Second Star to the Right is a contemporary romance by one of my favorite authors, A.F. Henley, and it centers around Mason, a man who has a more than comfortable life thanks to his success in business but isn't the type to flaunt his wealth around. Whatever success he enjoys professionally, he seems to be lacking when it comes to his personal life. The idea of him hiring an escort to spend a week with him in a cabin he's renting may not be the sort of thing other people would approve of but it's only for a limited time period so he decides to take his chances.
I liked how in your face Jack was. He makes no apologies for the kind of person he is or for what his occupation is. He bluntly states that he's a whore because that's what he is and while Mason is not sure how to act on Jack's pronouncements, he is attracted to the man. There's a snarkiness in Jack that may border on meanness every now and again, but there's so more to him than meets the eye, and Mason has the innate ability to see through all the bullshit. Mason is niceness personified and I seriously wanted him to have his long-awaited chance at a happiness.
I couldn't help but think of this story as an M/M version of the Garry Marshall-helmed movie blockbuster Pretty Woman. Let me just stress, however, that this is, by no means, like the film, just that the having a rich businessman and a paid escort falling for one another usually makes me think of Vivian Ward and Edward Lewis, Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, respectively, except Jack had more sexy sarcasm and Mason didn't have an ounce of ruthlessness in him. Plus, I'm not sure Jack would go for the vinyl-like thigh-high boots Vivian owns. Hahaha.
On a more personal note, I'd like to publicly thank A.F. Henley for the generosity in offering this warm and light-hearted love story for me to read and review. I'm always humbled by the kindness authors show their readers and I want to express my gratitude to this particular author for going above and beyond. This, however, has no bearing on my rating or review. I'm just happy that A.F. Henley's track record has remained consistent and that, once again, I can't help but gush over this well-written tale of love. Second Star to the Right deserves to receive five stars. ♥
September 11, 2016
It was ok
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