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A Model Escort (77)
What’s the value of love? Shy data scientist Owen Quinn is brilliant at predictive models but clueless at romance. Fortunately, a new career allows him to start over hundreds of miles from the ex he would rather forget. But the opportunity might go to waste since this isn’t the kind of problem he knows how to solve. The truth is, he’s terrible at making the first move and wishes a connection didn’t have to revolve around sex. Cal Mercer works for the Nick of Time Escort Service. He’s picky about his clients and has never accepted a regular who is looking for companionship over sex—but can the right client change his mind? And can real feelings develop while money is changing hands? Owen and Cal might get to the root of their true feelings... if their pasts don’t interfere.
230 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 5, 2019
9 people are currently reading
212 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Meuwissen
58 books664 followersAmanda Meuwissen is a queer author with a primary focus on M/M fiction and romance. As the author of LGBTQ+ Fantasy #1 Best Seller, Coming Up for Air, LGBTQ+ Horror #1 Best Seller and #1 New Release, A Delicious Descent, and several other titles through various publishers, Amanda regularly attends local comic conventions for fun and to meet with fans, where she will often be seen in costume as one of her favorite fictional characters. She lives in Minnesota with her husband, John, and their cat, Helga.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
January 18, 2022
Isn't MM just the best genre ever? So many wonderful stories to tell.
The trope of a male escort falling in love with a client is one that I rarely find in romance, but I LOVE it. I believe it has HUGE potential, but also many obstacles that make it inconvenient for mainstream romance, same as books with porn actors.
Mostly, of course, the fact that many romances tend to have their boys being more or less exclusive right from the start. That's not the most realistic set up for a romance character who works as an escort.
So I really like about this story that Cal, our handsome 40 year old escort does have a full schedule of clients, both male and female. Even though his agency officially does not permit sexual services, it is a given that escorts sleep with their clients - and Cal knows he's good at what he does.
And damn, I need to say, Cal's charisma on page is really impressive. He's handsome, but not in the gym shaped way that his younger colleagues are. He's - and these are my words, not the books' - more of a hot silver fox DILF type of guy. And the way he treats his clients is just... wow. He's like a perfectly attentive boyfriend with a James Bond aura, even if it is sometimes hard to see behind his smooth facade - especially for Owen.
But actually, the story starts with Owen, a 25 year old IT genius from Middleton who recently split up with his older long-term boyfriend who not only stole many of his ideas for the tech company they both worked for, but who also physically abused Owen, shattering his self-esteem and confidence.
Moving to Atlas City, he wants to start anew and lands a lucrative contract with the mayor's office to implement his data models which are able to predict increased criminal activities in a certain region, so the police force can concentrate their presence in the most efficient way across the city.
Don't ask me how that works. He might as well light a scented candle and stare into a crystal ball for all I know.
Anyway, Owen is treated like Silicone Valley royalty in Atlas City and several large tech companies are vying for his attention. In short, he is suddenly loaded and starts out his new life all alone in a luxury appartment overlooking the skyline of Atlas City - without any furniture and feeling pretty lonely.
One of his friends from Middleton suggests an escort service, so he can at least present a date when he's attending important public events that come with his new position.
While Owen discards the idea immediately, his mind returns to it from a different angle. Owen wants to unwind with someone when he gets home in the evening. Cooking together and cuddling in front of the TV sound awesome to him, but he hesitates to join the dating circus after his previous disastrous experience.
So... why not rent a guy to do the job? After all, you don't HAVE to have sex with an escort, right?
This is how Cal gets to know Owen as one of his clients. Owen's wishes are...different to what Cal normally provides to his clients, especially as he pays extra for 'anything goes' which usually means specific sexual requests that are out of the ordinary, but which Owen interprets as 'my special request is not to have sex'.
And while Cal finds Owen very attractive and would happily 'perform' for him in his usual way, Owen specifically wants to cuddle only. No kissing, no sex, just embracing and sharing comfort.
A new concept for Cal.
And funny enough, while you'd expect that Owen would immediately fall in love with the hot and empathetic Cal, it is actually the other way round. Owen knows that Cal is unreachable, but he's grateful to get company and comfort from him, even if it is with money changing hands.
But Cal is the one who finds himself trying to get closer to Owen, first by helping him with his wardrobe and presenting him to the high society of Atlas City, making sure he makes a good impression on the city's officials. He even takes on a fake persona as Owen's publicist, even though he's aware that he might run into some of his other clients when joining Owen at a public venue.
But most importantly, Cal isn't the youngest man anymore. At 40 years, he tries to deny his urge to find something that's missing in his life. While he hopes that taking on a young client like Owen will calm the nagging voice in his head, he's surprised to discover a nurturing side about himself that he hasn't shown to anyone else yet.
The character development and the story revolve around Owen's trauma from his previous relationship and overcoming his fear and anxiety. In the course of the story, Owen obtains considerable self-defenses skills and even manages to confront his tormentor, so there's a pretty decent character arc for a single book romance.
A tiny bit of a spoiler:
This book was absolutely amazing and I loved nearly every second of it.
HOWEVER, I need to rant about 2% of the book towards the end which I assume might be an explanation for the 3.8 star overall rating.
The mandatory misunderstanding....
A bit more of a spoiler:
I mean, WTF? Did aliens steal Cal's brain for ten minutes?! How did he draw such a conclusion from what he saw?
But okay, it was just a minor slip in an overall fantastic read. I am willing to overlook this completely and not have it influence my rating at all.
Because frankly, this was fantastic. Much less sexualized than I would have assumed with an escort as the main character, but filled with warm feelings without getting overly sweet.
And it dealt with prostitution in a respectful way, while still giving me the satisfaction of knowing that Cal will be Owen's and Owen's alone. This is very important for me in romance.
More books like this one please. I have been so lucky with the books that have come my way since the start of the year :-))
A 5 star favorite and definitely a top 10 read this year for me.
The trope of a male escort falling in love with a client is one that I rarely find in romance, but I LOVE it. I believe it has HUGE potential, but also many obstacles that make it inconvenient for mainstream romance, same as books with porn actors.
Mostly, of course, the fact that many romances tend to have their boys being more or less exclusive right from the start. That's not the most realistic set up for a romance character who works as an escort.
So I really like about this story that Cal, our handsome 40 year old escort does have a full schedule of clients, both male and female. Even though his agency officially does not permit sexual services, it is a given that escorts sleep with their clients - and Cal knows he's good at what he does.
And damn, I need to say, Cal's charisma on page is really impressive. He's handsome, but not in the gym shaped way that his younger colleagues are. He's - and these are my words, not the books' - more of a hot silver fox DILF type of guy. And the way he treats his clients is just... wow. He's like a perfectly attentive boyfriend with a James Bond aura, even if it is sometimes hard to see behind his smooth facade - especially for Owen.
But actually, the story starts with Owen, a 25 year old IT genius from Middleton who recently split up with his older long-term boyfriend who not only stole many of his ideas for the tech company they both worked for, but who also physically abused Owen, shattering his self-esteem and confidence.
Moving to Atlas City, he wants to start anew and lands a lucrative contract with the mayor's office to implement his data models which are able to predict increased criminal activities in a certain region, so the police force can concentrate their presence in the most efficient way across the city.
Don't ask me how that works. He might as well light a scented candle and stare into a crystal ball for all I know.
Anyway, Owen is treated like Silicone Valley royalty in Atlas City and several large tech companies are vying for his attention. In short, he is suddenly loaded and starts out his new life all alone in a luxury appartment overlooking the skyline of Atlas City - without any furniture and feeling pretty lonely.
One of his friends from Middleton suggests an escort service, so he can at least present a date when he's attending important public events that come with his new position.
While Owen discards the idea immediately, his mind returns to it from a different angle. Owen wants to unwind with someone when he gets home in the evening. Cooking together and cuddling in front of the TV sound awesome to him, but he hesitates to join the dating circus after his previous disastrous experience.
So... why not rent a guy to do the job? After all, you don't HAVE to have sex with an escort, right?
This is how Cal gets to know Owen as one of his clients. Owen's wishes are...different to what Cal normally provides to his clients, especially as he pays extra for 'anything goes' which usually means specific sexual requests that are out of the ordinary, but which Owen interprets as 'my special request is not to have sex'.
And while Cal finds Owen very attractive and would happily 'perform' for him in his usual way, Owen specifically wants to cuddle only. No kissing, no sex, just embracing and sharing comfort.
A new concept for Cal.
And funny enough, while you'd expect that Owen would immediately fall in love with the hot and empathetic Cal, it is actually the other way round. Owen knows that Cal is unreachable, but he's grateful to get company and comfort from him, even if it is with money changing hands.
But Cal is the one who finds himself trying to get closer to Owen, first by helping him with his wardrobe and presenting him to the high society of Atlas City, making sure he makes a good impression on the city's officials. He even takes on a fake persona as Owen's publicist, even though he's aware that he might run into some of his other clients when joining Owen at a public venue.
But most importantly, Cal isn't the youngest man anymore. At 40 years, he tries to deny his urge to find something that's missing in his life. While he hopes that taking on a young client like Owen will calm the nagging voice in his head, he's surprised to discover a nurturing side about himself that he hasn't shown to anyone else yet.
The character development and the story revolve around Owen's trauma from his previous relationship and overcoming his fear and anxiety. In the course of the story, Owen obtains considerable self-defenses skills and even manages to confront his tormentor, so there's a pretty decent character arc for a single book romance.
A tiny bit of a spoiler:
This book was absolutely amazing and I loved nearly every second of it.
HOWEVER, I need to rant about 2% of the book towards the end which I assume might be an explanation for the 3.8 star overall rating.
The mandatory misunderstanding....
A bit more of a spoiler:
I mean, WTF? Did aliens steal Cal's brain for ten minutes?! How did he draw such a conclusion from what he saw?
But okay, it was just a minor slip in an overall fantastic read. I am willing to overlook this completely and not have it influence my rating at all.
Because frankly, this was fantastic. Much less sexualized than I would have assumed with an escort as the main character, but filled with warm feelings without getting overly sweet.
And it dealt with prostitution in a respectful way, while still giving me the satisfaction of knowing that Cal will be Owen's and Owen's alone. This is very important for me in romance.
More books like this one please. I have been so lucky with the books that have come my way since the start of the year :-))
A 5 star favorite and definitely a top 10 read this year for me.
March 6, 2019
4.5 stars, rounded down.
Escaping an abusive relationship, Owen has moved to a new town for a new start, after being hired by the town's mayor to help establish a crime-fighting program that relies heavily on data models that Owen developed. See, Owen is super smart with numbers and data. Not so much when it comes to picking a boyfriend.
Cal is a high-class escort in his early 40s who enjoys what he does and commands not only a fairly high price for his services, but also has sufficient clout with his boss and his handler to be able to drop clients and say no to a request. This made Cal's job slightly unbelievable to me. I suppose it is possible for an escort to have that much say, but I also found it slightly odd that a city the size of this fictional one (giving a small-town feel, not a NYC feel) would have more than one well-known high-class escort service. I'm not an expert but that part niggled at me.
I immediately liked Owen. He was relatively young but tended to go for older men. Still incredibly hurt from his last relationship, he's not looking for anyone new, but also feels lonely in a new city without anyone he knows. His sister, super supportive, suggests an escort service, and after a bit of time, Owen makes a call. He doesn't want sex - he just wants someone to hold him, snuggle with him.
Thus begins the relationship between Owen and Cal, and as the story progresses, we see them grow closer and the UST starts getting stronger. Owen doesn't want to have sex with Cal, not when he's paying him to spend time with him, but the desire grows in both of them.
I thought presenting Cal as Owen's publicist was a clever arrangement, even though it didn't squash the rumors entirely. The abusive boyfriend snaking his way back into Owen's life wasn't pleasant, but I understood the purpose of bringing him - it showed that Owen had grown into himself, that he believed in his own worth, and that he had grown a spine to boot that jackass out of his life for good.
This being a Dreamspun Desires title, I expected the fluffy and slightly unbelievable story I got. I did enjoy getting to know Owen and Cal, and I loved how their relationship, without any sexy times, really grew strong. Sure, there were misunderstandings, and there was a moment when I realized that for all his exterior smoothness and aloofness, Cal isn't as impermeable as he'd like his clients to believe.
Overall, this was a rather enjoyable story from a new to me author, and I'm definitely interested what else Ms. Meuwissen has to offer.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
Escaping an abusive relationship, Owen has moved to a new town for a new start, after being hired by the town's mayor to help establish a crime-fighting program that relies heavily on data models that Owen developed. See, Owen is super smart with numbers and data. Not so much when it comes to picking a boyfriend.
Cal is a high-class escort in his early 40s who enjoys what he does and commands not only a fairly high price for his services, but also has sufficient clout with his boss and his handler to be able to drop clients and say no to a request. This made Cal's job slightly unbelievable to me. I suppose it is possible for an escort to have that much say, but I also found it slightly odd that a city the size of this fictional one (giving a small-town feel, not a NYC feel) would have more than one well-known high-class escort service. I'm not an expert but that part niggled at me.
I immediately liked Owen. He was relatively young but tended to go for older men. Still incredibly hurt from his last relationship, he's not looking for anyone new, but also feels lonely in a new city without anyone he knows. His sister, super supportive, suggests an escort service, and after a bit of time, Owen makes a call. He doesn't want sex - he just wants someone to hold him, snuggle with him.
Thus begins the relationship between Owen and Cal, and as the story progresses, we see them grow closer and the UST starts getting stronger. Owen doesn't want to have sex with Cal, not when he's paying him to spend time with him, but the desire grows in both of them.
I thought presenting Cal as Owen's publicist was a clever arrangement, even though it didn't squash the rumors entirely. The abusive boyfriend snaking his way back into Owen's life wasn't pleasant, but I understood the purpose of bringing him - it showed that Owen had grown into himself, that he believed in his own worth, and that he had grown a spine to boot that jackass out of his life for good.
This being a Dreamspun Desires title, I expected the fluffy and slightly unbelievable story I got. I did enjoy getting to know Owen and Cal, and I loved how their relationship, without any sexy times, really grew strong. Sure, there were misunderstandings, and there was a moment when I realized that for all his exterior smoothness and aloofness, Cal isn't as impermeable as he'd like his clients to believe.
Overall, this was a rather enjoyable story from a new to me author, and I'm definitely interested what else Ms. Meuwissen has to offer.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
April 13, 2019
An escort finding a partner in life is about as unlikely as a dorky yet clueless data scientist falling in love – but when the two men in this story meet, the chemistry they share (both physical and emotional) gave me hope from the start. It’s a wonderful slow-burn romance with phenomenal character growth for both men, amazing secondary characters, and some very believable bad guys who made me grind my teeth more than once. It all adds up to great entertainment with significant helpings of humor, tenderness, and deep emotions.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
March 9, 2019
This was pretty predictable, but I still really enjoyed it. There were some deeper aspects like leaving abuse behind for both MCS that definitely added layers to the story. I really enjoyed it.
February 25, 2019
Owen needed a change so he packed up what he had and moved away. He started a new job making enough money to afford the apartment he has always wanted. Owen is still healing from an abusive relationship. As someone who is a data scientist he likes to fix problems so he created a program to help people.
As he starts his new job and wants someone to talk to and just hold him, he decides to take his sister's advise and hire an escort.
I loved the relationship Owen had with his sister. She supported him all the way without telling him I told you so.
Cal is a escort who likes to keep things all business. He grew up as a abused child and finds that when his life is in order it works for him. Even though he has full control of his life he starts to feel like something is missing.
Owen's x boyfriend took all the credit for his work and now Owen is shining all on his own. It is a lot of work but Owen feels he can prove himself.
I really loved this story and how Cal showed Owen he was so worthy of love and affection.
Their relationship started out slow and traditional but turned into so much more than either one was looking for.
"Owen might be out of his mind for hiring an escort on the regular for snuggle sessions and dinner dates, but Cal was like a dream, and Owen was not ready to wake up yet."
"Owen made him feel like he was free -falling, and he couldn’t understand why he liked that so much."
This was a wonderful slow burn story for me and when both men figure what they want it was joyful to read. There is really only 1 love scene in the story but it fit perfectly.
I havent read this Dreamspinner Press before but will definitely give her stories a look now.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club
As he starts his new job and wants someone to talk to and just hold him, he decides to take his sister's advise and hire an escort.
I loved the relationship Owen had with his sister. She supported him all the way without telling him I told you so.
Cal is a escort who likes to keep things all business. He grew up as a abused child and finds that when his life is in order it works for him. Even though he has full control of his life he starts to feel like something is missing.
Owen's x boyfriend took all the credit for his work and now Owen is shining all on his own. It is a lot of work but Owen feels he can prove himself.
I really loved this story and how Cal showed Owen he was so worthy of love and affection.
Their relationship started out slow and traditional but turned into so much more than either one was looking for.
"Owen might be out of his mind for hiring an escort on the regular for snuggle sessions and dinner dates, but Cal was like a dream, and Owen was not ready to wake up yet."
"Owen made him feel like he was free -falling, and he couldn’t understand why he liked that so much."
This was a wonderful slow burn story for me and when both men figure what they want it was joyful to read. There is really only 1 love scene in the story but it fit perfectly.
I havent read this Dreamspinner Press before but will definitely give her stories a look now.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club
January 28, 2022
This is one of the tropes that make me weak in the knees and it has nothing to do with pretty woman!!
So, did I enjoyed A Model Escort by Amanda Meuwissen? Oh yes, yes I did!!!
It was a story, not just sex, in fact the sex started later even though their sessions started early, (read to know why), it was about warmth between them and that made them feel both human.
This story was very real, well made and enjoyable in all senses, I also liked that the author kept things real because the escort was old so he had "No waxed six-pack—this was better". And he was a high payed one, so they felt like real characters.
We don't need then to have a perfect six pack!!
My only problem was the clothes area, Cal was really vocal.about not liking Owen's clothes, not in a mean way, but still, and he helped change his wardrobe... I think it could have been handled way better, but it wasn't that bad. ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
So, did I enjoyed A Model Escort by Amanda Meuwissen? Oh yes, yes I did!!!
It was a story, not just sex, in fact the sex started later even though their sessions started early, (read to know why), it was about warmth between them and that made them feel both human.
This story was very real, well made and enjoyable in all senses, I also liked that the author kept things real because the escort was old so he had "No waxed six-pack—this was better". And he was a high payed one, so they felt like real characters.
We don't need then to have a perfect six pack!!
My only problem was the clothes area, Cal was really vocal.about not liking Owen's clothes, not in a mean way, but still, and he helped change his wardrobe... I think it could have been handled way better, but it wasn't that bad. ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
February 28, 2019
This was so much better than a Pretty Woman story or a fake boyfriend trope, even though it had a bit of both in it. There was so much more to this, though. It was smart. It was thoughtful. It was exciting.
Owen left a tumultuous relationship, his home, his friends, and his family to start over in another town. He was on his own for the first time and afraid of being lonely. After being given a business card for an escort service, he made the call. He didn't want a boyfriend. Or sex. He just wanted someone.
Cal was high end. He picked who he wanted to spend his time with and he chose how much he gave of himself to his clients. When he picked up Owen on his calendar he wasn't expecting the innocent, cheeky, smart man who was broken and alone. And he didn't expect to want to be the guy who put him back together.
So much went into this little story. Age gap, hurt/comfort, friends to lovers. It was a pleasure to read and get to know Owen and Cal. They were both so very independent and smart, giving and loyal. These were the kind of characters you'd like to meet IRL.
The story was sweet, the romance was slow and satisfying. I had wished for a bit more interaction between Cal and Owen on page, however. It felt like most of their bonding and friendship happened off page and we were just told of it. Same with their intimate moments. Given there are times when it's too much for the story, I would have liked a bit more here.
Worth the read entirely if you like a sweet story with a smart couple and a happy ever after.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
Owen left a tumultuous relationship, his home, his friends, and his family to start over in another town. He was on his own for the first time and afraid of being lonely. After being given a business card for an escort service, he made the call. He didn't want a boyfriend. Or sex. He just wanted someone.
Cal was high end. He picked who he wanted to spend his time with and he chose how much he gave of himself to his clients. When he picked up Owen on his calendar he wasn't expecting the innocent, cheeky, smart man who was broken and alone. And he didn't expect to want to be the guy who put him back together.
So much went into this little story. Age gap, hurt/comfort, friends to lovers. It was a pleasure to read and get to know Owen and Cal. They were both so very independent and smart, giving and loyal. These were the kind of characters you'd like to meet IRL.
The story was sweet, the romance was slow and satisfying. I had wished for a bit more interaction between Cal and Owen on page, however. It felt like most of their bonding and friendship happened off page and we were just told of it. Same with their intimate moments. Given there are times when it's too much for the story, I would have liked a bit more here.
Worth the read entirely if you like a sweet story with a smart couple and a happy ever after.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
November 25, 2022
En mi tierra diríamos "Valla trapallada!"
O sea, qué birria de historia, idealiza a los scorts y banaliza a los demás, ingenieros, técnicos, alcaldes........ Además toda la trama es un sinsentido
O sea, qué birria de historia, idealiza a los scorts y banaliza a los demás, ingenieros, técnicos, alcaldes........ Además toda la trama es un sinsentido
March 12, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
A Model Escort is a lovely story and a breath of fresh air for several reasons. For me, the siblings and friends are so wonderful—engaging, supportive, and helpful, but without that unfortunately common trope of being pushy and overbearing. Amanda Meuwissen does an excellent job creating secondary characters that encourage and nudge the MCs out of their comfort zones without being raging jerks about it. While I recognize that this may not be important to some readers, it definitely struck a chord with me, as I am beyond done with “loving” bffs/family who only seem capable of shouting and tromping on the MCs feelings to show “support.” So, having a cast of caring secondary characters that respect who the MCs are and don’t run roughshod over them to get them to change definitely factored into my enjoyment of the story.
Read Jovan’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
A Model Escort is a lovely story and a breath of fresh air for several reasons. For me, the siblings and friends are so wonderful—engaging, supportive, and helpful, but without that unfortunately common trope of being pushy and overbearing. Amanda Meuwissen does an excellent job creating secondary characters that encourage and nudge the MCs out of their comfort zones without being raging jerks about it. While I recognize that this may not be important to some readers, it definitely struck a chord with me, as I am beyond done with “loving” bffs/family who only seem capable of shouting and tromping on the MCs feelings to show “support.” So, having a cast of caring secondary characters that respect who the MCs are and don’t run roughshod over them to get them to change definitely factored into my enjoyment of the story.
Read Jovan’s review in its entirety here.
September 12, 2019
This was an enjoyable read. It was definitely a slow burn... like, one of the slowest I've ever read. As a fan of sexy times in my romance, that fact made it drag a bit for me. The chemistry between our two love interests didn't feel real. I felt their friendship, but the love and romance just missed the boat for me.
Aside from that, the story itself was well told. The characters had strong and distinct personalities and the plot kept me turning the pages. I would highly recommend this to anyone who loves MM romance, especially to those who enjoy less on-page lovemaking. <3
Aside from that, the story itself was well told. The characters had strong and distinct personalities and the plot kept me turning the pages. I would highly recommend this to anyone who loves MM romance, especially to those who enjoy less on-page lovemaking. <3
March 8, 2019
A Model Escort was the first book I read by Amanda Meuwissen and it won’t be the last. I fell into this beautiful story so easily I too soon was reading the last chapter and I so wanted to restart it again and again.
Sure, some of you can obviously think there’s nothing new in the plot, just an already seen plot, a “Pretty Woman” (or better say “Man”) retelling; and you’re right, I thought it too but that’s exactly why I picked it. Have no fear, there will be some surprises.
The reason why I loved A Model Escort so much stays in the main characters, I adored Cal and Owen deeply, their pasts, their futures together. The author did an amazing job with them, I was able to know so much, how they suffered from different and at the same time, similar reasons, how they were able to escape and be strong and build their new lives. Plus the author gave me many second characters, all of their friends, families, coworkers, bosses. And they were never too many, cause I felt them all supportive and positive.
I appreciated how Owen and Cal took their times, they were of course attracted to each other, but being things a little complicated, they waited and it was simply perfect. They were funny, sexy, cute. And although they were so different, they were open and never judgemental versus the other.
I feel to highly recommend this novel, I loved it from the start till the ending. I give up, I think I’m going to reread it right this second.
The cover art by Bree Archer is simple and fitting, but it’s not so eye catching as the covers I usually love
Sure, some of you can obviously think there’s nothing new in the plot, just an already seen plot, a “Pretty Woman” (or better say “Man”) retelling; and you’re right, I thought it too but that’s exactly why I picked it. Have no fear, there will be some surprises.
The reason why I loved A Model Escort so much stays in the main characters, I adored Cal and Owen deeply, their pasts, their futures together. The author did an amazing job with them, I was able to know so much, how they suffered from different and at the same time, similar reasons, how they were able to escape and be strong and build their new lives. Plus the author gave me many second characters, all of their friends, families, coworkers, bosses. And they were never too many, cause I felt them all supportive and positive.
I appreciated how Owen and Cal took their times, they were of course attracted to each other, but being things a little complicated, they waited and it was simply perfect. They were funny, sexy, cute. And although they were so different, they were open and never judgemental versus the other.
I feel to highly recommend this novel, I loved it from the start till the ending. I give up, I think I’m going to reread it right this second.
The cover art by Bree Archer is simple and fitting, but it’s not so eye catching as the covers I usually love
September 25, 2022
DNF @ 60%
I should have loved this because the characters were great and the author's take on the usual prostitution romance tropes was unique, but the writing style didn't work for me because way too much of the MCs romance development was done through telling instead of showing.
I liked that Owen (the client) went into his arrangement with Cal with the clear understanding that no matter how nice Cal is, it's a business arrangement and Owen sticks to that. Even once he develops feelings for Cal, he doesn't dwell on them and firmly reminds himself that he pays for Cal's time and he can't confuse Cal giving him what Owen pays for with Cal actually wanting a romantic relationship with him. In fact, it's Cal who falls hard for Owen and he's the one having difficulty not blurring the lines between Owen being his client versus being a potential romantic partner.
I also liked how the author set up Cal's role in Owen's life. At the beginning, Owen has escaped an abusive relationship, moved to a brand new city and he's lonely and struggling to find his way. He needs Cal to provide platonic physical affection, but that's it. He does well at his job, he takes self-defense classes, he makes friends and generally does very well at making a new life for himself. Once again, it's Cal who decides to blur the lines between them because he wants to be a part of Owen's life as much as possible. Without Owen asking him to, Cal becomes his stylist, his interior decorator, his publicist, his social engagement assistant and his cooking instructor. Cal doesn't force his help on Owen in a creepy way but I found it a really interesting role reversal from the usual romance trope to have the prostitute be the one who bends over backwards to spend time with the client in ways that are outside of their paid arrangement.
Based on what I said above, I should have loved this but the writing style made it impossible. Unfortunately, there's a huge amount of telling instead of showing with many important scenes between Cal and Owen being skipped over (like the morning after Cal spends a platonic night with Owen after the banquet). Instead, we get fully detailed scenes of Owen's conversations with co-workers and his sister. There's also too much detail about Owen's day job, which relates to using data modeling to help policing efforts. Owen ends up being involved with three different tech companies and the City, all of which treat him like he's Albert Einstein. Maybe the author was trying to push a point about how to improve policing in the US, but the fact was - I didn't care about Owen's day job. In addition, I was annoyed that important scenes between Cal and Owen were skipped over through telling while every tedious conversation between Owen and his bosses or Owen and his co-worker Frank were shown. This tendency to tell instead of show also made the story feel very rushed but at the same time, it resulted in me not emotionally connecting with what was happening. So sometimes things would happen at break neck speed, but I was still bored because of the writing style.
Another personal issue I had was that the main conflict between Cal and Owen is the dreaded 'lack of communication' trope. They both have feelings for each other but they refuse to talk about it because they think the other person will reject them. It's a standard romance trope and there's nothing wrong with it, but it's one I personally find boring because I've read it too many times.
Lastly, it always annoys me when authors portray a 'stalking-ex' situation by having the ex relentlessly email/text/call the MC and the MC angsts over the unwanted communication, instead of simply blocking the number and flagging the email address as spam. This pisses me off because it's dumb on all levels. Either the author thinks readers are so stupid that we aren't aware of how easy it is to block unwanted communication from specific numbers/addresses these days. Or the author is trying to say that the MC isn't blocking the number because they still hold out hopes that there will be a reunion. This only works if the MC doesn't already have feelings for the new romantic interest. For example, Nicky James did a great job with this in her Valor And Doyle Mysteries series where . But in this book, Owen doesn't block the number despite being terrified of his ex and not wanting anything to do with him. It made no sense and I'm sick of this dumb trope being used to manufacture angst. There are tons of other ways to include a stalking ex in a story (which the author does do around the 60% mark) so it annoyed me.
Overall, I can see why so many people loved this story because the author's take on the usual sex worker romance tropes were turned upside down but the writing style made it a boring slog.
I should have loved this because the characters were great and the author's take on the usual prostitution romance tropes was unique, but the writing style didn't work for me because way too much of the MCs romance development was done through telling instead of showing.
I liked that Owen (the client) went into his arrangement with Cal with the clear understanding that no matter how nice Cal is, it's a business arrangement and Owen sticks to that. Even once he develops feelings for Cal, he doesn't dwell on them and firmly reminds himself that he pays for Cal's time and he can't confuse Cal giving him what Owen pays for with Cal actually wanting a romantic relationship with him. In fact, it's Cal who falls hard for Owen and he's the one having difficulty not blurring the lines between Owen being his client versus being a potential romantic partner.
I also liked how the author set up Cal's role in Owen's life. At the beginning, Owen has escaped an abusive relationship, moved to a brand new city and he's lonely and struggling to find his way. He needs Cal to provide platonic physical affection, but that's it. He does well at his job, he takes self-defense classes, he makes friends and generally does very well at making a new life for himself. Once again, it's Cal who decides to blur the lines between them because he wants to be a part of Owen's life as much as possible. Without Owen asking him to, Cal becomes his stylist, his interior decorator, his publicist, his social engagement assistant and his cooking instructor. Cal doesn't force his help on Owen in a creepy way but I found it a really interesting role reversal from the usual romance trope to have the prostitute be the one who bends over backwards to spend time with the client in ways that are outside of their paid arrangement.
Based on what I said above, I should have loved this but the writing style made it impossible. Unfortunately, there's a huge amount of telling instead of showing with many important scenes between Cal and Owen being skipped over (like the morning after Cal spends a platonic night with Owen after the banquet). Instead, we get fully detailed scenes of Owen's conversations with co-workers and his sister. There's also too much detail about Owen's day job, which relates to using data modeling to help policing efforts. Owen ends up being involved with three different tech companies and the City, all of which treat him like he's Albert Einstein. Maybe the author was trying to push a point about how to improve policing in the US, but the fact was - I didn't care about Owen's day job. In addition, I was annoyed that important scenes between Cal and Owen were skipped over through telling while every tedious conversation between Owen and his bosses or Owen and his co-worker Frank were shown. This tendency to tell instead of show also made the story feel very rushed but at the same time, it resulted in me not emotionally connecting with what was happening. So sometimes things would happen at break neck speed, but I was still bored because of the writing style.
Another personal issue I had was that the main conflict between Cal and Owen is the dreaded 'lack of communication' trope. They both have feelings for each other but they refuse to talk about it because they think the other person will reject them. It's a standard romance trope and there's nothing wrong with it, but it's one I personally find boring because I've read it too many times.
Lastly, it always annoys me when authors portray a 'stalking-ex' situation by having the ex relentlessly email/text/call the MC and the MC angsts over the unwanted communication, instead of simply blocking the number and flagging the email address as spam. This pisses me off because it's dumb on all levels. Either the author thinks readers are so stupid that we aren't aware of how easy it is to block unwanted communication from specific numbers/addresses these days. Or the author is trying to say that the MC isn't blocking the number because they still hold out hopes that there will be a reunion. This only works if the MC doesn't already have feelings for the new romantic interest. For example, Nicky James did a great job with this in her Valor And Doyle Mysteries series where . But in this book, Owen doesn't block the number despite being terrified of his ex and not wanting anything to do with him. It made no sense and I'm sick of this dumb trope being used to manufacture angst. There are tons of other ways to include a stalking ex in a story (which the author does do around the 60% mark) so it annoyed me.
Overall, I can see why so many people loved this story because the author's take on the usual sex worker romance tropes were turned upside down but the writing style made it a boring slog.
May 6, 2022
Overall book rating: 4.5
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3.5
Lazy review.
First: I wish the editors/publishers or who ever makes authors put "mandatory misunderstanding" crap in their books wills stop with their nonsense. It usually only ends up taking away from the story.
I have a thing for escort books when done right. This was done right. Loved it! Loved
the guys! Happy feelings.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3.5
Lazy review.
First: I wish the editors/publishers or who ever makes authors put "mandatory misunderstanding" crap in their books wills stop with their nonsense. It usually only ends up taking away from the story.
I have a thing for escort books when done right. This was done right. Loved it! Loved
the guys! Happy feelings.
April 9, 2019
Another uber sweet goodie gumdrop of a book from the Dreamspun Desire series of books. If you started reading romance by reading books from the Harlequin series, the DD series is a nice twist on those sweet old tropes. This one features the fall-in-love-with-my-rent-boy trope. I won't describe the plot since many of my fellow Goodreaders have done a far better job than I could do. As per usual with this series, very little heat but that's fine since it fits with the overall theme and Owen's issues. Owen and Cal are great characters - nicely written and three dimensional. Had a bit of a hard time with the secondary characters. Cal's buddy, Rhys - seemed like a bull in a china shop. A bit overbearing. Also mixed up Owen's multiple employers - the mayor, the Walker Tech people and Keri from Nye. I suppose I should have paid more attention but they seemed rather interchangeable. So what did I like - really liked Owen. Brave, fun, dorky and found the strength to overcome the abuse. Also liked his occupation - data guru - very imaginative. Also liked Cal although he wasn't as present on the page as Owen was. Owen just jumped out at me. Great writing - lots of action vs telling. The misunderstanding was a little confusing to me. Things happened rather quickly so found myself having to re-read a few times. That bit with the robber made me laugh!! Very funny with a good twist that just highlighted Owen's sweet dorkiness (is that a word?!) I believe this is first of this author's books I've read and will read others. She has a unique voice and would like to read something written by her that isn't constrained by the Dreamspun Desire guidelines.
February 8, 2019
The story starts promisingly enough. On one hand there’s handsome and cultivated Cal, a fortyish escort and a loner with no wish to connect with his emotional life. On the other hand, we have twenty-something Owen, brilliant data scientist with a slight daddy complex, who’s just managed to end an unwholesome relationship with an abusive/manipulative ex. When Owen arrives in fictional Atlas City to start a new career and a new life, he hires Cal for a cosy evening of snuggling. This first encounter comes as a welcome surprise for both of them: Owen, endearingly naive and kind, doesn’t treat Cal like just a piece of meat. Cal for his part shows Owen how to make the best of his personal assets. As expected, one thing leads to another, Owen falling for Cal, Cal falling for Owen, and the plot unravels at a nice and steady pace till the happily ever after.
Promising indeed. Alas, the book doesn’t live up to its full potential, despite the lovely character developments of Owen and Cal, both of whom I liked on the spot, and despite the obvious chemistry between them. There are three points I think should and could have been avoided. First, in parts there’s a bit too much telling going on when I would have preferred to be shown. Some emotions and thought processes therefore felt a bit lifeless. Second, some parts are a tad overwritten, others a bit too colloquial. But the last point is the most disconcerting one because it touches the plausibility of the whole story. How many escorts (or prostitutes, for that matter, because that’s what Cal basically is—no too much escorting in his job) really choose their job not because they need to earn a living but because they like it? How many of them only deal with handsome and hot clients? Where in real life does one encounter so many genuinely nice, kind, warm-hearted people going out of their way to help and support you, be they mayors, CEOs, co-workers? Even the thug who tries to rob Owen and Cal at gun-point is essentially a nice guy. Atlas City and its inhabitants seem to have sprung out of a fairy tale. In several scenes there’s potential for conflict and therefore for gripping developments, but as soon as one conflict springs up, an immediate solution is found that makes the whole thing feel anticlimactic.
On the positive side, the middle part where Owen and Cal get to know each other little by little is sweet and had me hooked. And something that could strike as being odd in a novel about a hooker gets a huge thumps-up from me: there’s no sex involved between Owen and Cal almost until the end! If you expect steaminess, there’s none. But Amanda Meuwissen shows that gays don’t necessarily shag first and build an emotional bond afterwards, almost as an afterthought, as popular belief would have it. This and the nice character development of both protagonists made this an overall enjoyable read despite the quibbles mentioned above.
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been originally posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
Promising indeed. Alas, the book doesn’t live up to its full potential, despite the lovely character developments of Owen and Cal, both of whom I liked on the spot, and despite the obvious chemistry between them. There are three points I think should and could have been avoided. First, in parts there’s a bit too much telling going on when I would have preferred to be shown. Some emotions and thought processes therefore felt a bit lifeless. Second, some parts are a tad overwritten, others a bit too colloquial. But the last point is the most disconcerting one because it touches the plausibility of the whole story. How many escorts (or prostitutes, for that matter, because that’s what Cal basically is—no too much escorting in his job) really choose their job not because they need to earn a living but because they like it? How many of them only deal with handsome and hot clients? Where in real life does one encounter so many genuinely nice, kind, warm-hearted people going out of their way to help and support you, be they mayors, CEOs, co-workers? Even the thug who tries to rob Owen and Cal at gun-point is essentially a nice guy. Atlas City and its inhabitants seem to have sprung out of a fairy tale. In several scenes there’s potential for conflict and therefore for gripping developments, but as soon as one conflict springs up, an immediate solution is found that makes the whole thing feel anticlimactic.
On the positive side, the middle part where Owen and Cal get to know each other little by little is sweet and had me hooked. And something that could strike as being odd in a novel about a hooker gets a huge thumps-up from me: there’s no sex involved between Owen and Cal almost until the end! If you expect steaminess, there’s none. But Amanda Meuwissen shows that gays don’t necessarily shag first and build an emotional bond afterwards, almost as an afterthought, as popular belief would have it. This and the nice character development of both protagonists made this an overall enjoyable read despite the quibbles mentioned above.
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been originally posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
March 12, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review
4.5 stars
After leaving an emotionally abusive relationship where his partner, Harrison, not only made Owen doubt his self worth, but also used Owen’s brilliance to further his own career, Owen is ready to start fresh in a new city where he is valued for his work. As the innovator behind predictive modeling software being implemented in the city’s police force, as well as potentially in other tech and health services, Owen is looking forward to immersing himself in his job. However, moving three hundred miles from his family, friends, and support system coupled with the mental damage he is still processing from his relationship leaves him feeling uncertain and anxious.
Fortunately for Owen, his sister knows him well and has vetted an escort service to help him ease into the social requirements of his job and mitigate the anxiety he feels about forming new relationships. Though hesitant, Owen realizes that by hiring a companion instead of dating, he can avoid the expectations of sex and get the simple human contact he so desperately craves. Although Cal usually avoids having regular clients who only want companionship, he is charmed by Owen after their first meeting and decides that taking Cal on as a client may help counter the unsettling sense of monotony he has been feeling. However, as Cal and Owen spend time together and Cal’s emotions become involved, he begins to worry that their arrangement may do more harm than good to Owen’s mental health and reputation, but that being together in any other capacity may be impossible.
A Model Escort is a lovely story and a breath of fresh air for several reasons. For me, the siblings and friends are so wonderful—engaging, supportive, and helpful, but without that unfortunately common trope of being pushy and overbearing. Amanda Meuwissen does an excellent job creating secondary characters that encourage and nudge the MCs out of their comfort zones without being raging jerks about it. While I recognize that this may not be important to some readers, it definitely struck a chord with me, as I am beyond done with “loving” bffs/family who only seem capable of shouting and tromping on the MCs feelings to show “support.” So, having a cast of caring secondary characters that respect who the MCs are and don’t run roughshod over them to get them to change definitely factored into my enjoyment of the story.
Additionally, I liked that Owen hires an escort just to snuggle with him, to have someone focus on his needs and hold him at night. Between Owen’s atypical needs and Cal being interested in taking on Owen as a client because of the similarities in their profiles, Owen and Cal’s relationship reads more like the HEA people want from online dating. Owen and Cal become friends, fostered by Cal’s inherent ability to see what his clients’ need, which helps him guide Owen in directions that help him gain confidence, and find healthy outlets for his pain and with his general social anxiety and shyness.
Owen is adorable (as is the call sign Cal gives him), sweet, and stronger than he believes. I enjoyed watching him come into his own. While Cal is worldly and sophisticated, he’s also principled, compassionate, and multi-faceted. While Owen is the character whose needs are most obvious, I enjoyed how Owen brought something unexpected and needed into Cal’s life as well. The writing is well done, flows, and doesn’t rely heavily on common tropes/plot devices to create angst or tension. It gives a natural development to the MCs’ personal progression, as well as the story line. I particularly think Meuwissen does a great job dealing with Owen’s anxiety and trauma. It takes him time and effort to combat his fears and to be better at believing in himself. Even when the ex makes his inevitable reappearance in Owen’s life, I think how Harrison and Owen interact and Owen’s emotions are true to life and the character and create an organic sense of uncertainty and tension in the story after this point.
As this is a Dreamspun Desires title, there are elements that may come across as too fairytale-esque for some readers, especially in regards to a certain event towards the end and how it is handled, but it fits with the line of books and, for me, is actually another refreshing subversion of expectations when it comes to labeling people by one action. Fair warning, since Cal is an escort, there may be an expectation of eventual steamy sex, but that is not the case. While there is a sex scene, it is short, sweet, and simple, and very true to the story. I found A Model Escort charming and delightful, a well-written and well-paced Dreamspun book that is not overfly fluffy and has fully-realized, interesting characters I rooted for and who earn their HEA.
4.5 stars
After leaving an emotionally abusive relationship where his partner, Harrison, not only made Owen doubt his self worth, but also used Owen’s brilliance to further his own career, Owen is ready to start fresh in a new city where he is valued for his work. As the innovator behind predictive modeling software being implemented in the city’s police force, as well as potentially in other tech and health services, Owen is looking forward to immersing himself in his job. However, moving three hundred miles from his family, friends, and support system coupled with the mental damage he is still processing from his relationship leaves him feeling uncertain and anxious.
Fortunately for Owen, his sister knows him well and has vetted an escort service to help him ease into the social requirements of his job and mitigate the anxiety he feels about forming new relationships. Though hesitant, Owen realizes that by hiring a companion instead of dating, he can avoid the expectations of sex and get the simple human contact he so desperately craves. Although Cal usually avoids having regular clients who only want companionship, he is charmed by Owen after their first meeting and decides that taking Cal on as a client may help counter the unsettling sense of monotony he has been feeling. However, as Cal and Owen spend time together and Cal’s emotions become involved, he begins to worry that their arrangement may do more harm than good to Owen’s mental health and reputation, but that being together in any other capacity may be impossible.
A Model Escort is a lovely story and a breath of fresh air for several reasons. For me, the siblings and friends are so wonderful—engaging, supportive, and helpful, but without that unfortunately common trope of being pushy and overbearing. Amanda Meuwissen does an excellent job creating secondary characters that encourage and nudge the MCs out of their comfort zones without being raging jerks about it. While I recognize that this may not be important to some readers, it definitely struck a chord with me, as I am beyond done with “loving” bffs/family who only seem capable of shouting and tromping on the MCs feelings to show “support.” So, having a cast of caring secondary characters that respect who the MCs are and don’t run roughshod over them to get them to change definitely factored into my enjoyment of the story.
Additionally, I liked that Owen hires an escort just to snuggle with him, to have someone focus on his needs and hold him at night. Between Owen’s atypical needs and Cal being interested in taking on Owen as a client because of the similarities in their profiles, Owen and Cal’s relationship reads more like the HEA people want from online dating. Owen and Cal become friends, fostered by Cal’s inherent ability to see what his clients’ need, which helps him guide Owen in directions that help him gain confidence, and find healthy outlets for his pain and with his general social anxiety and shyness.
Owen is adorable (as is the call sign Cal gives him), sweet, and stronger than he believes. I enjoyed watching him come into his own. While Cal is worldly and sophisticated, he’s also principled, compassionate, and multi-faceted. While Owen is the character whose needs are most obvious, I enjoyed how Owen brought something unexpected and needed into Cal’s life as well. The writing is well done, flows, and doesn’t rely heavily on common tropes/plot devices to create angst or tension. It gives a natural development to the MCs’ personal progression, as well as the story line. I particularly think Meuwissen does a great job dealing with Owen’s anxiety and trauma. It takes him time and effort to combat his fears and to be better at believing in himself. Even when the ex makes his inevitable reappearance in Owen’s life, I think how Harrison and Owen interact and Owen’s emotions are true to life and the character and create an organic sense of uncertainty and tension in the story after this point.
As this is a Dreamspun Desires title, there are elements that may come across as too fairytale-esque for some readers, especially in regards to a certain event towards the end and how it is handled, but it fits with the line of books and, for me, is actually another refreshing subversion of expectations when it comes to labeling people by one action. Fair warning, since Cal is an escort, there may be an expectation of eventual steamy sex, but that is not the case. While there is a sex scene, it is short, sweet, and simple, and very true to the story. I found A Model Escort charming and delightful, a well-written and well-paced Dreamspun book that is not overfly fluffy and has fully-realized, interesting characters I rooted for and who earn their HEA.
March 6, 2019
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this story! This was a first time author for me and it was a well-written story with good pacing. I adore a little bit of a nerdy and a blushing MC, and Owen was just that. He was so genuine and easy to connect to and like. Cal was kind and I love how he was with Owen. He was understanding and selfless and it made me want them to get their HEA.
There was great character development with both MCs, especially Owen. It was lovely to see him come out of his shell and really stick up for himself. He still kept his sweet and quirky side that I loved but he really blossomed throughout the story.
There was just enough angst to keep things interesting and I was eager to see how things played out. There are not really any explicit sexy times between Cal and Owen but the connection between them was perfect for me. I definitely wouldn't mind getting a short or a holiday story in the future of these guys... wink wink!!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
I really enjoyed this story! This was a first time author for me and it was a well-written story with good pacing. I adore a little bit of a nerdy and a blushing MC, and Owen was just that. He was so genuine and easy to connect to and like. Cal was kind and I love how he was with Owen. He was understanding and selfless and it made me want them to get their HEA.
There was great character development with both MCs, especially Owen. It was lovely to see him come out of his shell and really stick up for himself. He still kept his sweet and quirky side that I loved but he really blossomed throughout the story.
There was just enough angst to keep things interesting and I was eager to see how things played out. There are not really any explicit sexy times between Cal and Owen but the connection between them was perfect for me. I definitely wouldn't mind getting a short or a holiday story in the future of these guys... wink wink!!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
April 2, 2019
3.5 Stars
This is a really nice slow burn romance which is really special with an escort hero.
Both Cal and Owen struggle to communicate and paired with their pasts there is a fair bit of angst.
Cal does continue his work as an escort though not after he and Owen become sexual.
The tenderness between our heroes is lovely and the exploration of the impact abuse.
The burn is a little too slow for me as I would like more time with them really together and the drama to be mellower.
A good read.
This is a really nice slow burn romance which is really special with an escort hero.
Both Cal and Owen struggle to communicate and paired with their pasts there is a fair bit of angst.
Cal does continue his work as an escort though not after he and Owen become sexual.
The tenderness between our heroes is lovely and the exploration of the impact abuse.
The burn is a little too slow for me as I would like more time with them really together and the drama to be mellower.
A good read.
March 1, 2020
This is one of the best that I have read in this line. Its an unlikely set-up but it works, with both MCs open-minded. Whilst there are a few areas for each MC to address and grow, they work seamlessly together.
I'd definitely try this author again.
I'd definitely try this author again.
July 29, 2019
2.5 stars This was all right, if a bit cheesy at times. I dunno, it just dragged a bit near the end and I kinda lost interest. Meant to get back to it but finally throwing in the towel.
January 11, 2020
4.5 stars
August 26, 2020
I try my very best not to sound like a broken record when reviewing books but in this case, I can’t help it. Amanda Meuwissen is wonderful at bringing damaged characters to life in her novels, and I appreciate her ability to do so. Characters who are suffering, or who have suffered in the past, are some of my favorites. I can’t express how much I truly enjoy reading about broken characters finding a well deserved happily ever after. What could be better than that? Two abused men finding their happily ever after together.
Owen Quinn is a brilliant man who found himself in an incredibly abusive relationship. That touched my heart the most since I was able to connect with him thanks to my abusive ex. I know what it’s like being that person. So, I really wanted to hug the crap out of Owen. I was proud of him for wanting to make something out of his life after suffering the way he did. Unfortunately, Owen is the brainy sort of guy that hasn’t a clue when it comes to romance. He's shy, socially awkward, and I love that nerdy guy.
Coming from an abusive relationship and adding his lack of knowledge when it comes to picking boyfriends, he was bound to have a hard time. How do you approach a stranger and put yourself out there when you don’t have to confidence? How do you put yourself out there when you’re looking for a connection and companionship without sex playing a part? Well, just ask Owen’s sister, Alyssa. Her solution for Owen’s woes? Get an escort, of course!
Enter Cal Mercer, an escort who loves what he does. He’s an interesting person with so much personality. You can tell right away that Cal knows what he does and doesn’t want. He wants to enjoy life without the mess of changing things up. As a high-end escort with the ability to pick and choose his clients, he’s in control of his life. That’s important to Cal as someone who suffered at the hands of others as a child.
For these two men, everything starts as a transaction. Owen wants someone in his life without expectation, someone to hold him and spend time with him. Cal feels a connection with Owen because of their shared abusive pasts. A job becomes so much more for both of them. They understand each other. Their love grows over time. There is nothing rushed or sudden about the development of their relationship.
This is a sweet, slow-burn novel with characters who touch your heart. You can feel the pain they’ve experienced. You can feel the hurt they’ve suffered on account of how people treated them. But, you also experience the budding connection between Owen and Cal. In Model Escort, the reader gets to see how both men help one another. From the sweet way Cal helps to build up Owen’s confidence to Owen showing Cal the loving connection he never knew he needed.
I honestly loved this book, so much. The characters were relatable, fairly believable, and easy to love. I think anyone who enjoys romances with an age-gap, love stories that develop slowly and sweet characters will like this book. Amanda Meuwissen is quickly becoming a favorite of mine when it comes to stories that grab the heart.
I highly recommend this book!
Owen Quinn is a brilliant man who found himself in an incredibly abusive relationship. That touched my heart the most since I was able to connect with him thanks to my abusive ex. I know what it’s like being that person. So, I really wanted to hug the crap out of Owen. I was proud of him for wanting to make something out of his life after suffering the way he did. Unfortunately, Owen is the brainy sort of guy that hasn’t a clue when it comes to romance. He's shy, socially awkward, and I love that nerdy guy.
Coming from an abusive relationship and adding his lack of knowledge when it comes to picking boyfriends, he was bound to have a hard time. How do you approach a stranger and put yourself out there when you don’t have to confidence? How do you put yourself out there when you’re looking for a connection and companionship without sex playing a part? Well, just ask Owen’s sister, Alyssa. Her solution for Owen’s woes? Get an escort, of course!
Enter Cal Mercer, an escort who loves what he does. He’s an interesting person with so much personality. You can tell right away that Cal knows what he does and doesn’t want. He wants to enjoy life without the mess of changing things up. As a high-end escort with the ability to pick and choose his clients, he’s in control of his life. That’s important to Cal as someone who suffered at the hands of others as a child.
For these two men, everything starts as a transaction. Owen wants someone in his life without expectation, someone to hold him and spend time with him. Cal feels a connection with Owen because of their shared abusive pasts. A job becomes so much more for both of them. They understand each other. Their love grows over time. There is nothing rushed or sudden about the development of their relationship.
This is a sweet, slow-burn novel with characters who touch your heart. You can feel the pain they’ve experienced. You can feel the hurt they’ve suffered on account of how people treated them. But, you also experience the budding connection between Owen and Cal. In Model Escort, the reader gets to see how both men help one another. From the sweet way Cal helps to build up Owen’s confidence to Owen showing Cal the loving connection he never knew he needed.
I honestly loved this book, so much. The characters were relatable, fairly believable, and easy to love. I think anyone who enjoys romances with an age-gap, love stories that develop slowly and sweet characters will like this book. Amanda Meuwissen is quickly becoming a favorite of mine when it comes to stories that grab the heart.
I highly recommend this book!
August 24, 2020
4.5 Stars
This book was completely different from the first book I’ve read by this author, Public Enemy, Undercover Lover, but I don’t dislike it. It shows range and depth and other fancy words. It’s also on opposite sides of Heat Level. I would give this book a heat level of 2, and the aforementioned book a 10+. This book was a 10+ level of romantic and sweet, though. There is a large group of people who prefer lesser heat level, and fewer details in sex scenes. If you’re a member of this group, this book is right up your alley. While I tend to prefer a higher hear level, I don’t base my judgment on that factor. This book delivered in every other way.
The writing was incredible, allowing the flow of the storyline to be smooth and captivating. I started the book at 10 pm and read until I couldn’t keep my eyelids open. I am easily distracted, especially after being in quarantine for 5 months, but this story captured my attention, and the characters were likable (sans two) and easy to become attached to.
Owen was absolutely adorable. I’m a sucker for nerds. The more awkward they are, the more adorable I find them. Owen was trying to start anew, after getting out of an abusive relationship. He’s come a long way, but he still struggles in several areas. There’s no way he’s ready for a relationship, and his sister knows him better than anyone. So she slips him a business card for an escort service, knowing he may need someone on his arm for upcoming social events. Wanting to avoid certain conversations and questions, he decides to follow her suggestion.
Cal loves his job as an escort. He’s confident and proud of the man he is. He’s intrigued by Owen from the moment he reads the initial request. He finds himself captivated by the young man, which is surprising to him. He also discovers they have some things in common that he wishes they didn’t. I liked Cal’s character and how he was with Owen. Their love story is a slow burn, but with everything Owen is going through, it just makes sense. It gives it more of a realistic feeling. Otherwise, I’d find the slow burn extremely frustrating.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read that left me with a smile on my face. I’m looking forward to reading more by this author.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement. ***
This book was completely different from the first book I’ve read by this author, Public Enemy, Undercover Lover, but I don’t dislike it. It shows range and depth and other fancy words. It’s also on opposite sides of Heat Level. I would give this book a heat level of 2, and the aforementioned book a 10+. This book was a 10+ level of romantic and sweet, though. There is a large group of people who prefer lesser heat level, and fewer details in sex scenes. If you’re a member of this group, this book is right up your alley. While I tend to prefer a higher hear level, I don’t base my judgment on that factor. This book delivered in every other way.
The writing was incredible, allowing the flow of the storyline to be smooth and captivating. I started the book at 10 pm and read until I couldn’t keep my eyelids open. I am easily distracted, especially after being in quarantine for 5 months, but this story captured my attention, and the characters were likable (sans two) and easy to become attached to.
Owen was absolutely adorable. I’m a sucker for nerds. The more awkward they are, the more adorable I find them. Owen was trying to start anew, after getting out of an abusive relationship. He’s come a long way, but he still struggles in several areas. There’s no way he’s ready for a relationship, and his sister knows him better than anyone. So she slips him a business card for an escort service, knowing he may need someone on his arm for upcoming social events. Wanting to avoid certain conversations and questions, he decides to follow her suggestion.
Cal loves his job as an escort. He’s confident and proud of the man he is. He’s intrigued by Owen from the moment he reads the initial request. He finds himself captivated by the young man, which is surprising to him. He also discovers they have some things in common that he wishes they didn’t. I liked Cal’s character and how he was with Owen. Their love story is a slow burn, but with everything Owen is going through, it just makes sense. It gives it more of a realistic feeling. Otherwise, I’d find the slow burn extremely frustrating.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read that left me with a smile on my face. I’m looking forward to reading more by this author.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement. ***
Read
January 22, 2024Owen Quinn, milieu de vingtaine, vient de trouver le courage de mettre un terme à une relation toxique avec un homme qui l'a manipulé et qui a récolté les fruits de son intelligence. Il est prêt à commencer un nouveau chapitre de sa vie mais s'il arrive à se débrouiller au niveau professionnel, cumulant une super opportunité avec le maire de la ville et des collaborations avec deux des entreprises high tech du coin, c'est un handicapé des relations sociales.
Cal Mercer, milieu de trentaine, est un des piliers de Nick of Time, l'une des entreprises d'escort de la ville. Sélectif, exigeant, il assume totalement son métier et la vie qu'il a choisie.
Owen, en manque de contacts humains, se décide à faire appel à Nick of Time et sélectionne Cal... qui accepte ce nouveau client, lui qui d'habitude les refuse.
Et ça matche entre les deux. Ca matche même plutôt bien... tellement bien qu'Owen fait de plus en plus appel à Cal, qui accepte de passer de plus en plus de temps avec Owen, entre chargé des relations publiques, coach relooking, soirées cocooning devant un bon film et câlins réconfortants.
Mais le passé des deux hommes va venir se rappeler à eux alors même qu'ils sont en train de s'avouer à eux mêmes qu'ils veulent plus qu'une simple relation tarifée...
Une histoire assez mignonne, bien que plutôt prévisible, entre deux hommes attachants. La romance est finalement assez douce, la relation se construit doucement, les personnages secondaires manquent sans doute un peu de profondeur et de travail, mais la lumière est mise sur la relation des deux hommes et on suit leur histoire avec plaisir, les thèmes qui pourraient être un peu lourds sont finalement traités de façon assez légère.
Bref, une romance agréable avec Owen et Cal et la découverte d'une plume plutôt douce, une traduction de qualité, de quoi passer un moment tendresse et doux, toujours bon à prendre.
Cal Mercer, milieu de trentaine, est un des piliers de Nick of Time, l'une des entreprises d'escort de la ville. Sélectif, exigeant, il assume totalement son métier et la vie qu'il a choisie.
Owen, en manque de contacts humains, se décide à faire appel à Nick of Time et sélectionne Cal... qui accepte ce nouveau client, lui qui d'habitude les refuse.
Et ça matche entre les deux. Ca matche même plutôt bien... tellement bien qu'Owen fait de plus en plus appel à Cal, qui accepte de passer de plus en plus de temps avec Owen, entre chargé des relations publiques, coach relooking, soirées cocooning devant un bon film et câlins réconfortants.
Mais le passé des deux hommes va venir se rappeler à eux alors même qu'ils sont en train de s'avouer à eux mêmes qu'ils veulent plus qu'une simple relation tarifée...
Une histoire assez mignonne, bien que plutôt prévisible, entre deux hommes attachants. La romance est finalement assez douce, la relation se construit doucement, les personnages secondaires manquent sans doute un peu de profondeur et de travail, mais la lumière est mise sur la relation des deux hommes et on suit leur histoire avec plaisir, les thèmes qui pourraient être un peu lourds sont finalement traités de façon assez légère.
Bref, une romance agréable avec Owen et Cal et la découverte d'une plume plutôt douce, une traduction de qualité, de quoi passer un moment tendresse et doux, toujours bon à prendre.
July 26, 2020
This was a great slow burn. It was driving me crazy the wait for them to openly fall in love with each other. I absolutely loved Cal and the way he went out of his way to help Owen fell whole and loved. The interaction between them was funny and oh so cute.
The past issues they both had made them a bit closed off but the time spent together helped them understand that not everyone will leave.
I stared this and finished it in one sitting. It was heartbreaking, funny, cute and filled with enough feels that I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
The past issues they both had made them a bit closed off but the time spent together helped them understand that not everyone will leave.
I stared this and finished it in one sitting. It was heartbreaking, funny, cute and filled with enough feels that I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
August 22, 2020
Owen had been abused in the past. He had decided to move to start over. He seemed a little broken to me, he did not want to be alone. Cal was a higher end escort and got to pick who he wanted. I do not think he was excepting Owen. I really enjoyed this story, it was super angsty and had a hurt/comfort, age/gap, and friends to lover’s story line. Definitely a slow burn. I am voluntarily leaving a review form an ARC that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
August 22, 2020
A Model Escort is sweet and sexy. Age gap is hit or miss for me, and this was definitely a hit! You'll find yourself getting really attached to Owen and Cal as the story progresses, and you really only want to see them happy and together by the end. Although this follows some popular tropes, Meuwissen manages to put her own unique and enjoyable twist on them. A great read on a lazy afternoon.
July 3, 2020
Good job! These two were meant to be together. Once again, Amanda has taken a rough subject and turned into a positive. Cal and Owen trusted each other, and it planned out. Owen learned his own strength.
Very satisfying story. Good job, Amanda!
Very satisfying story. Good job, Amanda!
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