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Companion Required
Successful CEO Kennedy Grey thought he had his life planned out nicely—until he hired supposedly straight Kieran West as this year’s holiday companion.
For the past five years, CEO Kennedy Grey has advertised for a gay male holiday companion to join him on his single annual break. Although Kennedy claims to be neutral in his choice, he has certain non-negotiable requirements. Applicants must be between twenty-one and twenty-five, non-smoking, social drinkers, either versatile or passive, and be able to pull off the role of dutiful boyfriend in front of his clutch of gay friends. What does the candidate get out of the deal? An all-expenses-paid holiday and five grand in cash at the end, more if the candidate exceeds his expectations—a safe enough addendum, because for the past three years no one ever has.
Kieran West sits in a quiet corner of the coffee shop, trying to finish an assignment. At twenty-nine, he is single once again. By now he should have settled down. But when his girlfriend of three years gives him an ultimatum—ring or road—he chooses the road. Worst of all, he has no qualms about doing so. As for his finances? Saddled with a string of outstanding student loans, he is struggling to finish his master’s while also supporting his brother through university. Losing his work at the estate agents’ could not have come at a worse time. Then he overhears the man at a nearby table recruiting for a job that pays a cool five grand. What does he have to lose?
Word 66,557
For the past five years, CEO Kennedy Grey has advertised for a gay male holiday companion to join him on his single annual break. Although Kennedy claims to be neutral in his choice, he has certain non-negotiable requirements. Applicants must be between twenty-one and twenty-five, non-smoking, social drinkers, either versatile or passive, and be able to pull off the role of dutiful boyfriend in front of his clutch of gay friends. What does the candidate get out of the deal? An all-expenses-paid holiday and five grand in cash at the end, more if the candidate exceeds his expectations—a safe enough addendum, because for the past three years no one ever has.
Kieran West sits in a quiet corner of the coffee shop, trying to finish an assignment. At twenty-nine, he is single once again. By now he should have settled down. But when his girlfriend of three years gives him an ultimatum—ring or road—he chooses the road. Worst of all, he has no qualms about doing so. As for his finances? Saddled with a string of outstanding student loans, he is struggling to finish his master’s while also supporting his brother through university. Losing his work at the estate agents’ could not have come at a worse time. Then he overhears the man at a nearby table recruiting for a job that pays a cool five grand. What does he have to lose?
Word 66,557
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 17, 2020
111 people are currently reading
418 people want to read
About the author
Brian Lancaster
8 books75 followersBRIAN LANCASTER is an author of gay romantic fiction in multiple genres, including contemporary romance, paranormal, fantasy, crime, mystery, and anything else that tickles his muse’’s fancy.
Born in the sleepy South of England where most of his stories are set, he lived in Southeast Asia from 1998 until 2022. He returned to the rural south of the UK in 2022, where he shares a home with his husband and two of the laziest cats on the planet.
Brian loves to hear from readers. You can find his contact information, website details and author profile page at https://www.pride-publishing.com
Born in the sleepy South of England where most of his stories are set, he lived in Southeast Asia from 1998 until 2022. He returned to the rural south of the UK in 2022, where he shares a home with his husband and two of the laziest cats on the planet.
Brian loves to hear from readers. You can find his contact information, website details and author profile page at https://www.pride-publishing.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 226 reviews
January 25, 2024
The first part of the book is fabulous. After 70% took a little nosedive but still very enjoyable.
February 13, 2022
DNF at 25%
I went into this expecting a fun fake boyfriend type plot, and I got…something. A whole lot of questions. This felt like at least two different plots smashed together with no connection. Maybe they connect eventually, but I’m not hanging around to find out.
The fake boyfriend plot:
Boy I had a lot of questions about this.
He hires a fake boyfriend (escort?) for his vacation every year. Every year a different one. Doesn’t he realize that this really does just look like he’s hiring an actual escort for vacation? If these dudes are never seen again after vacation? What’s even the point?
They spent a lot of time on moneyMC’s family in exhaustive detail to prepare fakeMC for his fake boyfriend role…but forgot to come up with their background story. Priorities! Also I was bored to tears by the family and friends history pages, I don’t know these people so it is all meaningless noise and I promptly forgot it all.
Ultimately this ended up being loads of inane detail, and no connection building between the characters to get that lovely fake-boyfriend real-feelings tension. There was barely any faking required by the time I abandoned ship. Booooooring
The ….corporate politics/drama plot(?)
I mean…what. What even was this.
other things:
You have the freedom to name your characters whatever you want, why stress out my singular brain cell by giving them both names that start with K?? nooooo
Was this 50sog fic at one point? The dude’s name is Grey, and he’s a billionaire or whatever. Like…really.
so many side characters. calm the fuck down.
Overall, I was just so confused. Lost. Kind of bored.
I went into this expecting a fun fake boyfriend type plot, and I got…something. A whole lot of questions. This felt like at least two different plots smashed together with no connection. Maybe they connect eventually, but I’m not hanging around to find out.
The fake boyfriend plot:
Boy I had a lot of questions about this.
He hires a fake boyfriend (escort?) for his vacation every year. Every year a different one. Doesn’t he realize that this really does just look like he’s hiring an actual escort for vacation? If these dudes are never seen again after vacation? What’s even the point?
They spent a lot of time on moneyMC’s family in exhaustive detail to prepare fakeMC for his fake boyfriend role…but forgot to come up with their background story. Priorities! Also I was bored to tears by the family and friends history pages, I don’t know these people so it is all meaningless noise and I promptly forgot it all.
Ultimately this ended up being loads of inane detail, and no connection building between the characters to get that lovely fake-boyfriend real-feelings tension. There was barely any faking required by the time I abandoned ship. Booooooring
The ….corporate politics/drama plot(?)
I mean…what. What even was this.
other things:
You have the freedom to name your characters whatever you want, why stress out my singular brain cell by giving them both names that start with K?? nooooo
Was this 50sog fic at one point? The dude’s name is Grey, and he’s a billionaire or whatever. Like…really.
so many side characters. calm the fuck down.
Overall, I was just so confused. Lost. Kind of bored.
January 30, 2022
I was excited to read this, as I love a good fake relationship. Initially, it seemed really on track for Kieran to break down the seemingly cold-hearted Kennedy's barriers. The descriptions of the locales were lovely and the author either has first-hand knowledge of the places or is just that good. However, a lot of things just didn't add up for me in the end. I think, ultimately, there were a few too many plot points that didn't mesh well with the others. They would seem plausible...and then would not. For instance:
This gets 2 stars and that's because I was compelled enough to finish it, and the descriptions of the cruise and the foreign destinations were lovely.
This gets 2 stars and that's because I was compelled enough to finish it, and the descriptions of the cruise and the foreign destinations were lovely.
November 23, 2020
This was just what I needed, a cute guy romance with only a bit of drama and plenty of cute moments. Kennedy is looking for a companion to travel with him on vacation for a month. Kieran desperately needs money and convinces Kennedy to take him, even though Kieran isn't gay, or is he?
Kieran is the sweetest, most charming guy and I loved him from the beginning. He can get along with anyone and he got under Kennedy's skin and made him open his heart again. I thought the men fit well together, each brought something to the relationship that made them stronger. Every time Kieran made Kennedy happy, I had to smile and when Kennedy helped Kieran realize what he wanted, I cheered.
The plot wasn't too drama filled, Kennedy is smart and cunning and wasn't going to be taken by surprise. There are some relationship ups and downs, but that makes the story interesting. I also thought the ending was great and wrapped up well.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kieran is the sweetest, most charming guy and I loved him from the beginning. He can get along with anyone and he got under Kennedy's skin and made him open his heart again. I thought the men fit well together, each brought something to the relationship that made them stronger. Every time Kieran made Kennedy happy, I had to smile and when Kennedy helped Kieran realize what he wanted, I cheered.
The plot wasn't too drama filled, Kennedy is smart and cunning and wasn't going to be taken by surprise. There are some relationship ups and downs, but that makes the story interesting. I also thought the ending was great and wrapped up well.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 5, 2020
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Don't you just LOVE an easy read from time to time? I don't mean this in a negative way, at all, but this book was a delightful read, and I really enjoyed it!
Kennedy hires Kieran to go on his yearly, 4 week holiday. Kieran needs the money but Kieran is way out of Kennedy's usual type bracket. And straight. It's just 4 weeks, right? What can happen in 4 weeks?
A LOT as it turns out!
I loved how things moved along between Kennedy and Kieran, at a steady and even pace. I loved how Kieran didn't question *too* much his feelings for Kennedy as they began to develop. I loved the snippiness between Kennedy and his ex, who turns up on the crusie, but I LOVED how that all worked itself out!
The emotional development moves along at a steady pace, but the physical one? Once Kieran decides he wants Kennedy in that way, he's off and takes every opportunity to learn from Kennedy.
It's hawt and heavy in places, but sweet and sexy in others. Emotions for both of them all over the place!
Both guys have a say, so we get all of Kennedy's hesitation at hiring Kieran and all of Kieran's determination to be himself with everyone, while fighting the attraction he feels for Kennedy.
Not a complicated or difficult plot line, but one well delivered and well written.
I read another book by this author and didn't much like it, but this one was so very good.
4 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Don't you just LOVE an easy read from time to time? I don't mean this in a negative way, at all, but this book was a delightful read, and I really enjoyed it!
Kennedy hires Kieran to go on his yearly, 4 week holiday. Kieran needs the money but Kieran is way out of Kennedy's usual type bracket. And straight. It's just 4 weeks, right? What can happen in 4 weeks?
A LOT as it turns out!
I loved how things moved along between Kennedy and Kieran, at a steady and even pace. I loved how Kieran didn't question *too* much his feelings for Kennedy as they began to develop. I loved the snippiness between Kennedy and his ex, who turns up on the crusie, but I LOVED how that all worked itself out!
The emotional development moves along at a steady pace, but the physical one? Once Kieran decides he wants Kennedy in that way, he's off and takes every opportunity to learn from Kennedy.
It's hawt and heavy in places, but sweet and sexy in others. Emotions for both of them all over the place!
Both guys have a say, so we get all of Kennedy's hesitation at hiring Kieran and all of Kieran's determination to be himself with everyone, while fighting the attraction he feels for Kennedy.
Not a complicated or difficult plot line, but one well delivered and well written.
I read another book by this author and didn't much like it, but this one was so very good.
4 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
November 12, 2020
ARC review / Book releases on November 17 , 2020
Kieran and Kennedy
I enjoyed uncomplicated , sweet , low angst, very little drama , high on sexually descriptive intimate times , GFY romance.
I loved how vividly and detailed the author described the many different countries where the story takes place. Bali , Singapore , Hong Kong , London I felt I was right there with the characters .
Kieran and Kennedy
I enjoyed uncomplicated , sweet , low angst, very little drama , high on sexually descriptive intimate times , GFY romance.
I loved how vividly and detailed the author described the many different countries where the story takes place. Bali , Singapore , Hong Kong , London I felt I was right there with the characters .
November 15, 2020
I have never read this author before and I loved the premise of the book so I thought I’d give it a try. I’m so glad I did! I loved this book. The easy chemistry between Kennedy and Kieran was wonderful. I loved both characters.
What started out as a Kieran being hired as a companion for Kennedy on vacation, turned into so much more. It was a very well rounded story with fabulous secondary characters that really enriched the story.
Kennedy and Kieran were destined to be. It was romantic and sexy. Highly recommend
What started out as a Kieran being hired as a companion for Kennedy on vacation, turned into so much more. It was a very well rounded story with fabulous secondary characters that really enriched the story.
Kennedy and Kieran were destined to be. It was romantic and sexy. Highly recommend
June 18, 2021
4.5 stars
October 13, 2023
Feelgood, solid, character-driven romance. Kiran overhears Kennedy interviewing potential travel companions and approaches him. Yes you have to suspend a little disbelief, yes the trip is over the top, but the characters are really well drawn and the book is immersive. I listened to the audiobook and it was well done. One of the epilogues was confusing for me-I didn’t know who the characters were.
November 25, 2020
I see pretend boydriend I click! And this one it's a 3,5 read even though I'm thinking of rounding it up. 🤔🧐
The story started really interesting, it wasn't insta-love wich I adore and it held the idea that one of the main characters was a straight guy for a good time, wich I liked because changes are gradually made, or at least the realization that a change is happening. Of course, the story developed and Kieran feel in love with Kennedy, because how could he not?
My problem with this one was the writing, when it was a narrative it was a LONG narrative and when they were talking it was pure monologs, there wasn't a balance, a lot of the talk felt like rambling, innecesary stuff. There's also the part where there were things happening that I thought was important and didn't get described and also there were moments where I thought some talking would be awesome but that didn't happen either. So it made it difficult to connect to the story sometimes.
Still, it was sweet, I really liked the characters and their relationships, I loved they were mature people falling in love together. I would have liked more drama with the ex but that's my latin side talking At the end, it was a sweet read. 🥰❤
The story started really interesting, it wasn't insta-love wich I adore and it held the idea that one of the main characters was a straight guy for a good time, wich I liked because changes are gradually made, or at least the realization that a change is happening. Of course, the story developed and Kieran feel in love with Kennedy, because how could he not?
My problem with this one was the writing, when it was a narrative it was a LONG narrative and when they were talking it was pure monologs, there wasn't a balance, a lot of the talk felt like rambling, innecesary stuff. There's also the part where there were things happening that I thought was important and didn't get described and also there were moments where I thought some talking would be awesome but that didn't happen either. So it made it difficult to connect to the story sometimes.
Still, it was sweet, I really liked the characters and their relationships, I loved they were mature people falling in love together. I would have liked more drama with the ex but that's my latin side talking At the end, it was a sweet read. 🥰❤
Read
December 6, 2020DNF 60%
I don’t know what went wrong. I’m a sucker for fake-boyfriend tropes and this should’ve been exactly right but I didn’t liked the writing at all. 🤷🏼♀️
I don’t know what went wrong. I’m a sucker for fake-boyfriend tropes and this should’ve been exactly right but I didn’t liked the writing at all. 🤷🏼♀️
December 31, 2020
“Life is what happens to us while we are making other plans.” ― Allen Saunders
‘Companion Required’ is not just an excellent title for this exciting story about two men who have no idea what they really need until they meet, it is also a perfect illustration of the above saying about life and plans. When Kennedy and Kieran first meet, nothing could be further from their minds than love. But soon they proceed to develop respect, friendship, and eventually deeper feelings in a very entertaining and somewhat surprising story that is as perfectly-paced as it is heartwarming.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
‘Companion Required’ is not just an excellent title for this exciting story about two men who have no idea what they really need until they meet, it is also a perfect illustration of the above saying about life and plans. When Kennedy and Kieran first meet, nothing could be further from their minds than love. But soon they proceed to develop respect, friendship, and eventually deeper feelings in a very entertaining and somewhat surprising story that is as perfectly-paced as it is heartwarming.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
November 12, 2020
Kieran and Kennedy, though they started out as a business arrangement, learned quickly that all business is no way to have pleasure. They were so good together. I loved how Kieran was able to make friends with everyone. His personality was perfect. It was fun to watch Kennedy become aware of Kieran’s qualities. Strong friendships make this even better. The story was quite entertaining. The characters were wonderful and the HEA that finally appeared was worth the wait. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
December 22, 2020
Cute enough to pass the time, but I prefer more sexual tension in my slow burns. There were also a few characters who really rode my nerves, and didn’t seem to add much. Some fun and fluff to be had though, and I’d read more from the author.
November 17, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
I’ve recently been on a fake boyfriend kick, and this is the first one that I think I really believed. The set-up isn’t whimsical or cliche; in fact, it’s so very fitting in with Kennedy’s character. Kennedy is not an impulsive man. He’s methodical, patient, driven, and ruthless. It makes perfect sense for him to put out an ad, to write up a contract, and to control every aspect of the fake boyfriend situation. He’s not looking for love, or even a lover. He’s looking for a distraction, something — someone — to keep his friends from feeling sorry for him. To keep Patrick from looking at him as a pathetic old man (even though he’s only 45) who can’t stop living in the past. And it’s not like he’s planning on keeping Kieran locked up in the room the whole time. Instead, he offers him money, encourages him to enjoy the vacation, to see the sights, and to enjoy himself, even if it’s not with Kennedy. Just so long as he’s there for dinners and social events.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
I’ve recently been on a fake boyfriend kick, and this is the first one that I think I really believed. The set-up isn’t whimsical or cliche; in fact, it’s so very fitting in with Kennedy’s character. Kennedy is not an impulsive man. He’s methodical, patient, driven, and ruthless. It makes perfect sense for him to put out an ad, to write up a contract, and to control every aspect of the fake boyfriend situation. He’s not looking for love, or even a lover. He’s looking for a distraction, something — someone — to keep his friends from feeling sorry for him. To keep Patrick from looking at him as a pathetic old man (even though he’s only 45) who can’t stop living in the past. And it’s not like he’s planning on keeping Kieran locked up in the room the whole time. Instead, he offers him money, encourages him to enjoy the vacation, to see the sights, and to enjoy himself, even if it’s not with Kennedy. Just so long as he’s there for dinners and social events.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
November 15, 2020
*** 4.5 ***
There is so much I loved about this book: fake boyfriends becoming more with slow burn and believable relationship development, dual POV and fleshed out realistic MCs, bi-awakening without drama. Interesting secondary characters, satisfying ex-boyfriend resolution, family dynamics that is not what you expect (in a good sense).
At the end we get a glimpse of MCs life in a couple of years (my favorite kind of epilogue) and undoubtful HEA.
I totally recommend this easy no angst engaging book.
I would love to read Len's story and definitely look forward to more books from this author
There is so much I loved about this book: fake boyfriends becoming more with slow burn and believable relationship development, dual POV and fleshed out realistic MCs, bi-awakening without drama. Interesting secondary characters, satisfying ex-boyfriend resolution, family dynamics that is not what you expect (in a good sense).
At the end we get a glimpse of MCs life in a couple of years (my favorite kind of epilogue) and undoubtful HEA.
I totally recommend this easy no angst engaging book.
I would love to read Len's story and definitely look forward to more books from this author
December 6, 2020
Eh... I loved the idea behind this book, but I am really disappointed that so many important moments in Kennedy's and Kieran's relationship happened off-page and were only mentioned in passing - if even that. I feel like I would've liked this book a lot more if the author had taken the time to flesh out their relationship development a little more.
I was gonna give reluctant 3 stars, but since the book got weaker towards the end and the author decided to introduce what felt like a dozen new characters in the epilogue, which left me really confused, I'm only gonna give 2 stars after all.
I was gonna give reluctant 3 stars, but since the book got weaker towards the end and the author decided to introduce what felt like a dozen new characters in the epilogue, which left me really confused, I'm only gonna give 2 stars after all.
October 20, 2020
Kennedy advertises for a gay travelling companion to accompany him on his yearly holiday with friends.
Not gay Keiran applies for the position.
I was interested in this story from the beginning. Kennedy seemed like but shallow and jaded but I had hopes he was going to redeem himself and he did.
I liked how their relationship developed and progressed. They were sweet and sexy together.
I really enjoyed this bi awakening cruise story set mostly in Asia.
4.5 stars
Not gay Keiran applies for the position.
I was interested in this story from the beginning. Kennedy seemed like but shallow and jaded but I had hopes he was going to redeem himself and he did.
I liked how their relationship developed and progressed. They were sweet and sexy together.
I really enjoyed this bi awakening cruise story set mostly in Asia.
4.5 stars
November 13, 2020
I loved the characters, the plot, the travelogue, the romance, and especially the reconciliations.
Discovering who you are is a lifelong process. Sometimes you need to let go of long-held beliefs about yourself and be open to new ides. When you do, you may find yourself living a life you never believed was possible.
Friends, expanding families, and new opportunities about in this sweet romance. Perfect for the upcoming holiday when we might not be able to travel like we'd like.
Discovering who you are is a lifelong process. Sometimes you need to let go of long-held beliefs about yourself and be open to new ides. When you do, you may find yourself living a life you never believed was possible.
Friends, expanding families, and new opportunities about in this sweet romance. Perfect for the upcoming holiday when we might not be able to travel like we'd like.
December 27, 2020
This was not good. I--
Nope. Definitely not as advertised.
Much cringe. Skimmed so fast at the end.
I can't even.
Nope. Definitely not as advertised.
Much cringe. Skimmed so fast at the end.
I can't even.
March 23, 2021
I loved the first part of this book. Loved getting to know Kieran and Kennedy and all the crazy people surrounding them. Kieran is down on his luck, having lost his job and being dumped by his girlfriend. After hearing Kennedy interviewing men for an all paid trip across Asia, he jumps in with both feet and basically forces an interview out of Kennedy. What Kieran doesn't know is that the person traveling with Kennedy is supposed to pose as his gay companion. And Kieran is straight... or so he thinks.
There was a lot telling instead of showing going on. And that made the book drag quite a bit. The steam was out of the roof hot though. And I was rooting for Kieran and Kennedy from the very beginning.
There was a lot telling instead of showing going on. And that made the book drag quite a bit. The steam was out of the roof hot though. And I was rooting for Kieran and Kennedy from the very beginning.
October 19, 2023
Completamente inverosímil y una historia de Ceniciento, con age gap, gay for pay y todos súper buenos, guapos e listisimos. Pero lo que a veces resulta un pastiche aquí, al menos a mi, me funcionó. Pasé un rato realmente ameno, por eso las 4*, para cuando estás en este tipo de mood...
December 31, 2020
This was okay. The relationship happened too fast for my taste, both at the start and end of it. I really didn't enjoy the ending.
A few issues:
• The blurb mentions applicants must be "either versatile or passive", but it doesn't actually say that in the book itself. In fact, Kennedy "made a point of telling any candidate the arrangement would be strictly nonsexual".... which also begs the question of the black jack card.
• With all the names that exist in the world, why give your two MCs 'K' names?
• I never quite understood what all the drama was with Patrick and Richmond. It seems weird to spend 5 years vacationing with your ex with all these unresolved issues.
• I was pretty shocked to see "Eskimos" used by Kennedy. Is this not 2020?
• Pretty presumptuous to assume your housekeeper will want to look after your dog for you. And adopting a dog on a whim isn't cool.
• Also presumptuous to assume Kennedy would want kids, considering what Laurie and Steph told him about being a donor... but apparently that didn't matter in the end.
A few issues:
• The blurb mentions applicants must be "either versatile or passive", but it doesn't actually say that in the book itself. In fact, Kennedy "made a point of telling any candidate the arrangement would be strictly nonsexual".... which also begs the question of the black jack card.
• With all the names that exist in the world, why give your two MCs 'K' names?
• I never quite understood what all the drama was with Patrick and Richmond. It seems weird to spend 5 years vacationing with your ex with all these unresolved issues.
• I was pretty shocked to see "Eskimos" used by Kennedy. Is this not 2020?
• Pretty presumptuous to assume your housekeeper will want to look after your dog for you. And adopting a dog on a whim isn't cool.
• Also presumptuous to assume Kennedy would want kids, considering what Laurie and Steph told him about being a donor... but apparently that didn't matter in the end.
October 20, 2020
I almost gave this book a miss because of a couple of reviews which said that Kieran was a pushover and his sister was awful to him and that the book was like Bridget Jones Diary. I did not find that to be the case at all, so I'm not sure if I read a different book from those people or...
In the beginning, Kieran has just lost his job and has been booted out of his apartment by his ex-girlfriend, so he is bunking on his sister's couch while he tries to get his life back together. I've been there, and after being an independent adult on your own for a long time, to have to rely on the kindness of your family or become homeless makes you really feel bad about yourself, your situation, and your ability to be an adult. I read Kieran's desire to minimize his presence in his sister's life and apartment more as embarrassment about his predicament than as him being a pushover. I'm actually very sure that she probably did not desire him to clean up behind her or make himself small so as not to disturb her and that it was all in his own head because he felt so humiliated about having to sleep on her couch. That kind of thing does make you feel small. Plus that whole thing lasted for like two pages, so it really is not that big of a deal to the story. The Bridget Jones Diary thing, I mean I guess it was British and there were people besides the main characters in the story so that's the only similarity I see.
As for my review, I really enjoyed this book. It was relatively low angst, it was a very predictable fake boyfriend bi-awakening plot, but I felt like the writing was strong enough that it didn't matter. There were a few instances of summarization instead of allowing events to unfold in real time as I prefer and all the business stuff was kind of boring, but the reason why I knocked a star off what I would have otherwise given five stars is that the end was really rushed and kind of confusing in a way timeline wise. The book begins in 2016 and jumps from there to 2017 to 2019, and I'm not sure the timeline was what it should have been. I think that the author spent a lot of time building up the side characters of Steph and Laurie and their relationship with Kieran and then the whole thing went off the rails with continuity to the timeline, or else the author just forgot to tell us what the heck was happening . Other than that, I have no complaints.
Bottom line: Great story, disappointing epilogue but good enough to give it a pass.
In the beginning, Kieran has just lost his job and has been booted out of his apartment by his ex-girlfriend, so he is bunking on his sister's couch while he tries to get his life back together. I've been there, and after being an independent adult on your own for a long time, to have to rely on the kindness of your family or become homeless makes you really feel bad about yourself, your situation, and your ability to be an adult. I read Kieran's desire to minimize his presence in his sister's life and apartment more as embarrassment about his predicament than as him being a pushover. I'm actually very sure that she probably did not desire him to clean up behind her or make himself small so as not to disturb her and that it was all in his own head because he felt so humiliated about having to sleep on her couch. That kind of thing does make you feel small. Plus that whole thing lasted for like two pages, so it really is not that big of a deal to the story. The Bridget Jones Diary thing, I mean I guess it was British and there were people besides the main characters in the story so that's the only similarity I see.
As for my review, I really enjoyed this book. It was relatively low angst, it was a very predictable fake boyfriend bi-awakening plot, but I felt like the writing was strong enough that it didn't matter. There were a few instances of summarization instead of allowing events to unfold in real time as I prefer and all the business stuff was kind of boring, but the reason why I knocked a star off what I would have otherwise given five stars is that the end was really rushed and kind of confusing in a way timeline wise. The book begins in 2016 and jumps from there to 2017 to 2019, and I'm not sure the timeline was what it should have been. I think that the author spent a lot of time building up the side characters of Steph and Laurie and their relationship with Kieran and then the whole thing went off the rails with continuity to the timeline, or else the author just forgot to tell us what the heck was happening . Other than that, I have no complaints.
Bottom line: Great story, disappointing epilogue but good enough to give it a pass.
November 30, 2020
Universal
It's time again for Kennedy to find a companion for this year's vacation. He normally goes for much younger, slender, pretty, dare I say, twinky, but this year, a not too young, decidedly not pretty but still gorgeous, Kieran will end up as Kennedy's companion, and their lives will never be the same again.
Kieran is in desperate need of a job. He needs to get his own place, quit couch surfing at his sister's, when he spies Kennedy interviewing men for what he thinks is an assistant job. So he plops himself down and offers himself up for the position. When Kennedy shows him the ad for the "job" it doesn't even faze him that it specifies gay. After all, it's just a companion, no intimacy required, so why can't he do the job? Why indeed...
While on the vacation, will Kieran find he's not quite as straight as he had thought? Will Kennedy find himself actually developing feelings beyond attraction for his new fake boyfriend?
This is a fun, low on the angst, hot story. I liked Kieran and Kennedy together, a lot. Fake relationships are one of my favorite tropes, and the author has done the trope proud here.
ARC via Hidden Gems Books for an honest review.
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May 16, 2022
Lo sapete, vero, che non bisogna mai giudicare un libro dalla sua trama? Questo è uno di quei casi in cui il concetto viene ribadito a chiare lettere. CERCASI ACCOMPAGNATORE è una lettura divertente, frizzante e davvero avvincente.
Il suo punto di forza sono non solo i due protagonisti, ma anche tutti i personaggi secondari. Ognuno è delineato con la giusta accuratezza e sempre con una vasta gamma di sfumature.
Kennedy e Keiran sono assolutamente indimenticabili. Li ho amati entrambi fin dalle prime battute. Il primo così serioso, intransigente e dal cuore un po’ malconcio, il secondo che è luce pura, ma anche sagacia e simpatia a non finire. Insieme formano una coppia perfetta e mi hanno fatto ridere, sorridere e innamorare ad ogni pagina.
Come accennato, anche tutte le altre figure sono ben caratterizzate e lasciano la voglia di avere, per ognuno, un romanzo a sé stante.
La storia è costruita in maniera gradevole, con la giusta dose di vicissitudini a volte inattese, ed è coinvolgente, appassionante e mai scontata.
L'unico neo di questo romanzo è l'editing (ovviamente nella traduzione italiana), che andrebbe rivisto.
Per il resto una lettura che consiglio.
Hugs&kisses
Il suo punto di forza sono non solo i due protagonisti, ma anche tutti i personaggi secondari. Ognuno è delineato con la giusta accuratezza e sempre con una vasta gamma di sfumature.
Kennedy e Keiran sono assolutamente indimenticabili. Li ho amati entrambi fin dalle prime battute. Il primo così serioso, intransigente e dal cuore un po’ malconcio, il secondo che è luce pura, ma anche sagacia e simpatia a non finire. Insieme formano una coppia perfetta e mi hanno fatto ridere, sorridere e innamorare ad ogni pagina.
Come accennato, anche tutte le altre figure sono ben caratterizzate e lasciano la voglia di avere, per ognuno, un romanzo a sé stante.
La storia è costruita in maniera gradevole, con la giusta dose di vicissitudini a volte inattese, ed è coinvolgente, appassionante e mai scontata.
L'unico neo di questo romanzo è l'editing (ovviamente nella traduzione italiana), che andrebbe rivisto.
Per il resto una lettura che consiglio.
Hugs&kisses
December 17, 2020
4.5 stars rounded up because I'm still thinking about certain scenes that grabbed me and didn't let go.
Kennedy and Kieran...so very meant for one another and with a push from Kieran along with some flaking out by other candidates, they get the chance to discover that fact. Despite being older Kennedy has a lot of growing up to do and through Kieran's innate goodness and his incredible insight a way is paved to do just that. Kieran on the other hand doesn't grow too much throughout the story, but I'm absolutely okay with that because it's his discoveries and his efforts that create paths for others to grow. As a pair they're sweet and sexy and all kinds of good.
I'll get my minor peeves out of the way first...
~Patrick...dang, he's got issues, and watching his friends take it out on Kennedy and being wretched to Kieran was pretty despicable. Near the end he really changes his tune though, so it's only a certain friend of his that takes the cake on assery (though I think Richmond/Richard? actually wants Patrick for himself except that's not something included in the story so it's just my gut feeling).
~The second epilogue. I'm all for a good epilogue, in fact a story is often improved greatly by having them and I get a little annoyed when we don't get one, but in this case it was a kind of hodgepodge of their future, incredibly huge events are mentioned more in passing than given the kind of attention I wanted and a bunch of characters we never met are discussed, assisted, and focused on by Kennedy and Kieran that it just ended up feeling muddled and distracting. The first epilogue was fine, good even, but both of them really needed to be thought out and written better so everything really worked together with the rest of the well-written story.
~Kennedy's lack of backbone and letting Patrick and his friends roll over him with their accusations as well as attitude. Too many scenes where he acts childish with avoidance, no spine, and generally seeking out those moments by not thinking rationally about them or accepting the support offered.
What I loved about the story was the pacing of the relationship as well as the overall story, the sexy times, the tenderness, the insight, and the genuine connection between the MC's that felt perfect for them and their story. The real friends, Laurie, Steph, Joey, Cole, Leonard, were fantastic additions and gave so much encouragement, support, humor, and when needed, distraction. I honestly didn't put the book down once because I HAD to finish their story. I loved virtually every bit of it. And having a true apology come from the right person, hearing the incredible confession, such a heartfelt and vulnerable expression of affection and remorse, was exactly what was needed to believe in their reuniting.
Kieran was the star for me with his excitement, eagerness, honesty, directness, genuineness, and small inserts of extremely well-placed humor. Kennedy grew on me as he grew into himself proving to be the right partner for Kieran. The gang around them iced the cake that was this story. With relatively low angst, a whole lot of just-right steam, and memorable characters this has to be one of my favorite reads of the year.
Kennedy and Kieran...so very meant for one another and with a push from Kieran along with some flaking out by other candidates, they get the chance to discover that fact. Despite being older Kennedy has a lot of growing up to do and through Kieran's innate goodness and his incredible insight a way is paved to do just that. Kieran on the other hand doesn't grow too much throughout the story, but I'm absolutely okay with that because it's his discoveries and his efforts that create paths for others to grow. As a pair they're sweet and sexy and all kinds of good.
I'll get my minor peeves out of the way first...
~Patrick...dang, he's got issues, and watching his friends take it out on Kennedy and being wretched to Kieran was pretty despicable. Near the end he really changes his tune though, so it's only a certain friend of his that takes the cake on assery (though I think Richmond/Richard? actually wants Patrick for himself except that's not something included in the story so it's just my gut feeling).
~The second epilogue. I'm all for a good epilogue, in fact a story is often improved greatly by having them and I get a little annoyed when we don't get one, but in this case it was a kind of hodgepodge of their future, incredibly huge events are mentioned more in passing than given the kind of attention I wanted and a bunch of characters we never met are discussed, assisted, and focused on by Kennedy and Kieran that it just ended up feeling muddled and distracting. The first epilogue was fine, good even, but both of them really needed to be thought out and written better so everything really worked together with the rest of the well-written story.
~Kennedy's lack of backbone and letting Patrick and his friends roll over him with their accusations as well as attitude. Too many scenes where he acts childish with avoidance, no spine, and generally seeking out those moments by not thinking rationally about them or accepting the support offered.
What I loved about the story was the pacing of the relationship as well as the overall story, the sexy times, the tenderness, the insight, and the genuine connection between the MC's that felt perfect for them and their story. The real friends, Laurie, Steph, Joey, Cole, Leonard, were fantastic additions and gave so much encouragement, support, humor, and when needed, distraction. I honestly didn't put the book down once because I HAD to finish their story. I loved virtually every bit of it. And having a true apology come from the right person, hearing the incredible confession, such a heartfelt and vulnerable expression of affection and remorse, was exactly what was needed to believe in their reuniting.
Kieran was the star for me with his excitement, eagerness, honesty, directness, genuineness, and small inserts of extremely well-placed humor. Kennedy grew on me as he grew into himself proving to be the right partner for Kieran. The gang around them iced the cake that was this story. With relatively low angst, a whole lot of just-right steam, and memorable characters this has to be one of my favorite reads of the year.
November 22, 2020
Kennedy the CEO annually secures the companionship of an able bodied young male to cruise the high seas along with a group of selected friends. Keiran inadvertently listens in on interviews being conducted for said companion and through desperation throws his hat into the ring of opportunity despite being straight.
June 13, 2021
An Unexpected Discovery!
CEO Kennedy Grey needs a companion/fake boyfriend for a month-long Asian vacation and chooses straight graduate student Kieran West to accompany him. I really liked this tale. I’m a sucker for a bit of corporate intrigue which this story has. I also enjoyed the travelogue, the MCs, co-characters, the peripheral storylines, the general premise and just the perfect amount of sexy times. Although, I would have thought Kieran would have more angst about his change in sexual preferences. This will definitely get a second read.
CEO Kennedy Grey needs a companion/fake boyfriend for a month-long Asian vacation and chooses straight graduate student Kieran West to accompany him. I really liked this tale. I’m a sucker for a bit of corporate intrigue which this story has. I also enjoyed the travelogue, the MCs, co-characters, the peripheral storylines, the general premise and just the perfect amount of sexy times. Although, I would have thought Kieran would have more angst about his change in sexual preferences. This will definitely get a second read.
November 19, 2020
this was so very very cute and a nice mood booster - the characters had insanely good chemistry and banter - a few too many side characters to keep up with but other than that, a solid good time
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