My first visit to this new, multi-author series happens to be with one of my favorite authors, so I knew I was in for a treat. Novak brings her lovely writing style and well-crafted characters to a series about professional male models (and the men who love them) with a frank look at both the upsides and downsides to the life of a professional model (difficult working conditions, but sometimes you get free clothes). Luckily, the photo shoot that opens this book is on the better end of the spectrum, and as a bonus, model Beau reconnects with childhood best friend Cash, who works as a professional makeup artist.
The immediate attraction Beau and Cash experience is layered nicely with the pure joy they feel at finding someone they had drifted away from, due to age and distance. The time apart and connecting as adults means Novak doesn’t bother with any angst about the changing nature of their friendship. This book is pretty low-angst all around, but it’s not all fluff with no substance. Instead of a dark moment, I enjoyed the individual journeys these characters embark on as part of finding love so early in their careers. Beau and Cash don’t sacrifice any of their goals or dreams, but they do recognize the obstacles they face and make mature decisions about what to prioritize.
Novak’s nod to inclusivity in fashion and modeling is fun and joyful without ever verging into “preachy” territory. As usual, she also includes vibrant secondary characters who enhance the world Beau and Cash exist in. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with these sweet (and sexy) men and even experienced some happy tears at the very end of this book, which was the perfect beginning to their happily ever after.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
Rating: 5 (out of 5) stars. Cross-posted to Amazon and Goodreads.
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