What do you think?
Rate this book
A Rose is a Rose
When his latest sugar daddy drops him like yesterday's news, Carson's got more than a bruised ego to deal with. He's broke! No designer clothes, no baubles, and while he loves his job with the burlesque show he needs to pay the bills.
Should be no problem. Carson's young and pretty, so it should be no trouble finding someone new to pick up his tab.
Instead, he finds Eddie. The superintendent of Carson's apartment building, Eddie couldn't be further from Carson's usual type, financially or physically, but his gift of a single red rose touches Carson's heart.
For the first time, Carson doesn't want to be just a kept man.
To live the life he always thought he wanted, he needs to find a new sugar daddy. But how can he part with the support of someone who seems to really love him?
Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Male/male sexual practices.
Should be no problem. Carson's young and pretty, so it should be no trouble finding someone new to pick up his tab.
Instead, he finds Eddie. The superintendent of Carson's apartment building, Eddie couldn't be further from Carson's usual type, financially or physically, but his gift of a single red rose touches Carson's heart.
For the first time, Carson doesn't want to be just a kept man.
To live the life he always thought he wanted, he needs to find a new sugar daddy. But how can he part with the support of someone who seems to really love him?
Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Male/male sexual practices.
115 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 8, 2011
5 people are currently reading
460 people want to read
About the author
Jet Mykles
85 books977 followersJet is a writer of sexual fantasy with a firm belief that all men are at least partially gay, that vampires are just people with a liquid diet and shapeshifters live on every block.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
October 21, 2012
A wonderfully refreshing romantic read.
I loved the slow build up between Carson and Eddie. The way Carson starts to slowly change is so natural. There’s no big revelation, just a gradual awareness.
I wasn’t willing to like Anthony at the beginning, he was an arrogant spiteful ass, but I had to give him a pass at the end. He could of got very nasty, but I’m glad that tired old scenario wasn’t used this time.
I could of happily shaken Carson’s mother though. What a self centred woman. OK so maybe she loved Carson in her own way, but first she trains him to more or less sell himself to the highest bidder, then she happily puts herself first and easily forgets him when it suits her. She might not of beat, neglected or thrown him out , but in my mind she was still a terrible mother.
Eddies mother on the other hand was wonderful. A true gem lol. If I had one niggle it would be the ease with which both Eddie and his mother accepted Eddie falling for a guy. I wish we could of seen a little deeper into that.
The ending was perfect. A true romantic ending, for a sweet romantic read.
I loved the slow build up between Carson and Eddie. The way Carson starts to slowly change is so natural. There’s no big revelation, just a gradual awareness.
I wasn’t willing to like Anthony at the beginning, he was an arrogant spiteful ass, but I had to give him a pass at the end. He could of got very nasty, but I’m glad that tired old scenario wasn’t used this time.
I could of happily shaken Carson’s mother though. What a self centred woman. OK so maybe she loved Carson in her own way, but first she trains him to more or less sell himself to the highest bidder, then she happily puts herself first and easily forgets him when it suits her. She might not of beat, neglected or thrown him out , but in my mind she was still a terrible mother.
Eddies mother on the other hand was wonderful. A true gem lol. If I had one niggle it would be the ease with which both Eddie and his mother accepted Eddie falling for a guy. I wish we could of seen a little deeper into that.
The ending was perfect. A true romantic ending, for a sweet romantic read.
October 6, 2014
4.5 stars
This wonderful, WONDERFUL book makes me experience various reactions ... from smiling widely because of some sweetness, to "awwwwww-ing" because of some cuteness, to biting my lower lips because of some tension, to having a teary eyed and squeezed chest-pain because of a short goodbye, to sighing and back to wide smile because of a happy ending.
Carson has always lived for the baubles and sparkles. He admits that he is high maintenance. He enjoys the lavish priviledge from his sugar daddy. At that point, I might be able to think that he is "selfish" in a way. Until his sugar daddy dumps him because Carson demands more from their relationship (Carson wants them to live together). Then he is faced with the fact that he is only good for his appearance (he is a beautiful man, often mistaken for a girl) but not really his talent.
Then, his super, this big bear ordinary guy, Eddie, gives him a single rose when he finds Carson crying ... and a friendship is bloom. Only Carson realizes that he doesn't want Eddie to be nice to him and pay his food and drives him to work. Oh, no, Carson think Eddie is the real thing, and he wants to be more than just kept man. It is different, because Carson realizes that for the first time, he might be in love.
The story is taken from Carson's perspective, and there is actual growth here. While he might first appears like he is a gold-digger, for using his lovers for the money they have, but when he meets Eddie, and realizes that Eddie is the real thing, Carson WANTS to change. He wants to prove his worth -- and that makes me admire him. Besides, it's not like Carson totally lives off from a rich guy. He does work as part of a burlesque show. Plus, I have a feeling that this attitude comes from his upbringing, for his mother practically tells him that it is okay to be with rich guys that can ensure that Carson can get ANYTHING he wants.
Eddie, on the other hand, is such a tender, gentle, kind big bear. He accepts Carson for what he is. A gardener in his spare-time, Eddie appreciates beauty, and he thinks Carson is beautiful, and that Carson makes him happy. No matter that Eddie never been with a guy before. I swear, that guy is just so wonderfully sweet.
I have never read anything from Jet Mykles before (her other summaries do not really tempt me). This one is intriguing because the summary promises some opposites attract. And oh, how it delivers. It doesn't only have endearing characters, actual woo-ing (is that a word?) / courting, romance build-up, character development, AND tender / hot love-making.
It's definitely one of my favorites early in 2011. Such a gift for Valentine's Day.
This wonderful, WONDERFUL book makes me experience various reactions ... from smiling widely because of some sweetness, to "awwwwww-ing" because of some cuteness, to biting my lower lips because of some tension, to having a teary eyed and squeezed chest-pain because of a short goodbye, to sighing and back to wide smile because of a happy ending.
Carson has always lived for the baubles and sparkles. He admits that he is high maintenance. He enjoys the lavish priviledge from his sugar daddy. At that point, I might be able to think that he is "selfish" in a way. Until his sugar daddy dumps him because Carson demands more from their relationship (Carson wants them to live together). Then he is faced with the fact that he is only good for his appearance (he is a beautiful man, often mistaken for a girl) but not really his talent.
Then, his super, this big bear ordinary guy, Eddie, gives him a single rose when he finds Carson crying ... and a friendship is bloom. Only Carson realizes that he doesn't want Eddie to be nice to him and pay his food and drives him to work. Oh, no, Carson think Eddie is the real thing, and he wants to be more than just kept man. It is different, because Carson realizes that for the first time, he might be in love.
The story is taken from Carson's perspective, and there is actual growth here. While he might first appears like he is a gold-digger, for using his lovers for the money they have, but when he meets Eddie, and realizes that Eddie is the real thing, Carson WANTS to change. He wants to prove his worth -- and that makes me admire him. Besides, it's not like Carson totally lives off from a rich guy. He does work as part of a burlesque show. Plus, I have a feeling that this attitude comes from his upbringing, for his mother practically tells him that it is okay to be with rich guys that can ensure that Carson can get ANYTHING he wants.
Eddie, on the other hand, is such a tender, gentle, kind big bear. He accepts Carson for what he is. A gardener in his spare-time, Eddie appreciates beauty, and he thinks Carson is beautiful, and that Carson makes him happy. No matter that Eddie never been with a guy before. I swear, that guy is just so wonderfully sweet.
I have never read anything from Jet Mykles before (her other summaries do not really tempt me). This one is intriguing because the summary promises some opposites attract. And oh, how it delivers. It doesn't only have endearing characters, actual woo-ing (is that a word?) / courting, romance build-up, character development, AND tender / hot love-making.
It's definitely one of my favorites early in 2011. Such a gift for Valentine's Day.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2011
Let me just say how much I love this cover and I think it's a perfect fit for the book. Now, let me just say how much I love this book. Lol
Carson's been dependent of his rich boyfriend, Anthony, for far too long and when he demands more out their relationship Anthony dumps him. Financially broke, Carson doesn't know what to do and how to survive on just by his paycheck from the burlesque show. Seeing Carson crying, Eddie gives him a single red rose, trying to make Carson feel better. With that single rose, Eddie brightens Carson's day. From there, Carson and Eddie start a friendship that turns into something more. The relationship between them couldn't possibly work when they have nothing in common and add into the fact that Carson is high maintenance and Eddie's not gay and Carson knows the love building between them just isn't enough. Eddie wants to take care of Carson, though, but Carson won't allow it especially when he finds out that dating Anthony got him a lot of privileges including the job at the burlesque show. It's time Carson learned what being independent means.
Carson is the type of man that can easily be mistaken for a girl and he flaunts it in a subtle way. Being raised by a single high maintenance mother basically cemented the fact that Carson would be more into make-up and clothes than sports and beer. I liked that in Carson, though. I found it interesting the way he could be all dressed up as a woman but then still be able to dress as a man if he truly wanted. I think Eddie was my favorite character. He's quiet and sweet and actually listened to whatever Carson had to say whether it was about Anthony or his show or anything. He's as far from Carson's type as he can get. Being a working, modest man, polite and ruggedly handsome as opposed to refined, rich and arrogant.
I liked how we kind of got to see the changes in Carson. He goes through some hard times when Anthony dumps him and knows he needs to stop being dependent on other men. When he starts falling in love with Eddie and loses his job is when he starts to realize that he's never been truly happy with the way his life was and by the end of the story, we see a totally different Carson than we did at the beginning.
All in all, a great book. Whether or not you've liked Jet's work in the past, I think this one will appeal to just about anyone. Recommended.
Carson's been dependent of his rich boyfriend, Anthony, for far too long and when he demands more out their relationship Anthony dumps him. Financially broke, Carson doesn't know what to do and how to survive on just by his paycheck from the burlesque show. Seeing Carson crying, Eddie gives him a single red rose, trying to make Carson feel better. With that single rose, Eddie brightens Carson's day. From there, Carson and Eddie start a friendship that turns into something more. The relationship between them couldn't possibly work when they have nothing in common and add into the fact that Carson is high maintenance and Eddie's not gay and Carson knows the love building between them just isn't enough. Eddie wants to take care of Carson, though, but Carson won't allow it especially when he finds out that dating Anthony got him a lot of privileges including the job at the burlesque show. It's time Carson learned what being independent means.
Carson is the type of man that can easily be mistaken for a girl and he flaunts it in a subtle way. Being raised by a single high maintenance mother basically cemented the fact that Carson would be more into make-up and clothes than sports and beer. I liked that in Carson, though. I found it interesting the way he could be all dressed up as a woman but then still be able to dress as a man if he truly wanted. I think Eddie was my favorite character. He's quiet and sweet and actually listened to whatever Carson had to say whether it was about Anthony or his show or anything. He's as far from Carson's type as he can get. Being a working, modest man, polite and ruggedly handsome as opposed to refined, rich and arrogant.
I liked how we kind of got to see the changes in Carson. He goes through some hard times when Anthony dumps him and knows he needs to stop being dependent on other men. When he starts falling in love with Eddie and loses his job is when he starts to realize that he's never been truly happy with the way his life was and by the end of the story, we see a totally different Carson than we did at the beginning.
All in all, a great book. Whether or not you've liked Jet's work in the past, I think this one will appeal to just about anyone. Recommended.
October 21, 2012
3.75*
Eddie is a sweetheart and Carson is a good guy who just didn't know there was anything different out there for him, or that he was worth more than what he thought and was taught he was.
Greedy girl that I am I so wished for a bit of Eddies thoughts and life during their relationship and in the intermediate time, while Carson was changing. I also wished I had been given a few pages of Carson's 'new' life, his job and such and a few more days of the HEA.
Eddie is a sweetheart and Carson is a good guy who just didn't know there was anything different out there for him, or that he was worth more than what he thought and was taught he was.
Greedy girl that I am I so wished for a bit of Eddies thoughts and life during their relationship and in the intermediate time, while Carson was changing. I also wished I had been given a few pages of Carson's 'new' life, his job and such and a few more days of the HEA.
October 20, 2012
I just loved Carson and Eddie. Two so very different people who became friends first and were perfect for each other. I just loved how Carson grew and realized what was truly important in life and for him. I picked the book up to begin reading it and didn't put it down until I finished it. Very satisfying read.
May 2, 2011
Very good m/m romance about a beautiful young man, just dumped by his sugar daddy, who becomes friends with the very sweet straight owner of his apartment complex. I got a little sniffly while I was reading this one.
November 11, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. We follow Carson, a semi-talented burlesque player living off the good graces of a sugar daddy. Thanks to lessons learned from how his mother moved from man to man, Carson does the same, relying on both his looks and his sexual expertise to move from provider to provider.
I wasn't expecting to like Carson but I found him extremely charming and very sweet. We start this book after he was dropped by his last man, a producer at the burlesque show. This causes Carson more than a few issues at work and he begins to struggle to make ends meet.
From knowing only one way to live he begins to shift his way of thinking and he makes a new friend in the owner of the apartment building where he lives. Eddie acts as superintendent of the apartment in addition to owning the building. He's kind to Carson and they begin a genuine friendship. There's lots of delicious chemistry as well.
I loved this journey that Carson went on. How he looked at where his life was at and how he wanted to take steps to change it. This story focused more on Carson and while we did get a bit of where Eddie's head was at it was definitely Carson's show. I didn't feel cheated at all though. I liked Eddie and and loved the two of them together. A wonderful little read.
I wasn't expecting to like Carson but I found him extremely charming and very sweet. We start this book after he was dropped by his last man, a producer at the burlesque show. This causes Carson more than a few issues at work and he begins to struggle to make ends meet.
From knowing only one way to live he begins to shift his way of thinking and he makes a new friend in the owner of the apartment building where he lives. Eddie acts as superintendent of the apartment in addition to owning the building. He's kind to Carson and they begin a genuine friendship. There's lots of delicious chemistry as well.
I loved this journey that Carson went on. How he looked at where his life was at and how he wanted to take steps to change it. This story focused more on Carson and while we did get a bit of where Eddie's head was at it was definitely Carson's show. I didn't feel cheated at all though. I liked Eddie and and loved the two of them together. A wonderful little read.
October 13, 2015
This was a lovely story about Carson trying to find out what he wants from life and love. Eddie is definitely one of the sweetest characters ever written. Carson was a little bit like a high priced whore (his words) but he was aware of this and I wouldn't call him selfish because he wanted to protect Eddie from his ways, it was good to see him work through this though to get to our HEA.
August 13, 2012
This was a really sweet, but predictable, gay-for-you story. Eddie was adorable, but Carson was just a little too selfish for me to totally fall in love with.
Anyway, I recommend this for anytime you feel like reading something short and easy.
Oh, and the sex was HOT!!
Anyway, I recommend this for anytime you feel like reading something short and easy.
Oh, and the sex was HOT!!
February 2, 2012
A sweet, fun read. Not too much angst, Eddie was a complete sweetheart and by the end Carson got his head out of his ass. Color me a happy camper.
August 1, 2011
This is a very touching story about finding out who you really are, growing up to accept responsibility for yourself, and finding love in totally unexpected places. I found this book to be refreshingly different from many ‘male prostitute finds a new life’ stories.
Carson is a kept man, and enjoys the lifestyle. He likes getting expensive gifts, being taken to lavish parties and never having to worry about money. He thinks he’s in love with the man currently paying his way, and is disappointed when he finds out this is an incorrect assumption. Still, the temptation to go back to his old life is huge. He longs for someone to love, but not having to work takes precedence for him. Once he meets and gets to know Eddie he starts questioning himself, and this is where this book gets really interesting.
Eddie is a practical guy who works hard, has his heart in the right place and discovers he really likes Carson, despite the fact he was never gay before. I loved his big heart and total acceptance of Carson for himself. Eddie is so sure of himself and his values that he actually manages to help Carson see what is really going on.
If you like stories with a characters who shows real growth, don’t mind the heart wrenching suffering he has to go through first, and have a thing for strong, quiet men who help others see what is right by just being themselves, you will probably like this book. I loved it.
NOTE: This book has been provided by Loose Id for the purpose of a review on Queer Magazine Online.
Carson is a kept man, and enjoys the lifestyle. He likes getting expensive gifts, being taken to lavish parties and never having to worry about money. He thinks he’s in love with the man currently paying his way, and is disappointed when he finds out this is an incorrect assumption. Still, the temptation to go back to his old life is huge. He longs for someone to love, but not having to work takes precedence for him. Once he meets and gets to know Eddie he starts questioning himself, and this is where this book gets really interesting.
Eddie is a practical guy who works hard, has his heart in the right place and discovers he really likes Carson, despite the fact he was never gay before. I loved his big heart and total acceptance of Carson for himself. Eddie is so sure of himself and his values that he actually manages to help Carson see what is really going on.
If you like stories with a characters who shows real growth, don’t mind the heart wrenching suffering he has to go through first, and have a thing for strong, quiet men who help others see what is right by just being themselves, you will probably like this book. I loved it.
NOTE: This book has been provided by Loose Id for the purpose of a review on Queer Magazine Online.
March 30, 2011
This was a super sweet confection about the love that blooms between a beautiful androgynous drama queen and a staid, quiet building superintendent who soothes and feeds him when he's a weepy mess. Le Sigh. I loved both characters who fit together so well despite their many differences. Nothing deep but worth a read. My review is now archived at the JERR site HERE . You may need to click my link and then hit "enter" on JERR's main page and then hit my link again in order to go directly to my review. Sorry about that!
February 16, 2011
A Rose is a Rose is another gay for you theme with a delicious, fluttery main character from Jet Mykles. The story hits many highlights for fans with the familiar trope, witty and steamy writing, and an adorable narrator. Unfortunately this story isn’t my favorite of Mykles and the romance never quite works for me but the novella is easy, light, and thoroughly entertaining.
Carson is a beautiful young man that’s used to having men take care of him. When his latest boyfriend reveals he has no interest in taking their relationship further, Carson breaks it off. However Carson soon realizes just how much he relied on his ex for food, rent, and basic living; not to mention the sparkly and pretty lifestyle Carson’s become accustomed to. An attraction sparks between Carson and his building’s superintendent but Carson’s not sure he can entirely give up his lifestyle.
Carson is the third person narrator and his “hooker with a heart of gold” persona is very entertaining. He’s been raised by a beautiful woman that taught him men were good for protection and companionship. Carson makes a habit of hooking up with handsome rich men that know the score and don’t mind supporting Carson and his sparkly desires. Carson comes across as honest and self effacing as he realizes that he’s slightly lazy and more than willing to live off the generosity of patrons. As such, he soon decides he doesn’t want to take advantage of Eddie, his superintendent that’s turned gay just for the stunning redhead. Because of this Carson struggles with trying to pay his bills, a burgeoning new relationship with a man totally unlike anyone else he’s been with, and the lurking desire to just give in and find someone new to take care of him.
The conflict is nicely spaced and constructed so you really understand Carson’s issues. He’s not exactly an angel but he’s not horrible either. He’s flawed and doesn’t really change by the end of the story but starts to support himself. This pseudo change is somewhat weak and very unlikely to be a lasting change but Carson does learn what real love is. Unfortunately I never really believed Carson and Eddie’s relationship and the chemistry just seemed off. I honestly could believe Anthony (Carson’s rich ex) and Carson together more. Part of the point I think is to throw this unusual and opposites attract couple together and contrast their relationship with the slick, easy but empty one of the prior.
Part of the issue is that Eddie is very limited in the context of the story. He’s a quiet, capable man that adores Carson and is happy simply being with him. There’s very little offered about Eddie since the focus is on Carson and Carson is rather self absorbed. Not in a way that will annoy readers or turn them off his adorable personality but more so that it leaves Eddie very little page space to actually develop and exist. So I couldn’t really buy into the big love of the story. That said, the writing is very typical of Mykles and the story is pretty enjoyable regardless. I think fans will definitely want to get this one.
Carson is a beautiful young man that’s used to having men take care of him. When his latest boyfriend reveals he has no interest in taking their relationship further, Carson breaks it off. However Carson soon realizes just how much he relied on his ex for food, rent, and basic living; not to mention the sparkly and pretty lifestyle Carson’s become accustomed to. An attraction sparks between Carson and his building’s superintendent but Carson’s not sure he can entirely give up his lifestyle.
Carson is the third person narrator and his “hooker with a heart of gold” persona is very entertaining. He’s been raised by a beautiful woman that taught him men were good for protection and companionship. Carson makes a habit of hooking up with handsome rich men that know the score and don’t mind supporting Carson and his sparkly desires. Carson comes across as honest and self effacing as he realizes that he’s slightly lazy and more than willing to live off the generosity of patrons. As such, he soon decides he doesn’t want to take advantage of Eddie, his superintendent that’s turned gay just for the stunning redhead. Because of this Carson struggles with trying to pay his bills, a burgeoning new relationship with a man totally unlike anyone else he’s been with, and the lurking desire to just give in and find someone new to take care of him.
The conflict is nicely spaced and constructed so you really understand Carson’s issues. He’s not exactly an angel but he’s not horrible either. He’s flawed and doesn’t really change by the end of the story but starts to support himself. This pseudo change is somewhat weak and very unlikely to be a lasting change but Carson does learn what real love is. Unfortunately I never really believed Carson and Eddie’s relationship and the chemistry just seemed off. I honestly could believe Anthony (Carson’s rich ex) and Carson together more. Part of the point I think is to throw this unusual and opposites attract couple together and contrast their relationship with the slick, easy but empty one of the prior.
Part of the issue is that Eddie is very limited in the context of the story. He’s a quiet, capable man that adores Carson and is happy simply being with him. There’s very little offered about Eddie since the focus is on Carson and Carson is rather self absorbed. Not in a way that will annoy readers or turn them off his adorable personality but more so that it leaves Eddie very little page space to actually develop and exist. So I couldn’t really buy into the big love of the story. That said, the writing is very typical of Mykles and the story is pretty enjoyable regardless. I think fans will definitely want to get this one.
November 11, 2014
This review can also be found on my blog: A Match Made in Heaven
This story was so sweet! It took a bit for me to adjust to an effeminate MC. I have never read a book like this before. Where the MC is a man, refers to himself as a man and has no problem admitting it, but acts and dresses like a woman. It was a bit jarring at first, until I got used to it and I could see that that is just Carson. It's just who he is and he is wonderful.
He was also very much like Jet's usual MCs, with low self-esteem and I just could not wait to see him shown his true worth by someone. So enters Eddie, the superintendent of Carson's building, who, when he sees Carson crying over a bad break-up, gives him a single rose from his gardens. Carson cannot resist befriending the man because he is just so gosh darn sweet, and shy, and adorable...and straight.
Carson may be slaking his lust for Eddie alone, and Eddie is continuing to shyly dote on Carson, but it isn't until Carson confronts him about his attentions that it becomes clear that Eddie may not be so straight anymore. I really enjoyed the virgin factor too. Eddie wasn't a virgin be he was new to sex with men, and it was endearing to see Carson have to teach him what to do. But after the first time Eddie wanted to take charge, although he still needed help now and again, which was too cute, despite the high intensity of the moment.
We never really get to know Eddie as well as I would have liked. This story would have greatly benefited from an alternating POV, but that may be too much commitment for a novella. Either way, Eddie was a bit of a cut out. Not that his characters was dull or unoriginal, but I just felt like I only ever saw his silhouette without the details of who he was. He was quietly caring, masculine, a serious sweet talker, and he loved Carson.
Carson on the other hand, is the kind of person that can always make someone feel better when they are having a bad day, even if his own day has been even worse. He will always have a smile for you. He knows he is beautiful, but he never acknowledges it in a conceited way. He may have used his looks to get the support of admirers, but he was not very confident about anything else. But Eddie believed in him, and, eventually, that was enough for Carson. Enough for him to get up off his butt and make his own life better, so that he could make a place in it for Eddie. :)
"Eddie, you can't do this to me. I do nothing for you."
"That's not true. You make my world bright."
This story was so sweet! It took a bit for me to adjust to an effeminate MC. I have never read a book like this before. Where the MC is a man, refers to himself as a man and has no problem admitting it, but acts and dresses like a woman. It was a bit jarring at first, until I got used to it and I could see that that is just Carson. It's just who he is and he is wonderful.
He was also very much like Jet's usual MCs, with low self-esteem and I just could not wait to see him shown his true worth by someone. So enters Eddie, the superintendent of Carson's building, who, when he sees Carson crying over a bad break-up, gives him a single rose from his gardens. Carson cannot resist befriending the man because he is just so gosh darn sweet, and shy, and adorable...and straight.
Carson may be slaking his lust for Eddie alone, and Eddie is continuing to shyly dote on Carson, but it isn't until Carson confronts him about his attentions that it becomes clear that Eddie may not be so straight anymore. I really enjoyed the virgin factor too. Eddie wasn't a virgin be he was new to sex with men, and it was endearing to see Carson have to teach him what to do. But after the first time Eddie wanted to take charge, although he still needed help now and again, which was too cute, despite the high intensity of the moment.
We never really get to know Eddie as well as I would have liked. This story would have greatly benefited from an alternating POV, but that may be too much commitment for a novella. Either way, Eddie was a bit of a cut out. Not that his characters was dull or unoriginal, but I just felt like I only ever saw his silhouette without the details of who he was. He was quietly caring, masculine, a serious sweet talker, and he loved Carson.
Carson on the other hand, is the kind of person that can always make someone feel better when they are having a bad day, even if his own day has been even worse. He will always have a smile for you. He knows he is beautiful, but he never acknowledges it in a conceited way. He may have used his looks to get the support of admirers, but he was not very confident about anything else. But Eddie believed in him, and, eventually, that was enough for Carson. Enough for him to get up off his butt and make his own life better, so that he could make a place in it for Eddie. :)
"Eddie, you can't do this to me. I do nothing for you."
"That's not true. You make my world bright."
August 12, 2016
I had read the blurb for this book a few times and always passed. It sounded like Carson was going to be a vain, shallow character only interested in what he could get from a man.
Yes, Carson only dates rich men who can keep him in a lavish lifestyle, but there is also a depth and a sweetness to him. Carson's not mean or selfish or lacking in feeling or a conscience. He just doesn't know any other way of life.
Carson meets Eddie, the co-owner and superintendent of the building he lives in, after he's dumped by his latest sugar daddy. Eddie sees Carson crying, and brings him a rose. Friendship and love unexpectedly bloom.
This is GFY story, but not much is made of that. Eddie accepts his attraction for the very feminine but still male Carson with no angst in sight. Eddie is such a nice man. He wants to take care of Carson, in any way Carson allows. He can't provide for Carson financially in the way Carson is accustomed, but he takes care of Carson in ways no other person ever has -- by making sure Carson eats and sleeps and by sharing his family with him.
And Carson, much to his surprise, finds he doesn't want to take advantage of Eddie's kind heart. He puts Eddie's needs above his own.
This is such a quiet and lovely book. Eddie truly accepts Carson for who is, and for the first time in his life, Carson discovers the value of love. I believed in their HEA.
Yes, Carson only dates rich men who can keep him in a lavish lifestyle, but there is also a depth and a sweetness to him. Carson's not mean or selfish or lacking in feeling or a conscience. He just doesn't know any other way of life.
Carson meets Eddie, the co-owner and superintendent of the building he lives in, after he's dumped by his latest sugar daddy. Eddie sees Carson crying, and brings him a rose. Friendship and love unexpectedly bloom.
This is GFY story, but not much is made of that. Eddie accepts his attraction for the very feminine but still male Carson with no angst in sight. Eddie is such a nice man. He wants to take care of Carson, in any way Carson allows. He can't provide for Carson financially in the way Carson is accustomed, but he takes care of Carson in ways no other person ever has -- by making sure Carson eats and sleeps and by sharing his family with him.
And Carson, much to his surprise, finds he doesn't want to take advantage of Eddie's kind heart. He puts Eddie's needs above his own.
This is such a quiet and lovely book. Eddie truly accepts Carson for who is, and for the first time in his life, Carson discovers the value of love. I believed in their HEA.
October 14, 2017
Lovely!
I've been meaning to read Jet Mykles for some time and I'm so happy I picked this book as my first one. This was a beautifully written GFY story in which the gay MC undergoes a greater transformation than the straight one.
Carson, a gender fluid man who is used to being kept by rich men, finds himself without a benefactor and broke. Eddie, the rough super and owner of his apartment building, surprises Carson by giving him a rose when he sees him crying on his balcony. A friendship develops between the two men, one that has Carson at odds because he doesn't know how to accept favors from men who expect nothing in return.
Carson turns out to be less shallow than he imagines himself. After some heartbreak and ill advice, the two apparently dissimilar men find an HFN.
I've been meaning to read Jet Mykles for some time and I'm so happy I picked this book as my first one. This was a beautifully written GFY story in which the gay MC undergoes a greater transformation than the straight one.
Carson, a gender fluid man who is used to being kept by rich men, finds himself without a benefactor and broke. Eddie, the rough super and owner of his apartment building, surprises Carson by giving him a rose when he sees him crying on his balcony. A friendship develops between the two men, one that has Carson at odds because he doesn't know how to accept favors from men who expect nothing in return.
Carson turns out to be less shallow than he imagines himself. After some heartbreak and ill advice, the two apparently dissimilar men find an HFN.
February 9, 2011
I struggled with how I felt about this book, with whether I liked it or not. Mainly because I don't understand why Carson would allow someone to "take care" of him. The story explains why but it doesn't make me understand any better. Half the time while reading this I felt like a disapproving mother and the other half made me cringe a bit, hold my breath, maybe said a few choice words, refused to get teary eyed and rooted for Carson a bit. I liked the ending though and made me feel better about Carson.
September 21, 2011
Picture Andrej Pejic with his hair Manic Panic red. That is Carson: pretty, androgynous, with a penchant for the more feminine things like silk robes and glittering jewelry. Beautiful, as Eddie of few words likes to say.
Heads up on this one. The blurb, in my opinion, was a bit misleading. Carson is not out looking for sugar daddies to take care of him from relationship to relationship. He is almost innocent in the way he realizes just how much his ex, Anthony, did for him financially. He tries really hard to take care of himself once Anthony breaks his heart. From the blurb, I thought he'd be out looking for another rich fuck buddy right away, but that was definitely not the case. Carson was a sweet guy taken in by pretty gifts and fancy meals to the point that he couldn't take care of himself when he suddenly found himself alone.
Heads up on this one. The blurb, in my opinion, was a bit misleading. Carson is not out looking for sugar daddies to take care of him from relationship to relationship. He is almost innocent in the way he realizes just how much his ex, Anthony, did for him financially. He tries really hard to take care of himself once Anthony breaks his heart. From the blurb, I thought he'd be out looking for another rich fuck buddy right away, but that was definitely not the case. Carson was a sweet guy taken in by pretty gifts and fancy meals to the point that he couldn't take care of himself when he suddenly found himself alone.
February 17, 2011
Carson is another one of Jet's characters that I fell in love with right off the bat - beautiful, emotional, strong-willed and purposefully flamboyant, the glitz hiding the lonely, needy young man underneath that's starved to find that special someone to call his own. Eddie fits the part perfectly and watching the love grow between these two mismatched men made me do a whole lot of awwing and made my heart warm. Lovely gay-for-you book that's been added to my faves. It could have only been better if it was longer. PS - the cover perfectly Carson.
March 29, 2011
What a lovely sweet story!! Everybody needs his/her own Eddie. Carson you are a lucky man!! :)
July 13, 2012
Really sweet story with a girly guy and a bear guy as the MCs. No extreme emotions just an easy, nice read.
October 28, 2017
I usually REALLY like Jet Mykles, and this was okay. I liked the ending; it was just what I expected. The first two thirds was a little slower that I expected for a JM story. Eddie was the sweetest.
I may not read this again, but it was a nice ending.
I may not read this again, but it was a nice ending.
March 15, 2011
Can a gold digger ever change his spots? That’s the question that Carson asks himself following the breakup of his recent relationship. Without the financial help his ex provided, Carson is left struggling to make ends meet, let alone afford the lifestyle he’s become accustomed to. It’s not that Carson is heartless per se it’s just that he figures he can find a rich lover who knows the score. Yet when sparks fly between Carson and his building landlord, Carson is put in a sticky situation. Is it true love or merely an obstacle to the life he should have?
A Rose is a Rose is the delightful Valentine’s Day offering from popular Jet Mykles. The common opposites attract theme is given a twist when affable gold digger Carson finds himself attracted to unassuming Eddie. Carson carries the story with his adorable and wonderful insight, even if he’s not always nice. As a self aware semi-whore Carson wants a nice lifestyle but he’d prefer that with someone who could afford him. Carson is definitely flawed but the story does a very good job of showing how he came to be the way he is. He was taught how to lure and catch men from a young age and even his mother counsels him to stay with rich men, regardless of the love.
The main tension in the story is Carson’s struggle. He has some very real bills he can’t afford on his current salary and he loves the Burlesque atmosphere. This is presented with vivid details and really comes alive with both the glory and slightly seedy aspects. Carson is both strong and weak simultaneously and presents a very compelling narrator, one you can’t help root for even when he does some pretty selfish things. Eddie is less important as he is more the catalyst for Carson to change and the object of affection rather than his own complex character. I wish there had been more to Eddie and I did walk way feeling disappointed with his character. However Carson is so fascinating that Eddie’s simplicity nicely rounds out the partnership.
The story is technically a gay-for-you theme since Eddie has never entertained thoughts about men before Carson. Yet with the focus on Carson and his semi-transformation from schemer into responsible adult, the GFY idea is very minor. Instead this is Carson’s redemption and path to true love, a rather romantic and sexy one at that. Fans of the author definitely won’t want to miss this. For those new to Mykles this is a good introduction to her great writing and hot men.
Originally posted at http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/201...
A Rose is a Rose is the delightful Valentine’s Day offering from popular Jet Mykles. The common opposites attract theme is given a twist when affable gold digger Carson finds himself attracted to unassuming Eddie. Carson carries the story with his adorable and wonderful insight, even if he’s not always nice. As a self aware semi-whore Carson wants a nice lifestyle but he’d prefer that with someone who could afford him. Carson is definitely flawed but the story does a very good job of showing how he came to be the way he is. He was taught how to lure and catch men from a young age and even his mother counsels him to stay with rich men, regardless of the love.
The main tension in the story is Carson’s struggle. He has some very real bills he can’t afford on his current salary and he loves the Burlesque atmosphere. This is presented with vivid details and really comes alive with both the glory and slightly seedy aspects. Carson is both strong and weak simultaneously and presents a very compelling narrator, one you can’t help root for even when he does some pretty selfish things. Eddie is less important as he is more the catalyst for Carson to change and the object of affection rather than his own complex character. I wish there had been more to Eddie and I did walk way feeling disappointed with his character. However Carson is so fascinating that Eddie’s simplicity nicely rounds out the partnership.
The story is technically a gay-for-you theme since Eddie has never entertained thoughts about men before Carson. Yet with the focus on Carson and his semi-transformation from schemer into responsible adult, the GFY idea is very minor. Instead this is Carson’s redemption and path to true love, a rather romantic and sexy one at that. Fans of the author definitely won’t want to miss this. For those new to Mykles this is a good introduction to her great writing and hot men.
Originally posted at http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/201...
February 11, 2011
Such a lovely cover! There's almost always something I'm very jealous of when it comes to Jet Mykles' characters, and with Carson - it's got to be those long luscious, red locks. Completely lured me in :)
You can't help but feel sorry for this gorgeous cover guy for a good majority of the story. He isn't as talented as the other members of the burlesque show - no real vocal skills and not a great dancer either. Carson is featured in a few skits that involve him strolling around in racy outfits and a few sequined gowns. Since Carson sometimes cross-dresses, this is a perfect fit. Summer dresses, false hip shapers and breast inserts - Carson's not afraid to be himself, even if he's meeting the mother of his new lover that's never been with a man.
Eddie, the building superintendent and owner, struck me as a quiet, calm man of few words. But when he spoke, he always offered the words of comfort that Carson needed to hear. And he often showed his affection through action, constantly cooking for and feeding Carson, doing his best not to offend Carson's pride. But Eddie was a little too sweet and gentle for me. I think I generally need at least one of my men in m/m erotic romance to be alpha. My other problem with Eddie was also personal: I don't enjoy reading about very hairy men. And Carson's never been with such a hairy man, so he talks about it - quite often. The thatch of chest hair peeking out of Eddie's shirt. The beard that's long enough to comb. The fur on Eddie's chest. My personal quirks about too thick body and beard hair were a huge distraction during the love scenes. Regardless, Eddie was a great guy and I absolutely loved how roses were incorporated throughout the story :)
You might not like Carson's "boy toy for sugar daddy" way of life, but by the end of the story, you clearly understand the reason behind his choices and you get to see Carson change for the better.
You can't help but feel sorry for this gorgeous cover guy for a good majority of the story. He isn't as talented as the other members of the burlesque show - no real vocal skills and not a great dancer either. Carson is featured in a few skits that involve him strolling around in racy outfits and a few sequined gowns. Since Carson sometimes cross-dresses, this is a perfect fit. Summer dresses, false hip shapers and breast inserts - Carson's not afraid to be himself, even if he's meeting the mother of his new lover that's never been with a man.
Eddie, the building superintendent and owner, struck me as a quiet, calm man of few words. But when he spoke, he always offered the words of comfort that Carson needed to hear. And he often showed his affection through action, constantly cooking for and feeding Carson, doing his best not to offend Carson's pride. But Eddie was a little too sweet and gentle for me. I think I generally need at least one of my men in m/m erotic romance to be alpha. My other problem with Eddie was also personal: I don't enjoy reading about very hairy men. And Carson's never been with such a hairy man, so he talks about it - quite often. The thatch of chest hair peeking out of Eddie's shirt. The beard that's long enough to comb. The fur on Eddie's chest. My personal quirks about too thick body and beard hair were a huge distraction during the love scenes. Regardless, Eddie was a great guy and I absolutely loved how roses were incorporated throughout the story :)
You might not like Carson's "boy toy for sugar daddy" way of life, but by the end of the story, you clearly understand the reason behind his choices and you get to see Carson change for the better.
October 14, 2013
This was a very sweet story about Carson, a flamboyant burlesque queen and his landlord, Eddie, a straight man who falls for Carson. Eddie is a very normal guy, solid, not handsome, yet caring, romantic and a family man. Carson is deserted by his sugar daddy when he wants to step up the relationship and begins to realize how dependent he's become on a man in his life.
At the same time, Eddie is trying to become the new man in Carson's life and is providing him with food, companionship and ultimately love. Carson is much sweeter than the blurb indicates. He's beautiful outside and in and is struggling with his realization that he's allowed himself to become dependent on others. In an effort to free Eddie from the growing relationship and Carson's growing dependence, he leaves.
What he finds out about who he is and how he's changed leads him to the HEA. This story is not an in-depth angst-filled romance. It's light and sweet with moments of angst but more moments of happiness. I love gay-for-you stories and this one is really good. If that's your thing then you should enjoy this too.
At the same time, Eddie is trying to become the new man in Carson's life and is providing him with food, companionship and ultimately love. Carson is much sweeter than the blurb indicates. He's beautiful outside and in and is struggling with his realization that he's allowed himself to become dependent on others. In an effort to free Eddie from the growing relationship and Carson's growing dependence, he leaves.
What he finds out about who he is and how he's changed leads him to the HEA. This story is not an in-depth angst-filled romance. It's light and sweet with moments of angst but more moments of happiness. I love gay-for-you stories and this one is really good. If that's your thing then you should enjoy this too.
July 18, 2014
Sweet easy to read story. It illustrates the growth of a very shallow, self-absorbed, young man who slowly realizes he can stand on his own. He is a product of his upbringing, but something inside pushes him to want more than being "kept arm candy" especially without monogamy. This desire is fed and watered (literally and metaphorically) by the solid, hard-working, middle class owner of the building in which he lives. Eddie is patient, caring, and nothing like what Carson always thought he wanted. There, of course, are the requisite growing pains and doubts. None that were too angsty or unrealistic. A leopard doesn't change its spots overnight, and sometimes we are the last to know what is best for us (especially when a path doesn't appear easy). Sometimes it takes revisiting "what we thought we wanted" to open our eyes, and that gives us the strength to close the door firmly on that path. In a nutshell this is Carson. If you like easy to read stories about personal growth with a HEA, then this is a story for you.
October 8, 2012
About 3.5 stars.
I enjoyed this novella length story about Carson, who is basically a rent boy. He owes his entire existence to his boyfriend Anthony, who clothes, feeds, and entertains him. Carson basically only has to pay for his own rent because Anthony insists that Carson maintain his own place. Carson also relies on Anthony for his job because Anthony is one of the producers of his burlesque show where he is the headliner. When Anthony and Carson break up, Carson realizes how dependent he has been when he struggles to feed himself. When Carson befriends the owner and maintenance man of his building, Carson realizes that there may be more to life than glitz and glamor. While I didn't love Carson's personality and weaknesses, I recognized that he is basically a creature of his upbringing and lives a life nearly identical to his mother's. It took Carson a while to see the light, but I did enjoy this read.
I enjoyed this novella length story about Carson, who is basically a rent boy. He owes his entire existence to his boyfriend Anthony, who clothes, feeds, and entertains him. Carson basically only has to pay for his own rent because Anthony insists that Carson maintain his own place. Carson also relies on Anthony for his job because Anthony is one of the producers of his burlesque show where he is the headliner. When Anthony and Carson break up, Carson realizes how dependent he has been when he struggles to feed himself. When Carson befriends the owner and maintenance man of his building, Carson realizes that there may be more to life than glitz and glamor. While I didn't love Carson's personality and weaknesses, I recognized that he is basically a creature of his upbringing and lives a life nearly identical to his mother's. It took Carson a while to see the light, but I did enjoy this read.
August 11, 2012
3.5 stars. Mykles really knows how to build a character! Carson and Eddie were so individualized and different and worked great together. I really liked Eddie's simplicity and generally teddybear like personality. I liked the "final" Carson very much as well once he became more confident and self-sufficient (though I hope he maintained his bright and dramatic personality as well)
The story itself was a simple one. Carson is living life in all the wrong ways for himself. He has a boyfriend who is disrespectful, not monogamous, and an all around douche. They break up and Eddie comes along and offers simple things (cheer, kindness, honesty). Their relationship progresses and Carson has a panic attack moment where he's not sure he can leave behind his old ways and give everything for Eddie. Of course he eventually comes to his senses and they live happily ever after.
The story itself was a simple one. Carson is living life in all the wrong ways for himself. He has a boyfriend who is disrespectful, not monogamous, and an all around douche. They break up and Eddie comes along and offers simple things (cheer, kindness, honesty). Their relationship progresses and Carson has a panic attack moment where he's not sure he can leave behind his old ways and give everything for Eddie. Of course he eventually comes to his senses and they live happily ever after.
March 31, 2011
Ms. Mykles is a hit or miss for me. I never know if I'm going to like it or not. This is the first m/m from Ms. Mykles I've read. It was decent. I liked it. There was no earth shattering concepts or great lost loves. This was a sweet story of a boy become what I think of as a man. I did find it funny at one point where "30" is so old. I guess I'm feeling dated. 30 is pretty old coming from a 18 year old perspective. From a mid-twenty year old, I wouldn't have anticipated 30 as old. Then again, I'm used to huge age gaps.
This is a quick read with a likeable main character. The "villain" in this story, Anthony, is a bastard. I have no problems saying this and don't consider it a spoiler. I hope the arrogant asshole gets a terrible STD and dies. Just saying.
This is a quick read with a likeable main character. The "villain" in this story, Anthony, is a bastard. I have no problems saying this and don't consider it a spoiler. I hope the arrogant asshole gets a terrible STD and dies. Just saying.
September 6, 2015
A sweet story. A "kept man" is dumped by his lover for wanting a commitment and meets his building's owner and superintendent. Eddie the super is a sweet simple man, not the kind of money man Carson usually dated. The two fall in love though Eddie isn't gay. I enjoyed the over all story but as typical in other books by Jet Mykles the issue of sexual orientation is very fluid. For a man that grew up as Eddie did to go from straight to gay was a little too easy. The story didn't hold my attention either. I just didn't engage though the story was good.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews