Damaged Goods

by Lauren Gallagher

Erotic Contemporary

Jocelyn Rhodes is a single mother with a demanding career and a long-neglected libido. Frustrated with the dating scene and way overdue for some satisfying sex, she takes a friend’s advice and hires Sabian, a deliciously sexy escort. He’s well worth the money, and the sheets haven’t even cooled off before she’s ready to call him again.

The more time she spends with him, the more she realizes she and Sabian have important things in common. For starters, she’s a single mom, he’s a prostitute, so when it comes to dating, they’re both damaged goods. To most potential mates, Jocelyn and Sabian are in a category akin to dented soup cans, but if the two of them can look past each other’s respective dents, they just might find something they’ve both been missing.

But even if they do find that something, how on earth can she make a relationship work with a man who sleeps with other women for a living?

Genres: Erotica, Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Erotic Romance, Adult, M F Romance

166 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 14, 2011

About the author

Also writes as L.A. Witt

Reviews

[Duchess Nicole · Rating 1 out of 5]

WARNING: Lots of swearing! I tend to try to stay away from this sort of thing, but not here. This book pissed me off.

You know, I thought I left behind my conservative Midwestern roots for the most part. Did a bit of growing up, had a few friends of bad influence (you know who you are, you hussies!) However, this book brought out the innocent in me, I think.


For the first thirty percent or so of the book, I was really enjoying it. The decision for Jocelyn to go to a male prostitute really isn't that big of a deal. Her developing feelings for him wasn't a shocker either. She's divorced with two kids and a demanding job, sick of the men that run away from dating her after realizing that she has kids, and to be quite blunt...the woman needs a good scrogging and a few screaming orgasms. I'm fine with that. More power to ya, sister!!!



My problem comes from the fact that the author spends roughly half of the book trying to convince the reader that Jocelyn and Sabien(Austin) can maintain a loving, honest, SERIOUS relationship while he still fucks other women for a living on a daily basis. Seriously, the guy will get a phone call in the middle of a movie and he has to leave Jocelyn to go do some lady doggy style after going down on her. Then he comes home to Jocelyn, plays kissy face I love you(disgusting!!), and snuggles off into man-whore dreamland. Not only does Jocelyn go along with this job of his, but she defends her boyfriend to her friends to the extent that she loses the friendship when the friend expresses VERY VALID concerns about their relationship! Granted, the friend got a mite judgemental...but under the circumstances Not one, not two...but THREE of Jocelyn's friends had slept with Sabien...he'd done all manner of sexual things to them. Screw that. It would literally be one in a million women that would ever consider a relationship like this. Not in America, no way, no how.
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I WOULD NEVER EVER STAY WITH A MAN THAT CAME HOME WITH ANOTHER WOMAN'S VAGINA ALL OVER HIS FACE. ALMOST DAILY, TO BOOT. Call me a prude, but my husband's dick is now MY dick. And vice versa...errr, sort of.
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I know that some of this disgust from me stems from my problem with infidelity. I firmly believe that what you do outside of a relationship is your business. If you want to bone the world, have at it. If you want to get tied down, whipped till you cry, and gang banged, that's your prerogative. But once you are in the arms of a significant other, you are sharing something sacred every time you breathe. You give part of yourself to them, and they to you. Maybe that's mushy, maybe there are a lot of people out there who think differently. It takes all kinds. And I think what Sabien does is wrong. I think Jocelyn is weak and too desperate for a man to make good decisions.

In all honesty, had Jocelyn not make few really idiotic statements, I may have been able to just roll my eyes and roll with the story. But when she starts comparing Sabien "damaged goods" because of his whore status and to herself as "damaged goods" because of her MOTHER status, I lost all respect for her. Here are a few quotes that made me wish I could slap this woman.

(When Sabien expresses concern for when he gets a hooker call in the middle of the night or day)
---"The same could be said for when the novelty wears of having my kids call while we're out, having to schedule and reschedule when one of them gets sick, that kind of thing..."

Wait....just wait...Did she just compare the inconvenience of a sick child to the inconvenience of a cash booty call? Why yes, yes she did! But oh, wait! She wasn't finished...same convo, a bit later...still talking about her kids.
"I just don't want you to think I'm putting you last."

Ummm...SHOULDN'T you put your boyfriend last in line when you're talking about your kids? Yes, yes you should...if you're a good mother, that is. I'm sorry, kids...my fuckbuddy comes first now.

No, thanks.

"I just don't see him as anyone other than Austin. Now that I know him, what he does for a living is...irrelevant."

Oh, and Sabien's excuse for not finding a job that requires him to fuck other women?

Bad economy...the biggest crock of crap excuse EVAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Nuff said...

[Baba · Rating 1 out of 5]

**Review removed due to personal reasons. Rating downgraded to one star.**

March 11, 2018

[KristenReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Huge 5 stars

I absolutely love this book. Love it! 

To be honest, Damaged Goods isn't the type of story I'd normally like, and certainly not to such a degree. But I love everything about this thought provoking, sensually erotic, and highly compelling book. 

The overall plot isn't unique-the hero's an escort who falls in love with his client-but the direction the author takes this cliché plot is fascinating, unique, and thought provoking. Mainly because the hero, Austin/Sabian, continues to be an escort even after he becomes seriously involved with the heroine, Jocelyn. Hence, the reason why I normally wouldn't like this book. 

Jocelyn is an amazing and complex character. I tried to put myself in her shoes and I don't think I could be as open minded or as understanding as she is throughout this story. She does her best to accept Austin's reasons, views, and opinions about his job. I felt the author did a fabulous job keeping Jocelyn's thoughts, feelings, and struggles realistic and authentic.  

Austin is such a swoonworthy hero. I adore his character. He's sexy, caring, and such a charmer. I enjoyed getting to know the man behind his persona. Lauren Gallagher did a great job showing the reader the differences between Sabian, the escort, and Austin, the man. Which amazed me considering the book is written solely in Jocelyn's pov. Thank heavens!

The ending is realistic, creative, and absolutely perfect for the story.

Damaged Goods is a well written, thought provoking, and passionately erotic book that explores whether or not a serious relationship can survive the problems, consequences, and emotional toll this type of relationship creates.

I love this book and will definitely read it again. It may not be for everyone, but if you're looking for a plot driven, thought provoking, and erotically sensual read, give this book a try.  

[Aestas Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

*happy sigh* Its the best feeling ever to find books that I love!! And this is one of them :)



This is not a traditional love story. Its about a male prostitute and a single mom finding love and finding a way to make a relationship work despite the difficulties of their situation.

Its wonderful, well-written, and swoony, with toe-curling hotness, a beautifully functional relationship, no stupidity and a very happy ending :)

I could tell right from the start that I was going to love it. The writing style was strong and flowed smoothly, I was smiling from the first page and was immediately drawn into the story.

Frustrated with the trials, tribulations, and complications of dating, single mom Jocelyn decides to take her friend’s advice and try an escort service.

“Once in a while… I just want a long night with a beautiful man who wants nothing more than to make me come and fuck me senseless.”

When Sabian shows up at her hotel room, he’s everything she could have wanted and more. Gorgeous, skilled, and basically, every woman’s fantasy. Thrilled with the experience, she hires him a few more times and finds herself quite drawn to him. But the real him, not just the part of him she’s paying for. One thing leads to another and as he starts to open up to her and shows her the man behind Sabian, the real him – Austin, they slowly begin to realize that on so many levels, they are perfect for each other… and so begins the dicey situation of dating an escort…

“Who do you want?” he asked. “Sabian or Austin?”

k, don’t judge me here but male prostitutes totally have a bit of a thrill to them… and one of them finding love is even better. I guess its something about the whole situation being a little taboo, not allowed, kind of an impossible situation to be in and also to start a relationship in… but the concept it just so hotttt!!!

“Growling in my ear, he said, “Do you want the gentleman or the caveman right now?”

I loved that the story didn’t feel over-the-top or fairy-tale perfect. It felt totally real. It was told entirely from Jocelyn’s POV and you felt right in her head. She was a wonderful heroine with a good head on her shoulders. It was refreshing to have a heroine that I never once wanted to throttle. In fact, there were many many situations where I was actually seriously impressed with the way she was handling things. Makes it much easier to connect to heroines when you actually an understand and sympathize with what’s going on inside their heads.

Sabian/Austin was just… oh my HOT!! I fell in love with him right from the first scene and I’d pretty much just sit there fanning myself through each of the bedroom scenes. But let alone the toe curling, mind blowing sex, the dirty talking, the sweetness, the intensity of what they had was just thrilling. And the whole slightly forbidden aspect of what they had just added to the thrill of it. The fact that what they were doing at first, the sex, was really happening, and yet it was in many ways fake, but with undercurrents of real attraction and desire… and then watching that lead to real desire, and real passion, real intimacy and real intensity… oooooo it was swoony!!

The more comfortable he became with Jocelyn, the more he began to show her the real him – the fun, sweet, artistic guy behind the suave, sophisticated, confident escort. He became so much more real, and as a reader, I got to connect with him on a more personal level seeing him tired from work, groggy in the morning, enjoying video games, nervous on a first real date, cooking food, having fun, just being himself.

But at the same time, I loved his approach to his job. He had no shame in what he did and made a really good case for it actually. I loved that perspective and what it said about him.

“It doesn’t bother you that you’re selling yourself?”
“I’m not selling myself,” he said matter-of-facile, “I sell a service, use my body to give that service… And afterward, I leave with as much of myself as I came in with.”

I absolutely LOVED how respectful Jocelyn was of Austin and his job and the process of curiosity she went through trying to figure it out and finally come to terms with it – asking about his job, trying to find out more about his life. She was inquisitive but never absolutely never looked down on him or judged him negatively for what he did.

And I loved that when they finally came together, nothing was rushed. No insta-love. No fairy-tale everything-falling-into-place perfection. They worked to create a functional, understanding relationship. What they had was unconventional and they had to write their own rules and figure out their own rhythm.

K, something I know a lot of you are going to be wondering about is: does he quit his job once they are together? and hear me out here cuz you probably aren’t going to like the answer. No, he doesn’t quit his job right away. Now, hold up, don’t run for the hills now that you’ve heard that, cuz I’m the kind of person that under pretty much any other circumstance would have hated that, but I can honestly say that I was actually okay with here. Honest. Well, okay, fine, so I wasn’t like ‘okay okay’ with it in the sense of I wasn’t jumping for joy, but at the same time, despite the situation being uncomfortable at times, it never ever felt like he was cheating on her, weird as that may sound.

“There’s sex, and there’s… this.” He met my eyes. “Just being with someone like this. This isn’t something that can be bought or sold, and I couldn’t manufacture it for someone no matter how much they tried to pay me for it…. That’s why I’m here tonight. Because I need this. And here, with you, is the only place I can get it.” He swallowed hard. “Or give it.”

“Just remember one thing: regardless of how anyone chooses to define what I do for a living, I’m not selling what I’m giving you. If this isn’t something you can handle, I’ll understand, but I swear to you. I’ve never given this to anyone. I wouldn’t dream of selling it, even if I could.”

They really highlighted, SO clearly, the difference between ‘sex’ and ‘intimacy’ – between having sex in the clinical sense and having sex in the romantic/meaningful sense. And the truth of it is, I totally understood the way they handled it. It wasn’t easy – I mean, its an impossible situation to be in. And they worked through everything you’d imagine people in their situations to deal with in an adorable, understandable and functional way!! Seriously, nothing makes me happier in a book than a functional relationship

And of course, there is a beautiful HEA (and epilogue). I will say, I could have totally want a leeeeetle more at the end. But still, I loved it and if you haven’t read this, its definitely one to add to the top TBR list.

And if you've read and liked this book, you should also add Fallen from Grace and Finding Home to your lists as well.

CASTING:





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[Stacia (the 2010 club) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adult review for erotic content.

I'm about to sing the praises of such a lovely book because for the first time in a while, I managed to find a story about a single mom who figured out how to handle her dating life the right way. I'm not kidding when I say that there are books which have made me want to beat my head on the desk because of their ridiculous ideas of how today's single mom is supposed to act (one example : THIS BOOK). Being a former single mom, I was so thrilled to read a book about a woman who knows how to take care of her own needs, as well as the needs of her children. Balance and common sense. Who would have thought it was possible?

Damaged Goods was such a great find. Yes, this one is erotica. There are definitely plenty of hot sex scenes to go around. But - this is not your typical porn without plot fare. I had a silly, happy smile on my face while reading this book because it was a joy to read. Gone were the ridiculous fights and idiotic obstacles which plague so much of contemporary romance. For as dysfunctional as the pairing of a self-proclaimed "man-whore" and a dedicated "single mom" was, the relationship felt surprisingly functional. I know that I probably would have a hard time dating a man who spent so much of his time servicing other women, but there was something about this story and this couple which made it believable. Maybe it was because the pair found a way to believe in each other when no one else could. Whatever the reason was, I found it such a wonderful treat to see two people who were capable of communicating with each other, while managing to avoid most of the incessant drama you often find in romances.

Here are a few little quips from the book :

I opened my mouth to speak, but Michael beat me to it. "I'll give you some credit," he said with a sneer. "You don't look like a prostitute."
Austin shrugged. "I don't usually wear the fishnets and garish makeup on my day off."
.....
Austin appeared in the doorway. "You two aren't talking about me, are you?"
"Of course we are," Shelby said. "Someone has to warn her about you. She looked at me and deadpanned, "You know he used to be a stripper, right?"
"What?" I glared at Austin. "You told me you only danced like that for me."
Shelby rolled her eyes and exhaled sharply. "You two are perfect for each other."
.....
I didn't speak, instead letting him find the words that eluded him. Finally he took a deep breath.
"There's sex, and there's...this." He met my eyes. "Just being with someone. This isn't something that can be bought or sold, and I couldn't manufacture it for someone no matter how much they tried to pay me for it." He ran the backs of his fingers down my cheek. "That's why I'm here tonight. Because I needed this. And here, with you, is the only place I can get it." He swallowed. "Or give it."

[Rosalinda *KRASNORADA* · Rating 4 out of 5]

FOUR JOCELYN STARS! BEST HEROINE EVER!



Jocelyn & Austin are Damaged Goods. She's a divorced mom of two in her thirties and he's a escort in his late twenties.

Jocelyn hates dating and all that boring stuff that precedes a one night stand so she decides to follow her friend's advice and hires a escort. Enter Sabian, hot and tattooed and a sex machine. He worth every single penny she is paying for him and he makes her feel desired.

Even if she didn't plan to see him more than once, she just can't help it and she keeps hiring him but their feelings get more and more intense every time they meet.

And so... they cross a line.

It was much too soon to know what was happening between us, but much too late to deny that it was. This wasn't business anymore

But guess what? Being with a escort is not that easy, right? I admire Jocelyn, I mean, I could NOT do that, hell to the no! Insecurities will eat me alive, NOP!

I must admit I had one tiny issue: They're together for one year while he's still a escort. I really wanted him to quit earlier. I mean, he says he loves her, why is he not trying to get another job? I know, I am talking like a granny here but honestly I just couldn't do it.

In general, I really enjoyed this book and will highly recommend you guys to read it. I loved the characters (apart from that tiny issue with Austin). Specially Jocelyn, I think this is the first time I don't find a heroine a little bit annoying.

This book taught me that there is always hope for love even if you think you're Damaged Goods.



P.S. I do NOT like the cover, at all! Thanks God I am not a cover whore...

[Alexis *Reality Bites* · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spoiler Free Review Must be 18yrs or older to view this review
4 STARS out of 5
Genre: Adult Romance-Erotica

'He bent to kiss me lightly. "Still feel like sucking my cock?"
Did I ever, and his grin told me he already knew the answer.
I nodded. Sabian pulled out, then eased my legs down and helped me up. Then he sat in my chair. Nodding towards the floor, he said,
"Get on your knees."
With pleasure. I went to my knees, and went down on him, something I've been dying to do since we first fucked.' -Damaged Goods

Word of Mouth
When seven years worth of bad dating and a string of one night stands that are left to be desired leave Jocelyn unfulfilled. She finds herself in a hotel room waiting to be SEXED UP by a male escort. Sabian.
Jocelyn Rhodes is an amicably divorced single mother with two kids and a demanding job at an advertisement agency. A friend tells her about Elite Escorts.
"Trust me Jocelyn," Kim had said. "These guys are top quality. You won't regret it."
The sex is what she needs and more. And even though she felt some shame in her actions. The no strings attached sexual freedom leaves her purring in satisfaction. After a few sexual meetings between the two Jocelyn sets up a dinner date. What is suppose to be a casual dinner date with Sabian and Jocelyn turns quickly in to something personal and intimate. This new intimate level leads to common ground, unpaid for sex and a new relationship. Sabian, birth name Austin makes it crystal clear that he will not quit his job. Jocelyn accepts this and they decide to take it one day at a time.

One day at a time leads to weeks which leads to months. Feelings grow and Jocelyn fights against her instincts when her mind naturally wonders about what or should I say who he is doing on his work nights. Things come to a head when she goes out on a girls night with the same friends who have used the Elite Escorts. She starts to wonder if her friends have slept with Sabian. Can you say nervous break down???

Fave Scene
Scene Setup: When Jocelyn realizes she is in it for the long hall she decides it is time for Austin to meet her kids but first she has to tell her ex-husband Michael about Austin and his job as an escort. She wants to rip the band-aid off fast so she times it out perfectly. First she breaks the news to her ex and a half hour later Austin will join them so the two can meet. Check out their meet and greet below

I open my mouth to speak but Michael beats me to it.
"I'll give you some credit," he said with a sneer."You don't look like a prostitute."
Austin shrugged. "I don't usually wear my fishnets and garish makeup on my day off."

Bahahahahahahahahahaha!!!!! Loves it!

Thoughts
I had mixed emotions with this book. I kept thinking how can she put up with this Shit! I mean really it has to be hard as hell to deal with. And then I thought about the porn industry... And it hit me millions of people deal with this everyday. It's their decision and something they have to live with. NOT ME. Thank goodness.
Overall I loved it! Read it!!

My Ratings
Characters- Likable
Writing Style- Good
Plot/Storyline- Good
Steam Factor- High/Very Steamy
Overall- I Loved it! Read it!!!

Now go forth and read. And then come tell us about it on Goodreads!

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holy moly, this is not like anything I have ever read before. Really, there are parts that are similar, but in the end this one is completely unique. Jocelyn is a single working mom, she is tired of going on endless dates that only end in disappointed. Desperate for more she hires an escort. Sabian does more than satisfies Jocelyn and she becomes a repeat customer.

Jocelyn and Sabian’s connection begins to develop and they start dating. This is where the story was unique. Jocelyn was completely dedicated to trying with Sabian and didn’t try to push him to change. I was so impressed.

"To be completely honest, you're the first woman in I don't know how long who's sat through a date with me, knowing full well what I do for a living, and treated me like a human being.”

I found the faith, confidence and dedication Jocelyn and Sabian had in their relationship to be so endearing. While it wasn’t something I could honestly buy into since I am such a crazy, possessive nut I admired them. I loved reading their story and seeing their journey. If you are looking for a book that’s unique and sexy I recommend!

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow- I am pleasantly surprised with how much I loved this book! Is not your normal love story! This story was sexy, emotional, and beautiful.

Jocelyn is in her early thirties. She is a single mom who has been divorced for seven years. She is lonely. Sick of the ‘dating game’.

I was so desperate for headache free sex that I’d pay money to skip the crap and get to the fun part.


One of her friends recommends an escort service. She has the money- she figures what does she have to lose? While waiting in the hotel room, she is a nervous wreck. Then he shows up.



Sabian is a male escort. Essentially a prostitute. Once with Sabian is not enough for Jocelyn. The two of them are smokin’ hot together!!! She finds herself thinking of him all the time. So she hires him a second time, a third time, and in the process, she gets to know him unlike any other client has before.

Sabian is used to his job. He gives women what they want, and he gets paid well for it. He isn’t used to women like Jocelyn. She is so inquisitive about him and his work, he finds himself opening up to her. For the first time in a long time, he is able to be himself with a woman. A woman who isn’t judging him for his profession and genuinely likes him for him. She gets to meet the real guy behind Sabian. She gets introduced to Austin. How could a girl not fall for Austin??? He was sweet, sexy, and understanding about Jocelyn and her situation. Jocelyn doesn’t know what to do with him at first. After one night with Austin, she knows she has to see if this will go anywhere.

We blurred the line between fucking and making love. No- we crossed that line.

Time passes, these two start to have a real relationship. There are many bumps in the road, insecurities etc, but how would there not be? I think Jocelyn handled herself well for the situation she was in. She struggled with it at times, but Austin was always so kind and understanding. Upfront with her about everything. I loved the two of them together. At first, when they started getting serious, I thought for sure Austin would quit his job. It didn’t happen... but they way that the story went just made the ending that much sweeter. The ending was just perfect!


This was a very unique read. A not so normal romance between a single mother and a male escort. Its really a beautiful love story about two people who appear to be ‘damaged goods’ by society, but they see the real people under the labels. Thats what makes their relationship so special. Neither one sees the other as something damaged. I really enjoyed this book. It was well written, I thought the characters were both great, and the story just made me think and feel. I wish I wouldn’t have waited so long to read this one! A really good read!

[Mirjana **DTR - Down to Read** · Rating 4 out of 5]

***3.9 Thought Provoking Stars***

"The escort and the single mom. Who'd have guessed?"

This was definitely a book that left me thinking at the end. I flip flopped back and forth on my thoughts for quite a while trying to figure out how I truly felt about this book.

Jocelyn is a divorced, single mom. She's devoted to her work, her kids and her home...but she's also a woman with needs. Needs that aren't being met wading through the murky waters of dating with kids. She's persuaded by her friend to call an escort service and that's just what she does....and fantastically enough (which I loved) it's at that moment that the book opens and we meet Jocelyn.

I loved her. Her inner dialogue is exactly what you'd expect of a woman in her situation. She has essentially paid for a one night stand. She's trying to rationalize that decision while quieting her fears and being open minded.

What she didn't expect was Sabian. Sabian was tender and aggressive, understanding and dominant, caring and passionate. Basically, he rocked her world. These two were on fire!! How do you move on from that? You've basically hit the peak of amazing sex. Nothing will compare after this.

Everything about this was surreal. Overwhelming. Contradictory. Primal and tender. Painful and perfect. Savage and sensual.

Jocelyn gets to know Sabian...and quickly realizes that underneath the profession and sex appeal....there's Austin. A man making a living, a man who fell into the profession, a man who she is just as attracted to, if not more so....a man whose words and thoughts touch so many parts of her she burns from the connection. What now?

"You've paid to have Sabian tonight." His voice shook as badly as his fingers.

"And I think I got my money's worth." I pulled back enough to look him in the eye. "He introduced me to Austin."

Austin and Jocelyn embark on a relationship. While Jocelyn feels a deep connection with Austin, she must come to terms and accept that he's currently unable to quit his job. A relationship with him means accepting every part of him...including the fact that when he's at "work" he may very well be fucking another woman. With an open mind and heavy heart, she attempts to do just that.

"To be completely honest, you're the first woman in I don't know how long who's sat through a date with me, knowing full well what I do for a living, and treated me like a human being."

It's not easy for these two. What about Jocelyn's ex-husband? Her kids? Her friends? How do you tell people how you met? Can Jocelyn and Austin separate the connection they have with what Austin does for a living?

First and foremost, let me say that the book is really well written. Told entirely from Jocelyn's POV, you really get to see her struggle with her heart, mind and body. She's forced to think about things that aren't even in the realm of decision making if you were dating a man with a more "normal" job.

And the connection that these two share is deep. They are so open and honest about everything...their fears, dreams and desires. Anything and everything is an open book, on the table and up for discussion. I absolutely loved that. Which is why it broke my heart any time Austin was at "work."

And while I tried to understand Jocelyn's reasoning, my mind just wouldn't bend that far. I couldn't rationalize or compartmentalize my emotions. Having my boyfriend sleepover after he's fucked another woman is not OK....there aren't enough showers in the world for my brain to wash those thoughts away.

The author definitely did her best to clearly show the difference between the two...really clever word selection to show the coldness of Austin's profession compared to the passion he has with Jocelyn (fucking, sex vs. making love, sleeping together, etc...), focusing on the true level of intimacy that Austin and Jocelyn have and glossing over Austin's time at work while painting a clearer picture of their time as a couple.

However, even with that clever tactic, I couldn't help but feel at times that it wasn't Jocelyn's inner dialogue I was reading, but rather the author trying to persuade ME, the reader. Unfortunately, it didn't work as well as she may have liked.

Overall, this was an enjoyable book and I did really like it, but my hangup just wouldn't allow me to 100% fall in love with the romance presented. I was wholly invested in their relationship, but that tiny tickle at the back of my brain wouldn't let me fully give my heart to them. If Austin would have stopped having sex with his clients, this would have easily been a five star for me.

But it did make me think...how far would I be able to go? How much would I be able to compartmentalize? Who wins in a battle between the mind and the heart? And this gal can appreciate a book that engaged my brain.

[Steelwhisper · Rating 1 out of 5]

I need to sleep a night over this, else I'd rant too much.



Oookay. I have calmed down. As much as I could I'd say. I'll try to keep this short...

1. The sex was boring, meaningless, emotionless, and nothing I haven't read in a gazillion erotic romances and above all erotica before. In fact it is so rote, so bland and so "told" with such nauseatingly common catchwords, that I'm happy I could loan this book. I'd have been really pissed off, if I had paid money for it. In less words: if you write about a male escort, at least make it interesting.

2. Prostitute. Yeah. Right. Have women (as in the author's thought processes and the main character's actions) now come so low, that they confound equality with emulating shitty, arseholish male behaviour? I consider men using prostitutes something which needs to be abolished. It's unethical, harmful and deeply inhumane.

I don't consider female punters any better than male ones. That made Jocelyn a character who fucked up in a big way and she wasn't able, throughout the book, to redeem herself. She wasn't worthy of any HEA.

With very few exceptions there is no actual need to engage a prostitute. Everyone with one good hand can find sexual relief without any need for one. It's extremely ridiculous that allegedly a woman after just a few years without a constant sexual partner, even though she has access to a long row of one night stands, is so desperate for sex that she needs to buy it. That's completely unbelievable.

But even if, I'd expect an intelligent woman to at least question what she does there. And there was nothing of that in this book. Yes, we got some shocked responses from her relatives and friends, but she never questioned her own behaviour.

Sabian and Austin by the way are definitely NOT two different people. They are the same. In real life real prostitutes often drink and do drugs to separate their prostitution from themselves. It's not at all like the author wants to make us believe, prostitution is not "just a job". Few prostitutes come away as whole people from it. And most assuredly fewer yet are as little impacted by it as Sabian/Austin (which makes him a shallow and badly researched character). I suggest everyone who believes prostitution comes at no price for the prostitute to read Paid for: My Journey Through Prostitution. That will open a few eyes.

So let me state it clearly: it is not that Austin is a prostitute why I dislike this book so much. It is because we get sold that prostitution is harmless (for the prostitute), that punters are as ethical as customers in a supermarket, and that prostitution is depicted in what is a Disney version of what it actually is. I've noticed the author doing that repeatedly now, and I begin to wonder about the agenda behind this.

That Austin keeps on fucking other women while already having a relationship with Jocelyn is only an expression of prostitution. My reaction would have been different from Jocelyn's, mainly because I dislike promiscuity in partners, but she was his punter. So what? She had it coming. I have zero sympathy for her.

3. That Jocelyn likens having children to getting a client call in the middle of the night is preposterous and additionally lowered my opinion of her by a mile or so.


Final thoughts:

I can't say I find this uncritical embrace of prostitution I see in this storyline, but also in many of the reviews positive. Mind, I don't think prostitutes should be shunned or looked at askance. The punters are the arseholes, be they male or female, especially when they don't so much as reflect upon what they do.

[~*~Princess Nya Vasiliev~*~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

🤯WOW.. 🤯WOW.. 🤯WOW!!

It's not often you come across a story so consuming. So raw in its reveals but yet beautiful all the same. This is one of those stories.

I could NOT stop reading it. And I was utterly ticked off that it actually had to end. And way sooner than I would have liked.

To say that Jocelyn & Sabian's/Austin's relationship is a bit unconventional would be an understatement. To say Jocelyn is a special type of a woman to not only understand, but to accept this unconventional relationship, would be the understatement of the century.

From the first night that they meet to where their story takes you to the end, there is nothing about it that is the "norm" when it comes to meeting, getting to know, falling in "like" and eventually in love with someone. And all those little (BIG) compromises in between.

Yet you feel the push & pull with these two. You taste the decadent sweetness they crave from one another. And you witness the love. Passion, lust, loyalty, compassion, fear, trust, strength, understanding & above all; the respect that they have for one another.💞

Jocelyn and Sabian/Austin had me thinking:
What would I do?
How could I even attempt to?
Could I go there?
Is there someone even worth doing this for?

Oh yeah.. I was asking all of these questions and more.

But in any case I got it. I understood it.. I cried & cheered. And I blushed😚😚 big time while reading this book.

And come on now!... Sabian/Austin? Totally fell in love with him. I can't blame Jocelyn. I really can't.💯

I highly recommend this read!👏

Gearing up for my re-read. And this time I'm coming prepared:
Ice?- ✔️
Kleenex?-✔️
Fan?-✔️
Him laying beside me when I'm done?- ✔️✔️

[Dinjolina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Strangely, as a reader and lover of most things taboo, I should have liked this book.
Still, I could just never get over the ick! factor. At first I was like…ok…to me that IS cheating, because really, get a job, you looser, but what ever…then the author tried to make it sweet for us-how the hero goes to the heroine after his sex stunts and is all cuddly…I was somehow squirming trough all of this, and trying not to be skeptical…but the ending?
He did it THE ENTIRE TIME? The ENTIRE time of their very long relationship?? And he is now stopping to get married? Pft, why stop? You were so good at it, Mister.
Btw, now he can find a job? Now, suddenly, it is totally uncool to fuck other women for money? Pleeease.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

One word WOW. This book took me by surprise. It's heart warming, sexy and touching that I felt giddy with happiness. Loved it so much I can't put it into words.

[Karla · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
Very enjoyable and unique take on romance. Love is love, and sometimes it hits you upside the head when you least expect it. You need to grab it, hold on tight, think outside the box, and overcome insurmountable odds…when that person…that love is so worth it! Jocelyn you are my hero, and Austin you are the man and what man you are…beautiful!!!

Going into this I had my doubts, but once I got a feel for both of the characters and THEY started to feel for each other, I crossed my fingers, hoped that they could work around Austin’s “occupation”, and have a loving, meaningful relationship. Boy did they ever!! Their intimate moments were sensual, passionate and at the same time tender and sweet. They belonged together, and the writing relayed that message very well. I had some trouble believing that Austin would continue in his line of work for as long as he did, even after he and Jocelyn proclaimed their love, but somehow it worked. Jocelyn’s ex was also so easily swayed, and I thought…not so much in real life, but then again you never know. I enjoyed how Jocelyn backed her friend Kim, into a corner, and turned the tables on her. Jocelyn defended her man, and even when it looked like she would crumple under the pressure of this difficult relationship, she continued to see Austin for all he was worth…she was awesome!

If you’re looking for something different, this book is the ticket. The writing is smooth, great dialogue, steamy, sexy and it leaves you feeling… very satisfied!

[I ♥ Bookie Nookie (bookienookiereviews.blogspot.com) · Rating 5 out of 5]

DAMAGED GOODS is a solid five star read. It's chocked full of the emotion you long for when reading a great romance and the steam you expect from any naughty little erotica.

So you have undoubtedly read the description of DAMAGED GOODS and you know that this is a story about a lonely single mother named Jocelyn who hires an escort to fulfill her fantasies for a night...or at least that was the original plan. I saw her emotional attachment to the man coming from a mile away... How could you not become emotionally attached to someone who is fulfilling your desires and meeting needs that haven't truly ever been met? I would say that it is nearly impossible to keep your heart out of it.

DAMAGED GOODS addresses the social stigma attached to being a prostitute and dating one - these were, of course, of no surprise to me. One point that was brought up, however that made me look at this scenario a little differently though is this: what is the difference between a woman who pays for an escort - meaning time, company and possibly sex and a woman who goes on a date with a man in return for a nice dinner, date, an expensive flower arrangement and possibly a piece of jewelry and maybe a little action? Something to think about!

If you are in the mood for a great story that's full of emotion and hot scenes, then look no further than DAMAGED GOODS .

✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews

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[Michelle, the Bookshelf Stalker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was actually really good and it is contemporary romance. If any of you are crazy enough to follow the books I read (I'm sorry if you do but I love you all the same), you know I'm not a fan of contemporary romance.

Why???

Usually...
the man is all perfect,
perfect job,
perfect He-Man strength,
able to leap tall buildings using his dick (pardon me all you kiddies) and can make his woman come three times BEFORE he comes once.

YEAH RIGHT!

This book had a guy that wasn't perfect (but totally hot), who didn't have a perfect job, wasn't physically the Terminator (just a normal hot guy). While he was VERY good in bed, he actually DID get exhausted. As for making his woman come more times than some women come in their entire lifetime, well he IS a prostitute so he has lots of practice making his women happy!

Overall-

I would have actually liked a longer book. I really enjoyed the two characters.

[Splage · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 Stars

Even though I liked the characters, I just couldn't buy into Austin staying a prostitute after they started seriously dating and Jocelyn putting up with it knowing that he was possibly still doing her girlfriends. It was sort of icky. I also found at times the dialog was stiff and corny, especially towards the end. The sex scenes were scorching hot and I loved Austin's gentle, sweet nature, but I felt the climax was somewhat weak where it could have really been powerful because of the whole situation. Bummer, I had much higher expectations for this book.

[Tami · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Contains some spoilers!


I had to take a bit of time to calm down and wrap my head around this story before writing a review. I also had to take a minute to separate how I felt personally about situations and how I felt about the book in itself, i.e. storyline, characters, delivery, steam factor, etc.
I’ll start about by saying that I loved both Jocelyn and Austin. The developing romance between the two was sweet and hot as they went from just having sex to making love. It was almost possible to feel the connection growing between them and I became emotionally engrossed with them. I love it when an author has the ability to do that to me. Jocelyn was a very strong, level-headed, and independent woman. Austin came across as sweet, sincere, intelligent, and, at times, extremely vulnerable. It was due to his character development that I was able to see past his profession just as Jocelyn could. I respected Jocelyn for doing this and was in awe of her strength to do so. Yet, I completely understood her reservations about continuing to see him when she found out he had been with three of her friends. What an awkward situation to find yourself in. I felt a ball of nerves form in my stomach from just reading about it.
As much as I admired Jocelyn for sticking with it, I just don’t think I could do it. It has nothing to do with the profession itself, but more to do with my admitted insecurities. I totally get the separation of intimacy and sex, but at the same time, I just wouldn’t be able to share. I would drive myself insane and physically sick with jealousy whenever he was off working. I think I would even feel a hint of resentment every time he would have to bail out on plans to answer a work call. I doubt that I would hold that same resentment if I was with someone who was called away to deal with a situation at a construction job or an office job or the like. Maybe all these feeling would fly out the window if I actually found myself in the same situation feeling the same intense feelings for someone as Jocelyn and Austin felt for each other. I think I understood Jocelyn’s acceptance when the relationship was still new, but as time went on and their feelings turned into love, I kept thinking that Austin would WANT to find another job. I was really obsessing over this and then the epilogue came and I was flooded with happiness. I was so happy that Austin decided to quit his job before he proposed to Jocelyn. Again, all this based on personal feelings.
Overall, I enjoyed this story immensely. The character development was great. The story was told well. The sex was hot as hell. More importantly, it was a storyline that was controversial and REALLY made me think and analysis. Books that make me think and analysis are 5-star books all the way.
I always enjoy finding a song that fits with a book I’m reading. This super sexy song by Enrique Iglesias really made me think of Austin and Jocelyn’s first night together making love and not just having sex. Enjoy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEZgGd...

[Mimi Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

One of the best books of the genre that I've read

Since I'm feeling lazy, I'll keep this short. Austin's a hot, sexy, awesome guy-who's also an escort(translation-prostitute). Jocelyn is a frustrated single mom who hires him out of desperation. They meet, fall in lust, fall in love, and deal with their relationship problems(his job, her kids...). On the way they steam up the pages more than a little. Well, at least Austin does. *grin*

Quotes

"Yeah, I had everything. Which was, of course, why I now reclined on a rented, rock-hard, queen-size bed, waiting for a male prostitute to show up."

"It wasn’t that I was excessively picky, but the fact was love was blind, lust was not. I didn’t need Adonis, but I could do without the Elephant Man."

“I know.” I sighed. “The thing is, I’m not looking for a father for my kids. They have a father, and I’m not out to replace him. Of course whoever I’d marry would still be a father figure to them to a degree, but half the guys I date seem to think I’m looking for someone to completely fill Michael’s role.”

“Who do you want?” he asked.“Sabian or Austin?”
My heart pounded, and my lips tingled with the echoes of his gentle kiss. “I want…” I hesitated again, not sure if I dared cross this blurry line. “Austin.”

[~V~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

As you can see in the book description, this is the story of a woman, a single mom, who is tired of the whole dating scene and decides to take the advice of a girlfriend, to use an escort service for a night of safe, no strings attached, hot sex! This is when she meets Sabian...she ends up enjoying herself so much that she hires him a few more times. During one of their "meetings" they decide to actually have a conversation and discover that they really enjoy each other's company...that's where the story gets interesting.

Sabian, the "H" in this book, was YUM-MY!! It was certainly interesting to get in his head and sort of get an idea of what life is like as a male escort. This book was told in first person, Jocelyn's point of view actually...so we don't necessarily get into "his mind" and know his thoughts per se but while she and Sabian were having all of their conversations they were both very honest and up front about their lives so that is how we're able to know what goes on with his "job"...definitely gives you food for thought..that's for sure! ;)

Jocelyn was also a great character, not sure that "I" would personally consider her damaged goods, however i can see how SHE might...being as how she's a single mother...what some might consider as having "excess baggage" they don't want to take on, especially young single guys. I felt for her...pushing herself to date, in the hopes of meeting someone she actually wants to share a life with...having to go through the awkward first introductions, conversation, first kiss, sex...going through it all to see if you're compatible..only to end up disappointed when nothing ever comes out of all these interactions. Enter Sabian..the perfect male specimen..well except for the fact that he happens to have a job where he has sex with OTHER PEOPLE for money!!

I really really liked this book! There was a lot of sex..kind of goes with the territory, considering this IS a book that features a male prostitute! teehee That being said...i didn't feel like it was one of those "sex fest" books with zero plot/story! The sex scenes were very HOT and SEXY..there were a lot, yes...but nothing that i ever felt was raunchy or over the top. There was also an actual STORY...one that gives you a glimpse into a lifestyle that is most definitely out of the ordinary and has you questioning what you might do if put in the situation these two find themselves in. I would not hesitate to recommend this book to lovers of erotic contemporary romances looking for something different..if you don't mind HOT sex with a really good, and sometimes sweet, story, give it a shot. After seeing what some of my GRs friends were saying about it, i'm glad i finally did! :)

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! My first thought after finishing this story was BEST MASSAGE SCENE EVER and my second was where have I been that I've not been reading Lauren Gallagher? It's been a while since a book just blew me away with a thought provoking storyline combined with a couple that radiates off the charts steam when they are together. Ms. Gallagher delivered both and then some. Once I started this story I could not put it down except to quickly inform several friends that they had to buy this book immediately!

A raw, emotional and realistic look at an unconventional relationship between a single mom and a male escort/prostitute. Gallagher really explored the authentic social stigma of being and dating a prostitute and how it effects the lives of both characters.

"To be completely serious, you're the first woman in I don't know how long who's sat through a date with me, knowing full well what I do for a living, and treated me like a human being." His other hand slid under mine and pulled the check free. "I don't want that to cost you a dime."

I loved this story and felt such satisfaction of where the couple ended up in the end. Readers who are looking for a sizzling hot erotic read with a realistic look into the lives of a couple searching for intimacy and belonging, look no further than Damaged Goods.

"I wondered if he could fathom the effect his kiss had on me, what these slow, tender movements did to my pulse. No one else's kiss had ever reduced the universe to the space we occupied. Something like this simply couldn't be wrong."

[Marina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I.AM.AT.AWE.

The moment I finished the story, the first word that popped into my head was:beautiful.
Perhaps someone reading the summary would proclaim this some sort of cheesy, Hollywood speciment. This couldn't be more wrong.

This is the story of an escort, Austin or Sabian as his professional name is, and a single mother, Jocelyn.
Their first meeting is through the obvious way, and as their relationship grows from the employee-client one to the simple man and woman one, I was moved. I couldn't find a more appropriate word to describe everything I was reading. It was moving.

Even though it is based on the theme of prostitution, I simply adored the way Austin brought a completely different aspect to the light, going against the preconceived notions. I trully believe that Austin is one of those memorable characters that are likely to stick with you.

“Just remember one thing: regardless of how anyone chooses to define what I do for a living, I'm not selling what I'm giving you. If this isn't something you can handle, I'll understand, but I swear to you. I've never given this to anyone. I wouldn't dream of selling it, even if I could.”

The moment you read the epilogue, there is this warm, fuzzy feeling inside, and that's when you know you loved this book.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sabien/Austin and Jocelyn

This book. I wasn’t going to write a review about it but here I am 4 days later still thinking about parts of the book. How can I not write a review if it has stuck with me that long? Damaged Goods is another in my long string of darker books. Those of you that read my reviews know I am on a serious dark, erotic kick. This book isn’t really dark, but it is erotic and it does mess with your mind. At least it messed with mine, a lot.

Jocelyn is a divorced mom stuck in a rut in the dating scene. She can’t seem to get it right. Can’t seem to get sex right, that is. No matter how hard she tries the sex sucks or is too much effort. Damaged Goods opens up with Jocelyn in a hotel waiting for a male escort. She got the name of the company from a friend and since she is desperate for good sex she is willing to give it a try. While she waits too many things go through her head. Is she crazy? Having sex with a paid stranger? What if her ex and children find out? What if he is a cop? But then the knock on the door comes and her thinking time is up.

When she opens the door she comes face to face with Sabien. Since she is so nervous, after proving he is not a cop, Sabien takes over. What follows is the hottest sex Jocelyn has had in a long time. A very long time. They are together for two hours and then it ends. Jocelyn feels so much better, so relaxed and ready to move on.

But as the days pass she thinks more and more about Sabien. Those thoughts are especially influenced by a couple of bad one night stands. As sad as it sounds it seems she will have to pay a couple hundred bucks in order to get satisfying sex. She calls up the agency and along comes another session with Sabien. The session is a bit more intimate as they start to share details of their lives with each other.

The next session they have is in Jocelyn’s office. She is very successful and works for a marketing firm. Sabien arrives and does her on her desk. Hottttt scene!! Hot. But what this scene serves to do is allow them to find out what each other’s real names are. And this scene also leads to a real live date. Ok, a date where Jocelyn pays $500 but whatever, still a date. On the date Jocelyn and Austin really connect. Somehow it turns into something more than the paid companion route. The two agree to very tentatively date. Neither knows how this will turn out but they are willing to give it a try. For his part, Austin is very willing to give it a try with someone who looks at him as more than just a prostitute.

Up until this point, I was ok with what was going. After this it wasn’t that I was not ok with it, but things changed. Emotion was added into the story. Austin and Jocelyn start to fall for each other. But how do you fall for someone whose job is to have sex with other people? How do you distance yourself from that? How does either party distance themselves? Several times while they were together Austin’s work beeper would go off and he would have to leave to have sex with someone else. Those parts left an icky feeling in my stomach.

There were two scenes that left me raw. The first one is when Austin calls Jocelyn particularly late one night. He asks to come over. Once he gets there it is clear he has had a long, hard night with a customer. He just wants to be around Jocelyn, to just hold her. She, of course, gets turned on by him holding her but it is made clear he has nothing left in him from the night he has already had. He had just come from having sex with someone else!! Never once did Jocelyn get upset at this point. She was totally understanding of his need to be with her after a night like he had. And this is what made this book stand out so much for me. There was raw emotion in this scene. Raw emotion from me and from Austin. I don’t understand why it was acceptable however I do know that I didn’t immediately shut the book and run. I couldn’t. I needed to know where this went.

The final scene that was really awful was set between Jocelyn and her friends. Jocelyn is having a girl’s night out with the very friend that referred her to Austin’s agency. The friends all start talking about the men they have been with at the agency and it comes up that Sabien/Austin had been with all of them likely even since they started dating. At that point, I wanted to puke. And Jocelyn also did not take it well. I was pretty sure if I were her that would have been the end for me. I would not be able to continue on. The confrontation between Austin and Jocelyn is heartbreaking. My one complaint is that I wanted more emotion from Austin when she told him about her friends.

I understood why he did what he did and at no point did I expect him to give up his job for her. How weird is that? There is a HEA, a realistic HEA. It is a long time coming though. This book was excellent. It took me to a place that I was very uncomfortable with and still kept me turning the pages. I encourage everyone to pick it up. Final grade- A

Favorite Quote:

Just remember one thing: regardless of how anyone chooses to define what I do for a living, I’m not selling what I’m giving you. If this isn’t something you can handle, I’ll understand, but I swear to you. I’ve never given this to anyone. I wouldn’t dream of selling it, even if I could.

[Vallsykes · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
I pat myself on the back for getting through Damaged Goods. Not because there was anything wanting. Not because I disliked the characters or the plot. Nope, I give myself credit because the whole time that I read, I just kept thinking "Yeah, Austin, like you say, you'll always be a sex worker...you are who you are, and yeah, I get pride and I get that Jocelyn sees past those things, but can you seriously succeed in being more serious than a boyfriend, if you continue your gigolo gig?!"

So the pat on the back is for getting over the bad taste in my mouth when Austin gets to eat his clients' p***y and feels good that he is providing a good service, hence ensuring return customers, while still getting to eat his girlfriend's p***y and feel good making love with her, and providing her with what no one else ever gets...Huh?

Yet, Lauren Gallagher addresses this keenly through Jocelyn's actions and streams of consciousness. I was glad that Jocelyn felt as sick as I did, hearing her girlfriends recount their sex capades with her boyfriend. I really got into the volatile conversation, felt the bitterness and controversy, between Jocelyn and her long time friend, Kim, who Jocelyn had thought she could confide in. With this dialogue, Gallagher painted a thought-provoking and complex picture of societal double standards, hypocrisy and the unrelenting, blind judgment that people have, whether based in pretentiousness, mindless complacency, pride or vanity (heavy gulp).

Bottom line, Damaged Goods seemed to be about testing limits and seeing how much people can either justify themselves (Austin) or survive being tolerant(Jocelyn). Turn this situation around where the woman continues to be a prostitute while she is in a serious relationship and the only male that would be her boyfriend is her pimp. Just saying.
(or if she had Knight, then no boyfriend at all, just a great employee benefits package)

I digress.

In the end, I needed more acknowledgment that in accepting this relationship, Jocelyn had to either lie or lose friends (yes, one probably wasn't a real friend anyway), and Jocelyn's world had to be tailored to Austin's and stigmatized. Sure it is implied that this happens, but in order to appreciate this, I didn't need a nice-and-neatly-tied-bow-ending. I needed a "who are we kidding? This whoring has to stop, now!"---NOT ...a year later when sex worker boyfriend says "I am ready now, so I'll budget and get legit, and hey babe, anyway 'you deserve better than a prostitute for a husband'" *Um, ya think?*

Then what was you're point in the first place, Austin? Would I rather he'd just quit from jump and then struggled with money? Hmmmm...

In the HEA aspect, I just wasn't rooting for this couple, but I cheered the conflict and most of the dialogue in the plot! Again, thought provoking.

1/2 star for the hot pre-couple sex scenes [Why did it seem that Austin lasted long as Fabian, but the minute he became Austin, he couldn't wait to get inside her, came quicker and lost a bit of his escort finesse? Was this to contrast "just doing his job" with making love?]
1/4 star for safe sex, and the office role play scene!

Happy Reading

[Sharon ∞❥ is an emotional book junkie ❥∞ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jocelyn has been single for seven years since her divorce and she is tired of not getting what she wants from the dating scene. A friend recommends an escort service and while she is shocked...she just can't refuse it. She chooses Sabian and he is everything promised and more.

I just have to say that I really enjoyed this book but I feel like it could've been so much more. The premise is intriguing and I think if the book had been longer, the author could've expanded more on the emotional impact of the relationship instead of waiting till the book was almost over. To be honest, I wasn't really happy with the book till then. Even though I believe Jocelyn has to be a really strong woman to deal with a boyfriend who is an escort, I still think she would have some problems with it.

I enjoyed Jocelyn...like I said, she's a strong woman and she knows what she wants. It was great seeing her as a Mom as well and I really liked the relationship she had with her ex husband and his wife. It made me laugh at some of the crazy things she did with Sabian (aka Austin) while fulfilling some of her fantasies! But my heart went out to her when she went to the club to meet her friends.

Sabian/Austin was quite yummy. I really liked how he treated Jocelyn while he was Sabian but I was blown away at how he treated her as Austin. I would have LOVED some of the book from his POV and I think the only thing that really bothered me was I wish he had made some kind of concession for Jocelyn while he continued being an escort. When LG was going on about some escorts not kissing, I was hoping Austin would at least do that.

There's a great little epilogue that ties things up nicely. I would definitely recommend this short, sweet and very sexy story.


Favorite quotes:

♥ "Who do you want?" he asked. "Sabian or Austin?"

♥ "There's sex, and there's...this." He met my eyes. "Just being with someone. This isn't something that can be bought or sold, and I couldn't manufacture it for someone no matter how much they tried to pay me for it." He ran the backs of his fingers down my cheek. "That's why I'm here tonight. Because I needed this. And here, with you, is the only place I can get it." He swallowed. "Or give it."

[Formerly Known as Spoiler W · Rating 5 out of 5]

First I want to thank my Secret Santa for gifting me this book. And this is my first prostitue boyfriend.

Now...what an interesting read. You have Jocelyn, divorced mother of two who is tired of the dating game and is convinced by her friend Kim(bitch)to use an escort agency.

Along comes Sabian(Good God Almighty). He notices that this is her first time to use an escort and he "walks" her thru on what to do or expect. They have sex. Explosive OMFG sex. I fell in love with him. ;)

Jocelyn uses his services a couple more times until there's a moment where they both know that it's more than sex. The first time they do it after figuring it out was beautiful. I mean, Sabian KNOWS HIS SHIT. He's a master in the bedroom. No lie. Sabian's real name is Austin and it's revealed that he's a struggling artist. They have a relationship where he still does the escorting and she's fine with it...

It's gravy in the end and I can say I fell in love with the book. Well written and it's something different. Sabian has a sexual Midas touch. He was something else.


Personally, it's still cheating. You're heart may not be into the act but your dick, fingers and mouth are. Nope, no way Jose, uh huh could I be in a relationship with a current escort/prostitute. My mind would go beserk with all the scenarios I'd think up. It took a lot for Jocelyn to put up with Austin. I applaud her but it wouldn't work for me.

Favorite lines/moments:

I craved sheet-mangling, shoulder-clawing, headboard-pounding fucking

"You've paid to have Sabian tonight." His voice shook as badly as his fingers. "And I think I got ny money's worth." I pulled back enough to look him in the eye. "He introduced me to Austin."

"All the way here," he whispered, his lips barely leaving mine as his fingers slowly slipped a little into my pussy, "I was thinking about all the things I wanted to do to you." Deeper. "And now that we're here..." Almost to the perfect spot. "I don't know where to start." His lips met mine in the same moment his palm came to rest over my clit.

"There' sex, and there's...this."...
My heart pounded. "So intimacy, then."
"Yes, intimacy. Exactly." He moistened his lips and again and held my gaze. "That's something I only have with you." Before I could speak, his hand slid from my face into my hair, and he kissed me.

[Smitten's Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow wow wow! Damaged Goods was SO much better than I'd expected! It was emotional, sensitive, romantic, steamy... I literally devoured it in about three hours flat. Everything about this book was screaming at me that it wasn't going to work, that it was going to be tasteless and unbelieveable... the male prostitute and the single Mom... how can that possibly be right?! But God was I wrong! If I could give this 6 stars I would and it would go up in my favourites with the likes of Thoughtless, Effortless, Love Unrehearsed, etc.
Trust when I say it is definitely worth the read. It is so tastefully written and you will fall utterly in love with both of the characters!

Plot - Gripping! It shouldn't work but it absolutely does, and more!
Characters - Just gorgeous! Flawed, real, emotional... perfect!
Steaminess - Amazing! And in droves!
Angst - Although there was an element of uncertainty throughout the book, those heartbreaking, throw-your-kindle-across-the-room moments were kindly kept to a minimum.
Negatives - It drove me a little insane, putting up with 'Sabian's' occupational hazards, so clearly I could never be the girlfriend of a male prostitute. But that really is the only negative.
First Kiss - 4%
First Sex Scene - 5% (yeh it gets pretty steamy, pretty damn quickly)
Ending - A happy ending and a swoon-worthy epilogue!
Favourite Quotes -
I craved sheet-mangling, shoulder-clawing, headboard-pounding fucking.

“I'll give you some credit," he said with a sneer. "You don’t look like a prostitute.”
Austin shrugged. “I don’t usually wear the fishnets and garish makeup on my day off.”

"You've paid to have Sabian tonight." His voice shook as badly as his fingers.
"And I think I got my money's worth." I pulled back enough to look him in the eye. "He introduced me to Austin."

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/25/2020)! 🎁

[Craig Vasiliev · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has a compelling plot. It was hot. I liked the characters. I was fascinated with finding out how this could work for them both. I honestly thought that it would end on a more somber note.

I was bothered with the fact that Austin continued in his profession for so long after he and Jocelyn were a well established couple. Considering how easily he was able to transition careers it left me thinking what took you so long, mudak?

I did enjoy this story. It raises many serious questions about love and what we are willing to do to keep it. As well as societal norms and expectations of others.

A good pick Ptichka.