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Irresistible Attraction #2
Doubtless
An Irresistible Attraction Story
On the surface, Steve Campbell seems to have it a beautiful home, a snazzy car, and a dream job as one of the country’s top 3-D optics researchers. But underneath, he’s restless and dissatisfied, tired of empty encounters with leggy lab assistants and endless evenings alone.
A chance meeting with a handsome escort lifts Steve’s spirits and opens his eyes to his long-repressed attraction to men — and his love for his best friend and business partner, Connor Morrison.
Connor might’ve loved Steve like that once, but now it’s too late for their happily ever after; Connor’s about to ask his boyfriend to marry him. Fortunately, it's never too late to learn about yourself, and maybe Steve can find a happy ending on his own.
* * * * * * *
Don't miss the continuation of Steve's story in Flawless , available as a standalone novella and included in the "Irresistible Attraction, Volume 2: Steve & Gil" ebook bundle.
On the surface, Steve Campbell seems to have it a beautiful home, a snazzy car, and a dream job as one of the country’s top 3-D optics researchers. But underneath, he’s restless and dissatisfied, tired of empty encounters with leggy lab assistants and endless evenings alone.
A chance meeting with a handsome escort lifts Steve’s spirits and opens his eyes to his long-repressed attraction to men — and his love for his best friend and business partner, Connor Morrison.
Connor might’ve loved Steve like that once, but now it’s too late for their happily ever after; Connor’s about to ask his boyfriend to marry him. Fortunately, it's never too late to learn about yourself, and maybe Steve can find a happy ending on his own.
* * * * * * *
Don't miss the continuation of Steve's story in Flawless , available as a standalone novella and included in the "Irresistible Attraction, Volume 2: Steve & Gil" ebook bundle.
53 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2012
3 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Cat Grant
51 books463 followersIf you're looking for epic sci-fi, fantasy, or historicals, that's not me. Contemporary all the way, baby!
However, if you're looking for down to earth, complicated characters dealing with real-world problems (and the occasional comfort read!), I might just fit the bill. :)
My Books:
Courtland Chronicles (m/m & m/m/f)
By Chance
Strictly Business
Complications
The Arrangement
Triad
Allegro Vivace (m/m)
Sonata Appassionata (m/m)
Icon Men (all m/m)
The First Real Thing (2012 EPIC Award Winner - Erotica)
Appearing Nightly
A Fool for You
Habanera (Originally titled Entangled Trio - 2012 EPIC Award Finalist - Erotica) (m/m/f)
Once a Marine (m/m)
Power Play (with Rachel Haimowitz) (m/m BDSM)
Power Play: Resistance
Power Play: Awakening
Irresistible Attraction (all m/m)
Priceless
Doubtless
Fearless
Flawless (2014 EPIC Award Finalist - Short Fiction)
Forthcoming:
The Only One Who Knows (with LA Witt) - January 2014
The Only One Who Matters (with LA Witt) - March 2014
Black Dog (Bannon's Gym #1) - April 2014
Takedown (Bannon's Gym #2) - July 2014
Guarded (with LA Witt) (work in progress)
However, if you're looking for down to earth, complicated characters dealing with real-world problems (and the occasional comfort read!), I might just fit the bill. :)
My Books:
Courtland Chronicles (m/m & m/m/f)
By Chance
Strictly Business
Complications
The Arrangement
Triad
Allegro Vivace (m/m)
Sonata Appassionata (m/m)
Icon Men (all m/m)
The First Real Thing (2012 EPIC Award Winner - Erotica)
Appearing Nightly
A Fool for You
Habanera (Originally titled Entangled Trio - 2012 EPIC Award Finalist - Erotica) (m/m/f)
Once a Marine (m/m)
Power Play (with Rachel Haimowitz) (m/m BDSM)
Power Play: Resistance
Power Play: Awakening
Irresistible Attraction (all m/m)
Priceless
Doubtless
Fearless
Flawless (2014 EPIC Award Finalist - Short Fiction)
Forthcoming:
The Only One Who Knows (with LA Witt) - January 2014
The Only One Who Matters (with LA Witt) - March 2014
Black Dog (Bannon's Gym #1) - April 2014
Takedown (Bannon's Gym #2) - July 2014
Guarded (with LA Witt) (work in progress)
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
July 11, 2012
*sigh*
I blame the blurb. It all sounded so... good. Nice. Great way to spend an hour reading. Whatever.
Here, take a look:
So, what's the problem?
Basically, this is not a romance. It's more like an attempt of closing your overstuffed suitcase. You know? At some point, you'll just try to shove it all in, and won't even mind the wrinkled mess you made.
Steve is hetero. Or not. He seems that way, but there's that thing about his friend Connor, who's gay, in a relationship and happy, that bothers him. He's awkward, confused and still kind of suffers from all those teenage insecurities.
First thing that bothered me was the feeling I started reading this from the middle. I can't describe it any better. It started kind of fast, and it never slowed down. I know, it's a short story, there's no room to stretch, but still...
What I liked in this story is Dylan. He's a male escort that Steve meets by accident one night, and later spends some time with. Dylan was great. I liked him from the moment he showed up, and he was really a bright spot.
The rest of the story, honestly, left me kind of confused. So, Steve is hetero, but he's in love with his best friend. He thinks he's hetero, because he hasn't had sex with a man since college. He thinks he's hetero...?
Anyway, you've gotta admit, you'd think Steve will confess everything to Connor, Connor would leave his boy Wes, and they'd live happily ever after.
Or - Steve will realize he's in love with Dylan (who looks quite a lot like Connor), Dylan would realize the same, leave the escort business, and they'd live happily ever after.
Wrong on both counts.
Steve admitted his feelings to Connor. They talked a bit, and that was that.
Then, Steve decided not to continue seeing Dylan, and...
Well, let's just say I'm not too fond of ending the story with our hero Steve filling out an online dating profile. That's not my favorite epilogue of all, for sure.
I (sadly) had no idea there's a book that comes before this one - Priceless - about Connor and his (now) fiance Wes. Maybe reading that would've helped me with this one. Now, we'll never know.
The ARC kindly provided by NetGalley
I blame the blurb. It all sounded so... good. Nice. Great way to spend an hour reading. Whatever.
Here, take a look:
"Loving your best friend is hard . . . especially when he's marrying someone else.
On the surface, Steve Campbell seems to have it all: a beautiful home, a snazzy car, and a dream job as one of the country’s top 3-D optics researchers. But underneath, he’s restless and dissatisfied, tired of empty encounters with leggy lab assistants and endless evenings alone.
A chance meeting with a handsome escort lifts Steve’s spirits and opens his eyes to his long-repressed attraction to men—and his love for his best friend and business partner, Connor Morrison.
Connor might’ve loved Steve like that once, but now it’s too late for their happily ever after; Connor’s about to ask his boyfriend to marry him. Fortunately, it's never too late to learn about yourself, and maybe Steve can find a happy ending on his own."
So, what's the problem?
Basically, this is not a romance. It's more like an attempt of closing your overstuffed suitcase. You know? At some point, you'll just try to shove it all in, and won't even mind the wrinkled mess you made.
Steve is hetero. Or not. He seems that way, but there's that thing about his friend Connor, who's gay, in a relationship and happy, that bothers him. He's awkward, confused and still kind of suffers from all those teenage insecurities.
First thing that bothered me was the feeling I started reading this from the middle. I can't describe it any better. It started kind of fast, and it never slowed down. I know, it's a short story, there's no room to stretch, but still...
What I liked in this story is Dylan. He's a male escort that Steve meets by accident one night, and later spends some time with. Dylan was great. I liked him from the moment he showed up, and he was really a bright spot.
The rest of the story, honestly, left me kind of confused. So, Steve is hetero, but he's in love with his best friend. He thinks he's hetero, because he hasn't had sex with a man since college. He thinks he's hetero...?
Anyway, you've gotta admit, you'd think Steve will confess everything to Connor, Connor would leave his boy Wes, and they'd live happily ever after.
Or - Steve will realize he's in love with Dylan (who looks quite a lot like Connor), Dylan would realize the same, leave the escort business, and they'd live happily ever after.
Wrong on both counts.
Steve admitted his feelings to Connor. They talked a bit, and that was that.
Then, Steve decided not to continue seeing Dylan, and...
Well, let's just say I'm not too fond of ending the story with our hero Steve filling out an online dating profile. That's not my favorite epilogue of all, for sure.
I (sadly) had no idea there's a book that comes before this one - Priceless - about Connor and his (now) fiance Wes. Maybe reading that would've helped me with this one. Now, we'll never know.
The ARC kindly provided by NetGalley
November 19, 2012
Doh, I should have read Adara's spoiler before I bought this! A good story, but not what I was expecting, or what I wanted to read. Not a romance.
June 15, 2012
This ended up NOT being exactly what I expected, and it was better for that. Steve finally realizes what was in his heart way too late to do anything about it in one respect, but not all of them. An escort named Dylan (who has a passing resemblance to Connor) helps him see that he can handle the changes. And Connor gives him some of his own medicine. I mean advice. In the end, Steve is where he needs to be. I was soooo happy with that ending not being cliche. =) 4.5 stars
Added: I would suggest one read Priceless before this story, as they have crossover characters.
Added: I would suggest one read Priceless before this story, as they have crossover characters.
December 9, 2013
I'm just going to put this out there. I didn't like Steve when I met him in the first book of Cat Grant's 'Irresistible Attraction' series. I thought he was a pompous jerk and he wasn't very nice. He might be a brilliant researcher and wonderful at running his and Connor's business, but I thought he had a lot to learn about people skills. Luckily for him the male escort he meets while trying to pick up women, Dylan, thinks he needs a little work, too, and offers to help him out. He has a lot of fun with Dylan, even though he's paying him for his time, but Steve used to pay female hookers all the time for sex, and with Dylan he might not be getting sex but he's getting good conversation and a makeover.
This turned out to be one of the most interesting coming out stories I've ever read. For one thing, Steve doesn't find his happy ever after here, instead he just finds his own self-awareness. Dylan helps him with a clothing makeover and they even work on Steve's pickup attempts (with women) until Steve realizes that he's not responding to women anymore because he's buried his gay his entire life. Good thing there's a professional around to help him out with that, too. *snort* Dylan turned out to be a good friend to Steve and just what he needed to have the courage to come out.
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. I can't say that Steve grew on me, but the fact he was willing to be that hardcore introspective regarding his wants, needs, desires, and his own negative behavior was very refreshing. I guess I can say I developed a healthy respect for Steve, particularly when he had the balls to admit to Connor how he feels about him, even knowing it couldn't go anywhere. Thank you, Cat, 'Doubtless' is a great story and I enjoyed it immensely.
NOTE: This book was provided by Riptide Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
This turned out to be one of the most interesting coming out stories I've ever read. For one thing, Steve doesn't find his happy ever after here, instead he just finds his own self-awareness. Dylan helps him with a clothing makeover and they even work on Steve's pickup attempts (with women) until Steve realizes that he's not responding to women anymore because he's buried his gay his entire life. Good thing there's a professional around to help him out with that, too. *snort* Dylan turned out to be a good friend to Steve and just what he needed to have the courage to come out.
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. I can't say that Steve grew on me, but the fact he was willing to be that hardcore introspective regarding his wants, needs, desires, and his own negative behavior was very refreshing. I guess I can say I developed a healthy respect for Steve, particularly when he had the balls to admit to Connor how he feels about him, even knowing it couldn't go anywhere. Thank you, Cat, 'Doubtless' is a great story and I enjoyed it immensely.
NOTE: This book was provided by Riptide Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
July 20, 2012
This short was a follow-up to Cat Grant's Priceless. In Priceless, Steve hired Wes, a hooker, for his friend Connor's birthday. I was a little surprised at the premise behind this story, where Steve finally realizes that he's in love with Connor.
I'm not sure how I feel about this story. While I liked it and understood what the author was trying to do, it wasn't a very "feel good" book to me. I don't need to feel good the whole time I'm reading a book, but I would like to feel good by the end. I didn't feel badly, just sort of all right. So I gave this 3 stars, which means I liked the story, but it didn't give me everything I needed.
I'm also not sure how I felt about the other MC in this book. He almost wasn't needed. This was more about Steve coming to terms with his sexuality, and I think that could have been accomplished just by the triggering event in the first book between him and Wes. Having another hooker didn't add anything to this story for me, because 1) I felt even more terrible that Steve was so lonely. and 2)
If Cat Grant decides to write a sequel to finally give Steve his HEA, I will read it, but I think that could have been easily accomplished in one book instead of two. This book was simply too short and underdeveloped and ended with too much of a cliffhanger. Not even a HFN....
I'm not sure how I feel about this story. While I liked it and understood what the author was trying to do, it wasn't a very "feel good" book to me. I don't need to feel good the whole time I'm reading a book, but I would like to feel good by the end. I didn't feel badly, just sort of all right. So I gave this 3 stars, which means I liked the story, but it didn't give me everything I needed.
I'm also not sure how I felt about the other MC in this book. He almost wasn't needed. This was more about Steve coming to terms with his sexuality, and I think that could have been accomplished just by the triggering event in the first book between him and Wes. Having another hooker didn't add anything to this story for me, because 1) I felt even more terrible that Steve was so lonely. and 2)
If Cat Grant decides to write a sequel to finally give Steve his HEA, I will read it, but I think that could have been easily accomplished in one book instead of two. This book was simply too short and underdeveloped and ended with too much of a cliffhanger. Not even a HFN....
July 7, 2012
Not usually one for romance novellas, I give this one a try because I wanted a break from the countless YA novels I've been reading lately. My usual complaint is that they contain only sex and no story - but luckily that wasn't the case with Doubtless.
Steve has everything - a big apartment, an expensive car, a great job.. But there is no love in his life. When he encounters a male escort at a bar at night, he learns something about himself.
This novella is short, but sweet. I instantly liked Steve, who is humble and slightly awkward, but great at his job. He is a sad and confused guy yet stays away from being whiny. Basically this story is about his transformation.
I had no clue there was a book that comes before Doubtless, that tells the story of his best friend Connor. If you've read that one, Priceless, you already know this story won't end on a HEA. I didn't know that, so the ending of this book was quite a surprise for me. I really liked it though, it was sweet and positive without being gooey or clichéd.
There is some sex in Doubtless, but it doesn't overpower the story. There is a fade-out at one point, and the rest of it isn't too graphic or icky. I was quite impressed by the author's writing, and I'd love to read another book by her.
Steve has everything - a big apartment, an expensive car, a great job.. But there is no love in his life. When he encounters a male escort at a bar at night, he learns something about himself.
This novella is short, but sweet. I instantly liked Steve, who is humble and slightly awkward, but great at his job. He is a sad and confused guy yet stays away from being whiny. Basically this story is about his transformation.
I had no clue there was a book that comes before Doubtless, that tells the story of his best friend Connor. If you've read that one, Priceless, you already know this story won't end on a HEA. I didn't know that, so the ending of this book was quite a surprise for me. I really liked it though, it was sweet and positive without being gooey or clichéd.
There is some sex in Doubtless, but it doesn't overpower the story. There is a fade-out at one point, and the rest of it isn't too graphic or icky. I was quite impressed by the author's writing, and I'd love to read another book by her.
November 1, 2019
Steve’s emotions go haywire when his best friend Connor sets up house with his new lover but he’s not sure why. He’s happy for his friend but envious as well and feeling unsettled. This story is about Steve dealing with some buried/undiscovered desires and it’s really just a small glimpse into a confusing time in his life.
Steve is rich and successful and has always enjoyed short term flings with leggy beauties but lately he is unsatisfied and seems to be longing for Connor . . . who, of course, is no longer available. When he strikes up a conversation with another guy in a bar who turns out to be a male escort, he gives in to the temptation that’s been nagging at him and starts up a friendship with Dylan. But it soon turns into something more.
This is not a romance nor does it offer closure. Steve may be 38 but he’s never taken the time to explore what he truly wants in the relationship department and hasn’t decided if he’s hetero, gay or bi. Instead he’s been burying himself in his work and having one-offs with women and has now discovered that he’s lonely. To be truly honest I enjoyed Dylan much more than the lead character. Dylan was good natured and likable but Steve was insecure and just made me feel sad that he had lived an empty life for so long. I hope he gets a HEA at some point because it doesn’t happen here.
Steve is rich and successful and has always enjoyed short term flings with leggy beauties but lately he is unsatisfied and seems to be longing for Connor . . . who, of course, is no longer available. When he strikes up a conversation with another guy in a bar who turns out to be a male escort, he gives in to the temptation that’s been nagging at him and starts up a friendship with Dylan. But it soon turns into something more.
This is not a romance nor does it offer closure. Steve may be 38 but he’s never taken the time to explore what he truly wants in the relationship department and hasn’t decided if he’s hetero, gay or bi. Instead he’s been burying himself in his work and having one-offs with women and has now discovered that he’s lonely. To be truly honest I enjoyed Dylan much more than the lead character. Dylan was good natured and likable but Steve was insecure and just made me feel sad that he had lived an empty life for so long. I hope he gets a HEA at some point because it doesn’t happen here.
July 14, 2012
My Review:
This is a new publisher and author to me, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this book. I'm happy to say that it didn't disappoint, but it did surprise me as it is truly a book about Steve's relationship with himself rather than someone else. Although there are romantic encounters throughout the book and Steve most definitely has a relationship in the book, but that relationship is truly not what the focus of this book is about. In this story the focus is what Steve discovers about himself through that relationship. I have to admit, I liked it.
It's a short easy read and there are moments when Steve is just not a very likable fellow, but as he goes through this journey of self-discovery, you watch him become a better person and learn to love himself. I admit, I was surprised at the ending, but on reflection, it was right and I liked what happened there. This is definitely one of those little books that make you reflect about all the details. Just a fun journey into one man's psyche...
I received a complementary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This is a new publisher and author to me, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this book. I'm happy to say that it didn't disappoint, but it did surprise me as it is truly a book about Steve's relationship with himself rather than someone else. Although there are romantic encounters throughout the book and Steve most definitely has a relationship in the book, but that relationship is truly not what the focus of this book is about. In this story the focus is what Steve discovers about himself through that relationship. I have to admit, I liked it.
It's a short easy read and there are moments when Steve is just not a very likable fellow, but as he goes through this journey of self-discovery, you watch him become a better person and learn to love himself. I admit, I was surprised at the ending, but on reflection, it was right and I liked what happened there. This is definitely one of those little books that make you reflect about all the details. Just a fun journey into one man's psyche...
I received a complementary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Read
May 29, 2013A OK little filler for me - The author humanized Steve (main protag from PRICELESS) a little for me and now really looking forward to "HIS" story at the end of the year..
Very pleased to see the author also revisit Connor and Steve relationship as well and sort out some of the little niggles I had with Priceless...
Very pleased to see the author also revisit Connor and Steve relationship as well and sort out some of the little niggles I had with Priceless...
June 2, 2019
Can't say more than what's already been said. Not a romance and I didn't like him anymore at the end than I did at the beginning. It wasn't even erotica a the few explicit scenes were very basic.
September 12, 2012
I loved this story! Prof. Steve Campbell is a character from "Priceless" and one I didn't care for (at first.) I know he meant well but what he did for Connor did not set well with me at all. I found him to be a insensitive dick at times. So going into this story I hoped to get a little more insight into the psyche of Prof. Campbell. I wanted to know more about this flawed man. I was not disappointed. I was a little surprised at his little secret. Never saw THAT coming. It made me sad for him. And I adored Dylan. He was exactly what Steve needed at the time. But part of me wants them to find their way back to each other. I can't get my romantic mind to stand down. So please tell me there will be a sequel! You can't leave us hanging without knowing if he eventually finds his own "Wes!!!"
Update from Cat Grant's website (YIPEE!!): "Cat just sold two more books in the Irresistible Attraction series to Riptide Publishing. The first, tentatively titled “Fearless,” is a
Connor/Wes Christmas/wedding story, coming this December. The second is Steve Campbell’s love story, which I know everyone who’s read “Doubtless” is looking forward to! Release date on that one TBA."
Update from Cat Grant's website (YIPEE!!): "Cat just sold two more books in the Irresistible Attraction series to Riptide Publishing. The first, tentatively titled “Fearless,” is a
Connor/Wes Christmas/wedding story, coming this December. The second is Steve Campbell’s love story, which I know everyone who’s read “Doubtless” is looking forward to! Release date on that one TBA."
July 23, 2012
This was great; Cat's writing here was so good it had me in tears at times.
I love a good story with lots of UST, but with a happy ending.
This was HFN (happy for now), but it still worked out well for Steve, the main character.
The summary gives you all you need to know about what the story is about. I just wanted to tell folk that the writing is good and the story well handled. A very competent handling of an angsty situation that was totally believable. Cat Grant nailed the emotions, as you can tell by my tearful episode, LOL.
I love a good story with lots of UST, but with a happy ending.
This was HFN (happy for now), but it still worked out well for Steve, the main character.
The summary gives you all you need to know about what the story is about. I just wanted to tell folk that the writing is good and the story well handled. A very competent handling of an angsty situation that was totally believable. Cat Grant nailed the emotions, as you can tell by my tearful episode, LOL.
January 15, 2017
*** 2.5 Stars ***
Huh. This was a strange one for me because the men who ended up having sex on the page weren't the romantic focus of the story, and the story didn't end with a HEA (or even a conventional HFN). I'm interested enough to see how Part 3 develops, though.
PS: I made the mistake of reading this series out of order. Word of caution: Don't do it! These aren't stand alone smut bites.
Huh. This was a strange one for me because the men who ended up having sex on the page weren't the romantic focus of the story, and the story didn't end with a HEA (or even a conventional HFN). I'm interested enough to see how Part 3 develops, though.
PS: I made the mistake of reading this series out of order. Word of caution: Don't do it! These aren't stand alone smut bites.
July 17, 2012
Doubtless is a sequel to Ms. Grant's previous short story Priceless and reintroduces us to the characters of that story and gives us an update as to how the main couple is fairing. I enjoyed that part of the story as it was like reminiscing with old friends and finding out that HEA does last beyond the final page. In Doubtless, HEA takes on a whole new meaning in this unique view of one man being set on the road to happiness where the ending is just the beginning.
Steve Campbell has always considered himself a sexy player, but as he gets older it's harder to compete in the arena of sex. One night he reaches an all-time low and that's when he meets the man to completely turn his life around. At first, he thinks Dylan is just a well dressed guy who he enjoys spending time talking to. But he soon realizes that Dylan is an escort after inviting him out to dinner as friends. Their relationship soon morphs into something more complicated, yet satisfying. Dylan is a suave character comfortable in his choice of short-term occupation but is still a mystery at the end of the story. There's flashes of him wanting more with Steve and I truly believe we haven't seen the last of him (which would make me very happy).
Steve doesn't want to acknowledge he's gay, but with the connection he's always felt for his friend Connor combined with the comfort he feels when he's around Dylan, leads him to ultimately acknowledge the truth about himself. Because of Dylan, in a reverse of the usual Pretty Woman scenario, Steve now dresses in an enhancing way and has more self-esteem and a better understanding of who he is. He matured during this story and now has the tools and confidence to go after happiness and I look forward to him finding his special someone (if he hasn't already) in a future book.
This is not your typical romance story. But considering how satisfying a read it was, that's not a bad thing. There's romantic elements permeating the story and some very satisfying sexual tension. Even though the conclusion is open-ended there's a sense of hopefulness and that truly is a happy ending. Those looking for the unexpected will find it in this book.
Steve Campbell has always considered himself a sexy player, but as he gets older it's harder to compete in the arena of sex. One night he reaches an all-time low and that's when he meets the man to completely turn his life around. At first, he thinks Dylan is just a well dressed guy who he enjoys spending time talking to. But he soon realizes that Dylan is an escort after inviting him out to dinner as friends. Their relationship soon morphs into something more complicated, yet satisfying. Dylan is a suave character comfortable in his choice of short-term occupation but is still a mystery at the end of the story. There's flashes of him wanting more with Steve and I truly believe we haven't seen the last of him (which would make me very happy).
Steve doesn't want to acknowledge he's gay, but with the connection he's always felt for his friend Connor combined with the comfort he feels when he's around Dylan, leads him to ultimately acknowledge the truth about himself. Because of Dylan, in a reverse of the usual Pretty Woman scenario, Steve now dresses in an enhancing way and has more self-esteem and a better understanding of who he is. He matured during this story and now has the tools and confidence to go after happiness and I look forward to him finding his special someone (if he hasn't already) in a future book.
This is not your typical romance story. But considering how satisfying a read it was, that's not a bad thing. There's romantic elements permeating the story and some very satisfying sexual tension. Even though the conclusion is open-ended there's a sense of hopefulness and that truly is a happy ending. Those looking for the unexpected will find it in this book.
August 12, 2012
Steve Campbell is one of the country’s top 3-D optics researchers. His job is stressful and he spends most of his evenings home alone. Something is missing from his life, but he’s not entirely sure what it is or how to get it. All he knows is that he’s not a very happy man.
Then he has a chance encounter with a very handsome escort, Dylan, and he learns some truths about himself. Although Steve pays for all of Dylan’s time, you can tell Dylan cares about Steve. He helps him spice up his clothes and his appearance. Overall, he makes Steve feel better about himself.
Steve considers himself a straight man, until now. He realizes he is attracted to men, particularly his best friend Connor. When Connor informs Steve he is marrying his boyfriend, Steve is crushed. However, it’s not the end of the world and Steve is determined to pick himself up and find a little happiness of his own.
This is a very quick read. It’s the story of self-discovery and how one man looks for happiness. I loved the character of Steve and I was really pulling for him. I’m hoping his story will continue in another book. This book is a sequel to “Priceless”, but I didn’t even know it when I read this one. So, it didn’t detract from the story. This one stands on its own, but I definitely want to read the first one and any subsequent books.
It’s not my usual genre to read, but it’s a good book and I want to read more by this author.
Disclosure: The publisher provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Then he has a chance encounter with a very handsome escort, Dylan, and he learns some truths about himself. Although Steve pays for all of Dylan’s time, you can tell Dylan cares about Steve. He helps him spice up his clothes and his appearance. Overall, he makes Steve feel better about himself.
Steve considers himself a straight man, until now. He realizes he is attracted to men, particularly his best friend Connor. When Connor informs Steve he is marrying his boyfriend, Steve is crushed. However, it’s not the end of the world and Steve is determined to pick himself up and find a little happiness of his own.
This is a very quick read. It’s the story of self-discovery and how one man looks for happiness. I loved the character of Steve and I was really pulling for him. I’m hoping his story will continue in another book. This book is a sequel to “Priceless”, but I didn’t even know it when I read this one. So, it didn’t detract from the story. This one stands on its own, but I definitely want to read the first one and any subsequent books.
It’s not my usual genre to read, but it’s a good book and I want to read more by this author.
Disclosure: The publisher provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 5, 2012
Steve Campbell has everything he could possibly want. Money, a great job and women. But when Steve finds himself looking to bat for the other team, he turns to Dylan, a handsome escort who shows Steve just what he's been missing out on. When Steve finds out that Connor, his best friend & the man he loves, is getting married, Steve spills the beans on his feelings for Connor in hopes that he'll feel the same way.
This was an okay read for me, it might have been the fact that it was really short. I wouldn't say that I disliked this book, just that it's not for me. I felt like Grant was squeezing things in a bit, moving the story a tad too fast for my tastes. The characters are okay. One character that I would have to say stood out for me the most, would have to be Dylan. I think without him this story would've been nothing, he brought that extra spark that kept the story going.
I wouldn't recommend this to anyone, it wasn't that fulfilling. But if I said you had to read for something/someone in particular, I'd say read it for Dylan.
This was an okay read for me, it might have been the fact that it was really short. I wouldn't say that I disliked this book, just that it's not for me. I felt like Grant was squeezing things in a bit, moving the story a tad too fast for my tastes. The characters are okay. One character that I would have to say stood out for me the most, would have to be Dylan. I think without him this story would've been nothing, he brought that extra spark that kept the story going.
I wouldn't recommend this to anyone, it wasn't that fulfilling. But if I said you had to read for something/someone in particular, I'd say read it for Dylan.
July 19, 2012
I was afraid I wouldn't enjoy Steve's story as much as Conner and Wes'. I am happy to say this wasn't anything near what I expected. I ended up enjoying this as much as the first but for totally different reasons.
Steve has so many repressed feelings from earlier esteem and perhaps family issues. His life seems very lonely and empty, and I found my feelings about him changing as he came to each realization about his life. I was really rooting for him by the end.
I loved Dylan. He was so confident and seemed to care about helping Steve. I kept hoping he would realize it was more than just the money with Steve.
I loved seeing Conner and Wes happy together. I really didn't want Steve to cause cause problems for them. As for the ending, all I can say is that I really hope Cat is working hard and fast on the next one.
Steve has so many repressed feelings from earlier esteem and perhaps family issues. His life seems very lonely and empty, and I found my feelings about him changing as he came to each realization about his life. I was really rooting for him by the end.
I loved Dylan. He was so confident and seemed to care about helping Steve. I kept hoping he would realize it was more than just the money with Steve.
I loved seeing Conner and Wes happy together. I really didn't want Steve to cause cause problems for them. As for the ending, all I can say is that I really hope Cat is working hard and fast on the next one.
August 9, 2012
This book was reviewed for musings of a bookworm
This was a really sweet tale of a man coming to terms with who he is and who he loves. It was ate ally honest look at unrequited love and how it can go in noticed by the people involved. I loved that there was no 'oh god I love you too' moment because that do really happens in real life so it made this feel like you were peaking into someone's life. It was kind of sad how it ended but the ending made the whole story worth it so I can't complain about that or anything else about this tale.
This was a really sweet tale of a man coming to terms with who he is and who he loves. It was ate ally honest look at unrequited love and how it can go in noticed by the people involved. I loved that there was no 'oh god I love you too' moment because that do really happens in real life so it made this feel like you were peaking into someone's life. It was kind of sad how it ended but the ending made the whole story worth it so I can't complain about that or anything else about this tale.
April 3, 2014
I liked this little short follow-up to Priceless in which Steve explores his sexuality with a hooker named Dylan. It's not really a romance, because Steve doesn't fall for Dylan, but he does realize that he's bisexual and that he's loved his friend, Connor, for years. It's too late for Connor now since he's about to marry Wes (both MCs in the first story), but we get to see Steve finally really communicate with Connor and I liked the way the author ended the story. No doubt (pun intended) we will see Steve again in a future story.
December 31, 2013
2.5 Stars
I'm hesitant to categorize this as a romance because ... well, there wasn't one. It wasn't even an HFN. This book was about Steve's self-realization regarding his sexuality (he's bi). And, his friendship (that's a generous characterization) with a rent boy, Dylan, to explore his new-found gayness. Unlike Connor and his rent-boy in book one, Steve and Dylan don't fall madly in love and live HEA. Dylan is a means to an end. Not in a bad way, mind you, but he's just that ... a rent boy. Huh.
Bottom line: Glad books 3 and 4 are out already. This one left me saying, "WTF?"
I'm hesitant to categorize this as a romance because ... well, there wasn't one. It wasn't even an HFN. This book was about Steve's self-realization regarding his sexuality (he's bi). And, his friendship (that's a generous characterization) with a rent boy, Dylan, to explore his new-found gayness. Unlike Connor and his rent-boy in book one, Steve and Dylan don't fall madly in love and live HEA. Dylan is a means to an end. Not in a bad way, mind you, but he's just that ... a rent boy. Huh.
Bottom line: Glad books 3 and 4 are out already. This one left me saying, "WTF?"
August 15, 2014
3.5 Stars
Well this one was different. While there was some - sort of - romance in it, this story was all about Steve finding himself. He's been a self absorbed, closeted bachelor for, well, ever. He's in a bar one night, after leaving a party at Connor and Wes' new house, depressed and he can't quite put his finger on why. He meets Dylan, whom he really enjoys talked to, and though Dylan is an escort, Steve calls him and spends some time (and money) getting to know him, as well as himself. Steve spends a lot of time feeling sorry for himself, but he finally gets it. Not bad!
Well this one was different. While there was some - sort of - romance in it, this story was all about Steve finding himself. He's been a self absorbed, closeted bachelor for, well, ever. He's in a bar one night, after leaving a party at Connor and Wes' new house, depressed and he can't quite put his finger on why. He meets Dylan, whom he really enjoys talked to, and though Dylan is an escort, Steve calls him and spends some time (and money) getting to know him, as well as himself. Steve spends a lot of time feeling sorry for himself, but he finally gets it. Not bad!
July 25, 2012
I was surprised by the direction the story took, it wasn't what I expected. It's NOT a romance, not even a HFN. It IS great story and I really liked it as it followed up on a secondary character from Priceless. The door is open at the end for more I think, for either of the featured characters . and I'd be interested to see if Cat Grant goes through that door.
August 21, 2012
This is a well written story but it feels incomplete. I think it should either have been longer giving it chance to explore all the issues and characters in more depth, or it should have been incorporated into the earlier book, Priceless. Too many unresolved questions for me. I hope some of those get answered in a third book.
April 26, 2013
OMG! Why did I take so long to read this book! Hooked, I tell you. So glad I saw the ad for "Flawless" or I would have gone on without tackling this. Steve, what a man. In love with his beastie, but in somebody else's closet. I laughed silly when he got a clue. Glad he get's another chance. Now on to "Fearless"...
July 16, 2012
Cat Grant’s Doubtless is a delightful journey of self discovery for Steve Campbell. To read my review in its entirety, please visit http://www.bookreviewsandmorebykathy....
probably-not
November 19, 2012Hmm...
The plot sounds really familiar. I'm certain I've read a book that had pretty much exactly the same plot. I'm rather ambivalent towards this. I didn't like the first one, so I'm leery about reading this one. In the probably not shelf. maybe I'll reevaluate.
The plot sounds really familiar. I'm certain I've read a book that had pretty much exactly the same plot. I'm rather ambivalent towards this. I didn't like the first one, so I'm leery about reading this one. In the probably not shelf. maybe I'll reevaluate.
November 7, 2015
4-1/2 Stars
More of a "companion" installment as opposed to a sequel to Priceless. This story follows Connor's friend/partner, Steve, as he makes some major realizations about his life and the directions he wants to take, if he's determined to be happy.
More of a "companion" installment as opposed to a sequel to Priceless. This story follows Connor's friend/partner, Steve, as he makes some major realizations about his life and the directions he wants to take, if he's determined to be happy.
July 14, 2012
So so good... And bittersweet... And just so very good!
July 14, 2012
Loved this novella, especially the ending. I hope Cat Grant writes more in this series (this is a companion novella to 'Priceless', released earlier this year.)
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