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The Maintenance Man
It’s midnight. Do you know where your woman is?
Every Woman’s Dream: Malcolm Tremell is handsome, charismatic and a great lover; but in his world sex is not a game…it's serious business. Every week his schedule is booked with secret rendezvous, extravagant dinners and sessions of passionate love making, all for the right price. But Malcolm begins to reflect on his gigolo lifestyle when he meets Toni, a talented dancer and choreographer. But can her love transform him into the man he wants to be and the man she needs to make both their lives complete?
Every Woman’s Dream: Malcolm Tremell is handsome, charismatic and a great lover; but in his world sex is not a game…it's serious business. Every week his schedule is booked with secret rendezvous, extravagant dinners and sessions of passionate love making, all for the right price. But Malcolm begins to reflect on his gigolo lifestyle when he meets Toni, a talented dancer and choreographer. But can her love transform him into the man he wants to be and the man she needs to make both their lives complete?
305 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 1999
136 people are currently reading
3480 people want to read
About the author
Michael Baisden
27 books296 followersWhen it comes to entertaining, enlightening and educating, no one in talk radio compares to Michael Baisden. His high-octane energy and love for interacting with his listeners is just one reason for the popularity and success of The Michael Baisden Show. The Bad Boy ignites heated discussions with explosive episodic themes like: Living Your Dream, Your Body Is Your Temple, and Pimps In The Pulpit.
His radio career began in 2003 when 98.7 KISS FM in New York City offered him a position as the afternoon drive-time host. Because of budget constraints the station was unable to offer him a salary. Michael's response was, "Just give me the damned mic!" And sure enough, within six months, their afternoon drive ratings went from number 9 to number 1.
After eight months of consistent high ratings, Michael suggested taking his show national but management was apprehensive, suggesting that New York wasn't ready. A few months later, Michael threatened to quit if management did not pursue a syndication deal. "There was no doubt in my mind that I could have one of the hottest shows on radio! I knew the impact it would have on people all across the country and I wasn't taking no, for an answer," Michael rebutted.
His vibrant personality on and off the air has made him a people magnet. He began attracting attention with primarily female followers as author and publisher of the highly successful provocative books: "Never Satisfied: How and Why Men Cheat", "Men Cry in the Dark", "The Maintenance Man", and lastly "God's Gift to Women". Two of his titles ultimately were adapted into stage plays.
But his proudest moment came on September 20, 2007, when he passionately and skillfully spearheaded the famous Jena 6 March in Jena, Louisiana. This historic and momentous occasion garnered tens of thousands citizens of all races to peacefully marched in support of six young men who have been unfairly treated by the justice system. In addition, he urged millions of listeners to wear black on September 20 in protest of unequal justice. The news traveled throughout the country, everyone wore black in support of the Jena 6, from college students of all races to corporate executives.
2008 was another historic year. In late January Michael endorsed Sen. Barack Obama in the democratic primary against Sen. Hillary Clinton. Sen. Obama ultimately won and went on to defeat Sen. John McCain in general election on November 4. Michael celebrated with over 4,000 fans at a watch party in Miami on election night. The Obama camp along with millions of listeners credited Michael with being one of the major forces behind this historic victory to elect the first African American to the Presidency of the United States.
The Bad Boy continues to entertain, enlighten and educate as he pursues one of his first dreams, to have his novels adapted to major Motion pictures. The other dream was to host a Late Night Talk show. He got that chance in the fall of 2007, when he partnered with TV One to host and co-executive produce "Baisden After Dark," featuring comedian George Willborn and band leader Morris Day. The show was a smash hit, breaking records for viewers on the black owned network.
His radio career began in 2003 when 98.7 KISS FM in New York City offered him a position as the afternoon drive-time host. Because of budget constraints the station was unable to offer him a salary. Michael's response was, "Just give me the damned mic!" And sure enough, within six months, their afternoon drive ratings went from number 9 to number 1.
After eight months of consistent high ratings, Michael suggested taking his show national but management was apprehensive, suggesting that New York wasn't ready. A few months later, Michael threatened to quit if management did not pursue a syndication deal. "There was no doubt in my mind that I could have one of the hottest shows on radio! I knew the impact it would have on people all across the country and I wasn't taking no, for an answer," Michael rebutted.
His vibrant personality on and off the air has made him a people magnet. He began attracting attention with primarily female followers as author and publisher of the highly successful provocative books: "Never Satisfied: How and Why Men Cheat", "Men Cry in the Dark", "The Maintenance Man", and lastly "God's Gift to Women". Two of his titles ultimately were adapted into stage plays.
But his proudest moment came on September 20, 2007, when he passionately and skillfully spearheaded the famous Jena 6 March in Jena, Louisiana. This historic and momentous occasion garnered tens of thousands citizens of all races to peacefully marched in support of six young men who have been unfairly treated by the justice system. In addition, he urged millions of listeners to wear black on September 20 in protest of unequal justice. The news traveled throughout the country, everyone wore black in support of the Jena 6, from college students of all races to corporate executives.
2008 was another historic year. In late January Michael endorsed Sen. Barack Obama in the democratic primary against Sen. Hillary Clinton. Sen. Obama ultimately won and went on to defeat Sen. John McCain in general election on November 4. Michael celebrated with over 4,000 fans at a watch party in Miami on election night. The Obama camp along with millions of listeners credited Michael with being one of the major forces behind this historic victory to elect the first African American to the Presidency of the United States.
The Bad Boy continues to entertain, enlighten and educate as he pursues one of his first dreams, to have his novels adapted to major Motion pictures. The other dream was to host a Late Night Talk show. He got that chance in the fall of 2007, when he partnered with TV One to host and co-executive produce "Baisden After Dark," featuring comedian George Willborn and band leader Morris Day. The show was a smash hit, breaking records for viewers on the black owned network.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
August 17, 2021
2.5 Stars
This book wasn't at all like what I expected. I thought it would be sexy but it was not sexy at all. I mean The Maintenance Man sounds like a porno, I was expecting so hot and heavy sex scenes but everything was fade to black. And the story was extremely rushed. I didn't feel like I had the time to get to know any of the characters. There was alot of telling and very little showing. Also this the men in this book are the definition of Toxic Masculinity, it was at times rather nauseating.
I'm giving it 2.5 stars instead of 2 stars because my late great mom and her bestie my aunt Dorothy(R.I.P.) loved this book back in the day. I use to as a kid love sitting with them(I was under the table and they were not paying me any mind)and hearing them discuss the books they were reading. So I'm taking that bit of nostalgia into a count with my rating.
In 2021 this book just doesn't hit the same but I bet if I had been grown when it came out I would have enjoyed it much more.
This book wasn't at all like what I expected. I thought it would be sexy but it was not sexy at all. I mean The Maintenance Man sounds like a porno, I was expecting so hot and heavy sex scenes but everything was fade to black. And the story was extremely rushed. I didn't feel like I had the time to get to know any of the characters. There was alot of telling and very little showing. Also this the men in this book are the definition of Toxic Masculinity, it was at times rather nauseating.
I'm giving it 2.5 stars instead of 2 stars because my late great mom and her bestie my aunt Dorothy(R.I.P.) loved this book back in the day. I use to as a kid love sitting with them(I was under the table and they were not paying me any mind)and hearing them discuss the books they were reading. So I'm taking that bit of nostalgia into a count with my rating.
In 2021 this book just doesn't hit the same but I bet if I had been grown when it came out I would have enjoyed it much more.
January 25, 2015
This book is enjoyable light reading. It is a quick read. When you think you heard everything here comes a man who can "SEX" all your problems away, women pay a hefty price for this honor. Even the maintenance man realize he needs true romance. This is what Malcom Tremell finds out.
June 26, 2025
I was ready to criticize a GR review before reading this book. But I have read 80% of it now, and understand much of what the reader was saying. The book is easy to read, but it's full of cliche phrases, little to no details in scenes involving intimacy and action, seems plotless, and the characters argue, bicker, and fight over frivolous matters too often. But the author does bring a good vibe. The book is still entertaining and one for the culture.
April 29, 2013
my second time reading... just as great as the first
July 18, 2014
You are introduced to Malcolm, Simon, Ariel, Toni and others who share their life and problems. From a player, escort, to a man too busy working to take care of the needs of his woman - all leave you with a lesson about life and perseverance.
May 5, 2010
This is a intriguing book, it is very suspensful and somewhat graphic but it would have you at the edge of your seat.
December 26, 2014
Emotional, Spicy Page Turner!
November 25, 2023
Started a little on fire then slowed a bit then ended back up decent. Some of these relationships seemed to develop fast and of course I think this was the 90s early 00s where alot of the male characters are those chauvinist type of guys which I never have been (being raised by women). There are some lines that make you laugh out loud. I feel Malcolm could have done a little more in soul searching when his world with Toni turned upside down. A lot of bad relationships in this novel and although it is fiction these are relationships that happen in real life. Simon I felt the worse for due to his situation. Lots of bedroom talk which can make or break a story. It can be overkill in some situations and necessary for others. Overall easy read and it was cool.
December 24, 2022
Maintenance Man
Malcolm talks to his father’s grave on the day of his funeral. He talks about the resentment he had for his father for playing his mother with multiple women. One of the women’s husbands came home early and put him six feet under. Malcolm confesses to his father that now he’s just like him. He became a jigaloo and everything he learned, he learned from him. He tells him he loves and forgives him. Then leaves a song he wrote “When Players Pray” on his casket.
Malcolm makes a call to one of his clients (Tina) the soon-to-be ex-wife of an NBA player. After they’re done, he tries to collect his money to move on to the next lady (a billionaire by the name of Helen) but Tina starts to get in her feelings and rants about how all men are dogs and flings the money in his face. Malcolm scratches her off his book (tired of her drama) but she apologizes (then says he’ll be back). For the first time, Malcolm considers getting out of the business.
At the Jazz club, Helen shows up. Malcolm scratches her name out his book and tells her next time she should call. Then he leaves her standing there.
On his birthday, Malcolm warns his friend Simon about his fiancée Cynthia who got back with him just as he’s opened up a new nightclub (Club Obsession). He makes plans with him to come out and perform at the club.
After drilling a spy hole to try to catch his cashier in the act, a beautiful woman named Ariel comes to Simon for a job. Even though she has the experience, he says he doesn’t any positions available. She thanks him for his professionalism. After the strip show, he catches (Darren) stealing, punches him, then kicks him out. Ariel comes back to get her briefcase (that she’d forgotten) and he gives her the job (as a manager
Malcolm decides to meet up with Helen again. They attend a program with a dancer named Antonetta whom he can't help but be captivated by.. Even tho Antoinette is engaged, Malcolm invites her to hear him play at Club Obsession. Helen is furious and smacks Malcolm and gives him half the money. He gives it to her back.
Teddy (one of the strippers that performed) while out screwing around gets a call from his girlfriend Karen (who found evidence yet again of his cheating). But he’s so slick he turns her anger into ecstasy when he pulls out a ring he got from the thrift store and proposes.
Meanwhile, Cynthia (Simon’s woman) is in New Orleans with her friend Debra. Five men come in. The men come over and start to conversate with them. One of the men (James) is especially interested in Cynthia. He gives her his card (he’s a Reverend) and tells her to call if she needs marital counseling.
When Malcolm shows up at the club, he gets a surprise (a party in his honor and a piano like the one he thought he lost in a fire). Toni is among the crowd. Toni says her goodbyes after complimenting Malcolm’s performance. She takes one of Malcolm’s cards and says she has to meet her fiancé at the airport Sunday. Ariel indicates that she was the first one there, she wasn’t wearing a ring, and if her relationship was that strong she wouldn’t be there at eleven o clock at night.
Ariel waits on a date and attracts a man named Chris. She invites Chris to eat with her. She’s not attracted to him, but she likes his company and they bond over the old days. Jeff strolls in and eventually walks over to the table, but she says her name is Aquanetta and she’s there with her man. After he leaves, she kisses Chris on the cheek for rescuing her. But she says he’s not her type. He gives her his number.
Meanwhile, Teddy goes to the Foxxy Night Clubb to get his check and while he's in the bathroom, an officer comes to serve him a warrant. He’s told a lady that’s having his child that he’s not giving her a dime. It was a lady who he stripped for at her bachelorette party. Claudia kicks him out and fires him. But a minute ago, he’s called Simon and taken a job there. Claudia tells him his ish is gonna catch up to him.
There’s an altercation at a night spot with a racist bouncer and Randall and James come to their rescue. James walks her to her room (and doesn’t leave). Simon calls the next day and here’s James peeing, but she says it was Debra splashing water. Cynthia says they should just put it behind them. He says he’ll pray for them.
Ariel goes on another date and goes to see a man named Lawrence. It's a get-together at his place. he eventually shows up and stakes his claim. She doesn’t like this but decides he might be her maintenance man. Malcolm realizes Toni isn’t gonna call and throws away her number. Then he gets a letter from Toni that says she hasn’t been able to stop thinking him and that she’s confused by her feelings. She tells him if he wants to meet up with her to talk give her a call. But his housekeeper has just taken the trash to the incinerator.
Teddy’s favor. He has to pay 700.00 a month and provide insurance Donna tells him afterward she doesn’t want the money. She just wants him to spend time with his child. He calls her “poor white trash” and says he’s not giving her a cent.
Ariel sees Chris in a restaurant while waiting for Lawrence. Chris and Lawrence almost get into an alteration. She tells Lawrence she’s strong and independent and can take care of herself. Lawrence says maybe it’s time for her to have a man to fight her fights. But she tells him she’d rather take things slow.
Malcolm makes it in time to see Toni and invites her to his mama’s house at 8. Toni doesn’t know about what Malcolm does, but his mother tells a story about how he charged 5 girls to go to the prom. Later, Toni and Malcolm take a walk on the beach. They discuss her situation with Eric. While she loves Eric and has been with him since high school, they’ve grown apart. He asked to marry her and she doesn’t give him a yes or no. She asked for a sign and that’s when she saw Malcolm. She makes him promise they’ll always be honest so they won’t end up like his parents.
Ariel tells Lawrence she needs some space. He’s at her door tho with flowers and a basket of sexual things. She lets him in and keeps making excuses to stay until he’s standing behind her naked with a condom on. But she scares him off. On “Lady's
Night” Lawrence calls and because she rejects his offer to meet his mama, (and Simon warns him to leave Ariel alone) someone starts shooting in the club and there’s chaos. They find Lawrence on the ground in handcuffs. He threw a brick in the window. As he’s taken away he screams threats at Ariel and Simon takes her in his arms. Simon makes a crass comment and Ariel slaps the ish out of him.
Malcolm calls Simon and tells him his good news and that he might get out of the business because Toni hooked him up with someone who could get him a record deal. Then he gives Simon some advice about being a workaholic and what to do to satisfy Cynthia. Simon says he’s right and it might be to late. Cynthia’s been avoiding him. Malcolm gives him the address to a private investigator.
Malcolm has his last job with an aggressive woman named Katherine. He sees Tina and when she gets him to herself she says she’s in love with him and when he tells her yeah right, She’s been getting it from every gigolo in town. She smacks him. He tries to walk away but she follows him screaming obscenities. Then she threatens him and throws her shoe at him (which leaves a mark on his forehead).
Cheryl and Teddy almost get caught in the act when her husband comes home early. Karen has paged him and when he gets home, she’s moving all his ish out and kicking him out. This time she isn’t hearing his bs. Some woman called on her phone. Her sister is there and as he drives off we see that he’s been hitting her and probably was her that stuck her underwear in her sister’s drawer.
The next man Ariel goes out with is a married man named Raymond. Simon finds out that Cynthia is sick. He hears her on the phone but says it’s her doctor. She then starts to pack her bags and says she needs space. He finally lets her go and apologizes. He tries to make plans with her but she puts him off and says busy. As she leaves, the detective calls. He says that Cynthia is definitely screwing around. Then he meets up with the Detective who shows him (videos, photos, and receipts Simon gets his revenge by going to one of his services and playing a projection of him with many of the men’s vives and him having sex with Cynthia. After this Simon can’t be found for some days. Malcolm tells Ariel not to worry. He knows he’s back in his old stomping grounds in Chicago.
The deal goes through and Toni meets Malcolm in NY to celebrate. She notices the gash on his forehead (from Tina’s heel) but he says it’s a gash someone gave him from playing ball. Toni takes Malcolm to a nightclub that she and Eric use to go to but she says Eric’s out of town. But Eric is at the club and turns out to be a loud-mouthed man Malcolm’s noticed in the bathroom on several occasions. Toni is surprised they seem to know each other and Eric is about to say what he knows Malcolm as but before he can Malcolm slams his face onto the table and breaks his nose. But this doesn’t stop Eric from letting the cat out of the bag. Toni hauls off and slaps Malcolm and goes to help Eric. She doesn’t want to hear it and calls him a high-priced ho. Malcolm realizes there’s no “Gary Cross” negotiating the deal. Toni negotiated the deal and that was the surprise. Ariel and Simon kiss passionately when he comes back to work. Ariel tells him off for running Cynthia’s career, Simon admits he was wrong,
Chris tells Ariel off later because it’s her birthday and he’s sent her a present but she didn’t even call him back to say thank u. Raymond is late for the date, and when he shows up he’s again full of excuses (but she’s horny so forgives him). But then his wife shows up with his kids, walks up to him, slaps him, and then cusses him out, Then she smashes food in Ariel’s face and punches her. Her car windows are smashed and Home Wrecker is spray painted on the side, Ariel calls her mama and then goes to see Chris realizing that she doesn’t need a man she needs a friend.
Teddy gets arrested at the club for an attempt of court and Simon fires him and shuts the club down, Then Cynthia shows up and apologizes, Then they have it out, Simon calls her out for being pregnant. She says she doesn’t know whose it is but is giving it up for adoption. Simon then pulls her onto the dance floor and takes Cynthia in his arms. Melvin dies and Malcolm is there as he tells him to take care of Toni and he knew he’d make it (in the music industry). Simon and Malcolm reconnect at the funeral, Simon tells him (when he asks) that he and Cynthia are getting married next month, Simon tells him to drop his pride and go after Toni. He shows him an article about how a stripper (Teddy) got shot by a jealous husband.
Toni’s changed all her numbers so Malcolm writes her a letter. Malcolm plays When Players Pray and dedicates it to Melvin. Toni shows up and Malcolm catches her taxi before it leaves. Toni waits to hear what Malcolm has to say but says she can’t stay long because Eric is waiting for her. They’re enaged again. Malcolm is about to let her go but Toni calls him back. Malcolm says he can’t believe he’s back with Eric, but she says she can trust him. Then he starts to speak from the heart. Toni says she’s scared that she doesn’t want to be hurt and alone and Malcolm admits so is he but he’s ready. Then they kiss. Melvin leaves his jazz club to Malcolm and in a bible is the verse about he who finds a wife.
My Thoughts
This is one of those books that REALLY made me glad to be single and out of the game of dating (and it really IS a game) because as it showed in this book, you never really know what you're getting. EVERY SINGLE ONE of these characters hide behind some kind of façade. Yeah, yeah the gigolo actually got turned into a husband but that isn’t *always* the case. Even though, YES I do believe that the right person CAN make you change, but even though it might *look* like marriage supposedly settled a person if playing and having multiple women is in his blood all I’m saying is give it some years and things get monotonous and the newness of it has worn off and that same woman starts getting on his nerves or being neglectful in some areas and the itch starts all over again. So, no it’s kinda hard to believe that for the rest of his life with Toni, Malcolm will be a one-woman man. I give it about six years of marriage (if that).
Nor do I really believe either that Simon will stop being a work-a holic overnight and just be attentive now to Cynthia twenty-four-seven. I’m not even sure WHY he took her back. Again YEAH YEAH YEAH true love. But, if someone shows you that they can cheat on you ONCE what do you think they’ll do when AGAIN you start to concentrate more on your work? Then on the flip side, if Cynthia knows he IS a workaholic why she’d even want to be married to him? Does she REALLY think it’ll change? I DON’T! Some people are just wired that way and just aren’t content to be still.
Teddy got what was coming to him. Can’t say I was sorry for him. He was an arrogant asshole. Although I did agree with Teddy about Karen. You took in a STRIPPER. What did you expect? He didn't have a house. He didn't have a car and he told you he was "seeing" other women. Sometimes women get (not exactly what they deserve) but COME ON. Karen should have known better. She was just BEGINING to get what she got (and the sad thing is WHY would this educated woman settle for this kind of man just to have a man). The same for Malcolm’s father. Men just really need to have more respect for women. I found out that Micheal Baisdon (the author) is a firm believer of dating multiple women himself. What I can agree with is that Malcolm made it no secret with the women (well other than Toni) what he did and how he was. So at least the women knew upfront what he was. I wish he would have been that straight with Toni from the start tho.
Then here Ariel Here's another woman that plays herself and settles for less than what she deserves because the options are so slim that evidently, she decides that half a man is better than no man. That women even think like this is just sad to me. I admit it there was a time when I've been there. Ariel was this independent woman that like so many women play themselves by dating useless men out of desperation. Hopefully in the end, she did realize that it’s not sometimes all about attraction and you kinda have to look past all that. That wasn’t a lesson I learned till later. But deep down I felt the worse for Ariel just because I saw the mistake (s) she was making and she didn’t seem to (at first). I wish Melvin hadn’t died but I thought he brought value to the story by being the father figure Malcolm never had and being one of the better men in this story.
Malcolm talks to his father’s grave on the day of his funeral. He talks about the resentment he had for his father for playing his mother with multiple women. One of the women’s husbands came home early and put him six feet under. Malcolm confesses to his father that now he’s just like him. He became a jigaloo and everything he learned, he learned from him. He tells him he loves and forgives him. Then leaves a song he wrote “When Players Pray” on his casket.
Malcolm makes a call to one of his clients (Tina) the soon-to-be ex-wife of an NBA player. After they’re done, he tries to collect his money to move on to the next lady (a billionaire by the name of Helen) but Tina starts to get in her feelings and rants about how all men are dogs and flings the money in his face. Malcolm scratches her off his book (tired of her drama) but she apologizes (then says he’ll be back). For the first time, Malcolm considers getting out of the business.
At the Jazz club, Helen shows up. Malcolm scratches her name out his book and tells her next time she should call. Then he leaves her standing there.
On his birthday, Malcolm warns his friend Simon about his fiancée Cynthia who got back with him just as he’s opened up a new nightclub (Club Obsession). He makes plans with him to come out and perform at the club.
After drilling a spy hole to try to catch his cashier in the act, a beautiful woman named Ariel comes to Simon for a job. Even though she has the experience, he says he doesn’t any positions available. She thanks him for his professionalism. After the strip show, he catches (Darren) stealing, punches him, then kicks him out. Ariel comes back to get her briefcase (that she’d forgotten) and he gives her the job (as a manager
Malcolm decides to meet up with Helen again. They attend a program with a dancer named Antonetta whom he can't help but be captivated by.. Even tho Antoinette is engaged, Malcolm invites her to hear him play at Club Obsession. Helen is furious and smacks Malcolm and gives him half the money. He gives it to her back.
Teddy (one of the strippers that performed) while out screwing around gets a call from his girlfriend Karen (who found evidence yet again of his cheating). But he’s so slick he turns her anger into ecstasy when he pulls out a ring he got from the thrift store and proposes.
Meanwhile, Cynthia (Simon’s woman) is in New Orleans with her friend Debra. Five men come in. The men come over and start to conversate with them. One of the men (James) is especially interested in Cynthia. He gives her his card (he’s a Reverend) and tells her to call if she needs marital counseling.
When Malcolm shows up at the club, he gets a surprise (a party in his honor and a piano like the one he thought he lost in a fire). Toni is among the crowd. Toni says her goodbyes after complimenting Malcolm’s performance. She takes one of Malcolm’s cards and says she has to meet her fiancé at the airport Sunday. Ariel indicates that she was the first one there, she wasn’t wearing a ring, and if her relationship was that strong she wouldn’t be there at eleven o clock at night.
Ariel waits on a date and attracts a man named Chris. She invites Chris to eat with her. She’s not attracted to him, but she likes his company and they bond over the old days. Jeff strolls in and eventually walks over to the table, but she says her name is Aquanetta and she’s there with her man. After he leaves, she kisses Chris on the cheek for rescuing her. But she says he’s not her type. He gives her his number.
Meanwhile, Teddy goes to the Foxxy Night Clubb to get his check and while he's in the bathroom, an officer comes to serve him a warrant. He’s told a lady that’s having his child that he’s not giving her a dime. It was a lady who he stripped for at her bachelorette party. Claudia kicks him out and fires him. But a minute ago, he’s called Simon and taken a job there. Claudia tells him his ish is gonna catch up to him.
There’s an altercation at a night spot with a racist bouncer and Randall and James come to their rescue. James walks her to her room (and doesn’t leave). Simon calls the next day and here’s James peeing, but she says it was Debra splashing water. Cynthia says they should just put it behind them. He says he’ll pray for them.
Ariel goes on another date and goes to see a man named Lawrence. It's a get-together at his place. he eventually shows up and stakes his claim. She doesn’t like this but decides he might be her maintenance man. Malcolm realizes Toni isn’t gonna call and throws away her number. Then he gets a letter from Toni that says she hasn’t been able to stop thinking him and that she’s confused by her feelings. She tells him if he wants to meet up with her to talk give her a call. But his housekeeper has just taken the trash to the incinerator.
Teddy’s favor. He has to pay 700.00 a month and provide insurance Donna tells him afterward she doesn’t want the money. She just wants him to spend time with his child. He calls her “poor white trash” and says he’s not giving her a cent.
Ariel sees Chris in a restaurant while waiting for Lawrence. Chris and Lawrence almost get into an alteration. She tells Lawrence she’s strong and independent and can take care of herself. Lawrence says maybe it’s time for her to have a man to fight her fights. But she tells him she’d rather take things slow.
Malcolm makes it in time to see Toni and invites her to his mama’s house at 8. Toni doesn’t know about what Malcolm does, but his mother tells a story about how he charged 5 girls to go to the prom. Later, Toni and Malcolm take a walk on the beach. They discuss her situation with Eric. While she loves Eric and has been with him since high school, they’ve grown apart. He asked to marry her and she doesn’t give him a yes or no. She asked for a sign and that’s when she saw Malcolm. She makes him promise they’ll always be honest so they won’t end up like his parents.
Ariel tells Lawrence she needs some space. He’s at her door tho with flowers and a basket of sexual things. She lets him in and keeps making excuses to stay until he’s standing behind her naked with a condom on. But she scares him off. On “Lady's
Night” Lawrence calls and because she rejects his offer to meet his mama, (and Simon warns him to leave Ariel alone) someone starts shooting in the club and there’s chaos. They find Lawrence on the ground in handcuffs. He threw a brick in the window. As he’s taken away he screams threats at Ariel and Simon takes her in his arms. Simon makes a crass comment and Ariel slaps the ish out of him.
Malcolm calls Simon and tells him his good news and that he might get out of the business because Toni hooked him up with someone who could get him a record deal. Then he gives Simon some advice about being a workaholic and what to do to satisfy Cynthia. Simon says he’s right and it might be to late. Cynthia’s been avoiding him. Malcolm gives him the address to a private investigator.
Malcolm has his last job with an aggressive woman named Katherine. He sees Tina and when she gets him to herself she says she’s in love with him and when he tells her yeah right, She’s been getting it from every gigolo in town. She smacks him. He tries to walk away but she follows him screaming obscenities. Then she threatens him and throws her shoe at him (which leaves a mark on his forehead).
Cheryl and Teddy almost get caught in the act when her husband comes home early. Karen has paged him and when he gets home, she’s moving all his ish out and kicking him out. This time she isn’t hearing his bs. Some woman called on her phone. Her sister is there and as he drives off we see that he’s been hitting her and probably was her that stuck her underwear in her sister’s drawer.
The next man Ariel goes out with is a married man named Raymond. Simon finds out that Cynthia is sick. He hears her on the phone but says it’s her doctor. She then starts to pack her bags and says she needs space. He finally lets her go and apologizes. He tries to make plans with her but she puts him off and says busy. As she leaves, the detective calls. He says that Cynthia is definitely screwing around. Then he meets up with the Detective who shows him (videos, photos, and receipts Simon gets his revenge by going to one of his services and playing a projection of him with many of the men’s vives and him having sex with Cynthia. After this Simon can’t be found for some days. Malcolm tells Ariel not to worry. He knows he’s back in his old stomping grounds in Chicago.
The deal goes through and Toni meets Malcolm in NY to celebrate. She notices the gash on his forehead (from Tina’s heel) but he says it’s a gash someone gave him from playing ball. Toni takes Malcolm to a nightclub that she and Eric use to go to but she says Eric’s out of town. But Eric is at the club and turns out to be a loud-mouthed man Malcolm’s noticed in the bathroom on several occasions. Toni is surprised they seem to know each other and Eric is about to say what he knows Malcolm as but before he can Malcolm slams his face onto the table and breaks his nose. But this doesn’t stop Eric from letting the cat out of the bag. Toni hauls off and slaps Malcolm and goes to help Eric. She doesn’t want to hear it and calls him a high-priced ho. Malcolm realizes there’s no “Gary Cross” negotiating the deal. Toni negotiated the deal and that was the surprise. Ariel and Simon kiss passionately when he comes back to work. Ariel tells him off for running Cynthia’s career, Simon admits he was wrong,
Chris tells Ariel off later because it’s her birthday and he’s sent her a present but she didn’t even call him back to say thank u. Raymond is late for the date, and when he shows up he’s again full of excuses (but she’s horny so forgives him). But then his wife shows up with his kids, walks up to him, slaps him, and then cusses him out, Then she smashes food in Ariel’s face and punches her. Her car windows are smashed and Home Wrecker is spray painted on the side, Ariel calls her mama and then goes to see Chris realizing that she doesn’t need a man she needs a friend.
Teddy gets arrested at the club for an attempt of court and Simon fires him and shuts the club down, Then Cynthia shows up and apologizes, Then they have it out, Simon calls her out for being pregnant. She says she doesn’t know whose it is but is giving it up for adoption. Simon then pulls her onto the dance floor and takes Cynthia in his arms. Melvin dies and Malcolm is there as he tells him to take care of Toni and he knew he’d make it (in the music industry). Simon and Malcolm reconnect at the funeral, Simon tells him (when he asks) that he and Cynthia are getting married next month, Simon tells him to drop his pride and go after Toni. He shows him an article about how a stripper (Teddy) got shot by a jealous husband.
Toni’s changed all her numbers so Malcolm writes her a letter. Malcolm plays When Players Pray and dedicates it to Melvin. Toni shows up and Malcolm catches her taxi before it leaves. Toni waits to hear what Malcolm has to say but says she can’t stay long because Eric is waiting for her. They’re enaged again. Malcolm is about to let her go but Toni calls him back. Malcolm says he can’t believe he’s back with Eric, but she says she can trust him. Then he starts to speak from the heart. Toni says she’s scared that she doesn’t want to be hurt and alone and Malcolm admits so is he but he’s ready. Then they kiss. Melvin leaves his jazz club to Malcolm and in a bible is the verse about he who finds a wife.
My Thoughts
This is one of those books that REALLY made me glad to be single and out of the game of dating (and it really IS a game) because as it showed in this book, you never really know what you're getting. EVERY SINGLE ONE of these characters hide behind some kind of façade. Yeah, yeah the gigolo actually got turned into a husband but that isn’t *always* the case. Even though, YES I do believe that the right person CAN make you change, but even though it might *look* like marriage supposedly settled a person if playing and having multiple women is in his blood all I’m saying is give it some years and things get monotonous and the newness of it has worn off and that same woman starts getting on his nerves or being neglectful in some areas and the itch starts all over again. So, no it’s kinda hard to believe that for the rest of his life with Toni, Malcolm will be a one-woman man. I give it about six years of marriage (if that).
Nor do I really believe either that Simon will stop being a work-a holic overnight and just be attentive now to Cynthia twenty-four-seven. I’m not even sure WHY he took her back. Again YEAH YEAH YEAH true love. But, if someone shows you that they can cheat on you ONCE what do you think they’ll do when AGAIN you start to concentrate more on your work? Then on the flip side, if Cynthia knows he IS a workaholic why she’d even want to be married to him? Does she REALLY think it’ll change? I DON’T! Some people are just wired that way and just aren’t content to be still.
Teddy got what was coming to him. Can’t say I was sorry for him. He was an arrogant asshole. Although I did agree with Teddy about Karen. You took in a STRIPPER. What did you expect? He didn't have a house. He didn't have a car and he told you he was "seeing" other women. Sometimes women get (not exactly what they deserve) but COME ON. Karen should have known better. She was just BEGINING to get what she got (and the sad thing is WHY would this educated woman settle for this kind of man just to have a man). The same for Malcolm’s father. Men just really need to have more respect for women. I found out that Micheal Baisdon (the author) is a firm believer of dating multiple women himself. What I can agree with is that Malcolm made it no secret with the women (well other than Toni) what he did and how he was. So at least the women knew upfront what he was. I wish he would have been that straight with Toni from the start tho.
Then here Ariel Here's another woman that plays herself and settles for less than what she deserves because the options are so slim that evidently, she decides that half a man is better than no man. That women even think like this is just sad to me. I admit it there was a time when I've been there. Ariel was this independent woman that like so many women play themselves by dating useless men out of desperation. Hopefully in the end, she did realize that it’s not sometimes all about attraction and you kinda have to look past all that. That wasn’t a lesson I learned till later. But deep down I felt the worse for Ariel just because I saw the mistake (s) she was making and she didn’t seem to (at first). I wish Melvin hadn’t died but I thought he brought value to the story by being the father figure Malcolm never had and being one of the better men in this story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2015
In Need of A Good Plumbing?
When a woman is in need of a good maintenance man, they call on Malcolm. From the way Michael Baisden describes Malcolm, I can understand why the women instantly fall for his arrogant behind. He was entertaining to read, although all the other secondary characters held my attention more. There wasn't as much sex scenes as I assumed there would be and that's ok.
I would have loved to get a update on Ariel's situation during the epilogue. I was kind of left with a couple of questions, but maybe they'll be answered in book 2. I would recommend this novel to anyone looking for a entertaining read.
When a woman is in need of a good maintenance man, they call on Malcolm. From the way Michael Baisden describes Malcolm, I can understand why the women instantly fall for his arrogant behind. He was entertaining to read, although all the other secondary characters held my attention more. There wasn't as much sex scenes as I assumed there would be and that's ok.
I would have loved to get a update on Ariel's situation during the epilogue. I was kind of left with a couple of questions, but maybe they'll be answered in book 2. I would recommend this novel to anyone looking for a entertaining read.
July 6, 2018
Malcolm - male gigolo. Almost lost what he considered to be his true love because he couldn’t stop philandering around with woman for money.
Toni - wish I could have gotten more info about her background besides her being a dancer.
Simon - ain’t no way in hell I would have forgiven her. That baby probably wasn’t his. I would expected him to end up with Ariel.
Ariel - after dogging the good man and being dogged by the married no good man and his wife...she runs to Chris with popcorn....girl bye
Crystal - she should have suffered. She cheated, instead of telling Simon what her issue were in the relationship.
Over all good book. Probably won’t read part 2...
Toni - wish I could have gotten more info about her background besides her being a dancer.
Simon - ain’t no way in hell I would have forgiven her. That baby probably wasn’t his. I would expected him to end up with Ariel.
Ariel - after dogging the good man and being dogged by the married no good man and his wife...she runs to Chris with popcorn....girl bye
Crystal - she should have suffered. She cheated, instead of telling Simon what her issue were in the relationship.
Over all good book. Probably won’t read part 2...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2009
Well since I listen to him on the radio from time to time I thought it might be interesting to check out his writing. Let me start out by saying, I didn't have high hopes. Why, well I just don't think of him as an author.
Well, well what a surprise. It actually was readable and entertaining. Not one of the best books I've read but it was worth the time. The characters were interesting and the storyline worked.
Not sure I'll read another book by him, but this one was passable.
Well, well what a surprise. It actually was readable and entertaining. Not one of the best books I've read but it was worth the time. The characters were interesting and the storyline worked.
Not sure I'll read another book by him, but this one was passable.
June 2, 2013
Admittedly, I didn't expect to like this book as much as I did. Once I started reading, I didn't stop. The story was well written, and all of the characters were relatable. This book made me look at romantic relationships, family bonds, and friendship from different perspectives. I found myself willing characters to act a certain way, hoping certain situations would happen a particular way, and cheering when things went well. I'm anxious to read part 2, now.
November 27, 2018
I give this book 4.7. After reading Junie B Jones books, this was the first book I ever read in the Urban Book Genre. I was on chapter 7 when it was taken away from me lol. I loved it the first time and when I was old enough to read it I loved it. Some part was predictable and some part was not, however, I loved the different perspectives. I love how each character was somehow connected in some way.
Sometimes I think about reading it all over again just for nostalgia.
Sometimes I think about reading it all over again just for nostalgia.
August 8, 2007
This was just an entertaining book to read. You're basically following the life of a gigolo and all the self-inflicted drama that comes with it as he attempts to get out of the game. I enjoyed it a lot.
January 8, 2013
This was a very good read.
August 1, 2012
Smoothly written & well crafted. I have no idea why it took me so long to read a book by Michael Baisden. On to part 2.
Want to read
March 12, 2013Amazon freebie 3/12/13 typically $9.99
April 12, 2015
Excellent book. Full of excitement. I recommend it. Life lessons throughout the book.
March 28, 2020
The Maintenance Man is a story of love, lessons, loss and discovery. We follow along with three main characters, Malcolm, Simon and Ariel as they embark on their own journeys to discover the meaning of life in love.
Malcolm is my favorite of the three. In my opinion, he is the most transparent, had the deepest and most meaningful epiphany and the biggest discovery. The climax for his issues involved Simon also. Where Malcolm satisfies the needs of multiple women for a profession, Simon has only one woman who he has a hard time satisfying. Simon's character was stubborn, Malcom's was prideful and it worked for the plot of the book perfectly.
Simon goes to great lengths when he's hurt by the woman he loves meanwhile Malcolm goes to lengths to keep from hurting the woman he loves. To do this, he must keep his profession as a male escort hidden.When his reality is revealed his new found love is threatened.
Ariel is a boss woman who works with Simon. Ironically, she has everything but a man. I like her character because she was a relatable woman. Initially, I thought a spark would ignite between Ariel and Simon but I'm pleased that it didn't. Ariel learns to not settle for what's good for her but appreciate it.
This book is romantic, a little drama, some layers but not too many. Great book,
Malcolm is my favorite of the three. In my opinion, he is the most transparent, had the deepest and most meaningful epiphany and the biggest discovery. The climax for his issues involved Simon also. Where Malcolm satisfies the needs of multiple women for a profession, Simon has only one woman who he has a hard time satisfying. Simon's character was stubborn, Malcom's was prideful and it worked for the plot of the book perfectly.
Simon goes to great lengths when he's hurt by the woman he loves meanwhile Malcolm goes to lengths to keep from hurting the woman he loves. To do this, he must keep his profession as a male escort hidden.When his reality is revealed his new found love is threatened.
Ariel is a boss woman who works with Simon. Ironically, she has everything but a man. I like her character because she was a relatable woman. Initially, I thought a spark would ignite between Ariel and Simon but I'm pleased that it didn't. Ariel learns to not settle for what's good for her but appreciate it.
This book is romantic, a little drama, some layers but not too many. Great book,
Read
May 3, 2024I first perused this book that had belonged to my hairstylist at the time as she was doing my hair at our friend's (& her boss's) hair shop many many years ago. I didn't finish reading/perusing it because all the other stylists & customers were speaking of their favorite scenes in the book, which had by that time gotten very verbally loud, somewhat raunchy, & extremely opinionated in the entire hair salon that it made it more difficult to complete.
That being said, I don't know whether this was a great book, a good book, or just one male's POV on what he believes women want from the guys who comes to their homes to unclog drains/toilets/or fix leaking pipes!
All I'll say is EVERYWHERE I'D LIVED THE MAINTENANCE MEN WERE UNATTRACTIVE, SMELLY, & SINGLE FOR A VERY UNDERSTANDABLE REASON! Soooooooooo, I can fully & honestly say that I CANNOT RELATE TO This Author's Recollections of steamy s*x scenes with seemingly DESPERATE FEMALES WHO LUST AFTER THEIR MAINTENANCE MAN!
That being said, I don't know whether this was a great book, a good book, or just one male's POV on what he believes women want from the guys who comes to their homes to unclog drains/toilets/or fix leaking pipes!
All I'll say is EVERYWHERE I'D LIVED THE MAINTENANCE MEN WERE UNATTRACTIVE, SMELLY, & SINGLE FOR A VERY UNDERSTANDABLE REASON! Soooooooooo, I can fully & honestly say that I CANNOT RELATE TO This Author's Recollections of steamy s*x scenes with seemingly DESPERATE FEMALES WHO LUST AFTER THEIR MAINTENANCE MAN!
February 21, 2024
Okay soo this book was a late 90’s -early 2000’s banger and I can see why. Personally, I did think there was going to be more spice but with exception of some provocative scenes it doesn’t deliver much. However, baby this is a messy book! It’s actually a complex look at what is it like to find love, success, acceptance and trust in black relationships while attempting to navigate the nuances of the black community. I enjoyed the different characters and their messy stories. I also appreciated the fact that each one had mostly fleshed out stories (minus Ariel who i wanted the nice pretty bow for). If you pick this up to read, understand that this is based on the reading preference of people in the late 90’s and early 2000s, it’s not erotica just adult reading.
July 15, 2024
⭐️: 3.5
🌶️: 3/5
This book is about Malcom Tremell where sex isn’t just pleasure it’s STRICTLY business - He’s a gigolo with bomb dick, good looks and a great personality. He’s more than his “JOB” & thinks there’s no one worth getting out the game for until he meets the beautiful Toni as they take a chance on one other to see where things go. This was a good quick read and has a little spice thrown in there, I didn’t think I would annotate with this book but did which were a lot of songs listed throughout the story. I also annotated Malcom’s “Players Handbook”. I would recommend if looking for an enjoyable quick read.
OH! also found out there’s a play to this book with Darius McCrary staring as Micheal Tremell!!
🌶️: 3/5
This book is about Malcom Tremell where sex isn’t just pleasure it’s STRICTLY business - He’s a gigolo with bomb dick, good looks and a great personality. He’s more than his “JOB” & thinks there’s no one worth getting out the game for until he meets the beautiful Toni as they take a chance on one other to see where things go. This was a good quick read and has a little spice thrown in there, I didn’t think I would annotate with this book but did which were a lot of songs listed throughout the story. I also annotated Malcom’s “Players Handbook”. I would recommend if looking for an enjoyable quick read.
OH! also found out there’s a play to this book with Darius McCrary staring as Micheal Tremell!!
July 25, 2020
This book probably, really deserves a 2 star rating, but I considered that it was written/published 20+ years ago when we had a different set of societal rules and norms. There is body-shaming, slight homophobia, slut-shaming, disrespect, etc... but, if you want to read a book purely for drama that is reminiscent of urban fiction from the late 90s/early 2000s, then this is a good choice, which is why I gave it four stars.
September 6, 2020
I went into this book with no idea of what adult fiction could offer but was met with a pleasantly refreshing read. Michael Baisden does a good job giving the reader just enough information about a character in order to develop the various character dynamics from chapter to chapter. I wished more perspective was solely focused on the main character, but I realize that the story could get old very quickly.
December 25, 2020
This book was an easy read. You always found yourself trying to figure out what Malcolm was going to do next. While the book ended well, I think that the author/editor got a little mixed up because they incorrectly talked about Simon's club being in Miami but it was really in Atlanta (just a minor slip up). The books was a good read and I thank my book club members for the suggestion, as I probably would not have read it.
March 30, 2024
Malcolm Tremell is a giggle who earns his money from rich women that pay for companionship until he meets Toni whom snatches his heart and he doesn't know how to handle it. Being lost "all" father figures in his life; he decides to change his life to be with Toni.
This was a good read. The only problem l had was it's reperticíon. I also became predictable.
Other thanthat I will be moving on to book 2.
This was a good read. The only problem l had was it's reperticíon. I also became predictable.
Other thanthat I will be moving on to book 2.
October 12, 2020
I actually read this a year ago with my first book club-we even went to see the play that was out at the time! Absolutely loved it then...found it while unpacking and decided to tackle it again to refresh my memory; I’m not sure if it’s age and wisdom, change of taste, or what but it was only “okay” for me this time. I am glad I reread it though.
November 2, 2024
Great!!!
This book was recommended to me several years ago, just didn't ever get a chance to read it before. I have to say it was really worth reading. The twists, the ups n downs , it was mind blowing. The ending was perfect. Everything about this book was perfect. Luv luv loved it. Now on to book two.
This book was recommended to me several years ago, just didn't ever get a chance to read it before. I have to say it was really worth reading. The twists, the ups n downs , it was mind blowing. The ending was perfect. Everything about this book was perfect. Luv luv loved it. Now on to book two.
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