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Trick of the Light #1
Afterglow
Stoic, masculine, powerful. Thorn is everything people want in a model. His stage name conveys a sense of dominance over others, and the strong look in his eyes lets the watcher know that he's in control.
Thorn's next shoot is his opportunity to break out as an international model, but there's one main problem: Thorn has no idea how to act sexy. Which is fine for catwalks and shampoo ads, but not for a designer brand.
In reality, Thorn's painful awkwardness and his shy nature means the idea of thrusting his ass up in the air in a pair of tight green boxer shorts has him freezing up. When the camera focuses on him and the director asks for more, Thorn can't deliver, especially when the man he's been in love with for two years is watching.
Luca is a world famous model and Thorn's partner for the shoot, as well as being the only person that makes Thorn fumble and blush.
But if Thorn is going to get the perfect shot, he needs help. Thorn has one night to figure out how to drive the camera wild, something Luca can do with ease. So, when Luca offers him the chance to train him in the art of sex, Thorn isn't going to say no, especially when he's been dying to taste Luca from the moment they first met.
Afterglow is an MM novella containing explicit sex scenes and is recommended for readers 18+
Thorn's next shoot is his opportunity to break out as an international model, but there's one main problem: Thorn has no idea how to act sexy. Which is fine for catwalks and shampoo ads, but not for a designer brand.
In reality, Thorn's painful awkwardness and his shy nature means the idea of thrusting his ass up in the air in a pair of tight green boxer shorts has him freezing up. When the camera focuses on him and the director asks for more, Thorn can't deliver, especially when the man he's been in love with for two years is watching.
Luca is a world famous model and Thorn's partner for the shoot, as well as being the only person that makes Thorn fumble and blush.
But if Thorn is going to get the perfect shot, he needs help. Thorn has one night to figure out how to drive the camera wild, something Luca can do with ease. So, when Luca offers him the chance to train him in the art of sex, Thorn isn't going to say no, especially when he's been dying to taste Luca from the moment they first met.
Afterglow is an MM novella containing explicit sex scenes and is recommended for readers 18+
133 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
25 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
About the author
Abigail Hunter
22 books158 followersBorn and raised in Scotland, Abigail has always been surrounded by green hills, forests, and fairy stories. First a gardener, then a carpenter, and now an author, she writes steamy stories about passionate and heartfelt characters who always get their happily ever afters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
December 15, 2023
This is my first book by Abigail Hunter and I can’t wait to read more. This novella packs so many steamy moments. It brings all the heat you could want.
MM Romance
Training
Praise Kink
Chaise Lounge
Forced Proximity
Sexy Photoshoot
Underwear Models
This book had me blushing like crazy and I don’t blush. I’ve read so many books and that’s never happened to me. So, that’s what I mean when I say it’s high heat.
I’m gonna be having dreams about a chaise lounge.🥵🥵🥵
Luca and Thorn are worth all the hype. The difference in personalities, I feel, made their chemistry. I loved how Luca kept calling Thorn baby, I could have melted every time he did. This book has some sweet tender moments but is extremely spicy.
Thank you so much for letting me read an ARC for you Abigail, this is my honest opinion.
MM Romance
Training
Praise Kink
Chaise Lounge
Forced Proximity
Sexy Photoshoot
Underwear Models
This book had me blushing like crazy and I don’t blush. I’ve read so many books and that’s never happened to me. So, that’s what I mean when I say it’s high heat.
I’m gonna be having dreams about a chaise lounge.🥵🥵🥵
Luca and Thorn are worth all the hype. The difference in personalities, I feel, made their chemistry. I loved how Luca kept calling Thorn baby, I could have melted every time he did. This book has some sweet tender moments but is extremely spicy.
Thank you so much for letting me read an ARC for you Abigail, this is my honest opinion.
December 18, 2023
the smut literally went on for so long, the chemistry was being built inside of a single scene that spanned several chapters 😂
December 7, 2023
WOW! Just WOW!
I got an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
And I am ever so grateful and honored to be one of the first people to get to read this amazing book.
Quickly to the story:
Both MC’s are models. Thorn is stuck in his own head and his own fears of people criticizing him, especially hit mother. Although great looking he can’t relax and strike the poses the photographer and director want.
Luca is a supermodel with heaps of experience but also a lot of history of failed relationships and he runs from every threat of his heart actually liking someone.
Both Thorn and Luca have been attracted to each other for a couple of years when they first met on a shoot. As Thorn struggles Luca decides to help him get out of his shell by seducing him not realizing that he ends up investing more of his heart than he feels comfortable.
This book takes place over the course of two days and we are privy to get every thought and feeling, every tiny interaction and it’s resulting feelings and thoughts. This is an amazing description of what happens, how the give and take of drawing each other out develops.
The feels are right up there and the sex scene spanning many pages is highly intense and amazing.
I couldn’t put this book down. The passion and fervor burns through the reader and at times I wanted to shake either one of them to get real and say how they feel about each other.
This is no doubt that this is a total 5 star book. I highly treasure that I was led to read this, that I was so fortunate to get an ARC. I absolutely loved it. It was an experience I want to re-feel again and again. And I can’t wait to read more of the Abigail Hunter’s books. I have been so touched by this book. I want more.
I got an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
And I am ever so grateful and honored to be one of the first people to get to read this amazing book.
Quickly to the story:
Both MC’s are models. Thorn is stuck in his own head and his own fears of people criticizing him, especially hit mother. Although great looking he can’t relax and strike the poses the photographer and director want.
Luca is a supermodel with heaps of experience but also a lot of history of failed relationships and he runs from every threat of his heart actually liking someone.
Both Thorn and Luca have been attracted to each other for a couple of years when they first met on a shoot. As Thorn struggles Luca decides to help him get out of his shell by seducing him not realizing that he ends up investing more of his heart than he feels comfortable.
This book takes place over the course of two days and we are privy to get every thought and feeling, every tiny interaction and it’s resulting feelings and thoughts. This is an amazing description of what happens, how the give and take of drawing each other out develops.
The feels are right up there and the sex scene spanning many pages is highly intense and amazing.
I couldn’t put this book down. The passion and fervor burns through the reader and at times I wanted to shake either one of them to get real and say how they feel about each other.
This is no doubt that this is a total 5 star book. I highly treasure that I was led to read this, that I was so fortunate to get an ARC. I absolutely loved it. It was an experience I want to re-feel again and again. And I can’t wait to read more of the Abigail Hunter’s books. I have been so touched by this book. I want more.
December 2, 2023
My first book from Abagail Hunter & I’m sooooo happy this book found its way to me !! This was such a cute book but also incredibly sexy ! Thorn & Luca are such a ying and yang kinda pair I love it ! Such an easy read too ! The spice ? Chefs kiss ! The fact that there was so much in so little time without being overwhelming is amazing ! I can’t wait to read more !
December 11, 2023
I received an ARC for an honest review, and I'm so glad I did! My first from author, Abigail Hunter, and I will definitely be picking up anything she writes in the future.
This is a quick, fun, spicy, angsty read! Like it had everything compounded into only 125 pages. Although most of the story is one, long, drawn-out, spicy scene - we really get to know the characters and there is a level of emotion involved that just sucks you in. I don't know if I'm explaining it totally correctly, but it was more than just smut for smut's sake (as I've seen said before). Now I love me some good angst, and this one did not disappoint in that area, either. Knowing what each man was thinking and feeling, and knowing the reasons they weren't voicing those thoughts and emotions, knowing they could each have everything they wanted if they only let themselves take the risk... so good.
Thorn is the sweetest, hot guy, an international model, but still insecure, and never able to say the right thing. While Luca is the opposite - so sure of his hotness, knowing everyone always wants him, but still insecure because no one actually wants HIM.
All in all, I devoured this book in one sitting. Definitely pick this up if you're into hot men, emotional angst, and a 'will they just freaking say what they want?!' situation.
This is a quick, fun, spicy, angsty read! Like it had everything compounded into only 125 pages. Although most of the story is one, long, drawn-out, spicy scene - we really get to know the characters and there is a level of emotion involved that just sucks you in. I don't know if I'm explaining it totally correctly, but it was more than just smut for smut's sake (as I've seen said before). Now I love me some good angst, and this one did not disappoint in that area, either. Knowing what each man was thinking and feeling, and knowing the reasons they weren't voicing those thoughts and emotions, knowing they could each have everything they wanted if they only let themselves take the risk... so good.
Thorn is the sweetest, hot guy, an international model, but still insecure, and never able to say the right thing. While Luca is the opposite - so sure of his hotness, knowing everyone always wants him, but still insecure because no one actually wants HIM.
All in all, I devoured this book in one sitting. Definitely pick this up if you're into hot men, emotional angst, and a 'will they just freaking say what they want?!' situation.
December 2, 2023
HOT HOT HOT!!!!!!
It's hard to find a book that has me reading so fast. This is one I couldn't get to the next scene fast enough! Luca's and Thorn's relationship just captivated me. Like, I wanna ask Authot Abigail for more!!
She created such a phenomenal book, and I'm so glad I was able to be an arc reader to give my honest review! When she says to s3xy models, locked in a studio with a whole bunch of feelings, she means it.
I honestly am obsessed with Thorn and his nature of being so serious and licked inside himself. All while Luca comes sweeping in to ruffle all the control while still maintaining his own.
Phew!!! I could say so much more! Just know if you want a super hot, steamy read, you need to add this to your list asap.
It's hard to find a book that has me reading so fast. This is one I couldn't get to the next scene fast enough! Luca's and Thorn's relationship just captivated me. Like, I wanna ask Authot Abigail for more!!
She created such a phenomenal book, and I'm so glad I was able to be an arc reader to give my honest review! When she says to s3xy models, locked in a studio with a whole bunch of feelings, she means it.
I honestly am obsessed with Thorn and his nature of being so serious and licked inside himself. All while Luca comes sweeping in to ruffle all the control while still maintaining his own.
Phew!!! I could say so much more! Just know if you want a super hot, steamy read, you need to add this to your list asap.
December 5, 2023
Yes, absolutely yes! I loved this book so much, I was captivated from page 1 til I turned a page, and suddenly I was seeing the "about the author" page. I literally couldn't put this book down, I hated aging to do it just so I could do adult things, but every free moment was spent in this book.
Luca and Thorn are so cute together, that it was physically painful reading their insecurities. Painful because they were REAL. These were real emotions I could actually feel while I was reading. The emotions you have when you care about someone new so much, but you're so afraid they're going to hurt you, so you want to avoid that at all costs, you put on masks, and put up shields to protect yourself, when the one thing you want most is what's staring you in the face, but you convince yourself you're imagining it because you want to see it, so you don't actually see it. And if any of that makes sense to you, I definitely recommend this book to you, because I feel seen.
I love Thorn, the stoic man, tough on the outside, but a total marshmallow on the inside, trapped by his thoughts and emotions, unable to express himself how he wants. Luca, the sunshine, shining so bright on everything, huge softie as well, when on the inside, he's just as trapped, the sunshine, a mask he wears to hide himself. Together? They find themselves, they be themselves with each other, and it was just beautiful. Absolutely loved it. 💯 recommend.
Luca and Thorn are so cute together, that it was physically painful reading their insecurities. Painful because they were REAL. These were real emotions I could actually feel while I was reading. The emotions you have when you care about someone new so much, but you're so afraid they're going to hurt you, so you want to avoid that at all costs, you put on masks, and put up shields to protect yourself, when the one thing you want most is what's staring you in the face, but you convince yourself you're imagining it because you want to see it, so you don't actually see it. And if any of that makes sense to you, I definitely recommend this book to you, because I feel seen.
I love Thorn, the stoic man, tough on the outside, but a total marshmallow on the inside, trapped by his thoughts and emotions, unable to express himself how he wants. Luca, the sunshine, shining so bright on everything, huge softie as well, when on the inside, he's just as trapped, the sunshine, a mask he wears to hide himself. Together? They find themselves, they be themselves with each other, and it was just beautiful. Absolutely loved it. 💯 recommend.
December 3, 2023
**ARC COPY BOOK REVIEW**
“Can you make that face for the camera?” He shakes his head, his jaw hard, pressing back into my fingers. “No.” he says hoarsely. “This is just for you.”
This smutty novella is about 2 models, Thorn and Luca...who have been pining away for each other since they have met two years ago..one stoic and doesn't really show emotions because of past hurts from childhood...and the other who has a reputation of jumping from someone's bed and running because of his heart being broken over and over..Luca asked to work with Thorn for this particular shoot..to see if he can finally break him down...and Thorn is having trouble connecting with the camera...and he asks Luca for help...and Y'ALL help is what he gives when everyone is gone home..
While both of them keep how they truly feel hid during the 2 day aptly named "Afterflow" shoot..Luca using his words to hurt and keep Thorn at a distance..Thorn keeps it to himself until jealously arises...and he can't keep it closed no more...
This is a HFN sort of novella..and @authorabigailhunter leaves you hungry for more times like they had on that white chaise..wanting more of their connection...wanting them to finally have that conversation that needs to be had...
Thank you so much @authorabigailhunter for the opportunity to read Thorn and Luca’s practice session on the chaise...Please...Please..Please give us more of them..cause gah those 2 days definitely are not enough!!🥵😘
“Can you make that face for the camera?” He shakes his head, his jaw hard, pressing back into my fingers. “No.” he says hoarsely. “This is just for you.”
This smutty novella is about 2 models, Thorn and Luca...who have been pining away for each other since they have met two years ago..one stoic and doesn't really show emotions because of past hurts from childhood...and the other who has a reputation of jumping from someone's bed and running because of his heart being broken over and over..Luca asked to work with Thorn for this particular shoot..to see if he can finally break him down...and Thorn is having trouble connecting with the camera...and he asks Luca for help...and Y'ALL help is what he gives when everyone is gone home..
While both of them keep how they truly feel hid during the 2 day aptly named "Afterflow" shoot..Luca using his words to hurt and keep Thorn at a distance..Thorn keeps it to himself until jealously arises...and he can't keep it closed no more...
This is a HFN sort of novella..and @authorabigailhunter leaves you hungry for more times like they had on that white chaise..wanting more of their connection...wanting them to finally have that conversation that needs to be had...
Thank you so much @authorabigailhunter for the opportunity to read Thorn and Luca’s practice session on the chaise...Please...Please..Please give us more of them..cause gah those 2 days definitely are not enough!!🥵😘
December 4, 2023
So, I am so happy and grateful that I got to be an ARC reader for this story (my very first!). Thorn's backstory was so sad and when it was revealed why he was so insistent on becoming a world-famous model, I almost cried. No child should be made to feel unwelcome and unloved. It absolutely broke my heart how his mother treated him. I personally didn't like Luca at first because of his very arrogant attitude and his high opinion of himself. However, he was willing to risk being hurt at the end so that definitely gave him a little redemption. I would love to know about his past and why he was so afraid to risk a relationship. Let me just say, I had to stop reading a few times because the tension and all the things they couldn't bring themself to say had me so anxious!!! I do believe I yelled at them at one point (which got me a very confused child asking me why I was yelling at my computer) because it looked like there wasn't going to be an HEA! But there was, thankfully. Definitely want to see more of these two and how they are able to navigate their careers and be together.
December 4, 2023
“Afterglow” is the first book I have read by Abigail Hunter and I was SALIVATING for more once I finished this novella. The entire book was one loooooooong lust-fest that I bought VIP tickets for. Luca and Thorn are kindle melting hot and the tension Hunter built in a short amount of time between this two was next level! The push and pull and “he doesn’t know” energy throughout this story was addicting. I was rooting for them from the beginning and THANK GOD for the HEA these two get. Once I finished, I honestly wanted so many more chapters of Luca and Thorn.
This novella truly chewed me up and spit me out and Hunter owes me a new Kindle since mine has now melted to nothing 🫣 I recommend this novella to all MM readers out there who love their spice but also enjoy a good story with character building that’ll make your heart happy.
Rating: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 4/5🌶️🥵
Tropes:
💜 MM romance
🩵 Male models
💜 “Training” 😉
🩵 Cocky MMC
💜 Cinnamon roll MMC
🩵 Sexy photoshoot
💜 Forced proximity
This novella truly chewed me up and spit me out and Hunter owes me a new Kindle since mine has now melted to nothing 🫣 I recommend this novella to all MM readers out there who love their spice but also enjoy a good story with character building that’ll make your heart happy.
Rating: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 4/5🌶️🥵
Tropes:
💜 MM romance
🩵 Male models
💜 “Training” 😉
🩵 Cocky MMC
💜 Cinnamon roll MMC
🩵 Sexy photoshoot
💜 Forced proximity
December 3, 2023
This book is very high on heat and extremely low on plot. From the description by the author, I did expect a little bit more on the plot end. There's the tiniest bit of one there, but this is mostly just spicy scenes. The spice is written well though, but I could not get connected with these characters. Luca especially just comes across as a total jerk.
This book should have been a single sitting read. But it just did not keep my attention. I'm not sure if it was the characters or if I've just gotten to the point that I need more plot than heat in my books, but this one didn't work for me.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion
This book should have been a single sitting read. But it just did not keep my attention. I'm not sure if it was the characters or if I've just gotten to the point that I need more plot than heat in my books, but this one didn't work for me.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion
December 30, 2023
What in the Wattpad did I just read 😶
December 13, 2023
’He’s like some fairy I’ve discovered in the woods; impish smile, wild hair, gorgeous physique, and a high chance he could either fuck me or kill me.’
Afterglow is a short and spicy novella, following two models who harbour secret feelings for each other, but don't realise it. When Thorn is struggling to loosen up during a shoot, Luca is all too happy to spend the night teaching him how to let go - but can either of them really let go of each other in the end?
It’s hard to write fully fleshed characters in a standalone novella with so few pages, but Abigail did a great job with this. I really got a sense for who the characters were, and felt an affection for Thorn in particular. I loved how quiet and unsure he was, despite his overpowering and stoic presence. He was sweet and pure, and I wanted to wrap him up in a big hug and tell him that he is more than enough just the way he is. Especially when I read this:
’I thought I was there. I thought it was working. I scan his face, my heart dropping as his expression tells me the truth. It’s still not enough. I’m still not enough for him.’
Oh, Thorn. 💔
Luca was harder for me to connect with, as I felt like he was a bit harsh towards Thorn and he didn’t really do anything to redeem himself. It lead to some top notch angst (which I love), but I felt like I needed to see more vulnerability from him in the end to justify it. Perhaps learning more about his past and what influences his decisions would have helped with this.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story. Abigail’s writing was great, and she managed to convey a hefty amount of tension and pining in the short amount of pages she had. I would have liked the spice to be a little less ‘choppy’ in places though, and for Luca to have slightly more character development.
December 6, 2023
Holy canoli.... This one was HOT. This is the story of Thorn and Luca, two models who are working a shoot together. Thorn is having a difficult time with the shoot, so Luca offers to help loosen him up. The temps are HOT, let me tell ya. There was a small section where I felt it was a bit repetitive, but the second half is fire. Definitely enjoyed this quick read and would love to read more on this couple, another novella perhaps? I am looking forward to reading more of this author's work.
***I received this as an ARC, this is my honest opinion***
***I received this as an ARC, this is my honest opinion***
November 20, 2023
Ho. Ly. Spicy. 🥵
Their bodies are perfect. They’ve both been into each other for a while. It took one photo shoot for them to go from hot strangers to more.
Thoughts:
🔥 This was some of the hottest spice I’ve read in a while! 🥵
🔥 Luca is cocky and determined. You kind of want to smack him at points!
🔥 Thorn is unobtainable and, surprisingly, sweet. I just want to wrap little baby Thorn in bubble wrap so nothing and no one can hurt him.
🔥 I loved the teacher/student vibes as Luca coached Thorn on getting that “hot, sweaty afterglow” aesthetic for their shoot.
Abigail did an amazing job making a full, emotional story in the length of a novella! This was a quick, spicy read that I couldn’t put down until Luca and Thorn had their HEA.
I am so thrilled that this was my first beta read! Thanks so much to Abigail for this opportunity and the advanced copy of this novella. 😊
Their bodies are perfect. They’ve both been into each other for a while. It took one photo shoot for them to go from hot strangers to more.
Thoughts:
🔥 This was some of the hottest spice I’ve read in a while! 🥵
🔥 Luca is cocky and determined. You kind of want to smack him at points!
🔥 Thorn is unobtainable and, surprisingly, sweet. I just want to wrap little baby Thorn in bubble wrap so nothing and no one can hurt him.
🔥 I loved the teacher/student vibes as Luca coached Thorn on getting that “hot, sweaty afterglow” aesthetic for their shoot.
Abigail did an amazing job making a full, emotional story in the length of a novella! This was a quick, spicy read that I couldn’t put down until Luca and Thorn had their HEA.
I am so thrilled that this was my first beta read! Thanks so much to Abigail for this opportunity and the advanced copy of this novella. 😊
December 9, 2023
This was my first time reading Abigail Hunter's writing and she definitely left a spicy impression on me.
For a small novella, Afterglow still manages to pack a punch. Two models and a chaise longue...and damn did some things happen on it! Most of the novella is devoted to this scene, and I must say it was a beautifully written sex scene. It was sensual, languorous and the build up was oh so perfect. I loved that you could feel everything that was going on inside Thorn and Luca. Their hesitations, their fears, their desires. Abigail Hunter has incredible skills for delivering emotionally charged steam.
There were moments when I wanted to shake both MCs, especially Luca, with whom I had more trouble to connect. At first glance, he wasn't a particularly likeable character. I had serious doubts that I'd be able to appreciate him more by the time the book was over, and in the end I did. I really liked that we got to understand a bit more about where he came from, and why he was the way he was. I would have been curious to see what growth he could have had if we'd had more time with him. Thorn was simply a big teddy bear who was too much in his head. I had a soft spot for him.
It was all around an enjoyable read and I definitely recommend it for anyone who likes their smut with a good dose of emotion and sensuality.
For a small novella, Afterglow still manages to pack a punch. Two models and a chaise longue...and damn did some things happen on it! Most of the novella is devoted to this scene, and I must say it was a beautifully written sex scene. It was sensual, languorous and the build up was oh so perfect. I loved that you could feel everything that was going on inside Thorn and Luca. Their hesitations, their fears, their desires. Abigail Hunter has incredible skills for delivering emotionally charged steam.
There were moments when I wanted to shake both MCs, especially Luca, with whom I had more trouble to connect. At first glance, he wasn't a particularly likeable character. I had serious doubts that I'd be able to appreciate him more by the time the book was over, and in the end I did. I really liked that we got to understand a bit more about where he came from, and why he was the way he was. I would have been curious to see what growth he could have had if we'd had more time with him. Thorn was simply a big teddy bear who was too much in his head. I had a soft spot for him.
It was all around an enjoyable read and I definitely recommend it for anyone who likes their smut with a good dose of emotion and sensuality.
Read
January 30, 2024I DNF’d this pretty early on bc I could not stand Luca’s personality and I didn’t enjoy how the spice was written. Also Thorn’s backstory made absoflippinglutely no sense to me and it got mentioned so much in the short amount I read.
I’m only writing this as notes for myself in case I forget that I tried this.
I’m only writing this as notes for myself in case I forget that I tried this.
December 9, 2023
I did not connect with the characters at all and it was just no plot or story...I knew going in it was pretty much a smut read novella but I struggled to finish and found it a bit repetitive! Thorn I imagine as serious but Luca just kept saying not there yet not there yet and the whole moments felt almost forced..
And like the whole mum issue??
I seem to be in the minority but this is my honest review.
Anyways this was first of Abigail's books and to be really honest probably my last ..
And like the whole mum issue??
I seem to be in the minority but this is my honest review.
Anyways this was first of Abigail's books and to be really honest probably my last ..
December 14, 2023
3.5 stars
3 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is my first MM read, so thank you Abigail Hunter for popping my MM cherry. (I had read books that had a little bit of mm here and there, but it was always a FMM story. Not two men.)
The beginning was so good. After all, it's hot reading about two dicks. But then around 56%, I started getting a little bored. I think just the erotic scene lasted too long for me, though I had read about an equally long erotic scene in Picture Perfect by Evangeline Anderson and didn't mind that. But that was also FM. It's funny how both books involved models trying to get the perfect shot.
I'm not the biggest fan of push-and-pull (just made a new shelf for it off this book), but the author wrote it well. I felt like their feelings or justifications for their feelings kept changing every chapter or so. As a result, it felt like a lot happened in a short book, which was good.
Also, I'm not a fan of one character denying their feelings to protect their heart because of past relationships and trauma. (Luca!) Luca was cold about it too, and I wish he had spoken up sooner because he knew it was hard for Thorn to express himself verbally. I also wondered why Luca had tiny scars on his back and would have liked more closure with Thorn's mother.
I liked the detail of the multitude of Luca's freckles that wrapped around his hip and ended in his pubic hair. And I loved how Thorn wanted to worship and kiss those freckles like they were love marks. I'm not 100% sure how gay relationships work, but from my friend, I think that one person is usually bottom and more submissive. They seemed to be equally dom/sub, switches. Thorn was taller than Luca, who came off as a little arrogant 😂. It was funny, but he wasn't modest at all. From the first page, I thought Luca had been in love with Thorn for years and that Thorn was the more established model, but it was the other way around. Sometimes I also got confused about whose POV it was (the book's written in dual POV), but that was on me, not the book, as instead of chapter numbers, there were the names of whose POV it was.
I think because the book is short, it ends with a HFN (happy for now) instead of a true HEA. The two decide to start a relationship. But it seems like there may be an Afterglow 2??
I'm not sure MM is the genre for me. I beta-read my first FF book earlier this year, and though I thought the storyline and relationship were good, maybe it's just the nonstraight relationship dynamic that isn't for me. I've loved a little FF and liked a little MM on the side in the straight stories I've read (where the relationship focuses on a male and female), but maybe when it's the main relationship, it's not my thing. Or it could just be these particular stories. I'll need to read more solely MM books to know for sure.
I did like this book, though! I don't want people to think I didn't; I just had some more "negative" feelings that I expressed here.
Thanks to the author for the ARC! This hasn't affected my review.
3 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is my first MM read, so thank you Abigail Hunter for popping my MM cherry. (I had read books that had a little bit of mm here and there, but it was always a FMM story. Not two men.)
The beginning was so good. After all, it's hot reading about two dicks. But then around 56%, I started getting a little bored. I think just the erotic scene lasted too long for me, though I had read about an equally long erotic scene in Picture Perfect by Evangeline Anderson and didn't mind that. But that was also FM. It's funny how both books involved models trying to get the perfect shot.
I'm not the biggest fan of push-and-pull (just made a new shelf for it off this book), but the author wrote it well. I felt like their feelings or justifications for their feelings kept changing every chapter or so. As a result, it felt like a lot happened in a short book, which was good.
Also, I'm not a fan of one character denying their feelings to protect their heart because of past relationships and trauma. (Luca!) Luca was cold about it too, and I wish he had spoken up sooner because he knew it was hard for Thorn to express himself verbally. I also wondered why Luca had tiny scars on his back and would have liked more closure with Thorn's mother.
I liked the detail of the multitude of Luca's freckles that wrapped around his hip and ended in his pubic hair. And I loved how Thorn wanted to worship and kiss those freckles like they were love marks. I'm not 100% sure how gay relationships work, but from my friend, I think that one person is usually bottom and more submissive. They seemed to be equally dom/sub, switches. Thorn was taller than Luca, who came off as a little arrogant 😂. It was funny, but he wasn't modest at all. From the first page, I thought Luca had been in love with Thorn for years and that Thorn was the more established model, but it was the other way around. Sometimes I also got confused about whose POV it was (the book's written in dual POV), but that was on me, not the book, as instead of chapter numbers, there were the names of whose POV it was.
I think because the book is short, it ends with a HFN (happy for now) instead of a true HEA. The two decide to start a relationship. But it seems like there may be an Afterglow 2??
I'm not sure MM is the genre for me. I beta-read my first FF book earlier this year, and though I thought the storyline and relationship were good, maybe it's just the nonstraight relationship dynamic that isn't for me. I've loved a little FF and liked a little MM on the side in the straight stories I've read (where the relationship focuses on a male and female), but maybe when it's the main relationship, it's not my thing. Or it could just be these particular stories. I'll need to read more solely MM books to know for sure.
I did like this book, though! I don't want people to think I didn't; I just had some more "negative" feelings that I expressed here.
Thanks to the author for the ARC! This hasn't affected my review.
December 3, 2023
Afterglow delivered in so many ways from the spice, emotions and the beautiful balance that Thorn and Luca shared.
Thorn was the stoic and all too consuming model that had been harboring feelings for Luca for well over a year, but he could never actually find the courage to talk to the man unless they were doing a shoot. Even then, it was awkward on the best days.
Luca, on the surface, seems like an arrogant model with nothing in his head but how good he looks. And that is certainly not the case, he uses it as a defense mechanism to keep people away. People like Thorn who might actually care for him.
Your girl loves angst, and while this book had angst, I would have liked a bit more back story. With the two characters. There wasn't a lack of information by any means but sometimes being able to get more of a person's background gives you a bigger insight into who they are. As well as why they are the way that they are.
Abigail Hunter really delivered the sweetest, spiciest, and all-around MM novella that I didn't know I needed. Models are not generally my favorite subject matter to read about, but she turned me into a lover of them with Luca & Thorn.
*ARC received from author in exchange for my honest review. *
Thorn was the stoic and all too consuming model that had been harboring feelings for Luca for well over a year, but he could never actually find the courage to talk to the man unless they were doing a shoot. Even then, it was awkward on the best days.
Luca, on the surface, seems like an arrogant model with nothing in his head but how good he looks. And that is certainly not the case, he uses it as a defense mechanism to keep people away. People like Thorn who might actually care for him.
Your girl loves angst, and while this book had angst, I would have liked a bit more back story. With the two characters. There wasn't a lack of information by any means but sometimes being able to get more of a person's background gives you a bigger insight into who they are. As well as why they are the way that they are.
Abigail Hunter really delivered the sweetest, spiciest, and all-around MM novella that I didn't know I needed. Models are not generally my favorite subject matter to read about, but she turned me into a lover of them with Luca & Thorn.
*ARC received from author in exchange for my honest review. *
December 6, 2023
Two beautiful models try for the impossible shot by taking a precarious leap.
Thorn might be the hottest runway model alive, but that doesn't mean he knows how to work his sex appeal. Luca, a sexy print model, does. Working together on a shoot, Luca aims to help Thorn loosen up, no matter the cost. Thorn agrees to put his career in Luca's hands, even if it means putting his heart on the line.
While the intensity and heat was right on point, I do feel like novella lacked. Perhaps it needed to be longer–I didn't really understand or care about the characters until maybe a third of the way through. Why is Luca so cocky? Why is Thorn so silent? How are they secretly in love with one another when they've barely interacted for years? Not to mention the difficulty I had with following the sex. It wasn't a problem of too many limbs, but awkward positions. I just wasn't sure who was moving which way, who was touching what. I'm not sure how many times either came; was it just the once each, but they had multiple intense surges of sensation? Or were their refractory periods nonexistent?
The HEA and the spice kept this novella afloat at 3 stars.
I received this book as a digital advanced reader copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Thorn might be the hottest runway model alive, but that doesn't mean he knows how to work his sex appeal. Luca, a sexy print model, does. Working together on a shoot, Luca aims to help Thorn loosen up, no matter the cost. Thorn agrees to put his career in Luca's hands, even if it means putting his heart on the line.
While the intensity and heat was right on point, I do feel like novella lacked. Perhaps it needed to be longer–I didn't really understand or care about the characters until maybe a third of the way through. Why is Luca so cocky? Why is Thorn so silent? How are they secretly in love with one another when they've barely interacted for years? Not to mention the difficulty I had with following the sex. It wasn't a problem of too many limbs, but awkward positions. I just wasn't sure who was moving which way, who was touching what. I'm not sure how many times either came; was it just the once each, but they had multiple intense surges of sensation? Or were their refractory periods nonexistent?
The HEA and the spice kept this novella afloat at 3 stars.
I received this book as a digital advanced reader copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
December 4, 2023
Thank you to the author for providing an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
If you come to me and tell me that your book is a smutty novella, say less. I'm in. Abigail absolutely delivered. Afterglow, which takes place on a photography set, is about Luca and Thorn. Luca is a sexual model icon and has decades of experience. And Thorn, well, he's great at the catwalk but not so great with photography. But he's definitely willing to learn and he's definitely willing to have Luca teach him.
The way these two have been absolutely pining for each other for years oof. And when they finally give into that tension, they explode. I wish Thorn wasn't doing all of this for his mom (SHE DOESN'T DESERVE IT DUDE) and Luca has an ego that's bigger than the sun and I wanted to smack him sometimes. But he's pretty and he says some pretty sweet stuff to Thorn so... I can forgive him.
If you're looking for a quick MM read, this would be a great choice!
If you come to me and tell me that your book is a smutty novella, say less. I'm in. Abigail absolutely delivered. Afterglow, which takes place on a photography set, is about Luca and Thorn. Luca is a sexual model icon and has decades of experience. And Thorn, well, he's great at the catwalk but not so great with photography. But he's definitely willing to learn and he's definitely willing to have Luca teach him.
The way these two have been absolutely pining for each other for years oof. And when they finally give into that tension, they explode. I wish Thorn wasn't doing all of this for his mom (SHE DOESN'T DESERVE IT DUDE) and Luca has an ego that's bigger than the sun and I wanted to smack him sometimes. But he's pretty and he says some pretty sweet stuff to Thorn so... I can forgive him.
If you're looking for a quick MM read, this would be a great choice!
December 10, 2023
Afterglow by Abigail Hunter is the story of Luca and Thorne, two models, who meet again at a shooting. They both have followed the others career and are keeping track on one another. In the beginning I was very irritated by the characters but as the plot went on, their multiple facettes showed and I really appriciate that in a story. This was my first book by Abilgail Hunter and I am looking forward to read more of her and see where Luca´s and Thorne´s story goes.
It´s hard to write about the plot without giving away too much. A main part oft he plot ist he chemistry between Luca and Thorne. While Luca is an outgoing and very open character, Thorne is a beautiful introvert with a lot of insecuritys. Luca is helping him to overcome those insecuritys without realising it.
The novella introduces us tot he beginning of hopefully more to come.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion
It´s hard to write about the plot without giving away too much. A main part oft he plot ist he chemistry between Luca and Thorne. While Luca is an outgoing and very open character, Thorne is a beautiful introvert with a lot of insecuritys. Luca is helping him to overcome those insecuritys without realising it.
The novella introduces us tot he beginning of hopefully more to come.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion
December 17, 2023
i liked it! it was good!! it definitely had the potential to be great, though. from the little bit of info we got on them, it seemed like thorn & luca had interesting backstories so it would’ve been cool to learn more about them! i would’ve loved this so much if abigail made it a novel. so much potential for thorn and luca!
i am really excited that abigail said she was going to be writing short stories about luca & thorn so we can get a better glimpse into their lives!!
abigail’s a really good writer so i’m excited to read more from her!
i am really excited that abigail said she was going to be writing short stories about luca & thorn so we can get a better glimpse into their lives!!
abigail’s a really good writer so i’m excited to read more from her!
December 17, 2023
Afterglow by Abigail Hunter
This is my first time reading for this author with this book for the authors second story published.
Luca was a famous model getting ready for a Calvin Klein model shoot. He had a secret crush on Thorn, a fellow model also on the same job.
As I read I got to know a little both characters as are both attracted to each other, but someone’s a little shy being in the 📸focus.
Thorn has a horrible past from his childhood that hadn't left him in years.
These two are good together but I was looking for more of their romance than just erotica.
Luca was helping out Thorn when no one was around in the studio.
"Its not enough, yet…" and with all the sexy talk Thorn has lots to learn in a short space of time for the job assignment. Mixed thoughts as far as the sex scenes go with this and the repetitive talk.
If you love reading Erotica this will be for you...maybe. I' don't think I will be following this author into the future.
This was an advanced reader copy, and this is my honest thoughts of the book.
This is my first time reading for this author with this book for the authors second story published.
Luca was a famous model getting ready for a Calvin Klein model shoot. He had a secret crush on Thorn, a fellow model also on the same job.
As I read I got to know a little both characters as are both attracted to each other, but someone’s a little shy being in the 📸focus.
Thorn has a horrible past from his childhood that hadn't left him in years.
These two are good together but I was looking for more of their romance than just erotica.
Luca was helping out Thorn when no one was around in the studio.
"Its not enough, yet…" and with all the sexy talk Thorn has lots to learn in a short space of time for the job assignment. Mixed thoughts as far as the sex scenes go with this and the repetitive talk.
If you love reading Erotica this will be for you...maybe. I' don't think I will be following this author into the future.
This was an advanced reader copy, and this is my honest thoughts of the book.
December 4, 2023
❤️💜Afterglow💗❤️
Novella !
Out December 13th
Preorder now for $0.99 !
3/3✨
Okay so I’m was in this for the smutt but why did it stole my heart!!?🥹💜🫶🏼 a beautiful surprise was how deep these characters went their emotions and miscommunication was so good and sweet you become obsessed plus their so hot. 🔥🙌🏼
Y’all know I love a stoic man who looks like nothing bothers him but deep down he’s like that because he feels to much 😭 this is Thorn. While on the other hand a sassy man who knows he’s the hot shit but also just wants to be loved is my baby Luca anyways obsessed I definitely need more of these two. 🙌🏼 Read it ! short and hot only 100 something pages perfect to make your Reading goal !
Novella !
Out December 13th
Preorder now for $0.99 !
3/3✨
Okay so I’m was in this for the smutt but why did it stole my heart!!?🥹💜🫶🏼 a beautiful surprise was how deep these characters went their emotions and miscommunication was so good and sweet you become obsessed plus their so hot. 🔥🙌🏼
Y’all know I love a stoic man who looks like nothing bothers him but deep down he’s like that because he feels to much 😭 this is Thorn. While on the other hand a sassy man who knows he’s the hot shit but also just wants to be loved is my baby Luca anyways obsessed I definitely need more of these two. 🙌🏼 Read it ! short and hot only 100 something pages perfect to make your Reading goal !
December 8, 2023
This was an amazing read! Thorn and Luca kept me on the edge of my seat with their back and forth. This just leaves me wanting more from them since this is such a short time we get to see into their life together. I really loved that Luca was able to bring out visible emotions in Thorn. This was a great read and I would definitely recommend it!
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
December 17, 2023
Loved this Quick Read 💙💙
Thorn and Luca are models who are attracted to one another. What starts off as a 'training session' ends up being a steamy start to what I hope is a long relationship. This author was able to dig deep into the boys' emotions, and you can feel them come off the pages. I loved this quick read and hope to read more about this couple!!
Thorn and Luca are models who are attracted to one another. What starts off as a 'training session' ends up being a steamy start to what I hope is a long relationship. This author was able to dig deep into the boys' emotions, and you can feel them come off the pages. I loved this quick read and hope to read more about this couple!!
December 8, 2023
Very sexy and super sweet novella romance between two insanely hot models and one fiery night together 🥵😮💨
December 2, 2023
This book was pure edging and holy crap was it hot. I felt the spice of the book mirrored the relationship between Thorn and Luca, edging and not completely satisfied until you reached the climax of everything. The insecurities they face while dealing with the made-up expectations the other has for them are so real and raw that you want to hug them both. While I do feel Luca is a narcissistic prick, I couldn’t help but fall for his charms, and I for Thorn right away. Wrapped up in your thoughts is something I identify with easily and Abigail did such an amazing job conveying that into words! I couldn’t put it down and by the end, I had a very happy grin on my face!
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