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Haven Investigations #1
Model Citizen
Haven Book One
Oliver “Ollie” Petroskovic’s life as an international supermodel was heading in the right direction. He worked part-time for his brother at his detective agency—Petroskovic Haven Investigations—and had just bought his dream house. But all that changed when he found his brother dead, a victim of PTSD-induced suicide.
Almost a year later, Ollie is trying to keep his brother’s business afloat, but can’t get his PI license. Then his brother’s best friend, Kade Alme, shows up, fresh from the battlefield after a close brush with death. Kade is looking for a new life, in more ways than one, and with PI license in hand, he’s exactly what Ollie needs to keep PHI running.
When one of Ollie's childhood friends gets in trouble, Ollie feels he has to help. Kade insists on investigating if only to keep Ollie safe. Neither realizes the danger they’re in as someone tries to tear them apart before they can find solid ground together.
Oliver “Ollie” Petroskovic’s life as an international supermodel was heading in the right direction. He worked part-time for his brother at his detective agency—Petroskovic Haven Investigations—and had just bought his dream house. But all that changed when he found his brother dead, a victim of PTSD-induced suicide.
Almost a year later, Ollie is trying to keep his brother’s business afloat, but can’t get his PI license. Then his brother’s best friend, Kade Alme, shows up, fresh from the battlefield after a close brush with death. Kade is looking for a new life, in more ways than one, and with PI license in hand, he’s exactly what Ollie needs to keep PHI running.
When one of Ollie's childhood friends gets in trouble, Ollie feels he has to help. Kade insists on investigating if only to keep Ollie safe. Neither realizes the danger they’re in as someone tries to tear them apart before they can find solid ground together.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2015
171 people are currently reading
800 people want to read
About the author
Lissa Kasey
71 books663 followersLissa Kasey is Ace/Aro and ENBY. Lissa's storytelling specializes in in-depth characters, detailed world building, sweet and spicy romance, and twisting plots to keep you clinging to the page.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
May 1, 2016
This is a fast-paced book, no doubt about it.
I really liked Kade who's protective of Ollie and a nice guy all around. I have a thing for military men, and Kade was about perfect: smart, gentle, and good with his hands. *ahem*
Ollie, who's prickly and defensive, was harder to like. He's an androgynous model cum PI who likes to wear heels, skirts, and ... wait for it ... manties. I do love boys in lacy knickers!
Ollie constantly dismisses Kade's feelings. I get that he lost his brother and his last relationship was with a complete douchebag, but I needed him to leave the pity party already.
While I don't mind a side of mystery with my romance, I'm not a fan of romance playing second fiddle to the mystery, as was the case here.
The mystery was rather predictable and the "porn house" plot way OTT, but I rolled with it.
Mystery Citizen is an easy read with some sexy moments. I would have given this book a higher rating had it not been for the ending, which I consider a cliffhanger.
And cliffhangers piss me off.
I really liked Kade who's protective of Ollie and a nice guy all around. I have a thing for military men, and Kade was about perfect: smart, gentle, and good with his hands. *ahem*
Ollie, who's prickly and defensive, was harder to like. He's an androgynous model cum PI who likes to wear heels, skirts, and ... wait for it ... manties. I do love boys in lacy knickers!
Ollie constantly dismisses Kade's feelings. I get that he lost his brother and his last relationship was with a complete douchebag, but I needed him to leave the pity party already.
While I don't mind a side of mystery with my romance, I'm not a fan of romance playing second fiddle to the mystery, as was the case here.
The mystery was rather predictable and the "porn house" plot way OTT, but I rolled with it.
Mystery Citizen is an easy read with some sexy moments. I would have given this book a higher rating had it not been for the ending, which I consider a cliffhanger.
And cliffhangers piss me off.
October 30, 2017
I really enjoyed this book! Great characters, interesting mystery, very well written, just a real page turner (clicker?).
I have to say, from the very beginning
Ollie was such a fun, if major prickly character. He has a very feminine look, and even wears dresses and skirts, heels and wedge sandals, but you never feel that Ollie is anything but a man, which I loved. Ollie is still reeling from a lot of things, first his lover cheating on him, and then the death of his brother, Nathan. He's barely hanging on when the book starts.
Kade is a guy fresh out of the Marines, healing from injuries of his own. He was really close with Nathan while they were overseas together, and spent a lot of his leave time with Nathan and Ollie. It seems that he's had a thing for Ollie for years, and was just waiting for his chance.
I thought Ollie and Kade went well together, both professionally as well as personally. They just complimented each other so well, and I'm ready to see how they do without Ollie getting in his own way all the time.
Looking forward to the next book to see what's next for our guys.
I have to say, from the very beginning
Ollie was such a fun, if major prickly character. He has a very feminine look, and even wears dresses and skirts, heels and wedge sandals, but you never feel that Ollie is anything but a man, which I loved. Ollie is still reeling from a lot of things, first his lover cheating on him, and then the death of his brother, Nathan. He's barely hanging on when the book starts.
Kade is a guy fresh out of the Marines, healing from injuries of his own. He was really close with Nathan while they were overseas together, and spent a lot of his leave time with Nathan and Ollie. It seems that he's had a thing for Ollie for years, and was just waiting for his chance.
I thought Ollie and Kade went well together, both professionally as well as personally. They just complimented each other so well, and I'm ready to see how they do without Ollie getting in his own way all the time.
Looking forward to the next book to see what's next for our guys.
October 14, 2019
Audiobook: ***2 Stars***
Story: ***2.5 Stars***
Story: ***2.5 Stars***
August 24, 2021
I liked the premise and idea of this book, the writing wasn’t bad, and that’s about all the positive I could find in this story.
Ollie’s an interesting character, but the simple truth is that I didn’t like him and the constant pity party going on in his head was boring and tiring.
He was traumatized by , I get it. I can even relate with irrational fears, but the constant went from understandable to irritating when he kept insisting that
And the equation stopped making even a little bit of sense pretty soon.
Kade on the other hand was pretty much perfect, if you don’t take into account that he didn’t blink an eye at the idea (and the reality, because he actually does it) of
Which is a recurring theme in this story. Everybody in Ollie’s life seems to think
The mystery didn’t hold my interest either. It was predictable, all the characters involved were one-dimensional and the setting didn't work for me. I don’t even watch reality shows on TV, so the idea of a series of suspicious accidents in a porn version of Big Brother was far from entertaining.
In the end, this story gets two stars instead of one just because I didn’t hate it. I was mostly bored and, while I disliked the absurd and over-the-top , I couldn’t muster the necessary interest in this book and its characters to feel more than mildly irritated on Ollie’s behalf.
There’s a cliffhanger at the end, but it’s out of the blue and clearly put there just to get the reader to buy the second book. I already bought it on sale months ago, because I knew about the cliffhanger at the end of this one, but I’m still not going to read it. Reading some of the reviews, I can already tell I wouldn’t like that one either and I’m not that much interested into even trying.
Ollie’s an interesting character, but the simple truth is that I didn’t like him and the constant pity party going on in his head was boring and tiring.
He was traumatized by , I get it. I can even relate with irrational fears, but the constant went from understandable to irritating when he kept insisting that
And the equation stopped making even a little bit of sense pretty soon.
Kade on the other hand was pretty much perfect, if you don’t take into account that he didn’t blink an eye at the idea (and the reality, because he actually does it) of
Which is a recurring theme in this story. Everybody in Ollie’s life seems to think
The mystery didn’t hold my interest either. It was predictable, all the characters involved were one-dimensional and the setting didn't work for me. I don’t even watch reality shows on TV, so the idea of a series of suspicious accidents in a porn version of Big Brother was far from entertaining.
In the end, this story gets two stars instead of one just because I didn’t hate it. I was mostly bored and, while I disliked the absurd and over-the-top , I couldn’t muster the necessary interest in this book and its characters to feel more than mildly irritated on Ollie’s behalf.
There’s a cliffhanger at the end, but it’s out of the blue and clearly put there just to get the reader to buy the second book. I already bought it on sale months ago, because I knew about the cliffhanger at the end of this one, but I’m still not going to read it. Reading some of the reviews, I can already tell I wouldn’t like that one either and I’m not that much interested into even trying.
July 6, 2015
So, this book? It was really kind of awesome. I spent my entire day devouring it, page after page after page.
I don't think I can really review it. It is one of those books that really needs to be read for you to get the best interpretation. And yeah, it is one of those books that really needs to be read.
I would read books like this everyday if I could. Murder, mystery, romance...My favorites.
People have mentioned that this ends on a cliffhanger. I don't know. I don't feel it really is a cliffhanger. To me a true cliffhanger has you screaming OMG! and dying to know what happens next because the story just ended with a total unknown. This didn't end like that, it more ended with an awesome set up for more. I hope there is more. There has to be more!
One of the best of the year in my opinion.
I don't think I can really review it. It is one of those books that really needs to be read for you to get the best interpretation. And yeah, it is one of those books that really needs to be read.
I would read books like this everyday if I could. Murder, mystery, romance...My favorites.
People have mentioned that this ends on a cliffhanger. I don't know. I don't feel it really is a cliffhanger. To me a true cliffhanger has you screaming OMG! and dying to know what happens next because the story just ended with a total unknown. This didn't end like that, it more ended with an awesome set up for more. I hope there is more. There has to be more!
One of the best of the year in my opinion.
Want to read
June 13, 2015So I just got my review copy, and I'm casually scrolling through... and what do I see?!
SILK PANTIES
That's right, gentlepeople.
MANTIES.
SILK PANTIES
That's right, gentlepeople.
MANTIES.
February 21, 2017
Meh. This is OTT to the MAX, more so than I probably enjoy. I've read worse though, at least I could finish it. Ollie was very argumentative, but I didn't dislike him like a lot of others did. In fact I liked all the characters, despite them being completely crazy, it was more the story I didn't enjoy. I could guess everything that was going to happen even the cliffhanger and it really was too OTT, especially the bad guys.
The romance between Kade and Ollie was rushed, one moment Ollie couldn’t stand him the next it's 'can't live without him'. I don't know, that could be a bit harsh, once again I've definitely read worse. Maybe I'm just in a mood :-/.
I wouldn't normally continue a series like this but the second one is for review. Hopefully it'll be better, especially now Kade and Ollie are together.
The romance between Kade and Ollie was rushed, one moment Ollie couldn’t stand him the next it's 'can't live without him'. I don't know, that could be a bit harsh, once again I've definitely read worse. Maybe I'm just in a mood :-/.
I wouldn't normally continue a series like this but the second one is for review. Hopefully it'll be better, especially now Kade and Ollie are together.
July 9, 2015
*** 4.25 Stars ***
I enjoyed the heck outta this one! The mystery was good, Kade was dreamy, and Ollie felt like a breath of fresh air. I'm really looking forward to the next in this series - so much so that my mental grabby hands are nearly physical ones (for all the good that'd do me).
I enjoyed the heck outta this one! The mystery was good, Kade was dreamy, and Ollie felt like a breath of fresh air. I'm really looking forward to the next in this series - so much so that my mental grabby hands are nearly physical ones (for all the good that'd do me).
July 6, 2015
I loved this book cover to cover. I devoured it. A little bit of everything. And Ollie? Yup loved him too. Read this book if you love a good mystery. Sexy times and manties yes that's right it has it all.
June 9, 2017
3.5 Stars
I loved Ollie, the gender fluid model with spectacular fashion sense and a penchant for trouble. I totally understood his reticence to allow anyone else in and to get close to him. But even my love for Ollie is eclipsed by my passion for Kade. His stalwart dedication and devotion to Ollie even after Ollie is such a prick time and time again to him...*sighs*
Overall Mike Pohlable's narration was okay. I mostly enjoyed his character voice for non-conforming gender fluid Ollie, who is the main POV for the story. Though I did have an issue with Pohlable's style of enunciation at times, I thought the emotion Pohlable displayed was really good. I really enjoyed the infusion of sentiment Pohlable brought to the audio.
But that ending? Yes, it's kind of a cliffhanger, but, number one, I was totally prepared for it and two...Ha! I can honestly say I am so happy I was right all along.
Overall the story was quite enjoyable and I'll definitely check out the next installment in the series.
Audio copy of Model Citizen provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
I loved Ollie, the gender fluid model with spectacular fashion sense and a penchant for trouble. I totally understood his reticence to allow anyone else in and to get close to him. But even my love for Ollie is eclipsed by my passion for Kade. His stalwart dedication and devotion to Ollie even after Ollie is such a prick time and time again to him...*sighs*
Overall Mike Pohlable's narration was okay. I mostly enjoyed his character voice for non-conforming gender fluid Ollie, who is the main POV for the story. Though I did have an issue with Pohlable's style of enunciation at times, I thought the emotion Pohlable displayed was really good. I really enjoyed the infusion of sentiment Pohlable brought to the audio.
But that ending? Yes, it's kind of a cliffhanger, but, number one, I was totally prepared for it and two...Ha! I can honestly say I am so happy I was right all along.
Overall the story was quite enjoyable and I'll definitely check out the next installment in the series.
Audio copy of Model Citizen provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
July 21, 2015
3.5 stars
I guess I'm in the minority on this one. I think it had the potential to be a better book, but the "Mystery" aspect was a little over the top. I feel like it was Big Brother Porn Edition. It was really cheesy. This was my first novel by this author, I think her writing was good. The story started off very good, but then kinda turned bleak. I was okay with that. I really loved Oliver as character, including all his nuisances. I enjoyed Kade, kinda perfect guy in my eyes. I liked most of the characters, except for the collection of Misfits from the house.
I thought the story could have been better if it was less Scooby Doo mystery and more romance. I loved this cover though, I thought it was beautiful.
**sidenote, I don't think anyone wearing a skirt going on stakeouts knowingly would dress like that**
I guess I'm in the minority on this one. I think it had the potential to be a better book, but the "Mystery" aspect was a little over the top. I feel like it was Big Brother Porn Edition. It was really cheesy. This was my first novel by this author, I think her writing was good. The story started off very good, but then kinda turned bleak. I was okay with that. I really loved Oliver as character, including all his nuisances. I enjoyed Kade, kinda perfect guy in my eyes. I liked most of the characters, except for the collection of Misfits from the house.
I thought the story could have been better if it was less Scooby Doo mystery and more romance. I loved this cover though, I thought it was beautiful.
**sidenote, I don't think anyone wearing a skirt going on stakeouts knowingly would dress like that**
July 14, 2016
4.5 stars
Merged review:
Model Citizen by Lissa Kasey has it all. It’s an exciting mystery, a wonderful romance and a book that pushes the limits of its genre. Kasey created a unique protagonist with enough complexities and nuances to make him truly unforgettable.
For Ollie Petroskovic, the loss of his older brother Nathan, his only living family member, is devastating. He abandons his modeling career to take over Nathan’s PI business, without a license or any real experience in the field. While Ollie struggles with the feeling of abandonment caused by his brother’s suicide, good friends join forces to keep his head above water. His brother’s old army friend, Kade, comes to live with him and help with the business, but Ollie can’t trust that Kade won’t abandon him just like Nathan did.
There are so very few truly gender fluid characters like Ollie. He was based on Stav Strashko, an androgynous Israeli model who identifies as a woman because society demands it, but who’d prefer not to be categorized at all. Ollie identifies as male, but often dresses in women’s clothes of his own making and fully embraces his gender fluidity. He is a highly paid model at the height of his career and he loves and respects his body precisely how it was made.
Lissa Kasey did an excellent job of explaining the challenges a person like Ollie must face every day, even from those who love him the most. Someone who doesn’t fit into the gender binary molds of society struggles to find a place and be accepted. Even his best friend often failed to take Ollie seriously enough, and the overprotective stance of those closest to him often drove him crazy. But even more than that, the expectations for him to be something easy to define and describe were often crushing. Although he struggled with his role and the way people viewed him, Ollie’s self-image never suffered for a second. We desperately need more characters like him, beacons of hope and self-respect with wonderful defense mechanisms and so much bravery.
The plot itself is very well done and I applaud Kasey for keeping me fully engaged from start to finish. Ollie investigates a case involving his childhood friend and a porn reality show called Sex House. He doesn’t have his PI license nor is he particularly intimidating, but he is very good with people and incredibly clever. Ollie never stumbled around with his case and he never gave me the feeling that I was waiting for him to catch up. He only needed to prove his suspicions and his methods tended to be successful.
Aside from being a good mystery and a thrilling romance, Model Citizen is necessary to the genre. Everything about this book is wonderful and I’d strongly recommend it to everyone, even those who don’t usually choose their reads within the M/M genre.
Merged review:
Model Citizen by Lissa Kasey has it all. It’s an exciting mystery, a wonderful romance and a book that pushes the limits of its genre. Kasey created a unique protagonist with enough complexities and nuances to make him truly unforgettable.
For Ollie Petroskovic, the loss of his older brother Nathan, his only living family member, is devastating. He abandons his modeling career to take over Nathan’s PI business, without a license or any real experience in the field. While Ollie struggles with the feeling of abandonment caused by his brother’s suicide, good friends join forces to keep his head above water. His brother’s old army friend, Kade, comes to live with him and help with the business, but Ollie can’t trust that Kade won’t abandon him just like Nathan did.
There are so very few truly gender fluid characters like Ollie. He was based on Stav Strashko, an androgynous Israeli model who identifies as a woman because society demands it, but who’d prefer not to be categorized at all. Ollie identifies as male, but often dresses in women’s clothes of his own making and fully embraces his gender fluidity. He is a highly paid model at the height of his career and he loves and respects his body precisely how it was made.
Lissa Kasey did an excellent job of explaining the challenges a person like Ollie must face every day, even from those who love him the most. Someone who doesn’t fit into the gender binary molds of society struggles to find a place and be accepted. Even his best friend often failed to take Ollie seriously enough, and the overprotective stance of those closest to him often drove him crazy. But even more than that, the expectations for him to be something easy to define and describe were often crushing. Although he struggled with his role and the way people viewed him, Ollie’s self-image never suffered for a second. We desperately need more characters like him, beacons of hope and self-respect with wonderful defense mechanisms and so much bravery.
The plot itself is very well done and I applaud Kasey for keeping me fully engaged from start to finish. Ollie investigates a case involving his childhood friend and a porn reality show called Sex House. He doesn’t have his PI license nor is he particularly intimidating, but he is very good with people and incredibly clever. Ollie never stumbled around with his case and he never gave me the feeling that I was waiting for him to catch up. He only needed to prove his suspicions and his methods tended to be successful.
Aside from being a good mystery and a thrilling romance, Model Citizen is necessary to the genre. Everything about this book is wonderful and I’d strongly recommend it to everyone, even those who don’t usually choose their reads within the M/M genre.
October 14, 2015
3.5 stars
Model Citizen is my first Lissa Kasey book and I enjoyed it. The story was solid, the murder mystery predictable, yet engaging, and the characters likable.
Ollie is a model, turned wanna-be private investigator. A family tragedy strikes his life (this happens early on and it’s a whopper of a heart-crusher!) and he’s trying to keep his life and his business and his house afloat. Ollie had a lucrative career as an androgynous cover model, but all that is pushed to the side as he tries to honor what he believes to be his dead brother’s wishes.
In walks Kade. Kade is Ollie’s deceased brother’s friend, fellow soldier, and has been badly injured in the war. Kade also is the answer to all of Ollie’s problems…a licensed PI, a handman at home, and has had a crush on Ollie for years. Yes, Kade is a bit too good to be true. Kade fits all the pieces a little too perfectly. But, I kinda was digging Kade.
As the story progresses, Ollie started to wear on me a bit. Yes, he had lost a lot. But his knack for getting into trouble, not listening to anyone around him, and his whininess got old. The author did manage to bring him back around by the end and I started to warm up to him again…kinda.
The strength of the story was this prime-time TV drama-esque mystery about a series of accidents happening in a reality-porn show. (think Cockyboys meets Big Brother…). The injuries and deaths around the house are WAY over the top, but I think that’s what I loved about them. The whole thing was slightly ridiculous that I was actually entertained!
This all leads up to a showdown where our Ollie is in danger and I was inching closer to the edge of my seat waiting to see how it would all happen…predictable, but again, entertaining.
The end has a mild cliffhanger that I guessed early on. And I will definitely be reading book 2. (I’m assuming there will be a book 2).
If you’re looking for a fun book that doesn’t require much from the reader other than to just go with it…this would be a good choice!
July 5, 2015
This book just clicked with me. I enjoyed the hell out of the story, despite the plot-holes and lots of not making sense moments. The heroes were great, the chemistry was palpable, and I can't wait for book two.
Can't. Wait.
Can't. Wait.
December 21, 2023
Audiobooks cost way too damn much for them to have BAD narration.
The narration on this was atrocious and I mean ATROCIOUS. Not to be an asshole (I will be) but the narrator for this has 0 skill and should maybe never do this again. It made me absolutely hate this book though the story was very interesting. Thank the heavens the last two books are with a new narrator.
The narration on this was atrocious and I mean ATROCIOUS. Not to be an asshole (I will be) but the narrator for this has 0 skill and should maybe never do this again. It made me absolutely hate this book though the story was very interesting. Thank the heavens the last two books are with a new narrator.
April 12, 2018
Audiobook review4,5 stars
I really enjoyed listening to this book, well at least until that last line... If you are anything like me, have the next book ready because this one ends with a cliffhanger. And those annoys me to no end.
Oliver Petroskovic’s life took a turn for the unexpected when his brother committed suicide. Leaving the runway and life as a supermodel, he returned home and started working as a PI in honor of his brother. Only he didn't have a license, and he kept being arrested on an almost weekly basis, so to say he was struggling to make ends meet is a mild understatement.
Kade has recently returned home to recover from an injury from a battle in the military. Wanting to start fresh, he's offered a job as a PI, working with his late best friend's brother. A brother he's had feelings for, for a long time. He was a general good guy with a lot of skills, but keeping Ollie from trouble might just be a bigger challenge that he ever dreamed of.
The mystery-romance combination really works for me. I know some readers might not like when the mystery part of the book is more prominent than the romance, but that really works for me. I love a good mystery to sink my teeth into and this book delivered that. I will admit that the Big Brother porn house plot was a bit much, it was also something I was happy to overlook in the grand scheme of things.
I found Ollie both refreshing but at times he also got on my nerves. I loved how truly comfortable he was in his own skin. Dressing and acting just like he wanted, and if he wanted to wear a dress or skirt he did, damned what anyone else thought. He wasn't gender fluid or trans, just a guy equally comfortable wearing both men's and women's clothing when he wanted. At the same times he was also a bit irritating, constantly going back and forth with Kade, being dismissive and a bit hurtful at times. Sure it was understandable from all he'd gone through in the past, but I also wanted him to make up his mind and trust.
I enjoyed listening to Mike Pohlable, the emotions he injected into his narration spot on and the different voices he had for Ollie and Kade really portrayed who they were. He had a wide range of voices and I loved them all. I would loved to listen to many more of his books in the future - that is if he decides to narrate more books.
Model Citizen was a great book to listen to, and I will definitely pick up the next book in the series, I just need to know what happened next. I do however I'd been smart enough to have the next book ready to go....
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Read
June 3, 2021DNF at 20%.
This read too much as a soap opera and Ollie came across as a big child. I just couldn't deal with it.
This read too much as a soap opera and Ollie came across as a big child. I just couldn't deal with it.
January 21, 2018
4.2 Stars
OMG this book was so over the top but I don't even care about the ridiculous cray because I had a blast listening to it...
I LOLd every time Donovan talked because he was supposed to be this buff muscle-y guy but the narrator gave him such a high voice...and I just kept thinking of Mike Tyson.
Also, holy cow, what a cliff-hanger. Definitely putting the next one on the TBR shelf!
OMG this book was so over the top but I don't even care about the ridiculous cray because I had a blast listening to it...
I LOLd every time Donovan talked because he was supposed to be this buff muscle-y guy but the narrator gave him such a high voice...and I just kept thinking of Mike Tyson.
Also, holy cow, what a cliff-hanger. Definitely putting the next one on the TBR shelf!
March 4, 2017
Starting with a heartbreaking scene and a surprise at the end you don’t see coming, Model Citizen is an amazing book. The middle is stuffed with mystery after mystery, so this is a real page turner, just the kind of book I enjoy.
But, the thing I really loved was Ollie’s career as a model who wears androgynous clothing, in his daily life and on the catwalk. There’s something about a man who likes lace panties and pretty dresses that calls to me. To honor his brother’s dream and save his investigation company, Ollie has to put aside his true career plans and conduct surveillance of cheating men and women as well as other menial searches and online examinations of strangers. Without a PI license, though, Ollie finds himself on the wrong side of the law too often.
When Kade, a friend from the past who longs to be more to Ollie, shows up things brighten. Sometimes I wanted to smack Ollie up the side of his stubborn head, though. The plot device of Ollie needing certain skills and certifications that Kade possessed was really good and kept Kade in the picture.
The ending certainly left me wanting (demanding!) the sequel. This is a great beginning to a series that will have to be read in order, so I advise readers to get in on the ground floor and start with Model Citizen now. Plot driven with characters do die for, this is a wonderful book that will grab your attention and won’t let go.
But, the thing I really loved was Ollie’s career as a model who wears androgynous clothing, in his daily life and on the catwalk. There’s something about a man who likes lace panties and pretty dresses that calls to me. To honor his brother’s dream and save his investigation company, Ollie has to put aside his true career plans and conduct surveillance of cheating men and women as well as other menial searches and online examinations of strangers. Without a PI license, though, Ollie finds himself on the wrong side of the law too often.
When Kade, a friend from the past who longs to be more to Ollie, shows up things brighten. Sometimes I wanted to smack Ollie up the side of his stubborn head, though. The plot device of Ollie needing certain skills and certifications that Kade possessed was really good and kept Kade in the picture.
The ending certainly left me wanting (demanding!) the sequel. This is a great beginning to a series that will have to be read in order, so I advise readers to get in on the ground floor and start with Model Citizen now. Plot driven with characters do die for, this is a wonderful book that will grab your attention and won’t let go.
October 3, 2015
3.5* rounded up for the manties.
This was enjoyable. I do have a niggle about the repetitive refrain concerning Ollie's masculinity (or lack thereof). That started to feel a bit preachy by the third time. Overall, this was a nice read (I stayed up all night to see if I was right about the mystery). I will definitely read more.
This was enjoyable. I do have a niggle about the repetitive refrain concerning Ollie's masculinity (or lack thereof). That started to feel a bit preachy by the third time. Overall, this was a nice read (I stayed up all night to see if I was right about the mystery). I will definitely read more.
May 16, 2024
I’m not quite sure what to say about this story. It looked intriguing and the audiobook was free so thought I’d give it a try. I haven’t read this author before or listened to the narrator and I honestly don’t think I will do either again.
This book started off quite good and I was really excited about a super femme MC. This is a single POV story from Ollie’s POV. I don’t know if it was the narrator’s interpretation of him or not but he started off great but I found he was incredibly whiny.
The plot was also pretty out there. I always try so hard to have a positive review whether I fully enjoyed the book or not but there wasn’t too much I enjoyed about this one. I do hope that if you give it a try you will enjoy it much more than I did!
This book started off quite good and I was really excited about a super femme MC. This is a single POV story from Ollie’s POV. I don’t know if it was the narrator’s interpretation of him or not but he started off great but I found he was incredibly whiny.
The plot was also pretty out there. I always try so hard to have a positive review whether I fully enjoyed the book or not but there wasn’t too much I enjoyed about this one. I do hope that if you give it a try you will enjoy it much more than I did!
October 25, 2017
4.5 stars for book 1 - what a great find ! I loved this. I have never read anything from this author so it was a really wonderful find. Ollie is the gender fluid MC who seems to find trouble and mayhem. After the tragic loss of his brother, he tries to hold on to his PI business, manage the renovations to the new home he bought and deal with the day grind. Along comes Kade, the ex marine and Ollie’s brothers closest friend. Kade has adored Ollie for many years and steps in to help when shit hits the fan.... and heavens, does shit hit the fan !
I adored the dynamic between Ollie & Kade but also between Ollie and his bestie. There’s something vulnerable about Ollie, but he also has a spine and is dogged in his efforts - soft & hard at the same time. I’m ready for book 2 ❤️
I adored the dynamic between Ollie & Kade but also between Ollie and his bestie. There’s something vulnerable about Ollie, but he also has a spine and is dogged in his efforts - soft & hard at the same time. I’m ready for book 2 ❤️
June 25, 2015
3.5 stars
After that nice cliffie, which I totally did not see coming, there better be a sequel. And I'm gonna need more Ollie in lace panties too please. :)
After that nice cliffie, which I totally did not see coming, there better be a sequel. And I'm gonna need more Ollie in lace panties too please. :)
September 25, 2019
This started off rough but I kept going and the story got better, or my mood improved. 😊
Totally implausible plot but funny and somewhat predictable. I will try the next story but reading the blurb from the rest of the books, it gets really outlandish for these guys and I don't know if I will be able to take it. 😕😷
Totally implausible plot but funny and somewhat predictable. I will try the next story but reading the blurb from the rest of the books, it gets really outlandish for these guys and I don't know if I will be able to take it. 😕😷
June 21, 2015
What a wonderful book! Oliver Petroskovic is one of the most original, compelling characters I have ever read. He is an androgynous high-end catwalk model who takes on his brother’s private investigation business after his death. Oliver is a kick-ass hero who has survived a tough childhood and is still grieving his brother. He also happens to wear heels and pretty dresses while he kicks bad-guy ass. Fantastic.
I couldn’t help but google the real life Andreja Pejic while I read this - but while Oliver may look like her, and he has the same modelling career, Oliver isn’t conflicted about his gender. I absolutely love his confidence. And also his insecurities. I just love this character! Emotionally fragile, Oliver has a steely determination and some pretty fierce self-defence skills. Even if he doesn’t eat anything but grilled fish.
I loved Kade almost as much as I loved Oliver. His physical scars match Oliver’s internal ones and his solid, placid strength balances Oliver. I loved the history between the two men and the potential for a very different future.
Beyond Oliver’s complicated life, his investigative work is engrossing. The best mystery stories allow readers to work out the story with the detectives and I think I might have just figured out the who-dunnit before the big reveal. The Big-Brother style porn series Oliver investigates is fascinating, if a little depressing.
It’s hard to find the words to express how much I loved this book. There is a new wave of m/m writers who are rejecting romance stereotypes and introducing very original characters. Characters many of us would judge or reject too quickly in real life. Lissa Kasey was at the front of this movement with her Dominion books, but Oliver appeals to a much more mainstream audience than Seiran. I really hope this turns into a series with a huge readership. Oliver deserves the attention!
I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I couldn’t help but google the real life Andreja Pejic while I read this - but while Oliver may look like her, and he has the same modelling career, Oliver isn’t conflicted about his gender. I absolutely love his confidence. And also his insecurities. I just love this character! Emotionally fragile, Oliver has a steely determination and some pretty fierce self-defence skills. Even if he doesn’t eat anything but grilled fish.
I loved Kade almost as much as I loved Oliver. His physical scars match Oliver’s internal ones and his solid, placid strength balances Oliver. I loved the history between the two men and the potential for a very different future.
Beyond Oliver’s complicated life, his investigative work is engrossing. The best mystery stories allow readers to work out the story with the detectives and I think I might have just figured out the who-dunnit before the big reveal. The Big-Brother style porn series Oliver investigates is fascinating, if a little depressing.
It’s hard to find the words to express how much I loved this book. There is a new wave of m/m writers who are rejecting romance stereotypes and introducing very original characters. Characters many of us would judge or reject too quickly in real life. Lissa Kasey was at the front of this movement with her Dominion books, but Oliver appeals to a much more mainstream audience than Seiran. I really hope this turns into a series with a huge readership. Oliver deserves the attention!
I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 17, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Model Citizen by Lissa Kasey most definitely knocked my sleuthing skills for a loop! From the harsh onset of murder and mayhem, this novel was a roller coaster of a ride from start to finish. With an androgynous leading man who was gorgeous but terribly conflicted as the narrator, this story moved swiftly and left behind some major questions which I hope will lead to a sequel and more.
I can unashamedly state that this author is one of my favorites. The work she turns out is both smartly written and highly entertaining. She creates seemingly fragile characters like Ollie who have a steel backbone and courageous reserve hidden within them. Along side this unique personality, she places a love interest, Kade, who is both gentle but strong and wholly committed to his man. The combination is flawless. While I felt there were a few minor glitches in this story, I felt the fast paced action and developing romance won the day overall. Those glitches never pulled me from the story, but things like Ollie being able to sneak into a hospital room at 1 a.m. without being detected stretched the story a bit too far for me. I also had to wonder at Ollie having the police practically on speed dial, which allowed them to swoop in and save him time after time.
Model Citizen by Lissa Kasey is an absolute must buy for mystery enthusiasts and also a must read for romance lovers everywhere.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Model Citizen by Lissa Kasey most definitely knocked my sleuthing skills for a loop! From the harsh onset of murder and mayhem, this novel was a roller coaster of a ride from start to finish. With an androgynous leading man who was gorgeous but terribly conflicted as the narrator, this story moved swiftly and left behind some major questions which I hope will lead to a sequel and more.
I can unashamedly state that this author is one of my favorites. The work she turns out is both smartly written and highly entertaining. She creates seemingly fragile characters like Ollie who have a steel backbone and courageous reserve hidden within them. Along side this unique personality, she places a love interest, Kade, who is both gentle but strong and wholly committed to his man. The combination is flawless. While I felt there were a few minor glitches in this story, I felt the fast paced action and developing romance won the day overall. Those glitches never pulled me from the story, but things like Ollie being able to sneak into a hospital room at 1 a.m. without being detected stretched the story a bit too far for me. I also had to wonder at Ollie having the police practically on speed dial, which allowed them to swoop in and save him time after time.
Model Citizen by Lissa Kasey is an absolute must buy for mystery enthusiasts and also a must read for romance lovers everywhere.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
September 15, 2015
I am really becoming a fan of Lissa Kasey, I find it very easy to become lost in her writing. This was enjoyable.
June 27, 2015
4.5 Heart Review by Amber
Whoa!!! WOW…whoa….HOLY unexpected cliffhanger!!! I’m speechless, not really but you know what I mean….this was an action packed, thriller, mystery, suspenseful, powerful ride!!! Holy crap, my anxiety was up reading this story. I really enjoyed this story. I fell madly in love with Kade almost from the beginning. He is the most modernized knight in shining armor. The way he came in and was so incredibly patient with Oliver, so understanding. His presence and calm gave me chills. Absolutely adored him and Ollie and Kade together…they were the perfect halves of a whole. I don’t think they could be more perfect together. The way they complimented each other in this story was exquisite. This author is a magician when it comes to writing characters you’d think would be incompatible but are absolutely perfect together.
Oliver Petroskovic was at a point in his life where things were coming together. Having gotten out of and almost getting over a bad relationship he’s settled doing modeling and helping his brother with his Private Investigation Company. His brother Nathan and him bought a big house and made plans to raise their separate families together. Tragedy strikes and Nathan is discovered with what appears to be a self inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Ollie is beyond devastated and he’s left trying to keep his brother’s business afloat while combating an almost debilitating case of depression due to missing his brother.
Kade Alme has in some way shape or form been in love with Ollie for years. He was in the military with Nathan and spent his leaves hanging with the brothers. After being discharged from the Marines he’s contacted by a mutual friend who wants Kade to see if he can assist Ollie in the PI business. Kade jumps at the opportunity.
Ollie is angry, depressed, bitter, and sad. He doesn’t want Kade around. He’s a reminder of his brother and he’s resentful as he sees him as a babysitter. Their coming together was very satisfying. Kade bleeds all his want and desire into Ollie in the tentative moments together. They’re precious and beautiful.
There’s a huge mystery involving a psychotic ex-friend, porn, reality TV, and lots of twists and turns. This story kept me on the edge of my seat. I thoroughly enjoyed this and read it from start to finish in 1 sitting. This ends in a cliffhanger so I’m pretty sure there will be a book two and I for one cannot wait…!!!
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Whoa!!! WOW…whoa….HOLY unexpected cliffhanger!!! I’m speechless, not really but you know what I mean….this was an action packed, thriller, mystery, suspenseful, powerful ride!!! Holy crap, my anxiety was up reading this story. I really enjoyed this story. I fell madly in love with Kade almost from the beginning. He is the most modernized knight in shining armor. The way he came in and was so incredibly patient with Oliver, so understanding. His presence and calm gave me chills. Absolutely adored him and Ollie and Kade together…they were the perfect halves of a whole. I don’t think they could be more perfect together. The way they complimented each other in this story was exquisite. This author is a magician when it comes to writing characters you’d think would be incompatible but are absolutely perfect together.
Oliver Petroskovic was at a point in his life where things were coming together. Having gotten out of and almost getting over a bad relationship he’s settled doing modeling and helping his brother with his Private Investigation Company. His brother Nathan and him bought a big house and made plans to raise their separate families together. Tragedy strikes and Nathan is discovered with what appears to be a self inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Ollie is beyond devastated and he’s left trying to keep his brother’s business afloat while combating an almost debilitating case of depression due to missing his brother.
Kade Alme has in some way shape or form been in love with Ollie for years. He was in the military with Nathan and spent his leaves hanging with the brothers. After being discharged from the Marines he’s contacted by a mutual friend who wants Kade to see if he can assist Ollie in the PI business. Kade jumps at the opportunity.
Ollie is angry, depressed, bitter, and sad. He doesn’t want Kade around. He’s a reminder of his brother and he’s resentful as he sees him as a babysitter. Their coming together was very satisfying. Kade bleeds all his want and desire into Ollie in the tentative moments together. They’re precious and beautiful.
There’s a huge mystery involving a psychotic ex-friend, porn, reality TV, and lots of twists and turns. This story kept me on the edge of my seat. I thoroughly enjoyed this and read it from start to finish in 1 sitting. This ends in a cliffhanger so I’m pretty sure there will be a book two and I for one cannot wait…!!!
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
June 23, 2015
Really liked this book. There is a lot going on right from the beginning that keeps you glued to the page!
Your heart will break for Oliver from the first chapter - poor guy might sound like he has it all with being a model but he has not had it easy, not just with what happens with his brother, and it has left him a little messed up. But loved that he was not just a cardboard cut out pretty twink - dressed and looks how he wants not matter what people think (dress, heels, pretty panties and attitude!)
Kade is dealing with his own issues after being injured out of the marines and having extremely shitty parents. He was a close friend with Nathan (Oliver's brother) and visited often during his leave and has always carried a torch for Oliver and sets out to prove he is the guy for him both at home and work. Big and strong with a painful past but a really sweet guy.
The story is faced paced and keeps you interested, some great supporting character and some shady ones too.
Only down side...TBC ending setting up for another book - not a cliff hanger as such but left you needing to know more!
Your heart will break for Oliver from the first chapter - poor guy might sound like he has it all with being a model but he has not had it easy, not just with what happens with his brother, and it has left him a little messed up. But loved that he was not just a cardboard cut out pretty twink - dressed and looks how he wants not matter what people think (dress, heels, pretty panties and attitude!)
Kade is dealing with his own issues after being injured out of the marines and having extremely shitty parents. He was a close friend with Nathan (Oliver's brother) and visited often during his leave and has always carried a torch for Oliver and sets out to prove he is the guy for him both at home and work. Big and strong with a painful past but a really sweet guy.
The story is faced paced and keeps you interested, some great supporting character and some shady ones too.
Only down side...TBC ending setting up for another book - not a cliff hanger as such but left you needing to know more!
February 6, 2016
there were parts that were enjoyable but there were also parts that were tedious to get through. a model cum private eye who happens to wear women's clothing/undies (actually have no issue with this subject matter) but in this book my gosh I felt like I was being beaten over the head with it and if I truly cared enough I would find out how many times it's mentioned throughout the book. the character is feminine, but honestly I never got a good enough description (umm long hair, thin, blah blah) same with other main character the ex-military PI- other than patchwork skin because of a IED (still don't care enought to go back and look to see what the description was). all that aside there were a few funny parts but mainly I felt it just tried to hard to be funny, somewhat suspenseful (and OMG the cliffhanger- man did not see that coming -:() but for a first time author for me it passed the time I got a few chuckles, but really developed a dislike for the model character he seemed to weak while attempting to appear strong, whining but his looks he'd use when it suited him. dont think I'll read the next book.
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