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Model Behavior
Handle with care
Fleeing a toxic relationship, Olivia Copeland packs her bags and heads back to LA with her 5-year-old daughter, Gracie, intent on a new start.
When Olivia keeps bumping into the same woman, she begins to think maybe the potential for happiness is a real possibility.
Happy-Go-Lucky Hilary Palmer is everything Ava wasn’t.
But the past seems intent on putting obstacles in her way, and Olivia must make some tough decisions before she can finally move forward, and be truly happy.
66,200 words
Fleeing a toxic relationship, Olivia Copeland packs her bags and heads back to LA with her 5-year-old daughter, Gracie, intent on a new start.
When Olivia keeps bumping into the same woman, she begins to think maybe the potential for happiness is a real possibility.
Happy-Go-Lucky Hilary Palmer is everything Ava wasn’t.
But the past seems intent on putting obstacles in her way, and Olivia must make some tough decisions before she can finally move forward, and be truly happy.
66,200 words
237 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2020
59 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Claire Highton-Stevenson
43 books362 followersAward-Winning and best selling, Claire Highton-Stevenson is an Independent author of contemporary romance and crime novels.
Having worked for many years in emergency services, Claire now spends her time writing, traveling, researching ancestry, following Liverpool FC and enjoying life as much as possible.
She lives in West Sussex, UK. Along with her wife and fur babies.
Having worked for many years in emergency services, Claire now spends her time writing, traveling, researching ancestry, following Liverpool FC and enjoying life as much as possible.
She lives in West Sussex, UK. Along with her wife and fur babies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 17, 2020
I'm a big fan of CHS books and have pretty much read all of them. This one is no different from the others in that it is worth the read. The plot is not profoundly different from others in the genre, girl leaves relationship, girl meets other girl, girls is hesitant, girl goes for it, a little drama, and then the HEA. But, what makes this a good read is that the journey both characters take. You see each of them grow, Hilary I think grows more than Olivia, and come face to face with some issues they try to avoid. Throw in a really cute kid and the only thing missing is the puppy.
I do feel that Hilary's and her dad's drama could have been drawn out just a little bit more with maybe a little bit more angst but that's just me. Be forewarned that there is a physical non-consent scene, nothing too explicit and is handled many in flashback once or twice, in the book. I am one who likes those types of scenes and this was handled very well.
I may be biased but CHS is one of my go to kindle Unlimited authors and one of my go to authors I read when I want something happy and well written. Fans will enjoy this read and hint, she uses a place in this one that she uses in all her other books to tie her universe together. Newcomers should give this one a chance, it's worth a read.
I do feel that Hilary's and her dad's drama could have been drawn out just a little bit more with maybe a little bit more angst but that's just me. Be forewarned that there is a physical non-consent scene, nothing too explicit and is handled many in flashback once or twice, in the book. I am one who likes those types of scenes and this was handled very well.
I may be biased but CHS is one of my go to kindle Unlimited authors and one of my go to authors I read when I want something happy and well written. Fans will enjoy this read and hint, she uses a place in this one that she uses in all her other books to tie her universe together. Newcomers should give this one a chance, it's worth a read.
August 24, 2020
2.7 stars for me.
The writing in itself is good, but the story for me dragged too much especially in the beginning. I also found it too superficial and cliche. I didn’t much like the drama in the book. On the more positive side are the main characters Olivia and Hillary who are nice.
The writing in itself is good, but the story for me dragged too much especially in the beginning. I also found it too superficial and cliche. I didn’t much like the drama in the book. On the more positive side are the main characters Olivia and Hillary who are nice.
September 3, 2020
I’ve not not liked any books written by CHS...so don’t think me not liking CHS writing will start anytime soon. MB gave us a peek into a high life of a celebrity... Story of Olivia, a former model, who was getting out from a toxic relationship with an A-list model (Ava), and Hilary a pole dancer who had her sights on becoming a nurse. Booze & drugs took centrestage in Olivia’s relationship with Ava and it all came to a head when Olivia was sexually assaulted. Together with Gracie, Olivia left and went back home to US where a relationship with Hilary blossomed. What follow is how both Olivia and Hilary manoeuvre their relationship amidst the toxic relationship which Olivia had with Ava.
Ratings: High 3+
Ratings: High 3+
April 22, 2020
Absolutely adored this story!
Olivia is heading back to LA after escaping a toxic relationship with a top model. A chance meeting with Hilary leads to further run-ins when they are both home in LA and Olivia is intrigued as to whether this woman could be a new friend. But as always, when overcoming trauma the past just keeps getting in her way and threatening a chance of happiness if she can’t move past it. With encouragement from her mother, and infectious daughter Gracie, Olivia might just manage to develop her friendship with Hilary into the happy ending she always thought she’d find.
There was so much about this story that made it so amazing, but I think the most important one was the way it sensitively handled the fact that not everything is always as glamourous as it seems, and that traumatic experiences can literally impact the life of anyone. All sensitive topics tackled in this story were handled with care, and weren’t overly graphic just giving light indication of how horrible life can be when dragged into such dangerous and toxic situations, and more importantly just how they can manipulate people and their lives. But on a lighter note, it also highlighted how trauma doesn’t have to define your life, and that you can be happy beyond that period of your life.
As with Claire’s style, this story was brilliantly told, in a simple but engaging way that meant it was almost impossible to put this book down because you found yourself so lost in the story. With each story Claire brings us there is something new, something fresh, and characters you can’t help but get connected with. They are realistic, believable and fit stereotypes when needed, but no matter their background, they always come with some surprises. The total show stealer in this story was Gracie (think Ce Ce’s voice and Hilary’s look from Beaches when they were kids) and that is vibe I got when imagining this kid, and it was brilliant.
I completely adored these characters and hope we will see them again in future. And it was also lovely to have a few familiar faces pop up, not only from Claire’s own universes but others too. It was magnificent and I really can’t praise this story enough. This is absolutely fantastic and a romance that all can enjoy.
Olivia is heading back to LA after escaping a toxic relationship with a top model. A chance meeting with Hilary leads to further run-ins when they are both home in LA and Olivia is intrigued as to whether this woman could be a new friend. But as always, when overcoming trauma the past just keeps getting in her way and threatening a chance of happiness if she can’t move past it. With encouragement from her mother, and infectious daughter Gracie, Olivia might just manage to develop her friendship with Hilary into the happy ending she always thought she’d find.
There was so much about this story that made it so amazing, but I think the most important one was the way it sensitively handled the fact that not everything is always as glamourous as it seems, and that traumatic experiences can literally impact the life of anyone. All sensitive topics tackled in this story were handled with care, and weren’t overly graphic just giving light indication of how horrible life can be when dragged into such dangerous and toxic situations, and more importantly just how they can manipulate people and their lives. But on a lighter note, it also highlighted how trauma doesn’t have to define your life, and that you can be happy beyond that period of your life.
As with Claire’s style, this story was brilliantly told, in a simple but engaging way that meant it was almost impossible to put this book down because you found yourself so lost in the story. With each story Claire brings us there is something new, something fresh, and characters you can’t help but get connected with. They are realistic, believable and fit stereotypes when needed, but no matter their background, they always come with some surprises. The total show stealer in this story was Gracie (think Ce Ce’s voice and Hilary’s look from Beaches when they were kids) and that is vibe I got when imagining this kid, and it was brilliant.
I completely adored these characters and hope we will see them again in future. And it was also lovely to have a few familiar faces pop up, not only from Claire’s own universes but others too. It was magnificent and I really can’t praise this story enough. This is absolutely fantastic and a romance that all can enjoy.
May 2, 2020
I thought I'd take my time reading this, but I was hooked and read it in one sitting.
I couldn't help but be drawn to both main characters and the supporting cast that surrounds them. Gracie's a cutie, Cynthia is charming, Michael's a top bloke and their reactions to both Olivia and Hilary shows just how great both mains are. Together they're something else altogether. A good something else, that is.
I couldn't help but be drawn to both main characters and the supporting cast that surrounds them. Gracie's a cutie, Cynthia is charming, Michael's a top bloke and their reactions to both Olivia and Hilary shows just how great both mains are. Together they're something else altogether. A good something else, that is.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2020
Gloria Copeland and her daughter Gracie left London to start all over. She left behind her Ex Ava hoping to forget her and the models behavior. On the flight to LA they meet Hilary Palmer just a touch sent electricity through Gloria. The timing just was not right but fate was not done with them. Hilary was dancing at a club Gloria went to relax. They began a journey of friendship that deepens bit Gloria has a secret that can break them. I loved these two strong women who were putting their lives together. Gracie brought fun and relaxing moment shared. The dialogue between them all had me laughing. But the past always comes out. Gloria's secret brought changes that were hard to read but Claire Highton Stevenson shared the issue well. Ave brings a twist to the story but secrets shared make bonds to build on. I loved the way the characters shared their dreams and dating moments. The steamy connection embraced gently to deal with Gloria's sexual incident kept me turning pages in this romantic story filled with lots of great drama. I loved this book, the characters and even Ava who I wanted to hate. Everyone has a story we may not know. This is a great read that you will really enjoy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2020
Trigger warning and possible spoiler_
there's a sexual assault storyline that impacts the MC and while it was handled sensitively there's still enough detail to upset, and while it's good she overcomes this with a loving partner, the topic is confronting, and I wouldn't have necessarily chose to read this had I known.
I wasn't entirely fond of the lifestyles featured, that whole rich, celebrity, partying vibe just doesn't appeal to me... and call me judgemental but go-go dancing doesn't do it for me, either. So understanding and connecting with the characters was difficult for me.
The book also stopped quite abruptly. So it was a bit jarring and overall not a fun light read as I was expecting.
there's a sexual assault storyline that impacts the MC and while it was handled sensitively there's still enough detail to upset, and while it's good she overcomes this with a loving partner, the topic is confronting, and I wouldn't have necessarily chose to read this had I known.
I wasn't entirely fond of the lifestyles featured, that whole rich, celebrity, partying vibe just doesn't appeal to me... and call me judgemental but go-go dancing doesn't do it for me, either. So understanding and connecting with the characters was difficult for me.
The book also stopped quite abruptly. So it was a bit jarring and overall not a fun light read as I was expecting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2020
Quick enjoyable romance. I really liked both MCs and had a very clear picture in my mind what they looked like which helped in my enjoyment of the story. Even though it is definitely a rich-girl/poor-girl trope it is not played up much ie. no one is getting whisked off in private jets anywhere. Both MCs are very down to earth and super likable. There is an evil ex. I believe this is part of series and I would totally look for the next book(s).
tl:dr - i liked it and would probably read it again.
Trigger warning... there is a f/f sexual assault, it doesn't last long and it's not overly graphic but it is there.
tl:dr - i liked it and would probably read it again.
Trigger warning... there is a f/f sexual assault, it doesn't last long and it's not overly graphic but it is there.
April 20, 2020
First of all, I must say I loved the book, the story and the characters are wonderful.
Olivia Copeland left once everything for love and moved to the other side of the world. This time, she leaves her life behind again in order to escape a toxic relationship that isn’t doing any good for her anymore. She takes her daughter Gracie and goes back to LA. When fate keeps driving Hilary Palmer on her way, she wonders if she can leave the past behind, move on and be happy.
The story is very well written and captures the attention from the beginning. Claire takes you to a wonderful journey of forgiveness and growth. To move on, leave the past behind, and conquer the physical but mostly the emotional scars. One thing I always enjoy greatly in Claire’s books is the character development; being able to witness the characters grow before my eyes. This book shows in a very beautiful way how both overcome the past. Olivia had to beat some fears to come afloat and survive, as Hilary has her own demons to defeat.
Another thing I enjoyed very much about the book is the way the characters worked together, there’s something from the beginning there. Their chemistry grows every time they see and I loved to see their journey, their personal grow as well as together. And of course, there’s little Gracie that will capture your heart from the start. I liked the dynamic enormously.
There’s a surprise character there, I won’t give it away but there is a beloved someone and something from another of Claire’s books that make an appearance and I loved that to bits and pieces. Now I hope there’s a sequel with a full crossover.
Also, there’s a warning trigger but I must say is masterfully addressed. Claire wrote it in a very sensitive and considerate way. It’s only mentioned once as it is and one or two times more as a quick memory. Therefore isn’t overwhelming and as I mentioned before, is done in a very tactful way.
This book is a must-read, it’s absolutely captivating and engaging. I’d like to recommend it.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
Olivia Copeland left once everything for love and moved to the other side of the world. This time, she leaves her life behind again in order to escape a toxic relationship that isn’t doing any good for her anymore. She takes her daughter Gracie and goes back to LA. When fate keeps driving Hilary Palmer on her way, she wonders if she can leave the past behind, move on and be happy.
The story is very well written and captures the attention from the beginning. Claire takes you to a wonderful journey of forgiveness and growth. To move on, leave the past behind, and conquer the physical but mostly the emotional scars. One thing I always enjoy greatly in Claire’s books is the character development; being able to witness the characters grow before my eyes. This book shows in a very beautiful way how both overcome the past. Olivia had to beat some fears to come afloat and survive, as Hilary has her own demons to defeat.
Another thing I enjoyed very much about the book is the way the characters worked together, there’s something from the beginning there. Their chemistry grows every time they see and I loved to see their journey, their personal grow as well as together. And of course, there’s little Gracie that will capture your heart from the start. I liked the dynamic enormously.
There’s a surprise character there, I won’t give it away but there is a beloved someone and something from another of Claire’s books that make an appearance and I loved that to bits and pieces. Now I hope there’s a sequel with a full crossover.
Also, there’s a warning trigger but I must say is masterfully addressed. Claire wrote it in a very sensitive and considerate way. It’s only mentioned once as it is and one or two times more as a quick memory. Therefore isn’t overwhelming and as I mentioned before, is done in a very tactful way.
This book is a must-read, it’s absolutely captivating and engaging. I’d like to recommend it.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
April 18, 2020
Claire Highton-Stevenson always manages to surpass her previous works and this remains true in this latest book.
.
Olivia Copeland is returning home with her 5 year old daughter, Gracie, when she meets the woman who could be the love of her life..., If she allows her in, but flashbacks from her previous relationship could spoil it all....,
All the characters are three dimensional people who you will emotionally connect with and go on a journey with...., I felt I was on an emotional roller-coaster as I found myself moved to both laughter (Chapter 16 : "The fun to be around meant 'you' ll be evading the police for most of the night') and tears, and a whole host of other emotions in between (dread, fear, anxiety, will they, won't they?) whilst gripped by this unputdownable book...., Read it if you need some hot emotional lesfic to entertain you whilst in lockdown. A 5 star read from a writer who is at the top of her game.
.
Olivia Copeland is returning home with her 5 year old daughter, Gracie, when she meets the woman who could be the love of her life..., If she allows her in, but flashbacks from her previous relationship could spoil it all....,
All the characters are three dimensional people who you will emotionally connect with and go on a journey with...., I felt I was on an emotional roller-coaster as I found myself moved to both laughter (Chapter 16 : "The fun to be around meant 'you' ll be evading the police for most of the night') and tears, and a whole host of other emotions in between (dread, fear, anxiety, will they, won't they?) whilst gripped by this unputdownable book...., Read it if you need some hot emotional lesfic to entertain you whilst in lockdown. A 5 star read from a writer who is at the top of her game.
April 21, 2020
Amazingly Good!
I was hooked into this story from page one. The obvious chemistry between Olivia and Hilary from the onset is what kept you wanting to read more. Once you realize what Olivia has suffered at her ex’s hands, you can’t help but root for Hilary and Olivia’s relationship. Even with its ups and downs the heart wrenching and heartbreaking scenes was so well written you can honestly feel the hurt and pain, especially their first sexual contact. I had tears.... I can definitely see another story with this couple. I am a big fan of Claire Highton- Stevenson and she did not disappoint.
I was hooked into this story from page one. The obvious chemistry between Olivia and Hilary from the onset is what kept you wanting to read more. Once you realize what Olivia has suffered at her ex’s hands, you can’t help but root for Hilary and Olivia’s relationship. Even with its ups and downs the heart wrenching and heartbreaking scenes was so well written you can honestly feel the hurt and pain, especially their first sexual contact. I had tears.... I can definitely see another story with this couple. I am a big fan of Claire Highton- Stevenson and she did not disappoint.
April 25, 2020
Wow captivating story line
Wow what a captivating story line the main characters were amazing I went through every emotion that they went through I was transported into their world wow exceptional writing x
Wow what a captivating story line the main characters were amazing I went through every emotion that they went through I was transported into their world wow exceptional writing x
April 25, 2020
Brilliant
I really enjoyed this book about a former model who meets a women on the plane home from leaving a abusive relationship. It’s a good plot with good strong leading characters and interesting secondary characters. Would highly recommend
I really enjoyed this book about a former model who meets a women on the plane home from leaving a abusive relationship. It’s a good plot with good strong leading characters and interesting secondary characters. Would highly recommend
April 20, 2020
Definitely a great read
Olivia and Hillary had a sweet start but the middle and ending of their romance saw an awful lot of drama. But their love was strong and both Olivia and Hillary overcame their obstacles. Overall a really great and interesting read, well worth the time. Definitely holds your interest.
Olivia and Hillary had a sweet start but the middle and ending of their romance saw an awful lot of drama. But their love was strong and both Olivia and Hillary overcame their obstacles. Overall a really great and interesting read, well worth the time. Definitely holds your interest.
April 19, 2020
Brilliant story line with an insight into life in America . Love the detail that Claire adds to her books
May 14, 2020
I was hesitant to read this because it wasn't murder mystery mayhem. However, I trusted my "Claire's never written anything I didn't like" instinct and of course I wasn't disappointed. The trauma of an abusive relationship was well written as was the healing process with the burgeoning relationship with Hilary. Five year old Gracie, and sometimes Grace, was adorable. And of course, it's set in LA and I was happily surprised of the cameo of Cam Thomas. An exciting well written book that I recommend to read.
May 14, 2020
Good read
This one of my favorite authors & this is a sweet story about love, patience & two people making each other better. My only dislike was that the ending was a little abrupt.
This one of my favorite authors & this is a sweet story about love, patience & two people making each other better. My only dislike was that the ending was a little abrupt.
June 29, 2020
I liked the story. I still wonder if Hil changed her seat just to sit next to beautiful woman, or it was true. Than again, given chance I would of done same 😂
The story feels good, characters have depth and I truly enjoyed the ride alongside both of them.
I do wish it was longer!
The story feels good, characters have depth and I truly enjoyed the ride alongside both of them.
I do wish it was longer!
September 22, 2023
Loved the story! Hillary and Olivia are soo cute. And Claire's approach to handling some very tough topics was great.
September 4, 2020
While I’m not a fan of this type of cover design, I loved the book. (Don’t judge a book by its cover, right?)
Great story, wonderful characters, well written, very good dialogue.
Although In Dyer Need and it’s sequel are still my favorite books by this author, this one was a great read.
Great story, wonderful characters, well written, very good dialogue.
Although In Dyer Need and it’s sequel are still my favorite books by this author, this one was a great read.
October 19, 2020
A broken heart is just the beginning
About the discovery, uncertainty & passion of a relationship between two women— both bearing the scars from their previous exes, past violations & painful memories, as they attempt to find love & family in each other that can overcome & heal their damages!
About the discovery, uncertainty & passion of a relationship between two women— both bearing the scars from their previous exes, past violations & painful memories, as they attempt to find love & family in each other that can overcome & heal their damages!
September 1, 2020
Excellent!
Well defined characters and an engaging storyline make this book a must read for those who enjoy lesbian romance! Check it out!
Well defined characters and an engaging storyline make this book a must read for those who enjoy lesbian romance! Check it out!
April 29, 2020
A book on an important but rarely discussed topic that shows the reality of abusive same-sex relationships and how hard it is to move on and let go of your feelings for someone even when they treated you horribly. Olivia is in that spot with her ex, Ava. Fortunately she meets the lively and lovable Hillary, the exact opposite of Ava. Ava is all secrets and lies, while what you see is what you get with Hillary, a woman who is as full of life as Ava is dead inside! Olivia's little daughter Gracie is also a treat, and I particularly enjoyed the scenes with Olivia's mother, Cynthia, and her best friend, Joan, two aging actresses who love getting into trouble together. Claire Highton-Stevenson has a talent for bringing lovable characters to life, and this book is no exception!
April 29, 2020
Good Book
I enjoyed this story. Even though they had a few starts and stops to their relationship, they were meant to be together.
I enjoyed this story. Even though they had a few starts and stops to their relationship, they were meant to be together.
August 23, 2020
Excellent story 👏
June 14, 2020
Opposites attract
I enjoyed this book as the story flowed well and was interesting. I was invested in the romance of these ladies. I did feel it ended abruptly, but had a HEA.
I enjoyed this book as the story flowed well and was interesting. I was invested in the romance of these ladies. I did feel it ended abruptly, but had a HEA.
August 14, 2020
Fantastic read
I absolutely loved this book it was so well written. It broached upon a subject that isn't talked about enough and was handled beautifully. Olivia was phenomenal, strong yet soft, broken yet defiant. I fell in love with her and her strength of character and power of kindness. Gracie was just adorable such a cute addition to the story. Hilary was amazing as well so patient and loving and everything Olivia could want or need. The two of them together were gorgeous. Really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more of Claire's books
I absolutely loved this book it was so well written. It broached upon a subject that isn't talked about enough and was handled beautifully. Olivia was phenomenal, strong yet soft, broken yet defiant. I fell in love with her and her strength of character and power of kindness. Gracie was just adorable such a cute addition to the story. Hilary was amazing as well so patient and loving and everything Olivia could want or need. The two of them together were gorgeous. Really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more of Claire's books
April 20, 2020
Enjoyed this book of reintegrating into the US. Well written.
August 9, 2020
Wonderful
A very interesting book with a very intense story. There are so many characters involved but mixing nicely together producing a loveable and concrete story. Real dialogues, a lot of emotions and a lot of feelings. The only point I wanted to add is that the end felt a bit rushed, needed couple of more pages. All together an e
excellent book that I couldn’t stop reading it.
A very interesting book with a very intense story. There are so many characters involved but mixing nicely together producing a loveable and concrete story. Real dialogues, a lot of emotions and a lot of feelings. The only point I wanted to add is that the end felt a bit rushed, needed couple of more pages. All together an e
excellent book that I couldn’t stop reading it.
July 3, 2020
I think that
Ms Claire HE is an excellent writer. This is a other example of reasonably well drawn characters from a niche that is not familiar to many.
Ms Claire HE is an excellent writer. This is a other example of reasonably well drawn characters from a niche that is not familiar to many.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews