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Friends-with-benefits is a practical arrangement—until it becomes something else.
Arne’s easygoing nature is sorely tried the night his kitchen’s almost set on fire. It’s the fault of admin assistant Simon, a man Arne’s treated with suspicion ever since Simon joined the Haven Hotel team. But when he has Simon in his arms, injured, vulnerable, yet full of sexy, prickly spirit to match Arne’s own—he starts to rethink.
When Simon confesses he’s struggling with intimacy, and Arne offers his practical help as an escort, it’s only meant as a joke. Until Simon accepts. He’s inexperienced and nervous despite his confidence at work, and embraces Arne’s sensual, unashamed instruction very eagerly. Alongside the passion, a friendship blossoms—and the vulnerability becomes emotional, too.
But Arne’s always been too generous with both his time and his money. When he’s betrayed by someone he trusted, it hits him hard, and halts his plans to launch a cookery vlog. All Simon wants to do is help him in return, but Arne rejects him.
Maybe it’s time for Simon and their friends at the Haven to unite on behalf of Arne’s ambitions and dreams. And help both Simon and Arne decide if there’s a new direction they can share.
A novel in the Love at the Haven series. Each novel is a standalone romance and HEA, but the characters may make brief appearances in other books. And watch out for additional fun short stories in the series!
Arne’s easygoing nature is sorely tried the night his kitchen’s almost set on fire. It’s the fault of admin assistant Simon, a man Arne’s treated with suspicion ever since Simon joined the Haven Hotel team. But when he has Simon in his arms, injured, vulnerable, yet full of sexy, prickly spirit to match Arne’s own—he starts to rethink.
When Simon confesses he’s struggling with intimacy, and Arne offers his practical help as an escort, it’s only meant as a joke. Until Simon accepts. He’s inexperienced and nervous despite his confidence at work, and embraces Arne’s sensual, unashamed instruction very eagerly. Alongside the passion, a friendship blossoms—and the vulnerability becomes emotional, too.
But Arne’s always been too generous with both his time and his money. When he’s betrayed by someone he trusted, it hits him hard, and halts his plans to launch a cookery vlog. All Simon wants to do is help him in return, but Arne rejects him.
Maybe it’s time for Simon and their friends at the Haven to unite on behalf of Arne’s ambitions and dreams. And help both Simon and Arne decide if there’s a new direction they can share.
A novel in the Love at the Haven series. Each novel is a standalone romance and HEA, but the characters may make brief appearances in other books. And watch out for additional fun short stories in the series!
- GenresRomanceM M RomanceLGBT
206 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 27, 2021
About the author
Stella Shaw
14 books66 followersStella Shaw is a pen name of the best-selling author of MM romance, Clare London. Stella's series of Rent Boy romances, Love at the Haven, launched in January 2021.
Join Stella's newsletter at http://bit.ly/stellashawNews or find her on Facebook at StellaShawAuthor.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 28, 2023
Arne is the sixth book in the ‘Love at the Haven’ series. It stars Arne, a male escort, and Simon, an admin assistant at the Haven. This is told in first person from both Arne and Simon’s povs.
I’ve read all the books in the series up to this one so I’m familiar with the characters and what’s happening at the Haven. The story is about Arne and Simon’s relationship and finding courage to move forward after disappointment.
I think this is one of the better books in the series, it’s quite romantic in my opinion as Simon and Arne grow closer through sex, and talking about themselves. It moves along at a nice pace and has a lot of unresolved conflicted feelings between Arne and Simon until the end. The blurb does a good job of explaining the plot so I won’t rehash it much.
Simon’s boyfriend always criticized him about his lack of sexual technique, when in fact it’s Simon’s boyfriend who seemed to be afraid of sex and didn’t want Simon for anything other than a go-fer. Simon breaks up with the ex, then asks Arne for help in perfecting his sexual technique and trying every sexual adventure he possibly can. Arne is the perfect person to ask for help. As Arne teaches Simon, he falls in love. But here’s the problem with both Arne and Simon. They’ve both been burned by their ex’s. They also have trouble giving into their true feelings and expressing those feelings. Arne tends to be a vagabond and leaves or moves when pressure gets too much for him.
Arne is easy-going, builds up Simon’s confidence, and loves the idea of showing Simon what he’s been missing. He doesn’t take as many clients as the rest of the escorts at the Haven, instead preferring to be the chef, desk clerk, and doing any of the other maintenance on the property. Arne is a bit too easy going and people tend to take advantage of him, he also lacks the courage to get his cooking vlog up and running. Simon is uptight, probably because he tried too hard to fit into his ex’s business crowd, and because of his ex’s constant criticism, Simon is insecure and self-conscious. Once he and Arne became a couple, he was more relaxed and learned to speak up and take risks with his feelings. I could believe in Arne and Simon as a couple.
I enjoyed Arne. The story was romantic with just enough relationship conflict, and friends coming to the rescue. I recommend this to others. I give this book, 4 Stars
I’ve read all the books in the series up to this one so I’m familiar with the characters and what’s happening at the Haven. The story is about Arne and Simon’s relationship and finding courage to move forward after disappointment.
I think this is one of the better books in the series, it’s quite romantic in my opinion as Simon and Arne grow closer through sex, and talking about themselves. It moves along at a nice pace and has a lot of unresolved conflicted feelings between Arne and Simon until the end. The blurb does a good job of explaining the plot so I won’t rehash it much.
Simon’s boyfriend always criticized him about his lack of sexual technique, when in fact it’s Simon’s boyfriend who seemed to be afraid of sex and didn’t want Simon for anything other than a go-fer. Simon breaks up with the ex, then asks Arne for help in perfecting his sexual technique and trying every sexual adventure he possibly can. Arne is the perfect person to ask for help. As Arne teaches Simon, he falls in love. But here’s the problem with both Arne and Simon. They’ve both been burned by their ex’s. They also have trouble giving into their true feelings and expressing those feelings. Arne tends to be a vagabond and leaves or moves when pressure gets too much for him.
Arne is easy-going, builds up Simon’s confidence, and loves the idea of showing Simon what he’s been missing. He doesn’t take as many clients as the rest of the escorts at the Haven, instead preferring to be the chef, desk clerk, and doing any of the other maintenance on the property. Arne is a bit too easy going and people tend to take advantage of him, he also lacks the courage to get his cooking vlog up and running. Simon is uptight, probably because he tried too hard to fit into his ex’s business crowd, and because of his ex’s constant criticism, Simon is insecure and self-conscious. Once he and Arne became a couple, he was more relaxed and learned to speak up and take risks with his feelings. I could believe in Arne and Simon as a couple.
I enjoyed Arne. The story was romantic with just enough relationship conflict, and friends coming to the rescue. I recommend this to others. I give this book, 4 Stars
October 27, 2021
Another enjoyable read from Stella Shaw catching us up on those loveable rent boys from the Haven Hotel. This time it was the turn of Arne, the kind, thoughtful and dependable one who helped Rick with all the restructuring and DIY tasks needed when he took over the hotel and who helps Rick run the hotel and runs the kitchen.
In the other books whenever Arne was mentioned it was usually with Pyotr, his Russian friend with benefits who practically lived at the hotel and sponged off the kind hearted Arne but their relationship could be toxic at times and not good for Arne. When Pyotr went back to Russia for his brothers wedding it was the break they needed although Arne didn’t realise it at the time or realise just what Pyotr had done to him.
Simon worked on the top floor of the hotel for Elliott, Rick’s partner. He was shy, vulnerable and insecure and the constant put downs from his boyfriend of 6 months were doing nothing for his self esteem.
When Arne first met Simon he didn’t really take to him, thought he was too tightly buttoned up, always in a suit and tie with shiny shoes and not a hair out of place but an accident at the hotel brings them together and they start to get to know each other. They were an adorable couple bringing out the best in each other and helping each other grow.
As with all the books we get to reconnect with some of the previous characters and always at the heart of anything that goes on at the Haven is Tom. I loved the way he took control of the project and his bottomless bag of hats, wigs, shoes and vintage clothes was wonderful.
A good fun read with low angst.
In the other books whenever Arne was mentioned it was usually with Pyotr, his Russian friend with benefits who practically lived at the hotel and sponged off the kind hearted Arne but their relationship could be toxic at times and not good for Arne. When Pyotr went back to Russia for his brothers wedding it was the break they needed although Arne didn’t realise it at the time or realise just what Pyotr had done to him.
Simon worked on the top floor of the hotel for Elliott, Rick’s partner. He was shy, vulnerable and insecure and the constant put downs from his boyfriend of 6 months were doing nothing for his self esteem.
When Arne first met Simon he didn’t really take to him, thought he was too tightly buttoned up, always in a suit and tie with shiny shoes and not a hair out of place but an accident at the hotel brings them together and they start to get to know each other. They were an adorable couple bringing out the best in each other and helping each other grow.
As with all the books we get to reconnect with some of the previous characters and always at the heart of anything that goes on at the Haven is Tom. I loved the way he took control of the project and his bottomless bag of hats, wigs, shoes and vintage clothes was wonderful.
A good fun read with low angst.
December 19, 2021
3.75 Stars rounded up
I was really looking forward to Arne's story because he was at the Haven Hotel before anyone else. He's been the backbone of the transition to what it is today. Part-time cook for all the lads, and part-time escort for some extra cash, Arne is usually laid back about most things, except he takes cooking and feeding others seriously. It's something he developed the passion for from his Uncle Jonas, who helped raise him.
I hate cooking after a very fussy husband and children. So I'm not fussed with it in stories and it probably went on a bit too long for me, especially around the vlog. I felt Simon got a bit short-changed, as did some of the spicier details between them. It was still delightful to read, and my other guys are littered throughout and help Arne, as they do one another, but not quite 4 stars for this one. Overall, I'm really enjoying this series. It's an especially joyful, uplifting series in troubled times.
I was really looking forward to Arne's story because he was at the Haven Hotel before anyone else. He's been the backbone of the transition to what it is today. Part-time cook for all the lads, and part-time escort for some extra cash, Arne is usually laid back about most things, except he takes cooking and feeding others seriously. It's something he developed the passion for from his Uncle Jonas, who helped raise him.
I hate cooking after a very fussy husband and children. So I'm not fussed with it in stories and it probably went on a bit too long for me, especially around the vlog. I felt Simon got a bit short-changed, as did some of the spicier details between them. It was still delightful to read, and my other guys are littered throughout and help Arne, as they do one another, but not quite 4 stars for this one. Overall, I'm really enjoying this series. It's an especially joyful, uplifting series in troubled times.
November 1, 2021
Even rent boys deserve love
I have already inhaled all the previous books in this series and I'm completely hooked. Stella has created a series about rent boys working out of a rundown London hotel and made all the characters sympathetic and real. Each book is better than the last.
Arne has been a constant presence since the series began, keeping the Haven Hotel ticking over before Rick inherited it, then helping Rick with building maintenance, manning reception, and always cooking for all the rent boys and the owners. He has been in the background mostly, except when his on-off relationship with Pyotr exploded loudly.
Simon works for Eliot, the co-owner, their business based in the hotel. He has been a bit of a mystery but now announces his presence when he sets Arne's kitchen on fire.
Arne is a kind and generous soul, always helping everyone out, giving them all his time and his last penny. He doesn't think he deserves love and that hurt my heart.
Simon is inquisitive, always eager to learn, taking courses in all sorts of fields to keep his mind busy. He had a nasty boyfriend who is just a user, and he wants more than that but doesn't know how to ask for it. I just wanted to give him a hug.
Arne and Simon suddenly discover a mutual attraction when Arne takes care of Simon after the kitchen fire, but neither one knows how the other feels and cannot articulate their own feelings. They are dancing around each other, both of them hampered by their lack of self-worth and their
inexperience of true love.
Their story really got to me. Arne's generous nature has left him with very little, personally and financially. It takes a huge betrayal to make him rethink his life, and his friends to rethink how they take him and everything he does for granted. Only Simon sees the real Arne, who he really is and how much he does without reward or recognition. Simon's inexperience in the bedroom is something that Arne can help him with, as a friendly sexual therapist, and their chemistry sizzles right from the first time the door to Room Six closes behind them.
I loved seeing glimpses of Rick and Eliot, more of Felix and Liam, and a lot of Tom (obviously!). Felix and Liam were my favourite couple until now but I think they need to move over and share the top of the podium. Arne and Simon just shone out of the pages and the strength of their love was beautiful.
I have already inhaled all the previous books in this series and I'm completely hooked. Stella has created a series about rent boys working out of a rundown London hotel and made all the characters sympathetic and real. Each book is better than the last.
Arne has been a constant presence since the series began, keeping the Haven Hotel ticking over before Rick inherited it, then helping Rick with building maintenance, manning reception, and always cooking for all the rent boys and the owners. He has been in the background mostly, except when his on-off relationship with Pyotr exploded loudly.
Simon works for Eliot, the co-owner, their business based in the hotel. He has been a bit of a mystery but now announces his presence when he sets Arne's kitchen on fire.
Arne is a kind and generous soul, always helping everyone out, giving them all his time and his last penny. He doesn't think he deserves love and that hurt my heart.
Simon is inquisitive, always eager to learn, taking courses in all sorts of fields to keep his mind busy. He had a nasty boyfriend who is just a user, and he wants more than that but doesn't know how to ask for it. I just wanted to give him a hug.
Arne and Simon suddenly discover a mutual attraction when Arne takes care of Simon after the kitchen fire, but neither one knows how the other feels and cannot articulate their own feelings. They are dancing around each other, both of them hampered by their lack of self-worth and their
inexperience of true love.
Their story really got to me. Arne's generous nature has left him with very little, personally and financially. It takes a huge betrayal to make him rethink his life, and his friends to rethink how they take him and everything he does for granted. Only Simon sees the real Arne, who he really is and how much he does without reward or recognition. Simon's inexperience in the bedroom is something that Arne can help him with, as a friendly sexual therapist, and their chemistry sizzles right from the first time the door to Room Six closes behind them.
I loved seeing glimpses of Rick and Eliot, more of Felix and Liam, and a lot of Tom (obviously!). Felix and Liam were my favourite couple until now but I think they need to move over and share the top of the podium. Arne and Simon just shone out of the pages and the strength of their love was beautiful.
November 13, 2021
ARNE by Stella Shaw
I love this author, and nothing wil keep me from reading everything she writes!
I adore the way Stella tells a story in such a down to earth, relatable way.
However, I must be honest. What I missed in this one, was the underlying humour that is always prevalent in Stella's stories. Don't misunderstand, there were moments of humour too, but this story, for me, came across as more serious than the other books in this series.
I loved both main characters. I really felt for Simon in particular.
There was unmistakable chemistry between Simon and Arne, but their story seemed to lack the sizzle and deep romantic elements I was hoping for. In fact, this book seemed to focus more on the cooking/vlog aspects of their story, putting their romance and their coming together a bit into the background. Almost as if their love story was incidental.
This is, for all intents and purposes, an extremely slow burn romance with our mcs only truly "coming together" in the second last chapter.
This one, as always with this author's work, is well written and engaging with very few typos and no inconsistencies. I just hoped, also, that we could have been told how old Arne is. (we were informed that Richard is 29 and Simon, 23, but I had no idea how to relate to Arne, because knowing the character's age is very significant to me.)
So, though I can recommend this (and definitely all books in the series) it was not my favourite.
My rating would be 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.
° Can be read as a standalone, but since there is prolific interaction with all characters from the series, it is definitely best appreciated to read the books in order of release.
° Heat/steam around 2.5 🔥
° Disclaimer : I read this complementary copy as part of Stella's arc team and my review is honest and voluntary.
I love this author, and nothing wil keep me from reading everything she writes!
I adore the way Stella tells a story in such a down to earth, relatable way.
However, I must be honest. What I missed in this one, was the underlying humour that is always prevalent in Stella's stories. Don't misunderstand, there were moments of humour too, but this story, for me, came across as more serious than the other books in this series.
I loved both main characters. I really felt for Simon in particular.
There was unmistakable chemistry between Simon and Arne, but their story seemed to lack the sizzle and deep romantic elements I was hoping for. In fact, this book seemed to focus more on the cooking/vlog aspects of their story, putting their romance and their coming together a bit into the background. Almost as if their love story was incidental.
This is, for all intents and purposes, an extremely slow burn romance with our mcs only truly "coming together" in the second last chapter.
This one, as always with this author's work, is well written and engaging with very few typos and no inconsistencies. I just hoped, also, that we could have been told how old Arne is. (we were informed that Richard is 29 and Simon, 23, but I had no idea how to relate to Arne, because knowing the character's age is very significant to me.)
So, though I can recommend this (and definitely all books in the series) it was not my favourite.
My rating would be 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.
° Can be read as a standalone, but since there is prolific interaction with all characters from the series, it is definitely best appreciated to read the books in order of release.
° Heat/steam around 2.5 🔥
° Disclaimer : I read this complementary copy as part of Stella's arc team and my review is honest and voluntary.
December 16, 2021
Oh, Arne. He’s been my favorite character in the series so far, and I was excited for his story, which did not disappoint. It’s nice to see someone who’s normally the solid and steady one get a chance to be the focus, and I liked the way he and Simon fit together so much. Simon definitely ended up growing on me over the course of the story, and by the time it was done, I kind of didn’t want to let them go. There’s plenty of sweetness, a bit of heat, and a chance to see other characters in the series again here, so definitely check it out.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2022
In all the Haven Hotel stories, Arne’s was the one I was waiting for the most. Arne seems to be the most laid back off all the guys. Simon works for Eliot, one of the co-owners of the business. I loved Simon and Arne, both men were so giving and kind!! Their chemistry is hot and steamy! Loved them so much!! I especially love how er get glimpses of all the rent boys and their pairings. Overall, a really great read! The story was really well written, the fast pacing flowed smoothly, highly recommend. I am voluntarily leaving a review form an advanced copy that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
October 26, 2021
I love this series and all the boys of the Haven Hotel so I was so excited to read Arne’s story. Arne is so lovely and giving and he is exactly who the adorable Simon needs after he splits from his obnoxious ex. They are wonderful together and so supportive of each other.
It was great to also catch up with some of the others from the Hotel and they round out the story delightfully.
This was a fun, sweet, easy to read story, with heat and very little angst that I very much enjoyed reading.
I was gifted an ARC of this book to review and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
It was great to also catch up with some of the others from the Hotel and they round out the story delightfully.
This was a fun, sweet, easy to read story, with heat and very little angst that I very much enjoyed reading.
I was gifted an ARC of this book to review and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
November 3, 2021
This was a sweet, low angst story of Arne, the cook at the Haven hotel. This book introduces a new character, the adorable Simon. There are changes in both characters relationships and they help each other through it as their friendship grows. I have enjoyed all the books in this series and this one was no different. All books can be read as a standalone, but I do recommend reading them all in order as all most of the characters through out all the books make their apperances.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
July 5, 2022
This is a terrific series, and I love this addition. Simon's businesslike appearance hides insecurities, curiosity, and a tender heart. The more experienced Arte is just who Simon needs in his life. For his part, Arne doesn't think he will ever be part of a loving couple, but Simon makes him want to try.
These two develop a friends with benefits relationship that turns into more almost right away, and I love every moment. The other escorts are here, and the found family is a wonderful group. I definitely recommend this very enjoyable series, which is sexy and full of heart.
These two develop a friends with benefits relationship that turns into more almost right away, and I love every moment. The other escorts are here, and the found family is a wonderful group. I definitely recommend this very enjoyable series, which is sexy and full of heart.
October 26, 2021
I really enjoyed this one and think that Arne might be my favourite in this series so far. The relationship between Simon and Arne developed so organically and I loved how through their relationship they both discovered for themselves that they deserved better than how they had been treated in past relationships. I loved how Simon seemed to get past the gruff exterior and we got to see just how sweet Arne could be!
October 28, 2021
Simon came across as quite innocent although he had enrolled in many courses, yet not mastering any. Arne took him under his wing when he burnt a meal in the oven setting the alarm off and causing smoke to billow in the kitchen. A hot start to a future steamy relationship.
The sixth book in love @the haven series and just as entertaining as the others.
I received a copy and this is my honest review.
The sixth book in love @the haven series and just as entertaining as the others.
I received a copy and this is my honest review.
October 26, 2021
Arne is the sixth book in the series and follows Arne and Simon's story. It is an overall quick and steamy read with a nice storyline and interesting characters. Well worth the read and great reading the other rent-boy's stories in the Haven hotel. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 26, 2021
Richard was so dismissive of Simon it hurt my heart. He was just an arrogant user of people and disposed of people when he was done with them! Ugh!
Pyotr-omg! I'm seeing red over this one. What a ruthless user! What a triumphant moment when Simon and Richard reconnected at the bar. Yay Simon!!! When Simon and Arne finally communicated it was magic, and that ending was closure and bliss.
Pyotr-omg! I'm seeing red over this one. What a ruthless user! What a triumphant moment when Simon and Richard reconnected at the bar. Yay Simon!!! When Simon and Arne finally communicated it was magic, and that ending was closure and bliss.
November 19, 2021
I loved Arne! He was always such a cool guy in the other books, but getting to know him better made me love him even more. Simon was a great guy also. They were super sweet together. I hated what they both had to go through with their awful exes, but they deserved to find happiness. I'm glad they found it together.
May 7, 2022
Arne was at the hotel before anyone else, he cooked for everyone and also was an escort part time. Simon went to work there as an accountant and helped with the side jobs that they all had going. One night things started changing between them after Simon was working in Arnie’s kitchen and almost caught it on fire. Arne took care of his hand and more, they fit together. Good book!
November 11, 2021
Arne was sweet. It was nice to finally see the Haven support him for a change, as throughout the series he has been the one to help others. While not my favourite in the series, this one is well worth a read! (Few extra giggles in this one as well).
November 30, 2021
Sweet
I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who wants low angst with a HEA. The story is about cooking and falling in love. There are some hot scenes which is not just the fire in the kitchen! Read it quickly and would re-read.
I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who wants low angst with a HEA. The story is about cooking and falling in love. There are some hot scenes which is not just the fire in the kitchen! Read it quickly and would re-read.
November 14, 2021
Loving this series.
Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 17, 2024
3.75 stars
November 5, 2025
2,5 stars.
December 18, 2021
“A physical attraction is often desired above many things but you’ll discover it to be short lived. Find yourself someone that gets under your skin, seduces the dusty corners of your heart, and provides you with a mental connection. That is when you’ll know true intimacy.” M.J. Abraham
Besides being an escort at the Haven, Arne, of ‘Arne’ by Stella Shaw, also is the chef. Since Simon started working as the accountant, there’s been little interaction between Simon and Arne until Simon made a mistake in Arne’s “territory” – the kitchen – and almost burned it down, injuring himself in the process. Arne wants to be angry with him, but Simon looks so devastated Arne can’t help but comfort him instead. Putting his arms around Simon leads to a reaction Arne doesn’t expect, and Arne doesn’t know what to do with the protective response it solicits.
After Arne comforts Simon and bandages his burned hand, he sends him home. When his self-absorbed boyfriend sees his hand, he is upset Simon won’t be driving him to a party even though Simon is too hurt to attend. Instead of powering through the pain and taking him anyway, Simon refuses. When comparing Arne’s compassion and concern to his boyfriend’s lack thereof, he can’t be bothered to be upset.
Considering Simon’s abysmal failure in the kitchen, Arne agrees to give him cooking lessons. Simon will never be a great cook, but he makes up in enthusiasm, what he doesn’t have in skill. It’s time they both look forward to. They talk about anything and everything and soon become close friends. When the subject of sex comes up, Simon confides that his knowledge and experience are sorely lacking, and he would like to learn more to please his boyfriend. With a lustful smile, Arne tells him that is something he could help him with.
Arne is a generous and compassionate man. Although a good man, he is often taken advantage of. Putting himself first is a foreign idea; he has never thought of himself as someone worthy of such concern. When Simon tries to fill that role, Arne doesn’t know how to react. Fortunately, he comes to his senses and realizes that he does deserve to be happy and loved. Thanks, Stella, for a sensual and romantic story.
Besides being an escort at the Haven, Arne, of ‘Arne’ by Stella Shaw, also is the chef. Since Simon started working as the accountant, there’s been little interaction between Simon and Arne until Simon made a mistake in Arne’s “territory” – the kitchen – and almost burned it down, injuring himself in the process. Arne wants to be angry with him, but Simon looks so devastated Arne can’t help but comfort him instead. Putting his arms around Simon leads to a reaction Arne doesn’t expect, and Arne doesn’t know what to do with the protective response it solicits.
After Arne comforts Simon and bandages his burned hand, he sends him home. When his self-absorbed boyfriend sees his hand, he is upset Simon won’t be driving him to a party even though Simon is too hurt to attend. Instead of powering through the pain and taking him anyway, Simon refuses. When comparing Arne’s compassion and concern to his boyfriend’s lack thereof, he can’t be bothered to be upset.
Considering Simon’s abysmal failure in the kitchen, Arne agrees to give him cooking lessons. Simon will never be a great cook, but he makes up in enthusiasm, what he doesn’t have in skill. It’s time they both look forward to. They talk about anything and everything and soon become close friends. When the subject of sex comes up, Simon confides that his knowledge and experience are sorely lacking, and he would like to learn more to please his boyfriend. With a lustful smile, Arne tells him that is something he could help him with.
Arne is a generous and compassionate man. Although a good man, he is often taken advantage of. Putting himself first is a foreign idea; he has never thought of himself as someone worthy of such concern. When Simon tries to fill that role, Arne doesn’t know how to react. Fortunately, he comes to his senses and realizes that he does deserve to be happy and loved. Thanks, Stella, for a sensual and romantic story.
November 16, 2022
The lovely aspect of this story is that we've already met both Arne, resident cook at the Haven and all-round helper to owner Rick, and Simon, the super-efficient administrator, as they have warily circled around each other, both anxious the other will displace their role.
It was lovely to learn more about them both as they displayed some vulnerability, and in helping the other, they find so much more. Another heart-warming Haven tale.
It was lovely to learn more about them both as they displayed some vulnerability, and in helping the other, they find so much more. Another heart-warming Haven tale.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews