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Style #2
Strut
New Zealand farm boy turns New York fashion model. Fairy tale? Maybe. But it hasn’t been easy. A year in this crazy city, working my tail off just to survive in a ruthless industry where sex sells and boundaries are too readily crossed.
A year and a reassuring ocean away from Hunter Donovan—a sexy, humiliating mistake that I’m not about to repeat. Distance is good. Distance is safe.
But now Hunter is back. In New York. In my life. In all those treacherous feelings that haven’t gone anywhere. But when my world suddenly crashes and I have to piece myself back together and fight for my career, will Hunter be there when I need him? Will we have what it takes to make it through this, together?
A year and a reassuring ocean away from Hunter Donovan—a sexy, humiliating mistake that I’m not about to repeat. Distance is good. Distance is safe.
But now Hunter is back. In New York. In my life. In all those treacherous feelings that haven’t gone anywhere. But when my world suddenly crashes and I have to piece myself back together and fight for my career, will Hunter be there when I need him? Will we have what it takes to make it through this, together?
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2022
90 people are currently reading
394 people want to read
About the author
Jay Hogan
25 books917 followersHeart, humour and keeping it real.
I am a two times Lambda Literary Award Finalist—2020 for DIGGING DEEP and 2024 for THE ART OF HUSBANDRY.
I have also received the The Romance Writers of New Zealand 2021 Romance Book of The Year Award for OFF BALANCE.
I am a New Zealand author writing mm romance and romantic suspense primarily set in my home country. I write character driven romances with lots of humour, a good dose of reality, and a splash of angst. I’ve travelled extensively, lived in many countries, and in a past life I worked as a critical care nurse and a counsellor. My family love and somehow put up with me, and my gorgeous Cocker Spaniel thinks I spend too much time at my desk but keeps my feet warm.
Join my reader group to keep up with my news.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/hogan...
You can also find me at:
https://www.jayhoganauthor.com where you can buy my audiobooks direct at a discount.
https://www.facebook.com/JayHoganAuthor
I am a two times Lambda Literary Award Finalist—2020 for DIGGING DEEP and 2024 for THE ART OF HUSBANDRY.
I have also received the The Romance Writers of New Zealand 2021 Romance Book of The Year Award for OFF BALANCE.
I am a New Zealand author writing mm romance and romantic suspense primarily set in my home country. I write character driven romances with lots of humour, a good dose of reality, and a splash of angst. I’ve travelled extensively, lived in many countries, and in a past life I worked as a critical care nurse and a counsellor. My family love and somehow put up with me, and my gorgeous Cocker Spaniel thinks I spend too much time at my desk but keeps my feet warm.
Join my reader group to keep up with my news.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/hogan...
You can also find me at:
https://www.jayhoganauthor.com where you can buy my audiobooks direct at a discount.
https://www.facebook.com/JayHoganAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
July 1, 2022
Jay Hogan has such a talent for addressing complex and complicated issues without ever making the book a depressing drag into the darkness.
Here in her second book set in the world of fashion, she looks at the appalling way models can be subjected to both casual mishandling and full on sexual assaults, alongside the abject lack of responsibility on the part of model agencies to police what happens on photo shoots.
Our protagonists are the wonderful farm boy turned New York-based model Alec and top photographer Hunter who were last seen flirting up a storm in Ryan's book Flare. We find out they had a steamy but somewhat fraught encounter in the back of a pub after Ryan's show and then Hunter did a runner.
So when their paths cross once more, Alec is determined not to let his bruised heart get any more damaged by the flighty photographer. What we get next though is a beautiful story of second chances, of two men falling in love because they're destined to be together.
And two men who, when things get really tough (read the trigger warnings), must fight to keep everything together as they fall ever more deeply in love.
This book was un-put-downable from the moment I first started reading until I got to the very fulfilling epilogue a few hours later. The chemistry between Alec and Hunter is scorching, they spark off each other with biting wit, humour, tenderness and a lot of exchanges of control.
I loved both of them dearly but Alec stole my heart because he shows such courage in how he deals with the major plot point at the centre of the narrative and Hunter proves beyond any shadow of a doubt that his running days are behind him as he builds a solid rock for Alec to lean upon.
With guest appearances from Rhys and Kip, Jay kept the pacing tight but never overly rushed and I'm now eagerly waiting for book three when Kip will finally get his ever after!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
Here in her second book set in the world of fashion, she looks at the appalling way models can be subjected to both casual mishandling and full on sexual assaults, alongside the abject lack of responsibility on the part of model agencies to police what happens on photo shoots.
Our protagonists are the wonderful farm boy turned New York-based model Alec and top photographer Hunter who were last seen flirting up a storm in Ryan's book Flare. We find out they had a steamy but somewhat fraught encounter in the back of a pub after Ryan's show and then Hunter did a runner.
So when their paths cross once more, Alec is determined not to let his bruised heart get any more damaged by the flighty photographer. What we get next though is a beautiful story of second chances, of two men falling in love because they're destined to be together.
And two men who, when things get really tough (read the trigger warnings), must fight to keep everything together as they fall ever more deeply in love.
This book was un-put-downable from the moment I first started reading until I got to the very fulfilling epilogue a few hours later. The chemistry between Alec and Hunter is scorching, they spark off each other with biting wit, humour, tenderness and a lot of exchanges of control.
I loved both of them dearly but Alec stole my heart because he shows such courage in how he deals with the major plot point at the centre of the narrative and Hunter proves beyond any shadow of a doubt that his running days are behind him as he builds a solid rock for Alec to lean upon.
With guest appearances from Rhys and Kip, Jay kept the pacing tight but never overly rushed and I'm now eagerly waiting for book three when Kip will finally get his ever after!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
July 15, 2022
Not sure yet how to rate.
So, okay, I've decided on 3 stars.
I'll tell you why.
Jay Hogan is one of those authors that I enjoy reading. Her writing is powerful but gentle, and her characters are always dimensional. She doesn't shy away from certain topics, and it's not so difficult to see she spends her time researching.
And there comes the but...
But this time, the book didn't work for me as I hoped it would. There are several reasons that it didn't.
The story is about a small town boy from New Zealand, Alec, who gets discovered as a model, moves to New York and tries to make it there. Back in New Zealand, about a year ago, he had a hot encounter with a well known photographer, which was short lived, but left Alec secretly pining after Hunter for the years to follow, even though he's angry with him for leaving without a word.
In New York they meet again, and Hunter begs him for a second chance. He's admitted he acted wrong, but it was out of fear for getting too attached and he never was looking for a relationship after having been in a hurtful one.
After they had a good and long talk about what happened, they decide to give it another try. And that's one of the reasons the story didn't work for me. It all went from zero to hundred in two seconds flat. I didn't buy how fast they fell for each other, how quickly their relationship evolved into this serious thing where they moved in with each other almost right away. And I think that because it all went too fast, I didn't feel the connection. Not between them, but also not with the characters themselves. It started off fine and interesting, but it went a bit downhill after they got together.
Then, when they get real serious, Alec is assaulted and that takes over the main story. I think it's a good thing to write about it, because let's be honest, it happens. And a lot more than we know. It's good to tell about it, even if it's in a fictional story. This sensitive topic never was an issue for me, because the way it was written, felt very realistic to me. What did bother me a bit was that Hunter and Alec tried to solve things with having sex. As if it's a magical cure for everything. It's not. And when you are sexually assaulted, I can imagine the opposite - sex becomes something different. But those are choices the author makes, and that's fine. It just didn't work for me.
Also, Jay Hogan uses some of her phrases on repeat and that starts to get on my nerves when reading further into the book. For example the phrase 'fucking hell' is used multiple times, as well as 'go figure' when reading an inner dialogue, and there are more. When you start to notice them, you can't not notice them. So yes, they started to annoy me.
This was my first book in this series, and though it can be read as a stand alone, I did have the feeling it would have been better if I'd read the first book as well. Rhys is quite present in this one, and not really knowing his back ground, felt like I was missing out.
I did find Tim's story interesting, I'm hoping to find out more about him!
All in all, the writing is solid and powerful, hence my 3 stars rating. And I can see lots of readers loving this. There's a sensitive topic, which added to my rating as well. But the romance between Alec and Hunter just didn't really work for me, and that's totally on me.
I received an ARC and this is my honest, unbiased opinion.
So, okay, I've decided on 3 stars.
I'll tell you why.
Jay Hogan is one of those authors that I enjoy reading. Her writing is powerful but gentle, and her characters are always dimensional. She doesn't shy away from certain topics, and it's not so difficult to see she spends her time researching.
And there comes the but...
But this time, the book didn't work for me as I hoped it would. There are several reasons that it didn't.
The story is about a small town boy from New Zealand, Alec, who gets discovered as a model, moves to New York and tries to make it there. Back in New Zealand, about a year ago, he had a hot encounter with a well known photographer, which was short lived, but left Alec secretly pining after Hunter for the years to follow, even though he's angry with him for leaving without a word.
In New York they meet again, and Hunter begs him for a second chance. He's admitted he acted wrong, but it was out of fear for getting too attached and he never was looking for a relationship after having been in a hurtful one.
After they had a good and long talk about what happened, they decide to give it another try. And that's one of the reasons the story didn't work for me. It all went from zero to hundred in two seconds flat. I didn't buy how fast they fell for each other, how quickly their relationship evolved into this serious thing where they moved in with each other almost right away. And I think that because it all went too fast, I didn't feel the connection. Not between them, but also not with the characters themselves. It started off fine and interesting, but it went a bit downhill after they got together.
Then, when they get real serious, Alec is assaulted and that takes over the main story. I think it's a good thing to write about it, because let's be honest, it happens. And a lot more than we know. It's good to tell about it, even if it's in a fictional story. This sensitive topic never was an issue for me, because the way it was written, felt very realistic to me. What did bother me a bit was that Hunter and Alec tried to solve things with having sex. As if it's a magical cure for everything. It's not. And when you are sexually assaulted, I can imagine the opposite - sex becomes something different. But those are choices the author makes, and that's fine. It just didn't work for me.
Also, Jay Hogan uses some of her phrases on repeat and that starts to get on my nerves when reading further into the book. For example the phrase 'fucking hell' is used multiple times, as well as 'go figure' when reading an inner dialogue, and there are more. When you start to notice them, you can't not notice them. So yes, they started to annoy me.
This was my first book in this series, and though it can be read as a stand alone, I did have the feeling it would have been better if I'd read the first book as well. Rhys is quite present in this one, and not really knowing his back ground, felt like I was missing out.
I did find Tim's story interesting, I'm hoping to find out more about him!
All in all, the writing is solid and powerful, hence my 3 stars rating. And I can see lots of readers loving this. There's a sensitive topic, which added to my rating as well. But the romance between Alec and Hunter just didn't really work for me, and that's totally on me.
I received an ARC and this is my honest, unbiased opinion.
March 12, 2023
I liked this book much more than book 1.
Possible spoilers in review:
I loved Hunter & Alec they were both so sweet. I thought the way the author wrote sexual assault was so well done, especially the ignoring your gut feelings, telling yourself you’re overreacting, then later telling yourself you must have imagined everything. It was all very well done and well written.
I would say this book is less of a romance novel and more of a book about workplace sexual assault and the aftermath of that. The romance took a back seat to the assault story line. While it was very well done, the romance plot was really secondary.
Possible spoilers in review:
I loved Hunter & Alec they were both so sweet. I thought the way the author wrote sexual assault was so well done, especially the ignoring your gut feelings, telling yourself you’re overreacting, then later telling yourself you must have imagined everything. It was all very well done and well written.
I would say this book is less of a romance novel and more of a book about workplace sexual assault and the aftermath of that. The romance took a back seat to the assault story line. While it was very well done, the romance plot was really secondary.
Read
November 7, 2022Time of death: 43%
Why quit, you ask, even though I like the author and her writing style?
Well I think the first reason is that there’s the theme of sexual assault. It’s a trigger for me, and my stomach clenched when I read about it. Yes, it’s not bad (at least not yet? Who knows what happens next…). But it fills me with anger, and with dread, because I’m afraid of what might happen next.
Then there’s the whole modeling business - again, probably realistic, I trust the author to have done her research. The models are bound by strict contracts, housed in crammed apartments by their agencies, and barely paid. It’s very hard to read about it, and imagine all the not even legal aged young people, full of hopes and dreams, only to end up in an industry (because that’s what it is after all) that exploits them and that’s so bad on their physical and mental health.
And finally, the connection between Hunter and Alec - I just don’t feel it. They have a history, so the part I like most about romances (the first contact, the butterflies, the prowl)- it’s all missing and they jump right into it.
Sorry, but I don’t root for them at this point.
So I decided to cut it short - I won’t rate it because there’s too much story left that could - maybe - sway me and I don’t want to be unfair.
A shame really, I’ve been looking forward to reading it.
Why quit, you ask, even though I like the author and her writing style?
Well I think the first reason is that there’s the theme of sexual assault. It’s a trigger for me, and my stomach clenched when I read about it. Yes, it’s not bad (at least not yet? Who knows what happens next…). But it fills me with anger, and with dread, because I’m afraid of what might happen next.
Then there’s the whole modeling business - again, probably realistic, I trust the author to have done her research. The models are bound by strict contracts, housed in crammed apartments by their agencies, and barely paid. It’s very hard to read about it, and imagine all the not even legal aged young people, full of hopes and dreams, only to end up in an industry (because that’s what it is after all) that exploits them and that’s so bad on their physical and mental health.
And finally, the connection between Hunter and Alec - I just don’t feel it. They have a history, so the part I like most about romances (the first contact, the butterflies, the prowl)- it’s all missing and they jump right into it.
Sorry, but I don’t root for them at this point.
So I decided to cut it short - I won’t rate it because there’s too much story left that could - maybe - sway me and I don’t want to be unfair.
A shame really, I’ve been looking forward to reading it.
August 2, 2022
We met Alec, the young man unexpectedly finding his talent as a model, and Hunter, the photographer, in book 1, but IMO this could be read alone with only a tiny loss of context. Alec is now working in New York, in the stable of a big agency but only on the brink of breaking through. He's still going to every audition call he can, still counting every penny and sharing an apartment with a bunch of other models. He's good, he knows it, and he's slowly getting more work, but any little thing could derail him.
When Hunter arrives in America and can't resist looking Alec up, their chemistry is still powerful. But they live on opposite sides of the globe, and getting together could be a really bad idea. One steamy encounter in the past crashed badly, and Alec in particular is shy about getting burned again. But in a cut-throat industry, where even friends are sometimes the competition, and where models are often pricey pieces of meat to the folks in charge, having someone who cares about him as a person and would be on his side appeals to Alec. Despite all the people around him, he's been lonely. And for Hunter, that undeniable connection is something he's finding it hard to fight.
This story looks at the underside of modeling - the hold the studios and photographers have on the models, the ease with which objectification can become abuse, and how hard it can be for men with no power to speak up. While I loved Alec, and liked Hunter a lot, they weren't my favorite Hogan couple, and yet their situation and the story dragged me along into a one-sitting read. As with book 1, sexual abuse is a plot focus, and I thought it was well-balanced here, with both the angst and the consequences (and in some ways, lack thereof.) And the acknowledgement that in other situations, there had been, and would be, no consequences at all. The HEA is solid, not unrealistic, and this book is one more reason Jay Hogan is an autobuy author for me.
When Hunter arrives in America and can't resist looking Alec up, their chemistry is still powerful. But they live on opposite sides of the globe, and getting together could be a really bad idea. One steamy encounter in the past crashed badly, and Alec in particular is shy about getting burned again. But in a cut-throat industry, where even friends are sometimes the competition, and where models are often pricey pieces of meat to the folks in charge, having someone who cares about him as a person and would be on his side appeals to Alec. Despite all the people around him, he's been lonely. And for Hunter, that undeniable connection is something he's finding it hard to fight.
This story looks at the underside of modeling - the hold the studios and photographers have on the models, the ease with which objectification can become abuse, and how hard it can be for men with no power to speak up. While I loved Alec, and liked Hunter a lot, they weren't my favorite Hogan couple, and yet their situation and the story dragged me along into a one-sitting read. As with book 1, sexual abuse is a plot focus, and I thought it was well-balanced here, with both the angst and the consequences (and in some ways, lack thereof.) And the acknowledgement that in other situations, there had been, and would be, no consequences at all. The HEA is solid, not unrealistic, and this book is one more reason Jay Hogan is an autobuy author for me.
July 17, 2022
This was one of those books that's hard to review because I thoroughly enjoyed most aspects of it, but the one thing that was missing is the one thing I put the most weight on in romance novels - the initial connection. I got fleeting glimpses of Hunter and Alec in Flare. It was obvious something was going on between them, but it was just enough insight to spark interest. Nothing definitive or even talked about outside of speculation. So when this book dropped me into Alec's life a year after what went down between him and Hunter with only vague remembrances of "that night", I felt disconnected to their past together and that feeling never really went away. I was told they both felt certain things for each other back then, but I would have liked to have seen it for myself.
What I did like and found really interesting was that the relationship started before the trauma. In most books I've read, MC's bring their past traumas into the relationship. Hunter and Alec had some doubts and trust issues to work through in the beginning, but the event that changed their dynamic and the path of their relationship happened in the middle of the book. The unfortunate repercussion was that the romance took a backseat to the new plot, but I was okay with that. I appreciated the messaging and the awareness that #MeToo is not a woman-only movement. Sexual assault, regardless of gender, should never be accepted as par for the course and Alec's story was an eye-opening example of the work that still needs to be done.
Another thing I liked was that Alec fought against his role as a victim. He struggled with what happened, but he didn't cower in fear or hide or let Hunter be a hero to his damsel in distress. He took what little power he had in the situation, shored himself up with the strength of his closest allies and came out swinging, win or lose. I loved that for him. And I loved how supportive Hunter was of him. For someone who was inexperienced in being a boyfriend, he was pretty damn good at it.
I will say I was surprised by the amount of sex there was in this book. Not only because it's not typical of this author, but because so much of this book focused on sexual assault. Maybe it was to break a stereotype that sexual repulsion is a textbook symptom of assault when that's probably more of an assumption than a fact. Maybe it was to show the act of taking power back. Maybe I watch too much TV. It wasn't necessarily a bad thing because each scene was both fun and incredibly hot. Their chemistry was off the charts and their cute banter and playful arguing made me laugh more than once. It was just unexpected, I guess.
As a whole, I really liked this book. If the prologue had given the story more of a second chance feel, it probably would have pushed this into 5 star territory for me, but I needed that missing piece. I can't wait for Kip and Leon's story next. Kip is everything I love in a MC and more, so I'm beyond excited to spend an entire book in his world.
What I did like and found really interesting was that the relationship started before the trauma. In most books I've read, MC's bring their past traumas into the relationship. Hunter and Alec had some doubts and trust issues to work through in the beginning, but the event that changed their dynamic and the path of their relationship happened in the middle of the book. The unfortunate repercussion was that the romance took a backseat to the new plot, but I was okay with that. I appreciated the messaging and the awareness that #MeToo is not a woman-only movement. Sexual assault, regardless of gender, should never be accepted as par for the course and Alec's story was an eye-opening example of the work that still needs to be done.
Another thing I liked was that Alec fought against his role as a victim. He struggled with what happened, but he didn't cower in fear or hide or let Hunter be a hero to his damsel in distress. He took what little power he had in the situation, shored himself up with the strength of his closest allies and came out swinging, win or lose. I loved that for him. And I loved how supportive Hunter was of him. For someone who was inexperienced in being a boyfriend, he was pretty damn good at it.
I will say I was surprised by the amount of sex there was in this book. Not only because it's not typical of this author, but because so much of this book focused on sexual assault. Maybe it was to break a stereotype that sexual repulsion is a textbook symptom of assault when that's probably more of an assumption than a fact. Maybe it was to show the act of taking power back. Maybe I watch too much TV. It wasn't necessarily a bad thing because each scene was both fun and incredibly hot. Their chemistry was off the charts and their cute banter and playful arguing made me laugh more than once. It was just unexpected, I guess.
As a whole, I really liked this book. If the prologue had given the story more of a second chance feel, it probably would have pushed this into 5 star territory for me, but I needed that missing piece. I can't wait for Kip and Leon's story next. Kip is everything I love in a MC and more, so I'm beyond excited to spend an entire book in his world.
Want to read
April 23, 2022YEEESSS!!! YEEESS!!!
ALEC AND HUNTER!!! FINALLYYYYY!!!!!
I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE HOW THIS TURNS OUT
PLS I JUST WANT KIP AND LEON TOGETHER. MAKE IT HAPPEN, JAY!!!
ALEC AND HUNTER!!! FINALLYYYYY!!!!!
I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE HOW THIS TURNS OUT
PLS I JUST WANT KIP AND LEON TOGETHER. MAKE IT HAPPEN, JAY!!!
July 13, 2022
My freaking goodness, Jay Hogan has outdone herself! What a masterpiece!
So, Hunter made the biggest mistake, that was a year ago. He could mend the pieces, could he?
Leaving Alec in a hurry after a hand job didn’t deserve a price, winning him over again isn’t as easy as he hoped.
Alec is finally making a name as a fashion model in New York. He is reluctant to reconnect when he meets fashion photographer Hunter again. The man left him hanging and never mention anything about it. He’s bad for his mood and heart. Keeping him at distance is a hard job but necessary!
“Different, delicious, disarming, and dangerous to my heart.”
Who knew that Hunter, the flighty, no strings, no commitment guy, who’s afraid to break his heart again, could turn into a sweet, romantic, committed, all-in guy. Alec is flabbergasted but definitely all-in too!
They are so madly in love, it was so awesome to see them grow towards each other. They are strong together, living and working in a crazy busy fashion world.
But, you could feel something was coming from outside their circle, and yes then it happened, it’s awfully hurtful, look at the tricker warning!
What the author did after that made this story rise above most others. That deserves a big compliment. A harsh subject with contemporary reality, written with a dedication that gave me goosebumps.
Alec and his brave personality left me speechless, with all that happened, all the self-questioning and doubts, he did it, respect!! Hunter was EVERYTHING, what a man, he freaking blew my mind with his fortitude, strong love, and dedication!
Kip, Rhys, and Beck have a great role, so awesome how they act and stood up for their friends!
It’s such a beautiful story, besides the masterly written heavy subject, the story is also super romantic, a lot of fun, deliciously sexy, sweet, hard, hurtful, emotional, and above all, it felt honest and real.
I absorb every page, e.v.e.r.y. word. I didn’t want to miss a thing and couldn’t get enough of them, their story gave me chills and goosebumps!
Jay Hogan is a master writer. Period!
So, Hunter made the biggest mistake, that was a year ago. He could mend the pieces, could he?
Leaving Alec in a hurry after a hand job didn’t deserve a price, winning him over again isn’t as easy as he hoped.
Alec is finally making a name as a fashion model in New York. He is reluctant to reconnect when he meets fashion photographer Hunter again. The man left him hanging and never mention anything about it. He’s bad for his mood and heart. Keeping him at distance is a hard job but necessary!
“Different, delicious, disarming, and dangerous to my heart.”
Who knew that Hunter, the flighty, no strings, no commitment guy, who’s afraid to break his heart again, could turn into a sweet, romantic, committed, all-in guy. Alec is flabbergasted but definitely all-in too!
They are so madly in love, it was so awesome to see them grow towards each other. They are strong together, living and working in a crazy busy fashion world.
But, you could feel something was coming from outside their circle, and yes then it happened, it’s awfully hurtful, look at the tricker warning!
What the author did after that made this story rise above most others. That deserves a big compliment. A harsh subject with contemporary reality, written with a dedication that gave me goosebumps.
Alec and his brave personality left me speechless, with all that happened, all the self-questioning and doubts, he did it, respect!! Hunter was EVERYTHING, what a man, he freaking blew my mind with his fortitude, strong love, and dedication!
Kip, Rhys, and Beck have a great role, so awesome how they act and stood up for their friends!
It’s such a beautiful story, besides the masterly written heavy subject, the story is also super romantic, a lot of fun, deliciously sexy, sweet, hard, hurtful, emotional, and above all, it felt honest and real.
I absorb every page, e.v.e.r.y. word. I didn’t want to miss a thing and couldn’t get enough of them, their story gave me chills and goosebumps!
Jay Hogan is a master writer. Period!
August 11, 2022
I've given this an A- at AAR, so 4.5 stars rounded up.
Strut is the second book in Jay Hogan’s Style series of romances set in the world of high fashion, and in it, the action moves from New Zealand to New York as we follow events in the life of model Alec Williamson. We met Alec, an up-and-comer, in book one, Flare, where he made his mark at Auckland Fashion Week in designer Rhys Hellier’s first collection. There was an obvious frisson of atrraction between Alec and Rhys’ friend, fashion photographer Hunter Donovan, and I’ve eagerly been awaitng their story. Jay Hogan doesn’t disappoint, delivering a sexy and tender second-chance romance alongside a fascinating – and sometimes disturbing – storyline centred around Alec’s experiences in the modelling world. If I have a complaint it’s that the romance takes a bit of a back seat to the plot once it gets going, but the book is nonetheless a compelling read that I found difficult to set aside to do things like work, eat and sleep!
In a prologue set a year before the story proper, we learn that Alec and Hunter had a very quick club hook-up one night – and that immediately they were finished, Hunter merely mumbled an apology and left like someone had lit a fire under his arse. Alec berates himself for his stupidity; he knew Hunter was a one-and-done type, but he can’t help being embarrassed at the knock to his ego and hurt when Hunter immediately puts distance between them and then ghosts him.
A year later finds Alec in New York where he’s slowly making a name for himself, but modelling is an incredibly tough gig. The author doesn’t pull any punches when she writes about just how hard it is for newcomers – and even slightly more established guys like Alec – to make a lliving, especially as their lives are in hock to the modelling agencies, who house them, often in awful conditions (Alec shares a three bedroom house with NINE other models!) and take rent and any other expenses from their fees so they’re often deeply in debt to them, even when they are working. It’s a well-known fact that male models earn less than their female counterparts (surely one of the few industries where that is the case), even at the highest level, and they, like the women, have to put up with some seriously awful shit if they’re not to end up being dismissed as ‘difficult to work with’ and find their careers suddenly curtailed. Ms. Hogan has clearly done her homework when it comes to this part of the story; it’s real train-wreck reading, mesmerising and repulsive all at once.
But Alec is gaining traction as a model and starting to get noticed. When they worked together in Auckland, Hunter recognised in Alec that special something that would set him apart from the pack – and it looks like Alec’s hard work might be about to pay off when he’s shortlisted for an ad campain for a prestigious men’s label. He’s shooting an assignment for a magazine editorial when an unexpected visitor arrives at the studio at the end of the shoot – Hunter Donovan. Heart in his throat, Alec can’t help but take him in, all rakish mischief and charm, surprised at Hunter’s genuine delight at seeing him and caught completely off guard when he’s swept into a crushing hug.
Flustered, Alec isn’t sure how to respond when Hunter asks him if they can catch up over coffee. Hunter ran out on him and then ignored him for over a year, and Alec isn’t keen on being made a fool of again, but there’s something about Hunter’s manner that pulls him in and he agrees. To coffee. That’s all.
Hunter has had a lot of time to think and to regret walking away from Alec all those months ago. He’s admitted what he was in too much denial to own up to at the time, that Alec had got under his skin during those few months they’d worked together for Flare and that it terrified him. He doesn’t really know what the hell he’s doing now – all he does know is that Alec is unlike any guy he’s ever been with (and there have been plenty) and he can’t turn away. Not this time.
Jay Hogan is so good at writing believable adult relationships. At just twenty-two, Alec is one of her youngest protagonists, but he’s level-headed and has a very mature approach – both of which are impressive considering the industry he’s working in. Hunter is a few years older, and although he’s a dick to Alec to start with, he more than redeems himself during the course of the story. Alec is understandably wary of starting anything with Hunter – he knows Hunter is a player, whereas Alec is looking for connection and intimacy – and I absolutely loved that Hunter is prepared to let himself be vulnerable and put himself out there; he’s honest with Alec about why he did what he did, and just as honest when he says he’s likely to fuck up in future but that he hopes Alec will give him another chance anyway. He’s in New York for a few more weeks and hopes they can spend some time together – even if it’s only as friends.
Alec is torn. He’s as strongly attracted to Hunter as he ever was, but he can’t afford to be derailed by a broken heart, not when his big break might be just around the corner. When Hunter proves to be not only persistent, but intuitive, Alec can’t help melting inside, just a little bit – and finally agrees to give them a shot. Life is looking up; just before agreeing to date Hunter, Alec got the call destined to change his life. Unfortunately, it’s not going change it in the way he’d expected.
The second-chance romance between Alec and Hunter is filled with tenderness and honesty and sizzling chemistry. They go on dates and they talk – about the past and about what they want for the future – but Alec doesn’t let Hunter off the hook easily. He makes it clear how deeply Hunter hurt him and that he’s not interested in travelling that road again, and I appreciated that, though it’s not easy for either of them, they’re so wonderfully open with each other about their hopes and dreams and fears – their road back to one another is beautifully done.
I won’t say any more about the plot, because that would take us into spoiler territory, but I’ll add a warning here that the story does deal with workplace sexual harrassment and assault (not graphic, but disturbing nonetheless) and makes no bones about how hard it is for victims to come forward and be taken seriously, even now after several years of #metoo.
Mention the words “male model” and then add in “sexual assault”, and Alec was on the receiving end of three hours of incredulity, scepticism [and] scorn.
The way the author writes about what happens to Alec – both physically and mentally – is masterful; you’ll want to cry with sorrow and rage, you’ll want to scream and throw things and you’ll want to wrap him up in the biggest, fluffiest blanket you can find – but Hunter is with him every step of the way with all those things and more, not caring that his own career could take a hit through association. He’s Alec’s rock – so supportive, understanding and loving through the lowest point of his life, and I was pleased to see Rhys and Kip again as they rally round to support their friends. I thoroughly appreciated the realism of the ending; there’s an HEA for Hunter and Alec of course, and a very satisfactory ending to the plot, but it’s clear that it hasn’t come easy and that there is still a long way to go if real change is to be effected.
Alec’s storyline in Strut is not an easy one to read, but then it’s not meant to be; it’s hard-hitting, shocking, well-researched and brilliantly told. Jay Hogan chalks up another DIK with this emotional, thought-provoking love story.
Strut is the second book in Jay Hogan’s Style series of romances set in the world of high fashion, and in it, the action moves from New Zealand to New York as we follow events in the life of model Alec Williamson. We met Alec, an up-and-comer, in book one, Flare, where he made his mark at Auckland Fashion Week in designer Rhys Hellier’s first collection. There was an obvious frisson of atrraction between Alec and Rhys’ friend, fashion photographer Hunter Donovan, and I’ve eagerly been awaitng their story. Jay Hogan doesn’t disappoint, delivering a sexy and tender second-chance romance alongside a fascinating – and sometimes disturbing – storyline centred around Alec’s experiences in the modelling world. If I have a complaint it’s that the romance takes a bit of a back seat to the plot once it gets going, but the book is nonetheless a compelling read that I found difficult to set aside to do things like work, eat and sleep!
In a prologue set a year before the story proper, we learn that Alec and Hunter had a very quick club hook-up one night – and that immediately they were finished, Hunter merely mumbled an apology and left like someone had lit a fire under his arse. Alec berates himself for his stupidity; he knew Hunter was a one-and-done type, but he can’t help being embarrassed at the knock to his ego and hurt when Hunter immediately puts distance between them and then ghosts him.
A year later finds Alec in New York where he’s slowly making a name for himself, but modelling is an incredibly tough gig. The author doesn’t pull any punches when she writes about just how hard it is for newcomers – and even slightly more established guys like Alec – to make a lliving, especially as their lives are in hock to the modelling agencies, who house them, often in awful conditions (Alec shares a three bedroom house with NINE other models!) and take rent and any other expenses from their fees so they’re often deeply in debt to them, even when they are working. It’s a well-known fact that male models earn less than their female counterparts (surely one of the few industries where that is the case), even at the highest level, and they, like the women, have to put up with some seriously awful shit if they’re not to end up being dismissed as ‘difficult to work with’ and find their careers suddenly curtailed. Ms. Hogan has clearly done her homework when it comes to this part of the story; it’s real train-wreck reading, mesmerising and repulsive all at once.
But Alec is gaining traction as a model and starting to get noticed. When they worked together in Auckland, Hunter recognised in Alec that special something that would set him apart from the pack – and it looks like Alec’s hard work might be about to pay off when he’s shortlisted for an ad campain for a prestigious men’s label. He’s shooting an assignment for a magazine editorial when an unexpected visitor arrives at the studio at the end of the shoot – Hunter Donovan. Heart in his throat, Alec can’t help but take him in, all rakish mischief and charm, surprised at Hunter’s genuine delight at seeing him and caught completely off guard when he’s swept into a crushing hug.
Flustered, Alec isn’t sure how to respond when Hunter asks him if they can catch up over coffee. Hunter ran out on him and then ignored him for over a year, and Alec isn’t keen on being made a fool of again, but there’s something about Hunter’s manner that pulls him in and he agrees. To coffee. That’s all.
Hunter has had a lot of time to think and to regret walking away from Alec all those months ago. He’s admitted what he was in too much denial to own up to at the time, that Alec had got under his skin during those few months they’d worked together for Flare and that it terrified him. He doesn’t really know what the hell he’s doing now – all he does know is that Alec is unlike any guy he’s ever been with (and there have been plenty) and he can’t turn away. Not this time.
Jay Hogan is so good at writing believable adult relationships. At just twenty-two, Alec is one of her youngest protagonists, but he’s level-headed and has a very mature approach – both of which are impressive considering the industry he’s working in. Hunter is a few years older, and although he’s a dick to Alec to start with, he more than redeems himself during the course of the story. Alec is understandably wary of starting anything with Hunter – he knows Hunter is a player, whereas Alec is looking for connection and intimacy – and I absolutely loved that Hunter is prepared to let himself be vulnerable and put himself out there; he’s honest with Alec about why he did what he did, and just as honest when he says he’s likely to fuck up in future but that he hopes Alec will give him another chance anyway. He’s in New York for a few more weeks and hopes they can spend some time together – even if it’s only as friends.
Alec is torn. He’s as strongly attracted to Hunter as he ever was, but he can’t afford to be derailed by a broken heart, not when his big break might be just around the corner. When Hunter proves to be not only persistent, but intuitive, Alec can’t help melting inside, just a little bit – and finally agrees to give them a shot. Life is looking up; just before agreeing to date Hunter, Alec got the call destined to change his life. Unfortunately, it’s not going change it in the way he’d expected.
The second-chance romance between Alec and Hunter is filled with tenderness and honesty and sizzling chemistry. They go on dates and they talk – about the past and about what they want for the future – but Alec doesn’t let Hunter off the hook easily. He makes it clear how deeply Hunter hurt him and that he’s not interested in travelling that road again, and I appreciated that, though it’s not easy for either of them, they’re so wonderfully open with each other about their hopes and dreams and fears – their road back to one another is beautifully done.
I won’t say any more about the plot, because that would take us into spoiler territory, but I’ll add a warning here that the story does deal with workplace sexual harrassment and assault (not graphic, but disturbing nonetheless) and makes no bones about how hard it is for victims to come forward and be taken seriously, even now after several years of #metoo.
Mention the words “male model” and then add in “sexual assault”, and Alec was on the receiving end of three hours of incredulity, scepticism [and] scorn.
The way the author writes about what happens to Alec – both physically and mentally – is masterful; you’ll want to cry with sorrow and rage, you’ll want to scream and throw things and you’ll want to wrap him up in the biggest, fluffiest blanket you can find – but Hunter is with him every step of the way with all those things and more, not caring that his own career could take a hit through association. He’s Alec’s rock – so supportive, understanding and loving through the lowest point of his life, and I was pleased to see Rhys and Kip again as they rally round to support their friends. I thoroughly appreciated the realism of the ending; there’s an HEA for Hunter and Alec of course, and a very satisfactory ending to the plot, but it’s clear that it hasn’t come easy and that there is still a long way to go if real change is to be effected.
Alec’s storyline in Strut is not an easy one to read, but then it’s not meant to be; it’s hard-hitting, shocking, well-researched and brilliantly told. Jay Hogan chalks up another DIK with this emotional, thought-provoking love story.
July 21, 2022
2,5 stars
Not for me.
Too much of the same, super gorgeous guys everywhere all the time, mind blowing sex ever single time, so much fashion … I hate to say it, but I struggled through this.
Despite the serious topic of sexual harassment in the fashion industry which could have made it worthwhile.
I also found the relationship development a bit on the boring side, with Hunter’s grovelling definitely OTT and lots of similar conversations happening again and again.
I love Jay Hogan, but this wasn’t my cup of tea, at all.
Not for me.
Too much of the same, super gorgeous guys everywhere all the time, mind blowing sex ever single time, so much fashion … I hate to say it, but I struggled through this.
Despite the serious topic of sexual harassment in the fashion industry which could have made it worthwhile.
I also found the relationship development a bit on the boring side, with Hunter’s grovelling definitely OTT and lots of similar conversations happening again and again.
I love Jay Hogan, but this wasn’t my cup of tea, at all.
May 1, 2023
4,5 stars.
Hunter and Alex were sweet and wonderful. I loved their story, and I really appreciate the author's skill to capture me and have me invested in the MC's lives.
I liked this a lot, just not as much as Rhys and Beck's book.
Hunter and Alex were sweet and wonderful. I loved their story, and I really appreciate the author's skill to capture me and have me invested in the MC's lives.
I liked this a lot, just not as much as Rhys and Beck's book.
July 8, 2022
I met Alec and Hunter on Rhys and Beck's story, and finally read their story. Honestly, I loved this one more than the previous book in the series.
Alec has been going through a hard time in New York. The reality of the glamorous world of fashion portrayed real good in this story.
I hurt for Alec and what he had been through. I knew it's not easy, but I'm glad that Hunter the 'love them and leave them' was there for him.
And also the whole gang, including 'the scary' Kip, Rhys and also jack and Beck!
Alec and Hunter started their relationship with lust, the hate, and stronger as ever after the revelation about what was going on a year ago in New Zealand.
There's Tim, Alec's model friend that I really need to read his story, like as soon as possible!
Overall, I enjoyed this story so much! Alec and Hunter has the best chemistry!
Trigger warning ⚠️ : sexual harrasment on page.
Alec has been going through a hard time in New York. The reality of the glamorous world of fashion portrayed real good in this story.
I hurt for Alec and what he had been through. I knew it's not easy, but I'm glad that Hunter the 'love them and leave them' was there for him.
And also the whole gang, including 'the scary' Kip, Rhys and also jack and Beck!
Alec and Hunter started their relationship with lust, the hate, and stronger as ever after the revelation about what was going on a year ago in New Zealand.
There's Tim, Alec's model friend that I really need to read his story, like as soon as possible!
Overall, I enjoyed this story so much! Alec and Hunter has the best chemistry!
Trigger warning ⚠️ : sexual harrasment on page.
January 13, 2025
This series is SOOOO GOOD. It is really that perfect blend of a totally fun time- but with enough serious topics to feed the angst-addiction.
"Strut" was my favorite of the trio- I fell so hard for Alec and Hunter!
Alec is a kiwi farm boy who was discovered, in book one, by Rhys as he was shopping in his store. Rhys hired him to model for him, and Alec's raw talent catapulted him pretty quickly into becoming noticed by some larger modeling agencies. This book begins in New York, where we follow his modeling journey.
The underbelly of the modeling world is fascinating-- we see the dark side of what most would consider a glamourous profession. We see male models being exploited and paid less than females. We witness what really happens when naive models sign with big agencies- they are housed in cramped quarters, multiple models to a room, and they normally live in debt to the big agencies as they have to "work off" their rent and upfront living expenses. In "Strut," we are also subject to the harsh truth that sexual manipulation and assault run rampant in this industry- and Alec's story is as much one of overcoming this kind of assault as it is his romance with Hunter. Consider that your TW, because although as I said in my last review, Jay handles these kinds of topics with the utmost care, she also doesn't skirt around them either- the descriptions of the assault in this story are realistic and detailed.
Alec and Hunter's romance was fascinating from the start. Jay sets the stage with a mysterious past event that is referenced to in both of their POVs, but that isn't fully explained until a little later. We know that the pair met while Alec was modeling for Rhys- Hunter, a top fashion photographer and Rhys' best friend, spent many hours photographing Alec modeling, and it was no secret there was mutual interest there- it was obvious in Rhys' book. SOOOOOO.... what happened to cause Alec to hate Hunter so much at the beginning of this book, anyway?!
Is this a second chance romance? Or.... not?? I was dying to know what transpired between them to make this book feel like an "enemies to lovers" tale, at least for Alec. We may not know right upfront what caused the animosity-- but we do know there is sexual tension oozing from the two of them- and that tension, their chemistry- is what made this book stand out from the others. It was DELISH.
These two were on fire. When their paths crossed in NY, it was very much a push-pull, "I hate that I want you" kind of situation, as both try to protect their hearts for different reasons. Alec is dead set on never letting Hunter hurt him again.... while Hunter is absolutely terrified of the feelings Alec stirs in him- feelings he has never experienced before in his many years of casual sex without strings.
But when they finally give in.... man, are they ALL IN.... and I mean in every way possible. When Alec ends up the victim of a sexual assault, I will just say that Hunter is ready and roaring to BURN THE WORLD DOWN.... and burn it down, he does. The strength he lends to Alec-- and the strength Alec portrays as he tackles his situation head-on and with so much courage- it was emotional as hell. I loved being witness to the two of them taking on the world- and protecting each other at all costs at the same time.
It was swoon-style romantic- Hunter the photog gets pretty deep in the feels with his soul-bearing photos... and so very hot. Scorching hot... and the ending?! This ending earned a big ole happy squeal from me- it was the very best kind of unique, grand-gesture style ending that I just live for. BRAVO for that ending, Jay Hogan!
Another home run by Jay- she really can do no wrong in my world. I will be reviewing "Sass'- the final book in the series- tomorrow!
"Strut" was my favorite of the trio- I fell so hard for Alec and Hunter!
Alec is a kiwi farm boy who was discovered, in book one, by Rhys as he was shopping in his store. Rhys hired him to model for him, and Alec's raw talent catapulted him pretty quickly into becoming noticed by some larger modeling agencies. This book begins in New York, where we follow his modeling journey.
The underbelly of the modeling world is fascinating-- we see the dark side of what most would consider a glamourous profession. We see male models being exploited and paid less than females. We witness what really happens when naive models sign with big agencies- they are housed in cramped quarters, multiple models to a room, and they normally live in debt to the big agencies as they have to "work off" their rent and upfront living expenses. In "Strut," we are also subject to the harsh truth that sexual manipulation and assault run rampant in this industry- and Alec's story is as much one of overcoming this kind of assault as it is his romance with Hunter. Consider that your TW, because although as I said in my last review, Jay handles these kinds of topics with the utmost care, she also doesn't skirt around them either- the descriptions of the assault in this story are realistic and detailed.
Alec and Hunter's romance was fascinating from the start. Jay sets the stage with a mysterious past event that is referenced to in both of their POVs, but that isn't fully explained until a little later. We know that the pair met while Alec was modeling for Rhys- Hunter, a top fashion photographer and Rhys' best friend, spent many hours photographing Alec modeling, and it was no secret there was mutual interest there- it was obvious in Rhys' book. SOOOOOO.... what happened to cause Alec to hate Hunter so much at the beginning of this book, anyway?!
Is this a second chance romance? Or.... not?? I was dying to know what transpired between them to make this book feel like an "enemies to lovers" tale, at least for Alec. We may not know right upfront what caused the animosity-- but we do know there is sexual tension oozing from the two of them- and that tension, their chemistry- is what made this book stand out from the others. It was DELISH.
These two were on fire. When their paths crossed in NY, it was very much a push-pull, "I hate that I want you" kind of situation, as both try to protect their hearts for different reasons. Alec is dead set on never letting Hunter hurt him again.... while Hunter is absolutely terrified of the feelings Alec stirs in him- feelings he has never experienced before in his many years of casual sex without strings.
But when they finally give in.... man, are they ALL IN.... and I mean in every way possible. When Alec ends up the victim of a sexual assault, I will just say that Hunter is ready and roaring to BURN THE WORLD DOWN.... and burn it down, he does. The strength he lends to Alec-- and the strength Alec portrays as he tackles his situation head-on and with so much courage- it was emotional as hell. I loved being witness to the two of them taking on the world- and protecting each other at all costs at the same time.
It was swoon-style romantic- Hunter the photog gets pretty deep in the feels with his soul-bearing photos... and so very hot. Scorching hot... and the ending?! This ending earned a big ole happy squeal from me- it was the very best kind of unique, grand-gesture style ending that I just live for. BRAVO for that ending, Jay Hogan!
Another home run by Jay- she really can do no wrong in my world. I will be reviewing "Sass'- the final book in the series- tomorrow!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2022
It's a year after our men had met at a fashion shoot in New Zealand. Now, Hunter shows up where Alec is modeling in New York.
Hunter, older, a handsome photographer,
dark hair, thick scruff, is excited to see Alec again and apologize.
Alec, 22, 6'2", blonde, blue eyes, was raised
on a New Zealand Dairy Farm. He is skeptical of Hunter's plea for friendship because of the way Hunter treated him.
They do get an apology meeting and the cards are on the table. They decide on friendship until it escalates as Hunter woos Alec with flowers, coffee, lunch, dinner and kisses ignite more.
It's fun to watch these two.
Later when they've cemented their boyfriend status, Alec is subjected to a sleazy photo shoot, and it explodes into a scandal. Hunter is right by Alec's side as they close the ranks on the creep photographer.
Friends, cops and more folks are on Alec's side, but it's a battle.
The story is pertinent, seems realistic and has a super romance. In addition to the sexy times, we see a deeper love.
We get a bad guy, sweet men who don't deserve to be treated badly, and the huge luck of finding someone who will have your back, no matter what.
ENJOY !
======
Hunter, older, a handsome photographer,
dark hair, thick scruff, is excited to see Alec again and apologize.
Alec, 22, 6'2", blonde, blue eyes, was raised
on a New Zealand Dairy Farm. He is skeptical of Hunter's plea for friendship because of the way Hunter treated him.
They do get an apology meeting and the cards are on the table. They decide on friendship until it escalates as Hunter woos Alec with flowers, coffee, lunch, dinner and kisses ignite more.
It's fun to watch these two.
Later when they've cemented their boyfriend status, Alec is subjected to a sleazy photo shoot, and it explodes into a scandal. Hunter is right by Alec's side as they close the ranks on the creep photographer.
Friends, cops and more folks are on Alec's side, but it's a battle.
The story is pertinent, seems realistic and has a super romance. In addition to the sexy times, we see a deeper love.
We get a bad guy, sweet men who don't deserve to be treated badly, and the huge luck of finding someone who will have your back, no matter what.
ENJOY !
======
July 14, 2022
So emotional but worth every tear I shed.
Jay Hogan has written another fantastic book that tackles a difficult subject: sexual harassment and sexual assault. In this book it takes place within the world of fashion modeling but it can happen anywhere. I think she’s done a great job of presenting the subject matter in a sensitive and realistic way but fair warning, there are a couple of very descriptive scenes which are necessary for the story being told.
I love second chance stories and Alec and Hunter get theirs in Strut. I also love redemption of a character who behaves badly which totally applies to Hunter at the beginning of this story. There isn’t one thing about this book that I didn’t like. Some of the scenes were sad to read and I actually thought, for a while, that the dramatic climax for Alec and Hunter would be something other than what it was. Instead, what happened was Hunter being the perfect supportive boyfriend when Alec needed him most.
If even a little bit of what was written about the fashion modeling world is true it’s really awful to think about. Sexual harassment in the workplace is no joke. Years ago, as a young clerk, I experienced only a smidgen of what Alec went through and that was bad enough. Alec truly was very brave in the way he ended up handling things.
I don’t often mark passages or quote from a book I’ve read but I loved this one. I think it’s a great example of the lyrical way that Jay Hogan writes. This is Alec talking to himself about Hunter:
I’ve said it many times in reviews, the epilogue is often one of my favorite parts of a book. What Jay Hogan wrote for Alec and Hunter made me smile a few times and, after the serious nature of this book, it was the perfect ending. Jay Hogan can’t write the next book fast enough! 😊
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
Jay Hogan has written another fantastic book that tackles a difficult subject: sexual harassment and sexual assault. In this book it takes place within the world of fashion modeling but it can happen anywhere. I think she’s done a great job of presenting the subject matter in a sensitive and realistic way but fair warning, there are a couple of very descriptive scenes which are necessary for the story being told.
I love second chance stories and Alec and Hunter get theirs in Strut. I also love redemption of a character who behaves badly which totally applies to Hunter at the beginning of this story. There isn’t one thing about this book that I didn’t like. Some of the scenes were sad to read and I actually thought, for a while, that the dramatic climax for Alec and Hunter would be something other than what it was. Instead, what happened was Hunter being the perfect supportive boyfriend when Alec needed him most.
If even a little bit of what was written about the fashion modeling world is true it’s really awful to think about. Sexual harassment in the workplace is no joke. Years ago, as a young clerk, I experienced only a smidgen of what Alec went through and that was bad enough. Alec truly was very brave in the way he ended up handling things.
I don’t often mark passages or quote from a book I’ve read but I loved this one. I think it’s a great example of the lyrical way that Jay Hogan writes. This is Alec talking to himself about Hunter:
“Get behind those walls and he was so much more than I’d believed possible, and he was slowly pulling apart my life one piece at a time and slipping himself into the gaps like glue. Everything still in place, just with him threaded all the way through like he’d always been there.”
I’ve said it many times in reviews, the epilogue is often one of my favorite parts of a book. What Jay Hogan wrote for Alec and Hunter made me smile a few times and, after the serious nature of this book, it was the perfect ending. Jay Hogan can’t write the next book fast enough! 😊
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
July 20, 2022
2+
Przyznaję, że bałam się tej serii, bo to moda, o której czytać nie lubię. Ale pomyślałam sobie - hej! w końcu to Jay Hogan, to zdecydowanie dam serii szansę. I przy pierwszym tomie, historii Rhysa i Becka, nie rozczarowałam się, wręcz przeciwnie - naprawdę bardzo, bardzo mi się podobało. Ale, niestety, drugiego tomu nie uratowała dla mnie nawet Jay Hogan. Albo, paradoksalnie, właśnie dlatego, że to Jay Hogan, zupełnie historia Aleca i Huntera do mnie nie trafiła...
Jay Hogan ma to do siebie, że stara się zawsze dobrze przygotować do pisania. Nie traktuje tematu, który porusza, po łebkach, Czy to rugby na wózkach, czy choroba Leśniowskiego-Crohna - zawsze stara się mieć temat naprawdę dobrze rozpracowany. I - niestety - dotyczy to również modelingu, który był tak naprawdę głównym bohaterem tego tomu. Modelingu, który jest jednym z moich najmniej ulubionych tematów do czytania. Nie przeczę - książka porusza ważne tematy: wykorzystywania władzy, wykorzystywania ekonomicznego, seksualnego, przedmiotowego traktowania, walki o przetrwanie w świecie, w którym jeżeli nie jesteś modelem ze ścisłego światowego topu, jesteś traktowany jak śmieć. Ale... naprawdę, jest tego tak dużo, jest tyle szczegółów, że nie mogłam się zupełnie zahaczyć w tej historii. Nudziła mnie i przez ten brak zaczepienia czepiałam się wszystkiego podczas czytania 🤦♀️ Zupełnie nie moja bajka...
I tym razem NAPRAWDĘ mogę napisać:
To. Ja. Nie. Książka. 🤷♀️
Przyznaję, że bałam się tej serii, bo to moda, o której czytać nie lubię. Ale pomyślałam sobie - hej! w końcu to Jay Hogan, to zdecydowanie dam serii szansę. I przy pierwszym tomie, historii Rhysa i Becka, nie rozczarowałam się, wręcz przeciwnie - naprawdę bardzo, bardzo mi się podobało. Ale, niestety, drugiego tomu nie uratowała dla mnie nawet Jay Hogan. Albo, paradoksalnie, właśnie dlatego, że to Jay Hogan, zupełnie historia Aleca i Huntera do mnie nie trafiła...
Jay Hogan ma to do siebie, że stara się zawsze dobrze przygotować do pisania. Nie traktuje tematu, który porusza, po łebkach, Czy to rugby na wózkach, czy choroba Leśniowskiego-Crohna - zawsze stara się mieć temat naprawdę dobrze rozpracowany. I - niestety - dotyczy to również modelingu, który był tak naprawdę głównym bohaterem tego tomu. Modelingu, który jest jednym z moich najmniej ulubionych tematów do czytania. Nie przeczę - książka porusza ważne tematy: wykorzystywania władzy, wykorzystywania ekonomicznego, seksualnego, przedmiotowego traktowania, walki o przetrwanie w świecie, w którym jeżeli nie jesteś modelem ze ścisłego światowego topu, jesteś traktowany jak śmieć. Ale... naprawdę, jest tego tak dużo, jest tyle szczegółów, że nie mogłam się zupełnie zahaczyć w tej historii. Nudziła mnie i przez ten brak zaczepienia czepiałam się wszystkiego podczas czytania 🤦♀️ Zupełnie nie moja bajka...
I tym razem NAPRAWDĘ mogę napisać:
To. Ja. Nie. Książka. 🤷♀️
July 14, 2022
How can an author who writes lines like this not be up there as one of my all time favourites:
“But if you screw my best friend around like you did before, I’ll hunt you down and pen you up with my best bull who’ll use you like a glory hole.” 😂😂😂😂
Once again a great read from Jay. I love the depth and research she brings to both her stories and characters. An emotional read, which pulled me in right from the start, and I couldn't put it down til I'd completed it. I really loved both Alec and Hunter, who were so intensely attracted to each other, their chemistry was sizzling hot. There's also some drama and suspense. One of the characters is a total creep, and I really felt for Alec. It was great how his family and friends rallied round him. Oh, Rhys and the Glorious Kip make an appearance too. Kip totally cracks me up. Can't wait for his story. Then there's Tim, he needs so many hugs, save him Jay, you're his only hope 🙎♀️🥰
“But if you screw my best friend around like you did before, I’ll hunt you down and pen you up with my best bull who’ll use you like a glory hole.” 😂😂😂😂
Once again a great read from Jay. I love the depth and research she brings to both her stories and characters. An emotional read, which pulled me in right from the start, and I couldn't put it down til I'd completed it. I really loved both Alec and Hunter, who were so intensely attracted to each other, their chemistry was sizzling hot. There's also some drama and suspense. One of the characters is a total creep, and I really felt for Alec. It was great how his family and friends rallied round him. Oh, Rhys and the Glorious Kip make an appearance too. Kip totally cracks me up. Can't wait for his story. Then there's Tim, he needs so many hugs, save him Jay, you're his only hope 🙎♀️🥰
July 17, 2022
I loved it!!!
I was frustrated and crying through half of the book but it was worth every second of it.
This author always does it for me and this story didn't disappointed. I loved Alec and his relationship with Hunter. They were real and healthy, they talked with each other and they made it work even when things went down.
I liked how the subject of sexual harassment in workplaces and sexual assault was treated. It's definitely terrible, sad and frustrating but it most be acknowledge and I think this book may help with that.
I admired Alec's bravery and I felt so proud of him by the end of the story.
I really enjoyed the read and I can't wait to see what's next on this series!!!
I was frustrated and crying through half of the book but it was worth every second of it.
This author always does it for me and this story didn't disappointed. I loved Alec and his relationship with Hunter. They were real and healthy, they talked with each other and they made it work even when things went down.
I liked how the subject of sexual harassment in workplaces and sexual assault was treated. It's definitely terrible, sad and frustrating but it most be acknowledge and I think this book may help with that.
I admired Alec's bravery and I felt so proud of him by the end of the story.
I really enjoyed the read and I can't wait to see what's next on this series!!!
July 14, 2022
Let's just say this wasn't for me...I am a fan of Jay's writing and I did really enjoy the first one....I wasn't even sure I could finish this one, but I did....It's a story that has been told 1,000 times before and I knew what was going to happen even before it happened and it took too long to happen.. Way too predictable and quite often too repetitive (like this review LOL) .....onwards and upwards.
July 20, 2022
I Loved this!❤️ Rtc.
July 9, 2022
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Strut is the second stand alone in the Style series by Jay Hogan. Follows a small town boy who becomes a fashion model and the photographer he looses his heart to.
Alec and Hunter have a hot and heavy encounter at a club that leaves Alec heart a little bruised. He knows Hunter is a playboy, but didn't expect to be treated so callously. Fast forward a year and their paths cross again. Neither has been able to forget the other, and Hunter begs for another chance. Just when Alec believes maybe he can have a future with Hunter his life and career is turned upside down when he becomes a victim of sexual assault. Will the connection they've built be enough to whether the storm, or will Alec push Hunter away for his own good.
"Everything, Hunter. I want everything with you."
I need to be honest when I say that the premise of this series in general does not appeal to me. However, I love Jay Hogan's writing and ended up loving the first book way more than expected to and I was hoping I would have the same result reading book 2. Unfortunately that wasn't the case. I couldn't seem to invest in either main character. Their relationship goes from zero to sixty real quick, and I didn't fully believe it, especially on Hunter's end. Alec was a sweetheart with a heart of gold and the shining star of the novel. He was always looking after those around him, and he was so strong in the face of his assault.
The story itself is well paced, maybe I only had a problem with the speed of their relationship because of my lack of investment in it. The writing itself is moving and powerful when it needs to be, and light and fun at the right times to break up the heavy. While Strut might not have been a hit for me, I can see others really enjoying it, and I'm still interested in finding out who book 3 will be focused on.
In the end Strut by Jay Hogan is a contemporary romance between a model and a photographer filled with high steam, supportive friends, walks in the park, breakfast in bed, and standing up for what's right.
Strut is the second stand alone in the Style series by Jay Hogan. Follows a small town boy who becomes a fashion model and the photographer he looses his heart to.
Alec and Hunter have a hot and heavy encounter at a club that leaves Alec heart a little bruised. He knows Hunter is a playboy, but didn't expect to be treated so callously. Fast forward a year and their paths cross again. Neither has been able to forget the other, and Hunter begs for another chance. Just when Alec believes maybe he can have a future with Hunter his life and career is turned upside down when he becomes a victim of sexual assault. Will the connection they've built be enough to whether the storm, or will Alec push Hunter away for his own good.
"Everything, Hunter. I want everything with you."
I need to be honest when I say that the premise of this series in general does not appeal to me. However, I love Jay Hogan's writing and ended up loving the first book way more than expected to and I was hoping I would have the same result reading book 2. Unfortunately that wasn't the case. I couldn't seem to invest in either main character. Their relationship goes from zero to sixty real quick, and I didn't fully believe it, especially on Hunter's end. Alec was a sweetheart with a heart of gold and the shining star of the novel. He was always looking after those around him, and he was so strong in the face of his assault.
The story itself is well paced, maybe I only had a problem with the speed of their relationship because of my lack of investment in it. The writing itself is moving and powerful when it needs to be, and light and fun at the right times to break up the heavy. While Strut might not have been a hit for me, I can see others really enjoying it, and I'm still interested in finding out who book 3 will be focused on.
In the end Strut by Jay Hogan is a contemporary romance between a model and a photographer filled with high steam, supportive friends, walks in the park, breakfast in bed, and standing up for what's right.
July 19, 2022
This is a nice instalment to the series and although the fashion world isn’t an area that I really enjoy reading about, Jay Hogan writes lovely characters and very easy to read stories that compel me to read them even when I’m not particularly interested in them. This isn’t my favourite book by her but that’s purely on me. The writing is lovely as always, the characters act their ages and seem real in their actions and thoughts. I enjoyed getting to see the guys from book 1 (which I loved) and they played a meaningful role here, rather than just token cameos which I like. I’m looking forward to book 3 as Kip and Leon sound like they will be an intriguing pair. I’m also keen to go back to the New Zealand setting as I think this is where Jay Hogan’s magic really shines.
I really love this author’s Painted Bay and Southern Lights series if you’re looking for something set in a different scene.
I really love this author’s Painted Bay and Southern Lights series if you’re looking for something set in a different scene.
July 16, 2022
Loved It💜
I don’t think I have ever read a Jay Hogan book that I didn’t love and this one was no exception. I really enjoyed Flare the first book in the Style series so I was eagerly awaiting book two.
This was Alec and Hunter’s story. They met when Rhys, Hunter’s best friend, noticed Alec looking through the clothes in his new range and was mesmerised by his tall, slim, blonde good looks and talked him into walking the catwalk for his debut fashion show. Hunter a renowned fashion photographer showed him the ropes and took photos for his portfolio.
The chemistry was buzzing between them and in this book we catch up with their lives a year on. Alec is working really hard and just beginning to make a name for himself in the cut throat fashion industry, a far cry from the farm his parents own in New Zealand. They accidentally bump into each other at a fashion shoot and sparks fly! Their last encounter in New Zealand has left Alec seething and Hunter embarrassed. Can they sort of their problems and let the chemistry, which is still fizzing beneath the surface, take over.
This book took me through a range of emotions, anger at the way poor Alec lost everything he had worked so hard for in the blink of an eye and then sadness, I could have cried for him. His despair was tangible and I felt contempt for an industry so unfeeling, so self serving where abuse of all kinds is the norm and they close ranks if anyone has the balls to speak out and the victim is blackballed. I think we all know of the nasty underbelly connected to the fashion industry but it still makes you despair.
Well done Jay Hogan and I can’t wait to read the next book Sass, a brilliant title for the little fashionista spitfire who works with Rhys.
I don’t think I have ever read a Jay Hogan book that I didn’t love and this one was no exception. I really enjoyed Flare the first book in the Style series so I was eagerly awaiting book two.
This was Alec and Hunter’s story. They met when Rhys, Hunter’s best friend, noticed Alec looking through the clothes in his new range and was mesmerised by his tall, slim, blonde good looks and talked him into walking the catwalk for his debut fashion show. Hunter a renowned fashion photographer showed him the ropes and took photos for his portfolio.
The chemistry was buzzing between them and in this book we catch up with their lives a year on. Alec is working really hard and just beginning to make a name for himself in the cut throat fashion industry, a far cry from the farm his parents own in New Zealand. They accidentally bump into each other at a fashion shoot and sparks fly! Their last encounter in New Zealand has left Alec seething and Hunter embarrassed. Can they sort of their problems and let the chemistry, which is still fizzing beneath the surface, take over.
This book took me through a range of emotions, anger at the way poor Alec lost everything he had worked so hard for in the blink of an eye and then sadness, I could have cried for him. His despair was tangible and I felt contempt for an industry so unfeeling, so self serving where abuse of all kinds is the norm and they close ranks if anyone has the balls to speak out and the victim is blackballed. I think we all know of the nasty underbelly connected to the fashion industry but it still makes you despair.
Well done Jay Hogan and I can’t wait to read the next book Sass, a brilliant title for the little fashionista spitfire who works with Rhys.
July 19, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Strut follows Flare, the first book in the Style series. We did meet Alec and Hunter in that first book and I do prefer reading in order, but if you wanted to, you could start here. This story is about some of the darker sides to modeling as Alec and a crew of guys are trying to succeed. It’s not all glamour and style, as there are predators around every corner.
Alec has a great look and his career is starting to get traction. When he gets booked for a test session for a client that could make his career, he gets all the wrong vibes from the photographer and it escalates into a devastating event for Alec. Helping Alec through this is Hunter, the photographer he met back in New Zealand. Alec wants to be able to trust Hunter after their first encounter didn’t end the way Alec wanted. Hunter never thought he was much of a relationship type, but he doesn’t want anyone but Alec and their relationship starts to move quickly.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Strut follows Flare, the first book in the Style series. We did meet Alec and Hunter in that first book and I do prefer reading in order, but if you wanted to, you could start here. This story is about some of the darker sides to modeling as Alec and a crew of guys are trying to succeed. It’s not all glamour and style, as there are predators around every corner.
Alec has a great look and his career is starting to get traction. When he gets booked for a test session for a client that could make his career, he gets all the wrong vibes from the photographer and it escalates into a devastating event for Alec. Helping Alec through this is Hunter, the photographer he met back in New Zealand. Alec wants to be able to trust Hunter after their first encounter didn’t end the way Alec wanted. Hunter never thought he was much of a relationship type, but he doesn’t want anyone but Alec and their relationship starts to move quickly.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
September 17, 2022
I liked this story, as I like all Jay Hogan’s books, but I withdrew one star because I missed the true connection between Hunter and Alec. And I felt iffy when the first time they had sex was just after Alec had been fondled by Darcy and didn’t knew how he felt about it. I couldn’t make the switch from feeling icky to getting into a hot sex scene.,,,
But this series is great and I can’t wait for Kip’s story - that has got to have all the fireworks!
But this series is great and I can’t wait for Kip’s story - that has got to have all the fireworks!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2022
Strut was is the number two in the series. This one takes place in NYC and I couldn’t catch a flaw in the way the New York City was used. I ended up feeling the modeling profession is truly wretched. The romance was cute and easy. We got very few pages with Kit but there was a spark when he appeared.
July 28, 2022
External conflict,
united lovers. Hooray!
Nuanced, swoony book.
united lovers. Hooray!
Nuanced, swoony book.
July 16, 2022
This was a brilliant book. The characters authentic. Jay captured the inner workings of the modelling industry well. The good and the bad and the downright ugly sides.
Hunter , a fashion photographer and Alec an up and coming model, first met in book one, Flare.
Now in New York, Alec is fast becoming popular. He runs into Hunter again and the attraction and chemistry is intense.
When an incident occurs that rocks Alec's world and almost destroys his career, Hunter is there for him in every way.
I loved it and can't wait for more.
Hunter , a fashion photographer and Alec an up and coming model, first met in book one, Flare.
Now in New York, Alec is fast becoming popular. He runs into Hunter again and the attraction and chemistry is intense.
When an incident occurs that rocks Alec's world and almost destroys his career, Hunter is there for him in every way.
I loved it and can't wait for more.
July 5, 2022
4.5 🌟's
An interesting and thought-provoking story that depicts an alternative view to the glitz and glamor of modelling careers.
I absolutely loved the chemistry and romance between Alec and Hunter. Their story kept me way more intrigued than the first book did.
The sweet and tender moments between them read like poetry and was such a pleasure to read.
Secondary characters were equally well-written and here is where I got to love Kip even more – he just seems like such a dynamite... 🥰🥰
I did feel at times though, that this book was a little longer than it should have been, not because it was boring or anything like that but because I thought there were certain things that were being constantly repeated.
I really like this world that's been created. It makes for a compelling – even though fictional - inside view of the sexy world of fashion and I will definitely be reading more of it.
An interesting and thought-provoking story that depicts an alternative view to the glitz and glamor of modelling careers.
I absolutely loved the chemistry and romance between Alec and Hunter. Their story kept me way more intrigued than the first book did.
The sweet and tender moments between them read like poetry and was such a pleasure to read.
Secondary characters were equally well-written and here is where I got to love Kip even more – he just seems like such a dynamite... 🥰🥰
I did feel at times though, that this book was a little longer than it should have been, not because it was boring or anything like that but because I thought there were certain things that were being constantly repeated.
I really like this world that's been created. It makes for a compelling – even though fictional - inside view of the sexy world of fashion and I will definitely be reading more of it.
July 16, 2022
Not my favourite Jay Hogan read I have to admit, but I did love that the slimy dickbag predator got his comeuppance. Can't wait for Kip and Leon's story Sass, which is now available for pre-order and comes out in October.
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