Model Student by Shae Connor is a contemporary homoerotic romance.

Aaron arrived in New York City to get a degree is film directing and he was lucky to be discovered and offered a job as a model. Aaron never thought much about his looks, but his work gives him the security he needs to finish school without worry. His positive work ethic and attitude have led to his success. Between school and work, Aaron has little time for emotional entanglements. At a shoot, Aaron meets a handsome stranger, Matt, who wants to interview him for a school project. Aaron is attracted to Matt and agrees to help him. Matt needs Aaron's help, but he can't get Aaron off of his mind. After a brief talk over coffee, they agree to meet for dinner where they realize that their growing interest in each other. As their mutual desire grows, a conflict brings up past emotional difficulties, which threatens to tear them apart. Will Aaron and Matt choose to relive the past or fight for the promise of a brighter future?

Ms. Connor's book Model Student portrays the lives of two men who have overcome many obstacles in their pasts. It was wonderful to read how unassuming and down-to-earth Aaron was in spite of his popularity as a model. His belief in hard work and punctuality were part of the reason for his success, something many people could learn from. Aaron's visual descriptions of Matt's beauty brought him to life for this reader. I was saddened as Aaron and Matt's past were revealed while also inspired by how hard they worked to prevent repeating the cycle of abuse they received as children. Their love for each other was evident as it remained constant in spite of their failings. This is the first book I have read by Ms. Connor and it won't be the last.

Reviewed by: Teresa