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The Gentlemen's Club #1

Point of Beginning

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[Siren Allure Erotic Alternative Romance, M/M, HEA]

Geeky CAD technician Jack Monroe is bi-curious, but after he falls head over heels for a certain curly-haired construction surveyor, he's ready to admit he's gay. Too bad Alex James is straight and has a girlfriend who keeps him on a short leash. Jack is determined to meet other gay men, but after a few dates from hell, he's ready to give up. Then he meets Richard Caldwell, part owner of the exclusive Gentlemen's Club where wealthy members can make their dreams come true. Richard takes Jack under his wing and offers him a chance to act out his fantasy with an Alex lookalike. Nobody can replace Alex, but knowing the real thing is off-limits, Jack accepts the offer. When the real deal shows up, Jack is convinced that Alex is only there for the money. But sometimes dreams do come true.
This book was previously published with another publisher and has been extensively revised and expanded. ** A Siren Erotic Romance

92 pages, ebook

First published January 8, 2011

About the author

Gale Stanley

87 books320 followers
Gale Stanley grew up in Philadelphia PA. She was the kid who always had her nose in a book, her head in the clouds, and her hands on a pad and pencil.
Some things never change.

Blog: http://galestanley.blogspot.com/

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5 stars
109 (30%)
4 stars
96 (27%)
3 stars
103 (29%)
2 stars
36 (10%)
1 star
11 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Nikyta.
1,436 reviews264 followers
January 9, 2011
I really liked this book.

It's about a man named Jackson having feelings for his co-worker, Alex, who he believes is straight. Confused about his feelings, he does some exploring and dating with guys which eventually leads him to Richard who takes him to an exclusive club named The Gentlemen's Club. At this club, you can act out your deepest fantasies and when he sees Alex dancing, he knows exacting what his fantasy will be. Asking for a look-alike to act out his desire, he's surprised when the real Alex shows up. From there they learn about the feelings they've both been harboring and figure out a way for it to work out between the two especially when Jackson is jealous of Alex's choice of a weekend job.

The beginning of the story cracked me up. It was just so funny reading about Jackson and the old geezer leering at him and how he only went to the gym because Alex was going. I liked how shy Jackson was. He's what you'd consider a geek while Alex is the jock. While Jackson works in the office at his job, Alex works in the field. They are probably the exact opposites of each other but they love each other.

When I learned that Alex worked at a gentlemen's club, I instantly thought he was whoring himself out but was delighted to read he only danced, never let a guy touch him or give him money for what he did. He danced because he loved it and that's that. So, it was interesting reading about how Jackson would take that. Plus, I just loved how Jackson got slightly possessive and jealous about it. It was just so cute.

All in all, an awesome story if you are looking for something cute, sweet, and short. ;-)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Hunter Jones.
Author 23 books1,315 followers
April 27, 2014
Point Of Beginning is more than a romance about two opposites who are attracted to each other. It’s the story of a man who is exploring his sexuality and coming to terms with the fact that he's gay. When Jack develops feelings for Alex, a co-worker, it sends him on a quest to discover who he really is. The fact that Jack thinks Alex is straight adds another twist to the tale. It takes an older and wiser friend to set them straight, or should I say, set them on the right track? The secondary characters are worthy of their own stories and I'm looking forward to reading about them in the future.

I recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, romantic read.
Profile Image for Christoph Fischer.
Author 45 books472 followers
July 23, 2016
"Point of Beginning" by Gale Stanley is a novel based on a great idea: The geek and the construction worker, who are two opposites but wildly attracted to each other, both afraid to make the first move. Jack is still finding his way, and thinks Alex is straight. While Alex is trying to fit in with his macho buddies.
There is great chemistry between the characters and a realistic setting. The secondary characters are interesting enough to warrant their own stories. I'm looking for book two. Gale Stanley has a winner on her hands with this series. Loved this.
Profile Image for Alana.
50 reviews12 followers
January 13, 2011
This was my first book by this author but I will be reading more -- I really liked this one -
Profile Image for Eddie.
204 reviews4 followers
April 2, 2014
I love a story about opposites attracting, especially a geeky nerd and a construction worker. It's a winning combo. The guys were real—Jack trying to find himself in the gay bar scene, and Alex trying to fit in with his macho survey buddies. And all the time they just wanted each other. A wealthy friend comes to the rescue. Great entertaining story with some hot scenes. Reading book two.
Profile Image for Susan.
5 reviews
March 5, 2013
I read the first edition and liked it, but this one is even better. The story is longer and there's more interaction between Jack and Alex.
Profile Image for Angie.
1,299 reviews21 followers
July 29, 2016
~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads Review Team~

This was a quick read about Jack and his office crush on Alex. Jack who thinks he is probably gay has it bad for Alex but he thinks Alex is straight. Of course Alex isn’t straight but no one at work knows that. Jack decides to try and enter the gay dating scene, he has one “special” encounter but nothing is really doing it for him. Then Jack meets Richard. Richard is an older man who takes Jack under his wing and ends up arranging the night that changes Jacks life, his fantasy night with an Alex look-a-like, only it isn’t a look-a-like. Will Jack and Alex have a happy ending? Read this great story to find out!

Characters: I just fell in love with Jack right away, as a read you couldn’t help but feel all his
emotions. The author did a great job with the characters and story!

Sex: so steamy!

Religious: no

Would I recommend to others: yes

More than one book in the series: yes

Genre: M/M/Romance

Would I read more by this author: yes

~Wicked Reads Review Team~

Profile Image for Ruthie Taylor.
3,714 reviews39 followers
May 6, 2014
"I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads."

A well written story about how preconceptions and misunderstandings can ruin chances. Luckily fate lends these two men a helping hand, in the form of Richard Caldwell, and things turn hot and romantic.

This is the first in a series called The Gentlemen's Club. I can't wait to find out what other adventures emanate from there in future episodes - after all everyone wants to find their place and person in the world.

Perfect evening read to let you to sleep with happy thoughts.

Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Jennifer.
458 reviews
April 10, 2011
Jack Monroe's attraction to co-worker Alex James makes him come to terms with the fact he is gay. His entrance to the gay "scene" is not without its problems until he goes to The Gentlemen's Club.

I look forward to reading the second in the series, which I have already downloaded based on Point of Beginning.
Profile Image for ManOhMan.
269 reviews
May 11, 2011
Reviewed by Kerri:
Opposites do attract! I love that theme in a novel.

I loved the way that Ms Stanley dug deep with this one. I like to get into the heads of the characters, to feel how they feel, to experience their emotions. It's the sign of a great writer who has done their job, when this is achieved.

The story is realistic and so is the romance. This novel kept me drawn in throughout till the end. This is once again, another from Ms. Stanley not to be missed. She is quickly becoming one of my auto-buy authors.

A+
3 reviews
January 11, 2011
Cute story about a geek with an obsession for a guy in a hardhat.
April 8, 2011
In Point of Beginning we meet Jack, a man who has just discovered he’s gay. He's lusting after a very male, very sexy co-worker he thinks is straight: Alex. At a loss as to what to do, he turns to the internet to help him find the best ways to meet other men.

I enjoyed reading about Jack’s exploits in trying to meet someone. When the online dating doesn’t help him he tries out for a softball team. There he meets Richard, an older gay man who becomes Jack’s mentor in the gay world. Richards take him to the Gentleman’s Club for him to see the joys of being gay. This club caters to all a man’s needs and has the discretion that Jack is looking for. Once they get to the club Jack gets the shock of a lifetime when he discovers the main attraction is no other than Alex.

Alex is a gay man but is tight-lipped about his personal life after losing his last job for being gay. When reading, you discover that Alex is just as attracted to Jack as Jack is to him. For Alex, being attracted to Jack wasn’t something he expected but is definitely something he wants to pursue. After learning of Jack's intended fantasy he wants to live out at the Gentleman’s club, he makes it his mission to assist in helping Jack out. But what both men don't realize is this: what happens once the fantasy ends?

The characters in this story were well developed and very believable. Both these men have their own insecurities and uncertainties when it comes to relationships. The author built this story to where you were always questioning will they get together. The character of Richard was an excellent addition to this story. He may have had a small part but without his help neither one of these men would have got to play out there fantasy. Then there was the club itself, who wouldn’t want to go to a place and be able to live out there most desired fantasy.

I’m a fan of Gale Stanley’s work. Her characters are always very believable. You become invested in their lives and want to see them get their happy ending. She also leaves the conflict unresolved until the end, which has you constantly guessing what will happen next. If you’re looking for a good hearted romance with hard-headed characters, this is the story for you.

Originally posted at http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/201...
701 reviews6 followers
March 8, 2011
Gale Stanley’s Point of Beginning starts off with Jack and his revelation he’s attracted to his hot male co-worker Alex. Now Jack believes Alex is straight, but when he sees the object of his affection stripping in a Gentlemen’s Club that caters to rich gay men he decides to risk it all and show Alex how he really feels.

Point of Beginning is a fun romp that hit all my romance buttons. It has the virginal Jack who just came out, and Alex, the more experienced man. Sparks fly as these two dance around their attraction finally succumbing to their passions in a fantasy induced night arranged by the owner of The Gentlemen’s Club. And prior to the big night of passion, there was well-written sexual tension between Alex and Jack that keep the reader engaged. Plus the addition of Alex’s ex, Richard to the plot as he played matchmaker between the men added a neat twist. The only niggle I had with the plot was the ‘Big Misunderstanding’ between Jack and Alex, meaning Jack thinking Alex was straight a good third of the book. Other than that minor point, I enjoyed the book and since that issue was resolved in a very satisfying manner, I can overlook it.

If this is the first in a series, then I look forward to more in this universe, I especially want to find out more about St. Clair, the owner of The Gentlemen’s Club...there is a story there, I know it!

Rated 4 Delightful Divas by Lasha!

Dark Divas Reviews
Profile Image for CoffeeTimeRomance andMore.
2,045 reviews164 followers
March 15, 2011
Looking for the perfect combo to spice up an ordinary day? Well Alex and Jack are here to fulfill all of your cravings. Alex may have the whole hard body in a hardhat thing going, but he also has brains and heart to go along with it. Jack on the other hand is kind of like the Clark Kent of this duo, but all in all he is just too damn cute to be geeky. I love their chemistry, and their affection as much as their desire is what really makes this story come alive, and I cannot wait to read more!

Lototy
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More

Full Review: http://coffeetimeromance.com/BookRevi...

Profile Image for Katy Beth Mckee.
4,317 reviews52 followers
June 2, 2012
Jack things he likes his co-worker Alex who he things is straight so it doesn't help his confusion. Jack decides that he needs to explore his feelings and begins to step into his new lifestyle. I loved the scene where Jack sees Alex at the club. What follows next will either happen to a HEA or a the biggest blow up in history. Great story of a man coming to terms with his feelings.
Profile Image for Ed.
4 reviews
January 21, 2011
Clueless guy lusts after hunk. Cute story w/hot sex.
Profile Image for Aղցela W..
4,208 reviews304 followers
June 30, 2017
This was a pretty good short quick read that I liked. Jack Monroe is bi-curious and in love with Alex James is straight and has a girlfriend who keeps him on a short leash. When he goes out on a few dates that don't go so well than he meets Richard Caldwell, part owner of the exclusive Gentlemen's Club where wealthy members can make their dreams come true. Richard takes Jack under his wing and offers him a chance to act out his fantasy with an Alex lookalike. That's when he finds out that Alex is gay and that the attraction is mutual. It's not an easy path for them since this is a first for Jack and Alex has past issues. This was a really good read. I liked both of these character's and the sex scenes were hot. This was my first time reading this author this was also the first book in a new series to me. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Serena Yates.
Author 97 books769 followers
April 16, 2011
This is a story that is filled with real-life angst, characters who want each other but misunderstand what's going on, and some very hot sex.

Jack is a very cute geek who only gradually realizes he may be gay when he starts lusting after his hot co-worker. Too shy to talk to the man, assuming he is straight to boot, he dives to several ill-fated ventures to meet other gay men. While it was all a little over-the-top to stop it from becoming too heavy, the problem for Jack was real.

Alex, on the other hand, wants to get to know Jack better, but they keep getting interrupted. It takes a lucky turn of events for the two to have their chance - and they manage to misunderstand each other yet again.

The final get-together finally has them talking and figuring it out. This was a good mix between realism and just a touch of 'fairy tale effects' to make sure they get their happy ending.
Profile Image for Mary.
1,051 reviews19 followers
July 27, 2014
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

Jack is a man who has a hard time relating to the world in general. He's always felt as though he was "less" than everyone else because he never really excelled at anything, exempt school. His sister was a standout gymnist while he could barely hit a baseball. Relegating himself to the shadows, he watches the world go by without him.

Jack doesn't know where he fits in, he believes himself to be asexual. He's dated women, but have held his attention or made him believe that he could have a relationship.

Alex is a surveyor that works with Jack. He's outgoing, attractive and straight, or so Jack thinks. Jack finds himself getting turned out when Alex is around and he slinks further back into the shadows to advoid embarrassing himself.

A chance encounter leads Jack to face some hard truths about himself and the neat world he has created for himself. Jack will need to use his inner strength to fight for what he wants.


Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Fay MMBookworm.
2,829 reviews43 followers
July 4, 2017
Wow..this was a first read for this author and I loved it. A sweet romance for both Jackson and Alexander who both wanted the same thing.  Bad timing for each other getting some alone time to talk..
Jack 28 yrs didnt know himself still trying to figure it out.. he'd been having feelings for his co-worker Alexander. Alex was believed to have a girlfriend. But it was all a smoke sceen for Alex's other side of himself .  A great novella to read I'll definitely what to read more about the Club and those walking through it's doors..
Profile Image for Suzanne Steele.
Author 77 books614 followers
July 27, 2014
What a great read! It’s a story of self-discovery for Jack, a guy who’s totally attracted to a male coworker and sets out to explore his sexuality. He’s ready to admit he’s gay, but the guy he’s lusting after is straight. Or is he? Alex is dying to connect with Jack, but he doesn’t share his personal life at work. The sexual chemistry between these two is off the wall. I couldn’t put the book down until I knew what happened to them.
Profile Image for Amy.
1,929 reviews35 followers
February 8, 2012
3.5 Stars. Just wish it was longer.
Profile Image for Laura.
1,032 reviews6 followers
March 26, 2020
Gelesen auf Deutsch!

Das war... Nicht wirklich gut.
Oft Wiederholungen, Widersprüche, Logik lässt zu wünschen über.
Die Charaktere sind blass, da war nichts. Keine Tiefe, keine Chance auf eine "Verbindung" zum Leser, für mich zumindest.
Wieviel davon an der Übersetzung liegt, vermag ich allerdings nicht zu sagen.
Profile Image for Hc.
2,340 reviews34 followers
June 24, 2016
Jackson finally admits to himself after lusting after his coworker Alex, that he is gay. He works up the nerve to sit the gay scene and finds that bar clubbing, while gave him his first gay experience, is not for him. The same goes for online dating.

He stumbles across an older gay man while trying out for sports as a better way to meet decent men. They hit it off and go out, as friends. He discovers Alex dancing at an exclusive gay club. He is then offered a chance at fulfilling a fantasy and takes it. The rest is basically history.

Jack is portrayed as the nerdy type and he has no clue! No clue about his own sexuality or picking up on the fact that Alex is gay. Thou Alex doesn't hide it he also doesn't make waves at work. Jack just doesn't seem to have any type of gaydar, while sweet, is kind of frustrating. Alex really has to spell it out for him to actually get and believe that he's gay. Cute read thou.
1,007 reviews8 followers
May 14, 2014
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

This is a perfectly paced novella. It gave plenty of story and anticipation, a good amount of steamy without going overboard and even a little bit of sweet.

I'm a sucker for m/m romance/erotic. I loved Jack, our nerd. I could totally relate to is uncomfortable feelings in social situations. Alex was just plain hot.

A good read. This is the first novella in a series and I'll definitely be reading them all.

Wicked Reads Review Team



Profile Image for Cindi.
1,632 reviews84 followers
October 21, 2012
This was nice in the beginning. It started out slow with two coworkers (who are complete opposites) having a secret crush on the other. Then it got rushed... fast. Too fast.

Nice story but zero character development and no back story given on any of the characters. Two men go from hardly even speaking to each other to "I love you" and an almost instant HEA. A couple of things (other than what I mentioned) had me shaking my head.

I'll probably read the next in the series simply because I felt that Richard (the MC in the 2nd one) was more interesting than these two guys.
Profile Image for Theresa.
3,365 reviews
August 26, 2015
Not much relationship development. The MCs spend most of the book infatuated with each other. Three-forths of the way through the book, they have sex and have their first face to face conversation. Jackson is a jealous ass and demands Alex stop stripping. They separate then get back together again. Then they make up and little Napolean Jackson tells Alex that he loves him and wants him to move in. Yea right. This timeline works well for a shifter instant love book. Alex should not have given up his dancing for little shit Jackson.
602 reviews
July 11, 2013
I was give a copy of this book for my honest review.

While I liked this book, I felt it lacked the in depth character development. I felt we had the basic knowledge of who these men where but not enough background. Additionally, I felt the end of the HEA was rushed and I just thought that the author could have put more details and depth about these guys!

There was so much more potential for this book.
Profile Image for Lee.
620 reviews
September 15, 2011
Point of Beginning is a very sweet story. It's short, so it's a fast read, and while the plot isn't new or too involved, it does have a few new ideas that make the book work. I liked the book and I look forward to reading more from Ms. Stanley. I give Point of Beginning three stars.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

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