If you are expecting a modern twist on the classic Pretty Woman film where a wealthy man meets a pretty hooker, then be prepared because this book is so much more.

Hooker opens with the story of Jade, a high-end escort, who has endured a harsh orphaned childhood only to be adopted by M – the Madame who primps and primes Jade throughout her teens to become a hooker in her employ. From this devastating home life Jade emerges strong, independent, resilient and determined to escape M and the profession she despises. Since she cannot escape her contract to M she escapes on holiday to New York, but the fun begins in Sydney Airport when she collides into Mr Delicious – enter Brock Weston.

Move over Richard Gere, Brock exudes charm, wealth, privilege and a tendency of getting exactly what he wants – and after the first brief encounter with Jade, he wants more. A chance encounter in New York has the sexual tension crackling, reaching fever pitch in one night of wild abandon. Brock is charmed by the combination of her sweet, down-to-earth nature and incredible sexual prowess, but he is left with desire and memories. As Jade hastily returns to Sydney with her heart aching from the knowledge that the cherished care Brock showed her could never continue while she remains locked in contract to M. However, Brock is a man who rises to a challenge, and Jade is a woman who deserves the love he can provide – if he can find her again and look beyond her past she wants to hide.

The character of Jade is charming, with her strength and determination to survive her contract and plans for a free and independent future. Throughout the trials of the book, she remains true to her strong and sweet nature – with the occasional but well deserved tirade at Brock. Brock’s character also remains true throughout the novel, he is charming, possessive and stubborn but if often overwhelmed with responsibility and guilt.

The relationship is based on mutual attraction, and does not have any elements of love at first sight, rather their love develops over months of conversation and hot sex (of course). Even with all the steamy sex and sinister plot, there is sweetness to Brock and Jade’s relationship which is endearing and ever-present throughout the book. Also, the importance of family and love (not just desire) is explored through both characters with not only loss, but support, discovery and growth of family bonds.

The writing style in first person was occasionally jarring and took a long time to become accustomed to, but the dual perspectives was wonderful to experience the relationship from both Jade and Brock. Additionally, the sinister elements of the plot were too quickly resolved and removed the element of suspense, leaving the rest of the novel slowly resolve personal plots. Whilst I did appreciate J.L. Perry’s attention to detail in thoroughly tying up loose ends to leave the reader happy with Jade and Brock’s future, the loss of intensity and suspense made the ending anti-climactic.

Hooker is an addictive read, with delicious characters, sizzling sex and an enduring romance that will warm your heart.

Released on 31st May 2016 by Hachette Australia
ARC received from Hachette Australia for honest review