Humid Arrival, Lingering Tensions

Mia Saunders steps into the muggy DC air, her mind swirling with unresolved feelings for Wes and the bittersweet end of her time with Tai in Hawaii. As she's chauffeured to her next assignment, her phone buzzes with messages from both men, highlighting the emotional tug-of-war she faces. Wes's jealousy and Tai's warmth remind her of the complicated web of relationships she's built during her year as an escort. Despite her attempts to compartmentalize, Mia can't escape the ache of unfinished business and the uncertainty of her own heart. The city's oppressive heat mirrors her internal unrest, setting the stage for a month that will test her boundaries, her resilience, and her understanding of love and loyalty.

The Shipley Proposition

Arriving at the opulent Shipley mansion, Mia is greeted not by her elderly client, Warren Shipley, but by his striking son, Senator Aaron Shipley. The Shipleys' world is one of old money, political power, and carefully curated appearances. Mia quickly learns her role: to serve as Warren's "arm candy" at high-profile events, helping him gain favor with influential businessmen for a humanitarian project. The arrangement is strictly professional, but the undercurrents of attraction, especially with Aaron, complicate matters. Mia is thrust into a world where image is everything, and her presence is both a tool and a test. The proposition is clear, but the emotional stakes are anything but simple.

Arm Candy and Old Money

Mia is swept into a series of lavish fundraisers and social gatherings, surrounded by powerful men and their much younger companions. She quickly realizes her job is to play the part—look beautiful, act attentive, and help Warren blend in with the "one percent." The transactional nature of these relationships unsettles her, especially as she witnesses the casual objectification of women. Yet, Mia's empathy and wit allow her to connect with both the jaded and the genuine, including Warren's discreet housekeeper, Kathleen. Beneath the surface glamour, Mia senses the loneliness and longing that pervade these gilded lives, prompting her to question her own role in the charade.

Hidden Affairs and Heartaches

Late-night conversations with Kathleen reveal a hidden romance between her and Warren, kept secret for decades due to class and social expectations. Mia, ever the confidante and fixer, encourages Warren to acknowledge his feelings and bring their relationship into the light. Meanwhile, Mia's own heart is tugged by updates from Tai, who has found new love, and by her unresolved connection with Wes. The mansion's grandeur contrasts with the emotional isolation of its inhabitants, and Mia becomes both witness and catalyst for change. Her empathy bridges gaps, but also exposes her to the pain of unspoken desires and the cost of living in the shadows.

Navigating Power and Pretense

At a pivotal fundraiser, Mia's presence helps Warren secure crucial support for his medical outreach project. She befriends Christine, the young, candid wife of a shipping magnate, and leverages this connection to advance Warren's cause. The transactional nature of these alliances is laid bare, but Mia's authenticity and humor cut through the cynicism. She witnesses the lengths to which people will go to maintain power and appearances, and the ways in which women like herself are both pawns and players. The experience is both empowering and disillusioning, reinforcing Mia's resolve to remain true to herself amid the artifice.

Tattooed Memories, Lasting Bonds

Inspired by Tai's new tattoo honoring their friendship, Mia visits a tattoo parlor and has "Trust the journey" inked on her foot, with petals representing the men who have shaped her year. The act is both cathartic and symbolic—a permanent reminder of the lessons, loves, and losses she's experienced. Each lettered petal is a tribute to a different man, marking the impact they've had on her growth. The pain of the tattoo mirrors the emotional scars and triumphs of her journey. Mia's decision to commemorate her story in ink is a declaration of agency, resilience, and hope for what lies ahead.

Champagne, Secrets, and Seduction

A night of heavy drinking with Warren and Kathleen ends in revelry and vulnerability. Mia's hangover is compounded by a disturbing encounter with Aaron, who enters her room uninvited and crosses boundaries while she's asleep. The incident shakes Mia, forcing her to confront the dangers that lurk beneath polished exteriors. She confides in Kathleen but chooses to handle the situation herself, determined not to let victimhood define her. The episode is a stark reminder of the risks inherent in her work and the importance of self-advocacy, even when surrounded by supposed allies.

Family, Friendship, and Fears

As Mia recovers from the night's events, she reaches out to her best friend Ginelle, reflecting on the meaning of family and the loneliness that sometimes accompanies her transient lifestyle. Conversations with Ginelle and memories of her time with Tai, Mason, and others reinforce the idea that family is not just blood, but the people who stand by you. Mia grapples with her feelings for Wes, the boundaries of loyalty, and the fear of vulnerability. The support of her chosen family becomes her anchor, reminding her that she is never truly alone, even in the darkest moments.

Assault in the Shadows

During a glamorous charity event in New York, Aaron, drunk and enraged by family revelations, lures Mia away and attempts to assault her. The attack is brutal and sudden, exposing the fragility of safety even in elite circles. Mason, Mia's steadfast friend, intervenes just in time, rescuing her and confronting Aaron in a violent altercation. The incident leaves Mia physically and emotionally battered, her trust shaken, and the veneer of privilege irreparably cracked. The aftermath is a blur of hospital lights, police reports, and the unwavering presence of friends who refuse to let her face the trauma alone.

Aftermath and Unspoken Costs

In the hospital, surrounded by Mason, Rachel, Tai, and Kathleen, Mia is offered hush money and apologies by Warren, who fears the scandal will destroy his humanitarian project. Mia is forced to weigh her own need for justice against the potential good that Warren's work could achieve. She demands Aaron enter rehab and anger management, refusing any financial settlement. The decision is agonizing, a sacrifice of personal vindication for the greater good. Mia's strength and clarity in the face of pressure highlight her integrity, but the emotional toll is profound. The cost of silence is heavy, but Mia chooses to trust the journey.

Healing, Demands, and Decisions

As she heals, Mia is surrounded by the love and protection of her friends, especially Tai, who flies in to support her. She insists on accountability from the Shipleys, demanding written proof of Aaron's rehabilitation and refusing to be bought. The experience cements her belief in the power of chosen family and the necessity of self-respect. Mia's resilience is tested, but she emerges with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of her own worth. The ordeal becomes a turning point, reinforcing her commitment to finish her year on her own terms.

New York, New Beginnings

With the crisis behind her, Mia spends time in New York and Boston, reconnecting with Mason and Rachel, and reflecting on the bonds she's formed. She writes a heartfelt letter to Warren and Kathleen, wishing them happiness and closure. The city's energy and diversity inspire Mia, reminding her of the possibilities that await. As she prepares for her next assignment, she feels a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for the experiences—both beautiful and harrowing—that have shaped her. The chapter closes with Mia looking forward, ready to embrace whatever comes next.

The Power of Chosen Family

Throughout her journey, Mia comes to realize that the most enduring relationships are those she's chosen. Friends like Mason, Tai, Rachel, and Ginelle become her true family, offering unconditional support and love. These connections provide solace and strength, especially in moments of crisis. Mia's understanding of family expands beyond blood ties to include the people who lift her up, fight for her, and accept her unconditionally. This revelation becomes a cornerstone of her identity, guiding her decisions and giving her the courage to face the future.

Letting Go, Moving Forward

As Mia prepares to leave for her next assignment, she reflects on the lessons learned and the pain endured. She acknowledges the necessity of letting go—of old wounds, unrequited love, and the need for control. The act of moving forward is both liberating and daunting, but Mia is determined to trust the journey. She recommits to her goal of paying off her father's debt and finishing her year as an escort, knowing that each experience, good or bad, is a step toward self-discovery and freedom.

Lessons Etched in Skin

The tattoo on Mia's foot, "Trust the journey," becomes a living testament to her resilience and evolution. Each petal, each letter, is a reminder of the people and moments that have shaped her. The pain of the ink is a metaphor for the pain of growth—necessary, transformative, and ultimately beautiful. Mia's willingness to mark her body with her story is an act of ownership and pride. The tattoo is not just decoration, but a declaration: she is the author of her own life, and every scar is a chapter worth remembering.

Next Stop: Miami Heat

With her time in DC and New York behind her, Mia receives her next assignment: starring in a music video for the charismatic hip-hop artist Anton Santiago in Miami. The prospect of dancing, acting, and navigating a new world excites and unnerves her. As she boards the plane, Mia carries with her the lessons, scars, and friendships of the past months. The journey continues, and with it, the promise of new challenges, new loves, and new opportunities to trust herself and the path she's chosen.

Characters

Mia Saunders

Mia is the heart of the story—a young woman driven by love for her family and a fierce determination to pay off her father's debt. Her journey as an escort is both a means to an end and a crucible for personal growth. Mia's empathy allows her to connect deeply with others, often becoming a confidante and catalyst for change. She is haunted by past loves, especially Wes, and struggles with vulnerability and trust. Despite trauma and objectification, Mia refuses to be defined by victimhood. Her resilience, humor, and capacity for forgiveness are her greatest strengths, and her evolving understanding of family and self-worth propels her forward.

Warren Shipley

Warren is an aging businessman and philanthropist, driven by a desire to leave a legacy through humanitarian work. His public persona is one of power and respectability, but privately he is vulnerable, especially in matters of the heart. His secret relationship with Kathleen reveals his capacity for deep love, but also his fear of scandal and loss. Warren's willingness to hire Mia as arm candy is pragmatic, yet he treats her with kindness and gratitude. The assault by his son devastates him, forcing him to confront the costs of silence and the importance of accountability. Ultimately, Warren's arc is one of humility, growth, and the courage to love openly.

Aaron Shipley

Aaron, Warren's son and a rising political star, embodies both privilege and inner turmoil. Outwardly charming and powerful, he is haunted by unresolved grief and a history of violence exacerbated by alcohol. His initial flirtation with Mia masks deeper issues, culminating in a predatory assault that shatters his image and devastates those around him. Aaron's actions force a reckoning within the Shipley family and expose the dangers of unchecked power. His mandated rehabilitation is both a consequence and a hope for redemption, but his legacy is one of warning—a reminder of the darkness that can lurk beneath polished exteriors.

Kathleen

Kathleen is the Shipley housekeeper and Warren's longtime lover, embodying grace, discretion, and emotional strength. Her love for Warren is steadfast, but years of secrecy have taken a toll on her self-worth. Kathleen's relationship with Mia is maternal and supportive, offering comfort and wisdom in times of crisis. She is both a victim of class constraints and an agent of her own happiness, ultimately stepping into the light as Warren's partner. Kathleen's journey is one of patience, dignity, and the quiet power of love that endures despite obstacles.

Wes Channing

Wes is the man who haunts Mia's heart—a former client turned confidant and lover. Their relationship is marked by passion, jealousy, and a deep emotional connection that neither can fully relinquish. Wes's presence is felt through texts, calls, and dreams, symbolizing both what Mia desires and what she fears to claim. He represents the possibility of true love, but also the risk of heartbreak. Wes's willingness to support Mia, even from afar, is a testament to his devotion, but their story remains unfinished, a thread of hope and uncertainty woven through Mia's journey.

Tai Niko

Tai, Mia's Samoan lover from a previous month, becomes a lifelong friend and protector. His warmth, humor, and cultural values offer Mia a sense of belonging and safety. Tai's new relationship with Amy and his symbolic tattoo honoring Mia reflect his capacity for love without possessiveness. When Mia is assaulted, Tai's immediate presence and support underscore the depth of their bond. He is a touchstone for Mia—a reminder that family can be chosen, and that true friendship endures beyond romance.

Mason Murphy

Mason, a professional baseball player and former client, evolves into one of Mia's closest friends. His loyalty is unwavering, and his intervention during Mia's assault is both heroic and deeply personal. Mason's relationship with Rachel and his embrace of Mia as family highlight his capacity for love and commitment. He provides comic relief, emotional support, and a sense of home for Mia, embodying the best qualities of chosen kin.

Christine Benoit

Christine, the young wife of a shipping magnate, is both a source of comic relief and a key ally in Warren's project. Her openness about her unconventional marriage and sexuality challenges Mia's assumptions and provides a window into the complexities of transactional relationships. Christine's willingness to help Warren, motivated by genuine empathy, demonstrates the unexpected power of women in male-dominated spaces. Her friendship with Mia is a testament to the bonds that can form across divides of age, class, and circumstance.

Ginelle

Ginelle is Mia's confidante and emotional anchor, offering unfiltered advice, humor, and unwavering support. Their long-distance friendship sustains Mia through loneliness and self-doubt, providing perspective and encouragement. Ginelle's own struggles with addiction and loneliness mirror Mia's journey, reinforcing the importance of mutual care and honesty. She is the voice that reminds Mia of her worth and the necessity of self-care.

Rachel

Rachel, Mason's partner, becomes a nurturing presence in Mia's life, especially during her recovery from assault. Her empathy and practical support help Mia heal, and her inclusion of Mia in her family circle reinforces the theme of chosen kin. Rachel's kindness and resilience offer a model of healthy, loving relationships, and her friendship is a source of comfort and inspiration for Mia.

Plot Devices

Episodic Structure and Thematic Continuity

The novel employs an episodic structure, with each month representing a distinct chapter in Mia's journey, complete with new settings, clients, and challenges. This device allows for both variety and thematic continuity, as Mia's experiences accumulate, shaping her identity and worldview. The recurring motif of "trusting the journey" is reinforced through symbolic acts (like the tattoo) and the evolving cast of characters. Foreshadowing is used to hint at future dangers and emotional reckonings, while callbacks to previous months and relationships create a sense of interconnectedness. The narrative balances romance, humor, and trauma, using Mia's internal monologue to provide insight and cohesion.

Analysis

Audrey Carlan's June is a pivotal installment in the Calendar Girl series, blending romance, social commentary, and personal transformation. At its core, the novel interrogates the intersections of power, gender, and agency, using Mia's journey as both a literal and metaphorical exploration of self-worth. The story exposes the transactional nature of elite society, the objectification of women, and the hidden costs of maintaining appearances. Yet, it is also a celebration of resilience, chosen family, and the capacity for growth after trauma. Mia's refusal to be defined by victimhood, her insistence on accountability, and her commitment to her own values are acts of quiet revolution. The novel's message is clear: true family is found in those who stand by us, love is as much about friendship as passion, and healing is a journey marked by both scars and beauty. In a world that often demands compromise, June champions the courage to trust oneself and the path ahead, no matter how uncertain.

Last updated: January 6, 2026