Homecomings and Goodbyes

After a whirlwind of travel, Mia Saunders returns to Las Vegas, exhausted but comforted by the familiar embrace of her best friend Ginelle and her younger sister Maddy. The warmth of home is tinged with the bittersweet knowledge that her time is fleeting—her life as a high-priced escort means she's always on the move, never able to settle. Messages from past clients and friends remind her of the connections she's made, but also the emotional cost of her transient lifestyle. As she reunites with her family, Mia is reminded of her responsibilities and the sacrifices she's made to protect and provide for her loved ones, especially Maddy, who is growing up fast.

Sisterhood and Surprises

The bond between Mia and Maddy is tested when Maddy reveals she's lost her virginity to her boyfriend, Matt. Mia, both protective and supportive, navigates the delicate balance between being a sister and a surrogate mother. Their candid conversation is filled with vulnerability, laughter, and the unspoken fear of losing each other to adulthood. Mia's pride in Maddy's maturity is mixed with anxiety about her sister's choices, but she ultimately offers understanding and advice, reinforcing their unbreakable connection. The sisters' relationship is a cornerstone of Mia's life, shaping her decisions and sense of self.

Engagements and Expectations

At a dinner with Matt's family, Maddy and Matt announce their engagement, sending Mia into a spiral of shock and protectiveness. The news forces Mia to confront her fears about Maddy growing up and moving on, as well as her own role in her sister's life. A tense conversation with Matt reveals his genuine love and commitment, but also the reality that Maddy is no longer a child. Mia's initial resistance gives way to reluctant acceptance, recognizing that her sister deserves happiness and autonomy. The engagement becomes a catalyst for Mia's own self-reflection about love, responsibility, and letting go.

Hawaiian Arrival, Island Temptation

Mia's next assignment takes her to Hawaii, where she's to model for a body-positive swimwear campaign. The island's beauty is matched only by the magnetic presence of Tai Niko, her modeling partner—a towering, tattooed Samoan with a commanding presence. The chemistry between Mia and Tai is immediate and electric, igniting a passionate affair that is as much about physical pleasure as it is about mutual respect and cultural exchange. Hawaii offers Mia a respite from her worries, immersing her in a world of natural wonder, sensuality, and self-discovery.

The Samoan and the Sea

Mia and Tai's relationship quickly becomes intensely physical, their attraction fueled by the island's energy and their own unspoken needs. Tai introduces Mia to the traditions and meanings behind his tattoos, sharing stories of family, heritage, and personal growth. Their intimacy is raw and uninhibited, allowing Mia to explore her desires without judgment. Yet, beneath the surface, both are aware that their time together is limited—Mia's journey is always moving forward, and Tai is searching for a love that will last beyond a single month. Their connection is both a celebration and a poignant reminder of impermanence.

Family, Culture, and Fire

Tai brings Mia into his close-knit family, where she experiences the warmth, pride, and rituals of Samoan culture. Sunday dinners, respect for elders, and the spiritual wisdom of Tai's mother, Masina, offer Mia a sense of belonging she rarely feels. Masina's prophetic words hint that Mia and Tai are not destined for forever, urging them to cherish the present. The family's fire knife performances showcase their strength and unity, while also highlighting Tai's longing for a soulmate. Through these experiences, Mia gains a deeper appreciation for roots, legacy, and the power of community.

Modeling and Body Image

The swimwear campaign challenges industry norms by celebrating women of all shapes and sizes. Mia bonds with fellow models, each with their own stories and insecurities, and finds camaraderie in their shared mission. The shoots are demanding but rewarding, pushing Mia to embrace her body and redefine her sense of beauty. The campaign's message resonates deeply, inspiring Mia to reflect on her own journey toward self-acceptance. The creative process, led by the passionate designer Angel and his wife Rosa, becomes a transformative experience, blending art, activism, and personal growth.

Island Adventures and Revelations

Tai takes Mia on a series of adventures across Oahu, from breathtaking lookouts to sacred temples and hidden valleys. Each excursion is an opportunity for reflection, healing, and connection—to the land, to each other, and to themselves. Mia is moved by the island's history, spirituality, and the sense of peace she finds in its natural beauty. These moments allow her to process her past, her fears for the future, and her longing for something more. The island becomes a metaphor for Mia's own journey—lush, unpredictable, and full of possibility.

Love, Lust, and Letting Go

As Mia and Tai's relationship deepens, they navigate the boundaries between lust and love, friendship and romance. Their nights are filled with intense passion, but also honest conversations about their desires, dreams, and the reality that their paths will soon diverge. Mia helps Tai recognize the signs of his destined love, while Tai encourages Mia to seek her own happiness beyond obligation. Their mutual respect and affection allow them to part without regret, grateful for the joy they've shared. Letting go becomes an act of love, not loss.

Birthdays and New Beginnings

Maddy's twentieth birthday is a celebration of growth, independence, and sisterhood. Mia grapples with the bittersweet realization that her role in Maddy's life is changing—her sister is forging her own path, supported but not defined by Mia's sacrifices. Conversations about love, sex, and the future highlight the generational shift between them, as well as the enduring strength of their bond. Mia is challenged to envision a life that is hers alone, separate from her identity as Maddy's protector. The birthday marks a turning point for both sisters, signaling new beginnings.

Farewells and Future Paths

As her time in Hawaii ends, Mia prepares to say farewell to Tai, Ginelle, and Maddy. She marks the occasion with meaningful gifts—a sister bracelet for Maddy, a symbol of friendship for Tai—expressing her love and appreciation for the people who have shaped her journey. The act of leaving is both painful and liberating, forcing Mia to confront her fear of change and her hope for the future. She reflects on the lessons learned, the memories made, and the courage it takes to move forward. Each goodbye is a step toward self-discovery.

The Next Chapter Awaits

Mia's next client is a wealthy, older man in Washington, D.C., a stark contrast to the vibrant, sensual world of Hawaii. The prospect is daunting, but Mia is determined to approach it with the same openness and resilience that have carried her this far. An unexpected encounter with the man's son, a charismatic senator, hints at new adventures and challenges ahead. As Mia boards her flight, she embraces the uncertainty of the future, trusting that each chapter—no matter how unpredictable—will bring her closer to understanding herself and finding her own "forever."

Characters

Mia Saunders

Mia is the heart of the story—a young woman driven by love for her family and a fierce determination to protect them at any cost. Her role as an escort is both a means of survival and a journey of self-discovery, exposing her to new worlds, relationships, and facets of herself. Mia's psychological complexity is rooted in her dual identity: caretaker and seeker, sister and lover, vulnerable and strong. Her interactions with others—especially Maddy and Tai—reveal her capacity for empathy, adaptability, and growth. Throughout the narrative, Mia confronts her fears of abandonment, her longing for belonging, and her struggle to define her own happiness apart from her responsibilities. Her development is marked by increasing self-awareness, courage, and the willingness to embrace change.

Madison "Maddy" Saunders

Maddy is Mia's younger sister and emotional anchor. Having been raised largely by Mia after their mother's abandonment and their father's decline, Maddy is both sheltered and wise beyond her years. Her journey in this installment is one of transition—from adolescence to adulthood, from dependence to independence. Maddy's engagement to Matt and her academic ambitions in biochemistry reflect her desire for stability and achievement. Psychologically, she grapples with the tension between loyalty to Mia and the need to forge her own path. Her relationship with Mia is loving but fraught with the challenges of letting go and redefining family roles. Maddy's growth is seen in her increasing confidence, honesty, and pursuit of her own dreams.

Tai Niko

Tai is Mia's Hawaiian modeling partner and lover—a physically imposing, deeply rooted Samoan man with a gentle heart. His tattoos are not just decoration but a living record of family, culture, and personal milestones. Tai's psychological landscape is shaped by his devotion to family, respect for tradition, and yearning for a soulmate. He is both a source of strength and vulnerability, offering Mia a safe space to explore her desires and fears. Tai's journey is about patience, faith, and the acceptance that true love may come unexpectedly. His relationship with Mia is passionate yet transient, marked by mutual respect and the bittersweet knowledge that their destinies lie elsewhere.

Ginelle

Ginelle is Mia's best friend and chosen family—a whirlwind of energy, humor, and unapologetic honesty. She provides emotional support, practical help, and a grounding presence in Mia's chaotic life. Ginelle's brashness masks a deep loyalty and understanding of Mia's struggles. Her own adventures, including a fling with Tai's brother, add levity and contrast to the story's heavier themes. Ginelle's role is to remind Mia of the importance of friendship, laughter, and living in the moment.

Matt Rains

Matt is Maddy's boyfriend and fiancé, embodying the ideal of youthful devotion and responsibility. He is supportive of Maddy's ambitions and eager to build a future together, despite their young age. Matt's interactions with Mia reveal his sincerity and willingness to confront difficult conversations. Psychologically, he represents the possibility of healthy, supportive love—a counterpoint to Mia's more complicated relationships. His presence challenges Mia to trust others with the care of those she loves.

Masina (Tina) Niko

Masina is Tai's mother and the matriarch of the Niko family. She is deeply connected to Samoan traditions and possesses a spiritual "sight" that allows her to offer guidance and prophecy. Masina's role is to welcome Mia into the family, provide cultural context, and gently steer both Tai and Mia toward acceptance of their paths. Her wisdom and warmth offer Mia a glimpse of the nurturing she missed in her own upbringing.

Angel and Rosa D'Amico

Angel and Rosa are the Italian designer and his wife behind the swimwear campaign. Their partnership is built on mutual respect, passion for their work, and a commitment to celebrating all forms of beauty. They serve as mentors and role models for Mia, fostering an environment of acceptance and empowerment. Their presence in the story underscores the importance of art, collaboration, and challenging societal norms.

Raul

Raul is the stylist, makeup artist, and hairdresser for the campaign—a vibrant personality who brings out the best in Mia and the other models. His artistry and encouragement help Mia embrace her own beauty and confidence. Raul's character adds color, humor, and a sense of community to the modeling world, highlighting the transformative power of self-expression.

Matt's Parents (Tiffany and Trent Rains)

Tiffany and Trent represent the kind of supportive, loving family that Mia and Maddy lacked growing up. Their acceptance of Maddy and willingness to include Mia in family matters provide a sense of security and belonging. Psychologically, they embody the ideals of stability and unconditional love, offering a model for what family can be.

Amy

Amy is the waitress who literally falls into Tai's life at the end of Mia's Hawaiian journey. With her sun-kissed blonde hair and green eyes, she fulfills the prophecy Masina gave Tai. Amy's brief but significant appearance symbolizes the promise of new beginnings, the magic of chance encounters, and the importance of being open to love when it arrives.

Plot Devices

Episodic Structure and Monthly Progression

The novel's structure follows Mia's journey through a different city, client, and set of challenges each month. This episodic format allows for self-contained stories that contribute to Mia's overarching growth. Each month brings new characters, settings, and emotional arcs, mirroring the unpredictability and variety of life itself. The structure also reinforces the theme of impermanence—every experience is fleeting, but each leaves a lasting impact.

Letters and Silent Goodbyes

Mia's habit of leaving letters for her lovers and family members serves as a narrative device for emotional expression and closure. These letters allow her to articulate feelings she cannot say aloud, providing insight into her internal struggles and desires. The silent goodbyes underscore Mia's fear of confrontation and her need to protect herself and others from pain, while also highlighting her growth as she learns to face change with courage.

Symbolism of Tattoos and Gifts

Tattoos in the story are more than body art—they are living symbols of heritage, milestones, and relationships. Tai's tattoos tell the story of his family and personal journey, while the sister bracelets and friendship symbols Mia gives represent enduring bonds. These physical tokens serve as reminders of love, loyalty, and the importance of honoring one's past while embracing the future.

Foreshadowing and Prophecy

Masina's spiritual "sight" and her prophecy about Tai's true love foreshadow the arrival of Amy and the inevitability of change. This device adds a layer of mysticism and inevitability to the narrative, encouraging characters (and readers) to trust in the unfolding of life's events. The use of prophecy also challenges Mia and Tai to accept that not all relationships are meant to last forever, and that letting go can be an act of love.

Body Positivity and Empowerment

The modeling campaign and its focus on diverse bodies serve as a plot device to explore themes of self-acceptance, societal standards, and empowerment. Through her work, Mia confronts her own insecurities and learns to celebrate her body, inspiring others to do the same. This device reinforces the novel's message that beauty is multifaceted and that true confidence comes from within.

Analysis

Audrey Carlan's "May" is a vibrant, sensual, and emotionally resonant chapter in the Calendar Girl series, blending escapist romance with deeper explorations of identity, family, and self-worth. At its core, the novel is about transitions—between places, relationships, and stages of life. Mia's journey is both external and internal: she travels the world, but her greatest adventure is learning to let go of old roles and embrace her own desires. The Hawaiian setting is more than a backdrop; it's a catalyst for healing, growth, and cultural appreciation. Through her passionate affair with Tai, Mia experiences the power of living in the moment, the importance of honoring tradition, and the necessity of accepting impermanence. The novel's focus on body positivity and diverse representation challenges readers to rethink beauty and value. Ultimately, "May" is a celebration of love in all its forms—romantic, familial, platonic—and a reminder that every ending is also a beginning. The lesson is clear: embrace change, cherish connections, and trust that your own "forever" will come in its own time.

Last updated: November 13, 2025