When Peaches Monroe is surprised by nail technician and future returning college student Jamie Hunt at her popular barber shop, she can't back down from the challenge Jamie lays down, explore the sparks that have been flying between them since their friend groups squad-ed up.

Jamie knows Leo Peaches won't be able to turn down a public declaration of her intentions, or the road trip to visit the HBCUs she's set up to help her choose the one she will attend to finish up her degree in Chemistry, even if trying something out *might* be dangerous to the close knit and small friend group they are in.

What follows is a lovely and steamy slow-burn romance where the characters actually date (sorry yall i'm growing tired of fake dating in contemporaries!) and explore what a future could look like, if middle child and looked over Jamie and oldest daughter and verging on burnt out auntie Peaches can balance out their needs and wants.

Loved loved the friend group, and how Jamie and Peaches respected each other and stood up for each other (and fought, and made up). The audiobook narrator for this MADE the story come to life, and did an excellent job with all the voices of the characters. Jamie and Peaches had their distinct voices as did all the friends/family. What a talent, will definitely be looking up more read by Tamara Austin.

A (minor) quibble - i think because I was listening, I really noticed how much everything is described. Every outfit, every time, every character. Lots of little actions are mapped out and at times it was a little tedious when I wanted to get back to the banter! BUT that's a me thing, and otherwise this was super great.

Also, I super appreciated seeing this side of Texas, which the Black characters clearly love and love living in. I hope Taylor gets a book next ! ! !

Content Notes: family drama, countered; therapy practices, countered mis-gendering of nonbinary secondary character, death of parent (Peaches' mom) discussed.