I didn’t fool myself. Cash hadn’t magically changed my sexuality. I would always be some flavor of ace. But he’d given me the space to enjoy our intimacy when it happened.

There were things about this book I really enjoyed and a couple things I didn’t like as much. I was happy to learn that there’s more to Cash than it seems, and I definitely looked at him differently by the end, but — and a huge but — the fact that he used to parade his hookups in Declan’s face on purpose is such an ugly thing to do to someone you supposedly have feelings for, not to mention borderline harassment. I don’t understand that at all.

It was angstier than I expected. I actually really enjoyed that, and it was a slow process for Declan to trust Cash. I loved everything that had to do with Declan’s sexuality. It was done so well, and I adored how supportive Cash was — truly making sure Declan never had to do something he wasn’t comfortable with.

Another thing that really stuck out to me in a bad way was how the book makes a point of including the small-town gossip thing, making the town’s worst gossip Cash’s neighbor, and you’re telling me he’s been keeping a massive family secret from the entire town and his closest friends? I don’t buy it, lol.

This book is also guilty of making a huge-ass production of the MCs’ age gap, but not once specifying how old Declan is or how many years difference there is. It drives me absolutely fucking insane.

Again. Lots of good things but a couple things I couldn’t ignore or let go of for a higher rating.

3.5 rounded up

⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️

⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Endless puns
Age gap (supposedly)
Graysexual/asexual
Hurt/comfort
Former manwhore
Pansexual MC
Grumpy/sunshine

⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Homophobia and bi-erasure (SC)
Alcoholic parent
Alcohol consumption
MC and SC verbally abused by parent (on page)
Brief mentions of past bullying and homophobia
Vandalism and theft of MC’s property

⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: The book starts with Cash going home with a hookup. He leaves/is kicked out before any hooking up happens. Later on, he shares a kiss with his friend Sawyer to prove a point. It is not sexual or romantic.
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 25/26 and not specified
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 359
Happy ending: Yes


“I’m sorry.” I reached for his arm. “Can I, uh, give you a hug?” He smiled dryly. “I’m fine.” “I’m not.”

“You…” His breath caught and his hand went to his crotch, hovering uncertainly. “You actually want me to?” “I want to see you feel good,” I murmured in his ear. “Touch yourself for me?” “Fuck.” He sucked in a sharp breath. “Okay. Damn. Anything you want.” “Then open your pants.”