Desta Joy Walker has finally come back to Ethiopia, a country his mom and dad hold beloved in their hearts, but also the place his father died. Determined to work hard but also find time to enjoy his time in Addis Abba and maybe a little closure, Desta isn't expecting to also find maybe the love of his life.

And while Desta and Elias are clearly pining for each other, both are wary to express their feelings because it is dangerous not just for their hearts but for Elias's life. While fighting and exploring their feelings for each other, Desta needs to decide whether it is time to tell his mother that her and his father's dreams are not his and Elias needs to decide if he's ready to move to America to begin his doctoral program and perhaps explore what it means to be a gay man in a country where he would have more rights.

Told entirely from Desta's POV, this is an utterly emotional and ultimately full of joy romance that will leave you feeling you are sitting next to Desta and Elias in Ethiopia. A celebration of finding oneself while also losing your heart, a triumph for Herrera.

I received a free copy from the author for review. Thank you!

CW: death of a parent (in the past), lingering grief issues, homophobia (societal), fear of being outed