Almost ten years ago Jax left college for his hometown and never came back, cutting off all communication with Wilder. Now Wilder, still hurt and angry, releases his first book based on his relationship with Jax. When Jaxon finds the book, all his feelings come rushing back. He's weighed down with guilt and responsibility, but takes this as a sign that he needs to speak with Wilder. And just maybe, win back the love of his life. 

I was rooting for this couple so hard the whole time! My favorite part of these characters is they're both imperfect. Wilder is extremely dramatic, see: his internal monologue about the fate of an author's signature in a book. He often makes a big deal out of something simple. Jax made a huge mistake when he left. He was young and didn't see any other way, but it doesn't make up for the hurt he caused. When they reunite, it's emotionally difficult to move past these hang ups they both have. But they are truly the love of each other's lives, and there's no one else for them. Their time apart, while heartbreaking, made it easier for them to make their relationship a priority now and do what it takes to make it work. 

All of these side characters were so endearing. I loved June. I feel a lot of the time these characters that are put in to push the plot and make the MCs realize their feelings are cliche and shallow, but she was more of the "get your shit together, life's not about you" variety. It was perfect for someone like Wilder who can get so caught up in his own dramatics. Ethan and Jason had such a cute friendship, and I love that Jax was able to make a friend like Ethan who also cared about his brother. 

This was a perfect mid angst book for me. I do think the first half was better than the bit before the epilogue but I honestly just loved it all around. I've read some A.M. Johnson before but in this book especially I loved the writing. We share the same love of commas. I already peeked to see who the next book is about because there were some characters that I needed to see have their own happy endings. Can't wait to see how the next story plays out. 

Read if you like: 
• hurt/comfort 
• second chance   
• light religious themes   

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