check tw/cw: ptsd from war, anxiety, panic attacks, suicide

I thought this was a really good debut novel. I liked the story and the characters. Henry and Colton were really sweet, and I appreciated the anxiety representation. This book shows the struggle of accepting when you need more help than you can give yourself, and the importance of a great support system. 

Henry moved from the city after vet school to take care of his grandma, his caregiver after his parents kicked him out. Colton returns after serving overseas and being honorably discharged because of his PTSD and anxiety. Henry is really supportive of Colton. Colton has trouble coming to terms with the fact he needs outside help, and Henry is there to push him, but also give him space to figure himself out. I love the push and pull of their relationship, Henry helps Colton realize that he can be happy and Colton gives Henry type of love he's always wanted. They have a great relationship dynamic and connection. 

While I really liked Colton and Henry's relationship once it was established, I think the start of it went a little too quick for me. Colton has one dream and then he's all ready to date Henry, and Henry had a pretty insta-love attraction to Colton. Every time Colton walked into a room Henry got a hard on. Also Colton's personality switch from sweet and shy to the dirty talking was a bit of a whiplash. I loved the spicy scenes and thought they were done well, I just couldn't put the two Colton's together. 

I liked this little small town and all it's characters, and I loved their support for Henry and Colton. I enjoyed the story and the writing style, and can't wait to read more by the author. 

Read if you like: 
• hurt/comfort 
• age gap 
• PTSD/anxiety rep