The amount of dialogue and talking about feelings in this book was crazy. It was good overall but just dragged a little because it was just the characters talking to each other and declaring all their feelings all the time, in between internal monologues about even more of their feelings. And not even about their romance, but more of just their family issues which took center stage - ahem Maddy, back down it ain't your story. 
I was super excited when the book started but there wasn't enough action to keep my attention. And just the dialogue itself with their conversations and confessing their emotions, it was a lot of really well put together dialogue and I'm convinced no one actually talks like that. It was a bit much for me. 
I wish they did more than message, cook dinner, and volunteer. The only interesting part was the one time they went out with Isaac and the beginning when Ryder came out to everyone. 
It was good, if kinda boring. Just not my speed I guess.


June 2024 Audiobook & Reread: 

Years after breaking off his marriage and coming out to his family, Ryder returns to Atlanta. He begins chatting with someone on a dating app, growing closer and closer to this mysterious man who seems perfect. Hutch has been dealing with family drama since he was a kid, always coming second to his sick sister and putting others first. When he meets someone on an app, he finally feels like he has something to himself for once. When identities are revealed their worlds are rocked, and they have to choose between loyalty and love. 

Ryder and Hutch are so perfect for each other, I don't know how they went their whole lives knowing each other and not realizing it. They are both so compassionate and sweet, and have no issue reaffirming their love for one another. Their lives seamlessly fit together with volunteering, cooking, and those everyday moments. When Hutch is struggling with his family, Ryder gives unwavering support. They have a really special relationship that you can tell will last. The beginning of this story and their romance was definitely my favorite part of the book. 

This book started out really strong for me. I loved the online dating bits, the angst, the reveal, but once they got together it did go a little downhill. It was a bit dialogue heavy - lots of talking about feelings and just too much of Maddy. I think it was better in the audiobook because I wrote in my original review that it was a lot for me and took away from the romance, but I didn't exactly feel the same way with listening to it. I actually bumped the rating up a star after the audiobook. It definitely had all the forbidden romance angst and I really did love Ryder and Hutch together. Can't wait to re-listen to Isaac's story next! 

Read if you like: 
• forbidden romance                     
• friends to lovers     
• online dating/anonymous app

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