This is my first Anna Martin book so I had no expectations going in.  Maybe that has something to do with why I enjoyed it so much while a lot of the Goodreads reviews are less than stellar.  I actually appreciated the low angst that she brings and how it's a lot about finding your footing & finding love.  

Max is back in his small hometown because his mom recently had a stroke and he realized he wanted to be closer to her.  Opening his own tattoo parlor is a big bonus and connecting with Tyler again (and maybe more) is just the icing on the cake.  Max is the fun-loving character who enjoys life and is comfortable with his sexuality.  He's been out since school and has had a few romantic bumps along the way but overall he's confident and assured.  (Although maybe not quite ready for a life-time commitment just yet.)  

Tyler hasn't ever really felt that sexual, even though he's been married and had a kid, but with Max's return he's starting to figure out there may be a reason why.  Looking a bit deeper at himself and his desires, Tyler soon changes his mind about wanting just friendship between them. 

Since his older brother is comfortable in a long-term, same-sex relationship, I think that helped Tyler with his decision.  There are a few complaints in reviews about how easy and quickly his mind was changed, but it actually worked for me.  The conversation he had with his brother & brother-in-law was awesome and I love how they described sexuality & helped him come to terms with things.  

I think my only concern was how Tyler was worried about his standing in the community but that wasn't really ever addressed.  I mean, we know from the epilogue that everything works out fine for them but I think a little bit of the reaction of the townsfolk accepting him as he is would have been nice.  Otherwise, I enjoyed pretty much everything else about this story.  

The Color of Summer is a relaxed, easy read and the low drama factor makes it a fabulous summer read in my opinion.  Low key doesn't have to mean boring and Martin's latest is a perfect example.  With a cast of awesome characters and plenty of feels, there's a lot to keep you reading.  

**Review given honestly and freely after receipt of a reader copy. This opinion is completely my own and was not influenced in any way.**