This was such a lovely story about healing. From trauma and a rough childhood. Both Isaac and Brody go on this journey together, which helps each of them heal in different ways. Lyla Dane did a great job of portraying some of the realities of PTSD. So often, people believe that trauma fades over time, but it has a tendency to linger and digs its claws in deep. Isaac still struggles after 8 years, and I related to him so much with that. Brody was so patient with him, and Isaac went out of his comfort zone to stand up for Brody like he deserved. They were both something for the other that neither of them had ever had. They worked really well together and ended up being disgustingly adorable. This story isn't overly angsty, but there is a little drama outside the relationship. It took me a bit to really get into it, but once I hit around the 25% point, I didn't want to put it down. Shout out to a couple of my favorite side characters: Jordan was hilarious and so supportive of Isaac, and Bri was so great with her dry and sarcastic sense of humor and deep loyalty to Brody. All in all, this is a solid read and a great debut for this author.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.