The story here picks up exactly where the first installment in the series left off, no breaks, but it does fill very much like a separate sequel, not just the second half of the same book. The stakes here are definitely higher and the characters have to deal with more external conflicts. I was really worried for them both more than once, and there were moments that gave me a lump in my throat. But just like in the first book, the narrative here exudes so much kindness and hope. Shit happens, but both characters constantly have someone who has their back through it, and they get to emerge happy on the other side.

I really loved the growth both Alex and Eli go through, especially in relation to their developing relationship. They do so well confronting their own and each other’s flaws and nipping problems in the bud. That one scene where they consciously decide how they’re going to tackle arguments? Chef’s kiss. I actually read it twice. Healthy communication is my catnip, especially when it’s done this specific way: not as something that 100% comes naturally to everyone involved, but as something the character have to and want to put in the work to achieve.

Once again, I really appreciated the way disability and mental health were handled. The found family vibes from the team warmed my heart, the domestic scenes were so cozy, and Hawk remains the best doggo. The cat got kind of lost behind everything, though, and that’s my single complaint: I wanted more cat!