Swoon. This novel was perfection. Exactly what I was looking for. 5⭐️ I’m a sucker for pining, and this situation of a one night stand and then “surprise” we’re going to be step siblings set the stage just right.

Roxie Noir is a new to me author, and I want to read all her past and future works. The characters were compelling and unique. I would want to be in their friend group. All of the side characters were introduced with just the right amount of information. Enough to know the connections, and not at all overwhelming.

The family relationships were A+ also. This was important to the development of Javi and Madeline’s relationship. His sister and brother were necessary to see what was happening between Javi and Mads - they were visibly more than future step siblings bonding.

Javi was a cat dad, yay. And Madeline has an obsession with mermaids. Also yay.

I appreciated how Javi’s recovery was dealt with. It’s a very significant part of his past, how their first meeting played out the way it did. It rationalizes a bit more of the concern and worry his family has for him. But it was never overly dark, and highlighted how strong his support system was and how hopeful his future was.

The tension throughout this book was my catnip. I loved it. Could eat it with a spoon.

Thanks so much to the author for an advanced copy!