What an amazing debut novel. There is so much packed into this story. First, we have Isaac with his crippling PTSD, but he is also fiercely protective too. Brody refers to him as a prickly cactus, which is a perfect name. Then there is Brody, who is a contradiction. People call him weird and quiet and a loner, but Issac never sees him like this. He has his own share of family trauma too. These two start off on the wrong foot and it takes a little while before Issac allows Brody to help him. Issac, is triggered throughout the story, his therapy sessions are key to helping him work through his issues. Brody turns out to be a softee, despite his bad boy looks. He adores Issac and just needs Issac to believe it.  Despite the heaviness that this book carries,  there is also a lot of humour and fun and high heat chemistry. Lots of amazing supporting characters, I would love some of them to get a story. I loved Brody's relationship with his sister, she was so dry and funny and called it between them before they had any idea. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.