A pretty good installment in the Spires series. I liked Toby, liked Laurie, an interesting plot. My only complaint is it was a little slow at times. A character-driven plot about an unlikely couple discovering (and rediscovering) their happiness. 

•minor spoilers• 

Even though I'm a shiny and new 30, Toby - the 19 year old baby Dom - was very relatable. He's just kind of lost and trying to find his way when he doesn't have really anything to guide him. Laurie is just living day to day, not even attempting to find any happiness. Together they explore what they want from each other in their relationship and what truly makes the happy and fulfilled. I think they have really good chemistry, and even though there's ton of back and forth with very reluctant feelings, they do eventually fall together in a perfect way.

A bit of a theme in Alexis Hall books is this one grumpy brooding usually older guy who is very reluctant to open up to his feelings for their love interest, and then hurts them by being so closed off. I wouldn't have mind if it was switched up a bit. The BDSM was interesting and very light in my opinion, which was fine for me. I liked the plot and the characters but it just dragged a bit. It didn't really hold my attention, but that could just be I'm a little distracted at the moment in general. It was a good read and I look forward to the rest of the series! 

Read if you like: 
• age gap 
• light BDSM 
• opposites attract