I’m a little behind in getting started in this series, but I’m not mad because now it means I can binge the next books.

I love a slow burn, and these two didn’t disappoint. This is a mature and loving friends to lovers, double not-so-straight awakening.

Atlas is called to San Diego when his uncle winds up in hospital. When he arrives he discovers the hotel that his Uncle owns is in dire straights and he begs Atlas to help it out. With a life and a job in New York, he agrees to stick around for a bit to help get it back on track.

Like an angel, Rome shows up to offer his help in renovating the hotel. He’s broke and currently homeless thanks to a breakup with his ex, so this is an opportunity for him to get back on his feet.

They seem like complete opposites. Atlas seems like a stuffy suit-wearing New Yorker, while Rome is a laid-back California type, but they quickly find they have a lot in common and love spending time together. Neither has had a friendship quite like this.

Until one night, there’s a kiss that changes everything.

This is a sweet awakening with little drama, brave feelings, and communication (gasp). The hotel comes complete with found family and friends, great weather and a HEA.

NB: Unpopular opinion: Uncle Howie is a jerk. He claims the staff are his family but takes off without a word and never once cares that he’s saddled his nephew who has a job and life with a hotel that’s failing. He just ups and runs.