This book is sexy, seductive, important, heartfelt. It's a romance that starts at a time when both main characters are adrift - unsure of their next steps, living a half life. But Black gives them time to grow, both together and separately. Nothing feels rushed. 

I loved Rachel and Nathan - usually in romance novels I like one person more than the other but honestly both were so strong. Complex, deep, confused yet independent, struggling to find themselves. I loved the age gap - the fact that Nathan always had to be older and Rachel never had anyone take care of her. "He had always been attracted to women with ambition because it required a level of confidence he didn't have." He truly worships her - loves her for everything she is and everything she wants to be. 

Then we have the art, which adds to the seductiveness of the story. The way Nathan looks at art, the way Rachel loves art even when she wasn't allowed to do it the way she wanted to. Their art is deep, their love of art is deep, and helps to form their connection. 

Side characters - Matt is GARBAGE. Like you know he's garbage from the first sentence *which never has a first sentence in a book made me as excited since Tia Williams Seven Days in June*. But he gets worseeeee. I loved his brother. I loved Nathan's brother Joe, and his mom and Dad. I loved Mia and Rachel's extended family. Understanding and learning about Rachel and Nathan's family helps to give a broader view of who they both are. Nathan's relationship with his dad, realizing that he loves him "an extension of your soul in someone else". Like truly tears. 

And I have to talk about the racial aspects of this book. Matt, being a white man married to a Black woman. Using his "platform" to make rants that show he's a good white person, a woke white person. And the utter exhaustion Rachel feels. Those scenes felt so real - ripped from everyday relationships. "She never told him it was exhausting...". "Kind of like being married to a white man, I guess. Some parts fit. Others don't. Try to have more that fits." - GOSH THAT IS PERFECT. 

Plus the background of the town, and how Alesha's family had owned the bank until the Vasquez family abandoned them. The cross-racial history woven into the story just elevated it even more. The comments on racism in the art community. All of it made such a well rounded story. 

Lastly, I was SHOCKED by the Matt mistress reveal. But I loved the way Black wrapped up the story. 

I need a Joe and Mia story STAT.