When I heard that Elsie Silver was tackling the deliciously forbidden and inherently messy trope that is “ex-boyfriend’s dad,” I was immediately excited. Not because it’s a trope that I read often (I don’t!), but because I knew she would handle its complexities well - and that was definitely the case with this tension-filled book. Our couple’s relationship didn’t feel taboo or wrong, simply a different kind of forbidden and absolutely meant to be. I loved their meet cute and the immediate connection between them, the way they fit together. And I ADORED the fact that our hero knew from the very beginning that what he wanted was HER. It was incredibly refreshing to read about a man who knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to admit it to himself, even if he isn’t sure that it can ever happen. Seeing the contrasts between him and his son also showcased how grown and mature he is, which was somehow even hotter. And I loved that our heroine was strong, stubborn, and willing to push him when needed. It was a breath of fresh air and a fun, small town-swoony take on a trope that isn’t usually known for that vibe. What a way to end the series… and get me excited for the next one!
The story follows Bash (39), a man who just found out he fathered a child when he was 15. He had no idea about Tripp, who is now a privileged 24-year-old who still has some growing to do. When Bash meets a gorgeous stranger at the airport, he is immediately struck by her. Bash and Gwen (27) have an instant connection, which they both intend to continue… until circumstances keep them apart. So it’s a shock to the system when Bash is introduced to Tripp’s girlfriend months later… and she’s none other than the woman he can’t stop thinking about.
Now, I’ll be honest, this trope is always a little messy, and this is no exception. Yes, Gwen has been banging Bash’s son, but it was handled really well and there is zero cheating, so don’t worry about that. It’s not that Tripp is a bad guy (I would love to read his book in the future!), but he is a bit of a man-child with some growing up to do. Bash and Gwen were clearly the better fit, and I was rooting for them from the start. We get the forbidden tension that comes from knowing they really shouldn’t cross those lines, all while knowing they would be so, so good together if they did. It’s a tense slow burn that pays off with some smokin’ hot spice in the back half. I loved the transformation of the characters and the way they fit together. I also loved that the story fit into the universe Silver has built, with appearances by past favorites and the introduction of some characters I am very intrigued by. I’ve been in a reading slump all summer, yet this held my attention with ease - another fantastic read by Silver!
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