Healing Waters

Tides of Change #1

by Mandella Carona

Evan
My teenage son tells me all the time that I don't understand him. Yeah, well guess what? No one understands me either. Guess we have that in common. Widowed and a single parent in my thirties, I’m feeling more than just a little lost. Add to that, my son just got me fired. Pressed with the reality that I will have to go work for my dad or find something different, I accept a seasonal position at a summer camp.

One that ends up changing my life, because I’m pretty sure I’ve got it bad for my new boss.


Brooks
For as long as I’ve wanted to become a social worker, I’ve also wanted to run a summer camp for troubled youth. When my sister died, the dream changed... as did my entire life. Now I’m all too used to doing everything on my own. Working at my practice, raising my niece, and running a summer camp by myself- it leaves little time for me, and that's fine. It takes my mind off the grief and guilt.

Only, this summer I hire some extra help... and I end up falling for him, when I shouldn't.

Genres: M M Romance, Grief

418 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 14, 2025

About the author

Mandella, a proud born and raised Mainah, enjoys consuming—as much as she enjoys writing—books. She hopes to add ‘bestselling author’ somewhere in her title someday. When she’s not writing or indulging in a little ‘light’ reading, she enjoys snugglin' with her dog, Maverick, and being outdoors: camping, hiking, fishing, etc. By day, she works in the medical field. By night, and oftentimes through a weekend, she writes unique, funny, and sometimes deep novels—with a little bit of spice.

Reviews

[Tonya Druckenmiller · Rating 4 out of 5]

A tragic accident leaves Brooks as the caregiver to his sister’s daughter—something he feels called to do after years of estrangement. That same loss inspires him to open a grief summer camp, helping others find hope and healing in the aftermath of tragedy.

Evan is still struggling with the loss of his wife and his increasingly distant teenage son. When his son surprises him by wanting to work at Brooks’s camp, Evan reluctantly agrees to help out for the summer. What he doesn’t expect is how much the experience will change them both.

As the summer unfolds, Brooks and Evan’s connection deepens into something neither saw coming. Through patience, honesty, and understanding, Brooks helps Evan confront the feelings he’s long buried—and Evan’s son, Colton, begins to face a truth of his own.

This story is about love after loss, second chances, and the beauty of finding yourself again when you thought all hope was gone. The HEA was absolutely perfect—a gentle reminder that healing and love can bloom even after heartbreak. 💛

**I received a complementary copy of this book.**

[☽❣≾KraFish≿❣☾ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really enjoyable read.
There were a few times where the inner monologue got a little rambly in between The spoken dialogue. (That might just be my impatience speaking though.)

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.25. Sweet story

[ljreads_13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took on some truly difficult topics—grief, healing, and the exhausting feeling of giving your all to a life that sometimes feels like it’s giving nothing back—and the author handled every bit of it with such tenderness and honesty. The story felt incredibly authentic in a way that hit straight to the heart, and as a lifelong lover of single-dad romances, this one had everything I crave: vulnerability, resilience, messy emotions, and a love that grows right in the middle of the chaos.

And let me just say… the spice? SPICY. I loved it. Loved it loved it loved it. As someone who adores lace panties and all the gentle, submissive exploration that comes with that, I could not have been more thrilled. The author balanced pure, carnal want with emotional depth so beautifully that every intimate moment felt both scorching hot and deeply meaningful.

What really stayed with me, though, was the love between Evan and Brooks. It’s real, raw, and so achingly genuine. Watching both of them navigate the struggle of parenting, grief, and rebuilding their lives added a layer of emotional depth that made this book impossible to put down. I felt everything—the joy, the ache, the frustration, the hope—and I’m so grateful for it.

Thank you to the author for the ARC copy… even though this review is embarrassingly delayed. What a wonderful, unforgettable book.

[Lyndsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a wild rollercoaster of emotions, that I would definitely ride again! Brooks was so freaking… just everything about him was love and light. And…. Hot. Evan was such a sad soul, coming to terms with his own sexual orientation. My heart broke for him over, and over, as he came to understand that he WAS worthy. Ugh, my stupid eyes wouldn’t stop crying.

The single dad (for both) aspect wasn’t something I’ve ever read before, but I freakin lovedddd it!! And they were both such good dads.

Extra shout out for Colt and Morgan who added so much extra to the plot and made my heart so happy!!

Definitely a five star read for me! Recommend 100%!

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved it and honestly learned so much about gay relationships (just being honest bc I had to look up a few words)! As a mom of a teenager, I appreciated the humorous language and how you acknowledged the struggles of your own experiences growing up and how that impacts the way you parent your kids while they’re learning to be independent. I loved the relationship between Evan and Brooks, all of the spicy scenes, and seeing them grow emotionally together.

[b00ks_in_nature · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has suffered a lot of grief, I loved the idea of the summer camp. The overarching concept that one can find love after loss also resonated with me. I loved the characters of Brooks and Evan, and how they met each other's needs and supported each other. I also enjoyed watching both characters as parents, and the kids themselves. It all worked really well for me.

[bookygirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet bi-awakening romance! Really loved both Evan and Brooks, and the healing journey. Overall a great low angst romance with wonderful main and side characters.

Really hope we get Gordy’s story next!

[Rachel Harrod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brooks and Evan were written in the stars and I spent the majority of this book smiling. It’s fairly low angst, hella spicy in parts, and absolutely delightful.

(Also, Brooks in lingerie. Yes please!)

[Kassie Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
🌶️ 🌶️🌶️

This was my first read for this author. I loved Evan and Brooks story so much. Their relationship was adorable and supportive of one other. I laughed cried and yelled while reading this. I loved how all the side characters fit into the storyline. I wanted Kai to be attacked by Noodles so bad. I did like him more towards the end however. Overall, this is a tender, emotional, and deliciously spicy romance about healing, love after loss, and second chances. Mandella absolutely nailed it! will definitely read more of her books.

[Brandy Donato · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was just what I needed! It pulled all my little heart strings. This is my first book from this author but after reading this I will continue to read what ever she writes.

Evan is my book boyfriend he is just so perfect. Oh sweet Brooks how I love you too! These 2 are just so perfect. The chemistry between these too was🔥. I could go on and on but I don’t want to spoil it for anyone!

I really hope we get a book for Gordy and Gannett! 💕

If any of this your type of book then I recommend this book:
-hurt/comfort
- opposites attract
- love after loss
- shy guy in lace
- mental health rep
- mcs in their 30s

5 STAR BOOK!

[Crisana · Rating 3 out of 5]

It wasn't a bad book per se and it made me laugh a few times but there was too much inner dialogue and the characters were rambling about anything and everything. It needed some serious tidying up, maybe cut about 50 to 70 pages and it would have been great.
My other issue was all the coincidences and how they connected to each other. It just felt too much and took away from the experience.
I can see potential in the author though, so will keep an eye out for their next books.

[Wicked River Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this! I read most of it in less than a day and I would have finished it in one sitting if it wasn’t for work! I really liked Evan and Brooks together, they were so perfect for one another. I appreciated the way Brooks was patient with Evan and allowed him to come into his own at his own pace. I also really liked seeing Evan give Brooks the support he needed and craved. The grief these two dealt with was understandable and it was nice seeing it bring them together but not overtake their relationship development. They were able to bond over other things and their connection went beyond their feelings of loss. The kids were great. So funny and sweet. I really enjoyed seeing both Evan and Brooks be great fathers to their children with realistic ups and downs. Noodles was hilarious. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to pick this up.

“Give me the G-Squared.”

🤍ARC REVIEW🩵

☑️ Trigger Warnings

[Sam Price · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was a lucky recipient of an ARC for this book and I really enjoyed it!

I've read all sorts of MM romance books and this was the first one where they were at a summer camp, which I thought was a great location!

Evan and Brooks were two compelling characters and you were just rooting for them to get together and be happy together forever. All of the dialogue in the book was well written and felt natural, which is always something I look for when reading.

The spice had things I hadn't read much of, so I appreciated that as well. I enjoy reading variety and this had it.

All in all, I really enjoyed this book! Great job, Mandella!

[bookish feind · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could probably go on for half a day about how much I loved this book… but I will spare you and keep it short. Feeling Evan’s push and pull within himself throughout the book made me feel so many emotions. Brooks made me feel so connected to him, like I was seeing myself through him in so many ways. I LOVED them!
The kids in the story add so much sass and fun to the story line! I love their inputs on the main characters life’s!
I now want my own Noodles and will forever have a mental image of Evan seeing Brooks at Noodles release in my brain! I laughed so hard! Gosh! I said I would keep this short.

Spice- fanfreakingtastic!
Plot- great!
Angst level- low/ mild
Banter- EPIC!

[Just Jen Here · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartbreakingly Beautiful

The title is perfection to the story. Brooks run a summer camp in Maine for grieving kids while trying to raise his teenage daughter. Knowing grief well because of their circumstances, he doesn’t want to lose the camp. Brooks struggles to stand up for himself and tends to put everyone else first.
Evan can’t communicate with his teenage son after the loss of his wife. Their shared secrets have only compounded their misunderstanding each other. Being a teenage dad and the pressure to join the family business is not what Evan wanted with his life.
The story will pull at your heart strings.
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3.5 🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 🌶️

[Nic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Healing Waters is right!!!

Mandella!!! Her books never cease to draw me in and hold me captive!! This book is utter perfection. I laughed, I cried, I wanted to murder Kai in the lake. Brooks and Evan were simply the cutest and sweetest men ever! Their journey was everything. The connection beautiful. Mandella brought to life not just the guys but her side characters are amazing!! Evan's family was beautiful. There wasn't a single thing about this book I didn't absolutely love! A must read and a top favorite for the year!!

[Taylor Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gah.. let me just tell you. These books just keep getting better and better. Truly, the character development in this book had me in ALL my feels. Mushy-gushy, teary-eyed, and a smile plastered on my face most times. I could not put this down. The fastest read I’ve ever done.. this book truly was everything I needed. I can’t wait for more 🫶🏼

[Amanda Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolute Beautiful Story

I am so awed by this book, the storyline was truly beautiful. It broke me and put me back together. I loved all of the characters you met along the way, and I definitely need Double G to get their own story!

[Courtney Stephens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book! It tackled a lot of serious issues and story lines and brought it all together seamlessly. Very creative story

[Magda | AnotherOneReadsRomance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I start? Two men who know what it means to lose a loved one, both fathers of teenagers, meet at a camp. One is the camp owner and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, the other is the father of a boy who has begun to distance himself from him after the loss of his mother. One meeting turns into a summer full of new experiences and a blossoming love. Because the book's action takes place mainly at the camp, we can feel the great atmosphere there. Brooks is the undisputed king of communication for me. I hate the miscommunication trope and all misunderstandings that come from that. That's why I really appreciate how the author built the characters in this book. We have some tough topics here, but we don't shy away from difficult conversations. What about our lovely men? Brooks is a character I'd love to meet in real life. Full of warmth and empathy, understanding, giving space when needed, and listening without judgment. Evan has come a long way in this book, and I'm so glad we could witness him overcome his traumas and start living life to the fullest. From an introverted loner, he became what he always wanted. Someone his loved ones can rely on, not because he is a tough man (as society often tells), but because he loves them and cares for them and he's not afraid to show it. They make the perfect couple and I loved the scenes where they sneak off on dates to spend some time together. The supporting characters are another plus. The children, Morgan and Colton, don't appear just briefly to remind us that the main characters are fathers. Brooks' mothers, Evan's family, even Kai - everyone gets their time in the story, and they don't feel forced. We have moments in this story that will make you cry, but also scenes that will make you blush. Yes, there's spice here, and it's very good.
I don't want to spoil anything from the story, and I have a feeling this review is getting long, but I do want to encourage everyone to pick up this book. It's amazing, and I highly recommend it.

I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.

[Theodore · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF @ 36%

A tad bit too much narrative expo at the beginning of the chapters and sometimes between dialogue. A lot of it was either unnecessary set dressing or could've come out later closer to it became relevant imo.

Colton randomly opening up to Brooks was entirely too easy. Not only was he too self aware for a kid that literally smiled when his dad's boss fired him, the fact that he seemed sympathetic to his dad's situation while taking zero responsibility for his actions was either meant to shortcut Evan into getting the job and show that Colton was willing to improve without actually having the story make the characters go through the difficulty dealing with a rebellious teen or meant to characterize Colton as a manipulative psychopath (which I think is incredibly unlikely considering the story).

Brooks giving an overly long expo dump about the camp and his guilt over not being able to help his sister + taking Morgan in out of that guilt was way way way too obvious of writing. Trauma dumping is a thing but using it in writing comes across as a lazy way of getting exposition down + letting other characters know very personal details (especially when the two characters were practically strangers aside from off screen email correspondence). At the very least, Brooks shouldn't have dumped all that info on Evan's first official day considering they'd barely really known each other (and who the hell talks about something as heavy as guilt towards a dead sibling with an acquaintance???)

When Evan gets aroused seeing Brook's lace underwear while they were setting the raccoon free, why does he have a full on erection in that cold river water? I assume the author was trying to tell us that Evan was so turned on that he was hard despite the chilly water, but that felt like a stretch knowing how unbelievably cold outdoor water can get at night.

"If I get out of the water now, he'll definitely be seeing me sporting a tent in them. I can't blame it on the cold water either," but you can never blame an erection on cold water in the first place??? Dicksickles are 100% not a thing unless you carve a dick out of ice or flash freeze someone while they were hard (and that's a gross thought).

And why does Evan buy Brooks saying he wore the underwear because he was out of clean ones? Sure, it may have been true, but god knows Brooks wasn't going to say "I'm wearing these because I wanted to turn on Kai" even if he did do it because of that. Evan thinking that Brooks and Kai were still together shouldn't have been dispelled by Brooks saying something because he shouldn't have trusted Brooks given the scene he walked in earlier.

Why does Evan compliment Brooks on his underwear and then proceed to splash water on him? First of all, what happened to the "I'm insecure about my attraction to men" thing? He should've been avoiding mentioning them at all if his character was consistently ashamed, yet instead he's the one that shifts the topic back to Brooks' undergarments when Brooks tried to change the topic. Second, wasn't he hiding an erection under the cold water? Why does he suddenly get playful when he had something he wanted to hide? He should've been feeling shame over being aroused (he literally called himself "chickenshit" for not wanting to admit the underwear turned him on) AND feeling nervous over his erection (that he was trying to keep Brooks from seeing). The scene was clearly supposed to be Evan releasing a bit of that shame and giving in to his desire before pulling back, but I don't think it was done convincingly. Instead of showing an incremental change or a lapse in judgment where he was so turned on by the intimacy that he couldn't help himself, it just felt like the author chose to turn off his internalized homophobia for the scene and used an unjustified boldness to as an excuse for doing so. I don't think people can be bold when they hold such strong self-hatred and I needed a stronger reason for the sudden change in attitude (things like alcohol, adrenaline, getting sick, etc. would've been a decent physical reason since they can believably alter a person's mental state). Evan using his attraction to Brooks to try to become bold and ignore his shame over his attraction to Brooks didn't make sense to me.

Brooks talking about Colton's drawing of him and his boyfriend took me for a loop because I thought Petro was MTF trans, considering how young they were. Like I thought the reason Petro was at the camp was because he was dealing with realizing he was trans. I was shocked then to learn that Petro was actually FTM already presenting as a male. It was super confusing because Evan had only ever referred to him as a boy and that Colton and Petro had known each other since kindergarten, which implied that Evan also knew Petro back then. So Evan had to have known that Petro used to be female and just naturally retroactively changed his name and pronouns when he expo dumped their history in Chapter 5 (which is great for him but very confusing for us because it went against common story patterns and the implications the story set up). A simple acknowledgement of Petro's transition would've gone a long long way in getting rid of this confusion, but we get mixed messaging like Petro mumbling it was all his fault that Colton was getting into trouble and Evan not knowing what that meant (in a town he'd labeled as conservative, that would've been a perfect moment for a quick "I wonder if him being trans is affecting his life" thought)

The characterization was all over the place, particularly with Colton and Evan. We're shown that Colton is this difficult, troubled teen yet he has absolutely no problems turning around his act the very first day of camp and even shows sympathy for his dad when he literally got him fired and smiled while it was happening. I'd chalk it up to Evan's POV seeing his kid in a negative light BUT the police officer, Evan's old boss, AND the school all indicated that Colton had actually had serious behavioral issues so it's not just in Evan's head. Then we get to Evan being a closet case who's somehow more than willing to play around when he should've been scared to death over his attraction.

TL;DR: The confusing/inconsistent characterization (Colton's not-so-rebellious phase, Evan's inconsistent shame) got to me. There's an ok basis here, but I'm just way too hung up on how the story treats Evan's internalized homophobia to really buy into the romance. Shame as strong as Evan's should've colored every single experience he had and should've needed very clear reasons for when he was able to overcome it (not use it to overcome itself).

[Emma Capella · Rating 5 out of 5]

🦝BOOK♡REVIEW🛶 ARC

Healing Waters by Mandella Corona was a solid five-star read for me when I beta read it and first met Evan and Brooks — and after my ARC read? STILL five stars.

This story is the perfect blend of hurt/comfort, loss and healing, heartbreak and humor. From the very start, Mandella had me deep in my emotions, that prologue hit me right in the chest, resonating so strongly with my own experiences of loving someone lost to their addictions. I was fully invested from page one.

The dynamic between Evan and Brooks is everything. I love them — the way they grow together, support each other, and help one another face their inner battles is both sexy and deeply wholesome.

And the symbolism? Incredible. The title Healing Waters, Evan’s last name being Waters, Brooks also being a body of water, and so many key scenes happening around water, it all ties together beautifully.

I could honestly gush about this book endlessly — the little moments that had me giggle-kicking my feet or sniffling through tears — but honestly, you just need to experience it yourself.

Also, my comfort character is Noodle. I cannot wait for everyone to meet this little trash gremlin. So seriously — what are you waiting for?

[Amanda Winter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Healing Waters by Mandela Carona absolutely lived up to its title...this book heals you as it breaks you.

Brooks runs a grief camp for kids in Maine while raising his teenage daughter, carrying his own guilt and never really putting himself first. Evan is a widowed single dad whose relationship with his son is crumbling under grief, secrets, and unspoken expectations. When Evan’s son gets a job at Brooks’s camp, the two men collide at exactly the moment they need someone who understands.

This story is quiet and powerful, grief, single parenthood, internalised homophobia, and second chances all wrapped into one slow, deeply emotional, gently spicy romance. The chemistry is gorgeous, but what really got me was the growth. Evan working through internal shame and learning to show up for himself… Brooks finally letting someone love him back… ugh, my heart.

It’s tender, messy in a real-life way, and full of found family and hope.
If you like emotional single-dad romances with healing arcs and genuine, earned love — this one is so worth it.

[Ash · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ⭐
3.5 🌶️

I'm not sure what to say other than I loved this book so much. 🥺

Mandella took some really difficult topics and turned them into a beautiful story. Evan & Brooks were just very tender and sweet but also at times their story hurt. The growth both characters had was so beautiful to read and watch. In the end Brooks and Evan made it through and ended on the other side in such a beautiful journey.

My sweet baby Riley had a few cameos that made my heart so happy "My daddy's a game warden; that's how I know that." DADDY'S LEVI FOREVER 😭😭

I need all the Noodles content!! 🦝🙌🏻

WHAT TO EXPECT
❥ Hurt/Comfort
❥ Just for the Summer
❥ Single Dads
❥ MCs in their 30s
❥ Opposites Attract
❥ Love after Loss
❥ Mental Health Rep
❥ Shy guy in lace

Cheating: No
Third act breakup: No
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.

[Tracey Simpson · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️.75

Book 1 in the Healing Waters series

Healing Waters is the story of two men bound by grief, guilt, and the quiet hope that maybe love can still find them.

Evan is a single dad drowning in loss after the death of his wife. His relationship with his son, Colton, is strained and fragile — especially as Colton carries a secret. Evan is doing his best to hold everything together, but he’s barely treading water.

Brooks is a therapist carrying his own heavy baggage. After losing his drug-addicted sister, he adopted his young niece, determined to give her the stability his sister never had. But guilt over her death lingers, and so does the shadow of his toxic, manipulative ex, Kai — a man who refuses to fully let him go.

When Brooks hires Evan’s son to help at the grief camp he runs over the summer holidays, sparks fly almost instantly between Brooks and Evan. The attraction is undeniable, but what makes this story shine is that it’s not just about chemistry — it’s about two men who genuinely want something lasting. Something safe. Something real.

This book beautifully explores:
• Coming to terms with sexuality later in life
• Parenting through grief and secrecy
• Survivor’s guilt
• Toxic ex dynamics and emotional manipulation
• The fear of choosing happiness after loss

Evan’s journey as he reconciles his sexuality, supports his son through his own truth, and navigates family expectations is handled with sensitivity and warmth. Meanwhile, Brooks’ struggle to untangle himself emotionally from his jealous, possessive ex adds tension without overwhelming the romance.

There are also hints of “meant to be” woven throughout, balanced by genuinely funny and heartwarming side characters that lighten the heavier themes.

For a first read from Mandella Carona, I was really impressed. It’s emotional without being overwhelming, romantic without being rushed, and grounded in real-life struggles that make the HEA feel earned.

If you love:
• Single dads
• Grief camp/summer camp settings
• Found family
• Jealous ex drama
• Emotional growth with a strong romantic core

…this one is definitely worth picking up.

[Ashley | adhdandread · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to read this before ARC reading the second book in the series, and I’m so glad I did because it introduces you to two green-flag single dads who deserve the happiest of endings! One too often puts others before himself, and the other has never given voice to what he really wants, and seeing them figure out everything together while falling in love is just heartwarming. This book feels like a great setup for a small-town, found-family series.

[Amanda Reeves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Healing Waters is the first book I have read by Mandella Carona and I hope it won't be the last. I loved this story so much, lots of emotions and low angst. I loved reading about Evan and Brooks.

[Xanthe · Rating 5 out of 5]

**4.5**
What a wonderfully written story! It's heartfelt, emotional with birth highs and lows, and a good amount of heat, whilst dealing with grief, secrets, and homophobia (mostly internalised but there is a flashback to an event)
Evan and Brooks are both single parents to teenagers, living with grief and struggling with their current circumstances. Evan's son happens to get a summer job at the camp Brooks's owns for children who have experienced grief.
Everything about this seems like kismet as we go through the story, destined to meet and help each other to heal. Both men feel guilty about different things but I think Evan has a lot more to process and deal with before he is able to live openly and happily. He also wants a better relationship with his son which has only gotten worse since Colton's mum passed away a couple of years ago.
A lot to work on but Evan, after a little stumble, is so open about doing better in regards for himself and his relationships. It's really refreshing to read, and Brooks is very supportive of it all, though he may have a vested interest when it comes to Evan exploring his sexuality. Their relationship becomes equal opportunities when it comes to supporting the other, in self belief, confidence, and trusting in themselves. Brooks has struggled in regards to the guilt he feels towards his sister, the 'with benefits' friendship he has with Kai, who I am very much not a fan of. He never puts himself first and Evan aims to change that!
Evan has an internal voice from his past that feeds his fears of coming out but Brooks brings feelings and a connection that he's gone without his whole life. Now is the time for him, his son, Evan, and his niece to finally get the peace and happiness that they all deserve.
I enjoyed the parts where we got to test out how good Evan's family truly are, and the final sentence of the epilogue has me desperate for another book!!
This was a truly fabulous read that I can highly recommend. Please read any trigger/content warnings before starting to protect yourself first.
8 received an ARC and am happily giving a review.

[Sav · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those stories that sneaks up on you with how heartfelt and moving it is. I really enjoyed this one—the writing, the emotion, the character growth. Mandella did a fantastic job weaving together themes of grief, self-discovery, and love after loss in a way that felt both realistic and deeply comforting.

The setup is unique: two single dads brought together for a summer at a camp for troubled youth. Both men are navigating grief and guilt, but from different places. Brooks has dedicated his life to helping others heal, while Evan is still trying to find peace with his past and reconnect with his teenage son. Their bond unfolds slowly, tenderly, and it’s impossible not to root for them.

Evan’s journey especially hit hard. He’s battling internalized homophobia and old, harmful patterns, and his growth throughout the story felt so real and rewarding. Brooks is patient, grounded, and such a safe space for him to open up. Together, they find a quiet kind of healing that felt deeply earned.

The chemistry between Brooks and Evan is magnetic, with a perfect balance of heat, intimacy, and emotional depth. There are some deliciously kinky moments, but what makes them work is the trust and care behind every scene. This story has so much heart. It’s about letting go of guilt, choosing connection, and rediscovering joy when you thought it was gone for good.

Overall, this is a tender, emotional, and deliciously spicy romance about healing, love after loss, and second chances. Mandella absolutely nailed it!