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Storm Season #2
Under Water
That’s it. My co-worker has to die. There’s no other way around it. If I have to spend one more day cleaning up his mess—no matter how good he makes the mess look—I’m going to lose it.
My life is complicated enough with a soon-to-be ex-husband who won’t accept the marriage is over, a medically complex son, and a job I can’t seem to get away from. I really don’t need to keep nurturing this crush on the very obnoxious, very good looking, very straight firefighter.
It’s too bad Easton’s beloved around the station.
It’s too bad my kid also loves him.
It’s too bad he’s starting to make me feel like there’s hope for something more.
Especially when my life gets turned upside down after my ex starts stalking me, and my kid has a near-death experience. I’ve only ever relied on myself to get out of these messes, but now Easton’s making it seem like I can drop my guard.
But I know better than that. The moment I do, everything will go to hell.
So why does he keep showing up every time I need him? And why does he make me feel like, for the first time in my life, I can breathe under water?
Under Water is the second book in the Storm Season series. It’s a workplace rivals to lovers romance with a grumpy IT-guy single dad, a sunshine firefighter, a bi-awakening, baby ducks, a snarky pre-teen who sees way too much, and a steamy, swoony, happily ever after.
My life is complicated enough with a soon-to-be ex-husband who won’t accept the marriage is over, a medically complex son, and a job I can’t seem to get away from. I really don’t need to keep nurturing this crush on the very obnoxious, very good looking, very straight firefighter.
It’s too bad Easton’s beloved around the station.
It’s too bad my kid also loves him.
It’s too bad he’s starting to make me feel like there’s hope for something more.
Especially when my life gets turned upside down after my ex starts stalking me, and my kid has a near-death experience. I’ve only ever relied on myself to get out of these messes, but now Easton’s making it seem like I can drop my guard.
But I know better than that. The moment I do, everything will go to hell.
So why does he keep showing up every time I need him? And why does he make me feel like, for the first time in my life, I can breathe under water?
Under Water is the second book in the Storm Season series. It’s a workplace rivals to lovers romance with a grumpy IT-guy single dad, a sunshine firefighter, a bi-awakening, baby ducks, a snarky pre-teen who sees way too much, and a steamy, swoony, happily ever after.
386 pages, Paperback
Published October 24, 2026
About the author
E.M. Lindsey
206 books1,663 followersE.M. Lindsey is the author of MM contemporary romance. She presently lives and works in the southeastern United States.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
October 15, 2026
This was a Low angst heart warming read.
A devoted single dad, kid who's been through it, and love story that's sweet, even if it doesn't quite have a strong spark.
Single dad trope? Always a fan. Rune is the sweetest. His dedication to Easton, who has spinal muscular atrophy, is admirable. That boy is his number one priority, and in turn becomes Easton’s too. Easton definitely has the strong protective stepdad energy. He is the stable, grounded rock in all the chaos.
Loved Elio and Easton together. Usually the kids in dad tropes are younger. Elio being twelve and constantly giving Easton and his dad hell was fun. (As long as he stays out of the hospital.)
The plot with Rune's ex, Neal was intense. That man is horrible. I can’t fathom treating someone as wholesome as Rune that badly. Or Elio for that matter.
My one complaint is I wish there was more depth in Easton and Rune's dialogue. I didn't fully feel the connection. They're both sweet, but they fell a little flat for me. The chemistry just didn't land.
A devoted single dad, kid who's been through it, and love story that's sweet, even if it doesn't quite have a strong spark.
Single dad trope? Always a fan. Rune is the sweetest. His dedication to Easton, who has spinal muscular atrophy, is admirable. That boy is his number one priority, and in turn becomes Easton’s too. Easton definitely has the strong protective stepdad energy. He is the stable, grounded rock in all the chaos.
Loved Elio and Easton together. Usually the kids in dad tropes are younger. Elio being twelve and constantly giving Easton and his dad hell was fun. (As long as he stays out of the hospital.)
The plot with Rune's ex, Neal was intense. That man is horrible. I can’t fathom treating someone as wholesome as Rune that badly. Or Elio for that matter.
My one complaint is I wish there was more depth in Easton and Rune's dialogue. I didn't fully feel the connection. They're both sweet, but they fell a little flat for me. The chemistry just didn't land.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow was this book really personal for me!
Firstly, I empathise so hard with Rune about being a parent to a disabled child and never being able to relax about their safety and happiness. We're in the same boat there! Second, it was really nice to see representation of SMA - my older cousin was born with this, and to me it's just so normal to be around so this book felt really familiar to me.
I did want to shake Rune at times though! He has this great support network RIGHT THERE and he refuses to use it!! I cannot even express how quickly your real life village disappears as soon as they find out your baby isn't 'normal'. Honestly, I was envious that Rune had all of these great people to support him, and parents to help him too. I don't have ANY of that and it's fucking hard, so it did make me mad that he was so disregarding of it. I would kill to have that kind of friendship group, those kind of parents, and just that amount of support in general.
I loved Easton so much though. His insecurities were really relatable and I wanted to wrap him in a blanket burrito, sort his curls out, and make sure he was ok. I loved how he was instantly Elio's biggest protector yet also treated him like he was a 'normal' kid rather than being just his disability. I cannot even tell you how many times I've been told that it's such a shame my kiddo is the way he is. It makes me want to rage like a Sims 4 werewolf quite frankly, so the way he treated Elio instantly made me love him.
The whole plot with the ex did get on my nerves though and that's what brought my rating down to 4 stars. He was too present, and everything kept going back to him. He was like a cancerous growth, sucking any possible joy out of Rune's life, and I was annoyed that there was never an 'easy' or comfortable period for Rune and Easton's relationship.
I also felt like I didn't get to know Rune and Easton as much as I would have liked - mostly due to the page time dedicated to the arsehole ex. I wanted to know more about who they were and what they wanted. I wanted to see more development of the relationship between them rather than them being in constant panic and survival mode.
There were quite a few hints as to who may be getting books in future though, which was really fun! I'm hoping for Axel and Camillo, and Matty and Oz, but I also want Teddy, Logan and London to get stories too! Basically all the side characters are really fun and I want to know everything about all of them!!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from The Author Agency, and this is my honest review
Firstly, I empathise so hard with Rune about being a parent to a disabled child and never being able to relax about their safety and happiness. We're in the same boat there! Second, it was really nice to see representation of SMA - my older cousin was born with this, and to me it's just so normal to be around so this book felt really familiar to me.
I did want to shake Rune at times though! He has this great support network RIGHT THERE and he refuses to use it!! I cannot even express how quickly your real life village disappears as soon as they find out your baby isn't 'normal'. Honestly, I was envious that Rune had all of these great people to support him, and parents to help him too. I don't have ANY of that and it's fucking hard, so it did make me mad that he was so disregarding of it. I would kill to have that kind of friendship group, those kind of parents, and just that amount of support in general.
I loved Easton so much though. His insecurities were really relatable and I wanted to wrap him in a blanket burrito, sort his curls out, and make sure he was ok. I loved how he was instantly Elio's biggest protector yet also treated him like he was a 'normal' kid rather than being just his disability. I cannot even tell you how many times I've been told that it's such a shame my kiddo is the way he is. It makes me want to rage like a Sims 4 werewolf quite frankly, so the way he treated Elio instantly made me love him.
The whole plot with the ex did get on my nerves though and that's what brought my rating down to 4 stars. He was too present, and everything kept going back to him. He was like a cancerous growth, sucking any possible joy out of Rune's life, and I was annoyed that there was never an 'easy' or comfortable period for Rune and Easton's relationship.
I also felt like I didn't get to know Rune and Easton as much as I would have liked - mostly due to the page time dedicated to the arsehole ex. I wanted to know more about who they were and what they wanted. I wanted to see more development of the relationship between them rather than them being in constant panic and survival mode.
There were quite a few hints as to who may be getting books in future though, which was really fun! I'm hoping for Axel and Camillo, and Matty and Oz, but I also want Teddy, Logan and London to get stories too! Basically all the side characters are really fun and I want to know everything about all of them!!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from The Author Agency, and this is my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is Rune and Eastons story. We met borh of them in the previous stories and we know that Easton is a token straight guy and we also know a bit about Rune and his family life.
Rune is dedicated to his disabled son while trying to get trough a divorce with an abusive asshole. Easton on the other hand has a huge crush on Rune (he realizes that he can’t really be straight) but doesn’t think he will ever be enough for him.
Easton has a very intense first meeting with Runes son but they click immediately so Rune softens a bit towards Easton.
The story with Runes soon to be ex husband is very intense and interesting to follow. While the spice was there i wish there was more dialogue from Rune and Easton. Even though they were crushing on each other for years once the relationship starts they just kind of went from lets go slow to moving in together in a heartbeat.
Rune is dedicated to his disabled son while trying to get trough a divorce with an abusive asshole. Easton on the other hand has a huge crush on Rune (he realizes that he can’t really be straight) but doesn’t think he will ever be enough for him.
Easton has a very intense first meeting with Runes son but they click immediately so Rune softens a bit towards Easton.
The story with Runes soon to be ex husband is very intense and interesting to follow. While the spice was there i wish there was more dialogue from Rune and Easton. Even though they were crushing on each other for years once the relationship starts they just kind of went from lets go slow to moving in together in a heartbeat.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I ate this up. I would have read this non-stop if it wasn't for life, ugh. I simply love EM's writing and her inclusion of disabilities. The way she writes about different disabilities seems to do them justice and really honor what it looks like as a whole (the good, the bad, the ugly). This was no exception. I loved Rune, Easton, and Rune's son Elio. Elio was hilarious and provided perfect comedic relief as this story is a bit on the darker side (emotionally/traumatic). five outta five! I need to go back and read Don't Fall.
October 22, 2026
✨May contain spoilers✨
I swear, each and every single time I read one of E.M. Lindsey’s books that I completely fall in love with these characters. I just knew without a doubt that I was going to love these two.
I love me a good grumpy/sunshine and these two were such a good time, especially when it’s a workplace plot.
I loved Rune so much. Taking care of his son was a lot because of his son having a disability. He has been trying to get a divorce with his husband, who has lost his mind. The man is absolutely bonkers.
And man, when these two get together, I just couldn’t get enough. Easton is such a cinnamon roll and would do anything for Elio and Rune. I just loved how Rune having a kid didn’t make him think anything but to be with him.
I also love how Easton’s biawakening was so perfect. It was so natural for these two to be together.
This was an amazing read for sure. The spice was as usual off the charts. The scene where these two almost got caught at work had me giggling.
I really loved Elio, who is Rune’s son. The kid is something special; who definitely keeps him on his toes. Also, the relationship that Rune and Elio’s mother was so beautiful. I’m so glad that they had an amazing relationship together while having a kid.
But the relationship with Easton and Elio was instant because Elio needed so much love that Easton was willing to give.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I swear, each and every single time I read one of E.M. Lindsey’s books that I completely fall in love with these characters. I just knew without a doubt that I was going to love these two.
I love me a good grumpy/sunshine and these two were such a good time, especially when it’s a workplace plot.
I loved Rune so much. Taking care of his son was a lot because of his son having a disability. He has been trying to get a divorce with his husband, who has lost his mind. The man is absolutely bonkers.
And man, when these two get together, I just couldn’t get enough. Easton is such a cinnamon roll and would do anything for Elio and Rune. I just loved how Rune having a kid didn’t make him think anything but to be with him.
I also love how Easton’s biawakening was so perfect. It was so natural for these two to be together.
This was an amazing read for sure. The spice was as usual off the charts. The scene where these two almost got caught at work had me giggling.
I really loved Elio, who is Rune’s son. The kid is something special; who definitely keeps him on his toes. Also, the relationship that Rune and Elio’s mother was so beautiful. I’m so glad that they had an amazing relationship together while having a kid.
But the relationship with Easton and Elio was instant because Elio needed so much love that Easton was willing to give.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
October 28, 2026
Awww, Rune and Easton are the cutest. Like, seriously, trauma and drama aside, they are so cute.
I loved their background banter in "Don't Fall". From the first moment I saw them I wanted to read their story, and now that I have I was not disappointed. Have I mentioned how cute they are already?
This series is, jokes aside, dealing with a lot of difficult topics, you get to learn more about how people with disabilities live their lives, and without sounding weird ( cuz idk how else to say it ) I love this. I love that we get to read stories about people who are very relatable. People who are similar with you and me. I love see them live, love, be loved, be appreciated, get to live their lives how they see fit and get their deserved HEA. We need more of this.
Rune's life is anything but a walk in the park, but Easton being Easton ran into his life head first and didn't accept no as an answer. And I think Rune needed just that. He needed someone who'd show up for him, always. Someone who'll appreciate and love him, understand him, see all of him. Because Rune is a simple man but also complex. He has simple needs but complex emotions. He is the definition of "most of the time idk what I'm doing but I am trying my best". And if that is not relatable.
Easton is very laid back, but he also needed someone to love and appreciate him. His heart of gold will make you fall in love with him, and the way he loves Elio is so pure and precious.
I love how Elio was not used just to fill a trope. Elio is very much part of the story and I love him. He is such a sweetheart, but also sassy. I often forgot he is 12, not 20 😅. The sass of that boy.
This book made me emotional a lot of the times, and I love how vulnerable both Rune and Easty were.
This series truly is awesome and I can't wait for the next book. I hope it is Oz & Matty. One can only hope.
4.5 stars, highly recommend, but start with book 1, North and Leo deserve love too. 💙
I loved their background banter in "Don't Fall". From the first moment I saw them I wanted to read their story, and now that I have I was not disappointed. Have I mentioned how cute they are already?
This series is, jokes aside, dealing with a lot of difficult topics, you get to learn more about how people with disabilities live their lives, and without sounding weird ( cuz idk how else to say it ) I love this. I love that we get to read stories about people who are very relatable. People who are similar with you and me. I love see them live, love, be loved, be appreciated, get to live their lives how they see fit and get their deserved HEA. We need more of this.
Rune's life is anything but a walk in the park, but Easton being Easton ran into his life head first and didn't accept no as an answer. And I think Rune needed just that. He needed someone who'd show up for him, always. Someone who'll appreciate and love him, understand him, see all of him. Because Rune is a simple man but also complex. He has simple needs but complex emotions. He is the definition of "most of the time idk what I'm doing but I am trying my best". And if that is not relatable.
Easton is very laid back, but he also needed someone to love and appreciate him. His heart of gold will make you fall in love with him, and the way he loves Elio is so pure and precious.
I love how Elio was not used just to fill a trope. Elio is very much part of the story and I love him. He is such a sweetheart, but also sassy. I often forgot he is 12, not 20 😅. The sass of that boy.
This book made me emotional a lot of the times, and I love how vulnerable both Rune and Easty were.
This series truly is awesome and I can't wait for the next book. I hope it is Oz & Matty. One can only hope.
4.5 stars, highly recommend, but start with book 1, North and Leo deserve love too. 💙
October 28, 2026
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: single dad, hurt / comfort, sexual discovery
Under Water had the kind of romance that made my heart melt!
I always love it when the golden retriever MC finds his HEA with his coworker who is only grumpy towards him. Easton was a bit of a himbo, sweet and kind of oblivious to what was going on around him, and Rune had enough on his plate without adding the extra work that Easton kept creating for him. Their romance was super sweet though, and once Rune let his guard down around Easton everything else seemed to fall into place between them.
Rune had a lot to deal with during the story, and I truly hated how his ex couldn't take no for an answer and kept trying to worm his way back into Rune's life. It broke my heart to see just how badly Rune wanted to break free from his abusive ex, which seemed like an impossible task at times. Rune was very good at keeping people at a distance, in an attempt to protect himself and his son Elio, so even if he had an amazing support system he wasn’t the best at asking for help.
It was fun to see the initial tension between Rune and Easton, Rune was so prickly when it came to Easton, and Easton didn’t really know what to do when it came to Rune. Being the station’s ‘token’ straight guy, it took Easton a little bit to figure out his attraction towards Rune, but once he did he went all in with no hesitation. I loved how protective Easton was of both Rune and Elio, and it was clear from early on that Elio was becoming attached to Easton too. It was heartwarming to see them together as a family, and Easton was so understanding and supportive, always putting Rune and Elio first.
Under Water was a fantastic addition to the Storm Season series, and it was an emotional read that had me tearing up several times. The romance was amazing, with great hurt / comfort and a super swoony HEA. I’m loving this fire station and the strong found family that these guys have going on!
-
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: single dad, hurt / comfort, sexual discovery
Under Water had the kind of romance that made my heart melt!
I always love it when the golden retriever MC finds his HEA with his coworker who is only grumpy towards him. Easton was a bit of a himbo, sweet and kind of oblivious to what was going on around him, and Rune had enough on his plate without adding the extra work that Easton kept creating for him. Their romance was super sweet though, and once Rune let his guard down around Easton everything else seemed to fall into place between them.
Rune had a lot to deal with during the story, and I truly hated how his ex couldn't take no for an answer and kept trying to worm his way back into Rune's life. It broke my heart to see just how badly Rune wanted to break free from his abusive ex, which seemed like an impossible task at times. Rune was very good at keeping people at a distance, in an attempt to protect himself and his son Elio, so even if he had an amazing support system he wasn’t the best at asking for help.
It was fun to see the initial tension between Rune and Easton, Rune was so prickly when it came to Easton, and Easton didn’t really know what to do when it came to Rune. Being the station’s ‘token’ straight guy, it took Easton a little bit to figure out his attraction towards Rune, but once he did he went all in with no hesitation. I loved how protective Easton was of both Rune and Elio, and it was clear from early on that Elio was becoming attached to Easton too. It was heartwarming to see them together as a family, and Easton was so understanding and supportive, always putting Rune and Elio first.
Under Water was a fantastic addition to the Storm Season series, and it was an emotional read that had me tearing up several times. The romance was amazing, with great hurt / comfort and a super swoony HEA. I’m loving this fire station and the strong found family that these guys have going on!
-
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 1, 2026
Rune really hates Easton… He hates that he’s too good-looking for his own good and way too straight for Rune to even consider noticing him. 😂
So Rune focuses on all the IT problems Easton seems to cause, making his already complicated life even more difficult.
That is, until his son imprints on Easton as his hero and best friend after Easton saves him when he falls out of his wheelchair into the water.
Well… hard to hate someone after that, can you? 😂
Easton has always wanted Rune to like him and hasn’t exactly examined those feelings too closely. But NO, Easton. It’s not normal to fantasise about another man’s abs, even if that man is Idris Elba, and then convince yourself every straight guy does it. 😂
But underneath all the banter, this is a story about a man who doesn’t believe he’s lovable and sees himself as nothing but a burden. A single father, a disabled son, and an ex he just can’t seem to get rid of.
And then there’s Easton, who wants nothing more than to give Rune and Elio the world.
Elio was absolutely hilarious. That kid was sometimes smarter than every adult around him. 😂
This was EM Lindsey at their best!
The only reason I’m taking off half a star is that I sometimes struggled to keep all the names and side characters straight (and I’ve even read the first book!).
Easton, Westin, North, London… My brain was getting scrambled trying to keep everyone apart. 😂
So Rune focuses on all the IT problems Easton seems to cause, making his already complicated life even more difficult.
That is, until his son imprints on Easton as his hero and best friend after Easton saves him when he falls out of his wheelchair into the water.
Well… hard to hate someone after that, can you? 😂
Easton has always wanted Rune to like him and hasn’t exactly examined those feelings too closely. But NO, Easton. It’s not normal to fantasise about another man’s abs, even if that man is Idris Elba, and then convince yourself every straight guy does it. 😂
But underneath all the banter, this is a story about a man who doesn’t believe he’s lovable and sees himself as nothing but a burden. A single father, a disabled son, and an ex he just can’t seem to get rid of.
And then there’s Easton, who wants nothing more than to give Rune and Elio the world.
Elio was absolutely hilarious. That kid was sometimes smarter than every adult around him. 😂
This was EM Lindsey at their best!
The only reason I’m taking off half a star is that I sometimes struggled to keep all the names and side characters straight (and I’ve even read the first book!).
Easton, Westin, North, London… My brain was getting scrambled trying to keep everyone apart. 😂
November 6, 2026
Well-written, low angst drama-filled love story. I know that seems contradictory, but it’s not.
Easton ❤️ Rune
Easton is a lovable golden retriever fire-fighter who has a crush on the grumpy fire station IT guy, Rune.
This starts as a fairly endearing grumpy/sunshine bi-awakening story but quickly becomes more involved as we learn about Rune’s pre-teen son and his abusive/manipulative ex-husband. The romance kind of wound up taking a back seat in the second half to the never-ending trouble caused by the ex. Hence, the drama.
I really loved Rune and Easton together and I enjoyed their cuddles and forehead bumps, but I wanted them to have more time - absent the currently occurring trauma - and to actually be able to breathe and get to know each other fully. I also really enjoyed Elio as the son and loved his spunky attitude and the mutual affection and respect between him and Easton.
Spoilers: ‼️
❤️No third act breakup
🗣️No miscommunication driving the plot. I loved how direct and open these guys were with each other. I just felt like we got very little back story on each of them and their conversations were heartfelt, but a bit superficial.
➡️ Progression - “dislike” (which is actually just Rune hiding his crush) to mutual crush to sex to love
🙋♂️Rune - Hides his intense feelings for Easton behind mean and snide remarks. He keeps his son and ex-husband a secret from most of his firefighter friends for some inexplicable reason. His son, Elio, is a fun and realistically portrayed teen w an attitude. He also a serious disability that requires significant attention and care. Rune has a gruff exterior and attitude which hides a gentle and very bruised heart.
💁🏼♂️Easton - is eager to please everyone and was the “token straight guy” at the firehouse until he realized that he had very intense feelings for Rune. He’s a sweetheart with some sort of difficult past which is mentioned but not explored. He is devoted to Rune and would do anything to help him and Elio.
😢Hurt/comfort elements - Easton supports Rune and Elio through everything as they deal w his threatening ex
🥰Low angst/small moments - These two talk about their feeling so there’s v little angst between the couple, which I loved. Also loved all the little cuddles and hand-holding. There were lots of endearing small moments between them.
☺️Nicknames - sweetheart, baby, gorgeous
Drama - lots of drama w the ex and danger surrounding his son (near drowning, fire, and kidnapping)
🫣No OM/OW drama. Other than the psychotic ex there’s no real mention of any recent hook-ups etc. These two only want each other. Elio’s mom makes an appearance but there’s no jealousy. She and Rune are close long-time friends.
🌶️Spice - bi-awakening (Easton) - no drama around this. Lots of sexy times; mutual care, respect.
👥Dual POV; HEA. 6 month later epilogue, living together
These two are adorable together and I believed in their love. I just would have preferred slightly less drama w the ex and more depth to their conversations/relationship.
Easton ❤️ Rune
Easton is a lovable golden retriever fire-fighter who has a crush on the grumpy fire station IT guy, Rune.
This starts as a fairly endearing grumpy/sunshine bi-awakening story but quickly becomes more involved as we learn about Rune’s pre-teen son and his abusive/manipulative ex-husband. The romance kind of wound up taking a back seat in the second half to the never-ending trouble caused by the ex. Hence, the drama.
I really loved Rune and Easton together and I enjoyed their cuddles and forehead bumps, but I wanted them to have more time - absent the currently occurring trauma - and to actually be able to breathe and get to know each other fully. I also really enjoyed Elio as the son and loved his spunky attitude and the mutual affection and respect between him and Easton.
Spoilers: ‼️
❤️No third act breakup
🗣️No miscommunication driving the plot. I loved how direct and open these guys were with each other. I just felt like we got very little back story on each of them and their conversations were heartfelt, but a bit superficial.
➡️ Progression - “dislike” (which is actually just Rune hiding his crush) to mutual crush to sex to love
🙋♂️Rune - Hides his intense feelings for Easton behind mean and snide remarks. He keeps his son and ex-husband a secret from most of his firefighter friends for some inexplicable reason. His son, Elio, is a fun and realistically portrayed teen w an attitude. He also a serious disability that requires significant attention and care. Rune has a gruff exterior and attitude which hides a gentle and very bruised heart.
💁🏼♂️Easton - is eager to please everyone and was the “token straight guy” at the firehouse until he realized that he had very intense feelings for Rune. He’s a sweetheart with some sort of difficult past which is mentioned but not explored. He is devoted to Rune and would do anything to help him and Elio.
😢Hurt/comfort elements - Easton supports Rune and Elio through everything as they deal w his threatening ex
🥰Low angst/small moments - These two talk about their feeling so there’s v little angst between the couple, which I loved. Also loved all the little cuddles and hand-holding. There were lots of endearing small moments between them.
☺️Nicknames - sweetheart, baby, gorgeous
Drama - lots of drama w the ex and danger surrounding his son (near drowning, fire, and kidnapping)
🫣No OM/OW drama. Other than the psychotic ex there’s no real mention of any recent hook-ups etc. These two only want each other. Elio’s mom makes an appearance but there’s no jealousy. She and Rune are close long-time friends.
🌶️Spice - bi-awakening (Easton) - no drama around this. Lots of sexy times; mutual care, respect.
👥Dual POV; HEA. 6 month later epilogue, living together
These two are adorable together and I believed in their love. I just would have preferred slightly less drama w the ex and more depth to their conversations/relationship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2026
I ate this book up. I literally couldn't put this book down
I absolutely loved the disability rep in this book, its close to my heart, its not the same as what my brother was but kinda similar, my brother was also in a wheelchair crippled from spinabifida. I know the word crippled probably isn't acceptable to most people, but my brother got mad at me if I didnt say it if I was talking about him. It has stuck with me for years long after his death
Anyways these were some very completed, fun loving and grumpy characters. I also loved that they were saving lives and trying to get over losing a life that is hard for anyone to deal with when trying to save it.
I thought this book was written exceptionally well. The plot was amazing and it moved at a fast, but comfortable pace for me. The descriptions were perfect
I highly recommend this book. This one touched my heart for so many reasons. I can't wait to get a copy for my book collection
I absolutely loved the disability rep in this book, its close to my heart, its not the same as what my brother was but kinda similar, my brother was also in a wheelchair crippled from spinabifida. I know the word crippled probably isn't acceptable to most people, but my brother got mad at me if I didnt say it if I was talking about him. It has stuck with me for years long after his death
Anyways these were some very completed, fun loving and grumpy characters. I also loved that they were saving lives and trying to get over losing a life that is hard for anyone to deal with when trying to save it.
I thought this book was written exceptionally well. The plot was amazing and it moved at a fast, but comfortable pace for me. The descriptions were perfect
I highly recommend this book. This one touched my heart for so many reasons. I can't wait to get a copy for my book collection
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this. There were highs, lows, shocking moments, a hilarious tween, and so much love.
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
I loved this very much, single dad is one of my favourite tropes and EM Lindsey is so good at that! Their series, Words We Never Said, where all the MCs are single dads, was amazing and I’m so glad I got another single dad romance from them.
Rune and Easton work at the same firefighter station but they’re not close: their interactions usually consist of Easton messing up with the station computers and Rune coming to fix them. Everyone knows Rune can’t stand Easton and he doesn’t correct them; on the contrary, he always tries to avoid him.
Truth is, Rune has a massive crush on Easton, he’s had it for years, but he can’t do anything about that for several reasons: first, he’s in the middle of a messy divorce (meaning his horrible husband makes it impossible to even serve him the papers), second, he has a son who needs a lot of cares and attention. Last tiny detail, Easton considers himself straight and he constantly reminds all his coworkers about that.
Things are not always how they appear, though, and it turns out Easton has a massive crush on Rune too, he’s just too scared and insecure about his own sexuality and also the fact that the only guy he’s ever been attracted to hates his guts.
I loved Easton so much because despite his insecurities he’s always so honest with Rune about his emotions, even when he’s just confused; he’s also very patient with him because he knows what Rune is going through and he just tries to be there for him and Elio. Easton is the baby bi in the closet in this scenario, but he’s the one who lets Rune set the pace of their relationship and he’s not shy about it at all.
What prevented me from giving five full stars:
I think that Rune’s attitude towards Easton before they acted on their mutual attraction was something worth exploring. Easton’s insecurities run deep and the majority of them were caused by his parents anaffettività, but Rune did his part too every time he scolded him or told him how he fucked up. I would have loved for him to acknowledge that.
Elio was an amazing character: he was sweet and bratty, very perceptive and mature but he was also a young boy who craved reassurance and cuddles. I really loved how he had his own relationship with Easton and how Easton always made him feel seen without smothering or enabling him.
How things ended with Rune’s ex was very satisfying and the epilogue was adorable, I liked everything about Rune, Easton and Elio’s little family.
I hope this author will give us a story about Ozzie and Matty, they seem to get along well. And what about Camilo and Axel? I bet there’s something between those two. Can’t wait to see what EM Lindsey has in store next!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
I loved this very much, single dad is one of my favourite tropes and EM Lindsey is so good at that! Their series, Words We Never Said, where all the MCs are single dads, was amazing and I’m so glad I got another single dad romance from them.
Rune and Easton work at the same firefighter station but they’re not close: their interactions usually consist of Easton messing up with the station computers and Rune coming to fix them. Everyone knows Rune can’t stand Easton and he doesn’t correct them; on the contrary, he always tries to avoid him.
Truth is, Rune has a massive crush on Easton, he’s had it for years, but he can’t do anything about that for several reasons: first, he’s in the middle of a messy divorce (meaning his horrible husband makes it impossible to even serve him the papers), second, he has a son who needs a lot of cares and attention. Last tiny detail, Easton considers himself straight and he constantly reminds all his coworkers about that.
Things are not always how they appear, though, and it turns out Easton has a massive crush on Rune too, he’s just too scared and insecure about his own sexuality and also the fact that the only guy he’s ever been attracted to hates his guts.
I loved Easton so much because despite his insecurities he’s always so honest with Rune about his emotions, even when he’s just confused; he’s also very patient with him because he knows what Rune is going through and he just tries to be there for him and Elio. Easton is the baby bi in the closet in this scenario, but he’s the one who lets Rune set the pace of their relationship and he’s not shy about it at all.
What prevented me from giving five full stars:
I think that Rune’s attitude towards Easton before they acted on their mutual attraction was something worth exploring. Easton’s insecurities run deep and the majority of them were caused by his parents anaffettività, but Rune did his part too every time he scolded him or told him how he fucked up. I would have loved for him to acknowledge that.
Elio was an amazing character: he was sweet and bratty, very perceptive and mature but he was also a young boy who craved reassurance and cuddles. I really loved how he had his own relationship with Easton and how Easton always made him feel seen without smothering or enabling him.
How things ended with Rune’s ex was very satisfying and the epilogue was adorable, I liked everything about Rune, Easton and Elio’s little family.
I hope this author will give us a story about Ozzie and Matty, they seem to get along well. And what about Camilo and Axel? I bet there’s something between those two. Can’t wait to see what EM Lindsey has in store next!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
October 26, 2026
ARC Review of Underwater Book 2 in the Storm Season Series by E.M. Lindsey. This book is part of an interconnected series but can be read as a standalone. This is a 5 star read for me. I loved this book it gave me all the feels. It had me smiling, laughing, screaming and then swooning at their HEA. I loved the drama, heat and romance in this book. I love all the guys at the station and how they are one big found family and always there for each other. This is a slow burn, spicy, small town, firefighter mmc, single dad, grumpy x sunshine, secret crush, fake dating, only one bed, bi awakening, mm workplace romance. This is Easton and Rune's story. I love the tension, banter, back and forth, and chemistry between Rune and Easton. They drive each other crazy but they are so perfect for each other. I love their combination of grumpy x sunshine. I love Easton he is so sweet, kind, and caring he is like pure sunshine. I love Rune, he comes off as grumpy most of time but he is such a great dad, he feels like he’s failing but he just wants what’s best for his son and for him to be happy. I love Easton and Elio’s bond. Easton is a firefighter. Rune works in IT at the fire station and is a single dad to his 12 year old son Elio who has spinal muscular atrophy. Rune and Easton are coworkers. Rune acts like he hates Easton but he has a secret crush on him. Easton thought he was straight but he has a crush on Rune. They both have secret crushes on each other but think the other doesn’t like them so they have never acted on their feelings. When they finally realize their mutual attraction for each other they cross that line and hook up but Rune's life is complicated right now and he doesn’t know if he can do a relationship or how serious Easton is about him. When Rune’s ex gives him a hard time Easton steps in and pretends to be his boyfriend to protect him from his ex. I love how Easton shows up for Rune and his son and how he protects then and shows Rune how good they can be together and that he can be the man he needs. Easton and Rune go through a lot together and I love that they get their HEA and I love the family they become. I definitely recommend this book and can’t wait for the next one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh, Easton!! He was absolutely adorable as the brother/best friend in book 1, and I was so excited to see him get his man in this book! In fact, the final sentence of my review for book 1 was: “There were a lot of great, interesting characters to be explored in the Storm Season series (hello, Easton & Rune).”
Rune is a complex character. He is short with Easton and has a few moments where he’s an absolute jerk (I mean, who could hurt Ozzie’s feelings!), but from book one, we knew his life as a single father was complicated. As we learn about Rune and meet Elio, his absolutely adorable son, it’s easy to understand and sympathize with the moments when he just breaks.
Early on, Easton’s internal dialogue breaks my heart: “But he hates my guts no matter what I do, and I let him because sometimes I think he just needs that outlet.” He has such a big heart and wants to help everyone, even if they don’t quite know they are his people yet. It’s no wonder he and North are besties.
And Easton and Elio were such a fantastic set of buddies. It’s cute that, from their earliest interactions, Elio champions Easton, even when his dad hates it. It’s clear Easton wants to share all of Rune’s life, not just parts of it.
I loved this one and can’t wait for book 3!
---
I received an advance copy of this book from The Author Agency at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
Rune is a complex character. He is short with Easton and has a few moments where he’s an absolute jerk (I mean, who could hurt Ozzie’s feelings!), but from book one, we knew his life as a single father was complicated. As we learn about Rune and meet Elio, his absolutely adorable son, it’s easy to understand and sympathize with the moments when he just breaks.
Early on, Easton’s internal dialogue breaks my heart: “But he hates my guts no matter what I do, and I let him because sometimes I think he just needs that outlet.” He has such a big heart and wants to help everyone, even if they don’t quite know they are his people yet. It’s no wonder he and North are besties.
And Easton and Elio were such a fantastic set of buddies. It’s cute that, from their earliest interactions, Elio champions Easton, even when his dad hates it. It’s clear Easton wants to share all of Rune’s life, not just parts of it.
I loved this one and can’t wait for book 3!
---
I received an advance copy of this book from The Author Agency at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
October 29, 2026
I'm confident that E.M. Lindsey could rewrite the phonebook, and I would scurry to read it. Without a doubt one of my "if they write it, i will read it "authors and Under Water didn't disappoint. Admittedly, I have read only a handful of novels so far, this is the first ones of Lindsey's I have read that didn't feature a disabled or hearing-impaired lead. Instead, it was one of the MMC's son Elio, who was wheelchair bound because of SMA. Elio stole the show in every scene he was written in and the perfect catalyst to bring the two "enemy" MMCs together.
Easton and Rune's "I hate you cause I want you" relationship was written so well. The snarky witty banter mixed with the steamy sexual chemistry fueled the enemy-to- lovers workplace romance. The character development was believable and sweet. Easton showing up repeatedly for the emotionally broken and battered Rune, and Rune slowly learning to trust Easton had me swooning. I also really like a Bi-Awakening where the MMC just leans into it without a full-on crisis. "Oh, wait I think guys are hot in a sexual way" ahh ha moments were adorable.
The DV plot of the novel was also handled with care and respect, never glorifying or minimizing runes ordeal at the hand of his ex-husband. E.M. did a wonderful job writing just how deeply Runes trauma went and how Easton compassion and care helped heal those wounds.
Another great read by E.M that has me foaming at the mouth for more steamy and romantic stories.
Easton and Rune's "I hate you cause I want you" relationship was written so well. The snarky witty banter mixed with the steamy sexual chemistry fueled the enemy-to- lovers workplace romance. The character development was believable and sweet. Easton showing up repeatedly for the emotionally broken and battered Rune, and Rune slowly learning to trust Easton had me swooning. I also really like a Bi-Awakening where the MMC just leans into it without a full-on crisis. "Oh, wait I think guys are hot in a sexual way" ahh ha moments were adorable.
The DV plot of the novel was also handled with care and respect, never glorifying or minimizing runes ordeal at the hand of his ex-husband. E.M. did a wonderful job writing just how deeply Runes trauma went and how Easton compassion and care helped heal those wounds.
Another great read by E.M that has me foaming at the mouth for more steamy and romantic stories.
October 28, 2026
This was such a low-angst, heartwarming read! Give me a devoted single dad, a protective love interest, and a found family, and I'm happy.
Rune is such a dedicated dad, and his love for Elio is everything. Elio was a fantastic character, too. I loved that he's twelve and has plenty of attitude! Seeing Easton naturally connect with him and look beyond his disability was beautiful. The protective stepdad energy was strong with this one, and I was HERE for it.
Easton was such a steady, supportive presence for Rune, who was carrying so much on his shoulders. Watching Rune slowly learn to trust him and let him in was lovely. While the romantic spark wasn't quite as strong for me as I'd hoped, I really enjoyed their relationship and how they became a team.
Neal, Rune's ex, was absolutely horrible, and the storyline involving him definitely added some tension. My heart hurt for Rune and Elio, and I loved seeing Easton step up to protect them.
Overall, this was a sweet, emotional read with a wonderful single-dad storyline, a great kid character, and plenty of heart. I also loved getting to know Easton better after meeting him in the first book, and I'm looking forward to seeing where the series goes next!
Tropes/Themes:
MM Romance
Single Dad
Protective Love Interest
Found Family
Hurt/Comfort
Disability Representation
Slow-Build Romance
Protective MMC
Low Angst
HEA
Rune is such a dedicated dad, and his love for Elio is everything. Elio was a fantastic character, too. I loved that he's twelve and has plenty of attitude! Seeing Easton naturally connect with him and look beyond his disability was beautiful. The protective stepdad energy was strong with this one, and I was HERE for it.
Easton was such a steady, supportive presence for Rune, who was carrying so much on his shoulders. Watching Rune slowly learn to trust him and let him in was lovely. While the romantic spark wasn't quite as strong for me as I'd hoped, I really enjoyed their relationship and how they became a team.
Neal, Rune's ex, was absolutely horrible, and the storyline involving him definitely added some tension. My heart hurt for Rune and Elio, and I loved seeing Easton step up to protect them.
Overall, this was a sweet, emotional read with a wonderful single-dad storyline, a great kid character, and plenty of heart. I also loved getting to know Easton better after meeting him in the first book, and I'm looking forward to seeing where the series goes next!
Tropes/Themes:
MM Romance
Single Dad
Protective Love Interest
Found Family
Hurt/Comfort
Disability Representation
Slow-Build Romance
Protective MMC
Low Angst
HEA
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
This is easily my favorite book from EM Lindsey. Easton, the sometimes clumsy (around computers) golden retriever, token straight, pretty boy of the fire station is always fighting and bickering with Rune, the grumpy (to Easton), single dad, IT specialist. Elio is the medically complex son of Rune,5 who quickly forms a bond with Easton. The way Easton took to Elio so fast and treated him like he would any other 12 year old boy was heart warming.
Easton and Rune made the sweetest couple. They communicated so openly and honestly, even when it was uncomfortable and I was so here for it! Nothing worse than miscommunication and thankfully, the only instances are minor and easily resolved. Easton discovering his new found sexuality was perfect too. He accepted it so easily and had zero qualms about being out, open and honest. He was so easy going but also emotionally and physically supportive when he was needed. Neal was a bastard and I was so glad that he got what he deserved in the end.
And the spice…..so good!!!!! It had the perfect amount without taking away from the storyline. Definitely one of the best stories I’ve read this year!
Easton and Rune made the sweetest couple. They communicated so openly and honestly, even when it was uncomfortable and I was so here for it! Nothing worse than miscommunication and thankfully, the only instances are minor and easily resolved. Easton discovering his new found sexuality was perfect too. He accepted it so easily and had zero qualms about being out, open and honest. He was so easy going but also emotionally and physically supportive when he was needed. Neal was a bastard and I was so glad that he got what he deserved in the end.
And the spice…..so good!!!!! It had the perfect amount without taking away from the storyline. Definitely one of the best stories I’ve read this year!
October 27, 2026
Easton is the straight guy at the firehouse. But lately he has been having steamy thoughts about Rune, the IT guy and the shoot your shot kind of thoughts no straight guy should have. Rune has his hands full with a creepy ex and his medically complex son with SMA Elio, but Easton steps in to help. It's a classic grumpy/sunshiny book with laughs, steam and angst. I love the fire station crew as they are one big found family. Read the first book to get background and hints of this one but they are both worth the read. I received a copy of this and this is my voluntary opinion.
October 27, 2026
Despite some of the serious topics in this story, and the grumpy annoyance they start with, there’s a lightness to it, or maybe hope. It’s a great combination.
Easton and Rune seem to be oil and water in the beginning, but that’s mostly due to Rune’s mile-high walls (for good reason).
A near tragedy forces them to interact and spend some time together. It helps too that Easton both overcame some trauma to help Rune’s son Elio, but also treats Elio like he’s ‘normal’.
Easton is an amazing man with tender soft spots, but also full of joy and fun, which is an especially great counterpoint to Rune’s bruised heart.
Easton and Rune seem to be oil and water in the beginning, but that’s mostly due to Rune’s mile-high walls (for good reason).
A near tragedy forces them to interact and spend some time together. It helps too that Easton both overcame some trauma to help Rune’s son Elio, but also treats Elio like he’s ‘normal’.
Easton is an amazing man with tender soft spots, but also full of joy and fun, which is an especially great counterpoint to Rune’s bruised heart.
October 30, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. EM Lindsey's writing always captivates me and I was so excited to get Easton's book.
The devoted single dad who is fiercely protective and the found family of the best friends is always one of my favorite tropes. Not to mention how Rune and Easton's relationship was chaos to bliss but the attraction was always there and Elio was a delight and had the most amazing comic relief - I also loved that he was 12 years old not a toddler or a baby, he actually had a voice. The bond that Elio and Easton formed as well after his accident was so sweet. Once Easton and Rune also began to open up to each other their relationship was pure joy to watch unfold and how they worked together through the trauma of Rune's ex-husband was so well written. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series.
The devoted single dad who is fiercely protective and the found family of the best friends is always one of my favorite tropes. Not to mention how Rune and Easton's relationship was chaos to bliss but the attraction was always there and Elio was a delight and had the most amazing comic relief - I also loved that he was 12 years old not a toddler or a baby, he actually had a voice. The bond that Elio and Easton formed as well after his accident was so sweet. Once Easton and Rune also began to open up to each other their relationship was pure joy to watch unfold and how they worked together through the trauma of Rune's ex-husband was so well written. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series.
November 6, 2026
very similar to book one in that there are constantly traumatic things happening to the MCs at all times throughout this book their romance hardly has any time to breath. BUT in this one it’s mostly only trauma for one MC instead of both so it gets a slightly higher rating 😅 and thankfully we did get an epilogue this time 🙌
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶️🌶️🌶️
(ARC)
This book was amazing; i loved it but i already knew that because it had everything i loved in it. one of my favorite authors? check. single dad trope? check. found family and great side characters? Check, check, check. It's like this book was handcrafted for me and I'm so happy about that. Rune and Easton were such a great couple and i adored how Easton immediately bonded with not only Rune but Elio as well; it made this book so much more heartwarming. I can't wait for what's next for this series but i ADORED this one.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
(ARC)
This book was amazing; i loved it but i already knew that because it had everything i loved in it. one of my favorite authors? check. single dad trope? check. found family and great side characters? Check, check, check. It's like this book was handcrafted for me and I'm so happy about that. Rune and Easton were such a great couple and i adored how Easton immediately bonded with not only Rune but Elio as well; it made this book so much more heartwarming. I can't wait for what's next for this series but i ADORED this one.
October 25, 2026
Very sweet.
November 1, 2026
This is such a low angst and just completely sweet and lovely. I do think it's much much better if you've read the first book, because a lot of their background and chemistry is built up in that one, but I also think that no matter what you'll love it because Easton and Rune are just so easy to love. There's a lot of outside the relationship drama, and these two both have a lot of insecurities, but they fall hard and they fall fast and they build the sweetest family.
Review of advance copy
This is book 2 in the storm season series.
Ruine is the station IT guy, he secretly looks after full time of a disabled son and has one nasty POS ex.
Easton is a firefighter who up until recently thought he was the token straightof tye station. With a bad call previously leaving him with PTSD
With a new fire call bringing the two together tue relationship starts to develope.
I loved the characters especially elio uebwas my favourite
Tropes
Bi-awekening
Disability rep (son)
Abusive ex
Ruine is the station IT guy, he secretly looks after full time of a disabled son and has one nasty POS ex.
Easton is a firefighter who up until recently thought he was the token straightof tye station. With a bad call previously leaving him with PTSD
With a new fire call bringing the two together tue relationship starts to develope.
I loved the characters especially elio uebwas my favourite
Tropes
Bi-awekening
Disability rep (son)
Abusive ex
Review of advance copy
ARC REVIEW
UNDER WATER (STORM SEASON 2) di E. M. Lindsey
Recensione: Under Water é il secondo libro della serie "Storm Season" di E. M. Lindsey e I protagonisti sono Rune ed Easton. Easton ha una cotta da sempre per Rune, ex collega che ora lavora come tecnico informatico per avere più tempo e stare vicino al figlio Elio, affetto da SMA.
La storia é molto dolce, soprattutto Elio che ho adorato per tutto il libro, é davvero un ragazzino di dodici anni dolcissimo. Come negli altri libri precedenti della Lindsey, faccio sempre fatica ad affezionarmi ad alcuni suoi personaggi, in questo caso a Rune che nei primi capitoli ho trovato un po' antipatico. Un incidente ad Elio poterà Easton a soccorrerlo e a salvargli la vita. Rune non potrà più ignorare il fatto che Easton sia affascinante e decisamente migliore di suo marito, un uomo che ho davvero odiato nel libro.
Mi chiedo davvero perché certi uomini non riescano ad accettare che le relazioni prima o poi finiscono e se ne devono fare una ragione, invece no! Quello che compie ai danni di Rune e del piccolo Elio per me é intollerabile. L'uomo é un violento e mi ha profondamente schifata. Rune, anche se nei primi capitoli non mi piaceva molto, ha avuto un cambiamento durante la storia, grazie anche alla vicinanza di Easton, ho potuto vedere come si comporta con Elio, quanto gli vuole bene e come si comporta con lui per cui l'opinione che mi ero fatta all'inizio su di lui fortunatamente verso metà libro é cambiata. Rune ha paura a tuffarsi in una nuova relazione dopo le ferite inferte dall'ex marito manipolatore ma Easton é paziente e gli dimostra con i fatti e non solo a parole che a lui ci tiene. Easton si fa amare quasi subito da Elio, prova tangibile che Easton é un bravo ragazzo e quindi innamorarsi di lui é abbastanza facile. La storia d'amore tra i due uomini é molto carina e tenera, alla fine sono felice che finalmente Rune abbia trovato un uomo VERO che lo ama come merita e ama soprattutto il figlio, entrambi si meritano di avere qualcuno accanto buono e genuino come Easton. É stato un romanzo davvero piacevole e si é letto velocemente. La serie é molto carina e compaiono altri personaggi presenti nel primo libro e nella serie precedente. Libro assolutamente consigliato! Ho ricevuto una copia ARC in cambio della mia opinione sincera.
English Review:
Under Water is book 2 in the Storm Season series by E.M. Lindsey. The main characters are Rune and Easton. Easton had a crush on Rune, an IT technician so he can spend more time with his son Elio, who has SMA.
The story is very sweet—especially Elio, I adored him in the book because he’s very sweet twelve-year-old boy. I always have a hard time getting involved with some of Lindsey’s characters, in this case with Rune, because I found him unlikable in the first chapters. An accident involving Elio leads Easton to save his life. Rune can no longer ignore the fact that Easton is charming and definitely better than his husband a man I truly hated in the book!
What he does to Rune and little Elio was intolerable!! He's violent and he disgusted me.
Rune at least changed and he became a better character thanks to Easton’s support.
Easton loved Elio and he treats him very well. Rune is afraid to start a new relationship after the wounds inflicted by his manipulative ex-husband, but Easton is patient and shows him through actions that he cares about him. The relationship between the two men is very sweet and I’m happy that Rune finally found a REAL man who loves him as he deserves and, above all, loves his son; they both deserve to have someone as kind and genuine as Easton by in their lives. It was a really enjoyable novel and a quick read. The series is very entertaining and also features characters from the first book and the previous series. I’d definitely recommend this book!
I received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
UNDER WATER (STORM SEASON 2) di E. M. Lindsey
Recensione: Under Water é il secondo libro della serie "Storm Season" di E. M. Lindsey e I protagonisti sono Rune ed Easton. Easton ha una cotta da sempre per Rune, ex collega che ora lavora come tecnico informatico per avere più tempo e stare vicino al figlio Elio, affetto da SMA.
La storia é molto dolce, soprattutto Elio che ho adorato per tutto il libro, é davvero un ragazzino di dodici anni dolcissimo. Come negli altri libri precedenti della Lindsey, faccio sempre fatica ad affezionarmi ad alcuni suoi personaggi, in questo caso a Rune che nei primi capitoli ho trovato un po' antipatico. Un incidente ad Elio poterà Easton a soccorrerlo e a salvargli la vita. Rune non potrà più ignorare il fatto che Easton sia affascinante e decisamente migliore di suo marito, un uomo che ho davvero odiato nel libro.
Mi chiedo davvero perché certi uomini non riescano ad accettare che le relazioni prima o poi finiscono e se ne devono fare una ragione, invece no! Quello che compie ai danni di Rune e del piccolo Elio per me é intollerabile. L'uomo é un violento e mi ha profondamente schifata. Rune, anche se nei primi capitoli non mi piaceva molto, ha avuto un cambiamento durante la storia, grazie anche alla vicinanza di Easton, ho potuto vedere come si comporta con Elio, quanto gli vuole bene e come si comporta con lui per cui l'opinione che mi ero fatta all'inizio su di lui fortunatamente verso metà libro é cambiata. Rune ha paura a tuffarsi in una nuova relazione dopo le ferite inferte dall'ex marito manipolatore ma Easton é paziente e gli dimostra con i fatti e non solo a parole che a lui ci tiene. Easton si fa amare quasi subito da Elio, prova tangibile che Easton é un bravo ragazzo e quindi innamorarsi di lui é abbastanza facile. La storia d'amore tra i due uomini é molto carina e tenera, alla fine sono felice che finalmente Rune abbia trovato un uomo VERO che lo ama come merita e ama soprattutto il figlio, entrambi si meritano di avere qualcuno accanto buono e genuino come Easton. É stato un romanzo davvero piacevole e si é letto velocemente. La serie é molto carina e compaiono altri personaggi presenti nel primo libro e nella serie precedente. Libro assolutamente consigliato! Ho ricevuto una copia ARC in cambio della mia opinione sincera.
English Review:
Under Water is book 2 in the Storm Season series by E.M. Lindsey. The main characters are Rune and Easton. Easton had a crush on Rune, an IT technician so he can spend more time with his son Elio, who has SMA.
The story is very sweet—especially Elio, I adored him in the book because he’s very sweet twelve-year-old boy. I always have a hard time getting involved with some of Lindsey’s characters, in this case with Rune, because I found him unlikable in the first chapters. An accident involving Elio leads Easton to save his life. Rune can no longer ignore the fact that Easton is charming and definitely better than his husband a man I truly hated in the book!
What he does to Rune and little Elio was intolerable!! He's violent and he disgusted me.
Rune at least changed and he became a better character thanks to Easton’s support.
Easton loved Elio and he treats him very well. Rune is afraid to start a new relationship after the wounds inflicted by his manipulative ex-husband, but Easton is patient and shows him through actions that he cares about him. The relationship between the two men is very sweet and I’m happy that Rune finally found a REAL man who loves him as he deserves and, above all, loves his son; they both deserve to have someone as kind and genuine as Easton by in their lives. It was a really enjoyable novel and a quick read. The series is very entertaining and also features characters from the first book and the previous series. I’d definitely recommend this book!
I received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
4.5+ stars
Easton has always claimed he was the straight guy at the fire station. He’s handsome, outgoing, sunshiny, and a bit clumsy. But the fact that he’s telling himself he just has a man crush on one of the tech guys who seems to openly hate him gets him thinking, especially when he starts thinking more impure thoughts about him.
Rune is an ex-firefighter, now a tech guru for the station. He’s got his hands full with a son with medical needs, a vengeful ex, and work. He is private, grumpy, overwhelmed, and resists help. He is also trying to manage his huge crush on the station's cutest "straight" guy, Easton. Rune's way of handling it is giving off dislike and irritation vibes since Easton's always messing up his computers.
But there seems to be a lot of unresolved sexual tension and what they assume are ill-advised crushes between them. Until a certain situation makes them actually talk and listen to each other and then realize that things weren’t always what they seemed with either of them. Both of them have a protective streak, but I love seeing Easton take up for Rune, who’s always had to be the protector of everyone else. And this is Easton's first experience with a man in any way, so I enjoyed seeing them explore his firsts and how patient Rune could be with him. I really loved these two together. Even though they were an unlikely pair just due to their history, personalities, and circumstances, they really gave each other what they didn't expect but really needed. They balance, support, complement each other well, and help each other feel better about themselves and their self-worth.
I really liked Rune’s snarky son, Elio, and his relationship with his dad, and also how Easton bonded with him. He is such a special character, and he often had me smiling when there was not surrounding drama. This is an enemies, coworkers, single dad, bi-awakening, first times, forced proximity, grumpy-sunshine love story set around a small town and firehouse. There are some threats, tension, and suspenseful situations woven throughout the story that keep it moving.
It brings back all the guys from the first book, and there really are a lot of interesting characters with some different challenges, so I have a feeling there’s going to be a few more books in the series, and I am here for it. This author always does a good job helping people with challenges and differing abilities find love and acceptance while making the medical issues realistic.
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Easton has always claimed he was the straight guy at the fire station. He’s handsome, outgoing, sunshiny, and a bit clumsy. But the fact that he’s telling himself he just has a man crush on one of the tech guys who seems to openly hate him gets him thinking, especially when he starts thinking more impure thoughts about him.
Rune is an ex-firefighter, now a tech guru for the station. He’s got his hands full with a son with medical needs, a vengeful ex, and work. He is private, grumpy, overwhelmed, and resists help. He is also trying to manage his huge crush on the station's cutest "straight" guy, Easton. Rune's way of handling it is giving off dislike and irritation vibes since Easton's always messing up his computers.
But there seems to be a lot of unresolved sexual tension and what they assume are ill-advised crushes between them. Until a certain situation makes them actually talk and listen to each other and then realize that things weren’t always what they seemed with either of them. Both of them have a protective streak, but I love seeing Easton take up for Rune, who’s always had to be the protector of everyone else. And this is Easton's first experience with a man in any way, so I enjoyed seeing them explore his firsts and how patient Rune could be with him. I really loved these two together. Even though they were an unlikely pair just due to their history, personalities, and circumstances, they really gave each other what they didn't expect but really needed. They balance, support, complement each other well, and help each other feel better about themselves and their self-worth.
I really liked Rune’s snarky son, Elio, and his relationship with his dad, and also how Easton bonded with him. He is such a special character, and he often had me smiling when there was not surrounding drama. This is an enemies, coworkers, single dad, bi-awakening, first times, forced proximity, grumpy-sunshine love story set around a small town and firehouse. There are some threats, tension, and suspenseful situations woven throughout the story that keep it moving.
It brings back all the guys from the first book, and there really are a lot of interesting characters with some different challenges, so I have a feeling there’s going to be a few more books in the series, and I am here for it. This author always does a good job helping people with challenges and differing abilities find love and acceptance while making the medical issues realistic.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*****ARC READER REVIEW****
This book had me experiencing approximately seventeen different emotional breakdowns, and honestly? I had a great time.
First of all, I really loved seeing a disabled child represented in the story. Elio wasn't treated like a plot device or a lesson. He was a fully realized little human, and I adored every scene he was in.
Now let's talk about Rune.
Sir.
My good bitch.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING???
This man had an entire support system standing in front of him with open arms and still insisted on carrying the weight of the world by himself. Every time someone offered help, he acted like they had personally challenged him to a duel. I spent half the book wanting to give him a hug and the other half wanting to spray him with a water bottle and tell him to stop making his life harder than it already was.
Easton, meanwhile, was out here being absolutely precious.
I loved him from the start. His insecurities felt so real, and honestly, I wanted to wrap him in a blanket, hand him a snack, and tell him he's doing amazing. The way he immediately stepped up for Elio while treating him like a kid instead of reducing him to his disability made me love him even more.
Protective? Check.
Sweet? Check.
Emotionally devastating in the best way? Also check.
The biggest issue I had was the ex.
Dear God.
This man was lurking around every corner like a sleep paralysis demon.
Every time Rune and Easton started finding their footing, BOOM. There he was again. I understand why he was important to the story, but eventually I was begging the universe for five consecutive minutes where the man wasn't sucking the joy out of every situation. Let these people BREATHE.
Because of all that drama, I never felt like I got enough time with Rune and Easton as a couple. I wanted more relationship development, more quiet moments, more opportunities to learn who they really were when they weren't actively putting out emotional fires.
That being said, the side characters absolutely stole my attention. The author casually tossed out hints about future books, and suddenly I was sitting there making a shopping list of everyone whose story I need immediately.
Axel. Camillo. Matty. Oz. Teddy. Logan. London.
Give me all of them.
I am no longer asking
This book had me experiencing approximately seventeen different emotional breakdowns, and honestly? I had a great time.
First of all, I really loved seeing a disabled child represented in the story. Elio wasn't treated like a plot device or a lesson. He was a fully realized little human, and I adored every scene he was in.
Now let's talk about Rune.
Sir.
My good bitch.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING???
This man had an entire support system standing in front of him with open arms and still insisted on carrying the weight of the world by himself. Every time someone offered help, he acted like they had personally challenged him to a duel. I spent half the book wanting to give him a hug and the other half wanting to spray him with a water bottle and tell him to stop making his life harder than it already was.
Easton, meanwhile, was out here being absolutely precious.
I loved him from the start. His insecurities felt so real, and honestly, I wanted to wrap him in a blanket, hand him a snack, and tell him he's doing amazing. The way he immediately stepped up for Elio while treating him like a kid instead of reducing him to his disability made me love him even more.
Protective? Check.
Sweet? Check.
Emotionally devastating in the best way? Also check.
The biggest issue I had was the ex.
Dear God.
This man was lurking around every corner like a sleep paralysis demon.
Every time Rune and Easton started finding their footing, BOOM. There he was again. I understand why he was important to the story, but eventually I was begging the universe for five consecutive minutes where the man wasn't sucking the joy out of every situation. Let these people BREATHE.
Because of all that drama, I never felt like I got enough time with Rune and Easton as a couple. I wanted more relationship development, more quiet moments, more opportunities to learn who they really were when they weren't actively putting out emotional fires.
That being said, the side characters absolutely stole my attention. The author casually tossed out hints about future books, and suddenly I was sitting there making a shopping list of everyone whose story I need immediately.
Axel. Camillo. Matty. Oz. Teddy. Logan. London.
Give me all of them.
I am no longer asking
November 1, 2026
This book was EXACTLY what I need after reading dark romance books back to back! I was craving a swoon-worthy romance to give me a little break from the morally dark world, and this delivered. Give me coworkers with tension and attraction (that they needed to explore) disguised as hate, two people with messy personal lives (one WAY complicated than the other), and all the chaos they go through while figuring things out. Add the balance of chaos and romance?! I live for that shit😩.
Definitely loved reading this book!
Easton was just Everything! I loved him with Rune and Rune's Son Elio. They were such a beautiful family in the making, and they all deserved the love and care they gave one another. They were adorable, and the energy and banter between them were simply AMAZING! Having everyone rooting for them and supporting them made it even more heartwarming.
🎀𝕱𝖆𝖛 𝕼𝖚𝖔𝖙𝖊𝖘:
✨️I keep kissing Easton anyway. I can’t help it. He tastes like mine. Like love. Like hope. Like forever.
✨️And he’ll get it. As soon as we have time and space, I will make sure that not one atom in his body regrets choosing me.
✨️I don’t love him yet, I don’t think. But I will. And this thing between us feels like an actual forever, and I’m not letting it go without a fight.
✨️It makes me feel good about my chances for success when I finally bottom for Rune. I want him to like it. I want him to like me.
✨️“I promise, I can be so fucking good for you.”
✨️“I told North once that I’d like to pull you over my lap and spank your ass,”
“Oh my god.”“You’re being a bit too good for that right now.”
“I could be bad if you want me to.”
“No. Easton, I don’t want you to be bad. I like you obedient. Compliant. Willing.”
✨️I suddenly don’t know why I should care if someone hears us. Let them. Let them all know that I’m in bed with Rune. That he and I are together. That I’m being touched by him, kissed by him…
✨️I like someone who makes me laugh and makes my fingers and toes tingle—and not in an oh shit, I’m having a stroke kind of way.
I’ve never cared about body type or hair color or any of that other shit guys tend to get hung up on.
Just someone…nice. Someone who makes me feel seen and heard. Someone who gets me.
Someone with dark eyes and messy hair in a bun who says my name in a rough growl that—
💙MM Romance
💙Single Dad Romance
💙Workplace Romance
💙Forced Proximity
💙Hate to Love
💙Fake Dating
💙Small Town Romance
𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
𝓢𝓹𝓲𝓬𝓮 𝓛𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓵: 🌶🌶🌶.5
Definitely loved reading this book!
Easton was just Everything! I loved him with Rune and Rune's Son Elio. They were such a beautiful family in the making, and they all deserved the love and care they gave one another. They were adorable, and the energy and banter between them were simply AMAZING! Having everyone rooting for them and supporting them made it even more heartwarming.
🎀𝕱𝖆𝖛 𝕼𝖚𝖔𝖙𝖊𝖘:
✨️I keep kissing Easton anyway. I can’t help it. He tastes like mine. Like love. Like hope. Like forever.
✨️And he’ll get it. As soon as we have time and space, I will make sure that not one atom in his body regrets choosing me.
✨️I don’t love him yet, I don’t think. But I will. And this thing between us feels like an actual forever, and I’m not letting it go without a fight.
✨️It makes me feel good about my chances for success when I finally bottom for Rune. I want him to like it. I want him to like me.
✨️“I promise, I can be so fucking good for you.”
✨️“I told North once that I’d like to pull you over my lap and spank your ass,”
“Oh my god.”“You’re being a bit too good for that right now.”
“I could be bad if you want me to.”
“No. Easton, I don’t want you to be bad. I like you obedient. Compliant. Willing.”
✨️I suddenly don’t know why I should care if someone hears us. Let them. Let them all know that I’m in bed with Rune. That he and I are together. That I’m being touched by him, kissed by him…
✨️I like someone who makes me laugh and makes my fingers and toes tingle—and not in an oh shit, I’m having a stroke kind of way.
I’ve never cared about body type or hair color or any of that other shit guys tend to get hung up on.
Just someone…nice. Someone who makes me feel seen and heard. Someone who gets me.
Someone with dark eyes and messy hair in a bun who says my name in a rough growl that—
💙MM Romance
💙Single Dad Romance
💙Workplace Romance
💙Forced Proximity
💙Hate to Love
💙Fake Dating
💙Small Town Romance
𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
𝓢𝓹𝓲𝓬𝓮 𝓛𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓵: 🌶🌶🌶.5
October 27, 2026
What a fun, sweet, low angst, tender MM romance!
Yes, they start off a bit rough, but only because they're both acting silly having secret crushes on each other and behaving like dorks about it. Once they acknowledge their feelings, it's such a caring, courageous exploration of what could blossom between them.
While the main characters are Rune and Easton, the true star of this book is Rune's son, Elio. He is so f*cking funny. He's smart, perceptive, mouthy, and intensely lovable. Nothing escapes him, and the way he consistently makes the adult men around him blush, stammer, and scramble for how to deal with a 12-year-old who is going on 25? Keep being you, Elio. You're delightful.
Elio's disability is a key player in this story, and it's such terrific disability rep. I'm obsessed with how many other characters were also disabled - there were characters who were blind, deaf, had a traumatic brain injury, used wheelchairs, canes, walkers, and the disabled characters were almost entirely treated with acceptance and care by the able-bodied characters, especially those around Rune and Easton.
I would have loved more spicy scenes between the two MCs because the ones they had were hot. Easton getting stuck under the desk? YES. The pitch black room? YES. Sneaking around and trying to keep quiet? HOT. A few scenes of them exploring each other and trying things together would have been many cherries on top of an already delightful little love story.
Easton's relationship with Elio is heartwarming, and Elio's mom, Daphne, is a phenomenal character who brought such love and support to their story, and the men at the firehouse/EMT station were the kind of men this world needs. I would love to see future installments around Logan, Ollie, and some of the others. Plus, I can't wait to go back and read book one in the series because North and Leo play an important role in this book, too.
If you're looking for a tender, vulnerable, tasty little morsel of a romance, this will feed you well.
Yes, they start off a bit rough, but only because they're both acting silly having secret crushes on each other and behaving like dorks about it. Once they acknowledge their feelings, it's such a caring, courageous exploration of what could blossom between them.
While the main characters are Rune and Easton, the true star of this book is Rune's son, Elio. He is so f*cking funny. He's smart, perceptive, mouthy, and intensely lovable. Nothing escapes him, and the way he consistently makes the adult men around him blush, stammer, and scramble for how to deal with a 12-year-old who is going on 25? Keep being you, Elio. You're delightful.
Elio's disability is a key player in this story, and it's such terrific disability rep. I'm obsessed with how many other characters were also disabled - there were characters who were blind, deaf, had a traumatic brain injury, used wheelchairs, canes, walkers, and the disabled characters were almost entirely treated with acceptance and care by the able-bodied characters, especially those around Rune and Easton.
I would have loved more spicy scenes between the two MCs because the ones they had were hot. Easton getting stuck under the desk? YES. The pitch black room? YES. Sneaking around and trying to keep quiet? HOT. A few scenes of them exploring each other and trying things together would have been many cherries on top of an already delightful little love story.
Easton's relationship with Elio is heartwarming, and Elio's mom, Daphne, is a phenomenal character who brought such love and support to their story, and the men at the firehouse/EMT station were the kind of men this world needs. I would love to see future installments around Logan, Ollie, and some of the others. Plus, I can't wait to go back and read book one in the series because North and Leo play an important role in this book, too.
If you're looking for a tender, vulnerable, tasty little morsel of a romance, this will feed you well.
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