What do you think?
Rate this book
Hot Dam Homes #2
When the Walls Come Down
Dylan
"Quirky." Ugh, I hate that word. The PC term these days is 'neuro-divergent', but I prefer to be called autistic. It's often a huge advantage to have a brain that works differently, but I sometimes wish it was easier to connect with other people. The things that make me different can make people want to keep their distance, and for a long time I've built walls around myself so no one wants to even try breaking through. Helping the sexy ER doctor renovate his house, I discover someone who wants to get closer instead of running away. I think Reed likes me because I'm a little different, not in spite of it. But the gorgeous doctor has a lot of baggage, and I worry that if he sees the parts of me I work so hard to keep under control, he's going to turn tail and run.
Reed
I've overcome a lot to get to where I am as a doctor, including parents who loved their bigoted, homophobic church more than their child and an opioid addiction following years of self-loathing. I love my team in the ER, but in my personal life I prefer to fly solo. I'm comfortable behind the carefully built walls that no one, not even my best friend, gets through. The old fixer-upper in a great neighborhood was supposed to be a side project, but I discovered pretty quickly that home renovations are not as easy as they look on TV. But when one of the sexiest men I've ever seen, who happens to be a contractor, shows up in my ER, he feels like the solution to all my problems. What I never expected was that while he was re-building my house, Dylan Campbell would be the first person who makes me want to take my walls down.
When The Walls Come Down is a steamy hurt/comfort MM Romance. It features an autistic home renovation expert and a doctor scarred by a traumatic childhood. Two people who've always been outsiders figuring out how to let each other in.
"Quirky." Ugh, I hate that word. The PC term these days is 'neuro-divergent', but I prefer to be called autistic. It's often a huge advantage to have a brain that works differently, but I sometimes wish it was easier to connect with other people. The things that make me different can make people want to keep their distance, and for a long time I've built walls around myself so no one wants to even try breaking through. Helping the sexy ER doctor renovate his house, I discover someone who wants to get closer instead of running away. I think Reed likes me because I'm a little different, not in spite of it. But the gorgeous doctor has a lot of baggage, and I worry that if he sees the parts of me I work so hard to keep under control, he's going to turn tail and run.
Reed
I've overcome a lot to get to where I am as a doctor, including parents who loved their bigoted, homophobic church more than their child and an opioid addiction following years of self-loathing. I love my team in the ER, but in my personal life I prefer to fly solo. I'm comfortable behind the carefully built walls that no one, not even my best friend, gets through. The old fixer-upper in a great neighborhood was supposed to be a side project, but I discovered pretty quickly that home renovations are not as easy as they look on TV. But when one of the sexiest men I've ever seen, who happens to be a contractor, shows up in my ER, he feels like the solution to all my problems. What I never expected was that while he was re-building my house, Dylan Campbell would be the first person who makes me want to take my walls down.
When The Walls Come Down is a steamy hurt/comfort MM Romance. It features an autistic home renovation expert and a doctor scarred by a traumatic childhood. Two people who've always been outsiders figuring out how to let each other in.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2022
145 people are currently reading
233 people want to read
About the author
Harper Robson
15 books76 followersHarper Robson grew up dreaming of being a writer, but that didn’t work out until she was in her forties. Along the way, she worked in oil & gas marketing, software development, and spent more than a decade as a stay-home mom.
A true Pacific Northwesterner, Harper loves the rain, and when her family decided to make a big move to Southern California in 2023, she was sure she’d miss the cozy gray winters of Seattle and Vancouver. However, it turns out that a daily dose of sunshine and palm trees isn’t hard to get used to, and San Diego feels more like home all the time.
She’s mom to two teen boys and an adorable but naughty Yellow Lab. Her husband works in the tech industry, and he makes her laugh every single day.
Harper’s favorite things include getaways with her besties, the Seattle Kraken, her dogs and drinking champagne for no reason at all.
A true Pacific Northwesterner, Harper loves the rain, and when her family decided to make a big move to Southern California in 2023, she was sure she’d miss the cozy gray winters of Seattle and Vancouver. However, it turns out that a daily dose of sunshine and palm trees isn’t hard to get used to, and San Diego feels more like home all the time.
She’s mom to two teen boys and an adorable but naughty Yellow Lab. Her husband works in the tech industry, and he makes her laugh every single day.
Harper’s favorite things include getaways with her besties, the Seattle Kraken, her dogs and drinking champagne for no reason at all.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
November 11, 2023
Cute, sort of. Lots of the word ‘but’…
Ugh. So many feelings about this book.
Let’s start with the good stuff, hmm?
I enjoyed the characters and their personalities, and I always love seeing characters that deal with the same stuff I do on a daily basis find love and support and happiness. I love the focus of this series being contracting stuff, because it’s something that’s always been huge in my life and makes me happy. I love the slice-of-life feel to the story because I love the realism it always adds to a romance novel. I also loved the way Reed and Dylan supported/held space for each other. It was the nicest part of the book.
Now let’s get to all of those buts…
Feel free to skip from one break to another, since this could potentially be a bit spoiler-y. I do my best to NOT include spoilers, but even tiny hints can upset, so you’ve been warned and can do with that information what you will.
‼️‼️‼️
But, like, why do folx always have to shine a spotlight on the issues that are typically perceived as negative, harmful, and/or bad when dealing with mental health or stuff like autism, chronic illnesses, et cetera? No, I am not speaking out-of-turn, I have a ton of mental health issues, have struggled with addiction, and am on the spectrum (along with my teenage enby child.) So, you know, I think I get a say. And I’m gonna have to say that I’m so tired of the stereotypes being all anyone ever includes. It’s tired. I’m tired. Can we not?
But why the TAA? Why not let these characters that have already been through so much and have to deal with stuff daily that’s really heavy and draining have some happiness and peace? I get it, plot and story and blah blah. I know that this book did a good job of showing love and support, but it really does get so hard to keep reading about the struggle. Not every book needs TAA and everyone pushing everyone else away. We need to find new, creative ways to turn the pages at this point. It’s basically every book and we’re wearing it out.
‼️‼️‼️
Anyway, what happened to the mechanics? Was this a new editing team? Yikes. Not good on any front, and riddled with inconsistencies. Y’all play too much… especially when it’s something so simple to catch and fix by folx if they just read the MS and pay attention. Like, you know, just do their job that they’re getting paid for. It wouldn’t even take anything over the absolute bare minimum of effort.
I know I sound harsh, and like I need to just enjoy the book and shut up, but if no one ever speaks up, nothing ever changes. And we need some changes out here in Bookland. I just want more representation for and focus on the good. I live the bad 24/7, so reading for a break from it sounds awfully nice right now. Realistic representation matters, but it can still be realistic and include the heavier stuff without making it the glaring focal point.
And before anyone goes there, I’m not in any way saying the book was bad, or that I didn’t like it, or even that I could do better, because none of that will ever be true. I’m just saying maybe an opinion from a fresh set of eyes and a brain could go a long way in changing how we write complex characters with really large burdens on their minds and bodies.
We deserve fluffy, irrational love stories, too, dang it!
3/5. The mechanics killed it. It was slow and painful, and it brought the energy down. It was not a vibe. With some decent editing, this could’ve been OTT perfection.
Ugh. So many feelings about this book.
Let’s start with the good stuff, hmm?
I enjoyed the characters and their personalities, and I always love seeing characters that deal with the same stuff I do on a daily basis find love and support and happiness. I love the focus of this series being contracting stuff, because it’s something that’s always been huge in my life and makes me happy. I love the slice-of-life feel to the story because I love the realism it always adds to a romance novel. I also loved the way Reed and Dylan supported/held space for each other. It was the nicest part of the book.
Now let’s get to all of those buts…
Feel free to skip from one break to another, since this could potentially be a bit spoiler-y. I do my best to NOT include spoilers, but even tiny hints can upset, so you’ve been warned and can do with that information what you will.
‼️‼️‼️
But, like, why do folx always have to shine a spotlight on the issues that are typically perceived as negative, harmful, and/or bad when dealing with mental health or stuff like autism, chronic illnesses, et cetera? No, I am not speaking out-of-turn, I have a ton of mental health issues, have struggled with addiction, and am on the spectrum (along with my teenage enby child.) So, you know, I think I get a say. And I’m gonna have to say that I’m so tired of the stereotypes being all anyone ever includes. It’s tired. I’m tired. Can we not?
But why the TAA? Why not let these characters that have already been through so much and have to deal with stuff daily that’s really heavy and draining have some happiness and peace? I get it, plot and story and blah blah. I know that this book did a good job of showing love and support, but it really does get so hard to keep reading about the struggle. Not every book needs TAA and everyone pushing everyone else away. We need to find new, creative ways to turn the pages at this point. It’s basically every book and we’re wearing it out.
‼️‼️‼️
Anyway, what happened to the mechanics? Was this a new editing team? Yikes. Not good on any front, and riddled with inconsistencies. Y’all play too much… especially when it’s something so simple to catch and fix by folx if they just read the MS and pay attention. Like, you know, just do their job that they’re getting paid for. It wouldn’t even take anything over the absolute bare minimum of effort.
I know I sound harsh, and like I need to just enjoy the book and shut up, but if no one ever speaks up, nothing ever changes. And we need some changes out here in Bookland. I just want more representation for and focus on the good. I live the bad 24/7, so reading for a break from it sounds awfully nice right now. Realistic representation matters, but it can still be realistic and include the heavier stuff without making it the glaring focal point.
And before anyone goes there, I’m not in any way saying the book was bad, or that I didn’t like it, or even that I could do better, because none of that will ever be true. I’m just saying maybe an opinion from a fresh set of eyes and a brain could go a long way in changing how we write complex characters with really large burdens on their minds and bodies.
We deserve fluffy, irrational love stories, too, dang it!
3/5. The mechanics killed it. It was slow and painful, and it brought the energy down. It was not a vibe. With some decent editing, this could’ve been OTT perfection.
October 19, 2022
This story has fantastic main characters, very different from the norm. Dylan, in his words, is autistic. He’s 43 and has not only been working in the construction business, building his reputation and client base, he’s also been constructing invisible walls around himself to avoid relationships. Reed, also early forties, is an ER doc who beat a drug addiction about twenty years before and maintains his sobriety despite the often stressful work he does.
The two meet when Dylan’s sister needs his help to get to the ER before her baby is born at home. I enjoyed the dynamics of Dylan’s family, his relationship with his parents (his mother is terrific!) and with his siblings. Their arrival at the hospital ER just as Reed was going off duty was a fast-paced scene full of energy and fun dynamics. The author hooked me immediately with this beginning and kept me captivated throughout the story.
Reed was not interested in a relationship. He’s been alone most of his life, having survived the trauma of being kicked out of his family at seventeen, so initially he was reluctant to commit to going out with Dylan. But the two clicked beautifully, and before either man knew it, they had agreed to work together on bringing Reed’s Craftsman-style home up-to-date and appealing enough to use for both a model for Dylan’s business and a profitable sale for Reed.
But over time, Reed comes to realize Dylan is much more to him than a business partner or temporary relationship and Dylan realizes he’s found someone who accepts him as he is—complete with all his “quirks” and sometimes inexplicable behaviors.
I really appreciated the way the author presented Dylan’s character. He wasn’t a round peg put into a square hole. He and Reed were both very realistically portrayed and very enjoyable to meet. I became invested in their future and hope to see them in a sequel someday. And I sure wouldn’t mind visiting with Dylan’s outrageous family at least one more time. Their Thanksgiving celebration gave me enough laughs to last a month. I definitely recommend this story.
The two meet when Dylan’s sister needs his help to get to the ER before her baby is born at home. I enjoyed the dynamics of Dylan’s family, his relationship with his parents (his mother is terrific!) and with his siblings. Their arrival at the hospital ER just as Reed was going off duty was a fast-paced scene full of energy and fun dynamics. The author hooked me immediately with this beginning and kept me captivated throughout the story.
Reed was not interested in a relationship. He’s been alone most of his life, having survived the trauma of being kicked out of his family at seventeen, so initially he was reluctant to commit to going out with Dylan. But the two clicked beautifully, and before either man knew it, they had agreed to work together on bringing Reed’s Craftsman-style home up-to-date and appealing enough to use for both a model for Dylan’s business and a profitable sale for Reed.
But over time, Reed comes to realize Dylan is much more to him than a business partner or temporary relationship and Dylan realizes he’s found someone who accepts him as he is—complete with all his “quirks” and sometimes inexplicable behaviors.
I really appreciated the way the author presented Dylan’s character. He wasn’t a round peg put into a square hole. He and Reed were both very realistically portrayed and very enjoyable to meet. I became invested in their future and hope to see them in a sequel someday. And I sure wouldn’t mind visiting with Dylan’s outrageous family at least one more time. Their Thanksgiving celebration gave me enough laughs to last a month. I definitely recommend this story.
October 20, 2022
I was drawn to this book when I learned that one of the MCs, Dylan, is neurodivergent - although he just prefers to say he has autism. I have family experience around autism and have a super soft spot for the challenges that it can create. This book is an excellent depiction of some behaviors of someone on the autistic spectrum, getting raw and real with some of the moments experienced in the book.
Just because I had an initial interest in the book didn't guarantee I was going to enjoy the story - but lucky for me I didn't just like it, I adored it! Reed and Dylan are amazing together - Reed is so appreciative and open to learn about Dylan and the challenges he faces. He truly appreciates Dylan's behavior and personality traits and his honest straight talk. He is the perfect match for Dylan - appreciating and accepting him for who he is as a whole person.
The emotions and deep here, which is always something that makes me love a book. I'm always thrilled when there are cozy, soft moments that just make you smile right alongside steamy chemistry. Both are abundant here and done well!
I highly recommend this book and plan to go back and read the first book in the series next!
I received an ARC of this book and am glad to leave my honest review.
Just because I had an initial interest in the book didn't guarantee I was going to enjoy the story - but lucky for me I didn't just like it, I adored it! Reed and Dylan are amazing together - Reed is so appreciative and open to learn about Dylan and the challenges he faces. He truly appreciates Dylan's behavior and personality traits and his honest straight talk. He is the perfect match for Dylan - appreciating and accepting him for who he is as a whole person.
The emotions and deep here, which is always something that makes me love a book. I'm always thrilled when there are cozy, soft moments that just make you smile right alongside steamy chemistry. Both are abundant here and done well!
I highly recommend this book and plan to go back and read the first book in the series next!
I received an ARC of this book and am glad to leave my honest review.
dnf
December 4, 2023DNF @84%, but it probably should have been sooner. So first off, the writing quality is not amazing. It's definitely not bad, just a lot more "tell" than "show," and what I interpret as maybe the craft of a less experienced writer. But I can (and often do in the big, wide, wonderful world of an M/M romance market flooded with indie authors) get over that. What I finally couldn't get over was how uncomfortable I was with the portrayal and center-stage prominence of Dylan's autism to the storyline, along with Reed's response to it. Here's the thing. I'm not super experienced in the many nuances of how neurodivergence can be expressed, nor can I spit out a concise definition of ableism, but this book eventually bothered me enough in both those directions that I decided to peace out for my own peace of mind.
October 15, 2022
Very well written
Wow the 'Meltdown' scene was so emotional. I felt all of the stresses and pressure as I was reading. Who doesn't love a hot doctor story. Glad Dylan and Reed got their HEA.
Wow the 'Meltdown' scene was so emotional. I felt all of the stresses and pressure as I was reading. Who doesn't love a hot doctor story. Glad Dylan and Reed got their HEA.
April 18, 2025
DNF @ 25%
Primarily DNFing for the same reason I had for the first book. The MCs do things that are supposedly out of character because the other MC just existed. Reed quits smoking because Dylan is coming over. Reed can't get Dylan out of his mind even though every other guy hadn't made an impact.
Dylan's arguably worse because after his sister gives birth and Reed catches him outside he goes "But for some reason, Reed Morrow inspires me to do things differently." Huh? Why? Wasn't he just lamenting the fact that his routine was disrupted and how he was going to suffer its consequences like 5 pages ago? Why willingly do different things for this stranger? Was Reed really that hot that Dylan found himself overcoming his routine? What happened to the "awkward stranger mode engaged"? His supposed awkwardness and trouble with social interactions never materialized. I mean he's making jokes and being generally charming with Reed during his inspection. Where's the stilted silences? The confusion around questions? I'm not expecting Dylan to freaking misinterpret or be rainman, but come on. You can not just say "I have trouble with social interactions" and not have an awkward situation come up. (I see other reviews talking about a big meltdown later in the book, which theoretically addresses this, but I'm of the opinion that it shouldn't take more than a quarter of a story to see evidence of a flaw that's been mentioned no less than three times)
It's also weird how Reed was so sure of himself about Dylan's honesty. How did he figure that Dylan is "walking around in the world without the protective armor most of us wear" or "I can see he means what he's saying" just by the couple of interactions he's had? Why trust randomly trust Dylan's company over the one he hired? He didn't have any evidence to either's trustworthiness. It screams instalove to me.
TL;DR: DNFing because the author loves the whole "idk why, but super hot guy over there just makes me feel in love and willing to change everything about myself despite literally only knowing him for all of three seconds" as mentioned like three times here and however many times in the previous book.
Primarily DNFing for the same reason I had for the first book. The MCs do things that are supposedly out of character because the other MC just existed. Reed quits smoking because Dylan is coming over. Reed can't get Dylan out of his mind even though every other guy hadn't made an impact.
Dylan's arguably worse because after his sister gives birth and Reed catches him outside he goes "But for some reason, Reed Morrow inspires me to do things differently." Huh? Why? Wasn't he just lamenting the fact that his routine was disrupted and how he was going to suffer its consequences like 5 pages ago? Why willingly do different things for this stranger? Was Reed really that hot that Dylan found himself overcoming his routine? What happened to the "awkward stranger mode engaged"? His supposed awkwardness and trouble with social interactions never materialized. I mean he's making jokes and being generally charming with Reed during his inspection. Where's the stilted silences? The confusion around questions? I'm not expecting Dylan to freaking misinterpret or be rainman, but come on. You can not just say "I have trouble with social interactions" and not have an awkward situation come up. (I see other reviews talking about a big meltdown later in the book, which theoretically addresses this, but I'm of the opinion that it shouldn't take more than a quarter of a story to see evidence of a flaw that's been mentioned no less than three times)
It's also weird how Reed was so sure of himself about Dylan's honesty. How did he figure that Dylan is "walking around in the world without the protective armor most of us wear" or "I can see he means what he's saying" just by the couple of interactions he's had? Why trust randomly trust Dylan's company over the one he hired? He didn't have any evidence to either's trustworthiness. It screams instalove to me.
TL;DR: DNFing because the author loves the whole "idk why, but super hot guy over there just makes me feel in love and willing to change everything about myself despite literally only knowing him for all of three seconds" as mentioned like three times here and however many times in the previous book.
September 24, 2023
Dylan and Reed are both most comfortable functioning behind their carefully constructed walls. Dylan's family understands him, and he doesn't let anyone else get too close. Reed keeps his co-workers at arm's length. When the two of them encounter one another in the ER, they are drawn to one another. Reed talks to Dylan about the troubles he's having with a renovation, and Dylan impulsively offers to help. They begin a delicate dance of being attracted to one another while still trying to navigate their personal issues. Communicating helps, but their fledgling relationship is put to the test when Dylan has a major, public meltdown. While each of them feels what they have is worth fighting for, neither is sure where to go from here. It will take some interference from friends and family to get Dylan and Reed to move forward.
This was...interesting. I prefer humor with my romance, and while this story had some funny moments, it was mostly hurt/comfort. I thought the author did a good job of handling both men's issues, although admittedly I have very little experience with neuro-divergency or addiction. It was heartening to see how Reed learned to give Dylan space, while Dylan worked hard at communicating what he was experiencing so that Reed understood him better.
This was a good book, but I found it more thought-provoking than entertaining. I felt that far too much of the story focused on the issues that Dylan and Reed dealt with, whereas I would have liked to read more of them simply enjoying each other's company as their relationship progressed. For that reason, this gets only an average rating.
This was...interesting. I prefer humor with my romance, and while this story had some funny moments, it was mostly hurt/comfort. I thought the author did a good job of handling both men's issues, although admittedly I have very little experience with neuro-divergency or addiction. It was heartening to see how Reed learned to give Dylan space, while Dylan worked hard at communicating what he was experiencing so that Reed understood him better.
This was a good book, but I found it more thought-provoking than entertaining. I felt that far too much of the story focused on the issues that Dylan and Reed dealt with, whereas I would have liked to read more of them simply enjoying each other's company as their relationship progressed. For that reason, this gets only an average rating.
October 18, 2022
Dylan and Reed both have things to deal with in their lives and Reed has some serious baggage from his past, but when Dylan comes to work on Reed's home renovation project and they get to know each other, they just fit and a friendship turns into something so much deeper. The author let's us get inside these character's heads and understand how both come to trust each other enough to open up and share parts of themselves they've not shared with others.
November 24, 2022
This was such a great story. I loved how Reed and Dylan were able to find the love neither thought they would have. It was great to see how someone who operated differently than many is still able to have all the things everyone else does, even if it's a little different.
April 9, 2024
Lacking
The characters are somewhat engaging and I did finish the book; however the quality of the writing and editing is seriously lacking.
The characters are somewhat engaging and I did finish the book; however the quality of the writing and editing is seriously lacking.
November 7, 2022
Such a cute swoony read! Ive been in a dark romance hole for the last couple of weeks so this was the perfect short romance to cleanse the pallet and so sweet i felt like i needed to check my sugar levels!
Dylan & reed are the absolute cutest regardless of their obstacles of dylan being autistic and reed having some very high walls to climb it was absolutely perfect!
Thank you GRR for the opportunity for an arc read
Dylan & reed are the absolute cutest regardless of their obstacles of dylan being autistic and reed having some very high walls to climb it was absolutely perfect!
Thank you GRR for the opportunity for an arc read
April 20, 2025
A very heartfelt story.
The story of Dylan and Reed is truly heartfelt in that, Dylan copes everyday with autism and Reed is a recovering opioid addict. Dylan strives everyday to be aware of the his triggers are so that, he doesn't go back into a meltdown. Reed strives everyday not to be too stressed out that he'll have a relapse. They both have great support systems and the love between them.
The story of Dylan and Reed is truly heartfelt in that, Dylan copes everyday with autism and Reed is a recovering opioid addict. Dylan strives everyday to be aware of the his triggers are so that, he doesn't go back into a meltdown. Reed strives everyday not to be too stressed out that he'll have a relapse. They both have great support systems and the love between them.
May 3, 2025
3.5 stars
A very sweet and feel good story about two adorable MCs. My reason for not giving 4 stars is that the whole romance seems to happen in fast forward with not enough depth about their respective issues and how lust turned to love. But it was very readable and enjoyable
A very sweet and feel good story about two adorable MCs. My reason for not giving 4 stars is that the whole romance seems to happen in fast forward with not enough depth about their respective issues and how lust turned to love. But it was very readable and enjoyable
October 13, 2024
I was keen to read this book because of the autism rep, but I felt like Reed, the non-autistic character, was less than realistic. It was like the author took a character, gave him a couple of flaws that had no impact on his new relationship (a recovering addict sober for many years, and a previous commitment-phobe who is now all-in with all relationships in his life) and then had him do everything perfectly to be the perfect partner for Dylan. It didn't feel realistic. I know that every autistic person is different, and that's not my issue here. I appreciated that Dylan's family had learned how to best support him, but despite Reed asking lots of questions about how he could help, it felt like Reed just did everything perfectly every time, whether it was reacting to a meltdown, understanding the lack of eye contact, understanding Dylan's conversational style, etc. All the conflict came from Dylan pushing away someone who was doing everything right, 'because no one could possibly love someone who has his issues' and I guess I wanted more from the book than that. I wanted Dylan's autism to be secondary to the real issues, whatever they may have been, not to be the only hurdle that the characters had to overcome.
The other thing that annoyed me is that the new mother, Grace, had a meltdown at the family dinner. It was VERY obvious (literally could not have been MORE obvious!) that she was not coping, and NOBODY DID ANYTHING TO HELP. They just told her to take her baby home. She had told them she was looking forward to a meal she didn't have to prepare, and no one offered to even sort out takeaways or anything for her. She told them she wasn't getting enough sleep and wasn't coping, and no one offered to take the baby so she could have a lie down. She used negative language and words towards the baby and the doctor identified that she was almost certainly suffering from post natal depression and DID NOTHING. The doctor, who wanted to be part of their family, saw a member of their family clearly suffering and did NOTHING. He didn't even have a quiet word to anyone afterwards. He literally did nothing. Grace had to get help on her own, and update the family later, much to their relief, that everything was under control and she was getting the help she needed. WHY DID NO ONE HELP HER? I was so mad. I understood why Dylan couldn't help her, but everyone else at that table should have done something. It made me so mad, even though she's just a fictional character. If you see someone in distress and struggling, you don't just ask them to remove the issue from your presence, which is what they did by sending her home. They needed to offer practical help.
The other thing that annoyed me is that the new mother, Grace, had a meltdown at the family dinner. It was VERY obvious (literally could not have been MORE obvious!) that she was not coping, and NOBODY DID ANYTHING TO HELP. They just told her to take her baby home. She had told them she was looking forward to a meal she didn't have to prepare, and no one offered to even sort out takeaways or anything for her. She told them she wasn't getting enough sleep and wasn't coping, and no one offered to take the baby so she could have a lie down. She used negative language and words towards the baby and the doctor identified that she was almost certainly suffering from post natal depression and DID NOTHING. The doctor, who wanted to be part of their family, saw a member of their family clearly suffering and did NOTHING. He didn't even have a quiet word to anyone afterwards. He literally did nothing. Grace had to get help on her own, and update the family later, much to their relief, that everything was under control and she was getting the help she needed. WHY DID NO ONE HELP HER? I was so mad. I understood why Dylan couldn't help her, but everyone else at that table should have done something. It made me so mad, even though she's just a fictional character. If you see someone in distress and struggling, you don't just ask them to remove the issue from your presence, which is what they did by sending her home. They needed to offer practical help.
October 18, 2022
I absolutely loved this
This book spoke to me on a really personal level and I am so grateful to the author for writing an autistic character so well and with such clear love and care. So many books depict people on the spectrum as borderline caricatures; they are stereotypes personified clearly written to be amusing or to somehow play into what can be a very harmful dialogue around neurodiversity in general and in particular autism. Dylan however was written so beautifully and genuinely. I don’t want to spoil anything for anyone but two things in particular stood out for me. First, I loved that a point was made that Dylan felt emotion (often so strongly it was difficult to process or express). The emotionless autistic character is something I rage against and the way Dylan felt things, coped, expressed himself was done really well. Secondly, meltdowns. I’m not going to go into detail but I have to admit I had to stop reading for a second because this was portrayed so well. The shame and fear and embarrassment and inability to do anything about it and the anger over feeling so out of control. The physical and emotional toll it takes was done really well as was that halo effect afterwards where it can take days to feel in control enough to feel steady again. On top of the fantastic writing of Dylan there was the wonderful Reed and a slew of amazing secondary characters. Reed, well he feels a bit like a unicorn because he was just so unbelievably kind and patient whilst also recognising his own emotions (you can be kind and patient and still feel angry/hurt too). Dylan’s family was wonderful. Imperfect but so supportive and trying to be there for each other. The romance itself was really sweet and the communication was solid. They both wanted to make it work and whilst there were hiccups along the way they put the effort in to get beyond them. Anyway, I absolutely loved this and am so grateful to the author for writing such a wonderful book.
This book spoke to me on a really personal level and I am so grateful to the author for writing an autistic character so well and with such clear love and care. So many books depict people on the spectrum as borderline caricatures; they are stereotypes personified clearly written to be amusing or to somehow play into what can be a very harmful dialogue around neurodiversity in general and in particular autism. Dylan however was written so beautifully and genuinely. I don’t want to spoil anything for anyone but two things in particular stood out for me. First, I loved that a point was made that Dylan felt emotion (often so strongly it was difficult to process or express). The emotionless autistic character is something I rage against and the way Dylan felt things, coped, expressed himself was done really well. Secondly, meltdowns. I’m not going to go into detail but I have to admit I had to stop reading for a second because this was portrayed so well. The shame and fear and embarrassment and inability to do anything about it and the anger over feeling so out of control. The physical and emotional toll it takes was done really well as was that halo effect afterwards where it can take days to feel in control enough to feel steady again. On top of the fantastic writing of Dylan there was the wonderful Reed and a slew of amazing secondary characters. Reed, well he feels a bit like a unicorn because he was just so unbelievably kind and patient whilst also recognising his own emotions (you can be kind and patient and still feel angry/hurt too). Dylan’s family was wonderful. Imperfect but so supportive and trying to be there for each other. The romance itself was really sweet and the communication was solid. They both wanted to make it work and whilst there were hiccups along the way they put the effort in to get beyond them. Anyway, I absolutely loved this and am so grateful to the author for writing such a wonderful book.
October 23, 2022
I love the two MCs in this book. Dylan is Mason's brother (from book one) so we knew of him before this book but here we really get to know his character. We actually also met Reed as he treated Mason in the ER and, even then, there was a definite spark but life kept them apart. Now they have a second chance and it's something they both grab onto. They make such a lovely couple, each nervous for their own reasons, but they just seem to click on every level. Dylan thinks that his autism will stop him reading social cues and is bound to cause trouble down the line if they start a relationship. Reed had a hard childhood and even harder late teenage years but managed to fall on his feet with the help of a wonderful friend and their family. It's left him struggling to let people in but there's just something about Dylan that can't be denied.
Attraction is quickly acted on and emotions are quick to develop but everything felt natural between them, even the tough times they have to go through to come out stronger on the other side. Dylan has his siblings and cousin to offer comfort and support whilst Reed has his best friend and it all ends up giving them their HEA.
It's a great mix of sweet, sexy and chaos as the two men come together at each other's homes, at Dylan's parents over Thanksgiving and an ill fated trip out for dinner. I really enjoyed how Harper wrote both men, considering Reeds history and Dylan's diversity, making it clear how every person who lives with autism will experience and deal with everything differently. I'm loving the series so far and highly recommend.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Attraction is quickly acted on and emotions are quick to develop but everything felt natural between them, even the tough times they have to go through to come out stronger on the other side. Dylan has his siblings and cousin to offer comfort and support whilst Reed has his best friend and it all ends up giving them their HEA.
It's a great mix of sweet, sexy and chaos as the two men come together at each other's homes, at Dylan's parents over Thanksgiving and an ill fated trip out for dinner. I really enjoyed how Harper wrote both men, considering Reeds history and Dylan's diversity, making it clear how every person who lives with autism will experience and deal with everything differently. I'm loving the series so far and highly recommend.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
February 20, 2023
A Spark of Hope
I've been in the mood to read medical romances. Seeing the man on book's cover in a doctor's white coat and stethoscope around his neck captured my attention immediately. I first spotted it about ten days ago and have been itching to read it. Well I was not disappointed. Not only was the focus on an ER doctor, but a man who was autistic.
Their interactions and dynamics made for an amazing romance. The reader learns about the demanding schedule of an ER doctor and a great deal about someone who has made it to middle age as a autistic man. These two men came from such different backgrounds but their strong mutual attraction made them overcame that initial barrier. Not feeling deserving had to be battled. Past family trauma and a rough start in life had to be acknowledged and tackled. Special behaviors associated with autistic individuals had to be learned about and accepted as "normal".
I really enjoy reading about mature men in their forties who'd given up on the idea of finding a life partner... until it unexpectedly happens. The surprise, delight, and awe they experience makes for a very touching and entertaining novel. This is the first book I've read by Harper Robson but it will not be my last. I highly recommend this book. I feel so happy after reading it. Found family stories are amazing.
I've been in the mood to read medical romances. Seeing the man on book's cover in a doctor's white coat and stethoscope around his neck captured my attention immediately. I first spotted it about ten days ago and have been itching to read it. Well I was not disappointed. Not only was the focus on an ER doctor, but a man who was autistic.
Their interactions and dynamics made for an amazing romance. The reader learns about the demanding schedule of an ER doctor and a great deal about someone who has made it to middle age as a autistic man. These two men came from such different backgrounds but their strong mutual attraction made them overcame that initial barrier. Not feeling deserving had to be battled. Past family trauma and a rough start in life had to be acknowledged and tackled. Special behaviors associated with autistic individuals had to be learned about and accepted as "normal".
I really enjoy reading about mature men in their forties who'd given up on the idea of finding a life partner... until it unexpectedly happens. The surprise, delight, and awe they experience makes for a very touching and entertaining novel. This is the first book I've read by Harper Robson but it will not be my last. I highly recommend this book. I feel so happy after reading it. Found family stories are amazing.
October 13, 2022
😌Sweet but layered with some steam💦
My first time reading a novel by Harper Robson was an enjoyable experience with, for me, an excellent balance between the sweet caring of a budding relationship and steam. I really like romances with sympathetic, earnest and upstanding characters who are actively trying to fight their flaws. Reed the ER physician has a backstory that includes hurt and addiction. But he is so understanding, patient and supportive of Dylan's autism, even during the meltdown episodes. And Dylan, coping with his condition for decades and pretty well isolated with his routines and just some family, a few colleagues and his dog and horse menagerie, is pretty terrific, too, even going so far as renovating Reed's Seattle fixer-upper to dream standards. It's obvious Dylan's putting both skill and heart into his work.
Robson does a fine job of making their initial high anxiety meet and continued contact realistic, then getting to a building trust. For the most part, other than an incident or two related to Dylan's sensory overload, this is a gentle, low angst romance with good vibes for a happy future.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
My first time reading a novel by Harper Robson was an enjoyable experience with, for me, an excellent balance between the sweet caring of a budding relationship and steam. I really like romances with sympathetic, earnest and upstanding characters who are actively trying to fight their flaws. Reed the ER physician has a backstory that includes hurt and addiction. But he is so understanding, patient and supportive of Dylan's autism, even during the meltdown episodes. And Dylan, coping with his condition for decades and pretty well isolated with his routines and just some family, a few colleagues and his dog and horse menagerie, is pretty terrific, too, even going so far as renovating Reed's Seattle fixer-upper to dream standards. It's obvious Dylan's putting both skill and heart into his work.
Robson does a fine job of making their initial high anxiety meet and continued contact realistic, then getting to a building trust. For the most part, other than an incident or two related to Dylan's sensory overload, this is a gentle, low angst romance with good vibes for a happy future.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
October 27, 2022
Dylan and Reed ❤️
I'm kind of at a loss for words to review this one but I will try my best, I feel like I loved parts of this book but others not so much. It felt light but at times very heavy, I'm not sure if the author was aiming for hurt/comfort which it had but other times not so much. I'm just gonna go ahead and say for me this was a roller coaster book, it was up it was down and it was all around 🤷🏻♀️ I'm a 50/50 on recommending, this one confused me a bit, it was my first read from this author and perhaps I am just not used to the writing style. I will go onto the next book in this series to give it another shot, the character were my favorite out of everything.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
I'm kind of at a loss for words to review this one but I will try my best, I feel like I loved parts of this book but others not so much. It felt light but at times very heavy, I'm not sure if the author was aiming for hurt/comfort which it had but other times not so much. I'm just gonna go ahead and say for me this was a roller coaster book, it was up it was down and it was all around 🤷🏻♀️ I'm a 50/50 on recommending, this one confused me a bit, it was my first read from this author and perhaps I am just not used to the writing style. I will go onto the next book in this series to give it another shot, the character were my favorite out of everything.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
March 5, 2023
Characters
I enjoyed this much more than the first because of characters. Iam a character-driven reader and unless I can attach to the characters, I’m. It going to enjoy or remember much else about the book. Enjoyable read.
I enjoyed this much more than the first because of characters. Iam a character-driven reader and unless I can attach to the characters, I’m. It going to enjoy or remember much else about the book. Enjoyable read.
March 17, 2024
Decent Romance
Well written, with admirably described examples of life on the spectrum, and learning to live with those on the spectrum. Decent character development, and some rather boisterous family situations create an entertaining story.
Well written, with admirably described examples of life on the spectrum, and learning to live with those on the spectrum. Decent character development, and some rather boisterous family situations create an entertaining story.
January 6, 2025
It's nice, I suppose, but totally not my thing.
October 28, 2022
ARC REVIEW
I loved how delicate and light this story felt even talking about some important themes.
Dylan is an autistic man in the renovation industry, and Reed is an ER doctor recovering from a past addiction and who grew up with an abusive family. They are both in their 40s.
Immediately after the first few pages I started to realise that Reed was much more human, vulnerable than I expected.
As Dylan tells him he is autistic, I had the clear feeling that Reed started being very transparent with him. As in his thoughts would match the words he'd tell Dylan right after. I loved that - I don't know if he did it because he knows Dylan needs it, or is what he would naturally do with a person he cares about. But I loved it.
There were a lot of funny and cute moments as they get to know each other and flirt, I was grinning so hard at their texting where Reed was so eager and Dylan was so happy.
Nowadays, the books that start with sex to develop on a relationship are the majority. I absolutely crave books where the characters value each other more from the start, they already know they want more, they think the other person is worth more. Omg, I can’t say how much I loved finding this kind of development! Their first dinner together was just perfect, full of sexual tension but also care.
I love when the two characters want the same thing. They are both on the same page on how they feel about each other from the beginning.
They also show how much they care by wanting the other to know everything about them. They're so upfront about their past and anything that is part of them. I love that even Reed's past with addiction and the reasons due to his abusive family, are not secrets that are found out or processed in some dramatic way but are discussed transparently during their dates. They are both mature men.
I love the themes treated in this book and I love the delicate way in which they are written, in a delicate, not unnecessarily dramatic way.
That doesn’t mean that everything is smooth and easy, that would just be unrealistic. They both have fears, fear of letting down their walls and let the other see the raw version of themselves, fear of being loved and hurt. That's what the title is about.
Dylan sometimes gets frustrated about his condition, and Reed is constantly afraid of ever being hurt by anything to the point of having a relapse.
I absolutely loved the network of people around them, who help them be happy. Reed has people who really love him the way he is. Dylan's family really care about him and they are wonderful, but they are not one of those book family where everybody is happy and a superhero. They are realistic. I grew fond of Dylan's sister as I could relate with her situation.
The ending is wonderful.
Don't expect a story where both characters are struggling processing their conditions or they need further help, because they are in their 40s and that has already happened. Dylan is a confident autistic man with his comfortable life and has a family who knows his needs perfectly. Reed has accepted his abusive past and moved on, and his addiction ended many years ago.
So their story is more about how they let another person in and add them into the picture. They don't expect the other person to fix them or help them, but just to love them as they are.
Content & Trigger Warnings: abusive parents (past, not on page), past addiction, meltdown of autistic person, postnatal depression (side character)
Absolutely NO cheating and NO drama involving other men.
I loved how delicate and light this story felt even talking about some important themes.
Dylan is an autistic man in the renovation industry, and Reed is an ER doctor recovering from a past addiction and who grew up with an abusive family. They are both in their 40s.
Immediately after the first few pages I started to realise that Reed was much more human, vulnerable than I expected.
As Dylan tells him he is autistic, I had the clear feeling that Reed started being very transparent with him. As in his thoughts would match the words he'd tell Dylan right after. I loved that - I don't know if he did it because he knows Dylan needs it, or is what he would naturally do with a person he cares about. But I loved it.
There were a lot of funny and cute moments as they get to know each other and flirt, I was grinning so hard at their texting where Reed was so eager and Dylan was so happy.
Nowadays, the books that start with sex to develop on a relationship are the majority. I absolutely crave books where the characters value each other more from the start, they already know they want more, they think the other person is worth more. Omg, I can’t say how much I loved finding this kind of development! Their first dinner together was just perfect, full of sexual tension but also care.
I love when the two characters want the same thing. They are both on the same page on how they feel about each other from the beginning.
They also show how much they care by wanting the other to know everything about them. They're so upfront about their past and anything that is part of them. I love that even Reed's past with addiction and the reasons due to his abusive family, are not secrets that are found out or processed in some dramatic way but are discussed transparently during their dates. They are both mature men.
I love the themes treated in this book and I love the delicate way in which they are written, in a delicate, not unnecessarily dramatic way.
That doesn’t mean that everything is smooth and easy, that would just be unrealistic. They both have fears, fear of letting down their walls and let the other see the raw version of themselves, fear of being loved and hurt. That's what the title is about.
Dylan sometimes gets frustrated about his condition, and Reed is constantly afraid of ever being hurt by anything to the point of having a relapse.
I absolutely loved the network of people around them, who help them be happy. Reed has people who really love him the way he is. Dylan's family really care about him and they are wonderful, but they are not one of those book family where everybody is happy and a superhero. They are realistic. I grew fond of Dylan's sister as I could relate with her situation.
The ending is wonderful.
Don't expect a story where both characters are struggling processing their conditions or they need further help, because they are in their 40s and that has already happened. Dylan is a confident autistic man with his comfortable life and has a family who knows his needs perfectly. Reed has accepted his abusive past and moved on, and his addiction ended many years ago.
So their story is more about how they let another person in and add them into the picture. They don't expect the other person to fix them or help them, but just to love them as they are.
Content & Trigger Warnings: abusive parents (past, not on page), past addiction, meltdown of autistic person, postnatal depression (side character)
Absolutely NO cheating and NO drama involving other men.
October 14, 2022
***ARC Review***
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and the author.
“When the Walls Come Down” is a fantastic read. It’s book two in the Hot Dam Homes series. The opening chapter alone is enough to keep you on the edge of your seat!
Dylan owns a home renovation company with his brother, Mason. Dylan is autistic. Dylan sticks to his routine and gets fulfillment from his family and animals. There are certain people he considers to be in his “circle of trust,” and he’s content with that. He dates when he feels compelled to do so, but they don’t really move beyond 2 or 3 dates. He’s never been in a committed relationship, but he doesn’t feel the desire to do so until he sees how settled and happy his brother Mason is with his fiancé, Jackson. It’s then that Dylan realizes he wouldn’t mind having a person of his own. Dylan is such a sincere and straightforward individual. I was really happy to see him find his person.
Reed is an ER doctor that keeps people at arm’s-length. Reed is a recovering drug addict. His childhood wasn’t a happy one. He has never been in a committed relationship. He doesn’t think he’s cut out for them. He’s not even sure he’s capable of love. He hasn’t really experienced it. Reed thinks he’s messed up beyond repair, but in reality, Reed is a charming, caring, and warm individual. It was really endearing seeing him grapple with his emerging emotions over Dylan and the connection that they share.
Both Reed and Dylan have walls that they’ve built to protect themselves. Both men deal with uncertainty and insecurity. Both men learn how to let the other in past their walls as their relationship progresses. I love how honest and open they are with one another. They take the risk of being vulnerable with one another and it pays off. When a conflict arises between the two (based off of something that Dylan has no control over), I really appreciated the authentic and realistic way that Harper describes the emotions and thoughts that they experience. I loved the scene where Dylan meets Grace, Mason, and Sam after the event. I loved the phone call that Reed has with Case. I was also happy to see Dylan and Reed talk and clear the air.
It was really sweet how Reed and Dylan interacted with one another after the talk about what happened. Their genuine affection and care for the other really shines through. Watching them fall in love was a really beautiful experience. The epilogue was absolutely precious!
This book is full of witty dialogue and heartfelt moments. The are definitely some steamy moments as well. The pacing was on point. It was great seeing Mason, Jackson, Sam, Grace and the rest of the crew again in this novel. I’m so happy that Case (Reed’s closest friend) is getting his own story as well! Overall, it was a joy reading WTWCD. Definitely check it out!
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and the author.
“When the Walls Come Down” is a fantastic read. It’s book two in the Hot Dam Homes series. The opening chapter alone is enough to keep you on the edge of your seat!
Dylan owns a home renovation company with his brother, Mason. Dylan is autistic. Dylan sticks to his routine and gets fulfillment from his family and animals. There are certain people he considers to be in his “circle of trust,” and he’s content with that. He dates when he feels compelled to do so, but they don’t really move beyond 2 or 3 dates. He’s never been in a committed relationship, but he doesn’t feel the desire to do so until he sees how settled and happy his brother Mason is with his fiancé, Jackson. It’s then that Dylan realizes he wouldn’t mind having a person of his own. Dylan is such a sincere and straightforward individual. I was really happy to see him find his person.
Reed is an ER doctor that keeps people at arm’s-length. Reed is a recovering drug addict. His childhood wasn’t a happy one. He has never been in a committed relationship. He doesn’t think he’s cut out for them. He’s not even sure he’s capable of love. He hasn’t really experienced it. Reed thinks he’s messed up beyond repair, but in reality, Reed is a charming, caring, and warm individual. It was really endearing seeing him grapple with his emerging emotions over Dylan and the connection that they share.
Both Reed and Dylan have walls that they’ve built to protect themselves. Both men deal with uncertainty and insecurity. Both men learn how to let the other in past their walls as their relationship progresses. I love how honest and open they are with one another. They take the risk of being vulnerable with one another and it pays off. When a conflict arises between the two (based off of something that Dylan has no control over), I really appreciated the authentic and realistic way that Harper describes the emotions and thoughts that they experience. I loved the scene where Dylan meets Grace, Mason, and Sam after the event. I loved the phone call that Reed has with Case. I was also happy to see Dylan and Reed talk and clear the air.
It was really sweet how Reed and Dylan interacted with one another after the talk about what happened. Their genuine affection and care for the other really shines through. Watching them fall in love was a really beautiful experience. The epilogue was absolutely precious!
This book is full of witty dialogue and heartfelt moments. The are definitely some steamy moments as well. The pacing was on point. It was great seeing Mason, Jackson, Sam, Grace and the rest of the crew again in this novel. I’m so happy that Case (Reed’s closest friend) is getting his own story as well! Overall, it was a joy reading WTWCD. Definitely check it out!
October 28, 2022
I was beyond thrilled when Harper Robson came up with the 2nd book in the “Hot Dam Homes” series because I absolutely LOVED the 1st book! This one did not disappoint at all! I’m very appreciative when M/M books with characters with Austim are being portrayed and I get to learn more about them and their struggles. I love it when the stories have cross-characters from other books in the series. This one was no exception! We were somewhat introduced to Dr. Reed in the 1st book and he had his own story in the 2nd book. We also got to know a bit about Dylan in the 1st book as well. Well we got to have a glimpse into Mason from the 1st book in this one! I sure wish there was a construction company like “Hot Damn” here in New Mexico!
The story focuses on Dr. Reed who helped fix Dylan’s brother, Mason’s boyfriend in the first book. Well, the story opens with Dylan being woken up by the phone ringing. He was grumbling because he did not like having his routine disrupted. Keep in mind, Dylan, is Autistic and has to have a routine that can’t be changed. Well the morning was disrupted because his younger sister was having a baby and her husband was traveling for work. He brought her to the hospital and guess who was the one helping her? Yes, Dr. Reed!!!! Well, Dylan had a secret crush on Dr. Reed and it didn’t help when he saw him helping the sister. Beside that, Dr. Reed was having some rooms in his house remodeled but he was having issue with the company that was doing the remodeling. When Dylan had to step out of the hospital because he was having an “episode”, Dr. Reed happened to be strolling out to “de-stress”. They started talking and Dylan found out about the issues with the remodeling. Dylan volunteered to check into the issues and see if he could be of some help. That led to something. I’m going to stop right there and have you pick up the book to read to find out what happens. Also, pick up the first book if you haven’t. Definitely more than 5 allocated stars!
The story focuses on Dr. Reed who helped fix Dylan’s brother, Mason’s boyfriend in the first book. Well, the story opens with Dylan being woken up by the phone ringing. He was grumbling because he did not like having his routine disrupted. Keep in mind, Dylan, is Autistic and has to have a routine that can’t be changed. Well the morning was disrupted because his younger sister was having a baby and her husband was traveling for work. He brought her to the hospital and guess who was the one helping her? Yes, Dr. Reed!!!! Well, Dylan had a secret crush on Dr. Reed and it didn’t help when he saw him helping the sister. Beside that, Dr. Reed was having some rooms in his house remodeled but he was having issue with the company that was doing the remodeling. When Dylan had to step out of the hospital because he was having an “episode”, Dr. Reed happened to be strolling out to “de-stress”. They started talking and Dylan found out about the issues with the remodeling. Dylan volunteered to check into the issues and see if he could be of some help. That led to something. I’m going to stop right there and have you pick up the book to read to find out what happens. Also, pick up the first book if you haven’t. Definitely more than 5 allocated stars!
November 8, 2022
4.5 Stars
When The Walls Come Down by Harper Robson is the second book in the Hot Dam Homes series. This is a MM contemporary hurt/comfort romance featuring a closed-off ER doctor and an autistic home renovation expert.
Dylan Campbell is a business owner, brother, fur baby owner, and an autistic man. His whole life he's never really felt the need to have a partner or someone to share his life with. In fact, most people kind of annoyed him. That is until Dr. Reed Morrow pops into his life when he delivers his sister's baby and then needs help restoring his historic house. Reed sees him for who he really is. He accepts his idiosyncrasies. On the flip side, Dylan accepts Reed exactly as he is, too.
Dr. Reed Morrow has had a rough go of things in his life. There's a brief mention of an abusive childhood that led to his homelessness. Reed is a recovering drug addict which Dylan accepts and does his best to understand. They just seem to click on a deeper level and it was easy to see why both men would begin to let their walls down and let the other in. They had a level of chemistry that both seemed surprised by which I found rather endearing.
I really appreciated the open communication between these two. I thought this book was written well and was sensitive to people with autism and people battling/recovering from addiction. Everyone has a different experience and I thought it was highlighted very nicely here. I also really enjoyed all of the side characters and the whole family was a riot. I look forward to more in this series.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement. ***
When The Walls Come Down by Harper Robson is the second book in the Hot Dam Homes series. This is a MM contemporary hurt/comfort romance featuring a closed-off ER doctor and an autistic home renovation expert.
Dylan Campbell is a business owner, brother, fur baby owner, and an autistic man. His whole life he's never really felt the need to have a partner or someone to share his life with. In fact, most people kind of annoyed him. That is until Dr. Reed Morrow pops into his life when he delivers his sister's baby and then needs help restoring his historic house. Reed sees him for who he really is. He accepts his idiosyncrasies. On the flip side, Dylan accepts Reed exactly as he is, too.
Dr. Reed Morrow has had a rough go of things in his life. There's a brief mention of an abusive childhood that led to his homelessness. Reed is a recovering drug addict which Dylan accepts and does his best to understand. They just seem to click on a deeper level and it was easy to see why both men would begin to let their walls down and let the other in. They had a level of chemistry that both seemed surprised by which I found rather endearing.
I really appreciated the open communication between these two. I thought this book was written well and was sensitive to people with autism and people battling/recovering from addiction. Everyone has a different experience and I thought it was highlighted very nicely here. I also really enjoyed all of the side characters and the whole family was a riot. I look forward to more in this series.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement. ***
October 13, 2022
Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
I would describe this as a classic romance novel. A lovely story with two likeable older (cough*40s) guys who have experienced some crappy things in life, but are pretty content in life now. But is being content enough when you realize what life could be like with someone who loves you?
Dylan and Reed met briefly at the ER where Reed works, and there’s an instant attraction for both of them, but it isn’t until chance (and a pregnant sister) bring them together again that they have a possibility of making a connection.
Something more than just attraction makes Dylan impulsive around Reed, and he makes an offer to help with renovations that may have been a little ambitious for Reed. An offer that ensures they will see a lot of each other.
This is a well-crafted story of these two guys navigating a burgeoning relationship around walls they’ve both built to protect themselves from a crappy childhood and a world that doesn’t easily make space for someone who is autistic.
I’ve only read a short story by Harper prior to this, but I enjoy her writing style and pace. I’m also a fan of Neurodivergent characters and I especially love me some 40 and older characters. So overall a really pleasant read, one that means I need to go back and read book one, and look forward to future books.
I would describe this as a classic romance novel. A lovely story with two likeable older (cough*40s) guys who have experienced some crappy things in life, but are pretty content in life now. But is being content enough when you realize what life could be like with someone who loves you?
Dylan and Reed met briefly at the ER where Reed works, and there’s an instant attraction for both of them, but it isn’t until chance (and a pregnant sister) bring them together again that they have a possibility of making a connection.
Something more than just attraction makes Dylan impulsive around Reed, and he makes an offer to help with renovations that may have been a little ambitious for Reed. An offer that ensures they will see a lot of each other.
This is a well-crafted story of these two guys navigating a burgeoning relationship around walls they’ve both built to protect themselves from a crappy childhood and a world that doesn’t easily make space for someone who is autistic.
I’ve only read a short story by Harper prior to this, but I enjoy her writing style and pace. I’m also a fan of Neurodivergent characters and I especially love me some 40 and older characters. So overall a really pleasant read, one that means I need to go back and read book one, and look forward to future books.
October 26, 2022
I adore characters in contemporary romance that have unique backstories which is what drew me to When the Walls Come Down by Harper Robson. To me, these stories are more realistic and so interesting when done well. So often in contemporary romance, you have very typical basic characters who often find themselves in extraordinary circumstances. In this one however, we have 2 guys that meet one day. What makes their story unique and worth telling is their background. I adored that she wrote about a neurodivergent restoration business owner and a recovering addict who is a doctor. Variety is the spice of life and this story was just that.
When the day started off on the complete wrong foot for Dylan, he didn’t know that he was about to meet someone who finally gets him. From the moment he stumbles into the ER with his sister who is in labor, the odd chemistry between him and the doctor is tangible. After the chaos settles, they stumble onto each other outside the hospital and each decides to take a chance. As they get to know each other and bare more of themselves, will they realize just how perfect they are for one another?
This story is completely driven by their relationship, by the stumbling steps you take by getting to know someone and their unique story. I loved that there wasn’t anything crazy that happened in this book outside of the guys to create drama. This is a sweet story about acceptance and learning how to trust. Both have their issues and both men had struggles that drove the story forward. I loved how sweet and steamy this story was with enough going on to keep the story moving and look forward to checking out what else this author has written.
When the day started off on the complete wrong foot for Dylan, he didn’t know that he was about to meet someone who finally gets him. From the moment he stumbles into the ER with his sister who is in labor, the odd chemistry between him and the doctor is tangible. After the chaos settles, they stumble onto each other outside the hospital and each decides to take a chance. As they get to know each other and bare more of themselves, will they realize just how perfect they are for one another?
This story is completely driven by their relationship, by the stumbling steps you take by getting to know someone and their unique story. I loved that there wasn’t anything crazy that happened in this book outside of the guys to create drama. This is a sweet story about acceptance and learning how to trust. Both have their issues and both men had struggles that drove the story forward. I loved how sweet and steamy this story was with enough going on to keep the story moving and look forward to checking out what else this author has written.
October 27, 2022
Two men with sky-high walls fall in love
After Mason and Jackson in From The Ground Up, Harper gives us two more men with barriers to love and walls to protect themselves. Dylan is Mason's brother, Reed is an ER doctor, both appeared in the first book where we saw a spark between them. The blurb gives a very accurate picture of what to expect from this book.
Harper writes sympathetically about Dylan's autism and Reed's sobriety and doesn't put them in neat boxes labelled 'autistic' and 'recovering addict'. They are rounded characters who are not defined by those labels but live their lives in a way that works for them.
Spending time with each other, getting to know each other properly, finding how much the instant attraction and sexual chemistry translates into friendship, affection and understanding is a beautiful story to read. Seeing them let down their walls to allow the other one in was so satisfying to read, and I loved that Harper didn't give the impression that true love cures all. Reed will always be a recovering addict and he acknowledges that and Dylan makes no bones about the fact that Reed can support him but his autism will always be in the driving seat, to a greater or lesser extent.
I loved Dylan's family and his menagerie and Reed's best friend, Case, and the epilogue finished the story perfectly. Case is up next and I hope that we get more of Dylan and Reed in his book.
After Mason and Jackson in From The Ground Up, Harper gives us two more men with barriers to love and walls to protect themselves. Dylan is Mason's brother, Reed is an ER doctor, both appeared in the first book where we saw a spark between them. The blurb gives a very accurate picture of what to expect from this book.
Harper writes sympathetically about Dylan's autism and Reed's sobriety and doesn't put them in neat boxes labelled 'autistic' and 'recovering addict'. They are rounded characters who are not defined by those labels but live their lives in a way that works for them.
Spending time with each other, getting to know each other properly, finding how much the instant attraction and sexual chemistry translates into friendship, affection and understanding is a beautiful story to read. Seeing them let down their walls to allow the other one in was so satisfying to read, and I loved that Harper didn't give the impression that true love cures all. Reed will always be a recovering addict and he acknowledges that and Dylan makes no bones about the fact that Reed can support him but his autism will always be in the driving seat, to a greater or lesser extent.
I loved Dylan's family and his menagerie and Reed's best friend, Case, and the epilogue finished the story perfectly. Case is up next and I hope that we get more of Dylan and Reed in his book.
November 8, 2022
I really enjoyed When the Walls Come Down, it is my first read by Harper Robson and I'll be returning to read book 1 of Hot Dam Houses very soon.
I appreciated the author giving us a neurodiverse main character, I work with people with autism and while many of the clients I work with are not high functioning, I do have a couple who are. It is nice to see that they could pick up a book and recognise bits of themselves in the main character.
I really enjoyed getting to know both Dylan and Reed, they were great characters, both with their own baggage they carried and both believing they would never find someone who would accept them for who they were.
I liked that Dylan owned his autism and for the most part communicated well with Reed about what he needed. And I liked how supportive Reed was of Dylan, I'm not sure there are many people out there who would be as easily accepting and supportive in the real world, but it is nice to hope there are.
There were some amusing moments and some moments that pulled at my emotions a bit, the story flowed well and I loved seeing them as a couple.
Thanks to GRR for providing me with a digital copy in return for an honest review.
I appreciated the author giving us a neurodiverse main character, I work with people with autism and while many of the clients I work with are not high functioning, I do have a couple who are. It is nice to see that they could pick up a book and recognise bits of themselves in the main character.
I really enjoyed getting to know both Dylan and Reed, they were great characters, both with their own baggage they carried and both believing they would never find someone who would accept them for who they were.
I liked that Dylan owned his autism and for the most part communicated well with Reed about what he needed. And I liked how supportive Reed was of Dylan, I'm not sure there are many people out there who would be as easily accepting and supportive in the real world, but it is nice to hope there are.
There were some amusing moments and some moments that pulled at my emotions a bit, the story flowed well and I loved seeing them as a couple.
Thanks to GRR for providing me with a digital copy in return for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews