Atlas has just returned to town to be near his sister and take a job on the small police force beside her and Callan's almost brother-in-law. He was a rebel in his own youth and did tours in the military. He is older, cocky, arrogant, bossy, and does not let people get away with things. He is excited about the prospect of helping to clean up crime especially hate crimes in this small town. Callan and Atlas bristle and spark at their first meeting. Callan should be off-limits. There is an age gap and a bit of conflict of interest. But they push and challenge the other. Atlas is unfiltered and unbothered by the fact that Callan's best friend, Zak seems to lay claim to him. He knows what he wants and it is just a matter of time until he will get it. He pushes color and inspiration back into Callan's life while also providing a safe place to land. As much as they piss each other off, it just adds to the sexual tension and excitement.

I will admit that I had a bit of an issue with how strong Atlas came across to Callan. It was one thing before he knew about his past, but once he knew what he had been through it just kind of rubbed me the wrong way and just seemed too domineering so early on. As they got to know each other more and communicate those needs, it was better. But to start out that way when the younger man was obviously struggling and volatile did not seem like the best idea. But they find their common ground and they enjoy their challenges, kink, and power plays. Atlas has someone willing to explore with him and push boundaries, and Callan is an interested pupil even if he pushes back. That is part of their charm and connection. They understand what the other needs. They are both broken in some ways, but together make each other better and whole. And even if no one else understands it, they do. They are opposites but a fun match-up and make each other feel alive. But they have to be prepared to handle judgment and due to circumstances, they have a lot more to deal with in this homophobic small town.

This is a fast-paced, age gap, forbidden, M/M romance with two damaged souls connecting but living under a microscope. This book made me nervous at times. There were so many antagonists. I felt terrible for Callan who just wanted to live his life free and how he had to keep dealing with bullies. I loved that he had friends and family in his corner, but Atlas shined as his tarnished knight willing to do whatever he needed to keep him safe and protected while still allowing him to be himself. But ultimately Callan will also have to learn to fight back. Ultimately this is a book about hope, acceptance, empowerment, and home. This brings back many of our friends from the other books. I am looking forward to more. I am excited for Fernando, and I really want to see Zak and Cormac get their stories told as well.