Riven McKenna has been in trouble his whole life and it finally ended him up in prison for something he did not even do. He has always been edgy, angry, aimless, and buried his feelings. But now that he is out he is guarded, untrusting, bitter, hopeless, and is just trying to keep his temper. from getting him into more trouble. 

Parrish Hunt is the brother of his ex-best friend who ruined his life. He is the stable and honorable one in a family full of losers and criminals. He is responsible, hardworking,  helpful, and caring. He tries to take care of people who do not have others to rely on. He had a crush on Riven growing up but is now concerned that he is back.

Now Riven is working under Parrish and they are wary of each other. Riven does not want to have anything to do with the family who ruined him. Parrish thinks Riven is a troublemaker who will just antagonize his brother and encourage bad behavior. But Parrish does not know the whole story. And when things come to light, it is even more complicated. There are side characters that I loved, hated, and felt bad for that all added depth to the story.

This is an intense, antagonistic,  ex-best friend's brother, mutual lust turned unexpected connection with plenty of misunderstandings and external challenges. It is not a pretty story. It is raw, gritt, heartbreaking, frustrating, and tension-filled. Riven has been conditioned to believe he is worthless and not worth anyone's time or affection. But Parrish is strong and determined to prove him wrong and be someone he can rely on. I just adored Parrish and my heart broke for Riven. Trust and self-worth are hard-earned. But they are surrounded by darkness and threats in their hometown so it feels like it is them having to protect themselves and those they do care about against a world they want no part of.  They might not only have to risk the fall of wanting more together but actually risk it all.