Okaaaay! HEAR ME OUT! Please give this book a chance — it’s not really all about the spice. It’s more about overcoming the taboo around polyamory. You can really see how their relationship grows over time. At first, I honestly thought Ilmari wasn’t necessary in the relationship… but I was WRONG. He’s actually the most important ingredient in the story — an unexpected ally and emotional glue who learns how to become part of the team. The queer awakening is also on point! You get to see Jake’s and Caleb’s hesitations, their yearning, the self-discovery, and the connection they build. Jake always wants to be part of a team — he needs that sense of belongingness. Meanwhile, Caleb needs that validation. And Rachel — she may seem shallow and cowardly at first, but that’s exactly what makes her memorable. She experienced being exposed to the public eye for all the wrong reasons, and her trauma shows through the way she navigates relationships and vulnerability. All in all, I love how this book highlights that despite the scrutiny of choices that fall outside the norm, you should always believe in the goodness of people and the importance of communication to build a healthy relationship. And the found family aspect is just chef’s kiss! I LOVE THE RAYS! Read with ADB 2x (I LOVE ILMARI'S VA!)