Characters:
Aja is a black woman with social anxiety trying to break out of her shell. Walker is a southern man back in his hometown to take care of his grandmother. He has a lot of hurt and trauma to deal with.

Plot:
The center of this story is anxiety and how it affects different people differently and presents differently as well. It really goes into depth on how it manifests itself and how each character deals with it. I felt so seen. I loved how their relationship progressed slowly and steadily even though there was instant attraction. Their level of communication was also great and it was so refreshing. I love that everything wasn't magically resolved at the end but hopeful. And that the characters were dedicated to being themselves and trying their best.

Secret Sauce:
Their flirting and chemistry is so good. Their conversations felt natural and they understood each other a lot.

Rating: I give this book a 5/5