When Hunter Willis acknowledges he's fallen in love with his best friend, Max, he realizes he's in way over his head. Max is gay, so that should make a relationship between them easy, right? Not so much. While Max has admitted his sexual preference for other men, Hunter is as straight as they come. Or so he's always claimed. But one kiss from Max has him questioning everything he ever thought he knew about himself. And there's another problem. Max is a virgin. He won't give himself to anyone until he's sure that the person he shares his bed with will be there to warm the sheets the next morning. Hunter isn't sure he can be the person Max needs, no matter how much he might want to. Now, by the ocean in Florida, Hunter discovers that falling in love is easy... it's dealing with the aftermath of that love that's hard.

I have to admit right up front: stories told in first person are my favorite; especially those with a strong, distinctive character voice. Cooper Davis has done a spectacular job bringing Hunter's personality to the forefront. There is no doubt that this is Hunter's story, through and through. His turmoil is palpable on every page. As readers, we can feel the tension between him and Max, and we go along for the ride as he struggles with his sexual response, and with the depth of his resulting emotions. This is a true coming out story, with everything that entails: coming to terms with your sexuality, telling friends and family, and dealing with the stigma attached to being gay. And yet, Boys of Summer is also a sweet love story, the kind that will linger in your mind long after you've turned the last page. This is a beautifully told account of acceptance and intimacy; well worth a re-read.

Reviewed by: Jazlyn