A Soft Touch by Laura Lascarso
This review is from 2021 and is kept here for reference. Titles, prices and availability may have changed.
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- Stars
- ★★★★★
- Heat
- Molten
- Genre
- ContemporaryGay
- Series
- Standalone
Recommendation
I love a book that teaches me something even when it is turning me on. In this case, Ezra, one of the heroes is autistic. The few times that I have come across a neurodivergent character they were always in the supporting cast and portrayed as sweet innocents that must be protected at all costs. Ezra is a fully realized character. He is smart, self sufficient, and able to express what he needs and wants. In this book that is Roman, a neurotypical, retired football player turned restauranteur. I’ll admit at first I was concerned about an uneven power dynamic but the author has done an amazing job balancing clear boundaries and consent with amazingly hot sex. It is a surprising read but worthy of a place on the reread shelf.
Excerpts
“Roman, I’m gay.” Roman looked surprised, which puzzled Ezra because he’d caught him peeking at his tented pants during the movie, which should have been a clue. Ezra continued, “I’m telling you this because I also have a type, which happens to be athletic men, which you are, and sometimes when we’re in close proximity or when I see you shirtless in the pool or when you first come out of the shower and your hair is still wet and I can smell you from across the room, I may have a biological response.”
“Okay, you’re black and neurotypical, I’m white and neurodivergent, but we’re both homosexual, which I think is the most important commonality.”
Publisher synopsis
Roman Reynolds needs a housekeeper and Ezra Powell is arguably the best. Despite their rocky start, Ezra is determined to set Roman’s house to rights without any distractions, if only the man would keep his shirt on and stop looking so damn handsome all the time.An ex-NFL player and confirmed bachelor, Roman has been on a long losing streak when it comes to men. When his best friend (and notorious prankster) says he’s got someone who’s perfect for him, Roman knows it’s too good to be true. But then Ezra comes along with his shy smiles and thoughtful gestures and Roman’s hardened heart finally begins to thaw. Both men have been hurt before, both are a little shy when it comes to love, but when the opportunity to form a deep and lasting connection arises, will they be bold enough to take it?A SOFT TOUCH is a sweet and steamy 73K MM romance novel with low angst, lots of cuddles, and a bonafide happy ending. Content warning for ableism.
Review published April 24, 2021