Just Like That

Summer Hemlock returns to teach at Albin Academy, the boarding school where he spent his formative years. His new colleague is Raf Minghella, who was once his favorite teacher and first crush—but Raf doesn't seem to remember Summer at all. The two men develop a professional relationship as they work together at the school, navigating the complex dynamics of being colleagues. Their growing connection forces them both to confront their past experiences and current fears about intimacy and vulnerability. The story follows their slow-burn romance against the backdrop of an elite academic institution, exploring themes of memory, second chances, and healing from past wounds. The setting of Albin Academy serves as both sanctuary and challenge for the main characters as they rediscover themselves and each other. This LGBTQ+ romance examines power dynamics in relationships and questions how time changes our perception of ourselves and others. The novel addresses themes of consent, healthy boundaries, and the transformative nature of genuine connection.

Readers emphasize the slow-burn romance and deep character development between a professor and his former student. The age gap dynamic and power imbalance create tension that drives the story. Likes: - Complex emotions and trauma processing - Chemistry between characters - Representation of anxiety and mental health - Handling of consent and boundaries - Focus on healing and growth Dislikes: - Some found the pacing too slow - Writing style described as overly flowery by some - Content warnings needed for trauma/abuse themes - A few readers wanted more plot beyond the romance Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (350+ ratings) BookBub: 4.1/5 (100+ ratings) "The slow build of trust and intimacy was beautifully done" - Goodreads reviewer "Needed more external conflict beyond their relationship" - Amazon reviewer "Realistic portrayal of anxiety and PTSD" - BookBub review

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🌟 "Just Like That" is the third installment in Cole McCade's "Albin Academy" series, following the lives and romances of teachers at an all-boys prep school. 📚 The book explores themes of grief, healing, and second chances through the relationship between a ballet instructor and a widowed professor. 🎭 Cole McCade writes across multiple genres under different pen names, including contemporary romance, paranormal fiction, and thriller/horror. 🩰 The main character's background as a professional ballet dancer is drawn from the author's own experiences and knowledge of the dance world. 💝 The novel received particular praise for its sensitive handling of demisexual representation and the realistic portrayal of processing loss and moving forward.