Change of Address

What a beautiful book, definitely a new favorite for me. Michael moves to the town where he once vacationed with his family to start a new chapter of his life, and he meets Josh, who runs the local bagel shop with his dad. There are a few dramatic moments, but the book is mostly made up of quiet, domestic scenes, with lots of immersive details about these characters' daily lives.

I wanted to read this book because of the service dog, and she plays a big role. She's very important to Michael, who has PTSD as well as some problems related to brain injury. She comes across as an ordinary but exceptionally well-trained dog, who is Michael's best friend. There is no unrealistic situation where she saves the day; instead, we see her helping Michael live an ordinary life, which is a quiet and steady kind of heroism.

Michael and Josh are both hesitant at first to show each other they're interested and aren't sure they are actually dating at first. So the romance moves slowly, but it's very sweet. After the first time Josh witnesses one of Michael's bad episodes, they talk things over, and Josh learns how best to help. He doesn't try to take over when Michael is distressed, just supports him. They become totally devoted to each other, and I completely believe in their happy ending. They're so relaxed and natural together. There's only one detailed sex scene, but it's written well and very romantic.

I really like the close bond between Josh and his dad, as well as the mentions of their extended family. It's clear that they all love each other very much, and it's so heartwarming in the end to know that Michael will always be part of this family also, since he starts out the book nearly all alone in the world, with only his dog and his absent sister on his side.

Michael is gay, and he faces some serious homophobia at one point, although it isn't really a major theme in the book. But if you avoid reading about homophobia at all, this isn't the book for you. Josh is bisexual, and his family completely accepts him.

I'm from a small town originally and I don't romanticize small-town life in general, but it was impossible for me not to enjoy spending time in this lovely little community, which seems like a real place. I loved the minor characters, like the Millers. I would be happy to read more stories set here, and anything else from this author!