Conduct Unbecoming

I have a problem. I just discovered that I have about 14 books by L.A. Witt and somehow have only read two, including this one. Weird.

In any case this book can be summed up as a scorching one-night-stand that became so much more. Eric & Shane meet at a club in Okinawa where they're both stationed and though DADT has been repealed neither one is looking to embark on a relationship because let's face it: military life is not precisely welcoming to LGBTQ community. The laws and regulations are changing but the culture not so much. In any case they find that the attraction is undeniable and decide to give it a go even if it's on the DL only to stumble upon the fact that they are in a criminal relationship. Eric is an enlisted man and Shane is an officer. That is an absolute no go and for good reasons.

I loved how though both men were falling inevitably and inexorably in love the manage to maintain logic and common sense, cognizant of all that they've invested and sacrificed for their military careers and their loved ones. I liked Eric's story with his ex wife and his daughter and loved how we got to see Shane's ex wife's side of things and that she wasn't just left hanging as the villain. We all have our reasons. And I very much enjoyed the ultimate resolution that will allow Eric and Shane to be together openly.

The author clearly took a trip to Japan and there's a palpable sense of place and geography which gave color and authenticity to the story. I also did the audio by Greg Boudreaux aka Greg Tremblay and he's always a treat.