Branson and Ryde's relationship was frustrating. Ryder's previous boyfriend, Paul, was less than desirable and treated him badly, but Branson was nothing like him. I thought that Ryder was smart enough to know this. When Branson and Ryder finally get it together, they do have smoking hot chemistry that made for some epic scenes later. Ryder does get more likeable eventually and even starts becoming a decent human being. Ryder was really there for Branson when he needed him the most when Branson's father had cancer surgery and they didn't if he was going to make it. He also took Paul on and read him the riot act which was VERY OKAY. A lot of the questions about the assassination of the president and two first ladies was figured out by Ryder and wrapped up from the first 5 books. We also got to visit with some of the couples from the other books to see how they were doing. I believe the last book is Del's story. It's been a good series though not my favorite, but still worth the time. ( )