Noel's sister has died. He and his little, Cammy, need to see to her funeral arrangements and take custody of her 3-year-old daughter, Rose. As they travel to Ohio and prepare to tell Rose of her mother's death, there is much they need to do and plan. Cammy takes on a more adult role when necessary to help Noel and Rose. Noel worries that Cam is not getting what he needs from him but Cam assures him that they need to make adjustments because of Rose. Going back to Vermont, a new dynamic falls on the trio. Cammy comes back and Rose is the perfect playmate for him at that time. When necessary, Cam comes out to deal with the adult stuff that needs to be seen to--refurbishing Rose's old house, planting a garden, cooking, taking Rose to school, adapting their home for Rose to be comfortable. What does the future hold for them? Can they make it work?

I'm fairly new to reading Daddy/little, especially male/male. I loved this story. It shows how Cammy can be a child with Rose while Cam comes to do the adult things when Noel cannot because of his grief or work. I liked the wonder and delight that Cammy brings, though he can be a brat, with Rose. Both want to know what the big surprise is that Noel is planning. I like that Cam comes out when Rose needs a adult--picking her up from school, making meals, protecting her. It is interesting that Rose can tell the difference between Cammy and Cam and responds accordingly.

I like that Noel knows Cammy has been picking up his slack and being Cam more. Cam explains why and gets Noel out of the grief he is in about his sister and explains what is happening to the dynamic between Rose and Noel. I appreciate Noel listening to Cam and thoughtfully taking his words to heart so he can better deal with Rose who is a good kid.

I shed some tears both at the beginning and end. Naturally it is sad for death to enter a book but it is touching watching Rose grow up with Noel and Cammy/Cam. It was so natural for them to be together. Though neither was a blood parent, the felt the same things a parent would. It was beautiful. ( )