Somehow, I think Steven Salvatore has written a very personal story wrapped in sexy paper, and the cover matches my feelings even more.

When you follow an author through their books and on social media, you get to know them a little more. So, I know Steven Salvatore has mental health issues, suffers from body dysmorphia, and had to heal their wounds after their divorce.

Self-love. That’s what Steven basically writes about in their books. And that’s exactly what many of us are lacking, including Teddy and Cole.

The start of the book felt like a usual m/m romance. Until I suddenly realized Steven put their pain into this story and healed their wounds with it, and I found myself reading this romance differently. Teddy’s and Cole’s vulnerability was so tangible when they met and decided to hook up. Teddy’s feeling of not being enough and Cole’s loneliness dripped off the pages and gave them a sudden connection that was so different than simply having a one-night stand.

Even though the blurb and the beginning of this story might tell you otherwise, this book is not about sex. This book is not about sex workers or porn. Yes, it’s steamy, but in the end, this book is about loneliness, belonging, and feeling worthy to be loved. And the hugs between Teddy and Cole were so precious.

If you follow Steven on social media, just take another look at that cover … Doesn’t Teddy look a lot like Steven? Sweet, lovable, and so worthy of love. Luckily, Steven is in a beautiful and healthy relationship again, just as Teddy and Cole will get in this story.

So, this book grew on me while I unpacked all the layers those two men were hiding behind. Steven’s writing was beautiful again and I really loved Teddy and Cole. The only thing I didn’t like was the third-act breakup. But I’m known as the hater of third-act breakups, so it’s fully a me-thing. I recommend The Boyfriend Subscription to those who loved Steven’s YA books and their writing in the past, and to anyone who loves (queer) adult romances.