Note: Do not pass go, do not collect $200. Read [b:The Nothingness of Ben|16125587|The Nothingness of Ben (The Austin Trilogy, #1)|Brad Boney|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1351956849s/16125587.jpg|21920750] first! This isn't billed as a sequel or part of a series, but I don't see how this isn't a continuation from the first book. It's pretty much vital and necessary to read this in order!

4.5 Stars

I will be the first to admit that I was not impressed when I started this. I was a tad bored and impatient for things to pick up, and I'm not always in the mood for flashbacks, nor am I well versed in all things music which features heavily here. But as things progressed, it was like the sun slowly made its way through the clouds and everything became clear.

I don't want to spoil anything, but I went into this thinking it was simply just another romance with a chance to check in on the previous couple Ben and Travis, who I loved from [b:The Nothingness of Ben|16125587|The Nothingness of Ben (The Austin Trilogy, #1)|Brad Boney|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1351956849s/16125587.jpg|21920750]. What I got instead was epic love. I'm not joking. EPIC. However, be prepared to also have an epic array of emotions that will confront you as you read this. There was disbelief and doubt. There was plenty of anxiety mixed with amazement, as reveal after reveal unfolded. Grief and frustration were ample, as well as joy. Simply put, I was in awe.

The road for Stanton and Topher was so far from easy and smooth. There were definitely some very heartbreaking, tough moments and a few points of contention that made me flinch. Not everything made me happy but the take home message was again, perspective - to not doubt the good things that come one's way is an essential theme throughout this series so far; that having faith ends up transcending logical thought but makes it so worth while.

Pretty much all the stars go to Brad Boney as he continues to impress with complex storytelling of loss and love. With each revelation my heart swooned more and more. I advise the reader to really just sit back and enjoy the ride as much as possible. This isn't perfect by any means but I know it will leave you with lots of feels - probably both good and bad. However, that's the point, right? To feel?? Overall - just wow.

BR with Meags - so thankful there was someone to experience this crazy story with! ( )

I like the age gap and the story, but the writing could be much better. ( )

This book is beautiful and full of feeling and love. It broke my heart several times and I was a sobbing mess for most of it but it ends on a hopeful note.
I want to write a more coherent review for this amazing book, but I’m too overwhelmed and don’t have enough words to describe how I felt. ( )

4.5 stars. If you are one of those people who believe things happen for a reason, then you are going to love Brad Boney’s latest release, The Return. It is a well-written and engaging novel about the powerful bonds of love and the somewhat mystical circumstances that bring together two very different men. Please click HERE to read my review in its entirety. ( )

Mechanic...rock star dreams...menz...need NOW!!!