"Just because she's straight doesn't mean you are, and it doesn't mean you don't have feelings for her."

Esther and Melanie are teachers in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Melanie is 42 years old, outgoing and vivacious and teaches kindergarten. Esther is around fifteen years younger—I don't believe her age is stated—very guarded and withdrawn and teaches fifth grade. Melanie teaches Esther's son, Anthony, who is five.

Esther's life is hell. She suffers constant emotional abuse from Skip, her ex-boyfriend and Anthony's father. Esther left Skip when she discovered she was pregnant, but he remains in her life as they share custody of Anthony.

"Inside These Halls" is a story of found family and new love. It is a story of discovery for both Esther and Melanie, one of whom identifies as "straight" when their story begins. It is a story of finding the courage to stand up to a bully. It is the story of an adorably precocious five-year-old boy.

The romance here is a slow burn. There are some deliciously intense intimate scenes, but they're not the focus of this story and it would have earned its ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me for its feels alone.

Very highly recommended. If you don't usually read queer romance, keep this one in mind for your next reading challenge. ( )