Relationships between partners who both have a career are never easy, whether it is a gay or a straight couple that is struggling with priorities. But when they're both in the military, even in the absence of DADT, the strict anti-fraternization rules alone could drive anyone mad. In this story's case, it leads to a conflict between what Ryan wants and what Daniel thinks he needs, and they have to find a way to deal with it or give up on their relationship after a very happy year of being lovers.

Ryker is a Navy doctor, and seems set to do the full twenty years of service. But he is also the one who reconsiders his priorities first, and sets off the disagreement with Daniel. For him, being a doctor is far more important, in the end, than being a military man. He figures he can still be a doctor, work near a base if needed, so Daniel can stay in the military. For him, no longer having to keep his relationship with Daniel a secret is more important than his career.

Daniel wants to do the fill twenty years of a "lifer", and cannot see himself anywhere other than the Navy. His father's attitude and expectations have a lot to do with it, but I also got the impression that he isn't really flexible or impulsive. Ryker hasn't even made up his mind about leaving, but just the mention of it throws Daniel for a loop.

If you like reading about men who clearly love each other but let professional priorities come between them, if you enjoy seeing how and why they change their minds, and if you're looking for a short, hot read about a navy doctor and his officer lover, you will probably like this short story.




NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews. ( )