Survive and Conquer by Andrew Grey

Title: Survive and Conquer
Author: Andrew Grey
Series: Standalone
Genre:  M/M Contemporary Romance/ Gay Romance/ LGTBQA
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Release Date: July 9 2019
Edition/Formats Available In: eBook & Print (1st Edition)
Blurb/Synopsis:
Newton DeSantis was on the ground when the towers collapsed on 9/11. Though he still carries the scars on his body and his heart, he’s determined to ease some of the world’s suffering. Now a social worker and father to two children with special needs, he’s doing his best. But when his son’s health takes a drastic turn, Newton knows he can’t do it alone.
Family law attorney Chase Matthews is a rising star, and he’s in high demand. Still, Newton is very persuasive, and Chase takes his case pro bono. Everything about the other man appeals to Chase, but he’s determined to keep the relationship professional—even though, after meeting Newton’s kids, he wants to be a part of their lives.
Chase’s job doesn’t always allow him to pick his clients, though, and a case that could make him partner will put him on the opposite side of the courtroom from Newton—along with everything he believes in and the future they could build together.

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Andrew grew up in western Michigan with a father who loved to tell stories and a mother who loved to read them. Since then he has lived throughout the country and traveled throughout the world. He has a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and works in information systems for a large corporation.
Andrew’s hobbies include collecting antiques, gardening, and leaving his dirty dishes anywhere but in the sink (particularly when writing)  He considers himself blessed with an accepting family, fantastic friends, and the world’s most supportive and loving partner. Andrew currently lives in beautiful, historic Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

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This was a sweet story. I loved Newton and Chase. Newton might have been physically disabled with his foot, but he didn't let it or anything get him down. Being a single parent to two sweet kids in this story only highlighted the good qualities of this character. Was he flawed, yes and it made him that much better. Chase was the perfect balance to Newton's character with his own flaws. The author uses the secretes and experiences of these characters to bring them together. I wasn't entirely sure what I was going to get with this story, but I got sweet and I got sad. The way 9/11 was woven into the character of Newton and from the way the author tells the story, I even cried a little as I read. Having the happy ending helped with minor sadness. I enjoyed this book a lot with the descriptions and the antics of the children. Of course, nothing is a smooth sailing as falling in love. The struggles and conflict in the book were perfect as each lead grew and learned from their past and their present. 

“That’s a deal. Now how about some of this frozen custard you promised me?” Newton said.

Chase led Newton to the car, drove back toward his home, pulled off at Silver Spring Drive, and headed down to the frozen custard stand. “Is your foot okay? I can get the custard and we can eat it in the car,” Chase offered.

“I’d love you forever.” Newton sighed.

Chase lowered the windows and hurried inside. He had to wait in line, but he didn’t mind. Chase liked doing things for Newton. Maybe it was because it seemed Newton was the one doing things for everyone else and Chase thought it was time someone helped him. But more likely it was the smile that went all the way to his eyes that Chase received as he approached the car with two dishes of mint chocolate chip that smelled as heavenly as it tasted.

Chase slipped into his seat, handed Newton his dish, and stifled a groan at the enticing sounds Newton made as he ate. “I know the custard is good, but are you eating it or making love to that spoon?” He had to tease at the little hums of delight that sent a wave of heat strong enough to melt the frozen treat in seconds racing through him. More than once tonight, Chase had wondered if Newton would make those same sounds in bed. God, he wanted to find out.

“Smartass,” Newton retorted, and snickered. “I never get to swear anymore.”

“I get the feeling there are a lot of things you don’t get to do.” Chase set his dish on the dash and leaned over the seat. “You have a little chocolate on your lip.”

“Where?” Newton reached for the mirror, but Chase stopped him with a touch.

“I’ll get it.” He leaned closer, touching Newton’s lips with his. Mint and chocolate mixed with the heady taste of Newton, all of it bursting on his tongue as he kissed him. Then he backed away. “See, now you’re much better.” Damn, Chase loved Newton, with his wide eyes and the way his lips parted.

Newton stared at him as though he were shocked. “You kissed me.”

“Is that bad? Do you want me to stop? I can take it back.” Chase winked and leaned closer once again. “You taste thrilling.” For a second he was worried he’d read the situation all wrong. Then Newton smiled, and Chase drew in once again. “Can I have some more?” Frozen custard be damned—this was really worth the trip.

This time Newton took the initiative, and they ended up making out like teenagers for a few minutes. Their custard had melted by the time they returned to it, not that either of them seemed to mind. Chase took care of the trash, and hurried inside, got some custard to go, and happily started the engine before backing out of the parking space, driving to Newton’s, and parking in front of his house. He kissed Newton good night after walking him to the door and giving him the treat for the kids. Then he stayed until Newton went inside before returning to his car.