As the camera flashes, heartbeats find their way home

In the upheaval of his husband's sudden passing, Maxwell Williams faces a crossroads caring for Brogan Baxter's seven-year-old daughter, Lily. Despite his success as a world-renowned fashion photographer, Max questions his ability to step into the role of single father, especially to a child on the Autism spectrum, given his schedule keeps him away from home for weeks on end.

However, fate intervenes when a certified letter arrives, holding the promise of a transformative opportunity. Driven by a newfound determination, Max decides to leave the bustling city life behind and embark on a quest for a new beginning along the Northwestern Coastline. This move isnt just about a change of scenery; its Maxs unwavering commitment to fully immerse himself in Lilys world.

On the road to the past.

By each other's side since they were eighteen, Grayson Welles must cope with the sudden loss of his longtime partner, Julian. Raised in the bible belt of Louisiana, Grayson knew he'd be admonished for falling in love with Julian Torres, whose family moved to the rural town of Felton from Puerto Rico. Accustomed to being each other's companion, the pair made the only decision that seemed right, pursuing their dreams and surrounding themselves with fellow members of the growing gay community after running off to New York City post-graduation.

Thirty-plus years later, Grayson is now tasked with telling Julian's family about his death and planning a funeral that will force Grayson to confront his own family given they operate the only funeral home in town. While packing to head home, Grayson discovers a suitcase of Julian's penned journals. Finding comfort in the entries, Grayson is reminded of the birth of his relationship with Julian and many of the moments between then and present day.

Upon facing both of their families, Grayson comes to terms with a new set of realizations which threaten his prior notions of what it means to love and be a family. A lifetime of true love couldn't be remembered any greater.

**Trigger warning: this book includes themes such as extreme grief, suicide, alcoholism, smoking, excessive language, and abuse. Please use discretion before reading if you feel you may be sensitive to these topics.**