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A free copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars

Samuel (Sam) Grey is a professional gambler and a bit of a nomad traveling casino to casino when he gets thrown out because it seems like he's counting cards. At his last stop, he wins big, gets thrown out and is mugged of his winning the next morning. He decides it time to move to the next city and maybe lay low for a bit and recuperate while waiting for his needed papers and card.

Theodore (Theo) and his cousin have inherited Starflower from their great aunt Rose. The two are gearing up to continue keeping the shop open and hope to make a profit to repay their parents and bank. Working hard and worrying is what occupies their time. Until they come across Sam parked and sleeping in his car outside their shop. Theo invites him in, a place to sleep and a position at Starflower.

Theo and Sam hit it off but neither is really looking for a serious relationship. Sam is just passing through and Theo has sworn off dating. But as the two get better acquainted their affection for each other grow. Theo keeps trying to pull away and Sam keeps on reminding him that he's just not boyfriend material. In addition, Theo stressing over the flower shop doing well adds tension to their growing relationship.

I do enjoy reading about a character in drag and how it affects ones love life. It was fun reading Theo and Sam's budding relationship, the stint with the mice and the kind of trouble Sam's cross dressing could get him into. Especially the situation involving Theo's mother.

I also enjoyed seeing the passion and skill Sam has while playing cards. The hard work and worries involved with owning ones business and the care it takes to prepare the products (in this case flowers).

There were a couple mistakes in the story that caught my eye but didn't detract from it. Theo's prowlness in bed their first time together threw me off. I kind of loss some respect for Theo for not seeing to Sam's comfort during the act.