S.H. Azanon's The Neighbor is a compelling exploration of unexpected romance, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships. As the first entry in the Straight Men series, this novel sets a promising tone for what readers can expect from subsequent installments. With its engaging narrative and well-drawn characters, the book offers a refreshing take on themes of sexual awakening and the challenges of navigating new emotional territories.

At the heart of the story is Jeff, a recently divorced father of two who finds himself at a crossroads. After years of suppressing his true desires during an unfulfilling marriage, Jeff is now free to explore his identity and the needs he has long ignored. This journey of self-discovery is both liberating and daunting, as Jeff grapples with the loneliness and frustration that accompany his newfound freedom. Azanon skillfully portrays Jeff's internal struggle, making him a relatable and sympathetic character.

Enter Danny, the college senior who has harbored a crush on Jeff since childhood. The dynamic between Jeff and Danny is both intriguing and complex. Danny's long-standing admiration for Jeff adds a layer of depth to their relationship, as he transitions from the kid next door to a young man capable of fulfilling Jeff's unspoken desires. The age gap between the two characters is handled with sensitivity, adding an interesting dimension to their interactions without overshadowing the core themes of the story.

The chemistry between Jeff and Danny is palpable, and Azanon does an excellent job of capturing the intensity of their connection. The novel delves into the theme of bi awakening, as Jeff comes to terms with his attraction to Danny and the implications it has on his identity. This aspect of the story is handled with nuance and care, allowing readers to empathize with Jeff's journey of self-discovery.

One of the standout elements of The Neighbor is its exploration of the gay for you trope. This theme is often fraught with clichés, but Azanon manages to breathe new life into it by focusing on the emotional and psychological aspects of Jeff and Danny's relationship. The novel avoids falling into the trap of oversimplifying their connection, instead presenting a realistic portrayal of two individuals navigating uncharted emotional territory.

Azanon's writing is both engaging and evocative, drawing readers into the world of Jeff and Danny with ease. The narrative is well-paced, balancing moments of introspection with scenes of passion and intimacy. The author's ability to capture the nuances of human emotion is evident throughout the novel, making it a compelling read from start to finish.

In terms of character development, both Jeff and Danny undergo significant growth over the course of the story. Jeff's journey of self-discovery is particularly poignant, as he learns to embrace his true self and the desires he has long suppressed. Danny, on the other hand, evolves from a young man with a crush into a confident individual capable of pursuing his own happiness. Their respective arcs are well-developed and satisfying, adding depth to the overall narrative.

While The Neighbor is a standalone novel, it sets the stage for future entries in the Straight Men series. The book's themes of age gap, first-time experiences, and sexual awakening are likely to resonate with readers who enjoy stories that challenge traditional notions of identity and relationships. Fans of authors like Riley Hart and Annabeth Albert will find much to appreciate in Azanon's work, as it shares similar themes of love, self-discovery, and the complexities of human connection.

Overall, The Neighbor is a captivating and thought-provoking read that offers a fresh perspective on themes of love and identity. S.H. Azanon's skillful storytelling and nuanced character development make this novel a standout in the genre, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers. Whether you're a fan of romance, coming-of-age stories, or simply enjoy a well-crafted narrative, The Neighbor is a book that should not be missed.