Summary: Scotty fills the void in his life with alcohol, but he is falling apart at the seems. Can newcomer Olivier help him pick up the pieces?

Worked for me: There is so much good here. This book is a beautiful example of blending backstory seamlessly into the narrative, giving the reader all the pieces but letting them put it together themselves. I love the characters, especially Maggie, is who so patient without being a doormat, and Olivier who is so sweet. I found myself rooting for Scotty, touched by his plight and hoping he finds something to cling to besides drinking. I have high hopes for future relationships.

Needs work: The biggest problem is that there are only 4 chapters. What you have is great, but I need more to get a good sense of your ability to drive the narrative and develop the character arc. I really want to read this as you finish, so I can give you a more accurate review.

I will say you want to clean up chapter 1, with the awkward syntax constructions. In later chapters you really hit your stride, so you have it in you, you just have to put in the work. Remember, chapter 1 is your first impression, and readers are going to miss out on the great stuff that comes later if they stumble and struggle through the beginning (which isn't bad, but could be stronger).

Overall: 8/10 If you can maintain this quality throughout the book, it will easily be a 9 to 9.5/10.