People Watching

Bonam-Young (Out of the Woods) elevates this sexy small-town contemporary with well-crafted backstories that add considerable depth to the central couple's connection. Prue Welch never left touristy Baysville, Ontario, after high school, not feeling ready for college and needing to care for her mom as her early onset Alzheimer's disease progressed. She's 24 and living a quiet if stifled life with her parents when charming, tattooed Milo Kablukov comes to town to help his brother open a new brewery. Free-spirited, bisexual Milo spent his 20s wandering, working odd jobs, and deliberately avoiding his siblings who, like him, suffered at the hands of their abusive parents. Though she's immediately attracted to Milo, inexperienced Prue's insecurities make her believe he'll never be interested in her, so she contents herself with being just friends. Her feelings intensify, however, upon seeing how caring he is of her mom, who was his high school art teacher. For his part, Milo is surprised that Prue makes him want to stick around despite his long history of running from commitments. Bonam-Young builds great chemistry between her leads, and the familial subplots--especially the tender scenes between Milo and his estranged siblings--add heart. This is a keeper. (Aug.)

Twenty-four-year-old Prudence "Prue" Welch has put her dreams on hold to stay in her small lakeside hometown of Baysville, Ontario, so she can care for her mom, who has early-onset Alzheimer's, and help her dad run their store. Globetrotting nomadic artist Milo Kablukov, who never stays in one place for long, is also in Baysville for the fall, to lend a hand as his brother opens a brewery. Milo is surprised to find that one of the brewery's neighbors is Mrs. Welch, his former high school art teacher who was a mentor and inspiration to him. He offers to spend some time painting with her and gets to know Prue in the process. They're immediately drawn to each other, and Milo agrees to Prue's proposal for some sexual instruction. Their casual arrangement soon turns into something more, but a future together seems out of reach, especially as Milo's traumatic family past and Prue's responsibilities complicate their relationship. Bonam-Young (Out of the Woods) excels at characterization and writes top-notch dialogue that perfectly captures Prue's and Milo's emotions, along with their incredible chemistry and delightful banter. VERDICT A memorable and satisfying romance, full of sexy and sensitive moments.--Melissa DeWild