Bumpy Oak Books

**I was provided an electronic ARC through NetGalley in exchange for honest review.**

4 stars

Abby Kaitz presents Jackals Wild, a queer new adult contemporary romance. College mathematician Adam is all about making sure he is acing his classes and putting in the work to get there. Adam is thrown off by his annoyingly attractive messy roommate, Carter. When Adam finds out that Carter has a side hustle that distinctly does not involve wearing clothing, it only complicates things further. And when Carter asks him to be the camera man? This is not what Adam thought college would be.

Kaitz not only leans in hard to “and they were roommates”, but she does it with flair. There’s a reason that opposites attract and roommates tropes are so successful. They’re fun. They’re relatable. And Kaitz pulls off the tropes in a way that gives a realistic portrayal of students struggling with sexuality and new adulthood. The interpersonal drama along with the struggle of school and expenses was definitely well-balanced, and Kaitz took the time to develop her characters beyond the surface level.

I was entertained throughout the work, and grew fond of seeing Carter and Adam find their way, not only with each other but with setting up a foundation for the rest of their lives. I look forward to reading Max’s story coming in the fall and enjoyed the teaser for introducing his book. Overall, a strong debut novel from Kaitz and I am definitely intrigued to read more.