Chief’s Mess

Witt’s terrific third Anchor Point military contemporary (after Afraid to Fly) mixes red-hot passion with a sensitive and thoughtful take on coping with a partner’s alcoholism. When Anthony Talbot visits family in Anchor Point, Ore., the last thing he’s expecting is to by chance meet the love of his life at a local gay bar. Navy Chief Petty Officer Noah Jackson quickly falls for the hot redheaded stranger, and when Anthony returns to Denver, long-distance romance ensues, with plenty of webcam fun and sexting. But soon, Anthony realizes Noah has a problem with alcohol. After having watched his sister’s drunken ex ruin her life, Anthony doesn’t want to date someone with the same problem. But can he give up the hottest relationship he’s ever had, especially when he realizes he’s fallen in love? And when Noah hits rock bottom, can Anthony pull him up? Witt’s first-rate portrayal of an alcoholic in denial rings true throughout, as does the self-loathing felt by a man who realizes he can no longer control his drinking. A tight, eminently readable plot easily carries readers through this tale, and they’ll be rooting for both Anthony and Noah. (July)