Is this even remotely realistic? Highly doubt it. Note, however, that I am an Australian. As much as I try to keep up with world politics, my specialty lies in history (specifically post-war Europe and, further back, the Roman Republic), so any assessments I might make of the US socio-political climate are vague. Also, this is fiction. I'm happy to suspend a moderate amount of disbelief for a good story, especially when that story is thrilling, action packed, and emotional. 

Overall, I got the same vibes from Bauer's writing as I do from Jonathan Maberry's action/thriller Joe Ledger/Rogue Team International series. In my books, that's a huge compliment: Maberry is hands down my favourite writer, with Joe Ledger being a much loved character. I was really invested in the characters from the start and the story drew me in deep. The representation is intensely refreshing: there are multiple LGBTQIA+ characters, with the two key protagonists being an out and proud gay MMC and an MMC who realises he is demi (this is my understanding, not specifically stated). The dynamic between all of the characters, especially Ethan and his friends/fellow agents, made for plenty of moments where I was either laughing or having to deal with vicarious embarrassment. The romance is a tantalising slow burn that is deeply emotional, with the forbidden aspect upping the stakes. The action is well written, and even though I ultimately worked out who the secret bad guy was before the reveal, there was enough tension and suspense to keep it interesting in the lead up.