Grief's Unruly Stages

Ben Stirling, a widowed single dad, struggles to adapt to life after losing his wife, Liz. He's moved to Seattle with his young son, Luca, seeking a fresh start but finding only the chaos of grief. The "stages" of loss are anything but linear—anger, sadness, and longing swirl unpredictably. Ben's world is quieter, emptier, and every object in his new home reminds him of what he's lost. He writes unsent letters to Liz, trying to make sense of his pain, but finds no solace in the process. The ache is constant, and the only thing that keeps him moving is Luca, whose innocence and energy are both a comfort and a challenge. Ben's journey begins not with hope, but with the raw, unfiltered reality of mourning.

Holes in the Fence

As Ben unpacks, Luca discovers two mysterious holes in the backyard fence. Through them, he meets their neighbor, Jeremiah "Jelly" Blake, a quirky, creative soul who lives in a cottage behind his aunt's house. The holes, originally for dogs to greet each other, become a portal for Luca's boundless questions and stories. Ben, wary but protective, realizes he'll need to meet this neighbor who so quickly charms his son. The fence, both literal and symbolic, marks the boundary between Ben's closed-off grief and the possibility of new connections. Luca's openness and the neighbor's warmth begin to chip away at Ben's isolation, hinting at the first cracks in his emotional armor.

Coffee, Pottery, and First Impressions

Ben finally meets Jeremiah, who brings over coffee in a handmade mug. Their first conversation is awkward but genuine, filled with small talk about pottery, careers, and the chaos of moving. Jeremiah's openness and gentle humor contrast with Ben's guardedness. Luca, ever the icebreaker, draws Jeremiah into their world with his enthusiasm and innocence. Ben is surprised by how easy it is to talk to Jeremiah, and how the neighbor's presence brings a rare moment of comfort. The exchange of coffee and stories becomes a ritual, a small but significant step toward healing and trust.

The Kind Neighbor

Jeremiah's kindness is effortless—he listens without judgment, asks about Liz, and gives Ben space to remember her. For the first time, Ben feels seen in his grief, not pitied or avoided. Jeremiah's own story unfolds: a creative, restless spirit who's tried many paths and found solace in making things with his hands. Their conversations deepen, moving from surface details to the raw truths of loss, regret, and the struggle to start over. Jeremiah's ability to "hold space" for Ben's pain becomes a lifeline, and Ben begins to realize that healing might require letting someone in.

Letters to Liz

Throughout his journey, Ben writes letters to Liz—sometimes angry, sometimes loving, always honest. These letters are confessions, apologies, and attempts to keep her memory alive. They capture his struggle to parent alone, his doubts about moving, and his fear of forgetting. The letters are never sent, but they serve as a private dialogue with the past, a way for Ben to process the shifting landscape of his grief. As his relationship with Jeremiah grows, the tone of the letters changes, reflecting both guilt and the faint stirrings of hope.

The Legend Revealed

Through a conversation with friends, Jeremiah discovers that Ben is not just a grieving dad, but a legendary former NHL hockey player. The revelation is both amusing and intimidating—Jeremiah realizes he's been oblivious to Ben's fame, treating him as just another neighbor. This dynamic allows Ben to relax, free from the expectations and hero-worship that usually follow him. Jeremiah's friends warn him not to get attached, assuming Ben is straight and unavailable, but Jeremiah's crush only deepens. The legend next door is human, vulnerable, and unexpectedly within reach.

Pancakes and Memories

Ben and Luca share a morning making pancakes, a tradition that brings back memories of Liz and the life they left behind. The kitchen becomes a place of both comfort and sorrow, as Ben navigates the challenges of single parenthood and the ache of missing his wife. Luca's questions about Jeremiah's family and the nature of love reveal a child's acceptance and curiosity. The simple act of breakfast becomes a meditation on change, resilience, and the small joys that persist even in the shadow of loss.

Holding Space

As Ben's grief ebbs and flows, Jeremiah becomes a steady, calming force. He listens without trying to fix, offering comfort through presence rather than platitudes. Their friendship deepens through shared moments—watching each other through windows, exchanging texts, and supporting Luca. Jeremiah's own vulnerabilities surface, and Ben finds himself drawn to the neighbor's warmth and authenticity. The act of "holding space" becomes mutual, as both men learn to trust, lean on, and care for each other in ways neither expected.

Curtain Panic and Connection

Ben's frustration with the endless curtains in his new home becomes a metaphor for the overwhelming details of starting over. Jeremiah offers practical help, but more importantly, he offers understanding. Their late-night drinking game and mutual confessions break down barriers, leading to laughter, vulnerability, and a sense of belonging. The awkwardness of new friendship gives way to a deeper connection, as both men admit to their fears, desires, and the loneliness that haunts them. The night ends with a promise of more—more support, more honesty, and perhaps, more than friendship.

Hockey Lessons and Healing

Hockey, once a source of pain for Ben, becomes a bridge to healing. Jeremiah, now a self-proclaimed fan, joins Ben and Luca at the rink, fumbling through the basics but finding joy in the process. The ice, once a reminder of what Ben lost, becomes a space for laughter, growth, and new memories. Luca's talent shines, and Ben's pride in his son is matched by his gratitude for Jeremiah's presence. The rink is no longer just a place of ghosts, but a stage for new beginnings and the slow thaw of Ben's heart.

Surprise Flowers, Shared Sorrows

Jeremiah invites Ben and Luca to plant "surprise flowers" in his garden, a ritual that becomes a metaphor for hope and renewal. The act of digging, planting, and watering together is both playful and poignant, as memories of Liz surface and are honored. The garden becomes a space where grief and joy coexist, where the past is remembered but the future is also tended. The simple act of nurturing life together deepens the bond between Ben and Jeremiah, and offers Luca a sense of continuity and belonging.

Three-Person Grief

One night, Luca's grief overwhelms him, and Ben is forced to confront the depth of their shared pain. Luca's longing for the family they once were—"three people"—echoes Ben's own sense of incompleteness. The moment is raw and heartbreaking, but it also brings father and son closer. Ben realizes that healing is not about moving on, but about carrying the memory of Liz forward, together. The presence of Jeremiah, who offers comfort without intrusion, becomes even more vital as Ben learns to navigate the complexities of single parenthood and mourning.

A Night of Comfort

On a particularly hard day, Ben reaches out to Jeremiah for help. Jeremiah arrives with wine, ice cream, and a willingness to simply be there. The evening is filled with laughter, stories, and the warmth of shared company. For the first time, Ben feels the weight of responsibility lift, if only briefly. Jeremiah's ability to care for both Ben and Luca, to create a sense of safety and celebration, marks a turning point. The night ends with gratitude and the realization that comfort can be found in unexpected places.

The Giddy Spiral

As Ben and Jeremiah grow closer, desire simmers beneath the surface. Both men are caught in a spiral of attraction, uncertainty, and fear of crossing boundaries. Their conversations become more intimate, their touches linger, and the line between friendship and something more blurs. Jeremiah's self-doubt and Ben's guilt over moving on from Liz create tension, but also fuel their longing. The giddy, dizzying energy of new love is tempered by the weight of grief and the risk of heartbreak.

The Game That Hurts

When Ben tries to attend a hockey game with Luca, the pain of his old life becomes overwhelming. Unable to face the arena, he asks Jeremiah to take Luca instead. The decision is fraught with guilt and shame, but also relief. Jeremiah steps in, providing stability and joy for Luca, while Ben confronts his own limitations. The experience forces Ben to accept that healing is not linear, and that asking for help is not a failure. The game becomes a symbol of both loss and the possibility of new happiness.

Letting Go, Letting In

After a particularly intense day, Ben finally allows himself to break down in Jeremiah's arms. The release is cathartic, a torrent of pain that has been building for months. Jeremiah holds him, steady and unflinching, offering the safety Ben needs to let go. The moment marks a turning point—not just in Ben's grief, but in their relationship. Trust deepens, and the possibility of love becomes real. The act of being held, of being seen and accepted in his vulnerability, allows Ben to begin letting Jeremiah in.

The Massage and the Meltdown

When Ben suffers a migraine, Jeremiah offers a massage. The experience is charged with tension, desire, and the unspoken longing between them. The intimacy of touch breaks down the last of Ben's defenses, leading to a raw, emotional meltdown. Jeremiah's response is unwavering—he holds Ben through the storm, offering comfort and acceptance. The physical closeness becomes a metaphor for emotional intimacy, and both men realize that healing requires not just time, but the willingness to be vulnerable with another.

Confessions and First Touches

The tension between Ben and Jeremiah reaches a breaking point. Confessions are made—about attraction, about fear, about the need for connection. Their first physical encounter is both tender and electric, a culmination of weeks of longing and restraint. The experience is transformative, not just sexually but emotionally. Both men are changed by the encounter, their bond deepened by the honesty and trust required to cross the threshold from friends to lovers.

The Kiss and the Shift

A single, earth-shattering kiss marks the true beginning of Ben and Jeremiah's romance. The kiss is not just a physical act, but a declaration—a promise of new beginnings and the courage to embrace happiness again. The shift is palpable; the world feels different, brighter, and more hopeful. The kiss is followed by laughter, awkwardness, and the giddy realization that they are no longer alone in their longing. The chapter closes with the sense that, despite the risks, love is worth pursuing.

New Beginnings, New Family

As Ben and Jeremiah's relationship deepens, they navigate the challenges of blending their lives. Luca's acceptance is immediate and joyful, and the three form a new kind of family—one built on love, honesty, and shared memories. The rituals of daily life—pancakes, hockey, gardening—become acts of healing and celebration. Letters to Liz continue, but their tone shifts from longing to gratitude. The story ends not with the erasure of grief, but with the embrace of new love, new hope, and the promise of a future together.

Characters

Ben Stirling

Ben is a former NHL hockey captain whose life is upended by the sudden loss of his wife, Liz. As a single father to six-year-old Luca, Ben is haunted by grief, guilt, and the fear of moving on. His identity as a "legend" is both a burden and a shield, isolating him from others while providing a sense of purpose. Ben's journey is one of vulnerability—learning to ask for help, to accept comfort, and to open his heart again. His relationship with Jeremiah is transformative, allowing him to rediscover joy, intimacy, and the possibility of a new family. Ben's development is marked by his willingness to confront pain, embrace change, and ultimately, to love again without forgetting the past.

Jeremiah "Jelly" Blake

Jeremiah is a multi-talented artist—potter, photographer, yoga teacher—whose restless spirit masks a deep longing for connection. He is open, kind, and unafraid to show emotion, making him both endearing and vulnerable. Jeremiah's past is marked by a search for belonging, and his friendship with Ben and Luca fills a void he didn't know he had. His bi-awakening and growing attraction to Ben are sources of both joy and anxiety, as he navigates the risks of loving someone who may not be available. Jeremiah's greatest strength is his ability to "hold space" for others, offering comfort without judgment. His journey is one of self-acceptance, courage, and the realization that he is worthy of love and happiness.

Luca Stirling

Luca is Ben's six-year-old son, whose curiosity, energy, and openness bring light to the story. He is the first to connect with Jeremiah, breaking down barriers with his questions and enthusiasm. Luca's grief is raw and unfiltered, but his capacity for joy and acceptance helps both Ben and Jeremiah heal. He is the glue that binds the new family together, embodying hope, resilience, and the enduring power of love.

Liz Stirling (in memory)

Though Liz is gone, her influence permeates every aspect of Ben and Luca's lives. She is remembered through letters, stories, and rituals, serving as both a source of pain and a guide for healing. Liz's memory is honored, not erased, and her presence shapes the choices Ben makes as he moves forward. She is the silent witness to the family's journey, a reminder that love endures even after loss.

Amy (Liz's sister)

Amy is Ben's sister-in-law and a vital part of his support system. She offers practical help with Luca, emotional wisdom, and a fierce loyalty to family. Amy's own grief is palpable, but she channels it into caring for Ben and Luca, ensuring they are never truly alone. Her presence is a stabilizing force, grounding the family in love and continuity.

Marcus

Marcus is Jeremiah's longtime friend, known for his dry wit and protective instincts. He is skeptical of Jeremiah's growing attachment to Ben, fearing heartbreak, but ultimately supports his friend's pursuit of happiness. Marcus's role is to challenge, question, and, when needed, comfort. His loyalty is unwavering, even when he struggles to understand Jeremiah's choices.

Vanessa (Ness)

Vanessa is Jeremiah's best friend, a source of humor, encouragement, and tough love. She is the first to recognize Jeremiah's feelings for Ben and offers both practical advice and emotional support. Vanessa's presence lightens the narrative, providing perspective and reminding Jeremiah (and the reader) not to take life too seriously.

Robbie McGuire & Ant Decker

Robbie and Ant are Ben's neighbors and fellow hockey players, serving as both friends and role models. Their relationship offers a vision of queer love and acceptance, helping Ben and Jeremiah see what's possible. They provide comic relief, practical support, and a sense of belonging within the broader community.

Lissa (Jeremiah's aunt)

Lissa is Jeremiah's aunt and surrogate mother, providing stability, wisdom, and unconditional love. Her home is a refuge for Jeremiah, and her presence is a reminder that family is not just about blood, but about the people who choose to love and support us.

The Blackeyes Team

Ben's former hockey team represents both the life he lost and the community that still supports him. Their presence in the story is a reminder of the importance of friendship, loyalty, and shared history. The team's acceptance of Ben's new life is a crucial step in his journey toward healing and self-acceptance.

Plot Devices

Strangers-to-Friends-to-Lovers

The narrative structure follows Ben and Jeremiah as they move from strangers to friends to lovers, allowing their relationship to develop organically. The slow build creates tension, depth, and a sense of realism, making their eventual union both satisfying and believable.

Letters to the Lost

Ben's unsent letters to Liz serve as a narrative device for exploring grief, guilt, and the struggle to move on. The letters provide insight into Ben's inner world, allowing the reader to witness his transformation from mourning to acceptance.

Symbolic Spaces

Physical spaces in the novel—fences with holes, shared gardens, cluttered kitchens, and hockey rinks—serve as metaphors for boundaries, growth, comfort, and healing. These settings ground the emotional journey in tangible, relatable experiences.

Hurt/Comfort and Touch Starvation

The story uses the tropes of hurt/comfort and touch starvation to explore the healing power of physical and emotional closeness. Massages, hugs, and shared beds become acts of restoration, breaking down barriers and fostering trust.

Bi-Awakening and Queer Community

Ben's journey includes a bi-awakening, challenging assumptions about sexuality and love. The presence of queer neighbors, friends, and community members normalizes diverse relationships and offers models of acceptance and happiness.

Hockey as Healing

Hockey is more than a backdrop—it is a metaphor for Ben's journey through grief and back to life. The rink is a place of both pain and joy, a stage for loss and a field for new beginnings.

Foreshadowing and Circularity

The narrative uses foreshadowing—through letters, memories, and rituals—to create a sense of continuity. The story comes full circle, with Ben rewriting his own ending, honoring the past while embracing the future.

Analysis

The Legend Next Door is more than a romance—it is a nuanced exploration of loss, healing, and the messy, nonlinear path to happiness. Jesse H. Reign crafts a story that honors the complexity of grief, refusing easy answers or tidy resolutions. Instead, the novel celebrates the small, everyday acts of kindness, vulnerability, and connection that make healing possible. Through the slow-burn romance of Ben and Jeremiah, the book challenges assumptions about masculinity, sexuality, and what it means to be a family. It reminds us that love is not about replacing what was lost, but about finding the courage to open our hearts to new possibilities. The story's humor, warmth, and emotional honesty make it both deeply moving and refreshingly real—a testament to the power of community, the importance of chosen family, and the enduring hope that, even after the darkest winters, spring will come again.

Last updated: November 22, 2025