To qualify for a RWA award a book needs to develop a
romantic
relationship and end optimistically. TALK OF THE TOWN
certainly meets these guidelines. But in my estimation it
met and surpassed some of my own personal standards.
This is a delightful visit to an east coast town where we
once again meet some wonderful characters. Beth Andrews has
outdone herself with the folks that star in this story about
youthful mistakes and adult angst.
Kids are so affected by their parent's behavior that at
times their adulthood is fashioned to avoid these pitfalls.
Neil Pettit managed to meet his career goals winning a
Stanley Cup ring -- did I fail to mention that I am a huge
hockey fan. But -- and isn't there always a but -- Neil had
to
give up quite a lot when it came to a personal life. The
burning question is did he really have to.
If you ask Maddie her answer would be no. You see by
following his dream it meant closing the door on a
relationship with Maddie. They were both in their teens but
Maddie was deeply in love and smart enough to know Neil
would have to leave Shady Grove and her to play in the NHL.
In fact he was drafted to a west coast team.
There was much more than just distance between Maddie and
Neil. Neil had basically turned away from any real
connection that might have grown between the two of them.
And even worst ignored any possible future with this young
woman who was carrying his child.
Maddie shouldered the responsibility for taking care and
raising Bree. With his success Neil was financially able to
provide whatever money Maddie would need. He also took care
of his adopted parents and his sister Fay.
So it begs the question -- is money enough. For Neil he was
extremely short sighted in what it took to nurture and
provide a loving environment having missed that himself as a
child. Once he and his sister were adopted they rallied in
so many ways. But old wounds are hard to heal and protecting
his heart was his main goal.
Neil managed to remain just on the outskirts of any real
relationship and ultimately that's what would hurt Maddie
and Bree the most.
What would it take to heal to these wounds. Is it even
possible for this little family to have a future
together.
The odds are definitely not in their favor.
I have been fortunate to read and review several books by
Beth Andrews. Each time I marvel at what an extraordinary
story teller Andrews is. Her characters are so real and at
times their experiences are just heart breaking. I'm a
sucker for stories involving jocks -- these larger than life
guys who can't get out of their own way when it comes to
their personal lives. TALK OF THE TOWN kept me mesmerized
from beginning to end. So much so that nothing could
distract me from reading onward. Sure to be a winner for all
Andrews fans. If you haven't tried Beth Andrews yet TALK OF
THE TOWN is an outstanding introduction to a very talented
author.
Shady Grove—where everyone knows your secrets
Once, Neil Pettit was the only thing Maddie Montesano
wanted. She tried every trick in the book to keep him, but
no luck. It took some time—and a lot of holding her head up
while the town gossiped—but she's made a good life for
herself and her daughter.
Now, Neil's back and is trying to be the father he never
was. Maddie so doesn't need this kind of disruption. Not
when the crazy attraction she's spent years ignoring still
sizzles between them. The temptation to give in and have
Neil again is strong. And when he offers that dream of
forever she'd abandoned, well, she might give this town
something new to talk about….
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