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.