NYC dwellers, Matilda (Tilda) Davies and Daniel Logan both make lists. Tilda, owner of an upscale stationary store, makes lists while playing matchmaker, putting people together. She makes lists about people she watches in her social circles. People know they can come to her for what or who they are looking for. She provides a discreet introduction to individuals with like needs but would never believe herself worthy of being on her own prized list. She was taught early on that wanting love was not for her. Sexual relationships are acceptable but not love. Never.

Daniel, an FBI agent, makes lists in the black notebook he carries with him always. He loves puzzles, putting pieces together to solve, finding perfect justice. He specializes in financial crimes. He, too, is very successful. Is he prepared for the puzzle that is Tilda?

Tilda is beautiful, successful, detached, determined and a loner. She has countless sexual encounters but never a relationship that could lead to love, marriage and a family. That will never be for her. as her inner demons remind her constantly. When she meets handsome, delightful Daniel, he charms and intrigues her. He falls instantly in love with Tilda. She knows better but their sexually charged attraction sizzles, ignites and several months later they marry. Daniel believes in forever. Tilda, believes they need to divorce.

THE LIST is told in flashbacks. When her past comes front and center it shows why Tilda has problems with keeping what she wants. Her mother, selfish beyond belief, uncaring and never there for her daughter left a vacuum that was never filled, Her sexual affair at seventeen with her mother's assistant and lover, resulted in her being sent away to school with no communication from her angry mother for many years.

I did not like Tilda. I grew tired of too many sexual encounters and descriptions. I do agree with her assessment of real communication using the old fashioned way with words, paper and ink. Daniel was special. Patient, always there for her, sweet and funny. His card to Tilda on the last page tugged at my heartstrings and made a too long, too much sexual content read, worthwhile in the end.