Stef Ann Holm, Leaving Normal

Leaving Normal

Stef Ann Holm

Mira, Oct 2005, $6.99, 384 pp.

ISBN: 077832222X

Natalie Goodwin feels it is time to repossess her life, since her divorce is finalized and her daughter is a college freshman. She opens up the floral shop that she had placed on a back burner, except in her dreams.

Although she is not interested in any relationships with men, Natalie admits to herself only, that the younger married hunk next door is candy centerfold, look don't touch is her mantra. Tony Cruz finds the neighbor is beautiful, but he will only look too, as marital vows mean something to him. That is until his wife dumps him for someone else. Instead of heartbreak, Tony pursues Natalie. However, as they fall in love, he wants children, while she feels past that stage, having a teen already in her life.

This second chance at love, is a complex well-written relationship romance with plenty of issues to keep the lead duet apart. Natalie is filled with doubts that the younger hunk could desire her, and feels she is letting down her beloved by insisting on no more children. Tony struggles to prove to his love that she is not a rebound, but does not hide he wants to pass his surname on. Throw in family members filled with concerns, and that leads to the audience enjoying Stef Ann Holm's powerfully realistic and thoroughly entertaining relationship drama.