I wanted to read this book because of the internet factor. I've been around for a while, and I've made a few friends online. Some I've met in person, some I've not. Some I wanted to, and never got the chance. So this story really kind of held the hope of "maybe they will meet and everything will be perfect!"
Mary is a single woman in her 30s, and she's not exactly Barbie material. She's a real woman with curves. But her curves have brought her a bit of insecurity and self-consciousness. Before long she is passing her free time on some message boards, never getting too deeply involved but having fun. Wow, this felt like my own story at this point, and Ms. Blisse did a wonderful job of making everything feel real.
But then she sees an avatar in the threads, and it just reaches out and grabs her. She has to know him. And so she sets off on a plan to get to know him, and his name is Will. Will is a bit of a firestarter, getting involved in heated debates. He's exciting to her, and she's enjoying getting to know him. The only problem is that he lives in the US, and she is in England. Ok, that's not the only problem. He likes women who look like models. And he has a very demanding job on top of all of that.
I had a love/hate relationship in the beginning with Will. When he was around he seemed perfect. But then he would just disappear. And its not like she could just run over to his house and say "hey, jerk, what the heck??" Then he'd come back and expect everything to be a-ok. That really bugged me!! But Will also had some very redeeming qualities and my final vote is "Team Will" all the way!
But then she gets a call. He's coming to Manchester!! Butterflies in the stomach, I think I was as nervous for Mary as she was!
I just loved Mary. Sure, she wasn't perfect. But she faced her fears head-on, and she met Will in person. And there was some very definite chemistry there that could not be ignored! In terms of my own classification, I'd classify this story as an erotic romance. And I loved it. And yep, there was even a moment where I shed a tear, and another where I was downright angry with an "oh no he didn't!!" The author does a fantastic job of relating Mary's hopes, fears, and emotions. I read this in one sitting and I found it to be exciting and fast paced, and yes, quite a bit steamy. I really think this book has a lot to offer a wide range of romance enthusiasts. I hope you get a chance to read it! As for me, I'm definitely looking forward to my next Victoria Blisse book...
