1. I received an advanced eBook copy via Netgalley.
2. I don't usually read romance or erotic romance.
3. I'm at the American Library Association where many writers and publishers want me to add their books, so I'm very picky right now.
So, with thise warnings let me say I enjoyed this book. More than I expected to. I cried. I was much happier with the ending than a very popular, shady trilogy.
Rating: ***
The characters are not 20 somethings on top of the world. They are in their 30s and don't regret their age. Yay! Carrie is a teen services librarian at the main branch. She has loving parents, good friends, and a job she enjoys. What she doesn't have is an exciting love life. For fun she reads online personal ads.
She stumbles across Brian's add that only seeks a Wednesday lunch hour filled with kissing. He will not touch her below the shoulders, but she may touch him anywhere. There is a photo of an attractive man. They chat, they meet in the park, sparks fly. Carrie frustrated me by pushing too far too fast. She made some choices that could have been dangerous. (Remember, this is a romance, not a stranger-danger cheap thrill.)
Some of the descriptions were a bit off. Yes, some women find stubble attractive. It's not logical though that Brian, a professional, would be that stubbly by noon. It gave no contrast to later when he appeared more disheveled. Rough needs smooth.
The problems that Brian faces, and the reason for Wednesday lunches, are not hidden to the smart reader. Since this is a novella it doesn't drag on-and-on. There is a satisfying resolution that doesn't make everything too perfect. If you're looking for an erotic romance with likable characters "The Story Guy" should find its way to your eReader.
