L.B.Simmons' Running on Empty is a warm, heartfelt expression of second chances and redemption. I received an advance copy of this novel to review and what a delight to read it turned out to be! Alex is a widowed mother of three young girls, devastated by the death of her beloved spouse Derek. Blake is her childhood friend who she seemingly left in the dust when she became smitten with Derek in their early teens. This motorcycle riding, testosterone spiking hero returns to their hometown. Lives reconnect, but do feelings long suppressed rise to the forefront or are they submerged, where cracked hearts hide for fear of further assault?
Ms. Simmons' novel is organic in nature. The rekindling of these two individuals is gradual, not forced. Blake has genuine feelings of affection for Alex's daughters, who are precocious and adorable. Alex's witty banter between herself and her best friend and business partner, Harlow, are laugh out loud funny. Alex is no princess, waiting to be reclaimed by a prince, she has flaws and warts and screws up big time. Oh and how those screw ups will frustrate readers and drive them to multiple bouts of eye rolls and teeth gritting. There were times I wanted to duct tape her mouth and lock her in a closet, until she came to her senses. But then I reminded myself Alex is a woman overwhelmed by the utter unfairness of the situation she finds herself in, and is coping the best she can. Blake is patient and loving and swoon worthy. This is not a sweaty, steamy novel. It is mellow and angsty and cool as a summer breeze. Enjoy this one, it will refresh your soul and leave you with the essence of sandalwood and visions of fluttering butterflies.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AWXH6RA/ref=cm_sw_r_fa_dp_qQa6qb1PY702V
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