Ellie had been married for most of her life to Charlie and had a seventeen-year-old son, C.J. who looked remarkably like his Uncle Kit. When she caught Charlie with his expensive, frequent hooker, Ellie knew she had to have a change of scenery. She decided to spend the summer in New York house and animal sitting for a cousin of her best friend.

Ms. Margaret Wilson has written a very unique book which enchanted me. I could not imagine how it would end but that, too, was great. It was a surprise—not what I expected to happen. Her characters, and there were many, were strong and diverse. This book had something that would please everyone. There was marriage, separation, growing children, friendships with both sexes, gay and straight relationships, and then there was the ghost of Kit hanging around it all. There were traditional families, platonic roommates, lovers as roommates, and divorce. No matter your preference, there was something you would have to like.

Ms. Wilson’s storyline is phenomenal. It is poignant and very emotional. She explored the feelings from several viewpoints of both the straight and gay relationships. There were family values discussed from both Ellie’s family life and the life of Jaime, a friend of hers who wanted a relationship with Marshall, who had been Kit’s lover. Marshall had never gotten past losing Kit. That was another situation which caused more grief.

I truly loved this book. It was different from anything I’ve ever read before but I would definitely recommend it. It is not too graphic sexually. However, there is both male/female and male/male sensuality explored. Ms. Wilson has handled the myriad of circumstances in a sensitive manner.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Very sensual

Reviewer: Brenda Talley
August 20, 2008