Fortytude series
by Shelly Hickman
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BLURB:
BLURB FOR VEGAS TO VARANASI
Anna has never been the beautiful one; she’s always been the nice one. So when the gorgeous man sitting across the table at a wedding reception remembers her from high school—and quite fondly at that—she’s taken off guard.
Formerly overweight and unpopular, Kiran has never forgotten Anna, the one person who was kind to him when no one else could be bothered, and Anna’s a bit flustered as she slowly comes to grips with his intense attraction for her.
In what feels like a romantic dream come true, all-grown-up, hunky Kiran invites Anna on a trip to Varanasi. But her troubled, whack-a-do ex-boyfriend starts interfering, creating drama at every turn, which begs the question, “Can nice girls really finish first?”
Formerly overweight and unpopular, Kiran has never forgotten Anna, the one person who was kind to him when no one else could be bothered, and Anna’s a bit flustered as she slowly comes to grips with his intense attraction for her.
In what feels like a romantic dream come true, all-grown-up, hunky Kiran invites Anna on a trip to Varanasi. But her troubled, whack-a-do ex-boyfriend starts interfering, creating drama at every turn, which begs the question, “Can nice girls really finish first?”
BLURB FOR MENOPAUSE TO MATRIMONY:
The sequel to "Vegas to Varanasi" catches up with Anna and Kiran a couple of years after the event
First, there’s Kiran, who has an unexpected health scare. While his doctors assure no permanent damage has been done, there seems to have been some damage to his personality, as the normally respectful and reserved Kiran begins behaving erratically and overtly. Anna wants to hope that this is temporary, sparked by the visit of Kiran’s womanizing, free-spirited cousin, Seth. But is this just the midlife Kiran surfacing?
Anna has midlife issues of her own. Now forty-eight, she’s navigating the onset of perimenopause and all the delights that come with it, from facial hair to mood swings to body temperature issues. On top of that, her two-year-old granddaughter is starting to show signs of a behavior disorder, bringing with it a whole other level of stress and worry.
Will Anna and Kiran finally find their happily ever after? Or end up stuck in a midlife mess in this romantic comedy of accepting change, and “the change.”
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EXCERPT
When I look up, Kiran is regarding me so intently, I swear he’s mentally calculating the diameter of my pupils. “It was truly exceptional, for someone your age to be so compassionate toward others.”
This is becoming far too intense. My insides feel as if they’re playing musical chairs. “I could really use a drink. You?”
“I’ll get it for you. What would you like?”
“A glass of white wine, please.”
“Any particular kind?”
“Whatever they have is fine.”
I sit down on one of the sofas while he walks to the bar for our drinks.
This is childish. Why am I acting like I’ve never had a man give me attention before? It has to be because I’m letting his looks intimidate me.
Luke never flustered me, but maybe that was because he was my buddy first. Despite his good looks, he was approachable. Kiran, on the other hand... I can honestly say I’ve never met anyone in real life who was so arresting.
I feel flushed and touch my face.
He’s not full of himself, and he genuinely seems to like me. Clearly, he has these idealistic memories of me which are far too much to live up to. I’m not Gandhi, for crying out loud!
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REVIEW
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a light read, heartfelt and down to earth.
The story is set on a realistic scenario, with believable family bonds, funny situations and some real issues (Weight and alcohol problems). Both main characters are likeable, loveable and relatable.
Overall, the plot is well-developed, with good dialogues and a little messy ending that left you wanting more. So I'm starting Book #2 (Menopause to Matrimony) right now!
I highly enjoyed the premise of that no matter how old you are, you're bound to find your Happily Ever After...?
*I received a Free copy in exchange for an Honest Review*
The story is set on a realistic scenario, with believable family bonds, funny situations and some real issues (Weight and alcohol problems). Both main characters are likeable, loveable and relatable.
Overall, the plot is well-developed, with good dialogues and a little messy ending that left you wanting more. So I'm starting Book #2 (Menopause to Matrimony) right now!
I highly enjoyed the premise of that no matter how old you are, you're bound to find your Happily Ever After...?
*I received a Free copy in exchange for an Honest Review*
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Living in Las Vegas since she was two, Shelly Hickman has witnessed many changes in the city over the years. She graduated from UNLV with a Bachelor of Art in 1990, and in her early twenties worked as a computer illustrator. In the mid-90s, she returned to school to earn her Masters degree in Elementary Education. She now teaches computer literacy and media technology at a middle school in Las Vegas. She loves to write about people, examining their flaws, their humor, spirituality, and personal growth. Shelly lives with her husband, two children, and their dogs, Frankie and Junebug.
www.facebook.com/shellyhickman.author
Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Shelly-Hickman/e/B005R87IK0/
Buy links:
NOTE: "Vegas to Varanasi" is now perma-free on multiple platforms
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GIVEAWAY
Shelly Hickman will be awarding a $25 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner.
