Closer Than Close

This story starts in a way we can all identify with, preparing for our high school reunion and wanting to make a good impression, however, what's different for Ivy is that all of her classmates think she died! Through a clerical error and a common last name, Ivy Smith finds out she is no longer among the living alumni, however, she plans on attending the affair and correcting the mistake in person. She's successful, ambitious, and single - the first two by choice and effort, the third - because she keeps meeting men who can't handle the first two! She certainly cannot rise from the dead and make her grand entrance all alone! By chance and through another clerical error, she meets a handsome postal clerk, Raymond Jones, and both wonder if the sparks flying between them are enough to bridge the gap between their worlds and help them find a common bond that will get them through the one night, and possibly last forever! This story is becoming more familiar as women move up the corporate ladder, and it is interesting how differently men and women adapt to the different roles that being the top breadwinner sometimes forces you to play. I really enjoyed this book - Bettye's writing is real and contains elements that we can all relate to in some point of our lives. It is romantic, but not too sappy and keeps you engaged throughout the read. I am a long time reader of Bettye, and she never fails to develop characters that we can care about and want to walk along with through their experiences. I encourage everyone to check out this talented author!

Ivy Smith in in her late thirtys and is a hardworking and established woman. she is not romantically involved with anyone and her Twentieth Class reunion is approaching. Ivy wants to attend the reunion, but she does not want to attend this event without a date. She is perceived as very successful in Business, but totally unsuccessful in the romance department. Her family being the first to think this way. Ray Jones is an ordinary guy in his Forties who is employed at the US Post office. He is also a single father with sole custody of his 2 daughters. Now the views by all is that Ray and Ivy are definitely unevenly matched. So do you allow finances to run your life totally? Does a woman have to make less money than a man for the love to prosper? (well you will have to read the book to find out). Now some say that Mitch is more suitable for Ivy with his Prominent Career and his handsome self, but then there is the Esquisite Bethany, Ivys well to do Friend. This story tells of Love, relationships between family and friends. Bettye Griffin has done a extraordinary job with this novel, she has brought this story full circle and it is truelly an enjoyable read. Fatherhood is a tough job and a joy and you love Yolanda and Maya. You will also recognize Casey and Elgin as someone you may know also. I highly recommend this story... very well done. Also it is a read for anyone, just the right mixture for all readers.