Leaving Normal

I came across this book at work. I just finished reading another book, and was desperate to start a new one. I read the back cover thinking it was not my kind of book, and started it reluctantly. From the first chapter, the book caught my attention. It was an easy read. I could hardly put the book down. The characters are so likable. The story is wonderful. I would definately recommend this book to anyone. Truely a magnificent love story.

After forty plus years, Natalie Goodwin is finally ready to begin her own life. Two years after her divorce, she is busy opening her dream floral shop while her daughter is off attending her first year of college. Her home, family, and work are all in order. Although a little lonely, Natalie is happy doing what she wants for the first time. Gun shy after her recent dating adventures, Natalie isn't looking for a man. Of course, that doesn't mean she can't enjoy looking at her hunky neighbor. Firefighter, Tony Cruz, is delicious eye candy and completely safe. He is nine years her junior and married - definitely not available! When Tony's cheating wife leaves him, Natalie offers him friendly comfort and understanding. What begins as friendship grows into much more. Will the duo be able to work through their age difference and its inherent problems? Can they discover what truly matters? Leaving Normal is a realistic and emotional love story. I appreciated its authenticity and the completely believable firefighter elements. Tony and Natalie are genuinely real; they could be the people that you might know and like. While Tony might not be the perfect man, he is still to die for! He is a sweet hunk and a humble hero. Their relationship evolves gradually, and although this pace works with their storyline, the flow becomes sluggish with the additional side plots. I must admit that I wanted their physical relationship to progress more quickly. The heat is a gentle simmer that builds slowly, and if you don't mind this pace, it's a wonderful book. Sweet and inspirational, Leaving Normal gracefully explores the complexities of life and love. Cheryl Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed

After reading her novel, "Pink Moon", which I extremely enjoyed, I couldn't wait to get my hands on her next novel. It was well worth the wait. Holm takes a lonely, not too-happy woman and shows how she can, too, have happiness- even if the hunk-of-a-man-firefighter that has attracted her isn't her age. Clearly shows that we can all bounce back and have a heck of alot of fun in our lifes. Buy the book and spice your life up a notch. You'll be glad you did. Sicily Yoder aka Teresa Phillips Owner Kentucky Amish Books

Leaving Normal by Stef Ann Holm is a deeply moving tale of taking a second chance at love. Natalie Goodwin is reevaluating her life after the end of her marriage. She is starting her own floral shop, her daughter is college bound so she is concentrating on those things. Natalie is attracted to her younger neighbor but he is married and thus off limits. But when Tony Cruz comes to her for advise after his marriage ends she is unsure of the just friends vow she has made. Firefighter Tony Cruz knew his marriage was far from perfect but he wasn't prepared to find out his wife was having an affair. Tony loves his stepdaughter and is crushed when his wife leaves him. He finds a confidante and friend in his neighbor Natalie. Tony realizes what was missing in his marriage since his growing friendship with Natalie. But Tony wants to have children and Natalie feels being nine years older that she is past that phase in her life. A tragedy makes both Tony and Natalie think about what really matters. Leaving Normal is a very emotional and thought provoking book. A secondary romance between Tony's widow mom and Natalie's widower dad is priceless. This book really touches on what really makes life worth fighting for with each character. Life lessons are learned by all and for the reader as well. Tony and Natalie's friendship is as exceptional as their passion for each other. This book will have a special place in your heart.