IS THIS ALL THERE IS? By Patricia Mann-a review

ABOUT THE BOOK: Released January 3, 2013

Beth Thomas has the perfect life. At thirty-five, she’s married to her college sweetheart, has two adorable kids, and teaches part time at the local university. But when a friend persuades Beth to go dancing on a rare night out, a chance meeting with twenty one year old Dave, one of her former students, changes the course of her life. Loud music, too much to drink, and the thrill of feeling young again lead to an unforgettable kiss that was never supposed to happen. As she tries to put the memory behind her, Dave’s pursuit leaves Beth torn between what her mind says is right and what her heart and body crave.

*************************

REVIEW:

Patricia Mann’s IS THIS ALL THERE IS ? is a story for anyone considering an affair. Whether it is an affair of the heart or a physical affair there are dangers, heartbreak, excitement, sorrow, anger, pain, retribution and regret.

Beth Thomas is a married woman with two small children, teaches part time at the local college and, she and her husband have fallen into a rut. Desire has given way to ambivalence and sex has given way to sleep. Like many young families, there are days, even weeks, where it seems everything leads to a diaper pail or washing machine. But for Beth Thomas, an opportunity presents itself in the guise of a former student who has had a major crush on his teacher since the first time he laid eyes on her.

What woman wouldn’t want the adoration and attention of a hot twenty-something young man who had yet to fall prey to the realities of life. But Beth knows she is treading into dangerous waters and no one will win in the end.

IS THIS ALL THERE IS is one woman’s journey into the unknown-a journey of discovery. Like many woman, Beth feels she is missing something in her life. She is not actively looking for anything or anyone, but she is floundering in her present circumstance. Real life isn’t pretty some days but the alternative is even uglier.

Relationships are difficult at best and many couples find themselves dissatisfied with the direction of their marriage. This is not to say that these couples stray or go looking for something on the side. Children can bring out a side to people that they never knew existed. Raising a family is hard, especially in today’s society where everyone is looking for something different, something new. And falling into a rut, into a familiar pattern but a pattern that is going around in circles, can sometimes pull the person into another direction. Whether intentionally or otherwise, looking for something different isn’t always better.

IS THIS ALL THERE IS is an eye-opener for anyone considering stepping outside of the marriage. Many women (and men) will recognize themselves-whether it is in the form of the married woman who is looking for something different or the mother whose self-image is now tied to her family. The reality of the situation will strike a chord with many readers and will have you thinking-IS THIS ALL THERE IS?

Patricia Mann has written a storyline, whether taken from real life or a work of fiction, that will make you sit up and think. It will be a difficult read for some, especially those who have experienced the emotional trauma and heartache of an affair. Is it worth the physical and emotional pain to look for something different or something you believe is more exciting, when everything you ever needed, was at home-waiting to be explored and discovered?

Patricia is currently writing a sequel to IS THIS ALL THERE IS?

ORDER LINKS: Amazon / Barnes and Noble /

Copy supplied by author

Reviewed by Sandy

There is a GIVEAWAY at GOODREADS for a chance to WIN one of ten copies of IS THIS ALL THERE IS? Click HERE to enter

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Patricia Mann is a university professor. She lives in California with her husband, their two kids, and a sweet, silly old dog.

Follow Patricia at : Goodreads / Website / Blog