This wonderful book is going to need a sequel!
This latest novel by Sandi Kahn Shelton is one of those rare stories that truly grabbed me on page 1. I got caught up with everyone's life, even Nate, whom I found to be a bit TOO obnoxious at first (sorry, I instinctively LOATHE anyone who calls anyone, especially children, 'dude'). The dialog rang true - I could hear all of the characters speaking in my head, something that only happens when I feel the author has really nailed how real people talk. These are some messed up characters, but I liked everyone anyway!
I was sorry when the book ended, but really, really want to revisit these characters down the road, maybe when Arley and Christopher become teenagers?! I have already passed this on to my sister with glowing reviews and I plan to go back and read Shelton's previous novels.
Rated of 5
by Sue (Wauwatosa WI)
Great Story
This is the first book I've read by Sandi Kahn Shelton and I loved it! The author is a great storyteller and I had trouble putting it down. Her easy, readable style brings complex characters and situations to life. I'm purchasing Shelton's other two novels after fully enjoying this one. Highly recommended!
Rated of 5
by Diane (South Portland ME)
Tender & Witty!
From the first few pages of Shelton's Kissing Games of the World, I was hooked! Her characters just spring to life and become people you know. She writes about ordinary people living their lives the best they can. She does it in a tender and witty way and she's made a fan out of me. This is the first time I've read one of Shelton's books, but now I will definitely go back for her others.
Rated of 5
by Patricia (Trevett ME)
Funny, yet endearing
Some will call this book "chick lit", but men reading it will learn a lot, not the least of which is that there is always room for change, and often for the better.
"Kissing Games---" is the story of the 3 Goddard "boys" who have left or been left by the loves in their lives. Trust is a key issue for each. After the death of his father Harris, Nate goes back to the home town he left after the death of his wife, mother of his young son Christopher, and learns there's more to life than being in the fast lane. He has to deal with Jamie and her son Arley who were "house mates" of Harris. There are many funny moments as Nate learns to parent, taking his young son Christopher on business trips, while still trying to carry on his love life. Sandi Shelton's writing is very humorous, but she also conveys with sensitivity the hurt that had taken over Nate's life. Her descriptions of Christopher's behavior was spot on!
I read the book in one evening, thought the ending was just right, and can't wait until the author comes out with her next book.
Rated of 5
by Julie (Peoria IL)
Heartwarming Read
What a great story! This novel was so endearing, from beginning to end. All of the characters were believable, the plot was realistic and kept my interest throughout, and the writing was superb. The story flowed smoothly and without any dry spells....quite remarkable!
I was very impressed with this writer's skill and heart, and I can't wait to read more by this gifted author. If you want a book that will touch your soul, this one will fit the bill! Not a syrupy romance, but a wonderful story about how two people discovered what really matters in life, how they came to terms with love and loss, and happened to find each other in the process.
Rated of 5
by Patricia (Lawrence KS)
Kissing Games of the World Kissing Games was a great read!!! The story and the characters were all very compelling!!! I look forward to reading more of Shelton's work.
Rated of 5
by Kathy (Eaton OH)
Kissing Games of the World
Some books take a while to reel you in but I was hooked by this one from the very beginning. I loved it and didn't want it to end. The characters showed that even though we're all flawed beings in some way that we can change and learn to trust and love. I'm still working on the casting for the movie!
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of 5
by Meg (Swarthmore PA)
