I responded to The Boss's request for a review on this book because I need to show that I am eager, hardworking, brave, reverent, and wise. This earnest, well-meant gesture sent me on quite a trip as I read Full Circle.

On a whim, Brie Donovan calls the number Billy Gage had written in her yearbook years ago and makes a date with him to meet in room 13 of Ruby's Hideaway. After marathon sex during the night and into the morning, Brie decides the sex is the best she has had, but they have nothing else in common. Billy decides Brie is his woman, but she is still in love with Nick Drake, her first love.

Nick was the piano man for the band at a party she attended eight years ago, and she knew he was The One as soon as she met him, despite the 17 years difference in their ages. Nick did not mention that he had a wife. Brie ignores Billy's violent outbursts, but she cannot ignore his sexual pull. Nick reappears and she is unable to make wise decisions about the men in her life. She accepts an engagement ring from Billy despite seeing him only as a source for sex. She also takes up with Nick again without questioning his ability to be faithful.

As events proceed, it seems certain Brie is destined for disaster at the hands of one of the men. The hero and/or villain switched from Billy to Nick to a third man and back again. Is Brie a TSTL heroine or a true to life woman on a downward spiral? It is impossible to get a consistent fix on the male characters.

As irritating as this is, it is true to life. Pacing was uneven and the settings were randomly described and did not propel the story. I am of two minds concerning Full Circle. Reading it was somewhat like watching one of those painful submissions to America's Funniest Home Videos. I sensed impending disaster caused by stupid choices on everyone's part. Nevertheless, life is sometimes made of stupid choices on everyone's part. I can recommend Full Circle for readers who like dark and gritty fiction, and who are not offended by earthy sex.

Reviewed By Catherine
© March 2005