Contemporary
Willow Bend
By Chrissy Dionne
May 1, 2006 - 3:49:00 PM

Paul Gordon moved to Willow Bend, South Carolina, after his lover's untimely death more than a year ago. His mother had coddled him while he recovered from the injuries sustained in the car accident but Paul knew it was time to attempt to rebuild his life, one without Jay. Paul would like to find love again but he's willing to settle for contentment and a sense of peace in his life. Hopefully he will find both.

Cory Saunders is struggling just to survive. He's holding down two jobs and taking care of his ailing mother, but the bills are still piling up and it's taking a huge toll of his emotional and physical well being. His mother requires around the clock care, most of which he does himself except for when he's working and then, he has arrangements with retired RN, Mrs. Harrison who comes to his home to care for his mother.

Paul wasn't looking for a new relationship when he moved to Willow Bend, South Carolina, from Spokane, Washington. He was really just looking to escape the pain of losing Jay. Instead, he quickly learns that it's all right to move on and continue to enjoy living and loving. Since he'd arrived in Willow Creek with very few possessions, shopping is necessary, especially once he discovers the perfect spot for his art studio. It's been over a year since he had any real interest in resuming his artwork - since Jay's death. While in town, he stops to eat before actually going grocery shopping and is waited on by a man that stirs an interest in him that he thought had died with Jay. Cory is very turned on by Paul, but he isn't sure if Paul is gay or even if he'd be interested in him. Besides, Cory knows that with his jobs and mom's care he really doesn't have time to have any sort of relationship. Some attractions are just too hard to resist. Paul and Cory need each other too much to even try to deny it.

WILLOW BEND is a poignantly sweet tale of love and loss. I have to say that it's too bad there aren't more towns like the one depicted in this book, where not only is the gay lifestyle accepted within the community, but people genuinely care for each other. Cory's emotional turmoil over his mother's discouraging medical condition will touch readers' hearts. He works so hard to take care of her that he has virtually no life of his own. Paul understands Cory's need to take care of his mother even though it worries him that Cory isn't taking the time to care for himself. Ally Blue does an amazing job taking us through the emotional roller coaster that goes along with the loss of a loved one. You'll experience each of the emotions as well as share in the triumphs and disappointments. I'd suggest having a box of tissues nearby. There's nothing quite like being able to smile through your tears.