Mainstream Fiction

Brenda Jackson

Kensington/Dafina

1-57566-922-6

May 2003

(3+) Alicia Thomas

PLOT SYNOPSIS: 

In PERFECT FIT, the bestselling and award-winning author tells the story of one woman's journey to escape betrayal and begin a new life.

REVIEW: 

PERFECT FIT brings readers the story of Gabriel Blackwell and Sage Dunbar. Readers of Ms. Jackson met Gabriel in the novel PERFECT TIMING. Sage and Gabe meet at a business meeting for the building of a resort in Alaska. During a social event afterwards, awareness sparks between them. Neither really acknowledges it because Sage proudly wears her engagement ring. Her commitment to her fiancé Erol stands firm. Sage’s loyalty impresses and draws Gabe despite knowing of her unavailability.

Gabe walks and talks like the man who has it all under control. The need for a woman to be a permanent part of his life does not exist. He feels a relationship can be possible but only if the woman fits his “no drama” list. The list evolved because of a hard love lesson that taught him all he ever wishes to know about relationships. Gabe believes that a great relationship is possible but is a very rare thing. However, his mother believes that the time has come for him to join his best friend, Christopher, in the ranks of the happily married.

Sage Dunbar’s life consists of every woman’s dream; from loving parents, a wonderful fiancé, supportive friends and a successful career. Having it all allows Sage to exude high levels of comfort and self confidence. Yet in one day, her world shatters into a million pieces. The two men at the center of life, her father and fiancé, destroys her trust and faith in love.

The story takes off when the Sage and Gabe are reunited in Alaska. Sage transferred within her company in order to give herself time to heal. The drama in her life gives her a failing grade for each item on Gabe’s list. Even with the warning bells constantly ringing, he cannot seem to stay away from her. Her happiness and healing becomes his main focus. In his attempts to assist Sage, Gabe has to face the question: How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? (Lk 6:42)

The story line progresses at a good pace. The characters develop so that you truly care for them. The issues do not over power the story. However, the healing that needs to take place between Sage and her father falls short. It appears to be too pat. And her last conversations with her mother leave the reader wanting more. Ms. Jackson set a higher standard for herself with stories like TIES THAT BIND. It did not totally carry over into this story.

PERFECT FIT continues to fulfill Ms. Jackson’s promise to leave you feeling good. Readers will enjoy this book.

alicia@romanceincolor.net (30th March 2003)