Flirting With Forty - Jane Porter

Flirting With Forty
Jane Porter
5 Spot

Women's Fiction

Somehow, this is not exactly where Jackie Laurens thought she’d be in life at age 39. She’s divorced, with two kids, and her own decorating business in Seattle. Life is full, but Jackie feels strangely unfulfilled. When one of her friends suggests a trip to Hawaii to celebrate Jackie’s 40th birthday, Jackie jumps at the chance to leave her obligations, and often-dreary Seattle, behind her temporarily. When the friend backs out of the trip, Jackie decides to go it alone. Who knows what might happen?

To her dismay, Hawaii is filled with middle-aged men who have no business walking around in swimsuits. It’s downright depressing. Just when she’s almost given up hope, she meets surf instructor Kai. He’s gorgeous, tan, fit, and much younger. The two have a passionate affair, but Jackie must eventually return home. Once back in her ‘real’ life in Seattle, she can’t stop thinking about Kai. Several more trips to Hawaii convince her that they might have something real. Her friends are less than supportive, but Jackie is beginning to wonder if perhaps it’s worth taking a real chance for some real happiness.

Many women of all ages will be able to relate to Jackie. Real life and real responsibilities have a way of creeping up on you, snuffing out those youthful dreams. How many women have thought, even momentarily, of finding a way to make those dreams co-exist with their adult lives? My guess would be, plenty. While there are moments of seriousness here, for the most part, FLIRTING WITH FORTY is a fun, frothy read, perfect for an afternoon spent poolside. Or just in front of a fan with a tall, frosty lemonade.

Rating: 7
July 2006
ISBN# 0-446-69726-5 (trade paperback)