On his way to a job interview in Arizona, Peter Saunders is car-jacked and left for dead. However, his assailant himself, is killed in a fiery accident with an oil truck. Authorities notify Kate Douglas, his fiancée in New York of his death. She is devastated. And, as if that pain and heartache isn’t enough, Kate, a six-grade teacher, discovers she’s pregnant and must fight to keep her job. Though she never truly lets Peter’s ghost go, she eventually finds happiness with fellow teacher, Mark Winters…until fate intervenes once more.

REVIEW

Autumn Leaves is a beautiful love story. The plot is interesting and well-developed. The characters are strong, and each has his own voice. Autumn Leaves did not end the way I expected. This is an entertaining read.

Reviewed by: Anne Boling
www.ReviewYourBook.com
4/5 stars

EXCERPT

Kate finally opened her eyes and took in her surroundings. Seeing herself in bed with Mark brought back all the guilt and self-loathing she had felt before sleep had overtaken her. She got up with a start. Then realizing her nakedness, drew the sheet closer around her.

Mark said nothing. He waited for her to speak, fearing what she might say. Kate could hardly look at him. She still couldn't believe what had happened between them.
Yet it obviously had and it couldn't be erased.

"Mark...how...how did this happen? How could we?"

"You needed the comfort...I was here."

"Comfort? Is that what it's called now?"

"You're making it sound sordid."

"Well, isn't it? Peter isn't even buried yet...
And, oh...dear, what you must think of me..."

"I don't think any less of you. If anything, I love you more. Perhaps, had I been a stronger-willed man, I could have backed off. But I couldn't help myself...seeing you like that...loving you for so long. My, God, Kate, I'm still a man I'm human."

"It's my fault. I shouldn't have put you in such a compromising position."

"Kate, no matter what you think, it was a beautiful thing. You have no idea how long I dreamed of making love to you. I could die today and go to heaven."

"But...Mark...I..."

"You needed to be held and loved. I was there. End of story. We'll never mention it again if it hurts you."

"It not just that. What about us? We were friends. What about our friendship?"

"We're still friends. Nothing can ever change that. I once told you I'd always be there for you. I meant every word."