Title: Romancing the Geek
Author: Terry Odell
Published in January 2007 by Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary
ISBN: N/A
Other books by Terry: Relationships, Words, Out of Sight, Rose Petals Vol III: Second Chance Rose, Finding Sarah, What’s In A Name, Starting Over
A lonely software geek seeks guidance from the only woman he trusts. his cubicle roommate. Thrown together due to limited office space, two co-workers begin a friendship that quickly turns onto something more.
With Christmas past, and Valentine’s Day on the horizon, Brad is reminded how lacking his love life is. His biggest dilemma is talking to a woman, without getting tongue-tied. After lunching with his little brother, Brad returns to the office only to find a woman sitting at his desk. Tolerating the temporary sitting arrangement, he soon realizes the roommate is advantageous – she can help him overcome awkwardness around women.
Originally applied for a graphic designer position, Stephanie accepts the secretary post so she can continue paying her bills. Adding to the indignity, she finds her desk is sequestered far from her colleges with a cranky, clutter junky software developer. Also, a man who finds sharing office space a deplorable act as well. She is suitably surprised when two weeks later when her cubie-roomie offers her coffee, breaking their agreed upon snubbed silence. He needs “woman help”. Eager to aid the poor man, Stephanie puts him through a tough training; teaching him the ins and outs of women.
A superbly sweet short story, Romancing the Geek is adorable as two co-workers, both longing for an intimate relationship, unwittingly find romance. The characters are real and tangible. Stephanie gently guides Brad through the rigors of talking to a woman without stumbling over words, all the while calming his uncertainty. As he becomes more comfortable speaking with her, she encourages him to apply what he has practiced to other woman. Brad’s comedic results make the story more believable, whereas his frustration and humiliation convincing. Ms. Odell’s natural smooth plot is engrossing as the authentic characters give it life. As the two office mates become closer friends their awareness sparks a need for more intimate encounters. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to start a romance, at least this reader thinks so.
Ms. Odell’s, Romancing the Geek, published through Wild Rose Press, is only one of many stories available to faithful romance fans. Hurricane Breeze is due out soon from Wild Rose Press; check their web site for updates. As in 2008 When Danger Calls will be released, including Hidden Fire. For powerfully charged short stories, Ms. Odell is the name to look for – I intend to keep my eyes pealed for her future writings.
A Dedicated Reader,
Pamela Jenewein
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