Updated 6.1.23: The story first appeared in third person, but a year ago I changed the storytelling to first person. The narrative is set in Stockholm, Sweden in the early 70s. I've chosen the categories literary, contemporary & historical fiction The story presents a psychological portrait of gender struggle between the two main characters, James is from the Caribbean and Maud is from Sweden. Both are full of themselves––two ego-strippers. The storytelling is character-driven, and the plot has a few surprises. For years, James behaved like a playboy, shying away from a meaningful relationship until he began to feel like "e;a sex machine"e; and lonely. The time to turn a new page in his life had arrived. He had lost faith in meeting the right woman. James then meets a woman of his dreams - she's attractive and intellectually stimulating. His old seductive tricks become a threat, but James is disciplined. On the first date, a heated discussion erupts, which threatens his dream. James and Maud are argumentative and egoistic, and wage a battle of sexual politics against the other. Whether feminist Maud will stick to her gun or succumb to her affections remains a question. Former lady's man James has the choice of compromising to achieve his desire, by letting go of misogynistic inclinations – or walking away in despair. Opposites do attract. Solid 5 stars.Byvermont reviewer on February 5, 2017Verified PurchaseThe main character in the story James certainly could be described as a ladies man. He finds out that love is just around the corner and his life is about to be changed when he meets Maud Magnusson who is a journalist and also a feminist. James finds that a more meaningful relationship can be developed with someone who is much different than those whom he had met previously. One of my favorite lines from the story. "e;The only lies for which we are truly punished are those we tell ourselves."e; James had a goal in his life to become a writer. Another line that I liked. "e;In general, people aren't good in giving up bad habits!"e; I wondered what kind of relationship James and Maud would have? The old adage opposites attract certainly holds true. One more line that I liked "e;Guilt is an emotion that people experience because they're convinced they've caused harm."e; The references to the music really added to the story. Both characters had enough flaws to have the readers relate to them. Lawrence G. Taylor shows his readers a great story through his characters. I look forward to reading more works by Mr. Taylor. I have rated this one a solid 5 stars.
