THE ULTIMATUM

Author: Dan Graziano ISBN: 0060847972 7/2007 FICTION Publisher: AVON A

Henry's got it good. He's a semi-successful, if not yet famous novelist. He's got a good job and good buds. Best of all, he's got Layla, his long-time, live-in lover, a fast-track associate at a New Jersey law firm. Henry loves Layla and she loves him. Life is a banquet, until . . . The Ultimatum! In a week, Henry and Layla are off to Maine for a friend's wedding. And if Henry hasn't proposed marriage by the time the bride tosses the bouquet, Layla swears they're finished. For good. Henry thinks if it's not broke, don't fix it. But Layla needs proof of his love and devotion. And she's not kidding. So who can he turn to for advice? Jake, his despondent divorced brother? His marriage-junkie golf friend, Big John? His outsized Peter Pan pal Pete, who simply won't grow up? Meanwhile Layla's got her two best girlfriends, tough-talking Gloria and sensitive Susan, giving helpful, contradictory advice. Time is ticking away on the most important decision of Henry's life. But it'll take a mad, high-speed road trip and some bizarre behavior—perhaps even an impromptu kidnapping—to point him in the right, life-changing direction.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

Hilarious! Henry is living a grand life—he is a aspiring novelist, has a great job and a circle of great friends. He has a great girlfriend, Layla, who is a successful lawyer at a New Jersey law firm. However, Henry has some commitment issues. Large ones. The couple is attending a wedding of mutual friends and he is given an ultimatum by Layla—he either proposes by the time the bride throws the bouquet, or she is leaving him high and dry. Henry sees nothing wrong with the way their relationship is going, so why change something that is already good? But, Henry needs advice—and quickly—if he's going to keep the woman he loves.

I loved this book! I believe every woman would enjoy this book, not only for its comic relief, but because it is a truly heartwarming tale. I also believe it is something that every woman can relate to and something that every man struggles with, at some point. It was refreshing to read this tale from a man's point of view. It also gives some insight into what a man is really thinking. A great read, easy and entertaining, to say the least.

Kym Oetting