This is a tale of trials and tribulations we face in our intimate relationships; 'Slow Kisses' is about the sacrifices we make in holding on to those we choose to love and how those sacrifices affect ones outlook and the impact our choices have on how we choose to deal with everything else around us.The primary character, Madisyn Harper is facing her 35th birthday. She suddenly views her life as wasted and can't help but blame her current boyfriend, Greg, coupled with the shortcomings in their relationship for her present state of mind. She had dreams of becoming a loving wife and mother, devoted to her family, but due to Greg's inability to commit, her dreams may never be realized.Although Madisyn had become increasingly depressed as her milestone birthday approached, she attempted to go about business as usual and attends her monthly book club meeting, where her mood is quickly picked up upon. The members encourage Madisyn to discuss her issues openly and in doing so Madisyn reminisces, telling of a time when she thought she and Greg had actually come to the end of the road and she found herself in a new relationship where she could see no end. As Madisyn recounts dramatic events some of the book club members drift off into their own bad experiences; Vanessa Rice is the founder of, 'We Read as One, ' and is still not over her divorce, she recounts how her happy marriage ended abruptly and compares it to Madisyn's situation.Each member struggles to help Madisyn see that she needed to free herself of her current relationship and seek happiness elsewhere. There is Rose, who is a bitter welfare mom her heart is heavy with many regrets. One of them being consumed by a sense of failure that has caused her to remain stagnant and produced what she sees as the loser she is today. Drowning in her own memories Rose remains quiet for the most part, but definitely relates to Madisyn's plight because in her recent past she found herself faced with compromising her principles to hold onto her man and she recalls that all too vivid memory as they listen to the philosophy of each member regarding love and relationships. They all begin to examine their relationships in an attempt to put things in perspective, not only do they learn more about one another, but also they believe they have a better understanding of relationships and the opposite sex. As they laugh and cry together the healing of Madisyn, Vanessa, and Rose begins, which in the end brings the group closer as they console one another. Their being touched emotionally even repairs a rift in the relationship of Vanessa and Rose, who were at odds due to jealousy between them.'Slow Kisses' contains several subplots and each is a different character struggling with her own conflict. Although Madisyn is the principle character, the story delves into various aspects of the lives of the other characters that bare an association with the group, 'We Read as One' and the premise of this story is when do we say enough and it quits. This is tale of Urban Relationships told by each character, expressing their joy or pain.How far could you go for a friend?
