‘I Must Stand Up for Myself More’ so promises Maggie Storm who spends her days cleaning houses for people who often have more money than manners. Married to a man with as much sex appeal as Mr Blobby, she dreams of a life straight from the pages of a romantic novel. ‘My Head Must Rule Over My Heart’ so promises Ella Moore who, determined never to let her heart get the better of her again, is recovering from seven wasted years of failing to win over the daughter of the man with whom she wanted to spend the rest of her life. ‘No More Women’ so promises Ethan Edwards who, to distract himself from the depressing sham of his marriage, is a repeat offender when it comes to turning to other women for sexual consolation. But when Ella appears unexpectedly in his life, he finds himself turning to her for very different reasons.
Dive into the captivating world of Erica James' *Promises, Promises*, a heartwarming and insightful novel exploring the complexities of relationships, self-discovery, and the allure of second chances. First published in 2010 by Orion Fiction, this compelling read follows the interwoven lives of three individuals each grappling with broken vows and the yearning for a different future. Meet Maggie Storm, a hardworking cleaner whose days are spent scrubbing the homes of the wealthy and often inconsiderate. Trapped in a passionless marriage to a man who evokes all the charm of Mr. Blobby, Maggie escapes into the pages of romance novels, dreaming of a life filled with excitement and true love. Her promise to herself: to finally stand up for herself and claim the happiness she deserves. Will she find the courage to break free from her mundane existence and chase her romantic dreams? Then there's Ella Moore, a woman determined to shield her heart after a devastating seven-year pursuit of a relationship that never materialized. Haunted by her past and the rejection of her lover's daughter, Ella vows to let her head rule her heart, building walls to protect herself from future heartache. But can she truly suppress her emotions and find contentment in a life devoid of love and passion? Is it truly possible to "rule over" one's heart? Finally, we encounter Ethan Edwards, a man trapped in a loveless marriage, seeking solace and fleeting pleasure in the arms of other women. A serial offender of infidelity, Ethan uses these encounters as a distraction from the emptiness he feels. However, his world is turned upside down when Ella unexpectedly enters his life. Suddenly, he finds himself drawn to her for reasons far beyond the physical, seeking connection and understanding in a way he never anticipated. Will Ella be the catalyst for him to confront the sham of his marriage and find genuine fulfillment? *Promises, Promises* is more than just a romantic novel; it's a poignant exploration of the promises we make to ourselves and others, and the courage it takes to break free from patterns that no longer serve us. Erica James masterfully weaves together these three distinct narratives, creating a tapestry of human experience that is both relatable and deeply moving. Prepare to be swept away by the characters' vulnerabilities, their struggles, and their ultimately hopeful journeys towards self-discovery and the possibility of finding true and lasting love. This novel, with 429 pages, invites readers to contemplate the weight of their own promises and the transformative power of embracing change. Expect witty banter, relatable characters, and emotionally resonant storylines that will leave you pondering the complexities of love, loyalty, and the pursuit of happiness long after you turn the final page. *Promises, Promises* showcases Erica James' signature style of combining heartwarming stories with insightful observations of human nature. This paperback edition is a perfect addition to any fiction lover's collection, promising hours of captivating reading and a satisfying exploration of the human heart.
