The Unexpected Connection (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781480868601)

While sitting poolside near her grandmother's West Palm Beach condo, young millennial Vanessa overhears a strange conversation: "What, you want to have phone sex?" Accustomed to little more than old folks with their card games and early bird dinners, Vanessa is shocked-but intrigued-and soon makes the acquaintance of Michelle. As it turns out, Michelle is a widow trying online dating, while Vanessa is single and still recovering from tragic loss.

Their morning meetings become a comforting daily occurrence. Separated by decades in age, the two women are extremely similar in many other ways and become fast friends. For Michelle, being single, no matter what age, is a roller coaster: one can accept the excitement and unpredictability or get off the ride. Michelle has learned to embrace the ride, and she encourages Vanessa to do the same, no matter past trauma.

Michelle even gifts Vanessa with her memoir, Keep Walking, based on her life as a widow and her baby boomer dating experience. At home in New York, Vanessa will have decisions to make as she has a new job waiting and a possible relationship in the wings. Michelle's insights and optimism change everything. Surviving life is a challenge, but to thrive, young Vanessa must find her authentic self, all with the help of a serendipitous friendship by a Florida pool.

The Unexpected Connection is a provocative book filled with timely stories, insightful reflections, and humor that readers of all ages, gender, and personal status can relate to. As the tales are told, the reader becomes witness to the inner struggles and ultimate growth both Michelle and Vanessa experience. As with The Dance Partner we may love to dance but finding the right partner is a challenge.

F.J. Strauss- Author, Life Coach, Professor