As Long As He Needs Me reviewed by Irene Roth

As Long As He Needs Me
Mary Verdick
Romance Novel
Outskirts Press, 2009
215 pages
Paperback

Verdick's book is a unique portrayal of a romance novel.
While most romance novels end when the couple finally
overcoming many different obstacles, and these obstacles
actually help the couple grow and mature together, Verdick's
book spans thirty-five years of marriage. In essence, this
romance novel talks about all their years of marriage, all of the
ups and downs and celebrations.

It is an interesting novel, and no one would think that
someone's marriage might not survive a vacation. I love the
honest portrayal of the relationship between Clem and Kitty
Johanssen. They obviously share their own ups and downs
during their years of marriage. They embark on a cruise to
celebrate their 35th wedding anniversary. However, before their
ship sets sail, swindlers steal all of their money. This incident
starts their vacation on the wrong foot, as one could imagine.

Clem seems to react to this incident by withdrawing within
himself, while Kitty becomes outward and social and finds
pleasure in the company of strange characters on the ship.
Although their marriage has lasted 35 years, it is uncertain
whether it will last until the end of the cruise!

I read the book in one weekend. I couldn't do anything else
until I found out what happened to the relationship. I'm sure
that each reader will find the same kind of faith when they read
it. This is truly a great story!

Rating: 4 roses


Irene S. Roth
The Muse Book Reviewer