Shelby Ford. Late forties. Project Director from Perth. The contractor.


Jaxon Reid. Mid-fifties. Entrepreneur from Texas. The client.


A short-term contract. An unlikely encounter. A joy. A lie. A learning.


Shelby. After a traumatic childhood and many failed relationships, Shelby undertakes a journey of reflection and healing, and builds a stable and secure life for herself. Now fast approaching her fifties, she dreams of exploring the world and experiencing new things. She lands a short-term contract overseas and takes her chance without hesitation.


Jaxon. A man dedicated to his life mission and purpose. A dedication that resulted in many failed relationships and a now noticeable silence in his heart and his home. He longs for the one thing that has always eluded him: a solid, stable commitment. A life story. He knows it's time to forgive the past and open himself up to love again. He also knows that if he wants a different outcome, he must do it differently this time.


A chance encounter forces them both to reflect on what they've learned and what they need and want from life and love. As Jaxon and Shelby explore their needs and desires, Shelby is forced to admit that she's living with a secret-a secret that requires her to show her courage, close a difficult chapter, and learn some new lessons before she can be ready to receive the joy on offer.


If you believe in the power of desire, that you are enough, that the best love stories are life stories-and if you're open to a new playlist for love-this is the book for you.