When do we know when we’re ready to move on from the loss of a great love? That question is the subject of Sadira Stone’s debut novel THROUGH THE RED DOOR.

Almost a year ago, bookstore owner Clara Martelli lost her husband Jared in a tragic accident. She still dreams of him – vividly – and wonders if she will ever get to the place where she can move on. She wonders if she even wants to.

One day, a handsome stranger walks into her bookshop with a request to view the extensive erotica collection Jared and Clara stored in their bookshop. Clara is drawn to Nick, a university professor doing research of sexual mores and erotica, and he stirs up a desire within her she thought to never feel again. When another man comes into her life, teacher Doug, a soon-to-be-divorced nice guy, Clara realizes she needs to make a choice between the two men.

The erotic scenes in this bookw ere off the charts – even the ones that were only Clara’s“dreams.” Ms. Stone’s debut novel is a rich mix of love, sex, and thoughtful introspection as she tries to move on with her life.

I don’t usually give 5 stars to a debut author, but this book soundly deserves it. Thank you to Netgally and the WILD ROSE PRESS for allowing my a sneak peek at such a good book.

Clara Martelli is drowned in grief after losing her soulmate in an accident. They founded and ran Book Nirvanna and she is struggling without him. As it approaches his one year anniversary, things get harder and she becomes confused as what to do when she encounters Professor Nick Papadopoulos who has come to her bookshop for research. Her friend tries to get her to move on by introducing his cousin which results in a tangled web of guilt and emotion. A good storyline with a slow buildup, I did find Clara’s indecision a bit irritating but on the whole a good read. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Loved the concept and overall writing despite one of the main characters Clara which became the main reason I rated so low. There was just something about her that was off putting, but I digress. Besides that, interesting read.