Enchanted, Dottie’s Story
Dottie George lovingly describes her relationship with Mr. Harry Grover and his first wife, Edwina. She worked as a maid at their estate in Millbrook, New York until the day that the couple received news that Ms. Edwina had an inoperable brain tumor. On the same day, Edwina put a handgun into her mouth and pulled the trigger.
As she tried to help her employer through those dark days, a strong bond developed between employer and maid. Their relationship became more like two old friends. When Dottie arrived early one morning to discover Mr. Grover cooking breakfast for a strange, younger woman, her shock was impossible to hide. No other woman could ever compare to the first Mrs. Grover, but this stranger would change their lives.
Enchanted is a Romantic/Suspense about the relationship between Harry Grover and his second love. The remarkable thing about this love, which sets it apart from other love stories, is that this woman does not possess a memory.
While standing in the Metropolitan Museum of Art on a balmy fall day, the young woman, with blue-black hair, discovers that the only thing she knows for sure is that she has a ticket to a gala event at the Met and a tube of Lancome lipstick enveloped inside a shiny new purse.
Slowly, the line inches into the grand entrance hall. The patrons, who surround her, are happy and discuss their lives. This beautiful woman stands alone hoping that soon, someone will return to her side. Together, they will laugh at her predicament. How could she not possess memory? That never happens.
Eventually, she encounters a handsome, older man. When she tearfully recounts her story of distress, the widower is drawn into her life. He suggests that she return to his estate. There are several guest cottages where she is welcome to stay for a few days. They both hope that her memory soon will return.
Fearfully, the woman with no memory agrees that she has no other alternative but to accompany him; unless she desires a cot in the local jail or homeless shelter. Quickly, the two realize there is a strong attraction between them. They also are aware of the strange situation they find themselves. At any moment, this woman may remember a husband and children.
Mr. Grover must resist any feelings for her. The decision, of protecting her until family arrives, allows her to remain with him. As he strives to help her, this kind man, puts his feelings aside. He does everything in his power to locate her family.
Dottie and Mr. George name the woman, Elizabeth. A different battle is encountered by the new guest. Although she returns his love, she must hide feelings for the handsome widower. The woman, with no memory, experiences terrible nightmares. Frequently, she sees the face of an angry blonde. The anger, which is exhibited toward Elizabeth from this person, haunts her. Is it possible that the cause of amnesia is insanity? Even worse, what did she do to cause such hatred from this nameless figure who harasses her during sleep? Could she, Elizabeth, be an evil person? Wishing to protect Mr. Grover from any pain, it is imperative that she not become involved.
Two damaged souls discover love at last. It is torture that they must hide their true feelings to prevent causing pain to the other. Despite their refusal of acknowledgment, the two discover happiness. They both enjoy the beautiful home that Grover built with his first wife, Edwina. Here, in the home named Enchanted, they take long walks and develop an easy life together. Even though they do not share a bed, they share a pristine love.
Travel all around the world on Cunard lines, the Orient Express, ferries, trains, buses and planes only strengthen their love. Hysterical events occur as they travel. Although Grover insists on the very best, he enjoys creating a few surprises such as the third class train from Greece to Istanbul.
Dottie recounts Elizabeth’s trek in Europe with fondness. When the couple finally returns home to Enchanted, their love is deep and impenetrable. It is apparent that they accept feelings of love. Still, they avoid passion.
Harry’s best friend, Don Donahue, deeply loved Edwina. His friendship with the couple lasted many decades. He resents this new woman. Believing that she will only hurt his friend, he reasons with Grover to remove her from his life. Soon, a decision is required. Of course, Elizabeth wins over the old friend. Anger grows to hatred in Donahue. His attempt to eliminate her from the scene is horrible. Once again, Ms. Dottie is the savior of Harry Grover.
Surprisingly, a blow to Elizabeth’s head during a confrontation with Donahue is the spark which results in the return of her memory. What she discovers is terrible for the future of the lovers. It is imperative that the woman, with memory, return to her family. Grover’s worse fears that she may have children are realized when her memory returns. Complicating things, even more, are other facts. Elizabeth’s actions in her past life were incomprehensible.
As they drive from New York to her home on the Gulf of Mexico, the couple admits this is the end for them. It is heartbreaking to know that the dream they once enjoyed is over. Their beautiful life must cease. Commitments call to the woman with blue-black hair. No more long walks around the pond at Enchanted.
Two stories are at play in this compelling story of love and denial. The bond between a damaged man and woman; as well as the desperate love of a family for a missing wife and mother.
Who will win the heart of Elizabeth? Enchanted draws you into a web of lost memories as well as dreams for an enchanting future.
