I LOVE this book! I love it for several reasons. For one thing, it’s very well written. Short stories, novelettes, and novellas can be challenging. Jack Kregas succeeds in developing his characters and painting colorful settings with five stars.

“Morris Morris” is facing something many elders face in today’s world. No longer able to live alone, financially strapped, they are forced to abandon their independence and move into assisted living communities or nursing homes. Kregas describes those living situations with skill. Morris faces his last days following rules, eating less than exquisite food on a schedule set by the community, and encouraged to join groups or make friends with elders with whom he has nothing in common. This lifestyle is contrary to the exciting life he led when he was younger. “All would agree that whatever he did, he did it with style and class.” Definitely a ladies man and a big spender. But, as many people don’t, he gave no thought to saving for a rainy day.

Morris is not the only resident of “Respectable Living Resorts” who chafes under the restrictive rules of the community. Enter Sheila. She’s flirty, has money, and recognizes a kindred soul in Morris. Sex may bring them together, but it’s their sense of adventure and business savvy that keep them coming back for more.

Kregas does a great job of representing the corporations who control chains of assisted living communities and nursing homes; big businesses more interested in making money than caring for residents. This book could almost be a social commentary on growing old.