Derek is a hometown boy who made success happen for himself as a renowned writer. Now he's returned home to the quiet, small town feeling he loves because he's a momma's boy. He's had a crush on his old English teacher, Emily Boman, for over ten years now. He's kept up with her life by questioning his mother on her dealings, since they are good friends. When he runs into her while she's out walking her dog, his whole body reacts and stiffens. During dinner the next evening, neither can deny the sexual tension in the air and dessert is a wild, mind-blowing, orgasmic experience.

When Derek's ex-girlfriend shows up at his mother's house for dinner, Emily is devastated. She feels that she has been made a complete fool of, sleeping with him the night before. After dinner, Emily tries to get away before she breaks down and Derek tries to stop her retreat. He's waited too long to show Emily just much he loves her, this can't be the end. He sees the hurt and disappointment in her eyes and fears he has lost her. Can Derek straighten out things with his ex-girlfriend and hope that he'll have a future with Emily?

Grading on the Curve was a very short story but I liked the storyline. Success affects people in many different ways. Either it can manifest into arrogance or it can humble you. It's good to see when the glitz and glamour of stardom is out shone by old-fashion family values. The spark of young love can span years, and sometimes decades, as demonstrated in this story. The hero never forgot what was important and kept himself grounded with the thought of his home, his momma and his love.

Reviewed by: Pam S.