When Scott Stoddard, an American graduate student, sets off to Switzerland to start University, his life changes forever when he meets an older woman named Desiree, who happens to be the Countess de Rovere. But this is not your typical man meets older, more sophisticated woman romance novel. Filled with glamour, a European backdrop and flirtatious repartee, An Improbable Pairing is an intriguing historical romantic tale that takes place in the 1960s. With the vivid descriptions of historic architecture, stunning haute-couture, galas, European cuisine and the banter between nobles, author Gary Dickson, draws you in and transports you to the extravagant, European aristocratic lifestyle. It makes perfect sense that Dickson is a frequent traveler and self proclaimed “Francophile.”
Mr. Stoddard encountered many women — some of whom he even dated — throughout his European adventure, but he was only smitten with one. While Scott comes from a privileged, American background, the Countess’ wealth, privilege, worldliness and lifestyle makes their unlikely romance even more complicated. To say the couple’s pairing is met with some backlash is an understatement. Scott’s conservative, Southern Baptist parents — who happen to be paying for his education, plus Desiree’s ex husband, family and high society friends, all strongly object to their relationship. Throughout the book, their Romeo and Juliet-esque relationship comes face-to face with adversity, difficult choices, and even consequences. Sure, the glitz and glamour makes the love story interesting, but it’s those obstacles that make their fantasy, whirlwind romance more relatable. Many of us can relate to being in a challenging relationship with someone from a different upbringing, religion or socioeconomic class, which makes this extravagant novel more relatable.
In many romance novels, we generally see the story unfold through a female character’s eyes. Yet, An Improbable Pairing is told through the eyes of Scott, who is charming and witty, but young and conservative. And it shows. His worldview about women, work, style and relationships is intriguing at times, but a bit brow raising, as well. Perhaps, that’s what Gary Dickson was going for. The novel is well-written, imaginative, filled with romantic charm, elite destinations and a fun read. You can find An Improbable Pairing online and in major bookstores.
