In Three Encounters of a Romantic Kind, TG Gore takes us on a deeply personal journey through the three major romantic relationships of his life. The narrative captures moments of serendipity, heartbreak, and enduring connection, spanning decades. From a youthful love in 1962 to a middle-aged partnership that ends tragically, and finally, an unexpected May-December romance later in life, Gore reflects on love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit.

What struck me first about this book is the candidness with the recounting of his relationships. The first encounter, with Emily, is bittersweet, young love blooming amid professional aspirations, only to unravel under the weight of time and circumstance. The descriptions of their beachside meeting are vivid, almost cinematic. He captures the giddy optimism of new love, tempered by the knowledge of its eventual collapse. His honesty about their troubled marriage, culminating in divorce, is refreshing and painfully human.

The second encounter, with Elaine, is my favorite part of the book. It’s a testament to second chances and the transformative power of love. The portrayal of Elaine is tender and heartfelt, and their meeting through a personal ad feels almost like fate. He shares moments of profound connection, from their first date’s shared love of music to Elaine’s unyielding support of his career. The emotional weight of this section deepens when Elaine falls ill. The anguish is palpable, and his profession’s inability to save her is a cruel irony that lingers long after the final page of their story.

The third encounter is where the tone of the book shifts dramatically. Gore’s openness about seeking physical connection on a dating website is bold, though at times bordering on indulgent. His romance with Veronica, a much younger woman, challenges societal norms and raises questions about compatibility, power dynamics, and the nature of desire. While the age gap is stark, his affection for Veronica feels genuine. However, the details of their intimacy may feel excessive to some readers, detracting from the emotional core of their relationship. The writing is straightforward and conversational, which makes the book an easy read. It oscillates between heartfelt introspection and overly detailed anecdotes that might not resonate with everyone. I feel the medical jargon sprinkled throughout seems somewhat out of place in what is primarily a romantic memoir.

Three Encounters of a Romantic Kind is a heartfelt exploration of love in its many forms: youthful infatuation, enduring partnership, and passionate reinvention. Gore’s reflections will resonate with readers who have experienced the highs and lows of love. The book is a touching reminder that love, in all its imperfections, is worth pursuing.

Pages: 28