Fictional characters come to life in New York City in these short stories written by Warren Adler in his book New York Echoes. The relationships among the vast cast of characters are presented in such a realistic way, you forget they aren't real people. The writer has given an authentic voice to life and love, be it romantic, paternal or friend; the beauty and disappointments of relationships are richly captured on each page.

A theme for some of the stories involve widowers who feel society and family no longer have a use for them and they look to the past for comfort. In "A Love Story" James returns to NYC after many years. While walking the busy streets he thinks he sees Vera, his first love. Fearing his memory may be playing tricks on him in his old age, he starts to follow her to see if she really could be Vera. Day after day he follows her to work and home. His confidence fails him every time he wants to approach her. This goes on for a month until the police nab him for stalking her. He tells them why he was following her and the police bring in the mystery lady. What unfolds is shocking insight into memory and relationships.

In "Birthday Celebration" Al decides against spending his 75th birthday alone and invites Marvin, a young college student he speaks to frequently in the park, to join him for a special dinner. Marvin accepts but the celebration unravels as the generation gap begins to engulf them. Al's expectations fail him and ruin his special day.

There are stories of young adults struggling to come to terms with their lives, desired success and family. In "Better Than Donna Reed," Aggie, a young actress, tries to live up to the expectations of a mother who wants a famous daughter. Groomed to be a star since she was a child, Aggie goes to NYC after high school to fulfill what she was told is her destiny. Her mother constantly bragged to friends and co-workers that her daughter would soon be a star. A few years pass without any news, then a call home about a part in a play puts in motion a series of unexpected encounters and disappointments.