Night Winds [Mass Market Paperback]

Sharon Galligar Chance, Wichita Falls Times Record News

Her mother Glennis disappeared when Shae was only fifteen. Her father and aunt claimed Glennis had forsaken her family for another man, running off with only the precious jewelry created by her husband. Shae never understood how her mother could leave, without even a goodbye, when she had kept the secret of her mother's infidelities as promised. Perhaps, Shae believed, she was to blame for her mother's departure. To save Shae from making her mother's mistakes, her father and aunt kept very close tabs on her, closely controlling her life. But Shae's rebellious and spirited nature was not to be quashed.

While seeking refuge from her own engagement party, Shae meets the mysterious Phillip Payton on the beach. There, in the sand and the surf, they both seek answers to questions not yet confronted. Phillip had given up his dream of being a doctor at his father's deathbed to head the family business. A man of honor, he vows to keep his word no matter the cost. Even when subsequent business decisions lead to threats on his life, Phillip maintains his decision. But his chance encounter with Shae also captures his heart and his imagination, as he can't help being drawn to the beautiful young woman.

Together Shae and Phillip must find the answers to her past as well as his future. To be happy, Phillip must learn when a man of honor keeps his word, and when that keeping of the word is a mistake. Life is, indeed, a delicate balance between following one's heart and still fulfilling one's responsibility.

Gwyneth Atlee's tale will sweep the reader away on a tidal wave of intrigue, romance, and mystery. Be careful when you begin NIGHT WINDS, because it's impossible to put down and will keep you up well past bedtime. Shae's spirit and strength are remarkable, as are the growth and profound changes in Phillip. Even the secondary characters are remarkably well developed, created with the brushstroke of a master and living in the imagination long after finishing the book. These strengths, combined with an intriguing plot, lead me to very highly recommend NIGHT WINDS.