Poetry Adventure and Love

Cassie was a high school art teacher in San Francisco. At thirty one, she accepts a job managing an art centre in an aboriginal community in the wild and remote north of Australia. She arrives at this exotic location, physically and mentally weary, yet somehow spiritually renewed. She tries to convince herself that she's over the break-up of her 10 year relationship with James and is immediately wary of her connection with 2 seemingly eligible, strong and possibly dangerous men, Mario and Ben. We learn that perhaps Cassie has never cried, yet no sooner than she arrives and crashes her boat, her tears come. Her character begins with this complex paradox for the reader: She must be pretty tough; she just sailed across the Pacific single handed. On the other hand, she seems to go to pieces after she crashes her boat. This underlying enigma and character complexity carries forward and we can't help but wonder how Cassie will cope with some of the difficult and dangerous situations she finds herself encountering. Her first major test happens when Dumatja, the Yolngu elder linked to the art centre, physically threatens Cassie and the reader must fear for her ability to survive. This story is set in a place you could never imagine exists today. There are crocodiles, buffalo and other things that will kill you and the Yolngu natives still practice their ancient ceremony and dance while struggling within the fringes of the 21st century. You will be captivated by the colour, the smells, the strange personification of evil. You may even shed a tear as you journey with this strong, independent woman, laugh with her witty repartee and be warmed as her love story unfolds. Reviews: "The dialogue and rapport between the central characters is brilliantly written, and it is easy for the reader to empathise with them. A charming and beautifully written story. A very vibrant, engaging voice." Harlequin Mills and Boon Ltd (Surrey England) Editing Team "Excellent writing. The story line is intriguing especially for those readers who like international settings and/or those who like the idea of reinventing one's life." Silicon Valley RWA Judge "It's a fantastic story. I think an overseas reader will love the unique Aussie outback setting. I learnt something new about the aboriginal culture described in the story, which I really enjoyed (for e.g. the idea of women not wearing shorts and jeans was something I hadn't heard before). Also liked the idea of seeing the culture through the eyes of an American, not an Australian. The world the writer created seemed foreign and fascinating to me, and this held my interest." Romance Writers of Australia Judge "The heroine is a strong, independent woman who is taking a monumental step in her life to help others. She's giving up everything she knows to better the lives and conditions of those living in a less fortunate country. I like Ben and the initial conflict shown between them regarding the boat accident. It made me want them together even more." Indiana Romance Writers of America Judge "Interesting and exciting story. Didn't want to put it down and could have read more. Enjoyed learning more about the aboriginal tribes of Australia!" Marion C. Amazon Customer "It's awesome!" Kristy-lee Darwin Readers (Book club)