FOLLOWIN' A DREAM

Computer programmer Vanessa Bradley has spent the two years following her father's death caring for her mother and volunteering. This static existence has left Vanessa feeling emotionally barren, and she fears that—at the ripe old age of 33—she has little chance of ever finding romance. But when Vanessa meets handsome art dealer and fellow volunteer Xavier Johnson at a banquet in Georgia, sparks fly. Xavier is just what Vanessa needs to spice up her life. Unfortunately, he is abruptly called overseas the very next day to collect Aboriginal artwork for an exhibition, and he unwittingly leaves Vanessa's number behind. Hurt that Xavier hasn't called, Vanessa tries to ignore him when she sees him two months later, but her scheming mother, Jackie, has plans to bring the two together. Vanessa and Xavier's rocky relationship is cemented when the couple travels to Australia to save Xavier's botched business deal with the Pintupi tribe and to rrescue Jackie—who journeyed to the Outback seeking enlightenment and was left to die by shady tour operators. Snoe (Wishin' on a Star) powerfully evokes the rugged beauty of the Australian landscape, and readers will appreciate her sensitive treatment of Vanessa's strained relationship with her mother and Xavier's newfound bond with his father. (July 3)