The Rising Storm

When the grandmother who raised her suddenly and mysteriously disappears from London, headstrong Oxford student Roz Pearson reacts with anger and fear. Her search for Sophy uncovers an intriguing tale of long-ago love that forms a nice contrast to her own stormy romance with fellow Oxonian Michael Chance. Roz visits her crochety Great-Uncle Jack, who reveals nothing but unwittingly leads her to his adored sister's diaries from the years 1939-41. The narrative then flashes back to that period; a carefully guarded secret emerges from the saga of Sophy's youthful adventures. Back in the present, Jack dies unexpectedly, and Roz takes Michael along to the south of France, scene of her grandmother's wartime affair with French news photographer Daniel Verge. Subsequent events push Roz toward painful self-understanding and growth, which may help her win back Michael after a bitter quarrel. Veteran romancer Goodwin ( Sisters ) offers lyrical descriptions and good characterizations in a dashing, offhand style that makes for satisfying reading. (Aug.)