Storm Rising

This love story of a 17-year-old pianist, Storm, and a 28-year-old psychic, Jocelyn, is told from the boy's point of view. Storm is one of the walking wounded--his absent father is an alcoholic, his mother is a floozy, and his girlfriend has just left him. At first Storm is disturbed by Jocelyn, who hires him to help remodel her house, especially after he discovers her talent for healing, but he grows to love her. Their 11-year age difference, however, makes their relationship impossible in their small town. Jocelyn leaves town, and Storm begins counting down the days until his 18th birthday, when he can begin searching for her. Storm's story is handled well--his relationship with Jocelyn is presented tastefully and responsibly. Secondary characters are drawn skillfully, and Storm seems a believable person tottering between naivete and maturity. Readers will be left curious as to the happy ending promised by Storm's premonition. Ages 12-up. (Sept.)