The Memory of You

In this dramatic first Sanctuary Sound contemporary, Beck (the Sterling Canyon series) reunites former lovers and reignites lingering emotions. Thirty-something Stefanie Lockwood’s new business as a home remodeler brings her back to the sleepy Connecticut coastal town of Sanctuary Sound a decade after she dumped her high school sweetheart, Ryan Quinn. Stefanie and Ryan’s new chance at love is threatened by Stefanie’s flashbacks to a violent mugging in her college town of Hartford three months earlier. In addition, Ryan’s eight-year-old daughter keeps trying to get him back together with his ex-wife. Beck adds further conflict by introducing two feuding friends of Stefanie’s, while Ryan’s wise mother provides stability that balances the turmoil in everyone’s lives. Beck’s portrayals of divorce and trauma are keen, and once the story slows down from its initial rapid pace and focuses on Ryan and Stefanie, readers will be caught up in their journey toward healing and romance. Agent: Jill Marsal, Marsal Lyon Literary. (Nov.)