Like a Guilty Thing

Ben Slocum's marriage careens out of control so he flees New England only to have his progress-and nearly his life-ended. Octogenarian and psychiatrist Will Rivard saves Ben with the stroke of a T'ai Chi sword. The ensuing friendship brings to light a stunning secret that has tormented Will for six decades. Will shares this secret through his adolescent journal transporting Ben back in time to the height of the Great Depression.</P><P>Ben's glimpse back in time reveals why two lovers cross the raging floodwaters of Fountain Creek even as a bridge washes out beneath their car. Stranded they huddle on the roof a spot scarcely larger than a welcome mat as rescuers throw ropes and launch boats into the torrent. Will Rivard joins in the fight to save them. Yet questions remain: Why did the couple attempt such a desperate gambit in the first place? Did Will chase them to that spot?</P><P>As the complex strands of past and present converge romance blossoms in Ben's life and he learns of Will's ill-fated love. <I>Like a Guilty Thing</I> presents parallel dramas each with questions-and answers-that race toward its gripping end.</P>