Dreams in the Distance, Book One of THE CHOICE Series
What voices influence your choices?
1952 Britain enjoys peace and renewed prosperity. However, after WWII personal battles rage for the souls of three veterans and two English ingénues. Listening to perverse inner voices instead of powerful whispers could derail their dreams.
Former Seaforth Highlander, 6'6'' redheaded Master Sergeant O. C. Ogilvie, recipient of the Victoria Cross, Britain's highest military decoration for valor, confronts Guilt and Ridicule while struggling to overcome battle fatigue. His brother's voice attempts to destroy him, but Ollie's guardian angel-a wee chap in a bonnet and kilt- wants him to live and love again as he studies at Oxford.
The intriguing former USAAF ace fighter pilot, Major Dan McCauley, recipient of a Distinguished Service Cross (2nd highest military decoration for heroism) lived to fly. But war wounds grounded him, stealing his dream. Blaming God, he listens to Self-Pity and chooses humanism in an attempt to find peace as a UCLA professor.
During the war, handsome Royal Navy Lt. Commander Hugh Claiborne's exceptional intellect got him assigned to Naval Intelligence. That demolished his wartime sea-duty dream of glory. Now, based at Britain's embassy in Washington D. C., career aspirations assist Pride and Denial in the struggle with his feelings for his sister's best friend in England.
Phila Claiborne, Hugh's sister and the Earl of Wembley's daughter, dreams of finding Prince Charming at her birthday ball or at Oxford, where she's a student. Insecurity and Envy make her question whether her brilliant mind and love of learning are compatible with her heart's desire.
A vicar's beautiful daughter and Phila's best friend, Lily Whitely, aspires to be a fashion designer. She plans to wear the gown she designed for her school's Queen Elizabeth's Coronation contest to Phila's ball. And, Lily wants to be present for the announcement of the winner. When a family opportunity interferes, Loyalty and Rebellion instigate a heart-wrenching, life-changing choice.
Infused with the influences (and appearances) of C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien, Nan Rinella has crafted a powerful tale about the voices that influence our choices and the challenges of listening to those that can make our dreams come true.
Coming soon: Book Two, Hopes on the Horizon
