The Willows of Corona

Book excerpt: The accidental death of her father, a prominent citizen of Corona, leaves Victoria Moreno full of doubt, questions and anger. Suicide rumors heighten her grief. Why would her father, a devout Catholic kill himself? Was the death accidental? Struggling to cope with his actions, the 17-year old, finds solace in the inspiring and calming presence of Father John Collins rather than Ricardo, her betrothed childhood match. The bond between Victoria and Father John strengthens and evolves into a deep friendship riddled with confusion, complications, challenged beliefs and the discovery of a compelling, tender and sensual love that holds them captive and others in consternation. With mounting passion, they strive to reconcile the desires of the heart, mind and soul as they struggle with a culture defined by duty, tradition and religion, and a family saga steeped in secrets, guilt and greed. This is a strong, human story of a panorama of relationships of real people with hopes and fears that brings out the magic and beauty within us all besides the dark secrets that haunt us. Will their love prevail or will duty and reputation dictate its course? The intrigue entwines the relationship of an imperfect mankind to something higher, as it poses difficult questions, defies convention, and yet affirms age-old truths. Moving, original and provocative the tale turns and twists deepening our understanding of the vicissitudes of our humanity. Set in South Texas, in cinematic, vibrant and imaginative settings, the Texas/Hispanic culture gives the narrative its direction. Heartbreaking and soaringly uplifting, The Willows of Corona is told with candor, sensitivity and a perceptive observation as it treads delicately in one of the more complex paths of life.