Mainstream Fiction

Francis Ray

St. Martin's Press

 0-31297-862-6

April 2001

(4+) Wayne Jordan

PLOT SYNOPSIS: 

REVIEW: 

There is no doubt that Francis Ray is one of the best writers of romance fiction.  She has proven time and time again that she is a talented storyteller, and THE TURNING POINT is a perfect example of what makes Ms. Francis the popular author she is. THE TURNING POINT is a significant work for Ms. Francis.  The title of the story parallels Ms. Francis’ own career.  With this book, it is clear that she is heading for greater things, and THE TURNING POINT, her first mainstream, is definitely a turning point for this fine author.

Lilly Crawford is in an abusive marriage, and when her mother-in-law, one of the only persons she loves, dies, she decided that she would take the abuse no more.  She files for divorce, hops in her car and drives away.  On the way to her destination, her car breaks down and she seeks assistance at a house nearby.  Fate is on her side.  An unexpected job caring for a wealthy blind doctor, and Lilly is spiraled into a series of events that change her life forever.

Like Lilly, Adam is a victim.  Blinded in a terrible attack, he is angry at the world, and vents this angry on his family, the people who care most about him.  Locking himself in his room, he refuses to communicate with others.  Depressed, he wants no help from his family, and when they hire Lilly, he is is at first hurtful, and unkind.  But with time feelings change and a special story of love unfold.

I’ve always been an individual who prefers stories that are character-driven.  Stories that delve into the psyche of troubled characters have always fascinated me.  I enjoy getting in to the minds of characters, and being able to experiencing their every emotion.  Ms. Ray allows me to do this with both Lilly and Adam.  At the end of the story when they embrace the happiness they both deserve, the reader is sure to applaud.   It is gratifying to see Lilly and Adam regain their confidence and strength of character.  That alone is worth the price of the book.   

THE TURNING POINT’s secondary characters are also memorable.  The love story that feature Eleanor Wakefield and Jonathan Delacroix is something very special.  Jonathan is a wonderful creation.  He is the stuff that hero are made of.  A man who has seen the woman he loves married to his best friend.  The godfather of their children, he feels a strong commitment to this family now his best friend is dead.  Jonathan has suffered, and when feelings for him become awaken in Eleanor, the sparks fly, and the inevitable happens.  This relationship is simply wonderful and handled with a gentle maturity that is sure to move the most cynical reader.

(And it is impossible not to mention Rafe’s appearance in court.  Now, I’m sure that readers are wondering if his story is coming next.)

THE TURNING POINT is a wonderful achievement.  It is not only a story of love, but about the importance of family.  It is about facing each situation in your life with strength and knowing that some day you much make choices when you read a turning point in your life.

THE TURNING POINT is a book to be read slowly in order to savor all that is good about it.  It is sure to linger in the reader’s mine for year.  I’ve added it to my keeper shelf!

wayne@romanceincolor.com (7th April 2001)