The Way Home (Arabesque)
Marlena Rhodes returns to her home town of Gaines for a visit only to discover that the past she left behind is still fresh in her memory.  As a successful attorney in Washington, D.C., Marlena has made a name for herself and the wealthy black society people of Gaines are clamoring to meet her.  They may be dazzled by her name and her reputation, but deep down Marlena is still Josie Rhodes' daughter and Josie hadn't been accepted by most of the people in Gaines.  When she comes face-to-face with her ex-love, Marlena remembers why she loved Winston Taylor so much and why she'd said goodbye.  She never knew what Winston saw in her-as the son of one of the wealthiest black men in Gaines, he could have had any girl he wanted.  But he'd wanted Marlena.  Winston convinces Marlena to help him with his project called THE WAY HOME.  The idea is to convince Gaines High graduates to return to Gaines after college and help the town prosper.  Marlena is in the perfect position to woo potential employers for the project.  But the past is still unresolved and Winston can't forget how much he'd loved Marlena--  or how it had hurt when she'd left him.  Starting over means burying the past, but there are secrets that threaten to destroy Marlena and Winston's second chance at love.  Angela Benson's writing is fresh and crisp.  Her characters and dialogue are real and readers will care about Winston and Marlena.  Secondary characters also have a chance to shine in The Way Home and Cheryl and Marty's story is compelling as well.  The only weakness in the plot is the circumstances that drive Winston and Marlena apart.  This reviewer would have liked a more compelling reason for Winston and Marlena's ten year separation, but this is only a minor flaw in an otherwise well-written tale. Angela Benson shines brightly as one of romances finest ethnic authors! A realistic, romantic tale of regaining lost love!  Ms. Benson writes from the heart and it is reflected in her characters. Readers will be thrilled with Angela Benson's newest love story!  Fans of the author won't be disappointed--  and new readers will be charmed!Kristina Wright  --Copyright © 1994-97 Literary Times, Inc.  All rights reserved--FromLiterary Times