INTENSE AND DRAMATIC, A SEARCH FOR MEANING

Police officer Owen Drew assigned to a covert operation is driven to wage war against San Diego's drug lords. In the midst of the intense battle against personal attack, violence and threats on his life, Drew discovers he is on the edge of madness. Instead of therapy he signs up as a crew member on a yacht. Drew takes a year's leave of absence from the police force in hopes of finding cleansing for his soul and purpose and meaning in his life.

While on the open seas in the midst of a hurricane, "Just before nightfall, the reefed mainsail exploded into rags. Instantly, our steering was compromised and so was our headway into the waves. From here on, the situation could only worsen." Although crisis followed crisis as Owen faced his fear of death, he began a journey to find inner peace. On this journey he spent time in a Benedictine Monastery, the commune of a quasi Indian mystic in England. While in India, Owen traveled with a Hindu Sadhu. Here he begins to see the bridge between the East and West.

In the aftermath of his divorce Owen sought redemption in relationships, often fleeting, establishing a new relationship, and then moving on to another. His journey took him through Turkey and India. During his "search for self understanding and love in a world that seemed completely psychotic" his health failed. Near death he started on a return trip to England for medical attention. Through the kindness and sustenance of "god sent" providers Owen's strength returned. His travels took him through Switzerland. Here Owen found the conclusion to his search for truth and understanding.

I found myself forgetting I was reading a novel, and was soon living vicariously through the adventures of Owen Drew. Jebb's detailed and moving descriptions made each setting genuine. The reader senses that Jebb had himself experienced the emotions generated by the people of each locale mentioned.

David Jebb has written a gripping fast moving, haunting novel. His insights into the thoughts and motivations of his characters give evidence that he personally has found the self fulfillment and purpose sought for by his hero, Owen Drew.

Richard R. Blake (San Leandro, CA)