See Me

See Me by Nicholas Sparks

Colin Hancock is painfully aware that he's been given a second chance at life. His explosive, volatile temper has cost him dearly, both personally and professionally.  Estranged from parents that defended him years ago when he was a rebellious teenager, he realizes how much they sacrificed by coming to his rescue until they could take no more.  But now he's determined to turn his life around. He has an opportunity to redeem himself by going back to school and releasing his frustrations and anger in a less destructive way. The promise of prison isn't just an idle threat. Law enforcement is watching his every move.

Then one rainy night, he meets a striking, raven-haired beauty named Maria Sanchez on a deserted highway. The connection he feels after their first encounter continues in the days to follow. As their relationship grows, Colin learns that he isn't the only one with demons from the past. Maria is also struggling to forget and move on from a terrifying experience as an assistant district attorney in Charlotte, N.C. Yet she has the nagging feeling her nightmare is far from over.

Maria is starting over in  her hometown of Wilmington, surrounded by loving family and friends. Nevertheless, the panic attacks still surface every time she thinks of the menacing threats aimed at her by a disgruntled relative of the slain woman she represented. When it appears that this crazed individual is intent on carrying out his vendetta, Maria turns to Colin for his unconditional support. She finds herself drawn to this man who often frightens her with his unconventional ways, but at the same time, makes her feel safe and secure. Can he save her from the devious mind that is determined to destroy all that is precious to her?

Die-hard Nicholas Sparks fans will undoubtedly enjoy this latest release, all 482 pages. Others may be disappointed. In a dynamic move, Sparks deviates from his signature writing style to create a story that is bolder and less heartrending than his previous books. Suspense and mystery are added to romance.  Perhaps the author's personal life may have precipitated the challenge of writing a novel that enters new territory. In any case, the likability of these vulnerable, flawed characters in See Me will be up to the reader. Sparks still maintains his unheralded success as a gifted writer; this one could also become a motion picture.

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"See me as I see you..." There's a new purpose and vision from best-selling Nicholas Sparks this time around.