Monday, October 6, 2008

Running on Empty- Ken Casper

Running on Empty
Ken Casper
Harlequin NASCAR, Nov 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373217977

Three decades ago, Sylvie Ketchum walked out on her husband Hugo Murphy and their daughter Kim. He moved on burying himself in his work at NASCAR so he would not have to think about relationships beyond loving his daughter.

However Kim desperately needs a kidney so the NASCAR crew chief knows his priorities begins and ends praying for a miracle. A match is found with an anonymous donor who Hugo learns is Sylvie. Forced to reassess what happened thirty years ago, Hugo knows he still loves Sylvie, but Kim has never forgiven her mom for deserting her too; Hugo wonders if he should tell his beloved daughter the full truth while hoping to persuade his Sylvie to come home to them as they need her.

RUNNING ON EMPTY is an intriguing character study as both of Kim’s parents look back as to why she left and realize each has culpability. Their second chance at being a family depends on whether both can take that first step forward. For Kim, who needs the kidney her mom whom she loathes donates, forgiveness is harder. Though NASCAR and romance are minor elements, Ken Casper provides a deep family drama.

Harriet Klausner

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