Sunset in Santa Barbara

Sage Freeman is unmarried at age thirty-three. Though beautiful, intelligent, and successful in her career as an architect, she fends off suitors, afraid of commitment, driven by her need for approval from her wealthy parents, and her strong emotional attachment to hard-driving father, Bernard. The book follows Sage's self-identity crisis and emotional growth as she deals with romantic entanglements, death, family issues, and is at last able to offer her heart fully to the man she was meant to marry. When Tim, her boyfriend of six years, unexpectedly proposes marriage, she refuses, as she has several times before. Though early in the relationship Sage was in love with Tim, he is now merely a comfortable crutch for her. Tim accuses her of being controlled by her family, who does not approve of him, preferring Sage marry a man with money and status. Sage is afraid Tim will eventually give up on her and find another woman. While she does not want to marry him, she still clings to her solid, reliable relationship. She travels to New York on business where she meets Steven Gilman, an executive client of hers. She is immediately drawn to this handsome, powerful man. Reacting to the chemistry, Steven pursues Sage and eventually they fall in love with each other. Meanwhile accidently, Sage encounters Brian Sutherland, her first love and college sweetheart, who broke her heart years ago. Reflecting on the romantic sunsets in Santa Barbara he once shared with Sage, Brian is determined to win her back. At the same time, Steven wants to marry Sage and Tim will not let go of her. In this touching story, the author breathes life into creating unforgettable characters and vivid images of a romance in Santa Barbara that you will never forget. Throughout the journey, we wonder if Sage will ever find contentment with a man she truly loves. Website: patriciabenson.com.Patricia Benson is the author of 'Sunset in Santa Barbara', published 2004 under ISBN 9780976476801 and ISBN 0976476800.