Someone to Believe In
Kathryn Shay
Berkley, Sep 2005, $7.99, 368 pp.
ISBN: 0425205304

Bailey "the Street Angel" O'Neil has dedicated her life to rescue youngsters from gang violence. She does right on the mean streets risking her life every time she tries to save a child, but that does not stop her from being convicted as an accessory for hiding a teen in her home. The case serves as a springboard for then DA Clayton Wainwright to become a senator.

Clay feels change is needed in the neighborhoods to lesson the influence of gangs on youngsters. He disagrees with what he feels is Bailey's ardent caring but insane efforts. They have a public dispute going on as to what is best to save the next generation as each argues in the media and whenever they meet. However, one night their war changes to passionate kisses. Each realizes the attraction they have for the other, but is that enough when fundamentally they disagree on how to deal with gangs?

This contemporary romance is built off a real social issue involving how to best deal with the influence of gangs. The lead couple is a wonderful pairing of seemingly opposites though when love intercedes they begin to realize how much in common they truly have, which is the typical case in societal problems. Clay and Bailey are superb characters, who want to help people, but disagree on method making their love for one another so much more fun to follow.

Harriet Klausner