"This sweet, intriguing novel offers wisdom in its story about political life, coming of age, family drama and archaeology - about those who came before, and a future of possibilities."

• Kristin Tucker, former Executive Director of the Washington State Arts Commission

"The Goddess and Martin Dayson"Defeated for re-election as governor, left by his wife of almost thirty years, living like a hermit in a tiny community in Oregon, Martin Dayson discovers a goddess. Or, rather, he digs up an ancient stone fertility icon buried in his garden, its presence as inexplicable as its meaning is obscure. As the statuette casts its spell over Dayson, another intruder upends his self-imposed isolation. A young woman, still in her teens, crosses his property nearly every day-and disappears into the forest before he can run outside to drive her off. Shy as a forest creature, bold as brass, Mattie lives in a dark, crumbling house with her deranged aunt, who casts a mysterious hold over her.

Each tormented by deeply-held secrets, Dayson and Mattie find a peculiar and healing love. While Dayson helps her find the courage to launch herself into the future, Mattie-and the stone icon-draw Dayson back into an engagement with life.

Told with empathy, humor and a touch of mysticism, "The Goddess and Martin Dayson" will cast its own spell over the reader.

Contact Stephen Holgate at:

StephenHolgateWrite.com