About Searching for John Smith by Joan Glase
At just 26, Julia embarks on a solo adventure to Mexico, seeking solace after the recent loss of her aunt, her guardian since childhood. Tragedy struck earlier in her life when her parents perished in a car accident on a frantic Ohio highway, their vehicle running out of gas. In the vibrant landscapes of Mexico, fate guides her to John Smith, a strikingly charming and optimistic former gem dealer with a shadowy past in drugs from Santa Cruz, California.
Their connection ignites in a whirl of passion, swiftly turning into a romance that feels like a dream. Encouraged by John’s infectious spirit, Julia extends her vacation, and before she knows it, they find themselves embracing a spur-of-the-moment wedding. Although she secretly harbors the option of annulment when they return to the States, the joy of the moment blinds her to any doubts.
However, their fairytale takes a chilling turn just a day after exchanging vows when their car sputters to a stop on a barren desert road in Baja, a scene unsettlingly reminiscent of the fate that befell her parents. A series of misfortunes ensues, including a terrifying encounter with a corrupt cop, which forces them to get separated. With her heart set on finding John, Julia embarks on a journey through Santa Cruz and the bustling streets of San Francisco—where the name “Smith” is all too common.
Unexpectantly, Julia begins to carve out a life for herself in San Francisco. The narrative culminates in a satisfying resolution that captures the essence of her journey. Set against the backdrop of the colorful 1970s, this tale reflects the culture of the era before cell phones and the internet while weaving a rich tapestry of love, resilience, and self-discovery.
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