Waking the dead

the long version

From Library Journal Fielding Pierce has lived his life accord ing to a strict master plan that should guarantee him a shot at Congress be fore he turns 40. When a freespirited young woman falls in love with him, he is astounded at his unexpected luck. But then she is murdered while at tempting to aid Chilean rebels, and Pierce throws himself back into politics with manic determination. As election day approaches, it becomes increasing ly clear that his obsession with her me mory may scuttle his campaign and ruin his life. Spencer's new novel, like his bestselling Endless Love, examines the place of intense romantic commitment in the modern world. But while the ear lier novel skillfully danced around the pitfalls of sentimental cliche, this one jumps in with both feet. Waking the Dead is about as profound as a made- for-TV movie, and of similar literary merit. Edward B. St. John, Loyola Marymount Univ. Lib., Los Angeles Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.