Fondly, Bob

This story might easily be told by any number of unsuspecting "victims" generated by the modern age of courtship. Online dating presents challenges unprecedented only a few years ago, while domestic abuse and violence remain timeless. From their first meeting in an airport to their last in a courtroom, these two "matches" defy traditional girl-meets-boy models. The new singles culture seems to generate idealism and naïve anticipation in spite of legions, who share stories of surprise and outright dishonesty. Surely, each potential match harbors a measure of disappointment upon walking away, for each would not have agreed to meet if not harboring a small measure of wonder: can this be "the one?" Most times, the answer is "no."One can feel kinship traveling with Stephenson, for the energies of finding and losing, good and evil, justice and injustice are not bound by culture, gender, or age. Stephenson explores comedy and drama within the human condition, as well as the frailties of denial and false hope. Her examination of meaning finds influence from her interest in Jungian thought. The reader is advised to pack for diversity.