Talking Drums of Belize is set in Belize.
It is a Romantic Thriller and tells the story of a young female journalist who is sent to the Central American country to do research for a Community Development Foundation.
En route she meets a young American Special Forces soldier who has recently left the forces after serving ten years almost continually in both Iraq and Afghanistan.
She is a young, inexperienced Journalist from a provincial newspaper in England.
She meets the head of a Community Development Foundation based in Australia when she is in London seeking a position of a national newspaper.
He is a battle weary veteran from the United States of America.
Who is trying to establish a new home and a new way of life in a peaceful country that is a far cry from the theaters of war he has been used to.
At first glance she appears unfit for the tasks assigned her.
The book explains how two people from diverse backgrounds can find common ground and can change their philosophy when living in the right environment.
The book also explores the history of a fascinating country, its hopes and aspirations and the social problems that are inhibiting its growth.
Having researched the history of Belize and the attitude of many of its peoples to visitors from other countries, especially those from the United States and Canada I was able to identify with the local characters portrayed in the book.
For example, in the book Americans and Canadians as well as British and European visitors and even expatriates that have been in the country for many years are called "Gringos.
" and this I found is a term that is used constantly in Belize.
I found that this book is told from an indigenous peoples point of view.
As such it does show a side of the country that is probably missed by the tourist who is there for only a short time.
It also shows the pressures that they are subject to with economics and drug traffic.
A worthwhile read.