Could a geek and a streetwise survivor ever find true love? Vicky Burkholder seems to think so, and to prove her case she wrote Prime Time. Only in this tale, the geeks are known as Techies and the streetwise survivors are known as Porters. The light satire of the names is not lost on me. Porters are also the names of people who do all the physical labors in many so-called third-world countries. Techies? Well, that could be just about any American who happens to have a job above minimum wage.

But the story goes way beyond the usual "haves" finding out how hard it is for the "have nots". Plus this story is amazing in technical details for how it works to live and survive on the moon. Unlike on earth where the higher up you live in high rises or hills, the richer you must be, the rich live on the ground, and the porters live in the upper levels. Levels that never see security or fresh food since they cost too much, and if you get sick, good luck.

Jake hires Deena for her street-wise ways to try and stop a drug called Utopia. She was hired because both of her parents died from it. But they quickly discover that it is not just drugs that plague them, but corruption that runs deep, even to those whom they thought they could trust with their lives. It also brings into vivid view the kinds of lives that can be possible, both good and bad, on the moon.

If Prime Time is ever made into a movie and Vicky Burkholder endorses it, I will be among the first in line to buy those high priced tickets. This tale is a rollicking ride of suspense, romance, and good Old West flavor that doesn't stop till the last line.
 
 
Reviewed By Nancy Louise
© April 2007