Dance Down the Mountain

In this slow, predictable novel, former journalist Hammer ( The CBS Murders , Hoffa's Crime ), turns away from the subjects that established his reputation: war and crime. Here he explores a corrupt Hollywood and its effects on the marriage of ballet star Katie Summers and reporter Harry Miller, who narrates the tale. The couple go to L.A. in pursuit of their dreams; she to dance the prima-ballerina roles denied her in New York, he to write a novel. After a hit-and-run accident ends Katie's career, hospital bills and other financial difficulties force them to make desperate decisions. Harry becomes a ghost writer for a has-been movie producer and Katie, hobbled by her leg injury, teaches the basics of dancing to actresses. As Katie's budding acting career strains their marriage, Harry must decide how hard he wants to work to keep them together. Readers will not be surprised by the outcome. (Oct.)