When is a promise an illusion, and when is it real? In Promises, the fourth book in the Maria series, we find there is a lot going on with Maria. Her life is changing-again. It's the summer of 1949, and she has left college and academia behind for a summer job. She has reconnected with Bill; they are engaged and very much in love. Maria wants to get married, but Bill is called to serve and begins his flight training as US tensions with Korea increase. Before he leaves, is he ready to commit to Maria? And what about George-the man who swept Maria off her feet in a whirlwind romance, then disappeared? There is so much more to his story, which sounds like a spy thriller-a possible mole in the State Department, undercover agents, and more. Plus don't forget Ed-now fully established as a veterinarian with his own clinic. He can finally focus on Maria. Kicking himself for letting Maria get away before, he reminds her that, now, he is the only game in town. Through all this turmoil, Maria is Maria-just a girl who loves life and wants to be loved in return. She doesn't know what will come next, but she expects it will be an adventure