The Story of the Good American by Victor Kline is the moving tale of Joe Starling, a man who manages to reach career highs at a young age, becoming second-in-charge of a thriving ecommerce website only to sacrifice it all because he doesn’t want to hurt his boss and friend of many years, Pete A. Vanderveer. The two men love the same woman. When the situation becomes unbearable for Joe, because he is a man of his word and a great example of someone with principles, he gives away everything and has to start again somewhere new.

Having given up on his old life, Joe endures much hardship as a homeless man but gains a close friend and colleague in Arthur T. Arthurson, who helps Joe survive and discover new talents within. But when Joe is faced with the dilemma of returning to work for Pete A. Vanderveer again, what is he to do?

This is a moving story with an important message for the reader. Putting others first before your own happiness is an honourable act, but running away to start all over again because of a broken heart may not be for everyone.

The Story of the Good American is written with honesty and thought-provoking insight, and the characters shift at surprising moments. This book effectively portrays that while life can present remarkable highs, making all material goals come true, this still won’t be enough when the heart is lonely and not at peace, yearning for an impossible love.

The author, Victor Kline, started his working life as Sydney’s youngest barrister, and is now Editor of Australia’s two largest national series of law reports. He is the author of the novel Rough Justice, the memoir The House at Anzac Parade and a number of award-winning short stories.

Irina Markovsky is a Sydney-based freelance writer. Follow her on Twitter @MomentinArt and contact her by emailing irinam@tpg.com.au.