It seems that high-profile authors never die; they just don't show up for the book tour when their latest tome is released.

Case in point: Leon Uris.

Uris died June 21 at the age of 78. But fans of his many hits, such as Exodus, Battle Cry, Trinity, QBVII and Mila 18, have no need to fear - another Uris tale is on the way.

Titled O'Hara's Choice, the book is about Zachary O'Hara, "son of a legendary Marine and a force of a man in his own right," according to the book's publisher, HarperCollins.

O'Hara "finds himself playing a critical role in the very future of the Marines. If he can persuade the Secretary of the Navy that the Marines are more crucial than ever to America's safety and security - all while hefting a heavier, secret weight in his heart - he'll save his corps and make his career."

Of course, any longtime Uris reader knows to expect a female love interest. This time, it's the "passionate, obstinate, and whip-smart" Amanda Blanton Kerr. You can bet she'll lock horns - and hearts - with O'Hara.

Unlike many posthumous books, O'Hara's Choice apparently didn't require any ghost writing to ready it for publication: The book was reportedly completed last spring, months before Uris' death.

As for its promotion, HarperCollins need not fret. After a 50-year track record, Uris' sales aren't likely to flag just because the man can't tour.

He may be gone, but as long as people can hum the theme song to Exodus, he won't be forgotten.

Look for the novel in October.

Patti Thorn, books editor