Eadron and Martan are twin planets that both house descendants of Earth, however, the planets’ societies have evolved somewhat differently.  They have been at odds for centuries over the accidental killing of a Martan woman by an Eadroni.  Since then, the Martans have been kidnaping Eadroni women and keeping them for pleasure slaves.  In an effort to escape an unwanted arranged marriage, Miranda ventures with several of her closest friends to a nearby satallite of Eadron.  There, they are set upon by Martans and prepared for auctions as slaves.  They are warned that any hint of disobedience will be severely punished, and Miranda is traumatized by the entire process.  While waiting to be sold, she catches the eye of Councilman Jason Dumont, and after he witnesses Miranda being tortured by a fellow councilman, he heeds his strange attraction to the Eadroni woman and purchases her.  Slowly the pair begin to appreciate each others’ differences and build a fragile relationship.  However, secrets kept on both sides threaten not only their future, but the futures of both their worlds.  Will they find a way to circumvent circumstance? 

MIRANDA’S HEART is an excellent example of what a futuristic romance should be: full of descriptive details and an wholly imagined universe.  Ms. Taylor has written an outstanding novel and is to be commended for her great imagination!  This reviewer would love to see additional stories set in this universe.  This tale features a strong heroine whose strength is not immediately apparent but which grows throughout the tale and bursts forth at appropriate times.  Many readers will be able to identify with elements of Miranda’s struggle for independence and her desire to find value in her own right.  Jason is also a very appealing character and his torment over Miranda’s seeming lack of response to him makes him both vulnerable and endearing.  Minor suspense elements as well as the great romance scenes round the novel out beautifully. The secondary characters add charm, wit and depth to the story line and emphasize the value of friends in our lives.  This reviewer did have one minor concern.  Like many other novels this reviewer has read recently, this story ended somewhat abruptly and one or two minor plot lines were not resolved as neatly by story’s end as this reviewer would have liked.  Of course, none of this detracted from the readability or entertainment factor of this book, and in fact is the basis for this reviewer anxiously awaiting a sequel (or two).  Great job, Ms. Taylor!  Highly recommended for all readers of futuristic romance and those who just love a great story.