Fay's Wish

Upon her mother’s death, Princess Shayla has no time to mourn. Indeed royal protocol prohibits even the smallest expressions of grief. Instead she must coolly take part in the immediate remarriage of her father who is forced to accept a new Queen. That the woman taking her mother’s place is her Aunt Brigit, a relative by marriage, gives no solace. The new queen has long lusted after influence and wealth. Even worse is the scheming of her aunt and her cousin Aidan. They hope for a future marriage between the two cousins in order to solidify their hold on power.

Shayla’s mother had made one last wish before her death. This wish was for her cherished daughter to find a love beyond that which any other man and woman have shared. A beautiful wish, but can it be fulfilled?

All is not lost. The king decrees the ban on leaving Fay Island to be lifted to the Princess and two companions in the hopes that a quest off their island will result in her discovery of her true power. If she succeeds she will be queen. Through this all the Fay may be rejuvenated and the slowly diminishing magic once more may grow strong. The princess has not found love among those on Fay Island and this trip may prove more fruitful than hoped.

FAY'S WISH is an interesting story with well-developed societal rules and structure for the Fay, political intrigue in the fight for the succession of the crown, and an emotion filled journey to love and strong magic.

Kyle, the guide who is hired from the human world is also the hero. A personal tragic misfortune means that he has little time to love. It is no secret that there is an attraction between him and the princess. Their coming together when it is truly realized makes for some very moving reading. One aches for this man and we find ourselves making wishes for his happiness as well as Shayla’s.

There is layer upon layer of secrets slowly peeled away as the expedition progresses. Each revelation and twist in plot keeps the story moving along nicely.

There are some gentle points that bear mentioning. Readers may find difficulties following the timeline of events. A bit more care in paying attention to the sequence of such around the latter half of the book is helpful. Also, there are small details that may not seem completely explained.

Ms Owens has a wonderful capacity to describe the scenes using magic in a way that allows us to imagine the sensation of it. It is exciting to immerse in such writing.

Magic, intrigue, and love captures the attention and makes this an entertaining tale.

November 2006