HEALER OF THE HEART

Author: Linda Mooney ISBN: 9781921347238 7/2007 FANTASY Publisher: DARK CASTLE LORDS PUBLISHING

On a small parallel world, much like medieval Earth, a woman with extraordinary healing powers and a man who would be the next ruler of his country are thrown together to save their lands from warring nations and to solve the mystery of two brutal deaths within their own fortress, despite the danger to their own lives. Through it all, they find a love that defies all odds, breaks all traditions, and becomes the symbol of hope for the future of their world.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

An exciting, fast-paced action adventure, HEALER OF THE HEART by Linda Mooney takes place in a medieval setting. The intense plotting and various intrigues add to the suspense, as power hungry men fight for control. Interesting and compelling characters tell a story that will hold you spellbound from beginning to end. This is a passionate romance that tells of the love between Querl and Maressa.

In the country of Bothe, the healer that is assigned to protect the life of the Dost, is murdered. Mareesa, a powerful healer, grasps this opportunity to save herself from an evil intent on possessing her. On arrival in Bothe, Mareesa meets Querl, the nephew of the Dost, and future leader of his country. From the very beginning there is a connection between them, and they soon find themselves falling in love.

Querl is more of a scholar than a warrior. He finds the knowledge he gains through his studies beneficial in protecting his country. When he finds his life in danger, he is grateful to have Mareesa's healing skills. Querl is immediately taken with the beautiful healer from Skandia. He will do everything it takes to keep his country and the woman he loves safe in the upcoming battles.

Querl is the future leader of his country. He is handsome and brave, even though he is more a scholar than a warrior. It is his ideals and values that drew me to him. The way he handles himself in various conflicts makes him a true hero, and I found myself wanting him to succeed in both his place in command and in his relationship with Maressa.

From the very beginning, the attraction between Querl and Mareesa is strong, their chemistry being almost magical in the way that it sparks between them. Their time together is not without mistakes and misunderstandings, adding a certain amount of tension to the story. There are also secrets that may stand in their way to happiness. Although there is heat and passion, it is how far Querl and Maressa are willing to go for each other, that have me calling HEALER OF THE HEART a wonderful love story.

Anita Hartsell