Oak and Mistletoe

FANTASY:  While visiting Ireland, Uncle Mickey tells Catherine that he feels she has a magical connection with the country. That same trip, Catherine is offered a lucrative job in Ireland in her career field. She takes the job and is happy in her life for several years until one day a mysterious man named Bowen tells Catherine that she must leave Ireland forever. Before she realizes what is happening, Conall and his evil druid army have been unleashed, and now Bowen says Catherine must stay in Ireland to work the curse that will lock away Conall and his evil druids forever. Catherine is at odds because she has feelings for Bowen and the curse will also imprison him for all time.

Catherine and Bowen are beautifully written characters. No matter what the situation, Bowen never acts against his character; he is always a doctor, sworn to the Hippocratic Oath. The world in which this story occurs is rich with detail.  Conall’s story is interesting and really the keystone of the piece. Many of the other characters have such a short appearance in the story that there is no character development. Some of the scenes tended to drag and slowed down what was a nicely paced storyline. There are several editing issues that need to be cleaned up in an otherwise entrancing tale. This novel is not for the meek of heart - there is killing galore throughout this story. The Irish countryside is to be enjoyed in this enthralling story of magic, war, and love.

Belinda Wilson