It is a rare and beautiful thing when you come across a work so full of love and passion. Once discovered it burrows and takes residence in your heart.
As a reader I have a few books that no matter how many times I read them still have and retain always the power to move me. When my life gets dark I fall on them to strengthen me. I have added this beautifully told story to that list.
I have been a lover of SJ Himes’ ability to tell a beautiful story full of love and magic and Maxim and Jamie’s story did not disappoint. Having this story performed by Joel Leslie whose power of narration has become the hallmark by which all other narration is judged brought such depth and feeling to a story I had already fallen in love with.
Jamie’s quiet strength challenges a reader to look beyond the horrifying bleakness of circumstance and through the survival of things that would fell lesser find instead a means to soar above. Hounded and enslaved, beaten and heartbroken at the sudden loss of a beloved father, Jamie finds himself sold into slavery and headed for certain death. Not because he is a criminal but instead because his healing gift marks him for death.
Fate steps in and Jamie finds himself being rescued and fear keeps him quiet about his gift. A chance meeting with the stunning Prince Maxim forever alters the narrative of Jamie’s story and together Prince and healer find a love magical and able to heal each other.
Such a beautifully done work and so glad for the chance to see it performed by such an amazing talent. All the thumbs up. All.