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5.0 out of 5 stars
Utter Perfection..., Mar 27 2004
The moment he stepped into Fionnaway Manor, he knew destiny had brought him home. Ian Fairchild, intelligent, darkly handsome, and full of secrets, longs for the home he's never had. Ian's evil father, Leslie, issued a dying request for him to come to the seaside estate. At the same time, he led Ian to believe he would inherit Fionnaway. After Ian's arrival, and a visit from the village witch, Leslie's condition improves. Ian soon discovers he cannot inherit the Scottish estate, because it will belong to Lady Alanna McLeod. She disappeared several years ago, but will soon shed her disguise, and claim the right as mistress of her beloved Fionnaway. Ian is determined to have the estate, which means marriage to Lady Alanna. But she is distrusting of Ian, and his motives. Ian will do whatever it takes to fulfill his dream. But what will Alanna think when she discovers his dark heritage, and the magical powers he possesses? I am still in awe of this story. In some ways, this book is a departure from everything else I've read by Ms. Dodd. It is unique, sensual, and absolute poetic storytelling perfection. It weaved its magic web around my heart, and I may never recover. The story heavily concerns the myth of the Selkies, who were seals that could assume human form at will. You may be thinking this sounds ludicrous, but it's not. The story is very believable, even though it's full of magic and myth. Ian and Alanna were both wonderful characters, but Ian was my favorite. I love that he was strong, but still had insecurities. He possessed magic powers, but all he really wanted was to belong, have a home, and be loved. The cast of secondary characters is strong as well, and adds a great deal to the story. This is the sequel to "A Well Pleasured Lady", which was also excellent, and more typical of Ms. Dodd's usual style. I recommend reading both, but this book is special, and one of my all-time favorites.
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