Just didn't work for me. Seldom do I whine about pacing or lack of plot, but this was truly boring. I think it,s because the characters are iconographic, not authentic. Tried for over 100 pp but became weary.

(Originally on Amazon)

I stumbled across this book in a used book shop and consider it quite a find. Roessner is better known for her historical fantasy series and this book is a clear predecessor to her style. The setting and characters come from an area not too frequently seen here in the US.

My only previous exposure to Native Austrailian lore is through the writing of Marlo Morgan. Michaela Roessner's version is a little different, but it is a work of pure fiction, so I will not get into the discussion of whose portrayal is more acurate. Suffice to say the book is true to the lore presented. If you are willing to immerse yourself in the native lore presented, the rest of the story follows true to form.

I enjoyed the author's presentation of Raba and following the development of the character. The character is developed so strongly, to the point I was disappointed when Raba sheds her true identity.

The foundation of the story is very reminiscient of Carlos Castenada's series but with some very significant differences. In Roessner's story, the background is Australia instead of Mexico and there is no use of drugs. The young healer is taught to use and refine her own inate gifts. She learns to augment her skills by being in harmony and listening.

The confrontation leading to Raba's reawakening was disappointing, however, as there was very little surprise here. The presentation was too contrived. The final showdown, while supensful, was a let down for me. There are other alternative endings that would have kept the same final result and still provided a more credible ending.

I've given the book 4 stars because I can't fractionalize my rating. If you can find a copy, it is worth adding to you personal library, but in retrospect, I would give the book less that four stars but considerably more then three.

(Note: I'd rate this at 3.75 as it is not quite worthy of a full four star rating, but it is better than 3.5) ( )