Amanda’s mother, the late Penelope, had taught her to be tight-lipped, uppity and show that she was high classed no matter the circumstances. When the owner of Bushland Air, Layne Brewster, 45, managed to travel back with her on the airplane, he wasn’t his best self! Before he picked her up to fly her to the outlaying areas from Juneau, he was drunk, had thrown up all over her dressy suit, and smelled awful! She could not believe it when she realized that he was the one flying her to Aunt Jenny’s.

Layne’s son had died of SIDS. Later, his wife, Lucy, had died of cancer. He had only recently become interested in pursuing emotional involvement. He did not find it when he had traveled to Seattle. That explained his condition when he and Amanda first met.

This was an extremely well-written story with a myriad of complex situations which made the storyline interesting and entertaining.

Ms. Carol McPhee has written a tale which covers several elements of life in the outback. She showed the lodge owned by Aunt Jenny, but she also delved into the animal hospital she was more interested in. The animals were, many times, revered. The subject of Lucy’s reincarnation as a raven was discussed quite a bit. The fact that Lucy’s being was intertwined into the story was never concluded.

This was a great book which had several sad, as well as exhilarating, moments. There was some complex, exciting surprises at the end. Just when I felt it was ending, there were more happenings. It was hard to stop reading and I was even disappointed when it was over. I can guarantee that you will enjoy the read, no matter your genre preference.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Mildly sensual

Reviewer: Brenda Talley
January 23, 2008