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Audrey O’Connor is a mage, and next in line as leader of the High Council. But in order to fill that place, Audrey must make yet another sacrifice for her people – she must sacrifice her freedom by taking a mate. Worse yet, she must join with Sebastian MacAllister, a familiar. The fact that he is a familiar – one who can take the form of a great black panther or that of a sexy seductive man – is not the problem. Audrey dislikes Sebastian because of his alley cat ways, not for his catlike form. But, as always, Audrey does not hesitate to do what is right for her people. Even if, in this instance, it means giving up her freedom to a man who has already broken her heart and her trust.
Sebastian MacAllister is a familiar, yes, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t have the emotions of a man. He has the same needs and wants as any other man would, and what he wants is Audrey, though she does not seem to reciprocate the feeling. Though he is known to be a familiar, very few know that he is one of the Keepers, a select group sworn to protect the ancient and powerful relics used by the High Council. Even Audrey has not been privy to this information.
Sebastian and Audrey have been betrothed since they were children, and although neither has chosen the union, both have no wish to forsake their people. They have both resigned themselves to the fact that they will be joined. But, unbeknownst to them, a plot is underway to undermine the authority of the High Council and Audrey’s ascension to her rightful place.
During the first ceremony proceeding the joining, in which Audrey’s formidable powers as a mage are bound, the Myst Wand is stolen and Audrey is kidnapped. Before Sebastian can prevent it, the villains use the wand to travel back in time – and take Audrey with them.
Sebastian must follow after her, with only a bottled return spell to bring both himself and Audrey home. A daunting task indeed, considering that the spell may not work at all and that Audrey’s is still powerless as a mage and will be unable to help them return should the spell fail.
In their quest to restore the Myst Wand to the High Council, Sebastian and Audrey form a bond, the natural attraction that has smoldered between them both for so long is kindled into a ready flame, and the prospect of their joining becomes less and less distasteful to them both.
Shannon Devlyn has provided a truly original story in FAMILIAR MAGIC. The setting is unique, the plot clever, the characters intense and well-written. In addition, the chemistry between Sebastian and Audrey adds a scintillating spice to the story. What more could a reader ask for? If you’re a fan of paranormal romance, and are eager for an entertaining trip through a world of magic and fantasy, FAMILIAR MAGIC won’t disappoint.
Reviewed by Janean Nusz
for The Road to Romance
September 19, 2004
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