ELEMENTAL MAGIC
CAROL BERG, JEAN JOHNSON, SHARON SHINN, REBECCA YORK
ISBN # 978-0-425-217868-3
November 2007
The Berkley Publishing Group
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
Trade Paperback
$14.00 U.S. / $17.50 Canada
384 Pages
Romantic Fantasy
Rating: 3 cups

Bargain with the Wind by Sharon Shinn

Duncan Blair was a soldier when he inherited the mansion called Grey Moraine. He meets his future wife, Lady Charis when he throws a ball in his new home and is instantly he is smitten with her. Penniless, Lady Charis decides to change her lot in life and sets out to become mistress of the grand Grey Moraine not anticipating all it will cost her in the end. Charis she has struck a bargain with someone or something most dangerous in order to become the wife of Duncan. However, deals made with those considered evil may not always go the way planned. In the end, happily-ever-after may not be realized For these two.

This story will intrigue you and definitely keep you in suspense. Ms. Shinn takes the Cinderella tale and gives it a very unusual twist.

Birthright by Jean Johnson

Arasa is looking for the Womb of Tarden and goes to a map trader who supposedly has the map she needs. While negotiating with the trader, she meets Elrik. He is a mage from the Snow Leaper clan who helps her by keeping her from being swindled. Arasa is a twin and needs answers to a very important question.
While they are together he falls in love with Arasa. Danger lurking around the corner could possibly prevent them from being together forever.

This is an interesting story with romance and danger entertwined. Ms. Johnson does a wonderful job in holding her audience captive.

Unmasking by Carol Berg

Joelle is a searcher whose job is to seek out those souls possessed by demons. Unfortunately, she has failed to pass the exam that will allow her to fight demons. Gareth is a vegetable farmer, an obedient subject to his queen, and quite intelligent. He has offered himself and his life to aid in capturing the spy.
A trap has been set and Gareth is eager to be the bait. With the help of Joelle, Gareth will try to fetter out the spy. Of course, other truths may also be learned during their journey.

I found this story had more depth to it than the others. It was very engrossing and at times complicated but always most interesting.

Huntress Moon by Rebecca York

When Zarah’s father is executed, she chooses to be sold as a slave in order to save her mother from death. To regain her freedom she must spy on Griffin and do this, she must share his bed. Griffin is a member of the high council of the city called Sun Acres. He has a secret he is trying to keep from everyone especially his enemies. He is a werewolf who is having trouble controlling his beast.
Zarah never bargained on falling for Griffin and when a betrayal occurs, she almost loses her life.

Huntress Moon is a hot story filled with mystery and tension. There is wonderful chemistry between the characters. Ms. York has written a delightful tale which is one of my favorites.

All four stories are full of romantic fantasy and are very entertaining. They were most enjoyable and not to be missed.

Candy Cay
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance
Reviewer for Karen Find Out About New Books