An Obvious Enchantment

This novel's rich prose, stunning descriptions of place and intimate exploration of self and faith kept me engaged from the first page. Malarkey's thoughtful and visual descriptions of otherwise prosaic moments were enlivened and lasting. Following the protagonist, Ingrid, as she pushes through to another level in her life would have been a pleasure had the story remained in snowbound academia, but the reader is treated to the additional gift of the African island's stray cats, phosphorescent seas, and muzzein's call. That the story throws in hedonistic, post-colonial barlfies and a respectul, admiring look at Islam is further enriching. It is a romantic and cinematic novel that I highly recommend.

My mother gave me this book as I am a student of archeology and planning a trip to Kenya next year. I wasn't expecting too much but I was totally drawn in and when I finished the book I was still wishing for more. I loved the character of Ingrid, who was strong, independent and adventuresome but also very conflicted. Tucker Malarkey (is that her real name?) painted an intricate picture of the island of Pelat and the characters that inhabit the island. The book is full of mystery and intrigue and an incredible array of human interaction. I'm buying it for several friends and would recommend it for anyone!

Ms. Malarkey's first novel had me hooked from the first chapter, which is rare for me. She has an amazing talent of entertaining while interlacing complex themes: the search for self, the encroachment of Western civilization on the third world, and the challenges of Christianity blending with Islam. Ms. Malarkey's attention to detail and creativity produced an incredible journey for both her characters and the reader of the novel. A great book for those cold winter nights ahead. Ms. Malarkey is definitely an author to watch!

Tucker Malarkey's first novel is a rare find: a narrative that completely draws the reader into its world. And what a world it is! Ingrid Holtz, a graduate student at the University of Michigan, goes to an African Island in search of her charismatic professor, Nick Templeton. Templeton is hunting down a legend, and before long Ingrid is drawn to the mystery, as well as to Finn Bergmann, a mysterious and handsome man, who just might have the answers she's looking for. As Ingrid tries to track down her professor, she runs into many people who would deter her, including Finn himself. The tale is beautifully written, and the story is utterly engaging. This novel is not to be missed.

The finest part of this book is the intoxicatingly languid way that the narrative unfolds and the exotic yet tangible atmosphere that it evokes -- you can almost feel the overwhelming heat and smell the beach, which makes you pleasantly drowsy and draws you into the enigma of this place and the people who inhabit it. I felt truly transported to a different place, and just like Ingrid, I was riveted to the place and the people, anxious to see what would unravel. It is full of fascinating characters who command your attention and the writing is intelligent and evocative.