Water Shaper

I'm always on the look out for new fastasy books (with a hint of romance). This book, based on Celtic myths, hit the spot (although there was only a pinch of romance). The concept is interesting, but I found the beginning to be slow-paced. I didn't really get hooked until the third or fourth chapter. The story is about a princess whose blood is considered "base" because her mother was of the West Land, a "water shaper". Her father married her mother on a whim, and the result is that their daughter Margot is scorned and unwelcome in her own homeland. Her mother passes away before Margot ever gets the chance to visit the West Land. Regardless, she is still drawn to it. Margot escapes to the West Land (and the ocean that surrounds it) with the help of holy man/king Olin. From there, Margot discovers that her knowledge of the ocean is instinctual and legendary. She goes on to learn about her mother and her mother's decendants, the strict rules laid down by Olin, and the animosity that storyteller Bird has for Olin. The novel unravels nicely, mysteries are cleared, questions answered, and an opening left for a sequel (which i hope will come to exist sometime soon ^_^)! Happy Reading!

I was expecting to enjoy this book, but not at the level I did. It was an engrossing read with a real depth of feeling when you read, and a sinking into the story appeal that I look for but don't find as often as I like. Great mastery in the telling, and characters that are real and not 1 dimensional, thank goodness. A real treat, I'd pick it up, you'll be suprised by how much you like it, and how hard it is to put down once picked up. .....

McCaffrey combines folklore with treachery in this fantasy that incorporates elements of selkie tales. In an unnamed land that seems a lot like Scotland, Margot must learn how to use her gifts while being used by a man with whom she's fallen in love. Combining a journey, coming-of-age, and myth and magic, McCaffrey has created a compelling read set in a fascinating world.