Title:
The Huntress

Author:
Michelle O'Leary

Published By:
DLSIJ Press

ISBN #:
1-928973-97-3

Release Date:
Available Now

Format:
Electronic

Fate deals a lucky hand to a tortured soul, but is it asking too much for him to start over?

Seth Terrik has escaped from the pits of inhumanity and is now imprisoned by an inability to let the human side of him override his survival instincts. He had been locked away for at least 15 years for several murders - many to fellow inmates. Malthat was a lightless cavern where criminals were left to become predators or prey to each other. Seth's ability to survive "the hole" had drawn the attention of authorities so he was being transferred to be executed. On board the spacecraft a man went berserk, killing everyone he could. Seth was able to save a girl, Regan, before shooting the madman. They escaped the craft minutes before it crashed into a small sun. Regan was now alone in the galaxy if not for the man, whom she idolises. She knows that she is defenceless and sticks by his side. It is possible that she has seen some of the humanity Seth thinks he no longer has.

Mea Brin, known as "The Huntress", is the most widely known enforcer in the Hunting Corp. She has been genetically modified and has metal alloys in her bones to enhance strength and speed. Her own senses have been honed to reach their peak during her rigorous training and experiences. Mea is searching a dingy moon bar for a small time criminal she believes has some information. She notices the girl first. A child in this part of the planet is likely to lead a short and painful life. As she reaches for the girl, Seth takes her unaware. Mea gazes into his eyes and can see the depths of his soul. She senses a kindred spirit, awakening a part of Seth that is long forgotten. Mea lets him leave but keeps a careful watch on him and the girl for a couple of days. She knows that he is a wanted man but needs to know more before she brings him in. Seth has decided to live a solitary life; he doesn't trust himself around people and needs to avoid recapture. He recognises by reputation who "the Huntress" is, so he is totally blown away when she says her aim is to get him on her spacecraft as a partner not a prisoner. There is no way he will ever put his trust or his worthless life in the hands of an enforcer, no matter how luscious.

The Huntress is an unforgettable, fast-paced action romance. Michelle O'Leary had this reader enthralled right from the gripping barroom opening scene. Her characters are intense. Both are solitary survivors. They are drawn to each other through lust but are aware that the other has a dark and dangerous side to be wary of. This creates a sizzling build up of sexual tension. The sexual content is more implied than graphic, but the chemistry and friction is made very clear to the reader. Regan, the tragic orphan, helps to keep Mea and Seth from tearing each other apart. She has found her new parents and will do everything she can to keep the pair together and remain with them. Most of the light-hearted moments and humour come from Regan. Michelle O'Leary is a very talented author. This reader would love to read a spin-off series based on some of the secondary characters. Readers who have enjoyed the books of CJ Barry and Robin T. Popp should not miss this book. Highly recommended reading!



Reviewed by: Naomi