"An intriguing glimpse into a world where different species of beings live"

The Flyers by Jennifer Cloud is an intriguing glimpse into a world where different species of beings live in separate societies, never mixing due to fear... fear of those unlike themselves.

Anzele is a half breed, the frowned upon offspring of a mating between human and flyer. She is banished from her home for refusing an arranged marriage to a cruel pure blood flyer, Dahi. When Dahi and others come to take her home and still force the marriage, she bumps into the human Vincent, who poses as her fiancé to protect her. Neither expected that an act of kindness would change their lives with a love that consumes them both.

Now the adventure really begins. Anzele's people will never approve of a marriage between species. Vincent must prove himself worthy and agrees to a dangerous mission. An ugly black void has become active once more, unmaking the world as they know it. Vincent must stop the void's growth to save Anzele, her people, and the whole world. But how does one defeat such a deadly blight?

Though the overarching story is that of Anzele and Vincent, several sub plots are entwined. Relationships of all kinds are a primary focus. Readers will experience the loyalty between sisters even when that is not the wisest choice, the love of a kindly mentor for a charge, the importance of protecting one's people and home against all odds, the conflicted relationship between mother and daughter. Of course there is the love between soul mates that defies everyone and everything to survive.

Though some of the dialogue between the main players comes across as stilted and forced, their actions speak louder than their words. The trials Vincent goes through to prove he is worthy of his lady love show the depth of his love and passion for Anzele much clearer than any words he speaks.

The Flyers by Jennifer Cloud is an exciting read guaranteed to enchant readers. The concepts presented here show remarkable depth and are distinctive from other books on the market. The whole idea of a black void not destroying, but unmaking the world, how it grows and how it can be defeated, smacks of a vivid imagination and a fascination with science fiction/fantasy that will attract fans of that genre.

© Kelley A. Hartsell, November 2005. All rights reserved.

Reviewed by Kelley Hartsell
Courtesy Love Romances
Posted July 18, 2006