"Sweeping gorgeous romance"

Josie Litton's final installment in her trilogy on the mythic Akoran monarchy weaves political intrigue, supernatural elements and gorgeous romance into a grand finale. Castles In The Mist focuses on the delicate romance between destined couple - nurse Brianna Wilcox and helming ruler Atreus in the throes of war and passion. Brianna goes back to England to learn truths on her heritage and recover the lost memory of how she ended on Akoran shores after a shipwreck that separated her and her parents. Atreus, who had visions of Brianna as his future wife during the arduous trials to becoming the ruler hides a hidden truth that may destroy their love. Brianna wonders whether he pursues her out of love or obligation.

Filled with sensual moments between two strong and intelligent protagonists, Josie Litton brings unadulterated passion and romance against a backdrop of chaos spearheaded by cunning rebel honcho Delios who is set to usurp the throne from Atreus. Family ties are threatened when Brianna's brother Polonus is misled by Delios. The danger towards the end is climatic, gripping and harrowing as Brianna is held hostage; Atreus faces his dilemma in giving his beloved Brianna the freedom to leave. Ms. Litton's emotional grip and magical narration sweeps you away to a fantasy abound with castles and adventure that gives a most satisfying end.

Reviewed by Desmond CHan
Posted January 10, 2003

Summary

She was just a child when she was washed ashore on the exotic island of Akora, shipwrecked and orphaned. Now she must make a heartbreaking choice: to reclaim her past--or to face her future with the most powerful man she has ever known.

Raised in the fortress kingdom of Akora, Brianna's memories of life before her parents' tragic death at sea are blurred and fleeting. Though embraced by Akora's elite, she longs to know her true identity--and the truth about her haunting fear that she is to blame for her parents' fate. But while the answers lure her to far-off England, a fiery passion she never knew existed may bind her to Akora forever.

Handsome and headstrong, Atreus is a powerful warrior whose clan has ruled Akora for centuries. A secret ritual has made him the chosen ruler of his people--and revealed to him a vision of the lovely Brianna as the woman he is meant to marry. Fearing she will never return from her journey, Atreus sets sail to win her. But a treacherous enemy looms, and it will soon fall to the brave couple to unite their hearts and share even their darkest secrets to save not only their burgeoning love--but their very homeland.