The Gazing Globe

Candace Sams
Cerridwen Press (2007)
ISBN 9781419909337
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (6/07)

“The Gazing Globe,” is book two in the “Tales of the Order Series.” Blain McTavish is a Maine farmer who begins falling ill shortly after the death of both his parents. He discovers that when he surrenders to his urges of running naked through the forest, he feels his strength restored. Blain is unaware that he is half-fairy and half-druid. Shayla, Sorceress of the Ancients and the leader of The Order, knows of Blain’s heritage and recognizes that he has dark forces after him.

Shayla and her consort Hugh, who is also Blain’s uncle, track him down to help him. They believe that his parents were killed. They had been in hiding from a corrupt Sorceress who had been in charge of The Order. They were not aware that Shayla had taken over before they died. Shayla also brought her lovely apprentice, Afton O’Malley. Blain and Afton are very attracted to each other. Initially, the trio tries to help Blain recover from the dark magic without letting him know what they are doing. He soon figures out that things are not as they seem and then learns of his heritage. His body transforms itself into a beautiful fairy form. He has to learn how to use his powers to help save himself.

This is a beautiful, adult fairy tale. I love being able to read a story about mystical creatures that are residing during our modern times. It makes the world around me seem more enchanted. The dark forces are truly evil, and although difficult to fight, they are unable to overcome the good forces. Afton’s character brings a special light to the story. She is an innocent who has to discover what her true powers are. She also finds strength with her feelings for Blain. Afton is able to bring out the best in Blain and help him discover who he truly is. She is also there for him as he discovers the depth of the evil that has been surrounding him and the true nature of some of the people around him.
This is really a well-written story. I can’t think of anything that I would want to change in “The Gazing Globe.” That is my favorite kind of story! I look forward to reading other books in this series by Candace Sams.

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