Review: Powerful Story That Will Touch You to the Core
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 09 3, 2012
I am still reeling from the effect of this book with the beautiful bittersweet end/beginning of new things for so many of the characters.  This was one of the strongest finishes that I have read in some time.  Even if there are more books in this series, this was a grand finale style book.  This author earned all 5 stars from me because she challenged all my senses and wound me up tight before letting me go.  I know that doesn't seem like a good reason, but my yardstick for a good book has always been how strongly a book challenges my senses with nothing (like weak plots or poorly written characters) pulling me out of the story.This story hops several months after the end of book two.  Jin is struggling mightily with his new found powers and must face one of the most horrendous moments of his life right away in the story, but just when it seems its okay to start breathing easier another terrible thing is revealed.  And it is just one painful trial after another for Jin, Logan, their family and people.  Most of the big moments take place when Logan is forced to accept the ultimate challenge- the fight to become Semel-aten (basically the highest ranking panther next to the priest).  This challenge is so much more than fight to the death because most of the tribal leadership is involved with the worst being the forced separation between Logan and Jin through much of the trial.  It comes down to does their love and commitment have what it takes to survive (yeah, it was gut-wrenching at times).I cannot speak highly enough to this strong intense plot or to the superb character writing.  Even the voice, which was still told from Jin's perspective, and pacing of the story were spot on.  It was harsh and darker than the others, but was equally strong in the depth of love, passion, friendship and loyalty between the various members of Logan's tribe and Logan and Jin.I'm amazed by the writing and want more of this series, but I'll definitely be reading more of Mary Calmes' other work.  Highly Recommend the series!