Canada ~~ Present Day

Just when Starr Davis feels she's finally gained independence at the age of twenty-seven, her world comes crashing down around her once again. As an empath, Starr has always been surrounded by a small group of family and friends, but now all that's left is her older brother Glen and their honorary Aunt Mildred, a recluse who has a huge collection of Scandinavian artifacts. Starr had just seen Mildred, and though the elder woman was troubled during their Tarot reading, Starr sensed nothing ominous in Mildred's future. So when the police arrive to tell Starr that Mildred was murdered, Starr is at a complete loss.

With Glen abroad, Starr has no one to turn to, and she's in desperate need for her brother, not only for consolation, but because Starr has also begun having the Fire Dream again. A hellish nightmare, Glen has always known he has to wake Starr before she enters the fire, but now that she's alone, Starr fears what might happen. In the end, Starr turns to an old family friend, Rikard Erkkila, who has certainly come into his own. A medieval historian, Rik has his own reasons for wanting to find out who stole Mildred's artifacts from the museum, and agrees to help Starr out.

As Starr and Rik team together, both will come into contact with an enemy from the past who will stop at nothing until he has everything he wants in his possession.

Tarot cards and Vikings should have meant a great story full of action and romance. Instead, although a good, easy read, STARR LIGHT didn't have much of a spark to it. The characters, while well-developed, seemed staid, especially Starr, who eventually livens up midway through the book. Also, the introduction to the Fire Dream was extremely confusing and didn't really explain a lot. Still, the mystery surrounding Mildred's murder and why she became a recluse keeps the story flowing smoothly, and the Tarot card detail also add a nice touch.

Second in the Mystic Rider series, STARR LIGHT can be read alone and should be enjoyed by fans of R.E. Matheson.

Courtney Michelle