Heart Thief

May 15, 2003
Returning to the planet Celta, the world of psychically gifted people first introduced in the RITA Award-winning HeartMate, Owens spins an entrancing tale of Ruiz Elder, a noble son despised and banished because of his lack of traditional psychic gifts-except for his disconcerting ability to nullify the psychic talents of those around him. Ailim, the compassionate, empathetically gifted judge and head of a noble house, is intrigued by Ruiz's "nullness" and attracted to him despite his outlaw status. Although the setting is fresh and totally captivating (the ancient spaceship is priceless), it is the well-developed characters, both human and animal, that make this story memorable. Crafty villains, honorable, resourceful protagonists, and sentient pets drive the plot of this fast-paced, often suspenseful romantic adventure. As have others before her (e.g., Anne McCaffrey, Marion Zimmer Bradley), Owens has penned a stunning futuristic tale that reads like fantasy and is sure to have crossover appeal to both sf and fantasy fans.

Copyright 2003 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 1, 2003
On the planet Celta, founded by adherents of a Wiccan-like religion whose followers have " psionic," or psychic, talents, Ruis Elder is an outcast on trial for his life. Not only doesn't he possess psionic talent but his mere presence nullifies the powers of others. Ailim Silver Fir, a judge and a strong empath, finds peace for the first time in her life when Ruis' null field gives her respite from the chaos of all the feelings that incessantly swirl around her. Sentenced to exile, Ruis sneaks back into Druida to hide in the spaceship that first brought humans to the planet, and he endears himself to the ship's artificial intelligence. As Ailim and Ruis fall more in love, they uncover the dirty deeds that stripped him of his inheritance and rightful place. Owens has crafted a fine romance that is also a successful science fantasy yarn with terrific world building. The second in a series, following " Heart Mate" (2001), Owens' latest stands on its own.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2003, American Library Association.)