I've always enjoyed a carnival/magical type atmosphere in a novel so I just knew I was going to love this one. I wasn't disappointed. What I liked most about this book was the way the author developed the hero and heroine. We get to see them as little brats and are allowed to grow up with them. I typically don't enjoy *saga* type books and prefer to get to the action right away but these two kids and their story were so interesting and the characters so very well developed that I became attached to these two and couldn't wait to see what happened next.

The hero starts life as a wounded little boy and develops into a strong, secure, sensitive man thanks to the loving attention of his *adopted* family. The heroine is independent and headstrong but still has a vulnerable side. All of the secondary characters are wonderful and add depth and emotion to the story. The love scenes ain't bad either. This one put me thru the emotional wringer and I loved every word