Love's Second Sight [Paperback]

I want to say first-off that Ms. Foster is a very gifted writer. The forming of such a complex story from start to completion could only be accomplished by a writer with an excellent grasp of the craft. It is evident throughout the story that the author has researched her subject matter and has incorporated details of character development, location and overall presentation with this research in mind. May I say, "Well done, Ms. Foster."

The story of forbidden love is set in the year 999. We meet Thorgunna Vagndottir, Lady Jar, mistress of the Isle of Tiree. A young, beautiful widow captured in the clutches of the evil self-named god, Loki, who lusts after her beauty and the power she possesses as the mistress of Tiree. He is determined to rule and reign over her and all her kingdom.

We are introduced to Lerf, son of the ruler of Greenland who is shipwrecked on her island on his way to Norway, where he hopes to open the lines of trade between the two lands, and whom is destined to become one with Thorgunna.

Thorgunna is gifted with what she calls 'The Second Sight." The story whirls around her visions as she battles the evil villain, Loki, for control of her soul and her island. We watch her struggle against the love she cannot control for the beautiful Viking that hungers for her, yet must continue on his journey and the quest that is set before him. Little did he know he would hold the secret to Thorgunna's freedom.

"Love's Second Sight" is brimming with supernatural events, demonic inspired turmoils and the search for the one thing that will end the terror and the evil plot of the self-made god, Loki. That can only be accomplished in the acceptance of the White Christ who has authority over all. Unfortunately, Thorgunna must battle her own fears, doubts and hatred that has been instilled in her from previous self-made demonic gods, before she would ever be able to trust in the true God, a God she cannot see. Her journey and that of Leif's causes one to wonder if theirs will always be a forbidden love. Wonder if she will ever open her eyes to the only God who truly can transform her life and still the storm within her. The answer to that you will have to find out yourself.

The only drawback that I had with this work was the strong sexual content that fills the pages. If you are not comfortable with detailed sexual experiences then you will not want to read this work.

Final analysis: Superb writing, top-notched storyline, heart-stopping conclusion, but for me the explicit sexual content definitely took away from an otherwise outstanding read.

Shirley Johnson/Senior Reviewer

MidWest Book Review

"Love's Second Sight" is a great, imaginative story based on stanzas contained in medieval Icelandic texts "The Vinland Saga, the "Greenlander's Aga" and "Saga of Erik the Red."

Thorgunna must rule an island as a woman in an era where men are in charge. At the same time, she is agonized by Loki, the God of Lies -- trapped between the old gods and the Christ.

It's easy to see why this book has garnered so many great reviews. There is top-notch writing throughout, a compelling storyline and an ending that will have your heart pounding. I will look forward to more from Darragha Foster. Recommended.

Thorgunna is the Jarl of the island of Tiree. Loki comes to Thorgunna in her dreams and he wants to make a deal with her. If she worships him as her God and gives him her virginity, Loki will protect her people. But Loki is a liar and a trickster, which Thorgunna knows. She must be cautious when dealing with Loki but she doesn't know who else can protect her people. The King of Norway wants the beer Tiree produces and with him comes the new Christianity

Thorgunna has a second sight. With it she sees that she will never meet the man she is married by contract to, instead the man she will eventually fall in love with will arrive at her island. The deal she makes with Loki prevents her from making love with this man though. If they make love, Loki will kill both of them as well as the people of Tiree.

Leif is traveling to Norway when his ship was wrecked in a storm. Once there, he hopes that King Olaf will recognize Greenland so that traders will come, bringing wealth to the land. He arrives at Tiree to make repairs to his ship. Leif and Thorgunna are attracted to each other and spend time together. As the days progress Leif's desire for Thorgunna grows. Thorgunna too desires Leif and when he asks why she holds her self back she tells him of her pact with Loki. At first Leif keeps his distance from Thorgunna but his need for her is too strong.

Thorgunna and Leif have many obstacles in their way. Along with Loki's wrath, Leif must leave Tiree to make a life for the people of Greenland and the people of Tiree need Thorgunna's leadership so she must stay on there. They have no future together and yet their love and desire for each other deepens and they consummate their relationship. Loki will not allow this though and he causes chaos to ensue on the island.

The time comes for Leif to leave Tiree. After meeting with King Olaf in Norway, Leif is baptized and converted to Christianity. When he arrives back home in Greenland with the help of his mother, they begin to erect a church. Proclaiming Greenland a christian land. If Christianity is brought to Tiree, Loki will be furious and war between the Gods will rage forth.

Love's Second Sight is a very profound and intense story with the romance often being bittersweet. Thorgunna and Leif are separated and long for each other and while away Leif is faithful in his love, he wanders a bit. This is a very sexual story that is often mixed with violence. It's not for the faint of heart. Love's Second Sight is fascinating, dark and sensual. It will take you on an unforgettable journey.

Nannette
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed