FOR THE LOVE OF MAGIC

When Rana Oceanus leaves her husband to find herself and sort out some unexpected challenges, she sets in motion the kinds of astonishing events that can only manifest when Titus Oceanus (aka the king of Atlantis) is involved.

Rana and Titus have been married for 40 years and have lived in a variety of locations and times. Now that their grown children have settled in the 21st century in remote and magical Spellbound Falls, they have practically moved there, too, though they still rule the kingdom of Atlantis. Rana is in love with her husband, but they were married in a different time, with different rules, when she was only 15. Restless and agitated, she buys a tiny, mysterious house, where she can contemplate independence and Self and is both touched and irritated when her bid for space brings out the best and the worst in Titus. Meanwhile, odd, ominous events in the community put everyone on edge, and Titus must consider what is best for his family, their magical friends and his beloved Atlantis. Chapman has built an engaging world of immortal gods, magic seas and hidden kingdoms with her Spellbound Falls series. The main storyline revolves around Titus and Rana, and it is refreshing to see a romance unfold around a couple that has a few years on them (though, since Titus is immortal, he has a few thousand years on him, apparently). Fierce, arrogant and alpha Titus maintains a sweet tenderness with Rana even when she is defying him, and her gentle, powerful wisdom is endearing, especially when she fails to understand her own foibles. Their relationship is textured and complex and fun to watch. There are outlandish elements to the book, but it doesn’t take itself too seriously, which increases its charm. Smooth writing and consistent, layered characters support a plot that is completely unrealistic but in an entertaining way, though too many characters and a lot of series back story make the beginning confusing and somewhat sluggish.

A quirky, breezy magical romance that fans will enjoy.