NORTH OF NEED (Hearts of the Anemoi #1) by Laura Kaye- a review

North of Need (Hearts of the Anemoi #1) by Laura Kaye

Laura Kaye’s North of Need is a stunning, powerfully written story about love after loss. Combine heartfelt emotion, unique fantasy elements, as well as the miraculous magic of Christmas–and this first installment in the Hearts of the Anemoi–presents one of the most enjoyable novels I have read in a long while.

The story begins with the isolation, and agonizing memories of a widow’s grief. A woman who every year at Christmas time travels to a remote cabin in the mountains, that she once shared with her husband. She mourns his loss alone, instead of surrounding herself with family at this difficult time of year. Remembering fonder times, she begins to build a snowman in the white, frozen yard. Without realizing what is happening, the woman gazes upon her work to discover she has built an entire family….something she will never have. She collapses in tears against the snowman in a very heartbreaking scene, showing readers the aftermath of unimaginable loss. I was instantly drawn into the story by this moment, as the horror this widow has suffered, is one of my own worst fears.

The widow; Megan Snow is what heroine’s are made of. A caring, compassionate woman; with an innately giving nature. Feminine, and soft hearted, yet possessing an iron will to live–despite how much it hurts to continue on. Megan is unaware that her tears are heard. Not by one, but by two men. One of which can no longer save her, and one of which steps foward with the hope to try. Enter Owen Winters. *long sigh* There are not many male characters in literature who have affected me quite the same way. This is no dark, tortured hero in need of redemption. Here is a man who risks his entire existence, simply to take away one woman’s grief, and in hopes of being allowed to love her for all time. Owen is an intriguing blend of complexities. Mysteriously mismatched eyes. Powerful masculinity, and raw sensuality–combined with utter selflessness, charming wit, and a touch of innocence that will steal your heart–even as he attempts to heal Megan’s soul.

As the pages turn, Megan and Owen continue to be drawn closer to one another. We see Megan’s heart gradually begin to open enough to believe she may have been gifted with a Christmas miracle. Circumstances that make Owen’s presence difficult to understand, but of which are bringing her back to life. What Megan does not know is that this miracle comes with an expiration date. Before the temperature rises, and the snow melts–Megan must learn to let go of her widow’s grief, learn to love, and trust in her heart again…or she will lose Owen forever.

Although presenting stories within the realm of fiction, Laura Kaye is a master at weaving real emotion into her work. I highly recommend this novel to anyone in need of an inspirational pick me up, or simply an immensely romantic journey to cherish. One that showcases the healing power of love, and leaves your heart sighing with contentment.

ORDER LINKS: Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository / KOBO / Amazon

Reviewed by Miranda H.