Aura of Love
By Kathy J. Marsh

Paranormal Fiction

SistahFriend Book Club Reviewer: Tasha Martin

 To the naked eye, Jace, a bestselling author, and Remy, a fashion designer who owns her own shop, Urbane, are two average African-Americans who just happen to fall in love. However, to the Auralites, a light-emitting, superhuman nation, they are traitors to their races. Centuries before, the blue and purple Auralites lived in harmony. Creating a secret council, the blue Auralites devised a plan to capture and enslave the purple Auralites, restricting the development of their power, and consequently, dooming them to death.

Years after freedom, some are unable to forgive their oppressors. While Jace loves and adores Remy for the person she is, not her heritage, Remy struggles with losing her identity and even her family and friends all for the sake of love.

When a family secret is revealed that threatens the existence of the Auralites, romantic ties, friendships, and familial bonds are tested. One question remains: is clinging to the painful past more culturally appropriate than embracing change and accepting difference.

I was charmed from the beginning. . . Marsh skillfully crafted a magical alter-reality infused with an unfortunate reality similar to our own prejudiced mankind. The devilishly handsome Jace and the stunning and independent Remy share “real issues” that we all can relate to, such as trust in relationships, sibling rivalry, and family loyalty. She even tackled hot, controversial issues such as the politics of interracial dating and the aftermath of cultural exploitation. The Aura of Love was written in a clear concise style that is not only refreshing, but witty with a flare of humor. A riveting suspense with unexpected twists and turns, I found myself flipping pages well into the late hours of night. At the end of the novel, I was still left with the question, “Where did these African-American like beings come from?”—which leads me to think there will be a sequel . . . I was impressed, and definitely look forward to more from Marsh in the future.

4 1/2 Sistah Hugs