June 27, 2005
Martin and Leigha Vandorfor have made an
unusual pact: Leigha would spend 2 weeks in the scorching desert and in exchange Martin would accompany her for an entire
thespian season.
Their great outdoor adventure immediately
takes a turn when they drive off the road and by morning find a sandstorm has buried them!
At the deserts mercy, a tedious trek through
parching sands leads them to a small cluster of decaying adobe structures that are tucked under a rock ledge. Hesitant the
couple takes shelter within the first decomposing dwelling. A day later, inside the murky habitat, Martin is left bewildered
by Leigha’s pivotal claim to a talisman that mystically appears next to a stack of wood.
What happens next: no one expects.
An ancient sorcerer named Maranther exposes
herself to Martin disguised as the apparition of an elderly woman. Maranther declares he has hidden Leigha from Martin and
only the challenge and willingness to explore their past will reunite them. Can Martin and Leigha mend the affliction that
keeps them in Maranther’s game? For this, readers will have to dive into the pages of Nik C. Colyer’s world.
Colyer’s writing style is unique
and dynamic. Maranther’s Deception is well paced and action filled, and certain to seize readers, denying reprieve
until the last page is turned.
Reviewed by Betsie
