Escala Winter is a being of mixed situations. She is a somewhat renegade pixie/faerie princess who is seen as eccentric by the faerie command. To complicate matters, she has mortal blood as well, and is sent into exile by the pixies for exhibiting an all-too-human curiosity about human love. She is exiled to Valla, a mortal realm where she is devoid of any faerie protection or status. She is also obligated to complete a quest.

Experiencing mortal vulnerabilities such as cold, hunger, and loss, Escala encounters two mortals: Roedyn and his partner in industry, Harper. Roedyn is a scout who lives in the woods and has preferred a solitary existence prior to his encountering Escala. The pair falls in love, even though, in practical terms, it benefits neither of them. Roedyn pledges himself to help Escala through her challenges, although her success may cause the loving couple pain and separation.

This engaging tale of a mortal in love with an ex-faerie who is out of favor and who loves him as well (but who has also set herself on a path to redemption with her own kind) is ironic, caring, and humorous. The challenge of a quest for an exiled one's redemption is classic in much of fantasy fiction. The trials and choices the pair experiences and makes reflect situations humans have faced for ages when romantic, courtly love becomes a major factor in their lives. James' book has won numerous awards that, judging by the quality of the writing, are well deserved. Crafted and detailed to a brilliant polish, this fantasy is sure to please.

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