In Shaman, Healer, Heretic by M. Terry Green, we are invited into the exciting world of Olivia Lawson, also known as Livvy. A Techno-Shaman, her specialty is helping those trapped in the other realms to return to their current existence. When she finds a kachina in the real world, one of the rare Hopi gods, she knows she must be dreaming. Because it is impossible for a kachina to be in the real world, she knows that something is wrong. As the amazing character attempts to communicate, she cannot understand the message. As its arm comes into contact with her it creates a spark, a semblance of the spiritual guide that exists within Livvy. Her cell phone ring breaks into her thoughts and as she turns to look, the kachina disappears. Something is happening, but she does not know what.
There is really no one to talk to, that can help her understand what she has just seen. Shamans do not speak to each other; in fact, they do not even acknowledge that there may be other Shamans in the world. As Livvy continues with her job to rescue those that end up in the middle or under world, she finds the landscape changing. The patterns are not the same and each trip creates further concern.
Only her friend SK seems to understand the problems she is encountering. Of course, he is the one who brokers the jobs, and he knows all the Shamans and their specialties. He is trustworthy and holds the confidence of those known for their abilities. Livvy holds a special place in his heart, she is one of very few born that holds lightning as her spirit guide. It is a hard guide and dangerous as well. However, along with that it also carries a great deal of power.
When she discovers one of the old gods have escaped and is now in the underworld, creating chaos and destruction, she begins to understand the changes she is witnessing. As pain strikes every Shaman in a bizarre twist, as one of their own seems to self-combust, fear strikes into the heart of the very fabric of their system. In an unprecedented gathering, the Shamans decide to work together to send the old god back to where it came from. With the power evinced by this monster, will they be able to succeed? As the deaths begin to pile up, they begin to understand that there may be a traitor in their midst. Can they find the answers in time? Livvy seems to hold the power to find the answers. Can she find how to use her lightning power in time to save their way of life?
In Shaman, Healer, Heretic we are taken into the realms of the old gods. The Shamans and their powers are explained as well as the existence of their spirit helpers. Each character is created with an insight into their part of the saga. Livvy, our main character is an excellent hero, and SK is not only the perfect foil but also the most interesting intermediary. He is the one who seems to bring it all together. He is rather mysterious and knows a great deal about everything, which creates even more of a mystery. Green takes the initiative to create the characters imbuing them with both strengths and flaws, which draw you in.
They are so very human in many ways, and yet quite powerful in their own rights. The story is fast paced and creates a world of interesting contrasts. It is exciting and yet mysterious, keeping you wondering where it will go and how this group of Shamans will be able to complete their rather difficult task. It is imaginative and fun, and a must have for the fantasy fan. This story is quite addictive, making you want to read more of Olivia Lawson and SK along with the exciting world where Shamanism is in use, and yet still an underground and unspoken ritual.
Rating 4/5
Shaman, Healer, Heretic
This book was received as a free download from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
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