Fiction Book Review: The Legacy by Michael Phillips

Book Description:
The Dramatic Conclusion to the Secrets of the ShetlandsLoni Ford's unexpected inheritance of substantial real estate--not to mention a title--in the Shetland Islands has caused more than a stir in the quiet fishing hamlet of Whales Reef. How can life ever be the same with an outsider--and a woman at that--playing such a pivotal role in the life of this traditional community? But it isn't just the locals who have deep misgivings about the current situation. Loni herself never imagined this in her wildest dreams and wonders whether she's cut out for it.

Loni would hardly let herself acknowledge that she's falling in love--with Whales Reef, with its hardy people, and with local chieftain David Tulloch, whose inheritance she has usurped, at least in the eyes of some. Or has she merely been seduced by the simple, peaceful way of life that exists here?

Yet life in Whales Reef is rarely without drama. Deep rifts exist between certain lifelong neighbors, and when a dead body is discovered, suspicion is cast in the direction of the Tulloch family. How Loni and David face up to this challenge will profoundly shape their relationship, as well as the future of the island.

My Review:
The Legacy is the perfect conclusion to the Secrets of the Shetlands series. This sweeping series ends the beautiful story of Loni Ford's adventure in Scotland. I enjoyed how the author wove the many tales of Scottish legacy with the reality of Loni's life in America. The colorful characters add fun and frolic, along with depth and texture to the multilayered story. With the lovely setting, I felt like I strolled through the heather with Loni and David as they sorted out their lives and discovered their futures. Michael Phillips does not always use the writing technique of showing. He does occasionally use the old-fashioned technique of telling the story. I'm not opposed to this, but it might bother some readers. The book is lengthy, but the story needed every page. For me, The Legacy is a sigh worthy book I could disappear into. I received the book for free.