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"God, if you have made a way for us to be together," he whispered, "then let me awaken her with this kiss of true love."

*cue bluebirds and Disney music*

Just kidding.

Influenced by well-known fairy tales, The Healer’s Apprentice—a finalist for the 2011 Christy Award for Young Adult Fiction—beautifully blends historical and fantasy fiction. Rose, the daughter of a woodcutter, becomes an apprentice to the castle healer. This appointment is a glimmer of hope for Rose, as she does not want to marry the lecherous man her mother chose for her in hopes that he will raise their family’s social status.

At the castle, the Duke’s sons, Lord Hamlin (the future Duke) and his younger brother, Lord Rupert, vie for Rose’s affection. Hamlin is chivalrous and kind, but he has been betrothed to a woman whom he has never met. Rupert is the more adventurous brother, but he tones down his wild ways to prove himself to Rose.

However, if Rose as a commoner were to marry either brother, it would mean scandal for the Duke’s family. Rose must deal with her feelings about both men, as well as with the unsettling possibility of being alone and unloved.

And on top of all this, looming in the background of Rose’s blossoming (no pun intended) new life, there is something stalking her that wishes to do harm to her. This adds a note of danger to an otherwise lighthearted story, but it is handled appropriately. I don’t want to give away too many more details, for fear of spoiling what will, before too long, be obvious to any reader who’s even remotely familiar with the world of classic fairy tales.

If I had been given this book as a preteen or teenager, I would have gobbled it up and read it three or four times over again within the next day. The historical period was, I thought, described perfectly, with knights, lords, ladies, chivalry, and of course, a good old-fashioned romance. That romance may be a bit predictable and clichéd, but as I said it is perfect for young adults because boundaries are respected and God remains the foundation and central focus of the inescapable relationship that blooms. And accompanying all this is a sense of fantasy and wonderment at the spiritual realm, which was appropriately handled and respected.

In short, The Healer’s Apprentice is what I consider a perfect slice of romance, fantasy, mystery, and adventure for readers young and old.