The Sentinel Wars is shaping up to be one of my favourite series.

Finding the Lost, book two, is remarkable in its detail and as well as its light descriptive touch. Shannon K Butcher knows not to over work scenes. Instead we are given such a clear, visually rich impression that a reader feels like they are a participant in the drama that unfolds.

Andra is a wonderful character who has faced appalling tragedy and forces herself into danger to find and save as many children kidnapped by monsters as she can. At the same time she supports her sister Nika who has been trapped in a psychotic state since she was attacked by Synestryn eight years earlier.

She has no time in her life for Paul, and he has almost no time left to convince her to link with him so he can relieve the fatal pressure building within him. His lifemark, a tattoo of a many branched tree, has only one fragile leaf remaining attached. When it falls, he dies.

This isn’t the situation where these two are destined to be together either. Andra’s blood shows that she’s a Theronai and therefore compatible with Paul, but she’s compatible with at least one of his fellow Sentinels as well. The compatibility simply gives the potential for a life bond. In order for this potential to be realized, both of them have to choose to be together and swear vows to each other. I love that Paul and Andra’s relationship is therefore based on attraction, balancing of responsibilities, ethics and being there for each other.

What a wonderful book this was. I found the plot completely engrossing and was swept up in the emotions as each of the main and supporting characters (all so diverse and yet well drawn) gathered their courage to face yet one more day. Because, despite the horrible personal and physical challenges they face, their courage and humanity (yep even for the non-human Sentinels and Sanguinars) absolutely shines through.