With clever manipulation of the literary classics and biblical themes, coupled with clear and concise mastery of the written word, author T.L. James pens a spellbinding and riveting novel that is simply unprecedented in THE MPIRE: In Search of the Lost. Lustful Mallory Towneson Haulm has an insatiable appetite for all things beautiful and powerful. He has transformed himself from an abused child; suffering a painful past that he barely remembers into a multimillion-dollar business tycoon and connoisseur of fine clothes, furnishings, food and women. But no matter how he fights it and attempts to mask himself behind the glamorous life and the English accent, he is a Haulm and destined to join the family business. As he is repeatedly reminded, it all ends with him. Upon that premise, T.L. James paints a complex and multifaceted portrait of Mallory's journey from the seemingly resistant heir of an earthly throne, to the powerful acceptance of his spiritual throne and truly horrendous inheritance. The novel is surrounded in subtle supernatural innuendos and occurrences, cleverly disguised throughout the tale so as not to portray the mystery to the reader. In order to figure this novel out, to understand the twisted motives and logic of the characters and why the family business seems all encompassing and omnipotent, the reader has to hang on to every word. Remembering her audience, T. L. James scripts realistic characters and craftily designs sibling rivalries, friendships, familial bonds, reliance and trust as well as abuse. I enjoyed the fraternal component of the family business, down to their choreographed entrance ala the Brotherhood of the Masons. But most importantly, Matthew and the transformation of his relationship to Mallory adds a startling twist. The only downfall I experienced was the length of time devoted to Mallory's forbidden love. While the depth of the romance was necessary to lay a solid foundation, it became all encompassing for a few chapters and slightly distracted what was, up to that point, a perfect read. But that was my only criticism. As with all novels of this magnitude, upon its conclusion a true fan will have more questions, more analysis. What is Matthew? An angel or much more? If he is what he claims to be, what would that mean for mankind? What would the religious implications be? How will Mallory maintain the business, his power, and his destiny? On and on, this novel peaks the curiosity, stimulates the imagination, and leaves the reader craving for the next installment. --RAWSISTAZ.com and BlackBookReviews.net
1 of 2 people found the following review helpful: Love Vs. Death: Not As Easy A Choice As It Seems..., July 10, 2008 By Apex Reviews (Durham, NC USA) - See all my reviews (Official Apex Reviews Rating: 4.5 Stars) If given the option, would you choose Love over Death? The answer seems obvious, but not to Mallory Haulm - whose destiny in life is actually death. There has always been a darkness hovering over Mallory, and, as he discovers more about his fate, the cloud of darkness is almost suffocating. He is a flourishing business man, but after moving back home to Texas to help out with his family's company, Haulm Industries, he finds out that there's more to it than just business... In order for him to fulfill his destiny, he must become the fourth horseman, Death, and bring forth the apocalypse. But, when his one true love returns home, the future of the Haulm family could be destroyed forever. The MPire: In Search Of The Lost is overflowing with passion and mystery. In it, T.L. James' characters fight for what they believe in - no matter the consequences. The reader definitely gets a good visual of each character, as they all have such unique personalities. The story holds a lot of intrigue, and T.L. James pulls all the loose ends together nicely, showing the reader that love truly has no boundaries. A great first book in what promises to be a compelling series, and there can only be more excitement to follow. --Apex Reviews
The MPIRE: In Search of the Lost by T.L. James is a fascinating look at the light and darkness that live inside of man. Mallory Towneson Haulm is a wealthy, handsome, very sexy businessman who resides inside his own world. He has beautiful women at his beck and call and every expensive toy a man can dream of. However, he is haunted by his dreams and demons. How could a man with everything have such internal struggles? Mallory has been estranged from his family for fourteen years and is called home to join the family business. He has already proven with his personal business that he is a financial wizard and only he can turn around the slowly deteriorating business. What Mallory does not know is that there are spiritual and supernatural motives at play and that he is in for the battle of his very life. The added component of an old lover reappearing only adds to his struggles. The question becomes with all Mallory has going for him, will he be able to conquer the ultimate battle, death? The MPIRE: In Search of the Lost stretched me in ways that a book had not done in a long time. I had to stay focused on all the mysterious occurrences and the motivations of all the characters. There were many twists and surprises, but I was never left wanting. The mystery always came to a satisfying conclusion. There were times when I wanted to rush things but was ultimately grateful that the author took her time, allowing me to go where she was taking me. I recommend The MPIRE to all readers who enjoy novels that can stretch them and take them on a satisfying literary journey filled with the mystical, spiritual and even a bit of the romantic. Angelia Menchan APOOO BookClub --acvermen.blogspot.com
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
