The Rogue Scorpion by Lynda Faye Schmidt is a resonant tale with robustly developed themes of healing, self-discovery, and personal growth. It follows Isabella Ricci, an artist who sets out on an adventure to discover and embrace her purpose. But life throws adversity at her at every turn, starting with a traumatic experience in Thailand. When she learns that her father isn't well, Isabella goes to Vancouver, eventually finding herself in an unhealthy relationship. She is a woman beset by vicissitudes and she refuses to abandon her personal odyssey, which leads her to Panama. Will she be able to trust her instinct, find true love, and embrace who she is meant to be?

This is the story of most people. We spend our lives struggling to find out what we are here for, falling in love with the wrong person, getting hurt over and over, wondering if we can finally figure out what actually makes us tick. The author uses this human experience in creating a character that readers will love, examining her emotional and spiritual climates with cleverness. Isabella Ricci is a genuinely flawed and relatable character who will remind readers of their own hurts and the in-between moments of hope and enlightenment. Schmidt writes in dazzling prose and has the extraordinary ability to explore the emotions and psyche of her protagonist with unwonted clarity. A tale of resilience and undying hope, The Rogue Scorpion is permeated by a strong sense of humanity and realism, a story that intelligently explores the beauty of a broken soul. The conflict is mostly emotional and it moves the story steadily forward. Overall, the narrative is balanced by the author's strong characterization and irresistible narrative voice; the gorgeous writing and the superb use of streams of consciousness made this story even more enjoyable.