"A Colorful and Fascinating Tale"

In the year 1536, Hugh of Beaucaire, arrives in Derbyshire to investigate the deaths of the four husbands of Lady Guinevere. They had all died accidentally and the widow has been able to retain all the riches from her husbands' estates. Hugh thinks that his son, Robin, should have been the recipient of one of the estates. King Henry and the evil Thomas Cromwell believe she must be guilty and also covet her properties.

The cool blonde beauty of Guinevere leaves Hugh reeling even though he is determined to do his duty for his son, Robin. He wants to think her innocent because of his strong attraction to her but it all looks very suspicious. Her servants are all faithful to her and her two daughters. She is fearful that even without proof, she could be put to death or burnt as a witch.

THE WIDOW'S KISS is a marvelous book that is impossible to put down. All the characters are colorful and fascinating. It moves along at a perfect pace. There is nothing that I can say that is bad about the book. I loved the story and all of the characters. Hugh and Guinevere are both terrific alpha hero and heroine. They are strong, intelligent and mesmerizing. Her daughters, Pen and Pippa, are a delight, particularly little Pippa who cannot stop chattering for a minute. Hugh's son is a typical teenager growing up and also trying to please his father. Guinevere's servants are her friends and are totally supportive of her while the king and particularly Cromwell are frightening with the power they wield. THE WIDOW'S KISS is a book going on my keeper shelf for another read and I am so pleased that these characters will continue in Jane Feather's next book when she tells the story of Pen. This one gets my highest grade.

Reviewed by Marilyn Heyman
Posted May 12, 2002