"For fans of Indian historical romance readers"

For fourteen years he survived until he could avenge the massacre of his family and the abduction of his sister Jenny. He believes the time is at hand as his enemy the Sioux medicine chief Hoka Luta is to marry tomorrow. Half- breed Cheyenne White Shadow plans to kidnap the bride Winona and use her to trade for his sibling. The opportunity is perfect as Winona and her sister Spotted Deer walk away from the Hunkpapa camp towards the river. He and his three companions abduct the bride and her sibling on her wedding day.

When Winona tries to escape, White Shadow splits the two hostages into two groups. He takes the bride with him while his companions escort Spotted Deer. To his chagrin White Shadow wants Winona's respect not her scorn. He tries to persuade her that her betrothed is a cruel killer, but she rejects his thoughts as Hoka Luta has too great a reputation to be this vicious murderer. However, in spite of their terrible beginnings, the abductee and his hostage fall in love, but Hoka Luta is coming to kill him and reject soiled goods.

Though the theme has been used as often as stars seen in the nineteenth century sky including by this author, Susan Edwards provides a delightful redemption tale. The lead couple, supported by a strong cast, drives the story line as Winona tries to ease the pain inside White Shadow's soul, but he refuses to let go of the hate until love overwhelms his darkest feelings. Indian historical romance readers will enjoy Susan Edwards' fine tale that appears to have a sequel or two in the offerings.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted October 25, 2003

Summary

A DARK BEGINNING
For years after his family was massacred, the half-breed Night Shadow harbored black dreams of vengeance—and the hope of someday finding his kidnapped younger sister. Now was the chance. His enemy had shown himself and was to be wed. It would be a simple maneuver to steal the man's bride- to-be, to ride off with the beautiful Winona and reveal the monster she was to marry.

But it was not simple. Winona would not be convinced. Even the burgeoning desire Night Shadow saw in her eyes had not convinced the Sioux beauty of her betrothed's evil. Worse, Night Shadow returned his captive's ardor; where he meant to be cruel, he found in his heart only longing. Could love be born of revenge? There seemed but one way to find out: Take Winona into the darkness and pray that, somehow, he and she would find their way to the light.