"Charming tale of love, betrayal and forgiveness."

In the backdrop of war-torn England in the 12th century, Lady Dominie de Montford is desperate. A ruthless outlaw, called the Wolf of the Fens, is threatening everything she loves and holds dear. He's scourged the land, and Dominie's holding of Harwood is next. She needs a champion. So it seems like a miracle when she learns that Armand Flambard, her former betrothed, is not dead, but very much alive and living at an abbey. Armand is amazed when Dominie, the girl he abandoned in the name of honor, seeks him out at Breckland Abbey to be her champion. He's not unmoved by her plight, but tormented by his past, Armand has renounced violence and dedicated his life to the church. Against his wishes, the Abbot bids him to aid his former love.

As they are forced together to plan for the defense of Harwood, their inner defenses against each other begin to crumble. Recognizing that they're very different, both come to respect one another for those very differences. But even as they struggle against the Wolf of the Fens, Armand reveals a secret that threatens to destroy their newfound love.

Ms. Hale has written a charming tale of love, betrayal and forgiveness. Fast-paced and well-written, this sweet, sensual story is an enjoyable read. Although the main conflict between the two characters seems insurmountable, Ms. Hale resolves it brilliantly.

Reviewed by Angela Johnson
Posted April 14, 2004

Can Dominie DeMontford lure the renowned warrior Armand Flambard out of an abbey, to take up his sword one last time in defense of the lands that were once his...before civil war made these former lovers bitter enemies?