"Surprise twist in this medieval romance makes it a keeper."

Mary, the daughter of heretics, has avoided capture by the church for 12 years. The church proclaims her tainted by her parents and requires that she be cleansed of her sins. Finally caught by the church's henchmen, Mary is thrown into the dungeon where she awaits torture and hopefully a quick death. Fate intervenes and sends a shrouded stranger to rescue her. Fleeing their enemies, Mary and the stranger hide in the shadows looking for sanctuary.

The Dark One, also known as Michael, stays masked to protect his identity. Michael dedicates his life to saving the weak. Having his heart hardened by past sufferings, he projects danger and intimidation to even those he helps. The price he pays is never allowing emotion into his life except compassion for the weak. Eluding the pursuers with Mary, Michael feels an unexpected stirring of emotion for the beautiful and strong lass. In order to survive, Michael realizes they can only share a brief interlude.

Drawn to the Dark One, Mary understands his reluctance to love, but she refuses to surrender their newfound love. As evil follows her and happiness eludes her, Mary hatches a daring plan that will either free them or jeopardize their lives.

DARK WARRIOR begins at a dazzling pace and never slows down! The love story develops beautifully as Mary, injured and temporarily unable to talk, communicates through gestures to the shrouded mask man. The surprise twist at the end will stun readers and place it on their keeper shelf.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Posted October 18, 2004

Summary

He is her salvation, her lover ... her destiny Mary waits, trembling in the darkness -- the prisoner of a fearsome tormentor who would have her at any cost. Then a mysterious cloaked figure appears at her dungeon door. A champion has come to free the beautiful lass and carry her off to safety, with arms as powerful and sure as the trees of the forest. He calls himself Michael, the Dark One. Though he must keep his face hidden from her, Mary is captivated by his strength and kindness ... and irresistibly drawn by his masculine fire toward a most willing and sensuous surrender. But the warrior who once held her captive will stop at nothing to reclaim his prize -- and if Mary does not return to him, many innocents will die. Yet how will she survive if she is forced to abandon the most passionate love she has ever known?