"super debut Historical romance"

If you love strong-willed, intelligent and determined heroines, and heroes to match them, you will walk to check out the debut novel of Catherine Kean. I had heard Medallion wasn't going to do straight historical novels, so I am delighted to see they actually are. Kean's book is a strong entry into the Historical market and promises there will be more tales from this talented writer.

Set in the late 12th Century, Fane Linford is the High Sheriff of Warringham. King Richard has promised he could choose a bride for his loyal service, only there is so much to do and so little time that bride hunting comes far down on his list of things to do. Currently, he is charged with putting down the rebels, so he is out and about rooting out traitors. Lady Rexana is aware there is a parchment, a forgery, with her brother's name on it, which would see him branded a traitor and that he already in the Sheriff's dungeon. The last of her family, she would do anything to save her brother Rudd. When all options are weighed, she opts performs in the guise of a dancer from the East (reminiscent of Evensong by Candice Camp, 1995), hoping to keep the Sheriff entertained while her servants steals the forged parchment back. She does more than occupy the sexy Sheriff, she totally captivates him, not counting on the would-be-groom seeing her as the bride he seeks.

When Fane discovers the deception, he is still determined to have Rexana and will do whatever it takes to win her love. In order to do that, he must prove who are the real traitors and clear her brother's name. There is also the matter of a man, Garmonn, obsessed with Rexana who won't stop at anything, including Fane's death to possess her. It all adds to the mix to give you one fine read. A super debut Historical Romance I highly recommend.

Reviewed by DeborahAnne MacGillivray
Posted May 28, 2005

Summary

Medieval Historical Romance Set in Warringham, England, 1192

Desperate to save her brother Rudd from being condemned as a traitor, Lady Rexana Villeaux must dance in disguise at a feast for the High Sheriff of Warringham. Her goal is to distract him so her servant can steal a damning missive from the sheriff's solar. Dressed in the gauzy costume of a desert courtesan, dancing with all the passion and sensuality in her soul, she succeeds in her mission. And, at the same time, condemns herself.

Fane Linford, the banished son of an English earl, joined King Richard's crusade only to find himself a captive in a hellish eastern prison. He survived the years of torment, it's rumored, because of the love of a Saracen courtesan. The rumors are true. And when he sees Rexana dance . . .

The king has promised Fane an English bride, yet Fane desires only one woman -- the exotic dancer who tempted him. Then he discovers the dancer's identity. And learns her brother is in his dungeon, accused of plotting against the throne. It is more temptation than Fane can resist.

The last thing Rexana wants is marriage to the dark and brooding Sheriff of Warringham. But her brother is his prisoner, and there may be only one way to save him. Taking the greatest chance of her life, Rexana becomes the sheriff's bride. And learns that the Dance of Desire was only a beginning . . .