Tender Is the Knight

Jackie Ivie
Zebra Books (2005)
ISBN 0821778099
Reviewed by Sondra Fowler for Reader Views (6/06)


The Lady Elise, widow of the Duke of Wynd, prided herself on her icy presence and impeccable attire.  She was happy being single and though not against having the adoration of men she was in no way seeking a romantic entanglement.  The new Duke of MacGowan, earthy, outspoken and not schooled in social intrigues, was looking for a bride.  Colin found the lady Elise to be infuriating and in no way what he was looking for in a match.  Hearts are broken, love is found, lost and found again in an amusing and tumultuous courtship the spans the countryside of England and Scotland.

Set in 1876 we are privy to corsets, gowns, and the rules of the nineteenth century English gentry.  We are shown the differences between the English and Scottish and the subtle incompatibilities of custom and cultures. The difference between the English dialogue and the Scottish is made more apparent by the use of written dialect.  The writing provides well drawn characters that even if you cannot identify with you can cheer for and cry for.   Over all the effects transport the reader to a time and place different from the modern world. 

I would call this romance light.  It lacks the overbearing heavy breathing that I find so annoying and in its place is witty dialogue, much more fun.  “Tender is the Knight” provides a guilty pleasure perfect for reading in a bubble bath, a plane or sitting on the beach.

Make comment on weblog