SECRETS OF THE KNIGHT

Author: Julia Latham ISBN: 9780061432965 9/2008 HISTORICAL Publisher: AVON
Time Period: Medieval, 1480's England

A knight never reveals her secrets . . . When young Diana Winslow arrived at Castle Bannaster, her beauty and bravery disguised beneath a servant's dress, she had no idea her life would change forever. But now the cruel and lecherous Viscount Bannaster lies dead—and the novice Bladeswoman cannot escape her guilt. Nothing, not even fighting for the Crown, can erase her fears . . . especially when she comes face to face with Thomas, the viscount's startlingly seductive brother. Desperate to keep him from discovering the truth, Diana attempts a daring abduction. But all her skills as a knight are no defense against the powerful, irresistible nobleman who has just become her prisoner. A man with a mystery of his own. A man who eyes her so hungrily, so wantonly, that he could tempt her to give up all her secrets for one wicked night in his arms . . .

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

Julia Latham's SECRETS OF THE KNIGHT is a wonderful taste of medieval romance.

As the first female member of the League of the Blade, Diana Winslow must prove herself. Given the fact that women in her day are far from liberated, she must work covertly to help make life better for those she's promised to help. Her job gets sticky when she must fend off a vile man intent on taking her virtue. When he gets his due she must flee. Unfortunately she's left a witness... a witness she feels compelled to kidnap.

The romance that begins in the dungeon between Tom and Diana is mysterious to the utmost. I loved watching this couple interact because their relationship develops slowly. There is plenty of time to observe, see the feelings between them grow—even given the serious circumstances surrounding them. This is no easy path to love, and between Diana's family, Tom's past and the secrets each tries so hard to keep, it is doubtful this pair will get together. It seems more likely Tom will choose Diana's sister, something that keeps me on the edge of my seat throughout.

I enjoyed SECRETS OF THE KNIGHT in much the same way I enjoy a fattening dessert. I savored this story, loving every bite. It is well-written and intriguing, and I easily recommend it.

Kay James