Friday, November 9, 2007

Everlasting-Kathleen E. Woodiwiss

Everlasting
Kathleen E. Woodiwiss
Avon October 30 2007, $24.95
ISBN: 9780060545529

In 1135 Abrielle of Harrington is extremely proud that King Henry II is recognizing the valor of her late father, a loyal knight who fought in support of the royal on many battlefields including the Crusades. Ironically, he died from a duel of honor in England. Abrielle hopes her stepfather receives his due to for his service.

Meanwhile many aristocrats want to court the beautiful likable Abrielle, who is expected to have a large dowry. However, at the ceremony bestowing posthumously honors on her dad, the king snubs her stepfather. At the gala, Abrielle accepts only one dance with Scotsman Raven Seabern, but concludes the hunk pities her so she decides to avoid him though attracted to him. He feels the same way about her, but since she mostly ignores him he assumes she does not want him. When he rescues her from a rape, she flees from Raven while agreeing to accept a marriage to her attempted rapist Desmond de Marle as he has the money her family needs.

The last medieval romance by the late legendary Kathleen Woodiwiss is an interesting tale that brings to life mid twelfth century England especially the court intrigue. The story line is fast-paced with the audience rooting for the good guy, honorable Raven while hissing at the caricature of evil Desmond. However, Abrielle is a bit of a disappointment as her behavior seems illogical with her egotistical belief she must save her family by marrying a beast. Still fans of Ms. Woodiwiss will appreciate EVERLASTING as a final tribute to a great influential author.

Harriet Klausner

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