Monday, May 4, 2009

Review - Master of Surrender




Title: Master of Surrender
Author: Karin Tabke
Publishing Date: July 2008
Genre: Medieval
Rating: B-
Sensuality: Hot

Master of Surrender is book one in Karen Tabke's Blood Sword series. Rohan du Luc, also known as the Black Sword has been assigned the task of holding the castle Alethorpe in the name of William the Conqueror. When he arrives he meets the beautiful and fearless Isabel, whom has been left in charge of the castle in her father and brothers' absence. Rohan seeing right away what a treasure Isabel is decides to lay claim to her, as well. However, Isabel has other ideas and swears to keep her heart to herself.

While Master of Surrender doesn't necessarily bring anything fresh to the classic romantic medieval tale, it does follow the adage, "If it ain't broke, then don't fix it." Spirited and bold Isabel is determined to remain free from Rohan. She might be his captive, but she will never willingly give him her heart. But as the story unfolds she realizes what a good man Rohan is. His bark is always worse than his bite. He blusters and bluffs, but when it comes down to it, he is quite the chivalrous knight.

Isabel and Rohan were nice to read. I wouldn't say that anything in particular stood out about them. The villain did come across as a little flat, evil for the sake of being evil. I didn't understand his motivation. All in all, I would say Master of Surrender was an enjoyable, if somewhat predictable read.

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4 comments:

Kristie (J) said...

I have this one as well as the next one *heavy sigh* in the TBR pile along with hundreds of others. I love medievals so I'm looking forward to this one.

Leontine said...

Hi Jill,
I have a poll where I ask which new author I should acquaint myself with...Karin Tabke with Master of Surrender is one of them LOL I don't read many classic medieval romances these days since I tend to buy historicals with a twist or something unusual in them. You make me wonder...:D

Christine said...

I've recently discovered that I love stories with swords in them--in both adult and young adult fiction. I guess you could say It is my weapon of choice when reading. LOL!

I know what you mean about the premise not sounding very original in medieval romances, but I haven't read many... and this story sounds really good to me. I may have to give this one a try.

Jill D. said...

I think with not having read many medieval stories that this one should definitely be given a try. It was an enjoyable read. I was surprised too at how sensual it was even though the main characters don't actually do the deed until the end of the story.