BLACK LION'S BRIDE
Tina St. John
Ballantine Books, April 2002
ISBN 0-8041-1963-5
Sebastian of Montborne is fighting the holy war with King Richard the Lionheart, who has become the target of many who want to see the English out of Jerusalem. Sebastian, also known as the Black Lion, is responsible for the protection of the King and takes his job very seriously.
Zahirah's father is considered the King of the Assassin's and from childhood she has been trained towards one goal--killing. Now it's her job to kill the English King, and she'll use whatever means she has to in order to impress her father. When she comes up against Sebastian he is unaware of her true identity, thinking her merely a young woman alone who needs protecting. His mistake almost costs the King his life. It also costs Sebastian his heart, as he falls hard for the single most dangerous person in his world.
In BLACK LION'S BRIDE, Tina St. John has given us a unique perspective of the Crusades so many books simply use as a back drop. She brings the story alive by offering a controversial story-line and strong yet flawed characters with high barriers to overcome if they want to be together.
Sebastian is a wonderful character--he's strong, powerful and intelligent yet nurturing and kind. He has intense convictions and is honorable. Zahirah is also strong, intelligent and fully believes in her cause, but from the exact opposite side of the coin. It's fascinating to watch the author bring these two together by breaking down the personal and societal barriers keeping them apart.
As usual, Tina St. John has met and exceeded my expectations. BLACK LION'S BRIDE is sure to keep readers riveted to their seats, once again showing the author as a leading lady of medieval romance.
Sue Waldeck, Road to Romance
March 8, 2002
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