Sword-Bearer, A Novel of Tiger and Del, by Jennifer Roberson (DAW)
Ah, the pleasure of sitting down with a new Jennifer
Roberson novel, especially a new Tiger and Del novel. From the first paragraph,
I know I am in the hands of a superb storyteller. I’ve been following the
adventures of “the Sandtiger” and Delilah since Sword-Dancer introduced
them to a world of adoring fans. It’s taken them a number of novels and many
adventures to come to a mutually respectful, often passionate relationship. In
the process, Tiger has discovered his own innate talent for magic, something he
never wanted and has done his best to rid himself of.
Now they’ve settled into a life of respectability, raising
their young daughter while teaching student sword-dancers and owning a share in
a local cantina. All that comes to a crashing halt with a series of bizarre,
terrifying weather catastrophes. They’re off on another adventure to discover
the source of the storms, a quest that will demand every bit of magic and sword
skill the two can muster.
The plot description doesn’t come close to capturing the
magic of the story itself, the memorable characters and their choices, the
harshly gorgeous landscapes, the sizzling action, superbly handled tension,
evocative details, and plot twists. I love the vividness, courage, and frailties
of Roberson’s characters. In her hands, the most extraordinary heroes become appealingly
human. Most of all, though, the books portray the abiding love between Del and Tiger,
their devotion based on trust and respect, with generous moments of juicy desire.
I love how they’re each able to accept differences of opinion without the
slightest doubt and to rely not only on their own skills but their partner’s. Eight
books later, the romance is still alive. Not only alive, but deep, quiet, and true.
If this, for nothing else, the Tiger and Del books are worth cherishing and
re-reading.
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