Friday, July 7, 2023

Short #BookReviews: A New Tiger and Del Novel from Jennifer Roberson

 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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