Dark Rider

In the historical romance DARK RIDER, Kathrynn Dennis tells a medieval tale of a man and woman brought together by their love of horses. Historical medical details and a paranormal atmosphere add a new dimension to the genre. DARK RIDER is full of tension, atmosphere, and passionate emotions. Kathrynn Dennis' historical romance novel will appeal to romance lovers, horse lovers and medieval enthusiasts alike. On the eve of the Eighth Crusade in 1269, Robert Breton stands on the ground of Dover Beach, England as a knight-for-hire in Prince Edward's service. Dark as night, handsome and powerful, this man rides horses like no other knight. Battle weary and wounded from past conflicts, Robert has no choice but to join the Crusades despite his inner conflicts. As the younger son, Robert has no hope of making his way in the world except through the king's favor. When his horses are poisoned, Robert has no choice but to turn to the Lady Eldswythe, rumored to be a horse witch with the mark of the devil's horse on her back. The last person he wants to see is the daughter of the Earl of Crenalden, the man found next to his dying father who ran away from the scene. Nor does Lady Eldswythe relish the idea of serving Robert Breton who, with the assistance of the king, plans to claim the land of Crenalden, Eldswythe's dowered land. Even worse, everyone knows this dark knight ruined Margaret of Suttony. Despite the feud and the rumors, the two are drawn together by their dedication to the suffering horses. Can this common purpose and the powerful physical attraction between them be enough to unravel their dark past, the lies, and the current dangers? With danger lurking at every corner, will Robert and Eldswythe find a way to unravel the lies? Able to see the very spirit of the horses in their charge, will their vision extend to one another's wounded hearts? One can't help but love the hero and heroine. Their hearts are good, noble and honorable torn by all the darkness and battles around them. The tension in DARK RIDER is palpable. Emotions are passionate and the personal stakes are high. The villains are truly wicked. Land issues divide families and create unexpected twists. The capricious king commands but he doesn't always keep his promises or promises the same thing to different people. Kathrynn Dennis adds powerful insights into her fictional representation of the Crusades as she focuses on the story of one knight and his motivations and inner conflicts. The question of horse witch or horse healer surrounding Eldswythe adds a wonderful paranormal twist to this romance while also creating finer details of Medieval and veterinarian history of the terrifying illnesses like Black Bane that plagued the times. The author, a veterinarian herself, adds a new very special window into the medieval world that combines history and a magical world while sacrificing neither. DARK RIDER is a fabulous debut romance with a unique, fresh vision!

Debut author Kathrynn Dennis creates exceptional characters that transport you back to a time when knights fought in the crusades and heroines were more than damsels in distress. This vivid medieval novel is rich in dialogue, filled with passion and a captivating story line. The author's love of horses is exemplified by the knowledge she exhibits throughout the mystical horsewhitch's (lady Eldswythe) ability to diagnose and cure the hero's (Sir Robert) stable of horses from a catastrophic illness on the eve of their departure for the King's crusade. Dark Rider was delightful and charming to read, and left me asking what more might lie in store for Sir Robert Breton, Lady Eldswythe, and their stable of steeds. This book is sure to be the beginning of a great career for debut author Kathrynn Dennis.

I don't often read romance genre books, but I totally enjoyed this one. The heroine, Lady Eldswythe, captured my interest immediately with her uncanny (magical?) mastery over horses. Horses are a primary theme throughout the book, and it is obvious that the author has great love for and knowledge of them. The action unfolds quickly and doesn't let up. The romantic chemistry between Eldswythe and Sir Robert Breton (the Dark Rider) is authentic, very sexy, and also witty. I enjoyed the "period" expressions the characters use, and the historical background is well researched. This book is a welcome release from the everyday grind, and a great read.

Her ability to both interpret horses' needs and heal them has caused Lady Elswythe to be labeled a `horsewitch'. When Prince Edward requests that she tend the horses of her family's enemy, Sir Robert Breton, prior to his and her father's departure on Crusade, she does as requested. Sir Robert is not what she expected and her attraction to him is quite powerful. An attraction she will fight as he is her family's enemy and she is betrothed to another. To rebuild his wealth, and to gain power, Sir Robert Breton is joining the King's Crusade. Having his horses fall ill the night prior was not in the plans. He will do whatever he needs to help his steeds¾even trust his enemy's daughter. But once he sees her, she will not leave his mind and his dreams. A mutual, conniving and vicious, enemy will have them join forces while they are running for their lives. The longer they are together, the more they respect and begin to truly trust each other. From the first page Dark Rider keeps the action flowing. Kathryn Dennis has researched and penned a novel that is compelling in its richness. The characters are drawn to a depth that makes the reader love or hate each one. Lady Elswythe is strong yet sensitive and Sir Robert knows what he wants, and is willing to do what needs to be done to get it. I found myself wishing I could help them both attain what they desired. Being drawn into such a well-wrought novel was a joy. Barb Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed