The Diary of Isobelle

Like the other reviewer, I found this book to be a refreshing and intelligent change from the run-of-the-mill historical romance. Isobelle is a spirited heroine acting within the confines of her Victorian world. Mary Lide writes beautifully, with prose that sings like poetry, and the supporting characters that people the tale are full-fleshed and believable. If you enjoy high adventure and wonderful romance set in exotic (well-researched) locales, this is a book for you. You will want to read it over and over again!

This is an unusual and refreshing book for the romance genre. Written in journal style, the main character Isobelle, records her experiences after being ship wrecked in the Arab world. Set during the Victorian period, Isobelle records her capture by a caravan and then possession by a group of Berber horse soldiers. Led by a mysterious black robed figure she knows only to be their master, she returns to their mountain stronghold. Intrigue, jealousy and an imminent seduction, loom over Isobelle as she records in her journal. The writing so vivid, you hear the footsteps, you feel stares exhanged between Isobelle and Berber lord. A mystery swirls around the castle stronghold and you try to unravel all with Isobelle. Lide teases you with the attraction Isobelle feels towards him. But when the two characters come together, the reader is not disappointed. The clash of Berber life, with the young Victorian woman grabs you and pulls you into the story. Mary Lide gives Isobelle creditable flaws and strengths which are refreshing after reading of so many perfect spirited heroines! The Lord of the High Tigran is also original, intelligent, wonderfully sardonic and sensual with a modest measure of arrogance. I could almost hear the sound of his voice as I read. The story will stay inside your head like a song you cannot forget. Totally enjoyable. A keeper!A totally engrossing read and my first Mary Lide book, but certainly not my last.