Dance of Desire introduces Lady Rexana Villeaux, an innocent young woman determined to save Rudd, her headstrong young brother, and Fane Linford, a physically and emotionally scarred High Sheriff who is equally determined to prosecute the brother and marry the sister. The story gets off to an intriguing start with Rexana desperately attempting to trick Fane into believing her to be a desert courtesan skilled at the dance of desire in order to distract him from his law-enforcement duties.

When her brother gets imprisoned for treason in the Sheriffs dungeon, Rexana feels compelled to accept Fanes offer of marriage in exchange for leniency toward Rudd. Initially she is frightened by his barbaric ways and heavily scarred body, but (since this is historical romance) she manages to overcome her fear of him and her resistance to losing her virginity.

This book beautifully weaves together an intricate tale of treason, deceit, loyalty, love, and lust. The love scenes are poetic and passionate; Kean doesnt shy away from giving romance readers what they want. The central and supporting characters are well-developed and suitably sympathetic or in the case of Rexanas villainous former suitor, Garmonn Darwell, unsympathetic.

In addition to the compelling story, lovely prose, and interesting characters, Dance of Desire presents the life and times of London in 1192 to help readers understand the context of the story and what drives the characters forward. Kean, who has degrees in English and History, includes many details about customs, countryside, housekeeping, courtship, clothing, and culinary delicacies of the period to heighten readers senses. Interesting plot twists, teasing sexuality, and unexpected character insights will keep romance readers so enthralled that the nearly 450 pages practically turn themselves.

ISBN: 1-9328153-5-X
By Catherine Kean
Publisher: Medallion Press, Inc. (2005)
442 pages
$6.99

Copyright 2006 Leslie Halpern

Leslie Halpern

Central Florida entertainment writer Leslie Halpern is the author of two books, “Reel Romance. The Lovers’ Guide to the 100 Best Date Movies” (Taylor Trade Publishing) and “Dreams on Film” (McFarland & Company). Her articles have appeared in hundreds of publications including “Variety,” “Markee Magazine,” “Storytelling Magazine,” “Location Update,” “Just For Laughs,” and “The Hollywood Reporter,” for which she was a stringer for 13 years. Leslie is a frequent commentator on the film industry and recently did several interviews for the Canadian television series “Saturday Night at the Movies,” produced by TV Ontario. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the University of Kentucky and a Master of Liberal Studies degree from Rollins College.