• Author - Cherish D'Angelo (aka Cheryl Kaye Tardif)
• Title - Lancelot's Lady
• Publisher: Imajin Books
• ISBN - 978-0-9865382-0-9
• Publication Date: September 27, 2010
• Format - e-book available via KoboBooks, Amazon or Smashwords.
• Price - $7.99US

I first came across Lancelot's Lady on Text Novel. For several months I followed the story as it appeared, chapter by chapter. Though rough around the edges, it was compelling enough to keep me coming back for more.

Then the chapters stopped. A semi-finalist in the Dorchester Best Cellar contest on Text Novel, Lancelot's Lady was now being prepared for publication. When the book was published, and I finally got to find out how the story turned out, I expected a good yarn. Belonging to the Louis L'Amour school of storytellers (he wrote to entertain), if that is all I get out of a book, I feel well satisfied.

Lancelot's Lady exceeded my expectations. Not only were the rough edges smoothed out, but the characterizations and settings were fleshed out. I anticipated skimming the first half of the book to remind myself of what I had already read, and ended up going back and rereading passages. I particularly like the way the supporting characters were devloped.

Like most romances, the central characters are improbably attractive and suffer from chronic impulse control. The villain is also over the top - but a certain amount of melodrama is expected with romantic suspense. The supporting characters provide a welcome balance, bringing the story, and the main characters, down to earth.

If you are looking for a welcome escape from reality and cold weather, Lancelot's Lady not only provides a steamy romance, but also a lush and inviting setting. On a cold October morning, who can resist the image of a tropical island drenched in sunshine with the improbably attractive man or woman of your choice.


Alison Bruce is a writer, editor, designer and author of El Paso Trail, a finalist in the Text Novel 2010 contest.