The Wolf and the Dove Book

3/6/2013 - Re-read with my local book group

The Wolf and the Dove is Kathleen Woodiwiss's second novel written. It's a rather lengthy Viking Historical with over 500 pages, all of which I devoured as I enjoyed a re-read with my local book peeps. While I was happy to find it's still among my all time favorites, I realize this book may not work for others.

Woodiwiss is well known for taking the romance genre into the bedroom in 1972. Still you will not find explicit sex scenes. The Wolf and the Dove was first published in 1974, two years after ... "The modern romance genre was born with Avon's publication of Kathleen Woodiwiss's, The Flame and the Flower.... the first romance novel "to [follow] the principals into the bedroom."

The year is 1066 and Saxon England is being invaded by the Normans who have taken up the cause of the soon to be King William. Eighteen year old Aislinn of Darkenwald becomes an object of the spoils of war and now belongs to Wulfgar, the Iron Wolf of Normandy. While he's a fierce alpha warrior, he's also fair to those under his rule. And even though he may be the enemy, Aislinn is intrigued by this handsome stranger.

Woodiwiss completely captures my attention within the first few pages and I enjoyed every minute of the tempestuous journey of Wulfgar and his Aislinn, captor and slave. There's angst, jealousy, treachery, passion, and sizzling chemistry. There's a miraculous HEA ending where everything is wrapped up in a neat little bundle. It's totally unbelievable, but I loved it and it worked for me.

Also, you'll find things that aren't historically correct. Again, not a problem for me. When I read romance, I'm looking more for the relationship aspects rather than a high percentage of historical accurate detail.

What I did find on my re-read is one of the sexiest warriors I've read. Woodiwiss gives great insight into Wulfgar's feelings concerning love and marriage. I found Aislinn to be a heroine that I loved. She falls hard for this sexy warrior, and while he may be satisfied with their relationship as it is, she wants commitment.

Kathleen Woodiwiss was an amazingly talented author who has given me many hours of pleasure within the pages she's penned. I'm delighted to find she still sits among my favorites after all these years.