Dark Champion: Amazon.ca: Books

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First Sentence
Imogen of Carrisford stood in the dark cold, shivering at the muted sounds of horror. Read the first page

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Concordance

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Customer Reviews

6 Reviews

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Average Customer Review

3.3 out of 5 stars (6 customer reviews)

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4.0 out of 5 stars Light in a dark time, May 7 2004

By

S. Reader "scibarfan" (Spring Hill, TN) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Dark Champion (Mass Market Paperback)

Jo Beverley doesn't shy away from unpleasantness; that means that her work is not everyone's cup of tea. In this book, the brutality, misconceptions, and chauvinism of the early Middle Ages are clearly woven into the characters and the storyline. Hence, Imogen's sheltered existence and overreliance on an unworthy spiritual advisor, as well as FitzRoger's clear understanding of what he must do to succeed in that world. He does what is necessary even when he would rather not; his practicality is a necessary and welcome compliment to Imogen's more idealistic view.

While Imogen is an innocent, and often makes foolish mistakes as a result of her lack of experience, she shows a good deal of growth at the book's end. FitzRoger's phobia is an interesting problem for a warrior and makes him more human. He handles Imogen's fears are handled with great patience and tenderness.

The villains in this piece are truly vile, though in varying ways, and the good guys wear slightly gray hats (helms). Beverley creates more complex characters than a number of writers, in part because she willingly delves into the darker side of human nature. Those uncomfortable with reading about that darker nature might want to avoid this book (and most of her books). FitzRoger is perhaps a stronger character than Imogen, and her "gift" seemed a bit too coincidental, but otherwise the book is well-written and engaging.

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4.0 out of 5 stars Oh my.... so confused!, May 14 2003

By

Jojo "jojookla" (Oklahoma) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Dark Champion (Mass Market Paperback)

Ok, I had totally forgotten that I had previously said that I was going to be more careful about reading JB's medieval romances! Opps! I did it again! This one is really hard for me to give a review on. On one hand, this is not at all my usual type of read (in fact, I usually RUN from this type!); On the other hand, I have to admit that JB has just done an excellent job on this story! I started out only having a grudging respect (& no liking) for the heroine.... by the end of the book, I couldn't have admired her more. The hero was to die for thoughout the entire story.
However, as I have found in the past, JB gives a terribly historically correct accounting of the lives the people led in the Middle Ages.... YUCK! However...... after just a few chapters, I knew that I didn't like this type of writing.... AND I knew that I was going to HAVE TO finish the story! (yes, I'm often confused! lol) So, as far as a recommend: For those of you that can't handle brutality - DON't read it; However, if you like a historically correct medieval romance, & those realities don't bother you, then this would most probably be an excellent read..... Your decision. Happy Reading!
(p.s. - now I just can't figure out if I want to to try another one! lol decisions, decisions, decisions!)

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4.0 out of 5 stars not my favorite but redeeming qualities, April 23 2003

By

Jennifer White "dezdmona" (Fort Drum, NY United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)

This review is from: Dark Champion (Mass Market Paperback)

I didn't like this book as much as other Beverley books. I link that to the fact that the original printing of this novel was in 1993. Whether it is a compliment to say her writing has gotten better over time I don't know. It has a good storyline. I didn't particularly care for the ending but I don't hold that against the entire story. I do like that both the hero and heroine had "real issues". Witnessing a rape like Imogen did and basing sexual relations from that has to be tough. And FitzRoger's weakness was due to a significant event for a child. These details raised the book to my qualification for being a good read.

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Most recent customer reviews

3.0 out of 5 stars Not up to Beverley's standard
Dark Champion, coming from an accomplished romance novelist like Jo Beverley lacks distinction and character. Read more

Published on Mar 12 2003 by Desmond Chan

1.0 out of 5 stars Disappointing
I found this novel not up to Jo Beverley usual standard. The heroin was whiney and annoying, the hero plain weak. I suggest you not waste your money on this one!

Published on Feb 10 2003