the wolf and the dove [Paperback]

kathleen e. woodiwiss (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: 1974

As hordes of Norman invaders sweep Saxony in 1066, the lovely Aislinn of Darkenwald is torn between loyalty to her own Saxon people and her tempestuous romance with Wulfgar--the Iron Wolf of Normandy.

Product Details

• Paperback: 508 pages
• Publisher: Avon; 14 edition (1974)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0380473658
• ISBN-13: 978-0380473656
• Product Dimensions: 6.9 x 3.8 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (169 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,252,031 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

With more than thirty-six million copies of her bestselling novels already in print, Kathleen E. Woodiwiess remains one of America's most successful and beloved storytellers. She is the author of twelve enormously successful masterworks of romantic fiction, including The Flame and the Flower, Shanna, Ashes in the Wind, Petals on the River, and The Elusive Flame.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

28 of 31 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars THE BEST MEDIEVAL ROMANCE EVER WRITTEN., March 27, 2000

By 

Maggie (NYC) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Wolf and the Dove (Mass Market Paperback)

As some other readers have mentioned, this was my 2nd romance novel too (the 1st being KW's The Flame & The Flower). Now, 20+ yrs & uncountable romance books later, this one still stands out as the best medieval romance i've ever read. The time, the characters, the events, all come to life under KW's skillful writing (how i wish she would write another one like this). The passion between Wulfgar & Aislinn is palpable & contrary to some readers' comments, there is no real rape of the heroine (i would never be able to stomach that). The story gives a vivid account of the Battle of Hastings (albeit, more from the normans' perspective) & paints a true picture of a mighty warrior - Wulfgar - i still smile when i think of him *s*, & a strong woman - Aislinn - her strength lies in her wisdom & gentleness. All in all, a wonderful book that you will find yourself reading over & over again (my original finally fell apart). Enjoy!

31 of 35 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Classic romance at its best!, October 7, 2004

By 

Amanda Carrell "Erotic Romance Author" (Texas) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: The Wolf and the Dove (Mass Market Paperback)

In the time of William the Conqueror, two people sworn to hate forged a love so strong it would overcome any obstacle. Thus is the story of Wulfgar and Aislinn.

_The Wolf and the Dove_ is a tale full of passionate love and bitter war all set amid scenery so well described you feel that you are transported to another time and place. You'll feel as though you walk the footpaths and as if you are part of the action. Ms. Woodiwiss has a rare talent to join words together that makes them seem as if they come to life.

The characters are vibrant and well fleshed out. The interaction between the characters is some of the best I've ever seen. Their wit is matched well against each other and it makes for *very* enjoyable scenes. Wulfgar is infuriating and exasperating and even though he tries to hide it you can sense a tenderness buried deep under the surface. There are glimpses of a little boy inside of him seeking love. That said, he still remains a mystery. Most times you can't figure out what he's thinking, which makes him all the more appealing. You respect him for not immediately forcing himself upon Aislinn. It is quite humorous to watch him struggle with his feelings for Aislinn while at the same time still trying desperately to cling to his hatred of women. Aislinn is one of the finest examples of a romantic heroine. She is brave, passionate and often sets the hero on his ear.

_The Wolf and the Dove_ is a lively story that will keep you turning the pages quickly and never wanting it to end. A fine example of Ms. Woodiwiss at her all-time best.

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This book was incredible from start to finish!, March 20, 2004

By A Customer

This review is from: The Wolf and the Dove (Mass Market Paperback)

This was my first K. Woodiwiss novel. I was a bit hesitant to read it after reading the negative reviews here. I just finished the book and found no justification for the complaints written. Yes, there is a rape in the beginning. Yes, the Saxons were treated horribly by the invading Normans. But, people! It was the year 1066! Frankly, the reality of the Norman Invasion was probably much more disturbing than what was described in the novel. And at least (unlike in Catherine Coulter's "Devil's Embrace), it's not hero of the story raping the heroine. Now that book was disturbing. But I digress...

This was a fabulous historical romance. I only have two complaints: the love scenes were EXTREMELY tame. I mean, most of the time the author just says they did it and leaves it at that. Secondly, the author gets a little wordy in the war scenes. I understand she wanted to provide a little background and maybe the story would have suffered without them, but I just skimmed those pages.

I cannot say enough about this book. I want to recommend it without giving away too much of the plot. If like medieval romance, you won't be disappointed!