"..this medieval saga is a terrific rendition of the classic Marian-Robin..."
Born an orphan and a ward of King Richard the
Lionhearted, wealthy Lady Marian Fitzwater is married to
Hugh of Sencaster when she is five. When she turns
seventeen, he dies under mysterious circumstances turning
her into a widowed virgin as they never consummated their
marriage. Richard's mother Queen Eleanor and Marian's
mother-in-law Lady Pernelle agree the lass must marry the
latter's second son Sir Stephen as her valuable lands and
wealth is up for grabs. However, Marian is no longer a preadolescent so she
decides to take her fate into her own hands rather than
another ill-conceived marriage forged by plotting females
who care not one iota about her. She procures the help of
Robin Hood and his band of merry outlaws. Marian realizes
that once Stephen gains her estates her life is forfeit.
As they fall in love, Robin abets Marian's escape from a
deadly trek down the aisle of matrimony, but the royals are
coming as she is too valuable of a property to allow
outlaws to stand in the way. MAID MARIAN is an exciting rendition of the legendary
tale starring two fabulous protagonists and several
fascinating antagonists. The story line is at its best
surprisingly in the royal courts as plotting and scheming
by designing women showcase an era of court intrigue that
would make Machiavelli proud. The Sherwood scenes are also
interesting, but do turn a bit syrupy (I kept hearing Jane
Froman singing). Still this medieval saga is a terrific
rendition of the classic Marian-Robin romantic suspense. Harriet Klausner
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted April 27, 2004
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