Lady of the Bridge

Kitchell’s warmhearted 17th-century Japanese historical romance (after Lady of the Imperial Court) beguiles the reader with passion, secrets, and deadly action. Forward-thinking warrior princess Saiko is tormented when her father, the most powerful man in Japan, informs her that she will become the consort to the figurehead emperor. She seeks solitude at her favorite bridge, where she meets elite loyal samurai Hosokawa Takamori. An immediate attraction between the two grows steadily during their daily clandestine meetings. Saiko evades Takamori’s inquiries about her identity and their future, as defying honor and the protocols of duty can have deadly consequences. When Saiko’s father assigns Takamori to escort her to the emperor, she manages to keep her secret until the retinue is attacked. Saiko uses her warrior skills alongside Takamori’s as they race across Japan to safety. While awaiting reinforcements, they create blissful intimate memories and strategize how to defeat their enemies. Just when it looks as though loyalty will win out over love, a twist of fate brings happiness within their reach. Cultural and historical nuances and a spirited heroine overcome a meandering beginning and a less developed hero in this fine period romance. (BookLife)