The Bride Tournament

Kaufman hits her stride with this enjoyable third entry in her War of the Roses Brides series, set in Northumberland, England, in 1462. Lady Eleanor learns on her wedding day that instead of marrying Arthur, her betrothed, King Edward has decreed that she will marry the new earl of Glasmere, Richard Courtenay. Like Eleanor’s father, Richard’s father was an alchemist, believed to have recorded the mystical formula in lost scrolls for which Richard and others search at the king’s behest. Eleanor believes that the pursuit of alchemy is heresy, and she’s determined that other “women may submit to a man’s commands, but no man controls me.” She seeks to annul this forced marriage so that she may be with Arthur. Richard, admiring his willful bride, agrees to postpone consummation in order to woo her, while Eleanor plans to find him a more suitable bride by means of a tournament. The reluctant lovers become aware of their hearts’ true desires only as Eleanor’s plan succeeds, publicly ending their marriage. Appealing protagonists, a satisfying pace, engaging supporting characters, and numerous obstacles to overcome combine in this emotionally satisfying romance. (BookLife)