The Last Knight

The year is 1189, and amid the swirling intrigues against ailing King Henry Plantagenet appear two spirited young people, each intent on a personal mission. Damion de Jarnac is a fearless rogue knight bound to his code of honor and by loyalty to his king. Attica d'Alerion, betrothed to a 13-year-old boy to cement a political alliance, honors family loyalty. Thus, when she learns a plot against the king may endanger her beloved brother, Stephen, she dons the disguise of a young boy and rides to warn him. Damion rescues Attica from a brigand ambush and agrees to escort her to her destination when he hears of the plot against Henry. He quickly realizes he is escorting a fearless young lady instead of a lordling, and a tumultuous romance develops between these strong-willed individuals. The book rings with clinks of armor, political intrigues, galloping chases and near-death escapes. As plot and tension escalate, Damion unhappily comes to see that Attica's brother is a traitor to the king, and he fears the decision he must make will forever banish Attica from his life. Proctor, a consummate storyteller, adeptly captures the splendor, romance and brutality of medieval Europe. (Aug.)