Title: Keeper of the Dream
Author: Penelope Williamson
First published January 1, 1992
501 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780440211075 (ISBN10: 0440211077)
Rating: 3.91
Overview
Lady Arianna, gifted with the Welsh “sight,” saw a vision of a knight with piercing gray eyes, his sword poised to strike her heart. But instead of fear, she felt an overwhelming desire that consumed her.
On the dangerous border of Wales, Raine, illegitimate son of a Norman nobleman, rides toward Castle Rhuddlan to conquer the kingdom and win the heart of the lady within. Arianna, fiercely proud of her Celtic heritage, sees her dream become reality as Raine, the enemy who ignites her passion, becomes her lover.
But as ancient enmities threaten their lives, Arianna must choose between cherishing or betraying the man she loves.
About the Author
Penelope Williamson is a well-known author acclaimed for her work in historical romance and suspense. She had a nomadic childhood as her father served in the US Air Force, spending her formative years in various places.
Penelope holds a degree in history and a master’s in broadcast journalism. She also served in the US Marine Corps for six years, achieving the rank of Captain.
Her literary works, including The Outsider, Heart of the West, A Wild Yearning, Once in a Blue Moon, and Keeper of the Dream, have sold over 1.8 million copies worldwide. She has been honored with prestigious awards such as Romantic Times’ Best Historical Romance of the Year award and the Romance Writers of America’s RITA awards.
Penelope Williamson currently resides in Mill Valley, California with her husband.
Editoral Review
Penelope Williamson’s Keeper of the Dream is a beautifully written historical romance novel that was first published on January 1, 1992. Williamson is an award-winning author of historical and contemporary romance novels and has been recognized by various literary organizations for her exceptional storytelling.
Keeper of the Dream is set in the early 20th century in Oklahoma and follows the story of Gilly Summer, a young woman who dreams of becoming a painter. Gilly is a half-Cherokee struggling to find her place in a world that cruelly marginalizes her people.
When she meets Daniel Keep, a wealthy and successful businessman, she finds love and support in an unexpected place. However, their romance faces many obstacles, including Daniel’s family and business associates who disapprove of their relationship.
Williamson’s prose is poetic and vivid, and she seamlessly creates a world that is both historical and romantic. She expertly crafts the characters of Gilly and Daniel, making them relatable and nuanced.
Gilly’s struggles with her Cherokee identity and Daniel’s internal conflicts between his love for Gilly and his loyalty to his family are masterfully written. Through Gilly and Daniel’s story, Williamson explores themes of identity, race, and class, shedding light on the injustices and prejudices that plagued the early 20th century in America.
Keeper of the Dream is an important historical novel that is still relevant and relatable today. While Williamson’s storytelling is excellent, there are moments in the novel where the pacing slows down, and the plot becomes predictable.
The secondary characters also lack depth, and their motivations sometimes feel unconvincing. Nevertheless, Keeper of the Dream is an engaging and emotionally resonant novel that will captivate readers who enjoy historical romance.
Its themes and messages are still relevant today, making it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in history and social justice issues. Williamson’s Keeper of the Dream is a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
Although it is not a perfect book, its strengths more than make up for any weaknesses. It is a gripping and evocative read that will leave readers thinking long after they finish the final page.
