My favourite genre is historical fiction, so I was pleased that Tabitha had something in the genre. Even though the book was well researched the dialogue and the characters seemed more modern than the 1190's. The book is firmly in spoof territory. I gave it 4 stars.
I’ve read a few of Tabitha Ormiston-Smiths books and short
stories. Most of them have been contemporary comedies, but this one intrigued
me as it is set in the middle ages. I like that she often uses a cat or dog as
one of the characters and, like in this book, they add a lot of humour. Here it
comes in the shape of a great big Deerhound named Pansy, a dog that his owner
John (King Richard the Lionheart’s brother.) is convinced is a she, even though it is clear that she has bits that say otherwise. The
story is very loosely based on the story of Richard and the time when England
was struggling with the costs of funding his crusade and ransom. It also weaves
in the legend of Robin and maid Marianne and makes some unusual (and somewhat
scandalous) assumptions. Tabitha has taken a motley crew (or merry band) of
familiar characters and rearranged them to her own unique blend of comedy. If
you are a fan of Monty Pythons Holy Grail and more concerned with comedy than
historical fact, this will appeal to you.
