Monday, June 17, 2013

HERO TOUR: GIVE ME A GOOD (K)NIGHT!

 
Welcome to RWA/NYC's Hero Blog Tour.
Join us every day from June 14-25 for a new look at Heroes.

Leave a comment today and you can win a copy
of KNIGHT OF RUNES.



GIVE ME A GOOD (K)NIGHT!
by Ruth A. Casie


Some people think Regency men are the ultimate romance hero. I agree Regency men look good, exist in a world filled with titles, and appear to live a life of leisure. I enjoy Austen’s Mr. Darcy and Col Brandon and Georgette Heyer’s Robert Beaumaris, but for me Regency men are all too tame. Let me give you my top three reasons why medieval men are my knights in shining armor:


1. Appearance


Some enjoy the breeches, shiny boots, tight coats and acres of snowy white linen. I love the shirtless look of a well-defined chest and ripped abs. It speaks protection and comfort. These are cerebral, strong, take control men who get down and dirty with the villain. They take on the physical challenge and fight for honor, for duty, for family, for love, and in the end, show their emotional side.



2. Ascendance

Knights were members of the noble class. Likely candidates were chosen at boyhood and trained. A lesser or unlikely man could aspire to knighthood and reach his dreams, if he was found worthy. A knight’s code of conduct and chivalry, “Protect the weak, defenseless, helpless, and fight for the general welfare of all,” inspired literature and was the foundation of courtship from middle ages until the turn of this century. I may be showing my age, but it’s that chivalry that makes my heart skip a beat. I know, I’m an independent woman, but for me the emotions evoked by romance are deep and sincere. Yes, I can take care of myself, but I would rather have a partner, someone strong, by my side and do it together.


3. Adventure

Knighthood comes with its requirements: save the damsel in distress, right the wrongs, and do away with the villain. Of course, there were trials he had to go through to prove himself worthy. Usually, he somehow loses his shirt and gives the damsel a glimpse of those perfect pecs and adorable abs.



Knights not only had to prove themselves worthy on the field of battle (for their king, their damsel or even for himself), but also had to learn how to balance the command and control needed to succeed with his own wants and desires. It's a central lesson of many romances. We love to witness the emotional and physical struggle, and fall in love with the heroes along the way.

Bonus. My all-time favorite romance is KNIGHT IN SHINING AMOR by Jude Deveraux.  I have many favorite books but I think this one has my heart not only for Nicholas’ chivalry and strength of character, but it’s a time travel.

What do you think? Regency men or medieval nnights? Or something entirely different?♥



Ruth A. Casie has always had stories in her head. Encouraged by family and friends this ballroom dancing, Sudoku playing, aspiring gourmet has given way to her inner muse writing historical fantasy. Now, rather than write marketing and communications for corporate America, she writes historical fantasies about strong men and empowered women and how they cope with unexpected challenges. She hopes her stories become your favorite adventures. For more information, please visit www.RuthACasie.com.


BOOKS BY RUTH A. CASIE


THE GUARDIAN'S WITCH
Carina Press, July 2013



KNIGHT OF RUNES
Carina Press, 2011
  


********************



REMEMBER: Leave a comment here and you will be entered to win a copy of KNIGHT OF RUNES. No purchase necessary. Winners limited to the continental U.S.

Winners announced daily on "front page" of RWA/NYC Blog.

JOIN US AGAIN TOMORROW FOR ANOTHER HERO AND
ANOTHER CHANCE TO WIN A PRIZE.
 

6 comments:

  1. My favorite Knight in Shining Armor is Wulfgar from THE WOLF AND THE DOVE by Kathleen Woodawiss. I read it every year. One always remembers her first love. :-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That is so true! I'm glad you found yours. I've read several of Kathleen's books but not that one. I'll start up my Kindle.

      Thanks for stopping by.

      Delete
  2. I do love a sexy knight. They are the ultimate alpha males! I see I will have to add to my collection as these books look great. Great post. Tweeted and Facebooked.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much. I'm glad you like the post.

      Thanks for leaving a comment.

      Delete
  3. You are so right about knights. They are drool-worthy. I like both handsome knights and clever Regency heroes, like Mr. Darcy, too. Guess those qualities will always win me, no matter what era t hey occur in. Great post. Thanks for the book tip. I love your new cover. Much success with your new book.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Jean!

      Thanks for the comment. Yes *heavy sigh* knights are drool worthy. And I do love Mr. Darcy (or is that Colin Firth?) I suppose you're right, the era doesn't matter.

      Thanks for you good wishes.

      Delete