$5.59

First Published: Penguin Putnam, 1997

The prequel to Wild Wind. After the Norman Conquest, a young Saxon widow enters into an arranged marriage to the notorious Black Dragon, a Norman knight with a ferocious reputation—and a terrible secret.

The paperback edition made the Ingrams A-List of Top 50 Requested Titles for three weeks.

“Having lost her first husband to the Normans, Faithe of Hauekleah is given in marriage to a Norman knight known as the Black Dragon. Faithe has no choice but to accept her new husband or lose Hauekleah. She bravely awaits her new husband, hoping that perhaps he will tire of farm life quickly and return to being a soldier. But once she gets to know the man behind the reputation, Faithe feels quite differently. She cannot stop thinking about her handsome husband and how he refuses to consummate their marriage until she can trust him. He is a man of honor and honesty– and Faithe falls in love with her husband. Luke de Perigueux is happy at Hauekleah. He has a beautiful wife who wants to make the best of their marriage and Luke has no intention of leaving her. As the Black Dragon he was expected to be a warrior, but as Luke of Hauekleah he can be the man his wife sees in him. When the truth about Faithe’s first husband comes out, Luke will have to face his violent past. Treachery and deception threaten to tear apart the lovers and Luke will risk losing Faithe forever if he tells her the truth. Patricia Ryan is a masterful author of medieval romances. Without question, Secret Thunder is her best work to date. Set in England during the time of the Norman Conquest, the tale is rich in history and romance. Luke is a tortured hero, maintaining his bloodlust during battle only because of the herbs he chews. He is not the beast he thinks he is but it takes the love of Faithe to heal his soul. As is typical of Ms. Ryan’s heroines, Faithe is a strong woman devoted to her home– and to the husband she comes to love. Secret Thunder is a magnificent love story and Patricia Ryan has surpassed this reviewer’s highest expectations!  Once again Patricia Ryan dazzles us with her amazing story telling abilities! A marvelous love story from the queen of medieval romance! Patricia Ryan is a gifted author– and I will buy anything she writes! If you read only one historical romance this year it should be Secret Thunder!” Kristina Wright — Copyright © 1994-97 Literary Times, Inc. All rights reserved

“Patricia Ryan continues to create superb medieval romances that capture the atmosphere and tenor of the time. Ms. Ryan breathes freshness into every page and enthralls readers with the power of her characters’ emotions and their intelligent handling of the complex situations. She is a wonderful writer whose talent continues to enchant readers.” Romantic Times

“Secret Thunder is a superb medieval romance that is so well written it will not remain a secret amongst the genre’s fans for very long. Patricia Ryan brings startling freshness to this historical period.” Affaire de Coeur

“Ms. Ryan has penned a totally absorbing tale with complicated situations and complex, compelling characters. The poignant relationship between Faithe and Luke is achingly beautiful, as a woman’s love redeems a tortured man. I loved everything about this book—it’s full-bodied, like vintage wine. Brava, Ms. Ryan. It’s the best book yet!!” The Old Book Barn Gazette

“Patricia Ryan is a master, blending rich historical detail and poignant emotions, making the era come alive in an honest, seamless story. Brilliant!” RomEx Review