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Tiger and Del #1-2
The Novels of Tiger and Del, Volume I
He was Tiger, born of the desert winds, raised as a slave and winning his freedom by weaving a special kind of magic with a warrior's skill. She was Del, born of ice and storm, trained by the greatest of Northern sword masters. Together, they discover a kinship and friendship that grows to love while facing dangers of both sword and sorcery.
688 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2001
15 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Roberson
123 books805 followersOver a 40-year career (so far), Jennifer Roberson has published four fantasy series, including the Sword-Dancer Saga, Chronicles of the Cheysuli, the Karavans universe, and urban fantasy series Blood & Bone. Other novels include historicals LADY OF THE GLEN, plus two Robin Hood novels, LADY OF THE FOREST, and LADY OF SHERWOOD.
New novels are percolating in her always-active imagination.
Hobbies include showing dogs, and creating mosaic and resin artwork and jewelry. She lives in Arizona with a collection of cats and Cardigan Welsh Corgis.
New novels are percolating in her always-active imagination.
Hobbies include showing dogs, and creating mosaic and resin artwork and jewelry. She lives in Arizona with a collection of cats and Cardigan Welsh Corgis.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 15, 2016
Quite enjoyable. Uncomplicated style, which makes for an easy read. Flawed, yet likeable characters, combined with an interesting storyline.
December 30, 2014
Loved having books 1 and 2 together and just ordered the next volume!
September 16, 2013
Via Book Reviews by Niki Hawkes at www.nikihawkes.com
It's been several years since I first read Tiger and Del, and I still remember them with fondness. Roberson has a strong first-person narrative not often seen in fantasy novels. It’s a unique blend of characterization and culture-building that really helps get you into the story. The character-development was really successful, and arguably the best element of the series. The protagonists are incredibly engaging and I think a lot of the appeal comes from stereotypical manners expressed in constant opposition to one another; a sort of man vs woman relationship that was surprisingly charming and oftentimes downright hilarious. It wasn't just the main characters that were great, as Roberson even manages to give the horse a memorable personality.
As much as I enjoyed it, there was a weakness. Apparently, the author wrote the manuscript for the first book in about a week... and you can sort of tell. That’s just simply not enough time to develop a complex plot, so the storyline is fairly straight-forward. This is not necessarily a bad thing, however, because I found some of her other works to be a bit long-winded. A shortened writing schedule means she really had to play to her strengths and jump right into the main plot. As the series progresses, it gets a little more dynamic, but not by much.
Overall, all six books have their own appeal, and I found my excitement for the story as a whole grew with each one. While it's not the best from a craft standpoint, it was definitely one of the most fun to read. I laughed, I cried, I loved every minute!
Other books you might like:
"Blood Engines" by T.A. Pratt
"The Dragon Prince" by Melanie Rawn
"The Merchant of Death" by D.J. MacHale
"The Cleric Quintet" by R.A. Salvatore
"The Last Stormlord" by Glenda Larke
It's been several years since I first read Tiger and Del, and I still remember them with fondness. Roberson has a strong first-person narrative not often seen in fantasy novels. It’s a unique blend of characterization and culture-building that really helps get you into the story. The character-development was really successful, and arguably the best element of the series. The protagonists are incredibly engaging and I think a lot of the appeal comes from stereotypical manners expressed in constant opposition to one another; a sort of man vs woman relationship that was surprisingly charming and oftentimes downright hilarious. It wasn't just the main characters that were great, as Roberson even manages to give the horse a memorable personality.
As much as I enjoyed it, there was a weakness. Apparently, the author wrote the manuscript for the first book in about a week... and you can sort of tell. That’s just simply not enough time to develop a complex plot, so the storyline is fairly straight-forward. This is not necessarily a bad thing, however, because I found some of her other works to be a bit long-winded. A shortened writing schedule means she really had to play to her strengths and jump right into the main plot. As the series progresses, it gets a little more dynamic, but not by much.
Overall, all six books have their own appeal, and I found my excitement for the story as a whole grew with each one. While it's not the best from a craft standpoint, it was definitely one of the most fun to read. I laughed, I cried, I loved every minute!
Other books you might like:
"Blood Engines" by T.A. Pratt
"The Dragon Prince" by Melanie Rawn
"The Merchant of Death" by D.J. MacHale
"The Cleric Quintet" by R.A. Salvatore
"The Last Stormlord" by Glenda Larke
Read
November 11, 2016Edited: 11, November 2016
Annoying and bittersweet perhaps? The only happenings were how gross and sexist he was. There was not a single way that anything could keep making me read this book. Along the lines of something like this, "You can't do that, 'cause you're a woman," and all of that other crap. Uh, no.
Annoying and bittersweet perhaps? The only happenings were how gross and sexist he was. There was not a single way that anything could keep making me read this book. Along the lines of something like this, "You can't do that, 'cause you're a woman," and all of that other crap. Uh, no.
May 4, 2025
I love this couple!
And I love that it is told in Tiger's POV.
He shows and tells how he feels as a man, and how he feels for Del and learns to respect her as a sword dancer and a woman.
I cant wait to see how their relationship develops in the future books.
And I love that it is told in Tiger's POV.
He shows and tells how he feels as a man, and how he feels for Del and learns to respect her as a sword dancer and a woman.
I cant wait to see how their relationship develops in the future books.
December 18, 2014
Absolutely could not stand the male protagonist, who spends half the book talking about how he wants to have sex with the female protagonist. A complete scumbag, which is a pity since the woman seems like a fascinating character.
December 18, 2014
Abandoned after about 50 pages. I have no objection to fluffy 80's sword-and-sorcery, but the writing didn't suit me.
October 3, 2020
I was more pleased with this book than I had expected. The story is told by Sandtiger, the protagonist, and he’s a surprisingly good protagonist. He is intelligent, savvy, and is constantly learning along the way. Yes, he is a bit more stubborn is some areas and unwilling to bend when it comes to adapting to another culture, but many of his reasons are legit, with enough being balanced by more realistic childishness. It’s also refreshing to see the heroine, Del, through his eyes because she’s not entirely likeable.
Now Del is a well-written character, but she is extremely flawed. Many of her actions are justifiable by her past, but it also blinds her in a way that makes her incredibly selfish. I love the dynamic between Tiger and her because he refuses to be her pawn when she uses him to further her wishes without informing him first. The fact that neither takes any crap from the other and calls them out when they’re being foolish makes for a more interesting relationship.
The rest of the story is all right. I like the world that’s created but there are some plot holes that will hopefully be revisited in the next books. And the dialogue, at times, sounds very 90s, but there’s no major profanity, which is very refreshing. And I loved the swords in these books, how they’re so intricate and detailed with their magic, songs, colors, and the way it assumes the characteristics of the people they kill (so cool!). On the whole, the relationship between Tiger and Del is more interesting than the story itself. I’m looking forward to reading the next books in the series.
Now Del is a well-written character, but she is extremely flawed. Many of her actions are justifiable by her past, but it also blinds her in a way that makes her incredibly selfish. I love the dynamic between Tiger and her because he refuses to be her pawn when she uses him to further her wishes without informing him first. The fact that neither takes any crap from the other and calls them out when they’re being foolish makes for a more interesting relationship.
The rest of the story is all right. I like the world that’s created but there are some plot holes that will hopefully be revisited in the next books. And the dialogue, at times, sounds very 90s, but there’s no major profanity, which is very refreshing. And I loved the swords in these books, how they’re so intricate and detailed with their magic, songs, colors, and the way it assumes the characteristics of the people they kill (so cool!). On the whole, the relationship between Tiger and Del is more interesting than the story itself. I’m looking forward to reading the next books in the series.
April 3, 2023
I've probably read this series 2-3 times by now. I won't lie. I always enjoy how Tiger and Del both grow, and while I don't always enjoy the horrible things they face, I do like how the author handles the differences in how they see things.
Tiger pointing out there's no point in living if you aren't LIVING is really a solid message. I always feel like it's a valid point and I like how he acknowledges horrible things can happen and you can have to face them and deal with them but at some point you have to start looking to something else.
I also respect what Del does to herself and for herself to accomplish her goals as a character and how driven she is. And how often she accuses Tiger of not growing when he really has been and he's trying and she sells him short. It's an interesting dynamic.
It's always nice when in a story, the characters grow and change and the author keeps that growth and change, and I know as I continue to re-read that won't go away. So I'm excited to hit the next part of the series again.
Tiger pointing out there's no point in living if you aren't LIVING is really a solid message. I always feel like it's a valid point and I like how he acknowledges horrible things can happen and you can have to face them and deal with them but at some point you have to start looking to something else.
I also respect what Del does to herself and for herself to accomplish her goals as a character and how driven she is. And how often she accuses Tiger of not growing when he really has been and he's trying and she sells him short. It's an interesting dynamic.
It's always nice when in a story, the characters grow and change and the author keeps that growth and change, and I know as I continue to re-read that won't go away. So I'm excited to hit the next part of the series again.
September 22, 2020
I read this for the first time what feels like a hundred years ago.
It is both a sexy romance and I pretty well developed fantasy.
At times it does get a little "bad erotic novel" but for the most part it is an enjoyable and fun read.
Tiger comes across at first as a typical matcho asshole but he is really just a soft teddy bear.
Del is strong and fierce and not afraid to use her femininity and sexuality as a weapon.
Looking forward to reading Volume II when I find it. I know its in the basement but I have no idea where in the basement.
It is both a sexy romance and I pretty well developed fantasy.
At times it does get a little "bad erotic novel" but for the most part it is an enjoyable and fun read.
Tiger comes across at first as a typical matcho asshole but he is really just a soft teddy bear.
Del is strong and fierce and not afraid to use her femininity and sexuality as a weapon.
Looking forward to reading Volume II when I find it. I know its in the basement but I have no idea where in the basement.
May 12, 2025
This was a really great series! A fantasy romance that isn't really a romance, just a tale of a man and a woman, both warriors, who simply wind up together because they travel the same path. If you're looking for wild and amazing magic, this one doesn't have it. A fantasy that involves swords and no sorcery.
May 13, 2025
4.5 Stars
December 21, 2019
It was ok, but, after finishing Sword-Dancer, I didn't read Sword-Singer.
January 5, 2012
So I like a great romance element to my fantasy. I find most fantasy authors do a poor job with romance or don't do it quite right. So in my search to find fantasy with a great romance involved that did not contain the words Sword of truth "bleeeck" I found this series. These books could have been quite good, but ended up being just OK. They pissed me off a lot and I felt the fantastical elements could have built a little faster, a little bigger, and in some better directions. Book one all out cheats us. I WOULD say spoiler alert but I am actually saving you grief by telling you this. We never get to see Tiger and Del hook up for the first time. We get a whole book of delicious fun romantic tension building between tiger and del and they sorta finally decide to admit their feelings for each other at the end, but they don't hook up. What is that? Its like not having the characters finally kiss at the end of a romantic comedy flick. "I love you."..."I love you too." Oh Jack!" "Oh Jane!" Cut to black. The end. roll credits. THEN when book 2 starts we find out that tiger and del got together like 2 months ago off page! WTF? So I figured that we were gana get what happened in a flashback. Not what I would have chosen but ok I'm game....still waiting for the flashback. CRAP! We aren't getting a flashback! DAMNIT!
July 5, 2012
This book was a bore from start to middle. The only reason why I am giving it three stars is because of the ending. From page 500 until the end, the action finally picked up and I began to get into it. I was annoyed earlier because of the constant arguments, the trekking through the desert and the North, and the teeny battles they had to fight.
I was also annoyed with the fact that when a HUGE event was about to happen, it would only last for about three pages. And then they would be back on the road again. I hope there are more promising things to come in the next book.
I love it when the characters are in one environment and more things happen such as the ending when they made it to Staal-Ysta. I was so happy because now we can have more people around and have a settled balance of action and conflicts.
It took me forever to read and come back to this book. I have tried 4 other times to read it but I am glad that I finally stuck through this time. Sometimes one has to read a book just to get through to the magnificent ending and this was one of those. Plus, the cliffhanger was magnificently done.
I was also annoyed with the fact that when a HUGE event was about to happen, it would only last for about three pages. And then they would be back on the road again. I hope there are more promising things to come in the next book.
I love it when the characters are in one environment and more things happen such as the ending when they made it to Staal-Ysta. I was so happy because now we can have more people around and have a settled balance of action and conflicts.
It took me forever to read and come back to this book. I have tried 4 other times to read it but I am glad that I finally stuck through this time. Sometimes one has to read a book just to get through to the magnificent ending and this was one of those. Plus, the cliffhanger was magnificently done.
March 23, 2008
I picked up this book because of the picture. Who wouldn't? I was looking for a book in a different series (which wasn't there) and saw this book. I read the back cover and decided to purchase it.
I had a hard time putting this book down. The descriptiveness of the Author's writings lets you picture every little detail in your mind as you read. I was so engrossed in these books that I had to know more. What was Del's problem and why was she always brooding? What's her big secret.
When I finished this one I was very upset at myself for not checking to be sure there was another book in this series. Only to find out when I went to the bookstore they didn't have the next book. It wasn't out yet.
I had a hard time putting this book down. The descriptiveness of the Author's writings lets you picture every little detail in your mind as you read. I was so engrossed in these books that I had to know more. What was Del's problem and why was she always brooding? What's her big secret.
When I finished this one I was very upset at myself for not checking to be sure there was another book in this series. Only to find out when I went to the bookstore they didn't have the next book. It wasn't out yet.
June 17, 2014
Ok let me just say this. It takes breasts and brains to write in the prespective of a man! Plus it was just awesome.
Ok story Tiger is just your normal average guy, mostly. He goes to cantinas every day after he gets his victory in from sword dancing or sword fighting. When he was younger he was raised be a native tribe, earning his name by killing a sandtiger. When he meets Delilah I guess his life basically changes.
Del doesn't trust men. When her brother his kidnipped she hears of the infamous underwater Tiger of the South and seeks him out for help.
As time goes by they form a bond, fight bad guys, discover both of their pasts!
Watch out for the next Tiger and Del Novel! One more on the way early next year!
Ok story Tiger is just your normal average guy, mostly. He goes to cantinas every day after he gets his victory in from sword dancing or sword fighting. When he was younger he was raised be a native tribe, earning his name by killing a sandtiger. When he meets Delilah I guess his life basically changes.
Del doesn't trust men. When her brother his kidnipped she hears of the infamous underwater Tiger of the South and seeks him out for help.
As time goes by they form a bond, fight bad guys, discover both of their pasts!
Watch out for the next Tiger and Del Novel! One more on the way early next year!
February 8, 2013
Do check these books out because they are a lot of fun.
I love swords and fantasy that has swords as a focus. That is part of the reason I like this series so much.
Another thing about this series is the kind of yin and yang effect. There are two main characters. One is a man from the desert. The other is a woman from the North. They have different opinions about a lot of stuff but are both excellent with a sword.
I love swords and fantasy that has swords as a focus. That is part of the reason I like this series so much.
Another thing about this series is the kind of yin and yang effect. There are two main characters. One is a man from the desert. The other is a woman from the North. They have different opinions about a lot of stuff but are both excellent with a sword.
August 16, 2009
REALLY good book. It kind of made me mad how it ended.
It leaves you hanging. Good thing I had the next book on hand so I could find out what happened! I won't say more because it would spoil it. My advice is to have the next book waiting so you can find out what happens. ;)
It leaves you hanging. Good thing I had the next book on hand so I could find out what happened! I won't say more because it would spoil it. My advice is to have the next book waiting so you can find out what happens. ;)
July 15, 2018
The Novels of Tiger and Del, Volume I
Roberson, Jennifer
This is an adventure series talking about magic, and teaching the young adult reader about responsibility. del and tiger a great series compiled here
Roberson, Jennifer
This is an adventure series talking about magic, and teaching the young adult reader about responsibility. del and tiger a great series compiled here
August 23, 2012
Love this series, it's one I can get lost in and go to when I need a good time-filler and don't have time to go to the library for something new. Definitely one of my favorites - I only need to buy vol. 3 to have the full collection!
November 12, 2010
Very good but long. I suppose since this volume is two novels in one that is to be expected. A definite page turner though.
September 27, 2017
Bk. 1 and 2, Sword-Dancer and Sword-Singer
Re-read 9/25/2017 - 9/27/2017
Sword-Dancer - 3 stars
Sword-Singer - 4 stars
Re-read 9/25/2017 - 9/27/2017
Sword-Dancer - 3 stars
Sword-Singer - 4 stars
Read
February 21, 2012The Novels of Tiger and Del, Volume I by Jennifer Roberson (2006)
September 26, 2012
Read as a suggestion from an old friend...very good book if you like fantasy. Im more into mystery and young adult genres thats the only reason im giving this book three stars
February 10, 2013
A solid fun read, the whole series was worth the time.
July 23, 2013
This was a fun read for me. I was prepared for Sandtiger's chauvinistic ideals so I was able to laugh at some of his quirks. I actually liked Tiger, forgiving him his faults.
December 10, 2013
Great story. Not a typical fantasy or romance but a good combination. This is a book where you can really get caught up in the characters lives.
July 31, 2015
DNFed @ 25.0% A moderately interesting story told by an intolerably sexist narrator.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews