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Tiger and Del #8
Sword-Bearer
A return to the vivid fantasy world of the highly popular Sword-Dancer saga, featuring iconic characters Tiger and Del.
Sword-Bearer marks a return to the vivid world of Jennifer Roberson’s highly popular Sword-Dancer saga, featuring iconic characters Tiger—the South’s most famous and gifted sword-dancer—and Del, a Northern-born woman and expert sword-singer.
Tiger and Del have settled into semi-retirement to raise their daughter, establishing a school for those who wish to become sword-dancers, part of a highly ritualized rite in which specially trained sword-fighters are hired to settle feuds among rich and powerful desert princes. Death-dances are few and far between; the goal is simply to win within the confines of “the circle.”
But Tiger is an outcast, a man who attained the highest level of achievement at the training school he attended faster than anyone before him, only to voluntarily break all oaths in order to save Del. By doing so, he made himself a target of men formerly his colleagues, now sworn enemies. He is constantly challenged to death-dances where rules, and oaths, no longer apply.
Now, with the world around them falling victim to a malignant Northern-born magic, Tiger gathers Del and his adult son, Neesha, to end the magic threatening the world—and discovers, along the journey, yet another element of magecraft within himself. Yet even as Tiger learns more about his gifts, Del comes face to face with the daughter she left behind so many years before.
Fans of Roberson’s bestselling series should enjoy this wildest of rides alongside the Sandtiger and Delilah.
Sword-Bearer marks a return to the vivid world of Jennifer Roberson’s highly popular Sword-Dancer saga, featuring iconic characters Tiger—the South’s most famous and gifted sword-dancer—and Del, a Northern-born woman and expert sword-singer.
Tiger and Del have settled into semi-retirement to raise their daughter, establishing a school for those who wish to become sword-dancers, part of a highly ritualized rite in which specially trained sword-fighters are hired to settle feuds among rich and powerful desert princes. Death-dances are few and far between; the goal is simply to win within the confines of “the circle.”
But Tiger is an outcast, a man who attained the highest level of achievement at the training school he attended faster than anyone before him, only to voluntarily break all oaths in order to save Del. By doing so, he made himself a target of men formerly his colleagues, now sworn enemies. He is constantly challenged to death-dances where rules, and oaths, no longer apply.
Now, with the world around them falling victim to a malignant Northern-born magic, Tiger gathers Del and his adult son, Neesha, to end the magic threatening the world—and discovers, along the journey, yet another element of magecraft within himself. Yet even as Tiger learns more about his gifts, Del comes face to face with the daughter she left behind so many years before.
Fans of Roberson’s bestselling series should enjoy this wildest of rides alongside the Sandtiger and Delilah.
- GenresFantasySword and Sorcery
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 13, 2022
30 people are currently reading
273 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 39 reviews
September 18, 2024
[1.5 stars] I loved the initial six books of this series and enjoyed being back with the characters. However there were a lot of things about the plot structure and overall hodgepodge of elements made it a difficult read. What’s the book about? It wasn’t clear until the last couple of chapters and then it ended without resolution. Full RTC
June 15, 2023
The South is desert--a land of sand, cantinas, and heat. When a snowstorm arrives and ruins the local festival, followed by a tornado that rips apart the village, Tiger and Del know the culprit must be magic. A magic Tiger senses is hunting him.
So both sword dancers take on a surprise invitation to guard a caravan heading north toward the magic. Better to confront an unknown enemy that to have one attack their friends, family, and two-year-old daughter.
Though Tiger's grown son joins the caravan as well as the couple's two students. The sword dancers will find the magic. No question. The question is whether they will destroy it before it destroys them.
Back in the midst of one of my favorite fantasy series. The ending threw me for a loop, and once again, I was glad to learn there will be yet more episodes about this harsh realm and these fiery characters.
So both sword dancers take on a surprise invitation to guard a caravan heading north toward the magic. Better to confront an unknown enemy that to have one attack their friends, family, and two-year-old daughter.
Though Tiger's grown son joins the caravan as well as the couple's two students. The sword dancers will find the magic. No question. The question is whether they will destroy it before it destroys them.
Back in the midst of one of my favorite fantasy series. The ending threw me for a loop, and once again, I was glad to learn there will be yet more episodes about this harsh realm and these fiery characters.
December 23, 2022
The first book in this series came out (checks calendar; mouth falls open) 36 years ago. Book #7 came out in 2014. I'm sure the series has some dedicated fans, and I am one of them.
This is mainly for the characters. Tiger and Del, our titular sword-bearers, are two of the richest, most well-developed characters in fantasy. In the first book, Sword-Dancer, Tiger was frankly a sexist pig, and Del was so set on gaining revenge for her murdered family (and also for her own rape; the first book unfortunately dips into the rape/revenge trope that was popular back then) that she was quite ruthless and cruel. Both have grown considerably since the first book, separately and together.
I can't say the same for the plot. This book's plot meanders quite a bit, and seems to be there mainly for setting up the next book. In the last book, to save Del and his daughter Sula, Tiger reactivated his magic sword Samiel and ended up swallowing several pages of a magical grimoire. Those have combined (rather uncomfortably) with his own inborn magic, and the underling of the wizard dispatched in the previous book now wants them back. This problem is taken care of about two-thirds of the way through the book, and another problem, dealing with Del's murdered family and her former training facility in the North, is introduced. It's nice that Tiger and Del both get their own storylines, but they aren't terribly well meshed. The ending also fizzles out a bit, with several unresolved threads.
No matter. The characters and worldbuilding pretty well make up for the other lacks, at least in my mind. I wish we could still get these books in mass market paperback like we used to (DAW was about the last publisher around to do those, and even they are succumbing to the trade paperback scam), but hey, as long as the series continues, I'll take what's there.
This is mainly for the characters. Tiger and Del, our titular sword-bearers, are two of the richest, most well-developed characters in fantasy. In the first book, Sword-Dancer, Tiger was frankly a sexist pig, and Del was so set on gaining revenge for her murdered family (and also for her own rape; the first book unfortunately dips into the rape/revenge trope that was popular back then) that she was quite ruthless and cruel. Both have grown considerably since the first book, separately and together.
I can't say the same for the plot. This book's plot meanders quite a bit, and seems to be there mainly for setting up the next book. In the last book, to save Del and his daughter Sula, Tiger reactivated his magic sword Samiel and ended up swallowing several pages of a magical grimoire. Those have combined (rather uncomfortably) with his own inborn magic, and the underling of the wizard dispatched in the previous book now wants them back. This problem is taken care of about two-thirds of the way through the book, and another problem, dealing with Del's murdered family and her former training facility in the North, is introduced. It's nice that Tiger and Del both get their own storylines, but they aren't terribly well meshed. The ending also fizzles out a bit, with several unresolved threads.
No matter. The characters and worldbuilding pretty well make up for the other lacks, at least in my mind. I wish we could still get these books in mass market paperback like we used to (DAW was about the last publisher around to do those, and even they are succumbing to the trade paperback scam), but hey, as long as the series continues, I'll take what's there.
June 19, 2023
Ah, the pleasure of sitting down with a new Jennifer Roberson novel, especially a new Tiger and Del novel. From the first paragraph, I know I am in the hands of a superb storyteller. I’ve been following the adventures of “the Sandtiger” and Delilah since Sword-Dancer introduced them to a world of adoring fans. It’s taken them a number of novels and many adventures to come to a mutually respectful, often passionate relationship. In the process, Tiger has discovered his own innate talent for magic, something he never wanted and has done his best to rid himself of.
Now they’ve settled into a life of respectability, raising their young daughter while teaching student sword-dancers and owning a share in a local cantina. All that comes to a crashing halt with a series of bizarre, terrifying weather catastrophes. They’re off on another adventure to discover the source of the storms, a quest that will demand every bit of magic and sword skill the two can muster.
The plot description doesn’t come close to capturing the magic of the story itself, the memorable characters and their choices, the harshly gorgeous landscapes, the sizzling action, superbly handled tension, evocative details, and plot twists. I love the vividness, courage, and frailties of Roberson’s characters. In her hands, the most extraordinary heroes become appealingly human. Most of all, though, the books portray the abiding love between Del and Tiger, their devotion based on trust and respect, with generous moments of juicy desire. I love how they’re each able to accept differences of opinion without the slightest doubt and to rely not only on their own skills but their partner’s. Eight books later, the romance is still alive. Not only alive, but deep, quiet, and true. If this, for nothing else, the Tiger and Del books are worth cherishing and re-reading.
Now they’ve settled into a life of respectability, raising their young daughter while teaching student sword-dancers and owning a share in a local cantina. All that comes to a crashing halt with a series of bizarre, terrifying weather catastrophes. They’re off on another adventure to discover the source of the storms, a quest that will demand every bit of magic and sword skill the two can muster.
The plot description doesn’t come close to capturing the magic of the story itself, the memorable characters and their choices, the harshly gorgeous landscapes, the sizzling action, superbly handled tension, evocative details, and plot twists. I love the vividness, courage, and frailties of Roberson’s characters. In her hands, the most extraordinary heroes become appealingly human. Most of all, though, the books portray the abiding love between Del and Tiger, their devotion based on trust and respect, with generous moments of juicy desire. I love how they’re each able to accept differences of opinion without the slightest doubt and to rely not only on their own skills but their partner’s. Eight books later, the romance is still alive. Not only alive, but deep, quiet, and true. If this, for nothing else, the Tiger and Del books are worth cherishing and re-reading.
May 16, 2023
Ummm there better be another book that properly wraps up that ending!
But I enjoyed what story we did get and I'm sure anyone's who has enjoyed the previous 7 books in the series will enjoy it as well. Some good exploration of the magic and plenty of Tiger and Del being Tiger and Del.
But I enjoyed what story we did get and I'm sure anyone's who has enjoyed the previous 7 books in the series will enjoy it as well. Some good exploration of the magic and plenty of Tiger and Del being Tiger and Del.
December 23, 2022
One of my favorite series
I'm so happy to see Tiger and Del again! I'd thought the series was done with the previous book, so I was ecstatic to see this one!
I started this series as a teenager, and have reread it many times over the years, along with Chronicles of the Cheysuli. I STILL reread both series.
One of the things I love best is Tiger's personality. The books are written from his point of view, and I love his deadpan humor and his sarcasm. I've enjoyed watching him evolve into a recovering chauvinist. He's got an ego, of course, but he's so much just an average guy. He doesn't set out to save the world, and is downright reluctant, actually, but carries on in his long-suffering way, prodded both by his own conscience and Del.
Del is a great character as well, but she is definitely the straight to Tiger's comedy. She's strong, disciplined, almost stern in many ways, but you can't help liking her.
This is a series I'd encourage any fans of fantasy to read. It won't disappoint, and you'll probably end up like me, rereading them at least once a year!
I'm so happy to see Tiger and Del again! I'd thought the series was done with the previous book, so I was ecstatic to see this one!
I started this series as a teenager, and have reread it many times over the years, along with Chronicles of the Cheysuli. I STILL reread both series.
One of the things I love best is Tiger's personality. The books are written from his point of view, and I love his deadpan humor and his sarcasm. I've enjoyed watching him evolve into a recovering chauvinist. He's got an ego, of course, but he's so much just an average guy. He doesn't set out to save the world, and is downright reluctant, actually, but carries on in his long-suffering way, prodded both by his own conscience and Del.
Del is a great character as well, but she is definitely the straight to Tiger's comedy. She's strong, disciplined, almost stern in many ways, but you can't help liking her.
This is a series I'd encourage any fans of fantasy to read. It won't disappoint, and you'll probably end up like me, rereading them at least once a year!
Read
December 6, 2023It's not bad, but this is definitely not the strongest installment. Reading 1-8 back to back over 2 weeks made it painfully obvious no one read or reread previous books before writing, editing, or reviewing Sword-Bearer (or Sword-Bound) before it was published.
The "vivid fantasy world" of the blurb is glossed over a lot. The difference in traveling the Punjah in Book 1 to Book 7-8 is a prime example. Also there are a lot of continuity problems and/or out of character moments that range from minor to major. Minor, but I can't stop thinking about it, is forgetting that Del has alcohol tolerance from her training days. Major is vacationing students in Book 7 to them being nonexistent by the end of the book. Or
The "vivid fantasy world" of the blurb is glossed over a lot. The difference in traveling the Punjah in Book 1 to Book 7-8 is a prime example. Also there are a lot of continuity problems and/or out of character moments that range from minor to major. Minor, but I can't stop thinking about it, is forgetting that Del has alcohol tolerance from her training days. Major is vacationing students in Book 7 to them being nonexistent by the end of the book. Or
December 30, 2022
I am both happy and a little disappointed with this novel.
Happy to have another tale of Tiger and Del. It was good story and fine addition to series.
Disappointed in that there was a continuity issue that was kind of glaring. Del went into exile from the North early in the series. We’ve had many reminders that Del could not go back and that she was not welcome in the North. Yet in this tale circumstances required a return to Staal-Ysta. But there was no angst on returning to where she was not welcome, and no rejection she needed to overcome when she arrived. It was as if her exile never happened, and she was just away on her own accord. Not that there was a red-carpet or anything, but there were no obvious obstacles either.
For me that was a forgivable flaw and didn’t detract too much from the overall story which was good. Absent the continuity error I would have gone 4 stars.
Happy to have another tale of Tiger and Del. It was good story and fine addition to series.
Disappointed in that there was a continuity issue that was kind of glaring. Del went into exile from the North early in the series. We’ve had many reminders that Del could not go back and that she was not welcome in the North. Yet in this tale circumstances required a return to Staal-Ysta. But there was no angst on returning to where she was not welcome, and no rejection she needed to overcome when she arrived. It was as if her exile never happened, and she was just away on her own accord. Not that there was a red-carpet or anything, but there were no obvious obstacles either.
For me that was a forgivable flaw and didn’t detract too much from the overall story which was good. Absent the continuity error I would have gone 4 stars.
December 14, 2022
I fell in love with Sword-Dancer when I bought a copy of the paperback back in the 80s, but I’d lost touch with the series over the years. Nostalgia hit me hard, though, when I saw a new book was coming out now—36 years later! I just had to read it.
And I’m so glad I did! Reading about Tiger and Del again felt like catching up with old friends, and I enjoyed seeing how Tiger has grown into his role as a husband, father, teacher of sword-dancers, and (very reluctant) mage. In this book, Tiger and Del face a couple of different threats. One is magical in nature, as Tiger is targeted by malignant weather magic, with a snowstorm, tornado, sandstorm, and more dogging his footsteps. The other is a murderous Northern-born bandit whose predations need to be stopped, a task Tiger and Del take on with unexpected and terrible results.
Tiger is just as likeable and entertaining a main character as ever. He still approaches life with a sense of humor that masks a deep core of honor and integrity. At the beginning of the series, Tiger had a very sexist view of women, and part of what I enjoyed about the early books was Del teaching him how wrong his beliefs were. Now Tiger is a little older and MUCH wiser when it comes to women. He still can’t resist teasing Del at times, which leads to some fun banter between them, but his love and respect for her color everything he does.
Sword-Bearer is a must-read for fans of the series. At the end of the novel, one of the threats to Tiger and his family and friends is left unresolved, which means that readers will probably get at least one more book about Tiger and Del. While I’m waiting for that one, I’m going to go back and catch up on what I’ve missed!
A copy of this book was provided through NetGalley for review; all opinions expressed are my own.
And I’m so glad I did! Reading about Tiger and Del again felt like catching up with old friends, and I enjoyed seeing how Tiger has grown into his role as a husband, father, teacher of sword-dancers, and (very reluctant) mage. In this book, Tiger and Del face a couple of different threats. One is magical in nature, as Tiger is targeted by malignant weather magic, with a snowstorm, tornado, sandstorm, and more dogging his footsteps. The other is a murderous Northern-born bandit whose predations need to be stopped, a task Tiger and Del take on with unexpected and terrible results.
Tiger is just as likeable and entertaining a main character as ever. He still approaches life with a sense of humor that masks a deep core of honor and integrity. At the beginning of the series, Tiger had a very sexist view of women, and part of what I enjoyed about the early books was Del teaching him how wrong his beliefs were. Now Tiger is a little older and MUCH wiser when it comes to women. He still can’t resist teasing Del at times, which leads to some fun banter between them, but his love and respect for her color everything he does.
Sword-Bearer is a must-read for fans of the series. At the end of the novel, one of the threats to Tiger and his family and friends is left unresolved, which means that readers will probably get at least one more book about Tiger and Del. While I’m waiting for that one, I’m going to go back and catch up on what I’ve missed!
A copy of this book was provided through NetGalley for review; all opinions expressed are my own.
July 9, 2023
Ah, the pleasure of sitting down with a new Jennifer Roberson novel, especially a new Tiger and Del novel. From the first paragraph, I know I am in the hands of a superb storyteller. I’ve been following the adventures of “the Sandtiger” and Delilah since Sword-Dancer introduced them to a world of adoring fans. It’s taken them a number of novels and many adventures to come to a mutually respectful, often passionate relationship. In the process, Tiger has discovered his own innate talent for magic, something he never wanted and has done his best to rid himself of.
Now they’ve settled into a life of respectability, raising their young daughter while teaching student sword-dancers and owning a share in a local cantina. All that comes to a crashing halt with a series of bizarre, terrifying weather catastrophes. They’re off on another adventure to discover the source of the storms, a quest that will demand every bit of magic and sword skill the two can muster.
The plot description doesn’t come close to capturing the magic of the story itself, the memorable characters and their choices, the harshly gorgeous landscapes, the sizzling action, superbly handled tension, evocative details, and plot twists. I love the vividness, courage, and frailties of Roberson’s characters. In her hands, the most extraordinary heroes become appealingly human. Most of all, though, the books portray the abiding love between Del and Tiger, their devotion based on trust and respect, with generous moments of juicy desire. I love how they’re each able to accept differences of opinion without the slightest doubt and to rely not only on their own skills but their partner’s. Eight books later, the romance is still alive. Not only alive, but deep, quiet, and true. If this, for nothing else, the Tiger and Del books are worth cherishing and re-reading.
Now they’ve settled into a life of respectability, raising their young daughter while teaching student sword-dancers and owning a share in a local cantina. All that comes to a crashing halt with a series of bizarre, terrifying weather catastrophes. They’re off on another adventure to discover the source of the storms, a quest that will demand every bit of magic and sword skill the two can muster.
The plot description doesn’t come close to capturing the magic of the story itself, the memorable characters and their choices, the harshly gorgeous landscapes, the sizzling action, superbly handled tension, evocative details, and plot twists. I love the vividness, courage, and frailties of Roberson’s characters. In her hands, the most extraordinary heroes become appealingly human. Most of all, though, the books portray the abiding love between Del and Tiger, their devotion based on trust and respect, with generous moments of juicy desire. I love how they’re each able to accept differences of opinion without the slightest doubt and to rely not only on their own skills but their partner’s. Eight books later, the romance is still alive. Not only alive, but deep, quiet, and true. If this, for nothing else, the Tiger and Del books are worth cherishing and re-reading.
June 26, 2023
I have been a fan of the Tiger and Del books since the early aughts. Although, a majority of the books predate that by twenty years. The depiction of the duo on the cover has to be my absolute least favorite. More salt in the wound, DAW only released this in a trade paperback. No hardcover. No pocket paperback. Another instance in which traditional publishing has failed me.
The story, much like the last installment, feels tacked on. Declared apostate Tiger is a hunted man. His prowess, making him perhaps the greatest living sword dancer, will protect him. Although everyone makes mistakes. An old threat is now hunting Tiger. Using wild weather magic to goad him along.
The entire novel is a series of unfortunate events, and the main character is playing at damage control. Occasionally and inexplicably exhibiting skills that save the moment.
Midway through Tiger confronts the antagonist. Done. Roll the credits. But wait there is more. Another antagonist from way on way back has surfaced. Perpetrating an act which directly affects Tiger and Del. Which in turn leads to a man hunt. Although, there are rules to this confrontation and unexpected consequences. Frustration for the reader and characters.
The final confrontation of the book is abrupt. It has a twist followed by loss. Then the story progresses some more, unnecessarily for what the reader just went through. I am really unhappy with the ending. I would explain further, but I do not want to spoil anything for someone wanting to read Sword Bearer.
I am ambivalent about the entire book.
The story, much like the last installment, feels tacked on. Declared apostate Tiger is a hunted man. His prowess, making him perhaps the greatest living sword dancer, will protect him. Although everyone makes mistakes. An old threat is now hunting Tiger. Using wild weather magic to goad him along.
The entire novel is a series of unfortunate events, and the main character is playing at damage control. Occasionally and inexplicably exhibiting skills that save the moment.
Midway through Tiger confronts the antagonist. Done. Roll the credits. But wait there is more. Another antagonist from way on way back has surfaced. Perpetrating an act which directly affects Tiger and Del. Which in turn leads to a man hunt. Although, there are rules to this confrontation and unexpected consequences. Frustration for the reader and characters.
The final confrontation of the book is abrupt. It has a twist followed by loss. Then the story progresses some more, unnecessarily for what the reader just went through. I am really unhappy with the ending. I would explain further, but I do not want to spoil anything for someone wanting to read Sword Bearer.
I am ambivalent about the entire book.
September 7, 2023
Book 8 in the Tiger and Del series.
It's been several weeks since the events of book seven. Tiger and Del have settled in the South to raise their little daughter Sula. They also have started their training school for sword dancers and have some students. Things are looking up until a blizzard comes along. Since they live in the desert a blizzard is decidedly not normal. Following on the heels of the blizzard are several other extreme weather events that seem to be centered around Tiger. Mahmood the merchant wants to leave the South as quickly as possible due to all of these freakish acts of nature, but he, (or more precisely his wares), would be a prime target for the roving bands of bandits. He hires Tiger, Del and several other sword dancers as protection.
That's the gist of the plot while leaving some spoilerish things out. There is a lot of deviation, though. This almost felt like a writing-by-the-seat-of-the-pants installment, like the last book. Things seem to happen just to happen, if that makes sense. Thankfully, the author didn't throw her agenda around like a sack of bricks as in the last book. ("Agenda" was the word used by the author herself in the afterword, by the way.) Even though some of the storyline could be ridiculous and kind of silly, it was entertaining to read. I really like these characters, the setting and the dialogue, and I'm so glad that she wrote a fun story.
Best of all, she will be writing more Tiger and Del books according to her Author's Note!
It's been several weeks since the events of book seven. Tiger and Del have settled in the South to raise their little daughter Sula. They also have started their training school for sword dancers and have some students. Things are looking up until a blizzard comes along. Since they live in the desert a blizzard is decidedly not normal. Following on the heels of the blizzard are several other extreme weather events that seem to be centered around Tiger. Mahmood the merchant wants to leave the South as quickly as possible due to all of these freakish acts of nature, but he, (or more precisely his wares), would be a prime target for the roving bands of bandits. He hires Tiger, Del and several other sword dancers as protection.
That's the gist of the plot while leaving some spoilerish things out. There is a lot of deviation, though. This almost felt like a writing-by-the-seat-of-the-pants installment, like the last book. Things seem to happen just to happen, if that makes sense. Thankfully, the author didn't throw her agenda around like a sack of bricks as in the last book. ("Agenda" was the word used by the author herself in the afterword, by the way.) Even though some of the storyline could be ridiculous and kind of silly, it was entertaining to read. I really like these characters, the setting and the dialogue, and I'm so glad that she wrote a fun story.
Best of all, she will be writing more Tiger and Del books according to her Author's Note!
September 11, 2022
Sandtiger – Tiger to many – is a legendary Southron sword-dancer. Delilah – Del- is his Northern sword-singer lover. They have retired from their adventuring to raise their daughter and to teach the new generation of sword-dancers. Tiger wakes one morning to discover snow in the deserty south, and he feels magic behind the odd weather. He and Del, along with his adult son and two students, embark on journey to find the one responsible. Destructive weather, challenges to death-dances, and a Northerner bandit plague their trip.
SWORD-BEARER is book eight in Jennifer Roberson’s fantasy series, TIGER AND DEL. I would suggest new readers to start from the beginning before picking up this book. The prior books set up the author’s vivid and vastly interesting world, especially about the intricacy of sword-dancing and sword-singing. They also show all the hardships and trials Del and Tiger had to overcome.
I could not contain myself when I saw this title available for review. I am beyond happy that the author decided to return to this world. I never realized just how much I missed the characters, especially Del and Tiger, and the intricate world. I cannot wait for further adventures with Sandtiger and Del!
I do not read very many first-person books anymore, so it took me a while to adjust. It did not take away from the experience. Fans of this series remember that the prior seven books, along with the author’s CHEYSULI books, are written that way too.
SWORD-BEARER is book eight in Jennifer Roberson’s fantasy series, TIGER AND DEL. I would suggest new readers to start from the beginning before picking up this book. The prior books set up the author’s vivid and vastly interesting world, especially about the intricacy of sword-dancing and sword-singing. They also show all the hardships and trials Del and Tiger had to overcome.
I could not contain myself when I saw this title available for review. I am beyond happy that the author decided to return to this world. I never realized just how much I missed the characters, especially Del and Tiger, and the intricate world. I cannot wait for further adventures with Sandtiger and Del!
I do not read very many first-person books anymore, so it took me a while to adjust. It did not take away from the experience. Fans of this series remember that the prior seven books, along with the author’s CHEYSULI books, are written that way too.
January 29, 2023
3 1/2 stars. I was thrilled to see a new addition to the Del and Tiger series by Jennifer Roberson. It was years ago that I first started reading the series so this was like visiting with old friends again. I love how much the characters have grown, particularly Tiger who was a chauvinist in the beginning and couldn't believe that a woman could fight with a sword. Del has taught him much differently and now they have a family together. But their past isn't done with them in this new book. It casts some light on both their pasts and it is clear that things aren't completely wrapped up yet.
There is plenty of action, sword-play, magic and politics. Everything you could want in a fantasy novel. Return to the world of Tiger and Del--and if you have never been there be sure to visit. You won't be disappointed.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
There is plenty of action, sword-play, magic and politics. Everything you could want in a fantasy novel. Return to the world of Tiger and Del--and if you have never been there be sure to visit. You won't be disappointed.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
July 3, 2025
Even though this book is part of a series, I feel that it was so written that you could still follow the story even though it refers to the past, a lot...
I can see why Tiger and Del are beloved characters from this world. We follow Tiger's point of view and his sense of humour was great. Yes he tends to lose his horse, several times... He doesn't want the magic inside him but will still use it for the greater good. Del is portrayed as a strong woman from the north, viking inspired, I would say, and they make a great pair. She doesn't need anyone fighting for her, she is a sword singer in her own right.
Great story, I didn't see the ending coming and will look for the next book. I'm deducting a star only because the past is mentioned so many times, you get the idea of what happened and what it means but it would have been better if I knew the series beforehand.
I received a copy of the book from Netgalley, my opinion is my own
I can see why Tiger and Del are beloved characters from this world. We follow Tiger's point of view and his sense of humour was great. Yes he tends to lose his horse, several times... He doesn't want the magic inside him but will still use it for the greater good. Del is portrayed as a strong woman from the north, viking inspired, I would say, and they make a great pair. She doesn't need anyone fighting for her, she is a sword singer in her own right.
Great story, I didn't see the ending coming and will look for the next book. I'm deducting a star only because the past is mentioned so many times, you get the idea of what happened and what it means but it would have been better if I knew the series beforehand.
I received a copy of the book from Netgalley, my opinion is my own
April 18, 2023
The latest return to Tiger and Del's world has a few stumbles, but finishes strong. Sword-Bearer picks up right where the last one left off, and it’s not long before trouble finds them again. Freak snowstorms and tornados are wrecking havoc on their desert town, and Tiger thinks someone is targeting him. Tiger and Del, accompanied by Neesha and Tiger's other two students, head off to find the person responsible.
The plot is not one of the strongest in the series, but kept me engaged with adventure, drama, mysterious wild magic, and naturally a bunch of awesome sword-fights. The characters, as always, are the best part, and the epic ending made up for any rough patches.
Full review: https://www.selfrescuingprincesses.co...
The plot is not one of the strongest in the series, but kept me engaged with adventure, drama, mysterious wild magic, and naturally a bunch of awesome sword-fights. The characters, as always, are the best part, and the epic ending made up for any rough patches.
Full review: https://www.selfrescuingprincesses.co...
December 6, 2022
I read the first Sword Dancer book when it came out many many years ago. Picking this book up and reading it was like coming home, and felt like no time had passed at all. I loved getting to follow along with Tiger and Del again on another adventure. This one kept me turning the pages and not wanting to put it down. I'm very happy to know that there are more to come after this one. If you've not read the series, you can start here but it’s such a great world full of wonderful characters and stories you’ll want to go back and read them all.
March 11, 2023
Tiger has his magic back, but when a freak snowstorm appears in the desert, he realizes something is wrong, and that it is caused by magic. So once again he and Del set out to find a mage that it becomes clear wants Tiger's magic for his own.
Roberson is back in good form, but she ended this with a cliffhanger! Darn it, now I have to wait until the end of this year (supposedly). I hope there are no delays!
Roberson is back in good form, but she ended this with a cliffhanger! Darn it, now I have to wait until the end of this year (supposedly). I hope there are no delays!
January 13, 2023
I didn't realize how much I missed this series until I began reading Sword-Bearer. I was immediately swept back up into their lives and adventures. Tiger and Del are two of the greatest characters in fantasy fiction, and I can't wait for the next book!
January 17, 2023
The latest in the Tiger and Del series allows us to see domesticated versions of the main characters. We can tell they miss their adventures.
We see them head out to rectify this and this adventure becomes one of the most heart wrenching ones we've ever seen them have.
We see them head out to rectify this and this adventure becomes one of the most heart wrenching ones we've ever seen them have.
January 21, 2023
Tiger and Del
I can't have enough of Tiger and Del relationship with each other. I cried, laugh, get angry right along with them. This tells me that the author Jennifer Roberson is one excellent writer. I highly recommend this series. Action, humor and magic. I love it!
I can't have enough of Tiger and Del relationship with each other. I cried, laugh, get angry right along with them. This tells me that the author Jennifer Roberson is one excellent writer. I highly recommend this series. Action, humor and magic. I love it!
September 21, 2023
I can wait for the next Del and Tiger story
Just when you think Del and Tiger have done it all Jennifer Roberson surprise and Delights Fans once again Thanks for another great read
Just when you think Del and Tiger have done it all Jennifer Roberson surprise and Delights Fans once again Thanks for another great read
Want to read
December 6, 2022Ok that's it. Time for a Tiger and Del re-read/ catch up.
December 29, 2022
They're Back!
So happy to have this series continue!!! I can't wait for the next in the series. Them having kids provides more depth to the story...
So happy to have this series continue!!! I can't wait for the next in the series. Them having kids provides more depth to the story...
January 8, 2023
Hoolies, it was good to revisit the Sandtiger and Del. Roberson certainly has not lost her touch and I can't wait for the next installment of Del and Tiger's saga.
January 19, 2023
I'm waiting for the next book
Loved the action and the action. Was not expecting some of the twists. Can't wait for the next book. Is thre going to be another one?
Loved the action and the action. Was not expecting some of the twists. Can't wait for the next book. Is thre going to be another one?
February 24, 2023
Absolutely wonderful!!!!
March 28, 2023
Further sword and sorcery adventures with Tiger and Del. :)
June 13, 2023
Good read!
It's been a while since I visited the Sandtiger. I thoroughly enjoyed this trip. I recommend this book and the previous 7 books.
It's been a while since I visited the Sandtiger. I thoroughly enjoyed this trip. I recommend this book and the previous 7 books.
September 4, 2023
Excellent continuation of Tiger and Del's story. I want more
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