MARK OF THE CROSS

Author: Judith Pella ISBN: 0764201328 4/2006 HISTORICAL Publisher: BETHANY HOUSE
Time Period: Crusades; 1200's England

Philip de Tollard, the illegitimate son of a powerful English lord, is sheltered by his father but given no claim to an inheritance. Gareth, the legitimate son, is cruel and abusive to his stepbrother. When their father suddenly dies, Gareth falsely accuses Philip, and he escapes only with his life to begin wandering as a fugitive and mercenary. Philip and his longtime friend Beatrice have come to love each other, and she awaits his return, fervently hoping circumstances will change. But when she finds herself at the mercy of Gareth, who will stop at nothing to acquire her estate, she strikes a most grievous bargain. Bitter and angry, Philip devises a dangerous plan for vengeance. But love and hate both have consequences, and he must face the truth that God will not be ignored.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

Judith Pella's newest novel, MARK OF THE CROSS, is a sweeping saga filled with love, tragedy, faith and redemption. The underlying theme throughout the story is the belief that through God all things are possible. MARK OF THE CROSS is beautifully told. Miss Pella is an exceptional writer who is able to transport you to the time of the Crusades, and the life of an illegitimate English Lord's son and the noble woman who comes to love him.

Phillip de Tollard is the illegitimate son of English Lord Ralph Aubernon of Hawken. Although Lord Hawken cares for him, Phillip is not entitled to an inheritance in the event of his death. Not only that, Lord Hawken's legitimate son, Gareth, is quite despicable and will do anything to drive Phillip away. As it happens, Phillip is involved in an altercation at school and is expelled. With nowhere to go, he has taken the position as groom for Lord Cassley. It's on Phillip's journey to Lord Cassley's estate that he encounters Beatrice Cassley, the Lord's daughter.

Beatrice Cassley is a free spirited, independent young woman. She is instantly attracted to Phillip, and of course, he is to her. While Phillip is a groom at her father's estate, they impart on a dangerous love affair, all the while knowing that they could never consummate their relationship. Phillip, wanting more than ever to claim Beatrice, gains enough courage to go ask his father for some land so he can make an honest life for himself. Soon after his visit, Gareth murders their father and blames his death on Phillip.

MARK OF THE CROSS really pulls on your heartstrings from this point on in the story. After escaping from prison, Phillip says good-bye to Beatrice and to the life that he dreamt of having. Unfortunately, Beatrice's life is going to change dramatically as well. Their undying love for one another stands the test of time, and it's through their faith in God that they can build the life they always dreamed of together.

Judith Pella's MARK OF THE CROSS is one book you shouldn't miss reading. It's a definite keeper on my bookshelf!

Julie Kornhausl