(What a Gorgeous Cover!)
MY REVIEW:
The Cross and the Dragon by Kim
Rendfeld flourished from The Song of
Roland (11th c.) This beautiful poem and remarkably, the oldest
piece of literature in France, was based on a hero during the battle of
Roncevaux Pass in 778. History buffs
will delight in this novel that brings back the chivalry, honor and love in the
time of Charlemagne. The details of
everyday life, battles and more are remarkably captured in its true
authenticity.
Alda, our bold heroine of the 8th
c. is nearly forced into marriage to the tyrannical Ganelon- but through her
courage and insistence things fortunately go the way of her heart and she
marries Prince Hruodland (the hero based on the legend).
Rendfeld really captures the essence of the
times in not only the details in the way of life and the setting- but in her
characters as well. In keeping in mind
the period in history that branded women as slaves and child bearers- with
religion as the absolute ruler- characters and plot were truly reflective of
what might have been. This helped me
understand how Alda’s strong religious inclinations were the basis for many of
her actions and reactions. In the same
breath, Hruodland who loved her fiercely, often appeared aloof or detached;
behaviors that were consistent with the times.
I really appreciated the author’s in- depth knowledge of the history and
her knack to create from it a novel busting with impeccable details that
carried me vividly into medieval times.
A wonderful debut for Kim Rendfeld!
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