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BOOK REVIEW: Mark of the Cross
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by: Vickie McDonough Dancing Word Reviewer
Title: Mark of the Cross Author: Judith Pella Publisher: Bethany House ISBN # 0-7642-0132-8 Genre: Inspirational/Historical/Romance
Philip de Tollard, illegitimate son of Lord Hawken, a powerful English lord, has received an education and basic provisions from his father, but never been recognized as a true son. He's allowed his anger to rule him, making life even more difficult. After being thrown out of school, Philip ends up working as a stable hand for the estate neighboring his father's land. There, he meets Beatrice Marlow, the pampered daughter of the estate's owner, and the two quickly fall in love. But what future can there be for them when their stations are so far apart?
Knowing his only chance to marry Beatrice lies in his father's acceptance, Philip goes to Lord Hawken, hoping to finally be acknowledged as his true son. But Philip's half-brother and Hawken heir, is cruel and evil. When Lord Hawken suddenly dies, Gareth points the finger at Philip, who is thrown is the dungeon.
Making a daring escape, Philip says goodbye to Beatrice. They both pledge an oath to the other, and that oath is all that keeps Philip going.
Beatrice is forced to marry an old man, but a beloved son is sired from the match. After her husband dies, Gareth approaches Beatrice, making her an offer she is forced to accept to protect her son's life. Estates are united, making Gareth more powerful than ever.
Philips tries to forget Beatrice, knowing nothing can ever come of their love, but years later, they encounter one anther again. Philip is devastated to learn Beatrice broke her oath, and he vows to get revenge. But what he discovers instead will change his life—and Beatrice's.
Mark of the Cross is a powerful saga of forbidden love. The story focuses on Philip's desire to find redemption even though he feels he doesn't need God. He's an angry youth who grows into a powerful soldier. Ruled by his wrath, he walks a difficult path, but God eventually molds Philip into the man He wants him to be, even though the life lessons are tough. Beatrice encounters problem after problem but her faith remains strong, even though she makes some unwise choices and God doesn’t seem to answer her prayers.
Mark of the Cross is rich with historical detail as readers journey from England to France and eventually to the Holy Lands. It's evident Ms. Pella has done a wealth of research for this story. Some readers may get bogged down with all the details of war, but others will love it. I should probably warn the sensitive reader that this book contains more sensuality than the average inspirational novel, but it is tastefully handled. If you love a complicated historical saga with a highly satisfying ending, you'll love Mark of the Cross. ($13.98, 448 pages)
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