Description:

Edmund and Herbert, newly made knights, return to England expecting to revel in the pleasure of being home. Instead, scheming Prince John has a new task for the weary Crusaders; they are to escort two young women on a pilgrimage to Rome, a journey that will take them through the perilous Alps, controlled by bands of brigands. And once in Rome, even greater hazards await. Suspenseful, exciting, and filled with colorful details of 12th century Europe, this final volume of the trilogy that began with The Book of the Lion will thrill readers. ** ### From School Library Journal Grade 6-9–Although this adventure story can be enjoyed on its own, it will be most appreciated by those who have read *The Book of the Lion* (2000) and *The Leopard Sword* (2002, both Viking). This concluding volume in the trilogy finds squires Edmund and Hubert back in England achieving the honor of knighthood. They find themselves in the midst of turmoil caused by Prince John's desire to overthrow his brother King Richard. Eleanor of Aquitane, the royals' mother, sends the new knights on a dangerous pilgrimage to Rome. During this journey through Europe, the dangers and unrest of the time period come alive. Some references are made to the events in the previous titles, which aid in readers' understanding and provide necessary background information. This is a quick read with nonstop action. At least a little knowledge of medieval history would add to the appeal of the book.*–Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD* Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. ### From Booklist Gr. 7-10. This sequel to *The Book of the Lion* (2000) and *The Leopard Sword* (2002) begins with a joust in which Hubert fights for the life and freedom of his friend and fellow squire Edmund, who recently returned with him from the Crusades. After being knighted by Prince John but refusing to swear allegiance to him, the two are sent on a mission by John's mother, Eleanor of Aquitaine. With a company of trusted companions, they provide protection for a young lady on pilgrimage to Rome. On their way across Europe via the Alps, they battle Prince John's men as well as a notorious band of brigands, only to find new perils when they reach their destination. Ester, the daughter of a scholar, makes a worthy addition to the cast and a suitable love interest for Edmund. As in the previous volumes, Cadnum doesn't prettify the Middle Ages, but shows the violence as well as the pageantry, the political realities as well as the religious ideals. *Carolyn Phelan* *Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved*