Tom Harper Knights of the Cross

Knights of the Cross

Tom Harper

St. Martin's, Aug 2006, $24.95

ISBN: 0312338708

In 1098, former warring enemies have become allies in an attempt to win back the Holy Land from the Turks. The combined might of armies from the Byzantium Empire and western kingdoms seem invincible as victories pile up while crossing Asia Minor until Antioch, Syria. There the first major resistance occurs, leaving the allies at each other's throats as their recent hostilities remain fresh in everyone's mind.

Greek scribe to General Takitos, Demetrios Askiates and his friend Sigurd the Varangla of England are walking back from a skirmish when they come across a lad Simon acting hysterical as he shouts his master is dead. Demetrios looks at the corpse of the Norman Drogo, whose throat was sliced. Not long afterward, Norman leader Lord Bohemond asks Demetrios to investigate the murder fearing his men will retaliate against the Byzantine allies, leading to disaster. As he makes inquires while the Normans sneer, Demetrios learns that Drogo was seeing a camp follower Sarah while his tent mate threatens to kill the Greek sleuth.

KNIGHTS OF THE CROSS is a terrific Crusader Era whodunit starring a likable protagonist and his irascible but loyal friend. The story line in some ways is more historical than mystery though the sleuthing is top rate and fun to follow while it also enhances the deep look at the First Crusade. Fans of historical mysteries will want to read this strong thriller and Demetrios' previous starring in THE MOSAIC OF SHADOWS.

Harriet Klausner