Fiona Avery, The Crown Rose

The Crown Rose

Fiona Avery

PYR, May 2005, $25.00

ISBN: 1591023122

In 1234, the stranger uses one word to halt a rapid dog from attacking nine-year-old Princess Isabelle, heir to the French throne. From that moment on she believes she will do great things for God and country.

Six years later, Isabelle's older brother, King Louis IX, rules in France. Lethal rivalries are everywhere as chivalrous knights join religious orders with each competing to be the One as well as battling the fledgling state for control while secret societies seem everywhere ready to fill any power void. While her sibling is a perfect role model as a pious individual setting an example for Isabelle, by 1844 she feels her destiny is elsewhere. Isabelle begins her life's quest accompanied by the mysterious Jean Benariel. He somehow knows what she seeks, who she is to him at long last and fully supports her on her endeavor. She also recognizes her companion from his one magical utterance that not only saved her life several years ago, but set her on this hallowed mission that is dangerous as knights battle one another claiming God's will and non-believers control the Holy Land.

Three fourths historical novel and one fourth fantasy subplot come together in a fabulous thirteenth-century thriller. Isabella is a terrific protagonist who holds the exhilarating storyline together. Jean adds a touch of mysticism into the mix. The support cast includes many real personages of history that add to the feel of realism such as correspondence with Thomas Aquinas. THE CROWN ROSE is a fabulous fantasy historical thriller that grips readers from the moment the young Isabelle believes she knows her life's work and never slows down until the final codicil.

Harriet Klausner