soldier, who shared a lifelong bond forged in childhood. They saw themselves as Christianity's cross and sword, put on earth by God to build and defend Christendom in medieval Europe. Both men differed in their approach to converting the pagans. Charlemagne, the soldier, believed in a swift decision and the beheading by sword of the unwilling: My god is your god. My will be done. Waldo, the priest, believed in a more gentle missionary way, bringing salvation with bread, wine and fear of the unknown, and the promise of a better life in heaven: Jesus died for us on the cross for our redemption. Thy kingdom come. Amen! They also shared a terrible secret known only to themselves and God. It is a secret that history failed to uncover in the last 1250 years. Those who read this book with an open mind, will hopefully care more about the authenticity of their spiritual experience than the historical authenticity of every chronicled aspect in this novel.