THE LAST CRUSADER

by Louis De Wohl ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 31, 1956

Louis De Wohl continues his chronicle of Christian history and heritage in his current novel, which carries Don Juan of Austria to his climactic and decisive victory over the Turks in 1571, at the Gulf of Lepanto, where the threat of Mohammendanism to the Church was drowned forever. The reconstruction of character takes on the complexion of the Christian outlook. A natural son of Charles V., Juan is recognized at court by Philip II as a brother and trained accordingly. The recreation of court intrigues places Ruy Gomez and the Princess Eholi at purposes with a sturdy Duke of Alba, who gives no cause for concern when he marches off to replace Margaret of Austria in the Netherlands. Philip stands as the reserved, exacting, shrewd statesman-king without trace of inquisitorial fanaticism although he eventually deals firmly and, indirectly assumed, fatally with his ellous son Carlos. Carols ends his life in El Escorial after plotting to kill his rather in a plan which would require Juan's support as commander of the fleet. Juan's loyalty to Spain and Christendom comes to full force in the victories over Moriacos and Turks. The theme of chosen soldier of the church predominates to provide a serious story.

Pub Date: Oct. 31, 1956

ISBN: 1586174142

Page Count: -

Publisher: Lippincott

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 1956

Categories: FICTION