Unusually through research in this story of an 11th century crusade, and a de-glamorized historical reconstruction of a military world of knights and war, make this fine supplementary reading for history. Boys, particularly, will be intrigued by details about arms, mail, and methods of warfare. The hero, young Roger, likeable but inexperienced, finds himself in the interval between his departure from England and the last battle on the walls of Jerusalem, slowly robbed of his youthful fervor and romantic crusading vision, but remains faithful to his vows until his death. A novel with depth and perspective.