This is the second book in the Mark of the Lion trilogy by Francine Rivers. Books 1 and 2 are much more closely related; Book 3 expands on the story of a minor character from Book 1. I absolutely loved this book, and Marcus's journey and struggle in finding his faith is both frustrating and beautiful. I won't give away any spoilers, but I distinctly remember reading this on the T in Boston and missing my stop because I was so enthralled and wrapped up in the story of Marcus's journey. This is definitely Christian fiction, though, and the author makes a very clear distinction between the behaviors of her Christian and non-Christian characters...almost to a fault. She is very black and white on that issue, which will turn off some readers. There really aren't any characters that are likeable and non-Christian, but it's her prerogative I suppose.

I HIGHLY recommend these two books. I could take or leave Book 3 as a part of the trilogy, but it's still an interesting read.