The Sword and the Cross

by Warwick Deeping

Last novel written by Warwick Deeping. This fascinating and often moving novel is set in Anglo-Saxon Britain just after the withdrawal of the Roman Legions. Gerontius, a young English nobleman, discovers Igerna, the girl whom he loves, tragically bereaved and herself the only survivor of a savage massacre. Though he rescues her and takes her to safety, the shattered Igerna takes the veil. Desolate, Gerontius helps to raise an army against the marauding Saxon bands to avenge the murder of Igerna's parents. The effect of the battle on the lives of the lovers is the substance of this story. Deeping's deep understanding of human nature and his vivid style of writing bring the characters to glowing life.

Genres: Historical Fiction

217 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1954

About the author

George Warwick Deeping was a prolific novelist and short story writer, who is best known for his 1925 novel "Sorrell and Son."

Deeping was educated at Merchant Taylors' School, then Trinity College, Cambridge to study medicine and science, and then to Middlesex Hospital to finish his medical training. During the First World War, he served in the Royal Army Medical Corps. He later gave up his job as a doctor to become a full-time writer.

Deeping's early work was primarily historical romances. His later novels can be seen as attempts at keeping alive the spirit of the Edwardian age. He was one of the best selling authors of the 1920s and 1930s, with seven of his novels making the best-seller list. His short fiction also appeared in several US magazines, including the Saturday Evening Post and Adventure.

Reviews

[Lora · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rousing tale of bravery, war wounds, and love. I've seen Deeping write such gentle and sentimental books, and then go full tilt into grimy and shrieking battle. He fits my moods!