©2006, PrestonSpeed Publications, 350 pages in paperback.

Historical turning points often follow much sacrifice and danger.  However, the river of time does not flow far before those downstream live in virtual ignorance of the influence of people, plots, and providences that have brought significant historical change. 

In this work of historical fiction, C. D. Baker explores the epic events surrounding the birth of Magna Carta in l2l5.  The narrator focuses attention on Isabel, Countess of Pembroke, and her husband, William Marshal.  They were instrumental in the penning and establishment of Magna Carta, which was foundational to English law and to the formation of American law.

Medieval culture allowed England’s King Henry II to take fatherless Isabel from her recently widowed mother in Ireland.  The king desired to raise wealthy Isabel.  Later, he arranged her marriage at the proper time and to the person who would most benefit the politically savvy king.

This four year old girl faced pain and deprivation over the years as she grew up in the courtly environment.  In the developing story one sees a perceptiveness, piety, humility, and intelligence that marks the young lady.  Would providence overrule the short-sighted, selfish planning of the king and raise up a wise, loving husband for Isabel?

The choice of William Marshal, a man some thirty years older than she, was for the king’s advantage, not necessarily Isabel’s.  Nevertheless, each person brought into the marriage qualities that complemented the spouse’s.  These qualities would be repeatedly utilized and appreciated in the tumultuous years ahead.  William, the wise warrior, would serve faithfully very different kings during the marriage.

Richard, the Lionhearted, was more interested in pursuing and practicing chivalry and courage beyond the English Isle than he was in governing his countrymen.  His brother, King John, was known neither for chivalry nor for urage.  He was plagued by selfish and unwise decisions that resulted in the animosity of England’s barons and the depletion of much of England’s wealth.

Overruling all the people and actions is God’s clear providence.

As the reader turns the pages, he is taken from the court to the battlefield and from the continent to the Irish Isle.  He witnesses political pettiness and prowess.  He sees that careless decisions make serious situations more desperate.  The hero faces betrayal from outside as well as inside his home.  William and Isabel’s different responses do not undermine their fidelity and love for each other.

This account brings to the forefront probing questions that many faithful families have had to answer.  In the midst of tyranny, where does a wise warrior’s loyalty end?  At what point in war does one take up arms against relatives?  Can persevering faithfulness overcome the political intrigue of those in power?  How does a wife of greater learning and resulting practical insight submit to a husband whose schoolroom has been the battlefield and the wisdom learned there?

The action remains fast-paced and suspenseful.  Within a broad context of historical characters, the author has interwoven a cast of fictional people that are credible in the outworking of the narrative.  In the final pages, biographies of the historical characters provide demarcation between persons of fact and fiction.  Descriptions of  the dress of that day, as well as depictions of life in the castle, life on the battlefield, and scenes in the street aid the reader’s understanding of that era and reflect the author’s meticulous research.

Historical accuracy is maintained.  Courage and commitment are held in high esteem.  The weakness of human character is, also, manifest even in the heroes’ lives.  These character leanings underline the importance of all citizens submitting to a common law as an integral part of civil government.  William and Isabel’s commitment to the establishment of Magna Carta provides the backbone for an insightful, well-structured story that can be enjoyed by youth and adults.

Review ©2007 Byron Snapp, Hampton, Virginia