Book Review: To Wear the White Cloak

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

To Wear the White Cloak     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Sharan Newman
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Amateur Sleuth   Woman Main Character   Historical
Series: Catherine LeVendeur # 7
Forge, Oct 2000, $24.95, 352 pp.

He was the youngest son of a Scottish lord, which meant he was destined for priesthood. She was the daughter of a French merchant. When Edgar met Catherine de Vendeur, love blossomed. Both were willing to risk everything and they married. They shared many adventures together. They were returning home from helping Catherine’s sister escape a murder charge when they noticed someone trying to break into their Paris home. When the couple enters, they find a corpse garbed in the fashion of a Knights Templar.

They have no idea who the victim is or how he gained entrance to their locked tight home. When the authorities remove the body, they suspect Edgar and Catherine killed the man. Other strangers break into their home. Meanwhile Catherine’s insane cousin tries to attain proof to expose a family skeleton that would destroy Catherine and her relatives. Only their love for one another keeps the duo from total collapse under the weight of their problems.

No one describes medieval Europe quite as well as Sharon Newman. Her works entertain and educate her audience. Followers of this long running series will enjoy seeing the reappearance of old friends, who retain their freshness after a too long absence. TO WEAR THE WHITE CLOAK occurs in the twelfth century, but has the depth to make readers feel they are there. The intriguing and often bewildering mystery augments the overall greatness of this wonderful historical mystery.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner