Content levels
Trigger warnings
Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Themes
Synopsis
In the years before the Third Crusade, Prince Aidan of Rhiyana came to the Holy Land. The younger of twin sons born of a mortal king and an Elven woman, he was heir to magic – and, said many, the finest Christian knight alive. Yet when he pledged his heart, it was to the immortal Lady Morgiana – a steadfast Muslim . . .and an Assassin. Now, after years of waiting, Aidan’s brother King Gwydion has come to Acre, Carrying the papal decree that will allow Prince Aidan and Lady Morgiana to marry despite their difference of faith. But neither of them has reckoned on their enemies, men who hate them for their wealth, for their power, for their long lives and their magic; who have laid plans to thwart their happiness. Other, greater plans are under way as well: Saladin, the wily Sultan of Egypt and Syria, is gathering his armies to lay siege to the holiest of cities and drive the occupying Christians into the sea. (Back cover)
Is The Dagger and the Cross appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 16 and up.
This Crusades-era historical fantasy features warfare, siege violence, and political assassination plots. The romance between the Christian knight and Muslim assassin includes moderate romantic content but no explicit scenes.
What to know going in
This book has strong violence, moderate sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include war, violence, and religious conflict (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens who love epic fantasy with forbidden romance and historical settings will be drawn to this tale of a half-Elven knight and an immortal assassin facing enemies during the Crusades.