The Altarpiece, Book One in The Cross and the Crown series, is now available on Audible!

Click here to listen to a sample!

What Are Reviewers Saying?

This is an excellent story set in Yorkshire during the Tudor times. Henry VIII’s soldiers are roaming the country pillaging and wrecking religious houses. Catherine, the 20 year old foundling daughter of the prioress, hears men in the priory one night and the following morning The Altarpiece has disappeared from the chapel. Who has taken it? What is to happen to the sisters? All is told in this entertaining Sarah Kennedy novel. Superb narration once again from the talented Maria Johnson who is fast becoming one of my favourite narrators. Highly recommended.

I loved the narration of Maria Johnson, who brings out the action, angst and fear of the time.

We are transported back to Yorkshire in 1535. Henry Vlll is now head of the church of England. Demolishing all of the monasteries, abbeys, and convents. Claiming all the contents, while throwing the monks and nuns out. Leaving them nowhere to go and no means of supporting themselves.
Catherine has been raised by the nuns and entered the religious life herself. Though not sure if this is her path as she has a gift for healing. When the men come and destroy the beautiful paintings, they also bring smallpox, [must] Catherine [decide whether] to treat the sick man, William, who tried to help them and risk her ‘gift’ being used against her, or leave him to die.

I really enjoyed this novel by Sarah Kennedy and narrated by Maria Johnson. It wasn’t a period of time I was very familiar with so I did some learning while I was listening. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.