I enjoy the way the author continues this series, The Champions Saint Euphemia, with a bit of overlap from book 1. She’s providing us the most exciting part of book 1, however, not in the perspective of Ysmaine, the heroine of book 1, but in Christina’s perspective. Christina is a courtesan, words used by more considerate of men with some understanding that most women would not choose this station; others call her whore who perhaps are the basest of men – their intent to demean women. In Christina’s point of view we discover many hidden parts of the story, and her sharp perception, which hadn’t been discovered earlier and really make the story more complete.

I also enjoyed the narration of Mr. Reynolds. His voice is rich and bold, very much like the time period, personifying strength of will to survive.

Christina lost her husband, Gunther, being slain while they journeyed to Jerusalem. They pilgrimaged to Jerusalem to ask the saints for forgiveness and bless them with child. She left Jerusalem, not being with child, and now without husband. She, again, with her wits was able to journey safe enough to Vienna. Christina, true, had become a courtesan, but not from her choosing. Not many women would care to live such a life. When Christina sees the opportunity to change her station, she uses her quick wit and her instincts to follow Wulfe from the brothel.

Wulfe, a complex man, with a back history of hurt, a character met in book 1, is even more interesting in this book. His character is fully fledged out. We see the man. We see the knight and we see how he has arrived in life to serve the Knights Templar. He’s just as much an honorable knight as Gaston.

Both knights and both ladies are determined to finish the sworn quest of the Knight’s Templar -- imperative to get to Paris. They are protecting something beyond value to Christianity and there are those who would sabotage their success. The story is suspenseful, fast-paced and gives the reader a chance to experience the life and danger of being snared by a brothel in Vienna, knowing evil lurks, but not knowing who it is, and sharing sisterhood and brotherhood with those of pure heart.
It is about the baser emotions of man – greed. Honor, faith, purity of soul and love fight the evil willing to do harm to anyone who crosses its path.

I’m planning on listening to book three of the series, and highly recommend this read to those who love this period in history and love a dangerous challenge to a happy ever after ending.