The Altarpiece

The Cross and the Crown, Book 1

By: Sarah Kennedy

Narrated by: Maria Nicola Johnson

It is 1535, and in the tumultuous years of King Henry VIII’s break from Rome, the religious houses of England are being seized by force. Twenty-year-old Catherine Havens is a foundling and the adopted daughter of the prioress of the Priory of Mount Grace in a small Yorkshire village. Catherine, like her adoptive mother, has a gift for healing, and she is widely sought and admired for her knowledge. However, the king's divorce dashes Catherine’s hopes for a place at court, and she reluctantly takes the veil. When the priory’s costly altarpiece goes missing, Catherine and her friend Ann Smith find themselves under increased suspicion.

King Henry VIII’s soldiers have not had their fill of destruction, and when they return to Mount Grace to destroy the priory, Catherine must choose between the sacred calling of her past and the man who may represent her country’s future.

©2018 Sarah Kennedy (P)2025 Penmore Press

The Altarpiece

I enjoyed thsi book. The story was fascinating!It began slowly,way too slowly,I nearly gave up.I am glad I didn;t because it is a very interesting book. Maria Johnson was a fine narrator. I was given this book free for an honest review.

Insider Story of Catholics During Henry VIII Conversion

Insider Story of Catholics During Henry VIII Conversion

A very clever and interesting story set during Henry VIII's separation from the Catholic church. Includes a light romantic subplot. Excellent narration.

alterpiece

Its kept me interested from the beginning. part 1 & 2 are really good. Thanks

The Alterpiece

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.

Enjoyed listening to this audiobook

I enjoyed listening to this story, following the main character Catherine's talents, hopes, and ordeals in a time when a woman who wished to practice medicine was more likely to be labeled a witch. The author caught my attention within the first chapter and I enjoyed wondering what was going to happen to her next. I enjoyed listening to this story, narrated by Maria Johnson. I hope this author and narrator work together again!