The Lion and the Cross

A Novel of Saint Patrick and Ancient Ireland

By: Joan Lesley Hamilton

Narrated by: Roger Clark

The man who would become Ireland’s beloved patron saint confronts his destiny during the tumultuous Dark Ages in this vibrant, enthralling novel

In 410 CE, arrogant 16-year-old Magonus Sucatus Patricius denounces Christianity as a religion for cowards when the Roman legions withdraw, leaving Britain vulnerable to raiders from the west. Determined to wield a sword despite being the grandson of a priest, the affluent young man is taken captive by barbarians and sold into slavery to a cruel Irish king. On a mountaintop in Eire, a shepherd strips him of his grand Roman name and calls him Padraic, marking him a man of no consequence.

Set against the magnificent backdrop of ancient Ireland and based on available historical facts, Saint Patrick’s Confession, and Celtic myth, this gripping novel follows Patrick as he finds his faith while fighting to escape bondage in Eire. Friendship with a king, love for a queen, and enmity with the druids who fear his God will embroil him in a civil war in a land from which he will struggle to flee - only to be called to return.

©1979 Joan Lesley Hamilton (P)2019 Audible, Inc.

Somewhat Disappointing

Sixteen hours, and the story ends before Patrick even returns to Ireland. It's a good story, well told, but to me the most important part of Patrick's story is his ministry. We never get that far, and the fate of many key characters is left unresolved including Rígan Mercia, a former slave and Christian who became the Queen, Rí Melioch, Patrick's owner when he was a slave, the Rí's bodyguard, also a Christian, and the Apostle Victronius. Maybe a second volume will be forthcoming?

Patrick, the saint

Remarkable story, outstandingly well narrated, well written. So glad I took a chance on the book & this Audible version! I’ve heard only the myth of “St Patrick.” I bought the book because it encompassed as many resources available to tell the story accurately. Purchased the audiobook because I could knit & crochet as I listened, but will read the story for myself when life is less hectic & overwhelming… which is why I knit & crochet in “down time.”

If you like historical stories, I don’t think you’d have to be “religious” to enjoy this book. If you are, it will definitely give one things to think about that you probably haven’t had covered in religious teaching. I found it relevant to current times on multiple levels.

I found the text and the person of Patrick refreshingly real & decidedly “unreligious” - by many people’s standards - but REAL, HUMAN, SINCERE… and entertaining! The narrator did a superlative job! Love the accent!

Am very impressed.

Very, Very..............Very, Slow

Loved the idea of this and while it was interesting enough to stay with it, it was just barely. Could have been half the length. Can't recommend this unless you have read everything else and just need something a bit Irish.