Finalist, 2016 Chaucer Awards for pre-1750 Historical Fiction; B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree; Editors Choice, Historical Novel Society.England 1193Civil war threatens as battle-scarred knight Henry de Grey returns from the Crusades. King Richard languishes in captivity, a prisoner of the Holy Roman Emperor. Traitors to the crown pit Henry and his friends against dangerous and unknown enemies. Loyalties will be tested, families torn apart. Friend or foe? It is hard to tell one from the other. The king’s brother John and his allies plot to usurp Richard’s throne. With the knights Sir Stephan and Sir Robin, Henry fights for king and country. But he must keep his feelings for Sir Stephan l’Aigle secret. Sure as arrow or sword, their forbidden love could destroy him. War, political intrigue and passion… heroes… friends and lovers… and the seeds for a new Robin Hood legend await you…**

War, political intrigue and passion… heroes… friends and lovers… and the seeds for a new Robin Hood legend await you… Two young knights’ journey to war at Richard the Lionheart’s side sweeps them from England to the Holy Land in this historical adventure set against the backdrop of the Third Crusade. Henry de Grey leaves Southampton in high spirits, strong in his faith and passionate about the mission to take Jerusalem back from Saladin’s army. Stephan l’Aigle’s prowess on the battlefield is well known, as are his exploits in the arms of other men. He prizes duty, honour and loyalty to his king above all else. But God and the Church? Stephan has little use for either. Henry’s convictions are challenged by loss and the harsh realities of bloody battles, unforgiving marches, and the politics of the day. Man against man. Man against the elements. Man against his own heart. Survival will depend on more than a strong sword arm. **Review "... a resounding, epic novel of love and war... The love affair and the associated conflict that drives the story are handled exceedingly well... I was continually amazed at the dexterity with which Ms. Newcomb intertwined all of the facets of this story into a seamless, exceptionally well-written story. Not only do I highly recommend Men of the Cross to all readers of historical fiction and romance novels, I also recommend it to everyone who lives or open-mindedly supports the LGBT lifestyle..." --Reviewed by author Lex Allen for Readers' Favorite. "Charlene Newcomb delivers an eye-opening novel in Men Of The Cross (Battle Scars). The author gave an insight into the diverse characters in this period of history and their way of life. I loved the strong bond between the knights and the love that blossomed between Henry and Stephan." --Reviewed by Lisa Jones for Readers' Favoriteamazing KU