In the Falcon's Claws — Chet Raymo

In the year 998 A.D., the Apocalypse is believed imminent. Strengthened by a fearful populace, the Church is seeking to harness a decaying Holy Roman Empire by asserting its absolute authority in interpreting the will of God. Aileran, a monk perceived as saintly, takes issue with the Church and is accused of heresy. Based on real events, this book magically evokes the political landscape of the tenth-century while exploring love, friendship and timeless spiritual and religious questions.