Kristin is finally showing some growth in this last book of the Kristin Lavransdatter trilogy. She epitomizes all colors of the spectrum of emotion, from the red of her fury and bitterness toward Erlend to the violet of finally finding God's redemption. Her love/hate relationship with Erlend set alongside her quest for God's peace and forgiveness are the ruling forces in Kristin's life.

Undset remarkably melds the strict hold of the Church on this medieval society with the pagan ways of their ancestors which still factored into their daily lives. These are complex times in the history of Norway with strong political and religous influences, but Norway's struggles are no match for the pains and triumphs of Kristin and Erlend's relationship over the years that Undset relates so ardently.

If you enjoy historical sagas and want to get to know some unforgettable characters, then this trilogy is for you. ( )

Look at K. Lavransdatter Tome I. ( )

Synopsis:
As her seven sons grow to manhood in 13th Century Norway, Kristin finds her marriage tested by long-simmering resentments, and struggles with her passage into senescence.

Review:
This might be my favorite of all three Kristin Lavransdatter books, because I think Undset is operating at the peak of her narrative powers. She really brings to life a time in Kristin’s life that isn’t as readily appealing as Kristin’s passage into womanhood, and the novelty of Kristin and Erlend’s life together has worn off. In that way, reading The Cross is like experiencing a mature marriage, from what I can imagine. It’s no longer new, yet surprises and delight still exist if you have the patience to endure.

Read the rest here:
http://superfastreader.com/the-cross-... ( )