Story of intrigue surrounds crucifix (From Gazette Series)

Story of intrigue surrounds crucifix

AUTHOR Julian Fane has told many tales in his time but never before has he set a book in his beloved Sodbury.

Now for the first time since he put to paper for his debut novel in 1956, Mr Fane trails through the fictional lives of villagers from the five Sodburys.

The son of Lady Diana Westmorland, Mr Fane was brought up at Lyegrove House, near Badminton, and set his 40th book in the familiar surroundings of Sodbury - the town he loved shopping in as a boy.

Full of intrigue and mystery, The Sodbury Crucifix is an enigmatic tale that revolves around the discovery of an odd looking metal cross, apparently very valuable, as is soon revealed, in more ways than one.

The mix of such vibrant characters, whether greedy, compassionate, needy or contented, and their reactions to the supposed "powers" of the cross, results in their subsequent fate evoking from the reader a clear sense of either satisfaction or sorrow.

The Sodbury Crucifix is an emotional examination of humanity, money, religion and the struggle to keep all three in perspective.

Mr Fane told the Gazette: "I did not want to write a religious book but I attended a lecture on the famous pictures of the Crucifixion and once I had the idea for the book, it just grew."

Mr Fane, who now lives in Sussex, fondly remembers his birthplace and the family home he loved so dearly.

He said: "I have not really done justice to Sodbury. I used to go there every Saturday and it is such a wonderful place."

The Sodbury Crucifix is published by The Book Guild and is available from all good bookshops or by phoning 01825 723398.