COVINA, Calif., April 22, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- What would it be like to do all mathematical calculations in Roman numerals? What would the world be like if the "Age of Reason" had never occurred. In his newly released book, The Call (now available through 1stBooks Library), author Gary Miles Gantney sets his compelling historical storyline in the midst of the first crusade, a turning point in world history, he notes.
Gantney's book begins with the dilemma between two of the main characters, Sir Jon of York and his young love interest, Maria, the daughter of Jon's "overlord." When Maria becomes pregnant, her father disowns her and sends her to a convent, which just happens to be one half of a dual abbey. Jon follows Maria and joins the "order of the brothers." A skilled carpenter, he makes a false panel in the wall, so that he and Maria may meet in secret.
One day, a new face stares back at Jon when he opens up the panel. Her name is Dona and she's come to tell him of Maria's death while giving birth to his son. Heartbroken, Jon befriends Dona and the two decide to leave the abbey. With the blessing of Abbot Jacob, Jon sets out to join "Urban's great voyage." Along the way, Jon and Dona meet several old friends, including Jerome. Together, the three encounter many adventures and dangers on their bumpy road.
Despite the many trials and tribulations, Jon becomes many things: a trainer, engineer, leader, healer, counselor and miracle worker. After all is said and done, Jon finds his way to God and realizes the lesson he's learned the hard way: "to keep...Christ in the center of his life."
Gantney currently resides in southern California with his family. He has also lived in Morocco, France and England and was born in Tacoma, Wash. He has five children and one grandchild. A civil engineer by trade, Gantney is interested in all things military, but could not serve due to an injury sustained in childhood.
The author began researching his book in 1989. The Call is his first published work and is also the first in the Marked with a Cross trilogy.
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