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Codename Parsifal: A WWII Thriller
Named Best Military Thriller of 2023 by BestThrillers.
The Spear of Destiny. The Roman Legionnaire's lance that pierced Christ's body as he hung on the cross.
Legend claims whomever possesses it will become a great conqueror. But if they lose it, they will lose everything—including their lives.
Shortly before WWII, Hitler stole the spear from a museum in Vienna. In the last weeks of the European war, he lost it. General George Patton orders an American OSS team to find the spear and recover it. Unknown to the Americans, both the Russians and the Germans have also sent commando teams to retrieve it.
In the dying embers of Europe's largest conflagration, the three teams are on a collision course that will lead them to one of the evilest places on earth—the ideological heart of the Nazi SS.
Inspired by historical events.
The Spear of Destiny. The Roman Legionnaire's lance that pierced Christ's body as he hung on the cross.
Legend claims whomever possesses it will become a great conqueror. But if they lose it, they will lose everything—including their lives.
Shortly before WWII, Hitler stole the spear from a museum in Vienna. In the last weeks of the European war, he lost it. General George Patton orders an American OSS team to find the spear and recover it. Unknown to the Americans, both the Russians and the Germans have also sent commando teams to retrieve it.
In the dying embers of Europe's largest conflagration, the three teams are on a collision course that will lead them to one of the evilest places on earth—the ideological heart of the Nazi SS.
Inspired by historical events.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 4, 2023
2 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
About the author
Martin Roy Hill
31 books86 followersMartin Roy Hill has led an eclectic life. Soldier, sailor, journalist . . . well, not a spy, but he has written about them.
Martin joined the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve when he was 19, the same year he sold his first published piece to Reader's Digest. He spent a total of 13 years as a Coastguardsman, in two tours, involved in small boat search and rescue, emergency medical response, port security, and maritime law enforcement.
In between those tours, he served in a counter-insurgency unit in the U.S. Navy Reserve. After a final stint of Coast Guard active duty following the 9/11 attacks, Martin was offered a commission as a medical service corps officer in a component of the California National Guard, where he trained combat medics for Iraq and Afghanistan. Later, Martin converted to the military police, retiring in 2016 as a major and executive officer of an MP unit.
Martin also served as a wilderness medic and operations sergeant with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department Wilderness Search and Rescue Detail, where he was cross trained as a tactical (SWAT) medic. Martin also spent several years as a medic and security specialist with a federal Disaster Medical Assistance Team.
Martin received a bachelor's degree in journalism from CSU Dominguez Hills, and spent more than 20 years as a writer and editor for newspapers and magazines. His investigative reporting earned him numerous journalism honors, including two William Allen White Awards. His stories were included in three of the Investigative Reporters and Editors' annual compilations of the best investigative reporting. He also worked as a freelance correspondent for LIFE and Newsweek.
After serving on active duty following the 9/11 attacks, Martin switched careers, becoming a U.S. Navy analyst in combat casualty care. He left that position after 16 years and became a full-time writer and freelance editor.
Between his military, public safety, and journalism careers, Martin experienced many adventures. In the Coast Guard, he participated in dozens of rescues, chased Russian spy ships and smugglers, protected dignitaries, and once was nearly lost at sea in a storm. In the Navy, he was assigned to liaison with a USCG patrol boat during war games, and ended up participating in what at the time was the largest drug bust in U.S. history.
He's been known to jump out of a perfectly good airplane, and once followed a migrant trail from the U.S. into Mexico (at that country's request) to locate the remains of a woman who died along the trail so the smuggler leading her group could be prosecuted for her death. As a journalist, he covered disasters, air crashes, wild fires, as well as national and international leaders.
Martin's freelance credits include Reader's Digest, LIFE, Newsweek, Omni, American History, Writer’s Digest, Coast Guard Magazine, Retired Officer Magazine, The Compass, Aviation History, Mother Jones, the Associated Press, the Los Angeles Times Sunday Opinion, and Travel sections, and many more. He was a lead contributor to the 1995 WWII anthology, "From Pearl Harbor to Nagasaki: America at War," published by the Retired Officer Association, and a contributor to the 2013 American Civil War anthology "Gettysburg: Three Days that Saved the United States," published by I-5 Publishing.
Martin's background plays a significant role in his writing, which many reviewers have noted has a sense of realism not often found in fiction. His first book, DUTY, a collection of short stories centered around national service, was named the 2012 Best Short Story Anthology/Collection by the San Diego Book Awards Association. His Linus Schag, NCIS, thriller, The Butcher's Bill, received the 2017 Best Mystery/Suspense Award from the Best Independent Book Awards, the 2017 Clue Award for Best Suspense Thriller, the 2018 Silver Medal for Thrillers from the Readers Favorite Book Awards, and the 2018 Adult Fiction Award from the California Author Project.
Besides
Martin joined the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve when he was 19, the same year he sold his first published piece to Reader's Digest. He spent a total of 13 years as a Coastguardsman, in two tours, involved in small boat search and rescue, emergency medical response, port security, and maritime law enforcement.
In between those tours, he served in a counter-insurgency unit in the U.S. Navy Reserve. After a final stint of Coast Guard active duty following the 9/11 attacks, Martin was offered a commission as a medical service corps officer in a component of the California National Guard, where he trained combat medics for Iraq and Afghanistan. Later, Martin converted to the military police, retiring in 2016 as a major and executive officer of an MP unit.
Martin also served as a wilderness medic and operations sergeant with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department Wilderness Search and Rescue Detail, where he was cross trained as a tactical (SWAT) medic. Martin also spent several years as a medic and security specialist with a federal Disaster Medical Assistance Team.
Martin received a bachelor's degree in journalism from CSU Dominguez Hills, and spent more than 20 years as a writer and editor for newspapers and magazines. His investigative reporting earned him numerous journalism honors, including two William Allen White Awards. His stories were included in three of the Investigative Reporters and Editors' annual compilations of the best investigative reporting. He also worked as a freelance correspondent for LIFE and Newsweek.
After serving on active duty following the 9/11 attacks, Martin switched careers, becoming a U.S. Navy analyst in combat casualty care. He left that position after 16 years and became a full-time writer and freelance editor.
Between his military, public safety, and journalism careers, Martin experienced many adventures. In the Coast Guard, he participated in dozens of rescues, chased Russian spy ships and smugglers, protected dignitaries, and once was nearly lost at sea in a storm. In the Navy, he was assigned to liaison with a USCG patrol boat during war games, and ended up participating in what at the time was the largest drug bust in U.S. history.
He's been known to jump out of a perfectly good airplane, and once followed a migrant trail from the U.S. into Mexico (at that country's request) to locate the remains of a woman who died along the trail so the smuggler leading her group could be prosecuted for her death. As a journalist, he covered disasters, air crashes, wild fires, as well as national and international leaders.
Martin's freelance credits include Reader's Digest, LIFE, Newsweek, Omni, American History, Writer’s Digest, Coast Guard Magazine, Retired Officer Magazine, The Compass, Aviation History, Mother Jones, the Associated Press, the Los Angeles Times Sunday Opinion, and Travel sections, and many more. He was a lead contributor to the 1995 WWII anthology, "From Pearl Harbor to Nagasaki: America at War," published by the Retired Officer Association, and a contributor to the 2013 American Civil War anthology "Gettysburg: Three Days that Saved the United States," published by I-5 Publishing.
Martin's background plays a significant role in his writing, which many reviewers have noted has a sense of realism not often found in fiction. His first book, DUTY, a collection of short stories centered around national service, was named the 2012 Best Short Story Anthology/Collection by the San Diego Book Awards Association. His Linus Schag, NCIS, thriller, The Butcher's Bill, received the 2017 Best Mystery/Suspense Award from the Best Independent Book Awards, the 2017 Clue Award for Best Suspense Thriller, the 2018 Silver Medal for Thrillers from the Readers Favorite Book Awards, and the 2018 Adult Fiction Award from the California Author Project.
Besides
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 10, 2024
The Spear of Destiny. The Roman Legionnaire's lance that pierced Christ's body as he hung on the cross.
Legend claims whomever possesses it will become a great conqueror.
Martin Roy Hill has taken this legend and developed a compelling read that intricately weaves themes of betrayal, myth and WWII into the high-stakes world of special services as the Americans, Germans and Russians all race to find the legendary spear.
Codename Parsifal has a masterful blend of action and character development as we get to know the thoughts and actions of soldiers from each side of the war.
Hill skillfully portrays the psychological effect of belief as the spear is sort after for its power.
Set against the backdrop of the final days of WWII Hill uses vivid imagery and meticulous attention to detail to give a believable portrayal of the special services mission to find the authentic spear.
Hills expertise in crafting engaging action sequences is complemented by his ability to develop a rich, believable plot line.
Codename Parsifal is a thought provoking exploration of the idea of talismans, superstition and mysticism.
Legend claims whomever possesses it will become a great conqueror.
Martin Roy Hill has taken this legend and developed a compelling read that intricately weaves themes of betrayal, myth and WWII into the high-stakes world of special services as the Americans, Germans and Russians all race to find the legendary spear.
Codename Parsifal has a masterful blend of action and character development as we get to know the thoughts and actions of soldiers from each side of the war.
Hill skillfully portrays the psychological effect of belief as the spear is sort after for its power.
Set against the backdrop of the final days of WWII Hill uses vivid imagery and meticulous attention to detail to give a believable portrayal of the special services mission to find the authentic spear.
Hills expertise in crafting engaging action sequences is complemented by his ability to develop a rich, believable plot line.
Codename Parsifal is a thought provoking exploration of the idea of talismans, superstition and mysticism.
August 11, 2023
The Spear of Destiny was a great book. It was fast paced and an “edge of the seat” drama.
It is basically a race to get legendary Roman lance that pierced Christ’s body as he hung on the cross. Why? Those who possess it become a great conqueror.
As a an anthropology buff, this was an intriguing book for me?
Without a doubt, it makes me want to read more Martin Roy Hill books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It is basically a race to get legendary Roman lance that pierced Christ’s body as he hung on the cross. Why? Those who possess it become a great conqueror.
As a an anthropology buff, this was an intriguing book for me?
Without a doubt, it makes me want to read more Martin Roy Hill books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 1, 2023
The Spear of Destiny, the head of the spear that was believed to be the spear that was used to stab Jesus Christ as he hung from the cross. The stabbing was to check if Jesus was in fact dead. It was believed that every Holy Roman emperor since Constantine carried the spear into battle. Multiple other military leaders, including Attila the Hun and Charlemagne, was thought to carry the spear which was believed to be the reason for their military success.
The spear wound up in Germany early in the 1900's. Adolph Hitler believed in the legend of the spear, as well as Heinrich Himmler. The German leaders were not the only WWII military leaders who believed in the power of the spear, U.S. General George S. Patton also was one such person. Hitler, Himmler and Patton each wanted the spear. The problem was that over the years replicas of the spear were made which made it almost impossible to know which was the “original”.
It was believed that the true spear was hidden in the city of Nuremberg. With this information becoming known General Patton decides to send in a small team to Nuremberg to try and find the artifact. The problem being that while the war was getting to be what everyone thought would be the end of the War in Europe, it was still going on in the area of Nuremberg. Thus a small three person team, with one member knowing the way to verify the authenticity of the spear, was dispatched to go behind German lines to find the spear.
As the U.S. Team was dispatched both the Germans and the Russians found out that the Americans were searching for the Spear of Destiny. Both the Germans and the Russians send out their own teams to acquire the treasure. As the war winds down and the three armies get closer and closer to each other. Who will recover the location of the Spear, and will it actually be the true Spear of Destiny? Codename: Parsifal tells a believable story about a possible search. It is a enjoyable read from start to finish.
The spear wound up in Germany early in the 1900's. Adolph Hitler believed in the legend of the spear, as well as Heinrich Himmler. The German leaders were not the only WWII military leaders who believed in the power of the spear, U.S. General George S. Patton also was one such person. Hitler, Himmler and Patton each wanted the spear. The problem was that over the years replicas of the spear were made which made it almost impossible to know which was the “original”.
It was believed that the true spear was hidden in the city of Nuremberg. With this information becoming known General Patton decides to send in a small team to Nuremberg to try and find the artifact. The problem being that while the war was getting to be what everyone thought would be the end of the War in Europe, it was still going on in the area of Nuremberg. Thus a small three person team, with one member knowing the way to verify the authenticity of the spear, was dispatched to go behind German lines to find the spear.
As the U.S. Team was dispatched both the Germans and the Russians found out that the Americans were searching for the Spear of Destiny. Both the Germans and the Russians send out their own teams to acquire the treasure. As the war winds down and the three armies get closer and closer to each other. Who will recover the location of the Spear, and will it actually be the true Spear of Destiny? Codename: Parsifal tells a believable story about a possible search. It is a enjoyable read from start to finish.
June 19, 2023
Review of eBook
Legend says that the Holy Lance, once used by the Roman centurion Longinus to stab Jesus Christ in the side, had the power to fulfill destiny, to make the possessor a great conqueror. With the Americans, the Russians, and the Germans all desiring to possess the Lance, there are soon three separate squads charged with retrieving the Lance, commonly referred to as the Spear of Destiny.
Raymond MacAuley, a member of the Special Forces of the Office of Strategic Services, leads the three-man team Parsifal team. Hans Steiner commands a small convoy while Valentin Valery leads his Russian team. With three teams of soldiers in search of the Spear of Destiny, who will end up with the true Lance? And is it possible that there is truth in the legend?
=========
Inspired by historical events, this World War Two thriller is anchored by a strong sense of place and compelling, well-developed characters. The author’s careful combining of historical fact and the captivating fictional plot give the narrative a realistic feel that pulls readers into the telling of the tale from the outset.
Tension mounts as the searchers move toward a confrontation, leaving readers to guess which team will be victorious.
When unexpected revelations take the story in a surprising direction, readers are kept guessing as the unfolding narrative leads to a surprising denouement. Readers of this genre will find much to appreciate in this unique tale.
Highly recommended.
I received a free advance review copy of this book through BookSirens, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Legend says that the Holy Lance, once used by the Roman centurion Longinus to stab Jesus Christ in the side, had the power to fulfill destiny, to make the possessor a great conqueror. With the Americans, the Russians, and the Germans all desiring to possess the Lance, there are soon three separate squads charged with retrieving the Lance, commonly referred to as the Spear of Destiny.
Raymond MacAuley, a member of the Special Forces of the Office of Strategic Services, leads the three-man team Parsifal team. Hans Steiner commands a small convoy while Valentin Valery leads his Russian team. With three teams of soldiers in search of the Spear of Destiny, who will end up with the true Lance? And is it possible that there is truth in the legend?
=========
Inspired by historical events, this World War Two thriller is anchored by a strong sense of place and compelling, well-developed characters. The author’s careful combining of historical fact and the captivating fictional plot give the narrative a realistic feel that pulls readers into the telling of the tale from the outset.
Tension mounts as the searchers move toward a confrontation, leaving readers to guess which team will be victorious.
When unexpected revelations take the story in a surprising direction, readers are kept guessing as the unfolding narrative leads to a surprising denouement. Readers of this genre will find much to appreciate in this unique tale.
Highly recommended.
I received a free advance review copy of this book through BookSirens, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
May 22, 2025
I received an ARC through "Booksirens" and Iam voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This is a story in which 3 American soldiers; Mac, Roy and Harry are given the task to find Spear of Destiny. It seems that they were not the only ones looking for it. A team of Germans and Russians also wanted this relic. The Spear of Destiny was the item that was used to determine that Jesus had died. In addition it was supposed to hold mystical powers and that was the reason that each of the teams wanted it.
Mac and his team was originally sent to a museum where it was last reported to be located. Once they were able to get inside, they discovered that it was not there. Once they reported back, Patton sent them out again to find it and not to come back without it. They 1st hit Hitler's vacation house and it happened that one of the American soldiers had taken it as a souvenir. He gave it to Mac and Harry determined it was a fake. As they were leaving, they ran into captured German soldiers where one of them had been a guard at the museum and gave Mac an idea where the Spear might be. With this information, the trio went to that location.
To discover what Mac and his team discovered there, what surprise awaited them and how the story finally ended up, then you need to read this book.
This is a story in which 3 American soldiers; Mac, Roy and Harry are given the task to find Spear of Destiny. It seems that they were not the only ones looking for it. A team of Germans and Russians also wanted this relic. The Spear of Destiny was the item that was used to determine that Jesus had died. In addition it was supposed to hold mystical powers and that was the reason that each of the teams wanted it.
Mac and his team was originally sent to a museum where it was last reported to be located. Once they were able to get inside, they discovered that it was not there. Once they reported back, Patton sent them out again to find it and not to come back without it. They 1st hit Hitler's vacation house and it happened that one of the American soldiers had taken it as a souvenir. He gave it to Mac and Harry determined it was a fake. As they were leaving, they ran into captured German soldiers where one of them had been a guard at the museum and gave Mac an idea where the Spear might be. With this information, the trio went to that location.
To discover what Mac and his team discovered there, what surprise awaited them and how the story finally ended up, then you need to read this book.
September 1, 2023
The darker side of faith
An alternative take on the historical fiction of religious relics
I’m not one for destiny or fate, but I also know there’s a difference between hope and delusion. IMHO, if ya need something imbued with magic to help win the war, then perhaps ya won’t be winnin’ it after all. Stop wasting time going after imaginary things and concentrate instead on tactics & strategy. Focus, man!
Having said that, this tale is full of historical dates, places, themes, etc. such as “Mein Kampf” and “The Monuments Men”. Even the Queen Mary (which I’d toured with my parents as a child growing up in The OC). The author craftily adds his personal “spin” on his combining a horrific period with aspects of the source behind that madness.
Readers are treated to some Aryan Mythology, mysticism, reincarnation & runes; Teutonic Knights. I also liked the French and German sprinkled throughout (explanations given in text).
Fave line:
‘How like the capitalist Americans to sell their technology to a communist country opposed to the very existence of capitalism.’
I definitely want to continue reading this new-to-me author.
An alternative take on the historical fiction of religious relics
I’m not one for destiny or fate, but I also know there’s a difference between hope and delusion. IMHO, if ya need something imbued with magic to help win the war, then perhaps ya won’t be winnin’ it after all. Stop wasting time going after imaginary things and concentrate instead on tactics & strategy. Focus, man!
Having said that, this tale is full of historical dates, places, themes, etc. such as “Mein Kampf” and “The Monuments Men”. Even the Queen Mary (which I’d toured with my parents as a child growing up in The OC). The author craftily adds his personal “spin” on his combining a horrific period with aspects of the source behind that madness.
Readers are treated to some Aryan Mythology, mysticism, reincarnation & runes; Teutonic Knights. I also liked the French and German sprinkled throughout (explanations given in text).
Fave line:
‘How like the capitalist Americans to sell their technology to a communist country opposed to the very existence of capitalism.’
I definitely want to continue reading this new-to-me author.
October 7, 2023
Codename Parsifal - Distracted by the author's obvious dislike of and his comments made about General Patton made me have second thoughts about finishing this story. These comments aren't necessary since what happened does not belong in this story and the lack of the complete events reflects poorly on a general who was great at his job and did have the beliefs of his time and raising.
Yes, he and Teddy Roosevelt share the same traits that made it hard for Eisenhower to handle Patton during WWII, but Patton was right and just more direct and outspoken than his peers could handle. TR has nothing to do with this story; just used him as an example, but I did not clarify the similar actions of these two men since I assume I'm not the only person who studied or has knowledge of world history, which includes American.
Montgomery, along with the other Allied generals and politicians, did not like Eisenhower in sole charge of the Allied Forces so there was a lot of strife, especially with the French. I know this book is probably just entertainment but I lost interest in finishing, which is a shame since this is one of my preferred genres. Source: BookSirens. 3*
Yes, he and Teddy Roosevelt share the same traits that made it hard for Eisenhower to handle Patton during WWII, but Patton was right and just more direct and outspoken than his peers could handle. TR has nothing to do with this story; just used him as an example, but I did not clarify the similar actions of these two men since I assume I'm not the only person who studied or has knowledge of world history, which includes American.
Montgomery, along with the other Allied generals and politicians, did not like Eisenhower in sole charge of the Allied Forces so there was a lot of strife, especially with the French. I know this book is probably just entertainment but I lost interest in finishing, which is a shame since this is one of my preferred genres. Source: BookSirens. 3*
September 7, 2023
I found this to be a fast moving story that focused primarily on the intelligence operations of, primarily the U.S., but also Germany and the Soviet Union during the waning moments of WWII. My interest was piqued by historical background elements inserted in the story about various rulers, locations in Germany, resistance movements in WWII, and the formation of what was to become modern intelligence organizations.
It had elements of the “religious artifact” genre, as the focus of the operations was the Spear of Destiny, used by many rulers in the past as a way to defeat enemies. I found it interesting that the pursuit of the relic by those who questioned its purported abilities was handled with a thought provoking idea - is the belief of its power basically as strong as if the power was a proven fact?
This was also a war story. While not occurring on the front lines, there were both intentional and intentional situations where both friends and enemies hindered the operations.
I received a free copy of this story from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It had elements of the “religious artifact” genre, as the focus of the operations was the Spear of Destiny, used by many rulers in the past as a way to defeat enemies. I found it interesting that the pursuit of the relic by those who questioned its purported abilities was handled with a thought provoking idea - is the belief of its power basically as strong as if the power was a proven fact?
This was also a war story. While not occurring on the front lines, there were both intentional and intentional situations where both friends and enemies hindered the operations.
I received a free copy of this story from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
August 15, 2023Codename Parsifal is a riveting military thriller set during World War II. A group of American OSS soldiers are given orders to retrieve an ancient Christian relic, the Spear of Destiny, that warlords over the centuries believed conferred special powers.
The group thread their way through a maze of conflict with the enemy, misinformation, and personality clashes between members of their own army in their quest to find the true Spear. What they don’t know, and hadn’t originally planned on, is that they’re not the only ones desperate to get their hands on the precious relic.
A page-turning war story, with a fantastic premise, links to the recent and ancient past, believable characters, and many unexpected twists. Don’t miss it!
The group thread their way through a maze of conflict with the enemy, misinformation, and personality clashes between members of their own army in their quest to find the true Spear. What they don’t know, and hadn’t originally planned on, is that they’re not the only ones desperate to get their hands on the precious relic.
A page-turning war story, with a fantastic premise, links to the recent and ancient past, believable characters, and many unexpected twists. Don’t miss it!
August 30, 2023
Few historical items have the power to excite the reader like the Spear of Destiny. It’s up there with the Ark of the Covenant and King Arthur’s sword Excalibur. Also known as the Holy Spear or the Lance of Longinus, it is said that it was the weapon used to pierce the side of Jesus Christ as he was dying on the cross.
There is no shortage of works featuring the Holy Lance in book, film or even video game format. It plays a central role in the movie Constantine, features in the video game Tomb Raider Chronicles and even perennial relic chaser Indiana Jones has had a shot at recovering it.
When the location of the spear is rumoured to be in a Nazi storage bunker toward the end of World War II, an American OSS unit, directed by General Patton, is sent to retrieve it. Unknown to the Americans, the Russians have also sent a commando squad and this is further complicated when the Germans assemble their own team to join the hunt. With so many fake relics posing as the real thing, who will get to the genuine artefact first?
What follows is a gripping thriller that follows the three groups through enemy controlled territory where the lines are constantly moving.
Filled with complicated personalities all trying to serve their countries, and in some cases their own ends, in the best way they can. War brings out the best and the worst in people and both sides are on show as the tide turns one way and then another as the search races to its exciting climax.
Not so much a war story, despite its location both geographically and in time, this is an enthralling ‘boys own’ adventure in which mystery and intrigue abound. Historical fact meets historical fiction in an entertaining fusion that will keep the reader on the edge of their seat throughout
I’d recommend this to readers with an interest in WWII, Adolf Hitler, Historical artefacts and relics or anyone who just loves a good adventure story.
There is no shortage of works featuring the Holy Lance in book, film or even video game format. It plays a central role in the movie Constantine, features in the video game Tomb Raider Chronicles and even perennial relic chaser Indiana Jones has had a shot at recovering it.
When the location of the spear is rumoured to be in a Nazi storage bunker toward the end of World War II, an American OSS unit, directed by General Patton, is sent to retrieve it. Unknown to the Americans, the Russians have also sent a commando squad and this is further complicated when the Germans assemble their own team to join the hunt. With so many fake relics posing as the real thing, who will get to the genuine artefact first?
What follows is a gripping thriller that follows the three groups through enemy controlled territory where the lines are constantly moving.
Filled with complicated personalities all trying to serve their countries, and in some cases their own ends, in the best way they can. War brings out the best and the worst in people and both sides are on show as the tide turns one way and then another as the search races to its exciting climax.
Not so much a war story, despite its location both geographically and in time, this is an enthralling ‘boys own’ adventure in which mystery and intrigue abound. Historical fact meets historical fiction in an entertaining fusion that will keep the reader on the edge of their seat throughout
I’d recommend this to readers with an interest in WWII, Adolf Hitler, Historical artefacts and relics or anyone who just loves a good adventure story.
July 10, 2023
As usual, Martin Roy Hill finds a unique basis for a story. "Codename Parsifal" could be a novel about a hidden piece of WWII history or it could be fiction. Either way, Martin weaves in authentic times and places, so that you, the reader, don't care. It's an interesting theme. Patton, Himmler, the Russians, the last days of the war, desperate Germans, some smart OSS operatives, a race to take control of the Spear of Destiny. I'm out of breath!
And I expect you'll hear more from Captain "Mac" Macauley and Lt. Harry Herschel. I hope so.
And I expect you'll hear more from Captain "Mac" Macauley and Lt. Harry Herschel. I hope so.
September 9, 2023
There is a lot to like about this book. Fans of WWII history will like the snippets of information about George Patton, Heinrich Himmler and other major players of the period. Those who relish combat action tales may find it a bit light on battle scenes but the encounters that are in the book are first rate.
I found this book more compelling than I at first thought it would be. The action moved at a steady pace and didn't get bogged down with too much superfluous detail. All things considered, this is a worthy read.
I found this book more compelling than I at first thought it would be. The action moved at a steady pace and didn't get bogged down with too much superfluous detail. All things considered, this is a worthy read.
September 12, 2023
What a fabulous book! Brilliantly written, this military historical mystery is a really fast paced thriller wrapped around plenty of historical fact and legend - a really good mix, and clearly the author has researched well and knows his stuff.
I'm looking forward to investigating what else this author has to offer - "Codename Parsifal" definitely hit the spot and should be on your TBR list if you enjoy a good military mystery.
Thanks to BookSirens and the author for an advanced reader copy which I am reviewing voluntarily.
I'm looking forward to investigating what else this author has to offer - "Codename Parsifal" definitely hit the spot and should be on your TBR list if you enjoy a good military mystery.
Thanks to BookSirens and the author for an advanced reader copy which I am reviewing voluntarily.
December 19, 2023
Audiobook: I enjoyed this historical based fiction story about "The Spear of Destiny" and the teams that were sent to retrieve it in the last days of WWII. The story was entertaining. Once the audiobook started, I was so involved with the story that I listened to the entire audiobook in one sitting. The tale raised some thought-provoking moments as to how belief can guide one's actions and influence world changes. Timothy J Danko's narration was easy to follow, and his performance kept my attention. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
January 22, 2025
I found this to be an engaging fun story that kept me reading.
Being based in Austria as a non-Austrian, I find all of the hype and conspiracy theories around the sword of destiny almost amusing, but I really enjoyed the story and it had just enough character development to hold my interest.
The ending was good, and it also left me with an unsolved question which I kind of like and hate at the same time…
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Being based in Austria as a non-Austrian, I find all of the hype and conspiracy theories around the sword of destiny almost amusing, but I really enjoyed the story and it had just enough character development to hold my interest.
The ending was good, and it also left me with an unsolved question which I kind of like and hate at the same time…
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 2, 2024
Not quite a 5* but pretty well polished, just not quite an edge-of-the-seat read.
Enjoyed this one. Well written and clever interweaving of fact and fiction. Realistic, believable characters. An absorbing read.
If one is at all familiar with events of WWII in Europe there might just be a tad too much explanation of events, cities and personnel, almost too dumbed-down for my liking but okay if one is not up on related facts.
Enjoyed this one. Well written and clever interweaving of fact and fiction. Realistic, believable characters. An absorbing read.
If one is at all familiar with events of WWII in Europe there might just be a tad too much explanation of events, cities and personnel, almost too dumbed-down for my liking but okay if one is not up on related facts.
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September 8, 2023Codename Parsifal: A WWII, my third excellent read from author Martin Roy Hill, both entertaining & enjoyable. “I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I look forward to reading more from this author. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
January 6, 2024
this was a great world war 2 thriller novel, it had a great overall feel and worked in the time-period. I thought the characters were accurate and felt like they belonged in the story. I enjoyed how good Martin Roy Hill's writing was and can't wait to read more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 11, 2023
An amazing story that will keep you up trying to binge read. Intriguing, with danger and action. The characters are strong and you can feel the tension as they try to solve the mystery.
September 22, 2023
Book was not for me
February 10, 2024
Fascinating Story
This was a fascinating story about a relic and WWII. It made me wonder what would happen if it were true.
The book is well written and intriguing.
This was a fascinating story about a relic and WWII. It made me wonder what would happen if it were true.
The book is well written and intriguing.
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