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James Acton Thrillers #4
The Templar’s Relic
The Church Helped Destroy the Templars. Will a twist of fate let them get their revenge 700 years later?
The Vault must be sealed, but a construction accident leads to a miraculous discovery—an ancient tomb containing four Templar Knights, long forgotten, on the grounds of the Vatican. Not knowing who they can trust, the Vatican requests Professors James Acton and Laura Palmer examine the find, but what they discover, a precious Islamic relic, lost during the Crusades, triggers a set of events that shake the entire world, pitting the two greatest religions against each other.
Join Professors James Acton and Laura Palmer, INTERPOL Agent Hugh Reading, Scotland Yard DI Martin Chaney, and the Delta Force Bravo Team as they race against time to defuse a worldwide crisis that could quickly devolve into all-out war.
At risk is nothing less than the Vatican itself, and the rock upon which it was built.
From J. Robert Kennedy, the author of six international bestsellers including Depraved Difference and The Protocol, comes The Templar’s Relic, the fourth entry in the smash hit James Acton Thrillers series, where once again Kennedy takes history and twists it to his own ends, resulting in a heart pounding thrill ride filled with action, suspense, humor and heartbreak.
The Vault must be sealed, but a construction accident leads to a miraculous discovery—an ancient tomb containing four Templar Knights, long forgotten, on the grounds of the Vatican. Not knowing who they can trust, the Vatican requests Professors James Acton and Laura Palmer examine the find, but what they discover, a precious Islamic relic, lost during the Crusades, triggers a set of events that shake the entire world, pitting the two greatest religions against each other.
Join Professors James Acton and Laura Palmer, INTERPOL Agent Hugh Reading, Scotland Yard DI Martin Chaney, and the Delta Force Bravo Team as they race against time to defuse a worldwide crisis that could quickly devolve into all-out war.
At risk is nothing less than the Vatican itself, and the rock upon which it was built.
From J. Robert Kennedy, the author of six international bestsellers including Depraved Difference and The Protocol, comes The Templar’s Relic, the fourth entry in the smash hit James Acton Thrillers series, where once again Kennedy takes history and twists it to his own ends, resulting in a heart pounding thrill ride filled with action, suspense, humor and heartbreak.
331 pages, ebook
First published August 26, 2012
727 people are currently reading
561 people want to read
About the author
J. Robert Kennedy
102 books298 followersWith over one million books sold, award winning and USA Today bestselling author J. Robert Kennedy has been ranked by Amazon as the #1 Bestselling Action Adventure novelist based upon combined sales. He is the author of over fifty international bestsellers including the smash hit James Acton Thrillers. He lives with his wife and daughter and writes full-time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
November 15, 2017
Tries to keep it full of action, but the 1-dimensional characters and black-and-white view of good guys vs. bad guys (Muslims) turned me way off. I slogged through to the end, but it wasn't worth it.
November 17, 2020
I think this entry is best read by those who are invested in the series and are reading them (in order). I don't think it works well or (despite the author's note saying the opposite) serves well as a stand-alone. This series, a lot of the character development and plot, much like a TV series, follows through and is picked up by the next book. I didn't like this one as much as the others, but I did finish it. The violence depicted, I hope never happens in real life, because it would be a horrible bloodbath. Sort of reminded me of a movie like White House Down or Olympus Has Fallen with the destruction and invasion of a thought to be untouchable site. Hopefully some of the recurring characters are alive and well, but I guess we'll see in the next book. Hopefully that one is also a bit more archeological than this one, which I felt was more action/political thriller.
June 5, 2020
So exciting
"Action packed thriller" isn't a cliche with this book. I read it in every spare second I could, late at night & in the early morning, until I had it finished. There's a lot going on but the exciting "what if?" is--what if there was a terrorist attack on the Vatican?
If you like suspense & adventure you have to read this book.
It's #4 in a series of James Acton books, & after I read this one I downloaded the others!
Thank you, Mr. Kennedy.
"Action packed thriller" isn't a cliche with this book. I read it in every spare second I could, late at night & in the early morning, until I had it finished. There's a lot going on but the exciting "what if?" is--what if there was a terrorist attack on the Vatican?
If you like suspense & adventure you have to read this book.
It's #4 in a series of James Acton books, & after I read this one I downloaded the others!
Thank you, Mr. Kennedy.
August 1, 2019
The Templar’s Relic (James Acton Thrillers, #4)
What a disappointment! I never thought I would dislike a Templar themed book.
The book has two timetables: The first is 1191, a. d., The Crusades: Sir John of Ridefort has just arrived at the Holy Land to join his father, Sir Guy, and saves a young boy, Malik who carries an important Muslim relic. Sir John dies back in Rome saving a child in 1215 a. d. and is buried near the Vatican with the relic.
Present-day, Sir John's tomb is discovered while fixing a pipeline and Rome calls archaeologists James Acton and his fiance Laura Angela Palmer. They identify the relic as that of a verse of the Koran, dictated by the prophet himself around the year 600 a. d. The verse in question deals with the killing the infidels, it is a much more tolerant verse and does not require to kill all the infidels, only the polytheists that do not convert.
This causes commotion in the world as it is leaked to the Roman Muslim population and the Holy See is taken over by ISIS jihadists. It is up to our famous team of archaeologists to qualm the flames that are drawing the world to Armageddon.
The plot is interesting but delivered poorly. The first 14 chapters go back and forth between both timelines, but after that, it's just in the present. The characters are one dimensional, even the protagonists are obliterated by multiple secondary characters that most of the time get just a name. There is no character development to speak of, and I never cared for anyone. The plot is way unbelievable, once I got off the first fourteen chapters, I never cared for it. There is a bit of islamophobia and the characters are either good or bad. It was hard to finish. The prose is choppy and boring. I found myself skipping just so that I could finish the book.
It is probably not a stand-alone book, but after finishing this book, I don't think I want to waste time or money reading any of the books in the series. Not recommended!
What a disappointment! I never thought I would dislike a Templar themed book.
The book has two timetables: The first is 1191, a. d., The Crusades: Sir John of Ridefort has just arrived at the Holy Land to join his father, Sir Guy, and saves a young boy, Malik who carries an important Muslim relic. Sir John dies back in Rome saving a child in 1215 a. d. and is buried near the Vatican with the relic.
Present-day, Sir John's tomb is discovered while fixing a pipeline and Rome calls archaeologists James Acton and his fiance Laura Angela Palmer. They identify the relic as that of a verse of the Koran, dictated by the prophet himself around the year 600 a. d. The verse in question deals with the killing the infidels, it is a much more tolerant verse and does not require to kill all the infidels, only the polytheists that do not convert.
This causes commotion in the world as it is leaked to the Roman Muslim population and the Holy See is taken over by ISIS jihadists. It is up to our famous team of archaeologists to qualm the flames that are drawing the world to Armageddon.
The plot is interesting but delivered poorly. The first 14 chapters go back and forth between both timelines, but after that, it's just in the present. The characters are one dimensional, even the protagonists are obliterated by multiple secondary characters that most of the time get just a name. There is no character development to speak of, and I never cared for anyone. The plot is way unbelievable, once I got off the first fourteen chapters, I never cared for it. There is a bit of islamophobia and the characters are either good or bad. It was hard to finish. The prose is choppy and boring. I found myself skipping just so that I could finish the book.
It is probably not a stand-alone book, but after finishing this book, I don't think I want to waste time or money reading any of the books in the series. Not recommended!
March 19, 2023
Kennedy’s “The Templar’s Relic” is the 4th in the James Action Thriller series. It is the time of the Crusades. The story opens in 1191. Sir John of Ridefort has just arrived at the Holy Land to join his father, Sir Guy. They save a young boy Malik who carries an important Muslim relic. As the setting shifts to present-day, a construction accident at the Vatican leads to a stunning discovery—an ancient tomb containing four Templar Knights including Sir John's tomb. The Vatican calls two archaeologists they know: James Acton and his fiancé Laura Angela Palmer. They identify the relic as that of a verse of the Koran, dictated by the prophet himself around the year 600. The verse in question deals with the killing of infidels. This earlier verse is a more tolerant verse and does not require to kill all the infidels, only the polytheists that do not convert. This causes quite a stir in the Muslim world and tensions rise.
Honestly, the reviews on this are quite diverse ~ from the worst book ever to superstar status. I do not think either view is correct. This was a “good” book – not a great book. I do like the central characters. They are interesting, and I am glad Kennedy developed them more from the prior books. This is an action adventure that has some moments of great suspense; at times, however, it meanders a bit. Still, the plot was good and the characters were done well. The story finishes with a growing tension between the Muslim and Christians communities. Just a good read!
Honestly, the reviews on this are quite diverse ~ from the worst book ever to superstar status. I do not think either view is correct. This was a “good” book – not a great book. I do like the central characters. They are interesting, and I am glad Kennedy developed them more from the prior books. This is an action adventure that has some moments of great suspense; at times, however, it meanders a bit. Still, the plot was good and the characters were done well. The story finishes with a growing tension between the Muslim and Christians communities. Just a good read!
December 30, 2021
A very fast paced adventure. In the 12th century the Knights Templar were in control of much of the Holy Land and the church had little tolerance for those who did not bow at its altars. When 21st century archaeologists stumble into a Templar crypt beneath Vatican City and find a scroll in the sarcophagus of one of the Knights that could alter major interpretations of the Koran they know that they need secrecy. Unfortunately tongues wagg and the secret slips out igniting world wide chaos as fanatics from both sides try for the upper hand. Will sanity return? Will the world listen to the Iman as he muses : "Wouldn’t it be wonderful if Armageddon was merely a metaphor for a struggle within men, rather than between men?"
November 20, 2019
I was rather disappointed with this book. The author clearly had strong feelings about religion and there were several times I felt like those feelings were being forced down my throat. Or maybe it was just good writing. Either way, it was too much for me. Further, the dialog seemed trite in spots and the many instances of violence spreading around the world was way over the top. I got it. Now please move on.
I've enjoyed the James action books so far so I'll read the next in the series. I just hope this was an unfortunate aberration.
I've enjoyed the James action books so far so I'll read the next in the series. I just hope this was an unfortunate aberration.
July 1, 2024
A piece of history
A scroll is found which corrects the current translation of the Koran. This scroll dramatically affects the perspective of jihad.
It was discovered in the crypt of a Templar knight in the depths of the Vatican.
James Acton and his wife Laura are asked by the Pope to examine this scroll for authenticity.
It appears authentic and despite close security is leaked to the public.
Islam protesters storm the Vatican. It becomes a riot and all are endangered trying to protect the scroll and give to an appropriate Iman.
A scroll is found which corrects the current translation of the Koran. This scroll dramatically affects the perspective of jihad.
It was discovered in the crypt of a Templar knight in the depths of the Vatican.
James Acton and his wife Laura are asked by the Pope to examine this scroll for authenticity.
It appears authentic and despite close security is leaked to the public.
Islam protesters storm the Vatican. It becomes a riot and all are endangered trying to protect the scroll and give to an appropriate Iman.
September 4, 2024
Another great James Acton & Laura Palmer action story. Mr. Kennedy blenda archaeology, fiction, and a thriller all together to get a great story. Scary to think how something like this could actually happen with the condition of the present world affairs. I have read most of Mr. Kennedy's James Acton books and they never cease to amaze me. He gets right into it and keeps you on the edge of your seat. This one was really eye opening as it is possible to happen. Maybe not exactly as it was written but in another fashion. A truly great read and very interesting.
March 1, 2021
I was not sure about this book in the beginning as I thought it was gonna be another book about Muslims and how they think they are the superior race when in fact we are all equal. No Race or religion is better than the other, some just need to be guided.
Then I thought maybe Mr. Kennedy had something against Muslims as he mentions them a lot.
Overall this is a great read as it is like a fine Red wine, gets better with time. Keep up the good work and I look forward to the next installment of this series.
Then I thought maybe Mr. Kennedy had something against Muslims as he mentions them a lot.
Overall this is a great read as it is like a fine Red wine, gets better with time. Keep up the good work and I look forward to the next installment of this series.
January 23, 2022
Not as good as it could be
There is good action but little character development. Maybe I need to read the earlier books to feel better about the characters. It also ends flat - here is some tension and action, and then the book is done. The premise is also upsetting, not because it is unbelievable, because it is to much of picture of what people do to each other. That is not a reason to skip the book, but for the other reasons I do not think I will read more by this author.
There is good action but little character development. Maybe I need to read the earlier books to feel better about the characters. It also ends flat - here is some tension and action, and then the book is done. The premise is also upsetting, not because it is unbelievable, because it is to much of picture of what people do to each other. That is not a reason to skip the book, but for the other reasons I do not think I will read more by this author.
October 3, 2017
This was a hard book to read. It was different than what I thought it would be. A researcher and his girlfriend go to Rome to look at a relic that was found under the Vatican. From there trouble begins. The way the book is written, it kind of makes the reader hate all Muslims. In the end, their is a peaceful compromise. I don't think I would read another book by this author.
October 13, 2017
Okay, not believable
Sort of a clunky adventure novel, not at all much about the Templars, they’re more just fuel for the storyline. The action scenes are not that clear, and much of the dialogue and events are very cliche. Good idle time reading if you have nothing better to do, but I wouldn’t go out of your way to read this.
Sort of a clunky adventure novel, not at all much about the Templars, they’re more just fuel for the storyline. The action scenes are not that clear, and much of the dialogue and events are very cliche. Good idle time reading if you have nothing better to do, but I wouldn’t go out of your way to read this.
June 3, 2019
An stupid and really boring plot which I haven't been able to read to the end.
A religious war among the world is going to begin because of the discovery of and old tex, that supposedly contradicts a text written in the Coran, as the only premise.
Too much ridiculous to be moderately believable.
I really love James Acton Thrillers, but not this one. It's absolutely awful.
A religious war among the world is going to begin because of the discovery of and old tex, that supposedly contradicts a text written in the Coran, as the only premise.
Too much ridiculous to be moderately believable.
I really love James Acton Thrillers, but not this one. It's absolutely awful.
March 6, 2020
I gave this one star not because of the writing. I love J. Robert Kennedy. But because of the story line. I'm not a religious person and so the story of the fight between the Catholics and Muslims over a piece of 1500-year-old parchment was over-overwhelmingly horrible. And I'm not a fan of mob mentality stories.
March 26, 2020
History, templars, today's social and religious unrest What a combo!
Wow what a realistic plot for religious armageddon. Good thing Robert's heroes can twist and proverbially pull the coals out of the fires that rage across the Vatican and the world. Throughly enjoyable. Make sure you too have a day set aside to binge read it . I did.
Wow what a realistic plot for religious armageddon. Good thing Robert's heroes can twist and proverbially pull the coals out of the fires that rage across the Vatican and the world. Throughly enjoyable. Make sure you too have a day set aside to binge read it . I did.
July 9, 2020
Good one for Conspiracy Theorists
Templars and Christians and Muslim extremists ... starting with a very simple misunderstanding growing into international tragedy ... lots of hypocrisy and deceit accompanying the death and destruction .... lucky for the world that these two protaganists were around to save us!!!
Templars and Christians and Muslim extremists ... starting with a very simple misunderstanding growing into international tragedy ... lots of hypocrisy and deceit accompanying the death and destruction .... lucky for the world that these two protaganists were around to save us!!!
July 18, 2020
A good book to read.
You are taken to a strange different world were people want to kill people that do not believe. But you will see where people do care about people how to help them and save them if possible. It leads on trip that you want more to read and possibly hope you understand different people. It's time to care and believe.
You are taken to a strange different world were people want to kill people that do not believe. But you will see where people do care about people how to help them and save them if possible. It leads on trip that you want more to read and possibly hope you understand different people. It's time to care and believe.
March 3, 2021
A long lost scroll containing something that could finally end centuries worth of hatred. James and Laura find themselves once again involved in fast paced action, running for their lives and to save billions of lives. The Bravo Team as well as Reading and Channey by their side to assist where possible. Never a dull moment in this series.
August 6, 2023
Book 4
Book 4 was a fun read and had errors throughout. The plot and characters are developed well. The plot was from different points of view and would go on tangents of information. The characters are fun and have a back for getting into trouble. The ending seemed rushed, but was overall okay. I look forward to the next book.
Book 4 was a fun read and had errors throughout. The plot and characters are developed well. The plot was from different points of view and would go on tangents of information. The characters are fun and have a back for getting into trouble. The ending seemed rushed, but was overall okay. I look forward to the next book.
April 20, 2018
James Action in action , this exciting story made a great evening read.
This story contains n extremely interesting plot, well written and great in sight of history. I strongly recommend this book along with the numerous other books by this author.
This story contains n extremely interesting plot, well written and great in sight of history. I strongly recommend this book along with the numerous other books by this author.
January 10, 2019
Very exciting!
I like the way the author attacked a serious problem of today, and in the end tried to show how people’s differences can be overcame regardless of religious prejudices.
I like the way the author attacked a serious problem of today, and in the end tried to show how people’s differences can be overcame regardless of religious prejudices.
August 8, 2019
Never disappointed!
J. Robert Kennedy never disappoints in his novels! I'm always amazed at the number of amazing action stories he writes...the research alone on his novels' settings is incredible. I 'm looking forward to reading another one!
J. Robert Kennedy never disappoints in his novels! I'm always amazed at the number of amazing action stories he writes...the research alone on his novels' settings is incredible. I 'm looking forward to reading another one!
January 9, 2020
I enjoy the James Acton characters and adventures. I worry about the degree of violence, but only have t watch the news to see violence of the nature in these books to see it being played out somewhere in the world today.
April 1, 2020
I really enjoyed the Templar's Relic. It was fast paced and full of interesting historical facts. It showed how one small piece of information mistakenly given to the public can cause a world-wide uproarious riot!! I'd highly recommending this book!
June 23, 2020
Unbelievable action
Lots of action in a novel full of clichés about Muslims hate of Christians, heroic American soldiers defeating the fanatics who override the Vatican, and a feel-good ending of hope. Would make for a movie script full of gore and historico-religious fiction.
Lots of action in a novel full of clichés about Muslims hate of Christians, heroic American soldiers defeating the fanatics who override the Vatican, and a feel-good ending of hope. Would make for a movie script full of gore and historico-religious fiction.
August 29, 2020
Couldn't continue
The action in this is fun but I kept waiting for some kind of redemption for the racism then he added homophobia and I realized there was going to be no redemption. Never heard of this guy before but now I know....
The action in this is fun but I kept waiting for some kind of redemption for the racism then he added homophobia and I realized there was going to be no redemption. Never heard of this guy before but now I know....
December 21, 2020
Okay.
This was not my favorite book in the series, it definitely showed a lot of bias and there was a bit too much islamophobia for my taste. The premise of Muslims taking over the Vatican is one that would have to be handled gently, and I don't think The Templar's Relic handled it properly.
This was not my favorite book in the series, it definitely showed a lot of bias and there was a bit too much islamophobia for my taste. The premise of Muslims taking over the Vatican is one that would have to be handled gently, and I don't think The Templar's Relic handled it properly.
January 2, 2021
Excellent vision
The story with flashbacks and weaving a fantastic tale, with action that never stopped. it's an education in history past and present. I would highly recommend this book and anything else this man writes.
The story with flashbacks and weaving a fantastic tale, with action that never stopped. it's an education in history past and present. I would highly recommend this book and anything else this man writes.
February 2, 2021
Issues with the kindle version
I. Would have given this book 5 stars, however the first page of each chapter in this kindle version of the book was blank. Very disappointing, I felt important parts of the book were missing
I. Would have given this book 5 stars, however the first page of each chapter in this kindle version of the book was blank. Very disappointing, I felt important parts of the book were missing
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews