Secrets of the Knights Templar: The Hidden History of the World's Most Powerful Order

by S.J. Hodge

The Knights Templar are one of the most secretive and powerful religious orders in for over two centuries they were the elite fighting force of the Crusades. Highly trained, and adhering to a strict chivalric code, their success on the battlefield brought them both wealth and political influence. But it is the legends and secrecy surrounding the order and its Grand Masters that continue to fascinate historians and general readers alike. Secrets of the Knights Templar examines each of these mysteries in turn to reveal the truth about the Knights' secret practices, rituals and codes, as well as the continued influence of the Templars today. From the true location of the Holy Grail to the Templars' involvement in the Battle of Bannockburn, and from the sudden downfall of the order to modern-day claims of descent - S. J. Hodge uncovers the hidden links behind the stories and separates historical fact from fiction.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Amazon

304 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 29, 2013

Reviews

[Roger · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought it would be difficult to make the Knights Templar boring; however S J Hodge succeeds in doing so beyond anyone's wildest dreams. To her credit, Secrets of the Knights Templar is a sober recitation of the facts as we know them regarding the Templars. Hodge debunks many of the popular myths surrounding the Knights, such as their alleged possession of the Holy Grail of the Ark of the Covenant. But in the end this book really is just a recitation of facts. It reminds me of my ninth grade World History class. I think Hodge could have presented the same facts in a more lively manner, without exaggeration, and written a better book. I know not everyone can be a Stephen Ambrose but honestly this book was a very dry read.

[Aaron Schuck · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Secrets of the Knights Templar: The Hidden History of the World's Most Powerful Order" is an intriguing book that provides a detailed look into the history and mystique surrounding the Knights Templar. The order of knights was a powerful and mysterious organization that existed during the Middle Ages. The book explores their origins, their rise to power, and their eventual downfall. Additionally, it delves into the many legends and myths that have developed around the Knights Templar over the centuries, making it an interesting read for anyone interested in history or the occult.

The book begins by exploring the origins of the Knights Templar and their involvement in the Crusades. It then goes on to detail the order's ascent to dominance and eventual collapse, which was caused by allegations of heresy and other offenses. Additionally, the book analyzes the order's impact on contemporary culture, such as its influence on Freemasonry and other clandestine organizations.

The book explores various legends and myths that have developed around the Knights Templar over the centuries. It covers stories about the Holy Grail, the Ark of the Covenant, and other artifacts that were supposedly in the possession of the Knights Templar. It also discusses conspiracy theories about the order, such as their involvement in the occult and their supposed connections to the Illuminati. Overall, the book provides a fascinating look into the history and lore surrounding the Knights Templar.

"Secrets of the Knights Templar" is a thoroughly researched and captivating book that offers an in-depth exploration of one of history's most enigmatic organizations. Whether you have a passion for history, the occult, or secret societies, this book is guaranteed to capture your interest and provide a richer understanding of the Knights Templar and their influence on the world.”

[Adeptus Fringilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a nice introduction to the history of the Knights Templars. It contains lots of names and dates and some good narrative.

[Willie]

Loved reading it. Very educational

[Todd Howell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really well done and covers the major points in the organization, politics, and religion as it relates to the knights.

[Obsidian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since I am a former history major and current history buff I was happy to receive this book. It provides details on the Knights Templar between 1129-1312. This was such a beautiful illustrated book with details on the creation of the Knights Templar (otherwise known as the Order of the Temple or Templars) and their ongoing quest to spread Catholicism in the Holy Land.

Ms. Hodge focuses on the years 1129 and 1312 because 1129 was the year the Order was officially endorsed by the Catholic Church and 1312 since that was the year the Order was officially disbanded by Pope Clement V. It was very fascinating to read with glossy illustrations that shows how the Order began and what led to its downfall.

My only minor quibble is that there really are not secrets revealed in this book as much as Ms. Hodge stating that there is no way to confirm certain hypothesis but this is what people believe to be true. I was hoping for more concrete information on some things but other than that I just found it all in all to be a very enjoyable read.

Please note that I received this novel for free via the Amazon Vine Program

[Hall's Bookshop · Rating 3 out of 5]

A wide ranging history of the military order active in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries - so wide ranging in fact that most of the book is taken up with tangents about the earlier history of the Holy Land, and the development of modern conspiracy theories. Despite the lack of focus, the book is interesting, keeps to a chronological framework, and avoids the sort of bald narrative which makes many introductory books deathly dull. Not a specialist's book, but still worth a look if you're already familiar with other aspects of Mediaeval history.

JM 2/12/16

[Christopher · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is o.k as an introduction to the history of the knights Templar, and should serve as a good starting point to further reading.