What do you think?
Rate this book
The Shipwreck Adventures #3
Knight's Cross
Shipwreck hunters Maggie Riley and Cole Thatcher are no strangers to the mysteries hidden beneath the seas. They’ve uncovered artifacts with secrets that powerful interests would do anything to control—and they’re about to do it again.
As the newly engaged couple prepares to set sail, Cole suspects they are being followed. While he tries to unravel a coded message that hints at a treasure jealously guarded by an ancient society, a bomb is discovered on the couple’s yacht. Now it appears that Cole’s belief isn’t mere paranoia—and that the cipher holds information others will kill for.
From a sunken submarine off the coast of Tunisia to the hallowed halls of the Vatican, can Riley and Cole outrun a ghost and save a manuscript that could rock the foundations of history?
As the newly engaged couple prepares to set sail, Cole suspects they are being followed. While he tries to unravel a coded message that hints at a treasure jealously guarded by an ancient society, a bomb is discovered on the couple’s yacht. Now it appears that Cole’s belief isn’t mere paranoia—and that the cipher holds information others will kill for.
From a sunken submarine off the coast of Tunisia to the hallowed halls of the Vatican, can Riley and Cole outrun a ghost and save a manuscript that could rock the foundations of history?
575 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 8, 2015
423 people are currently reading
793 people want to read
About the author
Christine Kling
29 books221 followersI have spent more than forty years enjoying “simply messing about with boats”―as Rat said to Mole in The Wind in the Willows. I've been a boat wife, mother and captain of my own boat. I've had articles and stories published in many publications including Cruising World, Sailing!, and The Tiller and the Pen, Gulfstream Magazine and Miami Noir. My first four novels are in a series about Florida female tugboat captain, Seychelle Sullivan.
As a techie person, I am intrigued by the fast changes occurring in the publishing industry and I'm trying my hand at self-publishing. I self-published CIRCLE OF BONES, a big international thriller set in the Caribbean, and SEA BITCH, a small collection of four short stories. Thomas & Mercer then offered me a 3-book contract for a re-issue of BONES, as well as the next two books in that trilogy. The new edition debuted on Feb. 19, 2013. The second book in what I now call the Shipwreck Adventures series is called DRAGON'S TRIANGLE, and the third book in the series, KNIGHT'S CROSS was released in 2015.
Today, my husband Wayne and I, along with Barney, the Yorkshire Terror and Ruby, the Wonder Dog, are living a nomadic life as we design and build our next boat.
As a techie person, I am intrigued by the fast changes occurring in the publishing industry and I'm trying my hand at self-publishing. I self-published CIRCLE OF BONES, a big international thriller set in the Caribbean, and SEA BITCH, a small collection of four short stories. Thomas & Mercer then offered me a 3-book contract for a re-issue of BONES, as well as the next two books in that trilogy. The new edition debuted on Feb. 19, 2013. The second book in what I now call the Shipwreck Adventures series is called DRAGON'S TRIANGLE, and the third book in the series, KNIGHT'S CROSS was released in 2015.
Today, my husband Wayne and I, along with Barney, the Yorkshire Terror and Ruby, the Wonder Dog, are living a nomadic life as we design and build our next boat.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
December 13, 2022
This is a thoroughly enjoyable finish to the trilogy. I enjoy the characters and their adventures. I love all of the interesting locations described. Having not spent any time sailing or cruising on a yacht myself, I find that aspect very intriguing. Throw in a conspiracy, a bad guy that seems impossible to kill, and a powerful group with a secret agenda and you have plenty of thrills and excitement to keep just about anyone happy.
December 30, 2018
Knight's Cross is the third and final installment of The Shipwreck Adventures. If you assumed this story wouldn't be about a missing boat.. or something along those lines.. then you'd be mistaken. Now I love a good war story every now and then.. but a missing submarine was not my cup of tea.
I feel like maybe this series just wasn't for me. I mean, I'm glad that I took a chance on something new. At first, I was really intrigued by these books but after diving into them (e-book or audio wise) I was just bored out of my mind! The characters were just dull to me and I couldn't connect with them. Not even once wine was brought into the picture.
After realizing that this was the last book of the series, I jumped for joy. Mostly because I feel like this was just a boring end to the trilogy. I feel like nothing really happened in this book because it took me forever to finish it. Well, it felt like 84 years when it was only a day really BUT still. It felt like this book was going on forever and I needed something to motivate me to finish it. That motivation was lots of wine that had sleep following it. Maybe that night time nap made finishing this book a lot easier. I was still bored out of mind but it's now officially over.
Overall, I will probably never reread this series ever again. I might try out a different series or book from this author..but I have no plans set at this moment.
I feel like maybe this series just wasn't for me. I mean, I'm glad that I took a chance on something new. At first, I was really intrigued by these books but after diving into them (e-book or audio wise) I was just bored out of my mind! The characters were just dull to me and I couldn't connect with them. Not even once wine was brought into the picture.
After realizing that this was the last book of the series, I jumped for joy. Mostly because I feel like this was just a boring end to the trilogy. I feel like nothing really happened in this book because it took me forever to finish it. Well, it felt like 84 years when it was only a day really BUT still. It felt like this book was going on forever and I needed something to motivate me to finish it. That motivation was lots of wine that had sleep following it. Maybe that night time nap made finishing this book a lot easier. I was still bored out of mind but it's now officially over.
Overall, I will probably never reread this series ever again. I might try out a different series or book from this author..but I have no plans set at this moment.
September 27, 2021
A breathtaking conclusion to the story of Diggory Priest, Marguerita Riley, and Cole Thatcher, and their hunt for artifacts of power capable of influencing the inception and ferocity of wars which can increase the power and wealth some of the worlds richest men.
March 11, 2017
Knight's cross by Christine King is a mystery and thriller and general fiction (adult) read.
Shipwreck hunters Maggie Riley and Cole Thatcher are no strangers to the mysteries hidden beneath the seas. They’ve uncovered artifacts with secrets that powerful interests would do anything to control—and they’re about to do it again.
As the newly engaged couple prepares to set sail, Cole suspects they are being followed. While he tries to unravel a coded message that hints at a treasure jealously guarded by an ancient society, a bomb is discovered on the couple’s yacht. Now it appears that Cole’s belief isn’t mere paranoia—and that the cipher holds information others will kill for.
This was a really good read with good characters. I loved how Cole and Maggie were together at helping people. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.
Shipwreck hunters Maggie Riley and Cole Thatcher are no strangers to the mysteries hidden beneath the seas. They’ve uncovered artifacts with secrets that powerful interests would do anything to control—and they’re about to do it again.
As the newly engaged couple prepares to set sail, Cole suspects they are being followed. While he tries to unravel a coded message that hints at a treasure jealously guarded by an ancient society, a bomb is discovered on the couple’s yacht. Now it appears that Cole’s belief isn’t mere paranoia—and that the cipher holds information others will kill for.
This was a really good read with good characters. I loved how Cole and Maggie were together at helping people. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.
May 7, 2017
Another wide ranging adventure centered around a lost ship, whose final resting place is unknown. In this case, it is a WWII British submarine, the Upholder, which was lost with all hands in the Mediterranean after a secret mission in the early 1940's. Maggie Riley and Cole Thatcher, using his father's cryptic notes, search for the wreckage and a potential priceless artifact. Of course, at least one other organization, with nefarious intentions, also wants the artifact. The search area covers the Med from Turkey to the shores of Tunisia, with a side trip to Rome. There is some action, but a lot of time is spent traversing the Med from Turkey to Malta to Crete to Djerba, and points in between. This is in interesting read, but just doesn't have the spark that CIRCLE OF BONES and THE DRAGON'S TRIANGLE had.
February 13, 2018
Normally I do not read adventure/spy books written by women, but thought to try this one as I have been an avid sailor for 60 years. I found it amusing, but predictable. I did enjoy the "flash backs" to 1798 and Alonso and Arzalla, would have liked more of their trials, more in depth insights. I did not go back to read the portion where Cole was diving on the "Upholder" but "he did not make the required stages in his assent to the surface" after overstaying his "bottom" time at 160 foot depth. Surely he would have perished from the "bends". -30-
March 24, 2018
Exciting
The first few pages were a bit confusing to me as the story bounced from our main characters, to the bad guys chasing them, to the 1700's where the whole story begins. It didn't take long, however, to learn who all the characters were and follow the exciting story from start to finish. There was danger, and romance, and surprises clear up to the very end. The last forty pages of the book, I couldn't read fast enough! It was a journey well worth taking, and I'm looking forward to reading more Shipwreck Adventures by Christine Kling.
The first few pages were a bit confusing to me as the story bounced from our main characters, to the bad guys chasing them, to the 1700's where the whole story begins. It didn't take long, however, to learn who all the characters were and follow the exciting story from start to finish. There was danger, and romance, and surprises clear up to the very end. The last forty pages of the book, I couldn't read fast enough! It was a journey well worth taking, and I'm looking forward to reading more Shipwreck Adventures by Christine Kling.
June 15, 2018
I've struggled to rate this whole series. I like the stories and I like the characters. But I've never had a book take me almost a month to finish before. I can't even tell you why but it was easy to put down and read several other books as I went. I didn't feel like I was forcing myself to finish it, it was just a slow read. I know she left the door open for more books but I'm not sure I would read them. I prefer books that capture me and don't let me go and this series just didn't do that for me.
October 4, 2018
The Shipwreck Adventures Series
This series of 3 books beginning with Circle of Bones is a must read for fans of shipwrecks and archeology. Ms. Kling has crafted each story to be able to stand on its own, but in order to truly follow the main characters, it's better to read them in order. I don't want write a spoiler, so will only recommend these books to all readers who enjoy big, long stories with a little romance, lots of history, some mystery, and thoroughly likeable characters. I just hope writes a fourth.
This series of 3 books beginning with Circle of Bones is a must read for fans of shipwrecks and archeology. Ms. Kling has crafted each story to be able to stand on its own, but in order to truly follow the main characters, it's better to read them in order. I don't want write a spoiler, so will only recommend these books to all readers who enjoy big, long stories with a little romance, lots of history, some mystery, and thoroughly likeable characters. I just hope writes a fourth.
April 22, 2019
Modern Swashbuckling
An adventure based on a historical mystery. Follow the clues to a 200 year old hiding place for a 2000 year old treasure. Plenty of excitement and suspense with a little romance thrown in. The plot was decent, although it used the historically dubious Dan Brown hidden gospel trope. There were also plenty of holes where smarter people would not have been caught in the predicament they were. But all in all a harmless entertainment. It does refer quite extensively to a previous book in the series, so it would help to read the earlier book first.
An adventure based on a historical mystery. Follow the clues to a 200 year old hiding place for a 2000 year old treasure. Plenty of excitement and suspense with a little romance thrown in. The plot was decent, although it used the historically dubious Dan Brown hidden gospel trope. There were also plenty of holes where smarter people would not have been caught in the predicament they were. But all in all a harmless entertainment. It does refer quite extensively to a previous book in the series, so it would help to read the earlier book first.
June 6, 2021
A thoroughly enjoyable read, all the old favourite characters are back in action, this time in the Mediterranean. There’s death-defying all around, almost the feel of a modern Indiana Jones escapade, with all the daring-do and last minute escapes. The warmth between the characters is also evident, which makes the concerns they express for one another all the more believable. A great ending to the “Shipwreck Trilogy”... I wonder if there’s any chance the series can become a quadrilogy, and we can be along for the ride as the crew investigates the disappearance of the Count de la Perouse?
August 3, 2017
Boring
Struggled to finish it. When they found the submarine after looking for a couple of hours it was to incredible. Then the bad guys show up in a helicopter simultaneously. The bad guys had been looking for the sub for years. The shield started off in a grave and somehow was laying on the side of a steep hill in the open. Anyway one impossible situation after another, forget the multiple escapes from certain death.
Struggled to finish it. When they found the submarine after looking for a couple of hours it was to incredible. Then the bad guys show up in a helicopter simultaneously. The bad guys had been looking for the sub for years. The shield started off in a grave and somehow was laying on the side of a steep hill in the open. Anyway one impossible situation after another, forget the multiple escapes from certain death.
November 28, 2018
Christine Kling is an excellent storyteller. Her books are full of adventure, mystery, romance and travel. I'm looking forward to reading everything she's written..
A very fun adventure with lots of travel and adventure. Interesting characters, near death experiences, twists and turns but our happy couple always comes out on top. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of Christine's books.
A very fun adventure with lots of travel and adventure. Interesting characters, near death experiences, twists and turns but our happy couple always comes out on top. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of Christine's books.
May 20, 2017
An action filled mystery in a great location.
An action filled mystery in a great location. I always learn a lot about each theme presented in the shipwreck books. She brings the characters past and present to life. You should start with the first book and read them in order otherwise some things may not make sense.
An action filled mystery in a great location. I always learn a lot about each theme presented in the shipwreck books. She brings the characters past and present to life. You should start with the first book and read them in order otherwise some things may not make sense.
September 18, 2017
Good conspiracy plot which easily maintains readers interest
Enjoyable conspiracy plot. Easy read with good character development. However the conspiracy concept is difficult to take seriously. Easy read when dealing with required wait periods which is also easy to put down went an alternative arises. Good airplane ride diversion
Enjoyable conspiracy plot. Easy read with good character development. However the conspiracy concept is difficult to take seriously. Easy read when dealing with required wait periods which is also easy to put down went an alternative arises. Good airplane ride diversion
June 25, 2020
Covers it all, mystery, adventure, romance and does it all very well. Another great story. A good sequel. With so many characters, one or two more narrators would be nice. I would recommend this book to a friend.
Book is good. I have nothing more to say but this app won't let me submit unless I use more words.
Book is good. I have nothing more to say but this app won't let me submit unless I use more words.
September 30, 2020
This excellent thrilling adventure is a combination of sailing, marine archaeology and the dark secrets of the Order of the Knight's of Malta. I love these types of books that enable me to have an exciting adventure from the safety of my armchair! Especially appealing is that I have always wanted to travel to to Malta. This is a wonderful, slow burn mystery and I definitely recommend it.
August 19, 2017
Jumps Around Too Much
This jumps around too much to follow or care about any character. Writing is okay but not enough to hold my interest. Too many plucky women and too many bad men to be believed.
This jumps around too much to follow or care about any character. Writing is okay but not enough to hold my interest. Too many plucky women and too many bad men to be believed.
October 8, 2017
Delightful reading
I enjoyed reading this third installment of the Circle of Bones series. Riley and Cole continue to struggle with their relationship and Theo may be working on one as well. All this mixed in with a story that reminds me of some other well know authors.
I enjoyed reading this third installment of the Circle of Bones series. Riley and Cole continue to struggle with their relationship and Theo may be working on one as well. All this mixed in with a story that reminds me of some other well know authors.
November 4, 2017
This adventure combines marine archeology, sailing and the dark secrets of the Order of the Knight's of Malta (a group dedicated to the total extinction of the Moslems), in an exciting quest for a secret manuscript that could challenge the underpinnings of Christianity.
November 29, 2017
Good, but took forever to get to the exciting part
I live the books and the characters, but this book took me longer to get into than three previous 2. it Just wasn't gripping. But once I got to about 40 or 50%, it picked up.
I live the books and the characters, but this book took me longer to get into than three previous 2. it Just wasn't gripping. But once I got to about 40 or 50%, it picked up.
November 30, 2017
Historic whodunit
Plenty of action and intrigue entwined with what appears to be historical facts. Facts or not, this book is hard to put down and it provides plenty of entertainment.
Plenty of action and intrigue entwined with what appears to be historical facts. Facts or not, this book is hard to put down and it provides plenty of entertainment.
Read
December 12, 2018Great Read
Kling continues writing another great adventure with wonderful descriptions of places around the Mediterranean Sea. New villains and new list treasures show up providing the reader another page turning mystery.
Kling continues writing another great adventure with wonderful descriptions of places around the Mediterranean Sea. New villains and new list treasures show up providing the reader another page turning mystery.
January 25, 2020
thrilling & full of history
This fast-paced book weaves a modern adventure with historical events, to the enjoyment of the reader. Best to start with the 2 preceding this in the series, but if you find this book 1st you can still enjoy it as I did.
This fast-paced book weaves a modern adventure with historical events, to the enjoyment of the reader. Best to start with the 2 preceding this in the series, but if you find this book 1st you can still enjoy it as I did.
November 11, 2023
Fell short
Too many character inconsistencies without enough of an explanation why. For some, it felt like a step back without growth. The plot felt scattered and lacked flow.
I didn't feel the same connection to the characters and storyline as I did in the previous books.
Too many character inconsistencies without enough of an explanation why. For some, it felt like a step back without growth. The plot felt scattered and lacked flow.
I didn't feel the same connection to the characters and storyline as I did in the previous books.
May 12, 2017
A bit too similar to the prev 2 novels, but fun otherwise
June 6, 2017
A good mystery series and super fast read!
August 23, 2017
Great adventure
The plot had several scenarios which kept the long narrative interesting to the very end. I liked the level of intrigue and suspense.
The plot had several scenarios which kept the long narrative interesting to the very end. I liked the level of intrigue and suspense.
November 17, 2017
i am so sad it is over! i fell in love with these characters and their adventures for sure. anyone have a good cure for a book hangover? oh, more Christine Kling? I can do that! :D
September 27, 2017
It's the first one I have read by her. I found it very entertaining and want to read more. Great geographic descriptions and intriguing history as well as a fast moving adventure.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews