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The Lost Treasure of the Templars #3
The Templar Brotherhood
James Becker, New York Times bestselling author of The Templar Archive, returns with a breakneck thriller whisking readers into the shadowy secret chambers of the Knights Templar.
Having barely escaping the crosshairs of a deadly cult, Robin Jessop and David Mallory crisscross Europe, seeking to unlock the truth behind a conspiracy unresolved for seven hundred years—the mystery of what has given the enigmatic Templars their unwavering power.
Infiltrating the group’s vast archives, Jessop and Mallory make a startling find. An ancient Templar passport hints at a sacred mission: the transportation of a priceless treasure, an artifact of incomprehensible value. Delving through centuries of clues and deception, the two come face-to-face with a secret that could shake Christendom to its core—and cost their own lives along the way.
Having barely escaping the crosshairs of a deadly cult, Robin Jessop and David Mallory crisscross Europe, seeking to unlock the truth behind a conspiracy unresolved for seven hundred years—the mystery of what has given the enigmatic Templars their unwavering power.
Infiltrating the group’s vast archives, Jessop and Mallory make a startling find. An ancient Templar passport hints at a sacred mission: the transportation of a priceless treasure, an artifact of incomprehensible value. Delving through centuries of clues and deception, the two come face-to-face with a secret that could shake Christendom to its core—and cost their own lives along the way.
464 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2017
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November 21, 2017
James Becker is back with his third novel in this fast-paced thriller series that focuses on the Knights Templar. While much has been written about the subject, Becker is able to keep a great pace and use an array of characters to bring the story to life. David Mallory and Robin Jessop have made it back to England, after some harrowing experiences in Cypress and Switzerland, tailed by a group of Dominicans, who want them dead and possession of the Templar secrets. Having smuggled a chest that once belonged to the Templars off the continent, Mallory and Jessop begin the slow and pain-staking process of searching for clues to continue their journey. A script of sorts appears on the chest, though it is not immediately apparent what it means or how it might be translated. Back in Rome, those within the Vatican have a vested interest in this chest and the riches that may await anyone able to decipher the coded text. Choosing first to bug Jessop’s flat and eventually beginning a full-scale game of cat and mouse, the Dominicans are sent to scrub out the likes of Mallory and Jessop without asking questions. When a possible message emerges, Mallory takes the lead and they flee for another part of the British Isles, looking to properly interpret a message that has not only been penned in Latin, but written over seven centuries before. Happy to slam a bullet between the eyes of Mallory and Jessop, the Dominicans put up the fight of their life, especially after some form of treasure appears. By the end, something will be revealed that changes not only the lives of many, but the flow of the story’s narrative. It is up to the reader to forge onwards and enter into this most epic of battles to discover the truth. Becker has done well to lay the groundwork for another wonderful novel in the series, though the ending opens pathways while closing doors at the same time, sure to frustrate series fans and those who enjoy all things Templar alike.
While it was not Becker’s series here that first got me interested in the Knights Templar, I will admit that when he started these novels, I was excited to see his spin. Those who know Becker’s Chris Bronson novels, which mix religious symbolism and stories with modern crime thrillers, understand that there is something about the cryptic and symbolic nature of the world that requires closer inspection. Becker has been able to take readers on an interesting journey with David Mallory and Robin Jessop, both of whom have strong dedication to the cause and slowly develop something for one another. Becker’s constant placement of the protagonists in the line of fire is surely meant to foster both their resolve and personal affinity for one another, which shines through. Using the Vatican as an antagonistic being is by no means new, though personifying it through the Dominicans (religious henchmen) does offer a darker perspective. The cat and mouse game that has played out through all three novels may be repetitive, but it is the determination of all parties to learn what they can about the Templar secrets that keeps the reader enthralled. Turning to the story itself, Becker keeps the narrative flowing well, as his characters slowly peel back the layers of the Templar mysteries to find new and dangerous ways of getting to the core of the Templar riches. Becker has used a great deal of research to develop this series and it shows, but for those who are Chris Bronson fans, the added bonus of seeing some of the information gleaned in that latest series instalment and placed within the story here is even more enriching. I find myself learning a great deal by reading James Becker, rather than simply gearing down to a mental neutral as I flip pages. Becker has shown that he can handle this fast-paced thriller, though I am still not sure if there is more to the story yet to come, or if this series ended with a dive off the literary cliff. I suppose time will tell!
Kudos, Mr. Becker, for such a riveting piece that kept my attention as I sped through it. Keep writing at this calibre, in whatever series suits your fancy.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
While it was not Becker’s series here that first got me interested in the Knights Templar, I will admit that when he started these novels, I was excited to see his spin. Those who know Becker’s Chris Bronson novels, which mix religious symbolism and stories with modern crime thrillers, understand that there is something about the cryptic and symbolic nature of the world that requires closer inspection. Becker has been able to take readers on an interesting journey with David Mallory and Robin Jessop, both of whom have strong dedication to the cause and slowly develop something for one another. Becker’s constant placement of the protagonists in the line of fire is surely meant to foster both their resolve and personal affinity for one another, which shines through. Using the Vatican as an antagonistic being is by no means new, though personifying it through the Dominicans (religious henchmen) does offer a darker perspective. The cat and mouse game that has played out through all three novels may be repetitive, but it is the determination of all parties to learn what they can about the Templar secrets that keeps the reader enthralled. Turning to the story itself, Becker keeps the narrative flowing well, as his characters slowly peel back the layers of the Templar mysteries to find new and dangerous ways of getting to the core of the Templar riches. Becker has used a great deal of research to develop this series and it shows, but for those who are Chris Bronson fans, the added bonus of seeing some of the information gleaned in that latest series instalment and placed within the story here is even more enriching. I find myself learning a great deal by reading James Becker, rather than simply gearing down to a mental neutral as I flip pages. Becker has shown that he can handle this fast-paced thriller, though I am still not sure if there is more to the story yet to come, or if this series ended with a dive off the literary cliff. I suppose time will tell!
Kudos, Mr. Becker, for such a riveting piece that kept my attention as I sped through it. Keep writing at this calibre, in whatever series suits your fancy.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
January 16, 2018
Another interesting outing for Robin & Mallory with a surprising twist at the end and possibly the chance of a final one to tie up loose ends and give a definitive ending to mallorys tale. I still enjoyed it and would look forward to more involving these two code breakers. It was interesting to lear about codes and how they worked along with a comprehensive history of the Knights Templar
November 26, 2017
Loved the book, I would read it again.
There was a lot of detail but it didnt deter from the story. Lots of action. Thought provoking with touches of humor.
It was a very good read and I can't wait to read more of this author.
There was a lot of detail but it didnt deter from the story. Lots of action. Thought provoking with touches of humor.
It was a very good read and I can't wait to read more of this author.
September 1, 2017
I won this book through the giveaways and I'm so very glad to have it! Its very exciting and well written.
December 10, 2017
http://openbooksociety.com/article/th...
The Templar Brotherhood
The Lost Treasure of the Templars #3
By James Becker
ISBN 9780451479371
www.jamesbecker.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
James Becker, New York Times bestselling author of The Templar Archive, returns with a breakneck thriller whisking readers into the shadowy secret chambers of the Knights Templar.
Having barely escaping the crosshairs of a deadly cult, Robin Jessop and David Mallory crisscross Europe, seeking to unlock the truth behind a conspiracy unresolved for seven hundred years—the mystery of what has given the enigmatic Templars their unwavering power.
Infiltrating the group’s vast archives, Jessop and Mallory make a startling find. An ancient Templar passport hints at a sacred mission: the transportation of a priceless treasure, an artifact of incomprehensible value. Delving through centuries of clues and deception, the two come face-to-face with a secret that could shake Christendom to its core—and cost their own lives along the way. (less)
Review:
This action-packed thriller is third in its series; it would be better enjoyed if the series is read in order as it seems to be written with the assumption that the reader has read the previous two book in the series. Other than that, it is extremely well-written and includes accurate historical information about the Templars that contributes to the assumptions and mystery.
Robin Jessop is the owner of an antiquarian bookstore that sells either through the store or its website. Betty manages the store and bakes the goods she serves as part of the store’s amenities. David Mallory is an IT expert with an unusual understanding of codes and ciphers that has helped them in their recent adventures of trying to find valuable antiquities stashed by the Knights Templar when they knew they were being pursued, literally, to the death.
Before their recent escape from Europe and return to Devon, England, they found and shipped home an encoded document that could lead them to assets, both huge property holdings and precious metals. Unfortunately, the document is is Latin used during the middle ages with no spaces between the words. It does not follow any of the usual ciphers. Worse, there are at least two groups of people following Robin. One was simply to take pictures and advise where she might be; the other is armed.
A rogue band of militant Dominicans want the treasure. Desperately. If the correct document comes to light, many, many assumed landowners, including those of castles, even whole villages, would be taken over with the owners tossed out. They will go to any length to get it, especially if Robin is able to decode it. Robin and Mallory begin another trip, this time to find the final documents, treasures, and a possible relic that, should it be authenticated, would change the course of Christianity.
The characters are strong and as three-dimensional as necessary for their roles. The bad guys outnumber the good guys, and the good guys invite the reader along for their dangerous trek through Europe to a destination I would not have anticipated. Robin and Mallory are intellectual equals; each bring their educational and experiential backgrounds to the search. It took a while to get to know them, but they are a formidable pair. I did not like any of the bad guys with the possible exception of the spy who becomes an ally of sorts. The rest were devastatingly good at what they do, except for Marco Toscanelli, who is determined to get them this time.
The history woven through this adventure was very interesting, leading me to look up and learn more about the terrible events occurring in the early 14th century. Thankfully, the sought-for “relic” of the Templars is not truth! The writing is excellent, inviting contemplation about the twelfth and fourteenth century events. It is fascinating to me to read about ciphers and codes and see how Robin and Mallory work on the seemingly impossible puzzle.
The action is non-stop, especially with the bad guys hot on their trail. Their final destination surprised and fascinated me, a land of intrigue and beauty. This should be on the must-read list of everyone who enjoys tightly-plotted historical thrillers based mostly in England and Europe. The end was astounding, yet I must say, I’m thankful the ultimate finding is fiction.
The Templar Brotherhood
The Lost Treasure of the Templars #3
By James Becker
ISBN 9780451479371
www.jamesbecker.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
James Becker, New York Times bestselling author of The Templar Archive, returns with a breakneck thriller whisking readers into the shadowy secret chambers of the Knights Templar.
Having barely escaping the crosshairs of a deadly cult, Robin Jessop and David Mallory crisscross Europe, seeking to unlock the truth behind a conspiracy unresolved for seven hundred years—the mystery of what has given the enigmatic Templars their unwavering power.
Infiltrating the group’s vast archives, Jessop and Mallory make a startling find. An ancient Templar passport hints at a sacred mission: the transportation of a priceless treasure, an artifact of incomprehensible value. Delving through centuries of clues and deception, the two come face-to-face with a secret that could shake Christendom to its core—and cost their own lives along the way. (less)
Review:
This action-packed thriller is third in its series; it would be better enjoyed if the series is read in order as it seems to be written with the assumption that the reader has read the previous two book in the series. Other than that, it is extremely well-written and includes accurate historical information about the Templars that contributes to the assumptions and mystery.
Robin Jessop is the owner of an antiquarian bookstore that sells either through the store or its website. Betty manages the store and bakes the goods she serves as part of the store’s amenities. David Mallory is an IT expert with an unusual understanding of codes and ciphers that has helped them in their recent adventures of trying to find valuable antiquities stashed by the Knights Templar when they knew they were being pursued, literally, to the death.
Before their recent escape from Europe and return to Devon, England, they found and shipped home an encoded document that could lead them to assets, both huge property holdings and precious metals. Unfortunately, the document is is Latin used during the middle ages with no spaces between the words. It does not follow any of the usual ciphers. Worse, there are at least two groups of people following Robin. One was simply to take pictures and advise where she might be; the other is armed.
A rogue band of militant Dominicans want the treasure. Desperately. If the correct document comes to light, many, many assumed landowners, including those of castles, even whole villages, would be taken over with the owners tossed out. They will go to any length to get it, especially if Robin is able to decode it. Robin and Mallory begin another trip, this time to find the final documents, treasures, and a possible relic that, should it be authenticated, would change the course of Christianity.
The characters are strong and as three-dimensional as necessary for their roles. The bad guys outnumber the good guys, and the good guys invite the reader along for their dangerous trek through Europe to a destination I would not have anticipated. Robin and Mallory are intellectual equals; each bring their educational and experiential backgrounds to the search. It took a while to get to know them, but they are a formidable pair. I did not like any of the bad guys with the possible exception of the spy who becomes an ally of sorts. The rest were devastatingly good at what they do, except for Marco Toscanelli, who is determined to get them this time.
The history woven through this adventure was very interesting, leading me to look up and learn more about the terrible events occurring in the early 14th century. Thankfully, the sought-for “relic” of the Templars is not truth! The writing is excellent, inviting contemplation about the twelfth and fourteenth century events. It is fascinating to me to read about ciphers and codes and see how Robin and Mallory work on the seemingly impossible puzzle.
The action is non-stop, especially with the bad guys hot on their trail. Their final destination surprised and fascinated me, a land of intrigue and beauty. This should be on the must-read list of everyone who enjoys tightly-plotted historical thrillers based mostly in England and Europe. The end was astounding, yet I must say, I’m thankful the ultimate finding is fiction.
November 21, 2017
It’s not often I see a contemporary thriller broken up into three books. It could be a cheap stunt to suck dollars out of readers (like how "The Hobbit" is three movies). But three separate books work well here. Each book could almost stand alone, but not quite. They rely on each other.
Side note: I thought the findings at the end of the second book were interesting enough to end the story right there, but the author, James Becker, had plans far different than I expected, which is good and bad. While I get where he went in the end, I think the opportunity to explore the possible repercussions of book two was a major miss. It makes the end of "The Templar Brotherhood" somewhat anti-climactic. But you know what? I think a lot of readers will disagree with me and they will find the final book a lot more interesting.
The first part of the novel is a bit odd. The protagonists find themselves back at Robin Jessop’s bookstore, where everything started, and staring at coded writing. But, where the first book made
code-breaking interesting, even page-turning at times, "The Templar Brotherhood" makes it feel like a slog. It’s not completely coherent and interrupts the flow of the story at times. On the other hand, the author wisely keeps the action that crops up in the beginning brief, so as not to repeat everything that happened in the first installment of the trilogy. That helps keep things fresh, which can be tough by the third book.
Along the lines of keeping it fresh, there are several interesting new locations and a lot of well-researched lore. The author obviously enjoys the subject and has a lot to say about it, and that’s what helps drive these books. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to avoid similar stories that have come before. Familiar locations, familiar bad-guy types, and familiar theories pop up all too often. Once again, the main characters have impressive and unexpected abilities to conveniently get them out of trouble and/or solve treasure-hunting problems.
But, I suppose, the mystery of the treasure is what it’s all about. On that part the author doesn’t scrimp. He comes up with a big idea. Maybe it’s not new, but I’m not a Templar scholar, so it was new to me. However, it was a little past suspension of disbelief for me, mostly because it seemed to come out of nowhere. I feel like the events over three books should have really led up to this moment, but it didn’t have the build-up. Not quite.
There’s also a curious final character resolution that virtually falls out of nowhere (it’s hinted at very briefly in the first book, but still…). It would be okay, but even after it happens the book just ends, like it doesn’t matter that much.
This probably sounds like a terribly negative review. Honestly, though, I enjoyed the books. The author’s prose works, he’s adept at writing action and he’s done the requisite research, which he doesn’t use to talk down to the reader, but inform in an entertaining way. The characters are all distinct, including a really fun secondary character who’s supposed to work for the bad guys but has a conscience (more or less). I would have liked to have seen more of that guy.
I think the hold-up is, if you’ve already read the plethora of other authors who have already covered this topic, these books might not do that much for you.
If you’re new to the game, dive in and have fun.
Side note: I thought the findings at the end of the second book were interesting enough to end the story right there, but the author, James Becker, had plans far different than I expected, which is good and bad. While I get where he went in the end, I think the opportunity to explore the possible repercussions of book two was a major miss. It makes the end of "The Templar Brotherhood" somewhat anti-climactic. But you know what? I think a lot of readers will disagree with me and they will find the final book a lot more interesting.
The first part of the novel is a bit odd. The protagonists find themselves back at Robin Jessop’s bookstore, where everything started, and staring at coded writing. But, where the first book made
code-breaking interesting, even page-turning at times, "The Templar Brotherhood" makes it feel like a slog. It’s not completely coherent and interrupts the flow of the story at times. On the other hand, the author wisely keeps the action that crops up in the beginning brief, so as not to repeat everything that happened in the first installment of the trilogy. That helps keep things fresh, which can be tough by the third book.
Along the lines of keeping it fresh, there are several interesting new locations and a lot of well-researched lore. The author obviously enjoys the subject and has a lot to say about it, and that’s what helps drive these books. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to avoid similar stories that have come before. Familiar locations, familiar bad-guy types, and familiar theories pop up all too often. Once again, the main characters have impressive and unexpected abilities to conveniently get them out of trouble and/or solve treasure-hunting problems.
But, I suppose, the mystery of the treasure is what it’s all about. On that part the author doesn’t scrimp. He comes up with a big idea. Maybe it’s not new, but I’m not a Templar scholar, so it was new to me. However, it was a little past suspension of disbelief for me, mostly because it seemed to come out of nowhere. I feel like the events over three books should have really led up to this moment, but it didn’t have the build-up. Not quite.
There’s also a curious final character resolution that virtually falls out of nowhere (it’s hinted at very briefly in the first book, but still…). It would be okay, but even after it happens the book just ends, like it doesn’t matter that much.
This probably sounds like a terribly negative review. Honestly, though, I enjoyed the books. The author’s prose works, he’s adept at writing action and he’s done the requisite research, which he doesn’t use to talk down to the reader, but inform in an entertaining way. The characters are all distinct, including a really fun secondary character who’s supposed to work for the bad guys but has a conscience (more or less). I would have liked to have seen more of that guy.
I think the hold-up is, if you’ve already read the plethora of other authors who have already covered this topic, these books might not do that much for you.
If you’re new to the game, dive in and have fun.
November 29, 2017
The Templar Brotherhood has engrossing historical background woven into this thriller, as well as what, to me, was very interesting - trying to decode an antique document that was purported to be from the Templars. Even more challenging is that the document was written in medieval Latin with no spaces between the words.
Robin Jessop and David Mallory have teamed up to decode the documents found to date that were related to the Templars. Robin's specialty is antiquarian books and documents; Mallory is the only man she has met who is interested and knowledgeable in codes and ciphers. His usual work is as an IT specialist. It is rumored that there is a fortune in assets - precious metals, gems, properties, even whole villages that were given to the Templars in the Middle Ages. There is also supposed to be some valuable relic that, if found, could change the course of Christianity. The current document was supposed to tell the finder about it.
Soon Robin and Mallory are on the run, with the same group of rogue Dominicans who want the outrageous assets for themselves. Not only is it a mystery to the hired thugs who they are really working for, but these thugs are ready to kill for the faceless person. Especially the one who Robin and David eluded in Europe recently.
The characters are made known as much as necessary. They don't seem to have personal lives, so we only see their business faces, which is a bit of a loss. That, and the fact that the author writes as if the reader knows all of the events prior to this novel made it hard to follow. To those who enjoy historical thrillers it would be a great novel to read. While I do enjoy the history behind the thriller, I prefer to know a little more about the characters and a little less about any "relics" that thankfully are not real.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and this is my host review.
Robin Jessop and David Mallory have teamed up to decode the documents found to date that were related to the Templars. Robin's specialty is antiquarian books and documents; Mallory is the only man she has met who is interested and knowledgeable in codes and ciphers. His usual work is as an IT specialist. It is rumored that there is a fortune in assets - precious metals, gems, properties, even whole villages that were given to the Templars in the Middle Ages. There is also supposed to be some valuable relic that, if found, could change the course of Christianity. The current document was supposed to tell the finder about it.
Soon Robin and Mallory are on the run, with the same group of rogue Dominicans who want the outrageous assets for themselves. Not only is it a mystery to the hired thugs who they are really working for, but these thugs are ready to kill for the faceless person. Especially the one who Robin and David eluded in Europe recently.
The characters are made known as much as necessary. They don't seem to have personal lives, so we only see their business faces, which is a bit of a loss. That, and the fact that the author writes as if the reader knows all of the events prior to this novel made it hard to follow. To those who enjoy historical thrillers it would be a great novel to read. While I do enjoy the history behind the thriller, I prefer to know a little more about the characters and a little less about any "relics" that thankfully are not real.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and this is my host review.
September 26, 2017
In James Becker's The Templar Brotherhood, the third installment in the Lost Treasure of the Templars thriller series, this would take you on a wild ride from start to finish. For British couple David Mallory and Robin Jessop, they travel across the country to find the deepest and darkest secrets of the Knights Templar. Robin, an antiquarian, and David, a historian, match wits and discover hidden truths. It all started with a secret passport from one of the former Knights that was remained a treasure chest. From there, they had to decode the mystery and go on a scavenger kind of some kind to find some clues. Hot on their heels is the Domicians who want to stop them and kill them dead for a priceless momento for their benefactor. They also hire Gary Marsh to spy on them, who later switched sides to give them the heads-up on their enemies. As they piece together the puzzles of this historical enigma, they unearthed the story behind the head on the painting and the religious overtones that lead to Jesus. Right between them, it's a battle of wits and brawns to get to the dark tunnels and dig up the greatest treasure trove of them all, even if it's a matter of life and death in the end.
February 24, 2023
CORRECTION: in the shelves, it is an archaeological thriller not the spelling I used. Sorry.
Due to the presence of so many books in the marketplace, it has taken me 6 years to finish JAMES BECKER’s three book series on the Knights Templar treasure. My bad! The title of the final book is THE TEMPLAR BROTHERHOOD. If you want to know where the treasure is located, you need to read the book.
Once again, Dartmouth England antiquarian bookseller Robin Jessop and her companion, former law officer and current collector of old documents and books, team up to find the billions of dollars/pounds/euros that the Knights Templar had accumulated.
Opposing them are the Dominicans (Black Friars) that had originally planned to steal the treasure on Friday, October 13, 1307 and failed. Under the guidance of Grand Inquisitor Guillaume Humbert and authorized by Pope Clement V who claimed they were heretics and French King Philip IV (aka Philip the Fair) who was in serious debt to the Templars, over 100 Knights were captured (out of 1300 plus known members), tortured and eventually killed. To no avail as it turned out. Their treasure has been missing for over 700 years. Many have tried to discover its location. Can Robin and David defy the odds and find it?
In the previous books, their search has taken them to caves in Cyprus and Switzerland where they encountered the Dominicans. The evil and ruthless Silvio Vitale and his less than efficient right-hand man Marco Toscanelli lead this current group. Gary Marsh, a private investigator hired by the Black Friars to surveil Jessop and Mallory turns out to have a heart and warns the couple that the Dominicans are still watching them.
In the earlier books in the series, Jessop and Mallory had acquired some documents written in a form of Medieval Latin that needed to be decoded. The skills that David and Robin have developed through their previous occupations help them in the task. The Dominicans had also gotten copies of the original parchments and vellum and have their own code breakers. They are impatiently waiting for the couple to decipher the antique documents.
As Robin and David extract each new clue, they travel from Dartmouth to Bristol to Templecombe to Temple (Scotland) to Rosslyn (of The Da Vinci Code fame). These are all real places in Great Britain. Right behind them are Vitale, Toscanelli, and their team.
JAMES BECKER at the end of the story recounts a brief history of the Templars and their treasure. It is all fascinating history. If you are a fan of this type of archaeological thriller, where history meets the present, by all means read this series. Not only are the books easy to read but the history and codebreaking are intriguing. There is enough excitement to raise your blood pressure, VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
GO! BUY! READ!
Due to the presence of so many books in the marketplace, it has taken me 6 years to finish JAMES BECKER’s three book series on the Knights Templar treasure. My bad! The title of the final book is THE TEMPLAR BROTHERHOOD. If you want to know where the treasure is located, you need to read the book.
Once again, Dartmouth England antiquarian bookseller Robin Jessop and her companion, former law officer and current collector of old documents and books, team up to find the billions of dollars/pounds/euros that the Knights Templar had accumulated.
Opposing them are the Dominicans (Black Friars) that had originally planned to steal the treasure on Friday, October 13, 1307 and failed. Under the guidance of Grand Inquisitor Guillaume Humbert and authorized by Pope Clement V who claimed they were heretics and French King Philip IV (aka Philip the Fair) who was in serious debt to the Templars, over 100 Knights were captured (out of 1300 plus known members), tortured and eventually killed. To no avail as it turned out. Their treasure has been missing for over 700 years. Many have tried to discover its location. Can Robin and David defy the odds and find it?
In the previous books, their search has taken them to caves in Cyprus and Switzerland where they encountered the Dominicans. The evil and ruthless Silvio Vitale and his less than efficient right-hand man Marco Toscanelli lead this current group. Gary Marsh, a private investigator hired by the Black Friars to surveil Jessop and Mallory turns out to have a heart and warns the couple that the Dominicans are still watching them.
In the earlier books in the series, Jessop and Mallory had acquired some documents written in a form of Medieval Latin that needed to be decoded. The skills that David and Robin have developed through their previous occupations help them in the task. The Dominicans had also gotten copies of the original parchments and vellum and have their own code breakers. They are impatiently waiting for the couple to decipher the antique documents.
As Robin and David extract each new clue, they travel from Dartmouth to Bristol to Templecombe to Temple (Scotland) to Rosslyn (of The Da Vinci Code fame). These are all real places in Great Britain. Right behind them are Vitale, Toscanelli, and their team.
JAMES BECKER at the end of the story recounts a brief history of the Templars and their treasure. It is all fascinating history. If you are a fan of this type of archaeological thriller, where history meets the present, by all means read this series. Not only are the books easy to read but the history and codebreaking are intriguing. There is enough excitement to raise your blood pressure, VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
GO! BUY! READ!
October 9, 2017
So the author does a good job of explaining things such that it isn't 100% necessary to have read the other books in order to understand what is going on. However, I would still say that this novel is best enjoyed as part of the series so that you can really get into the plot and feel a good connection with the characters. It was something that I had difficulty with because I didn't really understand the interaction between Robin and David. There were also some other characters that were part of this story that kind of confused me; their actions and feelings didn't make sense to me given their role in this story. However, I chalked it up to the fact that I don't have the necessary background. It is clear when reading this novel that the author has done a great deal of research and really knows his Templar material! While this information is intriguing, at times it was overwhelming and unnecessary. It's also not the most action-packed story I have ever read; the first 50+ pages were them simply trying to decode a document and it took a loooong time. While this may be accurate in its portrayal of the process, it makes for slow reading. The story does pick up after a while, and it was pretty interesting, but again, there were so many details thrown at you that it can be hard to keep it all straight. Overall, this was an interesting story but it is best enjoyed if you have read the previous books in the series. It had a bit too much detail and not enough character work for my liking, so for that reason, I'm giving this a 2/5 stars.
Thank you to Penguin Random House and First to Read program for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit: www.veereading.wordpress.com
Thank you to Penguin Random House and First to Read program for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit: www.veereading.wordpress.com
September 25, 2017
I received an advanced copy of this book from First to Read.
3.5*
I thought this book was fun, entertaining, and easy to read. The author gave great history on the Templars throughout the book which gave a good connection between what is known and the fictional story. I can see this book series being turned into movies.
The thing that annoyed me about the book was some of the character detail and how convenient it was for the story. You have a former policeman turned IT professional (so knows about police procedure and workings, how to hide internet searches, and monitoring devices) working with an antique bookseller/professional driver/pilot, both of whom work well under pressure and know how to shoot guns. They were easily able to foil all of the Templar's booby traps and outwit the bad guys but somehow didn't remember to check their car for tracking devices even though they knew they were being followed and had a tracker on their car before.
The series ends with a nice bow - the couple falls in love, the bad guys are thwarted, and the treasure is saved. It got to be pretty predictable throughout.
Overall, it was good and is one I would recommend to others!
3.5*
I thought this book was fun, entertaining, and easy to read. The author gave great history on the Templars throughout the book which gave a good connection between what is known and the fictional story. I can see this book series being turned into movies.
The thing that annoyed me about the book was some of the character detail and how convenient it was for the story. You have a former policeman turned IT professional (so knows about police procedure and workings, how to hide internet searches, and monitoring devices) working with an antique bookseller/professional driver/pilot, both of whom work well under pressure and know how to shoot guns. They were easily able to foil all of the Templar's booby traps and outwit the bad guys but somehow didn't remember to check their car for tracking devices even though they knew they were being followed and had a tracker on their car before.
The series ends with a nice bow - the couple falls in love, the bad guys are thwarted, and the treasure is saved. It got to be pretty predictable throughout.
Overall, it was good and is one I would recommend to others!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2023
Now here's an action-packed adventure that had on the edge of my seat!
This was the first installment I read from the series, and while it would have been a bit better to get introduced to the previous two books, I was still able to keep up and get introduced to these characters.
It's very well written, and the accurate historical facts about the Knight's Templar just made me really happy.
The history of the Templars is woven through this adventure and it made me want to read more about the events from these three centuries and their gruesome events.
The characters are strong and interesting. Robin and Mallory are both intellectual and they just make a great pair, especially against a number of bad guys who are right on their heels. They took me through a dangerous trip around Europe, with a surprising final destination.
The action is non-stop, The end was incredible, I recommend it!
Thanks Netgalley for providing the advance copy!
This was the first installment I read from the series, and while it would have been a bit better to get introduced to the previous two books, I was still able to keep up and get introduced to these characters.
It's very well written, and the accurate historical facts about the Knight's Templar just made me really happy.
The history of the Templars is woven through this adventure and it made me want to read more about the events from these three centuries and their gruesome events.
The characters are strong and interesting. Robin and Mallory are both intellectual and they just make a great pair, especially against a number of bad guys who are right on their heels. They took me through a dangerous trip around Europe, with a surprising final destination.
The action is non-stop, The end was incredible, I recommend it!
Thanks Netgalley for providing the advance copy!
September 3, 2017
I received a free e-reader ARC of this book through Random First to Read program.
I didn't realize this was part of a series when I got it, but there was enough back story for me to fill in the blanks of jumping into a continuing story. This book seemed like it was already written as a movie. It was fast-paced with lots of action, some violence, some encryption like a National Treasure type mystery involving the Templar Brotherhood. The only thing I didn't like about this book was that Mallory and Jesse seemed to get more clueless as time went on. I think a normal person wouldn't leave their gun in the car when they've already been shot at multiple times by assassins. I recommend this book (and the others in the series if they are as well written as this one) for anyone that likes a good thrilling read.
I didn't realize this was part of a series when I got it, but there was enough back story for me to fill in the blanks of jumping into a continuing story. This book seemed like it was already written as a movie. It was fast-paced with lots of action, some violence, some encryption like a National Treasure type mystery involving the Templar Brotherhood. The only thing I didn't like about this book was that Mallory and Jesse seemed to get more clueless as time went on. I think a normal person wouldn't leave their gun in the car when they've already been shot at multiple times by assassins. I recommend this book (and the others in the series if they are as well written as this one) for anyone that likes a good thrilling read.
July 19, 2025
This was another jolly romp of silliness and history combined to conclude the lost treasure trilogy.
It is well done, an extension of the previous two books, with the same successes and flaws. The characters have gained no depth and remain beautifully clichéd but still fit the genre well. The knowledge and skill set of the two protagonists is mind-boggling but well within Hollywood blockbuster territory, so credulity is stretched like the Whitehouse truth.
I did enjoy this book, but I am not sure it is a fitting ending. It all seems a tad trite and fell back on the old 'Templars went to Scotland' narrative and thereby rejecting so much ingenuity in the plotting Becker had been building.
I admit, I was annoyed I didn't see the final twist coming, but I am also glad as it infuriated me as it appeared an afterthought and too important not to have been mentioned before.
It is well done, an extension of the previous two books, with the same successes and flaws. The characters have gained no depth and remain beautifully clichéd but still fit the genre well. The knowledge and skill set of the two protagonists is mind-boggling but well within Hollywood blockbuster territory, so credulity is stretched like the Whitehouse truth.
I did enjoy this book, but I am not sure it is a fitting ending. It all seems a tad trite and fell back on the old 'Templars went to Scotland' narrative and thereby rejecting so much ingenuity in the plotting Becker had been building.
I admit, I was annoyed I didn't see the final twist coming, but I am also glad as it infuriated me as it appeared an afterthought and too important not to have been mentioned before.
September 23, 2017
While this is the third book in The Lost Treasure of the Templars series, James Becker offers enough backstory to give the reader an idea of the path that has led Robin Jessop and David Mallory on their search for the treasure. While James Becker offers high octane chases and close escapes, the pace slows considerably and occasionally drags as clues must be deciphered and details are given on the methods used to decode these clues. There is a good deal of historical background on the Templars that is well incorporated into the story and is quite interesting. As a fan of historical mysteries, this is a book that I enjoyed and would recommend to those readers interested in this subject matter.
I received a copy of this book from First to Read in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from First to Read in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2017
I love Templar stories and this story was no exception. The plot, the Dominican characters and John I really liked. While I had a little trouble with was the banter back and forth of the main characters Robin and David it did not take away from the story...Maybe reading the prior books would have helped me here. The premise is the same in many of these books but I am still intrigued about what happened to the Templar treasure. The only thing I thought was the author thought too much about wrapping up the ending the way he did. A little too coincidental for me on how the ownership of the treasure was explained. It just went to far I felt. Overall a good read for me and 3.5 stars
November 16, 2017
I am a Knights Templar nut! I love books that have been woven from the past into the present; and this book wove me through time and back again in sheer excellence!
British citizens, Robin Jessop and David Mallory have weaved their way across Europe in search of the Templar treasure; only to be chased, shot at, etc. by the Dominicans who have spent centuries in search of the same. Now, their search continues on the British Isle in Scotland.
Every step of the way, this duo is met by the Dominicans; can they figure out the last clue and get to the treasure first or will their attempts bring them death?
Awesome Read!
British citizens, Robin Jessop and David Mallory have weaved their way across Europe in search of the Templar treasure; only to be chased, shot at, etc. by the Dominicans who have spent centuries in search of the same. Now, their search continues on the British Isle in Scotland.
Every step of the way, this duo is met by the Dominicans; can they figure out the last clue and get to the treasure first or will their attempts bring them death?
Awesome Read!
February 25, 2021
I’m going to try very hard not to bash this book too much. Ok...beyond the tiresome and awkward dialogue and the completely - maybe the most - inept villains I’ve ever seen in a book, it was a tolerable 3-part romp in Templar lore. Tolerable, being the choice word.
I like this author a lot and I’ve read the Bronson series years ago. This 3-part series was not of equal caliber. However, if you’re looking for a historical fiction read about the Knights Templar, with a lot of cool facts in it, then this could do it... but in the same way the plot, which wends and weaves for three novels, doesn’t quite live up to the hype.
I like this author a lot and I’ve read the Bronson series years ago. This 3-part series was not of equal caliber. However, if you’re looking for a historical fiction read about the Knights Templar, with a lot of cool facts in it, then this could do it... but in the same way the plot, which wends and weaves for three novels, doesn’t quite live up to the hype.
September 5, 2017
I have a thing for tales of the Nights Templar, and enjoy the writing of James Becker, so this book was a no-brainier! It certainly did not disappoint, it is action packed and delivers an engaging plot.
The main characters are well developed, and draw you into the story. The "bad"guys, or more precisely the representatives of the Catholic Church, are as always in religious conspiracy stories deplorable and utterly ruthless.
This tome continues the authors ability to write historically thrilling fiction! This one is a keeper!
The main characters are well developed, and draw you into the story. The "bad"guys, or more precisely the representatives of the Catholic Church, are as always in religious conspiracy stories deplorable and utterly ruthless.
This tome continues the authors ability to write historically thrilling fiction! This one is a keeper!
October 5, 2017
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review of this book. I have to say, I really wanted to like this book, but I couldn’t. There is too much that is tied to the previous books in the series. There is too much description about deciphering Latin and other older languages. I was over 100 pages into the book and very little had happened. They hadn’t deciphered anything, they hadn’t figured anything out. You knew very little about the story. I was very disappointed.
October 17, 2017
If you liked 'The Da Vinci Code', you will like this book. This is a well researched and well written thriller that has that same action-laden and riddle-driven pacing that kept me reading until very late at night. There's also lots of information about encrypting and other historical history scattered throughout the story that added to the adventure. It begins with a rather graphic description of a medieval torture and ends a bit abruptly but it was I book I really enjoyed.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
July 10, 2017
I received The Templar Brotherhood by James Becker from Goodreads Giveaways.
The main characters are Robin Jessop and David Mallory. They are risking their lives to solve a conspiracy and find a priceless treasure from the days of the Knights Templar.
The Templar Brotherhood is an action filled novel with exciting twists, turns, and discoveries.
The Templar Brotherhood, a Lost Treasure of the Templars novel, is book # 3 in the series.
I truly enjoyed this book.
The main characters are Robin Jessop and David Mallory. They are risking their lives to solve a conspiracy and find a priceless treasure from the days of the Knights Templar.
The Templar Brotherhood is an action filled novel with exciting twists, turns, and discoveries.
The Templar Brotherhood, a Lost Treasure of the Templars novel, is book # 3 in the series.
I truly enjoyed this book.
November 2, 2018
I received The Templar Brotherhood in a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for my honest review.
Let me start by saying, I am so glad I won this book, it was a great read. The novel is long, but fast paced and worth the time taken to journey through the mystery the reader is taken on. I always love being pulled along on mysteries and searches like the one in The Templar Brotherhood and this time was no different. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who has an interest in this genre.
Let me start by saying, I am so glad I won this book, it was a great read. The novel is long, but fast paced and worth the time taken to journey through the mystery the reader is taken on. I always love being pulled along on mysteries and searches like the one in The Templar Brotherhood and this time was no different. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who has an interest in this genre.
July 4, 2020
I thought I started with the first book in the series, but it turned out to be the third. And that didn't turn out good. With no background about the story and characters its a very long and tedious book. I am one third through, but nothing much has happened yet. I read some reviews the books could be read standalone, but I absolutely don agree.
I'll start again with book one and hopefully my review will change later.
I'll start again with book one and hopefully my review will change later.
August 29, 2022
To be honest I was expecting a disappointing ending, most of these kind of books leave you in a kind of limbo, not this one, an utterly satisfying ending. No spoilers but this trilogy is well worth reading, if you like books with an archaeological, cryptic and thriller twist. I could not put this trilogy down. I shall certainly be seeking further books by James Becker down to read, although I have already read one and as I recall it was an absolute cracker.
November 19, 2017
Penguin First to Read ARC.
Doesn't work well as a stand alone, it's hard for me to get into the story without the previous books.
Interesting, but truly would have gotten into the story more if I had read the first two books. I've read some non-fiction boks about the subject matter, so I don't know if that was part of the problem too.
Doesn't work well as a stand alone, it's hard for me to get into the story without the previous books.
Interesting, but truly would have gotten into the story more if I had read the first two books. I've read some non-fiction boks about the subject matter, so I don't know if that was part of the problem too.
August 6, 2020
Excellent book, highly recommended if you’re into Templar history. And I love ❤️ when authors have a fact section in the back giving additional details on what in the book was based in fact & history. I didn’t realize this was part of a trilogy when I started so I’ve adde two more books to my TBR pile!
November 30, 2020
Not quite as good as the two preceding books.
Still enjoyable, a good ending, the tale seemed protracted in parts earlier on, with some repetition from the preceding books, then was hurried at the finale. I was a little surprised that our two hero’s continued with their amazing stupidity regarding their enemies despite their previous encounters.
Still enjoyable, a good ending, the tale seemed protracted in parts earlier on, with some repetition from the preceding books, then was hurried at the finale. I was a little surprised that our two hero’s continued with their amazing stupidity regarding their enemies despite their previous encounters.
March 12, 2024
Very slow going, but a lot of Templar lore. Robin and Mallory start in Dartmouth, UK where Robin has her bookstore. The Dominicans are soon on their trail so they move to Templecomb following Templar clues. They end up in Scotland hoping to find the Templar treasure in one of the old caves near Edinborough.
August 28, 2017
Fast-paced thriller in search of the treasure of the Templars. Definitely reading the first two books, although this one could be read as a standalone. It only gets 4 stars because the ending felt like it was rushed.
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