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Lever Templar
As the crusader era ends, Templar Sergeant Brim Hastings must free his imprisoned brethren by surrendering the heretical scroll that has enabled their two-hundred-year leverage over the Roman Catholic Church. After escaping his order's persecution, and having the role of savior thrust upon him, he and Cypriot apprentice tanner Shayla Kostas discover the boundaries between good and evil are not where they'd thought.
Seven centuries later, Rick Lambert's investigation into Christian priest abductions in Iraq grows in scope after he's given a cryptic Roman gaming stone. As he learns of the motive for recent Templar preceptory demolitions throughout France, he and his team must prevent religious extremists from shattering Christianity by winning the race to rediscover the Vectis Templi--the Lever of the Temple.
Seven centuries later, Rick Lambert's investigation into Christian priest abductions in Iraq grows in scope after he's given a cryptic Roman gaming stone. As he learns of the motive for recent Templar preceptory demolitions throughout France, he and his team must prevent religious extremists from shattering Christianity by winning the race to rediscover the Vectis Templi--the Lever of the Temple.
- GenresHistory
368 pages, Paperback
Published January 29, 2019
7 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Matt Gianni
1 book19 followersMatt Gianni is the author of dual timeline historical fiction / contemporary thriller novels built around his Castellum One team, a covert investigations unit financed by the Vatican and run by elements of the US Intelligence Community. Lever Templar, the first in the series, has been described by readers as "The Da Vinci Code meets National Treasure." After a long career in aeronautical engineering and flight instruction, writing 787 airplane flight manuals for Boeing and instructional articles for flying magazines, he began writing fiction in 2013.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
October 22, 2019
A very polished work. The book is a thriller with two interwoven storylines. One is set in the present day, and follows a race to find a scroll that could threaten the Catholic Church if it fell into the wrong hands. The other is set in the 14th century, and describes the events that led to the hiding of the scroll. Each storyline is written with a linear timeline, the book switching between the two chapter by chapter. I won't repeat the factual details given in other reviews, but I'll focus on the qualities of the book.
The narrative is delivered in the third person in a dry, precise and factual tone, with frequent use of the passive voice and detailed exposition. The description of the characters focuses upon their actions and dialogue, rather than upon their emotions, so it is a book to be enjoyed for its action primarily. The writing is polished and hard to fault technically. I can believe the book is well-researched, as the descriptions of objects and events had a ring of authenticity to them. There is bloodshed and mayhem throughout, but it is not laboured, and is appropriate to the nature of the story. The book isn't an easy read, as the writing is quite dense, but the effort is paid-off by solid craftsmanship. I'd imagine this would appeal to those who like the subjects covered in books by Dan Brown and Tom Clancy, but wished they were better-written.
The narrative is delivered in the third person in a dry, precise and factual tone, with frequent use of the passive voice and detailed exposition. The description of the characters focuses upon their actions and dialogue, rather than upon their emotions, so it is a book to be enjoyed for its action primarily. The writing is polished and hard to fault technically. I can believe the book is well-researched, as the descriptions of objects and events had a ring of authenticity to them. There is bloodshed and mayhem throughout, but it is not laboured, and is appropriate to the nature of the story. The book isn't an easy read, as the writing is quite dense, but the effort is paid-off by solid craftsmanship. I'd imagine this would appeal to those who like the subjects covered in books by Dan Brown and Tom Clancy, but wished they were better-written.
August 30, 2019
This book is written on two timelines. The first tells a complex story of the Knights Templar, an ancient scroll the Templar order possesses which forms the basis of their leverage over the Roman Catholic Church [this is speculative but well depicted] for 200 years and their ultimate demise at the hands of the Roman Catholic Church aided by the French in the early 14th century. The second timeline is modern and tells the story of the on-going search for the scroll by the Church and fanatical organisation in Iraq. This part of the story is told largely through the eyes of Rick Lambert and his American colleagues who are investigating the murders of a number of Church representatives in Iraq. Their investigation takes them to Cyprus, one of the strong holdings of the Knights Templar. The two timelines both centre around the scroll, its meaning and potential impact on Christianity.
This book is extremely well researched and it is obvious that the author knows his subject matter well, I did, however, find it difficult to read as there were so many characters that popped up for short chapters and whose purpose is either of a short duration or only comes about later in the story. There is a lengthily list of the characters at the front of the ebook, but it is difficult to keep going back to refer to them while reading.
I also could not get a feel for the main characters in this book, in particular Brim Hastings who isn't described as showing any particular emotions, even when his mentor is murdered in front of him, and Rick Lambert who also isn't described with much expression.
Lever Templar is a fast moving story with lots of action and will appeal to readers who like a historical thriller.
This book is extremely well researched and it is obvious that the author knows his subject matter well, I did, however, find it difficult to read as there were so many characters that popped up for short chapters and whose purpose is either of a short duration or only comes about later in the story. There is a lengthily list of the characters at the front of the ebook, but it is difficult to keep going back to refer to them while reading.
I also could not get a feel for the main characters in this book, in particular Brim Hastings who isn't described as showing any particular emotions, even when his mentor is murdered in front of him, and Rick Lambert who also isn't described with much expression.
Lever Templar is a fast moving story with lots of action and will appeal to readers who like a historical thriller.
October 13, 2019
It is a very fascinating story that involves two time periods.. on one hand we travel in the 14th century and on the other hand, we take our journey in this modern era. I usually don’t enjoy historical fiction, but this definitely comes in my list of favorite books. A well written, fast paced story that keeps you hooked till the end. I really enjoyed reading it. A beautiful mix of historical fiction and Contemporary thriller.
August 8, 2019
A well-written, exciting historical fiction/contemporary mixture adventure
In the early 14th century, young Brim Hastings is thrown into the middle of religious machinations between the Catholic church and his own Christian brotherhood the Temple of Solomon. Over 700 years later, Brim’s actions start a series of murders in Iraq that Rick Lambert is investigating. Intelligence from the Vatican leads Rick and his odd team on a treasure hunt without a traditional map. A cult of mercenaries is on their tail, as they travel to Kolossi and a small Island just off Cyprus.
Lever Templar is two books for the price of one. Brim Hastings story is well researched and competently written. I must applaud the detail of the different religious factions and their hierarchy, different locales and countries, and modes of travel and dress. You feel you are right there in those times. Rick Lambert’s present-day story of US agencies, jurisdictional issues, modern technology and warfare equipment is similarly comprehensive, but with the faster modern-day pacing. With so much information to digest, I did find the historical story slower going at first.
Unfortunately, the characters felt more two-dimensional than their surroundings. In fact, their appearance was barely, if at all, described, which left the reader to fill in the gaps. I imagined Malcolm and Brim as Sean Connery and Christian Slater from The Name of the Rose; while the humour of the explosives experts in the present reminded me of the Weasley twins from Harry Potter. The thoughts expressed tended to be informational or problem solving, rather than emotional, giving the reader a jolt when sudden emotional connections in both eras become apparent. Having said that, I was happy to read a male author who can write competent women in two different eras. My complaint being there were not enough of them.
Lever Templar is a novel that will please the historical fiction lover, while still providing enough to make the action reader happy and satisfy the mystery reader. There is some nice tying up of loose ends to polish the whole thing off. You won’t regret adding Lever Templar to your collection.
In the early 14th century, young Brim Hastings is thrown into the middle of religious machinations between the Catholic church and his own Christian brotherhood the Temple of Solomon. Over 700 years later, Brim’s actions start a series of murders in Iraq that Rick Lambert is investigating. Intelligence from the Vatican leads Rick and his odd team on a treasure hunt without a traditional map. A cult of mercenaries is on their tail, as they travel to Kolossi and a small Island just off Cyprus.
Lever Templar is two books for the price of one. Brim Hastings story is well researched and competently written. I must applaud the detail of the different religious factions and their hierarchy, different locales and countries, and modes of travel and dress. You feel you are right there in those times. Rick Lambert’s present-day story of US agencies, jurisdictional issues, modern technology and warfare equipment is similarly comprehensive, but with the faster modern-day pacing. With so much information to digest, I did find the historical story slower going at first.
Unfortunately, the characters felt more two-dimensional than their surroundings. In fact, their appearance was barely, if at all, described, which left the reader to fill in the gaps. I imagined Malcolm and Brim as Sean Connery and Christian Slater from The Name of the Rose; while the humour of the explosives experts in the present reminded me of the Weasley twins from Harry Potter. The thoughts expressed tended to be informational or problem solving, rather than emotional, giving the reader a jolt when sudden emotional connections in both eras become apparent. Having said that, I was happy to read a male author who can write competent women in two different eras. My complaint being there were not enough of them.
Lever Templar is a novel that will please the historical fiction lover, while still providing enough to make the action reader happy and satisfy the mystery reader. There is some nice tying up of loose ends to polish the whole thing off. You won’t regret adding Lever Templar to your collection.
February 3, 2020
Historical fiction is a new for me, or at least something that I haven’t read in many years. Gianni does this genre to perfection! The writing is sharp and his accuracy and attention to detail is on pointe. With dual story lines taking place in the 13th and 20th Century and a large cast of characters, there is a lot to keep up with, but it certainly makes for an enthralling read.
In the 13th Century, Templar Sergeant Brim Hastings on a quest to deliver scrolls that could change the face of Christianity while in present day, Agent from Iraq’s Ministry of Interior Investigations Unit, Rick Lambert, investigates the abduction of Christian priests. As chapters move back and forth between the two times, Gianni manages to differentiate his writing to capture the mood of each period.
I do love action scenes and Lever Templar delivers! The action comes full and swift with expert descriptions. And, while I enjoyed both MCs, Lambert, with his flaws and love of fried chickpea wraps was my favourite. As well as enjoying action scenes, I’ll read any genre if it’s well-written and Gianni can really tell a tale. Highly recommend!
In the 13th Century, Templar Sergeant Brim Hastings on a quest to deliver scrolls that could change the face of Christianity while in present day, Agent from Iraq’s Ministry of Interior Investigations Unit, Rick Lambert, investigates the abduction of Christian priests. As chapters move back and forth between the two times, Gianni manages to differentiate his writing to capture the mood of each period.
I do love action scenes and Lever Templar delivers! The action comes full and swift with expert descriptions. And, while I enjoyed both MCs, Lambert, with his flaws and love of fried chickpea wraps was my favourite. As well as enjoying action scenes, I’ll read any genre if it’s well-written and Gianni can really tell a tale. Highly recommend!
March 11, 2019
I had done some small dabbling in Templar history after watching a documentary and found the topic fascinating on many levels. That made the premise of this story of particular interest to me. While there is a rich historical element, that I loved, there is also a modern thriller with a wonderful pace and lots of tension, which I also loved. These two threads are woven together masterfully to make this a gripping page-turner. The balance of details and story was nice, with enough to paint a real image yet not slow things down. The characters, being well drawn, added another layer to this truly wonderful story.
April 7, 2019
Matt Gianni’s first novel in this series is a unique and riveting spy adventure with the added bonus of time-jumping!
Read full review in the 2019 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2019 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
July 6, 2019
Today's Headlines and Yesterday's Adventures told in a fast-paced, interwoven story
I have to say, right up front, this is not just a romp--this is a fast-paced adventure that was a page-turner for me. Many books have predictable plot developments, but I was continually surprised by the events, and how details sprinkled throughout the book had payoff later. It's a wild ride through history and through today's headlines, leaping back and forth from the 1300s to the 2000s.
Two stories intertwine like the snakes of a caduceus: In ancient times there is a document so explosive, so dangerous that it must remain hidden from view forever lest it fall into the wrong hands. All the powers of Europe seek to find it or to destroy it, and it is up to a Templar sergeant to ensure its safety, venturing across the continent and the lands of the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, in the present day, there are rumors of the existence of this same document with a story that could bring the downfall of religions and nations. Just as in the times of the Knights Templar, so there are those who seek this document for their own power. And only a plucky American agent of the Iraqi Ministry of Interior can stop the forces of destruction.
It's all that, told in interleaving stories, from then to now and back again, but it has a great rhythm of action and detail and danger. Not only will you follow along with the adventures of the two protagonists, but you'll be treated to an engaging story of ancient and modern times, with details as fresh as today's news headlines about power and turmoil and politics and catastrophes.
It's a mix of Dan Brown and Robert Ludlum and Indiana Jones, but it's fresh and real and fun.
NOTE: I received a free copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
I have to say, right up front, this is not just a romp--this is a fast-paced adventure that was a page-turner for me. Many books have predictable plot developments, but I was continually surprised by the events, and how details sprinkled throughout the book had payoff later. It's a wild ride through history and through today's headlines, leaping back and forth from the 1300s to the 2000s.
Two stories intertwine like the snakes of a caduceus: In ancient times there is a document so explosive, so dangerous that it must remain hidden from view forever lest it fall into the wrong hands. All the powers of Europe seek to find it or to destroy it, and it is up to a Templar sergeant to ensure its safety, venturing across the continent and the lands of the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, in the present day, there are rumors of the existence of this same document with a story that could bring the downfall of religions and nations. Just as in the times of the Knights Templar, so there are those who seek this document for their own power. And only a plucky American agent of the Iraqi Ministry of Interior can stop the forces of destruction.
It's all that, told in interleaving stories, from then to now and back again, but it has a great rhythm of action and detail and danger. Not only will you follow along with the adventures of the two protagonists, but you'll be treated to an engaging story of ancient and modern times, with details as fresh as today's news headlines about power and turmoil and politics and catastrophes.
It's a mix of Dan Brown and Robert Ludlum and Indiana Jones, but it's fresh and real and fun.
NOTE: I received a free copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
May 10, 2019
Writing a first novel requires fusing curiosity and endurance. Writing a second novel, to borrow a phrase, is the triumph of hope over experience. No one knows why anyone would attempt a first novel alternating two entwined stories separated by seven hundred years. Yet, Matt Gianni did so with Level Templar.
One story, taking place in the 1300s is about secreting religious documents harmful to the Catholic Church. The second story takes place today, of a battle to recover those documents. In generous detail, Gianni portrays the daily life of the times and the religious and political realities that drive most of us crazy. The historic story moves like a horse-drawn wagon heavy with intrigue while the modern one zings past like a swarm of tracer bullets; hard to get used to the varied pacing. Together, the stories suggest we haven’t learned much over the better part of a thousand years.
Gianni perhaps errs on giving us too much information. This well-researched novel shares textbook level knowledge at the expense of story. I liked all the information anyway. The reason I liked all the detail and the information and the names and the titles and the historical references and the foreign terms and the flip-flopping storyline is that Gianni is a good writer who wrote a good book. If you like historical fiction, especially of the Templars, his is a book to read. (It starts a bit slowly but quickly finds its rhythm.)
One story, taking place in the 1300s is about secreting religious documents harmful to the Catholic Church. The second story takes place today, of a battle to recover those documents. In generous detail, Gianni portrays the daily life of the times and the religious and political realities that drive most of us crazy. The historic story moves like a horse-drawn wagon heavy with intrigue while the modern one zings past like a swarm of tracer bullets; hard to get used to the varied pacing. Together, the stories suggest we haven’t learned much over the better part of a thousand years.
Gianni perhaps errs on giving us too much information. This well-researched novel shares textbook level knowledge at the expense of story. I liked all the information anyway. The reason I liked all the detail and the information and the names and the titles and the historical references and the foreign terms and the flip-flopping storyline is that Gianni is a good writer who wrote a good book. If you like historical fiction, especially of the Templars, his is a book to read. (It starts a bit slowly but quickly finds its rhythm.)
August 25, 2019
Matt Gianni’s Lever Templar is an epic thriller of Dan Brown proportions. Weaving between two different eras, the novel begins with the theft of the Lever Templar, a scroll with the power to redefine Christianity. Fast forward to modern-day Mosul and Rick Lambert is called upon to investigate the abduction of Christian priests. Before long, the race is on to locate the missing scroll before it falls into the wrong hands.
Lever Templar is both fast-paced action thriller and epic historical saga. Gianni’s attention to detail is staggering both in his descriptions of current military tactics and his knowledge of middle eastern history. Having lived in Cyprus for several years, the historical accuracy about Kolossi Castle particularly appealed. I learned vast amounts of interesting historical facts while reading a very entertaining novel.
Lever Templar is a long read, made easier by the brevity of its many chapters. It is an excellent, detailed piece of writing that deserves to be savoured and enjoyed.
Lever Templar is both fast-paced action thriller and epic historical saga. Gianni’s attention to detail is staggering both in his descriptions of current military tactics and his knowledge of middle eastern history. Having lived in Cyprus for several years, the historical accuracy about Kolossi Castle particularly appealed. I learned vast amounts of interesting historical facts while reading a very entertaining novel.
Lever Templar is a long read, made easier by the brevity of its many chapters. It is an excellent, detailed piece of writing that deserves to be savoured and enjoyed.
June 27, 2020
Entertaining historical/contemporary fiction thriller
Even though it took me about a month to finish this book, it didn’t diminish the value of this book. I’m not a big fan of historian thrillers. Still, seeing the interesting combination between the past and the present, and the mystery behind the domino, got me hooked. As the story jumps back and forth from the present to the 14th century, we are enjoying a suspenseful, thrilling situation of some hidden objects that, if revealed, could shake the grounds of Catholic Church. Who is behind it all?
This is Gianni’s debut novel and it is well done and worth the read not only for the plot and writing style, but also for the amount of research he covered for this book. The author has an outstanding grasp of the history of the Catholic Church and the Knights Templar as well as the world of espionage.
Lever Templar is a novel that will please cross genres readers, the historical fiction lover, while still providing enough to make the action reader happy.
Even though it took me about a month to finish this book, it didn’t diminish the value of this book. I’m not a big fan of historian thrillers. Still, seeing the interesting combination between the past and the present, and the mystery behind the domino, got me hooked. As the story jumps back and forth from the present to the 14th century, we are enjoying a suspenseful, thrilling situation of some hidden objects that, if revealed, could shake the grounds of Catholic Church. Who is behind it all?
This is Gianni’s debut novel and it is well done and worth the read not only for the plot and writing style, but also for the amount of research he covered for this book. The author has an outstanding grasp of the history of the Catholic Church and the Knights Templar as well as the world of espionage.
Lever Templar is a novel that will please cross genres readers, the historical fiction lover, while still providing enough to make the action reader happy.
July 1, 2019
Great Read.
Two stories. One set in the 1300's and one set in present day—joined through the centuries by a common quest. Brimly Hastings is a young, low-ranking Templar soldier who serves a knight on a mission to preserve three stolen scrolls. The scrolls could redefine Christianity and the Catholic power hierarchy is desperate to see that they never see the light of day. Jump to modern day, and Rick Lambert is investigating the disappearance of several Catholic priests. Where are they? Who is behind it all? Why have they disappeared?
Reminiscent of Wilbur Smith's sagas, both the present and past storylines of Levar Templer are strong, well researched, full of drama and action. Unlike Smith, the two stories have been woven into a single novel instead of two. Well done and worth the read.
Two stories. One set in the 1300's and one set in present day—joined through the centuries by a common quest. Brimly Hastings is a young, low-ranking Templar soldier who serves a knight on a mission to preserve three stolen scrolls. The scrolls could redefine Christianity and the Catholic power hierarchy is desperate to see that they never see the light of day. Jump to modern day, and Rick Lambert is investigating the disappearance of several Catholic priests. Where are they? Who is behind it all? Why have they disappeared?
Reminiscent of Wilbur Smith's sagas, both the present and past storylines of Levar Templer are strong, well researched, full of drama and action. Unlike Smith, the two stories have been woven into a single novel instead of two. Well done and worth the read.
August 31, 2019
Lever Templar is a complex tale woven between two timelines. It moves nimbly from the 1300s to the present day in alternating chapters. The mystery of how these two plot lines connect unfolds as the story moves along.
The author has an outstanding grasp of the history of the Catholic Church and the Knights Templar as well as the world of present day espionage. This comprehensive knowledge of detail and history made the density of the information rather overwhelming even thought it was well written.
The emphasis in this story is on plot and action with much less attention paid to developing the characters and their emotions. This finely crafted book would appeal most to history buffs and readers who enjoy action and thrillers.
The author has an outstanding grasp of the history of the Catholic Church and the Knights Templar as well as the world of present day espionage. This comprehensive knowledge of detail and history made the density of the information rather overwhelming even thought it was well written.
The emphasis in this story is on plot and action with much less attention paid to developing the characters and their emotions. This finely crafted book would appeal most to history buffs and readers who enjoy action and thrillers.
March 30, 2020
Lever Templar has a familiar theme – Someone has evidence that will prove Christianity is not true after all. Yes that reminds me of The Da Vinci Code but Lever Templar is no mere knockoff. There are two stories told in parallel, one today and the other in the middle ages. The characters are believable in both parts of the narrative and it kept me guessing as to exactly how things would work out. All in all it is a great read.
May 3, 2020
It took me some time to read this book by my standards. It’s not something I would usually pick up but I found the story engaging and the author clear did a lot of research and put a huge amount of effort into writing this book. I enjoyed it for the most part but I would have preferred a shorter version. That’s just me though! Great work.
May 29, 2019
Disclaimer, I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. With me an honest review doesn’t always mean a good review. I’m happy to report that’s not the case here. I absolutely loved Lever Templar by Matt Gianni! I’m not even going to save my star rating until the end...this one gets 5 out of 5 stars!
Alrighty then...give me a second to calm my inner history geek down a bit. Takes a deep breathe...one, two, and three....and out. Okay...we can proceed.
This story begins in Shipley, England; the year is 1307. Under the concealment of night several cloaked men stealthily gain entry into the lower levels of Shipley’s church. These are no ordinary thieves however; they are not interested in riches. These are Templar Knights in search of something far more valuable than coins; a small leather satchel that could contain a document no one is ever meant to see; the Vectis Templi...also known as the Lever of the Temple. If discovered this document would shake the foundation of the Holy Roman Catholic Church.
Well, that did it for me...I was hooked! My inner history geek sighed happily and settled in for a good time.
Then as we entered Chapter 2 the story shifts to modern day Kanisah, a northwestern Mosul suburb in Iraq where we are introduced to Agents Rick Lambert and his partner Samir Moozarmi of Iraq’s Ministry of Interior Investigations. Rick and Samir have been assigned to look into the abductions of several Christian priests and are responding to a call from Father Zephyros Topolis of the Christian Church of Kanisah.
While enjoying lunch around the corner from the church prior to their meeting with Father Topolis gunfire suddenly erupts. Father Topolis is caught in the crossfire and is mortally wounded. Stumbling down the aisle he slowly makes his way to the church’s’ altar before collapsing. Struggling to breathe, he breaks the wood of the altar and retrieves an object hidden inside. Then, with the last of his strength he places the mysteriously carved ancient domino in to Agent Lambert’s hand and whispers “Protect Cyprus.”
That’s when my inner geek looked up from her book and informed me we would be reading for some time to come...so buckle up buttercup. She wanted to find out how these two seemingly unrelated stories were connected.
Naturally, I’m not going to go through this story and spoon-feed you what happens...oh no, no spoilers here! My inner history geek would kick my butt if I did that. Besides, we both want you to have the enjoyment of going on this ride for yourself. And an action packed thrill ride it is too! Very rarely do I actually use the words page-turner, but this one really was for me. I didn’t want to stop reading.
Aside from gushing about how much I enjoyed this book I want to take a moment to mention the astonishing amount of factual data Mr. Gianni had to keep straight as a story-teller. As I read, it quickly became evident just exactly how much research he must have done. As a reader of this story at times it became almost dizzying trying to keep things straight in my own head.
I cannot fathom what it must have been like trying to keep all the names, dates, locations, and historical facts he interjects into this book straight as a writer. Can you imagine what his writing environment had to look like? I have this vision in my mind of string strung from one event to another in a haphazard spider web with post-it notes all over the place. So, kudos Mr. Gianni! The research pays off!
Obviously I loved this book. The history geek in me is still jumping up and down as she shoves her glasses back up her nose and is gleefully demanding more as I write this review. Mr. Gianni brought ancient history with some artistic license to the present and made it feel like I was participating in an Indiana Jones flick. Really, I can’t ask for more than that...I felt so involved and invested in the story.
If you are someone who loves ancient history or simply loves a really great action packed story...pick this one up; I highly recommend it. As for me...I give it a very rare 5 out of 5 stars. Well done Mr. Gianni and thank you for asking me to read and review. Now, when is the next one coming out?
If you'd like to see more of my reviews visit me at my blog.... Green Eyed Irish Lass's Book Reviews & More
Alrighty then...give me a second to calm my inner history geek down a bit. Takes a deep breathe...one, two, and three....and out. Okay...we can proceed.
This story begins in Shipley, England; the year is 1307. Under the concealment of night several cloaked men stealthily gain entry into the lower levels of Shipley’s church. These are no ordinary thieves however; they are not interested in riches. These are Templar Knights in search of something far more valuable than coins; a small leather satchel that could contain a document no one is ever meant to see; the Vectis Templi...also known as the Lever of the Temple. If discovered this document would shake the foundation of the Holy Roman Catholic Church.
Well, that did it for me...I was hooked! My inner history geek sighed happily and settled in for a good time.
Then as we entered Chapter 2 the story shifts to modern day Kanisah, a northwestern Mosul suburb in Iraq where we are introduced to Agents Rick Lambert and his partner Samir Moozarmi of Iraq’s Ministry of Interior Investigations. Rick and Samir have been assigned to look into the abductions of several Christian priests and are responding to a call from Father Zephyros Topolis of the Christian Church of Kanisah.
While enjoying lunch around the corner from the church prior to their meeting with Father Topolis gunfire suddenly erupts. Father Topolis is caught in the crossfire and is mortally wounded. Stumbling down the aisle he slowly makes his way to the church’s’ altar before collapsing. Struggling to breathe, he breaks the wood of the altar and retrieves an object hidden inside. Then, with the last of his strength he places the mysteriously carved ancient domino in to Agent Lambert’s hand and whispers “Protect Cyprus.”
That’s when my inner geek looked up from her book and informed me we would be reading for some time to come...so buckle up buttercup. She wanted to find out how these two seemingly unrelated stories were connected.
Naturally, I’m not going to go through this story and spoon-feed you what happens...oh no, no spoilers here! My inner history geek would kick my butt if I did that. Besides, we both want you to have the enjoyment of going on this ride for yourself. And an action packed thrill ride it is too! Very rarely do I actually use the words page-turner, but this one really was for me. I didn’t want to stop reading.
Aside from gushing about how much I enjoyed this book I want to take a moment to mention the astonishing amount of factual data Mr. Gianni had to keep straight as a story-teller. As I read, it quickly became evident just exactly how much research he must have done. As a reader of this story at times it became almost dizzying trying to keep things straight in my own head.
I cannot fathom what it must have been like trying to keep all the names, dates, locations, and historical facts he interjects into this book straight as a writer. Can you imagine what his writing environment had to look like? I have this vision in my mind of string strung from one event to another in a haphazard spider web with post-it notes all over the place. So, kudos Mr. Gianni! The research pays off!
Obviously I loved this book. The history geek in me is still jumping up and down as she shoves her glasses back up her nose and is gleefully demanding more as I write this review. Mr. Gianni brought ancient history with some artistic license to the present and made it feel like I was participating in an Indiana Jones flick. Really, I can’t ask for more than that...I felt so involved and invested in the story.
If you are someone who loves ancient history or simply loves a really great action packed story...pick this one up; I highly recommend it. As for me...I give it a very rare 5 out of 5 stars. Well done Mr. Gianni and thank you for asking me to read and review. Now, when is the next one coming out?
If you'd like to see more of my reviews visit me at my blog.... Green Eyed Irish Lass's Book Reviews & More
December 30, 2019
Matt Gianni's debut novel, Lever Templar, is a riveting start to his Castellum One series. The book is part historical and part contemporary fiction, and it is all fast-paced intrigue and action.
Lever Templar is told in two time periods: the 14th century and the present day. The novel toggles back and forth, and the time changes are easy to follow. The two stories are not parallel; Brim Hastings' historic actions create the present day danger Rick Lambert and others finds themselves in.
Mr. Gianni provides his readers with detailed descriptions of locations and organizations. They're so vivid, I couldn't help but feel that I was physically present in each scene. The author's knowledge/research is evident in the details of the story, and those details will be delicious to readers who love to get down and dirty in their history and conspiracy theory. While I found the novel incredibly well-written, the broad cast of characters was a bit overwhelming. Many of the characters have bit parts, or roles that seem insignificant until the story approaches culmination. Like many action-oriented thrillers, the characters are not overly developed. Readers get a sense of Brim and Rick's motivations, but not much of their emotions or human attachments.
I love a good story about a Knights Templar intrigue; the material is rife with possibilities. Author Matt Gianni delivers a rich conflict between church and state that creates the foundation for murderous a power struggle. By the end of the book, I'm sure every reader will be pondering the possibility of an ancient scroll driving current day conflicts. Fans of Dan Brown novels are sure to love Matt Gianni's Lever Templar.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
Lever Templar is told in two time periods: the 14th century and the present day. The novel toggles back and forth, and the time changes are easy to follow. The two stories are not parallel; Brim Hastings' historic actions create the present day danger Rick Lambert and others finds themselves in.
Mr. Gianni provides his readers with detailed descriptions of locations and organizations. They're so vivid, I couldn't help but feel that I was physically present in each scene. The author's knowledge/research is evident in the details of the story, and those details will be delicious to readers who love to get down and dirty in their history and conspiracy theory. While I found the novel incredibly well-written, the broad cast of characters was a bit overwhelming. Many of the characters have bit parts, or roles that seem insignificant until the story approaches culmination. Like many action-oriented thrillers, the characters are not overly developed. Readers get a sense of Brim and Rick's motivations, but not much of their emotions or human attachments.
I love a good story about a Knights Templar intrigue; the material is rife with possibilities. Author Matt Gianni delivers a rich conflict between church and state that creates the foundation for murderous a power struggle. By the end of the book, I'm sure every reader will be pondering the possibility of an ancient scroll driving current day conflicts. Fans of Dan Brown novels are sure to love Matt Gianni's Lever Templar.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
February 7, 2019
“What is history but a fable agreed upon?” —Napoleon Bonaparte
Washington author Matt Gianni graduated first from the University of Washington in 1990 and then from New Mexico State University in 2000. His technical pursuits took him to General Dynamics in San Diego, then to consulting jobs all over North America, and finally back to Seattle for a long stint with Boeing. After a long career in aeronautical engineering and flight instruction, writing countless airplane flight manuals for Boeing and instructional articles for flying magazines, Matt began writing fiction. LEVER TEMPLAR is his publishing debut and it is the first in a series of dual timeline historical fiction / contemporary thrillers, pitting heroes and villains across centuries.
The key to this novel and to the series is the Castellum One team, a covert investigations unit financed by the Vatican and run by elements of the US Intelligence Community. A sensitive aspect of Matt’s writing is found at the beginning of the book – a list of the characters from the 14th Century (actual historical figures are designated) and a list of characters from the present day – a reference guide that truly aids the reader in this book that spans seven centuries. These casts of characters are followed by fine maps of the local of Part one and of Part 2.
To condense this epic adventure thriller, Matt supplies a fine plot outline – ‘As the crusader era ends, Templar Sergeant Brim Hastings must free his imprisoned brethren by surrendering the heretical scroll that has enabled their two-hundred-year leverage over the Roman Catholic Church. After escaping his order's persecution, and having the role of savior thrust upon him, he and Cypriot apprentice tanner Shayla Kostas discover the boundaries between good and evil are not where they'd thought. Seven centuries later, Rick Lambert's investigation into Christian priest abductions in Iraq grows in scope after he's given a cryptic Roman gaming stone. As he learns of the motive for recent Templar preceptory demolitions throughout France, he and his team must prevent religious extremists from shattering Christianity by winning the race to rediscover the Vectis Templi—the Lever of the Temple.‘
But the jewel of Matt Gianni’s talent in transporting us across this bifid historical drama is best observed in his writing: Chapter One August 14, 1307 Shipley, England - Of the oaths sworn to the order, Brim Hastings knew it was his obedience being tested. His poverty had always been transparent given the enormous communal resources of the order, and his chastity had yet to be seen as a sacrifice, given his mostly cloistered seventeen years of life. But obedience? This he found difficult. Nevertheless, he nervously followed his mentor, Malcolm of Basingstoke, through the narthex of Shipley Church. Angus, the knight’s squat and brutish squire, led the way. The three crept along the darkened north aisle. Brim flinched upon hearing a gasp ahead. Malcolm calmly guided Angus toward the pews to the right with his right hand on the squire’s left shoulder. The knight then addressed the figure in front of them. “Continue.” And then in Chapter Two -Present day Iraq –‘During the last two months, the pair of agents from Iraq’s Ministry of Interior Investigations Unit was assigned the case of the Christian priest abductions. This morning, they‘d responded to a call from Father Zephyros Topolis of the Christian Church of Kanisah, in the dusty northwestern Mosul suburb of the same name. Topolis claimed men had scoped out the small warehouse he’d turned into a chapel, an insignificant structure compared with the Sahaba Mosque two blocks north and Mosul’s Grand Mosque just across the Tigris to the east.’
Two periods that will interlock closely as the story develops. Matt’s mastery of the differences and similarities in the two time frames weaves together one tremendously satisfying epic as we discover the interlocking aspects of LEVER TEMPLAR. A very impressive debut novel by man who deserves our attention.
Washington author Matt Gianni graduated first from the University of Washington in 1990 and then from New Mexico State University in 2000. His technical pursuits took him to General Dynamics in San Diego, then to consulting jobs all over North America, and finally back to Seattle for a long stint with Boeing. After a long career in aeronautical engineering and flight instruction, writing countless airplane flight manuals for Boeing and instructional articles for flying magazines, Matt began writing fiction. LEVER TEMPLAR is his publishing debut and it is the first in a series of dual timeline historical fiction / contemporary thrillers, pitting heroes and villains across centuries.
The key to this novel and to the series is the Castellum One team, a covert investigations unit financed by the Vatican and run by elements of the US Intelligence Community. A sensitive aspect of Matt’s writing is found at the beginning of the book – a list of the characters from the 14th Century (actual historical figures are designated) and a list of characters from the present day – a reference guide that truly aids the reader in this book that spans seven centuries. These casts of characters are followed by fine maps of the local of Part one and of Part 2.
To condense this epic adventure thriller, Matt supplies a fine plot outline – ‘As the crusader era ends, Templar Sergeant Brim Hastings must free his imprisoned brethren by surrendering the heretical scroll that has enabled their two-hundred-year leverage over the Roman Catholic Church. After escaping his order's persecution, and having the role of savior thrust upon him, he and Cypriot apprentice tanner Shayla Kostas discover the boundaries between good and evil are not where they'd thought. Seven centuries later, Rick Lambert's investigation into Christian priest abductions in Iraq grows in scope after he's given a cryptic Roman gaming stone. As he learns of the motive for recent Templar preceptory demolitions throughout France, he and his team must prevent religious extremists from shattering Christianity by winning the race to rediscover the Vectis Templi—the Lever of the Temple.‘
But the jewel of Matt Gianni’s talent in transporting us across this bifid historical drama is best observed in his writing: Chapter One August 14, 1307 Shipley, England - Of the oaths sworn to the order, Brim Hastings knew it was his obedience being tested. His poverty had always been transparent given the enormous communal resources of the order, and his chastity had yet to be seen as a sacrifice, given his mostly cloistered seventeen years of life. But obedience? This he found difficult. Nevertheless, he nervously followed his mentor, Malcolm of Basingstoke, through the narthex of Shipley Church. Angus, the knight’s squat and brutish squire, led the way. The three crept along the darkened north aisle. Brim flinched upon hearing a gasp ahead. Malcolm calmly guided Angus toward the pews to the right with his right hand on the squire’s left shoulder. The knight then addressed the figure in front of them. “Continue.” And then in Chapter Two -Present day Iraq –‘During the last two months, the pair of agents from Iraq’s Ministry of Interior Investigations Unit was assigned the case of the Christian priest abductions. This morning, they‘d responded to a call from Father Zephyros Topolis of the Christian Church of Kanisah, in the dusty northwestern Mosul suburb of the same name. Topolis claimed men had scoped out the small warehouse he’d turned into a chapel, an insignificant structure compared with the Sahaba Mosque two blocks north and Mosul’s Grand Mosque just across the Tigris to the east.’
Two periods that will interlock closely as the story develops. Matt’s mastery of the differences and similarities in the two time frames weaves together one tremendously satisfying epic as we discover the interlocking aspects of LEVER TEMPLAR. A very impressive debut novel by man who deserves our attention.
September 9, 2019
This book is, for the most part, historical fiction in which the religious and military Order of the Knights Templar provides the background. The Templars were a chivalric order of warrior-monks who fought in the Crusades. In 1291, following their defeat at Acre, a port-city in middle-age Syria, the Templars were forced to leave the last remaining Crusader refuge in the Holy Land. At the time the story begins, the Knights Templar have retreated on the Greek/Turkish island of Cyprus where they garner political influence over its ruler, Amalric de Lusignan. Then, as the 14th century unfolds, the Order of the Knights Templar is tragically dissolved by Pope Clement V and its members martyred by secular forces at the order of Philip IV, king of France.
The book begins in early 14th century England, with the theft of a mysterious scroll from a Templar safe. The Catholic Church is intent on capturing the ancient document, and a race for the scroll starts that will propel the reader on a giddying journey from England to Cyprus to France, ending on the shores of the Levant.
Leapfrog to the 21st century, and Christian priests are being abducted in Iraq by Muslim militant extremists. While trying to solve the case, a team of American secret agents discovers that the lost scroll of years past is at the center of the mysterious disappearances. The Vatican gets involved and a modern race for the lost scroll ensues with an impressive display of ultra-modern and futuristic weapons. The two stories are told in alternating chapters, an interesting twist but in my view, not a happy one.
Matt Gianni deserves high praise for the well-researched historical part, which I very much enjoyed. I had to refer often to the long list of characters provided at the beginning, as it was hard to remember who was who. A short historical background would also have been helpful, and I found myself checking the history on the internet to get a clearer sense of what was going on. (Unfortunately, those issues considerably slowed down the pace of the reading.)
The modern-day chase for the scroll plunges the reader in a James-Bond fantasy world, complete with an improbable hostage rescue, a car chase through the narrow streets of an old Cypriot city, and a dramatic explosion of the said car but no worries, the American secret agents had bailed out just in time. Reading that the protagonist boarded a CDF Dassault Falcon 50 instead of a C-2IA (those are planes,) and that he drew his SSIG Sauer PC-9 ZOAF reminded me that I prefer to watch 007 on a large screen.
The historical part of the Lever Templar has been compared to the Da Vinci Code. Both these fictional stories invoke the frantic search for an ancient document that rattles the fundamental precepts of Christianity, and both are historical thrillers. As for me, I found that the development and resolution of crises and conflicts in Templar lack the sophistication of Da Vinci. To achieve the respectability of the Da Vinci Code, Lever Templar would also benefit from thorough copy-editing.
Having said this, I credit the author for creating an interesting plot which he nimbly weaves through a strong and fascinating historical background. This historical fiction has great potential even if it needs some refinement.
The book begins in early 14th century England, with the theft of a mysterious scroll from a Templar safe. The Catholic Church is intent on capturing the ancient document, and a race for the scroll starts that will propel the reader on a giddying journey from England to Cyprus to France, ending on the shores of the Levant.
Leapfrog to the 21st century, and Christian priests are being abducted in Iraq by Muslim militant extremists. While trying to solve the case, a team of American secret agents discovers that the lost scroll of years past is at the center of the mysterious disappearances. The Vatican gets involved and a modern race for the lost scroll ensues with an impressive display of ultra-modern and futuristic weapons. The two stories are told in alternating chapters, an interesting twist but in my view, not a happy one.
Matt Gianni deserves high praise for the well-researched historical part, which I very much enjoyed. I had to refer often to the long list of characters provided at the beginning, as it was hard to remember who was who. A short historical background would also have been helpful, and I found myself checking the history on the internet to get a clearer sense of what was going on. (Unfortunately, those issues considerably slowed down the pace of the reading.)
The modern-day chase for the scroll plunges the reader in a James-Bond fantasy world, complete with an improbable hostage rescue, a car chase through the narrow streets of an old Cypriot city, and a dramatic explosion of the said car but no worries, the American secret agents had bailed out just in time. Reading that the protagonist boarded a CDF Dassault Falcon 50 instead of a C-2IA (those are planes,) and that he drew his SSIG Sauer PC-9 ZOAF reminded me that I prefer to watch 007 on a large screen.
The historical part of the Lever Templar has been compared to the Da Vinci Code. Both these fictional stories invoke the frantic search for an ancient document that rattles the fundamental precepts of Christianity, and both are historical thrillers. As for me, I found that the development and resolution of crises and conflicts in Templar lack the sophistication of Da Vinci. To achieve the respectability of the Da Vinci Code, Lever Templar would also benefit from thorough copy-editing.
Having said this, I credit the author for creating an interesting plot which he nimbly weaves through a strong and fascinating historical background. This historical fiction has great potential even if it needs some refinement.
March 31, 2020
In his debut novel, ‘Lever Templar’, author Matt Gianni takes us back to the fourteenth century with this remarkable historical adventure thriller. The book consists of two storylines from a couple of different time periods- the fourteenth century and the present day. Both these eras become entangled when Rick Lambert investigates the curious case of the missing Christian priests in Iraq.
Those familiar with the book ‘Da Vinci Code’ by Dan Brown will have an idea about the concept of the ‘Templar Knights’. They are a secret faction of medieval Christianity that had unceasing power and influence, even over the all-powerful Roman Catholic Church. Both eras observe friction between faith and advancement. The book starts in the year 1307 when Templar Sergeant, Birm Hastings, is forced to make a difficult decision to save his brethren. Hastings gives up the heretical scroll and frees his imprisoned brothers but this move costs him the leverage that they had over the Roman Catholic Church for over a couple of centuries. Seven centuries later, Rick Lambert and his team set out to find this scroll to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.
Lambert is given a cryptic Roman gaming stone and soon; he finds that this case of Christian priests’ abduction is more convoluted than he had originally thought. Along with his team, Lambert sets out to protect Christianity from the religious extremists by finding the Lever Scroll of the Templars, first. Albeit they are seven hundred years apart, both eras share striking similarities. Similar to the huge responsibility that Hastings undertook, Lambert also shoulders the lead in this difficult quest and races to find the cryptic scroll that apparently has the power to reshape Christianity. From exciting car chases to nail-biting rescue missions and modern military tactics, Gianni doesn’t disappoint. This book also contains well written, strong and smart female characters like Maria. Even though some aspects of her role in this book were foreseeable, it was still enjoyable to read.
Author Gianni didn’t hold back on the adventure and twists in this action-packed book. He details how religious extremists, an anachronism that has somehow prevailed over the centuries, refuse to compromise. Both eras are written with remarkable verve and wit. The beginning of the book contains a list of characters from both time periods. It also includes maps that give us a general idea of the location and its structures. These two features act as a guide for the characters and also for readers to visualise locations in both the periods being covered. Even though this book is a work of fiction, it is very believable and contains a lot of factual information.
‘Lever Templar’ demands every ounce of the readers’ attention as it is loaded with information. It is written entirely in the third person. Gianni smoothly and expertly switches between the two-timelines. The writing is focused, mostly, on developing the plot and not the characters. Even though the book is packed with information, it is still easy to read and understand. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes reading adventure, historical thrillers or espionage novels.
Those familiar with the book ‘Da Vinci Code’ by Dan Brown will have an idea about the concept of the ‘Templar Knights’. They are a secret faction of medieval Christianity that had unceasing power and influence, even over the all-powerful Roman Catholic Church. Both eras observe friction between faith and advancement. The book starts in the year 1307 when Templar Sergeant, Birm Hastings, is forced to make a difficult decision to save his brethren. Hastings gives up the heretical scroll and frees his imprisoned brothers but this move costs him the leverage that they had over the Roman Catholic Church for over a couple of centuries. Seven centuries later, Rick Lambert and his team set out to find this scroll to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.
Lambert is given a cryptic Roman gaming stone and soon; he finds that this case of Christian priests’ abduction is more convoluted than he had originally thought. Along with his team, Lambert sets out to protect Christianity from the religious extremists by finding the Lever Scroll of the Templars, first. Albeit they are seven hundred years apart, both eras share striking similarities. Similar to the huge responsibility that Hastings undertook, Lambert also shoulders the lead in this difficult quest and races to find the cryptic scroll that apparently has the power to reshape Christianity. From exciting car chases to nail-biting rescue missions and modern military tactics, Gianni doesn’t disappoint. This book also contains well written, strong and smart female characters like Maria. Even though some aspects of her role in this book were foreseeable, it was still enjoyable to read.
Author Gianni didn’t hold back on the adventure and twists in this action-packed book. He details how religious extremists, an anachronism that has somehow prevailed over the centuries, refuse to compromise. Both eras are written with remarkable verve and wit. The beginning of the book contains a list of characters from both time periods. It also includes maps that give us a general idea of the location and its structures. These two features act as a guide for the characters and also for readers to visualise locations in both the periods being covered. Even though this book is a work of fiction, it is very believable and contains a lot of factual information.
‘Lever Templar’ demands every ounce of the readers’ attention as it is loaded with information. It is written entirely in the third person. Gianni smoothly and expertly switches between the two-timelines. The writing is focused, mostly, on developing the plot and not the characters. Even though the book is packed with information, it is still easy to read and understand. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes reading adventure, historical thrillers or espionage novels.
June 26, 2019
This historical-action-espionage novel (as strange as that combo may sound) asks the question: just what was it that allowed the Knights Templar to exert influence in or over the Roman Catholic church during the 12th/13th centuries? And what if that object still posed a threat to Christian belief in modern times? And can we build a novel around such a potentially controversial threat?
This is the basis for Matt Gianni’s Lever Templar, a novel that skilfully weaves a historical action tale set in the early 14th century with a contemporary thriller. Revolving around the demise of the Knights Templar by Philip IV and combining the machinations of the French Pope Clement V, Gianni draws together a vast cast of characters and relies on blending a variety of real and supposed personages. The reader is teased by some references demanding further research and also rewarded by illuminating lesser-known aspects of the fall of the Templar order.
The initial cast of characters seems rather daunting and initially, the short chapters flipping back and forth between multiple settings in historical and contemporary time is slightly confusing. However, as the novel plays out and the main protagonists are identified and fleshed out the narrative gels very nicely. The action is fast-passed and well balanced. The twists and the short chapters make this a gripping read. Likewise, the shorter chapters allow for stepping away and returning right back to the action as suits the reader.
Some aspects of the constructed narrative stretch credulity at times. I am not entirely convinced of the ability of ‘the Alumni’ being able to exist and quietly build and suddenly overwhelm Syria (a nation-state in civil war or otherwise) or of Iran that had allowed the group to foment. Likewise, the ability (or even desire) of the US or the UK, to intervene quickly and decisively or to still serve as the world’s policeman seems slightly dated.
The novel is aided by superb maps and by a skilful blend of background information about the Templars and the historical shape of the late 13th and early 14th centuries. Combining this with a shadowy terrorist group that feel equally sure that the same object that so threatened the Catholic church in history could similarly sow similar chaos in the modern day.
This novel reads in a not dissimilar way to Geraldine Brooks’ People of the Book or Charlie Lovett’s Lost Book of the Grail. However, unlike these, this initial and debut novel sets up and promises a follow series ‘Castellum One’ – the name given to the unique cast of characters assembled in this novel to investigate and combat the forces of evil in modern time. I look forward to the next novel and highly commend this first one for readers appreciating a historical novel, alternate historical novel or simply those appreciating a rich and well-constructed action suspense novel. You’ll appreciate the well-developed characters and maybe even learn a bit about the history played with to construct the story. This would undoubtedly appeal to fans of Dan Brown’s novels.
This is the basis for Matt Gianni’s Lever Templar, a novel that skilfully weaves a historical action tale set in the early 14th century with a contemporary thriller. Revolving around the demise of the Knights Templar by Philip IV and combining the machinations of the French Pope Clement V, Gianni draws together a vast cast of characters and relies on blending a variety of real and supposed personages. The reader is teased by some references demanding further research and also rewarded by illuminating lesser-known aspects of the fall of the Templar order.
The initial cast of characters seems rather daunting and initially, the short chapters flipping back and forth between multiple settings in historical and contemporary time is slightly confusing. However, as the novel plays out and the main protagonists are identified and fleshed out the narrative gels very nicely. The action is fast-passed and well balanced. The twists and the short chapters make this a gripping read. Likewise, the shorter chapters allow for stepping away and returning right back to the action as suits the reader.
Some aspects of the constructed narrative stretch credulity at times. I am not entirely convinced of the ability of ‘the Alumni’ being able to exist and quietly build and suddenly overwhelm Syria (a nation-state in civil war or otherwise) or of Iran that had allowed the group to foment. Likewise, the ability (or even desire) of the US or the UK, to intervene quickly and decisively or to still serve as the world’s policeman seems slightly dated.
The novel is aided by superb maps and by a skilful blend of background information about the Templars and the historical shape of the late 13th and early 14th centuries. Combining this with a shadowy terrorist group that feel equally sure that the same object that so threatened the Catholic church in history could similarly sow similar chaos in the modern day.
This novel reads in a not dissimilar way to Geraldine Brooks’ People of the Book or Charlie Lovett’s Lost Book of the Grail. However, unlike these, this initial and debut novel sets up and promises a follow series ‘Castellum One’ – the name given to the unique cast of characters assembled in this novel to investigate and combat the forces of evil in modern time. I look forward to the next novel and highly commend this first one for readers appreciating a historical novel, alternate historical novel or simply those appreciating a rich and well-constructed action suspense novel. You’ll appreciate the well-developed characters and maybe even learn a bit about the history played with to construct the story. This would undoubtedly appeal to fans of Dan Brown’s novels.
May 29, 2019
What did the 14th Century Knights Templar possess that gave them leverage for 200 years over the Roman Catholic Church? Some thought it a stupendous treasure of wealth; this story proposes instead it was a Roman scroll recording first century events that would shake the foundations of the Church and all Christianity. Vectis Templi—Lever of the Temple—is the object of relentless pursuit by agents of radical Islam and the Vatican in contemporary times, and the source of conflict between the Templars and Church in medieval times.
Although complex, the story is well-written and quickly draws readers in. Starting with Templar sergeant Brimley Hastings helping his mentor steal the scroll from a Templar monastery in England, the action proceeds apace keeping you wondering why and what next. Shifting chapter by chapter between early 1300s and contemporary 2000s, two threads gradually reveal the scroll's travels to Cyprus, the Templar's valiant struggle to keep possession as their order is persecuted by the French king and Church leadership, and the violent campaign operated by modern Iranian radicals to find it. The other protagonist, Rick Lambert, is an American agent working for the Iraqi government. He is assigned to investigate disappearances of Christian priests, and discovers a well-funded and equipped militant Iranian group behind the plot. Following cues that his history background and U.S. connections in academia and intelligence help decipher, his team winds up in Cyprus where they believe the scroll is hidden. We learn how the threads of these stories, separated by 700 years, are woven together in an exciting, though somewhat over the edge, denouement.
The characters are well-developed and multi-layered, dialogue believable, descriptions vivid and compelling, the plot so intricate that I had to go back to remember connections. But, it kept my interest and at times I couldn't put the book down. Having the list of characters was indispensable. Historic facts (or fictional "facts") were smoothly blended into the story, giving a rich portrait of life in the 1300s and dangers faced by contemporary operatives. Unless you're a fan of weaponry (which I'm not), constant details about types of swords, guns, bombs, helicopters, and ships get tedious. There is copious information in this well-researched novel, nectar to serious historical fiction buffs, but a bit much otherwise. The story would have moved better with less.
The thought-provoking conclusion makes one wonder if history indeed is "but a fable agreed upon" as Napoleon said. What impact would re-writing the mythos of Christianity have? One thing's for certain: humankind's propensity for warfare has not changed in 700 years; just that our means for killing have gotten more effective.
I received a copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
Although complex, the story is well-written and quickly draws readers in. Starting with Templar sergeant Brimley Hastings helping his mentor steal the scroll from a Templar monastery in England, the action proceeds apace keeping you wondering why and what next. Shifting chapter by chapter between early 1300s and contemporary 2000s, two threads gradually reveal the scroll's travels to Cyprus, the Templar's valiant struggle to keep possession as their order is persecuted by the French king and Church leadership, and the violent campaign operated by modern Iranian radicals to find it. The other protagonist, Rick Lambert, is an American agent working for the Iraqi government. He is assigned to investigate disappearances of Christian priests, and discovers a well-funded and equipped militant Iranian group behind the plot. Following cues that his history background and U.S. connections in academia and intelligence help decipher, his team winds up in Cyprus where they believe the scroll is hidden. We learn how the threads of these stories, separated by 700 years, are woven together in an exciting, though somewhat over the edge, denouement.
The characters are well-developed and multi-layered, dialogue believable, descriptions vivid and compelling, the plot so intricate that I had to go back to remember connections. But, it kept my interest and at times I couldn't put the book down. Having the list of characters was indispensable. Historic facts (or fictional "facts") were smoothly blended into the story, giving a rich portrait of life in the 1300s and dangers faced by contemporary operatives. Unless you're a fan of weaponry (which I'm not), constant details about types of swords, guns, bombs, helicopters, and ships get tedious. There is copious information in this well-researched novel, nectar to serious historical fiction buffs, but a bit much otherwise. The story would have moved better with less.
The thought-provoking conclusion makes one wonder if history indeed is "but a fable agreed upon" as Napoleon said. What impact would re-writing the mythos of Christianity have? One thing's for certain: humankind's propensity for warfare has not changed in 700 years; just that our means for killing have gotten more effective.
I received a copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
July 16, 2019
Tom Clancy meets Dan Brown meets Robyn Young
Meticulously crafted, painstakingly researched, and engagingly told, Lever Templar is the story of a mysterious ancient scroll that holds a secret so profound that it could possibly upend the foundations of Christianity.
Other popular books have been written around a similar plotline, but what sets Lever Templar apart is that it is both a historical epic as well as a modern-day action thriller. The historical tale, set in the early 14th century, follows the adventures of a Templar sergeant, Brimley Hastings, as he witnesses the persecution of his Order and struggles to prevent the secret from falling into the wrong hands. The modern-day story revolves around the Castellum One team—an eclectic bunch of individuals that include an American-Iraqi secret agent, a Robert Langdonish historian, twin demolition experts, and a female Vatican police officer—and their race to locate the scroll before the bad guys do. The two narratives are presented as alternating chapters, both ultimately converging into a climactic reveal.
I was blown away by the attention to detail the author brings to both the narrative arcs. His historical research is impeccable, and the breadth of knowledge he displays throughout the present-day arc—whether it is in laying out tense gun battles or describing the intricacies of archaeological preservation—would put many experienced thriller writers to shame. Did I mention that this is his debut novel? All the more reason to be impressed!
My overall impression is a bit mixed though. The modern-day thriller part of the book is more or less perfect: it delivers delights and action in abundance and the story is engaging from start to finish. The central characters are all interesting on their own merit, and have been fleshed out enough to make you crave more Castellum One adventures. It is the historical tale that I found myself struggling with quite a bit—despite having more than a passing interest in the medieval period. The setting itself is quite interesting—the Templar persecution by the king Philip IV of France (the origin of the Friday the 13th superstition)—and so are the main characters, but the story gets bogged down in a glut of details, narrations of political machinations, and historical fact-stating that should have been pared down greatly. I felt that this arc would have been a lot more enjoyable if the focus had been on Brim Hastings and his nemesis, Cibalik Darcan, with the convoluted politics and the side characters relegated to the background. Brimley’s story does get more engaging at around the midway mark though, so don’t give up.
All in all, an amazing debut from Matt Giani, who looks all set to scale much greater literary heights. If you are a fan of historical thrillers, you should definitely give this one a try. 4 ½ stars.
Meticulously crafted, painstakingly researched, and engagingly told, Lever Templar is the story of a mysterious ancient scroll that holds a secret so profound that it could possibly upend the foundations of Christianity.
Other popular books have been written around a similar plotline, but what sets Lever Templar apart is that it is both a historical epic as well as a modern-day action thriller. The historical tale, set in the early 14th century, follows the adventures of a Templar sergeant, Brimley Hastings, as he witnesses the persecution of his Order and struggles to prevent the secret from falling into the wrong hands. The modern-day story revolves around the Castellum One team—an eclectic bunch of individuals that include an American-Iraqi secret agent, a Robert Langdonish historian, twin demolition experts, and a female Vatican police officer—and their race to locate the scroll before the bad guys do. The two narratives are presented as alternating chapters, both ultimately converging into a climactic reveal.
I was blown away by the attention to detail the author brings to both the narrative arcs. His historical research is impeccable, and the breadth of knowledge he displays throughout the present-day arc—whether it is in laying out tense gun battles or describing the intricacies of archaeological preservation—would put many experienced thriller writers to shame. Did I mention that this is his debut novel? All the more reason to be impressed!
My overall impression is a bit mixed though. The modern-day thriller part of the book is more or less perfect: it delivers delights and action in abundance and the story is engaging from start to finish. The central characters are all interesting on their own merit, and have been fleshed out enough to make you crave more Castellum One adventures. It is the historical tale that I found myself struggling with quite a bit—despite having more than a passing interest in the medieval period. The setting itself is quite interesting—the Templar persecution by the king Philip IV of France (the origin of the Friday the 13th superstition)—and so are the main characters, but the story gets bogged down in a glut of details, narrations of political machinations, and historical fact-stating that should have been pared down greatly. I felt that this arc would have been a lot more enjoyable if the focus had been on Brim Hastings and his nemesis, Cibalik Darcan, with the convoluted politics and the side characters relegated to the background. Brimley’s story does get more engaging at around the midway mark though, so don’t give up.
All in all, an amazing debut from Matt Giani, who looks all set to scale much greater literary heights. If you are a fan of historical thrillers, you should definitely give this one a try. 4 ½ stars.
July 10, 2019
So although I ended up really enjoying this book, I found that I kept getting distracted or intimidated by it at first. I tend to read 'lighter' fare when I read because my brain just needs a rest. This book definitely wasn't a 'light' read, but that isn't a bad thing at all. It was just different than what I'm generally used to.
The list of characters in the beginning really overwhelmed me and I felt like I had to know/remember all of that before I even started reading. This is my own issue, though. I have a hard time just moving past it to start the book. It was nice to have the list to refer to later, but I almost wish it had been at the back of the book instead.
BUT when I finally did get into it, I enjoyed it. The pacing was great and I really like history/historical fiction and suspense, but this had a LOT of information to absorb. That being said, it was a slow start for me. It very much reminded me of the DaVinci Code.
I had to push through until it started to tie together more and THEN I was completely hooked.
There were times when there was a bit 'too much' information, which isn't really my thing and took me out of the story, but all in all, it was fantastic. I just had to get out of my own head and stop trying to figure things out before they happened!
I love the two different stories, the way that this covered two completely different time periods. It fascinates me to see how the past and the future intertwine and affect each other.
Very intense, great read, just don't let yourself get bogged down by the details before you even start like I did!
The list of characters in the beginning really overwhelmed me and I felt like I had to know/remember all of that before I even started reading. This is my own issue, though. I have a hard time just moving past it to start the book. It was nice to have the list to refer to later, but I almost wish it had been at the back of the book instead.
BUT when I finally did get into it, I enjoyed it. The pacing was great and I really like history/historical fiction and suspense, but this had a LOT of information to absorb. That being said, it was a slow start for me. It very much reminded me of the DaVinci Code.
I had to push through until it started to tie together more and THEN I was completely hooked.
There were times when there was a bit 'too much' information, which isn't really my thing and took me out of the story, but all in all, it was fantastic. I just had to get out of my own head and stop trying to figure things out before they happened!
I love the two different stories, the way that this covered two completely different time periods. It fascinates me to see how the past and the future intertwine and affect each other.
Very intense, great read, just don't let yourself get bogged down by the details before you even start like I did!
June 18, 2019
Lever Templar is a tale of two eras - the 1300s during the time of the suppression of the Knights Templar by the King of France and the Vatican, and the present day, when Islamic factions and the West are still at war. The ancient story focuses on the discovery and concealment of an even more ancient scroll that contains information that could be shattering to Christianity, while the modern tale chronicles the search for that scroll by terrorists who would use it to destroy their most potent enemy, opposed by western warriors.
The two stories are told in alternating chapters, and dovetail nicely. The protagonists are noble, likeable and have considerable depth, and the antagonists are also three dimensional. Sometimes the impressive amount of historical detail causes the tension to flag, but there's also a lot of Tom Clancy-like technical detail, both ancient and modern, for those who like such things.
I enjoyed Levar Templar, even though I thought it was a bit too long. It would have only been made better by judicious editing of some of the more arcane details, and consolidation of the last few chapters into a concise ending after the revelation of the principal mystery. Still if you enjoy historical fiction or modern techno-thirillers, give it a try. You won't be disappointed.
The two stories are told in alternating chapters, and dovetail nicely. The protagonists are noble, likeable and have considerable depth, and the antagonists are also three dimensional. Sometimes the impressive amount of historical detail causes the tension to flag, but there's also a lot of Tom Clancy-like technical detail, both ancient and modern, for those who like such things.
I enjoyed Levar Templar, even though I thought it was a bit too long. It would have only been made better by judicious editing of some of the more arcane details, and consolidation of the last few chapters into a concise ending after the revelation of the principal mystery. Still if you enjoy historical fiction or modern techno-thirillers, give it a try. You won't be disappointed.
March 22, 2020
Lever Templar, Matt Gianni’s first novel, is a bit of a conundrum. A split story following two separate timelines, it came with a set of blurbs that pronounced what an amazing read it would be. If only it had lived up to that promise. Gianni attempts to tread through the same garden as Dan Brown or Clive Cussler, writing a mystery/adventure that ties together different timelines. But at times, the writing feels like he was just got bogged down – as if he had to cram in all the facts he’s learned. It’s a delicate balancing act, doing that much exposition without dragging the story to a grinding halt, one where the author ultimately fails.
There are a pair of females in the book, one on each story thread – and that’s it. I’m not sure if the author felt uncomfortable writing female characters, but he gave them few things to do. It continues with the female in the current day plotline’s emotional relationship with the lead protagonist – they fall in love because, well, that’s what they're supposed to do. No interaction leading to it, it is simply a binary process – they aren’t in love, then they are. Why? Because the author wants them to be. This story doesn’t just fail the Bechdel test, it doesn’t even attempt to sit down with a sharpened #2 pencil to start it.
In the end, the mechanics of the thriller are there, but very little juice. An example – we get over a page laying out the backstory of one of the antagonist’s tormentors growing up, setting up a potential conflict… and it’s resolved in two paragraphs. If this were a one-off it’s forgivable.. Instead, it’s the same thing, over and over throughout.
The ending sets this up as the start of a series. As noted, it is a first novel, and there are flashes of brilliance in it. But there are several bad habits to overcome in future works by this author.
There are a pair of females in the book, one on each story thread – and that’s it. I’m not sure if the author felt uncomfortable writing female characters, but he gave them few things to do. It continues with the female in the current day plotline’s emotional relationship with the lead protagonist – they fall in love because, well, that’s what they're supposed to do. No interaction leading to it, it is simply a binary process – they aren’t in love, then they are. Why? Because the author wants them to be. This story doesn’t just fail the Bechdel test, it doesn’t even attempt to sit down with a sharpened #2 pencil to start it.
In the end, the mechanics of the thriller are there, but very little juice. An example – we get over a page laying out the backstory of one of the antagonist’s tormentors growing up, setting up a potential conflict… and it’s resolved in two paragraphs. If this were a one-off it’s forgivable.. Instead, it’s the same thing, over and over throughout.
The ending sets this up as the start of a series. As noted, it is a first novel, and there are flashes of brilliance in it. But there are several bad habits to overcome in future works by this author.
May 5, 2020
Not typically what I read (military and religious history) but by happy coincidence I came across this book and I'm so glad I did.
The story begins with a young Templar sergeant following his mentor and coming across an ancient secret that endangers his life and everyone around him. Then the story flashes forward to Rick Lambert, a modern day military man based in Iraq, who is investigating a string of murders. The entire book switches back and forth between these two distinct storylines, with fantastic hints to the reader along the way showing how their lives intertwine.
There's a lot of different characters and political titles/historical references that I'm not familiar with so it wasn't an easy read, but the explosive action pulled me in and after a few chapters I couldn't put it down. My only complaint is that that Maria (one of the two female characters in the book) was a military operative who just didn't seem quite as capable as the men around her. It was nice to see her rise to the occasion at the end, but she didn't come across as authentic military to me (in the beginning).
Kudos to Matt Gianni for creating a thrilling tale of ancient secrets and political power plays. It's clear he undertook an extensive amount of research in order to develop a polished, interesting story that will stay with readers long after they finish the book!
The story begins with a young Templar sergeant following his mentor and coming across an ancient secret that endangers his life and everyone around him. Then the story flashes forward to Rick Lambert, a modern day military man based in Iraq, who is investigating a string of murders. The entire book switches back and forth between these two distinct storylines, with fantastic hints to the reader along the way showing how their lives intertwine.
There's a lot of different characters and political titles/historical references that I'm not familiar with so it wasn't an easy read, but the explosive action pulled me in and after a few chapters I couldn't put it down. My only complaint is that that Maria (one of the two female characters in the book) was a military operative who just didn't seem quite as capable as the men around her. It was nice to see her rise to the occasion at the end, but she didn't come across as authentic military to me (in the beginning).
Kudos to Matt Gianni for creating a thrilling tale of ancient secrets and political power plays. It's clear he undertook an extensive amount of research in order to develop a polished, interesting story that will stay with readers long after they finish the book!
April 25, 2019
Matt Gianni has written an excellent book here. The historical research that has gone into it is impressive, as too is the author's knowledge of modern day military equipment and tactics. My only issue would be that he sometimes put too much of this into the narrative. On one level it was fascinating to read, but unfortunately it also slowed the pace of the story on a number of occasions.
That aside, this is a very enjoyable book that kept me turning pages. The time shift between 14th and 21st Century is handled expertly and both storylines were exciting in their own right. The way that Gianni revealed them to the reader meant that both narratives were driving the action in their counterpart at different places in the book. Not an easy thing to do!
If you're a fan of Dan Brown, you should read this book. In fact, if you like historical fiction or thrillers in general you should read it. You will need to invest time and effort to become acquainted with the names and locations of the huge cast of characters spread across several countries and time periods. However, for a cleverly researched and strongly written book, it is worth the effort.
That aside, this is a very enjoyable book that kept me turning pages. The time shift between 14th and 21st Century is handled expertly and both storylines were exciting in their own right. The way that Gianni revealed them to the reader meant that both narratives were driving the action in their counterpart at different places in the book. Not an easy thing to do!
If you're a fan of Dan Brown, you should read this book. In fact, if you like historical fiction or thrillers in general you should read it. You will need to invest time and effort to become acquainted with the names and locations of the huge cast of characters spread across several countries and time periods. However, for a cleverly researched and strongly written book, it is worth the effort.
May 31, 2019
Set in two different time periods that alternate between chapters, Lever Templar is a fantastic book that balances both its past story-line and present story-line equally well. In the present, Rick Lambert is tasked with investigating the abductions of priests – who is taking them, and more importantly, why? While seven-hundred years in the past, Brimly Hastings, a Templar sergeant, accompanies his knight on an overseas mission along with stolen scrolls that can redefine Christianity. The two story-lines are complimentary so that by the end, they’re really telling a single story that all comes together in one piece.
I’m impressed with the level of detail and research that went into this novel. Gianni excels at weaving real historical figures and real historical events into his story. There’s a huge cast of characters, so make sure you’re paying attention (if you are, you’ll be rewarded). For those of you who like action, don’t worry, Gianni hasn’t forgotten you, and there are plenty of gunfights, sword-fights, and intrigue to keep you reading far into the night.
I’m impressed with the level of detail and research that went into this novel. Gianni excels at weaving real historical figures and real historical events into his story. There’s a huge cast of characters, so make sure you’re paying attention (if you are, you’ll be rewarded). For those of you who like action, don’t worry, Gianni hasn’t forgotten you, and there are plenty of gunfights, sword-fights, and intrigue to keep you reading far into the night.
July 29, 2019
Lever Templar has the makings of a best seller. It has many of the standard elements: mysterious document with implications for Christianity, Templars, the Vatican, research and searches, competition with the bad guys over who will get to the critical evidence first…In a way, this story has already been told. But in Lever Templar, the story is told very well with fluent writing, effective character and relationship development, and—best of all—both contemporary and historical plot lines. The present and the past mixed and touch, which added depth.
So basically this is a thriller with historical/religious themes. I am not well enough informed of history to know how authentic the historical stuff is, but it feels authentic. The author also presents military and intelligence details in a believable way. There is an element of “competence porn” to this narrative which also feels authentic.
I recommend this book to readers of thrillers. If you liked the DaVinci Code, you will like this book. It’s actually better.
So basically this is a thriller with historical/religious themes. I am not well enough informed of history to know how authentic the historical stuff is, but it feels authentic. The author also presents military and intelligence details in a believable way. There is an element of “competence porn” to this narrative which also feels authentic.
I recommend this book to readers of thrillers. If you liked the DaVinci Code, you will like this book. It’s actually better.
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