What do you think?
Rate this book
Knights Templar #3
City of God
Journey to the heart of an empire: a jaw-dropping historical adventure from master storyteller S.J.A. Turney
Arnau de Vallbona and his fellow Templar Brother Ramon are bound for the Holy Land to take part in the great Crusade when fate intervenes.
Delayed in Cyprus, they learn of a growing rift in Christendom: the crusading army has diverted from its course and threatens Rome’s allies in the Byzantine Empire. Arnau and Ramon, alongside the irascible Preceptor Bochard, race to Constantinople, encountering a grand and crumbling world of alliances and betrayals, emperors and armies.
The fate of the world is at stake. As Christian forces inexorably collide, Arnau is caught in the middle of an epic siege of the greatest city in the world. He will be tested to his limits: follow his vows... or do what's right?
A novel of awe inspiring scale, battle and story, this is a masterly telling of one of history's great turning points from S.J.A. Turney, perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell, Michael Jecks and K. M. Ashman
Praise for SJA Turney‘Turney masters politics, pace and pursuit in this death-defying twelfth-century story ... stunning story-telling’ Prue Batten, author of The Triptych Chronicle Trilogy
399 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 9, 2019
237 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
About the author
S.J.A. Turney
93 books497 followersSimon lives with his wife and children and a menagerie of animals in rural North Yorkshire, where he sits in an office, wired on coffee and digestive biscuits, and attempts to spin engrossing tales out of strands of imagination while his children drive toys across his desk and two dogs howl as they try to share a brain cell.
A born and bred Yorkshireman with a love of country, history and architecture, Simon spends most of his rare free time travelling around ancient sites, writing, researching the ancient world and reading voraciously.
Following an arcane and eclectic career path that wound through everything from sheep to Microsoft networks and from paint to car sales, Simon wrote Marius’ Mules and, with help and support, made a success of it. Now, with in excess of 20 novels under his belt, Simon writes full time and is represented by MMB Creative literary agents.
Simon writes Roman military novels in the form of the bestselling Marius’ Mules series based on Julius Caesar’s campaigns, Roman thrillers in the Praetorian series, set during the troubled reign of Commodus, medieval adventures in the Ottoman Cycle, following a young Greek thief around the 15th century world, and a series of Historical Fantasy novels with a Roman flavour, called the Tales of the Empire.
Simon can be found on Twitter as @SJATurney and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SJATurney/ as well as on his website http://www.sjaturney.co.uk
A born and bred Yorkshireman with a love of country, history and architecture, Simon spends most of his rare free time travelling around ancient sites, writing, researching the ancient world and reading voraciously.
Following an arcane and eclectic career path that wound through everything from sheep to Microsoft networks and from paint to car sales, Simon wrote Marius’ Mules and, with help and support, made a success of it. Now, with in excess of 20 novels under his belt, Simon writes full time and is represented by MMB Creative literary agents.
Simon writes Roman military novels in the form of the bestselling Marius’ Mules series based on Julius Caesar’s campaigns, Roman thrillers in the Praetorian series, set during the troubled reign of Commodus, medieval adventures in the Ottoman Cycle, following a young Greek thief around the 15th century world, and a series of Historical Fantasy novels with a Roman flavour, called the Tales of the Empire.
Simon can be found on Twitter as @SJATurney and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SJATurney/ as well as on his website http://www.sjaturney.co.uk
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 8, 2020
BLURB
Journey to the heart of an empire: a jaw-dropping historical adventure from master storyteller S.J.A. Turney
Arnau de Vallbona and his fellow Templar Brother Ramon are bound for the Holy Land to take part in the great Crusade when fate intervenes.
Delayed in Cyprus, they learn of a growing rift in Christendom: the crusading army has diverted from its course and threatens Rome’s allies in the Byzantine Empire. Arnau and Ramon, alongside the irascible Preceptor Bochard, race to Constantinople, encountering a grand and crumbling world of alliances and betrayals, emperors and armies.
The fate of the world is at stake. As Christian forces inexorably collide, Arnau is caught in the middle of an epic siege of the greatest city in the world. He will be tested to his limits: follow his vows... or do what's right?
A novel of awe inspiring scale, battle and story, this is a masterly telling of one of history's great turning points from S.J.A. Turney, perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell, Michael Jecks and K. M. Ashman
Praise for SJA Turney
‘Turney masters politics, pace and pursuit in this death-defying twelfth-century story ... stunning story-telling’ Prue Batten, author of The Triptych Chronicle Trilogy
REVIEW
When I grow up I want to be able to write historical fiction tales like Mr. Turney. City of God is another example of the author's prowess at putting words on a page; words that compels the reader, exhorts the reader, to keep turning those pages. In this tale we are taken to the historic fall of Constantinople, where Arnau is caught not only in the Frank/Venetian siege of the city, but also in the horns of a dilemma - the battle of an unwavering obedience to a rigid code versus the moral obligations inherent in the realities of the situation. Richly detailed, thoroughly researched, dramatic action, a plot dripping with irony and surprises, and characters who stand out from the page, City of God has it all.
5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Journey to the heart of an empire: a jaw-dropping historical adventure from master storyteller S.J.A. Turney
Arnau de Vallbona and his fellow Templar Brother Ramon are bound for the Holy Land to take part in the great Crusade when fate intervenes.
Delayed in Cyprus, they learn of a growing rift in Christendom: the crusading army has diverted from its course and threatens Rome’s allies in the Byzantine Empire. Arnau and Ramon, alongside the irascible Preceptor Bochard, race to Constantinople, encountering a grand and crumbling world of alliances and betrayals, emperors and armies.
The fate of the world is at stake. As Christian forces inexorably collide, Arnau is caught in the middle of an epic siege of the greatest city in the world. He will be tested to his limits: follow his vows... or do what's right?
A novel of awe inspiring scale, battle and story, this is a masterly telling of one of history's great turning points from S.J.A. Turney, perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell, Michael Jecks and K. M. Ashman
Praise for SJA Turney
‘Turney masters politics, pace and pursuit in this death-defying twelfth-century story ... stunning story-telling’ Prue Batten, author of The Triptych Chronicle Trilogy
REVIEW
When I grow up I want to be able to write historical fiction tales like Mr. Turney. City of God is another example of the author's prowess at putting words on a page; words that compels the reader, exhorts the reader, to keep turning those pages. In this tale we are taken to the historic fall of Constantinople, where Arnau is caught not only in the Frank/Venetian siege of the city, but also in the horns of a dilemma - the battle of an unwavering obedience to a rigid code versus the moral obligations inherent in the realities of the situation. Richly detailed, thoroughly researched, dramatic action, a plot dripping with irony and surprises, and characters who stand out from the page, City of God has it all.
5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
November 3, 2019
Fabulous!
This is an amazing story of the fourth carriage r and the siege and saving of Constantinople, told through the eyes of two Template knights. The third instalment of this stunning series, it is crammed full of action and drama, with incredible, sweeping battle scenes and intriguing insights into the murky world of medieval relic hunting. Highly recommended!
This is an amazing story of the fourth carriage r and the siege and saving of Constantinople, told through the eyes of two Template knights. The third instalment of this stunning series, it is crammed full of action and drama, with incredible, sweeping battle scenes and intriguing insights into the murky world of medieval relic hunting. Highly recommended!
July 20, 2019
Another great read in what is becoming my new favorite series by S.J.A Turney
The City of God captures history, drama, and excitement. Having discovered the Knights Templar series in May 2019, it's taken me no time to read through them all. I am looking forward to reading the next installment!
The City of God captures history, drama, and excitement. Having discovered the Knights Templar series in May 2019, it's taken me no time to read through them all. I am looking forward to reading the next installment!
July 12, 2020
Solid third installment
I am enjoying Turney's telling of the important events from this period of history and the involvement (or potential involvement) of the Templars in each. I am also enjoying our view into the maturation of Arnau and his tutelage from multiple mentors. I will pursue the next chapter when it is available.
I am enjoying Turney's telling of the important events from this period of history and the involvement (or potential involvement) of the Templars in each. I am also enjoying our view into the maturation of Arnau and his tutelage from multiple mentors. I will pursue the next chapter when it is available.
February 17, 2022
Something of a disappointment
The book starts off well with our young hero requirements new
mentor. The contrast between three different older brother s made for interesting reading. Later however the story of two frustrated onlookers to the siege became repetitive and sad. Unlike the other books this one has no big finish and ends with a convenient whimper.
The book starts off well with our young hero requirements new
mentor. The contrast between three different older brother s made for interesting reading. Later however the story of two frustrated onlookers to the siege became repetitive and sad. Unlike the other books this one has no big finish and ends with a convenient whimper.
February 25, 2022
Great Story
Another great insight into the history and events of a part of the world which is not readily familiar to most. As ever forensicaly researched by the author. However I would have liked to have seen the main characters of Arnau and Ramon being a little less than the squeaky clean guys they appear to be. Both being too wholesome at times to be believable.....
Another great insight into the history and events of a part of the world which is not readily familiar to most. As ever forensicaly researched by the author. However I would have liked to have seen the main characters of Arnau and Ramon being a little less than the squeaky clean guys they appear to be. Both being too wholesome at times to be believable.....
February 15, 2023
This was the third book in the series. While it was interesting, I didn't enjoy it as much as the first two. The decline of Constantinople and the siege and capture of the city in 1203-1204 by Venetians aided by Frank crusaders is the back ground for this story and our hero is trapped in the city under siege. Knowing the ultimate end of the siege made the book less enjoyable.
May 15, 2024
Another great read
It a little sad this book and part of history to read about the fall of such a grand city. The entire way through I was hoping the crusaders were going to fall. You also get a really good insite into Arnau and his personal battles with what is right and what his religion tells him is right.
It a little sad this book and part of history to read about the fall of such a grand city. The entire way through I was hoping the crusaders were going to fall. You also get a really good insite into Arnau and his personal battles with what is right and what his religion tells him is right.
June 18, 2019
Great new adventure
Great to see brother Arnu back on another adventure with another of his fellow chapter knights. Interesting play on the start of the demise of Byzantium and good authors notes at the end to explain the background. Looking forward to the next in the series.
Great to see brother Arnu back on another adventure with another of his fellow chapter knights. Interesting play on the start of the demise of Byzantium and good authors notes at the end to explain the background. Looking forward to the next in the series.
August 13, 2019
History made real
Thank you for your stories of events I may have heard of, but not connected to. Wonderful education with entertainment. Appreciate your research and scholarship. Please keep writing.
Thank you for your stories of events I may have heard of, but not connected to. Wonderful education with entertainment. Appreciate your research and scholarship. Please keep writing.
February 17, 2020
Informative
An interesting and informative read on a subject that I little understood. Now when I see a reference to The Disastrous Fourth Crusade I will understand why it was a disaster. Good.to be entertained while being informed.
An interesting and informative read on a subject that I little understood. Now when I see a reference to The Disastrous Fourth Crusade I will understand why it was a disaster. Good.to be entertained while being informed.
August 1, 2020
Another Good Read
Turney does not disappoint. Impossible to put down, as it's so cleverly paced. Can't wait to read the next instalment! One caveat: The endless Biblical quotes are wearisome, as they were in the previous two books.
Turney does not disappoint. Impossible to put down, as it's so cleverly paced. Can't wait to read the next instalment! One caveat: The endless Biblical quotes are wearisome, as they were in the previous two books.
October 13, 2020
Really enjoyed the 3rd book in the series, the journey and subsequent battles with those naughty Venetians is brilliant. Atmospheric and well told and just adds to my atheism as religion never seems to be a platform for peace, well, not in all the historical novels I read!!
September 9, 2021
Good reading
The last Three books have been good reading it gives you a good indication to the early days of the Templers life and travel I'm looking forward to reading the next book in series
The last Three books have been good reading it gives you a good indication to the early days of the Templers life and travel I'm looking forward to reading the next book in series
January 7, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyed this book
This is the third book in the series that I have read and they have kept me enthralled throughout. The reader is the husband of the account person.
This is the third book in the series that I have read and they have kept me enthralled throughout. The reader is the husband of the account person.
May 12, 2020
I loved book 1. I really liked book 2. I loved book three. I am reading book 4. There you go.
June 12, 2020
A descriptively wonderful story of sieging, battle and subterfuge in a marvellous historical setting
August 12, 2020
Another good read
Well researched novel of The fall of Byzantine capital. Arnau and Ramon try to understand their mission. Who is the enemy. Read it and find out😊
Well researched novel of The fall of Byzantine capital. Arnau and Ramon try to understand their mission. Who is the enemy. Read it and find out😊
February 17, 2021
For me the value in this book was the peek into the history of Constantinople (Istanbul), the various groups involved was interesting.
March 13, 2024
An excellent closeup of the 4th Crusade.
February 4, 2025
Enthralling
I thoroughly enjoy the knights brought to life, their thoughts and struggles. Fascinating history with descriptions that make the battles come to life!
I thoroughly enjoy the knights brought to life, their thoughts and struggles. Fascinating history with descriptions that make the battles come to life!
April 9, 2025
Crusade
The adventures of Valbona in the 3rd book of this series continues to grow as Valbona is dispatched to the Holy Land and is forced to defend Constantaople
The adventures of Valbona in the 3rd book of this series continues to grow as Valbona is dispatched to the Holy Land and is forced to defend Constantaople
December 25, 2022
A disappointing read, I have read most of the authors book and enjoyed them all. But from about a third onwards, it was boring. I will read the next one, but if it is like this one it will be the last in this series. While as a history book of the fall of Constantinople to the Franks, it provided a good insight, but nothing much else happened.
October 4, 2020
Another great story
In this book we again meet Arnau De Valbonne a template knight. He is sent to Acre but ends up in Constantinople the capital of the Byzantine empire with a senior Templer whose purpose seems to be to ransacke and purchase as many holy relics as he can. All this in the middle of the fourth crusade. Aruba and Ramon his companion knight from Spain are torn between their oath of loyalty to the Templars and their wish to help the righteous Byzantines even though they (the Byzantines) are technically heretical. This causes them no end of trouble. But to find out how and what you will need to read the book which I highly recommend
In this book we again meet Arnau De Valbonne a template knight. He is sent to Acre but ends up in Constantinople the capital of the Byzantine empire with a senior Templer whose purpose seems to be to ransacke and purchase as many holy relics as he can. All this in the middle of the fourth crusade. Aruba and Ramon his companion knight from Spain are torn between their oath of loyalty to the Templars and their wish to help the righteous Byzantines even though they (the Byzantines) are technically heretical. This causes them no end of trouble. But to find out how and what you will need to read the book which I highly recommend
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews