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The Sword and the Spirit #3
Jacques
1308 AD. The persecution of the Templars continues in France.
Jacques Aznar, a Basque Templar Knight exiled to the wilds of Scotland, can only observe the events from afar. He is a man conflicted, not quite able to reconcile heart and conscience. His heart has been irrevocably stolen by Morag MacKellar, a brave Scottish lass with a spirit to match his own. Jacques’ conscience, however, tells him to uphold his Templar vows, that his obligation to the military order is not quite over.
That obligation is tested when a letter arrives unexpectedly from France. Written by Pierre Sabatier, a Templar Chaplain, the missive seems to be nothing more than an innocent enquiry about Jacques’ wellbeing. But Jacques knows better. The letter is a summons. A quiet cry for help. One he cannot ignore.
This, he realizes, is what his conscience demands. His last quest as a Templar. A final call to arms that must be answered, despite the danger.
With Morag’s blessing and a special token of her love, Jacques returns to France. What he finds there is more than he expected. A mercenary priest. A woman from his past. And the terrible realization that the Templars will never be as they once were. But all is not lost. Lives can still be saved. And, if he’s successful, he can return to Morag and freely pursue the demands of his heart.
It never occurs to him that news of a tragedy might be awaiting him in Scotland. That, upon his return, he must face the daunting task of trying to save another life. A life more precious to him than his own.
Jacques Aznar, a Basque Templar Knight exiled to the wilds of Scotland, can only observe the events from afar. He is a man conflicted, not quite able to reconcile heart and conscience. His heart has been irrevocably stolen by Morag MacKellar, a brave Scottish lass with a spirit to match his own. Jacques’ conscience, however, tells him to uphold his Templar vows, that his obligation to the military order is not quite over.
That obligation is tested when a letter arrives unexpectedly from France. Written by Pierre Sabatier, a Templar Chaplain, the missive seems to be nothing more than an innocent enquiry about Jacques’ wellbeing. But Jacques knows better. The letter is a summons. A quiet cry for help. One he cannot ignore.
This, he realizes, is what his conscience demands. His last quest as a Templar. A final call to arms that must be answered, despite the danger.
With Morag’s blessing and a special token of her love, Jacques returns to France. What he finds there is more than he expected. A mercenary priest. A woman from his past. And the terrible realization that the Templars will never be as they once were. But all is not lost. Lives can still be saved. And, if he’s successful, he can return to Morag and freely pursue the demands of his heart.
It never occurs to him that news of a tragedy might be awaiting him in Scotland. That, upon his return, he must face the daunting task of trying to save another life. A life more precious to him than his own.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2020
18 people are currently reading
7 people want to read
About the author
Avril Borthiry
33 books56 followersUnique tales. Unforgettable characters.
Facebook page: Avril Borthiry, author
Email: avrilborthiry@gmail.com
Facebook page: Avril Borthiry, author
Email: avrilborthiry@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
February 3, 2021
Rating: 3.5/5.0
A smooth and distinct two-part journey, “Jacques” is a Medieval tale of self-discovery, romance, and faith.
Read full review in the 2021 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
A smooth and distinct two-part journey, “Jacques” is a Medieval tale of self-discovery, romance, and faith.
Read full review in the 2021 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 26, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💋
Oh my giddy aunt! This book is fantastic, just like the rest of this outstanding series.
Jacques is such a beautiful character, one that pulls at your heart.
His bravery and intelligence, his honour and passion, truly they take your breath away.
It’s a moving story in places, of imprisonment suffered by the Templar’s, and touching scenes too by other characters who undergo their own challenges.
Past characters of Ewan, Gabriel and Ruaidri, all have a part in this story, and Jacques has a love interest and wonderful chemistry with Morag.
Avril writes so beautifully and her books never fail to both entertain and move me.
It feels like I’ve been waiting ages to read this book, knowing it was being written, now I can say it was as I had hoped, wonderful, and well worth the wait.
This group of Templar’s has got under my skin I’m probably a little addicted but I’m good with that.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋
Oh my giddy aunt! This book is fantastic, just like the rest of this outstanding series.
Jacques is such a beautiful character, one that pulls at your heart.
His bravery and intelligence, his honour and passion, truly they take your breath away.
It’s a moving story in places, of imprisonment suffered by the Templar’s, and touching scenes too by other characters who undergo their own challenges.
Past characters of Ewan, Gabriel and Ruaidri, all have a part in this story, and Jacques has a love interest and wonderful chemistry with Morag.
Avril writes so beautifully and her books never fail to both entertain and move me.
It feels like I’ve been waiting ages to read this book, knowing it was being written, now I can say it was as I had hoped, wonderful, and well worth the wait.
This group of Templar’s has got under my skin I’m probably a little addicted but I’m good with that.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
November 4, 2024
Another great one in the series!
This author blows me away! She goes deep into a story line all while keeping it realistic and period correct. She weaves wonderful characters and beautiful love stories. I’ve loved all 3 in this series and I’m now onto the 4th!! Looking forward to reading all her books. I’ve got 6 down so far!! Thank you Avril for your amazing books!
pamarella
PRCS
This author blows me away! She goes deep into a story line all while keeping it realistic and period correct. She weaves wonderful characters and beautiful love stories. I’ve loved all 3 in this series and I’m now onto the 4th!! Looking forward to reading all her books. I’ve got 6 down so far!! Thank you Avril for your amazing books!
pamarella
PRCS
October 8, 2020
Author Avril Borthiry has anchored this series in factual historic events: the breakup, the cruel and degrading persecution, and the Vatican's less than vigorous support of the Knights Templar. The historical information provided by the author in notes after the story conclusion greatly enhances the reading experience of this book.
Of the three Templars exiled to Scotland, only Basque knight Jacques Aznar still upholds his Templar vows through a sense that his duty to the Order is not yet ended. While his mind still serves his Templar brotherhood, Jacques' heart belongs to Morag MacKellar, sister of Ewan, another of the exiled knights. But Jacques understands that a friendly letter from France is actually a veiled cry for help from a Templar Chaplain. Aware of the danger and blessed with Morag's token of white heather, Jacques returns to France for a last call to action as a Templar knight.. His agonizing mission involves saving brotherhood lives, prison rescue, a woman from his past, and reunion with the household where he trained for knighthood. Will he succeed in his mission and return to Scotland? What tragic situation might overcome his Scottish friends and dearest love before he can get there? Who threatens the hidden Templar treasure?
Suspense and intrigue drive this plot in both France and Scotland. But by far my favorite aspect of the story focuses on Jacques' spiritual devotion and his implied divine guidance. Some interesting secondary characters unique to this story fascinate me, especially the mercenary priest and the imprisoned Templars.
Jacques' story ranks as my favorite of the series. I recommend this historical romance to readers who are drawn to a complicated and somewhat conflicted hero with exceptional strength of character, and who prefer tasteful devoted love to steamy sex.
Of the three Templars exiled to Scotland, only Basque knight Jacques Aznar still upholds his Templar vows through a sense that his duty to the Order is not yet ended. While his mind still serves his Templar brotherhood, Jacques' heart belongs to Morag MacKellar, sister of Ewan, another of the exiled knights. But Jacques understands that a friendly letter from France is actually a veiled cry for help from a Templar Chaplain. Aware of the danger and blessed with Morag's token of white heather, Jacques returns to France for a last call to action as a Templar knight.. His agonizing mission involves saving brotherhood lives, prison rescue, a woman from his past, and reunion with the household where he trained for knighthood. Will he succeed in his mission and return to Scotland? What tragic situation might overcome his Scottish friends and dearest love before he can get there? Who threatens the hidden Templar treasure?
Suspense and intrigue drive this plot in both France and Scotland. But by far my favorite aspect of the story focuses on Jacques' spiritual devotion and his implied divine guidance. Some interesting secondary characters unique to this story fascinate me, especially the mercenary priest and the imprisoned Templars.
Jacques' story ranks as my favorite of the series. I recommend this historical romance to readers who are drawn to a complicated and somewhat conflicted hero with exceptional strength of character, and who prefer tasteful devoted love to steamy sex.
April 27, 2021
Jacques
The Sword and the Spirit, Book 3
Avril Borthiry, author
It was such a pleasure to be back with the MacKeller clan again. This time, the focus is primarily about Jacques Aznar and Morag MacKeller. But, oh, the author does such a wonderful job with including the whole gang in the storyline. Why, it wouldn't be as rich with all the glorious backdrop without the others.
Jacques and Morag both know they're in love with each other, but Jacques is struggling with the commitment of his religious vows and leaving the Templar order. Then, he is sent a notice. He knows what he must do before he can even consider committing himself to Morag. Hopefully, he'll have his answers, once the task is done. But will he return? Will Morag wait, be patient and understanding? Only time will tell.
As always, the characters were rich with goodness and familial values. The historical content was researched with expertise and the scenery was vivid with picturesque mountain features and old world structures. I could easily immerse myself within the storyline.
A brilliantly written story with emotionally driven content. I highly recommend this novel. I was gifted an advanced reader copy from the author and chose to leave this review.
The Sword and the Spirit, Book 3
Avril Borthiry, author
It was such a pleasure to be back with the MacKeller clan again. This time, the focus is primarily about Jacques Aznar and Morag MacKeller. But, oh, the author does such a wonderful job with including the whole gang in the storyline. Why, it wouldn't be as rich with all the glorious backdrop without the others.
Jacques and Morag both know they're in love with each other, but Jacques is struggling with the commitment of his religious vows and leaving the Templar order. Then, he is sent a notice. He knows what he must do before he can even consider committing himself to Morag. Hopefully, he'll have his answers, once the task is done. But will he return? Will Morag wait, be patient and understanding? Only time will tell.
As always, the characters were rich with goodness and familial values. The historical content was researched with expertise and the scenery was vivid with picturesque mountain features and old world structures. I could easily immerse myself within the storyline.
A brilliantly written story with emotionally driven content. I highly recommend this novel. I was gifted an advanced reader copy from the author and chose to leave this review.
September 30, 2020
Jacques Aznar, a Basque Templar is a man 'struggling to find his place in God's plan'. Devout, loyal, honourable and trustworthy, yet he remains on the outside, torn between his faith to his vows and the woman he loves, a small feisty, brave and beautiful young Scottish woman named Morag MacKellar.
Unexpectedly he is summoned back to France on a quest, which he hopes once completed and successful, will allow him to return to Morag with an open and free heart.
But Jacques finds that the plans he has made are being plotted against by an old enemy and time is running out.
Avril Borthiry has written this third book in the series with a beautifully sensitive and descriptive pen. Emotion comes at you on every page, as adventure, cruelty, plots and love abound.
Avril brings this era to life with empathy, gentleness and an historical atmosphere that captures a time of darkness and brutality, yet with a family and camaraderie that is stronger than anything else.
I absolutely adored this love story and cannot wait for the next book in this outstanding series.
Unexpectedly he is summoned back to France on a quest, which he hopes once completed and successful, will allow him to return to Morag with an open and free heart.
But Jacques finds that the plans he has made are being plotted against by an old enemy and time is running out.
Avril Borthiry has written this third book in the series with a beautifully sensitive and descriptive pen. Emotion comes at you on every page, as adventure, cruelty, plots and love abound.
Avril brings this era to life with empathy, gentleness and an historical atmosphere that captures a time of darkness and brutality, yet with a family and camaraderie that is stronger than anything else.
I absolutely adored this love story and cannot wait for the next book in this outstanding series.
December 17, 2020
This year has really thrown me for a loop and I’ve had such a hard time getting into a book and keeping my mind focused on it. I’ve been putting off reading this story and I 100% wish I would have tried sooner. Where other books failed, this one really got me through my reading lull and now I’m back into the book-a-holic groove! Jacques is the third book in The Sword and the Spirit series and I really really enjoyed this story!! I loved Jacques and Morag so much, they were such an intriguing couple and I rooted for them right for the start! The author has a way with words that captures your attention and draws you in. Completely unforgettable story and just as wonderful as the first two in the series. Absolute must read!
October 2, 2020
I loved reading this book and wish I could climb in and live there. Damsels in distress being rescued by Templar knights. Just the thought of it makes my heart sing. Those Scottish accents. I can’t wait for the next book. Avril writes incredibly well. I want to write like her when I grow up. Seriously, I recommend you read any and all books by Avril. Keep writing to us, please, Av. You’re the best!
October 16, 2021
What a brilliant ending to this 3 book series. Again, I liked Jaques in the other two books and I was desperate to have him stay out of harms way in Scotland. I love the way religion is portrayed in these books and the overwhelming devotion of these good and honourable men. The magic of the white heather is also a special element to this story. Morag and Jaques have to put their love on hold until Jaques fulfils his destiny as a Templar. A truly delightful end to a truly enjoyable series.
October 7, 2020
Jacques and Morag's story
I love this story it is the continuation of the Templar Knights that left friends seeking asylum.
Jacques traveled to fulfil a promise to a friend in need only to return in find his true love missing.
Will he ever find her?
Will their love ever come to fruition?
I love this story it is the continuation of the Templar Knights that left friends seeking asylum.
Jacques traveled to fulfil a promise to a friend in need only to return in find his true love missing.
Will he ever find her?
Will their love ever come to fruition?
March 31, 2024
Loved this story!
This tale, Jacques’ story, is full of what lies at the heart of every man, a yearning for a purpose and a place in this world, and a family, whether that family is by birth or by choice. And always with the woman he loves! This story is for everyone who believes in the power of love and yearns for a happy ending!
This tale, Jacques’ story, is full of what lies at the heart of every man, a yearning for a purpose and a place in this world, and a family, whether that family is by birth or by choice. And always with the woman he loves! This story is for everyone who believes in the power of love and yearns for a happy ending!
November 29, 2020
Faith, Honor, Love and Evil
Jacques and Morag story is a testament of true love. Story encompasses all you would want in a medieval story.
Jacques and Morag story is a testament of true love. Story encompasses all you would want in a medieval story.
October 2, 2020
One of my favorite reading pleasures is about the Knights Templar and Avril Borthiry weaves an unforgettable tale that grabs the heart and more.
Jacques is one such Knight that longs for his love, Morag. But he has such an innate loyalty and honor, that even in exile, when summoned, he has to go. Going from the wilds of Scotland to France, he runs into more than expected and all his skills are called on to assist him.
A journey that challenges all of Jacques senses, when he strives to get back to those he loves. Very emotional, pulling you back into history that makes the imagination soar. Wonderful
Jacques is one such Knight that longs for his love, Morag. But he has such an innate loyalty and honor, that even in exile, when summoned, he has to go. Going from the wilds of Scotland to France, he runs into more than expected and all his skills are called on to assist him.
A journey that challenges all of Jacques senses, when he strives to get back to those he loves. Very emotional, pulling you back into history that makes the imagination soar. Wonderful
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews