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Darwin Lacroix #3
Templar's Bank
A Paris icon in flames. A conspiracy in the Church. Can this determined explorer survive the search for a hidden history?
Renowned archaeologist Darwin Lacroix remains obsessed, proving his theory that Roman’s used lava tubes. But he’s interrupted by the Pope, who personally requests Darwin’s help to retrieve a codex stolen from the Pontiff’s private vault. Discovering that the cryptic text points to the long-sought Knights Templar treasure, he realizes a mysterious cave may also solve his own puzzle.
As he digs up a trail of ancient connections, he’s shocked to learn the true prize isn’t gold but a priceless relic directly connected to Christ. And someone deep inside the Vatican will stop at nothing to recover it…
Can Darwin outsmart shadowy figures willing to kill to claim power?
Templar’s Bank is the page-turning third novel in the Darwin Lacroix Adventure archaeological thriller series. If you like international pursuits, religious intrigue, and mind-boggling historical puzzles, then you’ll love Dave Bartell’s breathtaking hunt for the truth.
Renowned archaeologist Darwin Lacroix remains obsessed, proving his theory that Roman’s used lava tubes. But he’s interrupted by the Pope, who personally requests Darwin’s help to retrieve a codex stolen from the Pontiff’s private vault. Discovering that the cryptic text points to the long-sought Knights Templar treasure, he realizes a mysterious cave may also solve his own puzzle.
As he digs up a trail of ancient connections, he’s shocked to learn the true prize isn’t gold but a priceless relic directly connected to Christ. And someone deep inside the Vatican will stop at nothing to recover it…
Can Darwin outsmart shadowy figures willing to kill to claim power?
Templar’s Bank is the page-turning third novel in the Darwin Lacroix Adventure archaeological thriller series. If you like international pursuits, religious intrigue, and mind-boggling historical puzzles, then you’ll love Dave Bartell’s breathtaking hunt for the truth.
377 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 5, 2020
About the author
Dave Bartell
21 books124 followersDave Bartell has spent his life chasing questions across mountains, deserts, laboratories, and quiet places where the universe feels close enough to touch. He climbed the highest mountain in the continental United States at ten, earned the nickname 'mountain goat' for his relentless pace on the trail, and could start a campfire with a single match before he learned algebra. As a teenager, he preserved indigenous bone beads found on a Southern California peak—his first archaeological discovery, long before he knew the word for it.
A degree in biochemistry sharpened his sense that humanity is made of stardust and story. Air Force survival training taught him how to think when options vanish. Zen meditation taught him how to listen to mysteries hiding in the quiet. He raced road bikes at more than fifty miles an hour, circled Lake Tahoe in four hours, and learned that endurance is a kind of prayer.
Today, Dave writes archaeological thrillers that blend science, history, and wonder. A member of the Archaeological Institute of America, he draws from a lifetime of adventure to craft stories of discovery, danger, and the search for meaning in a vast, ancient world. He lives in Los Gatos, California, where the hills still offer enough wilderness to spark a novel.
A degree in biochemistry sharpened his sense that humanity is made of stardust and story. Air Force survival training taught him how to think when options vanish. Zen meditation taught him how to listen to mysteries hiding in the quiet. He raced road bikes at more than fifty miles an hour, circled Lake Tahoe in four hours, and learned that endurance is a kind of prayer.
Today, Dave writes archaeological thrillers that blend science, history, and wonder. A member of the Archaeological Institute of America, he draws from a lifetime of adventure to craft stories of discovery, danger, and the search for meaning in a vast, ancient world. He lives in Los Gatos, California, where the hills still offer enough wilderness to spark a novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
July 2, 2026
Always eager to discover new authors whose writing leaves me wanting more, I stumbled upon Dave Bartell’s work with high hopes. Bartell continues the exploration of Darwin Lacroix, the energetic and inquisitive young archaeologist who seems destined to find adventure wherever he goes. After the fire at Notre Dame in Paris and word that a secret Templar document could reveal a hidden cache of funds, Lacroix is tasked with locating it before the riches fall into the hands of those with nefarious desires.
Early in his career, archeologists Darwin Lacroix found his niche. He wanted to prove his theory that the Romans expanded their empire through lava tubes. When a personal call from the Pope, Lacroix is sent to retrieve a stolen codex, lifted during the fire at Notre Dame in Paris. The codex traces back to the Templars, who not only had a parchment said to be penned by Jesus, but also a cryptic text that could lead to a massive treasure. Lacroix soon pieces together that this treasure might actually be found in new and as yet undiscovered lava tubes that date back well before the Middle Ages. All the while, there is a group within the Vatican seeking to stop the pursuit and enact significant changes in France. As Lacroix and his team advance, their are pursued by a deadly group that will stop at nothing to ensure he fails. Time is of the essence in this well-paced third book.
Archaeological thrillers have long been among my favourite genres, and I was eager to see whether this debut could match the intensity and sense of discovery found in some of the genre’s best-known series. I am pleased to say Dave Bartell once more exceeded my expectations, which were already high. I appreciate the balance between ongoing action and gripping storylines this series has presented. The opening chapters paint an energetic scene, while ensuring a fast-paced story develops. Fuelled by short chapters, the intrigue of the Templars comes alive with its archeological perspectives and dangerous battles for the truth. Bartell definitely makes it difficult to put the novel down at various points, which is why I was able to devour it so swiftly.
The characters provide a solid framework for the series, as I have come to see early in this collection. Darwin Lacroix remains engaging, using his great personality and eagerness to further his archeological knowledge. Much of his backstory is slowly being revealed, allowing for the reader to learn a little more with each book. Darwin’s desire to discover and understand lava tubes seems to be an ongoing theme that has an educa. The supporting cast flavours the piece by providing their own perspectives without overshadowing the core story. I am eager for all those who are back and hope they will continue flavouring this series well.
Bartell peppers the story with twists, surprises, and escalating dangers that add to the greatness of the series. He shares only what is needed, permitting the reader to remain on edge. The archaeological and historical elements are alluring, but not overwhelming to those unfamiliar with the subject matter. I came into this series hoping to learn and not be lost, which has happened and there is still a great deal more to come.
Kudos, Mr. Bartell, for providing me with a great deal to enjoy.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Early in his career, archeologists Darwin Lacroix found his niche. He wanted to prove his theory that the Romans expanded their empire through lava tubes. When a personal call from the Pope, Lacroix is sent to retrieve a stolen codex, lifted during the fire at Notre Dame in Paris. The codex traces back to the Templars, who not only had a parchment said to be penned by Jesus, but also a cryptic text that could lead to a massive treasure. Lacroix soon pieces together that this treasure might actually be found in new and as yet undiscovered lava tubes that date back well before the Middle Ages. All the while, there is a group within the Vatican seeking to stop the pursuit and enact significant changes in France. As Lacroix and his team advance, their are pursued by a deadly group that will stop at nothing to ensure he fails. Time is of the essence in this well-paced third book.
Archaeological thrillers have long been among my favourite genres, and I was eager to see whether this debut could match the intensity and sense of discovery found in some of the genre’s best-known series. I am pleased to say Dave Bartell once more exceeded my expectations, which were already high. I appreciate the balance between ongoing action and gripping storylines this series has presented. The opening chapters paint an energetic scene, while ensuring a fast-paced story develops. Fuelled by short chapters, the intrigue of the Templars comes alive with its archeological perspectives and dangerous battles for the truth. Bartell definitely makes it difficult to put the novel down at various points, which is why I was able to devour it so swiftly.
The characters provide a solid framework for the series, as I have come to see early in this collection. Darwin Lacroix remains engaging, using his great personality and eagerness to further his archeological knowledge. Much of his backstory is slowly being revealed, allowing for the reader to learn a little more with each book. Darwin’s desire to discover and understand lava tubes seems to be an ongoing theme that has an educa. The supporting cast flavours the piece by providing their own perspectives without overshadowing the core story. I am eager for all those who are back and hope they will continue flavouring this series well.
Bartell peppers the story with twists, surprises, and escalating dangers that add to the greatness of the series. He shares only what is needed, permitting the reader to remain on edge. The archaeological and historical elements are alluring, but not overwhelming to those unfamiliar with the subject matter. I came into this series hoping to learn and not be lost, which has happened and there is still a great deal more to come.
Kudos, Mr. Bartell, for providing me with a great deal to enjoy.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
May 6, 2022
I think Dave Bartell has finally hit his stride. This was the best of the three books with the adventures of Darwin Lacroix, the archeologist, that I have read. Still has the usual number of proofreading mistakes and often one is not quite sure of the layout of the lava tubes, BUT it reads fast and is an overall fun book. I hope he keeps improving!
June 29, 2021
Unusual subject
The subject matter was intriguing! I have read the first 3 books in this series and enjoyed each because of the original subject matter and locations! I did not give it a complete 5 star because there were too many typos and sentence s mistyped . Also I feel the sexual encounters were just thrown in not necessary to be plot. But I could not stop until I had read the last page.! Excellent summer read
The subject matter was intriguing! I have read the first 3 books in this series and enjoyed each because of the original subject matter and locations! I did not give it a complete 5 star because there were too many typos and sentence s mistyped . Also I feel the sexual encounters were just thrown in not necessary to be plot. But I could not stop until I had read the last page.! Excellent summer read
July 22, 2021
Excellent series!!
I have now read all three books in this series and loved them! I wish there were more. Great characters with well developed storylines that keep you reading and wanting it to never end. As I read, I would jump to resources to look up some of the areas discussed in the books. It made me want to learn more about each of the countries. Oh, there are great wine recommendations!! You have to read this series!!!
I have now read all three books in this series and loved them! I wish there were more. Great characters with well developed storylines that keep you reading and wanting it to never end. As I read, I would jump to resources to look up some of the areas discussed in the books. It made me want to learn more about each of the countries. Oh, there are great wine recommendations!! You have to read this series!!!
June 17, 2021
Strong Story.Jumps Around Then Ends.Suddenly
The pull of the archaeological novel is Irresistible for this reader, but the sudden ending after all the highly detailed travel and intrigue is disappointing to say the least. Deep under the cathedral the novel just stops, ends abruptly, without explanation.
The pull of the archaeological novel is Irresistible for this reader, but the sudden ending after all the highly detailed travel and intrigue is disappointing to say the least. Deep under the cathedral the novel just stops, ends abruptly, without explanation.
April 12, 2021
As a reader interested in archeological fiction, which is usually a mixture of fact and fiction, this novel was exciting and memorable. The characters were well developed and we're saturated with interest. I would suggest this as a great mystery to all my colleagues.
October 12, 2024
Starts with an excellent account of saving the burning Notre Dame cathedral in 2019.
At the end of the previous book Darwin and Eyrun got married and are now trying to relax and live a normal life. But the world and friends have other ideas. A Templar Codex has been stolen from the Pope’s secret library. Someone used the Notre Dame fire to procure something from under the tiles of the transept. And Darwin has been asked to investigate.
Still don’t understand this Agrippa Cicero thing. It has to be fictitious. I did a Google search of all people with name of Agrippa and found no one that works with the dates used.
Footnote: 1) There was a bit of a cliffhanger about Tessa end of last book? She coming back?
2) Interesting. This paperback was published in November, 2020. Notre Dame burned in April, 2019. Has to have added this at the last moment to get through editing.
3) Biltong is Africa’s version of beef jerky. It’s softer, but still considered something for outdoor activities.
4) There’s more that 1 shoulder between Bocagnano and Venaco/Casanova. There’s a couple of mountains and its 8 kilometers as the crow flies’. That’s enough inconsistencies, I’m going quit and just enjoy the book.
Fave scenes: closet cat burglar, Laporte’s reaction to his important visitor’s request, the escape on the Citroen and Eyrun’s crossbow.
At the end of the previous book Darwin and Eyrun got married and are now trying to relax and live a normal life. But the world and friends have other ideas. A Templar Codex has been stolen from the Pope’s secret library. Someone used the Notre Dame fire to procure something from under the tiles of the transept. And Darwin has been asked to investigate.
Still don’t understand this Agrippa Cicero thing. It has to be fictitious. I did a Google search of all people with name of Agrippa and found no one that works with the dates used.
Footnote: 1) There was a bit of a cliffhanger about Tessa end of last book? She coming back?
2) Interesting. This paperback was published in November, 2020. Notre Dame burned in April, 2019. Has to have added this at the last moment to get through editing.
3) Biltong is Africa’s version of beef jerky. It’s softer, but still considered something for outdoor activities.
4) There’s more that 1 shoulder between Bocagnano and Venaco/Casanova. There’s a couple of mountains and its 8 kilometers as the crow flies’. That’s enough inconsistencies, I’m going quit and just enjoy the book.
Fave scenes: closet cat burglar, Laporte’s reaction to his important visitor’s request, the escape on the Citroen and Eyrun’s crossbow.
April 10, 2026
History Comes to Life!
Such an enjoyable adventure through Roman history and their artefacts which lay undiscovered for centuries. Darwin and Eyrun have an amazing ability to track these treasures down and this ability also extends to them managing to get themselves into dangerous situations. Whatever danger they find themselves in their complete calm lets them find a way out whilst rescuing relics to bring to the world.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this book and I love the author’s writing style. It’s so realistic that it brings out my claustrophobia at the thought of the scrapes and tight places these two adventurers get themselves in. Thoroughly well worth reading if you enjoy a paced adventure.
Such an enjoyable adventure through Roman history and their artefacts which lay undiscovered for centuries. Darwin and Eyrun have an amazing ability to track these treasures down and this ability also extends to them managing to get themselves into dangerous situations. Whatever danger they find themselves in their complete calm lets them find a way out whilst rescuing relics to bring to the world.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this book and I love the author’s writing style. It’s so realistic that it brings out my claustrophobia at the thought of the scrapes and tight places these two adventurers get themselves in. Thoroughly well worth reading if you enjoy a paced adventure.
February 1, 2022
A Templar tale of delite
I loved this book. Once again it is a fast moving read full of wonderful details . The setting is beautifully described.
The people in it became alive for me as I got go know them better . Darwin has the best of friends, and foeman. I love his grit and energy..
Eryun became a hero for me . She saved the day and kept Darwin Safe with her fast thinking, and her Driving!! . Great story!
I loved this book. Once again it is a fast moving read full of wonderful details . The setting is beautifully described.
The people in it became alive for me as I got go know them better . Darwin has the best of friends, and foeman. I love his grit and energy..
Eryun became a hero for me . She saved the day and kept Darwin Safe with her fast thinking, and her Driving!! . Great story!
November 13, 2023
Enticing, engaging and enjoyable
I've had the joy or reading the other stories written by Mr. Bartell. His work grabs your attention and weaves common threads through his works so they appear to be continuous. I hope he continues with more adventures in Iceland and through lava tubes with history woven into the fabric. I also.appreciate his.use of subterfuge by geoups.thought to be free is deception and duplicity ( ie the Vatican). Well done Sir, please keep.them coming.
I've had the joy or reading the other stories written by Mr. Bartell. His work grabs your attention and weaves common threads through his works so they appear to be continuous. I hope he continues with more adventures in Iceland and through lava tubes with history woven into the fabric. I also.appreciate his.use of subterfuge by geoups.thought to be free is deception and duplicity ( ie the Vatican). Well done Sir, please keep.them coming.
November 9, 2024
Good Series
When I start a new series, especially one by new (to me) author, I usually reserve an opinion til I finished the 3rd book of the series. Templar’s Bank is the 3rd book of the Darwin Lacroix archeological adventure series.
I’ve given it 5 stars. The development of the characters, the good story, the attention to detail - all are here, and as it should be, each new book in the series is better than the previous one. I’m looking forward to #4.
When I start a new series, especially one by new (to me) author, I usually reserve an opinion til I finished the 3rd book of the series. Templar’s Bank is the 3rd book of the Darwin Lacroix archeological adventure series.
I’ve given it 5 stars. The development of the characters, the good story, the attention to detail - all are here, and as it should be, each new book in the series is better than the previous one. I’m looking forward to #4.
July 30, 2021
My Opionion:
This is a fair series 😀
BUT BORING !!!
(CHASE, CHASE, CHASE, BACK&FORTH AND BACK&FORTH AND BACK&FORTH AND BACK&FORTH!!!)
(Books 1-3)
IN FACT, at 65% read, I just quit reading, no longer giving a crap what might happen next (right after the big FCK scene.)
Just another BULLSHT book for me.
.
This is a fair series 😀
BUT BORING !!!
(CHASE, CHASE, CHASE, BACK&FORTH AND BACK&FORTH AND BACK&FORTH AND BACK&FORTH!!!)
(Books 1-3)
IN FACT, at 65% read, I just quit reading, no longer giving a crap what might happen next (right after the big FCK scene.)
Just another BULLSHT book for me.
.
March 26, 2022
Knights Templar and a scroll written by Christ
Yet another high speed thriller. From France to Corsica and South Africa. Follow the clues until one does not exist. Would the Roman’s and Knights Templar have used lava tubes made after volcanic eruptions subsided. Who will get the prize
Yet another high speed thriller. From France to Corsica and South Africa. Follow the clues until one does not exist. Would the Roman’s and Knights Templar have used lava tubes made after volcanic eruptions subsided. Who will get the prize
July 3, 2023
2 down and ingress there's a bunch to go
Good book! There ate writers that say they are "archeological thrillers" that kinda miss the definition of that description. In some cases, by a bunch. I'm now thrub1 ofnthese Darwin Lacroix books and have enjoyed both aimlessly. Can't wait to get on to the next one.
Good book! There ate writers that say they are "archeological thrillers" that kinda miss the definition of that description. In some cases, by a bunch. I'm now thrub1 ofnthese Darwin Lacroix books and have enjoyed both aimlessly. Can't wait to get on to the next one.
May 1, 2021
I think all of these archeological novels who make great movies. They’re like Indiana Jones books, but with younger characters. I highly recommend all three of the books in the series that have been published so far.
May 7, 2021
A good read
Difficult to put down. The concept is simple but effective as well as being informed. The characters are believable and one could communicate with them. Looking for the next one.
Difficult to put down. The concept is simple but effective as well as being informed. The characters are believable and one could communicate with them. Looking for the next one.
June 17, 2021
Lynnie
Another great and interesting adventure. So amazing and easy to read. You do not want to put all the series down.
It will be a bit for another put I will be waiting as others who agree with me. Keep up the great work Dave Bartell. 👍☺️
Another great and interesting adventure. So amazing and easy to read. You do not want to put all the series down.
It will be a bit for another put I will be waiting as others who agree with me. Keep up the great work Dave Bartell. 👍☺️
September 15, 2021
Fun read
Enjoy the Lacroix adventures and all the twists and turns. All of the good wine descriptions were a little odd but kind of fun. Overall looking forward to the next story.
Enjoy the Lacroix adventures and all the twists and turns. All of the good wine descriptions were a little odd but kind of fun. Overall looking forward to the next story.
November 18, 2021
A unique view of Templar Treasure attached to more ancient soldiers
Templars, Roman centurions, the Pope, intrigue and of course Darwin & spouse. There will be gold and much more found in the bowels of the earth!
Templars, Roman centurions, the Pope, intrigue and of course Darwin & spouse. There will be gold and much more found in the bowels of the earth!
February 17, 2022
TEMPLAR'S BANK
This book was so good I had to read the entirety before I finished it. Needless to say, I am alread.for the next one in the series. This author, Dave Barrel just gets better with each book. A fantastic read.
This book was so good I had to read the entirety before I finished it. Needless to say, I am alread.for the next one in the series. This author, Dave Barrel just gets better with each book. A fantastic read.
February 9, 2024
Non stop action
A story along with its predecessors, full of intrigue and mystery. A book once started,not to be put down until it is finished. A book to be read slowly as there is a lot to take in.
A story along with its predecessors, full of intrigue and mystery. A book once started,not to be put down until it is finished. A book to be read slowly as there is a lot to take in.
Read
April 12, 2024A Templar Treasure of a Book
Threat book . Full of adventure and mystery. Clues to the hidden treasure that unite in a teeth edging climax. One of the best Archeology thrillers I've read. Don't hesitate jump tight in for a really good read.
Threat book . Full of adventure and mystery. Clues to the hidden treasure that unite in a teeth edging climax. One of the best Archeology thrillers I've read. Don't hesitate jump tight in for a really good read.
January 22, 2021
The Templar Bank
I really enjoyed reading this book. I will be reading the other books. The plot kept me reading until the end,a great read.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I will be reading the other books. The plot kept me reading until the end,a great read.
February 25, 2021
Fantastic
This writer keeps you on the edge of your seat. You don't want to put it down.!!! Hopefully there will be another ?
This writer keeps you on the edge of your seat. You don't want to put it down.!!! Hopefully there will be another ?
April 11, 2021
Fast, detailed and a historical tease
I loved the dedication of the author to weave history with all the seven sins. Cannot wait to read more from him!
I loved the dedication of the author to weave history with all the seven sins. Cannot wait to read more from him!
August 15, 2021
Wow!!
What a thriller. Dave does a tremendous job with Darwin and Eryun in this book as a couple. This is really an exciting sequel to “Roman Ice” I couldn’t put it down.
What a thriller. Dave does a tremendous job with Darwin and Eryun in this book as a couple. This is really an exciting sequel to “Roman Ice” I couldn’t put it down.
January 16, 2022
very nice
Enjoyed reading this very interesting book with all the history and some real events thrown in. Very nice read. I enjoyed it.
Enjoyed reading this very interesting book with all the history and some real events thrown in. Very nice read. I enjoyed it.
May 7, 2022
ENjoyed the book very much took me a while to finish as things have been going on..but a good quick read...looking forward to #4
May 8, 2022
More adventure
Following more scrolls leads to another adventure to find the Templars Treasure. Good readIng with furry development of these characters.
Following more scrolls leads to another adventure to find the Templars Treasure. Good readIng with furry development of these characters.
September 16, 2022
Templar great
This is another exciting race to safe the girl the go!d and if d the treasure. A page tener for sure
This is another exciting race to safe the girl the go!d and if d the treasure. A page tener for sure
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews