Clement: The Templar's Treasure

by Craig R. Hipkins

Clement and Dagena return for another adventure. This time they journey to the fabled land of Vinland to seek the legendary treasure of the Knights Templar. Along the way, they must overcome Clement’s nemesis, the diabolical Sven the Terrible!

320 pages, Paperback

Published May 4, 2022

About the author

Craig R. Hipkins was born in Worcester, Massachusetts. He currently lives in North Carolina.
Craig published his first book, “Fireballs: A History of Meteors and other Atmospheric Phenomena” in 2009. Adalbert is his first novel. It is the sequel to the novel Astrolabe written by his late twin brother Jay S. Hipkins (1968-2018)
He is an avid long distance runner. He also enjoys astronomy and reading history in his spare time.

Reviews

[Jacqueline Diamond · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a tale that combines history, personal courage and faith-based legend, teenage Clement, now a Knight Templar, sails with friends and mentors to Vinland in search of a great treasure. There, they encounter danger, old enemies and new friends, in an adventure that’s respectful of the native peoples they meet. This thrilling third tale (in a series of four), set in the 12th century and suitable for teens and young adults, would have merited five stars had it included back story or enough summary for new readers, or forgetful older ones, to catch up with the action instead of starting immediately after the end of book two. Nevertheless, it picks up speed quickly and soon absorbs the reader.

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fourteen-year-old Clement, young lady Degena, and company voyage to the vast land of Vinland. The purpose of their journey, to search for the remarkable treasure of the Knights Templar.

At Vinland they have a heartfelt reunion with old friends Adalbert and young Tristan. Clement and Tristan get a vigorous training from the fighting monk Greg. And monk Greg warns them to tread lightly on their expedition.

Clement and Dagena set off on their mission in search of the treasure, and along the way, they encounter natives. They learn some of the languages and build alliances.

Clement has a lot of responsibility and danger is around every corner. However; God has chosen him for an important task, and he must endure to fulfill it.

Fighting the elements, foraging for food, searching for the kidnapped, danger everywhere, not knowing who to trust, fear, torture, and even death, are all part of this fascinating story. Add to that, a blossoming sweet romance, as well as wonderful comradery and friendships.

This is the third in a series and very entertaining, the same as the first two. Author Craig Hipkin’s has a way of drawing one into his faith-filled story, and I could see myself tagging along with the characters. The added Christian legends, parts of history, and a glossary of terms at the end are educational and interesting. Well done! Looking forward to more.

[The Shield Maiden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having not read the first two books in the series I was a little apprehensive about diving in at the deep end with book three. Initially, I did find it a little confusing as to who everyone else was, but it did not take me an overly long time to figure out which character was which. Once I had identified all the characters I sat back and allowed myself to be swept away by the story.

Although this book is aimed at a young adult audience, I found myself thoroughly enjoying every minute of it. So much happens in this novel and Clement, the main character, is swept along as the events unravel in front of his eyes. Along with his friends, Clement tackles his somewhat unpredictable future head-on. There were times when I felt sorry for him (he really wants to marry Dagena but instead he finds himself in training to become a Knight's Templar). There is also a tantalising quest that he has to complete and an old enemy that he has to face.

I really enjoyed the author's take on the era the book is set in, but I also enjoyed the celestial /fantasy element as well. I can see this series becoming a firm favourite with a young adult audience.

*I received a copy of this novel from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.

[The Book Bandit · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚📚📚📚 = A really great read.

Craig R. Hipkins has given his readers another unputdownable adventure with Clement and his gang of misfits. As before there is the ever-present threat from his evil uncle, Sven, but there is also a quest to find the whereabouts of Jesus' coat - a sacred relic with celestial powers. Along the way Clement has to come to terms with the fact that his destiny has already been decided for him - he is to become the Grand Knight of the Knight's Templar - so much for the quiet life he wanted!

This book is an ideal length for its intended audience (young adults), and it is packed full of adventures, perils, swordfights and unbreakable friendships. This book would certainly appeal to readers who enjoy reading about relatable characters in a historical fantasy setting.

* I received a copy of this book from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.

[Lost in a book · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poor Clement - he goes from one bad situation to another. All he wants to do is see his friends to safety and marry Dagena, but who is he to argue with the Templar Knights?

This swashbuckling adventure which mixes historical fiction with historical fantasy was in one word - brilliant! The narrative is well-paced, the character memorable and the story is full of action.

Like with Book 2, I thought this novel was really good and although it is aimed at a young adult audience it can be enjoyed by everyone.

I have really enjoyed this series and it is certainly one that I am happy to recommend.

*I received a copy of this novel from The Coffee Pot Book Club. I was under no obligation to leave a review.

[Rachel Jamerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clement: The Templar’s Treasure
Reviewed 04/18/23 RJR
The latest journey of Clement and his friend Lady Degena is not unlike their previous journeys. This voyage is in search of Vinland and the Knights of Templar Treasure. Clement and his friends encounter much danger and several near-death experiences.
Along the way, they meet natives of the land who help them in their battles. Clement also has to face his evil uncle who wishes him dead. Along with all the danger we are privy to the developing love story between Clement and Degena.
It is an exciting story that will hold your attention throughout. Highly recommended for young adults as well as adults.

[K.A. Mulenga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great "Clement" book by Craig Hipkins. A wonderful adventure full of excitement and entertainment!