Reviewer: Amy Lignor
Title: The Templar Knight - 2nd in the Crusades Trilogy
Author: Jan Guillou
Publisher: Harper
ISBN-13: 978-0-06-168857-7 (Hardcover)
Release Date: March 2010
Genre/Sub-genre: Historical Fiction
Year/Setting: The Holy Land/Late 12th century
Overall Rating: 3.0
Sexual Content Rating: None/Subtle
Language (Profanity/Slang) Content Rating: None
Violent Content Rating: Minimal/Moderate
Jan's Website/Blog: None found
Dear Readers:
Yes, I know, the word templar fills us all with glee, and this book is no exception. Now, don’t get me wrong, this is not your average run-of-the-mill "Templar Knights" book. This does not delve into the same-old story that we’ve all heard so much about; this series delves into a whole other region of templar hype. Translated from a Swedish novel entitled "Tempelriddaren" by Jan Guillou, this book is a definite "sweeping" epic that follows Arn Magnusson – a Templar Knight who finds himself leaning sympathetically toward pro-Muslim beliefs.
Deep in the history of the crusades, if you look closely, there’s the story of Saladin, who was supposedly (depending on which legend you read) either saved by a Templar Knight or pardoned by a Templar who looked exactly like his own brother. In this tale, Arn is that knight. During his second adventure in the Holy Land, Arn rushes to the defense of Bedouins, kicks the bandits and thieves out of Gaza, and even offers jobs to Muslim doctors. Even though his devout loyalty belongs to the Christians and fighting for all they wish him to fight for, Arn really does "lean" toward the "other side" of the fight. Therefore, his sense of duty is always at battle with his beliefs.
In addition to the faith aspect of this series, Arn is also faced with the pain and heartache that is crushing him from being separated from his betrothed, Cecilia. She is located in a cloister where people are literally using her as a pawn in a clan war that is happening for the crown. Not only that, but Cecilia has to deal with the horrible cruelties of the abbess who is intent on making her pay.
My advice to all is to read Book I called, The Road to Jerusalem. Even though, technically, this can be read as a stand-alone, it would be helpful for all to see how Arn began his quest for redemption. I, myself, am a huge fan of templar mythology, hype, and all-round good writing, but this was a bit too "sweeping" at times. Make sure you have plenty of time to devote to this book so that all the intricate facets of the story can be understood.
Until next time, Amy
Question or comment regarding the review or the book? Click here and let Amy know.
Top
Reviews
Featured Reviews
Archived Reviews