The Templars are the subject of much speculation and even conspiracy theories. In this book, Dan Jones looks at who they really were historically, from their founding in 1119 (shortly after the First Crusade), to their sudden demise in 1307. Broadly, he looks at their roles and transitions from pilgrims (knights protecting those journeying in the Holy Land) to soldiers (taking a more formal militaristic role in the defense of the Kingdom of Jerusalem and other holdings) to bankers (tending their vast estates throughout Europe and handling money transfers for royalty and wealthy) to heretics (being falsely branded by the French King in a money grab).
This was a good, accessible introduction to "God's holy warriors." Jones writes well. Having read about the Crusades long ago, this was an interesting perspective on the same era, focused on this specific Order. Parts felt a tad rushed, but this was probably necessary to cover such scope in a relatively short work. Overall, recommended.
Rating: A
