Hand Upon Heart - The Last Templars : Book Review

"Hand Upon Heart: The Last Templars" is a captivating historical novel written by Barry Bliss. Set in the 14th century, the story takes us on an enthralling journey filled with bravery, treachery, and the enduring legacy of the Knights Templar. Bliss masterfully brings the dramatic events and characters of the time to life, captivating readers with his vivid descriptions and well-researched historical details.

The narrative follows the adventures of Sir Robert de Montreal, a nobleman who finds himself entangled in a quest to uncover the hidden truth behind the downfall of the Templars. As he delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding the order, Sir Robert unravels a complex web of intrigue and deceit that stretches from the courts of Europe to the Holy Land. Bliss skillfully combines real historical figures with fictional ones, creating a cast of characters that are both believable and engaging.

One of the notable strengths of "Hand Upon Heart: The Last Templars" lies in Bliss' ability to transport readers to the medieval world. His descriptive prose and meticulous attention to detail paint a vibrant picture of the time period, capturing everything from the chaos of battlefields to the vibrant atmosphere of bustling city streets. Whether it is the clash of swords during a skirmish or the opulence of a medieval feast, Bliss brings each scene to life, immersing the reader in the story.

The plot of the novel is fast-paced and full of unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers eagerly turning pages. The mystery surrounding the demise of the Templars adds an element of suspense, as Sir Robert races against time to uncover the truth before it is lost forever. Bliss expertly combines historical accuracy with a thrilling narrative, creating a compelling story that will resonate with fans of both historical fiction and adventure.

In conclusion, "Hand Upon Heart: The Last Templars" is a captivating and well-crafted historical novel that transports readers to a fascinating era. Barry Bliss seamlessly weaves together history and fiction, delivering a tale that is both entertaining and informative. With its captivating characters, immersive setting, and gripping plot, this book is a must-read for lovers of historical fiction and thrilling medieval adventures.

What are readers saying?

Barry Bliss's book "Hand Upon Heart: The Last Templars" has garnered a mixed reception among readers. While some found the book engaging and thrilling, others were disappointed with its plot and character development.

Several reviewers praised the book for its fast-paced and action-packed storyline, appreciating the historical context of the Templars and the author's attention to detail. They found the overall plot intriguing and commended Bliss for skillfully incorporating historical facts into the narrative. These readers felt that the book effectively captured the essence of Templar lore and presented it in an exciting and accessible manner.

On the other hand, some readers expressed disappointment with the book's execution, finding the plot predictable and lacking originality. They struggled to connect with the characters, perceiving them as one-dimensional. The writing style was also criticized for lacking depth and being overly simplistic, which impacted their overall enjoyment of the book.

Another common criticism was the pacing of the story. Some readers felt that the book started strongly but gradually became slow and dragged on in certain parts. They suggested that tighter editing would have enhanced the reading experience by eliminating unnecessary details and maintaining a consistent momentum.

Despite the range of reviews, many readers acknowledged the author's passion for the subject matter. They appreciated Bliss's dedication to researching and presenting a historical fiction novel based on the Templars. However, they felt that although the book had potential, it ultimately fell short in delivering a fully satisfying reading experience.

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