The Tale of the English Templar

The young knight had been tortured and hoped only to die. His rescuers had other ideas. They formed a Resistance movement. But can they defy a tyrant — and win?

An English Templar travelling to Cyprus is one of thousands arrested on Friday 13 October 1307. Victims of Philip IV’s greed for the Order’s legendary riches, they are cruelly tortured. The English knight becomes the first non-French Templar to confess to the trumped-up charges. Then he disappears. Soon, other imprisoned Templars also go missing from the French King’s dungeons. Rumours begin to circulate of a band of free Templars. 

Based on historical events, not fantasy, The Tale of the English Templar tells the story of the of the destruction of the Knights Templar in the early 14th century. In doing so, it explores the struggle between good and evil in human hearts of any age — and of the power of love even in our darkest hour.

Helena P. Schrader is an award-winning and best-selling author and historian. She holds a PhD in history from the University of Hamburg and served as an American diplomat in Europe and Africa. Her novels set in the Middle Ages are based both on historical and archaeological sources. Six of her novels focus on the crusader states rather than the crusades, adding a fresh perspective to the literature on this era. When researching for The Tale of the English Templar, she travelled extensively in the Languedoc, becoming warmly familiar with this enchanting region and its complex culture, architecture, and history.

"If you read only  one book this year, let it be this one. The story will captivate and  inspire you in ways you never anticipated. " -- The Coffee Pot Book Club

"Schrader offers a sobering, immersive look at one of history's darkest betrayals. This is historical fiction worthy of legend with its feet planted firmly in research -- not myth....The Tale of the English Templar explores the ambiguity of how morality and faith, fear, and ambition intersect in dangerous times. At its core, this is a book about conviction -- what we believe, and what we will risk to defend it. ... The Tale of the English Templar by Helena P. Schrader rewards readers with insight, depth, and a cast of characters who refuse to be forgotten." -- Chanticleer Book Reviews

“… a tale to quicken the senses and to stir the heart…an epic adventure…with elements of both romance and mystery… The Tale of the English Templar is a long and complex work that reveals extraordinary powers of observation and compassion underlying an exciting and compelling story that is deeply steeped in historical accuracy….” — The Historical Fiction Company

"Well-written and immersive, this is a complex and compelling story, with memorable characters interwoven with the fascinating history of the Knights Templar. It is also a story of compassion, love, and hope. -- Saifunnissa Hassam for Readers' Favorite

"... a gripping historical novel that is rooted in real events surrounding the suppression of the Knights Templar in 1307... a stirring tribute to loyalty, love, and the quiet strength of knowing and doing what's right, which gives a warm, uplifting feeling by the story's end." K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

"...the novel explores numerous underlying themes, including inner battles of the mind, the clash between good and evil, and a critical look at how a state can use its institutions to lie and frame individuals... a powerful tale of people who may long for death, only to discover the true meaning of life." Gaius Konstantine for Readers' Favorite

"...a masterful work of historical fiction. With its enthralling plot and vividly drawn characters, this novel not only captivates but also challenges readers to engage in profound reflection and moral contemplation. Schrader's exquisite prose ensures that this unforgettable story sill resonate deeply in readers' hearts long after they turn the last page." -- The Coffee Pot Book Club