Written By Jordan Mechner
Art By LeUyan Pham & Alex Puvilland
First Second
ISBN: 978-1596433939
The Knights Templars were once a holy order that protected pilgrims as they journeyed to the Holy Land. History tells us that the Templars became greedy and scoffed royalty and the clergy alike. The king of France and the Pope conspired together to execute the Templars and steal their wealth (many legends claim it contains the Arc of the Covenant). The Templar Martin escapes the execution and an accidental encounter with an old flame, but he spends months in hiding. After languishing his lot, Martin encounters other survivors and a plot to reclaim the treasure. Hesitant at first, Martin, his fellow Templars, and his former lover device a crazy plan that just might work and steal the treasure back.
If anyone ever says that graphic novels can’t deliver a historical drama, place this book in their hands and proclaim them a liar. Templar is a compelling and thrilling book that captures the readers in its pages until the end. As a complete historical drama, it includes every pleasing aspect: a forbidden romance, hidden treasure, a love triangle, a robbery plan that rivala anything done in Ocean’s Eleven, comedic bits, sword fights, internal struggles, and strong characters. As with any good stories, character development is a must and Templar has it in spades. The entire cast has more than one facet throughout the drama. Loyalties are tested, confessions voiced, and true personalities come out. Each one plays a vital role in the story like jigsaw puzzle pieces, without the others it wouldn’t be complete.
As a medieval piece, the art fully entrenches the readers in the time and place. It is rich in detail and the color is delicious. The thick black lines are accompanied by textures that enhance the story. The color selection is extremely noteworthy, using a bold, muted blend that lacks the outrageous, artificial colors of today.
Templar is a medieval epic worthy to be read and reread.