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Feb 02, 2014forbesrachel rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
The once mighty are betrayed and broken. For their faith the Templars are rewarded with an unjust trial and death, at the hands of the King of France. At the height of their power, the Templars had such wealth that the King desired it for himself and his flagging coffers. The graphic starts here, at the point in history where he discredits and tries the whole order, even torturing the innocent into giving false confessions. For the few that escape, they are hunted and alone, resorting to the very acts of moral ambiguity that they swore against doing, just to survive. For the most part we follow the story of Martin, who unsuccessfully tries to hold to his ways, ends up participating in theft, yet ultimately redeems himself in some ways. The author equally splits the narrative between those on trial, and those who plan the greatest theft of the 14th century. A gritty style captures despair, and a tough reality, but some good-natured comrades, and a love interest prevent the tone from becoming too heavy or dark. Most depict the Templars at the height of their power, while others look at those treasure seekers who hunt for what they hid. To see their downfall is not only refreshing, but is a perspective that makes them very human.