Synopsis:
When the Knights Templar ride through the Abbey on their way to battle, the orphan Tristan suddenly finds himself made squire to Sir Thomas. While being a squire is exciting, it is also dangerous, as Tristan gets caught between rival knights desperate for power and is entrusted with the most sacred relic - the Holy Grail. With the chaos of war around him, he teams up with some unlikely allies. But even with their help, can Tristan safely bring the Holy Grail back to England? Or will he succumb to the dangers of those who follow in its wake?

My Review:
I'm a great lover of anything remotely medieval in fiction, but it must be well written and captivating. This book delivers both. An array of colourful characters from unexpected places, descriptive settings and a thrilling plot, if you are after a book that engages historical imagination and battle intrigue, this book is for you!

Age Stamp: 




Pros:
This series is actually very insightful to medieval history. It goes into detail the route King Richard took from England to the Holy Land, where they faced each battle, and where the battle was lost. The story characters show bravery and wisdom when making decisions, and Tristan often shows mercy to victims of the war. He is a good example to his hasty friend, who takes a far too direct approach to surviving the tempestuous state of the country.

Cons:
The Holy Grail has been idolized a little in the series, having the power to protect it's bearer from danger with a loud ringing sound. Although the Lord is spoken of, He has not been made the primal focus of the story. There is a bit of cursing, but nothing too bad.

Publisher info, Other Versions, Series Titles & Curriculum:
These books are published by Puffin; Reprint Edition (September 2009) There are two titles so far in the trilogy:

1. Keeper of the Grail
2. Trail of Fate

and "Orphan of Destiny" is scheduled to come out on the 28th October 2010.
PLEASE NOTE: The first two books end on serious cliffhangers, so unless you are a patient, unenthusiastic, disinclined reader, it may be best to wait for the third's arrival. (Or else be an impatient, over-enthusiastic, "hurry up and gimme the book!" reader like I am. =P)

My Ratings:


Violence:[#] [#] [#] [ 
Fear Factor: @ 
Romance: < The tiniest inkling between two characters
Language: [!] Tristan's hasty friend, to thank.
Christian: (Sort of)
Mature Themes:
My Rating: *****