Step into the shadowy, pulse-pounding world of the Templar Chronicles, where modern-day knights battle supernatural horrors in a secret war to protect humanity! Written by Joseph Nassise, this urban fantasy series blends gritty tactical action, ancient mysticism, and heart-wrenching personal stakes. Follow Cade Williams, a former SWAT officer turned Templar commander, as he faces demons, necromancers, and his own dark past in a thrilling saga that keeps you hooked.
With its unique mix of military precision and otherworldly terror, the Templar Chronicles offers a fresh take on the supernatural thriller genre. Whether you’re a fan of urban fantasy or just love a good monster-hunting adventure, this series delivers chills, thrills, and a touch of redemption.
How Templar Chronicles Began
Joseph Nassise, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, crafted the Templar Chronicles from his fascination with the Knights Templar and their mysterious history. Inspired by the historical purge of the Templars on Friday the 13th, 1307, Nassise reimagined them as a modern Vatican-backed force fighting supernatural threats. His debut novel, The Heretic, published in 2005, launched the series, drawing praise for its fast-paced storytelling and genre-blending innovation.
Nassise’s background in horror and urban fantasy, coupled with his knack for weaving redemption arcs, shaped the series’ intense yet emotional tone. His goal was to create a world where faith, duty, and vengeance collide, making Cade Williams a compelling, flawed hero for readers to root for.
The Heart of Templar Chronicles
The series kicks off with The Heretic, where Cade, haunted by his wife Gabrielle’s death at the hands of a fallen angel called the Adversary, leads the Echo Team against a cabal of necromancers seeking a powerful relic. In A Scream of Angels, the team investigates a priest’s wild tales of demons in a secret desert facility, uncovering a conspiracy that tests their skills. A Tear in the Sky ramps up the stakes as Cade ventures into the Beyond, a limbo-like realm, to rescue Gabrielle, blending cosmic horror with personal sacrifice. Later, Fall of Night explores Cade’s guilt and Gabrielle’s return, delivering emotional depth amid relentless action.
The Templar Chronicles thrives on themes of redemption, faith, and the battle between good and evil. Cade’s journey—from avenging his wife to saving her soul—mirrors classic hero myths but feels raw and modern. The series’ gritty New England settings, from Boston’s streets to eerie Templar strongholds, ground its supernatural elements in a vivid, tactile world. Nassise’s prose, described as “breakneck” by Kelley Armstrong, balances gore, suspense, and heartfelt moments, making each book a page-turner.
What sets the series apart is its fusion of paramilitary tactics with mystical lore. The Templars wield both holy relics and high-tech gear, facing off against ghouls, demons, and sorcerers. This blend of The Da Vinci Code’s religious intrigue and The Dresden Files’ urban fantasy appeals to readers craving action with substance.
Why Templar Chronicles Resonates
The Templar Chronicles has carved a niche in urban fantasy, earning a loyal fanbase for its relentless pacing and Cade’s compelling arc. With over 750,000 copies sold worldwide, the series has been translated into multiple languages, reflecting its global appeal. Fans on platforms like Goodreads praise its “brain candy” entertainment, comparing it to action-packed airport thrillers with a supernatural twist.
Its lasting impact lies in its bold reimagining of the Templar legacy, blending historical intrigue with modern horror. Nassise’s ability to keep readers guessing—through cliffhangers and emotional twists—ensures the series remains a standout. Though not without flaws, like occasional editing issues noted by reviewers, its raw energy and unique premise make it a must-read for genre fans.
- First Book: The Heretic (2005)
- Total Books: 8 novels, plus novellas
- Author: Joseph Nassise, New York Times bestseller
- Genre: Urban fantasy, supernatural thriller
Grab The Heretic and dive into the Templar Chronicles’ world of holy warriors and unholy terrors—your next obsession awaits!