This book is an intriguing mix of fact and fiction.  Based on the history of the Cathars, a religious heresy of the medieval period in France, and with references to the Knights Templar, there is enough information to whet the appetite of those interested in such things without turning into overkill for those who just want a good story and don’t care too much about the setting.  After a rather slow start and a lengthy list of characters to get to grips with, the story moves along at a good pace with some interesting twists and turns on route.  A sort of archaeological treasure hunt with competitors ranging from a TV presenter through a religious group to members of the mafia.  Some of the characters are stereotypical and didn’t really come to life for me, but others – including the two main – were more convincing.  I was initially somewhat disappointed by the ending which didn’t seem to tie up all the loose ends, but then I realised that this book is intended as the first of a trilogy and all became clear.  And the over-long list of characters was also explained.  All in all a good enough read to make me look out for the next instalment at some stage, but not one which completely wowed me.

The Secret of the Cathars is published by Matador and available in paperback and as an e-book.