I was really excited when I saw how long this graphic novel was - too often, comics rush through their plots and character development and I couldn't wait to read a graphic novel that was allowed significantly longer space than usual. Templar didn't disappoint. It's action-packed and based on significant historical research. Especially during the last two books, we really get to know the characters, which allows readers to connect with them in ways that, sometimes, characters in comics don't speak to me. Awesome! 
 Personally, I found the first book a bit slow and dry - there were a lot of faces and names, and it was difficult to keep everyone straight. The romance was also a little boring. It was very predictable; I saw all of it coming and, as is often the case in TV/comics/books, the female character is all about sex appeal. I wish her role had been a bit less sexualized. 
 Despite this, the ending didn't disappoint. (view spoiler)[The deaths of Martin and Bernard were realistic. The story didn't resort to a deus ex machina to save Martin, and that is one of the toughest things to do as a writer. The ending is much more rewarding for remaining realistic and bittersweet. I can't help but think, though, that if Martin knew he was going to die at the fort, he would have insisted more strongly that Bernard could not follow. Hm. (hide spoiler)] 
 For fans of action stories, this is a great read. Historical fiction fans will be especially pleased with the in-depth bibliography included by Mechner.