Stephen Howarth

Advantages: Learn about The Templar Knights.
Disadvantages: None.

...Whilst browsing through my usual book catalogue, TSP, (The Softback Preview), I came across a book by Historian Stephen Howarth. It was entitled The Knights Templar. I thought, Ooooh, this looks interesting, and it is a companion to the other book I have, the locations of Templar Knight graves around Britain. So, herein lies a tale of bravery, murder, corruption and lies in the Early Centuries. A Brotherhood, known as The Poor Fellow Soldiers of Christ, Knights of the Temple of Solomon, but better known as The Knights Templar, were founded in 1118 or 1119 (no-one is sure which), and they united two medieval ideals which should never have existed together, Monks and Warriors. They had jobs in all walks of life, Bankers, Diplomats and Tax-Gatherers to name but a few. The Templar Knights were themselves poor, but the wealth... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Its a good read
Disadvantages: It'll make you cry for him

...I have read many of these books to try to understand human nature. When I started reading this book I found it hard to put down and read it in 2 days, I cried all the way through it, I read a lot of books like this one but found this one to be very disturbing in what evil there is in the world, it is a must read, but beware it is very disturbing This book however had me sobbing and my heart went out to this young boy, who did nothing wrong. It is amazing, how people can come through such traumatic periods in their lives, when faced with such adversity. A compelling and sympathetic read. Very well written and also opens our eyes to the prison regime. Good luck Stuart in everything you achieve in this life. God only knows you deserve it. Stuart Howarth tells the heart wrenching story of his life, in what is without doubt, one... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average not helpful

Advantages: Real life content makes the book all the more moving
Disadvantages: Some of the content is hard to read through and highly emotional

...This book was without doubt the most emotionally moving read I've ever experienced. I couldn't put it down and finished it within 3 days. It was tough going in some places but gave me such insight to the suffering that children can go through, and then the suffering that can befall them as adults. The book takes us through the life of Stuart Howarth, from a small boy of 3 years old right up to adult hood: from his mental and sexual abuse as a child, right up to his trial and subsequent imprisonment for the murder of his step-father and abuser. I did think at the beginning I wouldn't be able to stick it out, but I'm so glad I did as it tested not only my strength of character, but has also inspired me to try and do something to change the lives of children suffering abuse - something I've wanted to do for a long time and now Stuart has... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful