Jack Templar and the Last Battle

The Templar Chronicles #6

by Jeff Gunhus

Jack Templar faces his greatest challenge yet...

In the sixth and last book of the Jack Templar series, Jack and his friends race to stop Ren Lucre before he launches this Creach army against humankind. But the Lord of the Lesser Creach and the Lord of the Zombies hold the last two Jerusalem Stones Jack needs to have any chance of success. To make matters worse, the Oracle predicts that one of their group will die in the upcoming fight, and Jack discovers betrayal among those he trusts most.

Even so, Jack must find the courage to lead his friends into battle. Either they collect the Stones in time to defeat Ren Lucre or die trying. It’s "Do your duty, come what may" no matter the cost. The fate of the world hangs in the balance.

Genres: Fantasy

ebook

First published January 1, 2016

About the author

Jeff Gunhus is the USA TODAY bestselling author of thriller and horror novels for adults and the middle grade series, The Jack Templar Chronicles. The first book, Jack Templar Monster Hunter, was written in an effort to get his reluctant reader eleven-year old son excited about reading. It worked and a new series was born. His books are available in several languages, been Foreword Reviews Book of the Year Finalists, and reached the USA TODAY bestseller list.

After his experience with his son, he is passionate about helping parents reach young reluctant readers and is active in child literacy issues. As a father of five, he leads an active lifestyle in Maryland with his wife Nicole by trying to constantly keep up with their kids. In rare moments of quiet, he can be found in the back of the City Dock Cafe in Annapolis working on his next novel.

Reviews

[Montzalee Wittmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jack Templar and the Last Battle (The Templar Chronicles #6) by Jeff Gunhus is the first book I have read in the series and I didn't feel lost but now I know I missed out on some very good books. These are like Harry Potter books in that they are made for kids but every adult that read them were not thinking "kids books" as they read them. This book was rich with fantasy creatures, great characters (good and bad), twists and surprises, mysteries, friendships, a great zombie army to control (why not, right?), humor, suspense, action, adventure, and loads of fun. I could see this on a big screen! I loved this book! This was one heck of a ride and I rode it like a good monster hunter would! I received this book free and am under no obligation to leave a review but it is so good, I had to share the love! All ages (middle grades and up) will adore this book! One of the best kids books I have read in a long time! Going in my favorites list and letting my grand kids know about this one! Thanks for letting me read this book!

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth and final book in this series and was my favorite one! Bits and pieces of Jack's story were revealed throughout the other books and this is where we get the final pieces and understand what his quest has been about.

Jack and his friends have their toughest challenge yet--to obtain the remaining two Jerusalem Stones and then attempt to defeat Ren Lucre in battle. It seems impossible to accomplish and they will need help in order to be successful. I loved how this story unfolded! Jack and his friends have a strong bond and stay loyal to each other, even when they're not sure how that will affect the outcome of their battle.

The series takes place within one year and what an action packed, adventurous year it has been! I would highly recommend reading it from the beginning so you can get to know the characters and their interactions with each other, as well as the complete story. I'm always sad when a series I have loved comes to an end. I enjoy this author's writing style and look forward to reading more of his books in the future!

I received a complimentary copy via eBooks for Review, which did not affect my review in any way

[Heather Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the first book in the series and liked it, but I never got around to reading the other books until this one came up for a read/review. Some books in series' can be stand-alone's also. This one isn't. I knew enough from reading the first book what was going on, but I knew I missed a lot of great adventures in between. I enjoyed watching the friendships of the five hunters evolve in the book. I liked that in the end, the five stones had to be shared to be effective and that it touched on leaning on each other to make it through life. There were some pretty amazing escapes, quick thinking saves, and gruesome creatures. What an imaginative story of heroes making the world a better place for all kinds. I liked that the kids weren't out for revenge and valued the sanctity of human life. Vivid imagery. I felt like I was right there.The reason I didnt give it 5 stars is that I guess I had a hard time believing a group of 14 year olds could save the world from a crazy vampire over 1000 years old. A lot of their thought processes seemed on more of an adult level- too quick thinking under pressure. I wouldn't say it is for kids any younger than 14 or 15. There are some pretty violent fight scenes. Even adults will like it. If you like Fablehaven by Mull, you'll like this series. I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Jeannette · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with all great series there's a bitter-sweet feeling when it ends. On one hand I'm glad to see how things have turned out. On the other hand I'm sad the adventure is over. I've loved this series from the first book. I've become so attached to Jack, Eva, Daniel, Will, T-Rex & Xavier. They've all changed and grown so much; each of them conquering their own personal demons. In the end they all stayed true to themselves. Jack discovered the true value and power in their bond of friendship. From the beginning chapter to the last epic battle this book was loaded with adventure. I can't help but hope it will become a series of movies that I can fan-girl over. I've recommended this series to countless people looking for a great story and exceptional writing. My daughter, a 7th grader, LOVES this series and tells all her friends about it. I don't have to tell you what high praise that is! If you haven't started this series I don't know what more you're waiting for. Packed full of adventure, witty dialogue and "lol" moments this series is bound to get even a reluctant reader interested. I can't wait to see what Jeff Gunhus will entertain us with next.

[Melissa Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading the end of this series was like saying goodbye to a good friend, I got a bit sappy and emotional and I tried to drag it out as long as I could. Till I was up past my bedtime last night with shortbread and milk trying to hold back tears as the end came round. :(

I am hard pressed to review it without some sort of spoiler leaking out of me in some way, I hate that. It was a fabulous read, fast paced and heart breaking in spots. Shockingly delightful and heart warming in others. Just the right amount of suspense.

I have been a huge Jeff Gunhus fan since I volunteer to review the first Jack Templar book because I was looking for books for my son to read and I recommend these books loudly and with much enthusiasm to every child that I talk to about books and reading. (adults too)

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[iamnotabookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time to hear of Jack Templar. This series has been a hit and it's just unfortunate that I have not heard of it. Jack Templar and the Last Battle is the 6th and last book of the series. Yes, too bad. This is the first book I read and the story has come to an end. This is going to be weird knowing the ending first before I start the whole series.

This book concludes The Templar Chronicles. Will Jack be able to gather all the five Jerusalem stones and defeat this grandfather Ren Lucre?

This story felt like Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Truth be told, the author was definitely inspired by Rick Riordan to come up with this book because of his eleven-year-old son's non-interest in reading. This book fulfilled its purpose and even converted a lot of other kids to the reading cult. This just simply means that the series is really interesting. Like Percy Jackson, this book was based on a historical character which was the Knights of the Templar. Although, Percy was based on a character in Greek mythology but I think you know what I mean. I find the plot and the story line very engrossing indeed. Yes, Jack Templar is definitely one of those young heroes to follow. I had just been in only one and the last of his adventures but I find it so fascinating. Not to mention, his entourage of interesting friends that accompany him.

As I said, the story is akin to Percy Jackson's only because they are both young heroes who had to face the impossible and insurmountable tasks ahead. But that is where the similarities end. Their stories are so different though they get to face monsters and characters with special abilities. And I guess, no hero is ever successful having to face all his quests alone, he has to have a set of reliable and loyal friends to succeed. It is interesting, both Jack and Percy's weakness are their friends and both had been told that they could be their undoing.

I am looking forward to getting to know more of Jack Templar. I want to know what other compelling and dangerous adventures he has to face and he will get out of them alive.

I give the book 4/5 Jerusalem stones. According to Google, this is how they look. They are the ordinary stones from Jerusalem, probably from some ruins, just like how it was described in the story. Anyway, I really enjoyed the last battle and Jack finally get to reunite with his long-lost Dad. It is a riveting story not just for kids but for adults too.


Love can make people blind. It can make them justify things, terrible things.
- Jeff Gunhus, Jack Templar and the Last Battle -


Thank you again, ebooksforreview, for the copy.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completing a series of books can be an emotional experience. If it's well-written, it's like saying goodbye to friends that you've shared many adventures with.
As I completed this Jack Templar series, I think I can only compare my emotional state to when I wrapped up the Chronicles of Narnia with "The Last Battle". I had both goosebumps and tears. Yes, it was that good and I did read all the Harry Potter books and loved them. Sometimes there's a sense of relief and completion.
I read some of the previous reviews and saw where many reviewers did not read all the books in order. Sure, if you pick up just one you can enjoy it. But you are only depriving yourself of this magical world created by Jeff Gunhus, and you really can't appreciate the sacrifices and growth the cast and characters make on their epic quest if you don't read them all in order.
I don't really want to give anything away. I loved it. I hope Mr. Gunhus returns to the YA stage even though his own Jack and Will are probably all grown up.
Finally, Jack Templar, forgive me for repeatedly screaming at you,"Hold on to the dawn stones!"

[Amber Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to be honest I have not read the other books in this series but now that I have read this one i really want to go and start at the begining as it was really amazing.

Jack is such a strong brave character in this book I am sure when i read all the books I will think so even more and probably get extremely attached haha.

This author is amazing for young adult novels that are full of mustery and horror mixed into one. I would have never thought of the things he did to put into this book.

4 stars

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was asked to review by inspired by Kathy

The last in the series -I had been privileged to read the other books in this remarkable series.A great read and a sad day when this has come to an end.

Love this book the writing was great and fast paced great plot.

[Allan Ashinoff · Rating 3 out of 5]

All the action, all the creatures, all the places mythical and real that he and his group traveled, he pined in love for a girl and never even spoke his feelings or received a kiss by the series end? Bah!

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s the final book, the final battle. Have you been with Jack since the beginning? I have. When we first met Jack, he found out that he was a monster hunter. Just finding out that monsters are real would be bad enough. Finding out you’ve got to fight them? Poor Jack.

In the following books Jack trained at the academy for hunters, meets the Lord of the Vampires, found friends (and enemies) among werewolves, and traveled through the underworld. Through it all, he and his friends have faced unimaginable horrors and yet survived and come out stronger. The bond Jack has with his little band of friends is amazing. They’ll do anything for him, and he’ll do anything for them. In fact, they have done everything for him. Some have even given up their humanity.

In this final book, Jack will finally face Ren Lucre. But first, he’s got to get the final two Jerusalem Stones. When he finally retrieves the stones, Jack has to decide if he’ll risk using them and destroying himself, or trusting his friends.

This series has been such an amazing ride. I love Jack and his friends. They show that true friendship requires sacrifice sometimes. And these books show that we are stronger together. I love how the books have concluded, and you will too! I highly recommend the Jack Templar series to all lovers of adventure.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I chose to read this book after receiving it a free ecopy from the author. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.

Jack Templar and the Last Battle is the sixth and final book in the Jack Templar series. It is full of action and suspense, as well as vampires, werewolves, goblins and any other creature you can imagine.

I have read a lot of Jeff Gunhus’s books because I like his writing style. It flows well and is easy to follow, whether it's a young adult book or an adult book. He’s able to describe places and events so well that I can picture them. He doesn’t go into too much detail, though, which I always like.

I feel like I’ve really gotten to know Jack and his friends as I have followed their quest for the Jerusalem stones. They have been through so much together that they're closer than many families. A couple of his friends have even given up their humanity for this quest.

So many times it looks like it is the end of the road for Jack and his friends. Somehow, they are able to find a way to survive. Jeff Gunhus’s ability to come up with new ways to save Jack and friends amazes me. Even when they finally face Ren Lucre, it doesn't look good, but they prove that love conquers all.

I definitely recommend this book and the complete Jack Templar series. I can’t believe the journey is over!

[Diana Switter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jack Templer and the Last Battle by Jeff Gunhus is the last book in the Templer series, which I have not read. I took great pleasure in reading this book, even with some editing problems. It was a complete read in itself, yet, I would recommend reading more of the series, as I think I will be doing, even though it is targeted for 11-15 year olds. I loved the that the battle between good and evil had other possibilities. Even in just one of the book I saw great personal development and true friendship evolve. All, in all it was well written and a smooth, quick, read. I would recommend it for all ages, even though the heroes are young.

*I received an ebook for an honest review of this book.

[Wensday · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a love/hate relationship.

What a great series! I so enjoyed the last book, but didn't want it to end. I guess that's the joy of reading is that I can start from the beginning and read the entire series again.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

First time reading this series. I won the last book and now that I have finished it will have to go buy the first five. Good series!