Kingdom of Heaven

[Krusader]

Jan Guillou's (or how is surname is written) Templar Trilogy is quite good, although there are a few "quirks" I dont like, like that he is a flawless hero (he isn't entirely perfect, I believe there were some minor flaws revealed in the third book) and the main characters has some few "modern views", although the books are so well-written you will overlook it.

The author wanted to show medieval Scandinavia, the Church's role, and women's life in a macho society. And also to "enlighten" the reader on how much of Scandinavian culture was imported from Europe and the Muslim world.
The Muslims are shown in a good light, and Scandinavian bishops in a very bad light.

The author nicely combines imagination with history, and some historical characters make their appearance. Saladin for instance, and Gerard de Ridefort. He is also accurate with equipment and warfare.

As a sidenote, Jan Guillou also wrote a fourth book, a continuation of the series, where he described Birger Jarls life. He did alot in Sweden, like found Stockholm, the capital, and seperating Church and State.

And back to topic (sorry for the topic hijack):
Kingdom of Heaven seems okay for now. But I fear the love story might overshadow the historical part