On The Table Read Magazine, “the best arts and entertainment magazine UK“, in Sisters of the Sword, Rod Sproson weaves a gripping, centuries-spanning epic of secret orders, ruthless women, and enduring crusader quests that culminates in a thrilling final clash of faiths, blending masterful historical detail with pulse-pounding thriller intrigue from the fall of the Holy Land to the modern world.
Sisters Of The Sword
Rod Sproson’s newly released novel, Sisters of the Sword, delivers a grand historical saga that spans from the aftermath of the Crusades in the 13th century to the complex political and religious tensions of the 21st century. This ambitious work of fiction combines meticulous historical research with a fast-paced, thriller-like narrative, earning comparisons to the intricate plotting of The Da Vinci Code and the high-stakes tension of Homeland.



The Fall of the Holy Land and the Rise of a Secret Order
The story opens in the wake of two centuries of brutal conflict in the Holy Land. Outmaneuvered and overwhelmed by a superior enemy, the last Crusaders sail away in defeat, leaving behind broken men who have lost hope in achieving Christendom’s long-sought victory over their adversaries. Amid this despair, a pivotal shift occurs: it falls to a woman, and an enduring lineage of influential and determined women at the heart of the secretive Order of St. Anthony, to rally resources and allies for a final confrontation between two mighty faiths centuries later.
The Order of St. Anthony serves as a central, authentic element in the narrative, drawing on historical inspiration while envisioning a hidden network that persists through time, guiding events from the shadows.
Compelling Characters Driving the Quest
At the core of the epic are two women named Eleanor, separated by half a millennium yet united in purpose. These ruthless, seductive, and highly capable protagonists—unusual in the male-dominated medieval world—carry the mission forward. Each Eleanor enlists a seasoned soldier to advance their cause: first Sir Henri De Montfort L’Amaury in the earlier era, and later Ben in more modern times. These characters, along with a cast of unforgettable figures, navigate intrigue, romance, political power struggles, and profound questions of faith.
The novel highlights the often-overlooked influence of women within the Catholic Church’s hierarchy, presenting believable female leads who shape history through cunning and determination rather than traditional authority.
A Journey Through Diverse Eras and Locations
Sisters of the Sword moves masterfully across continents and centuries, creating an immersive and varied landscape. The narrative travels from the 13th-century Levant and medieval France to the terrors of Nazi-occupied Poland during World War II, the jungles of Guatemala, the violent sectarian conflicts of Northern Ireland’s Troubles, and the secretive corridors of the 20th-century Vatican. This broad scope weaves together threads of conspiracy, adventure, and historical consequence, building toward an ultimate clash that seeks to bring the Crusades to a definitive close.
The story incorporates elements of mystery, including explorations of the fate of the Knights Templar’s treasure and the Holy Grail, satisfying readers’ curiosity about enduring historical enigmas while maintaining a gripping pace.
From Partial Publication to Complete Epic
The novel builds on earlier work, with the first part—originally titled St. Anthony’s Fire—published about twelve years ago. That installment, set in the 14th century, followed Sir Henri’s trials after joining a secret order akin to the Knights Templar. It received strong praise for its adventurous spirit, detailed research, and ability to blend mystery, romance, and historical insight.
After years on the shelf due to life’s demands, the manuscript was revived through a chance encounter with an accomplished author during a holiday. This serendipity inspired Rod Sproson to complete the full saga, resulting in the comprehensive edition now available.

Rod Sproson

Rod Sproson spent thirty years in a demanding sales career, where he rose at five in the morning to write longhand, finding the physical act of putting pen to paper therapeutic amid daily stresses. An avid student of history, he infuses his writing with high adventure and rich period detail. Sisters of the Sword marks the culmination of his dedication, poised to captivate existing readers and attract a broader audience of historical fiction enthusiasts and thriller fans alike.
This stand-out novel offers an unputdownable blend of classic historical depth and modern international suspense, making it a compelling must-read for anyone drawn to epic tales of enduring quests and hidden powers.
Find more from Rod Sproson now:
Kindle: https://amzn.to/4aYCZbB
Paperback: https://amzn.to/40kDCpH
Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/3OPqab1
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