Orphan of Destiny

Written by Michael P. Spradlin

Narrated by Paul Boehmer

After barely escaping Sir Hugh's clutches once again, Tristan and his companions have finally reached the shores of England with the Holy Grail. But even as their quest nears its completion, treachery and destruction have beaten them home. Tristan's beloved abbey has been destroyed, and Robard's home in Sherwood Forest has fallen to poverty under the harsh rule of the Sheriff of Nottingham.

As they make their way through the English countryside on the final leg of their perilous journey, the three friends must not only fight side by side but also support each other through immeasurable tragedy. With the trio's list of enemies growing by the day, Tristan must constantly stay one step ahead of evil, a task that proves more difficult the closer he comes to fulfilling his duty.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Penguin Random House Audio
• Release date: Nov 2, 2010
• ISBN: 9780739367988

Michael P. Spradlin

Michael P. Spradlin is the New York Times Bestselling and Edgar Award-nominated author of more than a dozen books for children, including the Western Heritage Award-winning Off like the Wind: The Story of the Pony Express. Spradlin grew up in Homer, Michigan and attended Central Michigan University where he graduated with a BS degree in History in 1982. He currently resides in Lapeer, Michigan with his wife, daughter, and two schnoodles Apollo and Willow.

Reviews for Orphan of Destiny

[alexia561 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Even though this is the third book in the series, I had no trouble keeping track of everything and never felt lost. While I enjoy watching series characters grow and joining them on their adventures, I'm impressed when an author is able to have a series book stand on it's own. I've lost track of how many times I've picked up a book and had no idea what was going on because I didn't know that it was part of a series. The main character is Tristan, a squire who's on a quest for his lord knight. He's assisted on his journey by talented archer Robard Hode and a female assassin named Maryam. Robard grew up in Sherwood Forest, is attracted to Maryam, and discovers a nemesis in the evil Shire Reeve of Nottingham. They also meet several other characters inspired by the Robin Hood legend, such as Friar Tuck, Little John, and Will Scarlett. I may be easily amused, but I really enjoyed the Robin Hood tie-in!This was a fun story for me, but I wasn't sure if the target audience was young adult or middle grade. There were parts that might not be appropriate for MG, as there is some violence and people get hurt as well as actually die. But other sections seemed aimed at a younger audience. Could just be me, but I was a little confused on whether or not this would be suitable for my niece. Ultimately decided no because she's too young, but depending on the child, they might be able to handle it.Gave this a 3/5 as it was an okay story for me and I enjoyed it, but it didn't wow me. Was a little young for my tastes, but I've seen other reviewers that have loved it. If you've read this one, I'd be curious to hear what you thought of it and what age group you think it's aimed at?

[lillibrary · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Last book (3) in The Youngest Templar trilogy. Books 1 (my favorite) and 2 ended with cliffhangers and this one finishes the story, but seems a tad rushed. The re-imagined Robin Hood tale continues with the addition of more characters from Robin's band of Merry Men and Tristan, the youngest Templar, continues his quest to bring the holy grail to safety in Scotland.