Ron Barber began writing this first book in this Templar series in 2005. He retired as Director of the Port of History Museum in Philadelphia 1966 and wrote his first novel "A Cup to Die For" which was published in 2000. He has traveled widely throughout Europe and North Africa researching his books. He lives most of the year in Philadelphia with his wife who is a professional dancer. They spend as much time as their careers allow traveling in Europe and especially Paris and the south of France, and make frequent visits to Egypt and Tunisia as well. His French/Basque heritage is reflected in his love of good wine and gourmet cooking.