Book cover of 'Templar of Archaea' by Caleb Franklin displayed on a tablet, smartphone, and hardcover edition, featuring a knight with a red cape before a fantasy landscape with a tall castle.

The Doomed Empire Saga

Redemption is a costly commodity. It’s time to pay the price.


The Golden Empire was built on conquest. Now it teeters on the edge of annihilation.

Rapid change and rising conflict grip the planet Archaea. As old powers fracture and new ideologies clash, the very fabric of society begins to tear at the seams. Through a volatile mix of fate and personal choice, Augen finds himself on the distant battlefield against a dangerous and cunning foe. Physically augmented and outfitted with the blessings and weapons of the Golden Empire, the young warrior seems well equipped to bring purpose to his own life and death to his enemies. Or is he?

Augen’s battles are not only against enemies on the front lines or his own arrogant commander, but with the remnants of his shattered past. Tossed into the fires of a bloody conflict from the wreckage of personal tragedy, he must learn to forgive himself and confront the darkness tormenting him within. If he cannot reconcile with the memories haunting him, they may lead him straight into the arms of death – a presence that lurks around every corner.

As the world unravels, what does redemption truly cost—and what decides who is worthy of it? Can an imperfect man rise to become a symbol of salvation, or will he become another casualty etched into the forgotten margins of history? When the smoke clears and the war ends, will there be anything left of a once-thriving empire or the Templar of Archaea who dared to fight for it?

Archaea is a fascinating world that blends ancient traditions, religion, technology, augmented soldiers, large cities, war, and a rich culture into one intriguing melting pot. What gives this novel its dramatic impact is not only the battles and machines of war, but the focus on characters torn between their sense of duty and their personal challenges. Augen’s character is imperfect but genuine - an archetype of the wounded, reluctant hero. Simultaneously, Emperor Alexander’s charac leadership fatigue and mental turmoil create a struggle with his own inner demons. Their profound character development will completely draw readers into this world and the characters’ personal struggles.

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PRAISE FOR THE DOOMED EMPIRE SAGA

  • The characters are well-developed and execute their roles flawlessly. The pacing was fast enough to keep me on edge as I read, with different plot twists that made it more unpredictable.

    Mary Clarke for Readers’ Favorite


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