The book by British historian Desmond Seward is dedicated to the history of military-monastic associations: the orders of the Templars and Hospitallers, who fought the infidels in Palestine; the Teutonic Order and its clashes with the Prussians and Slavic peoples; the Spanish and Portuguese orders of Santiago, Calatrava and Alcantara and their participation in the Reconquista; as well as to little-known confraternities such as the Orders of St. Thomas and Montegaudio. In addition to describing battles and political intrigues with the participation of knights and masters, the author describes in detail the typical clothing, symbols and weapons of the orders, lifestyle, hierarchy and regulations. In addition, the author talks about individuals who, either due to their heroism and outstanding talents, or, on the contrary, special vices and atrocities, left a significant mark on the history of the orders.