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The Muhammad Amalfi Mysteries #1
A Captive in Algiers
An orphan boy ‘borrows’ a boat in Amalfi. What could possibly go wrong…?
The year before revolution breaks out in France, Ettore sees an opportunity to add coins to the strong boxes he keeps hidden near his hammock in the brothel where he’d lived since birth. But will he cheat fate in an open boat on the Tyrrhenian Sea the way he fleeces the tourists and pilgrims he guides in his native Amalfi?
Would the hard lessons he’d learned in the streets of Amalfi help him in his time of need? Or would the stormy seas and Algerian corsairs who snatched him for sale on the slave market teach him another lesson? While fighting to survive, young Ettore confronts his origins, beliefs, and his own shortcomings when a sacrifice is required to aid the friends he makes along the way.
A Captive in Algiers, a prequel to the Muhammad Amalfi Mystery Series, is about identity, fidelity, struggle, friendship, and more. If you like fast-paced historical fiction set in unusual places, then you will definitely love this book by author AJ Lewis.
A Captive in Algiers won second place in the Royal Palms Literary Awards of the Florida Writers Association in 2017 and was selected as a Top Ten Self-Published Book by BookBag.
Get A Captive in Algiers today!
The year before revolution breaks out in France, Ettore sees an opportunity to add coins to the strong boxes he keeps hidden near his hammock in the brothel where he’d lived since birth. But will he cheat fate in an open boat on the Tyrrhenian Sea the way he fleeces the tourists and pilgrims he guides in his native Amalfi?
Would the hard lessons he’d learned in the streets of Amalfi help him in his time of need? Or would the stormy seas and Algerian corsairs who snatched him for sale on the slave market teach him another lesson? While fighting to survive, young Ettore confronts his origins, beliefs, and his own shortcomings when a sacrifice is required to aid the friends he makes along the way.
A Captive in Algiers, a prequel to the Muhammad Amalfi Mystery Series, is about identity, fidelity, struggle, friendship, and more. If you like fast-paced historical fiction set in unusual places, then you will definitely love this book by author AJ Lewis.
A Captive in Algiers won second place in the Royal Palms Literary Awards of the Florida Writers Association in 2017 and was selected as a Top Ten Self-Published Book by BookBag.
Get A Captive in Algiers today!
- GenresHistorical Fiction
201 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 10, 2023
132 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
July 1, 2023
AJ Lewis takes readers on a thrilling adventure through the ancient streets of Algiers in A Captive in Algiers. This gripping tale immerses readers in a vividly portrayed world of danger, secrets, and cultural richness, making it an absolute must-read for fans of historical mysteries. The protagonist, Muhammad Amalfi, is a truly compelling character. Lewis has crafted an enigmatic and multi-dimensional sleuth whose intelligence and tenacity shine through. Muhammad’s deep understanding of the intricate political landscape and his expertise in navigating the city’s labyrinthine alleyways make him the perfect guide through the mysteries that unfold.
The plot of A Captive in Algiers is masterfully constructed, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Lewis weaves a complex web of intrigue, with twists and turns that will leave readers guessing until the very end. The blend of historical facts and fiction creates a rich tapestry that adds depth and substance to the narrative, while the mystery itself is cleverly constructed, challenging readers to piece together the clues alongside Muhammad.
Lewis’s writing style is elegant and evocative, capturing the essence of Algiers and its vibrant culture. The vivid descriptions of the bustling marketplace, the narrow winding streets, and the ancient architecture create a sensory feast for readers, bringing the setting to life in vivid detail. The dialogue is engaging and authentic, reflecting on the diversity of characters and their unique personalities. Each conversation serves a purpose, driving the plot forward and revealing tantalizing glimpses into the motivations of the individuals Muhammad encounters on his journey.
The plot of A Captive in Algiers is masterfully constructed, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Lewis weaves a complex web of intrigue, with twists and turns that will leave readers guessing until the very end. The blend of historical facts and fiction creates a rich tapestry that adds depth and substance to the narrative, while the mystery itself is cleverly constructed, challenging readers to piece together the clues alongside Muhammad.
Lewis’s writing style is elegant and evocative, capturing the essence of Algiers and its vibrant culture. The vivid descriptions of the bustling marketplace, the narrow winding streets, and the ancient architecture create a sensory feast for readers, bringing the setting to life in vivid detail. The dialogue is engaging and authentic, reflecting on the diversity of characters and their unique personalities. Each conversation serves a purpose, driving the plot forward and revealing tantalizing glimpses into the motivations of the individuals Muhammad encounters on his journey.
January 28, 2024
Its easy to establish that this book has been written by a very well educated man. The writing and details inside is incredible. A captive in Algiers, a prequel to the Muhammad Amalfi Mystery Series, is about identity, fidelity, struggle, friendship, and more. If you like fast paced historical fiction set in unusual places, then you will definitely love this book by author AJ Lewis. A Captive in Algiers won second place in the Royal Palms Literary Awards of the Florida Writers Association in 2017.
PART OF PAGE 3
GUIDE
WHAT DID I, ETTORE, know of Algeris when I was swept to sea in the year 1788? What could I know? I was barely more than a boy living in a hammock strung nightly from hooks in a kitchen at a seaside bordello in Amalfi.
My mother died giving birth to me at that bordello , the House of Beautiful Swallows, so she never told me the stories of the ruthless Barbay pirates, the brothers Barbarossa, Dragut, Mezzo, and all the others. But Josephina did,the kindly old lady at the House whose promise to my mother on her deathbed was to raise me as her own. I loved her, I loved the stories she told me, and I loved the pirates.
I was five years of age when Josephina told me how the Spanish King Charles 111 sent his Irish general, Alexander O’Reilly, to defeat and occupy Algers in 1755.
PART OF PAGE 3
GUIDE
WHAT DID I, ETTORE, know of Algeris when I was swept to sea in the year 1788? What could I know? I was barely more than a boy living in a hammock strung nightly from hooks in a kitchen at a seaside bordello in Amalfi.
My mother died giving birth to me at that bordello , the House of Beautiful Swallows, so she never told me the stories of the ruthless Barbay pirates, the brothers Barbarossa, Dragut, Mezzo, and all the others. But Josephina did,the kindly old lady at the House whose promise to my mother on her deathbed was to raise me as her own. I loved her, I loved the stories she told me, and I loved the pirates.
I was five years of age when Josephina told me how the Spanish King Charles 111 sent his Irish general, Alexander O’Reilly, to defeat and occupy Algers in 1755.
June 30, 2023
An enthralling adventure!
"A Captive in Algiers: Book One in the Muhammad Amalfi Mystery Series" by AJ Lewis is an enthralling and exhilarating adventure that immerses readers in the early 18th century Algiers.
The narrative unravels from the perspective of the main character, Ettore, leading readers on an intense and captivating expedition brimming with mystery, suspense, and an unquenchable thirst for further revelations. The story is essentially a historical fiction, ostensibly based on the recently discovered diary of Muhammad Amalfi.
"A Captive in Algiers" is an exhilarating and unpredictable read. The dynamic and vivid characters bring the story to life, propelling readers into a world that offers an escape from the ordinary life and bring a thrilling adventure that will keep you in suspense until the end. This book deserves a total 5-star rating.
"A Captive in Algiers: Book One in the Muhammad Amalfi Mystery Series" by AJ Lewis is an enthralling and exhilarating adventure that immerses readers in the early 18th century Algiers.
The narrative unravels from the perspective of the main character, Ettore, leading readers on an intense and captivating expedition brimming with mystery, suspense, and an unquenchable thirst for further revelations. The story is essentially a historical fiction, ostensibly based on the recently discovered diary of Muhammad Amalfi.
"A Captive in Algiers" is an exhilarating and unpredictable read. The dynamic and vivid characters bring the story to life, propelling readers into a world that offers an escape from the ordinary life and bring a thrilling adventure that will keep you in suspense until the end. This book deserves a total 5-star rating.
June 19, 2023
A Captive in Algiers is the first installment in a series and, as such, it is only the beginning of a promising reading experience. Author Lewis takes us on a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern history during the 1700s, weaving together a tale of intrigue, culture and, in my opinion, the important ingredient, adventure.
He was able to set a vivid and descriptive setting for this fictional tale and offered us a unique blend of storytelling and historical context. This combination is amazing and proves the author’s writing ability.
Well-writing and showcasing the author’s attention to detail, this narrative is great. I loved how the author puts words together and I recommend it to any type of reader.
He was able to set a vivid and descriptive setting for this fictional tale and offered us a unique blend of storytelling and historical context. This combination is amazing and proves the author’s writing ability.
Well-writing and showcasing the author’s attention to detail, this narrative is great. I loved how the author puts words together and I recommend it to any type of reader.
June 26, 2023
A Captive In Algiers, Book One In The Muhammad Amafri Mystery Series, by A J Lewis, is the story of Ettore, Paul, and Bruno, and their resilience and perseverance. Ettore, a selfish young man entering the world as a tour guide and raised in a brothel, his choices as self-centered as he was. He even went so far as to risk the lives of his friends while on a boat ride. This story is a seventeen hundred’s adventure based on the diary of Muhammad Amafri.
A bit philosophical, and set in finely described settings, A Captive In Algiers, Book One In The Muhammad Amafri Mystery Series, by A J Lewis, is a winning five-star book, and the beginning of a continuing adventure. I am confident any young or older reader will appreciate and enjoy this book.
A bit philosophical, and set in finely described settings, A Captive In Algiers, Book One In The Muhammad Amafri Mystery Series, by A J Lewis, is a winning five-star book, and the beginning of a continuing adventure. I am confident any young or older reader will appreciate and enjoy this book.
June 22, 2023
“A Captive in Algiers: Book One in the Muhammad Amalfi Mystery Series” by author AJ Lewis is a middle-length award-winning story that captivated me from the start. The narrative flows nicely and the reading is not heavy at all; on the contrary, I think it can be read quite fast. Topics such as identity, fidelity and friendship are dealt with within this tale.
The setting was well created in this book; time and place were carefully described and that makes the reader feel and experience what the characters do. I would totally recommend reading it. It is enjoyable from beginning to end so there’s no waste in these pages.
The setting was well created in this book; time and place were carefully described and that makes the reader feel and experience what the characters do. I would totally recommend reading it. It is enjoyable from beginning to end so there’s no waste in these pages.
June 22, 2023
A Captive in Algiers is a historical fiction novel with a great deal of drama and mystery. It is the story of a young orphan from the slave trade who spends his days on the Amalfi coast. With a difficult childhood, a convoluted history, and an uncertain future, this young protagonist struggles to stay alive and get ahead. One of his common outbursts turns into something bigger and this time he's in trouble.
I recommend this story as it is compelling, energetic and promising. The scenes that the story portrays are so well described that it seems that one is there. The characters are well defined and the writing is simple and light.
I recommend this story as it is compelling, energetic and promising. The scenes that the story portrays are so well described that it seems that one is there. The characters are well defined and the writing is simple and light.
June 29, 2023
“A Captive in Algiers” by A. J. Lewis is an engrossing historical fiction novel that is particularly suitable for the young adult reader audience. The story is woven in such a convincing and compelling manner that I, at first, thought that this book was non-fiction. That stands testament to how convincing the writing style is as well as the excellent character creation and development.
I find the book not only intriguing as a novel, but also a wonderful story highlighting courage, fidelity, friendship and many other qualities. It is wonderful that this is only the first book of a series, so there is more to look forward to. I highly recommend this book!
I find the book not only intriguing as a novel, but also a wonderful story highlighting courage, fidelity, friendship and many other qualities. It is wonderful that this is only the first book of a series, so there is more to look forward to. I highly recommend this book!
February 1, 2024
This story, based on personal journals, was an enjoyable and interesting read - and long! If I didn’t already have so many other books in my “queue” I would have jumped into the next book… but later I will. I was amazed at the “street smarts” and never say die attitude of the young protagonist. His journey was long and challenging. I want to read more about that journey.
June 8, 2024
Muhammad Merchant, Haddad and Michele of Malfa captain of the Dey's place are chasing a group dealing in counterfeit coins. A group of rebels bring about terror, murder, betrayal. Lots of suspense and mayhem to make this an intriguing read. I received this ARC copy and leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.
January 15, 2024
A young boy's courage
While the writer may have wanted to include as much detail as possible, it resulted in the book being longer than necessary. The story shows the surprising determination to survive of a young child under severe circumstances.
While the writer may have wanted to include as much detail as possible, it resulted in the book being longer than necessary. The story shows the surprising determination to survive of a young child under severe circumstances.
April 4, 2024
3.5 closer to a 3 than a 4.
Loved the world-building. Story was all sizzle and stopped very abruptly.
This is something I wouldn't recommend reading first. Use the Publication order.
Loved the world-building. Story was all sizzle and stopped very abruptly.
This is something I wouldn't recommend reading first. Use the Publication order.
August 8, 2023
Great quick read
I love this book from beginning to end. And I loved the historical aspects Written in to each in every page I would highly recommend.
I love this book from beginning to end. And I loved the historical aspects Written in to each in every page I would highly recommend.
March 15, 2024
Good stuff
Though I thought it was going to head down a different path, I did enjoy the adventure provided. Having been to some of the places described, especially the Amalfi Coast, contributed to my interest.
Though I thought it was going to head down a different path, I did enjoy the adventure provided. Having been to some of the places described, especially the Amalfi Coast, contributed to my interest.
April 29, 2024
Very philosofical. I expected an action story but it felt like reading that book about a shipwrecked boy and the tiger. It is about suffering at see and contemplating the world. Too slow.
April 12, 2024
Excellent story
I got this on a Bookbub special, thinking it was a mystery. Instead, it was a fabulous epic about a boy who becomes lost at sea, captured by Barbary pirates, and enslaved. I could not put it down, and I look forward to reading more in the series.
I got this on a Bookbub special, thinking it was a mystery. Instead, it was a fabulous epic about a boy who becomes lost at sea, captured by Barbary pirates, and enslaved. I could not put it down, and I look forward to reading more in the series.
January 3, 2024
A Captive in Algiers: A Muhammed Amalfi Mystery is one of the best adventure stories I've read in a long time! I'm so happy that this has turned into a series and I cannot wait to read the second novel. Now, if only they'd turn it into a movie! AJ Lewis is a masterful storyteller. He will keep you interested from the get-go!
The story follows Ettore, an Italian orphan raised in a brothel. He is resourceful with an eye for business and great insight on human behavior at a very young age, which he uses to his advantage to great success for he and his young business partner, Bruno. One mistake will lead him and his companions into a dangerous adventure on the open seas. They meet many memorable characters on the way and you are bound to find yourself captivated by the danger they encounter. On this unwilling adventure, Ettore will question everything he has ever known, leading this book into philosophical territory. This is not only a great historical fiction adventure, but also a book that really makes you think. This book will keep you up at night, turning page after page because it's so good, you won't want to sleep!
I received a complimentary copy of this book via OnlineBookClub in exchange for my honest review.
The story follows Ettore, an Italian orphan raised in a brothel. He is resourceful with an eye for business and great insight on human behavior at a very young age, which he uses to his advantage to great success for he and his young business partner, Bruno. One mistake will lead him and his companions into a dangerous adventure on the open seas. They meet many memorable characters on the way and you are bound to find yourself captivated by the danger they encounter. On this unwilling adventure, Ettore will question everything he has ever known, leading this book into philosophical territory. This is not only a great historical fiction adventure, but also a book that really makes you think. This book will keep you up at night, turning page after page because it's so good, you won't want to sleep!
I received a complimentary copy of this book via OnlineBookClub in exchange for my honest review.
July 17, 2023
A great read!
Author AJ Lewis quite adroitly describes this entry into the Muhammad Amalfi mystery series: ‘The books in this series bring to life an obscure chapter in history (1790s Algiers) through the keen observations of a gifted but inexperienced young man with the perspective of an outsider…Book One describes how a young Italian orphan struggles with the elements and his own identity when he is swept out to sea and taken to a slave market by Algerian corsairs. Forced to confront his origins, his beliefs, and his own shortcomings while fighting to survive, he makes a calculated sacrifice in order to aid the companions he finds on the way.’
The plot and presentation of this fine novel make for an absorbing read, a fresh vantage of the incipient French Revolution period, a fine development of a brave lad who will become the Muslim Chief Commissioner Muhammed Amalfi, and a story that satisfies on every level - as a novel and as a fascinating visit to an important time in history. Clearly, this novel introduces a writer of significance. Very highly recommended
Author AJ Lewis quite adroitly describes this entry into the Muhammad Amalfi mystery series: ‘The books in this series bring to life an obscure chapter in history (1790s Algiers) through the keen observations of a gifted but inexperienced young man with the perspective of an outsider…Book One describes how a young Italian orphan struggles with the elements and his own identity when he is swept out to sea and taken to a slave market by Algerian corsairs. Forced to confront his origins, his beliefs, and his own shortcomings while fighting to survive, he makes a calculated sacrifice in order to aid the companions he finds on the way.’
The plot and presentation of this fine novel make for an absorbing read, a fresh vantage of the incipient French Revolution period, a fine development of a brave lad who will become the Muslim Chief Commissioner Muhammed Amalfi, and a story that satisfies on every level - as a novel and as a fascinating visit to an important time in history. Clearly, this novel introduces a writer of significance. Very highly recommended
July 1, 2023
The intriguing story of “A Captive in Algiers” quickly draws readers in. The plot develops smoothly from the first few chapters. Personally, it kept me interested and anxious to find out what happens next. Action scenes, thrilling moments, and thought-provoking dialogues are skillfully balanced by the author. It's difficult to put the book down because of the narrative's unrelenting drive, which keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Characters created by AJ Lewis are well developed, sympathetic, and possess unique motives and personalities. The protagonist develops as a captivating and multidimensional character, whose experiences capture readers.
In conclusion, there were several aspects I really enjoyed about this piece of work so I highly recommend it.
Characters created by AJ Lewis are well developed, sympathetic, and possess unique motives and personalities. The protagonist develops as a captivating and multidimensional character, whose experiences capture readers.
In conclusion, there were several aspects I really enjoyed about this piece of work so I highly recommend it.
June 29, 2023
“A Captive in Algiers” by A. J. Lewis is an engrossing historical fiction novel that is particularly suitable for the young adult reader audience. The story is woven in such a convincing and compelling manner that I, at first, thought that this book was non-fiction. That stands testament to how convincing the writing style is as well as the excellent character creation and development.
I find the book not only intriguing as a novel, but also a wonderful story highlighting courage, fidelity, friendship and many other qualities. It is wonderful that this is only the first book of a series, so there is more to look forward to. I highly recommend this book!
I find the book not only intriguing as a novel, but also a wonderful story highlighting courage, fidelity, friendship and many other qualities. It is wonderful that this is only the first book of a series, so there is more to look forward to. I highly recommend this book!
July 2, 2023
Step into the gripping world of "A Captive in Algiers," a thrilling prequel to the Muhammad Amalfi Mystery Series by AJ Lewis. In this fast-paced historical fiction, an orphan boy takes a chance and "borrows" a boat in Amalfi, unaware of the perilous journey that awaits him. As revolution looms in France, Ettore's skills are put to the ultimate test when he faces stormy seas and Algerian corsairs who intend to sell him into slavery. While struggling to survive, Ettore discovers the true meaning of identity, loyalty, and friendship. If you crave an exciting tale set in unusual locations, don't miss out on this award-winning novel. Get your copy of "A Captive in Algiers" today!
June 26, 2023
“A Captive in Algiers: Book One in the Muhammad Amalfi Mystery Series” by author AJ Lewis is a middle length book that tells the story of young Ettore, an orphan, who is struggling to survive. In the story, he learns who he is, so the theme of identity is always present here.
The story has a fast pace that I enjoyed and I think is the right one for this historical fiction. I think we learn more and more about the character as he knows more about himself. We accompany them in this process.
I liked the book. I think the story is entertaining and well written.
The story has a fast pace that I enjoyed and I think is the right one for this historical fiction. I think we learn more and more about the character as he knows more about himself. We accompany them in this process.
I liked the book. I think the story is entertaining and well written.
November 5, 2023
To be honest the first part of the book kinda drags along with being lost unto sea, then being captured by the pirates, but overall if the next book is out I'll be awaiting its read.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews