Sir William de Clopton has joined crusaders to defend the city of Smyrna in Anatolia. Upon arrival, he discovers that Tamir the Lame has come to destroy the city and with it all the crusaders. So fearsome is his reputation that the Muslims flee the city. Can a thousand warriors hold back tens of thousands that siege the city?
The author does an amazing job of turning stereotypical crusaders into human beings. Also effectively portrays medieval battle without glorifying the brutality.