In The Shadow of the Prophet

by A. Afaf

In the Shadow of the Prophet is a novel set in the Middle East, during the time of transition from paganism to Islam. The novel chronicles the stories of two sisters, Noor and Sawdah, whose lives are transformed by their personal experiences and by the dramatic changes in the world around them.San Diego Book Awards honored In the Shadow of the Prophet as its 2017 winner for both Best Unpublished Novel and Best Unpublished Entry Overall. It was the first recipient of the ChetCunningham Spur Award for Unpublished Authors.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

238 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2023

Reviews

[Cassia Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read ‘In the Shadow of the Prophet’ in three days. It moved me to tears three times. I’m not surprised at all that it won awards, but I’m absolutely astounded that this was a first novel. (The award was for Best Unpublished Novel and Best Unpublished Entry Overall in the San Diego Book Awards.)

Written in deceptively simple language, this is the story of two sisters whose paths diverge as young adults. Set against the backdrop of the Middle Eastern desert at a time of great religious turmoil (transition from paganism to Islam), this story will touch your heart, highlighting universal themes (esp. love of family) that apply to all human beings, no matter their creed or culture.

In our world of plenty, where hatred is deeply and deliberately sown, it is more important than ever to remind one another of our shared humanity. The message is clear: We are all the same. We all love and hurt and learn.

[Vivian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've never once thought about pre-Islamic Middle East until this book invited me to imagine it. Now I can only wish that time travel existed, so I could go back discreetly and observe the transition to Islam - ya had to be there.

The way the story is written invites readers to feel like they've befriended the sisters as they journey through life. I felt every knife twist, joy, sorrow as they sojourned. A wonderful, engaging read to start off 2024.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once I picked up this book, I could not put it down. The story is so beautifully written, with character development that allows the readers to see religion and spirituality through multiple lenses.
There is a thoughtfulness and a gentleness to the pacing of this story that held my interest easily. The perspective shifts and the care with which the author handled the passage of time in the story stood out to me most. More than anything, this story shines light on family in the midst of change, and I think there are many lessons we can learn from the sisters in this story. I did cry at a couple points because of how relatable the characters felt at times- it seemed like I had walked through joy and heartbreak with them.
I would highly recommend reading this novel for yourself (my words don’t capture the lovely mix emotions the story will stir for you); the ending brings about a sense of hope and words of kindness that the world needs greatly. Thank you so much for a truly beautiful story.

[Quintus Fisher · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel is like a time machine. It transports the reader back in time to meet this precious family and lets them observe their lives, their hopes and dreams, their defeats and their victories. The narration doesn't follow standard plots, rather it presents a pastiche of lived moments, reminding me of the movies of Terrence Malick. The characters make you feel the emotions they are going through and it is a fascinating glimpse into an earlier time with religious turmoil, presenting both the good and bad impacts on people. And it serves well to humanize people that are too often dehumanized in our time.

[Joshua Marsella · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Afaf has written a heartfelt story following two sisters during the age of the birth of Islam. While their paths in life are very different, we see how their faith guides them and their hearts help them survive in their patriarchal world. The story also helps the reader gain an understanding for the religion of Islam and what life was like during the rise of the prophet Muhammad which is a tale that has all but been forgotten in the Western World save for those that follow the religion of Islam. The writing was absolutely gorgeous and at times poetic. Knowing this novel was independently published leads me to the assumption that this was a choice made by the author in which case is even more impressive because there’s no way this would be rejected by a mainstream publisher. Afaf is a master world builder and I’m not convinced that this story and the characters didn’t really exist, it’s that well-written and articulated. The narration by the author was the icing on the cake, and her ability to not only read the story but give the characters life was remarkable. She makes you feel the love, the pain, and the joy of each character and their faith shines through, even to a nonbeliever like myself. Please do yourself a favor and read In the Shadow of the Prophet. You won’t be disappointed!

[Yoly · Rating 5 out of 5]

"In the Shadow of the Prophet" is a captivating and beautifully crafted story about an unforgettable journey through a time of dramatic transition in the Middle East. This impressive writing style weaves a narrative that is emotional, gentle, and hopeful, leaving a lasting impact.
The book serves as a beautiful introduction to understanding Islam, exploring the story of two sisters during a time of the shift from paganism to Islam and offering a deep insight into the complexities of the era. I went from tears to laughter as the characters navigated their way through personal and social challenges.
I won't lie, I was initially drawn to this book because of its beautiful cover, and I must say that the narrative did not disappoint. This book is a gem, easily becoming one of my favorites, and I wholeheartedly give this book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars for its beauty, emotional depth, and compelling narrative. A must-read for anyone seeking a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of history and culture. I must read more from A. Afaf.

[Sudha Subramanian · Rating 3 out of 5]

I haven't read any book from the pre-Islamic times and this was a welcome story with family, sisterhood and faith coming together.

Two sisters. Rise and fall in love. Embrace a new faith, and belief. What would become of them? With all the conflicted interests, family dynamics, and tumultuous history, this story comes alive across sand dunes and date palms. The story carries us across camelbacks on long journeys. We march, we learn, and we learn more, and then, the story doesn't develop anymore as if there is nothing more to say. While there are many things to love, there are many things we skip in years and months. While I am a great fan of historical fiction, this didn't dig deep as much as I would have liked. References to stones, worship and rituals were good, but they didn't paint a scene as much as I would have liked. We learn a lot about religion and its beginnings, yet it felt unexplored.

Interesting. Recommend it. But it was not my best read. But I have to say, such a great cover!

[C.A. Chaplin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a song - of the beauty and sorrow of daily life, of the simple love of family and tradition, of the strength to survive the changing tides of history and belief. A Afaf’s prose is heartbreakingly gorgeous. Her characters somehow possess both distinct voices and a purity of heart that is no less complex for its sweetness. We laugh with their voices and cry their own tears.

“In the Shadow of the Prophet” is a story of two sisters, set in the transition from paganism to Islam in the Middle East. A slice of life from a unique and ancient point of view, it follows the sisters through their lives. Two different perspectives, two ways of accepting the religious upheaval in their lives, and a nuanced discussion of different types of strength. Slow and deliberate, this book is a treat to be savored.

[Yruok_SL · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shadow of the Prophet" showcases a talent for storytelling. It's a compelling read that lingers in your thoughts long after you've turned the last page. The themes of faith, love, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit are explored with great depth and sensitivity. The book provides a fresh perspective on the lasting impact of the Prophet Muhammad's teachings, which I found to be thought-provoking, and believe it will resonate with readers of all backgrounds. The book takes readers on a captivating journey through the complexities of human relationships, personal growth, and the enduring power of love.
The Shadow of the Prophet" is an impressive debut by A. Afaf, and I look forward to more from this talented author.

[Karina Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most gorgeous prose I’ve read in a long time, maybe ever. I fully intend to go back through and highlight it like crazy. There is so much to think about; womanhood and its relationships, history, religion. This book reminded me of times in grade school when I would read about a certain era in a history book and wish I could read a novel set in that era. This book did everything young me would have wanted those books to do. The ending solidified it as a five-star read. I have too much to say to put it in a short review, but I’d encourage anyone who is interested in gorgeous writing, insights into religion, history, or the female experience to pick up this book. You won’t regret it.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a beautiful debut novel about faith, family, and love. Once I started, I didn’t want to put it down.

This story follows two sisters in a time of faith growth. What I loved about this was that these two sisters, who grew up raised in their ancient faith, are now introduced to a new one. While one sister jumps right in, the other questions it, holding tight to her culture, her mother, her role as a healer, and needing to support the rest of her family. While one embraces the new faith to help her heal, the other clings to the past. The writing that develops these internal conflicts was beautifully written. You could sense the culture, the political and faith conflicts of the time period, and the love and support of family, no matter what.

[Nadia Kanan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brilliant!!
Yes the story line is a bit weak here and there, and the language used maybe not the language that captivates you and draws you to read on. But …
What’s brilliant about this book is the era it explores. Growing up in muslim countries, all the stories we heard about from the beginning of Islam were from the perspective of the newly converted muslims, but I haven’t ever read one from the other side, or at least, their perspective before converting into Islam. This is exactly why the book is brilliant, author tried to show both sides, the ones who converted because they truly believed, and the ones who tried to convert but their heart were still with the old ways.

[Naeha · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was really expecting more from this book based on the reviews.
The story line was fine, but I found my self gleaming over sections of the book to hurry the story along. I felt that when Al-Islam was introduced to the community, everyone just accepted it so willfully. I wish the author explain more about what drew the community to make such a shift in their belief. I understand Noor struggled with the change, but I wish the conversion part was elaborated a bit more.
I loved the character of Ali, although he was not a main character, but I felt connected with him.
The character development of Noor and Sawadah were done well, but unfortunately I was expecting more from the storyline.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

A family saga focused on two sisters during the rise of Islam. One struggles to reconcile this new faith with that of her ancestors, while the other finds it her sole reason for persevering. There is great loss and great love, and a beautiful look at the importance of family and faith in difficult times. I cried multiple times, I felt joy and laughter, and I felt I really knew the characters. The author manages the time jumps seamlessly and it flows so well. The writing was beautiful and comforting, despite some of the heavy matter at times. Definitely recommend this one!

[Taylor Heiland · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the Shadow of the Prophet follows two sisters during the shift of Paganism to Islam in the Middle East. The book follows the turmoil that this religious shift caused, but tells a larger story about the difficulty of dealing with grief and change from two different perspectives. A beautiful story that also sheds light on the unbreakable bond of family.

The internal conflict that these characters face is beautifully written, the author adept at making the reader empathize with their emotion. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll finish the book with a sense of joy.

A standout, debut novel from A. Afaf. I can’t wait to read her next one!

[Aubrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took me on such an amazing life experience. During the book, two sisters follow two different life paths. Islam is spreading to them from the Prophet Muhammed. A. Afaf does a beautiful job of taking you along on their journey. You can feel their feelings and see their sights. She has such a way with words, and each chapter is paired with a historical piece of Arabic poetry. This book was inspiring and had me asking myself some deep questions! I cried several times throughout due to some strong emotions and feelings of both sadness and happiness for the characters.

[Ghadeer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating read. I. You won't be disappointed! This book is about the beauty and sorrow of daily life, the simple love of family, and the tradition of strength. 
This richly imagined tale was crafted in such a way as to leave me able to taste and smell the herbs of medicines. I was lost in the story that took me to a rich and possible reality.

[Kristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engrossed from the opening page, I never wanted to put it down. The characters are real, they crawl into your mind and set up shop. It was a joy to read, even through the tears. It real, it’s 630 AD, it’s now, it’s a must read.

[Bronwen Hult · Rating 5 out of 5]

ITSOTP is beautifully written with captivating prose. The reader is launched into time of colorful characters, customs and traditions, yet the timeless themes like the power of love woven throughout make it relatable to today.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this tale of two sisters living in the Middle East as Islam began to replace the many pagan religions that came before it. It was a page turner. I love it when I can read a fascinating story and learn about history and cultures not my own.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very moving book that requires a tissue box. This is an appropriate book for middle school and above.

[Milla · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was good, but it was just one sad thing happening after another, the entire time.

[Y.S. Leija · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed, I cried.

Those who have been following me know it is rare that I give a 5 star review. If I could give this book 10 stars I would.

I feel like this book is a love letter to the authors mother and heritage. It follows two sisters. One who is content in her life following the teachings of her mother and people. The other dreams of fine luxuries. They experience happiness and great losses. This book moved me. It touches your soul. I had to sit and gather my feelings once I was done. Even now, I don’t think this review is doing it justice. It is a beautiful read. If you are able to do so, get the audiobook on Spotify. The author is the narrator and does a great job of it.

As always, I recommend you pick it up so that you can form your own opinion.


This book was a gift from the author but my opinions are my own.