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Shadow of the Swords
An epic saga of love and war, Shadow of the Swords tells the story of the Crusades—from the Muslim perspective.
Saladin, a Muslim sultan, finds himself pitted against King Richard the Lionheart as Islam and Christianity clash against each other, launching a conflict that still echoes today.
In the midst of a brutal and unforgiving war, Saladin finds forbidden love in the arms of Miriam, a beautiful Jewish girl with a tragic past. But when King Richard captures Miriam, the two most powerful men on Earth must face each other in a personal battle that will determine the future of the woman they both love—and of all civilization.
Richly imagined, deftly plotted, and highly entertaining, Shadow of the Swords is a remarkable story that will stay with readers long after the final page has been turned.
418 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2010
24 people are currently reading
377 people want to read
About the author
Kamran Pasha
7 books40 followersKamran Pasha is a writer and producer for NBC's highly anticipated new television series Kings, which is a modern day retelling of the Biblical tale of King David. Previously he served as a writer on NBC's remake of Bionic Woman, and on Showtime Network's Golden Globe nominated series Sleeper Cell, about a Muslim FBI agent who infiltrates a terrorist group.
Kamran will soon be a published novelist as well. He has secured a two-book deal with Simon & Schuster's Atria Books to publish Mother of the Believers, an historical fiction tale showing the rise of Islam from the eyes of Prophet Muhammad's teenage wife Aisha, and Shadow of the Swords, a love story set amidst the Crusades.
And Kamran has also made strides in the video game world. He recently wrote Blood on the Sand for Vivendi Universal, the sequel to hip-hop mogul 50 Cent's bestselling game Bulletproof.
An expert on the Middle East, Kamran is one of the few successful Muslim screenwriters in Hollywood. In 2003, he set up his first feature script at Warner Brothers, an historical epic on the love story behind the building of the Taj Mahal. He is currently writing an epic film entitled The Voyage Of Ibn Battuta, which follows the adventures of a famous Arab traveler who journeyed to China in the 14th century. This feature is being financed by the Moroccan government and produced by French production company Forecast Pictures.
Kamran holds a JD from Cornell Law School, an MBA from Dartmouth and an MFA from UCLA Film School. He spent three years as a journalist in New York City, writing for media companies such as Knight-Ridder. During his time as a reporter, Kamran interviewed prominent international figures such as Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres, Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, and Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.
Kamran will soon be a published novelist as well. He has secured a two-book deal with Simon & Schuster's Atria Books to publish Mother of the Believers, an historical fiction tale showing the rise of Islam from the eyes of Prophet Muhammad's teenage wife Aisha, and Shadow of the Swords, a love story set amidst the Crusades.
And Kamran has also made strides in the video game world. He recently wrote Blood on the Sand for Vivendi Universal, the sequel to hip-hop mogul 50 Cent's bestselling game Bulletproof.
An expert on the Middle East, Kamran is one of the few successful Muslim screenwriters in Hollywood. In 2003, he set up his first feature script at Warner Brothers, an historical epic on the love story behind the building of the Taj Mahal. He is currently writing an epic film entitled The Voyage Of Ibn Battuta, which follows the adventures of a famous Arab traveler who journeyed to China in the 14th century. This feature is being financed by the Moroccan government and produced by French production company Forecast Pictures.
Kamran holds a JD from Cornell Law School, an MBA from Dartmouth and an MFA from UCLA Film School. He spent three years as a journalist in New York City, writing for media companies such as Knight-Ridder. During his time as a reporter, Kamran interviewed prominent international figures such as Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres, Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, and Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.
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June 29, 2010
Kamran Pasha's novel, Shadow of the Swords, was inspired in reaction to the horrific events of September 11, 2001. As an American Muslim, he not only felt devastated by the human tragedy, but he felt an additional burden of knowing that the culprits of those crimes claimed to be acting on behalf of his faith.
He knew the terrorists' beliefs were a perversion of Islam and recognized the attacks would fan the smoldering flames of conflict between Christians and Muslims.
As a lifelong student of history and religion, Pasha wanted to write a story examining the roots of the animosity between Christianity and Islam. He chose the time period of the Third Crusade led by the iconic figures of King Richard the Lionheart on the Christian side and Sultan Saladin on the Muslim side.
Pasha breaks the age-old Good vs. Evil dichotomy by utilizing multiple viewpoints demonstrating that everyone sees themselves as hero in their own life story. Even if they commit atrocities, they will justify their acts under the guise of heroism.
The historical figure of Saladin is revered by Muslims and respected by Christians for his uncommon acts of chivalry, some of which are depicted in this novel. Two examples: sending his own physician to treat King Richard, who was dying from an illness; offering his own horse as a replacement when King Richard's horse was killed on the battlefield.
Whereas, while King Richard the Lionheart has a legendary mystique about him, enhanced by tales of Robin Hood when he was away on Crusade, the historic figure is less sympathetic. To counterbalance this, Pasha created the character of Sir William Chinon to depict the chivalric ideal to carry the standard for the Christians.
Pasha was not content with just showing the epic scope of the battles led by Saladin and King Richard the Lionheart, he also examines the perspective of Jews in the Levant at the time and their relationship with Muslims and Christians. The historical figure of Maimonides, a rabbi and physician to Saladin, is featured prominently as well as the character of Miriam, an educated and high-spirited Jewish woman. Miriam serves the dramatic function of interacting with both Saladin and King Richard and allows the readers to see them as human beings and not icons of legend.
It is the intersection of the three great faiths of Judaism, Christianity and Islam that gives the novel its strength and heart. To understand where we are going, it is important to know where we came from. There is a lot of commonality in the Judeo-Christian-Islamic religious traditions, hopefully Shadow of the Swords will help readers focus on those unifying areas more than the differences which divides us.
He knew the terrorists' beliefs were a perversion of Islam and recognized the attacks would fan the smoldering flames of conflict between Christians and Muslims.
As a lifelong student of history and religion, Pasha wanted to write a story examining the roots of the animosity between Christianity and Islam. He chose the time period of the Third Crusade led by the iconic figures of King Richard the Lionheart on the Christian side and Sultan Saladin on the Muslim side.
Pasha breaks the age-old Good vs. Evil dichotomy by utilizing multiple viewpoints demonstrating that everyone sees themselves as hero in their own life story. Even if they commit atrocities, they will justify their acts under the guise of heroism.
The historical figure of Saladin is revered by Muslims and respected by Christians for his uncommon acts of chivalry, some of which are depicted in this novel. Two examples: sending his own physician to treat King Richard, who was dying from an illness; offering his own horse as a replacement when King Richard's horse was killed on the battlefield.
Whereas, while King Richard the Lionheart has a legendary mystique about him, enhanced by tales of Robin Hood when he was away on Crusade, the historic figure is less sympathetic. To counterbalance this, Pasha created the character of Sir William Chinon to depict the chivalric ideal to carry the standard for the Christians.
Pasha was not content with just showing the epic scope of the battles led by Saladin and King Richard the Lionheart, he also examines the perspective of Jews in the Levant at the time and their relationship with Muslims and Christians. The historical figure of Maimonides, a rabbi and physician to Saladin, is featured prominently as well as the character of Miriam, an educated and high-spirited Jewish woman. Miriam serves the dramatic function of interacting with both Saladin and King Richard and allows the readers to see them as human beings and not icons of legend.
It is the intersection of the three great faiths of Judaism, Christianity and Islam that gives the novel its strength and heart. To understand where we are going, it is important to know where we came from. There is a lot of commonality in the Judeo-Christian-Islamic religious traditions, hopefully Shadow of the Swords will help readers focus on those unifying areas more than the differences which divides us.
April 16, 2014
This novel is the second book by the author about the Crusades. The book starts with Miriam, a young adolescent who has just run from a band of Crusaders that had attacked her family in the desert. She watched in horror as her parents are murdered and her mother is violated. She is also violated and would suffer the same fate as her parents had she not cut her attacker with his own dagger and run. She survives but is deeply scarred. Picked up by a kind Bedoin, Miriam is given to her kind aunt and uncle, the latter being a rabbi, doctor, and close advisor to the current Sultan.
Fast forward a few years and Jerusalem is retaken by the Mideastern lot, the Muslims and Jews having joined forces. The kind rabbi brings his beautiful niece to Jerusalem with her aunt in order to protect her. She becomes a person of interest for the Sultan.
The historical portion of this novel is well over 50%. It is not so much a love story as a war story. The author wanted to write a screen play about the crusades so others would have a greater understanding of it. The idea came to him shortly after the attacks on 9/11. Being Muslim, he was disheartened by the extremists who were not following the teachings of Mohammad. He also saw the parallel between Al-Qaeda and the crusaders; extremists who do not represent the true teachings of Mohammad nor Christ.
I did not know the author was Muslim by reading this book. History of the two protagonists, King Richard the Lionheart and Saladin, the Sultan, paints the former as a young, brash, and somewhat power-hungry king who turned to perpetuating the crusades as a way to show his worth as king. The latter protagonist is known throughout history as a patient, merciful, and accepting man who showed chivalry, honor, and principle.
The author also introduces a somewhat fictional character into the story named William. William sees the stupidity of pride ruling war and needlessness of murdering, pillaging, and raping the villagers on the way. He also does not agree with Richard to continue the crusades however, as a life long friend, he supports him, nonetheless. This friendship is severely strained as Richard commands 9/10 of the occupants of one settlement to be executed in a show of power, including men, women, and children. Tens of thousands were led to a pit and beheaded. Yes, this book is not for the faint of heart.
William is a piece of the author, who does not believe any religion or race should become so extreme as to not see that all human kind are the same. We are brothers and sisters. In one touching conversation, Richard asks William (who has had contact with enemy) of the the enemy, "Are they like us?" William pauses, looks away and responds, "They are us."
Fast forward a few years and Jerusalem is retaken by the Mideastern lot, the Muslims and Jews having joined forces. The kind rabbi brings his beautiful niece to Jerusalem with her aunt in order to protect her. She becomes a person of interest for the Sultan.
The historical portion of this novel is well over 50%. It is not so much a love story as a war story. The author wanted to write a screen play about the crusades so others would have a greater understanding of it. The idea came to him shortly after the attacks on 9/11. Being Muslim, he was disheartened by the extremists who were not following the teachings of Mohammad. He also saw the parallel between Al-Qaeda and the crusaders; extremists who do not represent the true teachings of Mohammad nor Christ.
I did not know the author was Muslim by reading this book. History of the two protagonists, King Richard the Lionheart and Saladin, the Sultan, paints the former as a young, brash, and somewhat power-hungry king who turned to perpetuating the crusades as a way to show his worth as king. The latter protagonist is known throughout history as a patient, merciful, and accepting man who showed chivalry, honor, and principle.
The author also introduces a somewhat fictional character into the story named William. William sees the stupidity of pride ruling war and needlessness of murdering, pillaging, and raping the villagers on the way. He also does not agree with Richard to continue the crusades however, as a life long friend, he supports him, nonetheless. This friendship is severely strained as Richard commands 9/10 of the occupants of one settlement to be executed in a show of power, including men, women, and children. Tens of thousands were led to a pit and beheaded. Yes, this book is not for the faint of heart.
William is a piece of the author, who does not believe any religion or race should become so extreme as to not see that all human kind are the same. We are brothers and sisters. In one touching conversation, Richard asks William (who has had contact with enemy) of the the enemy, "Are they like us?" William pauses, looks away and responds, "They are us."
September 23, 2011
Novel ini berkisah tentang perang Salib ketiga. Perang yang hingga sampai saat ini masih menyisakan luka bagi sejarah kemanusiaan. Perang yang terjadi karena Agama. Perang yang terjadi karena kafir-mengkafirkan. Memperebutkan kota suci yang memiliki arti kedamaian, tapi selalu tertumpahkan darah, Yerusalem.
Novel ini mengisahkan tokoh legendaries Perang Salib yang masih dikenang karena kebesaran jiwanya. Yaitu perseteruan antara Raja Richard Hati Singa_ si Raja Inggris dengan Sultan Salahudin yang juga dikenal dengan Saladin, penguasa Yerusalem. Penulis menambahkan tokoh fiksi bernama Mariam_yang kemudian kuanggap hanya sebagai pemanis cerita agar tidak telalu berbau amis darah perang.
Mariam, gadis Yahudi dengan kisah suram masa kecilnya, adalah kekasih gelap Sultan Salahudin yang oleh keadaan kemudian menjadi mata-matanya dalam pasukan Richard Hati Singa. Mariam menjadi tokoh penting yang mengubungkan tokoh-tokoh perang Salib dan kemudian mengarahkan pada berakhirnya perang Salib. Peran Mariam yang kelewat penting ini…menjadi terkesan “maksa” dalam alur ceritanya. Selain itu, Kisah percintaan Saladin dan mariam, di umbar terlalu memuakkan jika dibandingkan dengan keteladan Saladin dalam sejarah yang telah tertulis. Untung saja penulis menjelaskan siapa Mariam di penutup buku, sehingga kekecewaa n tehadap kenekatan penulis mencoreng pribadi Saladin dapat sedikit terobati. Pasalnya Sultan yang satu ini dikenal sebagai tokoh yang sangat di teladani, bahkan sampai ada yang menganggap keteladanannya mendekati keteladanan Rasulullah SAW.
Dalam kisah perang, daya tariknya adalah strategi taktik perang dan bagaimana kebesaran jiwa para pemimpin perangnya. Meski kisah perang tetap saja kisah yang melukai nilai-nilai kemanusiaan.
Sayangnya, kurang banyak di uraikan bagaimana ketrampilan Saladin dalam memegang kendali pasukannya. Karena semangat perang dalam Islam adalah semangat pembebasan dari kezholiman. Bagaimana cara Saladin agar mampu menginternalisir semangat ini hingga kelapisan prajuritnya yang paling rendah?. Apakah cukup hanya sebatas mengandalkan keteladan pemimpinnya?. Dalam hal ini, kisah di pihak Saladin, kurang berimbang jika dibanding kisah Richard hati singa dalam memimpin pasukannya.
Kegalauan Richard karena celutukan jujur sahabatnya William, dan strategi beraninya yang muncul tak tertebak kemudian membuat tokoh ini menjadi menarik meski dengan deretan pembunuhan massal dan sadis yang membuatku mual. William menjadi penyampai pesan-pesan moral dalam cerita ini melalui perubahan sudut pandangnya terhadap kaum sarachen/Islam yang awalnya dianggapnya kafir kemudian perlahan berubah menjadi sahabat Sultan.
Melalui pemikiran William dan dialognya dengan Sultan, pemahaman ‘kafir‘ bertransformasi menjadi tak sebatas perbedaan agama. Kafir menjelma dalam dua bentuk. Jenis pertama adalah kafir karena berbeda agama. Islam yang menuduh Kristen kafir, demikian juga sebaliknya. Kafir jenis kedua adalah kafir dalam kelompok agama yang sama. Kafir jenis ini ada karena ketidak mampuan memahami agamanya. Agama dipahami sebagai doktrin tanpa daya kritis untuk mengkaji sumbernya. Mendengar saja, tanpa menganalisa kebenarannya. Merasa taat beragama padahal membaca kitab sucinya pun tak pernah. Fanatik. Ditangan penguasa yang licik seperti Richard Hati Singa, yang menjadikan agama hanya sebagai topeng, orang-orang jenis ini kemudian menjadi alat bagi memuluskan kepentingannya.
Maka, kafir jenis yang manakah yang perlu dikhawatirkan?
Kisah ini menjadi pembelajaran bagi kelompok2 yang gemar kafir mengkafirkan. Seperti di akhir novel yangi ditutup dengan kutipan : “Mereka yang kita cintai—dan mereka yang kita benci—hanyalah cermin dari diri kita sendiri.”. Seperti mengajak kita merefleksi diri sendiri. Sebelum terjebak pada kafir mengkafirkan yang disetir oleh penguasa-penguasa yang zalim. Marilah bertanya pada diri sendiri….. “sudahkah aku benar-benar memahami agamaku?”. Karena seperti bayangan diri di cermin itu, Bisa jadi...diri sendiri masih/kembali dalam keadaan kafir.
Novel ini mengisahkan tokoh legendaries Perang Salib yang masih dikenang karena kebesaran jiwanya. Yaitu perseteruan antara Raja Richard Hati Singa_ si Raja Inggris dengan Sultan Salahudin yang juga dikenal dengan Saladin, penguasa Yerusalem. Penulis menambahkan tokoh fiksi bernama Mariam_yang kemudian kuanggap hanya sebagai pemanis cerita agar tidak telalu berbau amis darah perang.
Mariam, gadis Yahudi dengan kisah suram masa kecilnya, adalah kekasih gelap Sultan Salahudin yang oleh keadaan kemudian menjadi mata-matanya dalam pasukan Richard Hati Singa. Mariam menjadi tokoh penting yang mengubungkan tokoh-tokoh perang Salib dan kemudian mengarahkan pada berakhirnya perang Salib. Peran Mariam yang kelewat penting ini…menjadi terkesan “maksa” dalam alur ceritanya. Selain itu, Kisah percintaan Saladin dan mariam, di umbar terlalu memuakkan jika dibandingkan dengan keteladan Saladin dalam sejarah yang telah tertulis. Untung saja penulis menjelaskan siapa Mariam di penutup buku, sehingga kekecewaa n tehadap kenekatan penulis mencoreng pribadi Saladin dapat sedikit terobati. Pasalnya Sultan yang satu ini dikenal sebagai tokoh yang sangat di teladani, bahkan sampai ada yang menganggap keteladanannya mendekati keteladanan Rasulullah SAW.
Dalam kisah perang, daya tariknya adalah strategi taktik perang dan bagaimana kebesaran jiwa para pemimpin perangnya. Meski kisah perang tetap saja kisah yang melukai nilai-nilai kemanusiaan.
Sayangnya, kurang banyak di uraikan bagaimana ketrampilan Saladin dalam memegang kendali pasukannya. Karena semangat perang dalam Islam adalah semangat pembebasan dari kezholiman. Bagaimana cara Saladin agar mampu menginternalisir semangat ini hingga kelapisan prajuritnya yang paling rendah?. Apakah cukup hanya sebatas mengandalkan keteladan pemimpinnya?. Dalam hal ini, kisah di pihak Saladin, kurang berimbang jika dibanding kisah Richard hati singa dalam memimpin pasukannya.
Kegalauan Richard karena celutukan jujur sahabatnya William, dan strategi beraninya yang muncul tak tertebak kemudian membuat tokoh ini menjadi menarik meski dengan deretan pembunuhan massal dan sadis yang membuatku mual. William menjadi penyampai pesan-pesan moral dalam cerita ini melalui perubahan sudut pandangnya terhadap kaum sarachen/Islam yang awalnya dianggapnya kafir kemudian perlahan berubah menjadi sahabat Sultan.
Melalui pemikiran William dan dialognya dengan Sultan, pemahaman ‘kafir‘ bertransformasi menjadi tak sebatas perbedaan agama. Kafir menjelma dalam dua bentuk. Jenis pertama adalah kafir karena berbeda agama. Islam yang menuduh Kristen kafir, demikian juga sebaliknya. Kafir jenis kedua adalah kafir dalam kelompok agama yang sama. Kafir jenis ini ada karena ketidak mampuan memahami agamanya. Agama dipahami sebagai doktrin tanpa daya kritis untuk mengkaji sumbernya. Mendengar saja, tanpa menganalisa kebenarannya. Merasa taat beragama padahal membaca kitab sucinya pun tak pernah. Fanatik. Ditangan penguasa yang licik seperti Richard Hati Singa, yang menjadikan agama hanya sebagai topeng, orang-orang jenis ini kemudian menjadi alat bagi memuluskan kepentingannya.
Maka, kafir jenis yang manakah yang perlu dikhawatirkan?
Kisah ini menjadi pembelajaran bagi kelompok2 yang gemar kafir mengkafirkan. Seperti di akhir novel yangi ditutup dengan kutipan : “Mereka yang kita cintai—dan mereka yang kita benci—hanyalah cermin dari diri kita sendiri.”. Seperti mengajak kita merefleksi diri sendiri. Sebelum terjebak pada kafir mengkafirkan yang disetir oleh penguasa-penguasa yang zalim. Marilah bertanya pada diri sendiri….. “sudahkah aku benar-benar memahami agamaku?”. Karena seperti bayangan diri di cermin itu, Bisa jadi...diri sendiri masih/kembali dalam keadaan kafir.
November 25, 2025
After so long — almost 10 years of not reading historical fiction books — today I finally finished this thrilling work, The Shadow of The Swords written by Kamran Pasha. Honestly, I didn’t expect to be so engrossed in the structure and style of the sentences he uses; they are beautifully crafted and poetic, and the scenes are described in great detail.
However, we are aware that the historical fiction genre contains embellishments from the author, and many of the stories and characters included are in fact not found in historical records. For example, the existence of Mariam, a Jewish woman who supposedly captured the hearts of both Salahuddin and Richard the Lionheart; Maimonides, a Jewish rabbi portrayed as Salahuddin’s personal physician; and several narratives that contradict the morals and Islamic values upheld by Salahuddin, such as sleeping with Mariam or using vulgar language because these stories and characters do not appear in the authentic work of Imam Bahauddin ibn Shaddad in his book al-Nawādir al-Sulṭāniyya wa’l-Maḥāsin al-Yūsufiyya (“The Rare Stories of the Sultan and the Virtues of Salahuddin”), nor in John Man’s historical book Saladin: The Life, the Legend and the Islamic Empire. This makes me wonder: what is the actual standing of historical fiction within the discipline of history?
Nevertheless, I remain deeply impressed by Kamran Pasha’s work from a literary perspective — his beautiful language and structured prose — though it is certainly open to critique from the standpoint of historical scholarship.
However, we are aware that the historical fiction genre contains embellishments from the author, and many of the stories and characters included are in fact not found in historical records. For example, the existence of Mariam, a Jewish woman who supposedly captured the hearts of both Salahuddin and Richard the Lionheart; Maimonides, a Jewish rabbi portrayed as Salahuddin’s personal physician; and several narratives that contradict the morals and Islamic values upheld by Salahuddin, such as sleeping with Mariam or using vulgar language because these stories and characters do not appear in the authentic work of Imam Bahauddin ibn Shaddad in his book al-Nawādir al-Sulṭāniyya wa’l-Maḥāsin al-Yūsufiyya (“The Rare Stories of the Sultan and the Virtues of Salahuddin”), nor in John Man’s historical book Saladin: The Life, the Legend and the Islamic Empire. This makes me wonder: what is the actual standing of historical fiction within the discipline of history?
Nevertheless, I remain deeply impressed by Kamran Pasha’s work from a literary perspective — his beautiful language and structured prose — though it is certainly open to critique from the standpoint of historical scholarship.
July 19, 2010
The famous Muslim leader Saladin believes that he has finally driven the Christian crusaders from Israel's shores. The King of Jerusalem has surrendered, most other nobles have gone home, and there's only a small, stubborn contingent to deal with outside the town of Acre. Newly-crowned King Richard I of England (Richard the Lionheart) sees this as his chance to win everlasting fame and glory. He rallies his forces to travel back to Israel and try again. With his brilliant strategies and fearless leadership, the Muslims won't know what hit them.
I guess in a nutshell you could say that this is the story of the Third Crusade told from a Muslim point of view. I found it incredibly interesting. It's always a little--what's the word?--enlightening to see things from the "enemy's" point of view. This took place so long ago that I didn't go into it feeling invested one way or another. Still, if you learn anything about the Crusades in school in the Western world (and I don't remember learning much), it's probably that the Christian knights were fighting to take the Holy Land back from the "infidels." I found it fascinating to see what the Muslims thought of Westerners at that time. Of course they saw them as infidels also. But they also saw them as dirty, ignorant, and without honor. They were medically and scientifically advanced and I'm guessing that Europeans hadn't progressed past leeches and wouldn't for several hundred years. The book opens with Saladin re-taking Jerusalem. The Christians still living in the city are cowering in fear, knowing how their soldiers had treated the Muslims when they took the city earlier. Saladin makes it clear that he's not going to harm anyone. The war is over, enough people have died, and if you don't harm my people, we won't harm you. That's Saladin's take on things. I'll keep this vague, but it's a very different, horrifying story when the Crusaders win over a city later.
I'll freely admit that I know very little about Islam. I try to keep an open mind about things, so I do know that what we see on the news is just a small group of radicals. Other than that? I don't know much. I do tend to think that women in the religion are awfully repressed. True? Sometimes true? I don't really know. I learned a few things here. I don't watch the news much, but even I've heard the stories about wives being stoned to death by their husbands for adultery. According to this book, the husband has to provide four eyewitnesses before he can punish his wife for that. If he accuses her and can't produce the witnesses, he's the one who's punished. Really? I didn't know that and had to readjust my thinking a little. There's also a line in the book where Saladin says, "The Jews are People of the Book and are protected by our religion. The Holy Prophet, peace be upon him, forbade us to oppress them." Another shocker. With all the fighting that seems to go on between them, I had no idea that was in the religion anywhere. Time to readjust my thinking yet again.
Enough about all that. That's all well and good, but what about the story?
I enjoyed it. There were plenty of twists and turns, and I did manage to restrain myself from cheating and checking Wikipedia to see how things turned out. Saladin became a very real character for me. It's clear that he's a legend in his own time, and even to this day, but his responsibilities weigh heavily on him. He's always trying to do the right thing, but sometimes it's hard to see what that is. He's very much a man who knows his own mind, but he's not too proud to seek the advice of others, no matter the source. Miriam, a completely fictional character, was a strong woman whom I enjoyed reading about. She's lived through unimaginable tragedy. It's left a mark on her soul, but she chooses to live her life to the fullest rather than cower in fear. She speaks her mind at all times and takes brave risks to try to help her people. I also liked William Chinon, another fictional character. He's a Crusader with a conscience. He doesn't feel any need to go on Crusade, but he travels along with his friend King Richard to try to be a voice of reason amid all the madness of war. He doesn't judge people by their beliefs (well, not too much), but rather judges them by their actions. He was a welcome relief from Richard's cruelty, and he was by far the most truly Christian person among those forces. There was one section where this otherwise-prosaic story took on an element of the fantastic to explain some stuff that happened. It was only a few pages, but those pages had big ramifications for the entire war. I wish the author had found a way around the mysticism.
Really, I enjoyed this book on a lot of levels. There are obviously some people who are going to be uncomfortable with the point of view. But if you're curious about stepping into someone else's shoes for a while (assuming you're a Westerner), go ahead and pick this up. It was rather eye-opening for me.
Thanks to the publicist for sending me a copy for review.
I guess in a nutshell you could say that this is the story of the Third Crusade told from a Muslim point of view. I found it incredibly interesting. It's always a little--what's the word?--enlightening to see things from the "enemy's" point of view. This took place so long ago that I didn't go into it feeling invested one way or another. Still, if you learn anything about the Crusades in school in the Western world (and I don't remember learning much), it's probably that the Christian knights were fighting to take the Holy Land back from the "infidels." I found it fascinating to see what the Muslims thought of Westerners at that time. Of course they saw them as infidels also. But they also saw them as dirty, ignorant, and without honor. They were medically and scientifically advanced and I'm guessing that Europeans hadn't progressed past leeches and wouldn't for several hundred years. The book opens with Saladin re-taking Jerusalem. The Christians still living in the city are cowering in fear, knowing how their soldiers had treated the Muslims when they took the city earlier. Saladin makes it clear that he's not going to harm anyone. The war is over, enough people have died, and if you don't harm my people, we won't harm you. That's Saladin's take on things. I'll keep this vague, but it's a very different, horrifying story when the Crusaders win over a city later.
I'll freely admit that I know very little about Islam. I try to keep an open mind about things, so I do know that what we see on the news is just a small group of radicals. Other than that? I don't know much. I do tend to think that women in the religion are awfully repressed. True? Sometimes true? I don't really know. I learned a few things here. I don't watch the news much, but even I've heard the stories about wives being stoned to death by their husbands for adultery. According to this book, the husband has to provide four eyewitnesses before he can punish his wife for that. If he accuses her and can't produce the witnesses, he's the one who's punished. Really? I didn't know that and had to readjust my thinking a little. There's also a line in the book where Saladin says, "The Jews are People of the Book and are protected by our religion. The Holy Prophet, peace be upon him, forbade us to oppress them." Another shocker. With all the fighting that seems to go on between them, I had no idea that was in the religion anywhere. Time to readjust my thinking yet again.
Enough about all that. That's all well and good, but what about the story?
I enjoyed it. There were plenty of twists and turns, and I did manage to restrain myself from cheating and checking Wikipedia to see how things turned out. Saladin became a very real character for me. It's clear that he's a legend in his own time, and even to this day, but his responsibilities weigh heavily on him. He's always trying to do the right thing, but sometimes it's hard to see what that is. He's very much a man who knows his own mind, but he's not too proud to seek the advice of others, no matter the source. Miriam, a completely fictional character, was a strong woman whom I enjoyed reading about. She's lived through unimaginable tragedy. It's left a mark on her soul, but she chooses to live her life to the fullest rather than cower in fear. She speaks her mind at all times and takes brave risks to try to help her people. I also liked William Chinon, another fictional character. He's a Crusader with a conscience. He doesn't feel any need to go on Crusade, but he travels along with his friend King Richard to try to be a voice of reason amid all the madness of war. He doesn't judge people by their beliefs (well, not too much), but rather judges them by their actions. He was a welcome relief from Richard's cruelty, and he was by far the most truly Christian person among those forces. There was one section where this otherwise-prosaic story took on an element of the fantastic to explain some stuff that happened. It was only a few pages, but those pages had big ramifications for the entire war. I wish the author had found a way around the mysticism.
Really, I enjoyed this book on a lot of levels. There are obviously some people who are going to be uncomfortable with the point of view. But if you're curious about stepping into someone else's shoes for a while (assuming you're a Westerner), go ahead and pick this up. It was rather eye-opening for me.
Thanks to the publicist for sending me a copy for review.
August 12, 2010
This is a story abut the Crusades from the Muslim point of view. A point of view which sadly, I have not read about until now. "History is written by the victorious" or more accurately written by the English speaking, Roman Catholic Western world. This would explain why most stories and movies of the Crusade represent the English point of view. At a very basic level, the Crusades are about three faiths, Roman Catholicism, Muslim, and Judaism, all fighting for the right to control and worship in Jerusalem. This city has special significance for all three faiths, and since no one can come to terms with this city being shared, there is always the chance of upheaval and strife.
There are three characters in this story who represent each of the faiths, Richard the Lionheart as Catholic, Saladin as Muslim, and Miriam, a fictional woman representing Judaism. You can not write about the Crusades without thinking or bringing religion into the picture, and I think Pasha does a good job avoiding the religious landmines and walking that fine line. Pasha does have history on his side, even though it is a history most people don't know about.
History and/or Hollywood tells us that Richard the Lionheart was a very chivalrous, romantic, jovial, fun-loving, sweetheart kind of guy. Books and other entertainment have only helped to cement this persona. In reality, Richard is a ruthless, blood thirsty, glory seeking, SOB. He had his reasons, and the author gives us that background when he introduces Richard. However, in my eyes this does not excuse his brutal behavior. That is the way Richard is portrayed in this book and its true. If you don't believe me, do some research and you will see. The History Channel also has an excellent special about the true Robin Hood and the Lionheart "myth" is included in the discussion.
Miriam, one of the other major characters in this story, is an intelligent, beautiful Jewish woman, who does her own thing and apparently turns every man on his head. They just seem to fall in love with her as soon as they lay eyes on her. Can you tell I'm not impressed? Miriam is a fictional character, and I understand the need or idea to include a feminine lead and love story. Spices up an otherwise manly story, and includes the third faith that holds Jerusalem dear. Although she possess some good qualities, Miriam was a bit too condescending for me.
The other major player in the Crusades was Saladin. He was by far, my favorite character. I think in the end he was the reason why I wanted to read this book. I wanted to learn more about him and what made him tick. I did get a sense of Saladin and the kind of person he was. Saladin was a fierce fighter on the battlefield but dispensed justice even handedly. He looked at both sides of a situation and tried to judge right and true. Saladin was fighting to protect his people, and felt that all men regardless of religion, were equal in God's eyes. Saladin was the epitome of chivalry whereas Richard was not. Funny, no?
Overall I had a tough time with this book due to Richard's behavior and my eventual dislike for Miriam. This book started out great, but all of the crazy bloodshed was too much for me. I know the Crusades were brutal and major atrocities were committed, I just didn't want to read about it so much. I was much more interested in Saladin and his point of view. I ended up reading the first half of the book and skimmed the rest. I would still like to find out more about Saladin and will search out some reading material about him. Although I wasn't crazy about this book, I still plan on reading Pasha's first book, Mother of All Believers. It has been sitting on my shelf since last year and I have yet to get to it. Pasha's writing is very descriptive and he evoked emotions in me with his characters, whether I liked them or not. Pasha made me think and see the Crusades from the other point of view and I appreciate that.
There are three characters in this story who represent each of the faiths, Richard the Lionheart as Catholic, Saladin as Muslim, and Miriam, a fictional woman representing Judaism. You can not write about the Crusades without thinking or bringing religion into the picture, and I think Pasha does a good job avoiding the religious landmines and walking that fine line. Pasha does have history on his side, even though it is a history most people don't know about.
History and/or Hollywood tells us that Richard the Lionheart was a very chivalrous, romantic, jovial, fun-loving, sweetheart kind of guy. Books and other entertainment have only helped to cement this persona. In reality, Richard is a ruthless, blood thirsty, glory seeking, SOB. He had his reasons, and the author gives us that background when he introduces Richard. However, in my eyes this does not excuse his brutal behavior. That is the way Richard is portrayed in this book and its true. If you don't believe me, do some research and you will see. The History Channel also has an excellent special about the true Robin Hood and the Lionheart "myth" is included in the discussion.
Miriam, one of the other major characters in this story, is an intelligent, beautiful Jewish woman, who does her own thing and apparently turns every man on his head. They just seem to fall in love with her as soon as they lay eyes on her. Can you tell I'm not impressed? Miriam is a fictional character, and I understand the need or idea to include a feminine lead and love story. Spices up an otherwise manly story, and includes the third faith that holds Jerusalem dear. Although she possess some good qualities, Miriam was a bit too condescending for me.
The other major player in the Crusades was Saladin. He was by far, my favorite character. I think in the end he was the reason why I wanted to read this book. I wanted to learn more about him and what made him tick. I did get a sense of Saladin and the kind of person he was. Saladin was a fierce fighter on the battlefield but dispensed justice even handedly. He looked at both sides of a situation and tried to judge right and true. Saladin was fighting to protect his people, and felt that all men regardless of religion, were equal in God's eyes. Saladin was the epitome of chivalry whereas Richard was not. Funny, no?
Overall I had a tough time with this book due to Richard's behavior and my eventual dislike for Miriam. This book started out great, but all of the crazy bloodshed was too much for me. I know the Crusades were brutal and major atrocities were committed, I just didn't want to read about it so much. I was much more interested in Saladin and his point of view. I ended up reading the first half of the book and skimmed the rest. I would still like to find out more about Saladin and will search out some reading material about him. Although I wasn't crazy about this book, I still plan on reading Pasha's first book, Mother of All Believers. It has been sitting on my shelf since last year and I have yet to get to it. Pasha's writing is very descriptive and he evoked emotions in me with his characters, whether I liked them or not. Pasha made me think and see the Crusades from the other point of view and I appreciate that.
February 22, 2016
Kisah keagungan Yusuf bin Ayyub atau yang lebih luas dikenal sebagai Shalahuddin Al Ayyubi mungkin sudah saya tahu sejak SD atau SMP. Beberapa buku tentangnya telah saya baca, tapi buku satu ini berhasil menampilkan sosok Shalahuddin seakan benar-benar di hadapan saya. Penulis berhasil meramu plot dengan menarik. Penokohannya kuat. Sangat filmis (setelah rampung dan baca bio penulisnya, ternyata memang orang film. Sutradara Hollywood dan berperan dalam acara-acara seperti Golden Globe dan Emmy Award.).
*spoiler*
Mengambil setting Perang Salib ketiga, buku ini sukses bikin saya penasaran, nggak berhenti baca. Tapi di halaman 136, dan kemudian di beberapa halaman lain, saya mulai bertanya-tanya. Masak sih? Benarkah? Jadi ini tentang tokoh Mariam, Yasmin, dan juga Shalahuddin sendiri. Mariam adalah gadis Yahudi, keponakan Maimonides (Musa bin Ma'mun, dokter dan penasihat pribadi Shalahuddin). Yasmin digambarkan sebagai Ratu, istri pertama Shalahuddin. Dalam cerita Shalahuddin dikisahkan jatuh cinta pada Mariam, begitu pun Mariam. Mereka berselingkuh. Iya, berselingkuh, hingga berzina. Sedang Yasmin dikisahkan sebagai istri yang cemburu dan memiliki affair dengan pelayan perempuannya. Iya, lesbian.
Well, sebenarnya saya disadarkan bahwa ini hanya novel. Namanya novel, ya pasti ada unsur imajinasi dan fiktifnya dong. Di satu sisi mungkin saya masih "terbelenggu" dengan sosok Shalahuddin yang selama begitu agung, sehingga saat ia digambarkan berzina, dan istrinya lesbian, saya kaget. Sambil membaca novel ini, saya browsing tentang si Mariam (nggak ada), tentang istri Shaluddin (ada, meski sedikit). Saya juga membaca beberapa buku yang pernah saya baca tentang Shalahuddin. Di akhir novel penulis sebenarnya juga menjelaskan kenapa dia menampilkan sosok Mariam dan Yasmin, juga kenapa dia menampilkan kelemahan Shalahuddin (karena tak ingin sosok Shalahuddin begitu sempurna, yang sempurna hanya Allah). Namun buat saya, menampilkan imajinasi dan ide seperti itu sangat liar. Apalagi tentang istri Shaluddin, penulis mengakui bahwa tidak banyak literatur yang memberi informasi tentang istri-istri Shaluddin. Kalau nggak punya banyak literatur, lha kok berani?
Sedikit informasi tentang istri Shalahuddin yang diketahui adalah Ismatudin Khatun. Dia digambarkan sebagai sosok yang pemurah, membangun banyak sekolah (madrasah) dan bangunan lain yang difungsikan untuk dakwah Islam. Dalam buku Sumbangan Peradaban Islam Pada Dunia (Dr. Raghib Assirjani), Ismatuddin disebutkan membangun hotel (penginapan) gratis untuk para musafir.
Oke, kembali ke cerita. Selain kisah tentang Mariam dan Yasmin yang sedikit membuat saya muak, novel ini baguuus. Tokoh Mariam pada akhirnya saya lihat sekadar pemanis, yang sebenarnya dipotong pun tidak menganggu cerita. Saya sentimen ya sama Mariam? :D. Hehe, yang jelas nggak simpati dengan tokoh ini. Gampangan banget. Tidur sama Shalahuddin, bahkan juga dengan Richard, dengan alasan dapat informasi intelejen. Hadeehh, berasa banget deh Hollywoodnya. Saya malah simpati banget dengan tokoh William. Selain perselingkuhan dengan Mariam, penggambaran tokoh Shalahuddin bagus kok, sesuai dengan rekaman berbagai literatur tentangnya.
*spoiler*
Mengambil setting Perang Salib ketiga, buku ini sukses bikin saya penasaran, nggak berhenti baca. Tapi di halaman 136, dan kemudian di beberapa halaman lain, saya mulai bertanya-tanya. Masak sih? Benarkah? Jadi ini tentang tokoh Mariam, Yasmin, dan juga Shalahuddin sendiri. Mariam adalah gadis Yahudi, keponakan Maimonides (Musa bin Ma'mun, dokter dan penasihat pribadi Shalahuddin). Yasmin digambarkan sebagai Ratu, istri pertama Shalahuddin. Dalam cerita Shalahuddin dikisahkan jatuh cinta pada Mariam, begitu pun Mariam. Mereka berselingkuh. Iya, berselingkuh, hingga berzina. Sedang Yasmin dikisahkan sebagai istri yang cemburu dan memiliki affair dengan pelayan perempuannya. Iya, lesbian.
Well, sebenarnya saya disadarkan bahwa ini hanya novel. Namanya novel, ya pasti ada unsur imajinasi dan fiktifnya dong. Di satu sisi mungkin saya masih "terbelenggu" dengan sosok Shalahuddin yang selama begitu agung, sehingga saat ia digambarkan berzina, dan istrinya lesbian, saya kaget. Sambil membaca novel ini, saya browsing tentang si Mariam (nggak ada), tentang istri Shaluddin (ada, meski sedikit). Saya juga membaca beberapa buku yang pernah saya baca tentang Shalahuddin. Di akhir novel penulis sebenarnya juga menjelaskan kenapa dia menampilkan sosok Mariam dan Yasmin, juga kenapa dia menampilkan kelemahan Shalahuddin (karena tak ingin sosok Shalahuddin begitu sempurna, yang sempurna hanya Allah). Namun buat saya, menampilkan imajinasi dan ide seperti itu sangat liar. Apalagi tentang istri Shaluddin, penulis mengakui bahwa tidak banyak literatur yang memberi informasi tentang istri-istri Shaluddin. Kalau nggak punya banyak literatur, lha kok berani?
Sedikit informasi tentang istri Shalahuddin yang diketahui adalah Ismatudin Khatun. Dia digambarkan sebagai sosok yang pemurah, membangun banyak sekolah (madrasah) dan bangunan lain yang difungsikan untuk dakwah Islam. Dalam buku Sumbangan Peradaban Islam Pada Dunia (Dr. Raghib Assirjani), Ismatuddin disebutkan membangun hotel (penginapan) gratis untuk para musafir.
Oke, kembali ke cerita. Selain kisah tentang Mariam dan Yasmin yang sedikit membuat saya muak, novel ini baguuus. Tokoh Mariam pada akhirnya saya lihat sekadar pemanis, yang sebenarnya dipotong pun tidak menganggu cerita. Saya sentimen ya sama Mariam? :D. Hehe, yang jelas nggak simpati dengan tokoh ini. Gampangan banget. Tidur sama Shalahuddin, bahkan juga dengan Richard, dengan alasan dapat informasi intelejen. Hadeehh, berasa banget deh Hollywoodnya. Saya malah simpati banget dengan tokoh William. Selain perselingkuhan dengan Mariam, penggambaran tokoh Shalahuddin bagus kok, sesuai dengan rekaman berbagai literatur tentangnya.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2013
It is a good book based on real historical events. It is unbiased and the characters are beautifully portrayed.
September 1, 2023
Honestly, I didn't like the book at first. It felt like a really bad car crash I can't stop looking at. I thought the writing style was boring, the characters flat and very stereotypical. I thought the author wanted to show that there are different Christians, Jews and Muslims but for the most part Christians were barbaric and driven by greed, Jews only thinking about their own issues (which everyone else does too but they don't acknowledge that) and the Muslims are supposed to be cultured but most of them aren't either except for the main character (shocking).
I'm disappointed in the portrayal of Maimonides because as a jewish philosopher and physician who never stopped working, he would often sit around at the palace doing nothing, not even having another patient except for Richard the first and he succumbed to petty feelings of revenge which isn't something I'd expect from a person who was revered so much in reality. I just don't think it works for that character to have that specific flaw. I think the real one would have never chosen to go to an assassin to have someone killed, even if it was about his own family. Again it emphasizes that jewish people only think about their own needs and don't see the whole picture, which they totally do because they're people, too.
His niece Miriam I hated the most probably. Don't get me wrong, I love strong women in stories but she didn't work for me at all. The author REALLY wants you to know that her whole deal is that she had this one trauma and he will not stop mentioning it until you REALLY get it. And that wasn't enough for him, he would REPEATEDLY make her relive that one trauma again and again. I don't think it's a good character if the whole point to her is to just get traumatized. I get that she's supposed to be like Esther from the old testament but I don't think she is like that in any way. She is witty and doesn't fear death and doesn't give a shit. This book would have been so much shorter if he would have not repeated the same thing over and over again throughout the book. It was so tiresome. By the way William is another character who just needs to fulfill a role like Miriam does but in a different way. He's supposed to be the modern Christian who would look at those things in horror. I don't care about his opinions because he chose to be there and him having the moral highground is too ridiculous. I don't think this story needed a love story but I can see how it works well in the speech of Saladin before the last battle.
I didn't like the narrative and the writing style. I'm not a fan of telling this story from the third person perspective because I think you lose a lot with that choice. You learn a few things about the other characters by seeing it from their perspective but that means to me that I don't get to know any of the characters in depth. That's why I couldn't care less about anyone in this book. I wanted to care about Saladin who was clearly the main character but i couldn't because we don't learn anything about him until the very end and the rest you have to sort of puzzle together through his interactions.
I mean we know what happened, the story is clear from the start. There are only so many plot elements you can choose to do. The characters are already known. That's why in my opinion you can only make something truely new and exciting by telling the story from a new and different perspective and having a beautiful writing style. I sadly missed that and while I think it's a good idea to tell the story from the Muslim perspective, I think the author should have gone all the way and tell it from either Saladins perspective or from the perspective of his advisor. If his love interest would be written differently that would be an option too.
Aside from that, I think it's very on the nose with the whole all three Religions should have peace and I totally agree. I just don't think it's interesting to learn about that in a way where a character just says that. I like stories that make me ask myself if something should be this or that instead of telling me what to think.
I really wanted to like this book, because I think the intentions were good and it had some cool elements. Most of them were the ones that were historically accurate. I like the chivalry of Saladin, I liked how Richard wasn't a one note villain. I liked the descriptions of the battles, they were actually well done. I liked the family dynamics between Richard and his family. I would have liked to learn more about that but those people don't get mentioned again until the end of the book. I think it would have worked as a movie but I don't think it should have been a novel. Again just my opinion.
I'm disappointed in the portrayal of Maimonides because as a jewish philosopher and physician who never stopped working, he would often sit around at the palace doing nothing, not even having another patient except for Richard the first and he succumbed to petty feelings of revenge which isn't something I'd expect from a person who was revered so much in reality. I just don't think it works for that character to have that specific flaw. I think the real one would have never chosen to go to an assassin to have someone killed, even if it was about his own family. Again it emphasizes that jewish people only think about their own needs and don't see the whole picture, which they totally do because they're people, too.
His niece Miriam I hated the most probably. Don't get me wrong, I love strong women in stories but she didn't work for me at all. The author REALLY wants you to know that her whole deal is that she had this one trauma and he will not stop mentioning it until you REALLY get it. And that wasn't enough for him, he would REPEATEDLY make her relive that one trauma again and again. I don't think it's a good character if the whole point to her is to just get traumatized. I get that she's supposed to be like Esther from the old testament but I don't think she is like that in any way. She is witty and doesn't fear death and doesn't give a shit. This book would have been so much shorter if he would have not repeated the same thing over and over again throughout the book. It was so tiresome. By the way William is another character who just needs to fulfill a role like Miriam does but in a different way. He's supposed to be the modern Christian who would look at those things in horror. I don't care about his opinions because he chose to be there and him having the moral highground is too ridiculous. I don't think this story needed a love story but I can see how it works well in the speech of Saladin before the last battle.
I didn't like the narrative and the writing style. I'm not a fan of telling this story from the third person perspective because I think you lose a lot with that choice. You learn a few things about the other characters by seeing it from their perspective but that means to me that I don't get to know any of the characters in depth. That's why I couldn't care less about anyone in this book. I wanted to care about Saladin who was clearly the main character but i couldn't because we don't learn anything about him until the very end and the rest you have to sort of puzzle together through his interactions.
I mean we know what happened, the story is clear from the start. There are only so many plot elements you can choose to do. The characters are already known. That's why in my opinion you can only make something truely new and exciting by telling the story from a new and different perspective and having a beautiful writing style. I sadly missed that and while I think it's a good idea to tell the story from the Muslim perspective, I think the author should have gone all the way and tell it from either Saladins perspective or from the perspective of his advisor. If his love interest would be written differently that would be an option too.
Aside from that, I think it's very on the nose with the whole all three Religions should have peace and I totally agree. I just don't think it's interesting to learn about that in a way where a character just says that. I like stories that make me ask myself if something should be this or that instead of telling me what to think.
I really wanted to like this book, because I think the intentions were good and it had some cool elements. Most of them were the ones that were historically accurate. I like the chivalry of Saladin, I liked how Richard wasn't a one note villain. I liked the descriptions of the battles, they were actually well done. I liked the family dynamics between Richard and his family. I would have liked to learn more about that but those people don't get mentioned again until the end of the book. I think it would have worked as a movie but I don't think it should have been a novel. Again just my opinion.
December 25, 2017
Maintaining creativity within the confines of historical authenticity is perhaps the greatest challenge face by historical fiction writers. The author not only has to do a lot of research to set his or her plot in a time representative of the period but they also have to be creative about the mannerism, social conditions and other trivial details that ‘might’ have existed.
One can easily compound the above challenges a hundred folds, when the characters of the story are the great Muslim commander Saladin and the Christian king Richard the lion heart, and the story is woven around the last crusade between the two greatest empires of the time. To Kamran’s credit he has been successful in maintaining the right balance between historical authenticity and the creativity expected by an accomplished story teller. He is an excellent wordsmith and able to paint a picture about the horrors of the warfare from both Christian and Muslim perspective in an engaging way that feels almost real.
To me the punch lines are not in the novel, but in Kamran’s interview, which is included as an annexure to his paperback edition, where in response to the question what he would hope his readers will take with them after reading this book he says;
“I hope that my readers will walk away with an understanding of the importance of seeing things from someone else’s point of view, especially if that perspective appears hostile or opposed to our own. The only way human beings can transcend the cycle of fear and hate that feeds war is learn empathy. And the first step in the journey is to recognize the humanity of our adversaries and the authenticity of their viewpoints. It does not mean we have to change or abandon our own beliefs, but in order to live in this world in peace; we must give others the right to have different views of their own. It is a lesson that I sought to have the characters in my novel learn, and I hope that it is a lesson that we can all incorporate in our lives’
One can easily compound the above challenges a hundred folds, when the characters of the story are the great Muslim commander Saladin and the Christian king Richard the lion heart, and the story is woven around the last crusade between the two greatest empires of the time. To Kamran’s credit he has been successful in maintaining the right balance between historical authenticity and the creativity expected by an accomplished story teller. He is an excellent wordsmith and able to paint a picture about the horrors of the warfare from both Christian and Muslim perspective in an engaging way that feels almost real.
To me the punch lines are not in the novel, but in Kamran’s interview, which is included as an annexure to his paperback edition, where in response to the question what he would hope his readers will take with them after reading this book he says;
“I hope that my readers will walk away with an understanding of the importance of seeing things from someone else’s point of view, especially if that perspective appears hostile or opposed to our own. The only way human beings can transcend the cycle of fear and hate that feeds war is learn empathy. And the first step in the journey is to recognize the humanity of our adversaries and the authenticity of their viewpoints. It does not mean we have to change or abandon our own beliefs, but in order to live in this world in peace; we must give others the right to have different views of their own. It is a lesson that I sought to have the characters in my novel learn, and I hope that it is a lesson that we can all incorporate in our lives’
January 24, 2011
Yang Dicinta, Yang Dibenci
Oleh Khrisna Pabichara
“Mereka yang kita cintai—dan mereka yang kita benci—hanyalah cermin dari diri kita sendiri.”
—Kamran Pasha
Bermula dari Ironi
Kamran Pasha membuka novel Kilatan Pedang Tuhan dengan menyeret pembaca untuk menyelami hati Mariam, gadis Yahudi yang menjadi korban keganasan kesatria Conrad dari Montferrat. Lalu, Pasha menyuguhkan narasi menarik tentang Maimonides sang Rabi yang selalu terkenang petuah ayahnya, “Konon, Tuhan itu menyukai ironi. Mungkin itu sebabnya kota-Nya, yang dinamai perdamaian, selama ini hanya mengenal peperangan dan kematian.” Ya, novel ini memang bermula dari ironi, pertarungan antara “iman” dan “nafsu”, pertempuran antara “cinta” dan “benci”.
Setelah itu, Pasha mulai menghadirkan sosok mengagumkan sepanjang sejarah Perang Salib, Shalahuddin Al-Ayyubi. Kegemilangan dalam kisah penaklukan kembali Yerusalem dari kuasa Reginald si Hati Keji dibabar dengan narasi yang indah. Lalu, melompatlah Pasha ke masa-masa genting ketika Richard si Hati Singa menjadi Raja Inggris setelah hanya dalam hitungan detik memanipulasi titah ayahnya yang menghendaki adiknya, Pangeran John, sebagai pewaris takhta. Ambisi membuatnya menghabisi prajurit muda yang juga menyaksikan titah terakhir Raja Henry. Dari sudut ini, Pasha menggambarkan karakter dua tokoh utama Perang Salib III ini dengan penuh pikat. Seolah ini benar-benar (pernah) terjadi—karena hingga tulisan ini saya rampungkan, saya tidak berhasil menemukan referensi tentang intrik besar dibalik mangkatnya Raja Henry. Saya jadi merindukan novel ini dalam versi asli, Shadow of the Swords, and Epic Novel of the Crusades, karena pukauan terjemahan dan suntingan dalam versi Indonesia ini.
Jangan menduga novel ini melulu menyingkap tragedi Perang Salib. Ada banyak kejutan yang ditawarkan Pasha bagi khalayak pembaca. Selain sosok Mariam, ada sosok lain—yang diakui Pasha sebagai sosok imajiner rekaannya—seperti Ratu Yasmin dan Sir Willim, meskipun untuk nama terakhir terinspirasi oleh tokoh Lord William Marshal. Keluhuran Shalahuddin pun dibumbuinya dengan intrik Ratu Yasmin dan para selirnya, terutama ketika berupaya menjegal Mariam menuju peraduan Shalahuddin dan kisah percintaan “haram” Ratu Yasmin dengan pelayan perempuannya yang membuatnya dikenai hukuman mati. Pun huru hara yang melanda batin Maimonides karena cinta terlarang yang terjalin antara keponakannya, Mariam, dengan pemimpin pasukan muslim, Shalahuddin, yang masyhur itu. Bahkan, merasa belum cukup, Pasha mengabarkan kisah tertangkapnya Mariam oleh pasukan Richard dan betapa “cinta” (atau malah “nafsu”) memaksa Mariam melakukan segala cara untuk mendapatkan informasi penting demi belahan jiwanya—termasuk merelakan malamnya di pembaringan Richard si Hati Singa.
Teguran dari Masa Lalu
Apabila sejarah, meminjam istilah Damhuri Muhammad, dipancang dari tiang kokoh bernama “benar-salah” atau “terjadi-tak terjadi”, tentulah Kilatan Pedang Tuhan bukan novel sejarah yang utuh karena beberapa penggalan di dalamnya merupakan “dunia seolah-olah” dan bukan “dunia sesungguhnya”. Akan tetapi, novel ini memang dibangun dari realitas sejarah yang benar-benar pernah terjadi, Perang Salib III. Pasha mengusung cara pandang lain dalam mengisahkan kembali perang demi perang yang banyak menelan korban dari pelbagai kalangan—Yahudi, Kristen, Islam—dan mendedah sisi lain yang jarang dibincangkan, terutama karena Shalahuddin dan Richard telah banyak dianggap sebagai legenda oleh para pengagumnya.
Selain itu, saya menemukan beberapa hal yang membuat hati saya bergetar. Pertama, kenyataan bahwa peperangan memang bukan jalan keluar yang terbaik untuk menyelesaikan masalah. Selalu ada yang harus “siap” atau “dipaksa” dikorbankan, sebut misalnya tragedi pembantaian sekitar tiga ribu tahanan tidak berdosa di Akko oleh Richard. Kedua, kekerasan atas nama tuhan yang diimani malah mengaburkan cinta-kasih yang dianjurkan oleh agama itu sendiri. Penderitaan batin Mariam dan pergolakan hati William adalah contoh yang disuguhkan oleh Pasha. Ketiga, ketakziman dan keluhuran budi taklah mengenal kawan atau lawan. Saya terperenyak membaca bagaimana Pasha menggambarkan kelembutan Shalahudin ketika mengirimkan tabib untuk mengobati lawannya, kesediaan William menundukkan harga dirinya demi keselamatan tuannya, pengorbanan Mariam demi “secuil” informasi—yang ternyata menentukan akhir pertempuran, dan keikhlasan Richard untuk menerima tawaran perdamaian dari seteru abadinya.
Begitulah, saya menemukan banyak hal dari novel ini, terutama jika dikaitkan dengan situasi hari ini yang semakin “tak menentu”. Bagi saya, novel ini adalah teguran dari masa lalu, semacam cermin bening yang mengingatkan agar kesalahan yang sama tak terulang lagi. Meskipun sejarah mencatat Perang Salib tak berhenti sampai di sana.
Keriangan pembacaan saya terus bergerak liar pada entakan demi entakan yang dipantik oleh petualangan hasrat, nafsu, dan kegilaan. Betapa tipisnya sekat antara yang dibenci dan yang dicinta—seperti tergambar pada sosok Mariam, William, dan Maimonides. Betapa pampatnya jarak antara "iman" dan "nafsu"—sampai-sampai menghabisi nyawa sesama dianggap sebagai sesuatu yang “layak” dilakukan. Betapa dekatnya batas antara "laknat" dan "hikmat"—sehingga yang mustahil pun bisa terjadi demi memenuhi hajat, yang banyak dilabeli “atas nama agama”, itu—yang membuat kita kerap mengabaikan pesan Immanuel Kant tentang “kebaikan yang masuk akal” (sensible good) dan “kebaikan moral” (moral good). Betapa pemujaan berlebihan terhadap kekuasaan—seperti digambarkan oleh Hegel lewat Nalar dalam Sejarah (penerjemah Shalahuddien Gz, 2005)—lebih banyak menghasilkan hati “yang terluka” ketimbang hati “yang tersembuhkan”, atau lebih sering melahirkan “rasa benci” daripada “rasa kasih”.
Konsep ketuhanan seperti yang melatari Perang Salib, bagi saya, hanyalah fanatisme buta akibat terbiusnya setiap penganut agama pada daya tarik “jihad” dan mengabaikan keberhargaan nyawa manusia dalam konsep ketuhanan di sisi yang lain. Anehnya, cara pandang seperti itu tetap langgeng hingga sekarang dengan metode yang berbeda, terorisme misalnya.
Pada Akhirnya
Bagi saya, membaca Kilatan Pedang Tuhan adalah petualangan spiritual. Perjalanan indah tentang bagaimana semestinya berkhidmat pada “cinta”, termasuk cinta kepada yang diimani. Dan, Pasha menunjukkan hal itu dengan cara yang indah. Anda layak membacanya!
Ragunan, Januari 2011
Judul: Kilatan Pedang Tuhan
Judul Asli: Shadow of the Swords, and Epic Novel of the Crusades
Pengarang: Kamran Pasha
Penerjemah: Fahmy Yamani
Penyunting: Muhammad Husnil
Penerbit: Zaman
Cetakan: I, 2011
Tebal: 580 halaman
Oleh Khrisna Pabichara
“Mereka yang kita cintai—dan mereka yang kita benci—hanyalah cermin dari diri kita sendiri.”
—Kamran Pasha
Bermula dari Ironi
Kamran Pasha membuka novel Kilatan Pedang Tuhan dengan menyeret pembaca untuk menyelami hati Mariam, gadis Yahudi yang menjadi korban keganasan kesatria Conrad dari Montferrat. Lalu, Pasha menyuguhkan narasi menarik tentang Maimonides sang Rabi yang selalu terkenang petuah ayahnya, “Konon, Tuhan itu menyukai ironi. Mungkin itu sebabnya kota-Nya, yang dinamai perdamaian, selama ini hanya mengenal peperangan dan kematian.” Ya, novel ini memang bermula dari ironi, pertarungan antara “iman” dan “nafsu”, pertempuran antara “cinta” dan “benci”.
Setelah itu, Pasha mulai menghadirkan sosok mengagumkan sepanjang sejarah Perang Salib, Shalahuddin Al-Ayyubi. Kegemilangan dalam kisah penaklukan kembali Yerusalem dari kuasa Reginald si Hati Keji dibabar dengan narasi yang indah. Lalu, melompatlah Pasha ke masa-masa genting ketika Richard si Hati Singa menjadi Raja Inggris setelah hanya dalam hitungan detik memanipulasi titah ayahnya yang menghendaki adiknya, Pangeran John, sebagai pewaris takhta. Ambisi membuatnya menghabisi prajurit muda yang juga menyaksikan titah terakhir Raja Henry. Dari sudut ini, Pasha menggambarkan karakter dua tokoh utama Perang Salib III ini dengan penuh pikat. Seolah ini benar-benar (pernah) terjadi—karena hingga tulisan ini saya rampungkan, saya tidak berhasil menemukan referensi tentang intrik besar dibalik mangkatnya Raja Henry. Saya jadi merindukan novel ini dalam versi asli, Shadow of the Swords, and Epic Novel of the Crusades, karena pukauan terjemahan dan suntingan dalam versi Indonesia ini.
Jangan menduga novel ini melulu menyingkap tragedi Perang Salib. Ada banyak kejutan yang ditawarkan Pasha bagi khalayak pembaca. Selain sosok Mariam, ada sosok lain—yang diakui Pasha sebagai sosok imajiner rekaannya—seperti Ratu Yasmin dan Sir Willim, meskipun untuk nama terakhir terinspirasi oleh tokoh Lord William Marshal. Keluhuran Shalahuddin pun dibumbuinya dengan intrik Ratu Yasmin dan para selirnya, terutama ketika berupaya menjegal Mariam menuju peraduan Shalahuddin dan kisah percintaan “haram” Ratu Yasmin dengan pelayan perempuannya yang membuatnya dikenai hukuman mati. Pun huru hara yang melanda batin Maimonides karena cinta terlarang yang terjalin antara keponakannya, Mariam, dengan pemimpin pasukan muslim, Shalahuddin, yang masyhur itu. Bahkan, merasa belum cukup, Pasha mengabarkan kisah tertangkapnya Mariam oleh pasukan Richard dan betapa “cinta” (atau malah “nafsu”) memaksa Mariam melakukan segala cara untuk mendapatkan informasi penting demi belahan jiwanya—termasuk merelakan malamnya di pembaringan Richard si Hati Singa.
Teguran dari Masa Lalu
Apabila sejarah, meminjam istilah Damhuri Muhammad, dipancang dari tiang kokoh bernama “benar-salah” atau “terjadi-tak terjadi”, tentulah Kilatan Pedang Tuhan bukan novel sejarah yang utuh karena beberapa penggalan di dalamnya merupakan “dunia seolah-olah” dan bukan “dunia sesungguhnya”. Akan tetapi, novel ini memang dibangun dari realitas sejarah yang benar-benar pernah terjadi, Perang Salib III. Pasha mengusung cara pandang lain dalam mengisahkan kembali perang demi perang yang banyak menelan korban dari pelbagai kalangan—Yahudi, Kristen, Islam—dan mendedah sisi lain yang jarang dibincangkan, terutama karena Shalahuddin dan Richard telah banyak dianggap sebagai legenda oleh para pengagumnya.
Selain itu, saya menemukan beberapa hal yang membuat hati saya bergetar. Pertama, kenyataan bahwa peperangan memang bukan jalan keluar yang terbaik untuk menyelesaikan masalah. Selalu ada yang harus “siap” atau “dipaksa” dikorbankan, sebut misalnya tragedi pembantaian sekitar tiga ribu tahanan tidak berdosa di Akko oleh Richard. Kedua, kekerasan atas nama tuhan yang diimani malah mengaburkan cinta-kasih yang dianjurkan oleh agama itu sendiri. Penderitaan batin Mariam dan pergolakan hati William adalah contoh yang disuguhkan oleh Pasha. Ketiga, ketakziman dan keluhuran budi taklah mengenal kawan atau lawan. Saya terperenyak membaca bagaimana Pasha menggambarkan kelembutan Shalahudin ketika mengirimkan tabib untuk mengobati lawannya, kesediaan William menundukkan harga dirinya demi keselamatan tuannya, pengorbanan Mariam demi “secuil” informasi—yang ternyata menentukan akhir pertempuran, dan keikhlasan Richard untuk menerima tawaran perdamaian dari seteru abadinya.
Begitulah, saya menemukan banyak hal dari novel ini, terutama jika dikaitkan dengan situasi hari ini yang semakin “tak menentu”. Bagi saya, novel ini adalah teguran dari masa lalu, semacam cermin bening yang mengingatkan agar kesalahan yang sama tak terulang lagi. Meskipun sejarah mencatat Perang Salib tak berhenti sampai di sana.
Keriangan pembacaan saya terus bergerak liar pada entakan demi entakan yang dipantik oleh petualangan hasrat, nafsu, dan kegilaan. Betapa tipisnya sekat antara yang dibenci dan yang dicinta—seperti tergambar pada sosok Mariam, William, dan Maimonides. Betapa pampatnya jarak antara "iman" dan "nafsu"—sampai-sampai menghabisi nyawa sesama dianggap sebagai sesuatu yang “layak” dilakukan. Betapa dekatnya batas antara "laknat" dan "hikmat"—sehingga yang mustahil pun bisa terjadi demi memenuhi hajat, yang banyak dilabeli “atas nama agama”, itu—yang membuat kita kerap mengabaikan pesan Immanuel Kant tentang “kebaikan yang masuk akal” (sensible good) dan “kebaikan moral” (moral good). Betapa pemujaan berlebihan terhadap kekuasaan—seperti digambarkan oleh Hegel lewat Nalar dalam Sejarah (penerjemah Shalahuddien Gz, 2005)—lebih banyak menghasilkan hati “yang terluka” ketimbang hati “yang tersembuhkan”, atau lebih sering melahirkan “rasa benci” daripada “rasa kasih”.
Konsep ketuhanan seperti yang melatari Perang Salib, bagi saya, hanyalah fanatisme buta akibat terbiusnya setiap penganut agama pada daya tarik “jihad” dan mengabaikan keberhargaan nyawa manusia dalam konsep ketuhanan di sisi yang lain. Anehnya, cara pandang seperti itu tetap langgeng hingga sekarang dengan metode yang berbeda, terorisme misalnya.
Pada Akhirnya
Bagi saya, membaca Kilatan Pedang Tuhan adalah petualangan spiritual. Perjalanan indah tentang bagaimana semestinya berkhidmat pada “cinta”, termasuk cinta kepada yang diimani. Dan, Pasha menunjukkan hal itu dengan cara yang indah. Anda layak membacanya!
Ragunan, Januari 2011
Judul: Kilatan Pedang Tuhan
Judul Asli: Shadow of the Swords, and Epic Novel of the Crusades
Pengarang: Kamran Pasha
Penerjemah: Fahmy Yamani
Penyunting: Muhammad Husnil
Penerbit: Zaman
Cetakan: I, 2011
Tebal: 580 halaman
June 14, 2019
A hard-to-put-down book. Intriguing from start to finish. There's no way i wanted to take a peek at the ending, like i do sometimes. I just had to go through page after page, never knowing where this crusading saga would take me.
The duel between Richard and Saladin, surprising as it was, it did give me time to breathe. I luv the way the book ended.
Thumbs up Mr Kamran Pasha
The duel between Richard and Saladin, surprising as it was, it did give me time to breathe. I luv the way the book ended.
Thumbs up Mr Kamran Pasha
April 27, 2015
Review of Shadow of the Swords: An Epic Novel of the Crusades by Kamran Pasha (warning: this review contains spoilers):
Growing up in Libya, an Arab Muslim country, I was taught all about Sultan Salah ad-Din Al-Ayyoubi (better known in the Western world as Saladin), Unifier of Egypt and the Levant, Liberator of Jerusalem, and Conqueror of the Crusaders. To the people of the region he is a hero, holding a place only second to that held by The Holy Prophet (Peace and Blessings be Upon him) and his Companions in their hearts, and though (according to most historic sources) he wasn’t an Arab but in fact a Kurdish Muslim, he has become a symbol for Arab nationalism and solidarity, his memory immortalized in many works of art and literature by Muslims and Westerners alike. Therefore I was greatly excited to learn that a Hollywood blockbuster, Kingdom of Heaven, was being made about Hattin, the battle that consequently led to the Sultan's capture of Jerusalem, and was keen to watch it, only to be disappointed (but not greatly surprised) that the film, despite being relatively fair and balanced in its narrative, relegated Saladin to a brief, almost cameo role, sparking my interest to learn more about this historic figure.
It is this interest that led me years later to Kamran Pasha's 'Shadow of the Swords', which I stumbled on by chance while surfing the internet one day, and after glancing at an excerpt of it on Google books, I realized that I must have this book in hard copy. The book industry (amongst many) isn't a thriving one in my native Libya, and I had to order it online, and endure the long wait for its shipment and delivery.
The wait however turned out to be well rewarding…!
Kamran Pasha takes us on a journey back in time, to accompany his characters on caravan treks and sailing ships, visit warring army camps, attend kings' courts and stratagem meetings, eavesdrop on the whispers of the harem, and bare witness to the gory of battle and the beauty of love, all while the pages of history unfold before our very eyes.
Coincidently this book picks up from where 'Kingdom of Heaven' ends; the Muslims' victory in Hattin, and their merciful conquest of Jerusalem. Word of this gets back to Europe, and newly crowned King of England and France, Richard the Lion Heart, leads the warriors of Christendom on the third crusade to wrestle the Holy land from the grasp of the Saracens, and (more importantly to him) to prove his right to his father's throne, putting him on a collision course with Saladin Sultan of the Muslims, in a bitter battle to the end.
Reading it from cover to cover I guess its only fitting to start my review at the book's cover, but I've learned from an early age to never judge a book from its cover…! Once getting over the less than spectacular artwork (which reminded somewhat me of the cover art for a title in the 'Stronghold' videogame franchise), I found myself delving into a beautifully written, well researched, gripping tale, lush with vivid characters, rich in intimate description and detail.
In his after word the author assumed that some Muslim readers may be offended by his portrayal of Saladin as more of a human being and less of a plastic saint like character. Was I? Well, not nearly offended as I was by Chris DeBurgh's 'Crusader' song for example, but never the less I was a bit disturbed. Not by the depiction of Saladin as a human being with feelings and emotions, nor that these feelings were for a Jewess, but by the way that the love story between the two evolved into adultery, a sin below any good God-fearing Muslim, let alone a man with the faith and piety history recorded Salah ad-Din Al-Ayyoubi of having.
The Jewess in question serves as more than mere eye-of-mind candy, and plays a major role in this story; not only does she become the love interest of the two main characters, Saladin and Richard, she also becomes a symbol that resembles the Holy land itself, and the struggle for her heart in essence is the fight for Jerusalem. A fight Saladin consequently learns can only be won by love, not hatred.
On my mind's movie screen she could've been played by Eva Green, Laura Pulver, Olivia Wilde, or Megan Fox (if the latter ever chose more serious roles), though I do wonder who the author would have had in mind to play her role if this work was ever dramatized.
All the other characters were masterfully drawn and stand out in memory; Maimonides, William Chinon, Al-Adil, Conrad, Taqi al-Din, Joanna, Princess Yasmeen, and even the Abyssinian slave girl Mehret (who represented yet another aspect of the story that I found a bit disturbing!).
It was a wonderful read all in all, and a book I was genuinely sad to finish, and found myself longing to read again as soon as I put it down.
I would highly recommend it for anyone who's interested in historic fiction, romance, religion, or just a good book to pass the time with.
I am keenly looking forward to reading more of this genre from the author.
Alaa ElSharif
Growing up in Libya, an Arab Muslim country, I was taught all about Sultan Salah ad-Din Al-Ayyoubi (better known in the Western world as Saladin), Unifier of Egypt and the Levant, Liberator of Jerusalem, and Conqueror of the Crusaders. To the people of the region he is a hero, holding a place only second to that held by The Holy Prophet (Peace and Blessings be Upon him) and his Companions in their hearts, and though (according to most historic sources) he wasn’t an Arab but in fact a Kurdish Muslim, he has become a symbol for Arab nationalism and solidarity, his memory immortalized in many works of art and literature by Muslims and Westerners alike. Therefore I was greatly excited to learn that a Hollywood blockbuster, Kingdom of Heaven, was being made about Hattin, the battle that consequently led to the Sultan's capture of Jerusalem, and was keen to watch it, only to be disappointed (but not greatly surprised) that the film, despite being relatively fair and balanced in its narrative, relegated Saladin to a brief, almost cameo role, sparking my interest to learn more about this historic figure.
It is this interest that led me years later to Kamran Pasha's 'Shadow of the Swords', which I stumbled on by chance while surfing the internet one day, and after glancing at an excerpt of it on Google books, I realized that I must have this book in hard copy. The book industry (amongst many) isn't a thriving one in my native Libya, and I had to order it online, and endure the long wait for its shipment and delivery.
The wait however turned out to be well rewarding…!
Kamran Pasha takes us on a journey back in time, to accompany his characters on caravan treks and sailing ships, visit warring army camps, attend kings' courts and stratagem meetings, eavesdrop on the whispers of the harem, and bare witness to the gory of battle and the beauty of love, all while the pages of history unfold before our very eyes.
Coincidently this book picks up from where 'Kingdom of Heaven' ends; the Muslims' victory in Hattin, and their merciful conquest of Jerusalem. Word of this gets back to Europe, and newly crowned King of England and France, Richard the Lion Heart, leads the warriors of Christendom on the third crusade to wrestle the Holy land from the grasp of the Saracens, and (more importantly to him) to prove his right to his father's throne, putting him on a collision course with Saladin Sultan of the Muslims, in a bitter battle to the end.
Reading it from cover to cover I guess its only fitting to start my review at the book's cover, but I've learned from an early age to never judge a book from its cover…! Once getting over the less than spectacular artwork (which reminded somewhat me of the cover art for a title in the 'Stronghold' videogame franchise), I found myself delving into a beautifully written, well researched, gripping tale, lush with vivid characters, rich in intimate description and detail.
In his after word the author assumed that some Muslim readers may be offended by his portrayal of Saladin as more of a human being and less of a plastic saint like character. Was I? Well, not nearly offended as I was by Chris DeBurgh's 'Crusader' song for example, but never the less I was a bit disturbed. Not by the depiction of Saladin as a human being with feelings and emotions, nor that these feelings were for a Jewess, but by the way that the love story between the two evolved into adultery, a sin below any good God-fearing Muslim, let alone a man with the faith and piety history recorded Salah ad-Din Al-Ayyoubi of having.
The Jewess in question serves as more than mere eye-of-mind candy, and plays a major role in this story; not only does she become the love interest of the two main characters, Saladin and Richard, she also becomes a symbol that resembles the Holy land itself, and the struggle for her heart in essence is the fight for Jerusalem. A fight Saladin consequently learns can only be won by love, not hatred.
On my mind's movie screen she could've been played by Eva Green, Laura Pulver, Olivia Wilde, or Megan Fox (if the latter ever chose more serious roles), though I do wonder who the author would have had in mind to play her role if this work was ever dramatized.
All the other characters were masterfully drawn and stand out in memory; Maimonides, William Chinon, Al-Adil, Conrad, Taqi al-Din, Joanna, Princess Yasmeen, and even the Abyssinian slave girl Mehret (who represented yet another aspect of the story that I found a bit disturbing!).
It was a wonderful read all in all, and a book I was genuinely sad to finish, and found myself longing to read again as soon as I put it down.
I would highly recommend it for anyone who's interested in historic fiction, romance, religion, or just a good book to pass the time with.
I am keenly looking forward to reading more of this genre from the author.
Alaa ElSharif
July 20, 2010
Shadow of the Swords is a true historical fiction, steeped in facts but yet serving to fill in the gaps that history ignored with political intrigue, suspense and romance. I really enjoyed reading this novel simply because it was really well written and well laid out. Admittedly the author did have a substantial background to work from since many of the events that were described in the book actually took place. However they were heightened in some instances with so many twists and turns that made putting this book down for even 10 mins difficult.
The story is set during the Third Crusade (1187 – 1192) that is launched against the Muslim world. With this book we look at the crusades from several perspectives including Muslim, Jewish and Christian and I really appreciated that. I think that often we get a western perspective on historical events and they do not always give us an unbiased point of view. However by writing Shadow of the Swords in the third person, I believe that Pasha is allowing the reader to gain an overall understanding of the event.
The two figures central to the story King Richard 1 and Sultan Saladin were quite opposites in every way and I think if you decide to look up both men, that's one of the first things you would notice. The author did a great job to show the side of these men that history has recorded but Pasha went one step further in making them complex and multi-dimensional characters that were a joy to get to know. There are instances where the characters were entirely fictional however you could hardly tell because they were so neatly weaved into the story that without a doubt, they were real men and women written in the annals of history.
I think that it’s for that reason that it was so hard for me to have a favourite character in this book. Saladin’s chivalry, kindness and his devotion to Islamic practices were sometimes incredulous but do your research and you would realize that it is all true. I loved Miriam simply because she was a woman that was ahead of her time. She was fiercely loyal and independent, out spoken and brave. The author in his note stated that Miriam embodied the resilience of the Jews but I think I connected with her because she represented the modern ideals of women and who we all should strive to be. The cherry on the ice cream would have to be Sir William of Chinon. His character is rightly so, a sympathetic Christian and his disagreement with the crusades is how one can imagine most sympathetic Christians felt during this period.
I thought that this entire book took a stab (no pun intended) at the current conflict between the Muslims and the Western world and by extension the misrepresentation of Muslims in the media. There were some quotes that I found bearing truth to this for example:
“All human conflict was fundamentally premised on those two emotions, hatred and fear, bound painfully together and forced to dance to a grim tune played forever on the Reaper’s tune.” Pg 237
“Perhaps there will come a time when the West will be powerful again and the Arabs will fight to restore their lost glory” pg 202
For what it is worth, I do think that Pasha succeeded in shedding more favourable light over Muslims. Saladin truly embodies the core of what Islam stands for however the real question is how much of Saladin’s principles and by extension that of Islam is still maintained.
Shadow of the Swords is a really good read, not just for history buffs like myself but for anyone who appreciates how past events continue to shape our future. It’s also a great story about showing love, compassion and tolerance in a world that is as diverse as ours is. I am definitely going to give it a second read before I pass it on to my friends.
The story is set during the Third Crusade (1187 – 1192) that is launched against the Muslim world. With this book we look at the crusades from several perspectives including Muslim, Jewish and Christian and I really appreciated that. I think that often we get a western perspective on historical events and they do not always give us an unbiased point of view. However by writing Shadow of the Swords in the third person, I believe that Pasha is allowing the reader to gain an overall understanding of the event.
The two figures central to the story King Richard 1 and Sultan Saladin were quite opposites in every way and I think if you decide to look up both men, that's one of the first things you would notice. The author did a great job to show the side of these men that history has recorded but Pasha went one step further in making them complex and multi-dimensional characters that were a joy to get to know. There are instances where the characters were entirely fictional however you could hardly tell because they were so neatly weaved into the story that without a doubt, they were real men and women written in the annals of history.
I think that it’s for that reason that it was so hard for me to have a favourite character in this book. Saladin’s chivalry, kindness and his devotion to Islamic practices were sometimes incredulous but do your research and you would realize that it is all true. I loved Miriam simply because she was a woman that was ahead of her time. She was fiercely loyal and independent, out spoken and brave. The author in his note stated that Miriam embodied the resilience of the Jews but I think I connected with her because she represented the modern ideals of women and who we all should strive to be. The cherry on the ice cream would have to be Sir William of Chinon. His character is rightly so, a sympathetic Christian and his disagreement with the crusades is how one can imagine most sympathetic Christians felt during this period.
I thought that this entire book took a stab (no pun intended) at the current conflict between the Muslims and the Western world and by extension the misrepresentation of Muslims in the media. There were some quotes that I found bearing truth to this for example:
“All human conflict was fundamentally premised on those two emotions, hatred and fear, bound painfully together and forced to dance to a grim tune played forever on the Reaper’s tune.” Pg 237
“Perhaps there will come a time when the West will be powerful again and the Arabs will fight to restore their lost glory” pg 202
For what it is worth, I do think that Pasha succeeded in shedding more favourable light over Muslims. Saladin truly embodies the core of what Islam stands for however the real question is how much of Saladin’s principles and by extension that of Islam is still maintained.
Shadow of the Swords is a really good read, not just for history buffs like myself but for anyone who appreciates how past events continue to shape our future. It’s also a great story about showing love, compassion and tolerance in a world that is as diverse as ours is. I am definitely going to give it a second read before I pass it on to my friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2010
I typically don’t discuss a book’s cover when I express my thoughts about a story. I should bring it up more often, because I tend to pick books by their cover over content when making a blind purchase (generally, it pays off). I have to say, had I seen the cover for Shadow of the Swords, I would have passed it by completely. It is very amateurish for my tastes and it doesn’t do Kamran Pasha’s work justice.
Which now brings me to the interior of the book-- a much more pleasant experience. After a somewhat slow warm up, Shadow of the Swords becomes an absorbing story of Saladin and Richard the Lionheart’s crusade battle for territorial control of one of the most coveted cities in the world: Jerusalem. That’s one layer of the story anyway…there are several more to be found from start to finish. Pasha sets out to explore religious tolerance, prejudice, as well as mankind’s humanity and cruelty to one another through the eyes of several main characters of different faiths.
At the center of Shadow of Swords, sits the great sultan, Saladin—a respected and feared enemy of the Christian Crusaders. Pasha weaves the Muslim perspective of the third wave of the Crusades through Saladin’s actions and words. It isn’t often that readers find an accounting of battle from this direction. To balance out his efforts, Pasha is careful to incorporate a mixture of perceptions from Christian and Jewish persons as well. We see Miriam, her aunt Rebecca and her uncle Maimonides, as a family caught in the crossfire of a war not of their making. Richard the Lionheart may be depicted as an evil, brash young king searching for glory, but he is complemented by Sir William Chinon---a sincere man of faith who abhors the violence of the battle, but is committed to see it through to the end.
I found all these characters fascinating. Each has their own back-story that lends to the overall tale—something that gave me a sympathetic appreciation for the way they found themselves drawn into such horrific events.
Another detail of Shadow of the Swords that I liked was the battle scenes. They were very descriptive and sad, yet very telling of the times. How many lives were permanently altered based upon the words of a couple of men. But then again, war is just like that, isn’t it?
Finally, there is one criticism that I would level against Pasha. While I understand the need to adjust historical facts in order to develop a plot, I think he stretched this a bit thin with his writing. Adjustments, in my opinion, should be slight—not hacked away at. While reading the book, I chose to do some side research and found that there are many glaring historical inaccuracies throughout the book. This may not be an issue for most readers, but I can see where one could easily walk away from this story with a complete misunderstanding about specific individuals and chain of events.
If you are a stickler for accuracy and you know a little about the Crusades—this story may irk you a little. However, I don’t recommend that you let that fact keep you away. I think anyone who has an interest in this era should certainly keep this book in mind. It is entertaining and feels different than a lot of books that cover this material. It certainly shows a lot of promise for Kamran Pasha’s future writings.
Which now brings me to the interior of the book-- a much more pleasant experience. After a somewhat slow warm up, Shadow of the Swords becomes an absorbing story of Saladin and Richard the Lionheart’s crusade battle for territorial control of one of the most coveted cities in the world: Jerusalem. That’s one layer of the story anyway…there are several more to be found from start to finish. Pasha sets out to explore religious tolerance, prejudice, as well as mankind’s humanity and cruelty to one another through the eyes of several main characters of different faiths.
At the center of Shadow of Swords, sits the great sultan, Saladin—a respected and feared enemy of the Christian Crusaders. Pasha weaves the Muslim perspective of the third wave of the Crusades through Saladin’s actions and words. It isn’t often that readers find an accounting of battle from this direction. To balance out his efforts, Pasha is careful to incorporate a mixture of perceptions from Christian and Jewish persons as well. We see Miriam, her aunt Rebecca and her uncle Maimonides, as a family caught in the crossfire of a war not of their making. Richard the Lionheart may be depicted as an evil, brash young king searching for glory, but he is complemented by Sir William Chinon---a sincere man of faith who abhors the violence of the battle, but is committed to see it through to the end.
I found all these characters fascinating. Each has their own back-story that lends to the overall tale—something that gave me a sympathetic appreciation for the way they found themselves drawn into such horrific events.
Another detail of Shadow of the Swords that I liked was the battle scenes. They were very descriptive and sad, yet very telling of the times. How many lives were permanently altered based upon the words of a couple of men. But then again, war is just like that, isn’t it?
Finally, there is one criticism that I would level against Pasha. While I understand the need to adjust historical facts in order to develop a plot, I think he stretched this a bit thin with his writing. Adjustments, in my opinion, should be slight—not hacked away at. While reading the book, I chose to do some side research and found that there are many glaring historical inaccuracies throughout the book. This may not be an issue for most readers, but I can see where one could easily walk away from this story with a complete misunderstanding about specific individuals and chain of events.
If you are a stickler for accuracy and you know a little about the Crusades—this story may irk you a little. However, I don’t recommend that you let that fact keep you away. I think anyone who has an interest in this era should certainly keep this book in mind. It is entertaining and feels different than a lot of books that cover this material. It certainly shows a lot of promise for Kamran Pasha’s future writings.
November 14, 2015
Shadow of the Swords is a rather epic novel that tells the story of the Third Crusade through the point of view of the Muslims. In this story, the reader really gets to know Saladin and see what a wonderful man he truly was. He was a devote Muslim, but he also had respect for Christians and Jews.
Richard the Lionheart is portrays to be a power-hungry Christian that needs to make his mark on the world. A devout Christian, Richard says that he is taking back Jerusalem from the Muslims for the sake of Christianity. But his best friend, Sir William Chinon, sees it more of a need for the Pope to regain its foothold over Jerusalem. William is appalled by the war and does not think all the lives that he sees cut down are worth it. When Richard behead 2,700 captive Muslims in Acre, William realizes that this is not what he signed up for, but feels that he must support his friend and king.
The pace of the novel is perfect and I found that I became very involved in the story. Kamran Pasha has created a wonderful version of the Third Crusade that has never been seen by the western world. He talks about the advanced civilization that the Muslims had created and the barbarianous ways of the Christians and their disregard for life. History is always being rewritten and since these event occurred over 800 years ago, it is hard to tell how much of it is true. If is had my druthers, I would really like to believe Kamran Pasha's version of history.
At first, I wasn't sure if I was going to get into this story. I knew very little about the Crusades, except that is was about the Catholic Church's need to dominate and devastate anything or anyone that didn't believe what they believed. I loved learning about the Muslim way of life and the teachings in the Qur'an. I really liked Saladin and the way he ruled over his people. It really makes me wonder about all that is going on the world today with all of terrorists attacks in the name of religion. I don't understand the intense need to kill other people just because they don't believe what someone else believes. There is enough room in the vast world for everyone to live peacefully, but mankind has never been one to succeed at that. This makes me sad.
Overall, Shadow of the Swords is an excellent book that I would highly recommend to anyone, not only history buffs. My eyes were opened by this story and it gave me a lot to think about. So, if you are looking for a wonderful piece of historical fiction about the Third Crusade, you need to pick up a copy of this book. You will love it, just as I did.
I rated this book a 9½ out of 10.
Richard the Lionheart is portrays to be a power-hungry Christian that needs to make his mark on the world. A devout Christian, Richard says that he is taking back Jerusalem from the Muslims for the sake of Christianity. But his best friend, Sir William Chinon, sees it more of a need for the Pope to regain its foothold over Jerusalem. William is appalled by the war and does not think all the lives that he sees cut down are worth it. When Richard behead 2,700 captive Muslims in Acre, William realizes that this is not what he signed up for, but feels that he must support his friend and king.
The pace of the novel is perfect and I found that I became very involved in the story. Kamran Pasha has created a wonderful version of the Third Crusade that has never been seen by the western world. He talks about the advanced civilization that the Muslims had created and the barbarianous ways of the Christians and their disregard for life. History is always being rewritten and since these event occurred over 800 years ago, it is hard to tell how much of it is true. If is had my druthers, I would really like to believe Kamran Pasha's version of history.
At first, I wasn't sure if I was going to get into this story. I knew very little about the Crusades, except that is was about the Catholic Church's need to dominate and devastate anything or anyone that didn't believe what they believed. I loved learning about the Muslim way of life and the teachings in the Qur'an. I really liked Saladin and the way he ruled over his people. It really makes me wonder about all that is going on the world today with all of terrorists attacks in the name of religion. I don't understand the intense need to kill other people just because they don't believe what someone else believes. There is enough room in the vast world for everyone to live peacefully, but mankind has never been one to succeed at that. This makes me sad.
Overall, Shadow of the Swords is an excellent book that I would highly recommend to anyone, not only history buffs. My eyes were opened by this story and it gave me a lot to think about. So, if you are looking for a wonderful piece of historical fiction about the Third Crusade, you need to pick up a copy of this book. You will love it, just as I did.
I rated this book a 9½ out of 10.
June 21, 2010
I’ve never been a history buff; I’m not good at remembering things in general, let alone things that happened one thousand years ago. I enjoy historical fiction novels, but not history books. Shadow of the Swords is somewhere in between these two. It’s a serious novel, a bit dry in the beginning, but it ends with the heat and passion of the true history of the Crusades in the twelfth century.
Pitted against each other in this novel, as they were in the Crusades, is Saladin, Sultan of Egypt and Syria, and Richard the Lionheart, the new king of England. When Richard’s father, King Henry, dies and leaves the throne to his second son, John, Richard takes the throne by force. Determined to win the love of his nobles and subjects, and the admiration of his family, Richard embarks on a war to reclaim the city of Jerusalem, which has just been lost to Saladin.
Thrust in between these two powerful foes is Miriam, a beautiful, independent, stubborn woman, scorned for her religion as a Jew by both sides. Neither man can deny their growing feelings for this emerald eyed beauty, but her actions will surprise them both.
Beneath the plot of Shadow of the Swords lies evidence of Kamran Pasha’s passion for writing and his love of Muslim history. He paints Saladin as a powerful warrior, terrifying and dominating, but also gentle and generous. Richard the Lionheart, known in history as a stubborn and evil tyrant, is shown as a human, with flaws but not always so heartless. The fictional love triangle is the tool Pasha uses to illustrate what these two men may have actually been like, aside from enemies.
Not knowing much about the Crusades, I chose not to look up the actual history until after I read this book. What I discovered was that Pasha stays true to the factual events of AD 1189-1192, using artistic license to insert enhancing characters, as most historical fiction authors do. The difference between Pasha and others is the depth of solemnity in his novel. While other historicals are often fanciful, light imaginings, Shadow of the Swords is thoughtful and serious. Miriam may be just an author’s tool, fairly predictable, but she serves Pasha’s purpose.
The first hundred pages of this novel were a struggle at times, but the last hundred were fast-paced and thrilling. I learned things about this time period and history that I won’t easily forget. All-in-all, Shadow of the Swords is a great novel for fans of historical fiction, who like something more serious than fluffy romance.
Pitted against each other in this novel, as they were in the Crusades, is Saladin, Sultan of Egypt and Syria, and Richard the Lionheart, the new king of England. When Richard’s father, King Henry, dies and leaves the throne to his second son, John, Richard takes the throne by force. Determined to win the love of his nobles and subjects, and the admiration of his family, Richard embarks on a war to reclaim the city of Jerusalem, which has just been lost to Saladin.
Thrust in between these two powerful foes is Miriam, a beautiful, independent, stubborn woman, scorned for her religion as a Jew by both sides. Neither man can deny their growing feelings for this emerald eyed beauty, but her actions will surprise them both.
Beneath the plot of Shadow of the Swords lies evidence of Kamran Pasha’s passion for writing and his love of Muslim history. He paints Saladin as a powerful warrior, terrifying and dominating, but also gentle and generous. Richard the Lionheart, known in history as a stubborn and evil tyrant, is shown as a human, with flaws but not always so heartless. The fictional love triangle is the tool Pasha uses to illustrate what these two men may have actually been like, aside from enemies.
Not knowing much about the Crusades, I chose not to look up the actual history until after I read this book. What I discovered was that Pasha stays true to the factual events of AD 1189-1192, using artistic license to insert enhancing characters, as most historical fiction authors do. The difference between Pasha and others is the depth of solemnity in his novel. While other historicals are often fanciful, light imaginings, Shadow of the Swords is thoughtful and serious. Miriam may be just an author’s tool, fairly predictable, but she serves Pasha’s purpose.
The first hundred pages of this novel were a struggle at times, but the last hundred were fast-paced and thrilling. I learned things about this time period and history that I won’t easily forget. All-in-all, Shadow of the Swords is a great novel for fans of historical fiction, who like something more serious than fluffy romance.
June 12, 2013
I am absolutely in love with this book. Behind the cheesiness of the book cover is a wonderfully written story of the Third Crusades, and prominent figures of the time such as King Richard the Lionheart and Sultan Saladin. In addition to the plot about the Crusades, there was a romance between a Jew, Miriam, and Saladin, a prominent Muslim in the region. Even Richard falls for Miriam, but the affections are never returned.
Kamran Pasha initially wrote a manuscript as a reaction to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Eventually the manuscript turned into a novel, as the movie never happened.
What I found unique about the story, is that even though he mainly told the story through the Muslim perspective, we were still able to see the Christian side of the story, thus elimination the cliched Good vs. Evil associated with wars. Stories from both sides were told. It was refreshing and enjoyable, and at times, I've discovered that I've been reading for five hours straight. The only reason I wasn't constantly reading the book is because I'm a easily distracted person.
Saladin is seen as the ideals associated with Islam, all the virtues and chivalry. When Richard lost his horse during battle, Saladin presented him his own horse as a replacement. Also, when the foolhardy king was dying from the camp illness, the Sultan sent in his own personal doctor to heal his enemy.
While Richard is less sympathetic than Saladin, and a bit immature at times with his personal choices, the author created the character Sir William Chinon, based on actual historical figure William des Roches, as the symbol for the ideal Christian who never sways from his beliefs even under pressure of power, greed, or revenge.
I would not read this book for the historical inaccuracies, but simply for the plot, the characters, and the overall story that left me unable to put the book down. Those of you who are picky about historical accuracy, don't expect this book to be the one for you.
Kamran Pasha initially wrote a manuscript as a reaction to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Eventually the manuscript turned into a novel, as the movie never happened.
What I found unique about the story, is that even though he mainly told the story through the Muslim perspective, we were still able to see the Christian side of the story, thus elimination the cliched Good vs. Evil associated with wars. Stories from both sides were told. It was refreshing and enjoyable, and at times, I've discovered that I've been reading for five hours straight. The only reason I wasn't constantly reading the book is because I'm a easily distracted person.
Saladin is seen as the ideals associated with Islam, all the virtues and chivalry. When Richard lost his horse during battle, Saladin presented him his own horse as a replacement. Also, when the foolhardy king was dying from the camp illness, the Sultan sent in his own personal doctor to heal his enemy.
While Richard is less sympathetic than Saladin, and a bit immature at times with his personal choices, the author created the character Sir William Chinon, based on actual historical figure William des Roches, as the symbol for the ideal Christian who never sways from his beliefs even under pressure of power, greed, or revenge.
I would not read this book for the historical inaccuracies, but simply for the plot, the characters, and the overall story that left me unable to put the book down. Those of you who are picky about historical accuracy, don't expect this book to be the one for you.
September 7, 2013
As some readers have already noted; the cover on this book should not deter you from reading it. The novel is based on the true lives of two very different men; Richard the Lionheart and the Sultan, Saladin. The author has added fictional characters such as Miriam, a Jewess. The story focuses on the Crusades from the perspective of the Jews and Islamic characters. The time period is from 1187 AD to 1192. Richard has left his kingdom to lead another Christian Crusade to retake Jerusalem; lost in a prior Crusade. Wars fought in the name of God that still go on today in all parts of the world.
I liked this book for the history of the Middle East. Egypt, Palestine, Baghdad..all beautiful jewels of culture and knowledge. The "barbarians" from Western Europe determined to rule the whole world in the name of Christ. Some of these Crusaders were true fighters for Christ, but most were hoping to become rich from plundering the Middle Eastern kingdoms.
"My hope in writing this book was to bring to life not only these remarkable personalities and events, but to encourage modern leaders to reflect on the lessons the Crusades hold for us today. In a world still torn by religious fanaticism, holy wars, and terror in the name of God, perhaps we can find within ourselves the ability to transcend the past. Perhaps we can see beyond the labels such as Jew, Christian, and Muslim to look into the hearts of our adversaries. And if we are wise, perhaps we can see that ultimately we are all nothing more than mirrors. Those we love--and those we hate--are just reflections of ourselves." Kamran Pasha
I liked this book for the history of the Middle East. Egypt, Palestine, Baghdad..all beautiful jewels of culture and knowledge. The "barbarians" from Western Europe determined to rule the whole world in the name of Christ. Some of these Crusaders were true fighters for Christ, but most were hoping to become rich from plundering the Middle Eastern kingdoms.
"My hope in writing this book was to bring to life not only these remarkable personalities and events, but to encourage modern leaders to reflect on the lessons the Crusades hold for us today. In a world still torn by religious fanaticism, holy wars, and terror in the name of God, perhaps we can find within ourselves the ability to transcend the past. Perhaps we can see beyond the labels such as Jew, Christian, and Muslim to look into the hearts of our adversaries. And if we are wise, perhaps we can see that ultimately we are all nothing more than mirrors. Those we love--and those we hate--are just reflections of ourselves." Kamran Pasha
March 30, 2014
Kamran Pasha, conhecido por seus roteiros de séries e filmes, acabou enveredando pela literatura por causa de uma tragédia e uma casualidade. Influenciado pelos ataques de 11 de setembro, Pasha concebeu À Sombra das Espadas como um roteiro cinematográfico, mas acabou sendo precedido nas telonas por Ridley Scott com Cruzada e o roteiro acabou transformado em romance.
Pasha tinha como objetivo ao escrever essa história não apenas dar vida às personalidades e aos acontecimentos históricos, mas também motivar uma reflexão sobre as lições que podemos tirar dos eventos históricos, em especial das Cruzadas, a guerra santa perpetrada pela intolerância religiosa e cultural. E para isso ele recheou seu texto de teologia e filosofia, mas acabou fazendo-o em demasia, e confesso que em alguns momentos fiquei entediada. Apesar disso, foi uma escolha acertada para colocar em discussão os conflitos religiosos que perduram até hoje.
Em À Sombra das Espadas, os eventos da 3° Cruzada são recontados do ponto de vista muçulmano. A história tem início com a vitória do lendário Saladino sobre os francos e a soberania do líder muçulmano sobre a Cidade Sagrada. A Segunda Cruzada chegava ao fim e durante esse período, Saladino tentou promover a paz em Jerusalém com árabes, judeus e cristãos vivendo sob a proteção de seu sultanato. Mas essa frágil pacificidade fica ameaçada quando o jovem herdeiro da coroa britânica, Ricardo Coração de Leão, chega decidido a empreender a 3° cruzada e conquistar Jerusalém.
Continue lendo no Blablabla Aleatório
Pasha tinha como objetivo ao escrever essa história não apenas dar vida às personalidades e aos acontecimentos históricos, mas também motivar uma reflexão sobre as lições que podemos tirar dos eventos históricos, em especial das Cruzadas, a guerra santa perpetrada pela intolerância religiosa e cultural. E para isso ele recheou seu texto de teologia e filosofia, mas acabou fazendo-o em demasia, e confesso que em alguns momentos fiquei entediada. Apesar disso, foi uma escolha acertada para colocar em discussão os conflitos religiosos que perduram até hoje.
Em À Sombra das Espadas, os eventos da 3° Cruzada são recontados do ponto de vista muçulmano. A história tem início com a vitória do lendário Saladino sobre os francos e a soberania do líder muçulmano sobre a Cidade Sagrada. A Segunda Cruzada chegava ao fim e durante esse período, Saladino tentou promover a paz em Jerusalém com árabes, judeus e cristãos vivendo sob a proteção de seu sultanato. Mas essa frágil pacificidade fica ameaçada quando o jovem herdeiro da coroa britânica, Ricardo Coração de Leão, chega decidido a empreender a 3° cruzada e conquistar Jerusalém.
Continue lendo no Blablabla Aleatório
June 6, 2016
If you understand that the author's premise is that all gods are the same, that Alleh, Yahweh and Christ is the same God, then you can reach the same conclusion that he did. That we should all get along and not fight.
If you have read the Koran and the Moslem's doctrine, you know they do not allow others to co-exist with them.
If you have read the Torah, you know Israel's God is a jealous God and does not share with others.
If you know Christ, He has said, "I am the only way."
The premise of seeing our differences and yet knowing we are trying to live nicely and worship some god is very strong in the book. A nice fiction premise, but not based on the doctrines of any one of the groups presented in the book.
The author did present an interesting view of the Crusaders---uneducated, heathen, destroying everything in their path. Which during war at this time may have been sanctioned.
But his biased view of Moslems co-existing peacefully with Jews because of the same God has never shown in true history.
There were scenes I completely skipped for its bedroom activity. Other sections I did skip as well.
The book caused me to think. Disturbed me, until I realized his premise, and put a desire to read more about the Crusades.
If you have read the Koran and the Moslem's doctrine, you know they do not allow others to co-exist with them.
If you have read the Torah, you know Israel's God is a jealous God and does not share with others.
If you know Christ, He has said, "I am the only way."
The premise of seeing our differences and yet knowing we are trying to live nicely and worship some god is very strong in the book. A nice fiction premise, but not based on the doctrines of any one of the groups presented in the book.
The author did present an interesting view of the Crusaders---uneducated, heathen, destroying everything in their path. Which during war at this time may have been sanctioned.
But his biased view of Moslems co-existing peacefully with Jews because of the same God has never shown in true history.
There were scenes I completely skipped for its bedroom activity. Other sections I did skip as well.
The book caused me to think. Disturbed me, until I realized his premise, and put a desire to read more about the Crusades.
January 20, 2015
I wish I could give this book both a 5 and a 3. In some ways, the book was incredible. It was well written, captivating and the language beautiful. The plot was tight, the characters vivid, the stakes high and the twists shocking.
But one historical inaccuracy irked me.
Rabbi Moshe Ben Maimon would have never been addressed by anyone as Maimonides. The Jews would have reffered to him as "Chaham" or "Rabbi Moshe", the Muslims Ibn Musa. He was not Saladin's doctor, but his vizier. He lived the majority of his life in Egypt. He did not believe that Jews would wander endlessly in exile (his writings on the belief in the Jewish idea of a messiah is well known) He was instrumental in saving the Jews of the holy land, but mostly from afar.
Saladin is nearly angelic in his perfection. Yes, he has a few flaws, such as anger and lust, but he still comes across nearly angelic, in contrast to Richard the Lionhearted, who comes across as base and venal as they come.
I want to see more from the author. I highly reccomend him. I just disagree with that choice very much.
But one historical inaccuracy irked me.
Rabbi Moshe Ben Maimon would have never been addressed by anyone as Maimonides. The Jews would have reffered to him as "Chaham" or "Rabbi Moshe", the Muslims Ibn Musa. He was not Saladin's doctor, but his vizier. He lived the majority of his life in Egypt. He did not believe that Jews would wander endlessly in exile (his writings on the belief in the Jewish idea of a messiah is well known) He was instrumental in saving the Jews of the holy land, but mostly from afar.
Saladin is nearly angelic in his perfection. Yes, he has a few flaws, such as anger and lust, but he still comes across nearly angelic, in contrast to Richard the Lionhearted, who comes across as base and venal as they come.
I want to see more from the author. I highly reccomend him. I just disagree with that choice very much.
July 25, 2015
I finished this book about a month ago but have been having internet problems of late.
Kamran Pasha gives an unexplored view of the Crusades, split into three POVS- Muslim, Jewish, and Christian. I enjoyed his Saladin, great attributes and imperfections. As a Christian, I am thankful he invented William, the good Christian force in the story, and was fascinated to learn more about Muslim culture. He did not play favorites to any religion and spun an engaging tale.
My only issue was the historical inaccuracies. Joanna was married to William of Sicily, who died just before the Crusade, Richard was too old (33) by then to be considered a "boy", and Berengaria, Richard's bride, was nowhere to be seen. Still, I enjoyed it a lot.
Kamran Pasha gives an unexplored view of the Crusades, split into three POVS- Muslim, Jewish, and Christian. I enjoyed his Saladin, great attributes and imperfections. As a Christian, I am thankful he invented William, the good Christian force in the story, and was fascinated to learn more about Muslim culture. He did not play favorites to any religion and spun an engaging tale.
My only issue was the historical inaccuracies. Joanna was married to William of Sicily, who died just before the Crusade, Richard was too old (33) by then to be considered a "boy", and Berengaria, Richard's bride, was nowhere to be seen. Still, I enjoyed it a lot.
July 28, 2010
The Middle Ages are my favorite era in history to study. Right now, I should tell you I majored in social studies education. I took as many classes on the medieval period as I could, because I find it fascinating. You've got religious elements, social change, trade, battles, some major historical players, oh heck yeah the Middle Ages are cool. So, when I was offered The Shadow of the Swords by Kamran Pasha, I jumped at the opportunity as a large part of the book focuses on Saladin, who is a military genius and completely fascinating.
Read the rest of my review here
Read the rest of my review here
May 17, 2015
Definitely stirs interest in some of history's most famous warriors and fought-over geographical locations. It's not surprising that the author is a screen writer as the story itself is ready-for-screen. The vocabulary and prose, too, is more suitable for the screen: The comparison I would make between this and a better book would be like a decent ScyFy movie being compared to a good Hollywood movie.
Don't even get me started about Miriam... couldn't sustain my willing suspension of disbelief when it came to the author's use of her character to twist and carry the narrative in the directions he wanted it to go.
Don't even get me started about Miriam... couldn't sustain my willing suspension of disbelief when it came to the author's use of her character to twist and carry the narrative in the directions he wanted it to go.
May 17, 2011
I agree with the other reviewers who said that the cover did the story no justice--this is a much better book than the cover implies. An interesting look at the Crusades that flips the usual portrayal on its head...a little more gore than I usually like (and I really could have done without the four or five graphic depictions of rape), but, for a book I picked up at random off the shelf at the library, it could have been much worse.
June 21, 2010
An honestly interesting examination of religious fanaticism and holy wars from the Semitic perspective, Shadow of the Swords is unfortunately crippled by a generic love story that makes an inconsistent fictional character much too prominent in actual history. Behind the unnecessary love story, there’s some great action and a wonderfully nuanced look at religion.
August 4, 2012
a slow pace at a lot of points. and had material that was "too adult" for my taste, but all in all a fantastic book. full of drama and excitement love and war that earned its stars back. i learned a lot about Muslim and Jewish culture that i didnt know before. and any book that can teach me something gets kudos. anyone would love it if they are mature enough for a rated R movie.
March 4, 2013
Saya bahkan lupa kalo sudah pernah baca novel ini,.
Kisah yang menarik disajikan oleh Kamran Pasha,diambil dari sebuah kisah nyata "Perang Salib di Yerussalem-Palestina". Anatara pengeran Ricard (si Lion Heart)dan Salahudin Al Ayyubi ( Saladin the Wise)
Saya beri 4 bintang buat penulisnya,.
Tapi tidak buat terjemahannya,. :)
Kisah yang menarik disajikan oleh Kamran Pasha,diambil dari sebuah kisah nyata "Perang Salib di Yerussalem-Palestina". Anatara pengeran Ricard (si Lion Heart)dan Salahudin Al Ayyubi ( Saladin the Wise)
Saya beri 4 bintang buat penulisnya,.
Tapi tidak buat terjemahannya,. :)
April 10, 2012
I loved this book. It is the crusades from a Muslim point of view. It is interesting to see what might have promulgated the divide we now face in Right Wing, extreme politics of both religions.
Another of his books - Mother of the Believers gives a fictionalized view of the start of Islam.
Another of his books - Mother of the Believers gives a fictionalized view of the start of Islam.
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